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Wi-Fi Hotspots & S.T.E.A.M. Kits Available for Checkout!

November 1, 2017 by admin

By Leah White

The Waukee Public Library is very excited to announce that you can now check out fun new items from the library!

Wi-Fi Hotspots

Library patrons can now borrow the internet! We are excited to bring free, unlimited high-speed internet access to our library patrons through the use of Wi-Fi hotspots that can be checked out like a library book. The portable hotspots allow patrons to easily get online using any Wi-Fi enabled device such as a phone, tablet or laptop. Perfect for use at home, in a park, or while on vacation. Hotspots can be checked out for one week and can be renewed if there are no other patrons on hold for the device.

S.T.E.A.M. Kits

Our new STEAM Kit Cabinet is here! The STEAM Kits are designed to enhance and promote learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering, art and math. These kits include a telescope, coding kits, musical instruments, a science lab and much more! The kits are appropriate for a wide range of ages and can be checked out for three weeks and renewed if no one is waiting for the item. Each kit consists of instructions, resources and tools to help you conduct experiments at home.

To find out more about the Waukee Public Library visit waukeepubliclibrary.org or contact us at askme@waukee.org or (515) 978-7944.

NOVEMBER PROGRAMS:

SONGS & STORIES
Saturday, Nov. 11
9:30 a.m.
Families with children ages 0-5 are invited to enjoy 20-25 minutes of fun songs and stories with one of our youth services librarians.

DALLAS COUNTY HISTORY / PRESERVING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY
Sunday, Nov. 5
1:30 p.m.
Explore the celebrated, forgotten and sometimes shocking history of Dallas County. Darcy will offer her top tips on how to start sharing your family history and preserve precious family photographs.

MOVIE MATINEE – “Hidden Figures”
Thursday, Nov. 9
10:00 a.m.
Watch a movie on the library’s big screen. All movies are free and refreshments are available.

DOWNSTAIRS AT DOWNTON
Saturday, Nov. 11
1:30 p.m.
What was life like downstairs at places like Highclere Castle? Could the chauffeur really marry the daughter of an Earl? Would a maid help move a dead body to protect her mistress’ reputation? Get the answers to these and other questions about one of the country’s most popular television series, and discover what life was really like for the people working downstairs. Professional historian and educator Kathy Wilson of Historical Perspectives will present the program. Stick around for tea and cookies afterwards! No registration required.

SHAKE, RATTLE & READ SOCK HOP
Saturday, Nov. 18
10:00 – 11:00 a.m. & 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Join us for a be-bopping dance party and fun activities with Elephant and Piggie to kick off the Winter Reading Program! Not only is our Sock Hop a dance and reading celebration, but we will also be collecting unopened packages of socks for the Waukee Community Closet for local families in need. All sizes of socks are welcome. Registration is required for this event.

DECEMBER PROGRAMS:

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
Saturday, Dec. 2
9:30 a.m.
Let your creative juices flow and make some fun holiday crafts. Recommended for students in grades K-5. Parents of younger students are encouraged to remain in the program to assist as needed. Our annual program has become so popular that registration is now required for this event and will open three weeks before the event at waukeelibrary.eventbrite.com.

HEALTHY HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
Wednesday, Dec. 6
6:00 p.m.
Do you want to enjoy holiday food, but also want to eat healthy? Fareway dietician Caitlyn Ferin will share ideas and recipes to use at your next holiday celebration or other special event. Samples will be served, so come hungry! Registration opens three weeks before the event at waukeelibrary.eventbrite.com.

HOUR OF CODE
Friday, Dec. 8
4:30 p.m.
Students in grades 2-5 are invited to bring a parent or caregiver to participate with them in this international program. We will try out the new program offered by code.org as part of the annual Hour of Code. The class size will be limited to the number of computers available. You are also welcome to bring your own laptop to participate in this event. Registration is required and will open three weeks before the event at waukeelibrary.eventbrite.com.

SONGS & STORIES
Saturday, Dec. 9
9:30 a.m.
Families with children ages 0-5 are invited to enjoy 20-25 minutes of fun songs and stories with one of our youth services librarians.

MOVIE MATINEE – “A Christmas Story”
Thursday, Dec. 14
10:00 a.m.
Watch a movie on the library’s big screen. All movies are free and refreshments are available.

