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WAUKEE PARK AMENITIES EXPAND IN 2020

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As the Waukee population keeps booming, so does the addition of new park amenities in the community. Three new local option sales tax-funded park projects took shape in 2020!

WESTOWN MEADOWS PARK officially opened to the public on June 1, 2020. This new neighborhood park is located at 2445 SE Willowbrook Drive in the Kettlestone Development.

“Like with any neighborhood park, families were eager for Westown Meadows Park to open. The June 1 opening day is also significant, as it was the day that all Waukee playgrounds reopened after extended closures caused by COVID-19,” said Waukee Parks & Recreation Director Matt Jermier. “Since then, we have seen consistent use of the park. We’ve heard a lot of great feedback, especially regarding the rubberized surfacing under the play structures.”

Westown Meadows features a playground, paved walking paths, landscaping, open greenspaces, a shaded picnic table area, parking and a restroom. It also includes a small spray pad, which will cool off kids in future summers. The cost of building this destination was $650,000.

Westown Meadows Playground

ALICE NIZZI PARK construction just wrapped up in October. Alice Nizzi was a Waukee community fixture who ran the famous Alice’s SpaghettiLand restaurant from 1947-1990. The design of this park is a nod to Nizzi’s legacy and the rich history of Waukee’s coal mining camps. 

“We took a very literal approach to this park—incorporating a spaghetti and meatballs theme to honor Alice Nizzi,” said Jermier. “It’s really fun to be able to tell the story of Alice’s SpaghettiLand and Waukee’s mining community through not only historic markers, but also the playground equipment itself. I would venture to say you’ve never seen another park quite like this one.”

The 3.17-acre neighborhood park, located at 715 NE Dellwood Drive, features a spaghetti and meatballs-themed playground, rubberized surfacing, sidewalks, a first-of-its-kind “Hyperloop” shade structure and historical elements. The approximate cost to build this park was $625,000. 

Alice Nizzi Park

GLYNN VILLAGE PARK consists of two components—Glynn Village Park South and the Glynn Village Trailside Amenity. The South project features a new neighborhood park at 2265 Warrior Lane with a playground, rubber surfacing, landscaping and a drinking fountain. While there is a private playground on the north side of Glynn Village, this new amenity will now serve the southern part of the development.

The Glynn Village Trail Amenity, located near the intersection of Brodie Street and Dunham Drive, was designed as a resting spot for families as they use the trails system. It includes play equipment, seating, trees and engineered mulch. 

“We envisioned families using the trail and stopping to climb on the rocks, crawl through the tunnels or take a walk on the balance beam,” said Jermier. “You’ll notice there are no restrooms at the Trail Amenity location as it is not designed for people to stay a long time. It is simply a quick play area for passersby.” 

Construction was completed on the Glynn Village Park amenities in October at an approximate cost of $535,000.

Glynn Village Park

With three park projects wrapped up in 2020, the focus shifts now to Triumph Park located in western Waukee, adjacent to the future Northwest High School. The 66-acre destination will feature a sports complex with 12 softball/baseball fields, practice areas, concessions, accessible restrooms, 800+ parking spaces, an 11-acre pond, greenspaces, trails and inclusive amenities.

The Waukee Betterment Foundation continues to raise funds for the 15,000-square-foot EPIC Inclusive Playground which will be situated near the Greater Iowa Credit Union Miracle League® Field and an accessible fishing pier. 

“We are thrilled to get the ball rolling at Triumph Park, pun intended,” said Jermier. “If 2020 taught us nothing else, it’s that access to stress outlets and engaging activities are key to wellbeing. Things such as playing in parks, taking a stroll on a trail, golfing or playing pickleball proved more important than ever. Waukee is lucky to be able to expand on those opportunities.”

Triumph Park

Triumph Park is expected to open in the spring of 2022.

Visit waukee.org/parks for more details about Waukee City parks.

Holiday Happenings 2020 : Kellyn Pappas

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It’s hard to believe, but the 2020 holiday season is fast approaching, in what has been a year of social distancing, masking and more uncertainty than most of us have likely ever experienced. Like everything else this year, the holiday season—and many of the traditional holiday events that come with it—will look a little different, and unfortunately, some events won’t be held this year at all. Just because we’re still in the midst of a pandemic, however, doesn’t mean there won’t be plenty to do in the metro over the holidays. Check out the list below and start planning your family holiday outings!

