Busted in a Good Way: Winner receives a new bicycle — This and more in this week's issue!

Oct. 7-11, 2025

Iconic living rooms from our favorite TV shows

Few things in life bring back memories like the family room or living room of our childhood homes. Maybe it was the shag carpet. Or the wood paneling. Or the flowered sofa. Or, of course, the console TV. Many of us spent a great deal of time in that room, so it makes sense why it sticks in our minds.

Times change, which means styles, needs and technology all change, too. Furniture doesn’t seem to last as long as it used to. TVs are replaced rather than repaired. And new carpet simply needs installed every now and then. Meanwhile, as much as we remember our own living rooms, we equally remember the ones from our favorite TV shows.

I can still see the Cunninghams gathering together in the “Happy Days” living room, where Howard sometimes got frisky with Marion. And there are Lenny and Squiggy barging in to Laverne and Shirley’s living room in their Milwaukee apartment, much like Kramer did in Jerry’s place in New York City for “Seinfeld.”

The late 1970s California vibe was quite present in “Three’s Company,” as was the elder version of it in “The Ropers.” Anyone else miss Norman Fell? And Don Knotts?

Fred and Lamont didn't have anything special in their junk dealer living room, but it was the center of the “Sanford and Son” TV show — and where the Ripple was kept.

We all knew where Archie sat in “All in the Family,” and we knew what would happen if the Meathead took his chair. Where else would we have learned what order to put our socks and shoes on?

I didn’t watch “Roseanne” often, but I can still visualize the Conners’ living room, as it looked like many of the ones from my childhood with those crocheted Afghan blankets.

Most of didn’t grow up with a father who was an architect, but the Bradys did, and their house in “The Brady Bunch” was unforgettable. Those iconic stairs stepped into the family room, where Mike and Carol taught life lessons to the Brady kids — and many of us.

As television sets changed from black and white to color, many of our favorite shows did, too. I only recall “Bewitched” from reruns, but the color versions showed the popular oranges and greens and browns that Samantha and Darrin Stephens decorated their late-1960s home with.

How about you? What iconic living rooms do you recall from your favorite TV shows? Send me a note and let me know.

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

Busted in a Good Way: Winner receives a new bicycle

The Johnston Police Department recently awarded a brand new bicycle to Joey Bertroche, thanks to Scheels in Des Moines. Joey was “Busted in a Good Way” this summer for demonstrating safe bicycle habits while riding on the Johnston trails. Fortunately, this ticket did not come with a fine; instead, he was able to redeem it for a free ice cream cone at Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shoppe. His ticket also entered him into a drawing for a new bike. Approximately 130 tickets were distributed this summer, and those who submitted them on time were entered into a bicycle drawing at Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shoppe.

“This program is in its 10th year,” Sergeant Johnston said. “It provides a great opportunity for uniformed officers to interact positively with children in our community and help them understand the importance of bicycle safety. Safely crossing the road, wearing a helmet, and using proper hand signals alert motorists and ensure everyone's safety.”

The officers look forward to handing out more tickets in 2026. The Johnston Police Department appreciates the continued partnership of Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shoppe for this program.

Support the Johnston High School Varsity Marching Band

The Johnston High School Varsity Marching Band brings pride, energy and music to the community at football games, parades and competitions. The band’s 15-year-old uniforms are past their lifespan, and fundraising efforts are aiming to raise $150,000 by year’s end to outfit students in new uniforms for the 2026-2027 season. Your support also fuels music programs for fifth through ninth graders, nurturing the next generation of Johnston musicians.

Whether you’re a business or an individual, your donation powers students to march with confidence. No amount is too small — every gift counts. For more information, contact jbandparents@gmail.com.

Provide input on the Trail Master Plan

The city of Johnston is looking for your input as it develops a city-wide Trail Master Plan. The public can comment on the project website, www.cityofjohnston.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1528, until Friday, Oct. 17.

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.

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 its 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-items.

Cookies and Conversation: An Evening with CultureALL’s Open Books

Iowans Abena Sandkofa Imhotep and Tone the MoveMaker will be presenting at the Johnston Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road, on Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. They will share their personal narratives of identity and transformation and facilitate conversations intended to inspire reflection, connection, and a deeper sense of belonging. While all ages are welcome to attend, note that the content may include mature themes. Registration is required. Register at https://johnston.librarycalendar.com/events.

