Siouxland Magazine - Volume1 Issue 2

MENTOR
ISSUE 20
19
Volume 1, Issue 2

Exclusively available at
Lakeport Commons
4830 Sergeant Road
Sioux City IA 51106
(712) 255-7229, (800) 444-4431
Bridges at 57th
2109 W. 57th St
Sioux Falls SD 57108
(605) 338-9060
Village Pointe
17255 Davenport St #111
Omaha NE 68118
(402) 935-6332
Uptown and Main
5601 28TH Avenue South
Fargo, ND 58104
(701) 532-3020

Welcome to Siouxland Magazine
Siouxland Magazine | MENTOR Issue / 3
New Owners | Becca Feauto and Stacie Anderson
It’s in these pages that we hope to educate and inspire, even more importantly, to create a community that
thrives on connecting with one another. At our core, we all want to connect. When we seek to understand, by
listening more intently, we find that our relationships deepen and our community strengthens as a result. With
our appreciation for the power of connection through meaningful conversations, it only made sense to name
our business Empowering Conversations.
It all starts with a conversation; with a desire to learn; to see things from another perspective; to seek
truth. The truth is, we have more in common than we have differences. Well, maybe it would be
more accurate to say, what brings us together is stronger than anything that divides us.
We would never want to marginalize our differences. We love the words of Audre Lorde, “It is not our differences
that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.” We are unique in vast and
complicated ways. It’s our hope that we can come together with our unique strengths, perspectives and ideas to
build a community with a powerful narrative of “us.”
Through this humble publication, we will start having conversations. This is an ambitious and beautifully optimistic
attempt to shine light on all the things that make our community strong, but also discuss, in a productive and
compassionate manner, the challenges we face.
We are doing our small part in building a cohesive community by creating conversations that refocus our attention
on our similarities. We are bringing people together; replacing judgment with understanding. Perspective is
powerful.
We’ll continue unfolding our vision for this magazine over the next several issues, but now we want to
hear from you. As a “Siouxland” magazine, we feel it is imperative to understand what the
community wants and needs. Share your vision and dreams for Siouxland.
We want you to lean into the conversation and participate in the discussion.
E m p o w e r i n g
Conversations, LLC
siouxlandmagazine.com

So beautiful, you may want to design
your home around it.
The Genuine. The Original. The industry leader for
over 85 years, Overhead Door garage door systems
add beauty, distinction and value to any home.
We service all makes and models of doors and openers. We sell doors and openers for new homes and replacement.
The Overhead Door Co. of Sioux City, Inc. • 2500 Dace Ave. • Sioux City, IA 51106 • 712-252-4431 • www.siouxcitydoor.com

Table of Contents
CONVERSE
Conversation Starters..................................................................................................................................10
No One Gets Where They’re Going Alone..........................................................14
Focus on Common Ground................................................................................................................15
I’ll Never Have a ‘Normal’ Life.....................................................................................................16
Fajitas and Conversation.......................................................................................................................18
Volunteer Iowa.......................................................................................................................................................19
MENTOR
ISSUE 20
19
If you want to be included in our June issue of
Siouxland Magazine, contact us soon!
Deadline to reserve space is
May 6th!
Media Kit at siouxlandmagazine.com
Siouxland Magazine | MENTOR Issue / 5
INSpiRE
Always Embrace Opportunities To Learn....................................................................20
An Unshakable Story: Strength, Love and Moving Forward.........22
Men as Mentors: How To Change a Child’s Life.............................................26
GROW
Want To Make an Impact? Start by Helping Others................................28
Happiness = Success.......................................................................................................................................30
Imagination Driving Innovation:
An Interview with a Serial Entrepreneur......................................................................34
Innovation Market Strikes Entrepreneur Gold Again!.............................37
Leadership Siouxland 900+ Strong!.......................................................................................38
Sioux City Scoop.................................................................................................................................................39
Balance
Shift Your Perspective: a Journey to the Beginner’s Mind..................40
Amber’s TOP 5 ‘SupeRFoodS’.................................................................................................42
Daily Choices to Improve Your Health in 1 Year..................................44
Flight or Fight: How Our Bodies Respond to Trauma................................46
EXPLORE
What Can I Really Recycle?.............................................................................................................50
Passport to Your Parks, Get Your Dose of Vitamin N (Nature).........52
Why You Would Want to Garden.............................................................................................54
Planting and Harvesting Times For Garden Vegetables ........56
Together We Are Stronger Than MS.........................................................................57
ENJOY
Bootleggers Steals the Downtown Pizza Scene.............................................58
History Comes to Life at the Air Museum....................................................................60
Russell Returns to Siouxland for One Shimmering Show!......................61
Book Lovers Adventure Out for the BEST Sale of the Year!.........62
Events Calendar..................................................................................................................................................64
Not pictured from cover,
Rex Mueller and Renae Billings
Special Thanks
graphic design by Kari Nelson | Creative Director
beautiful photography by Sarah Gill | Sarah Ann Photography

Uptown
Shoreline Metro Napa
Outdoor Living Porch & Patio Furniture!
In-stock or custom order options • Inside all HOM Furniture showrooms • homfurniture.com

Editors Note
Siouxland Magazine | MENTOR Issue / 7
“Am I using my talents and expertise to their fullest potential?”
Years ago I made a promise to myself to say “yes” to
this question every day or I needed to make a change.
About 5 years ago, I was in the middle of a life change,
working for another company my whole career, I was
about to embark on the journey of entrepreneurship.
There were several people excited for me to start this
venture.
Two in particular. The first was a client who gave me the
first round of courage to go for it. The question, “Have
you thought about just opening your own business?”
at that point never crossed my mind. But initially, all I
could think about is what if it doesn’t work out? Maybe
it wasn’t responsible of me, almost greedy to try. I have
a family, I can’t be that selfish. The second officially
pushed me over the edge. He said, who cares if I fail. He
explained I would learn so much from the experience
and if after 2 years I decided it wasn’t for me, I’d be
more marketable for having this experience. Well, to
make a long story short, those two single-handedly
told me what I needed to hear at a time I really needed
to hear it. Now 5 years later, we’re still in business. To
those individuals, thank you.
Look into people, not up to them. There is something to be
learned from everyone, even if it’s what not to do, but
being an optimist, I try to focus on the good in everyone.
If we are paying attention, there’s an abundance of
wisdom all around us, which is why it’s so important to be
aware of the people with whom we spend our days. Our
growth, ultimately, is our personal responsibility. Beyond
the endless opportunities accessible to us every day to
glean knowledge, we can also create intentional daily
or weekly practices, as well as establish a more formal
mentoring structure.
I fold in books and podcasts to my daily routine. And,
yes, I am a Ted Talk junkie. I belong to organizations
that connect me with exceptional people and push my
limits. My weekly Toastmasters meetings harness the
power of habitual practice; accelerating growth in the
areas of communication and leadership. I have specific
mentors for each area in my life where I am intentionally
stretching. The beauty is, when you become intentional
with your growth and stay engaged, results happen!
Siouxland Magazine is owned and published by Empowering Conversations, LLC. All materials contained in this magazine (including text, content, and
photographs) are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast or
modified in any way without the prior written consent of Empowering Conversations, LLC or in the case of third party materials, the owner of that content.
You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of this content.

Congrats Mary & Team!
Mary Sterk Named to
Forbes List Best-In-State Wealth Advisors!
We are truly honored to announce that Sterk Financial Services founder,
Mary Sterk, has been named to the 2019 Forbes List – Best-In-State Wealth Advisors.
Mary said, “While my name might be on the list, this recognition is really about the
Sterk Financial Team and their 15+ years of unparalleled dedication and efforts to create
an exceptional client experience and team culture.”
Congrats Mary & Team!
350 Oak Tree Lane, Suite 150, Dakota Dunes, SD 57049
Phone 605.217.3555 Toll Free 866.800.2186 Fax 605.217.3535 Web sterkfinancialservices.com
Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered by Mary Sterk through Woodbury Financial Services,
Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC.
Insurance offered by Mary Sterk through Sterk Financial Services which is not affiliated with Woodbury Financial.
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors list includes 10 recipients per state. The award is based on qualitative
and quantitative data, rating thousands of wealth advisors with a minimum of seven years of experience and
weighing factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and
best practices. The award is not based on portfolio performance or client reviews. There is no fee in exchange
for rankings. Third-party rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not
ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings
should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor by any client nor are they representative of any one
client’s evaluation.
celebrating
5YEARS

Mentor
shifting perspective
By Stacie Anderson
What does mentorship mean to you? Or maybe I should ask, how it makes you feel? Why? At our Conversation
Starters meeting, all kinds of feelings were stirred up and the discussion revealed some expected, as well as
some surprising insights.
Would you be shocked if I told you that one response to discussing this topic was “Ugh”? I’ll admit, I was, until
I learned why. That quickly anchored me back to our purpose.
We come together, in all our diversity, with a singular purpose - to participate in a dynamic
conversation that moves our community forward and upward by exploring multiple perspectives
and approaching challenges with integrity, compassion and creativity, knowing that amongst
many voices, we will find all kinds of possibilities and a deeper understanding.
By being open and leaning into the conversation,
we learned that it was simply by the way we
defined mentorship that caused the “Ugh.”
Those who shared that response associated
mentoring with a weighted responsibility and a
consumption of time. As soon as we unpackaged
the feelings associated with mentorship and
created a broader definition, everything shifted.
Although mentorship can take on a formal
structure, it is more often than not, something that
is already occurring without our awareness. But,
again, what’s our definition? We as a collective,
concluded that anytime we are helping in
someone’s evolution we are in a way mentoring.
Maybe instead we call it helping, advising,
leading, collaborating or even parenting. Maybe
more important than what we call it, is becoming
aware of all of the ways we can participate in it
and do our part to give a hand up.
Here are some takeaways from the group:
• It’s a misconception that you have to be at
a certain level to be a mentor. That’s simply
not the case, everyone has something to offer.
• Any time you are engaging with someone who
is less skilled than you, there is an opportunity
to share.
• Having a conversation over a cup of coffee can
add value to someone.
• Be available to answer questions.
• Share your wisdom. Give advice. Be a sounding board.
• Be supportive and create a safe environment for others
to flourish.
• Build relationships and find opportunities to collaborate.
• Remember to lead by example. Someone is
always watching.
• Mentors come in all different forms and learning can
happen anywhere.
• Incorporate resources into your growth such as books,
podcasts, seminars, etc.
We’re always encouraging further conversation. Here’s
some things we think are worth further exploration.
Does my mentor have to look like me? What if I’m a
woman in a predominantly man’s industry? What if I’m of
a minority race and can’t find a mentor of the same race?
How does that change the experience?
How do we continue to encourage women to step into
leadership roles? How do we combat the crab mentality
- pulling someone down who is trying to move up? How
do we shift the perception from bossy to a strong leader?
How do we encourage more men to mentor youth?
How do we move boys off of long waiting lists for much
needed role models?
What is the incentive for businesses to encourage
their employees to volunteer? How do we approach
that conversation?

conveRSe
curious
truth seekers
Cultivating Meaningful
Powerful narrative of “us”
Alex Watters
My life is a testament
to the adage that it
takes a village. This has
been especially true after
my accident. I been impacted
by so many people: friends, family,
caregivers, nurses, and doctors.
However, one person that mentored
me and shaped my life was my high
school debate coach, Greg Stevens.
He taught me that being articulate,
confident, and informed could be
powerful. He opened my eyes to
the world of debate and public
discourse, worked with me on public
speaking, and critical thinking. Skills
that I still used to this day. I know he
knows that time in my life made an
impact, but maybe not to the extent
that I do.
Additional tools that have influenced
my thinking/way of life:
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Being Peace by Thich Nhat Hahn
Ben Knoepfler
My most meaningful mentors
have showed me their flaws
and insecurities. I could watch
them succeed and flourish
in spite of their shortcomings. I
could identify with the shortcomings,
but I could no longer use them as excuses.
They taught me that sometimes vulnerability
is the greatest strength.
Cyndi Hanson
My relationships with my sisters has taught me the
importance of listening intently, giving unconditional
support, and at times, challenging one another to
stop complaining and start doing something. Within my
professional life, I’ve had mentors whose wisdom I valued. They were
always willing to be a sounding board as I explored possibilities
and weighed alternatives. Then there’s my best friend, my most
influential mentor. We don’t always agree, but he always listens and
his belief in me never waivers. He gives me the gift of raw honesty.
He once said, if I kept looking for what was wrong, it would keep
my down, but if I shifted to look at what’s right and move ahead,
nothing could stop me. The most important impact mentors have
had for me is authenticity without judgment. I know these folks care
about me no matter what I accomplish. Depending on the situation,
they will encourage, admonish or prompt more reflection.
Angie Schneiderman
I view a mentor as anyone I learn something
from; however, if I were to point one of my
more important early sources of mentorship,
it would be the Junior League of Sioux City. The
Junior League is an organization of women whose aim
is promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of
women, and improving communities. Peer mentorship
abounds in the organization, and systematic placement in
leadership positions promotes personal growth and skill
development. Additionally, the organization is a gateway
to nationwide conferences and materials on leadership,
community development, personal growth and more. As
I look back, the time I spent volunteering with the Junior
League was a time during which I grew exponentially.
Dave Bernstein
As I ponder my mentors, I realize I‘ve been fortunate to have quite a few. My Dad taught me the value
of working hard and fully analyzing situations for all the possibilities; never assume anything. My
grandfather taught me how to approach business and negotiate throughout the years that I was lucky
enough to work with him. My Uncle taught me compassion and humor in business. Toby Shine taught me
how to negotiate, and how to merge work and fun into enlightening experiences. Irving Jensen Jr. taught me,
throughout the years at the Orpheum, about the power of passion and conviction, and the impact of making sure folks
clearly know how convicted you are. Finally, Dave Feiges taught me how to think mechanically and out of the box and
not be afraid to try something after reasoning through it, even if you really don’t have a lot of experience.

strengthening our community
Conversations exploring perspectives
coming together
open minded
focused on common good
Lillyan Rodriguez
It’s hard to accredit just one person. I believe that role models are going to change throughout one’s
life, but my biggest mentors have been my parents. As a woman, I have learned the most from my mom
through her example. It doesn’t matter how busy you are, you have to give yourself time to stop and watch
the moon. It doesn’t matter if you are busy with kids or going grocery shopping, always wear those “nice high
heels” because they will make you feel beautiful.
My dad on the other hand has taught me unity with friends and family. He has always been very confident and patient
with me. Through that, he reminds me that I can build the life I want, it doesn’t matter how rough the path is, with a smile
I can overcome any obstacles. Everything I planted in my field of life is what I will harvest.
Paul Gausman
It seems appropriate, I share a bit about a
mentor of mine, who worked as a Building
Principal in our District. We can all learn
from each other, when we are open to
discovering the good in others, discovering
gems of knowledge and understanding that
we can each use to improve. We lost a giant of an
administrator recently, with the passing of Dr. Michael
Rogers, the Principal of East Middle School. Dr. Rogers
served as a mentor to many in the district and region,
including his work with students, for staff, to community
members, and even with me as the Superintendent of
Schools. Dr. Rogers had a “faith forward” approach to
his life and decision making, which exhibited service to
others in his leadership. He always led with the notion
of putting others first, treating others as you would
like to be treated, and working to make a positive
difference in this world. He will be missed.
I am a “leadership book” junkie. I have grown fond of the
app “Blinkist” which gives members the ability to quickly
process popular texts, from thousands available, that focus
on improvement, leadership, business, and history.
Treyla Lee
M- manage
E-encourage
N-No
T-teach/truth
O-opportunity
R-respect
Every mentor I’ve had, walked me through areas of
growth, even when it hurt.
Gloria Mayfield-Millionaire Mindset,Get up and Glo
https://youtu.be/bgl7_lHHc0k
www.FollowDorothy.com
Peggy La
I can’t imagine what my parents went
through to come to the United States. They
passed through several Filipino camps
and traveled by boat. They experienced
food deprivation, pain, and suffered through the stress
of not knowing what tomorrow would bring. They
eventually made it, and after a few years working at IBP,
their hard work and dedication led to the creation of
Hong Kong Supermarket. I always dreamed of being
a boss, but that required me to learn how to work 7
days a week and 10-12 hours a day. My parents are
go-getters and have never stopped working, and now
I find I’m following in their footsteps. Thank you mom
and dad for being great mentors and teaching me
how to keep busy and stay out of trouble!
Brett Gill
In my life, I have been fortunate
enough to learn from some worldclass
professionals. Whether I have
needed to learn about how to improve a
business process or how to improve my writing, I
have leveraged the skills and abilities of others
in order to advance my craft. I truly stand on the
shoulders of giants. The funny thing is that many of
these people did not know that I looked to them
as a professional mentor for me... they were simply
answering the questions of a young man that was
seeking advice in a time of need. They may have
not felt that they were professionals, or someone
who was worthy of giving advice, but they made a
lasting impact on my life that I am eternally grateful
for. It is my hope that someday, I will be in a position
to make the kind of impact to someone else that my
mentors have made on me.

Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 12
Ragen Cote
Guidance and inspiration in my life have come from several people, but there are two individuals that will
forever hold the titles in these two areas. Guidance: Diane Nesselhuf was instrumental in helping me at
a young age, during some difficult times, learn to direct my emotions into effective action. Take control of
yourself, it is all you will ever have control over. I recently lost someone I cared for deeply, I was not prepared
to be centered so intensely from her phone call. Inspiration: Deb Smith was an inspiration in professional personality.
I have yet to meet someone who could tell you “no” in such a pleasant way that it left you smiling. She constantly
demonstrated effective ways to move people forward, respect yourself and kick butt at whatever the task. Also, no
matter how much technology changes, nothing compares to a good legal pad and pen.
Rex Mueller
In my 23 year career in public service, I’ve looked at
many of my peers and supervisors as mentors. Because
my profession involves a great deal of movement between
assignments and shifts, I have been fortunate to have many
different mentors over the years.
Having different mentors allowed me to “cherry pick” the various
qualities of each person that I respected most. It also allowed me to
work on my own mentoring skills so I could serve as a mentor for others.
I think I have had many conversations with my various mentors to thank
them for their guidance over the years. Any success I have is due inpart
to every one of those individuals who helped give me those tools
for success.
Jim Jung
Edith Pollock was a legend at East High School. I first met
her in 10th grade English class. I felt honored that I was
there and that seemed to be what I needed for motivation.
I found learning could be enjoyable and my grades soared.
In my senior year, I qualified to assist in correcting papers for her.
That certainly increased my self-esteem. I wish I had told her this. Later,
when I managed staff, I’d require them to write their short and long
term goals, then make an appointment with me to discuss them. I think
this is in the realm of mentoring.
Ike Rayford
I am so thankful to have had a few mentors. Growing up
in South Dallas, I wanted something better for my life, so
I began looking for things that would help me achieve
success. As for specific individuals, there are two people
that, unbeknownst to them, I learned a great deal from, Dave
Madsen and Flora Lee, both of Sioux City.
Dave has always been an example of how to work hard and take pride
in your work. Learning to understand your people to accomplish the
tasks that need to be done was truly a lessoned learned. He also helped
me understand the need for good communication. Flora showed me
how to lead and be a strong voice when you are standing amongst
giants. Perseverance and never giving up on anyone is a big thing I
took from her.
Renae Billings
Mentors are invaluable
when it comes to
helping someone start
a business. Mentors can
provide you with knowledge based
on experience, introduce you to
key professional contacts to help
you advance your business, offer
a different perspective and expert
advice, provide feedback to help
you avoid mistakes, offer support
and encouragement, and so much
more. According to the Small
Business Administration, 70 percent
of small businesses that receive
mentoring survive more than five
years, which is double the survival
rate of non-mentored businesses. If
you’re just getting started down the
path to business ownership, or have
been on the path for some time,
consider reaching out to a business
mentor to help you along the way.
Amy Chabra
My mentor is
Professor Lucile
Lawless; she guided
me through research
at Brandeis University and then
helped me gain admission
to a graduate program at the
University of Chicago. I was a first
generation college student so
her guidance was essential to my
continued education. Professor
Lawless believed in me when I
was up, but most importantly, she
believed in me when I was down.
I’ve had many years being down,
and Professor Lawless never
stopped believing in me.

Papa’s Wisdom
By Dan Pecaut
Russell Pecaut was my favorite role
model; my hero. We grandkids called
him “Papa”. I admired his integrity and his
hearty laugh. He lived from 1902 to 2000 - 98 years - no
doubt aided by his ever-positive attitude. This is a story
about grandfatherly wisdom.
In 1979, when I graduated college and joined the family
investment firm in Sioux City, Iowa, I regretted that Papa
had already retired to California. However, he would return
home, he would always take me to lunch at his old favorite,
Bishop’s Cafeteria. (They had a chocolate Ambrosia pie that
was to die for.) I cherished those days: the young man in
me feeling like a real businessman with the firm’s founder
taking me to lunch while the little boy felt giddy with delight
that I would get to have Papa all to myself.
On one of those lunches, a fine June day in the early 1980’s,
the conversation was light and rolling when Papa leaned
in. His voice dropped. I instinctively knew something very
important was about to be spoken. I moved in. He told me
I’d have only a couple moments in my life when a great
opportunity would appear, an opportunity that would make
all the difference. And, when such a moment appeared, I
would know it. And what I did with those moments would
determine the shape of my life
In the 1930’s, during the Great Depression, the Badgerow
Building came up for sale. Back in the day, it was the premier
office building in Sioux City. A beautiful art deco design with
night lights that lit up the sculptured top of the building. Papa
was invited to join a group that was going to put in a bid to buy
the building. Papa thought it over, but was afraid it would stretch
him too thin what with the Depression and a family to raise and
all. He declined. And, he intoned to me, he had regretted that
decision ever since.
His second opportunity arose in the mid 1950’s. His sons, Dick
(my father) and Jack, had graduated from college and joined
him at an investment firm called C.W. Britton’s. As the boys got
their feet under them, Papa proposed they leave Britton and
start their own firm. His sons had no capital, so Papa knew he and
my grandmother (who Papa lovingly referred to as their “silent
partner”) would be risking pretty much their entire net worth.
They made the leap in 1960 and never looked back. Pecaut and
Company was profitable from day one. Papa marveled at how
well it had all gone. He felt blessed.
Papa gave me an incredible insight. Some decisions are
monumental and will change the arc of your life. I feel fortunate
to have had such excellent advice so early in life. Best of all,
even now, I can still feel Papa’s mentoring hand on my shoulder.
Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 13

Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 14
No One Gets Where They’re Going Alone
No one gets where they’re going alone, especially when they’re headed to the top. Along the way, the guidance of
successful mentors, as well as a strong support system, will be critical in building or running a successful business. At this year’s
Women Lead Change event, four successful business women, Annette Hamilton, Mary Sterk, Beth Trejo and Charese Yanney,
shared their words of wisdom about mentorship, in all of its forms, and creating an environment for women to succeed.
Beth
There aren’t many women in my industry. Tech is primary
men. In the past, I’ve had female mentors. I had an awesome
female boss, Debbie Durham, one of the few people who
could negotiate hard and stand her ground, then turn
around and give them a hug the next day. She wasn’t afraid
to show her femininity.
Mary
I give credit to men who, at a time when it wasn’t necessarily
the norm to mentor women, mostly men mentoring other
men, took the time and effort to help me grow. I think then
it’s now our duty to give back to others within our industry,
other women, to help mentor them forward. Things that
women bring to the table should be acknowledged
because it is a different perspective and it adds to the
conversation. It’s not an instead of, it’s an in addition to. We
need to set the tone from the top and move women into
leadership positions faster.
Charese
My grandfather and father were my mentors, especially my
dad. They started teaching me things at a very young age,
probably without thinking that I would ever run the company. I
looked to each for certain things. Mentors have been through
things we haven’t and it’s important what they can share.
My mother taught me different things, still about work, but
in different ways, things likes manners and how important
manners are when you enter someone’s home.
Annette
Women used to have to act like men, but now it’s more valued
that we bring our perspective. We have to mentor women and
create space for them to be confident. We need to have the
conversation that it’s okay to ask for help and have the right
structure for a mentor/mentee relationship.
Pictured left to right: Annette Hamilton, Charese Yanney, Mary
Sterk, Beth Trejo and Tiffany O’Donnell.
Developing, advancing and promoting women and their organizations to impact the regional economy.
To learn more about Women Lead Change visit www.wlcglobal.org

Focus on Common Ground
By Stacie Anderson
From the moment A.P.
Tureaud Jr. walked into
Pierce Street Coffee
Works, the energy in the
room shifted. There was
a warmth and gentleness
that expanded far beyond
his physical presence. It felt
like the space around us
let out a deep exhale and
allowed for the expansion
of beautiful possibilities to
surround us. You know that
feeling when you meet someone and you immediately
feel like you’ve known them for a lifetime? Over the
next hour and a half, he so openly shared his life, his
experiences and his rich perspective.
A.P. Jr. grew up in the deep south during the horrors
of segregation. He became the first African-American
undergraduate at Louisiana State University in 1953,
and although he was there for only fifty-five days, his
recollection of that time still remains painfully vivid. He
experienced extreme isolation and harsh treatment
from the students and faculty alike. His time there ended
when LSU appealed the district court’s decision that
allowed him to enter, and when a retrial was ordered,
LSU cancelled his registration.
Those fifty-five days had a lasting impact on his life, but
truly, his entire life has been shaped by many experiences
and several influencers. His father was the Louisiana civil
rights pioneer, as well as the only black lawyer in Louisiana.
A.P. Jr. grew up exposed to his dad’s life’s work. Although
he witnessed humanity’s darkness, he was also shown the
power of character and integrity. His dad always treated
everyone with respect, even his worst adversaries, and his
mother constantly reached beyond their community to
find common ground.
In Tureaud’s own words, “We had the richest life
imaginable in terms of our life’s thrust and experiences.”
This speaks volumes to the importance of our actions:
lead by example, own your actions, focus on common
ground, commit to excellence, and always remain hopeful.
A.P. Jr. has made it his life’s purpose to fight injustice.“I’m
a magnet for fighting injustice.” He said. “It’s tiresome,
angering, but also fulfilling, because you find common
ground and other people who will support you and make
you realize that you don’t have a choice.”
In asking what our readers can do to help move us all
forward, he left these thoughts:
• Focus on a common goal.
• Form collaborative relationships with people who are
similar, as well as different than you. Diversity. Diversity.
Diversity.
• Always fold in education.
• Find something you can be successful at, because
seeing the impact will keep you moving.
• Give it some grit!
Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 15
Creating a Successful Formal Mentorship Process
1. Find a Mentor
Ask Yourself: In what area do I want to grow?
Who do you know, or know of, that is successful in this
business/industry?
2. Make a Case
Do your research and build a case as to why you are
asking for their help. Articulate what the return on
their investment will be; what action will you take if
you receive their guidance? Always offer something
in return. It can be donating time at their favorite
charity or paying it forward.
3. Establish Objectives
Clearly state what is expected from both the mentor
and mentee. (Including rules, such as how and when
you’ll communicate.) Outline what will be covered in
your time together. Be Specific. Set a schedule.
4. Be Accountable
Set action items to accomplish between meetings
and make sure they are measurable.
Follow through. Track progress.

Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 16
I’ll Never Have a ‘Normal’ Life
By Maddy Boehme
On my 19th birthday, I had an appointment with
my doctor. I was a freshman in college, taking
three classes a semester. That was all I could
handle.
Every waking day was spent in the clutches of my bully.
It weighed me down with constant fatigue and pain like
nothing before. It was like my brain had been tossed in
a frying pan and seared to a crisp.
I tried to ignore it, push through the pain, pretend as if
my body had the capabilities of a normal person, but
I’d always crash no matter how desperately I craved a
normal life.
Every night, I hoped to escape my reality in a deep
sleep, only to be met with insomnia. I was sure it came
straight from the depths of hell. No amount of deep
breathing or relaxing music or sedatives ever touched
my sleeplessness.
By my 19th birthday, I had been waiting almost three
years for a magic pill to get me back to my old, strugglefree
self. I had tried several different treatments. Some
of them helped, but none of them seemed to “fix me.”
I was hopeful about finding a solution. But, by that point,
I should have known that nothing in my life was ever going
to turn out how I expected. During the appointment, my
doctor said that we had tried every treatment in the book
for this disease. I’ll never forget the moment he looked me
in the eyes and said, “This is as good as it’s going to get.”
This was not the best gift I’d ever gotten.
Up until my sophomore year of high school, I got straight As.
I ranked fifth in my class. I had fun hanging out with friends.
My only worry was what I was going to wear tomorrow or if I
was going to get a good grade on that geometry test.
But then, I started having these weird spells where I would
lose the ability to walk and talk. I would cry, uncontrollably,
for hours at a time, and I had no idea why I was crying. At
first, this happened every couple months. But as time went
on, these spells became more frequent and severe.
While my classmates were out finding dates for the prom
or going to high school football games, I was often headed
for the ER. It got to the point where most of the hospital staff
knew me by name. They’d see me come in and know exactly
what to do: load me up with painkillers and sedatives until
my body finally quit its mysterious rampant rage.
The drugs often left me stoned for days. The ER visits

eventually became a blur in my doped-up memory as
they quickly became my day-to-day reality.
I missed my junior year of high school. Instead, I went to
several doctors searching for answers.
Some of them said these bizarre spells were all in my
head. It was just me. After one ER visit, I found myself
face-to-face with an inpatient treatment coordinator and
was almost admitted to a psychiatric facility. I was often
irritable for no reason. Complications from the disease
often left me homebound. My closest friend at the time
described me as impulsive with a crazy mood and a bad
memory. I struggled to keep friends.
Eventually, I ended up being diagnosed with autoimmune
encephalitis, which essentially means that, one day, for
unknown reasons, my body decided to start attacking my
brain.
Now, I receive infusions every other week to put good
cells in my body and make my symptoms less severe.
At times, I can be on a lot of steroids, which makes me
look like a human marshmallow. My face gets really puffy,
and I have really bad munchies, so I’ll be down in the
kitchen at 3 a.m. eating five bowls of cereal. I’ve also had
chemotherapy to try to stop my body from attacking my
brain.
I’ve been living with this disease for about five years now.
I haven’t been able to take on a full course load since my
sophomore year of high school. Residual issues of ADHD,
dyslexia, depression and anxiety are my new reality, and
I’ve had to relearn how to use my brain. I struggle to live
a normal life, but I am lucky to be alive. Most people
with this disease end up in psychiatric facilities; they go
undiagnosed, fall into a coma and die. I survived.
I’ve made it my goal in life to collect as many experiences
as possible. I pierced my nose on a whim, and I’ve dyed
my hair various colors of the rainbow. I’ve flown in a
helicopter, twice.
I don’t know what the future holds for my health, so I live
for every day that I’m given.
My 19th birthday could have been the worst day of my
life. But in that moment of devastation in the doctor’s
office, something clicked.
It was on that day I decided to stop waiting around and
expecting everything to be “normal” again. I realized life
is about letting go of every expectation we have about
what life should be. Life is about taking the challenges
we’re given and defying expectations.
Founded by award-winning journalist Ally Karsyn,
Beacon Story Lab creates more courageous,
compassionate and connected communities through
the healing art of storytelling.
*A version of this story was originally told at Beacon Story
Lab Live! at The Marquee on November 2, 2018.
Maddy Boehme is a speaker and advocate for awareness
about autoimmune encephalitis. Her friends and family
call her Wonder Woman, and her dad says he’d put her
up in a bar fight against anyone because she’s tougher
than nails. She lives in Le Mars, Iowa.
Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 17
My life is far from what I expected. I thought high school
would be football games and weekends with friends,
after-school activities and sports. I thought my college
experience would be attending a four-year school far
from home, living on my own, doing whatever I wanted,
whenever I wanted, meeting boys and making new
memories with lifelong friends.
Life can take a lot of things from you. But I’ve come to
appreciate the unexpected and the perspective it’s given
me. It’s brought me to places, people and opportunities
that I never would have imagined.
With the help of my teachers, I graduated from high
school. And after three years in neurotherapy, I made
honor society for the first time in college last month. I was
selected as a member of my hospital’s Patient Advisory
Council and I’ve been able to give back to the people
and place that saved my life. I’ve shared my story with the
local newspaper and news stations to raise awareness for
this peculiar disease. I even had the opportunity to speak
to a classroom of kids at the school I attended growing
up and I even get to share my story with all of you.
Live storytelling events are held
monthly. The next show is Friday, May 3 at
The Marquee, 1225 Fourth St., where the theme
is Becoming. A second version of the show will
be presented in June. Find updates by following
the Facebook page for Beacon Story Lab.
Upcoming themes are American Dreams:
Stories of how we live, love and work in July/
August and Fish Out of Water in September/
October. Send story ideas to Ally Karsyn at
ally@beaconstorylab.com.

Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 18
Fajitas and Conversation
By Tony Micheals
I always laugh while
watching HDTV when
the newly engaged
young couple plops
down a million dollars
for a starter home in a
metro era.
Clearly, this broadcast
journalism grad working
in country radio managed
his wealth poorly in
comparison.
What I lack in trust funds, I certainly hope I make up
with an abundance of conversation capital. Have you
noticed some of those couples on “House Hunters”
are so hard to watch? I struggle to make it through
22 minutes watching them. Forget about hosting fajita
night in their kitchen.
I’d like to consider our morning show one big gettogether
with friends minus the fajitas.
I have had the best seat in Siouxland to engage in some
tremendous conversations. I’ve heard stories from
hundreds of people going through a variety of life stages
and emotions. The call from a young lady on her way to an
important job interview asking for luck, tips and requesting
“A Little Bit Stronger” by Sara Evans. (It worked by the way.
If you have a big interview – call us.) I was moved to tears
last month (ok, I wasn’t a blubbering mess, but they were
definitely moist) when a dedicated mom spoke of turning
her life around after being homeless and now is excelling in
life. Of course, not all conversations are so gut-wrenching.
I spent a delightful morning talking about proper concert
behavior. And I’ve also shared highlights of my top 464
movies of all time with justification for placement. I’ll tell ya
about the list sometime over “fajita night” at my house. In
my opinion, I’m pretty ok with conversations and I believe
this magazine is a great conversation starter for years to
come.
My desire for you is that you fill your day with one
heartfelt conversation. It doesn’t have to be hours, but
with a purpose and intention. Hopefully, this will get you
creatively inspired to improve your daily conversations.
But hey, if you’re stuck for conversation, call or text in
any weekday morning at 712-274-1057. I’ll be your one
heartfelt conversation that day.
Tony & Candice morning show host
and conversationalist
Full Marketing Team.
Just Right For Your Small Business.
Social Media. Website Design. Photography.
Copywriting. Graphic Design. Video.
Pulse
MARKETING
w pulse co.com
c 712.898.9727
e becca@pulse co.com

Volunteer Iowa: Get Ready to Give Back
Give Back Iowa is an eight week challenge
running from April 1 through May 31 each
year to engage Iowans in employer-supported
volunteering, both during and outside of the
workday. There is no cost to register or participate;
and, it doesn’t matter whether an employer has a
formal volunteer program or how many employees
there are – ANY employer in Iowa can compete (for
profit, nonprofit, and government organizations). You
can participate as an entire organization or by location
if you have multiple sites.
Siouxland Magazine | Converse / 19
There is a lot of research showing the connection
between employer-supported volunteering and
improved employee engagement. There is also research
connecting employee engagement with increased
profitability and productivity. In addition, there are
benefits to the community through the organization
fulfilling its corporate social responsibility.
Employers register in advance to participate and
indicate whether they wish to be included in prechallenge
media releases. Volunteer hours are reported
through a simple online report form either by the
individual employee or through a company point of
contact. Nonprofits can participate in the Challenge
as employers and are encouraged to invite the local
businesses who may provide them with volunteers to
register as well.
Based on the number of entries received and company
size, employers are divided into three categories
(large, medium, and small). Winners are selected by
determining the average number of volunteer hours
per employee completed during the Challenge period.
Employers achieving the highest average in each size
category are recognized with a visit to the workplace by
Iowa’s Governor and/or Lieutenant Governor.
If you have any questions, contact Volunteer Iowa at
800.308.5987 or https://volunteerchallenge.iowa.gov/.
Good luck and happy volunteering!
VolunteerSiouxland, Siouxland’s Online Volunteer Center,
brings together volunteer passion with community needs.
With more than 120 area nonprofits and over 1,000 volunteers,
VolunteerSiouxland offers you a centralized location to search
for current volunteer needs, right here in our community.
Volunteers: Browse opportunities that suit your interests and
apply online easily. Volunteer doing things you love.
Organizations: Post your volunteer, internship, and service
learning opportunities online, and be connected to Siouxlanders
who want to help – completely free for you and your volunteers.
Browse Opportunities: VolunteerSiouxland is comprised
of organizations and individuals who want to make Siouxland
a better place. Create a profile, browse opportunities and start
making a difference.
Join the cause and sign up for free at volunteersiouxland.org
today!

Inspire
Lessons learned from stories in our community.
Photo
Always Embrace Opportunities To Learn
By Becca Feauto
credit: Shirley Chic
When I first met Mickey, I knew instantly she was a
smart, sophisticated woman. Her confident manner,
style, curly hair and beaming smile makes her one of
the most approachable people I’ve ever met. Then she
shared her story. It’s not just any story, it’s a multifaceted
narrative about the challenges of learning a new language
and culture as a child. Mickey had to learn perseverance,
how to fail and that she could be anything she wanted
through hard work and with the right mindset.
Mickey moved to the United States from Panama City
when she was just 12 years old. As a soon-to-be-teenager,
she had mixed emotions about the uncertainty of what
lay ahead as she set out to live her new reality. The task to
acquire a new language and adapt to a different way of
doing things is daunting for anyone at any age, yet young
Mickey met those challenges with open arms.
Through trial and error, she learned hard work,
determination and resolve to empower herself.
Little Mickey
As a young girl, Mickey saw herself as different. But that
didn’t stop her from tackling her challenges, she simply
viewed them as a series of choices and options.
Once in the United States, Mickey was placed in Mrs.
Cotto’s 6th grade class. Mrs. Cotto was a native Spanish
speaker from Puerto Rico. Mickey didn’t know it then,
but Mrs. Cotto would become one of the most impactful
teachers in her young life.
“I went to a school that offered a partial inclusion format,
meaning I was with my peers for classes like art, music and
math and then pulled out for other classes like reading
and language arts. During these classes I’d work with
tutors and volunteers one-on-one.” Her best memories
were of working with Mrs. Cotto in the classroom. “She
was my cheerleader who persistently reassured me that I
would one day get there.”
Even with her best efforts, it was at times really hard
for Mickey to maintain a positive outlook. Mrs. Cotto
picked up on these cues and would set goals which were
rewarded with a prize from the “prize bucket”.
To learn English, she was consistently encouraged to
use vocabulary words by practicing conversations and

non-profit
community
family
small business
people
word recognition through reading. Now as an adult, she
realizes she was always given a chance to absorb English
in a safe-to-fail environment with an overwhelming
support system of teachers, tutors and volunteers.
“As a result, it’s very important for me to pay all the effort
and hard work forward by volunteering to work in the
public schools, especially as a tutor for students learning
English as a second language.”
As a mother, when her kids became preschool ready,
she selected schools that engaged parents in helping
in the classroom. She began to volunteer by helping
her kids’ teachers, school and the PTA. She helped
with all sorts of things like planning parties, bringing
treats, getting supplies for teachers, chaperoning field
trips and fundraising. Through the school’s PTA and its
network of parent volunteers, she became involved in
the planning of after school activities for the kids and
their families.
“I fondly remember pitching an idea of a Lego Club
to the PTA leadership. They were interested so I got
busy getting a Lego Education rep to come and make
a presentation to the group. They loved the idea. We
raised the funds and made it happen. We started the
club after school and the kids were excited and engaged
in learning STEM (Science Technology Engineering and
Math) concepts while building and playing with Legos.”
In retrospect, it was the presentation of this initiative
that put Mickey and students in front of the school
board. She continued to work with other PTA parents
to collaborate in activities that engaged students in
problem solving and critical thinking. Mickey has always
championed innovation in learning when students are
doing hands on activities or involved in project based
real life experiences.
Mickey Perseveres Past Perception
Mickey is passionate about enhancing programs that
encourage all student retention and preparation for
further education or workforce readiness.
“I didn’t know I could go to college, but teachers at
school said I should. But when I told my mom I’m
going to college, she said, ‘Why are you being so
ambitious.’” Mickey and her family had come here for
more opportunities. But her mother saw the opportunity
already accomplished. They got here, anything above
and beyond was considered greedy. There was also
no means to pay for college but at that time they didn’t
know about loans and scholarships. “I thought before
we discard this, there’s merit, it’s worth looking into.
My mom wouldn’t come to the meetings sharing all the
information about financial aid. We’re still dealing with the
same issue today.”
“I went through college, persevered through all those
challenges and built a career, but my parents still thought I
was wanting too much, but I figured it’s there for the taking.”
Mickey’s Truth
The kids that are growing up in Sioux City are experiencing
some of the same challenges as Mickey did, they are
coming here as teenagers and not knowing the language.
They don’t have money to do what their peers are doing,
they don’t have fancy things and their parents don’t go to
the school board asking for these kids to be accounted for.
“As a current school board member, I want to help ALL kids
have a voice. It is important to me because I can relate to
what they are going through. They’re hungry. I’ve been
hungry, not because my mom didn’t feed us, we had
rice, but we didn’t have enough to quench the hunger. I
don’t want my kids or any kids to feel their voice doesn’t
matter. If my voice and experience can help lend a better
understanding and perspective for others to make better
inclusive decisions, then I’m going to stay in the game.”
Mickey’s Final Thought
“My biggest accomplishment is how I go about dealing with
what life throws at me, no matter what; finding my voice,
being secure, and moving forward. I accept any challenge
that no one else is willing to take on. My perspective can
help me create change, and I will not be quiet. My voice will
be heard. It may not always be heard the first time, but that
simply means I need to share it over and over again. That’s
how you create change and get your message to break
through the noise.”

Siouxland Magazine | inspire / 22
An Unshakable Story: Strength, Love and Moving Forward
By Becca Feauto
This is a story about perseverance, heartache, pure
passion, loss and immense amounts of joy. Yes, you’re
about to get all the feels.
“Something told me to pick up the test. It was
positive.”
In the fall of 2014 Alex and Jess Kazos found out they
were pregnant with their third child, they were so excited.
After Alex and Jess got married, their dreams of starting
a family were finally coming true. Jess always knew she
wanted to be a wife and a mother. However, after trying
to have a baby for a couple of years, the couple received
the news that conceiving naturally was not in their favor.
A less than 5% chance left them looking at other options.
After hearing this devastating news, Alex and Jess
chose IVF for their next step. Not really knowing what
it all entailed, there was no looking back. After several
procedures, countless shots, three failed attempts and
too many tears, the couple decided to give IVF one more
try.
Baby Makes 4
Thankfully, the fourth time was their charm and on June
17, 2013, Alex and Ava (yes twins!) were born at just 29
weeks. It was a joyous yet crazy time as each baby spent
53 days in the NICU.
The twins were thriving as young toddlers, running
around, talking, giggling. One would never know when
they were born they were each just over two pounds. Alex
and Jess were settling into their lives as new parents. Life
was good with the twins at home.
We Beat the Odds!
Then one fall day in 2014, they got some rather
unexpected, yet happy news. “Something told me to pick
up the test.” Jess said. She took the test and when she
showed it to Alex, he was in disbelief. It had happened.
They beat the odds and they were pregnant! It was time
to call the doctor and start preparing for a baby!
The excitement was short lived, however. At her 11 week
appointment she was asked to have blood drawn for fear
of further concerns. A few days later, they learned their
baby had Down Syndrome. It also showed the couple was
expecting a baby boy.

Sadness. Heartache. Uncertainty. All these emotions
flooded in. The highs and lows of the past few
weeks were a little too much to take. Alex and Jess
cried together as they grieved the loss of life they
anticipated for their son and began to embrace their
new reality and what that would mean for their twins
at home and for them as they prepare to raise a child
with special needs.
“No one says congratulations to you when you share
this news. And I honestly didn’t know much about it
and didn’t have any experience. I wasn’t educated
on what that meant. I was concerned, worried and
scared,” said Alex.
Siouxland Magazine | inspire / 23
“I was devastated, heartbroken. You don’t want your
baby to have to struggle.” Jess said, wiping away
tears. After learning more about what it meant to have
a child with Down’s Syndrome, there was a sense
of peace. They were already in contact with Gigi’s
Playhouse which helped them feel strong, ready and
encouraged.
With a prenatal diagnosis of Down Syndrome, and
an already high risk pregnancy history that included
preterm labor, Jess was followed very closely by her
doctor. She had frequent appointments to check on
how things were progressing. However, each visit
seemed to uncover more medical complications.
Jess shares, “The cystic hygroma (the mass on his
neck that had initially been spotted at the 11 week
ultrasound) had grown around his entire body, this
made us very fearful we would lose the pregnancy.
Two weeks later, the cystic hygroma had basically
disappeared, however his kidneys were dilated, then
two weeks after that his bladder was enlarged. At that
time our regular OB referred us to a Maternal Fetal
Medicine specialist in Omaha. Shortly after regular
appointments in Omaha we found that I had lost
all amniotic fluid which is essential for healthy lung
development. It was just a rollercoaster. No one could
figure out exactly why this had happened, maybe
there was a blockage, possibly kidney failure, but it
we wouldn’t know for sure until our son was born.”
At 26 weeks Jess was admitted to the hospital in
Omaha. She was very lonely, missing her twins,
husband, work, friends, her normal life. On April 27,
she had been there for 6 weeks. “I went in for my
weekly ultrasound, and he measured the same size as
he had measured 2 weeks prior, so they decided it’s
time to work on him out here. They told me they were
going to deliver him tomorrow, so I called Alex and he
came down right away to have a baby.”
“We went into the c-section knowing we had a difficult
road ahead, but we’ve done the NICU before. Our
twins were born at 29 weeks, I was 32 weeks pregnant,
way farther along; he came out crying.”
Photo credit: Lindsay Ernst Lifestyle Portraits + Films
If everything is ok, we’ll wait to baptize him
“Jess is on the table, and the doctor brings Sam to the
NICU team. They told me they would hook him up to the
monitors and if things didn’t look good they would come
get me. I was sitting next to Jess across the room, (Alex
pauses and takes a deep breath) and I felt a tap on my
shoulder. They asked me to come over and told me he’s
not doing well. They wanted to go ahead and baptize him
now. I didn’t know what to think, it was all happening so
fast. We did the baptism so I had to pick a name, Samuel.

