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Jan. 6-12, 2026

 
 
6 reasons to smile
 

You shouldn’t need a reason to smile today, but here are a few, just in case you do.

“Smile. It makes people wonder what you’re up to.” This quote is attributed to Sean Keogh, author of “Bottoms up: a Cheeky Look at Life.” My sister had a similar version as a painting that was hung in her bedroom in our childhood home. I read it hundreds of times as a kid, and I always smiled. She did, too. I hope you are as well.

“If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.” Dolly Parton has been known to share this quote, along with a great big smile. In fact, I can’t envision Dolly not smiling. Wouldn’t it be great if people said that about each one of us?

“You are never fully dressed without a smile.” These beautiful words are from the song “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile” from the Broadway musical “Annie,” written by Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin. So many people put so much time and money into their appearance, yet the greatest improvement we can all make to how we look is to simply add a smile — and it’s free!

“Life is like a mirror. Smile and it smiles back at you.” You have likely heard that when one person yawns, another soon will. The same is true for smiles. In fact, they multiply. A lot.

“Be the reason someone smiles today.” My friend Susan used to take her finger and press it against my forehead each time I would frown. “You are going to get a permanent wrinkle there,” she would say. “You should smile instead.” That was great advice. It still is, which I am reminded of each time I look at that wrinkle.

“Life is short. Smile while you still have teeth.” I had a friend who ran a car dealership who would say, “Buying a car shouldn’t be like going to the dentist.” And, he made car-buying fun. My dentist took offense to that comment, though, and would frequently say, “Going to the dentist should be fun.” And, at her office, it is. Meanwhile, there is still something heart-warming about a person without teeth offering an ear-to-ear smile.

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

 
 
After Hours at Stoney Creek
 

Johnston Chamber Business After Hours was held Dec. 3 at Stoney Creek. WB Realty was the Business After Hours sponsor: front row, Brooke Wrage and Chloe  Bratvold; back row, Brian King, Dan Carlson and Bryan Claude.

 

Key Club Trivia Night

The Key Club is holding a Trivia Night Jan. 16, 5:30-6 p.m. at Summit Middle School, 9500 Windsor Parkway,  Basecamp 1, Johnston. Cost is $3. All proceeds go to Key Club’s philanthropic efforts and a family in need.

 

Zumba classes

Get moving and have fun with the Zumba class for ages 16 and older, offered on Mondays, 5-5:45 p.m., or Wednesdays, 6-6:45 p.m. during January, February and March. This high-energy workout blends Latin-inspired dance with upbeat music to boost your cardio, coordination and mood. No dance experience needed, just bring your energy and your smile. Register at https://www.cityofjohnston.com/1572/16-Adult-Fitness.

 

Upcoming public meetings

  • Wednesday, Jan. 7: Senior Advisory Board Meeting, 5 p.m.
  • Monday, Jan. 12: Planning and Zoning Meeting, 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Jan. 20: City Council Work Session, 5:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Jan. 20: City Council Meeting, 7 p.m.
 

Sign up to receive snow emergency notifications this winter

Winter is just around the corner, and with it comes the four-letter word: snow. The Public Works Department wants to help you prepare for winter by keeping you informed when a snow emergency parking ban is put into place. You can receive alerts via email and/or text message to stay updated. Sign up to receive the snow emergency notifications at https://public.alertsense.com/signup/?regioniD=1615.

 
 

Yoga classes

Build strength, improve flexibility and find your flow in this balanced yoga class for ages 16 and up. Classes are Mondays, 6-6:45 p.m., and Wednesdays, 5-5:45 p.m. Each session combines mindful movement with breathwork to help you feel strong, focused and refreshed. All levels are welcome, and modifications will be offered throughout. Bring a mat and come ready to move. Class sessions are offered January, February and March Register at https://www.cityofjohnston.com/1572/16-Adult-Fitness.

 

Edencrest at Green Meadows events

Edencrest at Green Meadows, 6750 Corporate Drive, Johnston

  • Mugs and Mindfulness: Thursday, Jan. 15, 3-4:30 p.m. Start the new year with clarity and calm at our Mugs & Mindfulness gathering. Enjoy a warm cup from our specialty coffee bar, followed by a guided meditation designed to help you reset, refocus, and welcome 2026 with intention. A peaceful way to begin the year, open to all community members.
  • Sweetheart Social Desserts + Donation Drive: Wednesday, Feb. 11, 5-7 p.m. Celebrate Valentine’s season with sweet treats and even sweeter company at this Sweetheart Social. Enjoy delicious desserts, festive fun, and an opportunity to give back. Winter clothing donations will be collected for the local homeless shelter. Help spread warmth and kindness throughout the community.
  • Dementia Awareness and Education Session with Kailee Bonebrake: Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1-2:30 p.m. The public is invited to an educational and supportive session led by Kailee Bonebrake, regional director of Memory Care. Learn about dementia, early signs, care approaches and resources available for families and caregivers. This informative event is open to anyone seeking guidance or understanding.
  • Rooted in Care Social Workers Luncheon: Tuesday, March 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local social workers are invited for a special appreciation lunch to connect, collaborate and honor the vital role they play in the community. Enjoy a delicious meal, network with peers, and learn more about the support and services offered at our community.
 

