Faces Of Waukee: Patrice & Brent Curvey

March 6, 2018 by admin

Tell us about your family.

We have four beautiful kiddos. Jeremiah is 17, Mariah is 12, Malachi is 11 and the kolache kid Brice is 4. I’m from Texas and my wife was born and raised right here in Des Moines.

Some readers might recognize Brent. Why might that be?

I played college football at ISU, pro football for the Carolina Panthers and the Saskatchewan Roughriders, and lastly, I played for the Iowa Barnstormers.

How did you both end up in Waukee?

Patrice and I rented a house in Waukee in 2012 and fell in love with the neighborhood. We eventually bought our own home in 2016, three blocks from the house we once rented.

Tell us about your business, Coaches Kolaches.

Coaches Kolaches specializes in savory kolaches—homemade sweet dough with savory fillings such as meat, cheese and eggs. Savory kolaches are popular in Texas, and they were a huge part of my childhood. Our shop is located in Clive, and we’d be thrilled to share our passion with our Waukee neighbors.

Though these kolaches are Texas-style, we hear you’ve added bacon by popular (Iowa) demand. Can we expect more Texas/Iowa-inspired options anytime soon?

As we grow, we will expand our menu or feature different flavors. We intend to work with some local farmers and add some sweet flavors, too!

Waukee Chamber Annual Dinner & Silent Auction

March 6, 2018 by admin

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Annual Dinner and Silent Auction was held Thursday, Feb. 1 at the West Des Moines Marriott. Our guests enjoyed networking, presentations from Chamber leadership, award recognition and a fantastic presentation by Chris Norton.

The Chamber presented the following awards, recognizing business members making a significant contribution in business and community involvement: 2017 Large Business Member of the Year – Ankeny Sanitation; 2017 Medium Business Member of the Year – State Savings Bank; 2017 Small Business Member of the Year – Echo’s Cookie Shop. The 2017 Ambassador of the Year was awarded to Travis Gaule of Edward Jones. Outgoing board members were also recognized, including Eric Kress, Laura Warner, Matt Swim, Dan Gehlbach and Jolene Goodman. A gavel plaque was presented to 2017 Board Chair, Don Frazer. The Chamber Board of Directors also recognized Remodelworks for its work on the new Chamber office.

Welcome to Waukee!

Sunflower Fine Art is located at 268 West Hickman Road. It offers professional fine art classes to children and adults. Contact owner Tingting Shao at tingt.shao@gmail.com for class schedules, fees and additional information. Congratulations on your Feb. 10th grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony!

The Coffeesmith is located at 770 SE Alice’s Road. Visit yourcoffeesmith.com for more information. Congratulations on your Jan. 15th ribbon cutting ceremony!

Gastro Grub & Pub is located at 1378 East Hickman Road. Congratulations on your Jan. 12th ribbon cutting ceremony!

US Cellular Authorized Agent – Cellular Advantage is located at 100 East Hickman Road. Congratulations on your Jan. 11th ribbon cutting ceremony!

Greater Des Moines Partnership Annual Dinner

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Waukee were represented at the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s 2018 Annual Dinner on Jan. 22. The Greater Des Moines Partnership is an economic and community development organization serving Central Iowa, united to drive economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce and 6,000 business members, the Partnership grows opportunity, creates jobs, and promotes the best place to build a business, a career and a future.

Partnership Day on the Hill

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce recently joined the Greater Des Moines Partnership and other local Chamber and business leaders to advocate on behalf of the region at the Iowa State Capitol during The Partnership’s annual “Day on the Hill” event Thursday, Feb. 8.

Business and community leaders participated in the event and had the opportunity to speak with members of the Iowa General Assembly and the administration to work on mutually beneficial legislative goals and objectives for the economic betterment of Iowa. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear remarks from Gov. Kim Reynolds.

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is an association of businesses, organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting growth and prosperity in our local economy. For more information, visit waukeechamber.com.