Siouxland Magazine | inspire / 24
They told me his oxygen level was bad and they had to
get him to the NICU as soon as possible. I went back over
to Jess, and tried to stay as strong as I could. Jess had no
idea.”
“I thought everything was stable. I think he just needs
oxygen and that it’s a NICU thing, like Alex and Ava. Then
the NICU doctor came and told us he wasn’t giving up,
but his oxygen levels were low. We went down to the
NICU to spend some time with him. We left so they could
work on him. Then the doctor told us Sam wouldn’t make
it through the night and that we needed to get down
there right away.”
Our kids know Sam
“They know they have a little brother Sam,” Jess shares.
“When they draw family pictures, they include a little boy
named Sam. When they mention our family, they say they
love their brother Sam. When we take family pictures,
his picture is with us. Sam is a part of every holiday, he
has a Christmas stocking, he gets an Easter basket. We
celebrate his birthday, we all eat birthday cake together.
If we’re out running errands, we stop to talk to him and
decorate his grave site.”
“
With Sam I call it the best and worst
day of my life. I got to meet my son
and hold him. His life meant something.
I’d do it again. It’s part of our journey.
–Jess
”
“Sam was alive for 8 hours. I was so heartbroken.
We had suffered from infertility, God blessed us
with our miracle baby and now he’s going to go
away. (Jess pauses) They let us hold him. We told
him about his family and all the people who love
him, read stories to him. We fit in a lifetime of love
for this little baby. Why does he deserve to have
this happen to him?“
Scramble for Sam
“Friends didn’t know how to help us. That’s when
Scramble for Sam started. The first one was 3 months after
his passing. Gigi’s playhouse had been very supportive of
us. We know that’s a place we would have spent some
time if Sam were here. The first year it was a lot of family
and friends. We raised a little bit of money and donated
the money to Gigi’s Playhouse in Sam’s memory. If that’s
something we could do to be parents to Sam and give
back to the community, we were honored to do so. It
helps us feel closer to him. Over the last few years, with
the help of friends, family, and the community, we have
been able to grow the event and have donated almost
$20,000 and sponsored Club Gigi all in Sam’s name.”
“Last year we were invited to partner with Miracle
League of Sioux City. Together we built the Samuel
Kazos Miracle Splash Pad for kids 5 and under. It’s so
great because when we take the kids there to play, it
feels like he’s there playing with us. This year on June
21 is the 5th Annual Scramble for Sam event and we
are partnering with Miracle League of Sioux City again.”
“As a couple, we’d already been through a lot, I’d like to
think we were already strong, but it honestly reaffirmed
how much I loved her. (Alex chokes up) I never doubted
that we were gonna make it, it brought us closer together.”
“I would have gone to the ends of the earth with Alex
to have our babies, the IVF, the expense the pain, the
struggle, I’d do it a million times over.”
Charlie
“The morning after Sam’s passing, we were driving back to
Sioux City. Jess looked over at me and said, ‘We’re going
to have another baby.’”
About one year later, Jess and Alex found out they were
pregnant on their own, again.
On July 21, Charlie was born. “He was our 4th baby and he
got to come home from the hospital with us.” Jess shared.
“He was full term, textbook. We got to hold him right away.
He stayed in our room after delivery, he spent the night
with us, everything. He’s our 4th baby and we never had
that experience before. No room full of doctors. No NICU.
It almost felt weird, but it was nice.”
“The place in my heart that is missing Sam will never be
whole again, but Charlie has helped us heal and brought
a lot of joy back into our lives.”
Alex closes, “Having a difficult road and going through
tough times helps you put things into perspective. I’ve
learned we are two strong individuals, but we are much
stronger together and not to take anything for granted.
We have a very fulfilling life, very satisfying life, and I
wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Mark your calendars for the 5th Annual
Scramble for Sam
June 21, at Whispering Creek Golf Course!
Proceeds from the event will be going to the
Miracle League Sioux City.
There will be a silent auction starting at
11:00 along with lunch, starting at 12:00.
We will also have a raffle and prizes!
Siouxland Magazine | inspire /25
Be a Sponsor!
$600 Sponsorship/4 person team
$300 Sponsorship
$100 Green fees for single golfer
Proud to support the
Kazos Family &
Scramble for Sam
centralbankonline.com

Siouxland Magazine | inspire / 26
Men as Mentors: How To Change a Child’s Life
Contributed By Kristie Arlt, Executive Director, Big Brothers Tyler Kruse and Kevin Schultz
How do you change a child’s life? Yeah, we know
that’s a loaded question. Mentorship impacts everyone,
no matter your age. As adults we still crave it, that sense of
direction, help and guidance. We want to learn how to do
things better, more efficiently and with the approval and
satisfaction we are doing it right.
So do our kids.
For more than 40 years Big Brothers Big Sisters of
Siouxland has operated under the belief that every child
has the ability to succeed and thrive in life. But sometimes,
opportunity isn’t equal. Currently there are about 20 boys
ages 6 - 12 on the waiting list to be matched with male
mentors. Some of these children have been waiting over
a year.
We sat down Executive Director Kristie Arlt, and Bigs,
Tyler Kruse and Kevin Schultz to talk more about their
experience as a Big and what their relationship means to
them and their Little.
SM: How are the boys in the program impacted by their
male mentor?
(Kristie) I am so proud to say that we have countless
success stories! Most boys in our program who are
matched with positive, caring male mentors begin to do
better in school, their social skills improve and overall they
feel more confident. That’s the power of mentorship.
SM: How do they involve their families?
(Kristie) We have many Big Couples and Big Families in
our program. This is a great way to involve your spouse or
entire family in the joy of mentoring a young person in our
community.
SM: What is the success rate for mentors and kids?
(Kristie) Our latest survey shows children in our mentoring
program after 18 months of spending consistent time with
their Bigs were 46% less likely to begin using drugs and
alcohol and 52% less likely to skip school. The children in our
program also demonstrated improved grades and said their
peer relationships improved and bullying went down.
SM: Why do you think there are fewer male mentors?
(Kristie) BBBS agencies across the country are seeing a
shortage of male mentors, so the issue is not unique to
Siouxland. I think we need to do a better job of educating
people in our community what is entailed when you sign
up to be a mentor. The time commitment is not as much as
people may believe. A person can make a positive impact
my mentoring a child for just 4 hours a month.
SM: How are boys in the BBBS program impacted by their
male mentor?
(Tyler) I think the most common, and important way that we
make an impact is by being a positive male role model in the
little’s life. A lot of the Littles are in the program for various
reasons, but from my experience I think the most common
is that the Little’s family wants them to have a positive male
figure in their lives.

SM: How long have you been a mentor to Brandon?
(Tyler) We’ve been matched for over three years now. I can still remember the
first night I went to his apartment to do the match meeting. We went to dinner
after that to get to know each other. I have seen Brandon grow and develop so
much since we have been matched.
SM: What kinds of activities do you do with your Little?
(Tyler) Me and Brandon are both very active people. When we are together that
correlates into what we usually do for activities. I would say our most frequent
activity would be going to the arcade at the mall. We are both very competitive
so it is always fun finding games that we can go against each other and see who
wins. BBBS does a great job putting on match activities so we always like to
participate in those, such as the Wild Water West trip, Winter Olympics (reigning
champs), kick-ball at the park.
Siouxland Magazine | inspire /27
SM: Why do you think there are fewer male mentors than female mentors?
(Tyler) I think that there is a lack of male mentors due to the fact that they just
do not fully understand the program, or what mentorship really means. I was
unsure when I first became a Big on what all went into being a Big. Now that I
have been a Big for over 3 years I can say that the commitment is really minimal,
but with that, the Little gets so much out of it, and even I have gotten so much
from being in the match.
SM: What have you learned about yourself?
(Tyler) Being in the program has really reiterated what is important in life, which
is how you can help other people or how you make people feel. I have seen that
everyone has a different situation, but that in no way shapes who they are as
people. I have found out that mentoring is a lot more fun than I thought it would
be and that you can learn a lot from a kid. I have really enjoyed every minute
of being a match and wish that I would have gotten into the program sooner.
SM: How does it feel to give your time to your Little?
(Tyler) When we are able to hang out, it’s always worth it. I always end the activity
and drop him back off at home and I can tell that it has changed my entire day.
I can go from being stressed out and tired from work, but after spending some
time with Brandon I can tell that my mood has changed and I am no longer
stressed or worried about what is going on at work, but rather I am focused on
having a good time with Brandon.
How do male mentors with families’ juggle both roles?
(Kevin) Fortunately, my employer, Klinger Companies, Inc., is fully invested in
the community and understands the importance of giving back, so I’m able
to leave work a little early on the days I spend time with Cristian at his school.
When employers support and encourage their employees to get involved with
the community, it makes balancing responsibilities so much easier.
SM: What changes have you seen in Cristian since he was matched with you?
(Kevin) Obviously, his comfort level with me has increased and his confidence
in general has grown. He’s such a good kid I can’t really imagine him getting
into trouble, but his Beyond the Bell teachers have told me his behavior has
improved even when I’m not there.
“
There will never be a
‘perfect’ time to get
involved and give up some
of your time. Time is so
valuable to all of us, but
trust me, after seeing how
much of an impact you can
have on your little’s life, it is
worth giving some of it up
to be in the program. It will
change your little’s life, but
it will also change yours.
Tyler Kruse, Big to Brandon
”
The 2019 Bowl for Kid’s Sake is
Friday, April 26 (Friday is SOLD OUT)
and Saturday April, 27 at Rush Werks.
Form a bowling team, donate or volunteer
to help at the event by calling
BBBS 712.239.9890. It’s the most fun
you’ll ever have in rented shoes!
SM: What have you learned about yourself?
(Kevin) I think it’s made me a better parent. Discussions with my Little have
made me think about things with my own children and their perspective on life.
SM: What would you say to a man in our community who is unsure if he should
get involved?
(Kevin) Everyone has something to offer. A lot of people doubt they would
make a good mentor or don’t think they have enough time. But in reality, the
time commitment of an hour a week or a few hours a month is relatively minimal
and the potential impact is immeasurable.

grow
Don’t fear failure. Embrace it. It’s where the learning happens.
“The worst thing in the world is for an individual to live, breathe
and exist and leave this earth, die, and not make an impact.”
– Marvin Sapp
Want To Make an Impact? Start by Helping Others.
By Brett Gill
Most people, if asked, would tell you they want to leave
an impact, something everlasting that their children’s
children will know about. It’s a noble goal to have in life,
but it’s something that all too often, people end up falling
short of. We get stuck in a routine that does not allow us to
build our legacy.
How many people exist in today’s world waking up
to do the same automatic routine that they have
been doing for the last 5 years without putting any
thought into why they are doing it?
This was my life.
I wanted to make an impact. I wanted my story to be out
there so that when I’m gone people will know who I was
and what I did to make the world a better place. But, I
was stuck in a rut for a long time. Since that realization,
I’ve been taking steps to get out of that same old routine.
That’s why I made a promise to one of my friends to begin
writing. I have always romanticized about the idea of being
an author, but I have always struggled with the actual
writing. Coming up with ideas on what to write about?
No problem. Actually sitting down and doing the work?
Queue the anxiety.
But why was that? People tell me all the time that I am an
“expert” in my field, but I have always had a fear of not
being able to deliver my message in a way that people will
actually gain value. That fear of not being able to deliver my
message properly has led to missed opportunities that I will
never recover. This has led to new fears for me – not being
able to help others and not providing some sort of value to
the world.
Recently, I was fortunate enough to converse with
professionals in personal development and begin the
process of learning about how to provide value to the
world. For so long, I was bent on becoming wealthy and
successful. I was so caught up in this wild goose chase that
I became focused only on my personal needs, not of the
people around me. I realized through this process that I was
going about it all wrong.
The process I followed to find how I can add value to other’s
lives may seem daunting, but in reality was quite simple,
and it’s one that anyone can undertake. If you want to begin
taking steps to help others and provide value to the world at
large, start by doing these things.
Understand your strengths and weaknesses.
There is a relatively common tool that is often used in
businesses that helps organizations to determine what
they are good at and where they are lacking in skill. This
tool is called a SWOT analysis and it is used to help identify
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This is a

personal growth
leadership
determination
business development
influence
powerful tool in business when used properly, but I feel
that it is even better for personal growth.
Dedicate some time to sitting down with a pen and paper
in a comfortable environment. This is an introspective
exercise, and you will find the most success with it if you
free yourself from any distractions. Put the kids to bed, shut
off your cell phone, turn on some soft background music,
and get comfortable.
Start by writing your strengths. What kind of things are
you good at? What advantages do you have over others
(education, experience, location, personal connections,
etc.)? What kind of things do you regularly succeed at
that others struggle with? Asking yourself these types of
questions will help you identify your strengths.
Next, write your weaknesses. What are the things that you
find difficult to do? It’s important to be honest with yourself
during this session. It can be very hard to acknowledge our
shortcomings in life, but it is also an extremely important
part of becoming self-aware.
Third, write your opportunities. What strengths do you
have that you can capitalize on, and how will you do it?
What weaknesses do you have that can and need to
improve, and what will you do to improve them? Be sure
to focus only on things that you can control. Some things
we have no control over, and it is foolish to spend all of our
time worrying about that. Focus instead on the things that
you do have control over improving.
Finally, write down any threats to progress. Are there any
financial obligations that may limit you from capitalizing
on your opportunities? Are there any family obligations
that may limit your time to develop your strengths and
weaknesses? This is a crucial part of understanding how
to capitalize on your strengths and weaknesses as it will
make you aware of any risks to progress, and increase your
chances of avoiding these pitfalls in the future.
Find your passion.
Passion is something many people spend way too much
time looking for, when in reality it’s right there in front of
you. If you struggle to understand what you are passionate
about, there are some simple things you can do that will
help lead you in the right direction.
If you have a spouse, significant other, family member, or
close friend, you could ask them what they see you get
excited about, or what kind of work they see you being
happy doing. Just remember that you need to weigh the
opinions of others with a grain of salt, as the feedback they
Ask yourself a few questions.
What is the work you could do for five years straight
without getting paid? What is a subject that you
could read 100 books on, and not get bored with?
What is the one thing that you can go on and on
about when talking with friends, even after they
are sick and tired of listening to you ramble?
give may not be completely in line with our passions.
Combine your passion with your SWOT.
This is the fun step in this process and where you will be
able to determine how you can provide value to the world.
In this step, you’ll want to combine something that you are
passionate about with your strengths and weaknesses.
For example, say that you are passionate about travel and
seeing the world. You understand there is true beauty in
nature and you take vacations to the most exotic places on
earth. You may even have a bucket list of places that you want
to travel to. When analyzing your personal SWOT analysis,
you see that you are skilled in telling stories through pictures.
In this situation, it’s pretty clear to see you could provide value
to the world by showing people the incredible sights they
otherwise would not have access to.
But it doesn’t have to be limited to your strengths. Say that
one of your weaknesses is being out of shape, and one of
your passions is to get in shape and become an athlete. Is
one of your strengths communication? Imagine the amount
of value you could provide if you started a YouTube channel
and began a daily vlog where you share information that
you learn regarding diet and exercise all while documenting
your journey to physical fitness!
There are countless ways that you can combine your
passions with your strengths and weaknesses in order to
provide value and make a positive change for the world.
To truly succeed in life and make an impact on the world, we
have to provide some type of value to those that are around
us. Each of us has a completely unique set of skills and traits
that allow us to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
You have the power within you to leave a positive impact.
What steps will you take today to begin providing value?
Brett Gill works for Wells Enterprises and strides for
continuous improvement. He is a perpetual learner, Jack
of all trades and tech junkie.

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 30
Happiness = Success
By Ally Hecht
People will tell you the key to success is simple. Take
18 credits, get a 4.0 GPA, join every club...better yet, run
every club, work both internships and jobs, volunteer, study
abroad, be top 15%...no actually top 5%, attend every class,
study for graduate school, be friends with everyone, find a
passion, find a partner, and make everyone proud.
Inspirational orientation speakers fill freshmen’s first days
on campus discussing how their college years were spent
grinding with the same intensity listed above. The end of
their story is always the same. “If you follow these simple
steps, you too can be successful.”
So, with the code right in front of me, I choose to follow the
path my predecessors set.
Day in, day out. My life was a grind. Was it worth it? Well of
course, I was going to be successful...wasn’t I?
The thing they don’t tell you about this path to success is
that it isn’t realistic. The moment you think you got a handle
on it, it all crumbles in front of you. And you can’t help but
blame yourself, “What am I doing wrong?”
This is the question every inspirational orientation speaker
forgets to answer, because they have forgotten what
success is all about: finding happiness.
This was probably the hardest thing I’ve had to learn in
college. Success is not defined by a GPA or resume nor
by a graduate school application, letter of recommendation
or internship. But rather, success is defined by following the
things that make you happiest in life.
Whether that is teaching Zumba, traveling the world, creating
art, managing marketing campaigns, registering people
to vote, editing, making music, coaching or processing
tax returns …doing what makes you happy is the greatest
success in life. Forbes’ Nick Bennett takes this as far to say
that “neuroscience has proven happiness precedes success.”
So, next time your path seems to crumble, ask yourself,
“What makes me happiest?” And I promise, you’ll find the
key to success.
Ally Hecht is a Morningside College junior majoring
in Gender and Legal Studies with minors in Sociology,
Philosophy, & Political Science.
“
The only thing more important
than who you are is whom you
are becoming.
– Stephen Pierce
”

AND HERE.
Dakota Dunes, SD
Vermillion, SD
Exceptional care.
Right here.
AND HERE.
Cherokee, IA
Dennison, IA
Hawarden, IA
Ida Grove, IA
Lake City, IA
Le Mars, IA
Moville, IA
Onawa, IA
Orange City, IA
Primghar, IA
Sac City, IA
Sioux Center, IA
Sioux City, IA
Spencer, IA
Storm Lake, IA
AND HERE.
Norfolk, NE
Pender, NE
Ponca, NE
Wayne, NE
Schedule an appointment today.
CNOS.net | 605-217-2667

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 32
Don Bittick
Town Hall
Find Your Voice
4PM Thursday, April 25
Morningside College
Don Bittick, a member of the Toastmasters
International Board of Directors shares how
you can say it better with Toastmasters
in a positive, supportive environment.
Let us help you advance your career
and discover new opportunities.
Learn how Toastmasters gives
you the courage to get ahead:
Speak with Confidence
Develop better speaking and
presentation skills
Give and get constructive feedback
Boost your ability to collaborate
and inspire
Take charge of your future and visit a chapter today.
WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE
www.toastmasters.org
Visit us on Facebook
@siouxlandtoastmasters
Don Bittick, DTM
Morningside College | Robert M. Lincoln Center |1501 Morningside Ave. Sioux City, IA 51106
© 2016 Toastmasters International. All rights reserved.

