MyWaukee November/December 2020

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Holiday Happenings 2020

Holiday activities look a little different this year, but we have your checklist to start planning your family outings!

Business Unusual Waukee businesses, with the help of the community, have adjusted to a “new normal” for both employees and customers.

Also CITY OF WAUKEE WAUKEE LIBRARY SCHOOL DISTRICT WAUKEE CHAMBER

DES MOINES, IA PERMIT NO. 5107

PA I D

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

We’re your one-stop shop! Here’s what you’ll find: •Family Apparel & Footwear •Lawn & Garden/Seasonal •Automotive & Fuel Center

•Housewares •Groceries •Pet & Wild Bird

•Hardware •Farm •Sporting Goods

Visit us at 1300 SE Kettlestone Blvd., Waukee, IA 50263

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an in-store purchase of $50 or more Offer good November 1 - December 6, 2020

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Limit 1 offer per customer, per visit. No photocopies or facsimiles will be accepted. Coupon must be presented at the time of purchase and must be surrendered upon redemption. Total purchase must reach $50 or more before state and local taxes. No adjustments to prior purchases. Returns will be credited as purchase price less the discount, and discount will be forfeited. Cannot be used in conjunction with Buy Get offer, or other coupons. Not redeemable on fuel, lottery tickets, tobacco, alcohol, gift cards, tickets, permits, registrations, licenses, warranties, Carhartt®, Striker®, YETI®, or Weber® items. Other exclusions may apply. See store for details.

Visit us at 1300 SE Kettlestone Blvd., Waukee, IA 50263

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T O

Buy, Sell or Invest in Real Estate?

FROM The Publisher

Business Unusual 2020–how many times have we uttered the words? It’s been a year unlike any other – I think safe to say. It has forced us to adapt and adjust how we’ve

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

conducted many daily activities in our lives. I can’t describe it in any way other than “BUSINESS UNUSUAL.” Running a business is always somewhat of an adventure, establishing customer bases and targeting new or uncharted markets, developing new lines of business, and managing human resource needs and payrolls. It can be a constant game of Twister. Right foot red, left hand blue, daily challenges can often

Publisher & Partner Jason McArtor

stretch you in numerous directions, without the potential technical difficulties and curveballs a workweek can throw your way – “can you see my screen ok?” has to be the line of the year, right?

For the advertising partners in our publication, the situation has been much the same. Businesses have adapted

Creative Director & Partner Zachary Kern

to offer low and no-contact solutions to stay connected with their customers and restructured some of their work environments, with people working remotely.

Content Elyssa Appleton

I’ve been fortunate to have access to several experts, in addition to my extended network of advisors within the fraternity of fellow business-owners from the Iowa Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program that I graduated from just over a year ago. If you’ve not heard of it and you know someone operating a business, I’d encourage you to read the final three paragraphs here.

Photos / Creative / Layout FARMBOY Marketing & Web Development

Copy Editor I’ve recently shared that my current biggest business goal is to simply HELP PEOPLE. If you’re a business owner, or know someone who is growing their business, figuring things out, AND making the same mistakes and running into the same challenges that nearly all of us who operate and employ others make, the 10KSB program is currently looking for business owners across Iowa.

Three criteria: the business owner or co-owner must have been in business a minimum of 2 years, have $75K+ of revenue in the most recent tax year, and AT LEAST 2 employees, including the owner. The deadline to apply is November 19th, so do not delay.

You can read a bit more about my experience in the program, and hit the link at the top of the page to apply – tell somebody!

Marjorie Sandner

Advertising Darby Brincks 515- 306 - 0 5 0 8

Distributor Goldfinch Media

Address 8527 University Blvd Suite 7 Clive, Iowa 50325

Email

https://farmboyinc.com/iowa-goldman-sachs-10000-small-businesses-from-an-iowa-small-business-owner/

info@myTownMagazines.com

scan me

Jason McArtor MyTown Magazines P u b li sher & Pa rtne r j a so n@ mytow nma g azin e s .c o m / 5 1 5-3 1 4-1 3 21

4

November/December 2020

myWaukee Magazine is published bimonthly, six times annually, by myTown Magazines, a division of Goldfinch Media. For subscription and advertising information, go to myTownMagazines.com. ©2020 Goldfinch Media

CONTENTS November/December 2020

08 HIG H L I G H TS

06 CITY OF WAUKEE

14 Park Amenities Expand in 2020

As the Waukee population keeps booming, so does the addition of new park amenities in the community.

Three new local option sales tax-funded park projects took shape in 2020!