City of Waukee :: Lessons in Law Enforcement

March 6, 2018 by admin

Waukee Police Department’s Citizens Academy Graduates Its Fourth Class

Every year, the Waukee Police Department puts on its popular Citizens Academy, a 10-week intensive class during which civilians learn about local law enforcement straight from the source. The sessions are designed to provide hands-on opportunities whenever practical. Instructors are certified police officers, supervisors or other law enforcement experts.

“This was the fourth year for the Academy, and each year we see a lot of interest from community members,” said Waukee Police Sergeant Jeremy Long. “We teach them what it’s like to be a police officer, but really the program is about community outreach and developing positive relationships with people.”

The 2017-2018 class consisted of 16 Waukee residents and business owners. It started in November with presentations about the history of the Waukee Police Department, standards and ethics and patrol tactics. Throughout the winter, the citizen cadets learned about criminal investigations, traffic stops, defensive tactics, OWI enforcement, firearms usage and safety, community policing, homicide investigations and more. The group even got to tour the Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Laboratory in Ankeny.

“What surprised me most about my time in the Academy was when we went to the DCI Lab in Ankeny and saw all the ways they have of preserving evidence,” said participant Jacob Boekhoff. “They can match handwriting even when it’s covered in various substances.”

Boekhoff was interning with the Waukee Police Department at the same time. He was quick to name his most memorable sessions from the experience. “Getting to fire a Glock 22 as part of the firearms class was exciting, and it was important to see this part of how officers train,” he said. “I also enjoyed the F.A.T.S. [Firearms Training Simulator] machine because it takes you through different virtual scenarios, and you have to try and de-escalate them and respond accordingly.”

Kristin Hawks, another 2017-2018 Academy participant, has lived in Waukee for nearly five years. Her friend recommend she apply for the Waukee Police Citizens Academy. The Navy veteran who once worked at the Polk County Jail enjoyed the firearms simulator as well.
“It gave us an idea of the type of tense situations in which officers find themselves needing to make quick decisions,” she said.

Hawks said the most surprising thing about the Waukee Police Department is the number of community outreach programs it runs. Citizens learned all about community policing initiatives such as Safety City, Public Safety Day, Shop With A Cop and Waukee Area Seniors and Police (WASP).

“The Waukee PD is full of amazing and caring people,” said Hawks. “Everyone I met really wants to make a difference in the community and help the Waukee citizens. I feel very fortunate to live in Waukee and be protected by some of the best officers around!”

Sgt. Long said he often hears that reaction from Academy participants. “People often have negative beliefs about law enforcement agencies or officers,” he said. “It’s a real privilege to be able to dispel those beliefs by helping community members understand the depths of our jobs and our commitment to public safety.”

The Class of 2018 held its graduation ceremony on Jan. 25 at the Waukee Public Safety Building. This class also wraps up Sgt. Long’s time as the program’s coordinator. Sgt. Mackenzie Sposeto will take the reins for the 2018-2019 session. Registration for the next session will open in October. Check Waukee.org/citizensacademy for details.

Photo captions

Graduation group:
The group photo from Citizens Academy graduation – Back row (L-R): Chief John Quinn, Justin Trevillyan, Intern Jacob Boekhoff, Bryant Welles, Gary Lewis, Todd Wheeler, Ahmad Ludin, Shade Patterson and Matt Hackett; Front row (L-R): Sgt. Jeremy Long, Lesa Quinn, Michelle Rogers-Johnson, Toni Coughlin, Kristin Hawk, Geoffrey Jones and Sgt. Mackenzie Sposeto.

Defensive tactics – Kristin:
Participants, including Kristin Hawks on the far right, learned defensive tactics in Week 4.

Jacob intern:
Jacob Boekhoff accepted his Citizens Academy certificate from Sgt. Jeremy Long and Chief John Quinn. Boekhoff, a senior at Dallas Center-Grimes High School, also interned with the Waukee PD.

FATS 2:
Sgt. Jeremy Long showed Geoffrey Jones how to use the Firearms Training Simulator.

OWI Testing:
Lt. Cunningham taught the group about field sobriety tests during the OWI unit.

