Johnston Police Officers Association Golf Outing — This and more in this week's issue!

July 15-21, 2025

Do it, ditch it or delegate it

It took a few years, but I made it all the way to ground zero, and that’s a good thing. That’s right, zero emails in my in-box. Both my work email address and my personal one are empty. I had a few hundred emails lingering in them from the past few years, and I finally took some of my own advice and dealt with them.

The process was a bit like cleaning out my closet and getting rid of items I haven’t worn in a few years — like the blue jeans that are now too small (they must have shrunk in the dryer?), the shirts with the sleeves that have been too long for too long, and those 17 neckties I never wear.

In a similar way, I have been saving emails on how to become a licensed drone pilot, where to renew my coaching certification, and even a digital receipt for a lawn mower cable. And now they, and hundreds more, are all gone. Deleted. Erased. Out of sight and out of mind. Whew.

I realize some of you don’t get the same satisfaction I get from this process. You have thousands of emails, hundreds of text messages and dozens of social media notifications piling on top of each other, and none of them bother you one iota. I, on the other hand, get anxiety over such things, but I am now smiling ear to ear while looking at my empty in-boxes.

This deletion process is a bit of my own medicine, you might say. I often preach to our Big Green Umbrella Media staff members to “handle a piece of paper once,” and that goes for emails, too. Rather than move a document or a message dozens of times and look at it dozens more while doing nothing, just deal with it and complete the task, especially if it only takes five minutes or less to do.

The related piece of advice I also try to live by is, “Do it, ditch it or delegate it.” My wife says I rely on the third option too frequently. Maybe so, but the other two are equally important. I tell myself if I can deal with a task immediately, then I should quit procrastinating and get it over with. Or, if it truly isn’t that important, ditch it and be done with it.

I am proud to say that this process has worked for my emails, and it has mostly worked with my closet. Just let me know if you could use some neckties.

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

Ribbon cutting

Crown Point Community Center's ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Monday, July 7. The Crown Point Community Center was originally constructed by Green Meadows Limited in 1981 as a community hub.The facility was donated to the city in 1990. Today, there is a dedicated office for Polk County staff to operate the senior meal program within the building.The space is currently used for city recreation and educational programs and is available for rent by community groups.

Johnston Police Officers Association Golf Outing

Dust off your clubs and get ready for the Second Annual Johnston Police Officers Association Golf Outing on Friday, Aug. 22, at Jester Park Golf Course. Shotgun start will be at 9 a.m., and lunch and a program, including a K9 presentation will follow at 1 p.m. A silent auction will be open throughout the event. Entry fees are $400 per team, $100 per person. Fees include green fees, cart, hat and lunch. Please note that space is limited to 144 golfers. Funds raised from this event will support equipment for the department and K9 Buck. Registration opens online Friday, July 25, at https://birdease.com/32010.

Johnston Lions Club Bingo

The Lions Club holds bingo on the second Thursday monthly: Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Oct. 9 and Nov. 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the Lions Club House, 6501 Merle Hay Road. Prizes are awarded.

Summer Reading at the JPL

Summer Reading programs for kids

Do you have young dragon riders ready to escape a fiery lair? Then register them for Dragon Rider Training: Escape Room. In this dragon-filled adventure, kids will solve puzzles, discover secret clues, and prove they have what it takes to fly with dragons. There are two levels of training and multiple sessions offered July 22-24. Registration for a specific session is required

Summer Reading programs for adults and families

Need a break from the chaos of summer? Then join us for Painted Pots on Wednesday, July 16, at 6 p.m. for a relaxing art program just for adults. Crafters will decorate their own terracotta flower pot and choose a succulent to plant in it. All supplies will be provided for registered participants. Just bring your imagination and a willingness to get a little messy.
If you’re looking for some easy summer desserts to impress your family, food expert Lois Carpenter will demonstrate three seasonal favorites at Sweet Summer Desserts on Saturday, July 19, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Registration is required for this tasty event.
Register your family or adult team to race against the clock (and other teams) to piece together a jigsaw puzzle at one of our Puzzle Competitions on Saturday, July 26. From 10:30 a.m. to noon, family teams will compete to put together a 400-piece puzzle, and, from 2–3:30 p.m., adult teams will face a 500-piece puzzle challenge. The first teams to finish take home a prize.

More information about all events and resources at Johnston Public Library can be found online at www.johnstonlibrary.com or by calling the library at 515-278-5233.

