MyWaukee May/June 2023

HIDDEN HEALTH

Realign and reduce stress

ALSO PLUS!

CITY OF WAUKEE

HOW LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVES YOU

WAUKEE LIBRARY JOIN A SUMMER CHALLENGE

SCHOOL DISTRICT GET A HEAD START

MINI FEATURE

RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH A CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Progress…Not Perfection

Day to day, I do marketing and website development for clients across the State of Iowa and beyond. Earlier this month, our marketing team had a great meeting with a client who’s been with us for quite a while and, the meeting was not a breeze, it featured many successes, good dialogue, and a plan forward.

This client offered a few challenges to our team. These challenges can sometimes result in uneasiness or concern that we may not be meeting the client’s expectations. However, this concern was unwarranted. With a smile, the client said, "You're doing a great job–I’m just never satisfied.” He gets it. We always work to identify the next steps and objectives to work toward for the next two, three, or six months when we connect with our clients to review recent results.

The reality is that there are no magic bullets, wands, or anything else like that. Overnight successes are more of a fantasy than a reality. Rome wasn’t built in a day, after all.

Consistency and persistence are the keys to almost everything—in anything you do. I don’t buy lottery tickets, either. We implement sprint methodologies in our work and prefer to get our products and deliverables out into the wild for people to see and respond to as quickly as possible.

Somewhere between the tortoise and the hare is where I like to see most of the expectations—trusting processes in alignment with an overall focus on the finish line, then refining and repeating.

WAUKEE'S

- Photo By Renee Watkins

TRAVEL

THE 2023 LINCOLN NAUTILUS

From the Dietitian:

CURIOUS ABOUT YOUR CUP OF JOE?

DIETITIANS

For years, the health and wellness industry has gone back and forth on whether coffee is beneficial for health. While your daily cup of Joe may give you the warm fuzzies, watching how many cups you have per day is essential for the best health. Health benefits from drinking coffee are most closely associated with less than four 8-ounce cups per day.

The energy jolt we typically feel from drinking a cup of coffee comes from caffeine—a naturally occurring stimulant typically found in coffee beans. While too much caffeine can cause issues with our health, like dehydration, high blood pressure or anxiety, coffee does contain antioxidants that may affect insulin sensitivity, inflammation and metabolism.

NEW Balancing Your Blood Sugar Program

Whether you start your day with a caffeine buzz or prefer an afternoon coffee pick-me-up, coffee can be a healthy part of your daily routine. But stay awake! Make sure your coffee is helping (versus hindering) your health with these 3 TIPS:

NEW! Balance Your Blood Sugar Program

An action-based group program designed to facilitate positive behavior change for those with prediabetes, diabetes or gestational diabetes.

An action-based group program for those with prediabetes, diabetes or gestational diabetes. Also suitable for individuals looking to lower inflammation, reduce their sugar intake and control their cravings.

1. Start your day with water first, then coffee. Coffee is well known to boost energy levels and is the preferred beverage in the mornings for this reason. Water can also have the same benefits. Start your day with at least 8-16 ounces of water to help hydrate your body, start your digestion and give you a boost of energy before grabbing your coffee mug.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Pre-program A1C & Biometric Screening in-person at select Hy-Vee locations.

Also suitable for individuals looking to lower inflammation, reduce their sugar intake and control cravings. Learn more and sign up using the QR code or visit Hy-Vee.com/Health.

• (4) 60-minute virtual group sessions with your Hy-Vee dietitian.

2. Coffee is NOT breakfast. Coffee and water are not the only things that give us energy—food does, too! Starting your day with a high-protein breakfast and a side of coffee helps regulate blood sugar levels, metabolism and decreases cravings later in the day and evening. Examples include:

• Post-program A1C & Biometric Screening in-person at select Hy-Vee locations.

• Catalina Crunch Cereal + Sliced Banana + Fairlife Milk

• Dave’s Killer Bread + Hard Boiled Egg(s) + Strawberries

• Fairlife Yogurt + Granola + Chia Seeds + Blueberries

SCAN HERE TO SIGN UP TODAY!