Get to Know Your Roots! Trace Your Family Tree at the Library

March 6, 2018 by admin

By Leah White

Are you interested in learning more about your family’s history? The Waukee Public Library maintains a wide variety of databases for our patrons to use for genealogy research. These databases give you access to the same collections used by genealogists and historians.

Ancestry Library Edition – Accessible from the Waukee Public Library only.
This is the world’s most popular genealogy collection, with census reports, city directories, public records, military records, immigration and naturalization records and more. You can find the graves of ancestors, create virtual memorials and add virtual flowers and a note to a loved one’s grave.

Heritage Quest – Accessible through our website and used from your home.
With Heritage Quest, you can search census records, family and local histories, the PERSI archive, Revolutionary War records, Freedman’s Bank applications and the U.S. Serial Set.

Newspaper Archive – Accessible from the Waukee Public Library only.
The Newspaper ARCHIVE contains tens of millions of searchable pages from over four hundred cities and towns from hundreds of newspapers dating back as far as the 1700’s. The collection includes coverage from the United States, the United Kingdom and more than 15 other countries.

Waukee High School Yearbooks – Available for 1921, 1931 and 1948-2015
The library has 69 years’ worth of Waukee High School yearbooks that can be used for research. The yearbooks are available for in-house use.

To find out more about using our online library, visit waukeepubliclibrary.org.

For more library information, contact us at askme@waukee.org or (515) 978-7944.

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR ADULTS

AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
THURSDAY, MARCH 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Meet at the library on the first Thursday of every month for a lively discussion of that month’s book. Copies of the discussion book may be picked up at the library’s front desk.

NATIVE PLANTS
SATURDAY, MARCH 3 – 2:00 p.m.
Do you want to know how to reduce the amount of work you put into your landscaping? Want plants that will come back year after year and perform well in your yard? Come to learn from horticulturist Derek McKay about native plants, cultivars of native plants, and why you should be planting them. Placement, light requirements, water requirements and care will be discussed.

MOVIE MATINEE: “Gifted”
THURSDAY, MARCH 8 – 10:00 a.m.
Join us the second Thursday of every month to watch a movie on the library’s big screen. All movies are free and refreshments will be available. No registration required.

BUTTERFLY GARDENING: PLANT. GROW. FLY.
SUNDAY, MARCH 11 – 2:00 p.m.
Butterflies are not only beautiful, but they are also a huge benefit to our environment! Join wildlife conservationist Jessie Lowry from the Blank Park Zoo as she shows you how to attract important pollinators—bees and butterflies—to your garden.

BOOKS ON TAP: Smoke Gets in Your Eyes by Caitlyn Doughty
TUESDAY, MARCH 20 – 6:00 p.m.
Meet at Mickey’s Irish Pub (50 SE Laurel Street) on the third Tuesday of every month for food, drinks and a discussion of that month’s book. Copies of the discussion book may be picked up at the library’s front desk or at Mickey’s during the meeting.

PROHIBITION IN IOWA
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21 – 10:00 a.m.
Linda McCann, researcher and author of numerous books on Iowa history, will share information and examples of prohibition activities in the Waukee area. She will also share some of the stories and comments from the children of Iowa moonshiners and bootleggers with whom she has spoken.

GROWN-UP EGG HUNT
FRIDAY, MARCH 23 – 7:00 p.m.
Don’t let kids have all the fun! Teens and adults are invited to bring a flashlight and go on an egg hunt at the library. Lucky egg hunters may win cash, chocolate, gift certificates to local businesses and other great prizes. Light refreshments will be served at 7:00, and the hunt will begin at sundown. In case of inclement weather, the hunt will take place inside the library (still via flashlight!). This event is for ages 13+ only for the safety of participants.
This event is a fundraiser for teen programs at the library. Tickets will be available at the library or online starting March 1. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door, and they are non-refundable.

