Good morning, Ankeny.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa received a grant from Variety (the Children’s Charity of Iowa) to boost its mentoring activities including outings and upgrades to its Youth Mentoring Center.

The nonprofit is hosting an open house on Saturday, May 9 at 1 p.m. to share these plans with community members.

Rising diesel prices are straining the Food Bank of Iowa as an extra $5,000 monthly expense from a $1.59 per gallon increase forces the nonprofit to adjust its 12-truck routes delivering food to 700 partners & boost fundraising efforts to aid those in need.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources collected over 107 million walleye eggs this spring from lakes, rivers and streams to help support the fish species since they do not reproduce naturally.

Crews netted the fish, harvested the eggs and released them back into the water for strategic distribution.

Central Iowa Water Works’ nitrate removal facility has run for 107 days so far this year to treat water from the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers (even with nitrate levels rising earlier than usual).

Testing shows treated water remains below EPA guidelines.

The Iowa Legislature sent a bill requiring passive radon mitigation systems in new single-family and two-family homes to the governor’s desk after a 46-0 Senate vote.

The rule will affect only new constructions once the law takes effect.

Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino announced that its 2026 live horse racing season begins Saturday, May 2 + it will offer hat and bow-tie contests, free live entertainment and racing through Saturday, Sept.

26.

The You Matter Ankeny Classic for Mental Health

May 8-10 — Prairie Ridge Sports Complex — Registration fee applies — Participate in a softball tournament promoting mental health awareness in the vibrant city of Ankeny.

Cinderella Ballet Premiere

7-10 p.m. — Des Moines Civic Center — Tickets start at $35 — Experience the enchanting world premiere of Cinderella featuring live music by the Des Moines Symphony.

2026 CITYVIEW Midday Mixer

1-4 p.m. — The District at Prairie Trail — $25 ($35 at the door) — Sample summer cocktails at this engaging community mixer in Ankeny.