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June 23-29, 2026

 
 
Better. Stronger. Faster.
 

If you watched television in the 1970s, the three words in the headline of this column probably bring to mind a man sprinting in a red tracksuit. And no, it was not Santa Claus. It was Col. Steve Austin from “The Six Million Dollar Man.”

The ABC series aired from 1973 to 1978 and blended science fiction with fantasy. Austin, a former astronaut, was nearly killed in a NASA test-flight crash. Thanks to bionic implants, he emerged with superhuman strength, speed and vision. Better. Stronger. Faster. Naturally, the government put him to work as a secret agent.

As kids, we wanted to be Steve Austin. We leaped off picnic tables, jumped across ditches and attempted feats of strength that usually ended with scraped knees and parental lectures. In our minds, we were bionic. In reality, we were one bad landing away from a trip to the emergency room.

I owned the Steve Austin toy that Kenner introduced in 1975. Let’s be clear: It was not a doll. It was a 16-inch action figure, complete with a red tracksuit, T-shirt, socks, underwear and an engine block. Yes, an engine block.

The figure featured a telescopic eye that was supposed to simulate bionic vision. It didn’t. You could also push a button on its back and watch Steve Austin lift objects weighing up to 2 pounds. The toy even made bionic sounds, or at least what 1970s engineers thought bionic sounds should be.

The coolest feature was a rubber skin sleeve that rolled up to reveal the bionic parts. Nothing in my toy collection came close — at least until the arms and legs snapped off. At that point, even Oscar Goldman couldn’t save my Steve Austin. I tried anyway, using Elmer’s Glue, duct tape and the Bionic Transport and Repair Station, which conveniently doubled as a rocket. Yes, I had that, too. There were advantages to having a mother who worked at a toy store.

The man behind Steve Austin, actor Lee Majors, was a star in his own right. Being married to Farrah Fawcett of “Charlie’s Angels” fame certainly didn’t hurt his popularity.

More than 50 years later, the premise of “The Six Million Dollar Man” no longer seems so far-fetched. People receive artificial hips, knees, shoulders, heart valves, pacemakers and cochlear implants. Technology continues to blur the line between human and machine. We may not be leaping over buildings or lifting engine blocks anytime soon, but every year we get a little closer to the future that Steve Austin promised. And if my knees keep aging at their current pace, I will gladly settle for better. Maybe stronger. Definitely faster.

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

 
Honored by BBB
 

Health Insurance Advisor, LLC, owned by Janis Van Ahn, was recognized June 4 at the Des Moines Heritage Center as one of just five businesses to receive the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics — a prestigious distinction that celebrates a commitment to trust, integrity and excellence in business practices. Pictured are Zachary Waston, Ciri Quirk, Janis Van Ahn, Brogan Freese, Betheny Wilson and Taylor Kunze.

 

AstroYachts and Wanted at Sounds of Summer

Join attendees in The Yard, 6221 Merle Hay Road, for the 2026 Sounds of Summer Concert Series kicking off June 27 with AstroYachts and Wanted performing from 7-10 p.m. The free concert series is sponsored by The Cork 50131.

 

Johnston Basketball Club 2026 Tryouts

The Johnston Basketball Club girls and boys tryouts are set for Sunday, Aug. 9, at Johnston High School, 6500 N.W. 100th St. Grades eligible for tryouts are first through eighth (grade they will be attending in the fall of 2026). Check the JBC website, johnstonbasketballclub.com, to register for tryouts in July. Specific times for tryouts per grade will be communicated in early August.  

 

Public meetings

  • Wednesday, June 24: Tree Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, June 24: Park Board Meeting, 6 p.m.
  • Monday, June 29: Planning and Zoning Meeting, 7 p.m.
 
 
Carol Elaine Miller
 

Carol Elaine Miller of Johnston died at home on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. She was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was born Dec. 3, 1944, in Nyack, New York, to parents Daniel and Annastasia (Doyle) Pedersen. Carol grew up in New City, New York, and graduated from Clarkstown High School, attended Nyack Missionary College, and received degrees from Iowa Central Community College and Buena Vista College.

