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Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

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Thank You for Shopping Local
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting growth and prosperity in our local economy. Thank you for continuing to support our Waukee business community! 

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Annual Golf Outing
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Annual Golf Outing was held on June 18 at the Beaver Creek Golf Course. Golfers participated in activities at each tee, sponsored by member businesses. Our guests enjoyed a round of golf and business networking. The western theme offered each guest the opportunity to wear their protective face mask (provided by the Chamber) in style. The Chamber also provided a boxed lunch and lots of bottled water from Waukee Hy-Vee!

Thanks to all of our business member sponsors, who were highlighted on signage throughout the golf course. The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our Board of Directors, Community Development Committee, Ambassadors, staff and other volunteers for helping to make the day so enjoyable for all of our members!

Best Ways to Enhance Your Membership Experience
1.) Volunteer on a Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Committee (Government Affairs, Community Development, Economic Development, Membership, Scholarship, Waukee YP & Ambassadors).

2.) Refer local business.

3.) Get involved by attending Good Morning Waukee, our monthly Waukee Chamber Networking Luncheon or After Hours (provided virtually on Zoom through the summer).

4.) Highlight your business at a signature event, such as the Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, What’s Cookin’ in Waukee, Golf Outing or the Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour.

5.) Patronize existing businesses.

6.) Support new businesses by welcoming them to our community and being a part of their Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony!

7.) Stay “in the know” with the weekly Waukee Chamber Business Report.

8.) Share your successes, job openings and events in our communications to Chamber membership.

9.) Collaborate with local organizations to strengthen our community.

10.) Connect with the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce by using our online or printed membership directory.

Waukee Farmers Market

The Waukee Downtown Business Group will host the Waukee Farmers Market on Wednesdays starting June 17 through September from 4 -7 p.m.in the historic Waukee Triangle Park.

Waukee School to Work Graduation
Congratulations to all Waukee High School (WHS) students who participated in the School to Work program. Thank you to Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce intern, Lily Couchman! WHS connects high school seniors with local business internships for hands-on experience in a field of interest and class credit! Thanks to our business community for supporting this awesome program!

Waukee Scholarship Recipients Recognized
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, along with Board Scholarship Chairs Ray Meister of Security National Bank and Ashley Rottinghaus of West Bank, recognized two Waukee High School Seniors, Caitlin Henriksen and Frances Loeffelholz, as recipients of the Chamber’s 2020 scholarships on May 28!

More information can be found on the Chamber’s website at www.waukeechamber.com. If you have any questions, please email info@waukeechamber.com or call 515-978-7115.

Waukee Leadership Institute Profile : Kellyn Pappas

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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.”

City of Waukee Celebrates National Public Works Week

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Snowplow team

This May 17-23 marks the 60th annual National Public Works Week, sponsored by the American Public Works Association. The week celebrates public works professionals who focus on infrastructure, facilities and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities. The City of Waukee is one of thousands of cities to celebrate public works accomplishments during this week.

“Public works staff across the country are always doing their part to make communities safe and enjoyable places to live,” said Waukee Public Works Director Rudy Koester. “Recognizing our hard-working, dedicated and humble community service men and women is really important. It means a lot to everyone in the department to hear that their attention to detail and passion in serving Waukee residents is valued.” 

The Gas Department works to install gas service to a new home.

The Waukee Public Works Department has 35 full-time employees who serve the community’s gas, sewer, streets and water systems, and more. The 2020 Public Works Week theme is “The Rhythm of Public Works” which aims to challenge citizens to think about their communities as a symphony of essential services, working in concert to create a great place to live.

“The Public Works employees are really sort of the unseen symphony of the City, if you will,” said Waukee Mayor Courtney Clarke. “The department features all of these very specific divisions and skill sets that most people don’t think about too often. Your toilet flushes. Your furnace kicks on. Streets are maintained. Public Works teams work in harmony to deliver these essential functions in high-quality ways.”

With the Waukee community growing by roughly 2,000 people annually, keeping up with the demands on infrastructure and services is a big job. But, Waukee Public Works is rising to the occasion. 