3. Be cautious of added sugar. One of the biggest ways coffee becomes unhealthy fast is through using syrups, creamers and sugar. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 24 grams of added sugar daily. Many coffee beverages and creamers can have anywhere from 14-20 grams of added sugar per serving. Switch to a zero-calorie sweetener using allulose, like RxSugar, for a sweet taste without any added sugars or calories.

Participants can expect virtual sessions designed to facilitate positive behavior changes. The program includes nutrition education, actionable goals, group discussions and time for self-refection.

Participants will also receive in-person A1C and biometric screenings at the beginning and end of the program to track progress.

The Fuel for Your Daily Life HOW CITY GOVERNMENT SERVES THE COMMUNITY

By Heather Behrens

Your city government plays an important role in your daily life, but many people are surprised by how big that role is. Here’s a quick overview of how the City of Waukee serves you and the community.

City government creates and maintains local policies and ordinances, manages city funds, ensures the City complies with legislative regulations and maintains adequate infrastructure. This includes the necessary things that enable you to go about your day, including building and maintaining roads, natural gas, sewer, water, waste collection and snow removal. City government ensures public safety with police, fire, paramedic and inspection services. The City also adds to your quality of life with the library, parks, trails, recreation opportunities and guiding growth to attract employment opportunities and services that residents want. Foundational to all this is preparing for the future with land use planning, economic development and smart budgeting for adding infrastructure and amenities.

STRUCTURE

The City of Waukee is directed by the Waukee Mayor and City Council, but daily operations are managed by a City Administrator. The mayor and council serve a similar function as a board of directors in a company, guiding strategic direction, advising on policy and providing oversight on budget. The City Administrator is similar to a Chief Operating Officer, overseeing City personnel and directing day-to-day operations of City departments. All these roles devote time to listening to the ideas, concerns and experiences of residents, community leaders and business owners in order to best represent the interest of citizens.

Mayor

The mayor serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the city during a four-year term. She presides over the council, approves and executes contracts, plays a key role in strategic planning and appoints citizens to boards and commissions. She also advocates for effective policy on City issues and interests with state and federal officials and liaises with other regional and city leaders on joint projects and issues.

As a key spokesperson for Waukee, the mayor participates in ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings, speaks at festivals and events and fields interviews with local media.

City Council

Waukee has five city council members who help establish the vision and strategic priorities of the City, approve subdivisions and development plans, represent Waukee on various regional boards and commissions, and approve ordinances and resolutions. Council members serve “at large,” which means they can live in any part of the city and represent the community as a whole rather than being assigned a specific district. Terms are four years long but staggered with elections every two years. Residents vote for council members in November with other local, state and federal elections.

City Council Meetings are held at Waukee City Hall at 5:30 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month. Residents are welcome to attend these public meetings in person or by Zoom. Recordings can be viewed on the City of Waukee YouTube channel. In addition, the mayor and council meet with staff and other presenters once a month for a work session to go deeper on upcoming issues as well as get updates on City operations. This enables them to be informed and have time to consider issues before they come up for vote in regular council meetings.

Learn more about our city government at Waukee.org/CityCouncil.

City Staff

The City of Waukee has 148 full-time employees throughout 13 municipal departments, plus more than 200 part-time employees that fill year-round and seasonal positions.

Departments:

1. Administration: directs daily activities, oversees execution of the strategic plan and keeps the necessary records of City and council operations

2. Community Development: manages permits, ordinances, zoning information, inspections, code compliance and development projects and procedures

3. Economic Development: facilitates strategic economic growth, connects business owners to resources and nurtures relationships with the business community

4. Parks & Recreation: creates and maintains recreational programs, public parks and trails

5. Library: provides educational and recreational materials, services and programs for all ages

6. Police: protects citizens, conducts educational outreach for the community, and advises on safety-related code and procedures

7. Fire/EMS: provides fire protection, emergency medical care and preventative community education

8. Public Works: builds and maintains infrastructure, such as streets, gas lines, water and sewer

9. Utility Billing: assists residents with water, garbage and gas service accounts

10. Finance: manages financial operations, including budgeting, accounting and payroll

11. Marketing & Communications: manages communication channels, media relations and marketing for Waukee

12. Human Resources: recruits and hires staff and administers employee benefits

13. Information Technology: sets up and maintains technology applications and hardware for city operations

Boards & Commissions

City boards and commissions assist with certain City operations and contribute to moving Waukee forward. Residents volunteer their time and expertise to review site plans on new developments, assist with parks and recreation planning, and more.

