Feb. 10-16, 2026

HISTORY
Looking back at Garlock Corner

Submitted by the Johnston Historical Society 

John Bauman and Anna Barbara Claus immigrated from Germany in 1847 and established a farm in Iowa in 1854, in what is now Johnston. Their son, John Henry Bauman, was born in 1855 and later built the Simpson House on the family’s land in 1902. Their youngest daughter, Laura, married E. J. Garlock and inherited the Bauman home place. The couple planted a large apple orchard there known as Garlock's Orchard. Iowa Highway 64 ran east from Grimes to Des Moines, turning sharply south near the orchard at a bend locally known as Garlock Corner.

In the 1950s, few highways around Des Moines were as dangerous and deadly as Garlock Corner.  A member of the Garlock family we spoke with recalled a serious accident in which a child perished. Another longtime Johnston resident remembered crosses erected at the site.

The Johnston Lions Club, a civic-minded service organization, took action in 1952 to improve safety at Garlock Corner. At an Oct. 8, 1952, meeting, Charles Harding raised concerns about the ever-increasing number of accidents at the curve.  The club formed a committee, gathered facts and later presented its findings to the Iowa Highway Commission with a request for action.

The Iowa Department of Transportation responded quickly. Club minutes from Oct. 27, 1952, record a resolution of appreciation, drafted by Ben Dewey, thanking the department for improvements. The Northern Polk County News covered on Jan. 30, 1975, the Lions Club’s 30th anniversary. The newspaper stated that, due to the club’s efforts, Iowa DOT in six days installed four-foot-square, reflector-taped signs marking the curve. The newspaper further reported that brush obscuring visibility was cut. Future plans were made to widen the outside shoulder to 12 feet, fill the 20-foot ditch along the outer edge of the curve, and reduce the speed limit.

Historically, Iowa Highway 64 began in western Iowa at Interstate Highway 75 (today Interstate 29) and ran east through Harlan and Grimes before sweeping south at Garlock Corner and ending in Des Moines. In December 1958, Iowa 64 was truncated at Iowa Highway 141, with the remaining eastern segment transferred to Polk County as a paved county road. In early 1969, Iowa 64 was re-designated as Iowa Highway 44. Today, the location of Garlock Corner is the intersection of Northwest 86th Street and Northwest 70th Avenue in Johnston.

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.

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.

Upcoming Public Meetings

• 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.

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.

Edencrest at Green Meadows events

Edencrest at Green Meadows, 6750 Corporate Drive, Johnston

• Sweetheart Social Desserts plus 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.

• 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.
• Women in the Woods with Wine - Archery and Axes: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7-9 p.m., Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Learn the basics of archery and axe throwing on an indoor range. We’ll cover eye dominance, archery safety rules, equipment and proper shooting techniques using a compound bow. This program is for women ages 21 and older who are interested in getting outside. Become more comfortable and knowledgeable about the natural world as you unwind and have fun. Registration required by Feb. 15
• Out in Nature at Easter Lake: Friday, Feb. 20, 10-11 a.m., Easter Lake Event Center, Easter Lake Park, 2830, Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Come to Easter Lake with a sense of adventure. Learn how to observe and study changes in nature as we explore, play and investigate. The program will meet at the Event Center but will be mostly outdoors. Come prepared for the weather. Adults are expected to stay and actively participate with their children/students. Free, no registration required.
• Winter Hike at Jester Park: Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m. to noon and 1-2 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Bundle up and head outdoors to hike the trail around the pond. Learn how animals survive the long cold winter as we try to stay warm ourselves. Dress for being outdoors. Free, all ages welcome.
• Chinese New Year: Sunday, Feb. 22, 10:30 a.m. to noon and 12:30-2 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Come join us for this popular celebration of the Chinese New Year. It’s the year of the horse. During this program, learn all about the history of the Chinese New Year, similarities between Chinese zodiac and western astrology, and, of course, horses. Shadow Fist Kung Fu will be back again for a live lion dance and kung fu demonstration. Registration required by Feb. 21.

Find something to love at Johnston Public Library

Whether you love books, puzzles, crafts, information or volunteering, the Johnston Public Library has something for you this February. Read on for more details.

Teens who love making a difference in their community can join JPL’s Teen Advisory Board and/or VolunTEENS. The Senior Teen Advisory Board is for students in grades 8-12, while Junior TAB is for students in grades 6-7. Members meet on the third Tuesday of the month (Feb. 17) to help shape teen programs and events at the library. Applications are available on our website and at the library. VolunTEENS meets on the first and third Saturdays of each month (Feb. 21) from 2-5 p.m. Volunteers help with a variety of tasks throughout the library. Those who register to attend VolunTEENS receive email reminders about upcoming volunteer opportunities.

