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Thursday, August 20, 2026
11:30AM - 1:00PM On With Life 715 SW Ankeny Road, Ankeny Artificial intelligence is changing the way organizations operate, make decisions, and prepare for the future. Join AI experts Chris Porter and Chris Snider, the Innovation Profs from Drake University, for an engaging discussion on how AI is transforming business, the workforce, and economic development. Rather than focusing on the technology itself, this session will explore practical applications, emerging trends, and what business leaders should be doing today to prepare for tomorrow. Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or already putting it to work, you'll leave with valuable insights and real-world examples you can apply to your organization. |
Lunch Sponsor
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TeamLogic LLC, a new 2026 ABIC member, shared valuable information for businesses on the growing threat of cybersecurity attacks. Cybercrime continues to rise, and small and midsize businesses are increasingly being targeted by sophisticated attacks. Artificial intelligence is making threats like Business Email Compromise (BEC) more convincing, allowing criminals to create realistic phishing emails, fake websites, and impersonations designed to trick employees into sharing information or approving fraudulent requests. While technology is an important part of cybersecurity, employees remain a critical line of defense. TeamLogic IT recommends combining strong security tools with ongoing employee training and simulated phishing campaigns to help businesses recognize threats, strengthen security habits, and reduce the risk of costly cyberattacks. A well-trained workforce can be one of the most effective protections against today’s evolving cyber threats.
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The City of Ankeny is bringing the community together for All City Play Day on July 30. Residents of all ages are invited to enjoy a variety of activities, entertainment, and opportunities to learn more about the programs and services offered by the City of Ankeny. All City Play Day highlights the City’s commitment to creating engaging experiences for residents and building a strong, connected community where families can live, work, and play. To learn more, go to https://www.ankenyiowa.gov/462/All-City-Play-Day.
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The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce continues to provide valuable opportunities for businesses to connect, build relationships, and engage with the community. Upcoming events include the July Profit Academy on July 27 and Six Steps to Your Business Owner Playbook on August 21, along with ongoing events such as Lattes & Leads and Business After Hours networking events, ribbon cuttings, and professional development opportunities. The Chamber’s signature Ankeny Chamber SummerFest event, Presented by Karl Chevrolet with Platinum Sponsors the City of Ankeny and Polk County Board of Supervisors, once again brought thousands of residents and visitors together for live music, local food, carnival rides, family activities, the Grand Parade, and fireworks, showcasing the strong community spirit that makes Ankeny a great place to live, work, and do business. Be sure to mark your calendars for the Multicultural Business Summit on September 15, Witches Night Out on October 22, and Discover Ankeny on November 5.
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The Ankeny Community School District continues to make progress on major projects designed to support student success and the needs of a growing community. If you have driven along North Ankeny Boulevard, you can clearly see construction underway on the Ankeny Innovation Hub, with current work focused on site development, utilities, and infrastructure. The district is also moving forward with approximately $32 million in athletic and fine arts improvements at Ankeny High School and Ankeny Centennial High School, including upgrades that will enhance student experiences and community use of these facilities.
The most important piece of news, however, is that the first day of school is Monday, August 24! We wish students, families, teachers, and staff a successful start to the 2026-2027 school year. |
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Opportunities to Get Involved with ORBIS |
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