Issuu

OCTOBER 2026

The Big AI Question Isn’t About the Technology It’s About the Adaptation

The Technology Changes The Relationship Doesn’t

TICULT L U

AL UR

AI IS MOVING FROM TOOL TO TEAMMATE

TECHNOLOGY is

TOOL

NOT the Main Character

The Business of Connection

OCT 2026 ABJ | 2

T H A N K Y O U TO O U R I N V E S TO R M E M B E R S

T H A N K Y O U TO O U R PR EM IER M EMB ER S

The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the promotion & development of our members within the community.

LIVE. WORK. PLAY. INSPIRE COMMUNITY.

Advertise With The Ankeny Chamber

OCT 2026 ABJ | 3

CONTENTS 4

AI Can’t Automate Community - Written by Mackenzie Cowden

Calendar - October & November Events

The Heart of Service - Written by Connie Fiscus

The Technology Changes The Relationship Doesn’t - Written by Mackenzie Cowden, based on an interview with Jeff Robinson

The Big AI Question Isn’t About the Technology It’s About the Adaptation - Written by Mazen Arawi & Mackenzie Cowden

Multicultural Business Summit Photos

The Business of Connection - Written by Mackenzie Cowden

How Much Does A Small Business Website Cost in Ankeny, Iowa - Written by Marcus Pitts

September Lattes & Leads - Sponsored by Lamberti, Murphy, & Strong P.C.

September New Member Mixer - Sponsored by Lamberti, Murphy, & Strong P.C.

Technology Is A Tool Not The Main Character - Written by Dr. Jerome Hilscher

AI & Its Impact On Estate Planning & Legal Documents - Written by Shelby Smith

Chamber Drop Offs

AI Is Moving From Tool To Teammate - Written by Mackenzie Cowden

Fun AI Photo Prompts To Try

September Ankeny Young Professional Events

Book Review: When Breath Becomes - Air Provided by Wall of Books

September Business After Hours - Sponsored by Lincoln Savings Bank

October Anniversaries

Ribbon Cuttings & New Members

OCT 2026 ABJ | 4

AI Can’t Automate Community I’m what can be referred to as a digital native. I was raised by parents who earned their computer science degrees back when coding required punch cards. Our house had a computer long before most of my friends, and I learned to type my name before I learned to write it. I heard often that a computer was only as smart as its user. For a long time, I believed that without question. Today, I'm not so sure. Artificial intelligence can draft emails, create specific images, analyze data, and find my typos in seconds. The internet is full of platforms, and algorithms all screaming into the void, competing to create impressions. I work in marketing. Much of my job involves creating content to get noticed in an increasingly crowded digital world, and while technology can replace parts of my work, it still can’t replace me. AI can save you time... but it can't save face, and it can't show up for you. The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce hosts multiple networking opportunities every month, and technology can't recreate the impressions made by walking into a room full of neighbors, colleagues, and friends who genuinely care about one another. In my nearly four years at the Ankeny Area Chamber, I've had the privilege of interviewing more than 100 business owners, nonprofit leaders, educators, elected officials, and community champions. Their stories are different, but one theme keeps coming up: Success is still about people. The businesses that thrive build relationships with customers. The leaders who make the greatest impact invest in others. Technology can support those relationships, but it cannot replace them. This is why events like our Chamber member vendor fair Discover Ankeny Presented by B&G Foods and Sponsored by Polk County Board of Supervisors matter so much. On Thursday, November 5, community members will gather to make connections, support local, learn from one another, and strengthen the relationships that make the City of Ankeny such a special place to live, work, and play. As technology continues to evolve, let's embrace it for what it is: a powerful tool. But let's never forget that while the future may be powered by technology, success will always be powered by people. Thank you for your support of the Ankeny Chamber,

Mackenzie Cowden

Director of Marketing & Graphic Design Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce

d sc ankeny ver Sponsored By

OCT 2026 ABJ | 5

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OCT 2026 ABJ | 6

Support Your Local Chamber Day

Enjoy Coffee with the Ankeny Chamber

Wednesday, October 21 st Support the Ankeny Chamber by supporting our members!

Square Dr, 1360 SW Park Suite 106

Join us 7:30-9:00AM to Celebrate!

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OCTOBER 1

Ribbon Cutting Drake Online & Continuing Education 12:00 - 12:30 PM 2505 University Avenue Des Moines, IA 50311

AYP in the AM 7:30 - 9:00 AM Sponsored by The Elements Interiors 1380 SW Vintage Parkway Ste 107

Business After Hours 4:00 - 5:30 PM Sponsored by Benway Beauty, PLLC 1515 SW Main St, Suite 101

2026 Iowa House & Senate Candidate Forum 5:30 - 7:00 PM Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library City Council Chambers 1250 SW District Dr

ATE Fall Ball Golf Tournament NE W D

14 16

10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Sponsored by McClure/ATI Group Held at Briarwood Golf Club 3405 N.E. Trilein Dr. Chamber’s October 6 Steps to Your Business Owner Playbook Presented by ActionCOACH Vanguard 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1551 SW Prairie Trail Pkwy

Chamber’s October Profit Academy Presented by ActionCOACH Vanguard 4:00 - 5:00 PM Join us virtually!

Support Your Local Chamber Day 7:30 - 9:00 AM Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce 1360 SW Park Square Dr Ste 106

Witches Night Out 3:30 - 8:00 PM Sponsored by Nova MedSpa

27 29

Lattes & Leads 7:30 - 9:30 AM Sponsored by Community State Bank 2750 NE 36th St. AYP Boos & Brews 6:00 - 8:00 PM Sponsored by Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille 2785 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ste. 18 Ribbon Cutting

29 4:30 - 5:00 PM

Apex Sway

1450 SW Vintage Pkwy Ste 250

Ribbon Cutting

30 12:00 - 12:30 PM

Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe

2325 SW State Street Suite A

NOVEMBER 4

5 6

AYP Lunch & Learn 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Held at Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library; Meeting Room A 1250 SW District Dr Discover Ankeny 4:00 - 7:00 PM Presenting Sponsor B&G Foods, Inc. Sponsored by Polk County Board of Supervisors FFA Enrichment Center 1055 S.W. Prairie Trail Pkwy.

Ribbon Cutting Nolte and Sons Lawn and Irrigation 12:00 - 12:30 PM 1014 SE Lorenz Dr.

Business After Hours 4:00 - 5:30 PM Sponsored by IV Nutrition Ankeny 2405 SW White Birch Dr , Ste 105/106

AYP After Hours 5:30 - 7:30 PM Sponsored by Brown Dog Bakery 2310 S.E. Delaware Ave., Ste. E

Chamber’s November 6 Steps to Your Business Owner Playbook Presented by ActionCOACH Vanguard 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1551 SW Prairie Trail Pkwy

Chamber’s November Profit Academy Presented by ActionCOACH Vanguard 4:00 - 5:00 PM Join us virtually!

