Johnston Police welcomes Detective Braun — This and more in this week's issue!

March 3-9, 2026

Who needs 19 cupholders in a car?

When my wife and I go for a drive in my truck, it all starts with a race for the cupholders. It works out fine if we each have one cup, but for a reason I still don’t understand, Jolene sometimes brings multiples. Then, it becomes a musical chairs of sorts to see who gets their cup(s) in the holders. The odd cup out usually ends up in the pop-out cupholder in the back seat. Sure, there are cupholders in the lower storage areas in the doors, but that’s just asking for trouble when the doors open and shut. After all, who wants hot coffee on their pant legs?

I do appreciate the cupholders, and I can’t imagine vehicles without them now. Operating a vehicle used to be much more complicated, and sipping a latte while focusing on the road wasn’t on the minds of the early engineers — and for good reason.

Today, I have at least six cupholders in my truck, maybe more. That seems like overkill. Meanwhile, vehicles with the most cupholders today are the Subaru Ascent with 19, the 2020 Hyundai Palisade with 18, and the Volkswagen Atlas with 17. Seriously.

Do you remember the first vehicle with a cupholder? If you guessed the Dodge Caravan of the 1980s like I did, you would be wrong. The correct answer may surprise you. It was the 1977 Chevrolet Blazer and Pickup. Both offered an optional plastic center console with molded cupholders — and not those flimsy plastic ones with slipped in the window crevice. These were built into the original design.

If you did guess the minivan, you weren’t totally wrong. The 1983 Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager had cupholders that became more widely recognized in today's mass-produced vehicles.

And, if you pointed out that cars in the 1930s-1940s had factory-installed cupholders as shallow indents in the glove compartments, you would be correct, too. But, you didn’t want to drive down the road with your glass bottle of Pepsi balancing on one of these.

When we were in high school in the 1980s, my friend Johnny and I used to drive around in his dad’s old pickup, which had a red and yellow plastic coffee cup from Casey’s General Store stuck to the dash. It had a removable top for refills and a flat bottom that would slide into the piece that was glued to the dash. His dad used it every day, as was apparent by the coffee-stained yellow plastic. Rinsed out on occasion but never washed, that nasty cup was a futuristic look at how we would be storing our drinks in our vehicles in years to come — all 19 of them.

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

Johnston Police welcomes Detective Braun

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, the police department celebrated a commitment to public safety with the swearing-in of Detective Braun by Mayor Paula Dierenfeld. With more than 25 years in law enforcement, Detective Braun brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role within the Johnston Police Department. She works to bridge gaps between law enforcement and community members, ensuring a cooperative atmosphere in Johnston. The Johnston Police Department is excited to have Detective Braun and looks forward to the fresh perspective and expertise she brings to the team and the Johnston community.

Johnston Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Saturday, April 18, the Johnston Lions Club is hosting its annual Pancake Breakfast. The location this year is the Johnston Middle School cafeteria, 6501 N.W. 62nd Ave. Hours are 7-11 a.m., and the breakfast features pancakes (including gluten-free pancakes), sausage, scrambled eggs, juice and coffee. Tickets are $10 at the door, and kids 5 and younger are free. Proceeds will benefit the Lions Club Service Projects.

Spring Cleanup is April 20-23

Spring is just around the corner, and, as we look ahead, it's important to note that the spring cleanup in Johnston will take place from April 20-23. Residents living west of N.W. 86th Street are scheduled for cleanup on April 20 and 21, while those living east of N.W. 86th Street will have their cleanup on April 22 and 23. As winter comes to a close, it's a great time to think about your own spring cleaning tasks. Learn more here.

Electronics recycling event is April 18

Are you looking to dispose of your old electronics but unsure how to do it? The city is offering an Electronics Recycling Day on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event takes place on the Saturday before spring cleanup. Most electronics can be recycled for free. Drop-off will be in the City Hall east parking lot (6221 Merle Hay Road).

Farmers Markets vendor applications are now open

Applications are open for the Farmers Market through April 30. Approved applications are valid for one year, and vendor pricing is based on single- or double-space pricing. Spaces are limited, so apply early and include a brief description of your products. This year’s market will feature live music and community events to enhance the experience. For more details, please contact us. Apply here.

