Operation Frequent Wind — This and more in this week's issue!

‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

May 27 - June 2, 2025

Another nice mess

“Well, here’s another nice mess you have gotten me into.”

That’s the phrase Oliver Hardy so famously delivered to Stan Laurel in many of the duo’s short movies during the early era of film — although many of you will swear the words are “another FINE mess.” They aren’t, although Laurel and Hardy did have a 29-minute film with that title in 1930.

Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy made more than 100 films together from 1921 to 1950, and I saw many of them on the screen of my hometown theater as a kid. The movie house owners must have purchased copies of the films, as they played them every summer on weekday afternoons. This gave us kids something to do for a low price (a free admission coupon ran in our local paper), and the theater made a few coins on concessions. Best of all, we all learned about the comic duo of Laurel and Hardy.

Some of you may recall how Stan Laurel was a slender man, and Oliver Hardy was… not. That contrast in size was part of what made their schtick work, and they built the model for others to follow.

Abbott and Costello fit the part. So did the Skipper and Gilligan. David Spade and Chris Farley nearly mastered it. Don't forget Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny Devito; Timon and Pumba; Jake and Elwood. Even R2-D2 and C-3PO made it work.

This big person/little person theme seemed to only be reserved for men, though. Even if you could name a few plus-sized/small-sized female comic duos, I am not pointing out that contrast here. Oliver Hardy was fine with being called husky. Rosie O’Donnell? Not so much. OK, I won’t mention another one.

I will share a few more of the contrasting male duos, though, and they don’t all include one chubby guy. Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble were both on the heavy side. Felix and Oscar had many unique contrasts other than weight. So did Tom and Jerry.

But, if we are being honest, few nailed it like Laurel and Hardy. And they did so in some films that were silent and all films that were black and white — without sexual innuendos, vulgar language or a staff of professional writers to develop punch lines. Their movies were certainly not from my era, but I enjoyed them all the same. I still do. Watching Laurel and Hardy movies at the theater kept my friends and me out of trouble for at least a few afternoon hours. Or, as you might say, it was another nice mess they kept us from getting into.

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

Lions donate to local organizations

ABOVE: Johnston Lions presented a check for $7,000 to the Johnston Booster Club. This was proceeds from advertising sales for the sports program that is handed out at each football and basketball game. Pictured are Lions members Jill Rutz and Tom Leffler, Booster Club board member Mike Koenigs and Lion Ron Lower.

RIGHT: The Johnston Lions presented a check for $2,000 to the library from their book sale proceeds. Sandy Briggs presents the check to Library Director Holly Sealine.

Celebrate end of school and start of summer reading

Celebrate the end of the school year by swinging through Johnston Public Library’s Summer Reading Drive-Thru on the last day of school, Friday, May 30, to pick up your summer reading materials. Library staff will be in the parking lot from 2-5:30 p.m. with to-go bags for all ages so you can get a head start on a summer full of amazing programs and reading incentives that will keep you engaged and plugged in all summer long.

Join library staff to celebrate the freedom to read and create — and kick off Summer Reading — at the Library Love Drop-In Print Party on Saturday, May 31, from 1-5 p.m. Make your own zines, design custom buttons and screen print shirts or bags with one of four bold, library-loving designs. Printing will be with white ink, so bring a dark-colored shirt or tote bag. A limited number of bags will be available if you don’t have your own. 

More information about all events and resources at Johnston Public Library can be found online at www.johnstonlibrary.com or by calling the library at 515-278-5233.

Rotary Club golf fundraiser

The Rotary Club of Johnston is hosting its annual golf fundraiser on Monday, June 2, at the Hyperion Field Club, 7390 N.W. Beaver Drive, Johnston. Register your foursome now. Cost of $1,600 includes 18 holes of golf, 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.

Vietnam War Living History Event

Discover what life was like for the 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.

The Dancer’s Theatre Summer Camps

The Dancer's Theatre is a nonprofit youth performing arts center located in Johnston. Themed camps are offered throughout the summer for students in preschool through middle school. The theatre’s mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, educational and nurturing environment for young artists to create and thrive. Detailed information can be found at thedancerstheatre.org/camps.

