Features – Page 2

Business Unusual : Kellyn Pappas

November 24, 2020 by Darby Brincks

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.

Women in Law Enforcement

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

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.

“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.

“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.

“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.”

“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.”

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

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

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

November 23, 2020 by Kellyn Pappas

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.”

Give Love : Kellyn Pappas

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

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 Leadership Institute Profile : Kellyn Pappas

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

Over the past few years, miniature food pantries have sprung up all around the Des Moines metro. These small boxes, stocked with nonperishable food, are available any time of day for anyone in need—a small-scale way to help combat food insecurity in the community. Waukee residents will soon see these Little Free Food Pantries in their neighborhood as well, thanks to the recently-graduated Waukee Leadership Institute Class of 2020.

The Waukee Leadership Institute began in 2006 as the brainchild of Waukee’s former mayor Bill Peard and co-founder Larry Lyon. Both men were serving on the Waukee City Council at the time, and according to Peard, both thought the city of Waukee was in need of a way to “keep the leadership pipeline full”—not just for elected officials, but for community leaders, as well. The two created the program as a way to develop leaders through education, networking, mentoring and roundtable discussions.

A significant amount of time and effort went into developing the Institute, which is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. “It was a labor of love for a lot of people,” said Peard. “It’s truly a volunteer effort.” The founders took some cues from other leadership institutes in the area, but ultimately, Peard explained, “We kind of just jumped in the deep end of the pool and figured it out from there.” The Institute’s first class graduated in 2007.

Class members apply online each year over the summer and meet on a monthly basis from September to April. Each year’s class is capped at 20-25 people. “We feel that is a good size,” said Institute Board Director Terry Snyder, an Institute Class of 2012 graduate herself. “It’s not too big, not too small.”

Class of 2020 graduate Gretchen Stanger, who works as the Youth and Family Program Director at the Waukee YMCA, became interested after hearing about a coworker’s experience in the program the year before. “[She] shared her experience with me and it piqued my interest,” she said. Larry Hingst, also a 2020 graduate, had just accepted a new role as a sales manager at Gilcrest/Jewett Lumber Company in Waukee when he enrolled. “I was asked to enroll…about one week before it was going to start,” he said.

Fellow classmate April Samp, who worked as the News Director and creator of the We Are Iowa brand at WOI-TV Channel 5 and currently owns her own producing and consulting company, first heard about the Institute on the golf course. “I first heard about WLI from current President Rick Kyser in a fortuitous meeting on the Sugar Creek Golf Course,” she explained. “I was paired with Rick and his wife for a round of golf, and he talked to me about the program.”

Despite varying levels of familiarity with the Institute and with the curriculum, class members quickly realized they had made a good decision. “I quickly felt it would be a good fit, both personally and professionally,” said Stanger.

Hingst agrees. “Going in, I really did not know a lot about the program,” he said. “I realized this was going to be more fun and interesting than I had anticipated!”

Although class content has been refined somewhat over the years, the core components of the curriculum remain the same. According to Snyder, each class “learns how the Waukee city government works, how our economic development department attracts new business to Waukee, and how the school district handles the population growth of the city.”

Waukee’s mayor and city administrator are regular annual presenters, as is Waukee’s police chief, John Quinn, whose Introduction to Leadership class has become a staple on the schedule. Snyder commented that the curriculum has been enhanced over time, as well. “Former Governor Tom Vilsack presented for the class of 2020, and he is scheduled to present again [for] the class of 2021,” she explained.

A session on state government, presented by Iowa Senator Charles Schneider and Representative Kenan Judge, is also on the schedule for next year. The Institute has also added a class where representatives from a small, medium and large business in Waukee present to class members on their leadership style and how the size of their business impacts the way they lead.

Graduates have high praise for the class content and presenters. “I appreciated how carefully the topics and presenters were planned. It truly made for an immersive experience,” said Stanger.