• Board of Adjustment

• Board of Appeals

• Planning & Zoning Commission

• Park Board

• Library Board of Trustees

• Public Art Advisory Commission

Funding

Infrastructure and services are expensive to provide, so the community collectively pays taxes to operate all the functions of our city government. In Iowa, city governments are funded primarily by property tax revenue. About 37 percent of property taxes paid by Waukee residents go to the City’s general fund to pay for public safety, parks, recreation and day-to-day operating costs of city administration.

Large, one-time infrastructure projects, such as a new park, are often funded by local option sales tax, which is an extra 1% added to the Iowa sales tax of 6%. Waukee residents voted and approved the 1% addition in November 2017. Adding new roads or completing major enhancement of roadways is often funded by debt. Similar to taking out a loan to build a home (but on a MUCH larger scale), the City may sell bonds to fund construction. In addition to these sources, City staff search out and apply for grant funds, which are significant contributions to many important City projects. In addition, the City receives revenue from fees for licenses, permits, utility usage and recreation programming, which help fund those services. See how property taxes are calculated (hint: it’s not just the assessed value of your property) and how the City uses those funds at Waukee.org/PropertyTax101.

5 WAYS TO BE INVOLVED

1. Volunteer for a board, commission or opportunities, such as Miracle League games, Safety City, community food drives, etc.

2. Sign up for great programs with Parks & Recreation or the Waukee Public Library.

3. Become part of community traditions by attending beloved events: FamilyFest, Easter Egg Hunt, Waukee Firefighters Association Pancake Breakfast, Independence Day Celebration, Public Safety Day, and Winterfest, to name a few.

4. Stay informed of what your government is working on and how the City is growing through City social media, newsletters, annual State of the City address, or the Economic Development Bus Tour with the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce.

5. Vote for mayor and council representatives! Research and listen to ideas from candidates so you can make an informed vote. Or consider running for office if you feel you’d be a good fit for the responsibilities and duties of the role.

DID YOU KNOW?

1. City of Waukee staff and elected officials work very closely with neighboring communities in the Des Moines metro, Dallas County and Iowa. Council members and staff serve on workgroups, boards, etc. for nonprofits, government committees and other organizations that support our residents and businesses, ensure smooth emergency operations and manage shared infrastructure. We’re all interconnected, so strong collaboration helps daily life and major projects work more efficiently.

2. The Waukee Community School District is not part of the City of Waukee organization, but the two organizations work closely together in many ways. One big example of collaboration is the Northwest High School and Triumph Park project.

3. The City doesn’t choose the businesses that set up operations in Waukee. Residents share requests for the types and even specific businesses they’d like to have in Waukee, but those businesses have to choose to rent space or buy land to locate here. The City’s role is facilitator, sharing information with site selectors and business owners to help them decide if Waukee is a good fit and connecting them with available space to find the right spot to locate or expand their business.

4. The City of Waukee doesn’t produce our own water, but it does build and maintain the infrastructure to deliver it to homes and businesses. Like many metro communities, the water in your tap comes from Des Moines Water Works, and wastewater is treated through the Des Moines Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation Authority (WRA), which is made up of 17 metro area municipalities, counties and sewer districts. Combining efforts enables more efficient infrastructure management.

5. Hickman Road is State Highway 6, which means it is under the jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Transportation. Any changes to the road, such as adding more lanes, comes from the DOT. Waukee can recommend changes to things like traffic signal timing, but ultimately the DOT makes decisions and plans for the future of this important road. Learn more at Waukee.org/ BoardsandCommissions, WaukeePublicLibrary.org and Waukee.org/ParksandRec.

RIDE FOR THE CURE

By Renee Watkins

For the 700,000 Americans with a brain tumor, it can be disheartening that this particular form of cancer does not receive much media coverage. The lower survival rates and devastating effects leave many families scrambling to raise awareness when this type of cancer hits close to home.