Movies on the Yard

Experience the magic of summer evenings at Movies on the Yard. Prepare for a lineup of popular films under the stars at 6245 Merle Hay Road. Mark your calendars for the Fridays of July 18 and Aug. 29. Grab your blankets, lawn chairs and gather your loved ones for an outdoor movie experience. Snacks and drinks are welcome, making it the perfect picnic opportunity. Admission to Movies on the Yard is free, ensuring everyone in the community can enjoy this summer's entertainment. Screenings begin around 8 p.m.

Tunes at Twilight

Experience live music in the Yard. Concerts will be from 7:30-9 p.m. on the Thursdays of Aug. 7 and Sept. 11 at The Yard, 6245 Merle Hay Road. The lineup includes: Aug. 7, The Sons of Gladys Kravitz; and Sept. 11, Damon Dotson.

The Mayor’s Run for the Trails 5K + Kids Fun Runs

The Mayor's Run for the Trails 5K + Kids Fun Run will be held on Saturday, Aug. 9, at Terra Park, 6300 Pioneer Parkway.

Third Annual Backpocket Beer Mile and Fun Run

Whether you're a seasoned runner looking to test your limits or simply seeking an entertaining way to spend an evening, the Third Annual Backpocket Beer Mile promises an unforgettable time Friday, Sept. 19, starting at 5:30 p.m. at The Yard at Johnston Town Center, 6245 Merle Hay Road. Timing will be via chip. A Fun Wave at 6:20 p.m. is aimed at the less competitive attendees. Relay teams of two may register for the Fun Wave, but both participants must register. You can pick up your packet on Thursday, Sept. 18, at Fleet Feet, 521 E. Locust St., from 3-6 p.m. or Friday, Sept. 19, from 3-5 p.m. at Backpocket Pin & Pixel, Johnston. For more information and to register, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/IA/Johnston/BackpocketBeerMile.

Johnston Basketball Club 2025 tryouts

The Johnston Basketball Club girls and boys tryouts are scheduled on Sunday, Aug. 10, at the Johnston High School Gym, 6500 N.W. 100th St. Grades eligible for tryouts are first through eighth grade (the grade they will be attending in the fall of 2025). Check the Johnston Basketball Club website johnstonbasketballclub.com to register for tryouts in July. Specific times for tryouts per grade will be on the website in August.

Farmers Market

Stop by Tuesdays for the 2025 Farmers Market at the Johnston Town Center, 6245 Merle Hay Road. The vendors will be open on the south side of the Town Center from 4-7 p.m.

Yoga by the Lake

Join another fun-filled summer of Yoga by the Lake. On Saturday mornings, you can relax and unwind at the Terra Lake Amphitheater, located at 6300 Pioneer Parkway, for a free hour of outdoor yoga from 8-9 a.m. IGNIT brings certified yoga instructor Natalie Henriksen for each session. Come and enjoy the benefits of yoga while taking in the beauty of nature. Register at http://www.cityofjohnston.com/1268/Yoga-by-the-Lake.

Sister Joan Marie Schuster

Sister Joan Marie Schuster, CHM, 94, died July 9, 2025, at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Johnston. Services at Bishop Drumm Our Lady of Peace Chapel were July 11. Services were also held in Davenport at Humility of Mary Center Magnificat Chapel on July 13 with Mass of Christian Burial July 14 followed by interment in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Davenport.

Mary Jane Schuster was born Nov. 13, 1930, in Amidon, North Dakota. She entered the Congregation of the Humility of Mary in 1948 and made her first profession in 1951 taking the name Sister Joan Marie. She received an associate degree in elementary education from Ottumwa Heights College in Ottumwa, a bachelor’s in elementary education from Marycrest College in Davenport, and an M.A. in education administration from Loras College in Dubuque. Sister Joan Marie’s ministry in Catholic education spanned more than three decades as a teacher and principal.

Sister was an avid lover of nature, observing the butterflies and birds both in person and over livestreams, as well as attending outdoor festivals to learn about horses, activities like syrup-making, and to watch hot air balloons. She will be remembered for her positive, fun demeanor. Her sense of humor remained strong even in times of adversity. Sister Joan Marie is preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Zetty Clare Schuster Timlin.

She is survived by cousins and her CHM community. Memorials may be made to the Congregation of the Humility of Mary.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Guided Trail Ride, Jester Park Equestrian Center, Jester Park, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger, Friday, July 25, 9:30 a.m. Come saddle up and join conservation staff in the great outdoors for a scenic trail ride. You will be guided by knowledgeable wranglers and taken care of by a string of beginner-friendly horses. Ride through the timber of Jester Park and take in the picturesque views. Registration required.
Story Tellebration, Wednesday, July 16, 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. Topic is Down by the Pond.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Music in the Garden Series
July 24 and 31, and Aug. 7
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
www.dmbotanicalgarden.com
Enjoy live music in the beautiful setting of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Upcoming concerts are: July 24: The Crowfoot Rakes; July 31: Mango Soul; Aug. 7: Diplomats of Solid Sound. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 6:30 p.m.

