Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Tawny Kruse | An Iowa Army National Guard Soldier does pushups on stage with singer Danika Portz at...... read more read more
Tonight at 7 p.m., citizens from Johnston and surrounding communities will be lining up at the gates at Camp Dodge Joint Maneuver Training Center for the finale of the 2018 Adjutant General’s Summer Concert Series. Folding chairs, picnic baskets, blankets and lawn games will pack the Pool Pavilion parade field as concert goers prepare for their last night of sun, fun and music on post.
The concert series is wrapping up its eighth year of inviting the public to enjoy free music on Thursday nights. Maj. Gen. Tim Orr, Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard, said the series started to bring the public back to the base after security was tightened following the September 11 attacks in 2001.
“The community doesn’t always know what we do on Camp Dodge,” Orr said, “so the series was a way to say ‘welcome back,’ and to thank them for the support they continue to show the men and women who serve in the Iowa National Guard.”
The location of the concert also offers a feeling of nostalgia for those who grew up swimming at the pool complex. The pool was built in 1922, closed down in 2002 and was renovated into the parade field and event pavilion it is today in 2011.
“The pool was an icon in Iowa,” Orr said. “Many of us have fond memories.”
For some, the pool dates back to when former president Ronald Reagan was a lifeguard there. Whether it’s the nostalgia of days gone by or the free entertainment, the public is enjoying Camp Dodge again.
Shawn and Shari Stevenson, of Johnston, said they grew up swimming at the pool, and they appreciate the free entertainment.
“It integrates the base to the public,” Shawn said. “They might think it’s hard to get on base for the concert, but all it takes is an ID.”
The Stevensons added that the concert, with its casual and comfortable atmosphere, is a great place for retirees to meet up with old colleagues.
Jerri Hott, of Ankeny, heard about the concert series on Facebook, and loves that it’s close to home.
“You don’t have to go downtown or pay $100,” Hott said. “It’s a great value to our community.”
Darcy Olson, of Johnston, emphasized the “wholesome, family-oriented entertainment.”
“There’s always families and kids playing outside together,” Olson said. “Kickball, football, catch.”
Even when there’s inclement weather and the concert needs to be moved indoors, Olson said it’s always cool to walk down the hallway in the Freedom Center and read the plaques.
“The concert series is Des Moines’ best kept secret!” Olson said. “The Guard is known for their service to the state, but these concerts are a service to the community. Thank you!”
Crowds are averaging 500-700 people now, Orr said. The timing is perfect because it’s right after dinner when the weather is starting to cool down and the parade field is overlooking the sunset.
“It’s a beautiful base, and I’m really proud to say we have the longest running, and the only, summer concert series in the nation for the National Guard,” Orr said. “This shows a tremendous connection to the citizens in our community.”
This year's line-up of eight concerts is the most concerts to-date for a single season. Although there are many summer concerts within the community, the Camp Dodge concert series is unique through its scenic, historical setting, and the Adjutant General of Iowa encourages citizens to join in on the fun.
“It’s a neat experience for those who have never had the chance,” Orr said. “Every week is a different band and different style of music. If the music isn’t right for you one week, it probably will be the next week. You’ll never know until you come try it out.”
| Date Taken: | 07.19.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 07.19.2018 17:53 |
| Story ID: | 285011 |
| Location: | JOHNSTON, IA, US |
| Web Views: | 292 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Camp Dodge Concert Series is "Des Moines' Best Kept Secret", by SFC Tawny Kruse, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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