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.
At Monday night's meeting, Waukee school board member Cindi McDonald presented the School Improvement Advisory Committee's recommendations for improvement in the 2012-13 school year.
The Waukee Area Arts Council will hold a drama camp the week of July 9 for kids of all ages.
Waukee Police responded to several reports last week including two unrelated reports of domestic assault, operating while intoxicated and driving while suspended.
Half a dozen minors were arrested and charged with possession of alcohol after Waukee Police shut down a party on June 5.
In this week's Parents Talk, we ask parents if they would allow a child younger than 13 to set up an account of Facebook.
With more than half the votes, New Beginnings Child Care Center is named Patch's Best Child Care Center in Waukee.
Jodie Graham, a former assistant principal at Waukee Middle School, has been hired to be the new assistant principal at Ankeny High School in Ankeny.
The Des Moines Cycle Club is hosting its signature bike ride - The Tour the Raccoon - tomorrow in Waukee. The ride begins Saturday at 9 a.m.
Senate Republican Leader Jerry Behn talks reckless spending and the Iowa budget today in his weekly update.
The Waukee High School girls soccer team faced defending state champion Ankeny High School in the semifinal round of the state soccer tournament. The Warriors fell, 2-1.
Eyewitnesses of a house fire in Waukee today have submitted photos of the blaze in progress. Do you have photos you'd like to submit?
Waukee, West Des Moines and Clive fire crews responded to a house fire at 2280 S.E. Willowbrook Drive in Waukee Friday.
What are your weekend plans, Waukee? See what we've comes up with for you to do this this weekend, June 8, 9 and 10.
Action, romance, drama - it's all in the Redbox this weekend in Waukee.
See who's blogging now and learn how you can start blogging yourself. All the cool kids are doing it.
A reception honoring Ann Strong, Waukee's 2011 Citizen of the Year, was held Thursday night at Waukee City Hall.
If you like a bargain or maybe just the thrill of the hunt, take a look at the garage sales we've found this weekend, June 7, 8 and 9 in Waukee.
Thinking about buying a new home? Check out the homes that have just been reduced on the market this week in Waukee.
The Waukee Farmers Market kicked off for the summer Tuesday night. The Farmers Market runs every Wednesday through Sept. 26.
Unofficial numbers from the Dallas County Auditor's office show a low turnout in Waukee for Tuesday's primary election.
