Amanda  graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1998. She then went on to get her culinary arts/restaurant management degree in 2001 from Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, TX.  She worked in several restaurants including T.G.I.Fridays, Applebee's, and Bennigans.  After working under Chef Joe Moya and Pastry Chef Pete Pena at the Corpus Christi Country Club, Amanda moved back to her home town of Maquoketa to put all her experience to great use.

Amanda opened Bear Creek Lodge in 2007, offering Maquoketa and surrounding areas a beautiful dining room that can seat up to 50 people for any event. The Lodge offers Wireless Internet, Wii, Big Screen & Satellite TV, and Surround Sound.  We also have a conference table available upon request.  Bear Creek Lodge looks forward to making your next event unforgettable.