WinterFest on Wheels
Date: Friday, Dec. 4
Time: 6 – 8 pm
Location: Waukee Public Works Building, 805 University Ave., Waukee

The City of Waukee’s free, annual WinterFest celebration, normally held in Waukee’s historic Downtown Triangle, will go mobile in 2020. “We’re including many of the activities that families love during WinterFest, but they’ll look a little different this year,” said Danae Edwards, Waukee Parks & Recreation Supervisor. Families will drive through the Parks & Recreation bay at the Waukee Public Works building and receive treats and goodies from Santa Claus and his helpers. Participants won’t even need to leave their cars!  

Attendees will also have the chance to watch the holiday tree lighting via Facebook Live and watch the ice sculptor hard at work on his beautiful masterpieces at the Public Works building. Charter Bank and Waukee Parks & Recreation will sponsor the giveaway of more than 700 books to children up through ten years old at the event.

WinterFest participants can also participate in a community-wide holiday light competition!  Waukee homeowners will be able to enter their decorated residences into the competition, and participants will have the chance to drive around town and view houses on their own personal holiday light tour before voting.

Despite the alternative format, there will still be an opportunity to give back to the community during WinterFest, as always. Bring non-perishable food items or new, unwrapped toys to donate when you drive through. These items will be distributed to those in need throughout the community.

Christkindlmarket Des Moines (CDM) Curbside
Date: Virtual Market open Nov. 9 – 22; Curbside pickup Dec. 3 – 6
Time: Dec. 3: 5 pm – 8 pm
Dec. 4: 11 am – 8 pm
Dec. 5: 9 am – 6 pm
Dec. 6: 12 pm – 5 pm
Location: Principal Park, Des Moines (curbside pickup)

Due to the pandemic, the Des Moines European Heritage Association made the decision over the summer to take the popular Christkindlmarket, a German-inspired Christmas market, virtual this year. In a typical year, the open-air market features regional vendors selling handcrafted wares and European foods and beverages from traditional wooden stalls. This year’s event will feature an online marketplace instead, which will open Nov. 9 and can be accessed through a link on the CDM website. Customers can purchase their favorite handcrafted items—such as hand-blown glass ornaments, nutcrackers and steins—through 29 vendor stores in the marketplace. After making their purchases, customers can choose from four drive-thru pickup times Dec. 3 – 6, when they can stop by Principal Park and pick up their purchases.

While it’s difficult to replace the festive, in-person atmosphere of the traditional Christkindlmarket, Director Suzanne Hull notes that this year’s virtual market will feature 30 percent new vendors and says the ultimate goal of the event remains the same. “[Our] goal is to provide holiday cheer to central Iowans and support our long-standing vendors,” she explained.

Festival of Trees and Lights
Date / Time: To be determined

This popular annual event—the largest annual fundraiser for Blank Children’s Hospital and an event that has become the traditional kickoff to the holiday season—typically attracts more than 20,000 visitors during its five-day run. This year’s Festival will take place virtually, according to Dr. Steve Stephenson, president and COO of Blank Children’s Hospital. “Festival may look different, but we are working hard to ensure it will continue to be a family-friendly, full of fun way for our community to support Blank Children’s Hospital and kick off the holiday season,” said Stephenson in a statement on UnityPoint Health’s website.

According to the statement, organizers are currently exploring a Festival app, which could be downloaded for a small fee that would support the hospital. The app would include a variety of fun family activities, and of course, lots of the Festival’s signature beautifully decorated trees. More information will be provided as plans develop and the date gets closer.

Jingle in the Junction
Dates: Nov. 19, Dec. 3, Dec. 10, Dec. 17
Time: 5 – 9 pm each evening
Location: 5th Street, West Des Moines

Visit Historic Valley Junction beginning Thursday, Nov. 19, for Jingle in the Junction!  Take a free, horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Valley Junction, which will twinkle with over 150,000 lights. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, take in balloon art by Professor Von Air, and check out the ice carvings by Bill Gordish!  Visitors should socially distance and wear masks as appropriate.

Jolly Holiday Lights
Date: Nov. 27 – Dec. 30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)
Time: 5:30 – 10 pm each day
Location: Adventureland Park, Altoona

Entering its 25th year as Make-A-Wish Iowa’s largest fundraising event, Jolly Holiday Lights will once again delight families at Adventureland Park in 2020. Beginning Nov. 27, families can drive through Iowa’s largest lighting display, with more than 100 light displays over 2.5 miles. Tickets are $20 per car, or $40 if you’re planning to bring a limo or minibus, and customers can save $5 by purchasing their tickets by Nov. 25. Weekends are generally much busier than weekdays, so plan accordingly!

