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Business Profile – El Guapo

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Tequila! The owners of Gusto Pizza Co. are reopening their location on the border of West Des Moines and Waukee with a new, upscale “south of the border” concept. El Guapo’s Tequila and Tacos will offer street tacos and more than 50 different types of tequila.

Co-owners Jared Weiss and Josh Holderness said after six years as Gusto Pizza Co. and experiencing nearly half a dozen pizza places pop up within a one-mile radius, it was time to do something different.

“Waukee has had some unbelievable economic and residential growth, and that’s not going to slow down any time soon. We are committed to the neighborhood and enjoy being here. We wanted to create a concept that allows us to continue fostering relationships in the community,” said Holderness.

When gathering ideas from friends in the area on a new establishment, Holderness said the desire for a neighborhood bar kept coming up.  “There are a lot of options for craft beer in Waukee, but not for cocktails.”

Weiss, a southern California native with a marketing background, was particularly interested in a bar with Mexican flare—and a story. The tale concerns El Guapo (“the handsome one”), an immigrant from Jalisco, Mexico (tequila’s place of origin), who traveled to West Des Moines in 1926 as a distiller. 

“Not a lot is known about El Guapo, but we’re bringing to light to who he was and where he came from,” said Weiss.

In addition to tequila, El Guapo will serve beer—primarily Mexican, but also some domestics—as well as custom cocktails unique to the bar. Weiss said the menu will be simple, with well-thought-out traditional Mexican recipes, including tacos with house-made tortillas.

The DIY concept can also be seen in the newly-designed aesthetics of the space. Everything from the bar to the lighting and the hubcap art installation were crafted by the owners. 

Weiss said they wanted to give the location a totally different vibe and ambiance in its latest incarnation. “I think we’ve done that with finishes you’ll see. It’s really coming together with different textures and elements.”

El Guapo is comprised of three sections—a Day of the Dead room, the Agave Courtyard and the Lower Rider Lounge, which will feature a more relaxed setting with couches. TVs will be placed throughout the bar for customers to catch a game—both football and futbol.

Weiss said that while the restaurant will be family-friendly, it will transition to a bar at night with brunch available on the weekend.

Regular tasting and educational events also will be held at the bar. “We want to show people the many different types of tequila, and how to drink it and pair it with great tacos,” explained Weiss. 

Holderness feels tequila is often misunderstood, and there’s much to learn about it. “It’s a beautiful spirit,” he said.  “We want to teach people how to really enjoy and savor it.” 

The bar’s grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 1, just in time for Dia de los Muertos—the Mexican “Day of the Dead” holiday that follows Halloween. Weiss said Waukee residents can look forward to celebrating El Guapo with a costume party and a mariachi band—and, of course, tequila!

Featured Teacher: Julia Roegiers

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It was a gloomy winter afternoon. I was sitting on the couch watching a rerun of “The Office” while holding my sleeping newborn. I felt my phone vibrate and looked at the number. I immediately recognized it. 

“Uh, oh,” I thought. It was my son’s second-grade teacher, Julia Roegiers. At that point in the school year, we had found ourselves in a bi-weekly cadence of phone calls, offering support to one another as we navigated how to best help a kid who wasn’t too keen on school. 

“Hi, Elyssa, I just wanted to call and tell you what a great day Julian is having,” she said. 

This was not the conversation I was expecting. 

We talked for a few minutes more, and I hung up with a happy heart and sleepy grin. During my now seven years with a school-aged child, it’s the only time a teacher has called—unprompted—to share some good news. 

And that’s why I took the opportunity to nominate and celebrate Julia in this issue’s Featured Teacher. 

Julia still teaches second grade—then at Shuler Elementary, now at Radiant Elementary. She’s also taught at Wallace Elementary in Johnston. She’s been in the classroom for 15 years, taking a break somewhere in between to stay at home with her three children. 

Her teaching style goes beyond fostering excellence in academics. Through daily modeling, redirecting and reinforcing student behavior, she works hard to create an empathetic classroom community. 

“We spend a lot of time discussing how we can be caring in our actions and words,” Julia explained. “My classroom is very structured. However, I love to have fun and laugh with my students. I try to encourage them to be curious in the classroom and give them opportunities to take ownership of their learning. When this happens, it provides us with opportunities to empower students.”  

Julia said she’s always wanted to be the kind of teacher who positively impacts the lives of her students. But in 2006, at just 38 years old, a grim cancer diagnosis made an unimaginable impact on her life. 

“I was diagnosed with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer,” she said. “It was a very scary time as there was a low survival rate.  I will be forever grateful to family and friends who prayed for me, helped with the kids, and supported me along the way.  Now, at age 51 or—as I tell my students—two quarters and a penny, I am grateful for the gift of each day and the opportunity it provides me to make a difference.” 

Julia credits the support of her husband for giving her the ability to continue to do something she loves. “My husband, Jim, and I just celebrated our 26th year of marriage,” she said. “For the past three years, our wedding anniversary has fallen on Waukee’s ‘Back to School Night.’ You know you married the most amazing man when he spends his wedding anniversary helping you in your classroom.”

“He takes on many additional home and kid duties during the school year as well as accepting some of my long school nights and weekend hours,” she added.

When I asked Julia what was most challenging about being a teacher, she said it’s that you’re more than your title. “Teachers do not just teach. We are actors, comedians, encouragers, supporters, healers, huggers, referees and expert shoe-tiers. I think one of the most challenging parts of teaching is that it is a profession in which you can always do more. We carry our students in our hearts and our minds all year.”

