Alison Gowans, Patch Staff
- Cedar Falls, IA
Local Editor, Cedar Falls
Patch Email: alison.gowans@patch.com
Facebook.com/CedarFallsPatch
Twitter.com/CedarFallsPatch
Phone: 319-850-3474
I'm a born and raised resident of this town.
After graduating from Cedar Falls High School, I studied journalism and international studies at the University of Iowa and spent some time as a reporting intern at The Gazette in Cedar Rapids. After a brief stint in Minneapolis, I took off for the Peace Corps.
Two years as a community health education volunteer in Swaziland, a tiny country in Southern Africa, broadened my horizons and my perspective. But I missed home - the green summers, vibrant fall leaves and the promise of spring after a long winter. (Not so much the winter itself.)
I missed the people of this place, family and friends and neighbors. It was time to come home, and what better way to reintegrate into my community than through Patch? So here I am, wondering what the next few years will bring.
Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable.
Politics
The current acerbic political climate disheartens me. At this point I'm less concerned with parties and labels than with intent and ideas. If someone can convince me they have the country's best interests at heart and of the merit of their policies, they'll probably have my vote. I'm a registered Independent.
Religion
I believe in God. I'm still working out the details of what that belief entails and probably will be for the rest of my life.
Posting Activity
Cedar Falls|News|
Strictly Business Expo
Cedar Falls|News|
Photos: Cedar River Floods Over Roads, Parks in Northern Cedar Falls
A flood warning is in effect for the Cedar River through Sunday in Cedar Falls.
Cedar Falls|News|
Cedar Falls Home of the Week: 4-Season Glass Sun Room With Heated Floors for $409,500
This week's featured home: 221 Kaspend Place, Cedar Falls.
Cedar Falls|News|
Coming Soon! Cedar Falls Patch Gets a New Look (And That's Just for Starters)
In one week, Cedar Falls Patch will have a brand new design and a whole new way to connect.
Cedar Falls|News|
Is There a Connection Between Abducted Iowa Girl Kathylnn Shepard and Evansdale Case?
A massive search is underway for Kathlynn Shepard, 15, in Webster County, after authorities said she and another girl were abducted Monday.
Cedar Falls|News|
Superintendent From Fort Dodge to Interview, Meet Public in Cedar Falls Today
Four candidates are interviewing for the position of Cedar Falls superintendent this week.
Cedar Falls|News|
Drunk Driving: Cedar Falls Police Blotter
The following information was provided by the Cedar Falls Police. It does not indicate a conviction.
Cedar Falls|News|
Update: Cedar Falls is Chance to Learn and Listen, Says Superintendent Candidate Van Soelen
Four candidates are interviewing for the position of Cedar Falls superintendent this week.
Cedar Falls|News|
Search Continues for Abducted Iowa Girl as Suspect is Found Dead
A massive search is underway for Kathlynn Shepard, 15, in Webster County, after authorities said she and another girl were abducted Monday.
Ames, IA|News|
Tornado Warning Issued for Story County
The chance for severe weather across Iowa continues tonight.
Iowa City, IA|News|
Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Johnson, 38 Other Iowa Counties
The chance for severe weather across Iowa continues tonight.
Marion, IA|News|
Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Linn, 38 Other Iowa Counties
The chance for severe weather across Iowa continues tonight.
Cedar Falls|News|
Update: Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Black Hawk County; Hail, High Wind Possible
The chance for severe weather across Iowa continues tonight.
Marion, IA|News|
Child Care, Photography, Cooking, Sales and More Iowa Jobs Around Marion and Cedar Rapids
Job hunting in Marion and the Cedar Rapids metro or simply curious about who's hiring? Check out a few job openings here.
Cedar Falls|News|
Superintendent Finalist Andy Pattee Emphasizes Collaboration, Technology
Four candidates will interview for the position of Cedar Falls superintendent this week.
Marion, IA|News|
Drunk Driving and Disorderly Conduct Charges: Marion Police Blotter
The following information was provided by the Marion Police. It does not indicate a conviction.
Cedar Falls|News|
Flood Warning Issued for Black Hawk County
The Cedar River is forecast to rise to flood stage Tuesday morning.
Marion, IA|News|
Drug and Assault Charges: Marion Police Blotter
The following information was provided by the Marion Police. It does not indicate a conviction.
Cedar Falls|News|
Theft, Assault and Drunk Driving: Cedar Falls Police Blotter
The following information was provided by the Cedar Falls Police. It does not indicate a conviction.