March 2026 Ankeny Business Journal by AnkenyChamber

THANK YOU TO OUR INVESTOR MEMBERS

THANK YOU TO OUR PREMIER MEMBERS

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the promotion & development of our members within the community. LIVE. WORK. PLAY. INSPIRE COMMUNITY.

DEAR READER

Ankeny doesn’t grow by accident. It grows because business owners, nonprofit leaders, educators, and community partners choose to invest here. They choose to show up. They choose to lead. And they choose to be part of something bigger than themselves.

That is the power of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce.

A Chamber membership is not simply a transaction. It is a declaration. It says you believe in collaboration over competition. It says you are committed to visibility, credibility, and long-term growth. It says you want your business to be woven into the fabric of this thriving community.

Through strategic networking events like Lattes & Leads, Business After Hours, ribbon cuttings, and professional development workshops, our members build relationships that turn into referrals, partnerships, and measurable growth. Your listing in our online directory enhances your digital presence. Sponsorships elevate your brand in front of influential leaders and decision-makers. Advocacy efforts ensure your voice is represented in conversations that shape Ankeny’s future.

However, the greatest benefit of membership is engagement. When you attend an event, join a committee, serve on a taskforce, or mentor a new member, you strengthen not only your business, but the entire ecosystem around you. Visibility builds trust. Trust builds opportunity. Opportunity builds momentum.

Right now, we are in the final weeks of our Total Resource Campaign (TRC). This is your opportunity to secure high-impact sponsorships and marketing packages that align with your goals for the year ahead. A few strategic opportunities remain, and once they are filled, they are gone. If increasing brand exposure, deepening relationships, and positioning your business as a community leader are priorities in 2026, now is the time to act.

If you are unsure how to maximize your membership benefits, want to explore sponsorship options, or simply need a sounding board as you plan for the year ahead, let’s connect. I would welcome the opportunity to sit down over coffee, learn more about your goals, and help you leverage your membership with intention. The Chamber exists for one purpose: to serve our members.

Ankeny’s future is being built right now. Thank you for choosing to be part of it.

With gratitude,

Tony PeterSmith Director of Membership & Engagement Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce www.ankeny.org

MARCH

AYP in the AM

7:30 - 9:00 AM

Sponsored by Uptown Dairy 617 SW 3rd St. #105

4:30 - 5:00 PM 6950 NE 14th St, Ste 33 9 Ribbon

11:00-12:30 PM

Presenting Sponsor Veridian Credit Union

March Sponsor Snyder & Associates

Held at Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library 1250 SW District Dr

4:00 - 5:30 PM

APRIL

AYP Lunch & Learnç

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Business After Hours

4:00 - 5:30 PM

Sponsored by First National Bank - Ankeny 1205 N. Ankeny Blvd.

10 Legislative Update

11:00-12:30 PM

Presenting Sponsor Veridian Credit Union

March Sponsor Snyder & Associates

Held at Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library 1250 SW District Dr

- 9:00 AM

Sponsored by Warners’ Stellian Appliance

S.E. 16th t.

Mentoring For Women

8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

TEAM CONVERSE

Brandon Converse

Jordan Niewoehner

Joseph Bethel

Justin Strom

Leslie Mayo

Alex Schwiete

Peter O'Tool D.C.

Sue Hudson

Ted Jansen

TEAM OLIVER

Jenn Oliver

Aaron Rickelman

Aleah Engel

Allyson Senter

Andy Robinson

Brett Haun

Cody Gebauer

Jonnell Miller

Abbie Miller

TEAM WALTER

Jen Walter

Andy Martin

Galadriel Cleghorn

Matt May

Randy Pelham

Rocky Anderson

Troy Boelman

William C. Strong

TIME TRAVELERS

Tony Mills

Trent Murphy

Sponsorships through the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce are some of the most cost-effective marketing opportunities available!

VIEW SPONSORSHIPS

Our TRC volunteers have been hard at work in the community securing sponsorships and welcoming new members as part of our Total Resource Campaign. In February, we gathered at The Operating Room to thank our TRC volunteers for their hard work! Their strong start has set the tone for a successful year, and we’re grateful for their dedication to our community.

Reach out to one of these volunteers to see how the Ankeny Chamber can help your business grow!