CRAFT WORKSHOP: WOODLAND CRITTER NEEDLE FELTING
SATURDAY, MARCH 24 – 1:30 p.m.
Join us for an intermediate class on needle-felting. We will show you tips and tricks that will take your felting to another level as you make an adorable fox. No prior experience needed. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

IOWA’S MISBEHAVING WOMEN
SUNDAY, MARCH 25 – 1:00 p.m.
Presented by author Cheryl Mullenbach
It’s been said that well-behaved women rarely make history. As it turns out, Iowa has plenty of women who have made history by behaving in uncommon ways. Learn more about these heroic, amusing, imaginative and nervy individuals.

AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB: Kitchens of the Great Midwest by Ryan J. Stradal
THURSDAY, APRIL 5 – 2:30 p.m.
Meet at the library on the first Thursday of every month for a lively discussion of that month’s book. Copies of the discussion book may be picked up at the library’s front desk.

MORNINGS MADE EASY
SATURDAY, APRIL 7 – 2:00 p.m.
No time for breakfast? No problem! Waukee Hy-Vee Dietitian Paige Hoyle has you covered with three quick and convenient morning meals that will have you jumping out of bed. Samples will be served! Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

MOVIE MATINEE: “A League of Their Own”
THURSDAY, APRIL 12 – 10:00 a.m.
Join us the second Thursday of every month to watch a movie on the library’s big screen. All movies are free and refreshments will be available. No registration required.

BOOKS ON TAP: The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
TUESDAY, APRIL 17 – 6:00 p.m.
Meet at Mickey’s Irish Pub (50 SE Laurel Street) on the third Tuesday of every month for food, drinks and a discussion of that month’s book. Copies of the discussion book may be picked up at the library’s front desk or at Mickey’s during the meeting.

CRAFTERNOON
SATURDAY, APRIL 28 – 2:00 p.m.
Adults need crafty time too! Get together with your friends and neighbors to have some crafty fun creating one craft. All supplies will be provided by the library. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR KIDS

SPRING CRAFTS FOR KIDS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 – 2:00 p.m.
Let your creative juices flow and make some fun spring crafts. Recommended for students in grades K-5. Parents of younger students are encouraged to remain in the program to assist as needed. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

KIDS’ HAIRSTYLES 101
SATURDAY, MARCH 16 – 10:00 a.m.
Parents of children with long hair are welcome to attend with their child/children to learn the basics of styling children’s hair (ponytails, braids, etc.). Teen volunteers will read to the kids to keep them entertained while their hair is styled. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

BASEBALL BEDTIME STORIES
THURSDAY, MARCH 29 – 6:15 p.m.
Families with young children are invited to enjoy baseball themed bedtime stories, followed by a baseball craft. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

UNICORN PARTY
SATURDAY, APRIL 7 – 10:00 a.m.
Young fans of rainbows and unicorns won’t want to miss this celebration! Make unicorn crafts, hear a unicorn story, have a unicorn snack and play unicorn games. Recommended for K-5th graders. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event.

Under Construction: Premiere Dance Project

March 6, 2018 by admin

New businesses of all types and sizes are emerging in Waukee with the current boom in new development. Restaurants and retail establishments, well-known franchises and small, independent businesses—the list is seemingly endless. To this point, one thing the evolving area hasn’t seen much of is dance studios. But that’s about to change.

A new dance studio called Premiere Dance Project is currently under construction at 820 Northeast Alice’s Road, in the new Landing at Shadow Creek development center near the Waukee Hy-Vee. The studio is scheduled to open its doors on June 1, 2018.

Premiere specializes in personal dance training, and their philosophy is to align that training with sports medicine practices to help ensure injury-free, long-lasting dance careers for their students. The studio will offer personal dance training for all ages and levels, in both private and group settings. Co-owners and instructors Amanda Gustafson and Aunica Harvey studied at the University of Iowa. Both are certified personal trainers and yoga instructors with hands-on experience in dance kinesiology.

The studio emphasizes an encouraging, positive atmosphere for all. According to their website, they “strive to create an environment where dancers can develop themselves individually, physically, and artistically.”

