Streetscape beautification questionnaire — This and more in this week's issue!

‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

April 22-28, 2025

Squeeky floors and character

Several years ago, I was talking with a friend who lived in a brand-new home and was expressing his annoyances with the squeaky floors. He asked me, “Why is it that squeaky floors in an old home add character but are so disturbing in a new home?”

I didn’t have an answer, but I agreed with him, and I think about his question every time I hear a floor squeak.

Clearly, there are a lot of people who like things bright and shiny and new. To some degree, we probably all do. But there is another seemingly large group of people who want that weathered look in the things they buy, and they will use a great deal of time and/or money to get it.

In recent decades, blue jeans that show wear or have holes in them became fashionable. I would have been quite hip as a young kid, as almost all my pants had the knees worn out from scooting my Hot Wheels around on the shag carpet. Mom was quite handy with the sewing machine, though, so those holes quickly had patches sewn on them.

Years later, while in college, a friend had a pair of jeans she bought with worn threads on purpose. I told her I could take those home and have my mom patch them up. She didn’t laugh. I continue this comment today with my kids. They don’t laugh either.

Back to those floors — the ones without the shag carpet. Another popular trend today is to install wood flooring that comes with imperfections. Dings. Scratches. Miscoloring. All straight from the factory. Some people will even do the weathering process themselves to get this look. You have likely seen this with new furniture, too. Brand new stuff made to look old.

I have used somewhat-related logic in purchasing vehicles. The first dent or scratch in a new car is the one that bothers you the most. But when you buy a used car that already has a few of them, one more isn’t as annoying. Of course, I am not going to purposely bang up my vehicle, but you get the idea.

The notable exception to these weathering techniques seems to be in our own personal appearances. Consumers go to great lengths to try to slow down the aging process and appear younger. I don’t know of any hot-selling products that people buy to make them look older, but we sure spend a lot of money to keep our bodies from wrinkling, graying, cracking, popping — and even squeaking. Then again, maybe all those things simply add character, too.

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

Ribbon cutting

A joint ribbon cutting with the Johnston and Urbandale chambers was held on April 10 for Cheba Hut, 5260 Merle Hay Road, Suite 6, Johnston.

Streetscape beautification questionnaire

The City of Johnston is excited to share updates on the beautification framework plan, which draws inspiration from the city's unique urban tree canopy and natural landscape. A big part of this plan includes designing attractive entry monuments and markers that reflect the community’s identity as a tree-loving city. The monuments will feature modern laser-cut designs of leaves and trees, and, at night, accent lighting will make them stand out. The city is also focusing on improving areas like roundabouts and intersections with landscaping and decorative pavement to make streets more inviting and easier to maintain. Also planned are pedestrian-friendly spots with landscaping, seating and special paving in busier areas to enhance walkability. To learn more about the progress of the beautification efforts and provide feedback through the questionnaire online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VZC5R8W.

Vietnam War Living History Event

Discover what life was like for U.S. military personnel during the Vietnam War. Meet knowledgeable historians, explore historically accurate campsites, and see period military vehicles at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston, on Saturday, June 7, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, June 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

ISWEP Native Landscaping Webinar

ISWEP will host a webinar on Native Landscaping on Wednesday, April 23 from 8 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. It will provide guidance on integrating native plants into urban landscapes for effective stormwater management. The webinar will bring together leading experts from across the Midwest and beyond to share practical knowledge and real-world experiences. For more information and to register, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/yu87mrb.

Volunteers sought for Kites on the Green

Johnston Kites on the Green will be held Saturday, May 3, and volunteers are being sought. Come help at this annual kite festival, which includes public kite flying, professional kite flyers demonstrations, kids kite building, music and more. Lots of help is needed to make this event successful, and multiple shifts are available. Among other things, volunteers may be asked to help kids/families build kites, assist at special activities, staff information or donation booths, etc. Johnston Kite’s on the Green is organized by the City of Johnston and the Johnston Public Library Foundation, which is an organization eligible to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions. Sign up at https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/222356076083/false#/invitation.