Living History Farms Family Christmas
Date: Dec. 5
Time: 12 – 4 pm
Location: Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Rd., Urbandale

Visit Living History Farms for a day of festive holiday traditions!  Families can participate in the holiday traditions of a Victorian Midwestern family in the 1876 Town of Walnut Hill. Enjoy music, dancing and cookie decorating, and do a little shopping in the MarketPlace Museum Store while you’re at it!  Visitors will be required to wear masks, socially distance and follow the prescribed one-way paths for foot traffic on-site.

Living History Farms will also be collecting new, unused winter weather gear, such as hats, mittens and coats, to support Youth Emergency Services & Shelter. Visitors can drop off their donations at the Visitor Center during the event.

Salisbury House Virtual Holiday Tea at the Castle
Date: Dec. 12
Time: 10 am – 1 pm (pickup of tea kits); 1 – 3 pm (virtual holiday tea)
Location: Salisbury House, 4025 Tonawanda Dr., Des Moines (for pickup of tea kits); The tea itself will be virtual

Des Moines’ Salisbury House offers visitors the chance to enjoy a proper English afternoon tea from the comfort of their own homes!  Customers can visit Salisbury House’s website to purchase a ticket for $40 ($36 if you’re a member), which will entitle them to receive a tea kit with all the trimmings, including two types of tea, finger sandwiches, tea cookies and more!  Ticket holders will be emailed a private website link ahead of the event. On Dec. 12, between 10 am – 1 pm, ticket holders can pick up their tea kits at the north door of Salisbury House. They can then use the website link to log on from 1 – 3pm to view the tea at the castle programming while enjoying their tea and goodies at home!  Ticket sales close Nov. 27, so make sure to snag yours before they’re gone!

Business Unusual : Kellyn Pappas

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The COVID-19 pandemic has left no area of life unaffected. The realities of social distancing, face coverings, virtual learning, and working from home have impacted us for months now. The persistent uncertainty has necessitated adaptation on everyone’s part—including local businesses, which, in some cases, had to close for extended periods and lay off workers.

But despite these challenges, Waukee businesses, with the help of the community, have adjusted to a “new normal” for both employees and customers.

When the pandemic arrived in Iowa, many of us worried about our own health and that of family and friends, and that was no different for Waukee businesses. “Our biggest concern was the health of our employees,” said Scott Politte, President at Stivers Ford Lincoln in Waukee. “The fatality rate had not been established in February or March, so there was a real fear of losing coworkers, or their family members and friends.”

Sean Gleason, chef and owner of Gastro Grub and Pub, and Janelle Holter, Vice President and Marketing Officer for Central Bank, both echoed Politte’s comments, saying that “keeping our staff and customers safe” was their primary concern during the early days of the pandemic.

The potential financial ramifications—for businesses and their employees alike—contributed to the stress. Gleason said Gastro Grub and Pub faced real worry about “how and if we were going to be able to survive the pandemic financially.” Politte said not knowing initially how Stivers’ business would be affected caused concern about “the livelihoods of all the families that depend on us to make a living.”  

Additionally, of course, the pandemic presented logistical and operational challenges for just about everyone. “We were consumed with creating ways to continue operations” once the pandemic hit, said Russell Vannorsdel, Vice President at R.L. Fridley Theatres, Inc., which manages the Palms Theatre & IMAX in Waukee. “Our biggest concern was how to handle fixed expenses and forced closure.”  Limited capacity, in addition to guests’ reluctance to congregate socially in large groups once things did reopen, complicated things further.

Everyone, however, pivoted quickly, adapting to the new and ever-changing realities of doing business during COVID. Cleaning schedules and procedures were increased and enhanced across the board. “We spent countless hours cleaning and creating protocols to ensure our guests’ and employees’ safety,” said Vannorsdel.

Fridley Theatres’ corporate Commitment to Communities pledge details protocols that have become increasingly familiar to the general public as the pandemic has progressed, including requiring face coverings in all common areas, practicing social distancing, and using credit cards for payment as often as possible. Once movie theatres were permitted to reopen, The Palms Theatres & IMAX took additional precautions, such as reducing auditorium capacity and spacing out feature start times to reduce overall congestion.

Stivers also increased its cleaning of high-touch areas and its sanitization of customer service vehicles, in addition to staggering schedules for employees and using PPE—“all the things everyone is now familiar with and generally practices every day,” said Politte. He commented that educating employees was the most important part of their battle against COVID-19. “Making team members aware of what best practices are” was crucial, including the potential impact of high-risk behavior away from work.