STORIES WITH SANTA
Thursday, Dec. 14
6:00 p.m.
Families are invited to attend a special Storytime with Santa! There will be a few songs and stories followed by a simple craft. Kids are welcome to come in pajamas. Registration is required for this event at waukeelibrary.eventbrite.com.

Filed Under: My Library Tagged With: december events, library, november events

Superior Popcorn Factory and Interesting Facts about America’s Favorite Snack

November 1, 2017 by admin

By Sue Ellen Kennedy

There once was a building on Highway 6 with the words “Superior Popcorn Factory” written on its side.  The Superior Popcorn Factory was owned by Chet Breckenridge.  Established in the 1930’s, it flourished until he sold the company to the Heart of Iowa Popcorn Company in 1965, which closed in the 1980’s.  

During the Great Depression, Mr. Breckenridge operated a retail popcorn shop on Locust Street in Des Moines.  He would buy popcorn from farmers and sell it to businesses—mainly Des Moines-area movie theaters.  In 1941, he built the plant in Waukee and developed a wholesale popcorn business.  His business later expanded nationally, selling popcorn machines to movie theaters, schools and carnivals.  His main office remained on Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines.  

Mr. Breckenridge dabbled in growing popcorn on a small plot of land for testing purposes.  Most of his popcorn came from farmers he contracted to grow it for him.  The farmers used corn pickers and then hauled the crop to the Waukee plant.  Breckenridge’s hoist would lift the wagons, dumping the popcorn onto a conveyer, which would move it to a storage crib.  The crib could store 20,000 bushels at a time.

The popcorn would dry naturally in the crib until it was ready to shell.  Scratched or cracked popcorn kernels would not pop correctly, so the workers had to use plastic buckets and handle the popcorn carefully.  Air from a mill or cleaner was used to remove the chaff.  A gravity mill was used to grade the popcorn, and the kernels were separated by weight.

The heavier kernels were considered the better kernels.  As the popcorn went down and around an incline the small and odd kernels would fall off to the side. The extra-large kernels were separated for uniform grade popcorn.  Finally, a drying process was completed prior to packaging.  The popcorn was sold in 25-, 50- and 100-lb. bags.   

Stores received cases of two dozen 2-lb. bags.  Prior to 1941, the railroad near the plant was used for shipping.  In 1941, they started shipping by truck.  Today, there are no signs, buildings or any indication that this once-thriving business ever existed.

Interesting Facts about Popcorn

  • Americans consume 17.3 billion quarts of popcorn per year.
  • Popcorn is a whole grain.
  • Most of the popcorn grown in the United States is grown in Nebraska, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky and Iowa.  Nebraska is the top producer, with 250 million lbs. per year.  
  • Popcorn kernels can pop up to three feet in the air.
  • In the United States during the 1890’s, street vendors would push steam- or gasoline-powered poppers in places where crowds gathered, such as sporting events, parks, carnivals and fairs.
  • The popcorn business thrived during the Great Depression because that’s when movie theaters began to sell it.
  • Unpopped popcorn kernels are called “spinsters” or “old maids.”  
  • Native Americans used dried herbs, spices and chili as popcorn flavorings.  

Fifty-five different varieties of popcorn are grown in North America.  Most popcorn comes in two basic shapes when popped—snowflake and mushroom.  The snowflake variety is used in movie theaters and ball parks.  It looks bigger.  Mushroom is used for candy confections because it doesn’t crumble.  

The first popcorn machine was invented by Charles Cretors of Chicago, Illinois in the 1880’s.  The actual date is unknown, but he was issued a peddler’s license to use the machine on Dec. 2, 1885.  Cretors also invented a large-scale automated commercial machine in 1893.  

In 1914, Cloid H. Smith founded American Pop Corn Company in Sioux City, Iowa.  American Pop Corn Company launched the Jolly Time brand in 1925.   Perry Spencer invented microwave popcorn in 1945.

Popcorn sales decreased as the popularity of televisions increased in the early 1950’s because more people were staying home instead of going to the theaters.  However, sales increased once again when popcorn became easily accessible to the everyday consumer.

Filed Under: Waukee History Tagged With: popcorn, superior popcorn factory

Faces of Waukee: Michael Johnson

November 1, 2017 by admin

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in West Des Moines and have spent almost my entire life in Iowa.

