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You are here: Home / Archives for indoor activities

A Library Card Can Take You Places!

September 11, 2018 by admin

September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month

By Leah White

There are many different cards that you have in your wallet—credit cards, insurance cards, gift cards…but do you have a library card?

This September, the Waukee Public Library joins libraries across the U.S. in celebrating National Library Card Sign-Up Month. If you don’t have a library card, now is the perfect time to get one! Signing up for a library card is easy – and best of all, it’s free!

Here are just a few ways you can use your library card:

  • Borrow up to 50 items at a time, 10 of those can be movies
  • Download e-books and audiobooks with Overdrive
  • Access to popular magazines on your phone or tablet from Flipster
  • Request items for pickup at the library
  • Access dozens of research databases and online resources
  • Use online research tools for students, business owners and more
  • Take online design and technology classes through Lynda.com
  • Use online language learning tools with Pronunciator
  • Research your ancestry online
  • STEAM kits are available to checkout and explore
  • Wi-Fi hotspots can be checked to use wherever you need internet

 

To find out more about the Waukee Public Library go to waukeepubliclibrary.org or contact us at askme@waukee.org or (515) 978-7944

 

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

 

TERRIFIC TREES WITH ISU EXTENSION

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 | 4:30 p.m.

Kids in grades K-5 are invited to hear a story about a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) topic followed by a related experiment. Registration required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

 

LUNCH AND LEARN : ESTATE PLANNING 101 @ the Waukee Community Center

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 | 11:00 a.m.

Presenter Ron & Molly Anderson of Howes & Anderson, P. C.

No time to attend an evening or weekend program? Try our new Lunch & Learn series! Bring your brown bag lunch and we’ll provide the dessert! Stick around afterwards for Waukee Parks & Recreation’s bingo at 1pm.

This program is brought to you in partnership with Waukee Parks & Recreation.

Estate planning is important for everyone. Anyone who has assets, no matter how small, or wants their medical wishes carried out should have an estate plan. Come learn the ins-and-outs of putting a well thought out estate plan in place, and with peace of mind get back to the business of living and enjoying your life.

 

ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP: FELT TERRARIUMS

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 | 1:30 p.m.

Some people may believe that there is nothing cuter than a terrarium, but they are sadly mistaken! Handmade felt terrariums are even more adorable and so easy to make. Perfect for plant-killers and others who prefer low maintenance flora, after this class you’ll never water again! No felting experience needed. Registration required. This craft is intended for Adults. Registration begins 3 weeks before the event.

 

LOCAL HISTORY SERIES:

JACK TRICE & THE HISTORY OF IOWA STATE FOOTBALL

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 | 1:00 p.m.

Iowa State University archivist, Bradley Kuennen, will present about the life and legacy of Jack Trice, as well as, the history of the football program at Iowa State University.

 

WELCOME TO MEDICARE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 | 5:00 p.m.

This free seminar offered by the State of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drug Benefits (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans, and Medicare Supplement Insurance. To register, call (800)-351-4664. Registration is required.

 

ELEMENTARY PIRATE YOGA

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 | 10:00 a.m.

Children ages 6-11 years are welcome to bring a towel or yoga mat and enjoy pirate-themed yoga games and instruction. Parents staying in the room for the program should plan to participate as well! Registration is required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

EXLPORING THE WILDERNESS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 | 2:00 p.m.

Did you know that Iowa is one of only 5 states that has no designated Wilderness areas?

Dallas County Conservation Board (DCCB) naturalist, Chris Adkins, will examine what wilderness is, why we need it, and how wilderness areas are designated, managed and protected. Naturalist Adkins has led treks to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness of north-central Idaho for the past 25 years. Attendees will get to view images and learn about the logistics of backcountry travel and about DCCB’s upcoming Summer 2019 trek.

 

INTRODUCTION TO GENEALOGY

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 | 6:00 p.m.

Your family has a story to tell! Come learn the basics to begin your journey of discovery for your ancestral history. Theresa Liewer, from the Iowa Genealogical Society, will give you a road map for researching your family’s history, talk about what tools and resources are available, and discuss what to do if you run into an information brick wall.

 

COFFEE 101 AT THE COFFEESMITH

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 | 1:00 p.m.

This program will take place at The Coffeesmith (770 Alice’s Road, Waukee, IA).

Celebrate National Coffee Day with us at The Coffeesmith! Nate Kempers, barista and owner of The Coffeesmith, will teach attendees all the coffee basics you need to know to make that perfect cup of joe. Various brewing techniques will be demonstrated and samples will be served!