Lattes & Leads 7:30 - 9:00 AM Sponsored by Bob Brown Buick GMC 1405 S.E. Oralabor Rd.

Chamber Office Closed at Noon on Wednesday, November 25 Through Friday, November 27

New Office Hours 8:00AM-4:30PM

OCT 2026 ABJ | 8

LEARN MORE

OCT 2026 ABJ | 9

The Heart of Service

Why Being Human Is Our Greatest Differentiator Written by Connie Fiscus

Before I share my thoughts on artificial intelligence in customer service, I need to give a quick shout-out to my digital teammates: Chat, Claude, Gemini, and the rest of the crew. I love AI. I use it a lot, especially for repetitive tasks that take up valuable time. I call ChatGPT my virtual assistant so often that my husband occasionally reminds me, “You know that isn’t a real person, right?” Of course I know! But it is clever enough that it has earned a personality in our house.

Then comes the peak experience. The peak-end principle tells us that the most emotionally intense moments of an experience, along with how the experience ends, carry tremendous weight in how people remember it. In customer service, that peak can define the relationship. Maybe something went wonderfully right. Maybe something went terribly wrong. Either way, this is often the moment that sticks. A customer can leave feeling heard, valued, cared for, and special. That feeling can bring them back again and again, creating loyalty and turning customers into advocates. Or they can leave frustrated, unheard, and simply done with you and your AI. AI can recognize emotional language and generate an empathetic response. But simulated empathy is not the same as genuine human connection. Sometimes a customer needs someone who can listen, understand you as a person, laugh with you, celebrate with you, reassure you, notice when something does not sound quite right, and make you feel like you truly matter. A human can use judgment, show compassion, create a personal connection, and simply say, “I understand, and I am going to help you.”

Those moments matter. They are often the moments customers talk about, remember, and share with others. As much as I love AI, I believe we need to be thoughtful about where we use it in the customer experience. AI has an important place in business. Let it summarize I have spent much of my career training and presenting information, draft communications, analyze feedback, on customer service, and one principle matters most: answer routine questions, and the way you make people feel take repetitive work off your matters most. employees’ plates. Let it give your team back something incredibly That starts with the first valuable: time. impression. The primacy effect tells us that what people experience Then use that time to better first can strongly influence how serve your customers. they perceive what comes next. So use AI. Let it make your So, what greets your customer? business faster, smarter, and Is it a warm, welcoming person, more efficient. But be selective or are they pressing 1, pressing about where it belongs in the 2, and eventually shouting, customer journey. “Representative!” into the phone? Never automate away the AI can route calls, answer routine heart of your business: the questions, organize emails, and genuine and unforgettable make service more efficient. Those feeling of one human being are great uses of technology. But caring for another. when everyone is automating, access to a real person may become your competitive edge. Human connection may be exactly what sets you apart. Connie Fiscus, MHA, Certified Master Coach

Founder & CEO - Sunflower People & Culture Solutions, LLC

CoachConnieFiscus.com | (515) 321-6427

OCT 2026 ABJ | 10

The Technology Changes The Relationship Doesn’t Written by Mackenzie Cowden, based on an interview with Jeff Robinson, owner/founder of Tier 3 Technology

“Nobody ever calls us when they’re having a great day.” By the time our phone rings, something has already gone wrong. After building Tier 3 Technology from a one-person operation into a company serving clients across the country, I’ve learned that fixing technology is only part of the job. The real work is building trust, solving problems, and being the person clients know they can count on when things aren’t going according to plan.

should have standardized systems and processes. There was this thing called a profit margin, and I was like, “Holy crap. We aren’t profitable.” Of those 100 clients, maybe 30 to 35 were truly profitable. Some clients were actually costing us money just by having them, and I had to make a change. One of the hardest lessons was realizing we had to let go of clients who weren’t willing to move to our new standard. We ultimately parted ways with about half of our clients. It was a difficult decision because we spent years building those relationships. But from that point forward, we became profitable across the board. We started paying attention to the numbers and understanding how a business should operate. What has contributed to the company’s growth? I guess the one thing I can point to is simply that we do what we say we’re going to do. It isn’t sexy or cool, but it’s important. I had a client tell me once, “We never have to worry with you guys. You show up when you’re supposed to, and you do what you say you’re going to do.” It’s just the simple stuff. Our clients tend to stick with us for a very long time. Some have been with us for 16 or 17 years, and our average client tenure is around nine or 10 years. After the initial year contract, our clients are month-to-month. That means you have to keep earning the relationship.

When I first started working with vendors, I noticed that a lot of them treated people like they were dumb From Experimenting to Entrepreneurship for asking questions, even though that’s what they were After high school, I joined the Navy, but I was medically paying them to do. I thought, this customer service thing discharged and came home not really knowing what I is pretty simple: Treat people well, solve their problems, wanted to do. I’ve always been kind of nerdy, so I went to school for technology. After college, I ran into the classic and improve their life if you can. Catch-22: Every job wanted experience, but you couldn’t Something always breaks at the worst possible time. get the job until you had experience. You’re getting ready to go into a meeting, you’re trying to I finally got hired for PC repair, and I was grateful for the give a presentation, or you’re trying to get out the door before your kid’s soccer game. So, we train our help opportunity. They didn’t pay very well, but they were nice desk to start with, “Absolutely. Let me get logged in and people, and they let young people take a stab at things. take a look at it.” But while we’re working on the problem, I ended up working on servers, networks, data cabling, and all kinds of other things. I gained so much knowledge we’re also asking, “How’s it going? What do you have planned this weekend?” because I could experiment and build my skills. I started doing side work while I was there, and once I replaced my income, I went full-time working for myself.

Learning How Not to Run a Business For about two years, I worked between 16 and 18 hours a day. I lived primarily on 6-8 pots of coffee and rarely saw my wife. Fortunately, she was a good sport and very patient as I spent the first seven or eight years figuring out every conceivable way not to run a business. At one point, I employed around nine people and had roughly 100 clients. Suddenly, I had to figure out taxes, payroll, and all these different complexities. In 2015, I joined a peer group and realized how terrible I was at running the business side of things. It turns out you’re not supposed to work 18 hours a day, and you

Our whole team knows about our clients’ kids and grandkids and what they’re up to. We’ll remember that

