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Sept. 9-15, 2025

 
 
‘Some people are simply allergic to other people’
 

The words in the above headline are the most simple yet most insightful advice I have ever received. They came to me several years ago from the director of an industry association I belonged to when I was struggling to work with a publisher in another market on a planning committee.

The association director was trying to help me understand that the world isn’t black and white, and that just because a person isn’t a lot like me doesn't mean that person is right or wrong. Just different. Those differences, though, can make both people irritated, annoyed and even sick. Yes, people allergies. Who would have guessed?

But, much like the allergies we may have to dust or pollen or onions, these people allergies can change over our lifetimes, too. Many of us seem to develop allergies as we age, and we wonder why we didn't have them when we were younger. Our people allergies are much the same.

In our younger years, we may have been able to better tolerate people who fixated on politics or faith or money or family or diet or sports or travel or whatever else they want to continually talk to others about. We were more open to learning… and listening.

As the years went by, though, we lost our ability — or our willingness — to deal with these things. Instead, we now migrate to others we are similar to, whether we realize it or not. Our core principles and values come into play. Our upbringings become apparent. Our interests narrow. We can change this, of course, but it takes work and, often times, an exposure to those difficult and challenging people allergies.

The people who we seem allergic to today change as well. We may have once had much in common with them and got along so well, and now we do all we can to avoid each other. Or, we may have found that those who used to make us sick are now people we choose to spend time with. Weird. But true.

So, how do we deal with these allergies we have to other people, especially when they are friends or neighbors or even family? The answer is simple: take lots of medications. OK, that was a joke, although it is an unfortunate solution many seek as the answer. We have better choices that the association director taught me: We either totally avoid the people we are allergic to, or we take them in small doses, or we simply deal with the ill feelings they give us. And, we should also remember that one person does not have to be wrong for another person to be right.

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

 
 
Gold Star Military Museum events
 

The public is invited to upcoming events at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum at Camp Dodge, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston.

  • The museum will host a U.S. Military 250th Birthday Celebration at the Freedom Center, Building S-70, Saturday, Sept. 20, 4-7 p.m. Visitors can expect refreshments, historic military vehicles, reenactors and displays of period uniforms, museum experts, the Iowa Military Veterans Band and more.
  • Author Jeff Kluever will discuss his new book, “Marching Home,” Saturday, Oct. 4, at 11 a.m. at the museum.
  • The “Liberator” Exhibit will be on display at the museum from Sept. 23 through Oct. 11. Known as the “Liberator” in World War II Europe, the Harley Davidson WLA military motorcyle was often the first vehicle to enter towns liberated from German occupation. Used for convoy escort, reconnaissance, message delivery and military police patrols, 70,000 were produced during the war.
 

Women and Money

Join Financial Planner Shalini Babu from Prudential Advisors on Thursday, Sept.18, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Johnston Public Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road. This empowering session focuses on financial literacy for women. With a passion for encouraging confidence through education and intentional conversations, Shalini is dedicated to helping women take control of their financial futures by promoting financial wellness as a path to making informed decisions and reaching goals with clarity and purpose. Registration is appreciated at https://johnston.librarycalendar.com/event/women-and-money.

 

Johnston Lions Club bingo

Join the Johnston Lions Club for bingo with prizes on the second Thursday of October and November at the Lions Club, 6501 Merle Hay Road, Johnston. Dates are Oct. 9 and Nov. 13, 6-8 p.m.

 
 

Lessons on the Holocaust

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, 6-7:30 p.m., the public is invited to the Johnston Public Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road, to hear Educator Brad Wilkening share historical accounts and survivors’ stories to show why the genocide of World War II is more relevant than ever and how this terrible period in human history should be used to build a more compassionate and kind world today. Registration is appreciated at https://johnston.librarycalendar.com/event/lessons-holocaust.

 

Johnston Homecoming Parade

The Johnston Community School District’s homecoming parade will be Thursday, Sept. 18, at 6 p.m. The northbound lane of Pioneer Parkway will be closed from 4-8 p.m. from Greendale Road to N.W. 62nd Avenue. Access to Hy-Vee along Greendale Road will be limited during staging until the parade route has passed. However, southbound traffic on Pioneer Parkway will remain open.