There will be many class options for students to choose from. Premiere will offer dance classes for students aged 18 months through the pre-professional level (roughly 18 years old). Classes will include ballet, tap, jazz, acro (floor and aerial movements, similar to gymnastics), hip hop, lyrical (a fusion of ballet and jazz), contemporary, pointe and modern. Additionally, the studio’s Stretch & Skill and Condition & Strength classes will further develop dancers’ flexibility, endurance, and control. Yoga classes will also be offered morning, afternoon and evening for all ages.

Premiere Dance Project will hold their Grand Opening on Sunday, June 3. This will serve as a kickoff to the studio’s summer session, which will begin the following day with $5 drop-in classes. The Grand Opening will provide an opportunity for families and prospective dancers to tour the studio, meet the instructors, play games and win prizes. More information on Premiere Dance Project, including their class schedule, pricing, and studio policies may be found at premieredanceproject.com.

Best Date Night Ideas In Des Moines / Waukee

February 3, 2018 by admin

If you are looking for a date night spot in the Des Moines / Waukee area, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best date night (or day) restaurants, entertainment and more, whether you are looking for fine-dining, casual eating or great music, there is something for everyone right here in Des Moines!

FINE-DINING

Proof

Modern, minimalist Mediterranean-style restaurant & bar that’s casual by day & intimate at night.
Address: 1301 Locust Street,Suite C, Des Moines, IA 50309
Menu: proofrestaurant.com
Phone: (515) 244-0655

Centro

High-ceilinged ex-Masonic temple turned contemporary Italian wining-&-dining destination.
Address: 1003 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Menu: centrodesmoines.com
Phone: (515) 248-1780

Johnnys Steakhouse

Steaks, Italian dishes & cocktails served in upscale, supper club-like environs with a sleek bar.
Address: 6800 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321
Menu: johnnysitaliansteakhouse.com
Phone: (515) 287-0847

Baru 66

Swanky bistro with refined, farm-to-table French meals, plus a chef’s tasting menu & boutique wines.
Address: 6587 University Ave, Windsor Heights, IA 50324
Menu: baru66.com
Phone: (515) 277-6627

Sam & Gabes

Intimate spot for Italian & American cuisine, with a full bar/lounge & occasional live music.
Address: 8631 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322
Menu: samandgabes.com
Phone: (515) 271-9200

AJs Steakhouse

Contemporary steakhouse in Prairie Meadows hotel & casino serving classic fare, martinis & wine.
Address: 1 Prairie Meadows Dr, Altoona, IA 50009
Menu: prairiemeadows.com/dining/ajs-steakhouse
Phone: (515) 957-3535

CASUAL DINING

Tacos Marianas

Tacos, burritos & other Mexican staples served in casual surrounds with colorful art & decor.
Address: 1305 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
Menu: tacos-marianas.cafes-city.com
Phone: (515) 288-1499

Angry Goldfish

Address: 2301 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315
Menu: facebook.com/pg/angrygoldfish/
Phone: (515) 288-2358

Taco Hangover

Energetic eatery featuring modern twists on Mexican favorites in a sports-bar setting with a patio.
Address: 265 50th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Menu: tacohangover.com
Phone: (515) 440-4703

Eggs and Jam

Address: 1907 Ep True Pkwy Suite 102, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Menu: eggsandjamwdm.com
Phone: (515) 528-2248

COOL PLACES TO DRINK OR EAT

Operating Room

The Operating Room is a pinball, arcade and cocktail bar in West Glen, West Des Moines hottest spot for dining and entertainment. We also sell pinball machines as an authorized dealer of Stern pinball.
Address: 5515 Mills Civic Pkwy #130, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Website: facebook.com/theordsm/
Phone: (515) 226-3333

Hurts Donuts

Offbeat, contemporary donut shop open 24/7 for imaginatively topped donuts & coffee.
Address: 5513 Mills Civic Pkwy #105, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Website: facebook.com/Hurts-Donut-Co-West-Des-Moines-228935060835293/
Phone: (515) 267-1671

Updown

Below-ground bar for retro 80s & 90s arcade games & weekly specials, with craft beer & cocktails.
Address: 500 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: updowndsm.com
Phone: (515) 243-4322

