Camp Dodge Celebration — This and more in this week's issue!

June 2-8, 2026

The return of glass bottles is more than nostalgia

I read recently in The Daily Umbrella that Heinz is bringing back glass ketchup bottles, at least in limited quantities at Walmart stores. It is a good start. Frankly, it is about time.

The more I read about microplastics and the damage they may be doing to our bodies, the more I want to see glass bottles make a comeback. Ketchup today. Maybe mustard jars and soda bottles tomorrow. A person can dream.

Not familiar with the concern over microplastics? Here is the short version: Researchers estimate humans ingest the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of microplastics every week. Scientists have found microplastics in human blood, lungs and even breast milk. Global exposure has skyrocketed since 1990 through contaminated seafood, drinking water and even the air we breathe.

So where do these tiny plastic particles come from? Practically everywhere. Plastic packaging. Synthetic clothing. Personal care products. Plastic-lined cans. Bottled water. If it is wrapped, sealed, sprayed or marketed as “convenient,” chances are plastic is involved somewhere along the line.

And the potential health effects are not exactly comforting. Researchers say microplastics may accumulate in organs and tissues, contributing to inflammation, oxidative stress and possibly even cancer and reproductive problems. To be fair, scientists are still studying the long-term effects, but when the phrase “plastic particles in your bloodstream” enters the conversation, it is probably worth paying attention.

I first learned about all this after losing an argument with a co-worker a few years ago about bottled water expiration dates. He said bottled water expires. I said he was crazy. As it turns out, the water itself does not expire, but, over time, chemicals and microplastics from the plastic bottle can leach into the water. So, technically, he was right. Which, unfortunately, made me wrong.

Of course, trying to avoid plastic entirely in 2026 is nearly impossible. Plastic is everywhere. Look around the room you are sitting in right now. Odds are good you are within arm’s reach of enough plastic to build a small kayak. Still, “it is everywhere” is not much of a defense. We already know too many microplastics in our bodies is not a good thing. What is the downside to having less?

When I was a child in the 1970s, I lost another argument, this time to my sister. We were debating the lyrics in the old Heinz ketchup commercials featuring Carly Simon’s song “Anticipation” while the ketchup slowly crawled out of the glass bottle. I was convinced the lyrics were “Heinz is the patience.” My sister informed me — repeatedly — that the word was “anticipation.” Once again, she was right. But maybe that is fitting. We have anticipated long enough. Welcome back, glass bottles. Please bring your friends.

Have a great week, and thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305

Camp Dodge Celebration

The Iowa National Guard 34th Army Band entertained the crowd after the flag lowering ceremony at Camp Dodge’s kick-off celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. Photo by Andrea Hodapp

Fun for the whole family at Family Fest June 6

Join Family Fest on Saturday, June 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Held at The Yard, 6221 Merle Hay Road, or the green space near the GrandStay Hotel, this event is free for the entire family. Climb on a fire engine, grab a book off the Book Bike, or enjoy a Unique Cirque Style live performance from Sam Rezz.

Johnston Green Days, June 11-13

Celebrate 30 years of history at Johnston Green Days, June 11 through June 13 at Terra Park in Johnston. Everything kicks off Thursday when the carnival opens and the Tour De Green poker ride begins. Events continue Friday and wrap up with a full Saturday, including the Green Days Parade at 10 a.m., a car show at noon and fireworks at dusk. For more information, go to www.johnstongreendays.com.

Museum open

The Johnston Historical Society 1902 Simpson House Museum at 6161 Northglenn Drive in Johnston will be open on the second Sunday of each month from 2-4 p.m. through December. Guided tours will be available. The museum is also open during Johnston Commons park events, including Sundae in the Park on Sunday, Aug. 2 from 6-8 p.m. The museum is also open by appointment. Email johnstonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or call 515-330-0687 for an appointment.

Johnston Lions Club Book Sale

The Johnston Lions Club Book Sale is June 11-13 at 6501 Merle Hay Road. Thursday, June 11 is the preview sale, 4-8 p.m. with admission charge of $5, kids free. Friday, June 12, admission is free, and hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 8-11 a.m. is a sack sale with free admission.

American flag take back

Iowa Veterans' Perspective is hosting an American flag take back event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 13, at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston. This is a community collection drive where worn, tattered or damaged American flags are gathered for proper, dignified disposal.

Johnston Farmers Market opens June 2

The 2026 Johnston Farmers Market will open Tuesday, June 2 and runs every Tuesday through Sept. 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Johnston Town Center, 6221 Merle Hay Road. Sales begin promptly at 4 p.m. and live performances from several local musicians truly makes the market the place to be. Learn more at https://www.cityofjohnston.com/865/Farmers-Market.

Polk County Conservation events

Visit www.polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/events for information about upcoming programs offered by Polk County Conservation and for registration links.

