myWaukee: Oct/Nov 2014

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Waukee.com OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

C ON TE N T S

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2014

18 STORIES

Singing Their Praises

In February 2015, the Waukee High School choir will make their way to Salt Lake City by bus.

They’ll have a chance to sing in one of the most world-renowned settings: the Salt Lake City Tabernacle, home of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Read about their incredibly rare feat.

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06 Full Service

The Waukee Area Christian Food Pantry opens its welcoming doors twice a week to provide emergency food supplies and personal items to those in need. Local churches combined forces to make the pantry – an entity of Waukee Area Christian Services (WACS) – a reality in October of 2005.

12 & 26 Faces of Waukee

You live in Waukee. You might work in Waukee. Join us as we interview our friends and neighbors who live and/or work here to see what they do and what they love about Waukee.

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S E C T ION S

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F rom th e Publisher P i n Poi n ts of I nterest You r Waukee Library Ci ty of Waukee Wau kee Cham ber Commu nity Sec tion ON THE COVER Amy Hall conducts the choir at Waukee High School. In February, they’ll make their way to Salt Lake City, where they will perform at the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Photo by Laura Wills 3

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Hello and Welcome October/November 2014

TO OUR WAUKEE FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS,

We’ve all heard the line, “Make a joyful noise.” I’ve heard it many times throughout my life. Recently, as the myWaukee team worked on the feature story about Waukee High School’s A Cappella choir, I couldn’t help but be reminded of this phrase.

Publisher Chad Airhart f facebook.com/chadairhart

I’m always impressed by those who can sing, especially those who have worked to refine their craft and can sing beautifully without accompaniment. Most of my family and friends feel I don’t have that gift. I, for one, think I sound great when I sing in the shower or drive alone in my car. I even sang in the church choir during my early years, although I only joined because there was a pretty girl in the choir that I wanted to meet. It wasn’t long before it was determined that the choir was not the place for me.

Not so for the members of Waukee High School’s A Cappella choir, who have an amazing talent for singing.

These students, under the leadership of Amy Voorhees-Hall, have set high standards for themselves. This is obvious, and anyone who has achieved greatness in life has, at some point, had to set lofty goals. These students have not just set lofty goals, but they’ve worked as a cohesive unit to attain them. In February, the choir will have an opportunity not granted to many – to sing at the Salt Lake Tabernacle, home of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. These young people should be celebrated for their talent, their hard work, and their accomplishments.

Creative Director Jason McArtor @JasonMcArtor

Art Director Zachary Kern @ZacharyKern85

The Waukee community has many wonderful secrets. It’s my hope that our article this month reveals the A Capella choir to many of you. It’s also my hope that you get a chance to see them perform throughout the year. You will be impressed. As a community, we have so much to be proud of, and the myWaukee team is proud to share with you some of the shining stars in our community. You probably know of a stand-out student or wonderful community volunteer. Do you belong to a service club that is doing great work in the community? Share your story with us.

Help us make a joyful noise as we celebrate all that is great about Waukee.

Chad C. Airhart, Publisher Photo Director Laura Wills @laurawillsphotography

Advertising Director Jodi Gilson-Schrage

Contributors Sara Stibitz Mackensie Smith Copy Editor Marjorie Sandner myTown Magazines Distributor Goldfinch Media Address PO Box 1202 Waukee IA, 50263 Email info@myTownMagazines.com

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. ©2014 Goldfinch Media

A dvertise with us Reach thousands of Waukee residents and businesses for as little as 5¢ per door!

Contact me and let our team help you achieve your marketing goals!

Jodi Gilson-Schrage 515 238-8686

jodi@mytownmagazines.com

Full Ser vice

Words Mackensie Smith

Photos Jason McArtor

The air has changed. Leaves are rustling on the ground, fallen, clearing the space for kitchen smells to gently waft throughout Waukee. A hint of homemade apple pie dances with the scent of a savory butternut squash soup.

Unfortunately, for some Waukee families, these delicious scents are not as common as the stress of built-up bills and empty cupboards. This is where the Waukee Area Christian Food Pantry enters the picture, opening its welcoming doors twice a week to provide emergency food supplies and personal items to those in need. Local churches combined forces to make the pantry – an entity of Waukee Area Christian Services (WACS) – a reality in October of 2005.

WACS Director Melissa Stimple (pictured above) has been with the organization since its inception. After nine years, she’s still inspired every day by witnessing the difference the organization makes in people’s lives. “Every day is like the first one all over again,” Stimple said.

How the Pantry Works Food and personal items are donated to the food pantry through local churches, individuals and businesses. The products are then redistributed to individuals and families in need.

The pantry is available to those living within the Waukee School District and/or those recommended by one of the eight partner churches involved in WACS. “We serve all types of people, from seniors to everyday families to single mothers,” Stimple said.

New clients go through a brief screening process, fill out a short information form, and provide proof of residence and photo identification. A week’s worth of groceries is then dispensed upon approval, allowed once per calendar month. The groceries include enough items to prepare three meals per day.

To keep things as convenient as possible for its clients, appointments are not required and all goods and services are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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October/November 2014

“We serve all types of people, from seniors to everyday families to single mothers.”

Melissa Stimple

Co-leader Angela Wehrspan, of Waukee Brownie Scouts 555 at Schluer Elementary, stops in to drop off bags of donated goods.

“There is currently an opening for a Clinic Medical Director that

needs to be filled by an interested MD, DO or Nurse Practitioner.”

Full Service Agency Waukee Area Christian Services (WACS) did not mess around when they claimed the word “services” in their name. Its Free Clinic offers necessary services to all ages, including sports physicals, minor illness and injury care, diabetes testing and chronic disease management.