08 STORY

Holiday Happenings 2020

It's hard to believe, but the 2020 holiday season is fast approaching, in what has been a year of social distancing, masking and more uncertainty than most of us have likely ever experienced. Like everything else this year, the holiday season—and many of the traditional holiday events that come with it—will look a little different, and unfortunately, some events won't be held this year at all.

14 WAUKEE SCHOOL DISTRICT

Vivian Le

In the midst of a global pandemic, the start of the school year has seen its fair amount of challenges, but still, students and faculty continue to overcome it by pivoting with each new obstacle.

17

S E C T IONS

17 STORY

Business Unusual

The COVID-19 pandemic has left no area of life unaffected. The realities of social distancing, face coverings, virtual learning, and working from home have impacted us for months now. The persistent uncertainty has necessitated adaptation on everyone’s part—including local businesses, which, in some cases, had to close for extended periods and lay off workers.

19 WAUKEE LIBRARY

22

0 4 F rom th e P u bl i s her 0 6 You r Ci ty of Waukee 1 4 You r Wau kee School D istric t 1 9 You r Wau kee L i brary 2 2 You r Wau kee Cham ber

New Online Resources

The Waukee Public Library is pleased to announce the addition of three new online resources that you can access anywhere with your library card!

22 WAUKEE CHAMBER

Thank You

Thank you to all Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce members for your membership and support of the Chamber this past year. Thank you to the Waukee Chamber Board of Directors, staff, ambassadors and volunteers for all of your dedication and commitment to help make 2020 a success!

ON THE COVER Holiday Happenings 2020 5

CITY OF WAUKEE

Waukee

PA R K

A M E N I T I E S E X PA N D I N 2 0 2 0 As the Waukee population keeps booming, so does the addition of new park amenities in the community. Three new local option sales tax-funded park projects took shape in 2020!

WE STOWN M E A D OWS PA R K Westown Meadows officially opened to the public on June 1, 2020. This new neighborhood park is located at 2445 SE Willowbrook Drive in the Kettlestone Development.

“Like with any neighborhood park, families were eager for Westown Meadows Park to open. The June 1 opening day is also significant, as it was the day that all Waukee playgrounds reopened after extended closures caused by COVID-19,” said Waukee Parks & Recreation Director Matt Jermier. “Since then, we have seen consistent use of the park. We’ve heard a lot of great feedback, especially regarding the rubberized surfacing under the play structures.”

Westown Meadows features a playground, paved walking paths, landscaping, open greenspaces, a shaded picnic table area, parking and a restroom. It also includes a small spray pad, which will cool off kids in future summers. The cost of building this destination was $650,000.

A LICE N IZ Z I PA RK Construction just wrapped up in October. Alice Nizzi was a Waukee community fixture who ran the famous Alice’s SpaghettiLand restaurant from 1947-1990. The design of this park is a nod to Nizzi’s legacy and the rich history of Waukee’s coal mining camps.

“We took a very literal approach to this park—incorporating a spaghetti and meatballs theme to honor Alice Nizzi,” said Jermier. “It’s really fun to be able to tell the story of Alice’s SpaghettiLand and Waukee’s mining community through not only historic markers, but also the playground equipment itself. I would venture to say you’ve never seen another park quite like this one.”

The 3.17-acre neighborhood park, located at 715 NE Dellwood Drive, features a spaghetti and meatballs-themed playground, rubberized surfacing, sidewalks, a first-of-its-kind “Hyperloop", shade structure and historical elements. The approximate cost to build this park was $625,000.

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November/December 2020

G LYNN VI LLAG E PA R K Glynn Village Park consists of two components—Glynn Village Park South and the Glynn Village Trailside Amenity. The South project features a new neighborhood park at 2265 Warrior Lane with a playground, rubber surfacing, landscaping and a drinking fountain. While there is a private playground on the north side of Glynn Village, this new amenity will now serve the southern part of the development.

The Glynn Village Trail Amenity, located near the intersection of Brodie Street and Dunham Drive, was designed as a resting spot for families as they use the trails system. It includes play equipment, seating, trees and engineered mulch.

“We envisioned families using the trail and stopping to climb on the rocks, crawl through the tunnels or take a walk on the balance beam,” said Jermier. “You’ll notice there are no restrooms at the Trail Amenity location as it is not designed for people to stay a long time. It is simply a quick play area for passersby.”

Construction was completed on the Glynn Village Park amenities in October at an approximate cost of $535,000.

With three park projects wrapped up in 2020, the focus shifts now to Triumph Park located in western Waukee, adjacent to the future Northwest High School. The 66-acre destination will feature a sports complex with 12 softball/baseball fields, practice areas, concessions, accessible restrooms, 800+ parking spaces, an 11-acre pond, greenspaces, trails and inclusive amenities.