WHEN IOWA RESIDENT KRISTIN WIEDENFELD LOST THE LOVE OF HER LIFE—

her husband Gary—she began a painful journey through grief. Slowly, she found some solace in pouring her heart into a project that would honor Gary’s legacy through public service.

Both Kristin and Gary were born and raised in Iowa. Kristin graduated with a BS in General Science from the University of Iowa in 1988.

She went into the pharmaceutical arena and spent over 23 years in the infectious and chronic disease field. Gary was born in Storm Lake, Iowa, in 1961 and graduated from the University of Iowa with a BA in Business Administration in 1983. He enjoyed many years of professional success in sales for printing, packing, and shipping companies.

Years ago, Kristin’s sister was tired of her dating “losers” and urged her to come to a spinning class to meet some new options. During this class, Kristin spotted a handsome man in her periphery. To her surprise, he got off his bike and sat on a bike right next to hers. She was delighted when he asked her out for dinner and a movie. As Kristin puts it, “The rest was history and meant to be from that point on.”

February 2020 marked the beginning of a shared retirement period, and the two spent most of their time enjoying their children and grandchildren. Kristin recalls Gary was “so excited to go out and be adventurous. However, he started having problems reading words.” Thinking this was a symptom of stress, Gary saw a physician who recommended an MRI. Unfortunately, the MRI showed a glioblastoma in Gary’s left parietal lobe.

Following that fateful diagnosis, life became a devastating whirlwind for the Wiedenfeld family. In April 2020, Kristin felt helpless as her hero faced a grueling surgical procedure while isolated from those who loved him most; pandemic precautions were just beginning. Subsequently, Gary endured rounds of chemotherapy and intense radiation sessions through the end of June of that same year. Gary took a month off before his second round of chemotherapy started, and the couple traveled; it was what Gary wanted to do most.

In March 2021, Gary received news that he had a second tumor, and his second surgery did not go well. His health deteriorated rapidly, and Gary passed on May 17, 2021. It was only 13 months from his initial diagnosis to the time he passed. Kristin is forever grateful to have had 23 wonderful years with an incredible man that lived and loved his life and whomever he encountered. She says, “I wish you all could have known him because I know you would have loved him, too.”

This immense loss inspired Kristin to create Gary’s Ride—an annual bike ride designed to raise awareness for this devastating disease. Gary’s Ride is currently partnered with Mercy One Richard Demming Cancer Center. Last year, the ride partnered with Mercy One Des Moines Foundation, which received all funds raised from last year’s memorial ride.

Gary’s Ride will give fundraising proceeds to entities helping secure clinical trials for future treatments. A portion also funds sponsorship of Gary’s Adventures, which provides terminal brain cancer patients the adventure of their dreams. Proceeds will also finance supportive services such as speech, occupational, art, and massage therapies, acupuncture, and rehabilitation. Lastly, Gary’s Ride allocates a portion of funds to their Compassion Fund—a catch-all that assists the financial needs of patients and their families when insurance coverage falls short. Presently, very few treatments are available, and fundraising efforts through Gary’s Ride aim to change that.

Gary’s Ride takes place on May 20th this year and will continue to take place annually on the third Saturday of every May. Join Kristin and her team as they raise awareness during their ride for a cure. For more information on this event, visit garysrideiowa.org.

COME ALONG FOR THE RIDE, WAUKEE. LET’S MAKE GARY PROUD!

The Dangers Of Clogged Gutters: PROTECTING YOUR HOME FROM WATER DAMAGE

Home Solutions of Iowa

Clogged gutters can be a major cause of concern for homeowners. When water is unable to properly drain away from the house, it can lead to a range of damaging effects. These can include water damage to the exterior walls, foundation, basement, and landscaping. In extreme cases, overflowing water can even result in erosion and flooding.

WATER DAMAGE TO THE EXTERIOR WALLS:

When water from clogged gutters overflows, it can seep into the walls of your home and cause damage to the paint, siding, and even the underlying structure. Over time, this can lead to rot, mold, and other forms of deterioration that can weaken the walls and make them more susceptible to damage from wind, rain, and other environmental factors.

