SIGN UP TO BE A KITES ON THE GREEN VOLUNTEER — This and more in this week's issue!

Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2026

Singin' in the rain... and the shower

Gene Kelly was “Singin’ in the Rain” in 1952 in one of the simplest yet beautifully orchestrated productions ever seen. This was before AI. Before CGI. Before most any “i.” MTV didn’t exist yet, but this “video” from the musical film of the same name, a light-hearted depiction of Hollywood in the late 1920s, captivated movie-goers with Kelly’s graceful steps while he danced through puddles in a rainstorm.

Rumors from the production say that Kelly had a 103-degree fever on the day of the shoot, and he still completed it on one take. If true, this production is even more amazing.

Most of us wouldn’t even consider singing in the rain. Instead, we run through it as quickly as possible to get to our cars, our offices or our homes to avoid getting soaked.

That’s not to say we don’t sing while in water. In fact, surveys show that nearly three-fourths of us admit to singing in the shower. Most all of us are a rock star in the bathroom. But, why do we sing in the shower?

According to howstuffworks.com, some people say they sing in the shower to relieve stress in a private, comfortable space. The warm water and solitude apparently release dopamine, which enhances mood and creativity.

Others say singing in the shower improves mood further by increasing oxygen in the blood through deep breathing, and the act itself distracts from daily problems, providing more stress relief.

The acoustics of the bathroom are also a factor, as they “enhance the quality of the voice through reverberation and added bass, making a person sound better, which boosts confidence and encourages more singing.”

I will admit it. I sing in the shower. And, keep in mind, I flunked chorus in eighth grade. That doesn’t stop me from singing along to whatever my Amazon Alexa is playing for me in the mornings. This isn’t a new practice for me either. As a teenager, I would fire up my Panasonic RX 5010 AM/FM cassette boombox and sing along to my favorite songs, after first tuning in to my morning fix of Paul Harvey’s “The Rest of the Story” on the radio dial.

So, thank you, Gene Kelly, for showing us that it’s OK to sing while water runs over our heads — in the rain or in the shower.

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

Chamber After Hours

Paula Bierle and Julia Bradshaw enjoy the Johnston Chamber After Hours held at McDivot's Indoor Sports Pub Jan. 7.

Crazy 8 Pickleball Tournament Feb. 7

Kiwanis Club of Johnston and Kiwanis Club of West Des Moines are holding a Crazy 8 Pickleball Tournament on Feb. 7 starting at 9 a.m. at Dinks Pickleball Facility, 3800 Merle Hay Road, Suite 1000, Des Moines. Play for fun or at a competitive level. All are guaranteed seven games of play. Cost is $30 per player with proceeds going toward the Kiwanis Scholarship Fund. There will be prizes from Dinks and Fareway. For information, contact wdmkiwanis@gmail.com or 515-321-6607. Register at https://tinyurl.com/418m73au.

Brooke Mallory named human resources director

The City of Johnston has announced that Brooke Mallory is the new human resources director effective Jan. 20.

Mallory earned her bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Iowa State University, where she emphasized leadership and communication skills. She's also working on her master’s degree in public administration at Drake University and holds the SHRM-SCP certification. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to creating inclusive workplaces and developing HR strategies that support the goals of the organization.

“I’m excited to join the city of Johnston as the director of human resources,” Mallory said. “I can’t wait to use my skills to help the city further its commitment to innovation, diversity, sustainability and community engagement. I’m excited to work with a team that is dedicated to serving this growing community.”

Before coming to Johnston, Mallory was the human resources manager for the city of Des Moines. In that role, she developed new onboarding and streamlined hiring processes. She has been an advocate for supporting leaders to improve performance management by aligning employee goals with the city’s objectives while providing valuable feedback and development opportunities for staff.

“We are excited to welcome our new human resources director,” City Administrator Mike Pogge-Weaver said. “I look forward to her leadership and the new ideas she will bring to our city.”

Mallory will manage all human resource functions, including hiring, employee relations, training and benefits, making sure that Johnston remains a great place to work.

Upcoming Public Meetings

Wednesday, Jan. 28: Park Board Meeting, 6 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 29: City Council Budget Work Session, 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 3: City Council Work Session, 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 3: City Council Meeting, 7 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 9: Planning and Zoning Meeting, 7 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 16: City Offices, Crown Point and Library closed for Presidents' Day
Tuesday, Feb. 17: City Council Work Session, 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 17: City Council Meeting, 7 p.m.

Attend city budget meetings

Residents are invited to join elected officials and department directors for upcoming budget work sessions focused on departmental budgets and priorities for the next fiscal year. The meetings will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 27, and Thursday, Jan. 29, at 5:30 p.m. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn how departmental budgets are developed and to better understand the needs and discussions with each department for the upcoming fiscal year. 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.