Free Clinic hours are Mondays from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM. Open since 2009, its mission is to serve the underand uninsured.

Stimple mentioned that there is currently an opening for a Clinic Medical Director that needs to be filled by an interested MD, DO or Nurse Practitioner.

WACS has also created The Fruitful Vine Garden, a community garden that was first planted in 2010. This garden is not your typical backyard plot. Rows and rows of fruits and vegetables grow on the Westview Church grounds for the WACS to distribute through the pantry. Volunteers, including the Dallas County Master Gardeners, keep the plants in tip-top shape and additional hard-working hands are always welcome during its three weekly shifts.

“This is the garden’s fourth year, and so far we’ve harvested tomatoes, cucumbers, kale, turnips, squash, green beans and beets, along with some other fresh produce,” Stimple said. “We’re looking forward to harvesting asparagus, blueberries and strawberries next year.”

The WACS also offers prayers for those who ask for them. Stimple said that clients have attested that this human-spiritual connection is a meaningful aspect of the organization, as well.

Here Come the Holidays The pantry is now gearing up to prepare boxes of Thanksgiving meal ingredients for needy families.

The boxes include items such as a full turkey or ham, stuffing, canned green beans, boxed or fresh potatoes, corn muffins and fruit.

For Christmas this year, WACS will be taking the reins from the Waukee Police Department and handling the gift donations that the police have traditionally handled for the past 20 years. “This year, we will be putting together Christmas gifts and food boxes for the families we serve,” Stimple said.

“If you would like to ‘adopt’ a family, or if you are a family in need, contact us,” Stimple said. “We’ll accept as many families as possible.”

Everyday Needs While the pantry welcomes holiday-centric donations, Stimple said that basics, such as cereal, soup, canned goods and peanut butter, are needed year-round. These donations make a significant difference for the 100 families that use the Pantry every month. While the pantry recently installed large industrial refrigerators and freezers to store perishable items, Stimple does recommend calling ahead to make sure adequate space is available before donating items that require cold storage.

“Monetary donations are also always welcome,” Stimple recommended. “Such donations allow us to purchase gift cards and items that we need.”

How to Donate “If you would like to

‘adopt’ a family, or if you are a family in need, contact us,” Stimple said. “We’ll accept as many families as possible.”

Donations – especially baby and personal needs items – are always greatly appreciated. Simply drop off goods during the pantry’s normal hours (Mondays from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM and Thursdays from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM), or make a donation at one of the partner churches (listed at waukeechristianservices.org) or local businesses, including Dahl’s, Fareway, Waukee City Hall and the Waukee Police Department.

Stimple said that while the services offered through the non-profit are made possible by generous volunteers and donors, more help is always needed. So give a little time, give goods, and/or lend a helping hand. Your contribution will help to make the upcoming holidays that much warmer for our Waukee neighbors this year.

1155 SE Boone Dr, Waukee, IA 50263 Phone: 515-987-5523 Web: waukeechristianservices.org

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Planning for Special Needs Children It’s been said that the best inheritance we can give our children is a few minutes of our time every day. It’s also true, though, that our children will not always have us in their lives. Children with special needs may require lifetime assistance, which can necessitate that parents prepare for their child’s care after they are gone, or are unable to care for him or her any longer.

Envisioning a Life Without You

Brian Weckman (L) Actis Wealth Management Presi d e nt

bweckman@actiswealth.com

Brian M. Thompson (R) Actis Wealth Management Indepe nd e nt We al th M a n a ge r

bthompson@actiswealth.com Actis Wealth Management was founded in 2001 with the aim of bringing an institutional-style investing approach to individuals and businesses. We feel that individual investors should benefit from the same type of investment access and asset allocation processes that are utilized by the world’s largest institutions, including pension funds and university endowments.

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October/November 2014

Parents have to think about the potential needs of their surviving child. Will he or she require daily custodial care? Ongoing medical treatments? Will your child live alone or in a group home? Can family assume some of the care? Answers to these and other questions can help form the vision of what may need to be done to plan for your child’s care.

Planning Your Estate Supporting lifetime needs can outstrip your resources.

One funding resource is government benefits, which your child may qualify for when he or she becomes an adult, e.g., Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Because such government programs have low asset thresholds for qualification, you may want to consider whether to make property transfers to your special needs child.

Ensure you have an up-to-date will that reflects your wishes. Consider creating a special needs trust, the assets of which can be structured to fund your child’s care without disqualifying him or her from government assistance.

Involve the Family All affected family members should be involved in the decision-making process. You will want a united front of surviving family members to care for your child after you’ve passed.

Identify a Caregiver In order for a caregiver to make financial and healthcare decisions after your child reaches adulthood, the caregiver must be appointed as guardian. This can take time, so contemplate starting early. Consider a “Letter of Intent” to the caregiver and family to express your wishes, along with information about your child’s care. This isn’t a legal document, but it may help to communicate your desires. Store this letter alongside your will in a safe place.

Planning for a special needs child can be complicated, confusing, and even overwhelming. Be sure to work with qualified professionals to help you navigate the myriad of considerations that are part of this challenge.

Your Waukee

Pinpoints of Interest

Charitable Donations! Give thanks and give to those in need

T h e G i v i ng Tree @ Waukee YMCA

Christmas Fo od Drive @ Luana Savings Bank

210 N. Warrior Lane

16390 Holcomb Court, Clive

515-987-9996

515-987-2116

Holiday Food Baskets & Shop with a Cop

Childre n’ s Bo ok Drive

1300 LA Grant Pkwy

Donate books for children ages 0-5 for Waukee families to own and read.