The Basement

Night club in Des Moines, Iowa
Address: 901 Cherry St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: desmoinessocialclub.org/the-basement
Phone: (515) 369-3673

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Wooly’s

Hot spot featuring diverse acts in a space with up-to-date lighting & sound systems plus a bar.
Address: 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: woolysdm.com
Phone: (515) 244-0550

Leftys

Easygoing hangout with a stage featuring a lineup of music acts & local beer on tap.
Address: 2307 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
Website: leftyslivemusic.com
Phone: (515) 274-7442

Vaudeville Mews

Nightclub featuring everything from hip-hop & folk acts to comedy & burlesque gigs plus a full bar.
Address: 212 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: vaudevillemews.com

Gas Lamp

Artsy, boisterous watering hole with a diverse music lineup, comedy & trivia nights & a snack menu.
Address: 1501 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: gaslampdsm.com
Phone: (515) 280-3778

Noce

Chic venue known for its jazz cabaret events & specialty cocktails in an expansive, modern setting.
Address: 1326 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: nocedsm.com
Phone: (515) 244-5399

DATE EXPERIENCES

Science Center

Science-focused interactive galleries & learning labs plus a planetarium & IMAX cinema.
Address: 401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: sciowa.org
Phone: (515) 274-6868

Flix Brewhouse

Flix Brewhouse is America’s only first-run Cinema Brewery.
Address: 3800 Merle Hay Rd #1300, Des Moines, IA 50310
Website: flixbrewhouse.com/des-moines
Phone: (515) 612-9200

DSM Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center is an art museum with an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture, modern art and mixed media. It was established in 1948 in Des Moines, Iowa. Wikipedia
Address: 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
Website: desmoinesartcenter.org
Phone: (515) 277-4405

Fleur Cinema & Cafe

Quaint cinema for art, indie & current films plus a cafe with beer & housemade snacks.
Address: 4545 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321
Website: fleurcinema.com
Phone: (515) 287-4545

Des Moines Playhouse

This contemporary local theater presents musicals, classic plays & a children’s theater series.
Address: 831 42nd St, Des Moines, IA 50312
Website: dmplayhouse.com
Phone: (515) 277-6261

Art Terrarium and Botanical Garden

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States, on the east bank of the Des Moines River. Interest in a Des Moines botanical center began in 1929.
Address: 909 Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309
Website: dmbotanicalgarden.com
Phone: (515) 323-6290

Tandem Brick Gallery

Tandem Brick Gallery is a locally owned shop that carries fun and unusual gifts and art exhibits by experienced local artists.
Address: 2722 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
Website: tandembrick.com
Phone: (515) 282-1031

What is your favorite Des Moines date spot?

2018 Waukee / Des Moines Fitness Club Guide

January 8, 2018 by admin

You’re not alone if your 2018 resolution includes hitting a local gym more often or finding your way to a healthier lifestyle.

Now the big question, “How do I find the ‘perfect’ gym for my workout goals?” Luckily, we have compiled a list of the top Waukee gyms to get you moving just a little bit faster!

Waukee YMCA

Visit Website
Address: 210 N Warrior Ln, Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: 515-987-9996
Hours: Weekdays: 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Family rates range from $57 to $79 per month; Individual rates range from $42 to $56 per month
Childcare: Free with family membership; 6 weeks to 8 years old

The YMCA is a fantastic place for families with kids of all ages! As a nonprofit organization, the Y is focused on building the community and youth development. Whether you are looking for fitness classes or activities for the kids, the Y has just about everything you could want!

It is a great balance between high intensity workouts, including Bootcamp to Spinning, and low impact exercise, like Yoga or Tai Chi.

Farrell’s

Visit Website
Address: 215 N. Warrior Lane, Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: 515-978-3000
Hours: Varies
Cost: Contact For Pricing
Childcare: No

Farrell’s is a 10-week program that combines cardio, strength training and healthy eating habits to achieve extreme results.

If you have set high fitness goals this year, then Farrell’s might just be the solution for you, in 45 minute workouts, six days a week.