OCT 2026 ABJ | 11

The biggest thing we tell clients is that they need an AI policy. Employees need to know what the company says they can and cannot do with AI. People also need to understand where their data is going. If you’re not aware that your data is going to a third party for generative AI, that’s a problem. Many businesses adopt AI tools before understanding where company information is stored, who can access it, and how security settings are configured. We’ve seen situations where AI tools have access to information they shouldn’t. For example, if your Microsoft environment isn’t set up correctly, someone without HR permissions someone went fishing last time we talked to them and could potentially ask an AI tool for HR documents and ask how it went. At the end of the day, we’re going to fix your stuff and update the technology. But more than that, receive them. Those are the small things people don’t think about. You need the ideas, but you also need the keeping clients is relationship-driven. guardrails to use them correctly. What has it been like building the company in Ankeny? What advice would you give business owners My wife grew up here, and when I first started dating navigating all of this change? her, she lived on the north side of town. Then she went I’m not saying run out and join the AI club. I am to Iowa State, and I’d come back through and think, “Wait a minute. I thought I turned at Casey’s. Where’s the saying take your time and do a little research into AI. Find a good partner. Find somebody to talk to. We do house?” There has been a bunch of new development, free consultations because if somebody has a general and it’s been fun watching the community grow while technology question or a specific problem, I’m always being part of that growth. open to having a conversation. One of the things I’ve wanted for the company is Technology changes daily. What I was doing six to own our own space and control our own destiny. months ago, I probably won’t be doing six months from We looked at buying a space, but it was difficult, and now. There are tons of resources available, and you I started thinking maybe we should move to a remote shouldn’t take one person’s opinion as truth. Get advice strategy. Until we got a big new client who specifically wanted to work with a local company. They asked where from multiple people. Be open to different opinions and different ways of doing things. our office was, and I had to tell them we were between offices. That sped up the real estate process.

We found our current office, and we’ve since grown enough to take the other half of the building. We’re moving toward eventually owning our building in Prairie Trail. That’s pretty exciting. How are you using AI at Tier 3? We’ve been doing AI webinars for about two and a half years, and it’s incredible how far it’s come in that time. I think AI is a force multiplier. If it’s set up properly and given the appropriate guardrails, it is a game changer.

“AI is powerful, but that doesn’t mean you can stop thinking.” Our development team has seen some of the basic work that used to take a week or two come down to an hour. But you still have to know what you’re doing. It’s garbage in, garbage out. I’m not a developer. I can read a script and put together a simple one, but I can ask AI to make me one, and it will be faster than I ever could. We’ve seen people build websites or programs almost entirely with AI, and they’re riddled with security issues and bugs. Our developers review everything before it goes into production, and sometimes they’ll say, “This is trash. We have to strip this thing way down.”

AI is going to create major shifts across every industry. I don’t know exactly what the future looks like, and I don’t think anybody does. But I do think the businesses that understand how to use these tools, manage the risks, and build the right systems will be in a much better position to adapt.

For me, the most valuable thing isn’t simply having technology. It’s helping people understand their risk and putting systems in place to manage it. And through all of that change, the relationship still matters. You have to show up. You have to do what you say you’re going to do. You have to keep learning. It’s not complicated. But it makes all the difference.

OCT 2026 ABJ | 12

Established in 2008, Tier 3 Technology Solutions specializes in strategic, white-glove cybersecurity consulting and managed IT services. They partner with organizations of all types and sizes, including nonprofits, local governments, retail chains, and small businesses. Their mission is to reduce cyber liability and provide the ultimate experience for every client.

Go Simpler → Go Safer → GoTier3.com 1615 SW Magazine Rd. Ankeny, IA 50023 www.GoTier3.com ask@gotier3.com 515-512-4213

OCT 2026 ABJ | 13

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OCT 2026 ABJ | 14

The Big AI Question

Isn’t About the

Technology

It’s About the Adaptation Written by Mazen Arawi & Mackenzie Cowden How should business leaders think about AI & technology? Whenever I speak with business leaders about AI, I encourage them to stop thinking about technology for a moment. The real challenge facing most organizations is not whether AI is powerful. It’s deciding how to adopt it in a way that supports employees, protects customer information, and creates measurable business value.

That’s why I believe the biggest AI question isn’t about the technology itself. It’s about adaptation. Most businesses do not have an AI problem. They have a decision-making problem. They hear about new tools, new models, and new opportunities every day and feel overwhelmed trying to figure it all out on their own. I encourage business leaders to ignore the hype for a moment and focus on their business. Look at where time is being lost, where bottlenecks exist, and where repetitive work slows people down. Then ask how those processes can be improved. AI may be one of the tools that helps solve those challenges, but the starting point should always be the problem, not the technology.

“Small businesses should start by identifying one meaningful problem they would like to solve.” That is also why small businesses do not need to chase every new tool. They need to decide where change can make the greatest difference, then choose the technology that fits their people, customers, and goals. The businesses that succeed with AI will be the ones that stay grounded in relationships, trust, education, and community while using technology to support better work. Technology is powerful, but people still drive innovation and growth. What does Human-Centered AI mean to you? That is also why small businesses do not need to chase every new tool. They need to decide where change can make the greatest difference, then

choose the technology that fits their people, customers, and goals. The businesses that succeed with AI will be the ones that stay grounded in relationships, trust, education, and community while using technology to support better work. Technology is powerful, but people still drive innovation and growth.

“The goal should never be replacing people.”

The goal should be helping people perform at a higher level. Employees are far more likely to embrace AI when they see it as a tool that supports their success, not a technology that threatens their role. What led you to start WorkEAI? I started WorkEAI after more than 15 years working on technology, cloud, and digital transformation projects across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. I kept seeing the same pattern: large companies had more room to experiment, while small and mid-sized businesses often had to make sense of AI with fewer resources and less guidance. WorkEAI was created to help close that gap and give businesses a clearer, more practical path into AI. At first, I thought the main need was helping organizations understand AI and productivity tools. Over time, it became clear that successful adoption depends on more than choosing software. Businesses also need to think about readiness, governance, employee training, security, workflows, and long-term strategy. What should business owners be preparing for now? AI is becoming a standard part of everyday work. Just as businesses adapted to email, smartphones, cloud computing, and social media, they will need to adapt to AI-enabled workflows and decision-making. This does not mean adopting every new technology. It means creating the capability to evaluate opportunities, understand risks, train employees, and make informed decisions as the technology evolves. Start with your own week rather than a company-wide plan. Notice where the time goes: the emails you rewrite constantly, the report you rebuild every month, the same

OCT 2026 ABJ | 15

questions your team brings to you. Try AI on one of those and judge it on two things: whether it saved you time and whether the result was something you would put your name on. You also do not have to figure this out alone. Talk to peers who have already tried something, ask the technology partners you already work with what they support, and treat the first attempt as a learning exercise rather than a long-term commitment. What are some common mistakes or misconceptions you see? One of the biggest misconceptions is believing AI is always correct. AI can produce inaccurate or incomplete information, and human review remains essential. Another common mistake is implementing technology before establishing clear business objectives. I often see organizations underestimate governance and data protection. One of the biggest risks today is shadow AI. Employees will often begin using personal AI tools with good intentions, whether they’re drafting emails, summarizing documents, or organizing information. The challenge is that businesses may not understand how that information is being stored, shared, or retained. That’s why governance matters. Organizations should establish approved tools, clear policies, employee education, and data protection practices before widespread adoption occurs.

of the practical ways AI has helped me is by reducing the time I spend on repetitive tasks like drafting, organizing notes, and turning ideas into first versions. That does not mean the work disappears or that judgment is no longer needed, but it does help me be more focused with the time I have and create more space for quality time with my family. Building a business takes a lot of energy, but family reminds me why the work matters in the first place. I am also grateful to the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, the local business community, the clients who placed their trust in WorkEAI, and the mentors, colleagues, and partners who shared advice and referrals along the way. No business is built alone. Every entrepreneur benefits from people who invest their time, trust, and support along the way. What do you love about Ankeny and the metro area? What I appreciate most is the combination of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community. People here still make time for one another, and conversations at Chamber events or local business gatherings often develop into meaningful working relationships. The region has a serious business culture without losing the relationships that help people succeed.