Hingst said he learned a lot about the operations of the city government and was impressed by what he heard from presenters. “One of the things that really stood out [was that] the leaders that we have in our community really put the city first in their decisions,” he said. “That was refreshing to see.”

The capstone each year is a final project, the aim of which is to enhance the Waukee community. “We encourage the class to think outside the box and look around town and see what they think is needed,” said Snyder. Class members pitch ideas to one another and talk through the logistics of each one. Eventually, the class as a whole makes the final decision on which project they would like to pursue.

Past class projects have included the construction of the amphitheater in Centennial Park (Class of 2013) and the installation of bike ramps on Waukee’s bike trails (Class of 2016). After talking through numerous pitches, the class of 2020 decided to tackle food insecurity in Waukee by working with Waukee Area Christian Services (WACS).

A nonprofit outreach ministry supported by Waukee-area churches, WACS operates a food pantry, a free medical clinic, a community garden and additional seasonal and children’s programs that serve all of Dallas county and into the surrounding area, as well.

The project aimed to raise awareness in the community about food insecurity and elevate the impact of WACS. For starters, the group created a marketing toolkit for WACS to use to create marketing materials to reach out to volunteers, donors and clients. According to Samp, the group also engineered “a self-functioning…food donation network.”

This network is built around local businesses that agree to host month-long donation drives and then challenge another business to do the same in another month. “We also created a database of potential and current donors for [them] to use,” said Samp. Another major part of the marketing campaign was a short video the group produced for WACS to increase awareness of the services they provide. According to Samp, the video explains “not only what they provide, but also how people can help.”

The class also solicited materials and labor from local businesses to construct roughly half a dozen Little Free Food Pantries, which will be placed throughout Waukee in the coming months. The pantries provide “a way for people to get the basics without having to go into WACS,” said Samp. The group also aimed to raise funds for WACS, and although some of the group’s progress fundraising was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they still managed to raise over $4,700 by the time their efforts were slowed in March. “I am pleased our class remains committed to completing the project we began in September and I’m elated to witness our efforts take shape in the community,” said Stanger.

The impact of the Waukee Leadership Institute has certainly been felt throughout the city of Waukee over the years. “I think the class projects have made a great impact on the community,” said Snyder. She also points out the great leadership the Institute has produced, such as Class of 2007 graduate Chad Airhart, who is currently the Dallas County Recorder, as well as current City Council member Anna Bergman, a Class of 2017 graduate who recently ran for Iowa State Representative.

Peard agrees. The Institute has become a “definite part of the community,” he said.

That impact is felt by the Institute’s graduates, as well. Snyder enjoyed working with the Class of 2020. “They were all very professional,” she said, adding that she appreciated “their enthusiasm for the class and the project.”

Stanger explained, “The classmates were a delightfully diverse group of welcoming, goal-driven, inspirational, and community-focused leaders.”

Samp agrees. “I enjoyed collaborating with so many smart and caring people,” she said. “I appreciated the kind hearts and strong work ethic of the group.”

Hingst was inspired by presenters’ knowledge and dedication. “Waukee has some tremendous leaders, in our government and in the private sector,” he said. “They take great pride in our community, and this is awesome to see. It inspires me to get more involved.”

That impact was felt by Samp, as well. “My son and I are planning on volunteering more regularly at WACS,” she explained. “It has enriched our family life, as well.”

The Little Free Food Pantries represent the culmination of an experience that enriched the Class of 2020 not only professionally, but personally—an experience that has carried through to their lives after graduation. Stanger perhaps best sums up the impact: “I have developed invaluable relationships with my classmates and local business leaders, gained insight about myself, become more involved with the Waukee community, strengthened my leadership style and reinforced the ambition to be the most authentic version of myself.”

Faces of Waukee : Sara Kappos

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in rural Boone county, near Ledges State Park, the Iowa Arboretum and the 4-H Camp. I graduated from Boone High School and then got my civil engineering degree from Iowa State University.