Vendor applications open for farmers’ market

Applications are now open for the Johnston Farmers’ Market. Vendor applications will be accepted through April 30, so apply today to be part of another great season. The market runs from June 3 through Sept. 30 at the Johnston Town Center, located at 6245 Merle Hay Road. It is held on Tuesdays from 4-7 p.m. For information, visit www.cityofjohnston.com/865/Farmers-Market

Register for Johnston Parks and Recreation activities

Johnston Parks and Recreation activities, events, and facility rentals are now open for registration at https://johnston.recdesk.com/Community/Home.

Movies in the Yard

Experience the magic of summer evenings at Movies on the Yard. Prepare for a lineup of popular films under the stars at 6245 Merle Hay Road. Mark your calendars for the Fridays of May 23, July 18 and Aug. 29. Grab your blankets, lawn chairs and gather your loved ones for an outdoor movie experience. Snacks and drinks are welcome, making it the perfect picnic opportunity. Admission to Movies on the Yard is completely free, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy this summer's entertainment. Screenings begin around 8 p.m.

Yoga by the Lake

Join fellow yoga enthusiasts every Saturday at 8 a.m. beginning May 10 through Oct. 11 for an hour of yoga led by Ignit Yoga Instructor Natalie Henricksen. Experience the tranquility of the lake and the vibrant colors of fall as you enhance your well-being in a serene outdoor setting. Classes will be at Terra Lake, 6400 Pioneer Parkway, by the amphitheater. Be sure to bring a yoga mat, water bottle, and any additional items to ensure your comfort during the class.

Spring into Medicare

Are you unsure about what to do when you become eligible for Medicare? If so, you may want to attend this educational Medicare 101 event on Tuesday, April 29, 5:30 p.m., at Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 8789 Plum Drive, Urbandale. Reserve your seat by Friday, April 25. Call 515-650-8770 or email khidsm@khisolutions.com.

Free Veterans Meal

Johnston IJAG is hosting its second annual free veterans meal on Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lions Club, 6501 Merle Hay Road. Schedule of events includes Pledge of Allegiance, a guest speaker and a meal. RSVP to Bre Sunken by Monday, April 28, by email at breannah.suntken@ijag.org or by phone at 712-358-3009.

Curbside yard waste collection is now underway

The Compost It! program’s curbside yard waste collection has begun. To ensure collection, set your Compost It! bags, yard waste bags with a Compost It! sticker, and Compost It! carts at the curb by 6 a.m. on your regular collection day.

Accepted yard waste: twigs and branches, leaves, grass clippings and garden vegetation (such as spoiled vegetables on the vine or wilted flowers from landscaping).

Items that are not accepted include: dirt, mulch, rocks, food and pet waste. For more information, visit www.mwatoday.com/waste-recycling/yard-waste/news/compost-it-season-begins/.

Mayor’s Annual Bike Ride

Participate in the Mayor's Annual Bike Ride on Thursday, May 8. Begin at the trail east of Corteva at 7100 N.W. 62nd Ave. at 11:30 a.m. and take a 4-mile loop along the trails of the Beaver Creek Natural Resource Area, finishing at the large shelter in Terra Park. A free lunch will be provided for all participants. The mayor will deliver a few brief remarks, after which attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy the trails.

Free Shred Day

The Johnston Public Library is hosting a free Shred Day with on-site document destruction by THE SHRED IT company at 6700 Merle Hay Road, Saturday, April 26. Limit material to three boxes per household, follow traffic instructions, stay in your vehicle for safety, and no registration is needed. Sponsored by AARP Iowa.

Drug Take-Back Day

The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and confidential way of disposing of prescription drugs while educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. On Saturday, April 26, drop-off will be at the Public Safety Building, 6373 Merle Hay Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked. The DEA will accept vaping devices and cartridges at its drop-off locations, provided lithium batteries are removed.