“We are thrilled to get the ball rolling at Triumph Park, pun intended,” said Jermier.

“If 2020 taught us nothing else, it’s that access to stress outlets and engaging activities are key to wellbeing. Things such as playing in parks, taking a stroll on a trail, golfing or playing pickleball proved more important than ever. Waukee is lucky to be able to expand on those opportunities.”

The Waukee Betterment Foundation continues to raise funds for the 15,000-squarefoot EPIC Inclusive Playground which will be situated near the Greater Iowa Credit Union Miracle League® Field and an accessible fishing pier.

Triumph Park is expected to open in the spring of 2022.

T RIUM PH PAR K “If 2020 taught us nothing else, it’s that access to stress outlets and engaging activities are key to wellbeing. Things such as playing in parks, taking a stroll on a trail, golfing or playing pickleball proved more important than ever. Waukee is lucky to be able to expand on those opportunities.”

Waukee Parks & Recreation Director Matt Jermier

Visit waukee.org/parks for more details about Waukee City parks.

7

AUTO REPAIR Willard Garage

You might be surprised to learn that fully qualified auto repair shops can provide the following services: 1. Collision repair. Did you hit a curb and now have bent or broken wheels or suspension but no body damage? It happens more than you’d think, and a fully qualified independent repair shop can perform the repair in a matter of days instead of weeks. And yes, we also work with insurance companies.

2. Manufacturer level diagnostic and software updating. Our cars have a lot of modules running software that needs updating, just like the apps on our phones.

3. Diesel truck repair. We’re proud to offer our community full service and repair for Duramax, Powerstroke and Cummins powered trucks. We’re providing significant expertise and savings while ensuring the repairs are done right the first time. When you depend on your truck, you can trust us to keep it dependable for you.

4. Pre-purchase inspections. When you’re shopping for a vehicle, let a fully qualified shop help you avoid a “lemon” by professionally assessing the vehicle’s condition. Independent shops routinely service all makes and models, so we know what to look for, and we have only your best interest in mind.

5. More complete evaluations. All vehicles need basic repairs to keep them safe— such as tires, brakes, shocks, struts and suspension—and there are many shops that provide only these basic services. The problem we see is when a family’s car is not running right and the assessment confirms that the engine needs significant repair—over $3,000. That is hard, but not bad. What is bad is this family just paid a different shop over $2,500 for basic repairs on this vehicle just three months ago. So now this family is faced with a very difficult situation. Wouldn’t it have been better if a more complete evaluation by a trusted, experienced ASE technician had identified everything up front before the family decided to make the basic repairs? Please use a full-service shop, for your budget’s sake, even if you drive newer vehicles. You can’t put a price tag on experience and integrity.

Happy Thanksgiving! We’re blessed and thankful for a great year.

8

November/December 2020

STORY By Kellyn Pappas

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

2020

It's hard to believe, but the 2020 holiday season is fast approaching, in what has been a year of social distancing, masking and more uncertainty than most of us have likely ever experienced. Like everything else this year, the holiday season— and many of the traditional holiday events that come with it—will look a little different, and unfortunately, some events won't be held this year at all. Just because we're still in the midst of a pandemic, however, doesn't mean there won't be plenty to do in the metro over the holidays.

Check out the list below and start planning your family holiday outings!

WinterFest on Wheels Date: Friday, December 4th

Time: 6 – 8 pm

Location: Waukee Public Works Building, 805 University Ave., Waukee

The City of Waukee’s free, annual WinterFest celebration, normally held in Waukee's historic Downtown Triangle, will go mobile in 2020. “We’re including many of the activities that families love during WinterFest, but they’ll look a little different this year,” said Danae Edwards, Waukee Parks & Recreation Supervisor.

Families will drive through the Parks & Recreation bay at the Waukee Public Works building and receive treats and goodies from Santa Claus and his helpers.

Participants won’t even need to leave their cars!

Attendees will also have the chance to watch the holiday tree lighting via Facebook Live and watch the ice sculptor hard at work on his beautiful masterpieces at the Public Works building. Charter Bank and Waukee Parks & Recreation will sponsor the giveaway of more than 700 books to children up through ten years old at the event.

WinterFest participants can also participate in a community-wide holiday light competition! Waukee homeowners will be able to enter their decorated residences into the competition, and participants will have the chance to drive around town and view houses on their own personal holiday light tour before voting.

Despite the alternative format, there will still be an opportunity to give back to the community during WinterFest, as always. Bring non-perishable food items or new, unwrapped toys to donate when you drive through. These items will be distributed to those in need throughout the community.