When I asked what was most rewarding, her answer was in tune with my random request for an interview and my confession that, “Oh, by the way, we loved you the most.”

“I try to create relationships with students and their parents, so we become a team working together to help each child reach their potential,” she said. “The absolute best is when students connect with you years after you were their teacher.” 

“I had one student from Johnston who reached out to me a few years ago,” she explained. “She had named her daughter Julia because of the impact I had on her life. That still gives me the chills. We never know how our words or actions will impact the young lives we come into contact with. Knowing that you have played a small part in making a difference in a child’s life is the goal and dream of every teacher.”

Boundless Optimism

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A new group of do-gooders has come to town with a glass-half-full kind of name to match. The Waukee Optimist Club launched early this September.

The group is focused on supporting youth throughout the area, with an emphasis on academic, athletic and health and wellness opportunities. 

Optimist International is a worldwide volunteer organization with nearly 2,500 clubs and 65,000 members that serve more than six million children each year worldwide. 

Rebecca Butler Mona, a former Optimist International President and member of the Noon Optimist Club of Western Des Moines (one of two local Optimist Clubs partnering to sponsor the new Waukee club), said the organization is always looking for ways to expand its outreach into new communities. 

“Waukee is a vibrant, fast-growing community where there’s interest and the ability to make an impact,” said Mona. 

The current Waukee Optimist roster consists of an eight-person board of directors and eight additional charter members:

President: Billie Reed

Secretary:Kathy Mock

Treasurer: Mary Secress

Vice Presidents: Janelle Martens, Jim Adams

Directors: Evelyn Graff, Michelle Scranton, Katie Ritzman

Charter members: Brenda Jackson, Randy Lovell, Cal Oral, Cassie Meylor Lourens, Gareth Lourens, Kathy Ford, Sonja Coobs, Chase Erickson

Billie Reed, Waukee Optimist President, was drawn to the group not only because of its mission to serve youth in her community, but because she strives to be an “optimist” in her daily life as well. 

“I attempt to begin every day of my life with a positive attitude and purposely

share that with whomever I come in contact with that day,” said Reed. “Being

given an opportunity to brighten the day, and ultimately the life, of youth is

a beautiful thing I’m excited to be a part of.” 

Reed said the group will “encourage youth to be hopeful and expect good outcomes in their lives.”

“Their choices make them who they are,” she said. “Every child can use encouragement to explore and excel in the areas they’re gifted in. We attempt to make those opportunities available. We also encourage youth to be good citizens and give back to their community.”

In addition to charters for adult members, 500 Junior Optimist Clubs have nearly 15,000 members. The Waukee Chapter intends to offer its own Junior Optimist club for youth (high school-aged and younger) this fall. 

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to give high school-aged kids the chance to learn about doing their own community service projects and have different leadership opportunities,” said Mona. “They have the chance to be part of something bigger as well, because we have an Iowa Junior Optimist District where they can serve in roles across the state.”

On Nov. 12, the Optimist clubs are holding a youth appreciation event that recognizes students across the Des Moines metro. Mona said it’s something the group has been doing for about 35 years.

“We reach out to the schools across the Des Moines metro and invite them to nominate two students from every middle school and high school who they view as exemplary community leaders making an impact in their school and their broader community,” she explained.  “We fully expect to have Waukee students recognized at that event this year. So, we’re looking forward to that.”

While the Waukee Optimist group is in the early stages of planning volunteering activities, Mona said they have a few projects in mind. “One of them involves working with an elementary school to establish a reading program for kids. Our members would come in and read to the children.”

Mona said the idea is similar to a successful model they’ve deployed at Hillside Elementary in West Des Moines, which has a diverse student population and a higher level of financial need. 

“We’ve also talked about providing the class with a small stuffed animal they could adopt, and we would encourage the kids to read to the stuffed animal,” said Mona.

Additionally, Mona said the group wants to offer various health and wellness services throughout Waukee, such as partnering with a local organization to provide backpacks filled with food for children who may go hungry on the weekend. “We had the idea of doing a community garden, too, because even when you provide food in a backpack, it tends to be non-perishable items that don’t have the same nutrients as fresh produce,” she explained.

Many Optimist clubs also work to provide recreational opportunities, such as playing soccer, for children after school or in the summer.  “We want to give kids a chance to be part of a team,” said Mona.

While the executive positions at the Waukee Optimist Club are currently filled, it is welcoming new members. “In an Optimist Club, there’s a place for everyone to use their gifts and talents to encourage and uplift the youth of our community and find their niche,” said Reed.

The club has members ranging from young professionals to parents with school-aged children to those enjoying retirement. Mona said the time commitment is manageable as the group meets monthly and will plan for most projects on more

of a virtual, flexible cadence between meetings.

“We often find it to be true that ‘the busiest people get the most done.’ Those who have a heart for volunteering and making a difference generally find a way to make time and to prioritize that because they find it fulfilling and also enjoy working with others who share those values,” said Mona.

If you’re looking for different ways to get involved during the holiday season and beyond, the Waukee Optimist Club meets the third Monday evening of each month at 7 p.m. at Thomas Place, the senior living facility on SE Brick Drive. 

You can also visit facebook.com/WaukeeOptimist/ for more info on club activities or to send them a Facebook message. Additional information on Optimist International can be found at optimist.org. 

