The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Meet Your Neighbor

By Sally Day for the Quill

Born in Keokuk, Iowa, and raised in Burlington, Iowa, Debbie Clem now resides in Carman.

She attended Burlington schools, graduating from Burlington High School in 1988. Immediately following high school, Debbie enrolled at Dayton's School of Hair Design in Burlington, IA, graduating from there in 1989.

And, since that day in 1989, she has been a Cosmetologist, thoroughly enjoying the profession she has chosen. She was employed in this capacity in Des Moines, IA, for nine years before moving back to this area. She worked at the Antiquity in Stronghurst from 2002 until 2007. Debbie now works at the Alternative, where she has been employed since 2008.

She is an incredibly good and creative stylist. Debbie is a colorist, as well as a stylist. Another service offered at the Alternative by Debbie is manicures and pedicures. Many hair care products are also available at the shop.

Among her hobbies, Debbie counts crocheting, gardening, swimming, enjoying her pets, nearly anything outside and most of all hanging out with her children.

Her son, John, 17, is a Junior at West Central High School. He enjoyed playing football last year. John is employed at Hy-Vee in Burlington, IA.

Debbie's daughter, Abby, 14, is a Freshman at West Central High School. She enjoys acting in the school plays.

Debbie's parents are Linda Whittemore of Stronghurst and Bill Whittemore of Dallas City. Linda is employed at Mark Warth Insurance in Burlington, IA. Bill is retired from Exide.

Rob Whittemore of Stronghurst is Debbie's brother. He works at Shear's in Burlington, IA. Rob has three children, Michael Jones of La Harpe, C.C. of Stronghurst and Becca of Stronghurst. He also has one granddaughter, Hannah.

Debbie's sister, Mindi Allbaugh lives in Winfield, Iowa, with her husband, Jeff. They have two children, Hailey and Brody. Mindi works in the Anesthesia Department at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

Debbie's plans for the future include a trip to Florida this coming Spring. In Florida, they plan to enjoy University Studios.

She loves spending time with her kids and loves her job tremendously, and Debbie says she has the very best clients!