To donate books email Abel Shaw at abelshaw@gmail.com.

November 17th - December 20th, Take an ornament from the Giving Tree at the Waukee YMCA to provide clothes and toys for a family in need.

December 1st - December 5th. Donate non perishable food items & other household necessities at Luana Saving Bank (items will benefit the Waukee Area Christian Services Food Pantry).

Kiwanis Club of Waukee’s Literacy Program

Through December 10th, Monetary donations accepted for these programs to assist families in need in our community. Send monetary donations or stop by Waukee Police Dept.

515-987-4712

Blessing Tree, Adopt a Family, & Food Baskets @ Waukee Area Christian Services Food Pantry.

1155 SE Boone Dr

Monetary, personal care items and non perishable food donations are needed. Holiday donations through December 15th, however accepted year round.

515-987-5523

Want to be a pinpoint of interest?

Email us at waukee@mytownmagazines.com

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FACES OF

WAUKEE w/ KURT SCHADE I was raised as a farm boy in Sac City and moved to the Des Moines area in 1977, where I began my career in real estate at the age of 19.

My career is still going strong today. I enjoy representing clients ranging from farmers to developers to first-time homebuyers to relocating executives. I like educating clients on all that our area has to offer.

I also own Accent Construction, LLC, a residential home building company. I love the challenge of participating in the location selection, design and construction of a home specifically tailored to a buyer’s needs.

One highlight of my career was being named Realtor of the Year by the Iowa Association of Realtors in 2013. I’ve also enjoyed serving in numerous leadership positions over the years, including President of the Iowa Association of Realtors in 2011.

Another of my passions is wine. In 1986, I bought 13.5 acres in Waukee that is now known as Schade Creek Vineyard & Winery (located just north of St. Boniface Church on Warrior Lane). It used to be an old cattle pasture. Over the years, I’ve transformed it into a beautiful estate setting for a home, pond, trees and landscaping – as well as a vineyard and winery.

I’m very proud of the wine quality awards we’ve won for our Schade Creek wines. We recently submitted wine to tastings.com for analysis, and were thrilled to receive notice that our 2013 Vignoles received a 94 rating, and was rated as “excellent” and a “best buy from the state of Iowa.”

I also recently graduated from the Waukee Leadership Academy, where I met a lot of great people and future leaders. I learned a lot about our community as well. I highly recommend it.

Throughout it all, I always treat others as I would want to be treated. That philosophy has served me well over the years.

Schade Creek wines are available at the Caseys General Stores and Hy-Vee store in Waukee.

Photo by Laura Wills 12

October/November 2014

Know someone we should feature? Let us know!

Email us at waukee@mytownmagazines.com

Words Sara Stibitz

Seasons S p ec i a l S ect i on

Eatings

Photos Laura Wills

The holiday season is just around the corner!

The Waukee Hy-Vee has a wide variety of ways to save time with party trays, specialty meats & roasts, gourmet cheeses, wine, and even in-home chef services. Hy-Vee has all of your party needs covered, so you can spend more time with loved ones...

And less time in the kitchen!

Specialty meats & roasts

Let Hy-Vee do some (or all) of the work for your holiday meal.

Hy-Vee has a variety of specialty meats and roasts available.

For an added touch, season with salt and pepper, garlic and onion, and rosemary and thyme–just enough to let the flavors of the meat shine through.

ty e i r a V s ciou DeliCrown Prime rib roast Standing rib roast

Oven-roasted turkey

Beef tenderloin

Bone-in or boneless ham

Rack of lamb

Pork loin

and much more! continue reading 13

ialty & Imported Cheeses SpTheecWaukee location carries over 200 specialty and imported cheeses. Looking for the intensity of a blue cheese, or the silky smooth texture of your favorite French brie? Hy-Vee has an assortment of options.

Special among those options is the Sartori

Chris Smith Cheese Specialist

Cheese selection.

Based in Plymouth Wisconsin, Sartori Cheese is a four generation, family-owned business.

The Waukee Hy-Vee has the largest selection of this award-winning cheese in the Des Moines area.

The Merlot Bellavitano is one of the store’s best-sellers. This decadent cheese is soaked in merlot, pairing the berry notes of the wine with the nutty flavors of one of Sartori’s most popular cheeses.

“The Merlot Bellavitano is one of the store’s best-sellers.”

S p ec i a l S ect i on

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October/November 2014

while you dine e wine you FinWhether are a regular connoisseur

or looking to add extra flavor to your next holiday gathering, you’d be hard pressed to find better variety of quality wine than at your Waukee Hy-Vee.

Need help selecting the perfect pairing for your holiday feast? Be sure to ask Hy-Vee’s Certified Sommeliers such as Michael Johnson and Blair Zachariasen.

Here’s a few of their expert recommendations.

Lighthorse Chardonnay, 2012 Jamieson Ranch, Napa Valley, California

Lighthorse Chardonnay is a fruit-forward, light on the palate option. The acidity in the wine gives it vibrancy, while the texture gives it a rich feel. This option pairs well with lighter fare, including fish and poultry.

Revelry Merlot, 2010

Revelry Vintners, Walla Walla, Washington A store favorite, this wine is a “Cab drinker’s Merlot.” This oak-aged option has notes of blueberry, black cherry, and cassis, and pairs well with either poultry or roasts.

Also be sure to try...