Adults devoted to crafting will enjoy Make It: Paper Quilling Artwork on Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 6-8 p.m. LeAnn Ludwig will demonstrate the art of paper quilling and provide tips and techniques for the creation of your own intricate design. All supplies will be provided for registrants.

If you or a loved one is interested in senior care options, join us for Retirement University:  In-Home Care, Hospice & Palliative Support on Thursday, Feb. 12 at 1 p.m. Presented by staff from WesleyLife, the session will explore in-home, hospice and palliative care. Registration is required.

Show your heartfelt support for local authors at our fourth annual Read Local Author Fair:  Saturday, Feb. 21, from 2-4 p.m. Mix and mingle with authors, check out their books, and register for prizes at this open-house event.

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.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

2026 CITYVIEW Chocolate Walk at West Glen
Friday, Feb. 27, 5-9 p.m.
The Breakfast Club, 5525 Mills Civic Parkway, Suite 100, West Des Moines
Like chocolate? Like chocolate drinks? Then you’ll love this event. CITYVIEW and West Glen Town Center again bring the Chocolate Walk to West Glen Town Center. For a ticket price of $25 ($35 at the door), attendees will receive 10 drink tickets that can be redeemed for sample cocktails at participating venues and will receive chocolate treat samples. Make it a date night or a night out with friends. Look for more details at chocolatewalk.dmcityview.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.

Des Moines Home and Garden Show
Thursday, Feb. 12 to Sunday, Feb. 15
Iowa Events Center, 730 Third St., Des Moines
The largest home show in Des Moines, this show features landscaping companies, remodeling contractors, interior design companies and more. See Craig Conover of Bravo’s Southern Charm and learn about his “Sewing Down South" home and lifestyle brand Feb. 13 and 14. Spring is in full bloom with blossoming trees and flowers at the Feature Gardens, created by top Des Moines area landscapers. Shop local at the Made in IOWA Market. All exhibitors in the Market have products made with love right here in Iowa. Don’t miss the Rose Farm Inspiration Stage for show stopping presentations ranging from Sourdough Pizza Making, to All Things Floral, and more. Tickets and event times at www.iowaeventscenter.com/events/detail/des-moines-home-garden-show-7.

Winter Blues Fest 2026
Friday, Feb. 13 and Saturday, Feb. 14
Downtown Des Moines Marriott, 700 Grand Ave., Des Moines
Two nights, 20 acts, all under one roof and out of the cold. Lineup information and tickets at https://cibs.org/2025/10/2026-winter-blues-fest/.

Iowa Beef Expo
Saturday, Feb. 14 to Sunday, Feb. 22
Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines
It’s the 2026 Iowa Beef Expo. Schedule can be found at https://iowabeefexpo.com/schedule/.

The Nadas Duo at The Ingersoll
Saturday, Feb. 21
3711 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines
The Ingersoll announces a new addition to its winter lineup: The Nadas Duo, featuring two intimate performances on Feb. 21. Celebrated folk-Americana act, The Nadas, have built a loyal following over more than three decades, earning acclaim for their engaging live shows and distinctive sound that blends 1970s-inspired “country honk,” raw alt-rock energy, and wistful folk melodies. This special duo performance brings the heart of the band to the stage, highlighting their exceptional songwriting and stripped-down musical chemistry.

Ports of Call, Music of The Mediterranean
Sunday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
Valley High School Staplin Auditorium, 3650 Woodland Ave., West Des Moines
The Des Moines Community Orchestra presents the 2026 50th Anniversary Season Winter Concert, Ports of Call, Music of The Mediterranean. With Guest Conductor Joshua Barlage, and cello soloist Curtis Barr. Admission is free but donations are always welcome.

(Family Features) With action heating up on the hardwood, a good game day host knows you can never have too many delicious snacks on hand. Kicking off the madness can be as easy as these Crispy Potato Skins, a hearty watch party classic that keeps fans fueled and engaged with the game on the big screen. Enjoy all the alley-oop action with more recipe inspiration at Culinary.net.

Crispy Potato Skins
Recipe adapted from Simply Recipes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 6 medium russet potatoes
• extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 slices bacon
• kosher salt, to taste
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• shredded cheddar cheese
• sour cream (optional)
• thinly sliced green onions (optional)

Directions:

• Heat oven to 400 F. Clean potatoes then pierce with fork.
• Rub potatoes with olive oil then bake 1 hour until cooked through.
  In frying pan over medium heat, cook bacon 10-15 minutes until crisp. Drain on paper towel-lined plate then crumble.
• Cut cooked potatoes in half then scoop out insides, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato inside skins. Rub with olive oil then season with salt, to taste. Place on roasting pan and cook 10 minutes. Flip and cook 10 minutes.
• Arrange potatoes skin-sides down and season with pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with cheese and crumbled bacon then broil 2 minutes.
• Serve with sour cream and sliced green onions, if desired.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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