Central Bank took early steps towards increased contactless account openings and loan closings, according to Holter. “We invested in additional technology and digital resources to allow our customers to complete their banking from home or the office, during or after business hours,” she explained.

According to Gleason, Gastro Grub and Pub scaled-down staff, stocked up on PPE and disposable to-go containers and moved tables and chairs to increase space between customers once restaurants could reopen for dine-in service.

The “new normal,” of course, features constant masking and distancing at all locations, and challenges do continue. Gleason says the pandemic’s effect on the supply chain continues to affect their business. “It has been difficult to get the items we need to operate on a daily basis,” he said. “There are nationwide outages on products, both disposable and consumable.”

Vannorsdel said the lack of new movie releases remains an ongoing concern at the Palms Theatres & IMAX. “Hollywood continues to delay major releases,” he said. “I believe many guests are ready to come back to the theatre, but without major studio releases, it will be difficult to operate.”  

Amid the hardships, however, there have been bright spots. Holter says low mortgage rates continue to attract new home purchases and refinances, and Central Bank’s mortgage loan officers work flexible, extended hours to assist customers both face-to-face and remotely.

Politte appreciated the Paycheck Protection Program from the federal government and says Stivers was able to apply for and receive funds relatively quickly during the height of the uncertainty in the spring. “[The program] worked exactly as intended for us,” he said. “The PPP allowed us to keep full, 100 percent employment at a minimum of 85 percent compensation.”

Additionally, support from the community has proved crucial for these businesses. Gleason commented that although Gastro Grub & Pub is no longer as busy as it used to be, “our customers and community have, for the most part, been really supportive and understanding of the new hardships.”

Despite lower attendance numbers, Vannorsdel says theatre patrons understand the need for ongoing safety protocols and still manage to have a great time at the movies. “The guests that come out have been very respectful of personal space and have really enjoyed the overall experience,” he explained. He also commented that the theatre was “humbled” by the enthusiastic community response to their curbside concession offerings when they were forced to close in the spring. “We sold a lot of large popcorns,” he added.

We’re certainly still a long way from “business as usual.”  But with continued community support, Waukee businesses will undoubtedly continue to persevere, despite the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic presents along the way.

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

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Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee will host the 8th annual Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 4:00 p.m. The tour will take place virtually. This event is open to the public and will highlight community information as well as business, school and residential development. Registration is required. To register, please visit our website at waukeechamber.com. Please contact the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce with any questions at 515-978-7115 or info@waukeechamber.com.

Waukee YP
Waukee Young Professionals (Waukee YP) is a committee of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, connecting and providing growth opportunities for young professionals who work or live in the Waukee area. Join us for the next Waukee YP Casual Coffee or Social!  

New Businesses
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce has welcomed 23 new members this year! Recent Waukee business openings include The Nest Pediatric Dentistry, Firestone Complete Auto Care, Fleet Farm, RE/MAX Concepts and Sleep Inn & Mainstay Suites!

In addition, Timberline Family Dental recently held a groundbreaking ceremony with plans to open in the spring of 2021. Please check our calendar at waukeechamber.com for other events and join us to help our new business owners feel welcome in Waukee!

Three Investing Mistakes To Avoid During Uncertain Times

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Investing in the stock market provides you with an opportunity to put your money to work.  Historically, the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index has returned close to 10 percent on an average annual return.1 Of course, past performance is no guarantee of future results. But most investors fail to take full advantage of this opportunity. In fact, they often earn considerably less than the average market return.

A recent report from DALBAR Inc. showed that the average investor in 2018 lost twice the amount of money compared to the S&P.  For example, the average investor lost 9.42% in the S&P 500 index which only was down 4.38%. Even during positive months like August of 2018 when the S&P was up 3.26%, the average investor could not beat the market. 2 

Why does this happen? There are three big mistakes investors tend to make—over and over again.

Mistake #1: Trying to time the market.
It’s impossible to predict when you should sell ahead of a downturn or start buying before a resurgence. When investors try to time the market, they often miss the mark, buying high or selling low — or both. In the process, they negatively affect their potential return.

People who think they know that the market is about to drop (or make a comeback) may be kidding themselves. No one knows for certain what will happen next. What is predictable is that the market will experience periodic volatility.