Tell us about your family.
My wife Jen and I have been married for six years and our 2-year-old son Knox keeps us more than busy. We are lucky to have all of our immediate family also living in Iowa. That was a driving force for us to come back here after I completed my orthodontic residency training in Texas.

How did you come to practice orthodontics?
I’ve always had the desire to work in some form of healthcare and I feel blessed to have discovered the field of orthodontics. I worked at an orthodontic office—with one of my very important mentors, Dr. Jeff Sturdivant—while I was in college and realized it would be a great fit for me. While in dental school, I was fortunate to have earned the opportunity to spend two additional years of training at a top-level orthodontic residency program at the University of Texas at Houston.

What value do you think orthodontics brings to people’s lives?
Your smile is one of the first things others notice about you, so improving your smile can make a significant positive impact on your self-esteem. Straight teeth and a good-fitting bite also lead to healthier teeth, which helps you keep your teeth for much longer.

Why did you to choose to set up your practice in Waukee?
We view Waukee as the perfect place for us to raise our family and we couldn’t be happier to live here. Obviously, many other people have had similar thinking as this town is full of kids running around and playing. Waukee is quickly becoming “the” place to live, and there’s been amazing growth over the past few years. We are excited to be a part of that growth and we look forward to all the great things coming to Waukee in the future.

Filed Under: Faces of Waukee Tagged With: johnson orthodontics, michael johnson

Faces of Waukee: Joe O’Donnell

November 1, 2017 by admin

Some folks might think you sound familiar when they hear you speak in person. Any reason why that might be?
Well, if they listen to 1460, KXnO during the hockey season, they might recognize me from calling the Iowa Wild games. I like interacting with our fans; they’re really passionate about hockey and they pack Wells Fargo Arena during our season.

You’re a Waukee resident. How did you land in the neighborhood?
My family relocated with the Minnesota Wild’s AHL team from Houston to Central Iowa, and after renting in West Des Moines for a few years, we purchased a house in Waukee in 2016.

Tell us a little about your family.
My wife Cara and I have three boys, ages 7, 5 and 3. They’re all crazy about sports, especially hockey.

When did you first find your passion for hockey?
I can remember watching hockey on TV as a kid. I played a ton of street hockey and roller hockey growing up, and then I began playing ice hockey in middle school.

In this holiday issue, we share stories of giving our time to help meet the needs of others. Is there any charitable action you take this time of the year?
I’m hoping to volunteer at a local shelter during the holidays to serve food or help out however needed.

Filed Under: Faces of Waukee Tagged With: joe odonnell

City of Waukee Update {November / December 2017}

November 1, 2017 by admin

City Provides Great Indoor and Outdoor Activities

Iowa winters can be harsh, but when Mother Nature is playing nice, there are great ways to get out of the house and keep busy in Waukee. City of Waukee departments provide programs, events and amenities to warm up residents of all ages and interests.

The Great Outdoors

Iowa Wild/Wells Fargo Ice Rink
It was announced in May that the Iowa Wild American Hockey League Team and Wells Fargo would donate an ice rink to the City for public use. The rink measures 80 x 40 feet and will be located at Sugar Creek Golf Course at 1505 6th Street. Crews will set it up in late November and will fill it when temperatures drop low enough for a solid freeze. Bring your skates and take part in this new, free activity!

Warrior Park Sledding Hill
Waukee’s terrain is mostly flat, but that doesn’t stop residents from enjoying some downhill fun. The Warrior Park Sledding Hill opened in 2004 and is customized and engineered specifically for sledding. Bundle up and head to the park located at 1050 4th Street.

Trail Exercise
Residents can hit the Waukee trails even when the snow falls. During non-treacherous snow events, Waukee Parks & Recreation crews aim to clear all trails. Snow on trails is removed once the storm has ended, so be ready to the hit the pavement for some winter exercise. Call 515-978-0007 with questions.

Let’s Just Stay Inside

Indoor Youth Sports
Softball and outdoor soccer seasons are over, but Waukee Parks & Recreation offers fantastic indoor sports options. The youth basketball league, TOT basketball handling and dribbling program, and Rounded Minds™ Spanish language immersion indoor soccer and Zumba are sure to help kiddos burn off some energy. Taekwondo and karate opportunities are also offered by Dickey’s Ryukyu Karate. Visit Waukee.org/Registration for details.