CONTINUED>> 9

STORY By Kellyn Pappas Christkindlmarket Des Moines (CDM) Curbside Date: Virtual Market open Nov. 9 – 22; Curbside pickup Dec. 3 - 6 Time: Dec. 3: 5 pm – 8 pm Dec. 4: 11 am – 8 pm Dec. 5: 9 am – 6 pm Dec. 6: 12 pm – 5 pm Location: Principal Park, Des Moines (curbside pickup) Due to the pandemic, the Des Moines European Heritage Association made the decision over the summer to take the popular Christkindlmarket, a Germaninspired Christmas market, virtual this year. In a typical year, the open-air market features regional vendors selling handcrafted wares and European foods and beverages from traditional wooden stalls. This year's event will feature an online marketplace instead, which will open Nov. 9 and can be accessed through a link on the CDM website. Customers can purchase their favorite handcrafted items—such as hand-blown glass ornaments, nutcrackers and steins—through 29 vendor stores in the marketplace. After making their purchases, customers can choose from four drive-thru pickup times Dec. 3 - 6, when they can stop by Principal Park and pick up their purchases.

While it's difficult to replace the festive, in-person atmosphere of the traditional Christkindlmarket, Director Suzanne Hull notes that this year's virtual market will feature 30 percent new vendors and says the ultimate goal of the event remains the same. "[Our] goal is to provide holiday cheer to central Iowans and support our long-standing vendors," she explained.

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Festival of Trees and Lights Date / Time: To be determined This popular annual event—the largest annual fundraiser for Blank Children's Hospital and an event that has become the traditional kickoff to the holiday season—typically attracts more than 20,000 visitors during its five-day run.

This year's Festival will take place virtually, according to Dr. Steve Stephenson, president and COO of Blank Children's Hospital. "Festival may look different, but we are working hard to ensure it will continue to be a family-friendly, full of fun way for our community to support Blank Children's Hospital and kick off the holiday season," said Stephenson in a statement on UnityPoint Health's website.

According to the statement, organizers are currently exploring a Festival app, which could be downloaded for a small fee that would support the hospital.

The app would include a variety of fun family activities, and of course, lots of the Festival's signature beautifully decorated trees. More information will be provided as plans develop and the date gets closer.

Jingle in the Junction

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Dates: Nov. 19, Dec. 3, Dec. 10, Dec. 17 Time: 5 – 9 pm each evening Location: 5th Street, West Des Moines Visit Historic Valley Junction beginning Thursday, Nov. 19, for Jingle in the Junction! Take a free, horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Valley Junction, which will twinkle with over 150,000 lights. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, take in balloon art by Professor Von Air, and check out the ice carvings by Bill Gordish! Visitors should socially distance and wear masks as appropriate.

Jolly Holiday Lights

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Date: Nov. 27 – Dec. 30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) Time: 5:30 – 10 pmw each day Location: Adventureland Park, Altoona Entering its 25th year as Make-A-Wish Iowa's largest fundraising event, Jolly Holiday Lights will once again delight families at Adventureland Park in 2020.

Beginning Nov. 27, families can drive through Iowa's largest lighting display, with more than 100 light displays over 2.5 miles. Tickets are $20 per car, or $40 if you’re planning to bring a limo or minibus, and customers can save $5 by purchasing their tickets by Nov. 25. Weekends are generally much busier than weekdays, so plan accordingly!

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STORY By Kellyn Pappas Visit Living History Farms for a day of festive

holiday traditions! Families can participate in the holiday traditions of a Victorian Midwestern family in the 1876 Town of Walnut Hill. Enjoy music, dancing and cookie decorating, and do a little shopping in the MarketPlace Museum Store while you're at it! Visitors will be required to wear masks, socially distance and follow the prescribed one-way paths for foot traffic on-site.

Living History Farms will also be collecting new, unused winter weather gear, such as hats, mittens and coats, to support Youth Emergency Services & Shelter. Visitors can drop off their donations at the Visitor Center during the event.

Living History Farms Family Christmas Date: Dec. 5 Time: 12 – 4 pm Location: Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Rd., Urbandale

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NEW HOME Salisbury House Virtual Holiday Tea at the Castle Date: Dec. 12 Time: 10 am – 1 pm (pickup of tea kits); 1 – 3 pm (virtual holiday tea) Location: Salisbury House, 4025 Tonawanda Dr., Des Moines (for pickup of tea kits); The tea itself will be virtual Des Moines' Salisbury House offers visitors the chance to enjoy a proper English afternoon tea from the comfort of their own homes! Customers can visit Salisbury House's website to purchase a ticket for $40 ($36 if you’re a member), which will entitle them to receive a tea kit with all the trimmings, including two types of tea, finger sandwiches, tea cookies and more! Ticket holders will be emailed a private website link ahead of the event. On Dec. 12, between 10 am - 1 pm, ticket holders can pick up their tea kits at the north door of Salisbury House. They can then use the website link to log on from 1 - 3pm to view the tea at the castle programming while enjoying their tea and goodies at home! Ticket sales close Nov. 27, so make sure to snag yours before they're gone!