Anytime Fitness

Visit Website
Address: 790 Alice’s Rd., Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: 515-987-6543
Hours: Open 24/7
Cost: $37/month; 7 day free trial available
Childcare: No

If your schedule prevents you from getting to the gym, then this is the fitness solution for you. Anytime Fitness is literally open 24/7 for it’s members leaving little excuse not to get to the gym.

With a full selection of cardio and strength equipment, you will find just what you are looking for in a gym! Membership even includes free tanning and weight loss programs.

Elite Edge

Visit Website
Address: 495 Southeast Alice’s Road, Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: 515-987-8100
Hours: Varies
Cost: Call For Pricing
Childcare: No

If you are looking for a program that gets results with more guidance, then this gym is likely the perfect fit for you. With a personal training group of no more than 4 people, you work closely with a trainer on achieving your fitness goals.

These Bootcamp style classes offer high-intensity workouts including cardio, strength training and toning.

Lifetime Fitness

Visit Website
Address: 11911 Hickman Road, Urbandale, IA 50323
Phone: 515-362-3500
Hours: Open 24/7
Cost: Visit website to request pricing; Includes 14 day money back guarantee
Childcare: Yes with membership

Truly your one-stop health and fitness solution, Lifetime Fitness has everything from robust exercise equipment, a spa, child center and swimming pool.

Whether you are trying to get into shape, looking for a healthier lifestyle or simply wanting to get your kids involved in activities, Lifetime Fitness is more than just a gym.

Aspen Athletic Club

Visit Website
Address: See locations
Phone: 888-994-3834
Hours: M-Th 5 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.; F 5 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturday/Sunday 7:15 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: Current offer is $9.95/month!
Childcare: Yes

Aspen Athletic Club offers 5 different locations across the Des Moines area, giving you the flexibility to workout close to home or work.

From group fitness classes to massage, Aspen gives you the variety you need to meet your fitness goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle all year long.

Mission Fitness Iowa

Visit Website
Address: 75 NE Venture Dr, Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: (515) 978-7111
Hours: Varies
Cost: Try 1 Week For Free; Call For Pricing
Childcare: No

Mission Fitness Iowa is focused on offering an environment for everyone to achieve their fitness goals from personal training to fitness classes for any level!

What are your fitness goals? Do you have any local gym?

Faces Of Waukee: Jay Wang

January 8, 2018 by admin

Tell us a little about your family.

My wife and I have a son Ryan who’s a 5th grader and a daughter Skyla who’s 22 months. We also have a 3-month-old Goldendoodle puppy.

When did you start this journey/business?

I started my first Wasabi restaurant back in September 2011 here in the metro.

What sets Wasabi apart from its competitors?

We take great pride in our different class of fresh fish. We always try to offer something that is not often found in Iowa.

What made you want to open a location in Waukee?

We have a lot of customers who went to Wasabi Chi and Wasabi Tao before we opened this location, many of whom came from the western suburbs. Why not come to them?

What is your favorite thing about running the businesses?

I love to see people’s happy faces when they enjoy a good glass of wine paired with a good quality fresh fish.

Waukee Chamber Grand Opening of New Office Space

January 8, 2018 by admin

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the Grand Opening of our new Chamber office at 208 W. Hickman Road on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017.

The Chamber Board of Directors and staff would like to express gratitude to our business sponsors who invested in the buildout, our Board members who served on the committee to lead the project, and all of our dedicated volunteers and partners who contributed to the creation of our new 1,600-square-foot office. The space offers natural lighting in a large front welcome area, two offices, a board room, a storage room and a kitchenette.

The Chamber concluded two three-year leases at 236 W. Hickman in November of 2017. The Board of Directors located open space at 208 W. Hickman in February of 2017. Request for proposals were issued to members, and ultimately, the Board chose Remodelworks! to manage the build out project. The Chamber is the first tenant in this location and had the opportunity to design the floor plan and remodel the open space to fit our office needs.

Many Board members provided additional services and contributions to the space, including Kevin McCormick of Fareway and Ray Meister of First American Bank.