Tot Lot
For parents and caretakers home with toddlers on the weekdays, Tot Lot provides hours of play and socializing! This free program is held Mondays from 8:30-10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays from 8-10 a.m. through the end of March. Held at the Waukee Public Works Building at 805 University Avenue, the Parks & Recreation staff provides blocks, tunnels, mats and more. Parents/guardians just provide the supervision!

Adult Programs
Winter fun isn’t just for the kiddos. You can also take in free films at the Waukee Public Library. The December 14 showing will feature A Christmas Story, and the January 11 showing will feature La La Land. All movies start at 10 a.m. Popcorn and lemonade are provided. And, Waukee Parks & Recreation is planning a day trip with InboundIowa to Greenfield on Tuesday, Dec. 5 for some great sight-seeing! Visit Waukee.org/Registration or call 515-978-0007 to learn more.

Community Gatherings

WinterFest
Get a dose of holiday cheer at the annual WinterFest celebration on Friday, Dec. 1. Hundreds pack the Downtown Triangle for business open houses and the beloved tree lighting at 6 p.m. sharp! Kids can visit with Santa, watch an ice sculptor at work, depart on an old-fashioned trolley for the holiday light tour and more. Plus, Parks & Recreation staff will be accepting non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped toys to be distributed by Waukee Area Christian Services.

FamilyFest
Stay warm at the annual FamilyFest event scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 20 from 9 a.m. to noon. This free, family-friendly event is held at Lutheran Church of Hope at 305 NE Dartmoor Drive. Check out Waukee area businesses, enjoy games and prizes, and jump on inflatables.

Stories with Santa
Families are invited to attend a special storytime with Santa on Thursday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m.! Enjoy a sing-a-long, listen to stories, and make a fun craft. Kids are welcome to come in pajamas. Registration is required for this event. Register at WaukeeLibrary.EventBrite.com.

Don’t hibernate this winter—get out and enjoy all that Waukee has to offer! For more information, visit Waukee.org.

Filed Under: My City Tagged With: city of waukee, indoor activities, outdoor activities, winter in waukee

Waukee Chamber Update {November / December 2017}

November 1, 2017 by admin

New Office for the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

Please join the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce for a Grand Opening in our new office on Tuesday, Dec. 12! The new office is located at 208 Hickman in Waukee. Our builder will complete the 1600 square-foot remodel this fall and we will officially operate in the new office beginning Dec. 1.

Coming Soon: The Coffeesmith

Opening soon at 770 Alice’s Road, The Coffeesmith is locally owned and operated by Iowa natives and Waukee residents Nate and Shanna Kempers. They strive not only to craft high-quality beverages and food, but also to create a welcoming environment to help build our community. Follow The Coffeesmith on Facebook to see the construction progress and official opening date.

UnityPoint Health Grand Opening & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Join the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce in welcoming UnityPoint Clinic’s second family medicine location to Waukee! A Grand Opening will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 13 for its new location in the Waukee Kettlestone development on Grand Prairie Parkway. The ribbon-cutting will take place at 4:30 p.m. UnityPoint Clinic will offer a Holiday Hats n’ Mittens Open House with tours of the new space and an opportunity to meet the doctors and administration. There is a suggested donation of hats or mittens, which will be donated to those in need during the holiday season.

Other New Area Businesses

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce has welcomed 52 new members this year and celebrated local grand openings with dozens of those businesses. We look forward to celebrating many more ribbon-cutting ceremonies and business anniversaries over the next couple months. Please check our calendar at waukeechamber.com and join us to help our new business owners feel welcome in Waukee!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: coffee smith, unity point clinic, Waukee Chamber

The Adventures of Paul & Moose: Serving the Community Through Animal Therapy

November 1, 2017 by Elyssa_ Appleton

Dogs are known as man’s best friend, and for Waukee resident Paul Mohlke and his 6-year-old labradoodle, Moose, the title couldn’t be more fitting. Not only do they share the typical owner-pet bond, but these two are committed to community outreach through animal therapy.

Their story began about seven years ago, when Mohlke became ill and ended up in the hospital. It was during his hospital stay that he first experienced what a therapy dog could do.