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 33
Why do I need a Business Plan Anyway?
By Todd Rausch
I get asked this question all the time. “What’s the
point? Why is the bank making me do this? This
is just for the bank/lender right?” Or the classic,
“I know what I’m doing, why do I need to write a
plan?”
Let’s take a closer look at these questions, logically.
First off, the better question would be, why don’t you
want a plan for your business? Let’s put this into
context. Let’s say you’re going on vacation to Seattle. Do
you know how you will travel? Do you know when you’re
planning to go? Do you take into account the expenses?
Where you will stay? What you will do while you’re there?
Who will you see if you are visiting? Why you’re even
going?
If someone told you they were going to Seattle but had
no clue how to get there, how much it was going to cost,
why they were even going, wouldn’t that seem silly to
you? For your business, not knowing how to purchase
products, understand your break even, how you plan to
sell, your startup costs, your monthly expenses, how to
find a supplier, who your customers are and how do you
reach them, now that’s silly.
All of this information should be included in your business
plan. Having a plan may not guarantee success, but it
helps to have an idea of what it’s going to take to make
success happen. I have never heard of anyone becoming
successful through randomly stumbling through life.
A business plan is the who, what, when, where, how and
most importantly why of your business for the next year,
three years, or even five years. It includes products,
services, costs, sales, marketing, financing, customer base
and more. It includes everything you can think of that is
necessary to help you achieve your business goals.
The business plan is for YOU! And the SBDC is there to
help!
It isn’t rocket science,
but it is important.
The Western Iowa Tech SBDC
There is an old saying
is located in Room B113 in
that, “Those who fail WITCC’s Sioux City campus.
to plan; plan to fail”. Along with free one-on-one
You have a plan in business counseling, the center
your head already, offers other practical business
now put it down in services, including market
detail so that all the research services and a variety
bases are covered of business education classes.
and you have an idea
of what to do next.
Contact us to get started today!
Please Contact us:
Todd Rausch, Regional Director
712-274-6454
todd.rausch@witcc.edu
Todd Raush is the Regional Director of America’s SBDC Iowa at
Western Iowa Tech Community College.

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 34
Imagination Driving Innovation:
An Interview with a Serial Entrepreneur
By Bill Brown
“I wake up every day motivated to keep up with
my wife, Sue Brown. We are constantly striving
to keep the ball moving, but seriously I’m just
trying to keep up with Sue. None of this happens
without her.”
What’s unique about your business?
The electric fence was invented 85 years ago and there
really hasn’t been any big innovations since the electric
fence insulator went from glass/ceramic to plastic
insulators. So, an insulator that works on all the posts and
lets you know that the fence is working is pretty innovative.
In addition, our TreePans also is a disruptor to the tree
care industry. Arborists are steeped into mulch and more
mulch. Our innovative TreePans eliminate mower and
weed eater damage, retain moisture, suppress weeds
and improve the growth and survivability of young trees.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to
overcome as you’ve grown your businesses?
With both Insulights and TreePans our biggest challenge
was the production delays associated with the tooling
for our plastic components. We ran a year behind
schedule for both Insulights and TreePans from the time
of scheduled delivery to the actual dates we received
our tooling. That’s a tough challenge when you have
invested all the startup costs and research it takes to start
a project and then have to wait for months and months
before you can see any revenue from that project.
What has been your greatest reward?
The startup community in Sioux City and at the University
of Iowa have been vitally important for us. It really started
with Todd Rausch with SBDC who helped us with our
first set of financials that we needed for our funding
with the Iowa Economic Development Corp. Todd then
recommended we attend Venture School through the
University of Iowa. Through Venture School we met
Renae Billings with the City of Sioux City. Renae has
always been a big supporter and made sure we got
involved with the organizations like Swimming with the
Sharks and Innovation Market and all the startup pitches
and events. Through Venture School with John Paul
Engle we have won numerous pitches but most of all
have made connections at the University of Iowa. Those
connections have led to more pitches, which have led to
business contacts that stretches from coast-to-coast and
now to South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Are there any experiences that were particularly
influential in that regard?
We pitched at several contests. We won awards, which
included money from competing, but more importantly
and valuable were the connections we made. We always
meet somebody that moves us to the next level. A great

IAWESTCOAST.COM I 866.537.6052
Entrepreneurs and small business owners now have
access to an information specialist who can assist you
in finding solutions to your most pressing questions by
facilitating connections to the right people, data, and
resources.
Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 35
example is, our now business partner, who was in the
audience in Cedar Rapids at Entrefest 2018 and from
that connection, we will soon be exporting to South
Africa.
Why is it important for the community to
support startups and small businesses? What
more can be done to help them?
Small businesses are the backbone of our community.
It’s great to have the large employers in our
communities and they are also important, but the
small business communities have to thrive in order
to the community be whole. Businesses with twenty
or less employees make up almost 90% of all U.S.
businesses. In addition, more than 50% of the U.S.
working people are employed by small businesses.
Finally, what’s dear to my heart is that small business
truly drive innovation.
What is one thing you know now that you wish
you knew when starting your business?
Wow, I am learning every day. But I do wish I knew
how expensive it is to bring a product to market. I wish
I knew that the manufacturing industry really does
not care about your timeline. I think I wish I knew how
much work and how challenging this was going to be.
But and a BIG but, if I would have known these things
we probably would not have started and would have
still been thinking “what if”. I really think we are so
lucky to have pulled the trigger on our dream.
What advice would you give to someone
looking to start a business?
I really highly encourage entrepreneurs to go through
Venture School or something like it. Before you drop
your savings in product development, find out if it’s
even a business. The customer discovery process is
truly priceless. I have gone through Venture School
two times for both our products, not because I flunked,
but because I believe so much in the Venture School
process.
Bill & Sue Brown are proud to run two family businesses
out of Akron IA.
IASOURCELINK.COM I 866.537.6052
IASourceLink is the premiere business resource in Iowa
for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Free
business webinars, expert advice, and a searchable
directory of organizations that assist Iowa businesses
can all be found on IASourceLink.
IOWASBDC.ORG I 712.274.6454
Do you need free, confidential and customized business
counseling? Contact SBDC for advice on developing a
successful business plan.
SIOUXLANDEDC.COM I 712.279.6430
Siouxland Economic Development Corporation offers
financial assistance programs and services to assist
small and medium sized businesses in getting started
or expanding.
MAKERSPACESIOUXCITY.ORG I 712.251.6050
MakerSpace Sioux City offers shared space for
hobbyists, inventors, artists and innovative people to
come together to create and teach through hands-on
learning.
SPRINGBOARDCOWORKING.COM I 515.809.0052
Springboard Coworking offers shared office space in
downtown Sioux City for entrepreneurs that combines
the best elements of cafe culture with a productive,
functional, and affordable work environment.
ISUSTARTUPFACTORY.ORG I 515.294.7444
ISU Startup Factory is designed to help businesses bring
new products to the market and work with companies to
make them attractive to outside capital investors.
VENTURENETIOWA.COM I 515.471.1300
VentureNet Iowa connects ideas to resources,
management, and investors, to create jobs and build
businesses in Iowa. If you have a business idea in the
areas of Biosciences, Advanced Manufacturing, Value-
Added Ag, or Information Technology, you may qualify
for assistance through VentureNet Iowa.
Did you use one of these great resources? We
want to share your story! Visit our website at
siouxlandmagazine.com, fill out the form and
connect with us today!

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 36
What does your customized
insurance plan look like?
Find out with IBC.
Nationally recognized insurance and Flex/Section
125/HRA administrator. Call or go online for a quote.
inbins.biz | 712.277.2424
For You. Your Employees. Your Business.

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 37
Innovation Market Strikes Entrepreneur Gold Again!
By Kalynn Sortino
The Sioux City Growth Organization encourages
progressive and innovative ideas that bring
together voices from all generations to create a
positive impact on the future of our community.
Our main goal is to attract and retain young professionals
in the area, by providing insight on what Sioux City has
to offer and how people can get involved in shaping its
future.
Over the past nine years, one of the biggest and most
well-known ways we have achieved this is through our
event, the Innovation Market, a business-idea competition
where individuals submit their ideas online to take part in
one of the biggest think tanks in the area.
On February 21, over 30 anonymous business ideas were
placed throughout the atrium of the Ho-Chunk Centre,
where the public could vote on which business they
would like to see in our community. After the votes were
tallied, the top five continued onto a pitch event, where
they had five minutes to explain their idea to the SCGO
membership and Innovation Market sponsors. On March
18, SCGO awarded a total of $8,500 to three different
businesses to financially assist in achieving their goal.
This year’s first place winner was Rosalind Torres with
Colibri Kitchen, a business that specializes in producing
fresh salsa. Colibri Kitchen brings fresh fruits and
vegetables from local farms to your table without any
artificial flavors or preservatives.
Second place went to Michele Baumgardner with Flying
Monkey Designs, a company that would provide a safe
environment for individuals with autism and their families
to have a place to
work and shop.
A high priority
would be placed
on training all their
employees on trade skills and customer service techniques
in order to enhance success in their day-to-day lives.
Third place to Rachel Tudehope and Drew Parvu with So
Many Board Games, a café where customers could enjoy
a variety of board games for a small cover fee. The shop
would have hundreds of board games to play during your
visit, and food and drinks ranging from small snacks to full
meals available for purchase.
Kalynn Sortino is the current
SCGO President and Business and
Entrepreneur Support Coordinator
for Downtown Partners.
For more information about Innovation Market
or how you can join SCGO, please visit
www.siouxcitygo.com or visit their Facebook page.

Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 38
Leadership Siouxland 900+ Strong!
By Peggy Smith
Do you know what more than 900 Siouxlanders
have in common?They are proud graduates of
Leadership Siouxland, a community leadership program
that is in its 34th year of helping Siouxlanders grow!
Back in 1986 a few progressive, forward thinking individuals
worked together to create what is now Leadership Siouxland.
They saw a need for an organized forum to develop leaders
and help them get involved. The program began as
Leadership Sioux City, under the Chamber of Commerce’s
umbrella. Over the years, the program has evolved to meet
the needs of our unique tri-state area, but it has never strayed
from the original goals - to help participants learn
about Sioux City and the surrounding area, gain
confidence and leadership skills and the passion to
make a difference in the community.
Participants get excited about where they live and work and
become people who impact the community in a positive
way long after leaving the program. Peggy Smith, the
current Executive Director is excited about this amazing
organization! Her history with the program goes back a
long way – she graduated from a class in the mid 90’s and
then served on the board of directors for several years, in
various capacities. Now she has the opportunity and honor
to reconnect and help continue the mission.
Businesses have discovered that this course is a great way
to develop potential leaders – both in the workplace and in
the community – and is both convenient and cost effective.
The 9-month curriculum is designed to allow
participants to learn and perfect leadership and
communication skills, build a network of diversified
Learn more about what Leadership Siouxland
can offer by visiting our website at
www.leadershipsiouxland.org; seeing us
on Facebook at Leadership Siouxland or
contacting the executive director at
info@leadershipsiouxland.org.
contacts, learn about Siouxland, gain recognition
as emerging leaders, and make a difference in the
community. The class is divided into small project teams
that work together to find a common interest and community
need, then partner with an agency to create a sustainable
solution.
Sessions are educational and fun! During the session devoted
to public safety, we saw the Sioux City police department’s
drones in action! A tour of the Siouxland Community Health
Center made us aware of all the new medical advances
available right here in Siouxland. Our session at the Art
Center allowed us to hear how teachers are using art to teach
valuable life lessons. In April, the class will experience a flight
with the Air National Guard Refueling wing and experience
refueling in the air, courtesy of the EFGR. And finally in May,
participants will enjoy a graduation banquet and present
their final projects to an audience of family and business
supporters.
YOU can become
one of the elite 900!!!
Peggy Smith is the current Executive Director for Leadership
Siouxland, a role she assumed in 2017.

Sioux City Scoop
By Alex Watters
In high school I loved
being a part of the debate
team. It was thoughtprovoking
to me that you
would have to research
both sides of an issue in
the same tournament and
flip a coin to determine
which side you are on.
This forced me to think
critically about all sides
of an issues and that
certainly has come in
handy since joining
the City Council. There are many sides to the issues
we discuss, so when I read the negative comments on
Facebook, or there is an uproar contrary to my vote or
my feelings on the matter, it has me asking myself, “Did
I miss something?”
Lately, I have heard a lot of people discussing the hotels
that are coming to our community. Now I’ll be honest, it
does seem like there are a lot of hotel projects going on
simultaneously in our downtown. However, I don’t see
more hotels in downtown Sioux City as a negative thing.
Let me explain.
Misconception #1: Why is the city recruiting all of these
hotels to come to Sioux City?
We are not. Developers see potential in the Sioux City
market and are looking for opportunities to invest. Long
story short, hotel developers see there is potential for
growth and want to invest their money in Sioux City!
Misconception #2: Why is the City Council using taxpayer
dollars to build these hotels?
The city rarely commits actual taxpayer dollars to projects
such as these. In the case of the Courtyard by Marriott,
we agreed with the developer that the city would pay for
the parking structure behind the hotel. In the case of the
Warrior, we provided gap financing. However, in most
of these cases these properties are only being given a
tax rebate, meaning the city will rebate a portion of the
increased property taxes for a negotiated period of time.
However, once that time is up, we then begin collecting
taxes on the property that is worth much more. For
example, the property next to the convention center, the
Warrior, and the Avid have a combined assessed value
of less than $1 million; however, after renovations their
assessment will likely be over $30 million. Therefore,
once the tax rebates expire on these properties, the city
will then begin collecting taxes on the higher assessed
values and can reinvest those dollars in our community.
In addition to collecting these assessed taxes, with every
room that is rented Sioux City collects 7% to go towards
tourism and offsetting property taxes.
Misconception #3: These hotels don’t benefit Sioux City
residents.
While I understand that Siouxland residents won’t
be staying at these hotels, they will benefit us greatly
for a variety of reasons. As a part of the Reinvestment
District, a number of these downtown hotels provide
us the mechanism to capture the state hotel/motel tax
collecting $13.5 million to be used toward projects such
as the Siouxland Expo Center. Secondly, recent hotel
projects have cleaned up vacant/dilapidated buildings
such as Virginia Square, Warrior/Davidson, Hard Rock,
and others. These projects breathe new life into these
areas and have the ability to change the entire feel of the
neighborhood. Additionally, these renovated properties
are fueling more restoration and economic growth. Since
the announcement of the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel
connected to the convention center, the Promenade
movie theater has made a significant investment to
upgrade their facility and a new brewery has leased the
space next to the theater that has been vacant since the
building was constructed.
Finally, these new hotels are a critical partner in the
pursuit of our city’s additional quality-of-life amenities
such as the recently named top attraction in the state,
Cone Park, the NAIA Women’s Basketball National
Championship that will stay in Sioux City through 2024,
the future multi-purpose Siouxland Expo Center, and
the future Riverfront development project. These will all
bring more people to our community and benefit from
having additional hotel options.
Being on the City Council has taught me so many things.
It has certainly taught me the importance of having all of
the information available to me before I make a decision.
I promise you that I try to make the best decisions I can
for the future of our community; however, I’m not always
right, and I’m the first to admit that. I will always welcome
feedback and opinions different than my own. I want to
know your thoughts on issues. Hearing your perspective
and listening to your ideas will only continue to make us
stronger going forward. Please join in on the conversation
and never hesitate to reach out.
Alex Watters, City Council of Sioux City
awatters@sioux-city.org
www.sioux-city.org
Siouxland Magazine | Grow / 39

alance
Inside and out.
It
Shift Your Perspective: A Journey to the Beginner’s Mind
By Jianna Hoss
The first time I walked into the climbing wall in Sioux
City, I knew I was in for a humbling experience.
Moving from my background of linear movement in
yoga to the world of dynamic climbing meant I’d have
to learn quite a few things, but it all boiled down to one
lesson: I’d have to step into the beginner’s mind.
The beginner’s mind can show up in everything we do.
From the first time you take a new movement class,
to the first time you wear ice skates. Or even the first
time you pick up a paint brush, or try to write a haiku.
The first time you do anything new, you arrive with the
beginner’s mind.
Many mindfulness and meditation teachers
around the globe explain the beginner’s mind
as a state when we are free from imposed views
and beliefs, yet filled with wonder and awe.
One of my teachers calls this the “learning body.” The
learning body is the part of us that is willing to be taught
by the world, without the need to rush it, to be the
beginner instead of the expert. For a lot of people, this
is where putting parts of the ego aside may help. Instead
of operating from the place that wants to be perfect and
smooth, can you instead operate from the place that
might be a bit sloppy, and messy?
The beginner’s mind is a choice. It’s admitting you don’t
know the answer or the outcome, and yet you do it anyway.
It’s rooted in curiosity. Cultivating the beginner’s mind
means that we time travel to when we were kids, ecstatic
in their learning and play. Often, it’s kids that excel at new
skills for the sheer fact they haven’t learned to limit their
capabilities or sell themselves short.
all comes to this baseline: If we always impose
our expectations on everything we do, how can
we possibly be present in the moment? Can
we remain curious and full of wonder if we’re
judging our experience?
It’s asking, in everything you do, “What can I learn from
this?”

