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Faces of Waukee : Gray Fredericks

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Where did you grow up?
I was born in New Haven, Connecticut, but I spent most of my formative years between Anaheim, California, and Grand Prairie, Texas. 

Tell us a bit about Waukee Christian Church.
Waukee Christian Church (WCC) is a congregation organized under the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) denomination. As a smaller congregation, a visitor can expect warm welcomes from everyone they meet and opportunities for involvement and volunteerism in the local community. We are the hands and feet of Christ, and we seek to serve Waukee as such. 

When did you find your calling?
I found myself volunteering in a church in 2014 supporting Family Promise, a Colorado Springs-based charity that assists homeless families. One thing led to another, and I was asked to begin leading and teaching in the congregation. Then, when I wrapped up my Bachelor’s degree, I applied to Lexington Theological Seminary and was accepted.

So much of the church-going experience is centered on gathering together.

How has WCC adapted during this pandemic?
At first, we closed down entirely. But then we got creative and taped off pews, made gathering-limit rules, began holding outdoor services, etc. But as Fall approached last year, and things got really bad here in Iowa, we moved to an all-digital platform. We had to learn a lot on the way, but eventually, we were able to create a worship service of which we’re all very proud. We even do Sunday school classes online now! We understand caution in a global pandemic is not a failure of faith, but an opportunity to meet God in creative ways. 

Some of our neighbors need help now more than ever. Would WCC like to call attention to any particular forms of community outreach?
We partner with Waukee Area Christian Services to ensure our neighbors are fed. This past winter, we donated several hundred pounds of food to the food bank as a Christmas offering. We also regularly gather hats, gloves and mittens for local Waukee students who might find themselves without what they need to keep warm. The work of Justice cannot be done through words alone; we strive to represent Christ’s radical generosity and concern for those marginalized people with whom we share space. Action, we believe, is the most sincere form of prayer. 

Any big plans for Easter?
COVID remains one of those uncertainties in our congregational life. We hope to do something special for the kids, maybe an Easter egg hunt or some outdoor crafts, but if it risks their health and safety, it wouldn’t be worth it. Throughout the pandemic, our incredible Sunday School team (Shari Burgus, Janelle Taylor and Holly Showalter) have found creative solutions to reach kids from a distance. Each week they prepare a Sunday School kit with games, snacks and important spiritual lessons that the kids can reflect on throughout the week. If we cannot meet by Easter, I have no doubt our Sunday school team will make it something amazing for the kids. 

How can our readers learn more about Waukee Christian Church?
Visit WaukeChristianchurch.com or check us out on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. If you have any questions about our programs or want to know more about how you can serve your community, please email us at waukeechristianchurch@msn.com.

Three Ways to Fix Healthy Eating Slip-Ups

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It shouldn’t be a shock that we nutrition experts don’t always follow our own advice for healthy eating. After all, we’re only human. We lead busy lives, don’t always have time to cook, and we give into temptation, even when it comes to food. Despite that, we ultimately follow two important guidelines: everything in moderation, and get back on track ASAP.

Here are three ways I fix healthy eating slip-ups.

SLIP: Eating in front of screens. 
FIX: Eat at the dinner table. Distracted eating often leads to overeating or feeling less satisfied. Step away from the computer screen or cell phone, and avoid standing up in the kitchen to eat your meal. Use a chair, plate and fork for best results.

SLIP: Not hydrating properly.
FIX: Hydrate regularly with water throughout the entire day. Take a reusable water bottle with you, just as you would your wallet. Take notice, are you more likely to drink ice-cold water vs. room-temperature? Remember, we often confuse dehydration for hunger. Also, don’t forget to check your urine color for extra feedback and accountability.

SLIP: Getting overwhelmed by meal prep.
FIX: Focus on a well-stocked pantry and kitchen. Spring-clean your diet and kitchen pantry while leaving the heavy comfort foods behind! Let your Hy-Vee dietitian take meal planning off your plate with our four-week menu program, Healthy Habits. This menu program outlines what to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, and comes with an easy-to-follow grocery list.