Iowa businesses have tremendous opportunity to lead in responsible, In reality, AI often exposes existing practical AI adoption because our business community tends to focus information-governance challenges on solving real problems rather than rather than creating entirely new chasing trends. ones. Businesses that already My advice is simple: Do not let manage data effectively tend to fear prevent you from exploring adapt much more successfully. AI, and do not let hype drive How does your family balance your decisions. Focus on solving responsibilities? meaningful business problems, Like many entrepreneurs, I am involve your people, measure still learning how to balance it all. outcomes, and learn continuously. My family has been my greatest The organizations that will succeed source of support throughout my with AI are not necessarily the ones career and business journey. We try using the most AI. They are the ones to communicate clearly, protect time using it thoughtfully, responsibly, and when we can, and keep perspective effectively. when work gets demanding. One

High-Impact Ways Businesses Can Use AI 1 Proposals, Quotes & RFPs • Turn call notes into proposals, quotes, or scopes of work in minutes instead of days. • Generate first drafts of RFP responses and vendor questionnaires from previously approved content. • Shorten the time between a customer conversation and a decision. 2 Meetings & Documents • Convert meetings into summaries, action items, owners, and due dates. • Pull key dates and information from contracts, invoices, and forms. • Answer recurring internal questions that would otherwise require manager time. 3 Customer-Facing Work • Respond to routine customer questions faster and more consistently. • Maintain service levels during busy periods without adding staff. • Review customer feedback, sales activity, or service records to identify trends and opportunities. Bottom Line: The strongest AI use cases solve existing business problems, eliminate delays, and give employees more time to focus on relationshipbuilding, problemsolving, and strategic work.

OCT 2026 ABJ | 16

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OCT 2026 ABJ | 17

ULTURA C I

Sponsored by

MUL T

OCT 2026 ABJ | 18

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 Multicultural Business Summit and helped make the day such a meaningful opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. From insightful presentations and practical takeaways to meaningful conversations and new connections, we’re grateful to everyone who showed up ready to learn and share their experiences. A special thank you to our phenomenal presenters and the Multicultural Taskforce for sharing your expertise and making each session valuable and engaging and to Mark Holm Polk County Supervisor for his welcome message. We’re also grateful to our sponsors and community partners for investing in this event and helping us create an affordable, high-impact professional development opportunity right here in Ankeny. - Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce

Thank you to our Guest Speakers:

Christy Jones

Connie Fiscus

Kenneth James Kourtney Chester Jr. Perry

Laura Kinnard

Mazen Arawi

Nicole M. Proesch

Reyna Immerfall

OCT 2026 ABJ | 19

We are proud to support an event that brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, nonprofit organizations, and professionals from across our community. The summit’s new name reflects an important goal: creating opportunities for the full range of our business community to connect, learn from one another, and build stronger relationships. Today’s event is about more than individual businesses. It is about strengthening our local economy through collaboration, shared experiences, and new perspectives. The conversations that begin here have the potential to become lasting connections that continue well beyond today. Thank you to the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, the Multicultural Taskforce, our speakers, sponsors, and everyone who made this event possible. Your commitment to supporting and strengthening the Ankeny business community is what makes this summit a success. - Mark Holm Polk County Supervisor

TICULT L U

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The Business of Connection

OCT 2026 ABJ | 20

Written by Mackenzie Cowden, based on the panel discussion at the 2026 Multicultural Business Summit The strongest communities aren’t built by chance. They are built by people who choose to get involved. According to panelists at the Fourth Annual Multicultural Business Summit, success isn’t a business strategy or a leadership style. It’s the ability to build meaningful relationships. During a conversation moderated by Sue Hudson, owner of IV Nutrition and a member of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, panelists shared lessons learned about community, mentorship, representation, and leadership. While their journeys differed, their message was consistent: success rarely happens alone. What does community really mean? “People want to do business with people they like, and they trust,” said Garrison Goodlett, owner of G.G.’s Chicken & Waffles and Chamber Board Second Vice Chair. For him, success is built through relationships that create trust, strengthen communication, and open doors for helping others. For Dr. Ken Morris Jr., Chief Officer of Family & Community Engagement for Ankeny Community School District, community comes down to three ideas: “collective responsibility, collective care, and collective accountability.” After relocating from Illinois to Ankeny, he experienced something that shaped both his outlook on Ankeny, “The community not only received me, but received my family,” he said. That sense of belonging inspired him to become more invested in the community. Today, he sees his role as building bridges between schools, businesses, nonprofits, and residents. Reyna Immerfall, owner of Reyna Immerfall State Farm Agency and Chamber Board First Vice Chair, said her involvement with chambers throughout her career reinforced the value of community engagement. For her, community involvement is about helping businesses see the value of investing where they live and work. What lessons did you learn the hard way? For Reyna, that challenge arrived almost immediately. When she launched her businesses in 2019, she entered ownership with excitement and optimism. Then, only months later, the world changed. “I wish we would have had a zombie apocalypse instead,” she joked while reflecting on navigating COVID during her first year in business. Traditional marketing plans no longer worked. Virtual networking and the

foundation she had built before the crisis kept her moving forward. “If you don’t have a mentor, you’re kind of going around in the dark,” Garrison said. “You’re going to waste a lot less money if you follow the path somebody’s already laid for you.” Accelerator programs, business education opportunities, and experienced mentors can help new business owners avoid common pitfalls and reach their goals faster. Even more importantly, he noted, “Every entrepreneur needs a support system.” Kourtney Perry, CEO of Ladie Lex Scented Candles and Privacy, LLC, offered a simple system, “Take the advice and write it down. That doesn’t mean that you have to act.” For business owners, not every piece of advice requires immediate adoption. How does representation shape leadership? “You can’t be it if you don’t see it,” Dr. Ken stated. He shared how, growing up, he often encountered stereotypes, misconceptions, and low expectations. Teachers and counselors sometimes suggested limitations based solely on their assumptions about who he was. “I wouldn’t accept that,” he said, and chose to define himself. Today, he sees value in showing students and community members that “You do not have to shrink your identity to succeed.” For Monica Goodlett, MSN, RN, founder of Black Iowa Outdoors, representation is equally important. Monica spoke about the role representation plays in both healthcare and community engagement. Through Black Iowa Outdoors, she creates opportunities for people to experience outdoor recreation while challenging misconceptions and broadening participation. She believes representation, communication, and connection help strengthen communities and create opportunities for people to see what’s possible. Whether working as a nurse or organizing outdoor experiences, she creates opportunities for people to see themselves in spaces where they may not have felt represented before.

