Talk to local up-and-comers, and most likely they'll attribute some of their success to a mentor or role model. These mentors and role models are often community icons--men and women who, through their creativity, talent and vigor, have made a positive difference in Greater Des Moines.  

At dsm, we honor these veteran achievers with our annual Sages Over 70 award. And we'd like your help in choosing them! To nominate a leader you know, fill out the nomination form here by June 20. The nominee needs to be age 70 or older and should meet several of the following criteria: 

• Has consistently demonstrated leadership through the decades.

• Has contributed and still contributes to the betterment of the community, even
  if behind the scenes.

• Has been a role model/mentor to others.

Those honored in previous years include Robert Burnett, Monroe Colston, Michael Gartner, Willie Stevenson Glanton, William Knapp, Elizabeth Kruidenier, former Gov. Robert Ray, and Fred Weitz in 2011; Richard "Red" Brannan, Johnny Danos, Nolden Gentry, G. David Hurd, Mary Kramer, R.W. and Mary Nelson, and Tom Urban in 2012; and James A. Autry, Mary Campos, Joy Corning, E.J. Giovannetti, Robert Larsen, and Neal Smith in 2013.

I was lucky enough to attend three major events
from this year's Winefest Des Moines. Highlights:  

• Iowa Lawn Party at Jasper Winery: Merlot-candied bacon, Maytag blue cheese and arugula topped the winning burger in the Winefest & Beef Slider Challenge. Here's the recipe (scroll down a bit). I'll also remember this event as the first place I ever tasted the amazingly dreamy David's Famous American Craft Custard, made by
  a stockbroker who lives in South Amana, and available at select Hy-Vee stores. (Try the salted caramel.) 

• Prima Dinner, Terrace Hill: Chef Lynn Pritchard of Table 128 Bistro and Bar
  knocked it out of the park for this event,
  pairing inspired, detailed cuisine with wines from Oregon's Illahe Vineyards. Attention lamb lovers: the exquisite lamb chop with black garlic puree proved once again that this chef is a master of lamb.

• Grand Tasting: Splash Seafood Bar & Grill had the longest line, and for good reason: Chef Dominic Ianarelli was serving up caviar and oysters paired with sommelier Ben Nelson's selection of true French Champagnes. The best "who knew" wine of the entire tasting, however, was Heinrich Red (pictured), a beautiful medium-bodied, fresh and juicy red with intense brightness--a perfect summer sip for those who drink reds all year round. Find it at Gateway Market.

By Kellye Crocker

Helping local young people is as easy as riding a bike. It's fun, too, when you glide through downtown Des Moines after dark alongside the likes of Captain America, Pac-Man, Death Star Storm Troopers and other spirited pedal-pushers. The third annual Moonlight Classic is June 14 at 9:30 p.m. and benefits Orchard Place.

The noncompetitive ride, with a new 10-mile route highlighting local attractions, begins and ends at El Bait Shop, 200 S.W. Second St., where live classic rock and soul from Boomerang will pump you up and cheer you back. Plan now to win a prize for best costume, bike and helmet lighting, or team bus decorating. For more information, including safety requirements, a list of businesses that rent bicycles, and fun photos from previous years (including a marriage proposal in lights), click here. Register online through June 13 to save $5 per rider. (Registration at the event is $35.)

The ride aims to raise $80,000 for Orchard Place, which provides inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment and other services for nearly 8,000 young people. Learn more.