eathe
clarity
nutrition
flexibility
strength
I choose to be a beginner.
Every time I get to the climbing wall, I choose to step back into
that state. I choose to fall. I choose to fail. I choose to try harder
than normal. I choose to let it be a mess. I choose to just have
fun again. I choose to let learning be its own glorious process. I
choose to be a beginner.
Can you choose that for yourself?
Practice: Cultivate the Beginner’s Mind
1. Try something new, and think less about it. Don’t impose
expectations or self-limiting beliefs upon yourself. Go take an art
class, or a yoga class, or head to the climbing wall. Whatever
it is, be willing to try without the ego getting over involved. Be
curious about your learning and adaptability to new skills.
2. Be present. Notice what comes up, and experience it fully.
When you fail, what does it feel like? When you excel, what does
that feel like? Can you be with both a failure and a success and
honor them as equally important experiences?
3. Be present. I often say in yoga classes that we learn nothing
by trying to be perfect, and we learn everything from being
willing to fail. To mess up. To get back up our feet and try again.
(This is applicable to everything in your life.)
Jianna Hoss Is a local yoga teacher and movement practitioner. In
her free time, she loves to climb, slackline, and be outside regardless
of the season. You can practice movement and yoga with her at {be}
Studio downtown or learn more about her at jiannahoss.com.
“
Allow yourself to be a
beginner. No on starts
off being excellent.
”
– Wendy Flynn

Siouxland Magazine | BALANCE / 42
Amber’s TOP 5 ‘SupeRFoodS’
By Amber Sherman
Not all food is created equal. There are foods,
and then there are SUPERFOODS.
You may be asking yourself, what exactly IS a superfood?
To me, they are simply foods that pack a big nutritional
punch. They are like the superheroes we see in comic
books and movies. These comic book heroes typically
possess superhuman powers and their mission is to
help protect the people. Superfoods are kind of like
that. They are vibrant, nutritionally rich foods that offer
tremendous dietary and healing potential. They are
higher in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and
nutrients than other foods, which is where they get their
‘super powers’. There are many, many foods considered
to be superfoods in the world today (most fruits and
vegetables fall into this category), and we are very
fortunate in our modern society that we have access to
almost all of them. There are a few, however, that rise
to the top for me. I’d like to share with you my top five
FAVORITE superfoods!
1) CELERY – Celery tops the charts for me. This amazing
herb helps to strengthen HCL production in the gut and
increases the production of bile in the liver. According to
Anthony William, the Medical Medium, celery contains
special mineral salts that help break down viral loads in
the body. There is a recent phenomenon sweeping the
globe right row, and it is celery juice. All you have to do
to start feeling these benefits is start juicing daily! Drink a
minimum of 16 oz. of straight celery juice every morning
on an empty stomach, then wait 15-30 minutes before
eating breakfast! That’s it, that’s the protocol, and it’s
helping a lot of people. Celery Juice = Pure Magic.
2) WILD BLUEBERRIES – If you are in search of
antioxidants, well, search no further. Not to be confused
with their larger, cultivated cousins, wild blueberries have
one of the highest proportions of antioxidants of any food
on the entire planet! Antioxidants help defend your cells
against free radicals which ultimately oxidize your tissues
and age you. Wild blueberries help to restore the central
nervous system and are one of the most effective foods
for detoxifying the body of heavy metals. Oh, and did I
mention, they are DELICIOUS!
3) RAW COCOA – You read this correctly, yes, chocolate
is a superfood! All chocolate, from the super milky to the
super dark, is made from cacao beans. Cacao beans were
once so revered, that the Mayans and the Aztecs used
the beans as money, instead of gold. Cacao, like the wild

lueberry, is astonishingly high in antioxidants, in fact,
it is one of the highest antioxidant foods in the world.
This bean is a mineral powerhouse. It’s the number
one source of magnesium, and is a rich source of iron,
chromium, manganese, zinc, and copper. This is one
delicious food you don’t have to feel guilty about eating
(eating cacao in the raw form whenever possible, helps
to maintain many of the nutritional components).
4) SPIRILUNA – The protein queen of the plant
world, consists of 65-71% protein. The brilliant blue
green pigments of spirulina contain high levels of
chlorophyll and phycocyanin. The benefits of spirulina
are tremendous. This beautiful green food is rich in A,
B, and K vitamins, and is one of the highest complete
protein foods on the planet. It is anti-inflammatory and
super detoxifying.
5) HONEY – Honey, the divine, golden nectar of nature.
Did you know that raw honey will never spoil? It has a
shelf life of 3,000 years, which is unheard of in nature.
According to Russian research, raw, unprocessed honey
is nature’s richest source of live healing enzymes and
they found that it increases reflexes, mental alertness and
even IQ! Honey is antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial,
antifungal, all packaged into one bottle of gooey
goodness.
Honorable mentions include:
There are a few ‘superfoods’ that I also feel like
mentioning, even if they didn’t make it into the top 5.
They are: Goji Berries, Maca, and Coconut Products.
I invite you to experiment with ‘superfoods’, and see how
they enhance your life. They might just make you feel like
a superhero!
Siouxland Magazine | BALANCE / 43
Amber Sherman is a raw food enthusiast.
You can’t just eat good food.
You’ve got to talk about it too.
Wild Blueberry and Banana Nice Cream
Ingredients:
2 Frozen Bananas
3/4 Cup Wild Blueberries
1/2 Cup Frozen Dragon Fruit or Acai
1 Tablespoon Honey
2 Tablespoons Spirulina
1 Tablespoon Barley Grass Juice Powder
Instructions:
Mix together in a food processor and enjoy
Serves 2
Sources:
Wolfe, David. Superfoods. North Atlantic Books. 2009.
William, Anthony. Life Changing Foods. Hay House
Publishers. 2016.

Siouxland Magazine | BALANCE / 44
Daily Choices to Improve Your Health
By Tom Jochum
What if I told you there was something very
simple you could do to prevent disease, live a
happier, healthier, longer life and increase your
overall potential?
Would you believe me? It sounds too good to be true
doesn’t it? Not only is science discovering that it’s true,
but it’s so simple, we should all be doing more of it!
It may surprise you, but that simple answer is movement
– yes, physical activity, is the solution. Also important
to note, the more you move and the types of physical
activities you choose do make a difference.
Let me introduce myself. I am coach Tom, a personal
trainer and health coach. My goal today is to help you
make effective daily choices to improve your health. Do
you want you to age gracefully? We all would like to
have the energy to enjoy friends and family throughout
our lives and that starts with smart decisions early on. As
you read this article, think about a normal day in your
life. How active are you? How many steps do you take?
How many hours or minutes are you moving and how
many you are sedentary?
The best news is that once you make the decision to start,
the benefits begin on day one! Exercise is intentional, and
as soon as you begin, you will increase blood flow which will
increase brain function and therefore you’ll become more
alert and focused.
*Exercising can also:
• Lower Blood Pressure
• Improve cholesterol levels
• Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease
• Lower Triglycerides
• Lower blood sugar
• Increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
• Reduce risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome
• Enhance weight control and improved body
weight percentage
• Strengthen bones and muscles
• Reduce risk of conditions affecting joints (e.g. arthritis)
• Reduce risk of some cancers (e.g. colon, breast,
endometrial and lung)
• Improve mental health and mood
• Reduce risk of depression
• Maintain thinking, learning and judgement skills
with age
• Improve sleep
• Improve ability to perform daily activities and risk of falls

Your brain will also start releasing chemicals including
endorphins, which will boost your mood for the entire
day. While exercising you will burn more energy in
the form of calories, which will help you with weight
control and increase your sense of accomplishment!
Our bodies are adaptive and the more we ask of our
body the more we get from it.
After a week of exercising, your energy levels improve!
This happens as the number of mitochondria, the
energy generators of your cells, increase rapidly. This
process makes your body more efficient and makes
your cells stronger which will improve your health in
general.
Siouxland Magazine | BALANCE / 45
After a month of regular exercise, you will begin to
notice changes in muscle mass. Your muscles will grow
and you will get stronger. As your muscles get stronger
your metabolic rate increases and you will burn more
calories while at rest. You will also look and feel leaner!
After six months of following a fitness routine you will
have visible physical changes in your body composition
with noticeable muscle tone and size. Your clothes
will fit better or you may even have to go out and buy
new clothes. Your endurance will be much higher than
what it was when you started and your muscles will be
bigger and stronger - including your heart muscle. As
you exercise your heart muscle, it becomes fitter and
more efficient which decreases your risk of a heart
attack.
By now, you will have formed a habit of working out.
During that first year of routine exercise you will
improve your bone density which lowers your risk of
fractures. You will also notice your stress level is down,
reduced anxiety, improved self-esteem and elevated
self-confidence. Wow! What a year!
The American College of Sports Medicine
reports that regular physical activity:
• Lowers risk of stroke by 27%
• Reduces the incidence of heart disease
and high blood pressure by approximately 40%
• Reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer’s
Disease by approximately 40%
• Reduces mortality and risk of recurrent
breast cancer by approximately 50%
• Lowers risk of developing type 2 diabetes
by 58%
• Lowers risk of colon cancer by 60%
Physical activity not only positively impacts your body,
but also your mind, social wellbeing, outlook on life
and self-perception. The more consistent you are with
your activity, the more you will benefit.
Thomas Carlyle once said, “He who has health, has
hope; and he who has hope, has everything..” So, get
up and get moving!
Best in health and happiness,
Coach Tom
Tom Jochum is a personal trainer and health coach, Sioux
City firefighter, husband and father.
*Source: https: www.cdc.gov/physical activity/basics/pahealth/index.htm)

Siouxland Magazine | BALANCE / 46
Flight or Fight: How Our Bodies Respond to Trauma
By Kathy Jensen
Everyone has trauma and like a moth to the
flame, we tend to focus on the event. In Hakomi
Integrated Somatics we focus on the body’s movement
and what is happening in the body. To do this we set
up small experiments and track the body’s unconscious
movements. The present moment reveals what the body
needs for healing to happen in resolving trauma in your
body.
When there is a threat to our survival, the
instinctual part of the brain prepares us for
fight or flight.
Information from one or more of our 5 senses sends signals
to the brain engaging the sympathetic nervous system.
Without conscious thought our muscles tense, heart rate
increases, pupils dilate, the spine elongates, and our gut
tightens up as we prepare ourselves to respond to the
stimulation, “Am I food (flight) or are you my food (fight).”
The body engages the flight or fight response to a threat.
Unfortunately, if the person is unable to push or run away
because of social situations, car accidents, overpowered
in an attack, falling, under anesthesia, etc., the traumatic
response stays in the body, unable to complete the
required movement to protect itself. The brain floods the
body with natural opioids to reduce the intensity of the
fear and pain leaving us in a frozen state of activation.
The freeze response adds a different dimension to how
we are likely to react when the situation is overwhelming
and our defense responses are enabled. The sensation of
post-traumatic stress may feel like having one foot on the
gas and the other foot on the brake at the same time.
A client I worked with had been in cognitive
therapy for many years because of a horrific
physical attack at work. Her PTSD was so debilitating
she was unable to leave her home alone.
I noticed she was very present, even confident when she
told me her story. She was able to fight back hitting and
kicking against her attacker. Then something seemed to
shift in her body as she spoke about after the attack. Her
eyes began scanning the room, her body very still with
the exception of a small micro movement as she sat up
a bit straighter. I brought the movement to her attention
and asked if she would like to explore this movement
more, she did. I asked if it would be ok if I put my hands
on her shoulders and provided a little resistance to the
movement, she agreed.
When I placed my hands on her shoulder she immediately
began straightening up her back. Slowly pushing against
my hands. As we studied this experiment together I asked
her what she noticed was happening in her body and she
said, “A lot of heat and a slight shaking.” She then had a
memory of the emergency medical procedures. I asked
her what does this movement want to say? She said, “Get
up and get out of here.”

Brides
Makeup Application
Updo Styles
Manicures
Pedicures
Waxing
Siouxland Magazine | BALANCE / 47
128 Central Ave SE | Le Mars IA 51031
712.546.4195 | info@LBC4U.com
The body doesn’t know the difference
between a dangerous accident and a
planned surgical procedure; it responds
the same way.
What we learned in this particular case is the client was not
as traumatized by the attack even though it was horrible,
she was able to fight back. Her trauma to the body came
in her inability to fight back at the hospital. Although, the
medical team saved her life, the impulse in her body was
unable to be carried out at the time because she needed
to be restrained so they could treat her.
Hakomi Integrated Somatics follows specific principals of
mindfulness, non-violence, organicity, unity, and mind/
body integration techniques. Setting up small experiments
and tracking the body’s unconscious movements in the
present moment reveals what the body needs for healing
to happen in resolving trauma in your body.
Kathy Jensen LMT is a Massage/Bodywork Therapist,
Hakomi Integrated Somatics Bodyworker, and Herbalist
at Mind & Body Connection. She teaches Massage/
Bodywork Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Herbalism to
students at Bio-Chi Institute in Sioux City, IA
Dr. Hoekstra, DDS
Dr. Lohr, DDS
712-255-1163
lohrfamilydentistry.com
2918 Hamilton Blvd

Stop suffering
with chronicpain
Joint & Back Pain | Neuropthy
Enhance Your Body’s Natural Ability to Heal
Regenerative Stem Cell Therapy
Find relief without surgery
& start enjoying life again!
Stem cell therapy is now available, in office, at Multicare
Clinic. As a minimal risk, high benefit alternative to surgery, stem cell
procedures are typically able to compel the body to do what it was
meant to do – heal naturally. Whether you choose to use your own,
or ethically and safely donated stem cells, we abide by strict protocols
including rigorous testing and processing at only FDA registered biologic
laboratories. Stem cells procedures help with reduction or elimination of
pain and inflammation, minimizing scar tissue, and promoting soft tissue
growth. The future of Medicine is here, making our goal of addressing the
source of your pain more obtainable than ever.
Foot/Arm
The Power of
Regenerative Medicine
can effectively treat:
Mary L.
Neck, Back
& Shoulder
“I had pain for what seemed
like forever, then six months of
severe pain where it was just
excruciatingly. I got told by dear
friend that he had come here and
had such a great experience, so I
decided I would try it too. I cannot
believe how it has changed my life.
I get to enjoy my grand-kids again
and I can go up and down stairs
again. I would highly recommend
it. I talk about it every day to
people. I’ve been really, really
impressed and feel very grateful for
what they have done for me. I feel
absolutely amazing now!”
Back/Neck
Knee/Hip/Shoulder
Neuropathy
Arthritis/Bursitis
Sports Injuries
Planter Fasciitis
Tennis/Golfers Elbow
Tendonitis/Ligament Injuries
Multicare Health Clinic
3930 Stadium Drive
Sioux City, IA 51106
MulticareClinic.com
(712) 276-4325
Vallerie I.
Hip & Knee
“I had so much hip pain that to just
sit in a chair brought me to tears.
It took my quality of life completely
away. I had also been told that the
only hope was surgery. That was
before I learned about stem cell
and regenerative medicine to help
fix it. It’s been just wonderful and
absolutely the best thing I’ve ever
done. I missed out on a lot of life.
Don’t walk, run. Go get it done.”
Stem cell therapy is still considered
experimental by the FDA.