We look forward to serving the Waukee businesses and community members in our new space!

For more information, please reach us at 515-978-7115, info@waukeechamber.com or www.waukeechamber.com.

Chris Norton to Keynote Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Annual Dinner

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce will welcome Chris Norton as the keynote speaker of the 2018 Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Silent Auction on Thursday, Feb. 1 at the West Des Moines Marriott.

Norton suffered a severe spinal cord injury playing college football and was told he would never walk again. He defeated all odds and walked across the stage of his college graduation, which has been viewed over 300 million times across the world. Norton calls us to focus on response instead of situation—to be defined by attitude rather than circumstance. He shares a compelling story filled with laughs, tears and life changing moments that give audiences hope and a new perspective. He demonstrates how attitude, effort and purpose can navigate the most challenging obstacles.

The Annual Dinner & Silent Auction celebrates the accomplishments of the past year and conveys to membership the organization’s goals for the coming year. In addition, outgoing Board members are recognized, and the Member of the Year and Ambassador of the Year are announced.

The silent auction and networking will begin at 5:30 p.m.; the dinner and program will begin at 6:30 p.m.; awards will be announced at 8:00 p.m.; and Chris Norton’s keynote address will begin at 8:30 p.m. For more information, visit waukeechamber.com or call 515-978-7115.

J.H. Carter of Carter and Sons

January 8, 2018 by admin

By Sue Ellen Kennedy

John Henry Carter was born in Monck County, Ontario, Canada on July 19, 1856. In 1876, he came to the United States and settled in Dallas County, Iowa, securing employment as a brick mason in Dallas Center. In 1877, he bought a farm in Dallas County and worked the farm while continuing to build homes for eight years. He eventually purchased the farm next to his, for a combined total of 240 acres. John went home to Ontario in 1883, and returned to Iowa with his bride Susan Wills.

In 1888, he rented out his working farm and moved his family to Waukee, where he built, by written accounts, a grand home of that time. John and Susan had eight children: A.B. “Burt”; Kathyrne; John W.; George; and Gordon; with three children passing—Roy, Letha and Henry. Susan passed away on December 7, 1904.

Following is a quote from the Memorial and Biographical Record Iowa, Vol. 2:

“He who makes a visit to the town of Waukee, Iowa and has the pleasure of a drive through its streets, is sure to have pointed out the handsome and commodious residence of John Henry Carter, one of the most enterprising and influential men of the place.”

If you live on Ashworth Drive in Waukee, check your deed abstracts. You may be living in the home built sometime between 1888 and 1890, referred to in this written account.

John was well-known as the manager of the grain elevator. He established J.H. Carter Grain & Stock located on the north side of our downtown Triangle around 1890. The business sold coal, grain and stock. The original building burned in 1901 and was replaced. As Waukee grew, so did the business. Various hardware and farm implements were added to the inventory. By the 1920’s, John’s sons John W. and Burt joined the business, renaming it J. H. Carter and Sons.

John passed away in March of 1939, and his two sons ran the business until the 1950’s, making it one of the longest-running family businesses in Waukee.

John was interested in politics and was very involved in our community. He was a member of the Methodist Church, IOOF (Independent Order of the Odd Fellows) and the Order of Knights of Pythias. The IOOF was created to improve and elevate the character of mankind by promoting the principles of friendship, love, truth, faith, charity and universal justice. The Order of Knights of Pythias is an international, non-sectarian fraternal order that was established in 1864.

This year, I will be focusing on men and women that were business and civic leaders in our community. If you have any photos, documents or other information of historical significance on John Henry (“J.H.”) Carter or anyone we feature in this section, please contact The Waukee Area Historical Society at (515) 782-0025 or waukeehistory@gmail.com.

The Waukee Area Historical Society will hold an indoor golf fundraiser on February 24 at Broheim’s Indoor Golf and Pub. Please register on our website at waukeehistory.org. Be sure to check out our Facebook page for information on all of our upcoming events.

May you have a happy and prosperous New Year!

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