Cakebread Cellars Pinot Noir 2012

Two Creeks Vineyards, Anderson Valley

Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

Napa Valley

continue reading 15

Specialty Party Trays & Platters If you’re looking for the most hassle free party-planning option possible, check out the party trays, made fresh to order.

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Signature Tuscan Harvest Platter

Signature Premier Vegetable Platter

Signature Hickory Smoked Salmon Platter

Signature Italian Bruschetta Tray

Signature Creole Shrimp Platter

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Chef Services

Trevor Feuerhelm Waukee Hy-Vee Chef

The Waukee location has nine chefs on staff dedicated to serving the needs of Hy-Vee customers.

Their chefs are always available to answer your most burning cooking questions, help with ideas, or even provide tips for holiday meal planning.

Visit with one of our Hy-Vee Chefs about coming into your home and cooking and serving your holiday feast! They can satisfy a range of needs, from a simple meal to an extravagant five-course dinner complete with wine pairings. Everything you need so you can spend time creating memories, and not kitchen clutter.

Bonus: They’ll likely leave the kitchen even cleaner than they found it!

Need a perfect accent es? for your holiday festiviti

Take advantage of Hy-Vee’s floral experts and spice up your decor with a floral arrangement.

If you’re feeling creative, stop in and create your own arrangement from Hy-Vee’s fresh blooms.

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October/November 2014

Frauds, scams, breaches ...

How do I keep my personal information safe?

Grant Langhus Luana Savings Bank

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Se c u r i t y h a s r e c e i ve d a l ot o f a t t en t i o n r e c e nt l y wi t h b r ea c h e s o f p a s s wor ds, p e r so n a l i n for m a t i on a n d c a r d da t a a ffe c t i ng h u n dr eds o f mi l l i ons o f A m e r i c a n s.

Per so n a l se c u r i t y s houl d n o l o n g e r fo c us s ol e l y o n pr ev en t i n g br e a c he s, bu t a l so a c c ept i ng t ha t o u r i n fo r m a t i on wi l l be br ea c h e d a n d for m ul a t i ng t ec h n i q u e s t o m i t i ga t e fu r t h e r d a m a g e.

The first step remains the same – we need to be diligent in preventing as many simple attacks as possible. Believe it or not, today’s computers are more secure than ever due to multiple levels of firewalls, encryption, anti-malware suites and automatic updates.

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Last year, almost all infected computers were compromised due to opening a web page – not from viruses or criminals trolling the internet. According to Cisco’s 2014 Annual Security Report, Java was used to compromise the computer in 91% of cases, followed

by Flash. Java and Flash are both wonderful technologies that helped transform the internet and many devices into the multimedia sensations they are today.

The complexities of those technologies, however, became their weakness.

Many websites no longer require Java or Flash. If these technologies are installed, consider removing them, along with any unnecessary internet add-ons or toolbars.

We also recommend that PC-based customers try the free Google Chrome web browser in place of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. In addition to its proven security benefits, we’ve found Chrome to perform significantly faster and render pages more accurately – including our own website.

Next, make a habit of examining a link’s destination (URL) before clicking. Most web browsers and e-mail applications will expose the URL simply by hovering over the link.

If the URL doesn’t lead to a reputable website, and especially if the site doesn’t end with a well-known ending like “.com,” think twice before clicking.

Brian Byrnes

Senior Residential Loan Officer NMLS 41854

Bbyrnes@luanasavingsbank.com

Finally, you can mitigate the effects of compromised usernames and passwords by using a unique password for each website or service. Each password should consist of at least 10 characters. If a criminal uncovers your Facebook credentials, be assured they’ll try to use them to log into Yahoo! Mail, Etsy, Pinterest, Twitter, etc. Desktop and mobile password storage apps like LastPass and KeePass are designed to create and securely store complex credentials, and may increase your efficiency while decreasing your risk.

Consider memorizing a handful of passwords (e-mail, online banking, etc.) in case you don’t have access to the password store.

We recommend NOT changing your password more frequently than every 12 to 18 months. It doesn’t matter if a criminal is in possession of stolen credentials for one minute or one month, the same amount of damage can be done. When forced to change passwords often, individuals often develop a predictable password sequence, record passwords in an insecure location, or begin sharing passwords among sites and services, which undermines security.

P l ea se vis i t u s o n l i n e a t L u a n a S a v in g s B a n k .c o m f or a d ditional i n fo rmati o n o n s e c u r it y, id e n t it y t h ef t , c r edit a n d much mo re!

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Local People. Local Decisions. Local Investments.

17

“In February, the choir members will make their way to Salt Lake City by bus, where they will perform in the Salt Lake Tabernacle, home of the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir.�

18

October/November 2014

Singing their praises Words Sara Stibitz

Photos Laura Wills

The director of Waukee High School’s A Cappella choir, Amy Voorhees-Hall, has an oversized poster in her office that says “Dream the impossible, Seek the unknown, Achieve greatness.” It seems she has done all three, considering that her choir will be performing at the 2015 National Conference of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). It’s no small feat; out of 300 total submissions, only 25 choirs are selected. Out of 80 high school choir submissions, A Cappella is one of only three high school choirs selected to perform.

A singer herself, Hall went to Simpson College for a degree in vocal performance.

Destiny led her on a path into education. After earning her degree, she wasn’t ready for graduate school. “I enjoyed my student teaching experiences, so I thought I could do that for a while until I was ready,” she explains. Though she has since gone on to earn a master’s degree in administration, it’s teaching music that truly inspires her.

“Fulfillment comes from not just doing it myself, but from sharing everything I know so that someone else can do it well.”