Love You Back

We are a full service practice blending chiropractic with active rehabilitation to help patients move better, feel better, and perform better. From youth to seniors, we treat knees, hips, backs, and joints, offering regenerative medicine, joint injections, massage therapy, and specialized pelvic floor therapy. Our goal is to bridge the gap between pain and surgery while keeping you active and doing what you love.

Thank you for joining us and for the way you all support the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce. We’re proud to be part of a business community that believes when we connect and serve together, we all grow together.

- Dr. Aaron Rickelman, co-owner of Designed 2 Move Spine & Sport

February 2026

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION EVENT

"Thank you all for coming and supporting this event. With one business or another, I’ve been a chamber member for over 25 years. The real estate market is booming, so if you are thinking about buying or selling, give me a call. Also, don’t forget to get your tickets for the Wiedenman Family Foundation’s Champagne for Dreams event on April 2nd. Thank you to my family for your support, and thank you to my sister Cindy. We opened up Gladdies Bakery a few years ago together, so for any special occasion, please call Gladdies for cakes. Thank you again for coming.” - Barb Wiedenman

BLACK HISTORY MONTH TRIVIA NIGHT

& COMMUNITY SOCIAL

“Tonight isn’t just about trivia, it’s about honoring the rich history, culture, achievements, and lasting impact of Black communities around the world,” shared Monica Goodlett, taskforce member and entrepreneur with G.G.’s Chicken & Waffles

Trivia - Prizes - Networking - Family Friendly

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.

6TH MARCH 2026

The Ankeny Area Chamber Of Commerce Currently Offers Three Scholarship Programs

Chamber High School Senior Scholarship:

In order to qualify, you or a parent must work for an Ankeny Area Chamber member. The award amounts vary from $500 to $1000 scholarships depending on the application

Post Secondary Scholarship:

If you are seeking to further your education as an adult learner working for an Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce business, please consider applying for an Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Post-Secondary Scholarship. The Scholarships are sponsored by our Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce members to encourage an adult who wishes to further their education. The award amounts vary from $500 to $1000 scholarships depending on the application.

The scholarships are presented at Senior Night at each of the public high schools, and arrangements made for Ankeny Christian Academy.

All applications are open from February 1, 2026, through April 17, 2026.

Please turn in your scholarship application to the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, 1360 SW Park Square Dr., Ste. 106, Ankeny, IA 50023 or email it to info@ankeny.org. You may call 515-964-0685 with any questions.

APPLY NOW

Renee Murphy Legacy Scholarship:

Renee Murphy was an engaged, civicminded citizen as well as an integral part of the Ankeny business community. The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce is honored to be the administrator for the Renee Murphy Legacy Scholarship which will be given to three Ankeny graduates. The scholarship amount of $1,000 each will be awarded, one to a student at Ankeny High School, one at Ankeny Centennial High School, and one at Ankeny Christian Academy. We reserve the right to give more than one candidate at a high school a scholarship if there is not a qualified candidate, or to a better candidate from a nonqualifying high school.

The Renee Murphy Legacy Scholarship will reward civic and community involvement, volunteerism, and celebrate Renee’s lifelong passion for helping others. Given to a senior who is serving on a civic oriented organization (example: Mayor’s Youth Council, student school board, Sons or Daughters of the American Revolution, student council, Polk County Conservation Youth Corps, National Honor Society, 4-H Teen Council in Polk County, American Legion Boys or Girls State, Iowa Youth Congress, etc.), preferably in a leadership role (chair, President, VP, etc.). You do not need to be associated with the Ankeny Chamber to apply for the Renee Murphy Scholarship.

Applications are open from February 1, 2026, through April 17, 2026. Please turn in your scholarship application to the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, 1360 SW Park Square Dr., Ste. 106, Ankeny, IA 50023 or email it to info@ankeny.org. You may call 515-964-0685 with any questions.

Innovation in a Constantly Changing World

Through strategic investments, our goal at Murphy Enterprizes is to participate in the reimagining of our communities. We keep an eye towards the future, while maintaining a strong foundation learned from our past.

"Having owned multiple small businesses and serving on many diverse community oriented boards, I have had the opportunity to assess problems from multiple different perspectives. It is important to continue to engage in our community and mentor future leaders. Murphy Enterprizes is a conduit that can help shape our community."