BIZARRE HISTORY OF IOWA: STRANGE STORIES FROM THE PAST

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 | 1:00 p.m.

This program provides a time portal back to the early days of the state when it was filled with strange deaths, ghosts, sea serpents, peculiar people, medical anomalies, oddities, psychic phenomena, and UFOs! Showcasing over 100 bizarre newspaper stories from Iowa that have not been seen in over 100 years, presenter Chad Lewis will change the way you view the good ol’ days of Iowa.

Youth entering grades 1-5 in the fall are invited to enjoy science, technology, engineering, art and math activities with music. Registration is required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

 

OCTOBER EVENTS

HELPING HAND: ANIMAL SHELTER SUPPLY DRIVE

THE MONTH OF OCTOBER

In honor of National Adopt a Shelter Dog month, the Library will be taking supply donations for the AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport. A complete list of supplies needed can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/IZI5097BIFPN

 

WONDERFUL WIND WITH ISU EXTENSION

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 4:30 p.m.

Kids in grades K-5 are invited to hear a story about a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) topic followed by a related experiment. Registration required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

 

LUNCH AND LEARN : DNA BASICS @ the Waukee Community Center

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 | 11:00 a.m.

Presenter Ron & Molly Anderson of Howes & Anderson, P. C.

No time to attend an evening or weekend program? Try our new Lunch & Learn series! Bring your brown bag lunch and we’ll provide the dessert! Stick around afterwards for Waukee Parks & Recreation’s bingo at 1pm.

This program is brought to you in partnership with Waukee Parks & Recreation.

Whether you’ve had your DNA tested or are thinking about it, this program will give insight into the different test services available, the process, and the usefulness of DNA Testing as a tool to learn more about your health, traits, and ancestry.

 

LOCAL HISTORY SERIES: SHULER COAL MINE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 | 1:00 p.m.

Presented by Bruno Andreini

 

CREATURE FEATURE : A QUIET PLACE

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9 | 6:00 p.m.

Is there a better way to get ready for Halloween than by watching a monster movie?  We don’t think so! Join us for two special Halloween movie nights…if you dare. Movies are free and spooky treats will be available.  No registration is required.

 

PUPPY PARTY

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13 | 1:00 p.m.

Love puppies? Pawesome! Come hangout with fellow doggo enthusiasts for an afternoon of barking-good fun. Play a canine trivia game and make cute dog crafts. And the best part? There will be puppies! The AHeinz57 Pet Rescue is joining us for a presentation, bringing along some of their adoptable canine friends for a meet-and-greet.

This is an Adult event, however children and teens in 3rd grade and up are welcome but must be accompanied by a guardian. Registration required and will open 3 weeks before the event.

 

CYBER SECURITY 101

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 | 10:00 a.m.

This short training session by the State of Iowa-Information Security Officer, Alison Radl, will cover the basics of cyber security with tips and techniques for more secure browsing. Come ready to learn and ask questions!

 

THE DEVIL HAS MY CONSENT

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21 | 1:00 p.m.

In 1692 more than 200 people were accused of witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts and 20 were executed. Why? What happened to create such hysteria? Were the accusers possessed? Experiencing delusions caused by eating spoiled grain? Come discover the real story behind the behind the Salem Witch Trials at this fascinating presentation by historian Kathy Wilson. This event is sponsored by the Waukee Public Library Friends Foundation.

 

CREATURE FEATURE : HOCUS POCUS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 | 6:00 p.m.

Is there a better way to get ready for Halloween than by watching a monster movie?  We don’t think so! Join us for two special Halloween movie nights…if you dare. Movies are free and spooky treats will be available.  No registration is required.

 

BEASTLY POTTER PARTY

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 | 7:00 p.m.

All ages of Harry Potter fans should attend this enchanted evening. There will be live magical creatures from the Blank Park Zoo and many other beastly and magical activities. The first 100 guests will receive a free magic wand pen. All guests will have the chance to enter a drawing for two free tickets to the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert with the Des Moines Symphony at the Des Moines Civic Center on January 25 & 26, 2019. No registration required.

 

FANTASTIC BEASTLY ESCAPE ROOM

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 | 9:15 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. | 10:45 a.m.

Teams of 6 will be magically sealed in a room at the library. Teams will need to work together to solve clues about J.K. Rowling’s magical world in order to break the spell and exit the room. Recommended for fans of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. Teens (grades 6+) and adults are welcome to participate in this event. (These will be the same puzzles as the November 7 teen program.) Registration is required.