The thought of taking her choir to an ACDA conference had always appealed to Hall, but she never thought she would audition until a few of her mentors encouraged it. “When you have an ensemble that sings at that level, they should have the opportunity to share at that level,” she said.

In April of this year, Hall submitted three years’ worth of recordings of A Cappella performances. “They want to see consistency. They want to see that you didn’t have an awesome choir for just one year.” She waited on pins and needles until June, when she happened to check her junk email folder and realized the choir had been accepted. She laughs about that moment now. “The email said, ‘ACDA Congratulations.’ And then I think I just about passed out.”

Now that the moment of exhilaration has passed, reality has set in. The choir is already working hard to prepare for their performance. “You have to put your work in front of thousands of choral professionals, to be judged by some of the most skilled professionals in your field,” says Hall.

The strength of Hall’s preparation can be seen in the way she conducts her choir, and in the way the choir reacts to her. During a break in practice, the singers stand in small groups near their places. They talk to one another excitedly. One stands with her hip cocked, tossing a joke over her shoulder. Another group tells stories.

There’s laughter, excitement, and energy bouncing around the room. But when Hall steps to the podium and raises her arms and chin expectantly, the room grows quiet. The singers return to their places; the energy transforms into steady focus.

Continued next page

In February, the choir members will make their way to Salt Lake City by bus, where they will perform in the Salt Lake Tabernacle, home of the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The opportunity to sing there is a gift in itself. Built in the 1860’s, it was intended for sermons and conferences, but there were no microphones to amplify sound. The roof is constructed in an elliptical shape to address that problem. The sound coming from the pulpit is focused and projected to the far reaches of the room. Some believe it’s one of the most acoustically perfect buildings in the world.

“You have to put your work in front of thousands of choral professionals, to be judged by some of the most skilled professionals in your field,” -Amy Ha l l

19

The members of the A Cappella choir include sophomores, juniors and seniors. Trevor Wiley is a senior and the president of the choir. He’s been in A Cappella since he was a sophomore, and also sings in the school’s jazz and show choirs. Wiley had no idea they auditioned; it wasn’t until the choir council met at the beginning of the year that he learned the news. “She announced it by bringing in a cake. It was a very pleasant surprise,” says Wiley.

Though they work hard, Wiley enjoys it. “We take ourselves seriously, we know we have a lot of work to do, but we also have fun with it.” Working with Hall is another perk. “She’s high intensity. She likes to laugh, likes to have fun, but also makes sure the work gets done. And she cares a lot about everyone there.”

Taylor Luther feels the same way about singing in A Cappella. As a senior, she too contributed to the audition recordings that earned the choir’s spot at the ACDA conference. The group feels like family to her. “Everyone is there for each other,” she says. Unlike sports or drama, there’s never competition. Luther feels like everyone can participate and be themselves in A Capella. “It’s not just singing. You can stop worrying about whatever else is going on in your life and just be in that moment.”

“We take ourselves seriously, we know we have a lot of work to do, but we also have fun with it.”

-Trevor Wil ey

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October/November 2014

“Trips bring the group together.

Being on the road helps us realize how grateful we should be for what we have, and how fast it’s passing us by.”

-A my Ha l l

It’s a given that Hall is thrilled about the opportunity, but the singers are just as excited. “Trips bring the group together. Being on the road helps us realize how grateful we should be for what we have, and how fast it’s passing us by,” says Wiley.

Hall counts herself lucky to have the support of the community in funding the trip as well.

The choir’s theme song of the year is “Do Not Be Afraid,” and Hall has instructed her singers to dig deep to bring their personal experience to the song. It seems the A Cappella choir and their director are far from afraid. Hall’s dream is a big one, and she and her choir have already achieved success.

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21

Live, learn, & connect

@ your Waukee Library

by Devon Murphy-Petersen

New Director Stop by the library and welcome our new Director, Kristine Larson. Kristine started at the Waukee Public Library on October 27. She previously worked at the Des Moines Public Library and Iowa State University Library.

Waukee Author Visit Saturday, Nov 22 at 10:00 AM Waukee resident Andrea Rodgers will read excerpts from her new book, “The 20th Christmas” and share the story of her publishing journey. Copies will be available for purchase. Light refreshments served.

Community Scrapbooking Saturday, Nov 8 from 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM Pack up your paper crafts equipment and spend the day sharing ideas and tools!

There’s plenty of room to spread out and work. The library’s tools will be set out for your use.

Festival of Trees and Wreaths Thursday, Dec 4 at 6:30 PM Kick off the holiday season by attending the 9th Annual Festival of Trees and Wreaths.

Enjoy the festive tree lighting ceremony, music, refreshments, a special story time, and the Teen Advisory Board silent auction. Individuals, families and businesses are encouraged to participate by decorating a tree or wreath in the theme of their business or hobby. Funds raised will be used to purchase books, audio books and movies for the library. Trees and wreaths will be on display through December 19.

For more information, check the library’s website at www.waukee.org/library or call 515-978-7944.

Christmas Crafts Saturday, Dec 6 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Kids of all ages are invited to make a wide variety of holiday crafts, perfect for giftgiving. There is no charge or registration; adults and older siblings are encouraged to come and lend a hand. We have heard Santa Claus will make an appearance.

Winter Reading Program Begins Jan 1, 2015 Families with children of all ages and adults without children are invited to participate in our winter reading program during December and January. Registration and reading logs will be available online and in the library beginning December 1.

Online Children’s Books – Language Learning – Free Music and More!

Check out WPL’s website http://www.waukee.org/515/Downloads-Databases for downloadable audio books and e-books, animated children’s books, test preparation, free music downloads, medical information, and much, much more!

