Ice Skating, Ankeny Police and More

Good morning Ankeny! I owe you all an apology. Last week I complained about the freezing weather, and apparently mother nature took that personally. The polar vortex that followed was 100% my fault. I've learned my lesson: never speak ill of Iowa winter, or it WILL get worse. February is almost here, and I'm now using only positive affirmations. "The weather is perfect! I love ice! Frostbite builds character!”.

In today’s digest:

Lets get started.

— Chance

You know how a certain smell can instantly take you back? That's exactly what Ankeny's Christina Conner is banking on with her business, MemoryWicks Candle Co. She is creating candles designed to help people reconnect with cherished memories of loved ones through scent.

Last March when her son was hit by a car and suffered major injuries and brain damage. During his recovery, Christina created candles based on his favorite things and memories they shared together. Remarkably, the familiar scents have helped him reconnect with some of those precious moments. It’s a pretty incredible story; if you have time to read it for a minute you should! (Read Here)

Tristan and his mom, Renee Rausch, started NVision Guitars after those long car rides to Mayo Clinic for her medical appointments. You know how road trips can lead to those deep conversations? Well, theirs led to a business. Tristan, who describes himself as an introvert, told his mom his purpose was simple: make guitars.

But here's what makes NVision special; they aren’t just building guitars for your average rock star wannabe. They're custom-designing instruments for people with disabilities. Shorter, lighter models for wheelchair users. Tactile markers for people who are blind so they can feel which string they're playing. Each guitar is completely tailored to the person who'll play it. (Read Here)

Golden Ridge Lighting designs and install low-profile, color-changing LED lights that blend into your roofline and stay up year-round. Use them for Christmas, game days, holidays, parties, or subtle architectural lighting the rest of the year; all controlled from your phone. Inquire now on their website!

Ankeny Parks & Facilities crews filled and setup the Sunrise Park ice skating rink a few days ago. They are asking to stay off the ice until the rink if officially open. The ice needs time to fully freeze to consider it safe and to keep the liner from damage due to early use. There will be an open/closed sign at the park.

The Ankeny police department is looking to hire. If you or someone you know is looking for a great opportunity take a look at the Ankeny Police Department.

Are you a law enforcement officer looking for more than just a job? If you’re ready to join a department that values your experience, supports your growth, and offers opportunity.

Vendor applications are now live for the 2026 Ankeny Farmers Market! Every Saturday from 8am - 12pm. Running from May 23rd to September 26th.

The Sheet | 8pm | Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille (Info)

Touch Of Grey | 6:30-9:30pm | B&B Theaters (Info)

The Drama Kings | 6-9pm | Firetruck Brewery (Info)

Dave’s Killer Band | 7:30pm | Ankeny Vineyard (Info)

Damon Dotson | 8pm | Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille (Info)

Karaoke | 7-10pm | Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille (Info)

Bingo Night | 7-9pm | Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille (Info)

Trivia Night | 7-9pm | Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille (Info)

Puzzles & Pours | 6-8pm | Flight Bar & Grille (Info)

Growing Older, Not Up Brunch Bunch | 11am | The Breakfast Club (Info)

DIY Hat Burning Workshop | 6-8pm | AR Workshop Ankeny (Info)

Craft Bar & Candle Pouring | 2-6pm | AR Workshop Ankeny (Info)

Firetruckers Chili Cookoff | 12-3pm | Firetrucker Brewery (Info)

Seed Swap & Giveaway | 12pm | Ankeny Public Library (Info)

Textured Art Workshop | 1-2:30pm | AR Workshop Ankeny (Info)

Valentines Photoshoot | 10-2pm | Animal Rescue League of Iowa (Info)

Have anything interesting? Curious about partnerships? Reply to this email. I read every single one!

See you next week,

Chance