ADULT CRAFTERNOON

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 | 2:00 p.m.

Adults need crafty time too! Get together with your friends and neighbors to have some crafty fun creating one fun and easy craft. All supplies will be provided by the library.

Registration opens 3 weeks before the event date.

 

 

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Filed Under: Activities, Events, Family, From the Library, Lifestyles, My City, My Library, Waukee Tagged With: Activities, Blog, Blogs, events, family activities, From the Library, indoor activities, kids, library, Lifestyles, Waukee Iowa, waukee library

Disc Golf Is Alive At Waukee Centennial Park

April 25, 2018 by admin

The spring is in full effect and it’s almost summer! That means the weather is getting warm with sunny, hot vibrant energy! The Waukee Centennial Park in the great City of Waukee has so much to offer and surely is a place you don’t want to miss. Make sure to grab your friends, bring your discs and stop by for some disc golf. In this featured video above, you will see Thomas Wiggins and his friend TJ Hendricks doing what they love to do and discin’ it up! The park contains its city’s popular 9 hole course located on the east side. Tee boxes are the round markings and the baskets are indicated by the arrows. The Waukee Centennial Park is located on the corner of Ashworth Dr. & SE Universite Ave across from the Waukee High School. This is a great opportunity for anyone to get out into the fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors! The park has an amazing atmosphere where you may enjoy picnics, kids playgrounds, sandboxes, music festivals, family events, baseball, other sports and so much more. Don’t waste your time sitting at home and wishing you could be out doing awesome things. Get out with your friends and family to Waukee Centennial Park for some outdoor fun!

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Filed Under: Activities, Art & Scenery, City of Waukee, Family, Guide To Waukee, Iowa, Lifestyles, My City, Outdoors, PinPoints of Interest, School District, Sports, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber, Waukee History Tagged With: 2018, 2018 Activities, 2018 Centennial Park, 2018 Golf, 2018 myWaukee videos, 2018 myWaukee YouTube, 2018 Waukee Disc Golf, Best of Disc Golf, city of waukee, City of Waukee 2018, Disc Golf, entertainment, events, faces of waukee, Family, Great City of Waukee, indoor activities, iowa, local attractions, local events for adults, local events for kids, myWaukee, myWaukee Magazine, Outdoors, summer in waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber, waukee city council, Waukee Iowa, Waukee Sports

Little Warriors Came Out Full Force During 2018 Waukee Easter Egg Hunt

April 15, 2018 by admin

On Saturday, March 31, 2018, many families gathered at the Waukee Centennial Park for this year’s ultimate Easter Egg Hunt. It was one of those chilly spring mornings that most of us who were there, will remember forever. Those that didn’t dress in full winter outfits really felt the icy breeze that day. And all I remember thinking was, “but isn’t it spring already?” The mystery behind the seasons baffles me to this day. With the uncontrollable winds hitting us from all directions, we couldn’t feel our cheeks. Some of us couldn’t feel our hands. The children on the other hand were on a mission and the weather could not get to them. It’s like if they were surrounded by their own energy and filled with adrenaline from pure excitement.  Even though it was a freezing morning, it did not stop these little warriors from seeing the Easter Bunny at Centennial Park for the 2018 Waukee Easter Egg Hunt. Watch (In the video above) those little smiles fill with happiness as they make their adventures into their young lives!

MyWaukee Magazine had a great time visiting the 2018 Waukee Easter Egg Hunt at the Waukee Centennial Park in the great City of Waukee!

Watch the video above to see some of the best moments we captured. We had the pleasure of taking some pictures as well that we are happy to share with you.

The parents battled through the cold to make sure their kids got to see the Easter Bunny.

With arms wide open, the Easter Bunny was very kind and every child absolutely loved their time spent seeing him.

Another photo of parents with their kids on a hunt to find the Easter Eggs.

Hugs from the Easter Bunny.

 

Parents and children patiently waiting in line to see the Easter Bunny.

A true basket of happiness for kids of all ages.

“Don’t mind us, we are here to see the Easter Bunny.”

Everybody loves our Waukee Fire Engines and Fire Trucks.

The Waukee Fire Fighters showing their full appreciation and support during the 2018 Waukee Easter Hunt.