Devon’s Reading Recommendations – Cuddle Up and Read Now that the weather’s turning cooler, it’s a great time to light the fireplace, cuddle up and read! Here are a few books that I’ve recently enjoyed: “Doctor Zhivago” by Boris Pasternak.

This beautifully-written epic love story is set against the background of the Russian Revolution and Civil War. It earned Pasternak the Nobel Prize.

“Quiet: the Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain.

Cain argues that we dramatically undervalue the one-third of our population who are introverts, and shows how much we lose in doing so. Fascinating!

“Glitter and Glue” by Kelly Corrigan.

In this memoir, Corrigan realizes that her mother was the glue that held her family together – and her father was the glitter.

“Every Man Dies Alone” by Hans Fallada.

Based on a true story, this novel of resistance during World War II gives a glimpse into the distrust that became part of everyday life in Germany.

“Maisie Dobbs” series by Jacqueline Winspear.

This series of mysteries set in post-World War I England are like popcorn – they’re hard to put down and they leave you wanting more!

November & December Holiday Hours Veterans Day: Closed Tuesday, Nov 11.

Thanksgiving: The library will close at 5:30 PM on Wednesday, Nov 26, and will be closed Nov 27–28.

Open regular hours Nov 29–30.

Christmas: Closed Dec 24–25. Open regular hours Dec 26–27. Closed Dec 28.

New Year’s Eve: The library will close at 5:30 PM on Dec 31.

Normal Library Hours Monday – Thursday 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM; Friday 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM; Sunday 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Holiday Skin Advice : No - Do w n ti m e Tr e a t m e n ts t o He l p You L ook Your B est

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515-987-5188 URBAN EFFECTS MEDSPA treats the face and body as a whole. Its owners have over 35 years of experience in aesthetic medicine. Susan’s multi-discipline background includes facial plastic surgery, dermatology and endocrinology. This has given her valuable skills to personalize the treatments and product recommendations for their guests. Their entire staff is committed to providing outstanding customer service, treatments and products to achieve realistic, healthy results.

The holiday season is here once again. While we all have our own approach to celebrating the holidays, we all experience the stress that comes with extra-busy schedules. This can result in what I call “holiday hangover skin” – skin that looks dull and dehydrated, perhaps with atypical acne breakout.

As a skin health professional, I love telling people about quick, easy, no-downtime treatments that keep your skin looking radiant and healthy.

I personally recommend the HydraFacial – the ultimate complexion reviver and the perfect treatment to keep you looking your best throughout the holiday season. In less than an hour, this rejuvenating treatment uses a series of cleansers and serums to repair and protect skin while extracting oil build-up and damaged tissue. You will relax in a calming facial room and enjoy a state-of-the-art, crystal-free exfoliation and the infusion of a light serum. The result? Beautiful, glowing skin. The treatment is customized for your skin type and requires no downtime, yet provides visible results.

You may elect to add LED Light as well – a soothing, plumping treatment that restores firmness and promotes collagen production and healing. This treatment is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive and actinic skin. Anyone seeking a renewed complexion will enjoy this service.

You may be thinking that there’s just no way you can justify the time or expense.

I encourage you to think about how you feel when you look your best. This is an affordable gift that you can give yourself to get you through the chaotic days ahead.

Or perhaps you can put it on someone’s gift list – someone who is looking for the perfect gift for you!

Healthy Skin that Glows with HydraFacial MD™

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A HydraFacial is a non-laser-based resurfacing treatment. This treatment cleanses, exfoliates, detoxifies, hydrates and extracts oil, dirt and dead skin via vacuum suction before the final step – a super serum antioxidant is infused into the skin.

It is totally painless, and your skin is visibly clearer and softer.

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Waukee City of

The Key to Good Living

The City

of

Festivals!

The City of Waukee holds a number of annual festivals and events in an effort to connect with our residents and build a sense of community. These events are coordinated by our talented and hardworking Parks and Recreation department and offer holiday fun as well as community outreach. We hope to see you at our next festival! For more information, visit www.waukee.org.

WinterFest 2014 & “Letters from Santa” The City of Waukee holds a number of annual festivals and events in an effort to connect with our residents and build a sense of community. These events are coordinated by our talented and hardworking Parks and Recreation department and offer holiday fun as well as community outreach. We hope to see you at our next festival! For more information, visit www.waukee.org.

This year, Waukee Parks and Recreation is offering a free “Letters from Santa” program, open to Waukee residents from November 3-26. Parents must request a questionnaire from Waukee Parks and Recreation and return it with facts about their 3-6 year old, including special holiday plans, their wish list and other interests. Once the questionnaire is returned, your child will be sent a personalized response from the jolly old fellow himself. To receive your questionnaire, please contact Danae at DEdwards@Waukee.org.

L ocation: Wau kee Commu n i ty Cen ter Time : 6: 00 p. m. - 8: 00 p. m.

Date : F ri day, December 5 F ee: F ree

FamilyFest 2015 Join us for our third annual FamilyFest in 2015! This free, family-friendly event will help chase away any winter blues while giving you the chance to meet your neighbors and learn about local businesses. Businesses from the Waukee area will have tables with games and prizes for kids, as well as inflatables.

L ocation: Poi n t of G race Ch u rch ( 305 N E Dartmoor Dri ve) Time : 9: 00 a. m. - 12: 00 p. m.

Date : Satu rday, Jan u ary 17 F ee: F ree

Easter Egg Hunt 2015 Hop on over and fill your baskets with candy at Waukee’s annual Easter Egg Hunt! Three age groups will take off and grab their share of eggs including 4 years and under, 5-7 and 8-10 years old.