 

First-time homebuyer class

Thinking about buying your first home? Join Mortgage Loan Officer Matt Nolan from Community Choice Credit Union and Realtor Pete Jones for a first-time homebuyer class on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 6-7:30 p.m. at the Johnston Public Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road. Matt and Brad will walk you through the process from financing to closing and answer your home-buying questions. Registration is appreciated at https://johnston.librarycalendar.com/event/first-time-homebuyer-class-20717.

 

Craft and Rummage Sale canceled

The Johnston Women’s Social Connection rummage sale has been canceled.

 
 

Polk County Conservation events

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

  • Global Migrations - Monarch Butterflies: Saturday, Sept. 13, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join a naturalist for a family-friendly program focused on the migrations of an amazing animal. Travel around the world together as we learn animal facts and how climate change is affecting this species. The program will involve a presentation and hands-on fun. Stop by Critter Club afterward to meet one of the Nature Center’s amazing animals.
  • Critter Club: Saturday, Sept. 13, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Come and visit with Jester Park Nature Center’s resident animals up close. Staff will have one or two ambassador animals out to learn what special role they play in education. You may even get to touch them. This is an open house-style program, so come and go during the time offered. Attend the Global Migrations program beforehand to be an animal champion.
  • DIY - Elderberry Syrup: Sunday, Sept. 14, 12:30-2:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join staff for a hands-on class where you'll discover the wonders of elderberry and create your own elderberry syrup to take home. In the workshop, you'll learn about the medicinal properties and benefits of elderberries, how to properly identify and harvest them, and the process of making elderberry syrup from scratch. Take home your very own handmade elderberry syrup, perfect for boosting your immune system and adding a delicious touch to your favorite recipes. Registration required.
  • Sunset Yoga at Jester: Monday, Sept. 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Take time to unwind as the sun sets on the outdoor plaza or inside the Great Hall of the Jester Park Nature Center. 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 by one day prior.
  • Story Tellebration: Wednesday, Sept. 17, 10-10:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join volunteer storyteller Carmen Epstein for a fun, interactive tale tailored toward children ages 2 to 6 that explores the wonders of the outdoors. During each program, participants enjoy interactive stories and an activity.
 

Storybook Bingo

Are you looking for something fun to do on a day with no school? Join in on Monday, Sept. 29, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Johnston Public Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road, for an exciting event. Bring your friends and family for bingo at the library. Find famous book characters in the correct places on your card, and you could be a winner. This event is recommended for kids in grades K-6. 

 

Electronics Recycling Day

A free electronics recycling day will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Johnston City Hall east parking lot, 6221 Merle Hay Road. All general electronics are accepted, but CRTs, televisions and some batteries may have fees. For details on pricing and accepted items, visit Electronic Asset Security’s website, https://electronicassetsecurity.com.

 

Trick-or-Treat with first responders

Join community members on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 5:30-7 p.m. at Fire Station 38, 10225 N.W. 62nd Ave., and go trick-or-treating with first responders from the police and fire departments. They will be handing out treats, and you can also explore the fire engine, ambulance and a squad car. The Bridge will organize fun activities for the kids and hand out candy.

 
 

Johnston Partnership needs fall and winter clothing

The Johnston Partnership provides food and personal hygiene products to those in need, as well as children’s seasonal clothing. The organization is ramping up our collection of fall/ winter clothing items, especially winter coats that are new or in great used condition. It can also accept snow pants, boots and warm socks in new packages. Most needed sizes are toddler and youth, but the group will likely need about 2,000 coats to make it through the winter season, so all sizes are welcome. 

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

 

Medication Safety and Trivia Course

Discover the pros and cons of living in a time when prescriptions are handed out more than ever. Join this course Thursday, Sept. 25, 1-2 p.m., at the Crown Point Community Center, 6300 Pioneer Parkway, Johnston, and learn why it's important to be your own health advocate, how to use medications safely, and the risks that come with misusing drugs. Learn how you can take charge of your health and make informed choices about your medications. The registration deadline is Thursday, Sept. 18. Register at https://johnston.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=94.