Trent Murphy Entrepreneur and Philanthropist

phClean started with a simple goal. To create cleaner, healthier spaces while treating both clients and employees with kindness and respect. They saw a need for consistent, reliable cleaning done by people who genuinely care about the work and the people they serve. They believe that when employees feel valued, that care shows up in the quality of their work. “We clean with intention, kindness, & respect in every space we serve.”

Molly Maids was founded to meet the need for a cleaning company built on honesty, quality, and a strong reputation. With more than three decades of experience and hundreds of long-time, satisfied customers, the company stands out for its consistency and trust. Many team members have been with the company for 7+ years, all the way up to 24 years!

Night Shift was started on the idea of providing busy business owners with reliable, detail-oriented cleaning services that allow them to focus on their core business. There was a clear need for more consistent service, better communication, and higher standards in commercial cleaning, and the company set out to deliver exactly that. “Consistency and trust are at the core of everything we do.”

Cleaning With Intention

Expert Advice From Central Iowa Cleaning Professionals

Written by Mackenzie Cowden based on answers from Shawn Wilson of phClean, Kevin Gracey of Molly Maids,

& Ryan Hittenmiller of Night Shift Cleaning

A clean space is not just about appearance. It is about health, productivity, & peace of mind. Across Central Iowa, professional cleaning companies have seen firsthand what works, what fails, & what people overlook. Their advice is practical. Direct. Proven over decades of service. Here is what they want homeowners & businesses to know.

Consistency Is Everything

All three companies emphasized one word. Consistency.

“Consistency is the biggest one,” says Ryan Hittenmiller, Co Owner & Operations Manager at Night Shift Cleaning. “A space doesn’t stay clean just because it gets cleaned once in a while.”

Shawn Wilson of phClean agrees. “Consistency makes a bigger difference than most people realize. Regular weekly or biweekly cleaning keeps dirt, dust, & bacteria from piling up.”

Waiting until something looks dirty is a common mistake. By the time grime is visible, buildup has already happened. Bacteria multiply quickly on high-touch surfaces like light switches, door handles, desks, & breakroom counters.

In workplaces with steady foot traffic, daily or multiple weekly cleanings are often necessary. In homes, biweekly service is common. Kevin Gracey of Molly Maid of Ankeny notes that “typically, most of our customers are on a bi-weekly basis.”

Maintaining a routine prevents falling into catch-up mode, which can be costly.

Spaces People Forget

“Lots of customers overlook the woodwork,” says Gracey. Baseboards. Window casings. Door frames. These areas quietly collect dust & grime. They frame every room yet rarely get attention. When cleaned, the difference is immediate. The space feels sharper. Brighter.

High touch points are another blind spot. Wilson highlights door handles, light switches, desks, & break room surfaces as easy to overlook but critical to hygiene.

In commercial settings, consistency in high traffic areas shapes perception. Clients notice clean entryways. Employees notice clean restrooms. Visitors notice streakfree glass. Cleanliness communicates standards.

The Biggest DIY Mistakes

The wrong products. Too much product. The wrong methods. Hittenmiller says overusing harsh chemicals is common. “More isn’t always better. It can damage surfaces, leave residue behind, & even affect air quality.”

Wilson shares a specific example. “Using vinegar on hardwood floors. Vinegar is acidic & can dull the finish over time.”

Another issue is reusing the same cloth throughout an entire space. That spreads dirt & bacteria instead of removing it. Floors are another problem area. Gracey notes that cleaning floors without the proper products & supplies is one of the biggest mistakes he sees. Effort alone is not enough. Tools & techniques matter.

How Often Should You Schedule Cleaning?

There is no universal formula. It depends on traffic, usage, & expectations. “Most workplaces need service multiple times a week,” says Hittenmiller. Higher traffic facilities often benefit from daily cleaning.

For homes & many offices, weekly or every two-week service works best, according to Wilson. Homes with kids or pets usually benefit from weekly service.

During flu & cold season, adding focused touch point cleaning can help reduce the spread of germs in shared spaces.

Professional cleaning is not just cosmetic. It protects surfaces. It extends the life of flooring. It supports indoor air quality. In Iowa, the weather adds another layer.