DAMAGE TO THE FOUNDATION:

The foundation of your home is designed to support the entire structure, so it's critical that it stays dry and protected. When water from clogged gutters is not properly drained away from the house, it can seep into the foundation and cause damage over time. This can result in cracking, settling, and other

types of structural damage that can compromise the stability and safety of your home.

WATER DAMAGE IN THE BASEMENT:

If your home has a basement, it is especially vulnerable to water damage from clogged gutters. When water accumulates near the foundation, it can seep into the basement and cause damage to the walls, flooring, and other components. Over time, this can lead to mold growth, rot, and other forms of deterioration that can make your basement uncomfortable, unsanitary, and potentially even unsafe.

DAMAGE TO THE LANDSCAPING:

The landscaping surrounding your home is also vulnerable to damage from clogged gutters. When water overflows and accumulates in areas where it shouldn't, it can cause erosion, flooding, and other forms of damage to your lawn, shrubs, and other vegetation. This can lead to unsightly bare spots, washed-out gardens, and other forms of damage that can detract from the beauty and value of your home.

JOSEPH SMITH

Home Solutions of Iowa Owner

515-954-3555

Home Solutions of Iowa has established itself as a trustworthy and reliable source for homeowners looking for all sorts of exterior remodeling solutions. We’re a full-service exterior remodeling company specializing in LeafGuard® gutter protection, seamless gutter systems, rain barrels, roofing, insulation, windows, doors, siding, and decking. We started as a one-man show at the Iowa State Fair in 2003 and have since grown to have more than 50 employees serving the entire state of Iowa.

It's crucial to keep your gutters free of debris to prevent these costly and time-consuming problems. If you suspect that your gutters are clogged, now is the time to take action.

Here at Home Solutions of Iowa, we recommend that you call us for a free estimate. With over 20 years of gutter contractor experience, we will be able to assess the state of your gutters and provide you with a solution that is tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need a simple upgrade or a more extensive remodel, HSI can help ensure that your gutters are functioning properly and keeping your home protected from water damage.

HIDDEN HEALTH

By Renee Watkins

Spring has finally arrived in the Midwest, and with it comes a renewed focus on health and wellness. As the weather warms up and everything starts to bloom, many Waukee residents seek ways to rejuvenate their bodies and minds after a long, cold winter.

Fortunately, there are many ways to achieve wellness, and there is plenty of room for creativity and existing hobbies. Waukee is brimming with opportunities to step out of your comfort zone and try something different, or focus on an area of health that many people neglect.

Outside of the typical checkup at a doctor’s office or a reluctant trip to the gym, there are many ways to improve overall well-being. The health benefits of chiropractic care and massage therapy should not be overlooked. These options require minimal effort but a big payoff—self-care at its best! These two practices can work together to help you feel better, look better, destress, and enjoy the spring season to the fullest.

DYNAMIC CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS

If you’re reading this, you are old enough to know that spinal health is important.

An unaddressed sports injury, bad sleeping habits, and hours spent at a desk can wreak havoc on your spine. Pain in the neck, left unattended, can cause a person to compensate in other areas of the body, leading to more pain. Although chiropractic care is considered an alternative form of medical practice, it is completed by a licensed practitioner trained in the art of physical manipulations that are believed to aid the body in healing itself. This self-healing process is tied to the belief that the nervous system, and the spine in particular, are directly related to overall physical well-being.

Logan Davis grew up in Des Moines and obtained his bachelor's degree in biology from Grand View University. He subsequently attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, and received his Doctorate of Chiropractic degree. Davis spent two years working as an associate chiropractor in Ankeny before opening Dynamic Chiropractic and Wellness.

Davis prides himself on his attention to detail when it comes to his patient’s concerns. He takes the time to get to know them, taking a full history so he can provide treatment plans tailored to their needs and lifestyles.

Utilizing soft tissue techniques and chiropractic adjustments, Davis can offer physical relief to patients suffering from various ailments, from migraines and sports injuries to plantar fascitis and peripheral neuropathy. Regardless of the

individual services, Davis offers his clients a holistic approach to well-being.