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WAUKEE SCHOOL DISTRICT Vivian Le STUDENTS FIND NEW WAYS TO HELP OTHERS DURING THE PANDEMIC In the midst of a global pandemic, the start of the school year has seen its fair amount of challenges, but still, students and faculty continue to overcome it by pivoting with each new obstacle. At Waukee Community School District, we understand that success is not always about numbers and rankings. Somedays, it’s just about getting through the day safe and sound.

Students like sixth-grader Clive Voynov and seventhgrader Kiera Shadd recognized the difficulty of our current climate, and both have demonstrated that sometimes success is just about making a little extra effort in practicing kindness.

Clive Voynov loves to help others. That’s why he decided to start “Waukee Tech,” a Youtube channel designed to help other online learners with some of their FAQ’s. Clive has created more than 50 videos tackling different issues.

For Kiera Shadd, cooking became a way to interact with her fellow online learners. Shadd is now holding a cooking show online during the lunch hour a couple times each week. Kiera says she loves the chance to interact with her peers. Sometimes the meals and snacks don’t come out as planned, but that really isn’t an issue for Kiera. She’s just happy to have this special time to make others feel connected and less alone.

WOODLAND HILLS COUNSELOR SHARES MENTAL HEALTH TIPS

•High-efficiency boiler and water-cooled chiller •Demand Control Ventilation •Improved wall and roof insulation, low U-value glazing •LED lighting with daylighting and vacancy sensors •The district was presented with their award during a virtual ceremony on October 1.

BOYS GOLF TEAM WINS STATE

The Waukee Boys Golf Team did it again! The Warriors captured their third straight state team title with a dominating performance at the Class 4A State Tournament played at the Des Moines Golf and Country Club.

“There’s a quote I like: ‘Life is ten percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you respond to it.’ I still believe and agree with it to a certain extent, but I have shifted my thinking on it,” she explained. “I feel like we had a lot of life change in the last several months, and I don’t want to minimize that 10 percent.

I think that life is 100 percent what happens to you and 100 percent how you respond to it. That’s how I’ve shifted my thinking.”

Senior Jack Starr won the individual state title at +3 and his teammate Junior Brock Seiser finished second at +4.

RADIANT ELEMENTARY RECEIVES ENERGY EFFICIENT DESIGN AWARD

The Waukee Community School District is proud to announce that Radiant Elementary School has received a 2020 Excellence in Energy Efficient Design Award for achieving 49 percent kBTU energy savings when compared to the Commercial New Construction (CNC) program baseline.

November/December 2020

Some of the key energy efficiency features at Radiant Elementary include:

As students, teachers and families navigate a new normal in 2020, the importance of mental health has become more and more apparent. Jes Young, Woodland Hills Elementary school counselor, has started sharing tips and tricks on how to remain energized as the community continues to push through the pandemic and adjust to the new normal.

Her “Mental Health Tips Monday” is posted weekly on Waukee Community School District’s social media, and it includes plenty of points on how we can respond to life during these difficult times.

14

The Excellence in Energy Efficient Design Award recognizes outstanding efforts in reducing energy use. Award candidates are selected from projects whose designers participated in the Commercial New Construction program offered by Alliant Energy and MidAmerican Energy Company. Projects received a CNC program final verification report between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. The top projects with the highest kBTU savings percentage in Alliant Energy and MidAmerican Energy’s service territory are selected for an award.

The Warriors captured the crown by 16 shots with a two-day score of 605.

As we prepare for the beginning of 2021, we continue to come together as a community to support one another and find the joys in both the big and small things. There is no better way to weather the storm than to stand side-by-side with our neighbors to continue to make Waukee Community School District the best for our students and families.

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High-performance spray foam insulation provides an air barrier to diminish air leakage from the home. It is ideal for wall, floor and roofing assemblies. Spray foam insulation will increase indoor comfort, reduce outside noise and lessen the allergens that enter your home.

Home Solutions of Iowa is here to make your home more comfortable. Call HSI today for a free estimate and find out how our solutions can maximize your home’s comfort for the chilly days ahead.