Seasonal Cleaning Matters in Iowa

Iowa weather is not subtle. Winter brings salt, snow, mud, & moisture. Hittenmiller recommends adjusting floor care & entryway cleaning to protect buildings & the people in them.

Wilson echoes that regular cleaning in winter helps manage salt & moisture that can damage floors & entryways. Spring is ideal for a reset. Think deep cleaning carpets, entry mats, & interior windows.

Summer introduces pollen & humidity. Fall is the time to prepare entryways for heavier indoor use by removing cobwebs, leaves, & tracked in dirt.

Gracey offers a spring recommendation. “Have a deep clean in the spring after getting your duct work cleaned.” Cleaning is not static. It should adapt to the environment.

What to Look for in a Cleaning Partner

Gracey advises looking for “longevity, great reviews & honesty in the company.” Molly Maid of Ankeny has served the area for more than 30 years, with many employees staying seven to 24 years. Experience builds trust.

Hittenmiller focuses on reliability & communication. “You want a cleaning partner who shows up consistently, notices the details, & communicates openly.”

Wilson adds that bonding, insurance, & a strong local reputation matter. He also emphasizes investing in staff. “When a team feels supported & valued, that care shows in the quality of their work.”

Hidden Areas People Often Forget To Clean

Even in well-kept homes & offices, certain spots collect dust, bacteria, & buildup simply because they are out of sight or used every day. Cleaning professionals consistently point to the same trouble areas.

Kitchen

• Behind & underneath appliances

• Inside the refrigerator drawers & door seals

• Range hood filters

• Cabinet fronts & handles

• Trash & recycling bins

Bathroom

• Baseboards behind the toilet

• Exhaust fan covers

• Shower door tracks

• Under-sink cabinets

• Light switches & door handles

Living Areas & Bedrooms

• Ceiling fans & light fixtures

• Window sills & tracks

• Air vents & returns

• Under furniture & cushions

• Closet floors & corners

Entryways & high-touch zones

• Door frames & trim

• Light switches & railings

• Baseboards

• Behind entry furniture or storage benches

Utility & overlooked spaces

• Laundry room corners

• Behind the washer & dryer

• Water heater & utility shelves

• Garage entry areas

Why these areas

matter

• Hidden spaces collect dust, moisture, & bacteria faster than open surfaces.

• High-touch points can spread germs through the home.

• Neglected buildup can cause odors, pests, & wear on surfaces. Professional cleaning teams note that these areas are often included in deep cleans, initial visits, or rotational service plans to keep homes consistently healthy & presentable.

A cleaning company should feel like a partner, not a vendor you chase down. Trust is earned over time. Each company began with a similar observation. They saw a need for better standards.

Night Shift Cleaning was founded to provide “reliable, detail-oriented cleaning services that allow busy business owners to focus on their core business.” There was a need for more consistent service & better communication.

phClean began with a simple goal. “To create cleaner, healthier spaces while treating both clients & employees with kindness & respect.”

Molly Maid of Ankeny was started to meet the need for “a great, honest & reputable cleaning company.” The pattern is clear. Consistency. Integrity. Care. Professional cleaning is not about perfection. It is about standards maintained over time.

Clean Spaces Support Better Living & Working

Clean environments shape how people feel. In offices, a well-maintained space supports productivity & professionalism. In homes, it reduces stress. In both, it protects health.

Regular cleaning reduces dust buildup. It limits bacteria’s spread. It preserves flooring & surfaces that are expensive to replace. It also frees up time.

Business owners can focus on customers. Families can focus on each other. As Hittenmiller explains, the goal is to allow clients to focus on what they do best. That is the true value of professional cleaning. Not just a tidy room. A smoother day.

Final Takeaway

Cleaning is simple. Maintaining cleanliness is not. The advice from experienced professionals is clear.

• Stay consistent.

• Use the right tools.

• Adjust for the seasons.

• Choose partners you trust.

• Small habits, repeated, prevent big problems later.

• Clean with intention.

The results speak for themselves.

YOUR BUSINESS + OUR GAME PLAN = A WINNING TEAM!

At Availa Bank, we’re your financial champions. You know your business — and we know banking. From expert advice to custom solutions, our banking coaches are here for every play. MEET THE TEAM THAT’S READY TO HELP YOU TACKLE YOUR FINANCIAL GAME PLAN!