OCT 2026 ABJ | 21

What happens when we connect beyond our normal circles? “It makes you more empathetic,” Garrison said. “You understand their stories more. You understand their struggles.” Garrison has seen those connections happen around a shared meal. “I believe food brings people together,” he said. Monica approaches connection through service. “I want to make things better than how I found them. I want to help people and get them to a better place than they are right now.” She believes meaningful connections happen when people intentionally create opportunities for others. “It goes back to representation. It goes back to that connection,” she said. “If we don’t take anything else away, let’s celebrate our commonalities, but let’s also not minimize or flatten out our differences,” Dr. Ken said. For him, diversity is not something to overlook in search of agreement. It is something to value. “Let’s celebrate our commonalities, but let’s also not minimize or flatten out our differences because it’s within those differences that lies our humanity.” That belief has shaped his own experience in Ankeny. One of the first community members he met welcomed him into her home and introduced him to people throughout the community. It was a simple act of hospitality, but one he still remembers today. What is one piece of advice every leader should remember? As the session came to a close, Sue asked each panelist to leave attendees with one piece of advice. • “Be in it for more than just yourself,” Garrison advised. • “Don’t give up, but learn to take a break,” Advised Kourtney. • “Get involved, get involved, get involved,” Reyna said. • Dr. Ken offered a simple challenge, “Find ways to help others achieve their goals while pursuing your own.” • “Connect with a non-profit.” Monica added. Different industries, experiences, & paths. Yet every panelist arrived at the same conclusion: community happens when people choose to show up for one another.

OCT 2026 ABJ | 22

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HOW MUCH DOES @

SMALL BUSINESS WEBSITE COST IN

Written by Marcus Pitts If you are comparing website design costs in Ankeny, Iowa, a professional smallbusiness website will often cost somewhere in the low thousands, while larger custom or e-commerce websites can cost considerably more. The final price depends on the number of pages, design, content, functionality and the amount of work involved. “The biggest mistake I see business owners make is comparing website prices without comparing what they’re actually getting,” said Marcus Pitts, owner of Royal Palm Marketing in Ankeny. “A website should represent the quality of your business and make it easy for potential customers to take the next step.” That is why two businesses can ask for a “new website” and receive very different quotes. What determines website design cost in Ankeny, Iowa? The biggest factor is scope. A five-page website for a local service business is very different from a site with dozens of service pages, online scheduling, e-commerce, custom forms, multiple locations or software integrations.

Ask whether the price includes mobile design, basic search optimization, contact forms, analytics, content, hosting, maintenance and support. You should also know who owns the website, domain, content and accounts after launch. If you are still deciding who should build your website, our earlier Chamber article, How to Choose a Website Designer in Ankeny, Iowa, explains what to look for before hiring someone. How should you compare website quotes? Price matters, but the cheapest website is not always the least expensive choice. A website that does not represent your business well, cannot easily be updated or fails to generate inquiries may need to be replaced sooner than expected. Instead of asking only, “What does the website cost?” ask, “What am I getting for that price?” Your website should also support the rest of your marketing. As discussed in What a Marketing Agency in Ankeny, Iowa Can Actually Do for Your Business, your website, Google presence, advertising and other marketing efforts work better when they support one another. See your website before you buy it One of the hardest parts of buying a website is committing to a project before you know what your new site could look like. Royal Palm Marketing offers Ankeny businesses a free, no-obligation website mockup. You can see a fresh, professional direction for your website before deciding whether you want to move forward. No pressure. No obligation. Just a chance to see what is possible for your business. Marcus Pitts is the owner of Royal Palm Marketing, an Ankeny-based marketing agency and member of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce. Royal Palm Marketing helps small businesses with website design, digital marketing and online visibility. Learn more at RoyalPalmMarketing.com

Content affects the price too. Some businesses already have professional photos and strong written copy. Others need help developing their message, writing service pages, choosing images and organizing information. Before comparing prices, make sure you are comparing the same things. A lower quote may simply include fewer pages, less content or fewer services. What should be included in the price? Professional website design in Ankeny, Iowa should do more than look good. It should work well on phones, clearly explain what your business does and make it easy for visitors to call, request a quote, schedule an appointment or contact you.

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TECHNOLOGY is

TOOL

NOT the Main Character Written by Dr. Jerome Hilscher

How do you view IT in education? A mix of 20+ years of leadership paired with a habit of translating technology into plain language for teachers, customers, and leaders alike has shaped how I think about the work itself. The old assumption that kids raised around technology would become natural experts never really held up, and most people still treat IT as a kind of wizardry. My job is to make sure it isn’t magic, that it’s functional, that our data is safe, and that we’re balancing real needs against real budgets responsibly. That same combination of leadership and translation is what drew me to Ankeny. I wanted a district with a stable leadership structure and a real plan, and after one interview with Dr. Pruitt, I knew this was the place. Coming in as Ankeny Community School District’s first Chief Information Officer means building the district’s IT foundation from the ground up rather than inheriting one, and that’s exactly the kind of opportunity I wanted. It also brought my family home to the Des Moines Metro. I began my career in education as a high school English teacher, and that beginning has shaped every move I’ve made since. I’m genuinely excited to be part of the Ankeny Community School District. Between the Innovation Hub under construction and the pace of change in technology generally, I know this district is going to push to stay ahead rather than just keep up. There will be real technical challenges along the way, but the students and staff here already meet challenges head-on, and I expect that to hold as technology keeps changing. Getting to be part of that, and part of this community’s success, is exactly the kind of work I came here to do. What role does technology currently play in supporting teaching and learning across the district? Most of what technology does for teaching and learning here happens where nobody sees it — network uptime, data security, the quiet infrastructure that lets a classroom use technology without a second thought. It will never be fast enough; that’s just always true, but the goal is for it to be boring: reliable, present, and never called into question. I’ve only been in the district a short time, so I haven’t yet seen the full range of what individual classrooms are doing,

but even in these first months I’ve watched instructors do genuinely creative things with what they have. How that technology gets used pedagogically, and how it’s balanced against the human connection that actually drives learning, is squarely the work of our Academic Services Team. My role is to keep the infrastructure underneath them safe and dependable enough that they can make those calls without technology getting in the way. What I’m most excited about as this next chapter starts is everything still ahead: there is a lot of momentum and possibility with the Innovation Hub. I’m hoping to leverage this momentum to build a real pipeline of student interns into our IT department. The technological growth happening around us, such as 3D printing, video game design classes, AI exploration, it all demonstrates that the district is moving forward, not standing still. IT needs to be boring. Forward-thinking means to me: not chasing the newest thing, but asking whether a tool is worth the time and money, how it interacts with what we already have, and whether we can help people actually understand it. That balance is really the whole job. My staff loves tearing into new problems, but our job is making sure communication is constant, the network is reliable, data is safe, and we’ve got a solid base of hardware and software, all on a lean budget. We do it for the students. Covering the boring stuff well is what gives instructors the room to actually engage with the exciting and new. My advice to anyone who feels like technology is outrunning them: stay engaged. There are tech evangelists and anti-AI voices in equal measure, and the real future is neither utopia nor a Terminator scenario.

