Ankeny: A Midwestern Gem in Iowa

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [please/yur wel-cum]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyoos me/sor-ee]
• How are you?How're ya doin?
  [hawr yuh doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [good. and yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI dunno
  [eye duh-noh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [kan eye see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [eye dun eat meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please
  [kan eye pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get outta here!
  [get out-uh here]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [eye'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin
  [eye'm just look-in]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
• That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [thats too much]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya make it cheaper?
  [kan yuh make it chee-per]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
• MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
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• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
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  [three]
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• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
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• 9Nine
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• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show me on the map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens the next bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

Ankeny, Iowa, was officially founded in 1875 by John Fletcher Ankeny, a prominent businessman and politician. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Meskwaki. The arrival of settlers in the mid-19th century marked the beginning of Ankeny's transformation from a rural area to a thriving community.

In the late 19th century, the construction of the Chicago and North Western Railway played a pivotal role in Ankeny's development. The railroad provided crucial transportation links for agricultural products, fostering economic growth and attracting new residents to the area.

The discovery of coal in the early 20th century brought a significant economic boom to Ankeny. Coal mining became one of the primary industries, with numerous mines operating in and around the town. This period saw a surge in population and infrastructure development.

During World War II, Ankeny was home to the Ankeny Ordnance Plant, which produced ammunition for the war effort. The plant employed thousands of workers and played a critical role in the local economy. After the war, the facility was repurposed for various industrial uses, including the manufacturing of John Deere equipment.

The post-war era saw Ankeny transition into a suburban community with rapid population growth. The expansion of residential areas, schools, and commercial centers transformed Ankeny into a bustling suburb of Des Moines. This period laid the foundation for the modern city of Ankeny.

Ankeny is home to Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), which opened its Ankeny campus in 1968. The presence of DMACC has significantly contributed to the city's educational and cultural development. The college offers a wide range of programs and has become a vital part of the community.

In recent decades, Ankeny has continued to experience growth and development. The city boasts a vibrant economy, excellent schools, and a high quality of life. Ankeny has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, attracting new businesses and residents alike. The city's commitment to parks, recreational facilities, and community events fosters a strong sense of community and cultural identity.

Ankeny is located in Polk County, Iowa, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), approximately 16 miles south of Ankeny. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Ankeny. Interstate 35 runs directly through Ankeny, making it easily accessible by car. There are also bus services, such as Greyhound, that connect Des Moines with other major cities, and local transit options are available to reach Ankeny from Des Moines.

Ankeny offers several transportation options for getting around the city. The Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) operates bus routes that connect Ankeny with Des Moines and other surrounding communities. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available in Ankeny and at the Des Moines International Airport. Additionally, Ankeny is a bike-friendly community with several bike trails, making cycling a convenient option for short distances.

The official currency in Ankeny, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.

Ankeny is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Ankeny does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. For the latest crime statistics and safety information, you can contact the Ankeny Police Department.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Ankeny has several medical facilities, including UnityPoint Health - Ankeny Medical Park, which provides urgent care services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Ankeny where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is generally acceptable in most places. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. While Ankeny is not particularly religiously conservative, it is always polite to show respect when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to other passengers. Avoid loud conversations or playing music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Midwesterners are known for their friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and cuisines. Ankeny has a variety of dining options. Don't forget to tip your server, as tipping is customary in the United States.

To experience Ankeny like a local, consider visiting the Ankeny Market & Pavilion (AMP) during the summer months, where you can enjoy the farmers' market and various community events. Explore the High Trestle Trail, a popular biking and walking trail that offers scenic views, especially at night when the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge is illuminated. For a unique dining experience, visit some of the local breweries and restaurants that offer a taste of the local flavor. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share tips and recommendations.