Public meetings

Monday, March 9: Planning and Zoning Meeting, 7 p.m.
Thursday, March 19: Library Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 19: Board of Adjustment Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Monday, March 23: City Council Work Session, 5:30 p.m.
Monday, March 23: City Council Meeting, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 25: Tree Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 25: Park Board Meeting, 6 p.m.

Gold Star Military Museum events

Camp Dodge, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston, https://goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov

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

Edencrest at Green Meadows events

Edencrest at Green Meadows, 6750 Corporate Drive, Johnston, https://edencrestliving.com/green-meadows/

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.

Apply to serve on a board or commission

The City of Johnston is accepting applications for volunteer positions on the Board of Adjustment, Park Advisory Board, Planning and Zoning Commission and Library Board. These opportunities allow residents to influence community development and the opportunities available for residents. Learn more about the roles and current vacancies. Terms range from three to six years. Learn more here.

Sign up to be a Kites on the Green volunteer

Kites on the Green returns on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free, family-friendly event is organized by community volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help throughout the day, with full and partial shifts available from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This is a great opportunity to earn volunteer hours, including silver cord hours for students. Learn more here.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Knee-High Naturalists: Wednesday, March 11, 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. As naturalists we will hike, investigate, and navigate through the trails and grounds of Jester Park as we learn what makes the outdoors such an amazing place. Please come dressed to be outside. Registration required by the day before.
Spring Break Discovery Hike: Friday, March 13, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger, and from 1-2 p.m. at Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter 3, 7200 S.E. Fifth St., Des Moines. Start your spring break with an adventure at this refreshing, family-friendly hike designed to shake off the last of the winter blues and welcome the beauty of spring.
Global Migrations - Northern Elephant Seals: Saturday, March 14, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join us for a family-friendly program focused on the migrations of an amazing animal. We’ll 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, March 14, 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. We’ll 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, so come and go anytime from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Attend the Global Migrations program beforehand to be an animal champion.
Rain Barrel Workshop: Sunday, March 15, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. This workshop will begin with a short discussion about water quality, water conservation and the benefits of using a rain barrel. Afterwards, you will begin constructing your own barrel. Step by step instruction, tool safety, safety glasses, one 55-gallon barrel and all construction materials will be provided. Be prepared to take your barrel home after the workshop. They will fit in most standard SUVs. Registration required by one week prior.

Johnston Public Library events

Seniors are invited to attend Retirement University’s Planning for the Future: Coverage and Support at Home. On Thursday, March 12 at 1 p.m., staff from WesleyLife will share information on programs and coverage options for seniors living at home. Registration is required.

Barbie is ready to make her runway debut at the library. Young fashion designers in grades 3-5 who would like to make their own outfit for Barbie can attend Barbie Boutique on Saturday, March 14 from 2-3 p.m. Dolls and materials will be provided, and designers will be able to take their decked-out dolls home with them.

Bring your young musicians in pre-K through fifth grade to the Instrument Petting Zoo. On Monday, March 16, the Des Moines Symphony Academy will present an interactive program that’s all about music. Everyone in the audience will have the opportunity to explore and play a string instrument. Please register for one of two sessions beginning at either 10 a.m. or 11 a.m.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Pre-Party and Parade
March 14 and March 17
The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick is back with its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Join them on Saturday, March 14, from 2-6 p.m. at The Shop DSM, 901 Cherry St., Des Moines, for a Pre-Paddy Party, featuring live music from Fat Tuesday, a live auction, food trucks and cash bar for an at-will donation. The parade is on Tuesday, March 17, and begins at noon. Participants will proceed from E. First Street, west on Grand Avenue to Eighth Street, with the parade officially ending at Eighth and Grand Avenue. The after party will be in the Des Moines Marriott Downtown Hotel. Visit www.friendlysonsiowa.com for more information.