15

Let’s Talk Health

& Holiday Food

‘Tis the season to eat, and that’s just the problem: ‘Tis the season, not just one day!

This holiday season, you might gather with your family and friends in a new way—online. Why not also try cooking something new and healthier for an even more memorable, virtual dinner party? Hy-Vee Registered Dietitian Erin Good shares three simple and gobble-worthy tips to help you give thanks for good health while celebrating.

1

Aim for 50 percent of your holiday plate to be loaded with fruits and veggies. Seasonal favorites include Brussels sprouts, squash and pears.

2

Satisfy your belly, but keep portions in mind.

Use your cell phone as a visual guide for a serving of meat and a light bulb as a visual guide for a slice of pumpkin pie.

Pear-Pomegranate Salsa

3

Get adventurous in your kitchen and cook something new like this Pear-Pomegranate Salsa for a healthful twist and fun conversation starter! Find other healthier holiday recipes in the latest issue of Hy-Vee Seasons Magazine or on Hy-Vee.com.

(Serves 6)

ALL YOU NEED

2 pears, cored and diced arils of 1 fresh pomegranate Half of 1 red onion, finely diced ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro Splash of fresh lime juice Tortilla or pita chips

ALL YOU DO Combine pears with pomegranate arils, onion, cilantro and lime juice in a bowl. Toss until thoroughly combined. Serve with tortilla or pita chips.

Enjoy immediately or store in a sealed container for up to two days!

Nutrition facts per serving: 52 calories, 0 g total fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 218 mg potassium, 12 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 1 g protein

HEALTHY EMPLOYEES = HAPPY EMPLOYEES MAKE HEALTHY FUN WITH A VIRTUAL NUTRITION PRESENTATION OR COOKING CLASS! Hy-Vee Dietitian Erin Good now provides interactive virtual nutrition presentations, or “lunch ‘n’ learns,” to help keep your employees healthy and happy. Topics include “Effortless Ways to Eat Better,” “Good Mood Foods to Stress Less,” and more! Contact Erin today at (515) 216-2770 for more details on scheduling a virtual wellness event!

16

November/December 2020

Erin Good, RD, LD Hy-Vee Inc., Registered Dietitian egood@hy-vee.com

STORY Kellyn Pappas

BUSINESS UNUSUAL The COVID-19 pandemic has left no area of life unaffected. The realities of social distancing, face coverings, virtual learning, and working from home have impacted us for months now. The persistent uncertainty has necessitated adaptation on everyone’s part—including local businesses, which, in some cases, had to close for extended periods and lay off workers.

But despite these challenges, Waukee businesses, with the help of the community, have adjusted to a “new normal” for both employees and customers.

When the pandemic arrived in Iowa, many of us worried about our own health and that of family and friends, and that was no different for Waukee businesses. "Our biggest concern was the health of our employees," said Scott Politte, President at Stivers Ford Lincoln in Waukee. "The fatality rate had not been established in February or March, so there was a real fear of losing coworkers, or their family members and friends."

Sean Gleason, chef and owner of Gastro Grub and Pub, and Janelle Holter, Vice President and Marketing Officer for Central Bank, both echoed Politte’s comments, saying that “keeping our staff and customers safe” was their primary concern during the early days of the pandemic.

The potential financial ramifications—for businesses and their employees alike—contributed to the stress. Gleason said Gastro Grub and Pub faced real worry about “how and if we were going to be able to survive the pandemic financially.” Politte said not knowing initially how Stivers’ business would be affected caused concern about “the livelihoods of all the families that depend on us to make a living.”

Additionally, of course, the pandemic presented logistical and operational challenges for just about everyone. “We were consumed with creating ways to continue operations” once the pandemic hit, said Russell Vannorsdel, Vice President at R.L. Fridley Theatres, Inc., which manages the Palms Theatre & IMAX in Waukee. “Our biggest concern was how to handle fixed expenses and forced closure.” Limited capacity, in addition to guests’ reluctance to congregate socially in large groups once things did reopen, complicated things further.

17

EVERYONE, however, pivoted quickly, adapting to the new and

ever-changing realities of doing business during COVID. Cleaning schedules and procedures were increased and enhanced across the board. “We spent countless hours cleaning and creating protocols to ensure our guests’ and employees’ safety,” said Vannorsdel.

Fridley Theatres’ corporate Commitment to Communities pledge details protocols that have become increasingly familiar to the general public as the pandemic has progressed, including requiring face coverings in all common areas, practicing social distancing, and using credit cards for payment as often as possible. Once movie theatres were permitted to reopen, The Palms Theatres & IMAX took additional precautions, such as reducing auditorium capacity and spacing out feature start times to reduce overall congestion.