What Are Stem Cells
& How Do They Work?
Until recent breakthroughs in Stem Cell technology, there has been little hope for anyone suffering
from degenerative joints. Osteoarthritis is a stiff, achy, and painful condition caused from wear and
tear of joints. The cartilage or disc space between joints becomes diminished and dysfunctional.
The miracle of using Stem Cells to help someone regenerate these tissues is called...Regenerative
Medicine. In the previous issue, we discussed that these can come from two different sources; those
that come from your own body, or those that come from products of conception. In this issue, we
are going to discuss what Stem Cells are and how Stem Cell products work.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) were officially named more than 25 years ago to represent a class of
cells that could be separated from other cells and then be introduced into the body to create new bone,
cartilage, tendons, and other tissues.
It’s easy to imagine these cells, one by one, individually turning into these other types of tissues. However,
these cells are actually just used to signal your body’s own Stem Cells to do the work. Therefore, more
accurately described, and difficult to understand, MSCs have been said to be called “Medicinal Signaling
Cells.”
When we have pain anywhere in our body, we emit a pain signal from that site; when we have inflammation,
we emit an inflammatory signal; and when we have a degenerative disease, the same thing happens.
Once Stem Cells are introduced into our bodies, if they don’t replicate first, they home in on these joints
or sites of pain, injury, or disease, and then they secrete what is known as bioactive factors. This actually
stimulates the activity of our own Stem Cells to create all the new tissues to be formed.
Thankfully, they are also immunomodulatory, meaning that our body’s own immune system will not reject
them. Therefore, these regenerative medicine products are not dependent upon the metabolic activity of
living Mesenchymal Stem Cells for its primary function. Instead, they have an amazing matrix, including
Cytokines, Growth Factors, Proteins, Collagen, Elastin, Fibronectin & Hyaluronic Acid.
A considerable body of research on these products has been published in peer reviewed journals with too
many studies to count looking at the effectiveness of treating musculoskeletal conditions. New studies are
added monthly to this body of work, and time after time usage has been shown to be safe.
From the quality of the products and the state-of-the art-equipment we use, to the image guidance availability
and highly trained medical staff administering your treatment, Multicare is committed to provide only
thehighest effectiveness possible within this amazing field known as regenerative medicine.
Next issue:
What is the Treatment Process?
To Get the Date and Time of Our Next Seminar:
Attendees
Receive
Special
Offer
Can’t wait to learn more…
Attend One or Our
FREE Educational Seminars
Call Us
(712) 276-4325 Office Hours
(712) 266-6294 After Hours
Like Us
@MulticareHealthClinic

explore
Get dirty.
What Can I Really Recycle?
By Melissa Campbell and Carrie Radloff
Though the recycling industry has recently
endured some challenges, the recycling program
here in Siouxland continues to grow. Are you in?
It Starts With You!
We often hear questions like, “What can or can’t be
recycled?” or “What happens to my recycling after
it’s picked up?” These are common questions about
how recycling works in Siouxland, and this article will
hopefully empower you to recycle more and encourage
others to do the same.
Avoiding disposable materials and excessive packaging
is the most effective action in the “Reduce, Reuse,
Recycle” game, but it is virtually impossible to not create
waste. However, most of it is recyclable, and not only is
it as easy to recycle as it is to trash something, you may
even save money if you do!
Communities allow different materials in their programs
based on what their MRF (Materials Recovery Facility)
accepts. The MRF determines what they will accept
based on their equipment and staffing levels and if it is
economically feasible to process certain materials (i.e.
what their buyers want). For example, some automated
facilities don’t allow metal hangers or plastic films because
they get caught in the machinery, but others have a more
“hands on” approach. Van’s Sanitation and Recycling
in Le Mars incorporates a combination of manual and
automated separation techniques. Employees pull items,
like a grocery bag of plastic films, before materials are
mechanically separated.

fresh air
get outside
protect
active
play
Contamination is an often cited concern in the
recycling industry. Ultimately, the prospective buyer
of the separated materials will determine the level
of contamination (such as greasy pizza boxes, glass
shards in paper products, or mixed plastics) they can
tolerate. Typically, value is determined by the purity
of the material, so MRFs are incentivized to sort their
materials thoroughly, but they can do only so much.
Most contamination can be prevented only
by you.
So, how can you be a Rockstar Recycler?
Keep the lid closed — Water is the most problematic
substance that can ruin material. Wet paper sticks
to everything and can get moldy.
No oils or liquids — They can literally ruin an
entire load.
Clean and empty — Lids can be left on, but be sure
the container is empty and relatively clean; don’t
run them through the dishwasher, but do scrape
them out.
No batteries — They really can start fires.
Bag the shreds — Shredded paper can be recycled,
but only if it’s securely tied into a plastic bag
(double-bagging is best!) and labeled with marker
as “shredded paper”, otherwise it’s just confetti
for workers to sweep up, but without the benefit
of having had a party.
Bag the bags, too — All plastic films, like bread
bags, plastic wrap, and produce bags, can be
collected curbside; secure them in a grocery bag
and label as “plastic film.”
Not sure? Just ask! — Follow the Sioux City
Environmental Advisory Board on Facebook and
ask us if something should be “in or out.”
In Sioux City, curbside recycling is available at no cost
to single-family households and some multi-family
units. Call 712.279.0151 or visit sioux-city.org/
environment to request a pink or dark blue
recycle container. Because most materials can
be recycled, ask them to also take away any extra
garbage cans and save over $35 each year!
What are you waiting for?
It Starts with You!
Melissa Campbell is the Environmental Analyst for the
City of Sioux City.
Carrie Radloff chairs the Northwest Iowa Group
of Sierra Club and serves on the Sioux City
Environmental Advisory Board.
Siouxland Earth
Day Celebration
Sunday, April 28, 2019
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Delta Hotel Convention Center
(indoor and outdoor areas)
Educational booths, speakers, and activities related to:
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Natural Resources
• Waste Reduction
• Recycling
• Renewable Energy
• Siouxland Area Parks and Recreation
Opportunities
Family Friendly event
Free Admission
Food Vendors
Check out Siouxland Earth Day 2019
on Facebook
Le Mars: 712.546.7018
Hinton: 712.947.4129 (city) or
712.548.4644 (Van’s Sanitation)
Akron: www.akronia.org
North Sioux: 605.232.4276
South Sioux: 402.494.8166
ALSO BE
SURE TO JOIN
US FOR OUR
RE-EVENT
Live outside Sioux City? Visit your community’s webpage or
call your city hall to find out how to recycle where you are.

Siouxland Magazine | EXPLORE / 52
Passport to Your Parks: Get Your Dose of Vitamin N (Nature)
By Olivia Parks
Fresh air, bright green trees, bluebirds singing,
cool grass between your toes—springtime is
here, which means that all these things, will soon be
arriving in our backyards. After a long, cold winter,
people are anxious to get out in nature once again.
What better way to spring into the warmer weather than
to visit your local park?
Exploring the outdoors is one of the greatest things that
you can do to get outside. There are multitudes of parks
that are convenient, free or affordable, that provide
diverse learning opportunities and help you become
more physically active. Vitamin N (or Nature) also can
heal your over-stressed brain and affect your body in
positive ways. Studies show spending just 10 minutes in
nature two to three times a week can make a difference
in how you feel. Enjoying the outdoors can help your
health by lowering stress, restoring mental energy,
improving clearer thinking and creativity, and boosting
your immune system.
Here in Siouxland, we are fortunate enough to have a
large variety of parks because we have a huge diversity
of landscapes. Loess Hill prairies, Burr Oak woodlands,
wetlands, lakes, and rivers serve as perfect natural
playgrounds for people. Not only can you visit these
parks but also oftentimes these parks will have naturalists
on staff to provide nature programs to help you learn
about the natural history of the area, a new outdoor skill,
or foster an appreciation for wildlife.
Love the idea of packing up and heading out to
these parks but not sure where to get started?
Knowing the parks of the area is always a great start to
help you decide what is in your budget and determine
the activities you hope to experience. Iowa has one of the
best county park systems in the nation. The Iowa County
Conservation System is a huge network of county parks
found in all 99 counties of Iowa. A great resource for
county parks in Iowa is https://www.mycountyparks.com.
For counties bordering Sioux City, search for Cherokee,
Monona, Plymouth and Woodbury counties. Woodbury
County Conservation Board manages more than 5,500
acres of parks, wildlife areas and preserves within minutes
of Sioux City that can link you to camping, hiking, fishing,
boating, picnicking, nature programs and more. May
1st is typically the “beginning of camping season.” For
Woodbury County Parks and many other county parks, it
signifies the opening of campgrounds and full facilities
for the summer season, so it will soon be time to break out
the tents, campers, and camping gear.

Siouxland Magazine | EXPLORE / 53
Useful Websites:
https://www.mycountyparks.com | http://woodburyparks.org
https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks
https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/adams-homestead-and-nature-preserve
http://outdoornebraska.gov/ponca
The Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center serves as headquarters
for the Woodbury County Conservation Board and is a
keystone in our region for outdoor education, recreation
and nature discovery. Located in Sioux City, the facility
offers year-round programs, nature activities, Summer Day
Camps for youth, and public events. The Discovery Forest
Nature Playscape and the live birds of prey exhibit are two
of the most popular facets of the center that should not be
missed.
Since Siouxland is the tristate area, it holds three state
parks within a thirty-minute drive of Sioux City. Iowa, South
Dakota, and Nebraska all have their own state park system.
Iowa State Parks include Stone State Park in Sioux City; South
Dakota State Parks include Adams Homestead and Nature
Preserve in McCook Lake, South Dakota; and Nebraska
State Parks include Ponca State Park in Ponca, Nebraska.
These are just a few of the many parks you can discover in
the area, so don’t forget city parks and recreational trails.
Jump into the many activities these parks offer with their
educational public programs, youth camps, and youth and
family day activities. These parks offer a great place for
families to visit and spend their day and find a lifetime of
adventure, exploration, and discovery.
Olivia Parks, is a 2018 Iowa State University grad with a BS in
Biology. She is serving as an AmeriCorps 4-H Environmental
Education Naturalist at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center
through August 2019. She provides education programs and
outdoor adventures to youth in the schools and public.

Siouxland Magazine | EXPLORE / 54
Why You Would Want to Garden
By Jenny Jorgensen and Mark Raymond
As the snow melts and the temperatures warm, a few Up
From the Earth team members wanted to share all the
benefits about why people whould want to garden.
Why would you want to garden?
Physical Therapy — Gardening offers the opportunity
for a fairly low impact workout. When gardening we
are getting up and down, stretching, bending, and
reaching to pull the weeds while our heart rates increase
according to levels of exertion.
Mental Therapy — All of us need to unwind at times
in our life. We like to go to the garden to escape the
busyness of life. What better place to notice the
butterflies, bugs and worms sharing our world. The
child in each of us can listen to the sounds of the birds
visiting back and forth and the buzz of the bees as
they taste the nectar of plants available for them. The
wings of hummingbirds are amazing to hear. Smells in
the garden can trigger memories. The garden is also
a great place for some alone time, allowing for some
peace and quiet.
Social — Remember gardening with your grandparents?
We do! What a wonderful experience to share with your
family by teaching your children or grandchildren how to
garden and sharing why you do it. Whether it is planting
flowers into a pot, a small vegetable garden, growing a
tomato plant in a 5-gallon bucket, there is so much to
notice and learn. Pretty much any toddler-age child can
help water or plant some seeds. Provide children a small
place to have their own gardens and provide them childsized
gloves and tools. Children so easily increase our
own joy in gardening!
Fiscal Savings and Freshness — It is cost effective
to garden vegetables, fruits, and flowers. It is certainly
cheaper to buy a few plants or some seeds and reap the
harvest of produce that saves paying larger prices at stores
and enjoy fresh cut flowers to bring into your home for
a simple bouquet. The freshness of a zucchini, potatoes
and onion slices grilled with your favorite protein in late
summer makes our mouths water now!
Lifelong Learners — As gardeners we are always
amazed at what we consistently learn throughout our
gardening experiences. Even through our failures, we are
learning. Sometimes our plants don’t sprout or we water
too much or too little. We’re all still learning!

Sense of Accomplishment — Gardeners are proud of
their bounty. We take pride in our beautiful pots of flowers,
and our veggies and fruits. No matter how you grow your
garden: in containers, garden plot, or a square foot garden
in a raised bed garden, start small and expand your garden
over time.
What Kind of Gardener Are You?
Are you a beginner, intermediate, life-long or Master
Gardener? If you’re a beginner, no worries. We have some
things to consider before you get started:
Places to Plant — Consider your environment, as you
have a few options to begin your gardening adventure.
A few options are: in-ground traditional garden, raised
bed gardens, container gardens (even buckets can work
with drain holes made on patios or decks or an apartment
balcony).
Siouxland Magazine | EXPLORE / 55
Water Supply — Do you have close enough access to
water for your garden activities? Make sure you have a plan
for watering your precious food before you start planting.
Where to get seeds — We encourage you to visit your
local garden centers to purchase your plants and seeds.
Many seeds can easily be started in the soil generally after
our last frost. Read the back of any seed packets and they
will give you information to learn about planting location,
amount of sun, watering, how long until germination, and
how long before harvest. Rates of germination vary from
seed to seed so expect a few seeds to never pop up. As you
learn more, you may want to start your own seeds inside in
February or March to be placed outside later.
Doug Green Gardening
https://douggreensgarden.com/
A Way To Garden
https://awaytogarden.com/
Joe Gardener https://joegardener.com/
Resources — There are a number of resources to get you
interested in starting or maintaining your garden. First,
don’t forget local folk. The Sioux City Library is still there,
and it’s still free! At Earl May and other local nurseries, you’ll
have to pay for your seeds and plants, but their helpful
information is offered at no charge. Check your County
Extension Office for helpful links to information and people
to help you. Of course, the internet is mostly free as well
and there are a multitude of websites, blogs, and Facebook
pages devoted to gardening.
No matter what kind of gardener you are: just–thinkingabout-it,
beginner, intermediate, life-long, or Master
Gardener, there are always great benefits for all. Everyone
has a place in the garden!
4625 Singing Hills Blvd
Sioux City, IA
(712) 274-6622
Jenny is a Master Gardener and joined Up From the Earth
after retiring as a SC kindergarten teacher. She is a Master
Gardener consistently works to connect extra produce
from home gardeners to the community affected by food
insecurity.
Mark Raymond (aka the Zucchini Guy) joined Up From
The Earth after retiring from Mercy Medical Center’s
Neurophysiology/Sleep Lab. He is a Master Gardener and
likes to try at least three unique veggies each year.
www.VernEideHondaSiouxCity.com

Siouxland Magazine | EXPLORE / 56
Planting and Harvesting Times For Garden Vegetables
*Offered By Richard Jauron
This guide will help you schedule the planting of gardens
so space may be used efficiently.
Radishes — Several plantings, 7 to 10 days apart, are
possible. Radishes pass peak quality quickly, so several
plantings are needed to provide high quality radishes.
Radishes become spongy and form seed heads with the
onset of hot weather. Fall plantings can be made from
mid-August to mid-September.
Lettuce — Sow seeds in early spring. Lettuce flowers and
turns bitter with the onset of hot weather. Fall plantings
can be made in August.
Onions — For mature (dry) onions, sow seeds in early to
mid-April. Plant sets and plants from early April to May 1.
Plantings for green onions can be made from early April
to mid-summer.
Peas — Sow seeds in early spring as soon as the soil can
be worked. Plants stop bearing when hot weather arrives.
A fall planting may be made about August 1 to 10.
Spinach — Sow seeds in April as plants become bitter and
form seed heads with the onset of hot weather. A fall crop
may be planted about August 10.
Cabbages — Set out transplants from early April to May 1
for a summer crop. Direct seed in summer for a fall crop.
Broccoli and cauliflower — Set out transplants in early
to mid-April. Both are sensitive to hot weather so need to
be encouraged to head as early as possible.
Collards and Kale — Seed at the same time as lettuce
and other early spring crops. Direct-seed in early July for
a fall crop.
Carrots — Seeds can be sown from early April to August 1.
Plant every 3 to 4 weeks for a continuous harvest.
Beets and Swiss chard — Seeds can be sown from
early April to August 1. Plant every 2 to 3 weeks for a
continuous harvest.
Potatoes — Best planted in early to mid-April; a long
growing season is needed to produce full-sized tubers.
Snap beans — Plant any time after May 5. Most varieties
will keep producing if plants are kept picked. Last
practical date for planting is August 1.
Sweet corn — Plant when soil temperature reaches 60°F
or any time thereafter. Plant by July 1 for early varieties.
Tomatoes — Plant seedlings in mid-May. Last practical
date for planting tomatoes is June 20.
Peppers and eggplants — Plant seedlings in mid-May.
Last practical date for planting is June 20.
Summer squashes — Seed mid-May. If harvested
every other day, plants will keep producing until frost.
Last practical date for seeding is July 20.
Cucumbers — Seed mid-May. Production is continuous
if kept picked. Last practical date for seeding is July 20.
Muskmelons — Seed mid-May. Last practical date to
sow seeds of early maturing varieties is June 20.
Winter squashes and pumpkins — Seed mid-May. A
full growing season is needed to produce mature fruit
that keep well into winter.
Watermelons — Seed mid-May. There are varietal
differences in the length of time from planting to harvest.
Last practical date to sow seeds of an early maturing
variety is June 20.
*Chart courtesy of ISU Extension and Outreach publication “Planting and
harvesting times for garden vegetables” prepared by Richard Jauron, available
at https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/3960.