Senior Fishing Day. Friday, June 5, 9 a.m. to noon, Easter Lake Event Center, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Join Polk County Senior Services for a fun day of fishing on Iowa’s Free Fishing Weekend. There will be prizes for the biggest, smallest and most fish caught. Bring your own pole if you have one. If not, Polk County Conservation will have a limited number available. Bait will be provided. Sack lunches will be provided to registered participants. Register at your normal senior meal site or call Sam at the Northwest Senior Center, 515-279-2767. Participants can fish from an accessible fishing dock or natural shoreline. Adaptive fishing equipment will be available for individuals who may have difficulties sustaining grasp of a fishing pole. Ages 60 and older. Registration required for luncheon only by May 23.
Wildflower Pressing and Identification Workshop. Sunday, June 7, 2-3:30 p.m. Easter Lake Event Center, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. In this workshop, you will learn how to identify, harvest and preserve beautiful wildflowers to create lasting works of art. Go on a flower identification hike where you will learn about Iowa’s native prairie plants, followed by harvesting and pressing your favorite flowers, and finally leaving with a framable piece of art. Ages 12 and older, registration required by June 3.
June Summer Skills. Tuesdays and Thursdays of June beginning June 9, 10 a.m. to noon, Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Summer is about having fun and playing outside. Join PCC naturalists as they introduce your child to some fun outdoor activities which can be enjoyed the rest of their lives. Come to one or sign-up for an entire series. All equipment will be provided. Ages 10-16. Registration required by two days ahead of class. Classes are as follows: June 9 Paddling, June 11 Fishing, June 16 Air Rifle, June 18 Geocaching, June 23 Archery, and June 25 Outdoor Survival.
Summer Nature Journaling. Tuesday, June 9, 6:30-8 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Nature journaling is a way to be more mindful, curious, and perceptive of the world around us. After a hike at Jester Park, we will use the art of journaling to connect with nature and capture the beauty of the season. Participants will receive a journal and materials will be available for use. Ages 12 and older. Registration required by June 3.
Hike for Health at Thomas Mitchell Park. Monday, June 15, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Thomas Mitchell Park, 4590 N.E. 108th St., Mitchellville, meet at pond parking lot. Why walk the mall when you can enjoy the great outdoors? Hike along with this friendly group of nature lovers who walk the trails each month for exercise and fun. Enjoy the camaraderie and explore some new trails. Ages 12 and older. Registration required by June 14.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Music Under The Stars
Various dates and locations
This summer, Iowa's professional musicians perform a series of free, outdoor concerts at Water Works Park and Jasper Winery at 7 p.m. on Sunday evenings.

June 15: Soundtrack of a Nation. Mike Short, tuba. Gina Gedler, guest vocalist. Jasper Winery, 2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m.
June 21: Summer Songs. Andy Classen, trumpet. Napoleon Douglas, guest vocalist. Jasper Winery, 2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m.
June 28: Heartland Horizons. James Romain, saxophone. Tina Haase-Findlay, guest vocalist. Jasper Winery, 2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m.
July 5: Stars, Stripes and Celebration. Dana Slater, clarinet. Marisa Cravero, guest vocalist. Jasper Winery, 2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m.
July 12: Bourbon Street Parade. NOLA Jazz Band with Abbie Sawyer. Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m., Killinger Community Series.

RSVP on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MusicUnderTheStarsIowa/events. Learn more at: www.musicunderthestars.org.

CITYVIEW’s Summer Stirs
Friday, June 26, Downtown Des Moines
Friday, July 31, Des Moines East Village
CITYVIEW’s traveling cocktail parties return in 2026. For $25 advance ticket, sample 10 summer cocktails at downtown bars and restaurants. Cost is $35 at the door. For information and tickets, visit https://summerstirs.dmcityview.com.

Levitt AMP Earlham Music Series 2026 Food n’ Drink Lineup
Sundays at 6 p.m.
Earlham City Park, Earlham

June 14: Music: Ozone Creations, Robert Deitch. Food trucks: Smokin Bad Decisions, Iowa Noodz, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
June 21: Music: Braided Janes, Soten Taiko Drums. Food trucks: Karam’s Grill, Pho Wheels & Sushi, C’est La Crepe, Jodee Sodees.
June 28: Music: Shannon Curfman, Iowa Military Veterans Band. Food trucks: Deardorff Highland Cattle, Sabores De Mexico, Zipps Pizza, C’est La Crepe, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
July 12: Music: The Elders, Banjokat. Food trucks: Hotel Luna, Snappy’s BBQ, Street Sweets.
July 19: Music: BYOBrass, Beth and Brandon. Food trucks: Hotsy Totsy, Pho Wheels & Sushi, Street Sweets, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
Aug. 2: Music: Leon Timbo, Carol Montag Music. Food trucks: Hotsy Totsy, Sabores De Mexico, Street Sweets, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
Aug. 9: Music: Newfound Road, Cedar County Cobras. Food trucks: Karam’s Grill, Hotsy Totsy, C’est La Crepe.
Aug. 16: Music: XOLEX, Bone People. Food trucks: Hotel Luna, Snappy’s BBQ, Pho Wheels & Sushi, Street Sweets.