L ocation: Cen ten n i al Park Time : 10: 00 a. m. Rai n or Sh i n e Date : TBD F ee: F ree

Movies in the Park 2015 Big-screen movies under the big dipper provide for an abundance of family fun. This free event is a great way to make memories with your family and neighbors while enjoying Hollywood’s biggest hits under the stars. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Fresh popcorn and drinks are sold by the Park Board.

L ocation: Cen ten n i al Park Time : Du sk ( approx i matel y 8: 30 p. m. ) Date : Ju n e- Ju l y F ee: F ree

BACooN RIDE 2015 Iowa’s world-famous RAGBRAI joined with the founders of the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival and the Iowa Bicycle Coalition to create this unique event combining the love of bacon and the love of bike riding. The inaugural BACooN RIDE took place in June 2014 and covered 71 miles of the Raccoon River Valley Trail. Starting and ending at the trailhead in Waukee, the bacon-lover’s ride featured numerous bacon stops with delicious treats from the BACooN RIDE menu, along with a bacon-themed lunch. Waukee played a special part in the inaugural BACooN RIDE by hosting a pre-event party in Centennial Park the night before the ride. We hope to see you all again for the BACooN RIDE in 2015!

Date : Ju n e 20, 2015 M o re In formati on : h ttp: //bacoon ri de. com/

4th of July Celebration 2015 Each year, Waukee hosts an all-day celebration of our nation’s independence. Activities start at 2:00 p.m. with a parade through historic downtown that ends at Centennial Park, where the fun continues for the rest of the day and night. Bring your friends and family for fun with inflatables, a zipline, live music, food vendors, a beverage garden and a great fireworks show.

L ocation: Parade begi n s dow n tow n , en tertai n men t an d vendors in Centennial Park Time : 2: 00 p. m.

Date : Ju l y 4, 2015 F ee: F ree

WaukeeFest 2015 In the late summer, the City of Waukee hosts a day-long festival in and around the historic downtown triangle celebrating everything great about Waukee. The fun-filled festival always starts with a delicious breakfast provided by the Waukee Rotary Club. Following breakfast, local food and craft vendors are featured in the downtown triangle, along with children’s art projects and live entertainment. The WaukeeFest parade is also a major draw and offers fun for the whole family.

L ocation: Wau kee’s Hi stori c Dow n tow n Tri an gl e Time : Al l Day Date : TBD F ee: F ree

Haunted House 2015 The Waukee Park Board sponsors a haunted house at the Centennial Park’s enclosed shelter house each year at the end of October. Enter if you dare, but be prepared to be scared. This haunted house is not recommended for young children.

L ocation: En cl osed Sh el ter at Cen ten n i al Park Time : 7: 00 p. m. - 10: 00 p. m.

Date : TBD F ee: $5 ( B ri n g th re e n o n p e ri sh a b l e g o o d s fo r th e Wa u k e e A re a Food Ba nk a n d re ce i v e $ 1 o ff)

FACES OF

WAUKEE w/ Jessica Garvin Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Dike, Iowa – a small town in Eastern Iowa. It’s a town where everyone knows everyone! After graduating from high school, I attended Hawkeye Community College and finished at Kirkwood Community College.

Tell us about your family…

My husband, Justin, and I have been married for almost nine years. We have two wonderful children. Brayden is 5 and a kindergartener at Waukee, and Brenlee is 2. They keep us going, and we are enjoying every minute of it.

Tell us about your current career…

I have been in banking for nine years, with two years of mortgage lending experience. I enjoy focusing on providing great customer service and assisting homeowners with all of their mortgage lending needs.

What are some of your hobbies and passions?

When I’m not at work, I’m spending time with family and friends.

We love to spend as much time as possible outdoors. I enjoy working on DIY projects, organizing and tidying up my house.

What do you like about living and/or working in Waukee?

I love being a part of a community that is growing so much, yet has the small town feeling. The people here are great!

What motivates and inspires you?

What inspires and motivates me the most is helping others. I’ve always been motivated by doing the best job possible at whatever I am doing. I want to provide the best customer service possible and to make each client’s home-buying process a pleasant experience.

Tis the season, tell us what you are thankful for this year?

I am thankful for my family, my parents, my brothers and the blessing of my wonderful husband and two amazing children! I am thankful for my job, the people I work with and the relationships I get to build. I am thankful for the community in which we live, and being part of it as it continues to grow. I hope everyone has a wonderful fall season!

Photo by Laura Wills 26

October/November 2014

Know someone we should feature? Let us know!

Email us at waukee@mytownmagazines.com

Let’s get straight to the point!

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27

FROM THE

WAUKEE CHAMBER

Thank you to all Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce members for your membership and support of the Chamber this past year.

Thank you to Waukee Chamber Board President Jerry Purdy of Design Alliance, Board of Directors, Ambassadors and Chamber professional staff for all of your dedication and commitment to help make 2014 a success!

Autumn has been busy at the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce! In September, the Waukee Chamber’s Annual Chamber Directory and Community Guide shipped to all residents and businesses in Waukee. The Waukee Chamber held the 2nd annual Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour, hosted at Access Systems in Waukee. During the past couple of months, the Waukee Chamber has welcomed new members with Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for Fresh Mediterranean Express, Saints Pub & Patio, 1908 Draught House, Rita’s, Mixed, Hoai Anh Iowa, Bedzzz 4 Le$$, Spring Valley Wireless and Allstate Starkweather Agency.