In 2019, department staff:

  • Installed 600 new water meters.
  • Flushed 600 fire hydrants and 150 dead-end water mains to ensure reliability.
  • Replaced 2,700 water and gas meters.
  • Installed 270 individual gas services.
  • Installed 38,065 feet (7.2 miles) of gas main.
  • Received and responded to 155 gas leak calls.
  • Responded to 9,370 Iowa One Call locate tickets.
  • Completed 52 full-depth concrete patches.
  • Cleaned and televised 92,000 feet of sanitary sewer main, checking for problems.
  • Maintained and mowed 75 acres of roadway right-of-way.
  • Issued 37 COSESCO stormwater permits for sites/subdivisions and 190 for individual lots.
  • Provided construction oversight and inspection services on both public and private improvement projects.

Looking at the 2019 numbers, Assistant Public Works Director of Operations Tim Royer said things look quite different since he started with the department nearly 30 years ago.

Crews jet city sewer lines.

“Things have changed dramatically,” said Royer. “The population in 1990 was around 2,700, and we had only four full-time staff members. We each did a little of everything—you might have installed a water meter in the morning and then graded gravel roads in the afternoon. Now, employees have their areas of expertise and really only cross over for tasks such as snow removal.”

While a lot of things have changed in the Waukee Public Works Department, Koester said that delivering top customer service is a constant that remains. And, for the spring and summer months, the department typically beefs up staffing to get even more done while warm weather persists. 

Engineering Technician Scott Campbell inspects a project.

“We hire about 20 seasonal workers each year,” said Koester. “We are hoping to still be able to go through with that for 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic is bringing a bit of a delay. Hopefully we can soon bring the additional staff on board to assist with right-of-way mowing, concrete patching, flushing hydrants, jetting sewers, GIS data collection and gas service installations.”

As the nation pays tribute to public works professionals, engineers, managers and employees, Koester said the Waukee team continues to maintain existing infrastructure while making data-driven decisions to prepare for further population growth and development. Thank a Public Works employee today!

Waukee Community School District: Then, Now, & Beyond

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

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

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

Waukee in the Beginning: Small and Rural 

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

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

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

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

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

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

The District Today

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

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

Introducing New Leadership

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

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

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

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

Diversifying

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

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

Real World Opportunities

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

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

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

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

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

What’s Ahead for WCSD

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

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

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

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

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

Preschool Programming

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

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

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

Northwest High School

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

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

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

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

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

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

Come Out Ahead This Cold and Flu Season

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It’s the time of year when short sleeves are replaced by down jackets, which means we’re quickly entering the “cold and flu season.” While we tend to use cold and flu interchangeably, and they’re both respiratory illnesses that tend to surface at similar times, they’re actually separate illnesses caused by different viruses.

Because flu and the common cold have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference based on symptoms alone. Cold symptoms are usually milder than those of the flu, and colds generally don’t result in serious health problems like the flu can.

A sore throat and runny nose are usually the first signs of a cold, followed by coughing and sneezing. Common colds are the main reason that children miss school and adults miss work. Adults have an average of two to three colds per year, and children have even more. Most people get colds in the winter and spring, but it’s possible to get a cold any time of the year.

Most people recover from a cold in about a week. Getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of fluids can help cold sufferers feel better. Over-the-counter medicines may help ease symptoms but will not make a cold go away any faster. Always read the label and use medications as directed. Talk to your doctor before giving non-prescription cold medicines to children, since some medicines contain ingredients that are not recommended for children. Antibiotics will not help you recover from a cold caused by a respiratory virus. They do not work against viruses, and they may make it harder for your body to fight future bacterial infections if you take them unnecessarily.

Viruses that cause colds can spread from infected people to others through the air and close personal contact. This can happen when you shake hands with someone who has a cold, or touches a surface, like a doorknob, that has respiratory viruses on it, and then touches your eyes, mouth or nose.

There are several ways you can reduce your risk of getting a cold:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. Wash them for at least 20 seconds, and help young children do the same. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Viruses that cause colds can live on your hands, and regular handwashing can help protect you from getting sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Viruses that cause colds can enter your body this way and make you sick.
  • Stay away from people who are sick. Sick people can spread viruses that cause the common cold through close contact with others.