Escape the Haunted Library

A strange presence will be stirring up trouble among the shelves at the Johnston Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road, on Saturday, Oct. 18. Can you uncover the clues, solve the puzzles and escape the haunted library? Kids, teens and grown-up ghouls are welcome, just make sure everyone is registered for one of the five eerie escape-room sessions. The sessions are at 10 and 11:30 a.m., and 1:30, 3 and 4:30 p.m. Register at https://johnston.librarycalendar.com/events.

Fall Family Fun

The public is invited Friday, Oct. 17, 5-8 p.m. to The Yard at the Johnston Town Center, Backpocket, 6205 Merle Hay Road, for some Fall Family Fun for everyone. There will be face painting, cookie decorating, yard games, fall beverages like apple cider, and more. So, dress up in your costumes, bring the entire family, and get into the spirit of the fall season. This is the same time as the third Annual Backpocket Beer Mile. Register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/IA/Johnston/BackpocketBeerMile. Before the adults get started at 6 p.m., a kids fun run will be held at 5:30 p.m. Kids run free. Visit the Facebook event link at www.facebook.com/share/1D8k8f63xo/.

Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast

The Kiwanis Club of Johnston invites the public for pancakes on Saturday, Oct. 18, 7:30-11 a.m. at the Johnston Middle School, 6501 N.W. 62nd Ave. Tickets are $7 in advance and $8 at the door. Tickets are available via Venmo @Johnston-Kiwanis, by emailing johnstonkiwanis@gmail.com and through Facebook @Kiwanis Club of Johnston.

4A State Golf Tourney in Johnston

Hyperion Field Club is hosting the Iowa High School Boys 4A State Golf Tournament from Monday, Oct. 13 to Tuesday, Oct. 14 at the Hyperion Field Club, 7390 N.W. Beaver Drive, Johnston. This event will bring 12 high school golf teams (72 golfers) and 12 individual qualifiers for 12 teams to the community, not to mention countless spectators associated with them.

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.

Trick-or-Treat in Johnston is Oct. 31

Last year, Johnston, along with several other metropolitan communities, reviewed the Beggars Night tradition and decided that Halloween will be celebrated on Oct. 31 from now on. This year, Halloween falls on a Friday evening. Families can go trick-or-treating from 6-8 p.m.

Tree Branch and Limb Drop Off

Every fall, the City of Johnston gives residents a chance to get rid of branches and limbs for free. You can drop off these materials at the Public Works Facility located at 6400 N.W. Beaver Drive from Nov. 13-15. Drop-off hours are: Thursday, Nov. 13, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 14, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 15, 7 a.m. to noon.

Drug Take Back Day

Unused or unwanted prescription drugs can be dropped off at the Johnston Public Safety Building, 6373 Merle Hay Road, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes, other sharps and illegal drugs will not be accepted.

Frightfully Fun Night

On Thursday, Oct. 30, 6-8 p.m. stop at Edencrest at Green Meadows, 6750 Corporate Drive, for a spooktacular evening of Halloween fun. Kids are invited to trick-or-treat with residents, enjoy festive games, and sip on warm apple cider. Bring the whole family and celebrate the season with the community. Costumes are encouraged.

Trunk or Treat

The Johnston Lions invite the public to the club’s trunk-or-treat event. On Friday, Oct. 31 from 5-7 p.m. at the Johnston Lions Club, 6501 Merle Hay Road, enjoy a family-friendly trick or treating event. See kid-themed trunks and collect some sweet treats from community partners.

Gold Star Military Museum events

The public is invited to upcoming events at the Gold Star Military Museum at Camp Dodge, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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 motorcycle 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.
The American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit will be at the museum Oct. 14-25. The Camp Dodge Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution was selected by the National Society DAR to sponsor the exhibit, and the group will hold an open house on Saturday, Oct. 18, to share stories of their American Revolution Patriots, along with other surprises.

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

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.

Great Iowa Pet Expo
Oct. 18-19
2100 N.W. 100th St., Clive
www.greatiowapetexpo.com
The Expo has all things pet, including trade show, education and entertainment.

IMT Des Moines Marathon
Oct. 19
1001 Grand Ave., West Des Moines
www.desmoinesmarathon.com
Since 2002, the annual marathon has been taking participants on a run throughout Iowa’s Capital.