Carol spent her working career in fundraising, marketing and events planning, retiring from Blank Park Zoo.

She was married to John Miller for nearly 25 years prior to his passing in 2020.

Carol enjoyed collecting and refinishing antiques, quilting, her Red Hats group, book club at the Johnston Library and family gatherings.

Carol is survived by her sons, Joel (Mary) Werley and Andrew Werley (Allie Seager); grandchildren, Elizabeth (Nathan) Merical, Jacklynn Smith, Kurtis (Catherine) Smith, Kendra (Bradley) Evans, Eddie (Cindy) Miller and Caden and Soloman Werley; and her great-grandchildren, John Harvey, Tyler, Katherine, Ryan and Isabella Merical; Jace and Jake Dean; Madison and Aubree Evans; Iziah, Jack, Ayla, Ayro, Rwyn and Theo Smith; and Jensen Miller. She is also survived by her sister, Doris Eck, along with several nieces and nephews.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, John Miller, and brothers, Art and Eddie Pedersen.

A memorial service will be at 4 p.m., Friday, June 26, at Iles Dunn’s Chapel, 2121 Grand Ave., Des Moines. Visitation will begin one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the North High School Polar Bear Scholarship Fund, 501 Holcomb St., Des Moines, IA 50313.

Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements are through Iles Dunn’s Chapel.

 
 
Garden surprise
 

In a surprise gathering, Wallace Elementary staff, students, the PTO and family members named the beautiful garden in front of their school after their beloved principal. Suzie Pearson retired as principal of Wallace after 27 years in the Johnston Community School District, but she certainly will not be forgotten. The Pearson Garden will continue to beautify the school for years to come.

 

Museum open

The Johnston Historical Society 1902 Simpson House Museum, at 6161 Northglenn Drive in Johnston, will be open on the second Sunday of each month from 2-4 p.m. through December. Guided tours will be available. The museum is also open during Johnston Commons park events, including Sundae in the Park on Sunday, Aug. 2 from 6-8 p.m. The museum is also open by appointment. Email johnstonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or call 515-330-0687 for an appointment.

 

Johnston Farmers Market

The Johnston Farmers Market runs every Tuesday through Sept. 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Johnston Town Center, 6221 Merle Hay Road. Sales begin promptly at 4 p.m. and live performances from several local musicians truly makes the market the place to be. Learn more at https://www.cityofjohnston.com/865/Farmers-Market.

 
 

Blood donations needed

LifeServe Blood Center is urging all eligible blood donors to schedule a donation as soon as possible to ensure patients and hospitals have access to the blood products they need to save lives. Throughout spring, LifeServe saw an alarming drop in blood donations, which has led to concerns about the blood supply at local hospitals going into the summer and “trauma season.” LifeServe supplies blood to more than 170 hospitals, so donating blood with LifeServe is how to ensure your blood stays in your community to treat local patients. 

Increasing donations in the next few weeks will be critical to ensuring the local blood supply remains strong this summer. 

To help with this, LifeServe Blood Center is hosting Blood Donor Days. Throughout the month of June, LifeServe blood donors at any mobile drive or donor center will not only walk away from donating knowing they saved or impacted up to three lives, but they'll also get an exclusive Blood Donor Days summer T-shirt and be automatically entered to win a weekly summer-themed prize package. Those donors can also enter to win a grand prize. Two lucky donors will each win a pair of four-day passes to Hinterland Music Festival, happening July 30 to Aug. 2 in St. Charles and featuring music acts like Katseye, Lorde, Mumford and Sons and more. 

You can learn more about Blood Donor Days and schedule your next blood donation at lifeserve.info/donorvibes. 