If you have a cold, you should follow these tips to help prevent spreading it to other people:

  • Stay home while you are sick.
  • Avoid close contact with others, such as hugging, kissing or shaking hands.
  • Move away from people before coughing or sneezing.
  • A cough and sneeze into a tissue and then throw it away, or a cough and sneeze into your upper shirt sleeve, completely covering your mouth and nose.
  • Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
  • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs.

This article was brought to you by :

Doctor Julianne Sarcone, ARNP
Mercy Clinics Family Medicine Waukee.
(515) 643-7000
25 W. Hickman Rd.

 

Winter Reading Program: The Art of Reading

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Let’s get creative this winter at the Waukee Public Library! All ages are invited to play our “Book Bingo” for the Winter Reading Program from Nov. 15 through Jan. 31. Sign up and read for great prizes!

After completing one bingo, you can stop into the library to collect a special Winter Reading Pin and your name will be entered in the grand prize drawing!

Keep reading for a blackout bingo and get a special Winter Reading Black-Out Tote (while supplies last). In addition, your name will be entered a second time in the grand prize drawing.

Stop into the library starting Nov. 15 to grab a bingo card or sign up online with Beanstack (waukeelibrary.beanstack.org), where you can register the entire family, log your reading and earn badges!

To find out more about the Winter Reading Program, visit waukeepubliclibrary.org/winter.

For more library information, contact us at askme@waukee.org or (515) 978-7944.

UPCOMING LIBRARY EVENTS

Craft Workshop: Arm-Knitting
Sunday, Nov. 4 – 1:30 PM

Cost for supplies is $15 per person. Payment is required upon registration.

NaNoWriMo: Come Write-in!
Tuesdays, Nov. 6, 13, & 27 from 6:00-8:00 PM

For the month of November, participants work towards the goal of writing a 50,000-word novel and the Waukee Public Library is here to help with drop-in writing sessions throughout the month! Work on your novel surrounded by other writers. Refreshments for fueling up will be provided. Attendees will receive an exclusive Waukee Public Library NaNoWriMo pin!

Movie Afternoon: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
Saturday, Nov. 10 -1:00 PM

Bring your blanket and pillow and enjoy the show. Free popcorn provided. All ages are welcome. No registration required.

Pop-Up STEAM Programs

Gross Science
Friday, Nov. 2 – 4:30 PM

Spa Science
Friday, Nov. 16 – 4:30 PM

Electric Science
Friday, Nov. 30 – 4:30 PM

Local History Series: Iowa Connection WWI
Sunday, Nov. 11 – 1:00 PM

Presented by Fort Des Moines Education

In partnership with the Waukee Area Historical Society and sponsored by Heartland Co-op, the Waukee Public Library is proud to present this Local Series History Series program.

Winter Reading Kick-Off: Drawing with Tim Read
Saturday, Nov. 17 -10:00 AM

Get creative with artist and author Tim Read! Families will enjoy watching humorous live cartoon illustration and improvisational storytelling with help from the audience. Registration is required and will open three weeks prior to this event.

Christmas Crafts
Saturday, Dec. 1 -10:00 AM & 2:30 PM

For students in grades K-5.

Registration is required and will open three weeks prior to this event.

Gifts from the Kitchen
Saturday, Dec. 1 -1:00 PM

Come to make your own “friendship soup mix” and package it attractively in a mason jar, for a simple and healthy holiday gift.

Registration is required and will open three weeks prior to this event.

A Christmas Carol Tea
Saturday, Dec. 8 – 2:00 PM

Come to join us for warm tea and tasty delights in celebration of the 175th anniversary of Charles Dickens’ much-loved story, A Christmas Carol.

Registration is required and will open three weeks prior to this event.

This event is sponsored by the Waukee Public Library Friends Foundation.

Faces of Waukee: Mercy Doctors

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Sarah Jackson, M.D.

Christopher A Etscheidt, MD

Tell us a little about your families.

SJ: I have a little family of four—me, my husband Eric and our two girls, Sigrid and Iselin. Sigrid is our spunky, spirited three-year-old, and Iselin is (so far) our laid-back three-month-old. We enjoy taking the girls to parks, the science center and the zoo.

CE: I live with my wife and eight-month-old daughter. I grew up in Eastern Iowa and my wife grew up in Ames. We love to spend time with each other and our families. I’ve lived in Iowa my whole life and did all of my medical school and residency training at the University of Iowa. I’ve been at the Waukee Pediatric clinic for two years now.