Tunes at Twilight

Experience live music in the Yard. Concerts will be from 7:30-9 p.m. on the Thursdays of May 29, June 10, Aug. 7, and Sept. 11 at The Yard, 6245 Merle Hay Road. See who will be playing at https://www.cityofjohnston.com/1439/Tunes-at-Twilight-Series

Rotary Club Golf Fundraiser

The Rotary Club of Johnston is hosting its annual golf fundraiser on Monday, June 2 at Hyperion Field Club, 7390 N.W. Beaver Drive, Johnston. Register your foursome now. Cost of $1,600 includes 18 holes, raffle with more than 50 prizes, a chance to shoot the golf cannon, meals and a swag bag. The event benefits Johnston Partnership, Dorothy’s House and Johnston Rotary. Register at https://4th-annual-johnston-rotary-golf-tournament.perfectgolfevent.com.

Coffee Sunday Open House

Curious about senior living? Attend on Sunday, May 4, from 1-3 p.m. for coffee and delectable desserts as you casually tour and learn more about Edencrest Senior Living. Located at Green Meadows, 6750 Corporate Drive, they offer private apartments with discreet assistance and a memory-enhanced neighborhood. RSVP to Maria Kohring at 515-204-7467.

Johnston Partnership needs

The Johnston Partnership provides food and personal hygiene products to those in need, as well as children’s seasonal clothing. The Partnership also has a Friday food bag program. They are currently delivering around more than 800 bags per month to all nine Johnston schools. This program supplements food insecurity over the weekend when school breakfast and lunch aren’t available and is open to any family at any time (contact the school office). Items needed are individual packages or cups of peanut butter; individual shelf stable milk; fruit and applesauce cups; granola bars; easy Mac and ramen noodles.

The Partnership is open normal hours during spring break for families needing extra food assistance.

Donations can be dropped off at 5870 Merle Hay Road, Suite C, Johnston, during open hours. For more information, visit https://johnstonpartnership.org/donate-items.

Community greetings

Johnston Community Greetings welcomes 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.

Zenith Chamber Music Festival

The Zenith Chamber Music Festival will return this June for its 11th season, presenting a week-long festival packed with an outstanding lineup of musicians in venues across Central Iowa. The public is invited from Tuesday, June 3, through Saturday, June 7, for five free performances.

June 3: Violin and piano duo Yang and Olivia, Willow on Grand, 6011 Grand Ave., Des Moines
June 4: Oleg Timofeyev and Dan Caraway “Seven-String Guitar Museum on Wheels,” Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines
June 5: Saxophonist Damani Phillips, The Simpsons Barn, 6169 Northglenn Drive, Johnston
June 6: Indianapolis Quartet, Iowa Theater, 121 N. John Wayne Drive, Winterset
June 7: Indianapolis Quartet joined by students from the Zenith Virtuosi Young Artist Festival, Sheslow Auditorium, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines

Alice Bernita Hesse

Alice Bernita Hesse, 89, died April 16, 2025. Alice was born on Sept. 16, 1935, in Waverly. She graduated from Tripoli High School in 1953. On April 8, 1956, she married Arlyn Hesse at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Artesian. She worked at Rath Packing Company in Waterloo for six years.

She helped with farm chores, gardening, cooking and laundry. She was a talented cook and baker who liked to prepare delicious food for family and friends. Her grandchildren have fond memories of helping her make her applesauce and strawberry jam. Alice enjoyed traveling with Arlyn, gardening and, most of all, spending time with and attending the activities of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family was everything to her.

Alice worked at Sears at Merle Hay Mall for 27 years. She was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. She resided at Brio Senior Living Community in Johnston.

Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Arlyn; four sisters and three brothers. She is survived by daughter Tammy (Mark) Pierson, and their children, Heidi (Justin) Williams, Hillary (Abby) White and Ian (Emily Alexander) Pierson, and two great-granddaughters, Adeline and Maisy Williams; son, Kirk (Deb) Hesse and their children, Nick Hesse and great-grandchildren Kaeden Meissen and Lincoln and Bailey Hesse and Matt (Lisa) Hesse and great-grandchildren Philip and Alice Hesse; one brother, Fritz Heine; and many caring nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held at Brio of Johnston April 21. A memorial service will be held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church at 11 a.m on. Tuesday, April 22. The service will be live streamed and recorded and can be viewed on her obituary page at www.ilesFuneralHomes.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Brio of Johnston or Wesley Life Hospice.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Archaeological Outdoor Exhibit Opening, Sunday, April 27, 10 a.m., Yellow Banks Park, 6801 S.E. 32nd Ave., Pleasant Hill. Join Polk County Conservation (PCC) staff as they dedicate a new outdoor exhibit. The Yellow Banks Outdoor Interpretive Exhibit features a beautiful 100-foot long stone wall adorned with large interpretive panels and tactile art tiles. This inclusive and accessible exhibit celebrates the presence of human occupation in Polk County for more than 12,000 years.
Wildflower Hike, Sunday, April 27, 1 p.m., Thomas Mitchell Park, 4590 N.E. 108th St., Mitchelville, meet at the pond parking lot. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the woods to discuss one of the most dazzling and diverse displays of native wildflowers in the county. Learn how to identify these woodland beauties and how they were used by early people.
Toddler Tales, Thursday, May 1, 10-10:30 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Let your imagination run wild with this nature-themed story time. Hear a story followed by the naturalist’s choice of an activity such as an animal encounter, puppets or a craft. The theme is Eggciting Eggs.
Salamander Celebration, Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. to noon. Easter Lake Event Center, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Celebrate amphibian week by discovering the secret world of salamanders and learn about their unique characteristics, habitats and behaviors.
Forest Bathing at Jester, Sunday, May 4, 1-3 p.m., Jester Park, Shelter 5, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Explore the natural healing path of Shinrin Yoku, or Japanese forest bathing, with Brandy Case Haub, a certified forest guide. This mindful nature exploration will invite you to use your senses to enhance your well-being. Enjoy a two-hour nature retreat and reconnect with nature. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with UnityPoint. Registration required by May 2 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDI4NzM=.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

WDM Elks Spring Style Show Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
West Des Moines Elks Lodge No. 2752, 2060 N.W. 94th St., Clive
Tickets are $15 each or reserve a table for eight for $130 or a table for four for $70. The Style Show starts at 11 a.m. with a salad luncheon at 12:30 p.m. and door prize drawing at 2 p.m. Funds raised will benefit Veterans Children’s Christmas and other Elks approved charities and outreach.

Spring Wildflower Photography Walk
Saturday, April 26, 9 a.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St., Prairie City
Join photographer Mike Cox for a free, guided photo walk. Stroll the half-mile Oak Savanna trail and discover spring ephemerals. These are the first wildflowers that bloom in the oak savanna. Discover how to take stunning photos as you enjoy the spring weather. Any type of camera is fine for this program, including cell phone cameras. The program will start at the Oak Savanna Trailhead. This trail is a half-mile loop with a gravel surface. The trail has several gradual inclines. The parking lot has a restroom. Wear pants and sturdy walking shoes. Bring a refillable water bottle and insect repellent as well. Contact nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400 to register and for information.

Earth Day Adventure
Sunday, April 27, noon to 3 p.m.
Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines
Bring the friends and family for an afternoon of sustainable activities and outdoor exploration of areas in Water Works Park that you may not even know exist. Go for a hike, bring your bike, identify wildlife, and discover The Wild.

Terrace Hill Mother’s Day Tea Set
Saturday, May 10 from 10:30 a.m. to noon
Terrace Hill, Iowa Governor's Residence and National Historic Landmark, 2300 Grand Avenue, Des Moines
Guests will enjoy scones, tea sandwiches, sweets and Terrace Hill’s special blend tea while enjoying the beauty of the 1869 residence. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Terrace Hill Partnership, the non-profit organization that supports necessary conservation and restoration projects at Terrace Hill. Reservations are $50 per guest and must be made in advance. Purchase tickets online through Eventbrite at thmothersdaytea2025.eventbrite.com, or call the Terrace Hill office at 515-281-7205.