National Balloon Classic
July 25 to Aug. 2
Memorial Balloon Field, 1136 150th Ave., Indianola
Beautifully colored hot air balloons dot the skies over Indianola at this annual event. Watch the competition as well as special night shows and enjoy entertainment at the Balloon Field. For more information, visit www.nationalballoonclassic.com.

CITYVIEW Summer Stir
Friday, July 25, 5-9 p.m.
East Village, Des Moines
This event is a relaxed opportunity to visit many great establishments in the early evening and sample their signature Summer Stir drinks. For only $25 (prepaid online), participants will receive 10 tickets to use to sample drinks at any of the participating venues. Tickets may also be purchased at the event for $35. All of the establishments will be within walking distance. For more information, list of participating businesses and to order tickets, visit https://summerstirs.dmcityview.com.

Free Genealogy Class
Saturday, Aug. 2, 1:30 p.m.
Iowa Genealogy Society, 628 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines
Ready to dig into your family history? Whether you're just getting started or need a refresher, the Iowa Genealogical Society is there to help. Join in-person at the Iowa Genealogical Society Library for a free introductory class that covers the basics of genealogical research. Topics include getting started with your research, organizing your findings, available records, genealogical websites and software and 14 essential rules for successful research. Free parking, open to the public, no registration required. For more information, email igs.educationclasses@gmail.com.

3rd Annual Bondurant Car Show
Saturday, Aug. 23, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
315 Second St. N.W., Bondurant
Enjoy the Third Annual Bondurant Car Show. Registration is 8-10 a.m. with judging from noon to 1 p.m. and awards at 2 p.m. Awards will be presented for: Best Car, Best Truck, Best Motorcycle, Best in Show. Proceeds go to help local veterans. For more information, call Scott at 515-402-6118 or James at 515-971-2455

Urbandale Summer Concert Series
Tuesday, July 29, and Tuesday, Aug. 26, 6:30-8 p.m.
Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park, next to the Urbandale Public Library
Enjoy free, high-quality music in a family-friendly setting. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and feel free to pack a cooler. Concerts are: Tuesday, July 29, June Bugs DSM; Tuesday, Aug. 26, River City Opry.

Take dinner outdoors with grilled chicken skewers

(Family Features) Keep the heat out of your kitchen this summer with these grilled chicken skewers. Enjoy them on their own, pair with rice, serve as chicken tacos or toss in a salad for nearly endless, delicious possibilities.

Chicken skewers

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

Ingredients:

1 cup brown sugar
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon mustard
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons barbecue seasoning
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (optional)
2 pounds boneless chicken
rice, for serving (optional)

Directions:

In saucepan over medium heat, cook brown sugar, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, barbecue seasoning, honey and teriyaki sauce until well combined.
Cube chicken and place in large bowl. Pour sauce over chicken, saving some for basting. Marinate at least 1 hour.
Heat grill to medium heat.
Place marinated chicken cubes on skewers and arrange on baking sheet. Grill until chicken reaches 165 degrees internal temperature, 20-30 minutes. Baste with remaining sauce as needed. Serve over rice or use for chicken tacos.
Substitution: Use hot honey instead of regular honey to spice it up.

From your Johnston Living magazine

This month's cover story:

DREAM YARDS

Residents share how they make the best of their outdoor spaces

Give 10 people the blank slate of a spacious yard, and you are likely to see those yards evolve into 10 different visions. Some will be a fenced-in oasis for dogs and kids to run, roll and play. Others will have pools and fire pits for summer fun. Others will feature makeshift ballfields, sledding hills, playgrounds, ponds. And some will provide a scenic setting for enjoying sunrises and sunsets. Whatever the vision, area residents share how their outdoor spaces have become their dream yards.

[...]

P.S. As a free newsletter, we rely on readers like you to grow our subscriber list. If you have friends or coworkers who you think would enjoy Johnston Living Weekly, share this email with them and they can subscribe.

Click here to subscribe

This email was sent to: beckhamgmiller@hotmail.com

Big Green Umbrella Media, Inc.
8101 Birchwood Ct Suite D
Johnston, Iowa 50131

Edit Profile

Unsubscribe

Report as Spam