 

Last Sounds of Summer Concert

Enjoy an exciting concert featuring The Pork Tornadoes at the Yard Summer Concert Series Saturday, Sept. 27, 7-10 p.m. at The Yard, 6245 Merle Hay Road. Admission is free, and no tickets are required. Outside coolers are not allowed.

 

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.

 
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Martini Fest
Friday, Sept. 19, 5-9 p.m.
West Glen Town Center
CITYVIEW is bringing Martini Fest back to West Glen Town Center. For a ticket price of $25 (tickets will be $35 at the event), attendees will receive 10 tickets that can be redeemed at each participating martini stop for a sample-size martini. Locations include nightclubs and restaurants at West Glen Town Center. Reserve your tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/cityview-martini-fest-2025-tickets-1291852588869 now so you can avoid registration lines at the event.

Oktoberfest in The District
Friday, Sept. 26, and Saturday, Sept. 27
The District at Prairie Trail, S.W. District Drive, Ankeny
Raise your steins and don your lederhosen for two unforgettable days of festive fun at the 21st Annual Oktoberfest, now at The District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny. Experience the heart of Bavarian tradition with authentic German food, lively polka music, traditional beer hall games, and, of course, plenty of beer to go around. This two-day celebration offers something for everyone, from classic stein-holding contests and live music to delicious bratwursts and pretzels straight from the grill. For tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/21st-annual-des-moines-oktoberfest-tickets-1488793063129?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Armed Forces 250th Birthday Celebration
Sept. 20, 4-7 p.m.
Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, Camp Dodge Freedom Center, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston
On behalf of the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum on Camp Dodge, Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) extends their invitation to attend the Armed Forces 250th Birthday Celebration. All members of the public are invited to attend. Visitors can expect refreshments, historic military vehicles, reenactors and displays of period uniforms, museum experts, the Iowa Military Veterans Band, and more.

‘Blithe Spirit’
Oct. 3-12
Ankeny Community Theatre, 1932 S.W. Third St., Ankeny
“Blithe Spirit,” by Noël Coward, will be presented by Ankeny Community Theatre. This comedy is perfect for the Halloween season. When a group of friends hosts a seance that goes wrong, Charles’ first wife comes back to haunt him and his new wife with hysterical results. Tickets available at ankenycommunitytheatre.com.

Archives Across America: Unlocking Genealogy Resources
Saturday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m.
Iowa Genealogical Society Library, 628 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines
The Iowa Genealogical Society will host this one-day conference at the IGS Library and via Zoom. Featured speaker Tina Beaird will present on the Library of Congress, the National Personnel Records Center, the U.S. National Archives, and Midwest repositories. Registration is $70 for members and $90 for non-members. Details at www.iowagenealogy.org.

15th Annual Healthiest State Walk
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 5:30 p.m.
Making a healthier future for Iowa will take all of us from Sioux City to Dubuque to Des Moines. #StartSomewhere with us and thousands of Iowans across the state by walking at your workplace, school, child care site, or in your community any time on Oct. 1 for the 15th Annual Healthiest State Walk presented by Delta Dental of Iowa. More information and register at www.iowahealthieststate.com/events/annual-walk.

 
 
Summer veggies meet fall flavor
 

(Family Features) When September arrives, it’s finally time to dust off those fall recipes. This zucchini chicken bake is a perfect blend of summer veggies and warm, fall flavor, ideal for those hot days that turn into chilly evenings. Visit Culinary.net to find more family recipe inspiration.

Zucchini chicken bake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 2-3 tomatoes
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon minced onion
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • avocado oil
  • 1-1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions:

  • Heat oven to 375 F.
  • Cut zucchinis, tomatoes and chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place in 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle with minced onion, Italian seasoning and paprika then drizzle with avocado oil. Mix well with spoon.
  • Cover with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes.
 
 
 
 
 
From your Johnston Living magazine
 

This month's cover story:

ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT

Residents share their home renovation experiences

Live in a home for a while, and one is likely to start thinking, “If only….” If only the bathroom had a walk-in shower…. If only the kitchen had new cabinets.… If only the old flooring could be replaced.… If only the basement was finished…. If only a room could be added…. If only that longed-for home improvement project could be completed … then the house would be just right. Residents who have taken the leap from thinking about it to tackling their dream projects share their experiences.

[...]

 
Read more
 
 

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