“Education survived calculators and Google, and we’ll adapt to AI too.”

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Education, at its core, is understanding a process and knowing when to apply it; reading, writing, arithmetic, and the ability to reason through a problem will serve students in any career field AI touches. None of that adaptation happens without engagement, though. What does secure technology look like for the school district in the next 5 years? Cybersecurity and data privacy are the things that keep me up at night, honestly. A secure technology environment isn’t one single fix. It’s limited access, tightened-down infrastructure, current hardware, and staying vigilant about patching, all layered together. But that’s the easier half. The harder half is human: no matter how strong the encryption or how many firewalls we build, one slip by a person can let a bad actor walk right in. The real discipline is limiting who has access, building in safeguards, and staying vigilant, because the system is only as strong as the person using it. For parents, students, and staff, the basics still hold: don’t reuse the same password everywhere, treat anything that sounds too good to be true as exactly that, and turn on multi-factor authentication — logging into your accounts daily is for your own good, not just ours. AI is soaking up most of the conversation right now, but usually without much specificity behind it. I want to see people using it meaningfully, as an aid to help understand a

process better, review key concepts, or work through a hard problem the way a good tutor would. I’m just as interested in other technologies having their moment right now: 3D printing has had a real rebirth, letting people rapidly prototype an actual part or piece of a machine at a cost that simply wasn’t available a few years ago. What opportunities do you see for AI in education? Like any tool, AI can be dangerous, misapplied, or used badly. I think about this moment as something closer to a renaissance: the leaders of today have real work to do to improve the world around us, and AI sits right at the center of that effort, education included.

“Without AI, and without knowing how to use it, some of the work in front of us simply won’t get done.” The clearest opportunity I see is in giving teachers back their time for the thing that actually drives learning: the human connection with a student. What schools owe students are real problem-solving and critical thinking skills, taught early and often, so that AI becomes something students know how to direct rather than something that quietly does the thinking for them.

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ITS IMPACT

ON ESTATE PLANNING & LEGAL DOCUMENTS Written by Shelby Smith, Attorney at Mark Gray Law, PLC

Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) has quickly become a part of our everyday lives, whether we realize it or not. From answering questions to monitoring traffic and assisting with planning, AI can make tasks faster and more convenient. I recently looked to AI for a few simple tasks, including providing travel tips for traveling with an infant and a toddler and an easy weeknight dinner recipe for our family. AI proved to be a useful tool in this circumstance. There are some tasks, however, I would still leave to a professional. For example, I would not rely on AI to diagnose a medical condition or prescribe medication. If I do not know what questions to ask or what symptoms are important to report, relying on incomplete information could be detrimental to my health and potentially cost thousands of dollars to remedy. The same principle applies to important legal matters. AI can be a useful starting point for general legal information, but drafting an important legal document, such as a contract, Last Will and Testament, or comprehensive estate plan, requires more than simply generating words on a page. It requires understanding the individual, the circumstances, the applicable Iowa law, and—perhaps most importantly—the “what ifs.” Facts Matter One limitation of AI is that it can only work off of the facts and information given. A fact may seem inconsequential to a layperson or client that could have substantial legal implications. An experienced attorney can identify those details, ask follow-up questions and recognize issues a layperson or client may not realize are important. When meeting with clients, we are not simply collecting information to fill in blanks. We are asking questions,

analyzing responses, considering tone, demeanor, and body language. We are also assessing the client’s state of mind to ensure the client is able to understand and effectuate an estate plan that is enforceable under the applicable law. Sometimes, a simple answer to one question may lead to several additional questions. This process is important because attorneys are planning for the “what ifs”. We are planning for the unexpected: What happens if a beneficiary dies first? What if the client inherits a large sum of money? What if a marriage ends? What if a business owner becomes incapacitated? What if a client owns a second home in another state? Those “what ifs” and options for the client can vary significantly depending upon the circumstances and area of law, including tax law, business law, real estate law, family law, estate and trust law. State to State – The Law is Not the Same Legal documents need to account for the laws that apply to the particular situation. The laws vary greatly from state to state. For example, separate property states treat property differently at death than community property states. If a person has property in multiple states, the complexity increases. A document that appears to be appropriate based upon general information available online may not address the specific applicable law in an individual’s circumstances. Having an attorney who understands the applicable state law and knows how to identify when another state’s laws may come into play, is important. Estate Planning is More Than a Document A comprehensive Estate Plan includes more than just a Last Will and Testament. Experienced estate planning attorneys consider how the plan will work when implemented and provide guidance on how assets should be titled to effectuate the plan and client’s intent. This guidance is designed to address unexpected circumstances, simplify administration, protect beneficiaries, and provide clear instructions for those responsible for carrying out the plan. Estate and probate law has developed over centuries, and attorneys have a variety of tools available to help clients accomplish their goals. Tools, such as “payable on death,” “transfer on death,” or beneficiary designations, may be used independently, but they should ultimately be considered as part of the client’s comprehensive estate plan.

416 SW 3rd St, Ankeny, IA 50023 www.markgraylawplc.com | (515) 964-3633

OCT 2026 ABJ | 33

Sometimes, the most valuable part of the estate plan is not what is immediately obvious on the page, but the provisions designed to address the “what ifs”. Good estate planning is about preparing for possibilities before they become problems.

are important parts of the attorney-client relationship, particularly when planning for the future of a family and a client’s legacy. AI may be able to produce a document, but an attorney brings professional judgement, experience, empathy, and accountability to the process.

Relationships Matters AI is just that - Artificial Intelligence. There is an Choosing A Professional important component of professional services that AI is a tool, not an enemy. The key is understanding technology cannot fully replace: the human relationships. when AI is a helpful resource and when a situation calls Estate planning can involve deeply personal for professional expertise. conversations about family, finance, illness, incapacity, Professionals’ expertise varies, and when engaging death, and the future. A face-to-face conversation a professional, it is important to make sure their allows an attorney to listen, ask questions, understand qualifications and experience align with your needs. You the client’s concerns, and help identify goals that may will need to utilize a professional that you trust and have not immediately be apparent. Trust and understanding experience in the area where you need assistance.

At Mark Gray Law, PLC, our practice focuses on Estate Planning, Probate, Trust Administration, Business Entities, and Real Estate. If you need an estate plan, assistance with a trust, help forming a new LLC, or guidance regarding a real estate matter, we may be the right fit for you. Technology can provide information. Professionals provide judgment. When the stakes involve your family, your assets, and your legacy, knowing the difference can make all the difference.