“My sisters knew I had always liked dogs, but with my work and my schedule, I wasn’t in a position to have one of my own,” said Mohlke. “During my time in the hospital, my sisters asked the staff if the therapy dog could come to my room. As soon as the dog came in, everything changed, and I instantly knew I wanted to have this same impact on people.”

Every day for the remainder of his hospitalization, Mohlke was able to see the therapy dog, and it was because of those visits that he began researching dog breeds and the process of training a therapy dog.

Roughly a month later, he was leaving a Walgreens when he noticed a dog sitting behind the wheel of the car parked next to his. Not knowing the breed, he stayed in the parking lot until the dog’s owner returned. He learned the breed that captured his attention was a labradoodle, a mix between a Labrador and a poodle. Not long after, he connected with a family that raises labradoodles in rural Northeastern Iowa.

“I let them know I was planning to train a puppy for therapy work,” said Mohlke. “Two days after our first conversation, they reached out saying someone returned one of the puppies due to conflicting emotions about losing a dog not long before. The next day, I went to meet the puppy, and once I saw him, I knew Moose was the one.”

Coincidentally, Mohlke learned the family who returned Moose also had plans to train him for therapy work. It’s as if Moose was destined to be a therapy dog.

The duo started therapy dog classes when Moose turned 2 years old. Mohlke used a center in Urbandale to help with the training, and he and Moose worked together one night a week for an entire year. At the end of 12 months, Moose took a test through Therapy Dog International.

“Moose has a great personality and loves people, so he was easy to train,” said Mohlke. “But, the testing felt a little like how I imagine American Idol contestants must feel. After the testing, all of the handlers, along with the dogs, were brought into a room, and Therapy Dog International selected some of us to move to another room, while the rest stayed. That’s how Moose earned his certification, and it was extremely rewarding.”

With a formal certification in hand, Therapy Dog International connected Mohlke and Moose with places in Central Iowa looking for therapy dogs. The first place they were sent was the VA Central Iowa Health Care System (VA), and four years later, you can still find them meeting with veterans there for two hours on Saturday mornings. Additionally, every Tuesday, they visit the students and staff at Orchard Place School.

Mohlke explained that these two sites are very different, but the variety works well for them. He gets to interact with veterans at the VA, and Moose loves the kids and the attention they give him at Orchard Place.

“Sometimes, it doesn’t take much to impact someone’s day—you can just do the littlest thing, and it makes all the difference,” said Mohlke. “I’ve had kids ask, when Moose and I are getting ready to leave, if they can just give me a hug, and the students make cards for Moose on his birthday every year. I’ve also received a letter from the daughter of a veteran who passed away, telling me how our visits meant everything to her father. Things like that make it all worth it.”

Mohlke and Moose were named “Volunteers of the Year” for Orchard Place this past year for the service they provide. Perhaps it’s partly because, as Mohlke explained, Moose is extremely perceptive during their visits, finding and sitting with the people who need him most.

“On a recent visit to the school, Moose gave particular attention to one girl,” explained Mohlke. “He kept licking her and making her laugh. Her teacher told me that she wasn’t having a good day, and somehow, Moose just knew.”

While “working” does leave Moose enjoying recovery naps at home afterward, Mohlke believes Moose loves his job. “His tail just wags all the time,” he said. “Moose really likes it because, just like us, he enjoys having a purpose and a job to do.”

Moose even has a baseball card that Mohlke makes himself and hands out to the people they meet. The front features a smiling headshot of Moose, bandana around his neck, and on the back, people can learn more about the friendly labradoodle, including his favorite toy (squeaky tennis balls), his favorite treats (hot dogs and string cheese) and his favorite activities (chasing rabbits and squirrels, along with visiting people, of course).

Mohlke explained that he’s looking forward to retirement, so he and Moose can visit even more organizations that request therapy dog visits, such as hospices and hospitals.

“I’ve found that Moose has the ability to help anyone, regardless of their role,” said Mohlke. “I’ve had nurses run us down in the hall, asking to see him because they’ve missed him so much. And now, a lot of the kids we see say that when they grow up, they want to do this. It’s rewarding to know they’ll know what a program like this is and what it means to experience it firsthand. Life is more than just work and having a job. When I was in the hospital seven years ago, I asked myself, ‘What’s my purpose?’ And, I can honestly say both Moose and I have found ours.”