MIKE

From Idea to Impact A Cleaner Community Starts at the Curb

Written by Mackenzie Cowden based on an interview with Kim & Eric Rust

How did the idea for Can Cleaners begin?

Starting a business rarely happens overnight. For Kim and Eric, it took nearly two years of research, planning, trial runs, and personal resilience before their idea fully came to life. Can Cleaners has grown into a specialized service business serving communities across Central Iowa. Waste containers accumulate significant bacteria, odor, and organic buildup over time. A dirty can is more than a bad smell. It can also be a health concern. Diapers, pet waste, leaking bags, yard debris, and summer heat combine to create a problem most people would rather ignore.

Kim shares, “We actually saw the idea on social media. Being business owners has always been a goal of ours. We had dabbled in a few things before, and we were finally at a point in life where starting our own business felt achievable. Eric started researching right away. Was there competition in the area? Would this work in our market?”

After extensive thought and research, they decided it was doable, but starting took time. The company was established nearly a year before they even had equipment. Much effort was spent on legal matters to ensure everything was correct before beginning customer service. After nearly two years of research, legal preparation, and equipment sourcing, Can Cleaners officially began serving customers in 2021. What services do you currently offer, and what’s expanding?

Can Cleaners’ main work is cleaning garbage, recycling, and yard waste bins. Warm weather makes it worse. Flies lay eggs. Food waste breaks down.

(515) 901-0664 | www.thecanisclean.com

Provide this code at checkout: 50off

There are more germs in your garbage can than in your toilet. Studies show up to 400 times more bacteria per square inch.

Common bacteria include E. coli, Listeria, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Clostridium botulinum. Then there are maggots during warmer months.

Yard debris decomposes. Yard waste cans are among the smelliest because of decomposition. Odors spread into garages and homes.

Kim notes, “People clean their toilets weekly but forget about the garbage can. Think about diapers, raw meat packaging, pet waste, or juice leaking into the bin. In townhomes and condos, those odors and germs travel closer to living spaces.”

Their service focuses on both sanitation and convenience. They remove debris, apply degreaser, wash the can inside and out, and finish with a deodorizing spray. They also send reminders, retrieve cans if customers forget, and return them near the garage.

“How bad it gets kind of depends on your traffic load,” Eric explained. “Do you have kids? Pets? Teenagers who empty their car into the can? That all adds up.” They’ve seen it all. One of Kim’s toughest jobs was for a daycare with multiple garbage cans. “That was one of my 45-minute ones,” she said. “I had to throw my hat and shoes away. But they’re still a loyal customer.”

The company also added soft wash exterior cleaning for homes, decks, driveways, and siding. Soft wash exterior cleaning uses a controlled chemical application to safely remove buildup without damaging siding or exterior materials. Pricing is quotebased because each home is different.

What makes this type of service unique?

Eric explains, “It’s specialized equipment. You’re not just out there with a hose. In many European municipalities, routine bin sanitation is standard practice and often regulated. The concept has steadily expanded across the United States over the last decade as communities recognize the sanitation and environmental benefits. The person we purchased our equipment from had traveled there often and decided to bring the concept to the U.S. That’s how it began to grow here over the last five to ten years.”

The cleaning unit uses hot water (approximately 230°F) to kill germs & bacteria.

The can is cleaned with a wand on the outside, and inside the machine uses a spinning head that rotates 360 degrees to clean the entire bin. The initial cleaning will take much longer, depending on the severity of the buildup. After that, regular service is much faster.

Wastewater is fully contained, transported, and tested prior to disposal to ensure environmental compliance. Can Cleaners uses an eco-friendly system that contains and tests the wastewater. “Our water gets tested every time we dump,” Eric said. “If it tests high for chemicals, we can lose our license and the ability to dump our wastewater safely. So we must check the bins before we clean them.”

They offer flexible schedules: monthly, quarterly, twice-yearly, and a one time. “If you’re a regular monthly customer, a cleaning will only take five to eight minutes, and we’re done,” Kim said.

Customers can also pause service without penalties. “We understand life is challenging,” Kim said. “If your can is not out, we give you a pass. We’ll work with you. We want it to be worth your time and your money. We will go above and beyond. If your bin isn’t at the curb, we’ll ring your doorbell. We return bins to their proper locations when possible. Communication is also huge for us.”