Stivers also increased its cleaning of high-touch areas and its sanitization of customer service vehicles, in addition to staggering schedules for employees and using PPE—“all the things everyone is now familiar with and generally practices every day,” said Politte. He commented that educating employees was the most important part of their battle against COVID-19. “Making team members aware of what best practices are” was crucial, including the potential impact of high-risk behavior away from work.

Central Bank took early steps towards increased contactless account openings and loan closings, according to Holter. “We invested in additional technology and digital resources to allow our customers to complete their banking from home or the office, during or after business hours,” she explained.

According to Gleason, Gastro Grub and Pub scaled-down staff, stocked up on PPE and disposable to-go containers and moved tables and chairs to increase space between customers once restaurants could reopen for dine-in service.

The “new normal,” of course, features constant masking and distancing at all locations, and challenges do continue. Gleason says the pandemic’s effect on the supply chain continues to affect their business. “It has been difficult to get the items we need to operate on a daily basis,” he said. “There are nationwide outages on products, both disposable and consumable.”

Vannorsdel said the lack of new movie releases remains an ongoing concern at the Palms Theatres & IMAX. “Hollywood continues to delay major releases,” he said. “I believe many guests are ready to come back to the theatre, but without major studio releases, it will be difficult to operate.”

Amid the hardships, however, there have been bright spots. Holter says low mortgage rates continue to attract new home purchases and refinances, and Central Bank’s mortgage loan officers work flexible, extended hours to assist customers both face-to-face and remotely.

“It has been difficult to get the items we need to operate on a daily basis.”

Sean Gleason

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November/December 2020

Politte appreciated the Paycheck Protection Program from the federal government and says Stivers was able to apply for and receive funds relatively quickly during the height of the uncertainty in the spring. “[The program] worked exactly as intended for us,” he said. “The PPP allowed us to keep full, 100 percent employment at a minimum of 85 percent compensation.”

Additionally, support from the community has proved crucial for these businesses. Gleason commented that although Gastro Grub & Pub is no longer as busy as it used to be, “our customers and community have, for the most part, been really supportive and understanding of the new hardships.”

Despite lower attendance numbers, Vannorsdel says theatre patrons understand the need for ongoing safety protocols and still manage to have a great time at the movies. “The guests that come out have been very respectful of personal space and have really enjoyed the overall experience,” he explained. He also commented that the theatre was “humbled” by the enthusiastic community response to their curbside concession offerings when they were forced to close in the spring. “We sold a lot of large popcorns,” he added.

“We spent countless hours cleaning and creating protocols to ensure our guests’ and employees’ safety,” said Vannorsdel.

We’re certainly still a long way from “business as usual.” But with continued community support, Waukee businesses will undoubtedly continue to persevere, despite the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic presents along the way.

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LAW Ahlers & Cooney ENSURE ALL YOUR BASES ARE COVERED WITH AN UP-TO-DATE WILL OR TRUST With the holiday season quickly approaching and a global pandemic disrupting our daily lives, many people are circling back to revisit their will or trust documents. If you don’t have a will or a trust, or it was drafted more than a few years ago, it’s time to re-examine your situation to ensure all your bases are covered, especially if you fall into one of the following categories.

People who have had relationships that ended in divorce.

Divorce can take a will and turn it into Swiss cheese. Most people don’t realize that when a couple gets divorced, their ex-spouse and ex-spouse’s family are largely removed from the will. This gets us to the Swiss cheese, because if your ex-brotherin-law is listed as your executor, you have a hole where the executor is supposed to be. This can cause confusion and delay the probate process. The best way to fill in the holes is to have a new will written that takes into account your new family situation and wishes.

People with children from multiple relationships.

In the case of a subsequent marriage where one or both spouses have kids from a previous relationship, Iowa law assumes you want roughly half of your assets to go to your current spouse and roughly half of your assets to your children from previous relationships. Whether they want more or less assets to go to their current spouse, very rarely do people want a roughly equal split to occur. Much like the situation with minor children, the best way to direct the court on how you want your assets distributed is by having a properly drafted and executed will that reflects your wishes.

People with minor children.

When a single parent or a couple dies with no will and leaves behind minor children, the job of determining who will raise the children and who will safeguard any assets left to them falls to the court. This can be problematic because the judge tasked with determining who will raise your children likely has never met you and has no way of knowing who you would want to raise them. Additionally, once your children are no longer minors, they will receive their entire inheritance in a lump sum. Very rarely do parents think it would be a good idea for the kids to get their inheritance in that fashion.