Connect virtually with Erin today or follow her on Hy-Vee’s YouTube Channel – Hy-Vee Healthy You – for weekly meal inspiration at www.youtube.com/hyvee 

Erin Good, RD, LD
Hy-Vee Inc., Registered Dietitian
egood@hy-vee.com 

Ash N’ Dash at Waukee Christian Church

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Since the COVID-19 pandemic kicked off in March 2020, Waukee Christian Church has sought ways to worship and serve the community with creativity and caution.

This Ash Wednesday, they are pulling out all the stops to serve the people of Waukee who are seeking blessings and comfort as a pandemic-laden Lent kicks off for the second year in a row.

On February 17, 2021, the public is welcome to drive through WCC’s parking lot, receive a blessing of ashes and a complimentary cup of coffee, courtesy of Fredrichs Coffee. 

DETAILS
  • ASH ‘n’ DASH
  • Wednesday, February 17
  • 7-9 a.m.
  • 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Waukee Christian Church
  • Highway 6 at T Avenue
  • Waukee, Iowa
  • At the church parking lot circle at the front door. Ashes may be applied to your forehead or the back of your hand. Complimentary coffee will be provided by Friedrichs Coffee Roastery.

Learn more or interact:
https://www.facebook.com/WaukeeChristianChurch/


Make Your Health #1 in 2021

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The average American diet is more unbalanced than ever, resulting in a diet that is low in fruits and vegetables and high in saturated fat, sodium and added sugars. But don’t derail your diet any longer! Hy-Vee Registered Dietitian Erin Good shares her secret weapon for weight loss and better overall health—Operation: Fiber Up! 

Fiber is a highly underrated nutrition powerhouse. Think about it: 

  • Want to lose weight? Eat more fiber. 
  • Looking to lower your cholesterol or achieve better blood sugar control? Eat more fiber. 
  • Sick of relying on powdery supplements to relieve constipation? Eat more fiber.  

Unfortunately, fiber isn’t nearly as sexy of a subject as protein, the keto diet, or even your new exercise regimen, but when only six percent of Americans* meet the recommended daily intake of fiber (25 grams for women and up to 38 grams for men), it deserves more attention from nearly everyone! 

Fabulous Tasting Fiber: A Delicious Upgrade From Cardboard

  1. Eating more fiber doesn’t need to be difficult or time-consuming. Nosh on a fresh pear (6 g fiber), one-third of an avocado (3 g fiber), or half a cup of canned black beans (7.6 g fiber) for an easy daily boost.
  2. What type of music best describes your eating habits? Hopefully, it’s not “pop.” Become the family “wokstar” in your kitchen and enjoy more homemade stir-fry! Simply pick your protein (such as chicken breast, shrimp or lean beef), pair with brown rice, and pile on the fiber-filled veggies (such as carrots, broccoli or cauliflower). Add a splash of lower-sodium soy sauce, sprinkle red pepper flakes, a squeeze of fresh ginger paste and ROCK ON! You’re now eating more fiber! 
  3. Veggies still not your jam? Then go nuts! Eating a one-ounce handful of almonds, pistachios or walnuts daily can easily add around three grams of fiber to your diet. Allergic to nuts? Snack on a serving of pumpkin seeds or steamed edamame for an extra two grams of fiber.  

Need more inspiration, motivation or clarification on what foods are best for a healthier you? Ask an expert! Your Hy-Vee Dietitian is highly skilled in providing you with the best tools to kick your old eating habits! Together let’s conquer your health goals! Connect with Erin virtually today.

Erin Good, RD, LD

Hy-Vee Inc., Registered Dietitian

egood@hy-vee.com 

*Source: Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee

Click to access PartD_Ch1_CurrIntakes_first-print.pdf

Give Love : Kellyn Pappas

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Unrest continues nationwide in response to the death of George Floyd and the larger discussion regarding racism and police brutality in our culture. However, there have also been numerous instances of communities coming together in the wake of the turmoil. One such event took place right here in Waukee on June 12.

Waukee resident Erin Dahl was one of the primary organizers of the Give Love event, which took place in the Glynn Village neighborhood of Waukee, just west of the Waukee Police Department on SE LA Grant Parkway. “Waukee Elementary School has a slogan: ‘Give love.’ They always teach kindness,” said Dahl. “I borrowed that idea to give love to the families struggling in the neighborhood. I wanted them to feel our arms around them.”