 

Polk County Conservation events

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

  • June Summer Skills. Tuesdays and Thursdays of June beginning June 9, 10 a.m. to noon, Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Summer is about having fun and playing outside. Join PCC naturalists as they introduce your child to some fun outdoor activities which can be enjoyed the rest of their lives. Come to one or sign-up for an entire series. All equipment will be provided. Ages 10-16. Registration required by two days ahead of class. Classes are as follows: June 9 Paddling, June 11 Fishing, June 16 Air Rifle, June 18 Geocaching, June 23 Archery, and June 25 Outdoor Survival.
 
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Music In The Garden
Thursdays, through Aug. 20, doors open at 6 p.m., concerts are 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
Music in the Garden is one of Des Moines' premier outdoor concert series, offering a truly unique atmosphere. Set within the naturally beautiful surroundings of the Garden, each evening blends live music, nature and community into an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer to sit back and relax, get up and dance, or simply soak in the scenery, you'll enjoy great music surrounded by the beauty of the Garden. For information and tickets, visit https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.

CITYVIEW’s Summer Stirs

  • Friday, June 26, Downtown Des Moines
  • Friday, July 31, Des Moines East Village

CITYVIEW’s traveling cocktail parties return in 2026. For $25 advance ticket, sample 10 summer cocktails at downtown bars and restaurants. Cost is $35 at the door. For information and tickets, visit https://summerstirs.dmcityview.com.

Levitt AMP Earlham Music Series 2026 Food n’ Drink Lineup
Sundays at 6 p.m.
Earlham City Park, Earlham

  • July 12: Music: The Elders, Banjokat. Food trucks: Hotel Luna, Snappy’s BBQ, Street Sweets.
  • July 19: Music: BYOBrass, Beth and Brandon. Food trucks: Hotsy Totsy, Pho Wheels & Sushi, Street Sweets, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
  • Aug. 2: Music: Leon Timbo, Carol Montag Music. Food trucks: Hotsy Totsy, Sabores De Mexico, Street Sweets, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
  • Aug. 9: Music: Newfound Road, Cedar County Cobras. Food trucks: Karam’s Grill, Hotsy Totsy, C’est La Crepe.
  • Aug. 16: Music: XOLEX, Bone People. Food trucks: Hotel Luna, Snappy’s BBQ, Pho Wheels & Sushi, Street Sweets.

The Ingersoll Shows
The Ingersoll, 3711 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines
Spanning world-class traditional music and beloved musical theater, the lineup of shows at The Ingersoll promises unforgettable moments of live entertainment in the heart of the community.

  • Jen Kober Comedy: July 10 with dining at 5:30 p.m. and showtime at 7:30 p.m. Jen Kober is one of the top LGBTQ comedians working today and a rotating headliner in MAD APPLE by Cirque du Soleil. Opening the evening is returning favorite Dante Powell, who has previously performed at The Ingersoll. Powell’s comedy blends smart observations with a warm, conversational style.
  • A Brother’s Revival: An Allman Brothers Legacy: July 11 and 12. July 11 dining begins at 6 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. showtime. July 12 dining begins at 5 p.m. with a 6:30 p.m. showtime. Formed in 2019 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Allman Brothers Band, A Brother’s Revival brings an unmatched level of authenticity to the stage.
  • George Michael Reborn: July 17 and 18, dinner at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. This high-energy tribute stars Robert Bartko, whose live vocals and striking resemblance to George Michael recreate the magic of the artist’s career from the 1980s and 1990s.
  • TINA: A Tribute to the Queen of Rock and Roll: July 24 and 25, with dining at 6 p.m. and shows at 7:30 p.m. both evenings. This electrifying tribute stars internationally acclaimed performer Cookie Watkins, whose dynamic portrayal of Tina Turner goes far beyond impersonation. With a career rooted in music from an early age, including recognition from Duke Ellington himself, Watkins channels the spirit, power and voice of the Queen of Rock & Roll.

Tickets are available at www.theingersoll.com/events or at Ticketmaster.com/TheIngersoll.

Music Under The Stars
Various dates and locations
This summer, Iowa's professional musicians perform a series of free, outdoor concerts at Water Works Park and Jasper Winery at 7 p.m. on Sunday evenings. 