Davis says that there are still benefits of regular chiropractic care for otherwise healthy individuals without any musculoskeletal issues. He says that one of the biggest benefits of treatment is the “decrease in muscle tension and stress. Many studies show a direct relationship between our nervous system and immune function resulting in an increase in immune function for people who get adjusted regularly. For many people, even if they are considered healthy, they may still have altered spinal biomechanics that can result in altered hormone production, headaches, back pain, postural issues, etc.”

Although the frequency of getting adjusted is highly variable based on the individual, Davis see patients anywhere from once every week to “individuals that just wait until they have an issue or a complaint.”

Patients who come to Davis for relief can expect to receive the full spectrum of attention. Always intending to treat the whole body, Davis offers orthopedic and neurological exams, red light therapy, x-rays, chiropractic care, nutritional advice, and supplementation. His friendly disposition and enthusiasm for helping patients make his office a great choice if you are new to chiropractic therapy, or looking to make a switch.

SUMMER’S MASSAGE THERAPY

Massage therapy is another popular way to promote health and wellness. By applying pressure to specific points on the body,

massage therapists can help relieve tension, reduce pain, and improve circulation. Massage therapy combines science and art, in that the knowledge of anatomy guides the practice, while the art of understanding people guides the therapist’s ability to make a person feel comfortable in an otherwise vulnerable and compromising position.

Many find that regular massages can help them feel more relaxed and energized, which is especially important during the busy spring season when yardwork and outdoor physical activity become regular parts of the week.

Summer’s Massage Therapy is a local favorite for its wide variety of massage styles, numerous massage therapists to choose from, and easy online scheduling. With over 200 mostly fivestar online reviews, Summer’s Massage Therapy is a tried-and-true choice for Waukee residents.

If you have never received a massage, do yourself a favor and book an appointment with one of the many professionals at Summer’s

Massage Therapy. The therapists here are trained in a myriad of techniques, and each session is fully customizable to your liking. You can opt for Swedish, Tuina Asian, essential oil, sports, four-hands, deep tissue, couples, hot stone, prenatal, or something unique.

Summer’s masseuses are all trained in every technique that the facility offers, however, she says that the barefoot back walking massages are the most popular. Each private massage room features handlebars on the ceilings. That’s right, the therapists will hoist themselves up onto the table and walk on your back!

Although it can be a little intimidating to be unclothed in a room with a stranger, the temporary discomfort subsides when you are confronted by the level of professionalism, respect, and courtesy that Summer’s staff offers. These are true professionals, and they are great at putting clients at ease.

Summer graduated from Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School and has been in this industry since 2011. She opened her first location in Urbandale, but the immense popularity of her services inspired her to open a second location right here in Waukee. She is excited to announce that she will soon be offering facial spa services on the menu as well!

START TODAY!

The spring season is a great time to focus on health and wellness. chiropractic care or massage therapy, there are many ways to renew your body and mind—all right here in Waukee.

Optimal health ensures optimal enjoyment of all this beautiful season has to offer. Make this spring your season of personal renewal by improving your health and wellbeing today!

FEATURED CONTACTS:

Dynamic Chiropractic & Wellness

108 Ashworth Dr., Waukee, IA 50263 515-514-1303

Summer's Massage Therapy

206 Hickman Rd., Waukee, IA 50263 515-402-7862

Why Waukee Community School District PRESCHOOL IS AN AWESOME OPTION

By Kelly Jellings

Navigating the ins and outs of school decisions, especially for your first child, can be difficult. Consider giving your child the benefit of preschool through the Waukee Community School District (Waukee CSD).

WHY WAUKEE PRESCHOOL?

Holly Donaldson is a mom of three boys. Her two older boys, ages 7 and 8, attended preschool at Waukee CSD. Her youngest is currently a preschool student.

“Frye is obsessed with preschool with Ms. Kristin. He can’t run fast enough at drop-off. Our fourth baby (on the way) will also be a future student at Waukee Public Schools,” Donaldson says. She sent her children to Waukee preschool primarily due to the staff.

WHAT ARE THE PRESCHOOL PROGRAM DETAILS?

