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 district's school board on Monday certified its tax levy payable for 2012, the fourth year in the row the total levy has decreased in amount.
The district's school board on Monday certified its tax levy payable for 2012, the fourth year in the row the total levy has decreased in amount
See how your favorite local teams did over the weekend.
The district's school board on Monday certified its tax levy payable for 2012, the fourth year in the row the total levy has decreased in amount.
District administrators and union bargainers were pleased with the agreement, which gives a 1-percent salary increases in its second year to those at the top of the pay and longevity schedules.
Are you into the classic-classics? More for modern movies? Weigh in on our poll.
The Lightning dance team also placed second in the jazz competition, and the Apple Valley AV Aires team was fourth in kick.
Jahlia hopes for a mentor who understands her tomboy-ish nature.
Remember those who have passed away.
Police also made several arrests for driving without a valid license.
Thank you for all your support.
The 1-year-old dog was rescued from a kill shelter.
Apple Valley Police Capt. Jon Rechtzigel will become the interim police chief after current Chief Scott Johnson's last day on Friday.
Just a handful of homes sold this past week.
Despite the decrease, many homeowners will pay a handful of dollars more in city property taxes in 2012 than in 2011.
Check out the budget notes and numbers you need to know.
Get out the lights and holly—your decorating could net $100,000 to our schools.
Gerhart and his dad awarded the school its $10,000 grant check from the NFL Play 60 program.
Members of the Dakota County United Educators union, which represents District 196 teachers and nurses, ratified a tentative contract on Monday.
Members of the Dakota County United Educators union, which represents District 196 teachers and nurses, ratified a tentative contract on Monday.