I was born and raised in Marshalltown, Iowa, graduated high school there and got my degree in journalism from Drake University. Right after college, I went to work for The Des Moines Register. Working my way through the ranks there, I eventually landed a spot writing features with an eye on pop culture and Gen X-related content. From there, I moved to Indianapolis, Ind. where I helped the Indianapolis Star start-up a Gen X publication called INtake Weekly. My husband and I missed Iowa and decided to move back home to be closer to family. We have three kids, a 5 year-old daughter and 3 year-old twins ( a daughter and son) and we've called West Des Moines home since 2004.
Personally, when and if I have spare time, I love to read, travel, write and spend time with friends. I've had my own personal blog for six years that tends to say a little too much about the crazy things my kids do. I haven't had a lot of time for myself since I became a stay-at-home mom in 2006 but my husband and I talk often about what the coming years might bring us in terms of free time once the kids start school. I'm so looking forward to it.
<i>At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and 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 honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs. This disclosure is not a license for them to inject their beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: We hope that the knowledge will make us mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know.</i>
<b>Politics</b>
I won't lie - I'm not at all political. As a reporter for the mainstream media, we were discouraged from voicing our true opinions and were told never to divulge our affiliations so as to not bias our coverage. I got kind of used to that so I've never really been a squeaky wheel.
That said, I am a registered Democrat but I never vote a straight democratic ticket. I prefer to listen to the issues and tend to side with those who are more liberal.
<b>Religion</b>
I grew up Presbyterian and come from a long line of Presbyterians and yes, I am still a Presbyterian. What I like about my church and religion is that they welcome people of all backgrounds and never turn anyone away based on their personal beliefs. It's refreshing to be a part of a congregation that embraces everyone's differences.
<b>Local Hot-Button Issues</b>
Waukee is a growing at a rapid rate. In 2010, the city was clicking along at almost 14,000 residents up 169 percent from 10 years previous. Growth like that is bound to cause growing pains. Along those lines, some of the hot topics include how the schools handle an ever-increasing student body, how to accomodate new business, and how the city will follow through on projects meant to bring in more business, more residents and consequently, more growth.
Rob Taylor, candidate for Iowa House District 44, and his wife Dr. Christi Taylor, hosted a backyard campaign fundraiser Tuesday at their home in West Des Moines.
Whether you like a bargain or maybe just the thrill of the hunt, take a look at the garage sales we've found this weekend, Oct. 4, 5 and 6 in Waukee.
Looking for a new home in Waukee? Check out what's new on the market this week.
A Des Moines man was caught stealing from the Goodwill store in Waukee last week.
One Waukee dad found a way to pass on winter outerwear to those in need.
A statewide initiative hopes you'll find a few minutes in your day to get out and walk a bit tomorrow, Wednesday, at noon.
Think you might have missed something over the weekend? No worries. We've got you covered.
Dan Prymek and Nick Prymek, both of Waukee, have both been named to the Iowa Sportsmen for Obama Council.
Jim Lehrer of NewsHour on PBS will moderate the first presidential debate, which will be on domestic policy. It begins at 8 p.m. and will be aired on most major networks.
Columbus Day is today. Here's what's open and closed in Waukee.
A Waukee High School student was arrested last week for fighting with another student in school.
A Clive woman says someone stole a concrete dog from her front porch and she wants it back.
The Waukee Fire Association will host its bi-annual pancake breakfast and food drive Saturday from 7-11 a.m. at the Waukee Fire Department.
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee will host the 2012 Waukee State House and Senate Candidate Forum Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
I've written it before and I'll write it again - you can't make this kind of stuff up. Here's the latest and greatest from Craigslist/Waukee.
Only two traffic accidents reported in Waukee last week including one involving a deer.
Terry Welker has been hired to replace Duane Magee as the human resource director for the Waukee Community School District.
A proclamation from Mayor Bill Peard has officially made October Anti-Bullying month in Waukee.
Drunk driving resulted in the arrest of two people from the Des Moines area last week, according to the latest Waukee police blotter.
Will you be getting your child the flu vaccine this year?