Gloria Joan (McKee) Anderson

Gloria Joan (McKee) Anderson died Jan. 17, 2026. Funeral services were held at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Urbandale on Jan. 23. A luncheon at the church and burial at McDivitt Grove Cemetery followed.

Gloria was born to Vernon and Marjorie McKee, Jan. 18,1937, in Creston and grew up on a farm north of Prescott, where she graduated from high school. She excelled in her studies and enjoyed six-on-six basketball.

Gloria married Gene Van Vleet in 1955, and the couple moved to Des Moines. Four children were born to this union: Janice, Jean, Kirk and Kristi. Gloria and Gene later divorced.

When her children were older, Gloria attended Des Moines Area Community College to fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse. For 10 years, she cared for oncology patients at Mercy Hospital and later joined the Mercy Radiation Therapy team as an office nurse until she retired in 1988.

Gloria married Wayne Anderson in 1979, and they celebrated 41 years together. As an adventurer, Wayne convinced Gloria that camping was fun. When each grandchild turned 12 years old, he or she could choose a place to go camping within a reasonable distance. Lots of special memories were made during these trips.

Always on the go, Gloria and Wayne enjoyed time at their townhome in Arkansas and enjoyed several overseas trips. They were season ticket holders to Drake Men’s Basketball games. Gloria enjoyed gardening, sewing, crafting needlework, refinishing woodwork, and painting walls or the house. She enjoyed having holiday dinners with the family and welcomed extended family and friends. She never missed sending a birthday, anniversary, holiday card or thank you note. She volunteered everywhere she lived — especially in the Urbandale community: Aldersgate Church, Historic House, Booster Club, ChildServe and Mercy Hospice. She provided companionship to shut-ins and food and comfort to those who suffered loss. Gloria was always ready to help and kept a lengthy prayer list.

She took care of Wayne at home until he passed in 2020. Other family preceding her in death were granddaughters Nikole and Brandi Baker.

Gloria is survived by her children: Jan (Marvin) Rychnovsky, Jean Ingersoll (Randy), Kirk (Patty) Van Vleet and Kris (Jeff) DuBay; her stepchildren, Kathy Hayes, Kevin (Vicky Lee) Anderson and Karen Baker (Jesse); 14 grandchildren; two step grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; her sister, Marilyn (James) Rychnovsky; sister-in-law Carolyn Anderson; special McKee cousins; nephew, Marty Anderson, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

Edencrest at Green Meadows events

Edencrest at Green Meadows, 6750 Corporate Drive, Johnston

Sweetheart Social Desserts + Donation Drive: Wednesday, Feb. 11, 5-7 p.m. Celebrate Valentine’s season with sweet treats and even sweeter company at this Sweetheart Social. Enjoy delicious desserts, festive fun, and an opportunity to give back. Winter clothing donations will be collected for the local homeless shelter. Help spread warmth and kindness throughout the community.
Dementia Awareness and Education Session with Kailee Bonebrake: Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1-2:30 p.m. The public is invited to an educational and supportive session led by Kailee Bonebrake, regional director of Memory Care. Learn about dementia, early signs, care approaches and resources available for families and caregivers. This informative event is open to anyone seeking guidance or understanding.
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.

Gold Star Military Museum events

Camp Dodge, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston

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

Polk County Conservation events

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

National Hot Chocolate Day Hike: Saturday, Jan. 31, 1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. A cold January day is the perfect time to make yourself a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy National Hot Chocolate Day. We’ll start the program with a brisk walk around Discovery Pond and end by enjoying a mug of hot chocolate around a fire. Free, all ages welcome.
Groundhogs and More: Monday, Feb. 2, 1-2 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Celebrate Groundhog Day with us as we learn about this famous ground squirrel, its relatives and their amazing adaptations for survival. Free, all ages welcome.
DIY-Herbal Tea Workshop: Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6-7:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join us for another DIY class series and warm up with a cup of tea of your own creation! In this class you'll discover the art of herbal tea blending and create your own custom tea mix to take home! In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn about the medicinal properties and benefits of various herbs, how to combine them for optimal wellness, and the basics of tea blending.Take home your very own handcrafted herbal tea blend, tailored to your preferences, and enjoy the comforting ritual of sipping on a tea that's truly your own. Registration required by Feb. 7. Ages 16-plus.
Knee-High Naturalists: Wednesday, Feb. 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. February’s topic: Snow and Ice.
Archery Date Night: Saturday, Feb. 14, 5-6:30 p.m. and 7-8:30 p.m., Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Bring a loved one for a fun night of archery, axe throwing and bouldering. Instructions, equipment, and light refreshments will be provided. Ages 18 and older. Registration required by Feb. 12.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Bright Nights and Green Sights
Various dates
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
Explore ways to “find your true nature” at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. For tickets visit https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.