Waukee Community School District: Then, Now, & Beyond

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It’s hard to imagine a time, more than 100 years ago when the Waukee Community School District (WCSD) was a consolidation of four small, rural towns that transported neighborhood kids to school by horse and buggy.

Fast forward to 2019, and Waukee is the fastest-growing school district in the state, with a ninth elementary school welcoming students this fall, one more K-5 school on deck and construction underway for a second high school.

The district’s transformation since its formation in 1916 has been nothing short of monumental. We sat down with Amy Varcoe, WCSD’s Director of Communications, to discuss the evolution of the district—including where it started, how things look now and what the future holds.

Waukee in the Beginning: Small and Rural 

Waukee Community School District was formerly known as Waukee Consolidated District after a petition was signed on July 29, 1916 to merge the Walnut Center, Pleasant View, Floral Valley and Waukee Independent School Districts into the Waukee Consolidated School District. Areas of Boone and Van Meter were also included in the merger. The district was eventually named as we know it today but didn’t experience any significant growth until the late 1990’s, when the Des Moines metro began to expand further west.

The area’s growth from 1992-98 reflected a booming U.S. economy, which increased by an average of four percent with nearly 1.7 million new jobs created, an unemployment rate of four percent, and median household income up by 10 percent.

As a suburb of a growing city, Waukee had an influx of families. During the 1994-95 schoolyear, the WCSD had just three kindergarten teachers for 123 kindergarten students. In total, there were 29 elementary teachers for grades K-5, and 68 seniors graduated that year.

“In 1997, Waukee was still one of the smallest schools in the state,” said Varcoe.

But by the end of the decade, student enrollment numbers started to increase by 450 students annually—a trend that’s continued, and then some, 24 years later—catapulting Waukee to the seventh biggest school district in Iowa.

“My husband and I moved to Waukee in 2006,” said Varcoe.  “LA Grant Parkway was a gravel road back then. There were no other buildings, but we purposefully chose to live here because of the area’s reputation for good schools. Never in my wildest dreams did I think we’d be up to 500-600 new students a year.”

The District Today

Against that backdrop, nearly 11,500 kids will be enrolled in Waukee schools this fall. Radiant Elementary on the west side of 170th Street in Urbandale near Meredith Drive is open for its first year, and construction is in progress for Northwest High School, scheduled to open in 2021.

Despite the extensive changes in the district, Varcoe has been impressed by the consistency in maintaining academic excellence.  “I think what I’m impressed by most is how they’ve kept up with the academic success. My kids will have experiences beyond anything I ever grew up with—work-based, project-based and real-world interactions using technology, etcetera. My kids are doing PowerPoint presentations and coding in elementary schools. These are the types of skills that will land them a job anywhere they go.”

Introducing New Leadership

The new leadership team includes Superintendent Brad Buck, Chief Operations Officer Kirk Johnson, Associate Superintendent Brady Fleming and Chief Financial Officer Sarah Kautz.

Buck is returning to Waukee after serving as the superintendent in the Cedar Rapids School District. He was associate superintendent as well as assistant superintendent for school improvement for the Waukee Community School District from 2006-11. Buck also was the director of the Iowa Department of Education and superintendent of the Saydel Community School District.

Varcoe said administrators participated in an all-staff back-to-school event in mid-August that was centered on connectedness, a theme echoed by Buck in recent media statements.

“Our focus was connecting with each other and staff, students and our community. As we grow, that’ll be so important, ensuring we have a pulse on what our students’ needs are, what staff needs are and what the community’s needs are.”

Diversifying

The number of new families setting down roots in the area also has increased the cultural diversity among students. Over the last 10 years, 90 percent of students enrolled were white or Caucasian. Varcoe said new data shows that number has dropped to 76 percent.

“Because our city is growing so much, we’re seeing more diversity among our student population as well. It’s amazing to have students from all backgrounds together. The district is starting to look like a closer representation of the many different cultures and ethnicities in America’s larger cities.”  

Real World Opportunities

Currently, the high graduation rate in the school district is 99 percent—number one in the state. Iowa’s average is 91 percent. Varcoe attributes the top scores to the teachers’ commitment to setting up students for success at an early age.

“Starting in elementary, our teachers do a great job of giving students one-on-one attention and delivering on academic indicators. Students are prepared when they walk through the high school’s doors on the first day. And once they’re there, there’s so much that’s available to them.”

Varcoe said through the high school’s advanced placement courses, some students are going to college with at least one year of credits, while others are coming in at a sophomore- or junior-year level.

She said employment and workforce shifts help dictate curriculum for the students, too. Unique to Waukee are programs like APEX, a collaboration between business partners and students that provides real-world experience for high schoolers—another reason why students are excelling.

“We have more than 500 business partners involved in the APEX program from industries like healthcare, business, architecture, accounting and more. Trade businesses also come to us that are willing to pay for students’ continued education to bolster their workforce. For a lot of kids, that’s very appealing. They won’t end up with $100,000 in debt from a four-year college and no job.”

What’s Ahead for WCSD

The most notable changes happening in the district in the coming years include the opening of a 10th elementary school located off Ute Avenue and Ashworth Road. The yet-to-be-named school will be comprised of students from Maple Grove, Waukee Elementary and Woodland Hills.  

Varcoe said the district also will need to add an 11th elementary school, along with another middle school within the next five years. “There’s still a lot to figure out. Do we need to reconfigure our current schools in the meantime, or just purchase the land and get going? The Waukee Middle School bubble is growing, and we need to be ready before it bursts,” she said.

