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.
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<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.
Taylor Hale's father, Chuck Hale, told the Des Moines Register yesterday the family does not yet know her long-term progress. He said the family appreciates the community support.
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, Sept. 15, 16 and 17 in Waukee.
It's been a busy week in the Waukee School District. Here's a recap of what you might have missed.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today and some other stuff you might want to know.
Waukee Patch isn't just another website. No, we're multi-faceted. Do you know what Patch can do for you?
Jerry Ripperger, Larry Lyon and Susan Bunz retain their seats on the Waukee Board of Education.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today and some other stuff you might want to know.
Taylor Hale, a student at Prairieview School, fell from a moving car Friday night in Clive. She remains in critical condition today at Blank Children's Hospital.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today and some other stuff you might want to know.
Six candidates, including three incumbents, are vying for three seats on the Waukee School Board. The polls open at 7 a.m. today.
Kurt Hiatt says he's running for Waukee School Board to better communication between parents and the administration.
Waukee Police responded to calls ranging from criminal mischief to theft and burglary to illegal possession of prescription drugs in the week ending Sept. 11.
In this week's installment of Parents Talk, we ask parents for suggestions on how to talk to your kids about stranger danger.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today and some other stuff you might want to know.
Susan Bunz, a mother of three, is running for re-election to the Waukee School Board. She said after three years, there is still so much more to accomplish.
In case you missed something, here's a recap of the news and events from Waukee Patch for the week of Sept. 5 - Sept. 11.
Rob Thelen is a concerned dad of two. He said most of the issues that need to be tackled in the Waukee School District will directly affect his children's education.
Here's what's going on in Waukee today and some other stuff you might want to know.
It's been 10 years since terrorists attacked the World Trade Center and Pentagon. What do you remember about that fateful day?
Here are a few things going on in and around Waukee Sunday to commemorate the tenth anniversary of 9/11.