St. Paddy’s Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K
Saturday, March 14
Iowa State Capitol, East Locust Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, Des Moines
Celebrate 10 years of the Des Moines St. Paddy’s Race. A new 2026 finisher pint glass will be waiting at the finish line. Finisher medal provided for all marathon and half marathon runners. More information: https://iowaruns.com/desmoinesstpaddys5k#acc-rqya205-0.

Elks Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
Saturday, March 14, 5:30 p.m.
West Des Moines Elks No. 2752, 2060 N.W. 94th St., Clive
The Elks St. Patrick’s Day Celebration will begin with the Foy School of Irish Dancers performing at 5:30 p.m. They will perform for about 20 minutes, followed by the Elks’ famous St. Paddy’s Day corn beef and cabbage with Irish potatoes, $12 per serving.

The Ingersoll Shows
The Ingersoll, 3711 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines
www.theingersoll.com

Church Basement Ladies: March 26–29, April 2–5 and April 9–12. Matinee performances will have dining at 11 a.m., and the show beginning at 1 p.m. Evening performances will have dining at 5:30 p.m., and the show beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The Classic Stones Live: Wednesday, April 15, and Thursday, April 16. Widely recognized as the most premier Rolling Stones tribute in the world, this eight-piece band recreates the raw energy, swagger and sound of The Stones in their legendary prime. From iconic saxophone lines to unforgettable backing vocals, every detail is meticulously performed in original tunings. Dining begins at 5:30 p.m. with the show at 7:30 p.m. both nights.
“Isn’t She Lovely,” a Mother’s Day Music Show starring Patricia Holly: May 8 and May 10, offering both an evening and matinee option for families celebrating together. On May 8, dining will be at 5:30 p.m. and show at 7:30 p.m. On May 10, Dining is at 11 a.m. and show is at 1 p.m.
Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience - 90’s Country: Two performances June 6. Matinee: Dining at 11 a.m. Show at 1 p.m. Evening: Dining at 5:30 p.m., Show at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are available at www.theingersoll.com/events or at Ticketmaster.com/TheIngersoll.

Iowa Home Expo
Friday, March 13 to Sunday, March 15
Iowa State Fairgrounds Jacobson Center, 3000 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines
Whether you’re planning on upgrading your home or need a reliable contractor to fix your leaking roof, the Iowa Home Expo is the spot to find all local remodeling experts. The Iowa Home Expo hosts local and national exhibitors offering exclusive deals and discounts. Hours are: Friday, March 13, noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, March 15, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information available at https://iowahomeexpo.com/.

A hearty stew to celebrate St. Pat’s

(Family Features) Green beer and decor may get all the attention, but for hosts looking to wow their St. Patrick’s Day guests or astound their loved ones, a traditional Irish recipe can become an annual tradition. Celebrate the luck o’ the Irish with this St. Patrick’s Day Stew, a hearty, beefy meal loaded with chuck stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onions and, of course, stout beer. To find more recipes that put tradition center stage, visit Culinary.net.

St. Patrick’s Day stew
Recipe adapted from Simply Recipes
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 1/4 pounds marbled chuck beef stew meat, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
1 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste, divided
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
6 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups beef stock
2 cups water
1 cup extra stout beer
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
4 carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Sprinkle beef chunks with 1 teaspoon salt. In large pot over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
Pat beef dry with paper towels and add to pot, working in batches to avoid crowding pot. Cook until browned on one side then flip and brown.
Add garlic cloves to pot with beef and saute 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add beef stock, water, beer, wine, tomato paste, sugar, thyme, Worcestershire sauce and bay leaves. Stir.
Bring mixture to simmer then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
In separate pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and carrots; saute until golden, about 15 minutes.
After beef mixture simmers 1 hour, add onions, carrots and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer uncovered until beef and vegetables are tender, about 40 minutes. Discard bay leaves and spoon excess fat.
Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

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From your Johnston Living magazine

This month's cover story:

'I DO'

Residents share their marriage proposal stories

Couples often celebrate the milestones of their relationships: the day they met, their wedding, anniversaries … And the date of their engagement is often a highlight: an event often given much thought and planning. An occasion of romance, joy and anticipation of the journey ahead.

[...]

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