For more great stories, videos, and local entertainment:

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Filed Under: City of Waukee, Faces of Waukee, Family, Guide To Waukee, Lifestyles, My City, Outdoors, Waukee, Waukee Chamber Tagged With: 2018, 2018 Centennial Park, 2018 Easter, 2018 Waukee Easter, 2018 Waukee Easter Egg Hunt, city of waukee, City of Waukee 2018, Easter, entertainment, events, faces of waukee, Family, Great City of Waukee, indoor activities, iowa, local attractions, local events for adults, local events for kids, Outdoors, summer in waukee, Waukee Chamber, waukee city council, Waukee Easter, Waukee Iowa

City of Waukee Update {November / December 2017}

November 1, 2017 by admin

City Provides Great Indoor and Outdoor Activities

Iowa winters can be harsh, but when Mother Nature is playing nice, there are great ways to get out of the house and keep busy in Waukee. City of Waukee departments provide programs, events and amenities to warm up residents of all ages and interests.

The Great Outdoors

Iowa Wild/Wells Fargo Ice Rink
It was announced in May that the Iowa Wild American Hockey League Team and Wells Fargo would donate an ice rink to the City for public use. The rink measures 80 x 40 feet and will be located at Sugar Creek Golf Course at 1505 6th Street. Crews will set it up in late November and will fill it when temperatures drop low enough for a solid freeze. Bring your skates and take part in this new, free activity!

Warrior Park Sledding Hill
Waukee’s terrain is mostly flat, but that doesn’t stop residents from enjoying some downhill fun. The Warrior Park Sledding Hill opened in 2004 and is customized and engineered specifically for sledding. Bundle up and head to the park located at 1050 4th Street.

Trail Exercise
Residents can hit the Waukee trails even when the snow falls. During non-treacherous snow events, Waukee Parks & Recreation crews aim to clear all trails. Snow on trails is removed once the storm has ended, so be ready to the hit the pavement for some winter exercise. Call 515-978-0007 with questions.

Let’s Just Stay Inside

Indoor Youth Sports
Softball and outdoor soccer seasons are over, but Waukee Parks & Recreation offers fantastic indoor sports options. The youth basketball league, TOT basketball handling and dribbling program, and Rounded Minds™ Spanish language immersion indoor soccer and Zumba are sure to help kiddos burn off some energy. Taekwondo and karate opportunities are also offered by Dickey’s Ryukyu Karate. Visit Waukee.org/Registration for details.

Tot Lot
For parents and caretakers home with toddlers on the weekdays, Tot Lot provides hours of play and socializing! This free program is held Mondays from 8:30-10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays from 8-10 a.m. through the end of March. Held at the Waukee Public Works Building at 805 University Avenue, the Parks & Recreation staff provides blocks, tunnels, mats and more. Parents/guardians just provide the supervision!

Adult Programs
Winter fun isn’t just for the kiddos. You can also take in free films at the Waukee Public Library. The December 14 showing will feature A Christmas Story, and the January 11 showing will feature La La Land. All movies start at 10 a.m. Popcorn and lemonade are provided. And, Waukee Parks & Recreation is planning a day trip with InboundIowa to Greenfield on Tuesday, Dec. 5 for some great sight-seeing! Visit Waukee.org/Registration or call 515-978-0007 to learn more.

Community Gatherings

WinterFest
Get a dose of holiday cheer at the annual WinterFest celebration on Friday, Dec. 1. Hundreds pack the Downtown Triangle for business open houses and the beloved tree lighting at 6 p.m. sharp! Kids can visit with Santa, watch an ice sculptor at work, depart on an old-fashioned trolley for the holiday light tour and more. Plus, Parks & Recreation staff will be accepting non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped toys to be distributed by Waukee Area Christian Services.

FamilyFest
Stay warm at the annual FamilyFest event scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 20 from 9 a.m. to noon. This free, family-friendly event is held at Lutheran Church of Hope at 305 NE Dartmoor Drive. Check out Waukee area businesses, enjoy games and prizes, and jump on inflatables.

Stories with Santa
Families are invited to attend a special storytime with Santa on Thursday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m.! Enjoy a sing-a-long, listen to stories, and make a fun craft. Kids are welcome to come in pajamas. Registration is required for this event. Register at WaukeeLibrary.EventBrite.com.

Don’t hibernate this winter—get out and enjoy all that Waukee has to offer! For more information, visit Waukee.org.