June 9-10: Move Like Moana
June 12-13: Lion King
June 19-20: Snow White
June 24-26: Princess Academy
June 24-26: Dance Fundamentals
June 30-July 2: Hooray for USA!
July 7-9: Wonderfully Wicked!
July 10-11: Lilo and Stitch
July 14-17: Fairy Tail Fun
July 14-17: Dinos and Dragons
July 22-23: Broadway Bootcamp
July 24-25: Wonderfully Wicked!
July 28-31: Intro to Dance and Theatre
Aug. 7-8: Level Up! (Gamers)
Aug. 11-15: C.A.M.P. (Create a Musical Play)
Aug. 18-20: Wild Robot

Movies on 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 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 free, ensuring everyone in the community can enjoy this summer's entertainment. Screenings begin around 8 p.m.

Tunes at Twilight

Experience live music in the Yard. Concerts will be from 7:30-9 p.m. on the Thursdays of May 29, July 10, Aug. 7 and Sept. 11 at The Yard, 6245 Merle Hay Road. The lineup includes: May 29, The Squares; July 10, Jordan Beem; Aug. 7, The Sons of Gladys Kravitz; Sept. 11, Damon Dotson.

LifeServe Blood Drive

LifeServe Blood Center is holding its largest blood drive of the year, Blood Donor Day. On Thursday, June 19, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., LifeServe will collect blood at the Johnston Donor Center, 5625 N.W. Johnston Drive, in Johnston. Donors can schedule an appointment by calling 800-287-4903 or visiting lifeserve.info/beAstar.

Zenith Chamber Music in Johnston

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 June 5 performance — saxophonist Damani Phillips — will be at the Simpson Barn, 6169 Northglenn Drive, Johnston.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, Tuesday, June 3, 11 a.m. to noon, Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. There are many ways that homeowners can keep our watersheds healthier. By using conservation practices in strategic locations at our homes and in our community, called “Rainscaping,” we can bring back the landscape’s ability to soak up stormwater, improving local flooding problems and water quality. These conservation practices can also help fix problems such as poor lawn health, ponding and drainage issues at home, improve local habitat, and more. Some solutions include soil quality restoration, rain gardens, and rain barrels. Join The Rain Campaign to learn more about these practices, as well as rebate programs available for these practices across the Des Moines metro.
Sunset Yoga at Easter Lake. Tuesday, June 3, 7:30-9 p.m. Easter Lake Park, 2830, Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Take time to unwind as the sun sets on the beach at Easter Lake. This gentle yoga class will focus on creating a mind and body nature connection as the sun sets. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with UnityPoint. Items to bring: yoga mat and block, comfortable clothing and water bottle. Registration required, deadline is one day ahead. $15 cost. https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDcxNTc=
Toddler Tales, Thursday, June 5, 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 frogs.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Food Truck Fridays
May through June, 5:30-8 p.m.
Campbell Park, 12385 Woodlands Parkway, Clive
Satisfy your food cravings with the best of street eats and local live music — a can’t-miss community event. Bring the family to Campbell Park in Clive for food, fun and free live music. Campbell Park is now a cashless facility. Payment methods for beverage purchases at Campbell Park concession stand: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay. Most food trucks still accept cash and cards. For details, visit www.cityofclive.com/parkandrecreation/programs_and_events/food_truck_fridays/index.php

Friday, May 30: Monkey 4
Friday, June 6: Dick Danger Band
Friday, June 13: Gladys Lite (Sons of Gladys Kravitz Trio)
Friday, Sept. 5: Brian Herrin Trio
Friday, Sept. 12: The Sheet

Waukee Palooza
Saturday, June 7, 4-10 p.m.
Hy-Vee, 1005 Hickman Road, Waukee
The Rotary Club of Waukee is hosting the 7th Annual Waukee Palooza, in partnership with Hy-Vee. An estimated 2,000 people attend this family-friendly, dog-friendly music festival each year. It is free to attend the event. The fun will begin at 4 p.m. with live music from 4:30-10 p.m. by The Relics, Cover That and The Sons of Gladys Kravits. Try your luck in the silent auction and 50/50 raffle fundraisers. There will also be a special area designated for kids (and parents) for fun family experience. Besides great music, there will be food, drinks and non-alcoholic beverages for all ages.

Bondurant Summerfest
Monday and Tuesday, June 9-10
Downtown Bondurant
The Bondurant Men’s Club’s annual Bondurant Summerfest promises fun for all ages. Enjoy entertainment, a parade, carnival, games and much more. Monday features the parade at 6 p.m. from the high school to the middle school followed by activities downtown, including the carnival. An open-mic stage Tuesday is new to the event. A variety of live entertainment and demonstrations will be featured on two stages and fireworks will be held behind the middle school.