Customers receive notifications the day before and the morning of service. The customer portal shows their place in line for the day and allows them to make referrals, update payments, and schedule changes.

How did you grow while balancing full-time careers and family?

“When we first started, both of us still had full-time jobs. Eric worked his regular job, and I was out cleaning during the day when the kids were in school. Then he would finish routes at night,” Kim shares, “In 2023, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and couldn’t help as much for a while. At the same time, Eric made the decision to retire early from his full-time career after nearly 30 years in banking to focus on the business.”

The business has evolved significantly over the years. There are now larger trucks capable of cleaning two bins at once or even lifting commercial dumpsters, just as garbage trucks do. Software has also advanced. Modern CRM systems tailored to this industry support scheduling, customer portals, and communication. We also purchased a second trailer this year. It’s mainly a backup, so if something breaks down, we don’t interrupt service. We had a few breakdowns last year, and we don’t want to let customers down.

These days, Eric completes the routes every day, weather permitting. Kim still works on weekends as a radiology technologist specializing in CT and MRI. During the week, she assists with answering calls, managing routes, and stepping in on routes when needed. The workload has increased enough that they are now dividing responsibilities more intentionally. “With continued growth, we may even be looking to hire employees soon.” He adds.

Why did you join the Ankeny Chamber?

The couple joined shortly after starting the business. Another Chamber member encouraged them to get involved. “When we first started, advertising and getting your name out there was costly,” Kim said. “The Chamber was one of those things where our name was in there. We could collaborate with other businesses. We’re grateful for the Chamber community, our customers, and the local businesses we collaborate with. This business exists because people trust us in their everyday lives.”

They also appreciate the visibility and connections. “We’ve gotten business through other businesses,” she said. “Property management owners that are part of the Chamber needed bins cleaned. It’s networking for us.”

Eric adds, “Google and Facebook ads have been our biggest drivers, but local relationships matter. We intentionally choose local vendors ourselves whenever possible. We’ve also donated cleanings to charity auctions, sponsored youth teams, and partnered with other businesses like moving companies to offer bundled services.”

March Anniversaries

40 YEARS

25 YEARS

Brian D

Herbel

MBA, CFP®, CLU®, AAMS®, CKA®

20 YEARS

10 YEARS

15 YEARS

5 YEARS

Dr. Gregg Sunner 1985 Board Chairman

Mathew Johnson

FEBRUARY

Sponsored

Sponsored by

Ankeny Young Professionals (AYP) is a group of young professionals who live, work, or have a special interest in the Ankeny area. AYP gathers for professional development, networking, outreach, and socializing. AYP is a dynamic group that the Chamber and community look to as future leaders in Ankeny.

The annual membership fee for AYP is $50 for Chamber members and $70 for non-Chamber members.

Want to join AYP?

Review of The Caretaker

by Marcus Kliewer

This January I had the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of Marcus Kliewer’s sophomore novel, The Caretaker, which was one of my most anticipated novels of 2026. I enjoyed Kliewer’s highly acclaimed debut novel, We Used to Live Here, and was eager to revisit his unique manner of storytelling and his proclivity to explore the uncanny. The Caretaker is a horror-thriller novel that follows Macy Mullins, a broke twenty-year-old struggling with her father’s death and the custody of her teenage sister. Between jobs and behind on rent, Macy finds a mysterious Craigslist ad for a caretaking position offering a large sum of money. Macy must care for a house on a multi-acre, forested property on the Oregon Coast; however, the homeowners leave very specific, sinister instructions for Macy to follow. They believe the property harbors an evil entity and specific rites must be followed in order to stave off an apocalyptic event. What initially seems to be a simple weekend job quickly escalates into terror as Macy completes incrementally more difficult tasks, fends off the supernatural, and questions her own sanity.