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Chamber Drop Offs The Chamber Ambassadors have been busy serving as the welcoming arm of the Ankeny Area Chamber, connecting with members throughout the community. From delivering welcome gifts and celebrating milestones to building relationships with new and existing members, our Ambassadors help ensure every business feels supported and connected. Their outreach and personal touches play an important role in strengthening member engagement and showcasing the value of Chamber membership. Thank you to our Ambassadors for helping make Ankeny a welcoming place to live, work, and do business.

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AI IS MOVING FROM

TOOL TO TEAMMATE

What business leaders need to know as artificial intelligence changes how we work Written by Mackenzie Cowden

Artificial intelligence is changing quickly. What seemed experimental just a few years ago is becoming embedded in the tools businesses already use, from email and calendars to spreadsheets and presentations. At the Ankeny Business & Industry Collaborative (ABIC) August Member’s Meeting, Drake University’s ‘Innovation Profs’ Chris Porter, director of its artificial intelligence program, and Chris Snider, a journalism and mass communication instructor, explored where AI is headed, what leaders need to consider, and how businesses can begin using it more effectively. What is changing in AI? One of the biggest shifts is the move from generative AI to agentic AI. Rather than simply responding to a prompt, agentic AI can pursue a goal, take actions across multiple steps and adjust when something goes wrong.

An AI agent might create an email address for a new employee, grant access to the appropriate company dashboards, then notify an IT manager for approval. Instead of giving the system instructions for every individual step, the user provides the goal and the AI determines how to accomplish it. Another major change is the growing accessibility of software development through what has been called “vibe coding.” Users can describe what they want to build, and AI can generate working software without requiring traditional coding skills. Snider described creating tools for managing content calendars, classroom polling and even fantasy football leagues. AI-generated images are also moving beyond novelty. Improvements in image generation now let businesses create useful visual content with greater accuracy, including images with readable text and more realistic details. At the same time, AI is becoming less something people actively seek out and more something that works in the background. AI tools can summarize information, identify action items, and connect information across email and calendars. For someone managing dozens of messages each day, that can mean turning an overwhelming inbox into a manageable list of priorities.

Why is AI a leadership challenge? For business leaders, the question is no longer simply whether employees are using AI. They are.

The speakers shared survey data showing that 88% of companies use AI in at least one business function, but only 33% have scaled AI across the enterprise. Even more striking, only 5% report substantial value from using AI at scale. Porter emphasized that AI is not primarily a technology challenge. It is a leadership challenge. Leaders need to establish a vision for how and why the organization will use AI, create appropriate governance and consider how employees will be held accountable for using the technology effectively. Without direction from direction, individual employees may experiment with AI in ways that do not advance the organization’s goals. The technology may be impressive but using it simply because it is available does not necessarily create business value. What risks should businesses consider? As AI becomes more capable, responsible use becomes increasingly important. Snider offered a simple rule for privacy: Treat every prompt like a public email. • Protect sensitive information. If you wouldn’t send it to a stranger, don’t enter it into an open AI tool. • Use approved tools. Know which AI tools are authorized and how they protect business data. • Verify AI output. AI can be wrong. Trust, but verify. • Watch for bias. AI can reflect biases in its training data, including in hiring decisions. • Set clear policies. Define which tools employees can use and what information they can enter. One survey cited during the presentation found that nine in 10 organizations reported having an AI policy, while 70% of IT leaders had already caught employees using unapproved AI tools at work. How can businesses start using AI today? The speakers encouraged businesses to begin with practical, manageable experiments. One approach is improving how employees write prompts. Snider shared the acronym BRIEF, which emphasizes five elements: Background, Role, Instructions, Examples and Format.

OCT 2026 ABJ | 39

Providing context and examples can help AI produce more useful results, particularly when the task has a specific business purpose. Businesses can also experiment with AI-generated applications and tools. Snider described a Drake colleague who used an AI tool to create an interactive classroom game simulating financial and life decisions for high school students. The colleague had no software development background, but through conversation and repeated revisions, he created a tool that students were able to use. AI can also help employees understand their own workload. In one example, an AI productivity tool reviewed Snider’s workweek and identified action requests and commitments buried in his email. The result was a broader view of tasks he might otherwise have missed. For businesses already using Microsoft or Google productivity tools, AI capabilities are increasingly built directly into familiar applications. Snider encouraged users to explore features that allow AI to edit documents, work within spreadsheets, and assist with presentations while still giving the user control over the final result.

What comes next? Porter & Snider shared that the pace of change makes it difficult to predict exactly where the technology will lead. But businesses don’t need to wait for the future to start preparing. The next stage of AI may involve systems that function more like members of an organizational team. AI agents could eventually take on defined responsibilities, with employees overseeing their work and results. AI is already changing how work gets done. The organizations that benefit most will be those that pair experimentation with leadership, clear policies, human oversight, and a willingness to learn. The Ankeny Business & Industry Collaborative Formerly known as Ankeny Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) is a member of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce. They are a nonprofit organization focused on educating, advancing, and advocating for the economic vitality of the community. The Ankeny Business & Industry Collaborative exists to drive growth and inspire collaboration and change. The Ankeny Business & Industry Collaborative’s next event, the Annual Salute to Industry, will be held on October 15, 2026.

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OCT 2026 ABJ | 41

n AI Photo u FPrompts To Try

Prompt: Based only on this photo, put me on the tv show that I look like I belong on.

Prompt: Turn this photo into a cartoon caricature. From left to right the people are: • Tony, is vegan • Sharlyn answers phones & likes lists • Jamie is the boss & loves green beans • Diane needs to hold an espresso martini • Mackenzie is pregnant & does marketing Prompt: If you were warning someone before they met me, what would you say? > “Just a heads-up: Mackenzie is a lot. In the best possible way, but still… a lot.” She will walk into a room and somehow leave with three new Prompt: Now projects, two articles to write, a networking idea, and a....

with this picture make it a graphic

Prompt: Use these photos to create a professional headshot

OCT 2026 ABJ | 42

September Lunch & Learn

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When Breath Becomes Air

Provided by

Author: Paul Kalanithi

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi is a moving and profound memoir giving an intimate view of illness and mortality from the unique perspective of someone who is both a doctor and a cancer patient. It was posthumously published in 2016 and honored as a 2017 Pulitzer Prize finalist. Since childhood, Kalanithi has been enthralled by philosophy and biology, so he decides to follow in his cardiologist father›s footsteps to become a neurosurgeon. At the age of 36, in the final year of his residency at Stanford University, Kalanithi is diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. The story is recounted with poignancy as he desperately searches for purpose in his life while confronting his own mortality. As his health declines, he must choose between finishing his last year of residency, having a child with his wife, spending time with his loved ones, or accomplishing his dream of becoming a writer. Kalanthi’s account is vulnerable and honest as he explains how he came to accept his illness by describing the anger, depression, and fear he battles alongside cancer symptoms. Paul Kalanthi passed away in 2015 at age 37, twenty-two months after his diagnosis, and is survived by his wife and daughter.