So instead of trying to time the market, you can plan for volatility by engaging in a long-term investment strategy and using dollar-cost averaging — purchasing a certain amount of an investment on a set schedule. That way, you’ll be purchasing more stock when the price is low, less when the price is high. Of course, a program of systematic investing does not ensure a profit or protect against losses in declining markets. An investor should consider his or her ability to continue purchases during periods of declining prices, when the value of their investment may be falling. 

Mistake #2: Reacting emotionally.
Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors ever, famously advised against letting emotions sway investment decisions when he said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.” 3

It’s easy to feel confident and excited about investing when markets go up. It’s also natural to experience panic when markets drop and you start seeing losses in your portfolio.

But giving in to these emotions leads most investors to sell low (when the market goes

down, and people are worried about “losing” money) and buy high (when the market goes up, and securities are more expensive).

Mistake #3: Believing you know more than the market.
Most economists and financial experts believe the stock market is efficient. This means the prices of securities in the market reflect their actual value.

But some investors act on hunches and predictions about what the market (or specific securities within it) will do next. Remember that professional investors and fund managers have access to an incredible amount of information that they use to make investment decisions, and that information is not readily available to the average investor. 

The bottom line.
You can avoid these three common mistakes by contributing consistently to your investment accounts each month (regardless of what the market is doing), assuming that you can afford to do so, working with a financial professional who can keep you calm and thinking rationally when you want to react emotionally, and sticking to your overall financial plan and investment strategy — instead of trying to guess the next hot stock.

This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy by Josh Ervasti, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company and Registered Representative for NYLIFE Securities (member FINRA/SIPC), a Licensed Insurance Agency. NYLIFE Securities is a New York Life company. I am located at 4855 Mills Civic Parkway, Suite 200, West Des Moines, IA 50265. To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact Josh Ervasti at (515) 518-1632 or Josh@R2FinancialStrategies.com. 

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1Eric Reed, “What is the S&P 500 Average Annual Return?” Yahoo Finance, November 2019

2DALBAR Inc, “Average Investor blown away by market turmoil,” March 2019. https://www.dalbar.com/Portals/dalbar/Cache/News/PressReleases/QAIBPressRelease_2019.pdf 

3Adam Brownlee, “Warren Buffett: Be Fearful When Others Are Greedy, ” Investopedia, April 5 2019.  https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/012116/warren-buffett-be-fearful-when-others-are-greedy.asp

Try Our Online Library!

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The Waukee Public Library has just what you need to keep yourself and your family entertained! Our curbside pickup and return service is still available, but you can also check out our online library, which is free of charge to our cardholders—anywhere, anytime!

Look at all the ways you can use the library online!

DOWNLOAD EBOOKS AND AUDIOBOOKS – Waukee resident card holders have access to our entire Overdrive ebook and audiobook collection. The Libby app is the easiest way to get started with digital books and audiobooks. The Libby app is available for Android, iOS and Windows 10.

DOWNLOAD MAGAZINES – Download your favorite magazines from a variety of publishers and read them anytime, anywhere. Download the Flipster app today!

ONLINE LEARNING – Lynda.com has more than 12,000 courses, ranging from computer programming to project management, including instruction on various computer software, programming languages and business topics. The video courses are taught by industry experts and are designed for any skill level.

LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE – Pronunciator offers over 80 languages, including ESL. Courses are available for English speakers or for native speakers of 50 other languages. Learn on a desktop or access Pronunciator from your mobile device.

EXPLORE HISTORY – Check out Heritage Quest at home; it’s a genealogy resource that contains census data, family records, local histories and documentary collections. Then explore Iowa history and genealogy through the historical newspaper archive from 1800-2018. This includes obituaries, birth announcements, sports articles and more.

Visit waukeepubliclibrary.org/online-library to find even more great options through our online library!

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

Women in Law Enforcement

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More Female Police Officers Join and Lead at the Waukee PD Than Ever Before

When Sgt. Mackenzie Sposeto joined the Waukee Police Department in 2007, she was the only woman on the force, which at the time comprised 10 officers. Fast-forward to 2020, and she is now the Community Outreach Sergeant and Public Information Officer, and the Waukee PD is now home to 26 police officers, six of whom are women. In addition to Sposeto, they include: Sgt. Kelli Cichoski, Detective Susan Williams, SRO Corby Robbins, Officer Kathryn Guess and Officer McKenna Olberding.

“I think female officers are so essential in law enforcement because we offer different ways of dealing with conflict,” said Sposeto. “We may not all have the physical strength of men, but we have bravery, creativity and verbal skills, which all make women a great fit for the law enforcement profession.”