What made you want to become a doctor?

SJ: I initially went to college with no plans for med school. I got to my senior year and wanted a job where I could help people. I’ve always loved working with kids, and I’m very interested in people’s stories, which is what I think has helped bridge my theater major with my job as a doctor.

CE: I knew I wanted to become a pediatrician after my third year medical school rotation in pediatrics. I am kind of a kid at heart, so pediatrics fits perfectly with my personality. It allows me to have fun at my job every day.

What do you like most about helping patients in the Waukee community?

SJ: I love living in the community I serve. We live in Urbandale, but very close to Waukee. I like seeing familiar faces when we are out and about doing things.

CE: The thing I like most about helping patients in Waukee is that my patients and their families are people just like me. Iowans share a common bond and the Waukee community showcases that. Being able to relate to and understand my patients helps me take better care of them.

What advice might you have for parents wanting to teach their children about preventing illness?

SJ: The best way to prevent illness is to wash your hands. Teaching kids to cover their cough early on is a great skill too. And I’m never without some hand sanitizer in my bag!

CE: I would tell them the best way to avoid any illness is prevention. Whether it’s exercising every day, eating more vegetables or washing our hands, I would tell parents to display good behavior for their kids. Make prevention part of your daily routines. Starting early and making prevention part of your child’s life will allow them to develop strategies and good behaviors that they can take with them for the rest of their lives.

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Faces of Waukee: Chad Airhart

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Tell us about your background and professional career.

I began my collegiate studies with plans to be an art teacher. I began working at the Art Store in Des Moines, and eventually managed the business. I dabbled in the art community selling my own art and that of others I represented. I was the co-owner of McArtor Design Co. until I got into politics in 2003. I worked on numerous campaigns in various positions. In 2014, along with Jason McArtor and his creative director Zachary Kern, we started Goldfinch Media to publish myWaukee Magazine. I sold my stake of the business to Jason early this year to explore other business opportunities.

You are the elected Dallas County Recorder. When were you elected and can you tell us what you do in this role?

I was first elected in 2010 after defeating a 22-year incumbent. The county recorder records all real estate and real estate related documents. In addition, the county recorder is also the county registrar and keeps vital records (marriage, birth and death), registers off-road vehicles and handles passport applications and passport issues.

What other involvement have you had in the Waukee area?

Prior to being elected recorder, I served as the executive director for the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce. I also served on the Waukee Planning & Zoning Commission where I served as vice chair. I attended and graduated from the very first class of the Waukee Leadership Institute and eventually served on its Board of Directors and served as president of the board. I was granted their first ever Alumnus of the Year Award.

You recently purchased Pars & Cigars (now Iowa Cigar Co.) in West Des Moines. Tell us about that.

I’d been a Pars & Cigars customer for over a decade. After the previous owner passed away last fall, my business partner and I purchased the business from his family and changed the name to Iowa Cigar Co. We have a new air filtration system, the largest selection of premium cigars in Iowa and one of the largest selections in the upper Midwest.

What accomplishments are you most proud of as recorder?

In my eight years as recorder, my office has always run a budget surplus and hasn’t cost taxpayers a penny to function. Meaning, we bring in more money over the counter for services than we spend on payroll and office functions. In eight years, we’ve returned approximately $2.5 million to the county’s general fund. These funds have helped reduce the property tax burden on the county taxpayer. On top of that, we have made all of our records dating back to 1850 digitized and searchable online. We were the first county in Iowa to accomplish this monumental task.

It’s been an honor to serve in public office in Dallas County. I am running (unopposed) for my third term as recorder in November. While I don’t have an opponent, I would appreciate everyone’s vote.

 

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The Heartbeat Of The Downtown Triangle And Waukee Community

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Lyn Schafer and Classic Floral: The Heartbeat of the Downtown Triangle and Our Community

By Sue Ellen Kennedy

Lyn Schafer was born in Portland, Oregon, and her family moved to Iowa in 1962.  She has also lived in Washington, California, Virginia, South Carolina, Illinois and Connecticut.

After returning to Iowa with her children and managing a flower shop in Des Moines, she heard about a flower shop for sale in Waukee that was owned at the time by Rick Husery.  In 1990, she bought the store—Classic Floral and Gifts.