Dahl said it was particularly important to involve the neighborhood kids in the event. “Our children have been so blessed to have grown up with kids of every color as their friends. Most of our children have close friends and neighbors of color, so they have a hard time understanding why racism even exists. It was difficult to explain this to them and hard to talk about.”  

According to Dahl, it was just as important to include law enforcement officers in the event. “We know that our officers here in Waukee are part of our community,” she explained. “Their children go to school with our children.”

The event was intended to foster unity in the face of apparent division. “I thought this demonstration of unity could comfort families of color who are worried for themselves and their children, as well as officers in our neighborhood,” said Dahl. “Both sides needed comfort, and both sides are loved, valued and appreciated here.”

For the Give Love event, Glynn Village residents and Waukee community members were encouraged to decorate their driveways with messages of love and peace. Dahl commented that people began decorating early in the morning on June 12. “We started posting photos, and the excitement grew,” she said. She added that the sidewalk and driveway decorating was a great way to get kids involved, as well. “The sidewalk decorating was a perfect way to bring children into a positive, productive demonstration of caring,” she said.

At 7 p.m. on June 12, drone footage captured more than 50 people taking a knee (while social distancing) in memory of George Floyd. Dahl made a Facebook Live video as the community observed 8 minutes and 46 seconds of silence. Afterward, “I called for unity [and] expressed my heartfelt love and appreciation for all and that together, we can get through this,” she said.

Dahl said the response has been positive. “There were so many families that reached out to say how much this meant to them. Many families of color were so kind with their words of encouragement and hope,” she said. She went on to say she hopes that everyone—children and adults alike—goes forward knowing that there are ways to turn a divisive issue into one that brings people together instead.

“Another quote they use at Waukee Elementary is ‘Seek first to understand,'” she said. “If we can listen long enough to understand the point of view of both, we can see the big picture. We can find a common ground,” she explained.

Dahl said she hopes the Give Love event demonstrates the value of community, particularly to the children involved. “I hope our children see that even in a pandemic, we can do something,” she said. “We can help in positive ways, even when the world seems crazy and scary. I hope our neighbors see that we love them and support them, regardless of our differences. I hope they see that community comes from these moments when we pull together.”

Waukee Lacrosse

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With spring comes the usual sporting events—track meets, golf, and soccer, baseball and softball games.  And as of last year, there’s another option for Waukee athletes: lacrosse.

Lacrosse, which has its origins in various Native American communities, is the oldest team sport in North America.  It existed primarily as a regional sport until roughly 50 years ago, centered in the Mid-Atlantic states. Throughout the last few decades, however, the sport has grown markedly in popularity and has spread throughout the United States.  According to a US Lacrosse survey from 2016, there are now more than 825,000 participants nationwide—an increasing number of which are right here in Waukee.    

Getting the Waukee Lacrosse program up and running involved a tremendous amount of time and effort, according to Michelle Hilsabeck, one of the program’s executive board members. Until last year, interested players would join the very successful West Des Moines Tigers team.  As the sport has grown in the metro, however, the West Des Moines club expanded to the point where it made sense to create another program.

“Waukee was a significant ‘feeder’ city to that program, so it became the logical place to start the next club,” said Hilsabeck.

Adhering to the parameters from the Nebraska Lacrosse Association (the club’s governing organization), organizers began the process of creating a non-profit and finding a board for the club.  Once that had been accomplished, the group was charged with creating budgets, securing funding for uniforms and equipment, finding practice space, creating a game schedule, finding coaches and recruiting players—a process that didn’t happen overnight.

“Some folks from the West Des Moines club and a group of Waukee parents worked for months to get everything ready for the season,” said Hilsabeck.  “2018-2019 was a time of rapid learning.”

But learn they did, and Waukee Lacrosse is now entering its second year.  The program is already seeing a jump in numbers, drawing players from not only Waukee, but Johnston, Urbandale, Grimes and other locations.  According to Hilsabeck, there were over 80 players in the program last year.

“We’re already nearing those numbers [at this point], with registration having only been open for a month,” said Hilsabeck.  Throughout the state, the program had over 500 kids playing last year—a mark they are on pace to surpass. 

Since lacrosse isn’t yet a school-sanctioned sport in Iowa, the program is 100 percent club-based.  “We’re anxious for the growth necessary to get this sport into the schools,” said Hilsabeck.

