Miscellaneous
West Side Stories has been on a bit of a hiatus the last couple months, but it's back, featuring the many great things happening in West Des Moines. In the 13th episode of the podcast, Allison is joined by two new staff members of the Parks and Rec Department. Marnie Strate and Shayne Ratcliff, along with Department Director Sally Ortgies, discuss their new roles in the department, their job “to-do” lists, and what excites them about their new positions. They also divulge lots of information about the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater and the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex which are both currently being built in West Des Moines. So sit back, listen and enjoy this episode titled, “New Faces. New Places.”Guest BiosMarnie Strate - Arts, Culture and Enrichment CoordinatorAfter growing up in Des Moines and graduating from Roosevelt High School, Marnie attended Drake University where she earned her BFA in Theatre. She has been a Video Producer (Screenscape Studios), Education Director and Events & Volunteer Coordinator (Des Moines Social Club), and Assistant Guest Services Manager (Des Moines Performing Arts). Marnie began working for the City of West Des Moines on December 31, 2019. She resides in Des Moines with her husband, 8-month-old son, and terrier dog. Shayne Ratcliff - MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex General ManagerShayne grew up in Mankato, Minnesota, and graduated from Minnesota State University in Mankato where he earned a degree in Recreation, Parks & Leisure Services. Shayne has been an Arena Manager in Lakeville, MN, an ice arena General Manager in Orono, MN, and an Athletic Facilities & Equipment Manager at Lake Forest College. He joined the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department in November of 2019. Shayne lives in Waukee with his wife and two young sons.Sally Ortgies - Director of Parks and RecreationSally began her career in the parks and recreation field in 1989 when she first interned with the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department. She then advanced through the department, becoming a Landscape Designer, Landscape Architect, and Superintendent of Parks. She now serves as the Director of Parks and Recreation. Sally earned Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and Bachelor of Science-Horticulture degrees from Iowa State University. Sally lives in West Des Moines with her husband and MinPin dog. Their daughter lives in Des Moines.