A single mother since 1983, Schafer raised five children and fostered four others.  She worked very hard to help reunite the foster children with their families. Her children are Andrea (47), Erin (44), Michael (42), Jason (38) and Savannah (22). Three of her five children, as well as her four foster children, attended Waukee schools.

Classic Floral is not only a business, but also the family’s home. In 1992, Schafer bought the building and later had the north side of the building converted into a home for her family, including their rescue dogs.  Classic Floral has been a family affair ever since.

Schafer has fond memories of her grandchildren hunting for chocolate eggs in the flower shop every Easter.  Bernice Johnson, an employee, recalls finding the missed eggs several weeks after and tossing the stragglers in the fall. Johnson also fondly recalled that Brandon, the oldest of Schafer’s eight grandchildren, would hide his toys in the flower shop when he was very young, and she would find them while she was working.

Johnson has been a friend and loyal sidekick for 25 years, even helping watch the grandchildren when Schafer had to leave to make deliveries.

“If there’s an obstacle in Lyn’s path,” said Johnson, “she finds a way around, over, or through it.”

When city hall, the post office, and the library moved from downtown, it was expected that the downtown area would fizzle out. The downtown businesses rallied together and there was no one more passionate about keeping downtown alive than Schafer.  She had the vision to see what it could be again and understood the importance in keeping it alive.

Schafer has also been a staunch advocate for the Downtown Business Group.  The original members of the group were Schafer, Jerry Wright, Larry Cranel, Sheryl Humphry, Chet Chedester, Joe Stork and Bill Vasilonikolidaks.

The Downtown Business Group works closely with the city of Waukee in the promotion and preservation of our downtown Triangle business area. “It takes a group to accomplish what we have,” said Schafer.

Today, the Triangle Business District boundary starts at the south side of Highway 6 including Kum and Go, to the south side of Locust to the east side of 4th to 7th Street.  The boundary currently encompasses over 30 businesses.

As president of the Downtown Business Group, Schafer was instrumental in establishing the Waukee Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Wednesday from the first week in June through the end of September. Though she will no longer be involved after this September, her hard work will be continued for many years by the group.

In addition to the Farmers’ Market, the Downtown Business Group helps with the Winter Festival every year, and gives out bananas to BACooN Ride participants.

When asked about her current vision for our downtown district, Schafer said she would like to see a quilt shop and a bike shop. “These would fit best in our business district and would bring more traffic to our area,” she said.  She added that these businesses would also fit into downtown’s small-town feel.

Schafer has received several accolades over the years, including Waukee Citizen of the year in 2002.  But the beaming look of gratitude she expressed when she showed me her 2017 City of Waukee Proclamation in Recognition of her retirement was priceless.  It was a heartfelt thank-you for demonstrating her commitment, lending her expertise and using her passion to promote the Waukee Triangle Business District.

“It’s never been about me, it’s been about and for the community,” said Schafer.

For 28 years, Schafer has been the sole owner and operator of Classic Floral. On Labor Day of 2018, the shelves will be emptied, the cooler bare, and at closing time, a long-time staple in our community will be no more.  We are sad that a buyer for the business could not be found, but the truth is, Classic Floral would not be the same without Lyn and Bernice. We understand that it’s time for you both to go, but dang it, we don’t like it. Good luck to you both as you begin these new chapters in your lives.

“Lyn and Classic Floral have been the heartbeat of downtown and the community. Her leadership and guidance will be missed. Thank you, Lyn.” –Geoff Warmouth

 

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A Library Card Can Take You Places!

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September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month

By Leah White

There are many different cards that you have in your wallet—credit cards, insurance cards, gift cards…but do you have a library card?

This September, the Waukee Public Library joins libraries across the U.S. in celebrating National Library Card Sign-Up Month. If you don’t have a library card, now is the perfect time to get one! Signing up for a library card is easy – and best of all, it’s free!