High school players begin indoor practices in January and move outdoors as soon as weather allows, according to Hilsabeck.  The lacrosse season is a quick one—games begin at the end of March and continue through April. Locally, Waukee will play West Des Moines, Ankeny and Ames.  They will also take on nine teams from Nebraska over the course of the season.

Also on the agenda for the future is the addition of a girls’ program in Waukee.  Currently, the program supports four levels of boys’ teams: high school-age, 14 and under, 12 and under, and 10 and under.  “We’re really interested in getting a girls’ program going again at Waukee,” said Hilsabeck.

Lots of additional infrastructure will be required to achieve that goal, including finding additional coaches and referees, securing more field space and recruiting enough players to field a team.  Currently, interested Warrior women play with the very competitive West Des Moines Tigers team, explained Hilsabeck.

For a sport that perhaps doesn’t have quite the local history of track and field or baseball, lacrosse is certainly emerging as a popular new option for young metro athletes.  Hilsabeck thinks the fast-paced, physical nature of the sport appeals to players and spectators alike.

“Lacrosse gives [players] an outlet where many of the skills they have—running, catching, throwing—can be combined with some different equipment to create a new experience,” she explained.  “I think there are many kids interested in trying something different.”

With burgeoning registration numbers and growing buzz, it’s likely only a matter of time until lacrosse becomes part of the roster of spring sports at area schools.  In the meantime, Waukee Lacrosse’s club season kicks off Sunday, March 29, against Elkhorn South, with an additional JV game later the same day against Northstar, both at Waukee High School Stadium.

How to Stick to Healthier Habits, with Erin Good

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January 1, 2020 marks the beginning of not only a new year, but a new decade. And of course, New Year’s brings with it the traditional resolutions—for many of us, they include eating better and exercising more.  However, it’s also notoriously difficult to stick to these resolutions.

According to U.S. News & World Report, the failure rate for New Year’s resolutions is around 80 percent, and most people have abandoned theirs by the middle of February—not exactly encouraging odds.  Even worse, the demoralized feelings this can cause can lead to a lack of motivation and confidence that can permeate other areas of our lives.

So, if we want to use the start of a new decade to make permanent, positive changes in our eating and exercise habits, how can we best set ourselves up for success? 

Luckily, Waukee Hy-Vee Dietitian Erin Good, RD, LD, has some great ideas.

Good, of course, is very familiar with the struggle to stay committed to healthier habits from her work in nutrition.  One thing she recommends to help you stay committed is adding the word “no” to your vocabulary, pointing out that “saying ‘yes’ to your New Year’s resolution may mean saying ‘no’ to something else.”

 “Say ‘no’ to a TV show to choose exercise, say ‘no’ to lunch out at work to choose bringing leftovers from home, [and] say ‘no’ to overcommitting yourself and instead keeping time for yourself and your needs, health and happiness,” she advised.

Two other strategies Good recommends for people working to implement new habits are to start small and consider convenience.  In terms of healthier eating, “Are you more likely to eat more vegetables if they’re already cut and cleaned for you?” she asks.  “Would you roast more veggies if all you had to do was toss them in oil and season to taste?”

Considering the simplest ways to make things more convenient can go a long way.  Frozen veggies—many of which are available in steamable packages that are ready to eat after five minutes in the microwave—are another easy way to work in more servings per day.  

According to Good, considering convenience can also be crucial when considering workout options.  She recommends finding a gym with a convenient location and drive time.

She also said that it pays to consider which forms of exercise are most motivational for you, and to determine whether you would benefit more from attending group classes or having a workout buddy for extra accountability.

In terms of healthy habits, the ones Good recommends to just about everybody are some of the most familiar.  Upping your water intake is one of them. She says you should aim to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily.  “Carry your water bottle with you everywhere, like you do your wallet,” she said.

And we could all stand to keep a close eye on our added sugar intake.  Many people are surprised to learn that the dietary recommendation for daily added sugar is no more than 25 grams per day.  (For reference, a 12-oz. can of Coke contains 39 grams. Yikes!)

To make things worse, added sugar can be found in items like salad dressings and pasta sauces, in addition to the usual suspects, like soda and candy.  Good recommends being thoughtful about how you spend your daily added sugar allowance, deciding whether you would prefer to enjoy it on things like candy, cookies or your favorite condiments.  Less added sugar means fewer empty calories, making it easier to keep off unwanted pounds.