I found The Caretaker to be an engrossing read utilizing elements of horror, such as isolation, paranoia, an impending sense of doom, and a strong uneasiness designed to frighten the reader and make one question reality along with the main character. Kliewer’s ominous depiction of the forest and the secluded house make the story’s environment feel claustrophobic and evoked a strong feeling of malevolence. Kliewer’s writing especially shines when portraying the supernatural, unnerving the reader with circumstances that appear normal on the surface but have layers of uncanniness suggesting a greater evil lurking in the shadows. Although the novel has a strong premise and explores compelling avenues, I found its pacing inconsistent at times and some elements of the story are repetitive to a fault. Similar to We Used to Live Here, I feel The Caretaker struggles at the midpoint of the story; for example, certain scenes and interactions are drawn out for far too long, which often dilutes the degree of horror and immersion into the story I experienced as a reader. Kliewer also leaves aspects of the novel unexplained

or open to interpretation, which may dissatisfy some readers. Unexpectedly, The Caretaker is also a fantastic exploration of grief and depression. The events of the novel are great symbolism for the pervasive feelings of guilt, hopelessness, and fatigue often experienced by those suffering from depression. As the novel reaches its climax, the rites Macy must follow increase in difficulty; some tasks seem impossible and are designed for failure, while the consequences for failing become progressively more punishing. I feel Kliewer’s portrayal of Macy’s psychological downward spiral and her dread at the thought of having to repeat everything the next day is a painfully realistic depiction of depression. The themes explored in the book are dark and intense, so readers sensitive to those topics should remain aware.

The signature style used throughout The Caretaker is testament to Kliewer’s formative experience. Kliewer began his writing career on Reddit’s r/NoSleep forum, an online community for sharing collaborative horror stories. I believe his writing origins contribute to a unique prose that is tangible in both his novels. The Caretaker has a distinct voice that adds an intimate undertone to the themes of psychological dread and cosmic horror, almost as if Kliewer himself is sharing a scary story around a campfire. His novels also contain elements of mystery and hidden Easter eggs, generating discussion among readers in the very online forums where he got his start; I sincerely look forward to the discussions created by this book. Despite some of its setbacks,

Store Hours:

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

I genuinely enjoyed this book and found it to be creative, chilling, and thought-provoking. I recommend this novel for fans of Kliewer’s We Used to Live Here, stories of folklore, and works by H.P. Lovecraft. The Caretaker officially releases on April 21, 2026.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, | 8:15 AM - 11:30 AM

This spring, we’re excited to visit the incredible facility at Kreg Tool Company for a behind-the-scenes look at one of our community’s standout businesses. Enjoy coffee and a light breakfast while connecting with fellow attendees, hearing from local speakers, and taking part in a fun and informative tour of the Kreg Tool facility.

Members and non-members alike are welcome to join this engaging community event.

We can’t wait to see you there!

SHOTGUN START 10AM

Wednesday June 3rd, 2026

Right Dose, Right Time

Technology, Trust, & Long-Term Care

Written by Mackenzie Cowden based on an interview with Dr. Rockford Anderson, Co-Owner, Right Dose Pharmacy

Finding a Path to Pharmacy

Megan and I met in college, but we both grew up here in Ankeny. We spent most of our lives here and graduated from Ankeny High School. Back then, I thought I was going to go into construction. My dad was in plumbing, and he basically told me I was going to go to school, get a degree, and do something different.

I was a pretty ill child growing up. I was a lifelong asthmatic and spent a lot of time in hospitals and doctors’ offices. My mom suggested pharmacy, and I thought, well, Drake has a pharmacy school nearby, so I’ll try that. It was really a plan B. I was mostly trying to appease my parents at the time. But once I got into school, I fell in love with the profession. Megan and I both earned our Doctor of Pharmacy degrees.

We returned to Iowa to raise a family because our families and the state were important to us, we took jobs in Mason City and lived there for seven years. Once our daughters were born, Megan insisted it takes a village, especially for a working mom. She told me she was moving back to Ankeny with or without me, so we moved.

I had always been interested in business ownership and entrepreneurship. From there, we started opening and buying retail and long-term care pharmacies. Over time, the business developed into what it is today. We now focus almost exclusively on long-term care facilities.

It’s funny how decisions stack up over the years. A lot of choices feel small or situational at the time, but they all lead you to where you end up.

A Partnership That Changed the Business

During my day-to-day work, I had developed a prescription card system that could be used in a nursing

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home setting. As far as I know, I was the first in Iowa and one of the few in the country doing it that way.