Preschoolers attend class at the Vince Meyer Early Learning Center, a historic building near the old downtown Waukee Triangle. To enroll for the 2023-24 school year, all students must be 4 years old by September 15, 2023.

“A consistent daily schedule offers a balance of learning opportunities. Learning is both formal and informal. Play is part of every day. Listening is balanced with talking, group activities with alone time, indoors with outdoors, quiet play with noisy play,” Mount says.

Caregivers can choose from two preschool sessions—morning from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or afternoon from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. There will be 28 classes, 14 in the morning and 14 in the afternoon. Each class will have up to 18 students.

Daily activities include:

• Large and small group activities

• Self-directed play

• Centers (arts, science, writing, games/ put-together toys, books, blocks/wheel toys, pretend play)

• Storytime

• Snack

“I have worked with some of the same wonderful souls since my eldest was little. As a parent, having such a strong relationship with a teacher, who’s a huge part of their life, is important. My kids have always respected their teachers. Months or years later, I will still get an email asking about them. Good souls are hard to find!” Donaldson says.

Lyndsay Mount, Assistant Director of Student Services, says each class is led by one certified teacher, one program associate, and at least one special education associate. All preschool teachers have a teaching license issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, and are certified to teach both early childhood special education and early childhood general education.

• Individual learning

FOUR PRIMARY BENEFITS OF PRESCHOOL AT WAUKEE CSD

Donaldson and Mount identify four primary benefits to attending preschool with the Waukee CSD. First, there is no cost for preschool thanks to the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Grant.

“Research shows that children who participate in a quality preschool program have improved academic, social, and school readiness,” Mount says.

Second, the program is diverse and inclusive. In all, current students speak more than a dozen languages. The program accommodates

students with and without identified disabilities (children served through special education programming).

The third benefit is the state-of-the-art facility. The historic building received its latest round of updates in 2020 to create a unique space for the preschool program. In addition to classrooms, there’s a big gym, a playground, and new garden plots. Finally, Donaldson praises the program’s communication.

“The weekly email message from Ms. Mount is amazing! Her leadership shines throughout Vince Meyer,” Donaldson says.

As a student in the Waukee CSD, you’ll have access to the District messaging tool (ParentSquare), and you’ll receive pictures and videos from your student’s teacher on the Seesaw app.

“Waukee preschool provides students with a strong foundation in social, academic, and general life skills that will prepare students for kindergarten and beyond,” Mount says. “Run for a spot in the preschool program. Don’t walk!” Donaldson says

To register, go to waukeeschools.org/enroll. Also, follow the preschool program on social media: @WaukeeCSDPreschool on Facebook and @WaukeePreschool on Instagram.

The students use this full-size gym when the weather isn't suitable for outside play.

Frye loves working with his teacher, especially on counting and color recognition.

Vince Meyer Early Learning Center, renovated in 2020, is a space dedicated to the preschool program

Preschoolers spend outside time in this enclosed playground space.

FACES OF WAUKEE

Featuring Lacie Navin

Owner, Your CBD Store | SUNMED

A BETTER MORTGAGE EXPERIENCE

What is the name of your business?

Your CBD Store Waukee

What type of work do you do??

We're a dispensary for hemp cannabis! We specialize in CBD and other plant parts and their benefits. I educate how these parts interact with our bodies and help us live our best lives!

What other interests do you have in our community?

I dont live in Waukee, however I love how its growing!

What is your favorite thing about our community?

I love the "hometown" vibe of our little community around the store. Everyone looks out for their neighbor :)

What is the best thing about your job?

Most definitely seeing how it changes peoples lives! I see every ailment you can think of and I've seen many tears, gifts, and hugs! I dont think there is anything better than that!

What is a dream project for your business?

I would love to lobby to get more products here in Iowa and launch a movement to allow veterans to consume hemp and not be stuck with prescriptions!

Our mortgage services are more than the loans themselves. Our rates are competitive. Our process is simple and quick. But first and foremost, with Central Bank, you have a mortgage o cer who will provide the unparalleled personal service you expect.

And that’s peace of mind.