You recently started a new position with the City of Waukee. Tell us about that.

I lead the city’s engineering, GIS and stormwater teams, and I oversee the construction of the development and capital improvement projects within the city.

Which projects are you most excited to tackle?

I am super excited for the construction of the stormwater improvements project at the Waukee Public Library this summer. In addition to the replacement and expansion of the library’s parking lot, which is much needed, there will be a new stormwater pond, permeable pavers and bioretention cells to improve water quality in the area.

What do you enjoy most about working in Waukee?

I’ve really enjoyed the positive working environment. Everyone works together as a team to get things done and seems to genuinely enjoy what they do. The days go by fast!

The world is far from normal right now. How have you and your co-workers adapted to social distancing and other measures during the current pandemic situation?

Luckily, my team is predominantly field-based, so they’re used to working out of their trucks! We’ve transitioned to working remotely, conducting meetings via Zoom, and limiting face-to-face interaction as much as possible. Part of what I love about my job is my co-workers and the feeling that we’re all one big team. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has limited our in-person interactions and eliminated our large group gatherings at public works, but I’m looking forward to reconnecting as a group when this is all over!

Let’s end on a high note! Do you have any special plans for this summer?

I’m hoping we get to take the family vacation we’ve planned in northern Minnesota in July. It’s something my family has done since I was a kid, and we enjoy lots of swimming, fishing, games and laughter, and just spending quality time together!

A Community Connected

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

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By: Elyssa Appleton

Life as we knew it changed on Sunday, March 15—one day before spring break. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds recommended closing all schools for four weeks, at least initially, and began an incremental shutdown of many businesses, while altering how some operated.

The pandemic may have put a major damper on activities, but it didn’t diminish Waukee’s sense of community.

Residents and organizations came through with donations that helped provide necessities from food to personal protective equipment. Together, schools, city government and businesses transitioned to offer the best services possible under the circumstances.

Schools Show Their Support

“When Waukee staff and students left for spring break, we were filled with excitement and ready for a break,” said Amy Varcoe, the school district’s director of communications. “There were discussions behind the scenes about what would happen if COVID-19 made its way to us, but we were hoping that wasn’t going to happen.”

The prospect of relaxation, she said, was soon replaced by “daily, sometimes hourly, updates our district was providing to staff and families” in an uncertain time. Teachers, counselors, building leaders and others “worked hard to pivot from in-person instruction to an at-home instructional model.”

By March 23, when students were scheduled to return, the district had taken a technology survey to gauge the need for internet hotspots and devices in homes. Its Internet Technology department worked with Apple on an iPad order, while schools did an inventory of available devices on hand.

Varcoe said the district “deployed approximately 900 computer devices, along with approximately 100 data hotspots to families, and helped students and families navigate a new way of learning.”

It was an unprecedented undertaking. “Our staff implemented an online learning strategy in a matter of days, when it takes districts years to develop and implement online learning,” said Varcoe.

Teachers made Zoom calls and created Google Hangouts to connect with families and provide students with feedback on academic tasks. Online “read-alouds” were used to connect with elementary school students.

“Our staff didn’t get into education to send curriculum to students from a computer,” said Varcoe. “They’ve spent countless hours and years developing curriculum to be taught in person, making connections, and building relationships. They want to be in the classroom surrounded by students, not emailing lessons each week. However, they went right to work creating curriculum for our students to continue learning. Our staff is, simply put, amazing,” she said.

Outside of the classroom, the nutrition department had served 25,000 meals by mid-April, she added, with the community donating both food and money.

Meanwhile, three teachers were helping provide health-care workers with personal protective equipment. Andrew Hauptmann, a Timberline industrial technology teacher, coordinated with South Middle School teacher Cole Kleinwolterink and Prairieview teacher Jonathan Galli to make face shields after the district let them take home eight 3D printers.