Filed Under: My City Tagged With: city of waukee, indoor activities, outdoor activities, winter in waukee

10 Indoor Activities For Kids

February 3, 2016 by admin

Indoor Activities For Kids In Waukee Iowa - myWaukee Magazine

Winter in Waukee, IA means just about one thing, freezing cold temperatures. Unless you want to turn your children into a kid-sicle (see what I did there?!), it is always a good idea to have a list of tried-and-true indoor play places to burn off energy and keep your sanity!

Our top 10 list of indoor activities for kids, covers children ranging from toddlers to school-aged as well as a wide variety of fun-filled ideas!

Monkey Joe’s

1600 Valley West Dr., Ste. 100, West Des Moines
Phone: (515) 223-5867
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 10am – 8pm, Sun 11am – 6pm

Monkey Joe’s is jam-packed with inflatables perfect for kids 12 and under. Your kids are sure to burn plenty of energy while bouncing for hours! For those with littles, there is a designated toddler area with age-appropriate activities!

Jordan Creek Mall

101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines
Phone: (515) 440-6255
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 10am – 9pm, Sun 11am – 6pm

Looking for a no fuss, FREE activity for the kids? Jordan Creek Mall has a wonderful kids play area where your kids can play and then you can get some shopping done when they are tuckered out! With a full-food court close by, you can grab a bite while you are at it!

Pump It Up

4069 121st St., Urbandale
Phone: (515) 270-5017
Hours of Operation: Mon – Sun (Times Vary), Open Jump times are posted every Thursday

Pump It Up is primarily used to host birthday parties, however they do open their doors for Open Jumps and various themed events throughout the week. With giant inflatables your child is sure to jump their sillies out!

Waukee Tot Lot

Waukee Public Works Building, 805 University Avenue, Waukee
Phone: (515) 978-0007
Hours of Operation: Mon 8:30-10:30am & Wed 8-10am (thru March 30th, 2015)

From blocks to tunnels, Tot Lot is just the place to keep your toddler entertained for hours! This open gym activity for your tots is seasonal and FREE!

Backyard Adventures

3135 99th Street, Urbandale
Phone: (515) 270-2433
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 10am – 5pm

Ever wish you could bring your outdoor swingset inside for the winter months? Well Backyard Adventures is your wish come true! Complete with indoor swings and slides, your kiddos are sure to have a blast! There is a snack area so pack a lunch and stay a while!

The Playground For Kids

2401 SE Tones Dr. Suite 7, Ankeny
Phone: (515) 965-9899
Hours of Operation: Mon, Wed, Fri 10am – 8pm; Tues, Thurs 10am – 4pm

Wacky ball pit, triple rainbow slide and indoor treehouse? Yes please! The Playground For Kids truly lives up to it’s name providing endless fun for kids of any age!

Sky Zone

1300 SE Gateway Drive, Ste. 103, Grimes
Phone: (515) 986-2524
Hours of Operation: Tues 3 – 8pm; Wed 1 – 8pm; Thurs, Fri 3 – 8pm; Sat 10am – 9pm; Sun 12 – 6pm

Looking for a sure-fire way to get those big kids out of the house? Sky Zone is just the ticket! This indoor trampoline park combines fitness with high-flying fun! Toddler Time hours are Wed and Thurs 11am – Noon.

Chuck E. Cheese’s

1431 22nd Street, West Des Moines
Phone: (515) 223-9430
Hours of Operation: Sun-Thurs 11am – 9pm; Fri 11am – 10pm; Sat 10am – 10pm

Where a Kid can be a Kid is right! As a special treat or fun outing, plan a visit to the West Des Moines Check E. Cheese’s for food and fun. From arcade games to entertainment, CEC has got you covered!

Valley Community Center

4444 Fuller Road, West Des Moines
Phone: (515) 327-6000
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 9am – 1pm

The Valley Community Center has a built in play area designed specifically for children toddler-aged to 8 years old. This space is perfect for getting active on a cold day and comes complete with plenty of seating for adults and conveniently located near the Cafe.

Barnes and Noble

101 Jordan Creek Parkway Unit 12170, West Des Moines
Phone: (515) 453-2980
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 9am-9:30pm; Sun 10am – 7pm

Barnes and Noble is a fantastic spot to entertain the kiddos and instill a love of reading early on. From story times, train tables to cuddling up with a good book, B&N is a top cold-weather-activity pick!

What are some of your favorite indoor spots to play in Waukee / West Des Moines?

Filed Under: Lifestyles Tagged With: family fun, indoor activities

www.mercydesmoines.org

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