Social Saturday: Pride and Seek
Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave., Des Moines
Join the Des Moines Art Center’s June Social Saturday event: Pride and Seek. During Des Moines’ annual Capitol City Pride PrideFest, stop by the Art Center for a couple hours of fun, art making and educational engagement. Enjoy crafts in the Art School studios, a free screening of “Last American Gay Bar,” a free guided tour, drag king storytime, treats in the Café, and so much more. Visit https://desmoinesartcenter.org/event/social-saturday-pride-and-seek/ for full schedule.

Gooey goodness with a protein punch

(Feature Impact) A grilled cheese sandwich isn’t just a lunchtime staple; it’s a beloved cultural icon. There is a universal magic in the combination of ooey-gooey cheese, golden bread and a little butter – but in 2026, this comfort food classic is getting a functional upgrade.

Protein, please: The Protein Powerhouse is the Grilled Cheese of the Year, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a protein-packed masterpiece designed for the modern appetite. Featuring a creamy, dual-cheese combo of mild cheddar and Borden Mozzarella Cheese Melts, the sandwich is melted over 5 ounces of tender sliced chicken breast and delivers more than 40 grams of protein and about 8 grams of fiber when paired with the right bread. Served with a tangy Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard “powerhouse sauce” and pressed between golden, crispy bread, this grilled cheese isn’t your ordinary melt. It has been transformed into a massive protein boost.

Visit BordenCheese.com/grilled-cheese-day for other ooey-gooey grilled cheese recipes created for 2026.

The Protein Powerhouse:

1 tablespoon butter, softened
2 slices bread fortified with protein and fiber
2 Borden Mild Cheddar Slices
1 slice Borden Mozzarella Melts
5 ounces sliced chicken breast (deli-shaved or thinly carved)

“Powerhouse” Sauce:

2 tablespoons non-fat Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

Heat griddle to medium heat. Butter bread. Layer cheeses and chicken on top of bread.
Place bread on griddle and cook until lightly toasted. Flip and cook other side.
Remove sandwich from skillet or griddle.
To make powerhouse sauce: Mix Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder and smoked paprika until well blended. Slice sandwich in half and drizzle with Powerhouse sauce.

FOR SALE: 2018 Coachmen Mirada 25BK. Sleeps 8 (king bed, drop down front bed, queen sofa bed, dinette), 37’ ( bike rack not included), stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator with ice, two roof AC units, heat pump, gas furnace, outdoor kitchen, two slide outs, power awnings, 5500 watt Onan generator, 2000 watt inverter, lithium house batteries, auto leveling, insulated battery storage and wet bay. 55,000 miles, new tires, engine and generator serviced in March 2026. Asking $64,200. Message or text Dave Milburn at 515-240-4672. More photos at https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/5040136236

FOR SALE: 2007 21’ LOWE SUNCRUISER BIMINI 214 PONTOON BOAT. Great for family lake days, fishing fun or evening sunset cruises. 50 hp Mercury 2-stroke outboard. 55 LB Thrust Minn Kota trolling motor. Shoreland’r trailer with recently replaced bumpers and tires. Lowrance depth and fish finder. Front trolling motor (with foot pedal) and mount included. Built-in tackle storage and “live well.” Lots of storage and accommodates 12 people. Three life jackets and three buoys. Newer Boss Bluetooth radio. Recently serviced by Lake Panorama Marine and ready for the water. Recent maintenance includes new spark plugs, fuel filter, primer bulb, fuel line, water pump and impeller kit. New stern light installed. $12,000/best offer. Call Tom Woody 515-778-1231.

FREE BLACK DIRT: We started a Big project in our back yard and have a need to give away a huge pile of our great Iowa black dirt. Call or text 515-721-1296.

WANTED: Stereo and electronic radio stuff, receivers, speakers, guitar amp, etc. Any age or condition is OK. Call 515-238-3343.

HELP WANTED: Looking for someone to weed my flower beds and rid them of leaves. Call 515-321-0301 or email gronwoldb@yahoo.com.

From your Johnston Living magazine

This month's cover story:

FRESH FINDS

Local vendors bring flavor, passion and community to farmers markets

Longer days and warmer nights can only mean one thing — farmers market season is back. With fresh-picked produce, handcrafted goods and sweet treats, the market is a weekly gathering place for both vendors and visitors.

[...]

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