“Waukee printed a key component of face shields—the bottom plastic part that keeps the shield curved,” said Varcoe. “Another Iowa company mass-produced the top part, and a company out east offered recycled X-ray film cut to the specs of the shield design.”

By mid-April, the network helped produce 2,295 components. When completed, teachers took them to a Des Moines area drop-off site for assembly and distribution.

The Waukee Community Schools Foundation contributed grant money to purchase the filaments needed for printing.

Varcoe said the district has so much compassion for students who didn’t get to say goodbye or experience their “lasts” of the school year.

“We wanted to say goodbye, too,” she said. “To our seniors, we can’t express how much our hearts ache for you. You didn’t get your ‘lasts,’ and for that, we are so sorry. Graduation, prom, spring sports, concerts, events, the list goes on.”

Other community businesses and organizations are doing what they can to thrive and show up for the community, too.

Fire Trucks Get Festive

The Waukee Fire Department helped by throwing 107 “birthday parades”—honking and waving—from March 23 through April 12 alone. Waukee Deputy Fire Chief Tomme Tysdal said crews also made special trips by daycare centers and the Legacy Pointe senior living residence.

“It is so great to get out in the community—from a distance—and see people enjoying life,” he said. “These outreach efforts are not only beneficial for the families, but seeing kids with smiles on their faces helps keep our morale up during this very trying time.”

The Library Leans In

Waukee Library Director Kristine Larsoon closed the building, which served 600 people daily, while staff worked from home.

“Our library staff did what they do best, they were resourceful and creative,” said Larsoon. “They came up with ideas on how to offer online story times and other online programming, created a webpage for helpful educational resources, extended due dates, suspended all fines, created a digital library card so everyone could have access without physically signing up for a card, and created a Spring Reading Challenge and other fun activities to help patrons get through this trying time.”

That ranged from the Social Distancing Egg Hunt to purchasing more ebooks, which are available on the Libby app (with a library card number). In-person book clubs were virtually transformed, too.

On April 15, the library donated 800 books to be given out through the school district’s free “Grab and Go Meals” program—similar to the program coordinated with free summertime school lunch locations.

“It’s still important to get physical books into kids’ hands,” said youth librarian Keri Weston-Stoll. “Not every home has reliable internet access or enough devices for each family member to be online. Many children prefer print books, and it’s important to give kids’ eyes a break from screen time. It’s one of the best ways to keep up learning without a formal lesson plan.”

“I think we will reopen slowly and build back up to programming and outreach when it’s safe,” said Larsoon. “We do want to be able to provide books and DVDs, library space for meetings, tutoring, and networking, and provide public computers as many patrons will now be looking for jobs. We’re planning a robust Summer Reading Program completely online with live performers and other fun activities all summer long.”

In the interim, she noted that residents can access the library’s online resources at waukeepubliclibrary.org and stay connected to the library via Facebook and Instagram.

A Community Comes Together While Staying Apart
The Waukee Parks and Recreation Department developed virtual games and activities for residents while shutting down outdoor activities.

“Closing our playgrounds was probably the hardest decision we had to make, because they were such a great escape for confined residents,” said Summer Evans, Waukee’s marketing and communications director. “That decision was made in partnership with our metro neighbors as a safeguard against the virus.”

In order to keep other city functions “business as usual,” Evans said they’ve been able to use technology and drop boxes to practice social distancing while also still serving utility bill customers, local builders, library patrons and others.

The community has been doing its part, too, according to Mayor Courtney Clarke. “Most have also seemed to follow guidelines such as social distancing and going out only for essential reasons,” said Clarke. “We thank them wholeheartedly for the cooperation. There have also been great displays of good deeds and generosity.”