Sposeto was the department’s first woman to be promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2015. Just recently, Sgt. Cichoski became the second. Police Chief John Quinn said those promotions were well deserved, regardless of gender.

Sgt. Mackenzie Sposeto

“Diversity in the workforce certainly is a priority at the Waukee PD,” said Quinn. “However, hiring quality individuals who have a passion for service and a dedication to the department’s mission of community-oriented policing is imperative. All of our female officers were the top candidates when they were hired and have proven themselves as true leaders.”

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 12 percent of all local U.S. police officers in 2013 were female. That number was up from only 8 percent 25 years prior in 1987.

A University of Northern Iowa and Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) graduate, Officer Corby Robbins joined the Waukee PD in 2018 after more than a decade in other law enforcement agencies. This fall, she is taking the reins as a School Resource Officer for both Timberline and South Middle Schools. She said she’s been lucky in her career to be accepted by most of her male counterparts.

Officer Corby Robbins

“I believe women make great officers because we are inherently patient and willing to listen,” said Robbins. “Maybe that is the mom in me coming out. I would tell any woman looking to come into law enforcement that now is a perfect time. A lot of the old stigmas have been broken and women are doing great things in this profession.”

Waukee Detective Susan Williams joined the Waukee PD in 2014. She earned a degree in criminal justice from Buena Vista University and graduated from ILEA. She was also a collegiate athlete and said that experience helped prepare her for the discipline and team-focused environment at the Waukee PD. Williams is proud to be a part of diversifying the police force. 

Detective Susan Williams

“Women tend to do the job differently than men; not better or worse, just differently,” said Williams. “Gender doesn’t matter; what matters is that the officer is compassionate, understanding and fair. Diversity is essential because it helps people relate to police.”

In 2019, the Waukee Police Department responded to 13,639 calls for service. So what inspires these disciplined women to put on the badge every day? 

“On Sept. 11, 2001, I was sitting in a criminal law class at ILEA shortly after graduating from Iowa State, when an instructor informed us that the Twin Towers in New York City had just been hit by airplanes,” said Sposeto. “We all sat in silence and watched as the destruction unfolded. I knew right at that moment that I had made the right career choice—one where I would be keeping people safe.”

Sgt. Kelli Cichoski

“I chose law enforcement because I look up to my brother very highly and saw how much he enjoyed the law enforcement profession,” explained Williams. Through shadowing him and going on ride-alongs, I saw the satisfaction that comes from helping people and I knew this is what I wanted to do.”

Officer Kathryn Guess
Officer McKenna Olberding

Regardless of the reasons, these women and the rest of the Waukee Police Department team members work hard around the clock to help keep Waukee’s crime rate low (1.52 per 1,000 for violent crimes and 11.69 per 1,000 for property crimes), provide outreach opportunities to members of the public, keep schools safe and conduct quality investigations. 

Faces of Waukee : Erin Good

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Where did you grow up? 
I’m originally from Clive.

Tell us about what you do.
I’m a registered and licensed Hy-Vee dietitian with 8 years of experience. I counsel customers on a variety of dietary needs, including heart disease, high blood pressure, weight loss, diabetes, food allergies, and more. I also provide personalized nutrition tours, hands-on cooking classes for adults and kids, lunch ‘n’ learn presentations and biometric screenings at Waukee Hy-Vee, and the surrounding community.  I’m an active member of the Iowa Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, where I serve as a media spokesperson providing credible nutrition information (both in-person and virtually).

What made you want to become a dietitian? 
During my freshman year at Waukee High School, I took health class and started strength training for varsity cheerleading. As my interest in exercise grew, so did my love for nutrition and fueling my body with healthier foods.

I enjoy providing inspiration, motivation, and direction to help people become healthier (both mentally and physically). There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing an individual (or entire family) make sustainable and positive lifestyle changes without depriving themselves.

What’s your favorite thing about working in Waukee? 
I enjoy working with the wide variety of people in Waukee—from children to older adults to student-athletes and even entire families ready to make healthier lifestyle changes. I also love the long-lasting customer relationships I have in this community. I enjoy hearing from my previous clients who once struggled with their health now finding success with their improved overall diet on which I coached them.