Here are just a few ways you can use your library card:

  • Borrow up to 50 items at a time, 10 of those can be movies
  • Download e-books and audiobooks with Overdrive
  • Access to popular magazines on your phone or tablet from Flipster
  • Request items for pickup at the library
  • Access dozens of research databases and online resources
  • Use online research tools for students, business owners and more
  • Take online design and technology classes through Lynda.com
  • Use online language learning tools with Pronunciator
  • Research your ancestry online
  • STEAM kits are available to checkout and explore
  • Wi-Fi hotspots can be checked to use wherever you need internet

 

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

 

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

 

TERRIFIC TREES WITH ISU EXTENSION

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 | 4:30 p.m.

Kids in grades K-5 are invited to hear a story about a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) topic followed by a related experiment. Registration required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

 

LUNCH AND LEARN : ESTATE PLANNING 101 @ the Waukee Community Center

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 | 11:00 a.m.

Presenter Ron & Molly Anderson of Howes & Anderson, P. C.

No time to attend an evening or weekend program? Try our new Lunch & Learn series! Bring your brown bag lunch and we’ll provide the dessert! Stick around afterwards for Waukee Parks & Recreation’s bingo at 1pm.

This program is brought to you in partnership with Waukee Parks & Recreation.

Estate planning is important for everyone. Anyone who has assets, no matter how small, or wants their medical wishes carried out should have an estate plan. Come learn the ins-and-outs of putting a well thought out estate plan in place, and with peace of mind get back to the business of living and enjoying your life.

 

ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP: FELT TERRARIUMS

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 | 1:30 p.m.

Some people may believe that there is nothing cuter than a terrarium, but they are sadly mistaken! Handmade felt terrariums are even more adorable and so easy to make. Perfect for plant-killers and others who prefer low maintenance flora, after this class you’ll never water again! No felting experience needed. Registration required. This craft is intended for Adults. Registration begins 3 weeks before the event.

 

LOCAL HISTORY SERIES:

JACK TRICE & THE HISTORY OF IOWA STATE FOOTBALL

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 | 1:00 p.m.

Iowa State University archivist, Bradley Kuennen, will present about the life and legacy of Jack Trice, as well as, the history of the football program at Iowa State University.

 

WELCOME TO MEDICARE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 | 5:00 p.m.

This free seminar offered by the State of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drug Benefits (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans, and Medicare Supplement Insurance. To register, call (800)-351-4664. Registration is required.

 

ELEMENTARY PIRATE YOGA

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 | 10:00 a.m.

Children ages 6-11 years are welcome to bring a towel or yoga mat and enjoy pirate-themed yoga games and instruction. Parents staying in the room for the program should plan to participate as well! Registration is required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

EXLPORING THE WILDERNESS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 | 2:00 p.m.

Did you know that Iowa is one of only 5 states that has no designated Wilderness areas?

Dallas County Conservation Board (DCCB) naturalist, Chris Adkins, will examine what wilderness is, why we need it, and how wilderness areas are designated, managed and protected. Naturalist Adkins has led treks to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness of north-central Idaho for the past 25 years. Attendees will get to view images and learn about the logistics of backcountry travel and about DCCB’s upcoming Summer 2019 trek.

 

INTRODUCTION TO GENEALOGY

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 | 6:00 p.m.

Your family has a story to tell! Come learn the basics to begin your journey of discovery for your ancestral history. Theresa Liewer, from the Iowa Genealogical Society, will give you a road map for researching your family’s history, talk about what tools and resources are available, and discuss what to do if you run into an information brick wall.

 

COFFEE 101 AT THE COFFEESMITH

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 | 1:00 p.m.

This program will take place at The Coffeesmith (770 Alice’s Road, Waukee, IA).

Celebrate National Coffee Day with us at The Coffeesmith! Nate Kempers, barista and owner of The Coffeesmith, will teach attendees all the coffee basics you need to know to make that perfect cup of joe. Various brewing techniques will be demonstrated and samples will be served!

BIZARRE HISTORY OF IOWA: STRANGE STORIES FROM THE PAST

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 | 1:00 p.m.

This program provides a time portal back to the early days of the state when it was filled with strange deaths, ghosts, sea serpents, peculiar people, medical anomalies, oddities, psychic phenomena, and UFOs! Showcasing over 100 bizarre newspaper stories from Iowa that have not been seen in over 100 years, presenter Chad Lewis will change the way you view the good ol’ days of Iowa.