Waukee school district’s enrollment team meets weekly to ensure they are ready.

“We work with a local company to keep an eye on what farmland is being sold, and what type of developments are going there. If it’s commercial, that gives us some time to wait to build,” she said.

Over the next 10 years, Varcoe said there’s potential for Waukee to be one of the three largest districts in Iowa, behind Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. “When you have 40 percent of your land undeveloped, that can be an indicator of growth and the sheer potential that’s possible.”

Preschool Programming

Varcoe said Waukee is now in the statewide four-year-old preschool program, but hasn’t had the capacity to expand the program in any of their buildings. However, the intent over the next three years is to do just that.

“Right now parents take their kids to an elementary school for preschool, but we need to get some of those preschool students their own facility,” explained Varcoe.  “We know we need it. We know it’s in high demand.”

Because preschools require special infrastructure, like tiny desks, chairs, toilets, etc., four-year-olds in the program are able to use kindergarten facilities. “Currently, there’s very limited space where we can put them, but many of our preschool classes will take place at Radiant next year,” said Varcoe.

Northwest High School

This fall, Northwest High School’s mascot and colors will be determined. WCSD administrators sent out a survey to area business leaders and families and will conduct focus groups with parents, community and staff members.

“That will help us narrow down the design options and color pallets, and since current sophomore, freshman and eighth-grade students will be the first class to go to school at the high school, they’ll be the first group we get feedback from, too,” explained Varcoe.

She also said administrators are doing everything they can to ensure an easy transition for students, especially the seniors leaving Waukee High School for Northwest for their final year. “In 2020, we’ll make a huge, fun year out of their last year together,” she said. “Homecoming is going to be awesome as the last of one high school.”

Varcoe said Cary Justmann, Waukee High School’s principal, is “very adamant he will keep everyone as together as possible.  He doesn’t want there to be an ‘us versus them’ division between the two high schools. He wants to ensure we’re getting everyone together as much as possible.”

Varcoe said there will be potential cross-sharing between high school classes and programs of interest for students, so they feel more connected. “To the best of our ability, we’ll better align our resources, so the schools don’t feel divided. Students at both schools will have the same opportunities and some of the sports teams will remain one, too, like our swim team.”

Varcoe said the district’s commitment for any growth moving forward is to ensure Waukee keeps a feeling of togetherness that extends to welcoming new families and opportunities. “Waukee is not big when it comes to the city. There’s a lot of land and a lot of students, but it still feels like a small community.”

Working For A Miracle

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In just a few years, children and adults who require special accommodations for outdoor play and leisure time will have access to an all-inclusive fishing pier, playground and adaptive ball field in Waukee. 

The $2.5 million project is being developed in partnership with the Waukee Betterment Foundation, Miracle League and City of Waukee. 

Matt Jermier, Waukee Parks and Recreation Director, said the department will oversee the operations and programming of these facilities. He anticipates The Miracle League of Waukee Ball Field and Play Area plus all-inclusive fishing pier will open by 2022 and that it will attract residents who live far beyond the city limits.

“We believe it will draw in families from around the Central Iowa region,” he explained.

The Miracle League baseball and softball field will have custom programs specifically for children and adults with cognitive and physical disabilities.  It will also accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices.

According to the organization’s website, the program was created to be a space where athletes with special needs are treated similarly to other athletes. A buddy system is used during games. Each player is paired with an able-bodied peer, and “the result is a bond that cannot be described,” said Jermier.

Jermier hopes those connections are apparent on the accessible playground, as well. “The way many parks are set up makes it difficult for adults with disabilities to accompany their children or grandchildren,” he said.  “Typically, they have to watch from the sidewalk. This playground will give them the chance to bring their family members and have fun right alongside them.”

The ballpark and playground will be located next to Waukee Northwest High School—the school district’s second high school—and within the 80-acre Waukee Youth Sports Complex and Park.  Jermier said it will be strategically placed front and center in the complex and will include a customized rubber surface for the ball field and playground, sensory equipment, a picnic and shaded area, concession and restroom enhancements and more. 

Liz Mount, a special education teacher at Walnut Hills Elementary, said the playground will be a truly special place for her students and their families. “Parents with kids with disabilities want to have the same accessibility as every other family and enjoy a day at the park,” she said. “That’s not always possible when the playground isn’t accommodating to all kids, and I love the idea of having one nearby. A structure that serves kids in wheelchairs, kids who can’t walk up steps, those who need sensory play and kids without disabilities who are still developing—it’s all necessary, because play is crucial for everyone,” she explained.

Paul Bird, a special education teacher with two sons—Max, a sophomore with special needs at Waukee High School (where Bird teaches), and Mitchell, a sixth grader at Waukee Middle School—said the playground is a game-changer. “It will level the playing field,” he said. “When Max and Mitchell were younger, this type of facility would have given them the opportunity to play together on the same piece of equipment, and I wouldn’t have had to worry about which child was where, knowing they could both navigate the playground independently or together. We’re already a growing community, and it just makes Waukee even more attractive.”

In addition to the ballpark and playground, there will be an adaptive fishing pier that looks out on a 14-acre pond stocked with a variety of fish. Jermier said the pond will be used as a recreational area for kayaking, non-motorized boating and other activities. 