613 N Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50023

When Breath Becomes Air provides a personal view of the challenges and rewards of being a doctor. Kalanthi discusses his experiences as a resident physician, focusing on the emotional toll of balancing compassion with clinical detachment. The memoir demonstrates how death can evolve one’s identity and analyzes the intersection between science and individuality. Although Kalanthi’s story is tragic, I can’t help but feel inspired by the resilience and motivation he shows throughout his journey. Despite the many hurdles he faces, he perseveres and chooses to live meaningfully. Most of the memoir was written in the throes of illness, resulting in parts of the writing feeling fragmented. I find this actually lends to the beautiful intimacy of Kalanthi’s story because it feels as if he is imparting his values and life experiences to the individual reader, ultimately leaving his legacy in his writing. The part of the book that resonates with me the most is his wife, Dr. Lucy Kalanithi’s, emotional epilogue detailing his final moments with his family and the impact his accomplishments and philosophies left on the world. I highly recommend When Breath Becomes Air to those interested in medical nonfiction, philosophy, and explorations of grief. Although it is a quick read under 250 pages, When Breath Becomes Air leaves a lasting impression, urging the reader to follow their passions and to cherish life because it’s fleeting. Kelsi Miklo - Walls of Books Ankeny

Store Hours:

Mon–Fri: 10 A.M. – 6 P.M. Sat: 10 A.M. – 5 P.M. Sun: 12 P.M. – 5 P.M.

Call to reserve your copy! (515) 381-0017

OCT 2026 ABJ | 45

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The Elements offers award-winning residential and commercial interior design. Our easy, friendly approach simplifies the process of design. In addition, our showroom features custom

Elevate your space with The Elements Interiors

upholstery, window treatments, wall coverings, flooring, artwork, lighting, bedding and accessories.

1380 SW VINTAGE PKWY, STE 107 | ANKENY, IA 50023 | 515.264.5563 | ANKENYELEMENTS.COM @THEELEMENTSATPRAIRIETRAIL

OCT 2026 ABJ | 48

RIGHT APPROACH.

SMART RESULTS. Reaching your wealth goals takes a solid approach backed by steady follow through. That’s where our wealth management team comes in. Our integrated services combine financial planning, investing and trust administration into a seamless experience that gives you confidence in your wealth management strategy. Our simple, transparent fee schedule means no hidden costs, so you’ll always know what to expect. Prepare for retirement. Grow your wealth. Secure your legacy. CSB is here to help you get there.

Investments are not insured by the FDIC, not a deposit, and may lose value.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

OCT 2026 ABJ | 49

Insurance | Risk Management | Consulting

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting

TODAY! Email Tony!

tpetersmith@ankeny.org

Gallagher is one of the world's leading insurance brokerage, risk management, and consulting firms. We help businesses, organizations, and individuals protect what matters most through customized insurance solutions, employee benefits consulting, risk management services, and claims advocacy. As a local member of the Ankeny business community, Gallagher is committed to helping Iowa businesses identify risks, improve operational resilience, and support long-term growth. We serve a wide range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, agribusiness, nonprofits, public entities, and small businesses. Through our specialized programs, including our partnership with VFIS for fire departments and emergency service organizations, we provide industry-specific expertise and tailored insurance solutions. Our approach combines local service with global resources, allowing clients to receive personalized guidance backed by one of the largest insurance and consulting organizations in the world.

(319) 530-9364 | www.ajg.com

WHEN WE WORK IN HARMONY,

ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.

We’re on a mission to help life leap forward, but we can’t succeed without the help of everyone from the people we hire to the customers we serve. Because to change the world, we have to work together.

Find out more at Deere.com/Careers

OCT 2026 ABJ | 50

(515) 243-8611 | www.graybar.com

Sagent Behavioral Health in Ankeny, IA offers compassionate therapy, psychiatry, and other mental health services for children, teens, and adult!

Graybar, a Fortune 500 corporation and one of the largest employee-owned companies in North America, is a leader in the distribution of high quality electrical, industrial, automation and connectivity products, and specializes in related supply chain management and logistics services. Through its network of more than 350 North American distribution facilities, it stocks and sells products from thousands of manufacturers, helping its customers power, network, automate and secure their facilities with speed, intelligence and efficiency. For more information, visit graybar.com or call 1-800-GRAYBAR.

(515) 310-1543 | sagentbh.com

THE DIFFERENCE IS

STABILITY. When it comes to your finances, you’re in it for the long haul. Bankers Trust has been building long-lasting relationships in the Ankeny community for nearly two decades. We believe you—and your money—deserve a bank that will stick around as your needs grow. Whether you’re opening your first account, expanding your business, or safeguarding your assets for retirement, Bankers Trust understands and anticipates your needs. Sometimes even before you do. Contact us or stop by our Ankeny branch today.

BANKING | LENDING | WEALTH MANAGEMENT

1925 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny (515) 965-2497 | BankersTrust.com

OCT 2026 ABJ | 51

Swing365 Golf offers a state-of-theart golf simulator and instruction experience in a warm, inviting, and private atmosphere. Aversa Solutions, founded by Sara Volkmann, helps small business owners tackle one of the biggest challenges in business: communication. Through practical coaching, leadership development, and operational systems, Sara helps teams communicate more clearly, operate more efficiently, and build businesses that don’t rely on the owner to solve every problem.

(515) 210-6808 aversasolutions.com

Their membership-based community provides 365/24/7 access to tee times, with individual suites that can be conveniently booked online. Whether you’re looking to improve your game, get in some practice, or simply enjoy a round with friends, Swing365 Golf offers a unique way to experience golf year-round.

We were excited to celebrate the ribbon cutting for Primrose Swim Academy! Founded by Avary, Austin, Emily, and Jacy, Primrose Swim Academy offers one-on-one outdoor swim lessons for children ages 2 and older. It’s exciting to see young entrepreneurs bringing their passion and vision to life while creating new opportunities for local families.

(515) 348-6400 | swing365golf.com/ankeny 2510 SW White Birch Drive | Ankeny, Iowa 50023

PrimroseSwimAcademy.com/Primrose-Swim-Academy

(515) 259-0290

OCT 2026 ABJ | 52

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

ASK

ERE

Looking for an engaging way to make a difference in our community? Apply to join a City of Ankeny board or commission! GE

TAR

AnkenyIowa.gov

TED

OCT 2026 ABJ | 53

CONNECT WITH US /A nkeny A rea C hamber

/A nkeny C hamber O f C ommerce /A nkeny C hamber O f C ommerce /A nkeny A rea C hamber /A nkeny C hamber O f C ommerce JAMIE ANDERSON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DIANE WEBER DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & COMMUNICATIONS SHARLYN ESTREM OFFICE MANAGER MACKENZIE COWDEN DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & GRAPHIC DESIGN TONY PETERSMITH DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP & ENGAGEMENT

1360 SW Park Square Dr, Suite 106, Ankeny, IA 50023

REACH OUT (515) 964-0685 Your Chamber staff are here to help!

October Ankeny Business Journal