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.
An update on Taylor Hale's CarePages page today said the 14-year-old was given the OK for two overnight visits and could be released from the hospital as soon as Oct. 21.
Chris Bergman is an extended learning teacher at Waukee South Middle School nominated for this week's Teacher of the Week recognition. Read about what makes Bergman a great teacher.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today, Oct. 12, and some other stuff you might want to know.
'Tis the season for the flu and now's the time to get vaccinated, says one Waukee doctor.
It was announced Tuesday that Waukee will receive a $5.29 million grant to pay for three lanes of the Alice's Road corridor project.
The new Waukee Community Center is two steps closer to fruition as the Waukee City Council voted 3-0 Monday to approve agreements with an architect and construction firm.
Waukee Patch welcomes several new bloggers to our Local Voices column. Here’s a look at our roster and information on how you can participate.
The Waukee Fire Department marks the week, celebrated Oct. 9-15, with activities, reminders and a pancake breakfast.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today, Oct. 11, and some other stuff you might want to know.
Challenger Daniel Pettit, a relative newcomer to Waukee politics, has dropped out of the race for Waukee mayor citing work responsibilities.
The Waukee Police Department responded to several calls this week ranging from domestic assault, to traffic accidents, burglary and fraud.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today, Oct. 10, and some other stuff you might want to know.
In case you missed something, here's a recap of the news and events from Waukee Patch for the week of Oct. 3 - 9.
Every Wednesday, we will feature a different Teacher of the Week. Now's your chance to nominate your favorites.
In this week's installment of Parents Talk, we ask parents for suggestions on whether or not a step-parent should be dishing out discipline.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today, Oct. 9, and some other stuff you might want to know.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today, Oct. 8, and some other stuff you might want to know.
The first ever Waukee Walks event took place today in Centennial Park in Waukee. Hundreds of walkers came out to support the initiative to make Iowa the healthiest state in the nation.
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches will open for business next week in the former Medicap Pharmacy building on North Warrior Lane.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today, Oct. 7, and some other stuff you might want to know.