The design of the pier will include a feature that allows it to raise and lower depending on the water level. It will also have ample parking, guard rails and other features to allow residents with mobility issues to fish safely.

Board Members from the Waukee Betterment Foundation. From L to R: Matt Jermier, Rick Arnold, Rachel Scheve, Don Blum, Jim Miller, Michelle Renkin, Todd McDonald,
Amie Kuntz, Josh Fleming, Nile Hicks, and Tim Moerman.

Jim Miller, president of the Waukee Betterment Foundation, a local non-profit that led fundraising efforts for the pergola at the Raccoon River Valley Trailhead is spearheading fundraising with fellow board members for the Miracle League of Waukee Ballpark and Play Area.

With more than 1,000 children with special needs in the Dallas County area, Miller said a significant need exists for an all-inclusive park.  “Each Miracle League field has a capacity of about 250 children in the leagues,” he said. “Heartland AEA tells us there are 1,220 children currently enrolled in nearby schools with special needs of Level Two or Three.  That is the profile of children who use a Miracle League field.”

“Other Miracle League fields tell us they get kids traveling in from rural Iowa, so this will easily operate at capacity,” he continued.  “The city of West Des Moines does not intend to build a Miracle League field, so we will also see participants from that area.”

Mount has two students who participate in Miracle League and has found it to be just as beneficial for the families of the children as it is for the kids. “I believe the program has helped them build social skills and confidence. I think it’s also important for the families as they can be resources and support each other,” he explained.

Echoing Jermier’s hopes about the structures having a wide-reaching impact, Miller said, “This will be a destination for people to visit. Same with the fishing pier, it will draw people from a significant radius. The Miracle League games depend on volunteers, and we are hearing from many corporations that want to have their employees come out to help.  All of that creates economic growth for local businesses.”

Miller said he is most excited about the opportunity the park will create for the western metropolitan area. “It is such a needed addition to the whole area, not just Waukee. It will be a regional facility that will be top-quality and quite unique.  It will be something Dallas County can be very proud of,” he said.

Miller said fundraising efforts are just getting started, and they’re waiting to hear back from numerous potential donors. As of right now, the estimate for each amenity is $750,000 for the Miracle League ballpark and the all-inclusive fishing pier. The play area would cost around $1 million. 

The Waukee Betterment Foundation is accepting donations at waukeebetterment.org.  

Community Spotlight: Waukee Arts Festival

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For the fifth year in a row, the Waukee Area Arts Council is putting on the city’s largest and best-attended summer event. The Waukee Arts Festival will be held in Centennial Park on Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13.

Residents can look forward to more than 100 artist exhibits, kids’ activities, craft beer from Barn Town Brewery, food truck vendors and live music all day Saturday. As part of the Arts Council July concert series, there will be special evening performances during the festival featuring local artists The Brazilian 2wins and The Nadas.  

Cody Kilgore, President of the Waukee Area Arts Council, said the festival will feature an even wider variety of artists than previous years, including artists from around the Des Moines metro and across the country. 

“We had so many quality artists apply that we had to add spaces under a festival tent for more exhibition space,” he explained.  

Kilgore estimates nearly 4,000 people attended the festival last year, and said this year’s festival will offer something for everyone. 

“We’ll have art from across the country and along the price spectrum. There will be food and music you don’t often find in Waukee. The student art on exhibit from the Waukee schools is reason enough to attend— the students are incredibly talented,” said Kilgore. “Plus, there’s always a chance you might meet our mascot, Tucker.”  (Tucker is Kilgore’s five-year-old dog.)

Festival-goers can also expect more selection for various dietary needs this year as well.

“Our food vendors will have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free fare,” explained Kilgore.  “And you have to check out the tables in the food court that the high school art classes created for us.” 

“In short, we’ve really upped our game this year,” he added.  “We’ll have more artists, more art, more music, more food and more time to enjoy it all.”

For more information on the Waukee Arts Festival, visit waukeearts.org.

Growing with the Community: 20 Years of the Waukee Chamber of Commerce

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In 2019, the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce will celebrate 20 years of fostering growth, professional development, and connections within the community. The anniversary will be celebrated with a dinner and silent auction in February.

Since its inception in 1999, the chamber has added 290 members to its roster—beginning with 40 and now boasting 330. Members include area businesses and organizations of all sizes, as well as individuals with a passion for promoting growth and prosperity in the community.

Melinda Behn, President of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, said the organization provides its members with opportunities to network, enhance their financial growth, participate in professional development and contribute to a thriving community.

“The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce connects members to hundreds of companies throughout our region,” said Behn. “When a company joins the chamber, all employees gain access to our network of businesses and professionals from the area and Central Iowa region—through the Greater Des Moines Partnership.”

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce also offers members opportunities to develop business relationships and referrals, attend events such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and provide access to career and volunteer opportunities.

Members also can enhance their impact and presence in the community by attending meetings and events, sponsoring chamber events and joining and/or leading a committee.

Along with Behn’s leadership, the chamber is governed by a board of directors—business members from the community. Behn said each board member chairs a committee that, in collaboration with chamber committee members, is responsible for carrying out the chamber’s priorities.

The association’s committees include:

Membership: This group supports existing and new businesses. The committee hosts new membership welcome breakfasts twice a year and distributes the Waukee Chamber Monday Business Report—a newsletter with information about chamber happenings.

Community Development: This committee organizes and promotes the chamber’s annual dinner, as well as What’s Cookin’ in Waukee, the golf outing and Waukee Fall Harvest. It also coordinates the chamber’s participation in community-wide events such as Itty-Bitty Olympics at Celebrate Waukee.

