Des Moines is located in the heart of America, the midst of the world's most fertile soil. No wonder Iowa is such a productive source of corn, soybeans, hogs, cows, ostriches, llamas, and turkeys, just to name a few of the state's products. As the state's capital, Des Moines - as well as its farmers' markets, restaurants, and foodies - benefits from a multitude of local producers. On a Saturday morning in summer, Court Avenue is thronged with locals stocking up on everything from Amish-baked pies, locally produced cider, edible flowers, to jalapeņo peppers. No wonder Better Homes and Gardens is based there.