Melody Parker

1 month ago | wcfcourier.com | Melody Parker

A night out often begins with that all-important question: “Where are we going to eat?”It’s no secret — people like dining out, and it’s always fun to be among the first to try a new restaurant. From diner fare, burgers, tacos and tenderloins to high tea, sandwiches and sweet treats, Waterloo and Cedar Falls delivered a menu of tasty new food options in the past year. Patton Bar & Diner, King Buck’s, Zary’s Tacos and Tacoz California are among new places to grab a bite in Cedar Falls.

1 month ago | wcfcourier.com | Melody Parker

In 2022, 72.9% of mothers of children under 18 were working or looking for work. In recent years, the traditional image of a stay-at-home mom has undergone a significant transformation, thanks in part to the rise of the gig economy. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of mothers in the workforce rose by 1.7 points from 2019 to 2022.

1 month ago | wcfcourier.com | Melody Parker

WATERLOO — Helping people overcome barriers to independence is the goal at Goodwill Industries of Northeast Iowa. That mission spoke to Alicia Rogers, who joined the nonprofit organization three years ago as director of training and development. “My core values align with that mission, and it was part of my decision to work at Goodwill. I was blown away by all the programs and assistance offered and how Goodwill works with the community,” she said.

1 month ago | wcfcourier.com | Melody Parker

Farmers are discovering ways to add value to their products. They’re crafting wreaths from dried flowers, producing honey from hives stationed on their properties and jarring jam made from aronia berries. Janna Feldman started out milking 40 goats twice a day on her nearly 9-acre Honey Creek, Iowa, farm nestled in the rolling Loess Hills of western Iowa. Her husband Tom helps with the outside maintenance work. Their son Matthew pitches in, too, and daughter Mia and her husband Cody help out.

1 month ago | wcfcourier.com | Melody Parker

WATERLOO — Orange is the color that best describes Katelyn Tungland’s style in a true colors leadership assessment. “I’m very definitely orange. I’m extroverted, and I’m the one who always says ‘go for it.’ I thrive being around people and like-minded people,” said Tungland, 34. As regional director for Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowan, her goal is “to prepare and inspire future leaders.” Tungland has been named one of The Courier’s 20 Under 40 recipients.