The same can be said about many Waukee businesses and organizations who have adjusted their operations to better serve Waukee’s residents during the pandemic, such as:

The Palm Theatres & IMAX, owned by Fridley Theatres, became a drive-up, providing curbside purchases of popcorn and restaurant menu items.
Peoples Trust & Savings Bank began offering drive-up and driveway business, while assisting businesses with disaster relief aid.
Rock Valley Physical Therapy implemented telehealth earlier than expected to accommodate patient needs.
Fresh Mediterranean Express added family meals to its “to-go” menu, and its donation program provided meals to area hospital workers.
Marco’s Pizza offered meals “to go,” and provided eggs filled with prizes over Easter weekend.
Meier Chiropractic lowered its prices to help those who have lost their jobs and insurance.
Home Instead Senior Care was active 24/7, bringing services to clients’ homes so they could be safe and independent.
The Waukee Area of Commerce held Good Morning Waukee on Zoom, including a Q&A with a local speaker. The Virtual Waukee Chamber Networking Luncheon on Zoom encouraged guests to purchase a meal-to-go at a local restaurant. Business After Hours and Waukee YP’s Casual Coffees used Zoom as well.

While the pandemic has created both challenging and extraordinary experiences for residents and businesses alike, Clarke said the Waukee community has managed to come through and do what it does best—show up and care for each other.

FarmHer

April 6, 2020 by admin

Agriculture is omnipresent in the lives of many Iowans. Even if you didn’t grow up on a farm yourself, chances are your parents and/or grandparents did.

Traditionally, the image that comes to mind when most of us picture a farmer is that of a man—a male farmer out in the fields, in the tractor or climbing a grain bin.

But Waukee resident and Iowa native Marji Guyler-Alaniz, through her multimedia business, FarmHer, is working tirelessly to change that.

Originally from Webster City, Alaniz moved to central Iowa and spent most of her childhood near Grimes. Although her grandparents farmed, she didn’t originally set out to work in the agriculture industry. Fresh out of Grand View University with a degree in graphic design and journalism and a minor in photography, she landed in the marketing department at Johnston-based Rain and Hail, one of the largest crop insurance companies in the nation. Alaniz spent the next 11 years moving up the corporate ladder. By early 2013, however, she realized it was time for a change.

According to Alaniz, there wasn’t one specific factor that prompted her to “figure out what career 2.0 was,” as she put it. Having given birth to her second child and noticing that her life wasn’t slowing down, she realized she was no longer fulfilled by her corporate role.

“Insurance is important, but I needed a change, and a big one at that!” she explained. “I knew if I didn’t take the leap then, I might blink and realize that I had spent my life working on something that didn’t light a fire in me.”

With the support of her husband, and motivated by the desire to be a role model for her kids, Alaniz left her job in February 2013, with no concrete plans for what was next. “To say it was a major change is an understatement,” she said. “I had no concept of FarmHer [at the time]. I knew I wanted to incorporate photography into whatever I did, but I wasn’t sure what that was.”

As it turns out, a major sporting event provided the impetus that pushed her in that direction. “The Super Bowl was on just two days after I left my job, and a commercial during the game sparked the fire that led me to start FarmHer as a photography project just a few months later!” said Alaniz.

Looking to bring women to the forefront of agriculture, Alaniz spent the summer of 2013 photographing a few such women in Iowa. She published those pictures on a “very basic,” photography-focused blog, plus social media pages, in July of 2013.

“I can’t say I expected, nor was I prepared for what came next,” said Alaniz. FarmHer quickly garnered attention and gained traction. “There wasn’t really anything else like it out there,” she explained.

Women in agriculture not only began to engage with and participate in FarmHer’s content, but they started to share their own stories, as well. Some of the women requested t-shirts, so Alaniz began to sell a few. The ball kept rolling, and by the fall of 2013, Alaniz had incorporated FarmHer into a business. “Then,” she said, “the real work began!”

Alaniz began 2014 with the goal to push FarmHer beyond the online world. Working with the Small Business Development Center in Des Moines to create a business plan, she undertook small speaking engagements, photography displays, gallery shows and conferences—and lots of them. “Everywhere I went, I tried to make sure I introduced myself to as many people as I could, and introduced them to FarmHer,” she said.