Gold Star Military Museum events

Camp Dodge, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston

  • Free Docent-Led Museum Tours: Offered on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m.
 

Community Greetings

Johnston Community Greetings would like to welcome anyone new to Johnston with a welcome bag including discounts at local businesses and city information. Contact Missy Shepherd by phone, text or email at 515-991-5014 or mshepherdgreetings@gmail.com.

 
 
Cynthia Lea (Hicks) Viera
 

Cynthia Lea (Hicks) Viera, 67, died Dec. 29, 2025. Cindy was born at Camp Pendleton in California. A Marine brat, she moved around a lot as a child until the family landed in Indianola, where she attended high school and then spent time at Simpson College. 

Cindy married John Viera on July 10, 1982. They had a long and happy marriage and two children, Mason and Marin. 

Cindy was passionate about social and economic justice and worked tirelessly to support those causes. She adored her grandchildren and spending time with them brought her great joy. Her love language was gift giving and those around her felt that love deeply. She will be incredibly missed. 

Cindy is survived by her husband of 43 years, John Viera; son, Mason Viera and his wife, Katherine, and their two sons, Hudson and Jack; daughter, Marin Suhr and her children, Emerson and Everett; sisters, Lisa and Linda Hicks; mother-in-law, Winifred Viera; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Hicks; mother, Dorothy Herron Hicks; and cousin, Glenna Herron. 

No services are being planned. Memorials can be sent to the family at 5491 N.W. 62nd Ave., Johnston, IA 50131. Condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel. 

 
Mary Jane Zaharris Waite
 

Mary Jane Zaharris Waite, 95, died at her Johnston home Dec. 18, 2025. She was born Oct. 6, 1930, in Centerville. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and Centerville High School, where she excelled in band and choir. She earned a music scholarship to Drake University and received a teaching degree in art, later completing a master’s degree there. She taught art in Des Moines Public Schools for many years.

In 1956, she married Richard Eugene Waite, and they enjoyed a full and active life until his death in 2000. Dick and Mary Jane faithfully volunteered at Iowa Public Television. She continued to play piano and organ well into her final years. She also volunteered at the Iowa Genealogy Society and carefully researched her own genealogy. She investigated her father’s Polish family history and her mother’s Irish roots. 

She is survived by first cousin, Michael McConville and numerous younger cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Dec. 29 at St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church. Burial followed at Oakland Cemetery in Centerville.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church, Des Moines. Visit www.IlesCares.com for online condolences. Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

 
 

Polk County Conservation events

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

  • Family Fun Night: Friday, Jan. 9, 6-8 p.m., Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Gather your friends and family together for a low-cost night of fun at Jester Park’s Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center. Opportunities will be available for bouldering (age 4+) and archery (10+), playing a variety of family games and puzzles, and enjoying time outdoors, or in, by the fire making s’mores. Light snacks will be provided. Pay cash (preferred) or card at the door for this open-house style event.
  • Winter Hike at Jester Park: Sunday, Jan. 11, 1-2:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Bundle up and let’s head outdoors to hike the trail around the pond. We’ll learn how animals survive the long cold winter as we try to stay warm ourselves. Dress for being outdoors. Free, all ages welcome.
  • Grandparent and Me: Monday, Jan. 12, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Bring an adult who is special to you to the nature center. Explore how animals survive in winter by reading a story, exploring outside and doing a science experiment. Come dressed for a brief outdoor exploration. Registration required by Jan. 11. Ages 3-5 with adult.
  • Knee-High Naturalists: Wednesday, Jan. 14, 10-11 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Are you ready to get outside and explore? Come and hear a story followed by some outdoor fun. Hike, investigate and navigate through the trails and grounds of Jester Park as we learn what makes the outdoors such an amazing place. Come dressed to be outside. January’s topic is: Pine Tree Discoveries. Registration required by the day before. All ages welcome but recommended ages 3-6.
  • Out in Nature at Easter Lake: Tuesday, Jan. 20, 10-11 a.m., Easter Lake Event Center, Easter Lake Park, 2830, Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Observe and study changes in nature as we explore, play, and investigate. The program will meet at the Event Center but will be mostly outdoors. Come prepared for the weather. Adults are expected to stay and actively participate with their children/students. Free and all ages welcome.
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