Scholarship: A one-time annual scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from Waukee High School who plans to attend an Iowa institution following graduation. This committee focuses on creating awareness of the scholarship and selecting the recipient.

Waukee YP: Waukee Young Professionals (Waukee YP) is a new committee that connects and provides growth opportunities for young professionals who work or live in the Waukee area.

Government Affairs: This committee serves as the legislative voice of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce membership. This committee stays up-to-date on legislative issues affecting businesses, participates in regional public policy meetings and events, and hosts election year forums. In the near future, the Waukee Chamber will partner with the metro’s west-side affiliate chambers to talk about the upcoming legislative session.

Economic Development: This committee organized the Sixth Annual Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour in September at Brick Towne at Kettlestone, off University. The tour showcased Waukee’s growing community by highlighting new development projects—such as the Holmes Murphy building off Grand Prairie Parkway and The Palms Theatre and IMAX venue off NE Westgate Drive.

Ambassadors: These are active members who help facilitate networking among members.

Paul Kerkhoff, owner of Kerkhoff Chiropractic, said the chamber has grown to be recognized as a premier professional business organization with ties that reach across the nation. “This involvement reaches international corporations as well as our state and national legislature. Being part of this organization brings our ideals and interests together for even greater opportunities for our future and generations to follow,” said Kerkhoff.

Don Frazer, owner of Heartland Co-op and a three-year chamber board member, said being a member has positively impacted his business. “The contact with other local business leaders has opened up additional opportunities,” he said. “The chamber has been an important part of the explosion of new businesses in Waukee, and growth is good for everyone.”

Both Frazer and Behn said one of the chamber’s biggest recent accomplishments is finding a new space for the organization to reside. Located at 208 W. Hickman Road in Waukee, the chamber has called their current location home for nearly two years. “The Board invested a significant amount of time in helping to locate the space, negotiate the lease and assist with the build out. We are truly fortunate to have so many wonderful people in our chamber who care about the future of Waukee,” said Behn.

The 2019 Waukee Chamber Annual Dinner and Silent Auction will provide a summary of 2018 accomplishments, a look at the year ahead, an introduction of the 2019 Board of Directors and recognition of the 2018 Member and Ambassador of the Year.  The event will be held Feb. 21 from 5:00 – 9:30 p.m. at the Sheraton in West Des Moines.

For more information about the Chamber, visit https://www.waukeechamber.com.

 

The Fridley Palms Theatres

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Waukee residents are only months away from having one of the state’s largest cinema screens in their backyard. The 85-foot IMAX screen at The Palms Theatres and IMAX, between NE Dartmoor Drive and NE Westgate Drive near Hy-Vee, is tentatively scheduled for a partial opening on Dec. 7.

Russell Vannorsdel, Vice President of Fridley Theatres, The Palms’ parent company, said the theater complex will offer something for every moviegoer.   
“We didn’t want to compromise anyone’s experience, so the design concept lets you pick what you want,” he said. “A variety of amenities will give customers the choice of less distraction or the experience of dining while watching a movie in a theater.”
The theater complex will have 15 auditoriums, all with reserved seating. Each auditorium will feature luxury recliners with tables and cup holders. Vannorsdel said the recliners in the IMAX are part of what makes The Palms exceptional.
“While some exhibitors have done retrofits without approval, IMAX has never approved luxury recliner seating in an auditorium before now,” he explained.

The facility will have a bar and a restaurant where customers can order their food to eat inside the restaurant or to take with them into the theater.

Dine-in seating will be offered in at least eight of the auditoriums. Each will vary in size, with the IMAX having the largest capacity and the others seating about 40 people.

“The small auditoriums will provide a more intimate experience,” said Vannorsdel. “We could have filled them with more seats, but we wanted to minimize distractions. They have more aisles so wait staff don’t have to walk in front of guests to take orders or carry in food.”
Eliminating distractions was top-of-mind when designing the concept for the IMAX theater, too. When designing the layout for the luxury recliners in the auditorium, Vannorsdel said they wanted to ensure all sightlines would be clear in all positions. “People should be able to see the top and bottom of the screen at all times,” he explained. “So if you’re fully reclined, and the person in front of you is not, you’ll still be able to see the bottom of the screen.”

Fridley’s, which is headquartered in downtown Des Moines, is not a newcomer to entertainment venues. Owner Bob Fridley has been in the movie industry since the 1930s. He turned 101 this past March. With the opening of The Palms, Fridley Theaters will have 21 complexes across Iowa and Nebraska, and a total of 101 movie screens.

During the research phase before building The Palms, Vannorsdel and Brian Fridley, President of Fridley Theaters, toured movie theaters across the country— including the historic Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood—to research what worked and what did not.  

“We took things we already knew and things we learned from other exhibitors around the world and brought them all together for The Palms,” said Vannorsdel.

Fridley initially considered making the IMAX screen the biggest in the United States, measuring more than 100 feet tall. “Two things changed our minds,” said Vannorsdel. “The first consideration was cost. Anytime you add more square feet, it gets more expensive. Plus, there wasn’t that much of a difference for the viewer between an 85-foot screen and one that’s 95 feet.”