Do you have some simple healthy-eating tips you can share with our readers?
Mental health is just as important as your physical health. Find your favorite ways to destress weekly (like yoga, massage, walking, reading, or simply calling a friend)! While short-term stress can help give you a burst of energy and focus to complete deadlines on time, it’s important to avoid prolonged periods of stress. Chronic stress may weaken your immune system, increase blood pressure and blood sugar/worsened diabetes, and lead to unintentional weight gain. Stock your kitchen with nuts, steam-able veggies (edamame is one of my favorites), fresh fruit, and whole-grain crackers or popcorn. These foods will help keep you full and satisfied longer while providing essential vitamins and minerals for extra support during stressful times.

Mental Health: Now More Than Ever

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We all likely had our own ideas of what 2020 would look like—maybe for the world, and certainly for ourselves. Then, barely three months into the year, the world as most of us knew it turned upside down. The COVID-19 pandemic has consumed everyone’s 2020. From kids attending classes virtually, to their parents working from home, to face masks becoming ubiquitous, life now looks very different than it did at the start of the year. And with no end to the pandemic currently in sight, even the calmest among us are facing challenges to our mental health like we may never have experienced before. So how do we combat the ongoing uncertainty and anxiety?

According to Jim Wilwerding, licensed mental health counselor with New Heights Counseling Resources in Urbandale, the pandemic presents unique challenges to our mental health. Foremost among these can be a feeling of powerlessness against a foe we can’t see, which therefore can feel too overwhelming to even contemplate. “There is this notion that COVID is everywhere, and we don’t know where it is,” he says. “Where do you turn?  How do you manage something that’s so big?  It’s just too big to comprehend.”  

The measures required for public safety—social distancing, wearing face coverings in public, and the need to stay home and limit close contact with others as much as possible—can lead to feelings of isolation, which only compounds the struggle. As human beings, Wilwerding says, “we need interaction—particularly three-dimensional interaction.”  Phone calls, FaceTime, and Zoom meetings can bridge the gap, but the way our brains are wired, says Wilwerding, two-dimensional interactions only go so far. “There’s something about being in the same space,” he says.

It makes sense, then, that one of the most effective ways to cope with COVID-related anxiety or stress is to prioritize ways to get those in-person interactions with people, especially loved ones. “We all get kind of closed into our own worlds,” Wilwerding says. “Can you find someone you can have face-to-face interaction with?”  Additionally, one of the safest ways to interact in person with others right now is to socialize outdoors, and going outside and getting fresh air into your lungs is another one of the best ways to buoy your spirits. 

“I’ve been recommending to a lot of folks—get outside, get some exercise, get some sunshine on your face,” says Wilwerding. Whether it’s a socially-distanced happy hour in a parking lot with coworkers, or just an impromptu chat with a neighbor from six feet away, finding ways to interact in person with the people around us can go a long way toward alleviating feelings of anxiety and isolation.

In addition to three-dimensional interaction with others, putting a high priority on getting accurate information regarding the coronavirus itself can be crucial to your mental well-being. The mere fact that this is a virus we’ve never encountered before can be anxiety-inducing on its own. “[The virus] is novel—we don’t know a lot about COVID-19,” Wilwerding says. He points out, however, that it can be useful to think back to our high school biology classes and remember how viruses work, and perhaps more importantly, how they don’t work. 

Additionally, it often feels like there is not only an overwhelming amount of information circulating about COVID-19, but sometimes contradictory information, which can make it difficult to distinguish facts from fiction. Wilwerding recommends limiting your intake of news and information about the virus to “real, solid sources of information.”  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center are two oft-referenced, reputable sources of information and statistics. Knowing the data and being armed with science-based facts and information can help you feel more in control.

That knowledge can be particularly helpful for supporting others around us, especially our kids. Wilwerding says children can be just as confused and concerned by the situation as adults are, particularly as everyone navigates returning to learn in a very different environment than in the past. “We have to be careful of what we’re asking kids to process,” he says, particularly younger children. “A lot of it is beyond their capabilities for processing.”  The key with small children is keeping things simple. Kids generally have a good grasp on the concept of germs and the importance of washing their hands. Just don’t overwhelm them. “Simple answers, simple questions,” says Wilwerding. 

Helping teenagers cope during this time follows a similar line. Wilwerding points out that adolescents, who tend to be major users of social media in particular, often have more information than the adults in their lives do. Where parents can help is making sure their kids are processing all that information effectively. “Sure, you can have all this info,” he says, “[but] how do you effectively interpret it [and] process it in a way that’s not overwhelming?”  Since adolescent brains are not yet fully equipped to think critically about what they’re taking in, or about the consequences of their actions, parents should make sure to put boundaries in place to ensure their teenagers aren’t unnecessarily putting themselves or others at risk. “Just because all your friends ‘seem’ safe, doesn’t mean you can go have a sleepover,” says Wilwerding. 