Emerald City Make A Wish Gala
Saturday, May 17, 5:30 p.m.
Iowa Events Center, 730 Third St., Des Moines
Experience the magic of a wish. Currently more than 300 wishes are waiting to be granted — and you can help ensure these children receive their wish when they need it most. Bring hope and joy to Iowa kids waiting for their wish. Guests will enjoy dinner, live and silent auctions, after party, plus wish stories that will touch your heart and inspire you. Tickets are available at https://wish.org/iowa/32nd-annual-des-moines-gala .

Downtown Farmers’ Market opens
Saturday, May 3, 7 a.m. to noon
Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines
Opening day for the 50th season of the Downtown Farmers’ Market, presented by UnityPoint Health, is May 3. The Market offers a variety of attractions and activities, including shopping for fresh produce, seasonal flowers, farm fresh eggs and cheese, locally produced wine and fresh baked goods as well as a variety of Iowa-raised meat. Patrons can also eat breakfast, enjoy the atmosphere, meet with family and friends and enjoy live entertainment. This year, The Market will feature 49 new vendors of all types and expand its footprint to 12 city blocks in the Historic Court District of Downtown DSM.

Safe in the Sun 5K/10K Run
Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park, 5205 Grand Ave., Ames
Come together to raise awareness and funds for melanoma research with the Safe in the Sun 5K/10K Run, hosted by the Cancer Bucket Foundation. Whether you’re a runner, a walker or a supporter of the cause, the Safe in the Sun Run offers a meaningful opportunity to help in the fight against melanoma and skin cancer. To register, visit cancerbucket.org/events.

Volunteer Trail Maintenance Training
Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St., Prairie City
The public is invited for training on trail maintenance and invasive plant removal. Volunteers will learn about the refuge, trail maintenance procedures, tools and safety. A lunch break will be provided. The afternoon session will involve working along the walking trails and parking lots. Explore Iowa’s tall grass prairie and oak savanna and see the native wildlife, too. Volunteers must sign a volunteer agreement. A volunteer under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian fill out and sign the form. Volunteers must be 16 or older to use hand tools. Volunteers need to wear pants, a long-sleeved shirt and sturdy, closed shoes for fieldwork. Bring a refillable water bottle, and insect repellent is recommended. Contact Nancy Corona to register or for more information at nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400.

Live Music Trivia
Sunday, May 4, 3 p.m.
Staplin Performing Arts Center, 3650 Woodland Ave, West Des Moines
Enjoy thrilling music, test your knowledge with interactive trivia, and participate in fun contests for prizes! Featured performers include Dr. Mei-Hsuan Huang on piano performing Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, and Carson Menke on marimba. Admission is FREE, but tickets are required and available at www.ciwe.org.

12th Annual Race to Feed Kids
Saturday, May 10, 9-11 a.m.
Women of Achievement Bridge in Downtown Des Moines
The Des Moines’ Mary’s Meals Race to Feed Kids isn’t your average 5K run/walk. It’s a passion to end hunger for our world’s youth. Every race registration will feed one child at Mcheza Primary School in Malawi, Africa, for an entire school year. For many of the youth, this may be their only meal of the day, and you are helping to feed them. Register at https://runsignup.com/marysmealsracetofeedkids.

Bird Watching and Bagels
Saturday, May 10, 8 a.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St., Prairie City
The public is invited to a fun introduction to bird watching. May is a great time to get outside to see the spring bird migration. Take a guided walk along the Oak Savanna Trail loop. Free loaner binoculars will be available for checkout. Participants can enjoy free bagels and coffee at the visitor center after the walk. This event targets birdwatchers of all skill levels, ages 8 and older. Meet at the Oak Savanna Trailhead. The Oak Savanna Trail is a half-mile loop with a gravel surface and gradual inclines. A restroom is available at the parking lot. Wear pants and sturdy walking shoes. Bringing a refillable water bottle, and insect repellent is also advised. For more information and to register, contact nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400.