Vannorsdel added that he wanted customers to be able to “take in” the entire screen, and it can be difficult to do that in an IMAX if you’re not sitting toward the back. “If you’re too close, you literally have to move your head to get the entire picture in,” he explained. “That’s why we put the first row farther back, so those sitting there can see as much as possible.”

In addition to the six-story tall, premium large-format screen, the IMAX theater boasts a Laser GT system with dual laser projectors.


Vannorsdel said they’re planning to have a staff of about 100 people— a mix of part-time and full-time—with 50 for theater operations and 50 for in-seat food, beverage and kitchen staff. Hiring has already begun with a general manager, operations manager and a chef for the restaurant.

“Hiring initially made me a little nervous, because of the low unemployment rates, but we’ve had a great response for all positions—everything from janitorial to concessional positions,” said Vannorsdel. “This project is so special that people are going to want to work here.”

According to Vannorsdel, when choosing a location for The Palms, he and Brian Fridley considered both Ankeny and Waukee because of their size and growth over the past few years. They settled on Waukee because the area doesn’t yet have a theater, and because of its easy access to the interstate via Grand Prairie Parkway.

“We want this to not only be a Waukee theater, but a Des Moines metro theater,” said Vannorsdel. “And with the IMAX, we expect this to become a regional theater. If it draws a lot of external guests, it can only be good for the area’s economy.”

The Palms is getting involved in the community, as well. They’re currently discussing a project with the APEX Program and Waukee School District to provide educational seminars, content and classes in the future. However, with the Science Center’s long history of educational programming, Vannorsdel said they’ll primarily stick to Hollywood movies.

“We hope the Science Center is able to reopen its IMAX, because they do such a great job bringing in that type of content,” he said.

The Palms also may be used to show big televised events, like the Super Bowl. “We intend on having the ability to broadcast live television with food and drinks available,” explained Vannorsdel.

He added that the IMAX will change movies about every two weeks, with hopes of showcasing “Mortal Engines” in time for the partial opening and “Aquaman” just before Christmas.

While he wouldn’t disclose the total cost to build The Palms, Vannorsdel said that the general contractor’s expense, which excludes all furniture, movie screens, and equipment, was around $16 million.

For more information on The Palms Theaters and IMAX, or to apply for a position, please visit fridleytheatres.com and use the locations tab to find the Waukee location.

 

City To Transform 66 Acres Into Waukee Youth Sports Complex & Park

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Waukee Betterment Foundation Assisting With All-Inclusive Amenities

As the Waukee Community School District begins construction in October on its second high school, the City of Waukee has plans to turn the adjacent 66-acre property into the Waukee Youth Sports Complex & Park. But, don’t let the word “youth” fool you: the new amenity will benefit community members and visitors of all ages and abilities.

Waukee Youth Sports Complex & Park

Construction on Phase I of the Waukee Youth Sports Complex & Park will begin in the spring of 2021. Phase I will include eight softball/baseball fields and two practice quads with batting cages. These fields will accommodate youth softball players ages 18 and under, as well as youth baseball players ages 10 and under. In Phase 2, four larger baseball fields will be added to accommodate players up to age 14. The need for a complex of this sort has been growing in recent years.

“The impact of this project will be huge,” said Waukee Recreation Supervisor Josh VandeKamp. “Right now, the City has three large fields at Centennial Park and four small fields at Warrior Park. We have 125 teams vying for field space and 40-plus Parks & Rec softball teams to accommodate annually. The construction of this new facility should alleviate Waukee’s shortage of field availability.”

VandeKamp said the investment in an amenity of this magnitude will not only benefit local athletes, but it should also catch the eye of regional tournament planners.

“We envision hosting tournaments on the weekends, which will attract teams from across Iowa, as well as teams from bordering states,” said VandeKamp. “If the weather cooperates, the City’s new complex should be busy from April through October. That could also help boost the local economy as visitors will need places to sleep, eat, shop and be entertained.”

In addition to ball fields, the City plans to construct playgrounds, a lake, trails and parking. The Waukee Youth Sports Complex & Park is expected to open in 2022.

Nearly half of the project will be funded through a Public Improvement Fund set up by Apple; the remainder will be financed by revenues from the Dallas County Local Option Sales & Services Tax. These new funding sources make it possible for the City to complete this project without the use of property tax revenues.

An Eye on All-Inclusive Amenities

In partnership with the City, the Waukee Betterment Foundation recently launched a fundraising campaign for the Waukee Miracle League® Ball Field and Play Area, as well as an all-inclusive fishing pier, all to be included at the Complex. The goal is to raise $2.5 million to put toward these specialized amenities.

“The Waukee Betterment Foundation is devoted to making Waukee better,” said Foundation President Jim Miller. “This project will actually extend its reach beyond Waukee into the neighboring communities to provide a source of recreation for a surprisingly large population. Each Miracle League field can accommodate roughly 220 children in leagues. Since we know there are about 700 children in the area with disabilities, there is a real need. The adult leagues will also have a very strong demand.”

The Miracle League field will serve those with disabilities by way of its custom-designed, rubberized turf field which helps prevent injuries and provides easy access for wheelchairs and assistive devices. An all-inclusive play area with the same material and specialized equipment will also be installed near the field. It can be enjoyed by all visitors.

In addition to sports and play, new fishing opportunities will also be available. The City is constructing a 12-acre lake at the park, and the Foundation is working to ensure its fishing pier suits everyone.