CITYVIEW's Fire and Ice
Saturday, Jan. 24, 1-4 p.m.
Valley Junction
CITYVIEW brings back its legendary Valley Junction area pub crawl. Fire and Ice is a hockey-themed liquor sampling event that will be sure to warm up your winter blues. With your event ticket, you will receive 10 individual drink tickets to sample some of the best winter cocktails from establishments in the Valley Junction area. Bring your friends, try new drinks and shop local in Valley Junction. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. Follow the QR code for tickets.  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-cityview-fire-ice-a-winter-pub-crawl-tickets-1873604273819

Des Moines Art Center Museum Highlights Tour
Saturdays, 1-2 p.m.
Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines
Discover the vast variety of the Des Moines Art Center’s permanent collections during the Museum Highlights Tour. This tour offers a unique journey through the galleries, featuring a selection of timeless paintings, sculptures and more. Join knowledgeable guides to uncover the stories, techniques and inspirations behind the art on view, and experience the highlights of the Art Center in a fresh and engaging way. This guided tour is perfect for art enthusiasts of all ages. Free to all, no registration required.

Botanical Blues is Back
Every Sunday now through March 29, brunch at 10 a.m., concerts at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
Winter doesn’t stand a chance when there’s live music at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Botanical Blues has long been the go-to Sunday afternoon escape for warm vibes, local talent and a laid-back atmosphere. Each set lasts one hour, with a one-hour intermission in between. Concerts are held live in the conservatory, and guests are welcome to wander the indoor gardens during the show. This year’s lineup blends favorite performers from the past two decades with exciting new voices. https://dmbotanicalgarden.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a409387a566ec58d66ccc3b2a&id=060d6db58d&e=2fcad2ff9e

Chewbocka Fest 2026
Jan. 17
Confluence Brewing Company, 1235 Thomas Beck Road, Des Moines
Confluence Brewing Company challenges any and all Star Wars fans to harness their inner Wookiee and get transported into this themed festival at the southside brewery. Practice your roars and get ready for a day full of fun activities. More information available at www.confluencebrewing.com.

Comedian Charlie Berens
Jan. 24
Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines
Charlie Berens brings his Midwest-style comedy to Des Moines, much to the delight of comedy fans in central Iowa. More information available at www.desmoinesperformingarts.org.

Square Dance Lessons
Sunday nights starting Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m.
Douglas Avenue Presbyterian Church, 4601 Douglas Ave., Des Moines
Ankeny Square Dance Club is sponsoring Square Dance Lessons. Cost is $20 per person for the entire session accepted at the third lesson.  Attend with or without a dance partner.  You'll learn the calls, one at a time, taught by a caller (instructor) and volunteers.  For more information, call Sandy Townsend, 515-294-2624, or visit www.ankenysquares.com.

 
 
Healthy everyday recipes for real life
 

(Family Features) When planning meals, particularly breakfasts, there are a few critical factors many families consider: taste, simplicity and nutrition. Eating healthier doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach. With the right inspiration, healthy food can be delicious, nutritious and convenient.

By choosing ingredients like eggs, which are easy to use and versatile, you can make healthy living fit into your life at the breakfast table as part of a balanced diet. For example, these egg-inspired recipes are part of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best.

To find more healthy eating tips and recipes that help you eat smart, move more and live healthier, visit Heart.org.

Turkey bacon and spinach quiche with sweet potato crust
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best
Servings: 5

Ingredients:

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled
  • 1 teaspoon canola or corn oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 6 slices uncured, nitrate-free turkey bacon, thinly sliced
  • 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried dillweed, crumbled
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fat-free milk
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fat-free feta cheese

Directions:

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly spray 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  • In medium bowl, using box grater, grate sweet potato. Measure out 2 cups. Gently press sweet potato on bottom and up sides of pan, forming crust. Sweet potato will be loose but will hold together once cooked.
  • Bake 20 minutes, or until crust is cooked. Remove from oven. Let stand to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 350 F.
  • In medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 6 minutes, or until almost translucent, stirring frequently. Add turkey bacon. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until onion and bacon begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add spinach, dillweed, salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until water from spinach is released. Remove from heat. Transfer mixture into sweet potato crust.
  • In medium bowl, whisk egg whites, eggs and milk. Pour over mixture in crust. Sprinkle feta over top.
  • Bake 35-40 minutes, or until knife inserted into center comes out clean. Transfer to cooling rack. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.
 
 
 
 
From your Johnston Living magazine
 

This month's cover story:

BIG GAME, BIG PARTY

Capping off the football season with a watch party to remember

It’s time for the big game, and that’s the perfect reason to gather with your fellow fans around the big screen to see which team finishes the year with a championship ring. And you won’t be alone. Record-breaking viewership has been reported the last two years, with 127.7 million U.S. viewers last year, according to ESPN. 

[...]

 
Read more
 

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