In addition, Business After Hours events were held at Hawkeye Antique Acres in September and Banks Law Firm in October. Actis Wealth Management sponsored the Chamber’s September Networking Luncheon catered by Hotel Pattee and members enjoyed Speed Networking at the October Networking Luncheon, catered

by Waukee Subway.

28

October/November 2014

Upcoming Waukee Chamber events to mark your calendar for: West Side Legislative Breakfast at The Village at Legacy Pointe on Wednesday, November 12th from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Members from the Waukee, West Des Moines, Windsor Heights and Clive Chambers of Commerce are invited to hear from local elected Legislators on the upcoming session. Invited Legislators include State Representative Peter Cownie, State Representative Chris Hagenow, State Representative Rob Taylor, State Representative Ralph Watts, State Senator Jake Chapman, State Senator Matt McCoy and State Senator Charles Schneider. Cost is $20.00 per person in advance and $25.00 for day of registration. Please RSVP to www.waukeechamber.com by November 5th.

Waukee Chamber Networking Luncheon at the Waukee Community Center on Thursday, November 20th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Check out the Chamber’s monthly networking luncheons, held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Enjoy lunch, market your business and develop business relationships with Chamber members! Cost is $12 in advance and $15 for day of registration.

Please RSVP to www.waukeechamber.com by November 19th.

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

Keeping up the fight for healthy living

Meet Courtney Owen: MMA Fighter, Mother, Member, Y Coach Standing, arms crossed, in a royal blue YMCA staff shirt, Courtney Owen looks like a force of fitness to be reckoned with. Her biceps have been built not only by lifting weights, but by the ups and downs of a fitness journey well traveled.

Now a wellness coach at the Waukee Family YMCA, Owen assists members of all ages with orientation, ActivTrax and fitness testing. But perhaps most significantly, she listens to and empowers YMCA members on their journey towards positive life change.

“I like all of the people here; you really get to know everyone,” Owen said. “Because of my own fitness goals and challenges, it’s easy for me to relate with people.”

Owen said that she has been inspired by many YMCA members striving to do their best.

“There’s a lady that has Multiple Sclerosis who rides a scooter and uses every last ounce of her independence,” Owen said. “She comes in and walks about a minute on the treadmill. She falls almost every time, but she gets back up and scoots off to her next exercise. Members like that help you remember not to take things for granted,” she said.

She certainly has not taken getting her body back into shape for granted.

“I had my daughter six years ago, and at that time, I weighed 203 pounds,” Owen shared. “I gained something like 60 pounds while I was pregnant.”

Following the birth of her daughter, she became “obsessed with working out” in order to take her body back and beyond to a new level of fitness. Owen is a former MMA fighter, the kind that throws packed punches and kicks in the cages. Her last fight was in April 2013.

Before Owen moved to the area from southwest Iowa in the spring of 2013, she was training at a Tae Kwon Do gym. When she moved here, she needed a place to work out and the Waukee Y fit the bill. With a full weight room, a pool, and premiere smallgroup exercise classes, including Warrior Fit and Boot Camp, the Waukee Y became her second home.

“When a position opened up at the Y, I thought, ‘I’m here all the time, why not work here?’” she said. So she quit her full-time job at an optometrist’s office and started working at the Y. She hasn’t looked back, only forward – to graduating from the Fire Academy later this month. Owen also works part-time on the Grimes Fire/EMS team.

When you join the YMCA of Greater Des Moines, you gain access to nine YMCA locations, many great programs and services, and a passionate staff of team members focused on helping you reach your goals. Stop in and meet with Owen, or another one of the wellness coaches, and take the first step towards a healthier life.

29

important dates: no

school & cA N’T-MISS ENTERTA INMENT I N WAU KEE

Thanksgiving Break - No School Nov 26 - Nov 28.

Winter Break - No School Dec 22 - Jan 2.

Festival of Trees and Wreaths Waukee Public Library 6:30 pm Dec 4.

Lighting Ceremony, Refreshments, Music.

WinterFest Waukee Downtown Triangle and Community Center 6:00-8:00 pm Dec 5.

Santa Claus, Trolley Rides, Hot Coca, Cookies. Please bring unwrapped new toys for children in our community who are less fortunate.

Letters from Santa The Waukee Parks and Recreation Dept is helping out Santa.

Contact their office 515-978-0007 until Nov 26 for ages 3-6.

Residents guide: numbers to know

City of Waukee.............................................................................................5 15 - 9 7 8 - 7 9 0 0 Chamber of Commerce.........................................................................5 15 - 9 7 8 - 7 1 1 5 Dallas County Motor Vehicle/License Plates.......................5 1 5 - 9 9 3 - 5 8 1 2 Dallas County Sheriff.............................................................................. 5 1 5 - 9 9 3 - 4 5 6 7 Fire: Non-Emergency............................................................................. 5 1 5 - 9 8 7 - 4 7 1 2 Iowa One Call...................................................................................................................... 8 1 1 Library................................................................................................................ 5 1 5 - 9 8 7 - 1 2 8 0 Parks & Recreation................................................................................... 5 1 5 - 9 7 8 - 0 0 0 6 Police: Non-Emergency........................................................................ 5 1 5 - 9 8 7 - 1 0 7 3

Post Office........................................................................................................ 515-987-9820 Public Works...................................................................................................515-987-4363 Public Works After Hours (Emergency).......................................515-249-1212 Waste Management...................................................................................515-299-2504 Waukee City Hall.........................................................................................515-987-4522 Waukee Community School District.............................................515-987-5161 Waukee Parks & Recreation................................................................515-978-0007 Waukee Community Center................................................................515-978-0007

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October/November 2014

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