“We are hearing from senior living facilities and veterans’ groups that an all-inclusive fishing pier will be a huge draw,” said Miller. “Currently, there is no place in the area to fish easily if you have mobility issues. This pier will have ample parking and restrooms nearby, as well as paved low-slope walks to the pier. Its design will allow people in wheelchairs to fish from a safe and protected area.”

The Waukee Betterment Foundation’s goal is to have the all-inclusive projects within the complex completed by 2022. To learn more about supporting this initiative, visit WaukeeBetterment.org or call Jim Miller at 515-224-5516.

To follow the progress of the Waukee Youth Sports Complex & Park, as well as other park projects occurring within Waukee, visit Waukee.org/parksandrec.

 

 

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Second High School Coming To Waukee

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Waukee area students in graduating classes 2022-25 could be the first to attend the area’s second high school, which is set to open in 2021.

The fast-growing Waukee Community School District was ready to burst at the seams with Waukee High School nearing capacity. Total districtwide enrollment increased from 2,198 students in September 1999 to more than 10,000 this year with a projection of nearly 13,000 in five years.

Meanwhile, the city of Waukee had grown from 5,180 in 2000 to 20,649 last year. Its recent one-year increase of 9 percent was the highest of any city in the Des Moines area.

The Waukee City Council and the Waukee school district took action in May 2016 to deal with the influx. They approved the joint use of 160 acres of green space for a new high school and a city-owned sports complex. The yet-to-be-named 395,000-square-foot, 1,800-student capacity high school will reside just north of Hickman Road near the Waukee Family YMCA.

Most of the land will be used for the school and its amenities with the remaining space slated for 12 softball/baseball fields and a parking lot.

Voters had to approve a referendum for $117 million in general obligation bonds for the new high school in February to make the project a reality. It required 60 percent for passage. It got 90.27 percent.

Meeting Short-Term Needs

The Waukee Innovation and Learning Center—a facility for innovative partnerships between local businesses, the community and high school students—may be used to house additional Waukee High School programs until the second high school opens. Details are still being worked out.

Ten Elementary Schools by 2022

The district is also adding two elementary schools to accommodate growth. Radiant Elementary, at 5050 170th St. in Urbandale, is under construction and expected to open in the fall of 2019.

Land has been purchased for a tenth elementary school off Ashworth Road, west of Ute Avenue and Highway R22. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2020 and it’s expected to open in 2022. A name for the elementary school has not been determined.

In the meantime, Nicole Lawrence, Communications Coordinator with Waukee Community School District, said the district is closely monitoring enrollment and bringing on new teachers to ensure classrooms stay at an appropriate size.

News about the district’s progress on the elementary and high school fronts has sparked questions about the middle schools as well. The district’s website dedicated to providing information about the second high school addressed the issue by stating it will monitor updated enrollment data and then make plans for how to accommodate students at the middle level.

The New High School’s Design

The concept for the new high school was developed through a six-month immersive design process between FRK Architects & Engineers, district administration and a visioning committee comprised of parents, students, staff and community members.

“In a series of three visioning sessions, the committee learned about current standards and trends in high schools around the country, reviewed multiple layouts from newer high schools and then created building layouts to reflect district values,” said Lawrence.

Feedback from the committee was used to create the building’s three-story layout, which includes a rooftop terrace, a media center with a second-floor mezzanine, an auditorium with a second-floor balcony and orchestra pit, a commons area for students and several individual and group learning areas for students and staff.

There will also be a single, secure entrance for staff, students and visitors during school hours.

“Open, light-filled spaces that promote collaboration and student development were high priorities for the committee, with student safety being a top priority,” said David Briden, Senior Project Architect and Principal with FRK Architects & Engineers.

Incorporating a pond on to the campus was also an important and notable feature when designing the school’s layout.

“A natural drainage channel through the center of the site allowed a pond to be placed as a focal point around which the city and school district facilities could be developed,” said Briden. “Placing the building adjacent to the pond allows it to take advantage of views over the pond to the north. The natural slope of the terrain creates a structure that tucks into the hillside, helping to marry the large scale of the building with the site.”

As instructional methods and learning styles continue to evolve, Briden said each classroom space would be adaptable and future-ready for students.

The school parking lot will be ready for newly licensed drivers, too, with enough room for 1,360 stalls.

Athletic Facilities

Lawrence said that while the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and Iowa High School Girls Athletic Union (IGHSAU) ultimately determine sports classifications, the district anticipates each high school to compete at the 4A – IHSAA and 5A – IGHSAU level.

“Both high schools will offer similar programming and opportunities to students,” she added.

The second high school’s outdoor athletic facilities will feature a football stadium with a field and track, four practice fields, 12 tennis courts, and baseball and softball competition and practice fields. Additional amenities such as concession stands and team rooms are also included in plans.

The stadium will be built in a bowl-type setting into the ground. Inside, the school will have a gymnasium seating 2,500, an auxiliary gymnasium, and a three-lane track.

Parents Embrace the Second High School

Abby Jones, a Waukee parent whose fifth-grade son could be attending the second high school said the addition was a definite need for the community.

“It’s amazing to think how this area has grown in such a short period,” said Jones. “When I attended the University of Iowa, I remember some of my classmates from the Chicago suburbs said they graduated with a class of 1,000. That seemed huge, but we’re not far behind those numbers anymore.”

“I really think so much of our growth can be attributed to the school district’s commitment to offering students a truly high-quality education,” she added.

During the 2015-2016 school year, 855 kindergarten students enrolled in the district—a sign of even larger classes to come.

 

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