Mothers Day Breakfast Buffet and Bake Sale
Sunday, May 11, 8 a.m. - noon
Elks Lodge, 2060 N.W. 94th St., Clive
Enjoy a delicious Mother’s Day breakfast which includes: biscuits and gravy, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage patties, cheesy potatoes, and “All You Can Eat” pancakes (including blueberry and chocolate chip pancakes), orange juice, milk and coffee. Open to the public; All for only $11 — children younger than 10 just $5. Enjoy a bloody mary or mimosa for only $3.50. Proceeds support our Hoop Shoot Program, other youth activities and Veteran activities.

Planned Parenthood - Shine
Tuesday, May 13, 6-8:30 p.m.
Des Moines Heritage Center, 120 E. Fifth St., Des Moines
Planned Parenthood North Central States is hosting its annual event honoring Planned Parenthood in Iowa: Planned Parenthood – Shine. Enjoy an evening with friends old and new, along with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a photo booth, while the nonprofit recognize its progress, strengthens its commitment, and ensures that expert health care, education and advocacy remain accessible for all. For more information and tickets, visit ppncs.org/shine. Registration due by May 5.

Enjoy a lighter soup on cool spring days

(Family Features) Permanent heat may be on the way, but spring still offers plenty of chilly, rainy opportunities for a warmup from the inside-out. Serve a comforting bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup to keep spring chills away. Discover more seasonal recipes at Culinary.net.

Fettuccine with pesto, prosciutto and asparagus
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

2 carrots
2 celery stalks
3 tablespoons butter
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon pepper
6 cups broth
1 cup orzo
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon thyme
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup heavy cream
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
cucumber sandwiches, for serving

Directions:

Chop carrots and celery. In pot, sauté with butter.
In bowl, mix chicken with lemon juice and lemon pepper then set aside.
After carrots and celery are tender, add broth and orzo to pot. Then add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme and sugar. Simmer 10 minutes then add chicken and cream; simmer about 5 minutes.
Add salt and pepper, to taste. Serve with cucumber sandwiches.

LOOKING TO BUY GOLF CLUBS / BAGS: Looking for a new home for those GOLF CLUBS/bags cluttering up the garage or basement? Sell or donate them. I’ll happily pick them up. CLUBS BAGS BALLS. I also do some trade ins. Located in Johnston. Call Paul at 515-350-4333.

SERVICE: Quality home cleaning by insured individual. Call 515-675-8144.

To submit a classified ad, click HERE.

From your Johnston Living magazine

This month's cover story:

HOMES AWAY FROM HOME

Local families share experiences hosting foreign exchange students.

The decision to host a foreign exchange student can come with a myriad of worries. Will the student want to eat the food we make? Will everyone get along? How will we keep the student entertained? Will he or she get homesick? However, many of those who decide to give it a try find their fears to be unfounded as they gain an appreciation of the student’s homeland and culture, see their own country from a new perspective and build bonds that endure. Local residents share their stories about the adventure of being a host family.

[...]

Read this month's issue

Jones family enjoys city amenities

Taking advantage of all the parks

By Lindsey Giardino

What made Pete Jones and his family choose to live in Johnston over other metro communities like nearby Urbandale and Ankeny? It put them close to family, and it had the feeling of a smaller, close-knit community.

For the past 12 years, the family has lived in the Green Meadows neighborhood — a place Jones likes because it’s quaint and quiet, especially when a curtain of trees once lined Winwood, the main drive into the neighborhood.

[...]

Factors to consider when a child with a disability becomes an adult

By Gail Barnett

A child transitioning from a minor to a legal adult can be challenging for any parent. However, parents of children with a disability run into additional difficulties. A parent’s ability to make decisions about services and medical cares end when the child turns 18. There are three major things to consider:

Is my child able to make their own decisions about health care, finances, and independent living? In January 2020, significant changes were made to the Iowa Code regarding guardianships.

[...]

P.S. As a free newsletter, we rely on readers like you to grow our subscriber list. If you have friends or coworkers who you think would enjoy Johnston Living Weekly, share this email with them and they can subscribe by CLICKING HERE.

This email was sent to: beckhamgmiller@hotmail.com

Big Green Umbrella Media, Inc.
8101 Birchwood Ct Suite D
Johnston, Iowa 50131

Edit Profile

Unsubscribe

Report as Spam