Youth entering grades 1-5 in the fall are invited to enjoy science, technology, engineering, art and math activities with music. Registration is required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

 

OCTOBER EVENTS

HELPING HAND: ANIMAL SHELTER SUPPLY DRIVE

THE MONTH OF OCTOBER

In honor of National Adopt a Shelter Dog month, the Library will be taking supply donations for the AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport. A complete list of supplies needed can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/IZI5097BIFPN

 

WONDERFUL WIND WITH ISU EXTENSION

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 4:30 p.m.

Kids in grades K-5 are invited to hear a story about a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) topic followed by a related experiment. Registration required and will open 3 weeks prior to the event.

 

LUNCH AND LEARN : DNA BASICS @ the Waukee Community Center

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 | 11:00 a.m.

Presenter Ron & Molly Anderson of Howes & Anderson, P. C.

No time to attend an evening or weekend program? Try our new Lunch & Learn series! Bring your brown bag lunch and we’ll provide the dessert! Stick around afterwards for Waukee Parks & Recreation’s bingo at 1pm.

This program is brought to you in partnership with Waukee Parks & Recreation.

Whether you’ve had your DNA tested or are thinking about it, this program will give insight into the different test services available, the process, and the usefulness of DNA Testing as a tool to learn more about your health, traits, and ancestry.

 

LOCAL HISTORY SERIES: SHULER COAL MINE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 | 1:00 p.m.

Presented by Bruno Andreini

 

CREATURE FEATURE : A QUIET PLACE

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9 | 6:00 p.m.

Is there a better way to get ready for Halloween than by watching a monster movie?  We don’t think so! Join us for two special Halloween movie nights…if you dare. Movies are free and spooky treats will be available.  No registration is required.

 

PUPPY PARTY

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13 | 1:00 p.m.

Love puppies? Pawesome! Come hangout with fellow doggo enthusiasts for an afternoon of barking-good fun. Play a canine trivia game and make cute dog crafts. And the best part? There will be puppies! The AHeinz57 Pet Rescue is joining us for a presentation, bringing along some of their adoptable canine friends for a meet-and-greet.

This is an Adult event, however children and teens in 3rd grade and up are welcome but must be accompanied by a guardian. Registration required and will open 3 weeks before the event.

 

CYBER SECURITY 101

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 | 10:00 a.m.

This short training session by the State of Iowa-Information Security Officer, Alison Radl, will cover the basics of cyber security with tips and techniques for more secure browsing. Come ready to learn and ask questions!

 

THE DEVIL HAS MY CONSENT

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21 | 1:00 p.m.

In 1692 more than 200 people were accused of witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts and 20 were executed. Why? What happened to create such hysteria? Were the accusers possessed? Experiencing delusions caused by eating spoiled grain? Come discover the real story behind the behind the Salem Witch Trials at this fascinating presentation by historian Kathy Wilson. This event is sponsored by the Waukee Public Library Friends Foundation.

 

CREATURE FEATURE : HOCUS POCUS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 | 6:00 p.m.

Is there a better way to get ready for Halloween than by watching a monster movie?  We don’t think so! Join us for two special Halloween movie nights…if you dare. Movies are free and spooky treats will be available.  No registration is required.

 

BEASTLY POTTER PARTY

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 | 7:00 p.m.

All ages of Harry Potter fans should attend this enchanted evening. There will be live magical creatures from the Blank Park Zoo and many other beastly and magical activities. The first 100 guests will receive a free magic wand pen. All guests will have the chance to enter a drawing for two free tickets to the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert with the Des Moines Symphony at the Des Moines Civic Center on January 25 & 26, 2019. No registration required.

 

FANTASTIC BEASTLY ESCAPE ROOM

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 | 9:15 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. | 10:45 a.m.

Teams of 6 will be magically sealed in a room at the library. Teams will need to work together to solve clues about J.K. Rowling’s magical world in order to break the spell and exit the room. Recommended for fans of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. Teens (grades 6+) and adults are welcome to participate in this event. (These will be the same puzzles as the November 7 teen program.) Registration is required.

ADULT CRAFTERNOON

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 | 2:00 p.m.

Adults need crafty time too! Get together with your friends and neighbors to have some crafty fun creating one fun and easy craft. All supplies will be provided by the library.

Registration opens 3 weeks before the event date.

 

 

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