  • July 5: Stars, Stripes, and Celebration: Dana Slater, clarinet. Marisa Cravero, guest vocalist. Jasper Winery, 2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m.
  • July 12: Bourbon Street Parade: NOLA Jazz Band with Abbie Sawyer. Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, 7 p.m., Killinger Community Series.

RSVP on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MusicUnderTheStarsIowa/events. Learn more at: www.musicunderthestars.org.

 
 
A morning family favorite made fresh
 

It’s often true that the best warm-weather meals, from filling breakfasts to flavorful dinners, are made with the freshest ingredients. To ensure your family’s favorite recipes are up to par, start by sourcing local produce.

Asparagus is a prime example. It is easy to prepare: five to eight minutes in boiling water or two to three minutes in a skillet like in this asparagus frittata that’s perfect for busy mornings. You can feel good knowing you’re serving loved ones a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable with no fat, no cholesterol and little sodium to start the day with a hearty yet nutritious breakfast.

To find more warm-weather favorites that put fresh produce at the center of your plate, visit MichiganAsparagus.org.

Asparagus frittata
Recipe courtesy of Michigan Asparagus
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
  • 5 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 sprig fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sliced green onion
  • 4 cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • microgreens, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • In 6-inch, oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add asparagus and cook 2-3 minutes.
  • In bowl, whisk eggs, cream, dill, salt, cheese and pepper. Pour egg mixture over asparagus.
  • Allow sides to set. Check by gently pulling egg away from side of skillet. Sides should appear cooked and become firm.
  • Top eggs with green onion and tomatoes. Place skillet in oven. Bake about five minutes until center of frittata is set and firm.
  • Remove from oven and plate while warm. Top with microgreens, if desired.
 
 

FOR SALE: 2018 Coachman Mirada 25BK. Sleeps 8 (king bed, drop down front bed, queen sofa bed, dinette), 37’ ( bike rack not included), stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator with ice, two roof AC units, heat pump, gas furnace, outdoor kitchen, two slide outs, power awnings, 5500 watt Onan generator, 2000 watt inverter, lithium house batteries, auto leveling, insulated battery storage and wet bay. 55,000 miles, new tires, engine and generator serviced in March 2026. Asking $64,200. Message or text Dave Milburn at 515-240-4672. More photos at https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/5040136236

FOR SALE: 2007 21’ LOWE SUNCRUISER BIMINI 214 PONTOON BOAT. Great for family lake days, fishing fun or evening sunset cruises. 50 hp Mercury 2-stroke outboard. 55 LB Thrust Minn Kota trolling motor. Shoreland’r trailer with recently replaced bumpers and tires. Lowrance depth and fish finder. Front trolling motor (with foot pedal) and mount included. Built-in tackle storage and “live well.” Lots of storage and accommodates 12 people. Three life jackets and three buoys. Newer Boss Bluetooth radio. Recently serviced by Lake Panorama Marine and ready for the water. Recent maintenance includes new spark plugs, fuel filter, primer bulb, fuel line, water pump and impeller kit. New stern light installed. $12,000/best offer. Call Tom Woody 515-778-1231.

FREE BLACK DIRT: We started a big project in our back yard and have a need to give away a huge pile of our great Iowa black dirt. Call or text 515-721-1296.

WANTED: Stereo and electronic radio stuff, receivers, speakers, guitar amp, etc. Any age or condition is OK. Call 515-238-3343.

HELP WANTED: Looking for someone to weed my flower beds and rid them of leaves. Call 515-321-0301 or email gronwoldb@yahoo.com.

 
 
 
From your Johnston Living magazine
 

This month's cover story:

CHEERS TO THE YEARS

Green Days, June 11-13, celebrates milestones with family fun

The biggest and best community celebration in town, Green Days, returns June 11-13, with the public invited to gather at Terra Park for a weekend of family-friendly fun.

[...]

 
Read more
 

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