Matt Klein

NMLS ID##446592

300 E. Hickman Rd Waukee, IA (515) 987-2299

Scan the QR code to download Matt’s app. Calculate monthly payments, compare lending scenarios, apply using your smartphone... and more!

READ THROUGH TIME WITH THE LIBRARY!

By Sam Bedford

Summer is almost here and the Waukee Public Library is getting ready for the Summer Challenge! This year’s theme is “Read Through Time," and will run from June 1 until July 31. Everyone is invited to participate!

Watch the Library’s website and follow their Facebook and Instagram to get up-to-date information about upcoming events including performances, weekly activities, and pick up times for craft packs and prizes.

SUMMER CHALLENGE FAQS –

WHEN DOES REGISTRATION BEGIN?

May 1, but reading for the Summer Challenge doesn’t start until June 1.

HOW DO I REGISTER?

You can register online at waukeelibrary.beanstack.org, through the Beanstack app, or pick up a reading log at the Library.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

All ages!

DO I NEED A LIBRARY CARD TO JOIN?

Library cards are not required. Everyone is encouraged to participate! If you would like to get a library card, you can sign up in person or online at waukeepubliclibrary.org/getacard.

HOW DO I EARN PRIZES?

READ! Books, audiobooks, magazines, newspapers, webcomics—you name it!

To find out more about the library's Summer Challenge, go to: waukeepubliclibrary.org/summer.

EVENTS

Most events will require advanced registration and can be viewed at waukeepubliclibrary.org/calendar.

ART GALLERY EXHIBIT

“Folding Cranes, Enfolding Community”

Pam Douglas | April 4 - May 30

“Beauties of Iowa”

Susan Partain | June 2 - 29

KIDS

Wellness With Miss Polk County

Saturday, May 20 | 2 PM

Everyone’s invited to meet Alysa Goethe, Miss Polk County, and learn about diabetes, healthy living, and how to support community members with chronic illness. Recommended for children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. Registration is required.

Friday Special Guest Events

June 9, 16, 23, and 30 | 10 and 11 AM

Join the library for weekly special guests! Iowa State University will bring their Insect Zoo on June 9. Twisted Bo-Kay will share interactive stories involving balloons on June 16. Will Stuck joins the library on June 23 for high energy and hilarious M.E.S.S. experience! The special guest programs will end with Zoo to You, Blank Park Zoo’s program for kids entering grades K-5 in the fall. Registration is required for each session.

TEENS

Summer Volunteen Training

May 8 – 10 | Various times

Attend the training session to help with summer programs in June and July! It’s a great way to earn volunteer time for resumes. Registration is required.

Monday Night Events

June 12, 19, and 26 | 5 PM and 6:30 PM

Students entering grades 6-12 in the fall are invited to the

library for weekly events! There will be water dodgeball, decades trivia, and boba tea in June. 5 PM start time is for grades 6-9. 6:30 PM start time is for grades 10-12. Registration is required for each session.

ADULTS

Annual Book Sale

Saturday, May 20 | 8:30 AM – 3 PM

The Waukee Public Library Friends Foundation is hosting their annual book sale. If you love books and are looking for great deals, head to the Library and stock up on all kinds of used books, audiobooks, puzzles, movies, and more! Friends Foundation donors get early access to the sale on Friday, May 19 from 6-7:30 PM.

A Walk Through Time

Saturday, June 17 | 1 PM

Come take a walk through Iowa’s archaeological past! This talk by Chérie Haury-Artz from the University of Iowa’s Office of the State Archaeologist explores the last 13,000 years of Iowa’s past as known through archaeological study. Real and replica artifacts from relevant time periods will be on display.

MULTI-AGE

Tiny Art Show Paint Kit

Friday, May 26

Display your artistic talents in our Tiny Art Show! Register to receive a tiny art kit and create your masterpiece. For participants 14+ years. Return your completed piece to the Library by June 26.

Jurassic Escape

May 30 – June 2

Fall back in time with giant beasts from the past! Dig for dinosaur bones, test your prehistoric knowledge, and escape a volcanic eruption. Open to all ages during regular library hours. The event will end at 12 PM on June 2. Registration is not required.

( 515 ) 348-8098