Second Council Bluffs Half Marathon to be held May 23, 2010

Any takers? Hopefully this year the weather Gods will smile upon us and send sunshine. Seems odd to register for a race so far in advance! But there was an article in the Nonpareil yesterday about the Half Marathon. I actually wish it was sooner as I need a reason to start running again. I can tell that I have been slacking and it is making me grumpy. There has to be a run somewhere convenient in the next few months, I need motivation.

Fundraising, Family, Football, and Fun

Last weekend I ventured to Kansas City with my parents and Cole. Friday night we attended a dinner at JJ’s on the Plaza where we enjoyed wonderful food and drinks. All proceeds went to support downs syndrome through the First Down for Downs Syndrome organization (the dinner was purchased at the wine auction in April).

Saturday morning we awoke bright and early (or at least it felt bright and early after the late night at JJ’s) and headed to the Chiefs stadium for the Step up for Downs Syndrome Walk (formerly known as the Buddy walk) to walk as part of “Max’s Birthday Bash” Team. Here is my cousin Max.

We had a great crew for the walk and the weather turned out awesome.




Kansas City has one of the largest down syndrome walks in the country – impressive.

Sunday was Chiefs Football. It started off quite fun with great weather and loads of team spirit.






However by half time the team spirit had faltered due to the score and the horrible rainy weather. It was Support the Troops day and the half time show was amazing. A great reminder that we must support those who are risking their lives and leaving the comforts of home to keep the rest of us safe. (I sat in seats far away from the camera so unfortunately no photos)

A great weekend spent raising money for a great cause, spending time with family, and relaxing a bit before this hectic week of campaigning.

City Council Fundraiser

I haven't posted much on this blog as I am trying to keep it from becoming all city council all the time. However, right now my daily existence mainly evolves around the city council race. This week is the final stretch!

Last Wednesday I had a fundraiser at Riverside Grille and it went wonderful. I posted photos and a thank you on the campaign blog but wanted to post a few of the fun photos for family and friends here.
Erik with his boss (Erik is a tall guy...)

My super sister

My kindegarden teacher - how cool is that

Cole's GQ look - not sure why he had a pink scarf on

My Dad, Grandpa, and Craig

Grandpa who has been very supportive throughout this race

A short little speech to thank everyone

Kirk enlighting Jason on life

Craig and Tia (we still have a few shirts if anyone is interested)

My dad and Kathy

Cole and I

Christine showing her father in law some love

Justin chillin

In case anyone wants to buy me a present….

I would really like these shoes

This dress for work

Oh yeah and these purses – hey they are on sale so I get two right?


My mom deserves as present as well and she would love this necklace.

Kate Spade you were harsh enough on my wallet with your purses. Now you offer shoes, clothes, and jewelry that also make me swoon.

*Images via Katespade.com

Is It Too Early for a Countdown??

17 days from now I will be lounging here (if the Weather Gods are on my side!).

And spending the evenings enjoying great food, great drinks, and amazing friends. Viva Las Vegas!!!

The light at the end of the tunnel that will get me through these next two insanely busy campaign weeks.

*Photos from Caesars Palace Website

Lewis Township Fire Department.

A few weeks ago Lewis Township had an open house. I stopped by to check out the place, meet the volunteers, and of course support Jason my neighbor who is new to the team. Doesn’t he look quite dapper as a firefighter…



Now we just need to get him fully certified so he can get a spot with the amazing team of firefighters that make up the Council Bluffs Fire Department. I had the pleasure of meeting many of the CB Fire firefighters a few weeks ago and was very impressed with their commitment to not only their jobs, but the community as a whole. Impressive group of guys that we are lucky to have. Back to Lewis Township – this is an entirely volunteer force. Amazing to me how many individuals are willing to give up their free time and risk their lives for the safety of others. Being a volunteer means being on call 24/7 and responding to a page even if you are in the middle of dinner or relaxing with your family. All of this purely for the personal satisfaction they receive by volunteering. Pretty amazing group!

If only I had such skills I would volunteer. However I don’t think I would qualify so I will have to find other ways to serve my community. The open house was great. We were able to get an up close look at all the fancy equipment.


Rides in the fire truck were offered. Unfortunately for me there was a long line of children waiting for said ride so no ride (I would have felt way too guilty taking time away from the youth). Even though I really did want to ride in a fire truck!! Probably would have been almost as fun as that pole I may have slid down in a fire station recently.

Life flight also stopped by for a visit between calls.

They landed the helicopter in a very small area between several power lines. That takes skill!




Thanks Lewis Township for opening up your home and for volunteering your time to protect others. Most of my family still lives in Lewis Township so I understand first hand how important this service is. As a city resident I am thankful to the Council Bluffs Fire Department for keeping me safe. Every day they not only fight fires but also responding to emergencies (big and small), educate youth about fire prevention, and are great stewards of our community.

One week ago

I was on pins and needles awaiting the primary results.


I wanted so badly to be one of the top four advancing to the General Election. Never in a million years did I expect results like this:

I ended up in the lead with 25% of the votes! To say I was excited is an understatement! I dont think it had quite sunk in during my interview with the Nonpareil.

Or when recieving congrats from the Mayor.

My parents and grandpa were very proud.

There may have even been a few tears shed as you can tell from the watery eyes.

Hey I am a girl and I was excited, it happens. I had an amazing support staff with me that evening to pass time until we could head to the courthouse for results.



Thanks campaign team (some not pictured) – you have all truly made this campaign so much easier and more fun than I expected. Don’t get me wrong – it’s a lot of hard work!! However, having a supportive team makes that hard work worthwhile and helps relieve some stress when needed. I couldn’t ask for better group of family and friends.

But now is not the time to celebrate or let the numbers go to my head. I am very well aware of the fact that anything is possible now that the field has been narrowed. I plan to work extremely hard these next few weeks in hopes that three weeks from today I can have another victory. A victory that will allow me to serve the citizens of Council Bluffs as a member of their city council.