Urbandale Summer Concert Series
Various dates, 6:30-8 p.m.
Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park, next to the Urbandale Public Library
Enjoy free, high-quality music in a family-friendly setting. Bring your lawn chair or blanket, and feel free to pack a cooler.

Tuesday, June 10: Major Blues and Mugshots
Tuesday, June 24: Tommy Doggett
Sunday, June 29: Wind and Strings - Flute and Harp Duo
Thursday, July 10: Brass Blast Brass Band
Tuesday, July 29: June Bugs DSM
Tuesday, Aug. 26: River City Opry

The Bacoon Ride
Saturday, June 14, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Waukee Raccoon River Valley Trail Head, Hickman Road and N.W. 10th St.
This wildly popular event draws cyclists from all over the country, combining two Iowa favorites: bacon and the Raccoon River Valley Trail. Riders will stop in various towns along the route to enjoy bacon-themed food and drinks, making for a tasty and memorable experience. Plus, the ride supports local charities, blending fun with philanthropy. Sign up at www.eventbrite.com/e/bacoon-ride-2025-tickets-1218016011679 .

Fueling Memories: Modern Custom Dreams Car Show
Friday, June 27, and Saturday, June 28
Spectators Sports Bar & Grill, 3200 Adventureland Drive, Altoona
The public is invited for two days of car culture, community and unforgettable moments. Friday, June 27, 9-11 p.m., kick things off with the event’s first-ever light show. Saturday, June 28, gates open at 2 p.m. The main car show is from 4-8 p.m. $20 registration fee. Free entry for Spectators Awards at 8 p.m.

Wheeling with Waukee Bike Ride
Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m. to noon
Raccoon River Valley Trailhead, Hickman Road, near 10th Street
Grab your friends and get ready to ride through Waukee at the Waukee Area Chamber's first Wheeling with Waukee Bike Ride. Ride the trail to Dallas Center. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. and wheels to the trail at 10 a.m. Following the ride, stop at Kenny's Garage for a social. Register by June 13 to receive a bike ride T-shirt with registration. Register at https://members.waukeechamber.com/events/details/2025-wheeling-with-waukee-annual-bike-ride-507 .

Serve up a one-pot time-saver

(Family Features) If you feel like you’re constantly scrambling in the evenings to help with homework, prep dinner and get ready for the next day, turn to a warm, cozy meal that’s ready in a snap. This Skillet Lasagna is a one-pot solution that makes cleanup a breeze so you can skip the craziness of home cooking. Visit Culinary.net to find more family-favorite recipes for those hectic evenings at home.

Skillet lasagna
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
44 ounces marinara sauce
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup ricotta
1 1/2 cups frozen spinach
9 lasagna noodles
1 cup mozzarella cheese
bread, for serving
Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)

Directions:

In large skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef with onion power, garlic powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Drain excess grease. Mix in marinara sauce, heavy whipping cream, ricotta and spinach.
Break up lasagna noodles and add to skillet. Cover and let set over medium heat 10 minutes. Stir and top with mozzarella cheese. Cover and let set 10 minutes.
Serve with bread and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

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:

PAMPERED PETS

Residents share how they go the extra mile to spoil their critters.

Many pet owners view their animal companions as part of the family — deserving of the best care, lots of attention, and at least a few perks. Besides the usual walks, pet beds and toys, some of these pampered pets get extra special treatment: pup cups from drive-throughs, birthday parties, paw soaks and a special place in those important days of their owners’ lives — as well as in their hearts.

[...]

Read this month's issue

Palliative care: What is it, and how does it help?

By Aaron Wheeler

Q. My wife’s nurse practitioner suggested we look into palliative care. I’m nervous, as this is not a type of care I’m familiar with. My wife has diabetes and suffers from congestive heart failure. While her care team says she could live with her conditions for several years, we would both like her to have a better quality of life. What can palliative care do for her?

A. Great question. Palliative care is a specialized form of care focused on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a serious illness.

[...]

Social Security claim changes and how it affects your insurance

By Janis Van Ahn

As of April 14, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is implementing new procedures aimed at enhancing the security and efficiency of benefit claims processing. These changes primarily focus on identity verification methods to combat fraud while maintaining accessibility for beneficiaries.

Initially, the SSA had planned to eliminate telephone services for retirees, requiring all benefit applications to be conducted online or in person.

[...]

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