I grew up in the suburbs about 20 miles west of Milwaukee, until leaving the nest for college at the University of Minnesota. There, I worked for three years at The Minnesota Daily student newspaper, where I held newsroom positions from intern up to managing editor. After earning a journalism degree, I went back to Wisconsin and spent a year covering education and doing online editing for the local daily newspaper in the city of Manitowoc, a community on the shores of Lake Michigan. I hope I can make Apple Valley Patch meaningful for the Apple Valley community.
Outside of journalism work, I dabble in expository essay-writing, play the piano here and there, try to keep up with Jillian Michaels and really, really would like to finish the New York Times Sunday crossword, for once. I'm always open to suggestions for new restaurants or little corners of the world to check out.
<b>Politics, Religion</b>
At Patch, we promise to report 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. I would be happy to discuss my political persuasions and religious beliefs with anyone who asks.<br><br><b>Local Hot-Button Issues</b>
One important and ongoing issue in Apple Valley is the development of the Cedar Avenue corridor and bus rapid transit, which has affected and will continue to affect transit and the business community. AV Patch also will keep tabs on development within the city's designated downtown area.
The "BIGD" theater will host a fundraiser opening night on Thursday, and has a bigger screen, a more technologically advanced screening and sound setup and luxury seats.
Peter Ford Benton, 49, is charged with fleeing an officer, fourth degree DUI and driving without a valid license, and has been convicted of other drunk driving-related offenses in the past.
Gabriel Felix Serrano is charged with felony first-degree burglary.
Bills said he raised more than $50,000 in three weeks of fundraising, according to a Minnesota Public Radio story.
Kaitlin Marie Ducker, 18, allegedly stole jewelry valued at almost $7,000 from an Apple Valley home and used some of the money to buy drugs.
Kalli's Popcorn Shop needs a new neighbor. What would you like to see next door? Leave your ideas in the comments section below.
Peter Ford Benton, 49, is charged with fleeing an officer, fourth degree DUI and driving without a valid license, and has been convicted of other drunk driving-related offenses in the past.
Check out these tax day deals for April 17, 2012.
Another vacancy in the Time Square center needs a new tenant.
Participants were offered a deferment until 2013 because of high temperatures.
The newborn DeBrazza's monkey is the third baby born to this pair of adult monkeys at the zoo.
A traffic signal will be removed permanently, and southbound Cedar between 136th and 150th will go down to two lanes.
Ecumen's Academy for Lifelong Learning lets senior citizens take six-week college courses at its Seasons residence.
Ruckdashel, who is a gifted and talented teacher, was one of seven District 196 employees who received the award.
New Apple Valley Patch blogger Dr. Brandon Mannie, of Natural Health Solutions in Apple Valley, writes about finding the particular cause of ADD or ADHD in your child.
Newspaper articles from 1930 show locals' support for dairy farmers.
The award winners are nominated by colleagues.
A traffic signal will be removed permanently, and southbound Cedar between 136th and 150th will go down to two lanes.
The high school senior won a college scholarship sponsored by 3M.
Severe Weather Awareness Week is April 16-20. Dakota County Sheriff Dave Bellows provides background on and tips about preparing for severe weather in Minnesota.