Dome After Dark: Friday evenings through March 27, 6-10 p.m. Extra evenings Saturdays, Feb. 14 and March 14, and Tuesday through Thursday, March 17-19. Experience the Botanical Garden in a whole new light. Explore the warm tropical conservatory and renovated Gardeners Show House, illuminated for a magical after-hours escape.
NEW to Dome After Dark: Igloo Experience: Cozy up with up to five guests for an enchanting igloo experience, complete with admission to the event and Flora concessions. Perfect for friends, family or date night. Visit https://dmbotanicalgarden.com to reserve an igloo.
Friday Dinner at Flora: Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. Reserve your spot now for a delicious three-course dinner at Flora, including admission to Dome After Dark. Each week a new, enticing menu showcases a variety of cuisines. Reserve a table online, https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Learn on Saturdays: Saturdays through Feb. 28, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., join the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for its weekly educational lecture series presented by experts from across the state of Iowa. Purchase tickets online, https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Botanical Blues: Sundays through March 29, noon to 4 p.m. Performances begin at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Your favorite Sunday Blues in Des Moines is here to keep away your winter blues every week. Each set lasts one hour, with a one-hour intermission in between. Settle in, grab a drink, and soak up the sound in Iowa’s only tropical music venue. Flora serves Sunday brunch beginning at 10 a.m. — perfect before the music starts. Concerts are held live in the conservatory, and guests are welcome to wander the indoor gardens during the show. Ticket info and lineups available at https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.

Dine & Dance with CultureALL
Various dates and locations
Savor authentic ethnic cuisine and music presented by local talent. Enjoy these curated dining experiences at locally owned Des Moines area restaurants listed below. Each $60 ticket includes dinner, music, dancing, story sharing and discovery. Learn more about CultureALL and its community partners by visiting CultureALL.org/events.

Sip & Cook: It’s a Wrap! Hosted by Chef Nina Chau: Friday, Jan. 30, Heavenly Asian Cuisine & Lounge, Valley Junction, 225 Fifth St., West Des Moines. Enjoy cocktails and appetizers while learning how to prepare your own custom wraps. Then dance to music from around the world: k-pop, tango, hip hop and more. Top off the evening with dessert.
A Night in Peru: Music, Culture and Traditional Flavors. Hosted by Chef Mariela Maya: Monday, Feb. 16, Panka Peruvian Restaurant, 2708 Ingersoll Ave., Suite 200, Des Moines. A flavorful three-course meal with drinks accompany sweet stories about growing up in Peru. Come for a full night of dining, dancing and live Peruvian music performances.
Rhythm and Roots: an Afro-Caribbean Dinner. Hosted by Chef Amara Sama: Tuesday, March 3, Palms DSM, 1905 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines. Experience the harmony of African and Caribbean flavors as you sit down to dinner, then get back up again to join Afro-Caribbean dancing.

A convenient homecooked solution without the slow cooker

(Family Features) Walking in the door to the smell of homemade chili is sure to warm you up from the inside-out, but if you forgot to set up the slow cooker before heading out the door in the morning, don’t fret — a hearty bowl of beans, beef and stewed goodness can still await.

For a quick and easy version of the comfort food classic, consider this quick homecooked chili that is made in a skillet and ready in half an hour. Just brown ground beef with a chopped onion, stir in beans, tomato sauce, cubed sweet potato and a few simple seasonings and you’re well on your way to a winter warmup.

Find more easy ways to feed your family by visiting Culinary.net.

Quick homecooked chili
Recipe adapted from Allrecipes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) stewed tomatoes
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 sweet potato, cubed
water (optional)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 pinch garlic powder
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
sour cream (optional)
sliced avocado (optional)

Directions:

In large saucepan over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned and onion is tender, 5-7 minutes.
Stir in tomato sauce, kidney beans, stewed tomatoes with juices, diced tomatoes with green chilies and cubed sweet potato. Add water to reach desired consistency.
Season with chili powder and garlic powder. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
Bring to boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes.
Serve with sour cream and sliced avocado, if desired.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

From your Johnston Living magazine

This month's cover story:

BIG GAME, BIG PARTY

Capping off the football season with a watch party to remember

It’s time for the big game, and that’s the perfect reason to gather with your fellow fans around the big screen to see which team finishes the year with a championship ring. And you won’t be alone. Record-breaking viewership has been reported the last two years, with 127.7 million U.S. viewers last year, according to ESPN.

[...]

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