Other habits Good universally recommends to clients include—yay!—sleeping more.  “Find two to three days per week that you can go to bed 15-30 minutes earlier, and/or wake up later,” she advises.  “Extra sleep equals extra control of your hunger hormones.” Think of this as permission to relax (and maybe sleep in) a bit more often.

Good also points out that being connected with others can help boost a healthy mindset.  “Surround yourself with friends, family and coworkers that have similar health goals as you,” she said.  It can be easier to stick to healthier habits when those around you are trying to do the same.

And of course, don’t be afraid to reach out for support when you need it. Committing to making healthy changes is difficult in the best of circumstances, and we could all benefit from added guidance now and then.  If you’re not sure where to start, or need more inspiration, motivation or clarification on which foods are best for you, Good recommends scheduling a free, personalized nutrition tour with your local Hy-Vee dietitian.

“Dare to do this new decade differently, starting with the foods you place in your shopping cart,” she said.  “Walk with a nutrition expert by your side aisle-by-aisle at Hy-Vee and find the best foods to keep you fit, focused and full of energy in 2020.”  

With some smart planning, support from the people in our lives and extra shut-eye, this can be the year our New Year’s resolutions finally stick.  Armed with these tips, you’ll be ready to commit to a healthier lifestyle as we head into a new decade!

Waukee Public Library – 90 Years and Counting

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Library celebrates its 90th anniversary of serving the community 

Waukee’s existing public library was formally established in 1929. That year, the Waukee Public Library opened its doors with 500 books, provided by the Traveling Library of the State of Iowa. In 1941, those books, as well as the library’s 190 permanent volumes, were lost in a fire. The library quickly reopened with just 150 books in the back room of City Hall (then located at 410 6th Street). This resiliency and ability to adapt to change is still alive today at the library.

As the Waukee Public Library celebrates its 90th anniversary, its collection sits at more than 40,000 print items. E-books and a vast array of online resources are also available to cardholders. Library Director Kristine Larson, who has been at the helm since 2014, says the library’s impact goes beyond checking
out materials.

“The library is much more than books; it’s a community space,” said Larson. “We have computers for public use, downloadable audiobooks, subscriptions to genealogy and research sites, and so much more. We serve Waukee residents daily by offering meeting room space, study rooms and workspaces. We’ve transformed our children’s area to offer hands-on learning centers and technology activities. Programs and events for all ages continue to fill up. It’s a much more interactive place than it was 90 years ago.”

That interaction is a big draw for residents. Library Board of Trustees President Jared Starkweather is not only an advisor for the library, he’s also a frequent visitor.

“We use the library on a weekly basis, said Starkweather. “
“The Waukee Public Library means a lot to my family and me.
We use the library on a weekly basis. We check out books to
work toward our 3-year-old’s ‘1,000 Books Before Kindergarten’
goal, we participate in the Summer Reading Program, and we check out movies for family movie nights. We also attend numerous events. The library is really an entertainment destination.”

Starkweather is not alone. More than 120,000 visitors flocked to the Waukee Public Library in 2018, and 2019 is on pace to surpass that number. Larson noted that staff members serve about 600 patrons a day during the summer months, and nearly 28,000 people annually participate in the library’s free programs, such as:

  • 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
  • Kids’ storytimes
  • Lego Club
  • STEAM
  • Teen programs and advisory board
  • Summer and Winter Reading Programs
  • Book Clubs
  • Local History Series
  • Sensory Spaces
  • Conversational English
  • Lunch & Learns
  • Movie Matinees

In 1990, the library moved into the former Waukee Christian Church building. The current Waukee Public Library building opened in March 2003 thanks to a $2 million City bond approved by voters. The Hal Manders’ Museum and the Coal Mine Museum were constructed as building additions in 2009 and 2013, respectively. 

With so much growth in Waukee and in library participation, building renovations were necessary to keep up. A new HVAC system was installed earlier this year, and interior improvements were made to the walls, floors, and furniture over the past two years. Larson said the need for future expansion is on the horizon.