Most people know who they want to raise their children and where they want their assets to go should something happen to them, and yet over half of the adult population in our country doesn’t have a will or trust. Getting a will or trust put into place doesn’t have to be hard or overly taxing. The best first step is to reach out to an experienced estate planning attorney for a consultation.

Ahlers & Cooney Welcomes Charlie Bottenberg and Jeremy Masterson as Special Counsel to the firm’s Private Law Practice Area.

For over 130 years, serving business entities, municipalities, and educational institutions.

515-243-7611 20

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www.ahlerslaw.com

November/December 2020

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info@ahlerslaw.com

Charlie Bottenberg Trusts, Estates & Taxation Practice Group

Jeremy Masterson Business Entities Practice Group

FROM YOUR Waukee Library

By Leah White

New Online Resources The Waukee Public Library is pleased to announce the addition of three new online resources that you can access anywhere with your library card!

Creativebug

The Washington Post

Bookflix

Creativebug has more than BookFlix is an online literacy 1,000 award-winning art and resource that pairs classic The Washington Post provides expert craft video classes taught by video storybooks with related reporting and analysis, including awardrecognized design experts and nonfiction eBooks to build a winning investigative coverage and editorial artists. Learn sewing, quilting, love of reading and learning. commentary. When the seven-day license expires, paper crafting, knitting, BookFlix reinforces early return to this page to check out another one. crochet, art & design, and reading skills and introduces You may renew your license as many times as you jewelry making. Find new children to a world of like. This service is available to all Waukee Library ideas and instructions on knowledge and exploration. cardholders. food & home, holidays & parties, and activities to Unlimited digital access to washingtonpost.com do with your kids.

Expert reporting and analysis from Washington and around the world, including award-winning investigative coverage and editorial commentary.

Real-time Q&A discussions providing a behind-the-scenes look at key stories.

Live-streaming of Washington Post Live events, where top-level government and business leaders, emerging voices and newsmakers discuss the most pressing national and global issues of the day.

Make our Online Library a part of your new normal! Explore our many online resources for FREE from home with your Waukee Public Library card.

If you don’t have a library card, sign up for one online to access resources instantly. Discover eBooks, eAudiobooks, online learning help, magazines, and so much more.

Take a look around today at waukeepubliclibrary.org/online-library!

To find out more about the Waukee Public Library go to waukeepubliclibrary.org or contact us at askme@waukee.org or (515) 978-7944.

21

CHAMBER Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

Thank You

Thank you to all Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce members for your membership and support of the Chamber this past year. Thank you to the Waukee Chamber Board of Directors, staff, ambassadors and volunteers for all of your dedication and commitment to help make 2020 a success!

Open for Committees Business

Government Affairs Serves as legislative voice of the Chamber membership.

Community Development Increases membership involvement in Chamber and community activities.

Membership Promotes and supports existing businesses while encouraging and assisting new business.

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce helped Summit Homes celebrate their Grand Opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Welcome to Waukee!

Get Involved

IN A CHAMBER COMMITTEE

Enhance your presence throughout the Waukee business community and have a great time getting involved! We are confident the Chamber can deliver results. Get involved and you will surely see a difference! Your membership is best leveraged when you have a presence within the Chamber. We offer a wide variety of ways to do so, taking into account different budgets and schedules. Opportunities range from advertising to sponsorships, to joining or leading a committee.

Economic Development Works in cooperation with the City of Waukee and others to promote economic growth in the Waukee area.

Scholarship Provides a scholarship to a WHS senior who will attend an Iowa institution in the fall of the year following graduation.

Waukee YP Empowers young professionals who live or work in Waukee to come together, build relationships and make a positive impact within the local community.

Ambassadors Active members who help to accelerate connections through the Chamber.

For more information about the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, visit our website at waukeechamber.com or contact Chamber President Melinda Behn at mbehn@waukeechamber.com or (515) 978-7115.

BEST WAYS TO ENHANCE YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE 1.

Serve. Volunteer on one of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce seven committees: Government Affairs, Community Development, Economic Development, Membership, Scholarship, Waukee YP or Ambassadors.

2.

Refer local business.

3.

Participate. Get involved by attending our monthly programs!

4.

Promote. Highlight your business in one of our signature events: Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, Golf Outing or the Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour.

5.

Patronize existing businesses.

6.

Support new businesses. Welcome new businesses to our community by stopping in, sending a card or supporting their grand opening celebration.

7.

Stay “in the know.� Read the Waukee Chamber Business Report.

8.

Share. Submit your successes, job openings and events to share in our communications to membership.

9.

Collaborate with local organizations to strengthen our community.

10. Connect with the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce by using our membership directory.

22

November/December 2020

23

The adventure never ends because we are always on the way.

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