Filed Under: Features, Health, Lifestyles Tagged With: animal therapy, therapy dogs

Iowa Wild Brings Cool New (and Free) Experience to Waukee

November 1, 2017 by admin

Winter in Waukee usually brings bitterly cold temperatures and flying snow, forcing many to bundle up and stay inside until the spring thaw. But, the Iowa Wild, in partnership with Wells Fargo and the City of Waukee, wants to change your winter plans to include getting outdoors and onto the ice this season through its Community Rink Project.

“This is something we’ve wanted to do for quite some time,” said Josh Fisher, senior director of digital content and communications for the Iowa Wild. “Anyone from the Midwest knows it’s hard to fit outside health and wellness activities during the winter, but we want to help change that. Not to mention, we’re excited to help continue to build the game of hockey in Iowa at the same time.”

The Community Rink Project transforms local parks and recreation areas into community ice rinks. Once the metro area maintains consistently freezing temperatures, the rinks will open in three suburbs: West Des Moines, Ankeny and Waukee.

This year, Ankeny and Waukee will open their rinks for the first time. Last December, the Iowa Wild hosted its first Community Rink Project ribbon cutting, when it opened its location in West Des Moines. Fisher says the Iowa Wild couldn’t be more pleased with how the first year went.

“The community response was awesome,” said Fisher. “Even with a relatively warm winter last year, we were able to get about eight to 10 weeks of use out of the rink. When you think about ice availability around Des Moines, there aren’t a ton of options, especially for free skating. Through this project, we’re trying to bring that to people.”

Waukee’s rink will be located at Sugar Creek Golf Course, just a couple miles north of interstate I-80, and is free to everyone. Rink hours are similar to/dependent on park hours, or roughly sun up to sun down. Outside of these hours, the rink will only be closed if temperatures get too warm, compromising the ice and overall safety of the rink. Visitors need to just bring their own pair of skates, which can be found at certain retailers in town or online.

“Last year, we saw adults arrive at the rink around 7 a.m. to sneak in a workout before work, and we also saw both kids and adults come after school and work for some ice time,” said Fisher. “Unfortunately, skiing and snowboarding aren’t readily available here, but ice skating provides an excellent cardio option, too.”

While the public starts taking to the ice outside, the Iowa Wild will prepare for its fifth season at Wells Fargo Arena. Coming off its best season for attendance—averaging over 6,000 fans per game—the Iowa Wild expect another successful year. Fisher says the celebratory milestone anniversary also has the Iowa Wild prioritizing community involvement even more.

“We anticipate having a good season this year,” said Fisher. “But regardless of our record, we’ll keep pushing in the direction we’ve been pushing. Community efforts will continue to grow and expand.”

In addition to the Community Rink Project, the Iowa Wild sponsors many different efforts already, including several with an emphasis on education. Wild About Reading, which the National Hockey League also supports, encourages elementary and middle school students to build a passion for reading in and out of the classroom. Based on different reading goals, students have the opportunity to receive ticket vouchers to attend Iowa Wild games, along with other prizes.

Another school-based initiative is the Healthy Living Floor Hockey program, where the Iowa Wild, in partnership with other local businesses, such as Atlantic Bottling Company, have donated floor hockey games and sticks to more than 100 schools in Iowa.

Additionally, the Iowa Wild continues to offer its Wild About Education school-day game, which saw over 13,000 area students in attendance last year.

More recently, the Iowa Wild began a newer program, called the Junior Crash Course, where kids between the ages of 4-12 who have never played hockey before receive free equipment and six on-ice skating sessions to learn the game and how to play. Capped at 50 participants, registration filled up in just 10 days. Fisher says it’s through programs such as these that hockey is gaining momentum locally.

“Building the game isn’t just about being on the ice, it’s about being involved in the community,” said Fisher. “Last year, through jersey auctions, events such as Pink in the Rink, and more, we were able to generate over $350,000 in charitable donations.”

Nationally, USA Hockey reports the same positive trend in overall sport participation. A current membership statistic shows growth not only in the number of players, but of coaches and officials, as well. From 2015-2017, USA Hockey reports a total growth of roughly 15,000 participants. In Iowa, almost 4,000 players are registered through USA Hockey, which doesn’t account for those learning the game through other opportunities.

“There’s a bigger hockey market here than people think,” said Fisher. “And we want to help keep it that way.”