It paid off. Soon, Alaniz had filled her calendar for 2015, as well. 2015 also marked the first of what would become many Grow by FarmHer ticketed events, which sold about 200 tickets to young women from around the state. The events, which provided young women with the chance to network with peers, connect with industry professionals and hear from speakers, proved enormously popular, and by 2016, over 1,000 young women from four states had participated.

2016 brought even more radical changes for FarmHer. Alaniz had been contacted the year before by the founder of RFD-TV, a national cable TV network focused on rural America. With their support, Alaniz and her team took FarmHer to a weekly, 30-minute television show, airing in over 50 million households around the country.

“That was a turning point for FarmHer,” she said. Episodes spotlighted, among others, a woman running an urban goat dairy in Tampa, Florida, as well as an 80-year-old Texas resident singlehandedly running the family ranch. The show was a hit from day one on RFD-TV, and with that momentum, FarmHer was able to attract large, national advertisers to the show. Today, FarmHer is in the middle of its fourth season on RFD-TV and is beginning to film the fifth.

The expansion of the FarmHer brand didn’t stop with TV. “I ran with wide-open arms at any ways in which I could grow the brand and bring diversity to our business,” said Alaniz. She and her team expanded the brand’s events, tried out an online community, expanded its merchandise offerings, and added a podcast in 2017. In early 2018, the podcast expanded as well, airing on Sirius XM Channel 147 as the hour-long “Shining Bright by FarmHer” radio show.

All this expansion eventually prompted some difficult decisions. Alaniz had the opportunity to go through the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program last year, which is designed to give entrepreneurs greater access to education, capital and business support services. “It was the perfect time to look at the lines of business we had built with a really discerning eye,” she said.

With 26 TV episodes per year, 52 radio shows, nine ticketed Grow by FarmHer events, and countless speaking engagements and other events, Alaniz had been spending more time on the road than she wanted. “I took the chance that Goldman Sachs offered to refine our business and refocus on our main goal—telling the stories of the women who are a part of food and farming,” she explained. With that in mind, she arrived at the difficult decision to pull back from FarmHer’s events in 2020 and focus exclusively on the brand’s media.

So, what’s next for FarmHer? Quite a bit. Fans will see the same media—photography, TV and radio—with an even richer focus on storytelling. The team will also work to expand the brand’s digital reach.

“I know our stories have the ability to resonate with an even wider audience than we have already reached, and my team and I are really focused on making that happen through this year and into the future,” said Alaniz.

Also on the agenda this year is the introduction of RanchHer, another television show that will air on The Cowboy Channel, a network of RFD-TV. Alaniz is excited to see RanchHer grow, saying that it’s been “sitting on the back burner” to this point. “It will be a footprint for how we can do the same thing we have done with FarmHer for more women, in different industries and areas,” she said.

One thing will always remain the same about the FarmHer brand, however, and that is the emphasis on the people featured in its stories. “FarmHer tells the stories of rural communities, food, family and farming—all through the lens of a woman,” said Alaniz. “We tell stories of people. People who grow food, nurture the soil, raise animals with care and concern, love their families and communities, and work tirelessly to feed the world.”

Above all, Alaniz said, she wants people to know that the women on the other side of her camera are just like the rest of us. “Sure, their lives might look a little different,” she said. “Their jobs definitely aren’t nine-to-five. It’s not just a job, but a way of life. Even if you don’t think these stories apply to you, I can promise you, they most definitely do!”

That passion for sharing the stories of women in agriculture—putting women front and center—is what continues to drive Alaniz and FarmHer as a whole. “There’s a little bit of FarmHer in all of us,” said Alaniz, “and through these women’s stories, we can all connect with that!”

Waukee Lacrosse

April 6, 2020 by admin

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.