“In order to keep up with the Waukee community’s demand for books, computers, meeting spaces and program spaces, the library will need a much larger building to continue to offer a high level of services and resources,” she said. “People may think libraries are fading, but in fact, many libraries are experiencing a significant increase in popularity, ours included.”

Starkweather said even during just four years as a board member, he has seen the high demand for services firsthand. He is incredibly proud of how library staff has risen to the challenge.

“Our circulation is growing, and our Summer Reading Program just had a record 3,000 people participate,” he said. “The library added wireless internet hotspots for check-out, increased children’s programs and STEM activities, opened an art gallery featuring local artist exhibits, began offering the Adventure Pass for free access to local attractions and so much more! It amazes me how much staff of 18 people can do to enrich the lives of so many people.”

With 90 chapters finished in this ongoing story, library board members and staff members encourage citizens to be a part of the next volume. 

The Waukee Public Library is located at 950 Warrior Lane. 

Information and an event listing can be found at waukeepubliclibrary.org. 

Read a book, learn a language, attend a storytime or meet new friends. at the library!

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. 

Community Spotlight: Prairieview Teacher Baedke Receives Excellence in Education Award

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The Waukee School District consistently ranks as one of the top school districts statewide, and the latest evidence of its merit was on display this past July at the Iowa State Education Association’s (ISEA) Celebration of Excellence Awards Banquet.  Prairieview Spanish teacher Kerisa Baedke was presented with the ISEA Excellence in Education Award, which celebrates educators across the state who touch the lives of their students on an everyday basis. The winner acts as ISEA’s nominee for the National Education Association’s (NEA) Foundation Awards for Teaching Excellence.

Now in her 31st year of teaching world languages, Baedke caught the teaching bug early on.  “I feel like I’ve been teaching most of my life,” she said. Both of her parents taught at UNI, and with two older brothers already in school, Baedke, who was still too young to attend, contented herself with playing school “all the time” at home.

During high school, she decided to study to become a world language teacher, initially planning to major in French.  On the advice of her mother—also a world language teacher—she decided to study Spanish as well, to make herself more marketable.

“My mom is very wise,” explained Baedke, “because all these years later, with a double major in French and Spanish, a teaching certificate, a semester studying abroad in Mexico, a year of teaching English in France, and a Master’s in Spanish, I am living my best life teaching young people language and culture!”

During that year in France, Baedke interviewed by phone for a position teaching French and Spanish at West Delaware High School and Middle School in Manchester, Iowa.  Not only was she hired, but her husband Bruce was also hired as the chemistry and physics teacher in the district. After teaching in West Delaware for five years, the Baedkes moved to the Des Moines metro area so that she could teach at Valley and he could teach at Dowling.  Baedke came to Prairieview in the fall of 2006 and is now entering her 14th year of teaching there.

Baedke is in her element at Prairieview.  The building is home to eighth and ninth grades, and she said she loves this because those are her two favorite grades.  She also praises the district as an excellent place to work and enjoys working with the students at Prairieview. “The students at Prairieview are incredible,” she said. “They’re kind to each other and they’re fun.  They want to learn and grow.” She also described the Prairieview staff as a family: “We strive to create a culture of love and respect that makes coming to Prairieview every day a joy.”

Clearly, Baedke’s appreciation of her students is mutual, as it was one of her students who nominated her for the Excellence in Education Award.  She received a call from Mike Beranek, the President of ISEA, in mid-April to inform her that she had won. “I was shocked,” she said. “I hadn’t known anything about the award and had to ask him several questions about it before I believed him…I still am rather flabbergasted, truth be told.  It’s a great honor, and at the same time, it’s incredibly humbling.”

Baedke’s colleagues aren’t as surprised as she was.  “[This] is a reflection of the impact she has on her students,” said Prairieview Principal Mark Stallman in a press release announcing her receipt of the award.  “We are so proud that she will represent Prairieview, Waukee and the state of Iowa as one of five national finalists for the Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence.”

As a finalist for this national award, Baedke will take an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, DC, in February for the National Education Association (NEA) Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Gala.  She is planning to attend with her husband and her mom. “We’re all very excited!” she said. “I’m looking forward to the event and to meeting all of the other teachers being recognized for excellence by their state education associations.”  

It’s safe to say that regardless of the outcome in Washington, DC, Baedke is already a winner with her students, her colleagues and the Waukee School District.  Congratulations! 

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