The Iowa Wild is also beginning its Hockey Days in Iowa this winter with the Iowa Corn Association, which features an outdoor 3-on-3 tournament. And, through the Minnesota Wild Foundation, the Iowa Wild plans to start a sled hockey league in the late fall for paraplegics. With so many opportunities for community outreach, Fisher says the Iowa Wild players love to get involved whenever possible.

“Our guys enjoy going out and meeting the local fan base,” said Fisher. “They’ll try to present at the community rinks for ribbon-cuttings, depending on weather and our game schedule. But, the players also enjoy doing surprise youth drop-ins, where a couple team members crash local youth practices.”

As a whole, Fisher credits healthy relationships with corporate partners, as well as Central Iowa residents, for fostering the growth of hockey and how the Iowa Wild is able to give back.

“We’ve grown as the game has grown, and the community as a whole has jumped on board to help us build these new programs, especially the community rinks,” said Fisher. “We can’t wait to see everyone on the ice.”

Filed Under: Lifestyles, My City Tagged With: city of waukee, Community Ice Rink, hockey, ice skating, Iowa Wild, Wells Fargo, winter

Des Moines and Waukee Haunted Houses 2017

September 26, 2017 by admin

With the arrival of pumpkin season many of us are preparing for Halloween, which is a time to see adorable kiddos running around dressed up as Ninjago figures or a whole swarm of Elsa look-a-likes. Halloween for some is also the time to scare yourself silly with horror movies and haunted houses!

For those scream-seekers out there, we’ve compiled a list of the top haunted houses in the Des Moines area for you to visit!

Waukee Haunted House

Centennial Park Enclosed Shelter

Open: Oct. 27 & 28

Hours: 7:00-10:00 P.M.

Sponsored by the Waukee Park Board, this haunted house is an annual tradition! Come for a scare if you are brave enough!

Linn’s Haunted House

3805 6th Ave, Des Moines IA 50313

Open: Sept. 29-30, Oct. 6-7, Oct. 13-14, Oct. 20-31

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 7-10 P.M. / Fri & Sat 7-Midnight

Linn’s Haunted House is the oldest haunted house in town, which has been voted on for the top haunted houses in Des Moines!

Slaughterhouse

97 Indiana Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314

Open: Oct. 6-7, Oct. 13-15, Oct. 19-22 and Oct. 26-29

Hours: Fri/Sat: 7:00 P.M.-Midnight. Other nights: 7:00-11:00 P.M.

Slaughterhouse is a movie-style haunted house. The building was originally a real-life pig slaughter house adding to the horror!

Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park

4051 Dean Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50317

Open: Oct. 6-7, Oct. 13-14, Oct. 19-22, Oct. 26-29 and 31st

Hours: 6:45 P.M. to 10:30 P.M. Fri./Sat.; 8:30 P.M. Thurs./Sun.

Know as the Midwest’s largest and most elaborate Halloween Theme Park, with three haunted houses, two haunted walks, zombie paintball shoot bus ride and more!


So tell us, which haunted house had you screaming?

Filed Under: My City, PinPoints of Interest Tagged With: des moines haunted houses, Halloween, haunted houses

City Council Spotlight

September 11, 2017 by admin

There’s no shortage of Waukee residents who want to contribute to the growth and development of their community. But it’s no small thing to take the big leap into public leadership—making the decisions and guiding the city on the frontlines. Below, learn why three of our local leaders have chosen to serve our city.

Mayor Bill Peard

Bill Peard has been serving the city of Waukee for 18 years now, although serving as mayor wasn’t necessarily something he dreamed of for himself. “When my wife and I moved here, our son was nine months old,” he said. “As we got established and rooted down, I started helping out in different ways around the community.” Eventually, a friend of his suggested he run for city council, and his political career
began. When he reached his eighth year as a city council member, his friends and community members urged him to take the next step and run for mayor.

Mayor Peard didn’t have an agenda going into his service to the community, but he did have a vision. “We knew the school district was growing, and the city was going to follow suit,” he explained. “We had a really nice community back then and everyone knew each other. I wanted to see the sense of community continue despite the city growing and changing.”

Seldom do cities get to paint with a blank canvas, and Mayor Peard said that he’s been thrilled that the city of Waukee has had that opportunity. “Because we were seeing so much expansion, we started planning the community out and projecting into the future,” he said. “We planned well. We were a small town and we had assets to develop, and I think Waukee will be, and already is in some ways, the envy of other communities in the Midwest.”