5th Annual Craft and Vendor Fair
Saturday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1100 S.E. Sharon Drive, Ankeny
The theme this year will be “Unexpected Treasures.” Come and look for that special gift for someone or treat yourself to a little special something from a variety of vendors. A new fun feature will be vendor-sponsored prize drawings throughout the event. Also, bring your appetite because lunch will be available for purchase. This event is sponsored by St. Paul’s LWML- Women in Mission and all proceeds from the rental space and food sales will go to support missions.

Vendor Market at Outlets of DSM
Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Outlets of DSM, Suite 315 at 801 Bass Pro Drive N.W., Altoona
Each show has a variety of vendors from honey, to freeze-dried items, skin care, makeup, bath and body, 3D items, essential oils and a variety of crafters. Each event has different vendors. No two shows are the same. Come check out the vendors and buy local.

SCI’s Big Blast
Saturday, Oct. 18, 6-10 p.m.
Science Center of Iowa, 401 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines
The Science Center of Iowa invites the community to step back in time for an unforgettable evening at its annual fundraising event. This year’s event marks a special milestone: 55 years since SCI first opened its doors. To celebrate, guests are encouraged to channel their inner early-1970s style, and join in a retro-themed celebration filled with food, flair, and science magic. The event will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, hands-on science surprises, a curated silent auction, immersive programming and throwback nostalgia.

Proceeds from SCI’s BIG BLAST support hands-on science learning through outreach
programs, exhibits, workshops and camps. Tickets and event details available at www.sciowa.org/bigblast.

A winning combo for kickoff

(Family Features) Cool air settling in and football games kicking off mean it’s time for tailgating, homegating and enjoying favorite snacks with your fellow fans.

Celebrate Popcorn Poppin’ Month this October with a combination of two favorite tailgate foods in this bacon cheeseburger popcorn recipe. It calls for a mixture of spices that mimic the cheeseburger experience along with hearty bacon and ground beef for a filling snack that gets you ready for kickoff.

Made by combining cheese popcorn and dill pickle popcorn with hamburger and bacon, along with a dash of spices, it’s a perfect game day recipe worth tackling to indulge your family’s and friends’ taste buds and elevate your tailgate experience.

Find more ways to enhance your tailgate or homegate with easy, popcorn-fueled snacks at Popcorn.org.

Bacon cheeseburger popcorn
Recipe courtesy of The Popcorn Board
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 3

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon mustard powder
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
6 slices bacon, diced
4 ounces ground beef
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/3 cup popcorn kernels (unpopped)
3 tablespoons cheese powder
1 tablespoon dill pickle powder
1 green onion, thinly sliced

Directions:

In small bowl, whisk mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. Set aside.
In large skillet over medium-low heat, cook bacon and ground beef 8-10 minutes, or until fat renders and mixture is golden brown and crispy. Transfer to plate lined with paper towels to drain. Reserve 2 tablespoons bacon fat.
In large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over high heat, combine vegetable oil and reserved bacon fat. Add popcorn kernels; stir to coat then spread in even layer. Cover with lid. Shaking saucepan, cook 2-4 minutes, or until popcorn starts to pop, then shake less frequently, at about 2-second intervals, until popping sounds have almost stopped. Remove from heat. Safely open lid.
Transfer half the popcorn to large bowl and toss with cheese powder. Toss popcorn in saucepan with dill pickle powder; transfer to large bowl of cheese popcorn. Add bacon mixture and reserved seasoning; toss to combine.
Garnish with green onion.
Tips: For beefy flavor, sprinkle popped popcorn with 1/4 teaspoon beef bouillon powder or steak spice, if desired.
For extra-cheesy popcorn, sprinkle popped popcorn with 1/2 cup shredded mild or sharp cheddar cheese.

From your Johnston Living magazine

This month's cover story:

RESIDENTS' CHOICE AWARDS

Northwest Metro residents share their favorites

Residents in the Northwest Metro communities of Grimes, Dallas Center, Johnston, Urbandale and Clive have again weighed in on their favorite businesses, people, events and places in the latest Residents’ Choice poll. The poll results share residents’ top three choices in dozens of categories, many of which are extremely competitive with only a handful of votes separating the winner from the runners up. Consequently, we view them all as winners. They have captured the favor of people who live in the Northwest Metro area and who know the businesses, people, events and places of the area best.

[...]

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