Guardian found me at a national conference in Las Vegas close to a decade ago. They were intrigued by the business model and the technology. That led to conversations, and we reached an agreement to partner. They purchased 70 percent of our operations in Iowa, and Megan and I kept the rest, along with a few small investors.

Independent ownership is tough in any industry, but in healthcare, it’s especially difficult. Regulations change constantly. There’s a lot to keep up with, and it takes a lot of capital.

They brought in resources, taught me a lot about the business, and showed me how to make it more profitable. At the same time, they trusted me to take care of customers and staff locally. I’ve still felt like an owner over the last several years, with national backing and support. It has made the business much more enjoyable.

From a Small Storefront to a Regional Operation

We moved from 3,500 square feet into an 11,000-square-foot building in Uptown Ankeny seven years ago. At the time, I thought there was no way we would ever need more space. Seven years later, we were bursting at the seams. We recently moved into a new 17,000-square-foot building because we needed the room.

When we joined Guardian, we were serving about 1,800 patients with roughly 20 employees. We were proud of that because we built it from nothing. But it was a capital-intensive business with significant pressures.

Today, we serve more than 7,000 patients across three locations in Iowa with approximately 190 employess. We also have partnered with another Guardian president in Nebraska to open another location in Omaha. That kind of growth over eight years has been remarkable.

Many emphasize putting customers first, but this becomes tougher during financial strain. When I joined Guardian, we faced a tough first year financially. Instead of cutting staff or expenses, they challenged me to improve customer service, support employees, and reduce turnover. They believed treating customers and staff well would lead to better financial results. This approach has paid off. If I were advising a new business, I’d say the best solution isn’t always the obvious one, sometimes, thinking outside the box is key.

About a year ago, Guardian became a public company, converting local ownership into stock in the larger company. We even attended the New York Stock Exchange closing bell ceremony. Despite being part of a big corporation, the local ownership spirit remains strong. Guardian offers stock incentives to leadership to keep teams engaged. My wife manages our clinical services, and I oversee operations. We work together, though not always side by side. Long-term employees like Brad Kline, a pharmacy school peer who helped build this location, and Angie Olson, who joined eight years ago for finance, purchasing, and HR, have been crucial. Their support has enabled our growth, and I believe our success wouldn’t be the same without them.

Retail vs. Long-Term Care Pharmacy

Congratulations to Right Dose, a Garudian Pharmacy on their new 17,000-squar-foot Ankeny headquarters. Right Dose delivers innovative pharmacy services to senior living and skilled nursing communities, as well as providers who serve individuals with mental and behavioral health disorders and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

In a typical retail pharmacy, patients come in. You see them face to face. You counsel them on medications, talk about side effects, and help them get optimal therapy. There’s a lot of gratification in those interactions. Our business is almost entirely delivery-based, serving predominantly elderly, immobile patients through direct care and nursing staff.. While we don’t have face-toface contact with patients very often, we support those who are often more ill and in greater need. It often feels like we’re making a greater impact for those who need it most.

One major goal is to expand into clinical programs that improve outcomes for older patients. A lot of people get put on medications that never get discontinued. Some pharmacies make money that way, but I believe better outcomes matter more. If we can help improve patient outcomes, good things will follow for the business.

Community, Chamber Involvement, and Giving Back

When I started my retail pharmacy, I believed word of mouth would suffice. Balancing the roles of pharmacist, owner, husband, and father while staying active in the community was tough.

Renee, Trent Murphy’s late wife, opened my eyes to the Chamber’s potential by helping with social media and marketing, demonstrating its value.

Inspired by community and board support, I wanted to give back. My sister-in-law’s enjoyment in her executive role at the Chamber encouraged me to join the Board.

Talking with Jen Walter at First National Bank, also influenced my decision, she spoke highly of her board experience. When the opportunity arose, I felt it was the right time to volunteer. I also joined the Total Resource Campaign to help keep the organization financially strong by raising funds, establishing a solid foundation, and making the rest of the year smoother.

Ankeny Still Feels Like Home

Megan and I have lived elsewhere, but Ankeny is home, with family and friends nearby. It offers the best of both worlds: a city of its own, connected to the Des Moines area, with access to entertainment, shopping, and food.

Our daughters have many opportunities in sports and show-choir, making it an ideal place to raise a family.

Angie Olson

with

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