Parents should also keep in mind that the same coping strategies that can help them, can help adolescents too. Make sure your teenager gets the opportunity to go out and get their exercise, says Wilwerding, “even if it’s just running around the block.”  Ensuring that they’re connecting safely with friends can help combat feelings of social isolation and boredom.

Of course, colder weather will soon be upon us, and that means the advent of flu season, in addition to the ongoing pandemic. With so much uncertainty around public health, in addition to the stress of what will likely be a contentious election season, watching the evening news these days often feels more depressing than ever before. Is it possible to remain upbeat in the midst of what can seem like an overwhelming amount of negativity?

Wilwerding says yes—it just takes some perspective. “The thing about times like these is that there have always been times like these,” he says. In situations like this, where there is not yet an end in sight and where not much is certain, there can be value in following the oft-quoted advice to “keep calm and carry on,” says Wilwerding. “I tell folks all the time: There’s no such thing as a thought that lasts forever or a feeling that lasts forever.”

Although there will almost certainly be permanent changes to the way we live due to this pandemic, Wilwerding says if you can cultivate and sustain hope, you can make it through even the most trying of circumstances. “I really like the word hopeful,” he says. “It’s not just being positive, not being Pollyanna [or] overly optimistic. To me, hopeful says: In the end, it’s going to be alright.”

Reggie Bell Named Waukee’s 2019 Citizen of the Year

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Waukee Mayor Courtney Clarke named community advocate and military veteran Reggie Bell as Waukee’s 2019 Citizen of the Year. The Citizen of the Year honor is given each year to an exemplary resident who represents the true spirit of community service.

Bell was selected as the 2019 Citizen of the Year in March; however, the acknowledgement process was delayed due to social distancing guidelines. He will be honored at the December WinterFest celebration and at the January 2021 Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner. He will also be presented with a City of Waukee proclamation and plaque and will receive a local business prize package from the Chamber.

“When the selection committee and I reviewed award submissions, we were so impressed with the level of community service Reggie has provided to Waukee,” said Mayor Clarke. “Not only has he sacrificed in serving our country, but he initiates continual outreach to underserved groups in and around Waukee. We thank him greatly for showing us what can be achieved with selfless giving of one’s time and talents.”

Bell spent many of his formative years in Kansas City public housing. He then served in the U.S. Army for 22 years. He, his wife Sherry and their two daughters moved to Waukee in 2007. Since then, he has been busy inspiring other community members, such as Ellen Pieper, who nominated him for this award.

“Although Reggie is now 63, diabetic and has multiple artificial joints, he’s still constantly looking for and initiating activities to raise awareness of other people’s needs,” said Pieper. “Better yet, he follows through on these activities by providing necessary approvals, print materials, collection bins, eye-catching decorations, transportation and more.”

Many people know Bell from his volunteer and fundraising work with the Waukee American Legion, as a greeter at the Waukee Family YMCA or as a member of the Mu Omicron Chapter of Omega Psi Phi. He also assists with Cornerstone Church’s Hot Dog Ministry in Des Moines, which delivers hot dogs and snacks to homeless shelters and encampments. He supports the Single Parent Provision, leads socks and snacks drives for deployed members of the U.S. military, collects food and necessities for the homeless and low-income, opens his Thanksgiving table each year for those who are alone, and serves with local non-profits Garden Gate Ranch and Leading With Power.

“I’m truly humbled by my recognition as Waukee’s Citizen of the Year,” said Bell. “I have a heart for helping others. I grew up with a mother who always reached out to help the less fortunate, even when her own circumstances were not good. A quote that comes to me in these trying times was written by Charles Dickens: ‘No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.’”

Bell said he and his family found a safe, affordable community in moving to Waukee and that he loves all of the friendly people in town. “My family continues to thrive here, as do many people,” he said. “As Waukee becomes more diverse, we must embrace one another, love one another and respect one another.”

A fan of famous quotes, he added Coretta Scott King’s words of wisdom: “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

The City of Waukee and the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce collectively thank Reggie Bell for sharing his commitment to service, his smile and his compassion throughout Waukee and beyond.

The Waukee Citizen of the Year program is a joint effort between the City of Waukee and the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce to recognize Waukee residents for dedicated volunteer efforts that lead to making Waukee a great place in which to live, work, play and learn. The selection committee consists of Waukee’s mayor and representatives from the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, Waukee Area Christian Services and the Waukee Family YMCA.

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