In eight years on the city council and 11 years as mayor, Mayor Peard has learned at least one thing: “It’s not any one person that does it. It’s a lot of helping hands that make a community like ours,” he said. “What I’ve learned in leadership is to be inclusive and let people help. And to be thankful for the community leaders
and members of the community who have been very patient and supportive of us.”

Mayor Peard feels there is much for the residents of Waukee to look forward to in the next few decades. “I’m excited to see how things turn out in the next five, ten, 15 years,” he said. “It’s been an absolute honor to have the trust of the people of this city, and I am honored and humbled by the people who continue to choose me for leadership.”

Council Member Anna Bergman

Anna Bergman is a lifelong Waukee resident, part of the demographic that has seen the boom firsthand. “We didn’t even have 400 people in our class when we graduated,” she laughs, thinking of the now-huge graduating classes in comparison. Her parents still live in Waukee, near Bergman Riding Academy, which she owns. (She has 11 horses now, and she gives riding lessons to 25 students every week.)

Bergman works as an attorney with an MBA, and she brings a unique perspective to the board. In her practice, she works with businesses on insurance claims, worker’s compensation and more. “Not unlike other people, I have a small business here. But I’m the only one who has gone through the Waukee school system. I’m younger and I don’t have a family yet, so I represent a demographic that wants to start their life in Waukee,” she said. “Twenty years down the road, it’s going to be people from my generation living here and growing their families and careers.”

Bergman still remembers what it was like when the only options for ice cream were in the Triangle or the video store. “We want to maintain that small-town feeling as we grow and expand,” she says.

Appointed to the board in July of 2016, Bergman has wanted to be involved in politics all her life. “I grew up in a family that was heavily involved, and I was taught the importance of being a leader,” she said. The state and local level affects people’s daily lives, she explained, and she’s excited about making a positive impact.

Bergman is looking forward to seeing the continued commercial development of the city, which she sees as the focal point of the future. “We used to take Hickman everywhere, and back then it was just cornfields and a barren roadside,” she said. “Now, it gives me goosebumps to think about the growth and change in the city, and to see the new businesses and commercial development. This is our town, and this is what it’s grown into.”

More than that, Bergman is excited about the people who come to Waukee to make it their home. “The kind of people who want to come here are genuinely good people,” she said. “And the businesses here are committed and invested in the community. There’s something about this community that is really cool to be a part of.”

Council Member Charles Bottenberg

Like Bergman, Charlie Bottenberg comes from a service-oriented family. “We were taught to get involved and make it happen; you don’t just sit back and complain,” he said. “The expectation was that if we didn’t like how things were, we should get involved and change it.”

Bottenberg explained that he draws a lot of inspiration from his father, who has served as a church councilman, a Cub Scouts leader and a sports coach.

Bottenberg and his family have called Waukee home since 2006, and he began thinking about running for city council in 2015. But with a new business, a young family and his service as Board Chair of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, he decided to wait until the time was right before adding more to his plate.

Bottenberg was sworn in on February 6, 2017. In the first few months of service, he took a “watch and learn” approach to better understand how the council works together to accomplish the business of the city. “I wanted the lay of the land before taking any action—especially mid-term, when there’s so much going on,” he said.

Because he’s an attorney who has represented businesses in front of city councils around the state, Bottenberg has a unique perspective on how city governments work. “I’ve stood at the podium and made presentations to a skeptical city council,” he said. “Now I have the opportunity to blend those experiences.”

One major item on Bottenberg’s wish list is to see the implementation of an aquatic center. “Right now, families have to go to swimming lessons at the pools in Clive or West Des Moines,” he said. “I’d like to see an aquatic center here so our citizens don’t have to use the facilities of another city.”

Bottenberg also wants to see accessible government. “I want people to feel like they can call or lodge a complaint to a city or government official and feel like they’re being heard,” he said.

Because of Waukee’s different waves of development and the blending of long-time residents and new residents, there are differing interests and opinions to take into account. “We need to do a good job getting a consensus on the needs of the city,” he said. “There’s only so much we can do, and we need the input of the people who live here. I encourage anyone who has an issue to discuss or an idea to share to pick up the phone or email me and let me know what’s going on.”

Filed Under: My City Tagged With: city council

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