Nikki’s biggest inspiration is Sara.
“I say ‘I love you’ to my daughter
so many times a day and it helps
me remember that she is the
reason I continue to fight.”
Siouxland Magazine | EXPLORE / 57
Together We Are Stronger Than MS
By Debbie LaCroix
“If you saw me walking around, about 95% of
you would never be able to tell that I have MS. I
have primary progressive MS so my life has a lot more
challenges, but it doesn’t change any plans that my
daughter and I have for the future. It is always important
to keep a positive attitude no matter how bad you may
feel,” Nikki Wetrich, Walk MS Ambassador 2019.
Multiple Sclerosis, known as MS, interrupts the flow of
information between the brain and the body, causing
symptoms that vary from numbness to paralysis or loss
of vision and affects each person completely differently.
Chances are, you don’t even know they are fighting
every day to live a normal life.
MS Walk Ambassador Nikki Wetrich had never heard of
MS. She didn’t even know what it stood for until she was
diagnosed at 19. “I began to experience some fatigue
and then around four to five months after my daughter
was born, I started to experience symptoms including
the loss of my peripheral vision, the loss of my depth
perception, and weakness in my extremities. I went to
a doctor’s office and later that day a nurse called me
and said that they think I have Multiple Sclerosis. They
wanted to refer me to an area neurologist and schedule
an MRI.”
Before she was diagnosed, her focus was on her
daughter, Sara, and finishing her college course to
complete her degree. “After my diagnosis, my world
has become complicated. My focus remained on my
daughter, Sara, but it also focused around doctor’s
appointments, MRIs, and medications.”
MS changed Nikki’s life, but it has not stopped her. She has
a bachelors in Accounting and a dual Masters in Accounting
and Finance. Nikki works full time at a job she loves and
volunteers in the community and at her school.
“I want to bring people together to support all of those
diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and to offer knowledge
about the disease and the effects that people experience. I
want to raise funds to expand research for the betterment
of medications and therapies for the individuals going
through this.”
She says having MS is not an ending. “A diagnosis of
Multiple Sclerosis does not mean your life has stopped
and that you are going to have to change everything. After
I was diagnosed, I completed my bachelor’s degree, and
dual master’s degrees because I did not want my life to be
uprooted because of a diagnosis that I could not predict
or prevent.”
Debbie LaCroix is a mother to two, freelance writer,
children’s book author, and owner of Just Because.
Walk MS • April 27, 2019
Registration begins at 9 am • Riverside Park
Register at www.walkms.org

enjoy
You only live once.
Bootleggers Steals the Downtown Pizza Scene
By Kolby Dewitt
Whoever said moving your business, not once
but twice, in a snowstorm was no fun? We think
it builds character.
After a re-shuffling and flurry of move-ins and moveouts
on the 400 block of Pearl Street, Bootleggers
emerges in the former McCarthy & Bailey’s Irish Pub
and The Big Snug locations. Filling the much needed
pizza niche for Downtown Sioux City, Bootleggers aims
to take customers back to the bustling prohibition era.
“It’s a great space, and is great for entertainment each
weekend,” says Gannon Harsma, General Manager of
Bootleggers. Already a well-built venue, with a unique
ambiance and high-quality finishings, the newest
residents had very little to change to truly make it home.
“It was mainly minor work, such as some white paint to
brighten it up, reworked tabletops, and of course add
a few more televisions,” said Gannon. But don’t worry,
they retained the regal mahogany bar in all its glory.
The tabletops, featuring original pictures from the 1910s
and 1920s, pay homage to and showcase Sioux City’s
history in a way all its own, complete with electric trolleys
and photographs from Pearl Street and surrounding areas.
The menu highlights pizza, which is best described as
Chicago-style, but not deep dish. Although one could
build-their-own pizza, there are a bevy of “Specialty Pi’s,”
touting Combination, Ultimate Meat Lovers, Chicken
Bacon Ranch, American Pi, Real Taco, Real Philly, Tequila
Sunrise, Siouxer City Special, and Real Hawaiian.
I sampled the Tequila Sunrise, which boasts a Ranch sauce
(yes, as in the Midwest’s favored salad dressing), rather
than the traditional red tomato sauce, generous chunks
of diced marinated chicken, banana peppers, onions, and
jalapenos sautéed in tequila, all topped with mozzarella
cheese. “This is a hot seller, definitely in our top three,”
says Gannon, smiling upon his original creation. I also
sampled the boneless chicken wings, which are handbreaded,
rolled in milk, and topped with a homemade
spicy sauce: “Its ‘Carolina,’ so its spicy and tangy,” adds
Gannon. “Our chicken goes straight from raw breast to
fried.” Don paired the wings with a Goose Island IPA.
Yummy!

have fun
entertainment
culture
gather
relax
Next up was the Siouxer City Calzone, which I highly
recommend. This includes a delicious homemade pizza
sauce, pepperoni, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and
(you guessed it) even more pepperoni. One can’t help
but notice the cream cheese base upon the very first bite.
“This gives it an almost lasagna flavor,” says Gannon, who
adds this is well-paired with an Old Fashioned to drink. The
dough is what really sets Bootleggers pizzas apart, Gannon
directs his crew to add extra sugar, and they often come in
hours before open to prepare it. “It’s more work, and it’s a
labor of love, but it’s worth it for our customers. To see and
hear the customers who appreciate it so much, that’s pretty
awesome.”
“We believe have the best pizza in town. The crust isn’t dry,
and people can tell it was made right before the sauce and
the toppings were put on,” says Don, nobly. He adds: “We
want to bring you something you’ve never quite had before,
by adding depth with ingredients like cream cheese. We
truly make a top shelf pizza.”
Pizza is a dish that Gannon and father Don Harsma are well
versed in. Don managed another pizza restaurant for a year
before opening Bootleggers. Since opening on Superbowl
Sunday, the father/son duo have steadily built up their
new enterprise and put their own style on it. “We also want
to showcase the underserved sports. You can come here
and watch hockey, or UEFA Champions League (European
league) soccer,” says Don. Bootleggers is family-friendly,
and welcomes all.
Another void Bootleggers and the Harsma’s are looking to
fill is the comedy scene. They’ve hosted several acts, with
plans to host more. Also, they rent out the former The Big
Snug location for parties and events of all sorts, including
graduation parties and wedding rehearsal dinners.
Another way Bootleggers stands out is value for cost: “All
of our ingredients are fresh and gluten free, and where else
could you go for $10-$12 or so, and eat this much?” says
Don, and he’s not wrong. I ordered a calzone, and walked
out stuffed, with more than half to spare.
The Harsma’s aim to make menu changes seasonally, four
times per year and host robust Happy Hours from 3pm-
6pm, and 9pm-11pm. Stop down and check out this new
Sioux City restaurant, right on Pearl Street.
Kolby Dewitt, food enthusiast has enjoyed writing (primarily
about food) for Siouxland Magazine since 2010.

Siouxland Magazine | Enjoy / 60
History Comes to Life at the Air Museum
By Pam Mickelson
Nieuport 11: Did you know American pilots
were first trained in France for WWI? Bob Heath,
an AirForce veteran and retired North High art teacher,
knew at a young age airplanes fascinated him. So much
so, that he would later be a part of the Nieuport 11,
flown by American volunteers in World War I. The plane
was actively flown in military service until the summer
of 1917. Before the United States was involved in the
war, Americans volunteered to fly for the French. In fact,
there were so many Americans, the group was called
the American Squadron. Later, the name was changed
to Lafayette Escadrille.
As a young boy, Heath recalls a picnic where airplanes
were flying overhead. He was captivated by the power,
control and strength of the planes. His interest in planes
resulted in joining the AirForce after high school. The
Nieuport 11 was Heath’s first flyable aircraft. He acquired
knowledge about planes and their construction while in
the U.S. Air Force.
The airplane was mostly constructed in the basement of
a house. Upon completion it was reassembled outdoors,
passed FAA inspection and was flown. The air museum
showcases a 7/8 scale version of the original French
Nieuport 11 built by Bob who constructed the plane
with plans drafted by Graham Lee of Canada.
Boeing 727: What can people learn from an old
cargo FedEx aircraft?
The FedEx Boeing 727 was donated to the museum
from the FedEx Corporation in 2009, just before the
museum opened. The aircraft sits in front of the main
building connected by a jetway donated by Sioux
Gateway Airport.
The local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter
moved the 727 into place and prepped it for display.
An AmeriCorp team of NCCC volunteers removed the
cargo interior making the space ready for new electrical,
heat and air, and insulation. Grants from the Gilchrist
Foundation and MRHD have helped move the project
into a clean fresh classroom type area. Other grants will
aid in supporting the completion of the walls, technology
and furnishings, allowing learners of all ages to sit inside
a retired cargo FedEx.
How can vehicles help visitors align major events
with a timeline?
Some people have a good sense of American military
events like WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan or the
Cold War era. But what were people driving during those
eras? The museum’s first exhibit features the Nieuport
11 that Bob Heath built, and features other WWI veteran
collections with a horse drawn hearse and horse drawn
road grader. The WWII area of the museum includes a
tribute to the B17 pilot training that took place in Sioux
City as well as a set of early and mid-century cars driven
during that same period. A Vietnam era helicopter is
featured with 1960s and 1970s emergency vehicles with
a backdrop of items from the 185th Air Refueling Wing.
Visit us at 2600 Expedition Drive just off
Harbor Drive at the north-east corner of the
Sioux City Airport.
Pam Mickelson serves as president of the board of directors
for the air museum. She retired as professor and chair of
business at Morningside College.

Russell Returns to Siouxland for One Shimmering Show!
By Amy Jackson
Tony nominated, Broadway
composer Bill Russell will return to
Siouxland this summer to direct a
production of his all-male musical
comedy, Pageant at LAMB Arts
Regional Theatre. Russell last
returned to Siouxland in February
2019, when he directed a cabaret of his
works at Morningside College. Now, he
is eager to bid New York City another temporary farewell to
present Pageant, originally written in 1991.
Russell is a Morningside College alumni and homegrown
Sioux City hero known for his lyricism in such Broadway
shows as Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens, The
Last Smoker in America, Unexpected Joy, and Side Show, for
which he received a Tony nomination. His musicals have been
produced on Broadway, London’s West End, the Kennedy
Center, and other venues around the world.
“Pageant is about a beauty pageant with six contestants,”
Russell explains. “They compete in the typical pageant
categories—evening wear, swimwear, talent.” At each showing
of Pageant, judges selected from the audience actually vote
and determine the winner, making each performance unique.
The catch? Each of the contestants is played by men.
Still, Russell does not consider his show a drag show. “I’m
often asked, why not cast women in these roles? My answer
is that if we did that and paraded them down the runway
in swimsuits, we would be exploiting them in the way that
we’re making fun of. But by casting men, it puts the whole
idea of how beauty is sold to women in our culture into
high relief.”
With a twinkle in his eye, Russell also offers one more reason
for this gender-bent casting: “It’s funny as heck.”
Although Russell returned to Morningside College to direct
Side Show in 2008, this will be the first time that LAMB
Regional Arts Theatre has hosted one of his productions,
and the first time that Pageant has been produced in
Siouxland. LAMB’s cast will be comprised of local actors,
providing Siouxland amateurs the chance to work with a
veteran Broadway lyricist.
Despite his success in the larger world, Russell has always
loved returning to the Midwest to share what he has learned.
“It’s fun to see the people I grew up with,” he says. “They
helped shape me and were the ones who encouraged my
love of theater.”
Amy Jackson is a Morningside College senior majoring in
English and Theatre and minoring in Philosophy.
Siouxland Magazine | Enjoy / 61
LOCAL TRUST AND ESTATE PLANNING PROFESSIONALS
Karrie R. Hruska
Robert F. Meis
MEMbERS OF ThE IOwA ACADEMy OF TRUST
AND ESTATE COUNSEL
Holy Spirit
R e t i r e m e n t H o m e
Foundation
Spirit of Home Fundraiser
An evening to support and celebrate the
50th Anniversary
of Holy Spirit Retirement Home!
Featuring a social hour with hors d’oeuvres, live music,
a silent auction, a mystery wine table, and a gift card wall.
Friday, May 3, 2019
Country Celebrations Event Center • 5:30 p.m.
5606 Hamilton Blvd. • Sioux City, IA 51104
2019 Honorary Chair Couple, Brad and Jean Marie Moore
Please RSVP by April 26th.
Tickets are $50, and sponsorships start at $500.
Tickets and sponsorships are available online at
www.holyspiritretirementhome.com.
For more information or to pay by check, please call
Jenny Wetz at (712) 899-8091.

Siouxland Magazine | Enjoy / 62
Photo credit: Sioux City Public Library.
Book Lovers Adventure Out for the BEST Sale of the Year!
By Debbie LaCroix
It started out as the Book Cellar. Now it’s become
more of a book warehouse, with over 1,500
boxes of books!
Every year, around the end of April, book lovers from all
over come looking for hours of escape and adventure.
The Sioux City Public Library’s Friends of the Library Book
Lovers book sale has been around for over 20 years.
The sale is run by Friends of the Sioux City Public
Library. Many of the committee members have been
volunteering for years.
To them, it’s more than just a fundraiser. It’s
community.
Friends board member Ellen Shaner says it’s more than
just getting books out to people. “It’s always fun to find
some things you would never think to find.” Patrons
come with suitcases ready to fill, and often stand in line
for a few hours before the doors open, wanting to be
the first to find their hidden treasure.
Event organizer and Friends board member John
McGuire says, “For a while we had a couple young
ladies who would bring lawn chairs and a cooler from
2-3 pm and sit and read waiting for us to open.”
Everyone from book dealers to teachers come to stock
up. Lisa McGaffey, Friends board member, says she
loves seeing all the teachers. “I like the idea that libraries
in smaller schools and teachers come and stock/restock/refresh
their collections. Some teachers give
books away as reading rewards.”
Bea Houston, President of the Friends of the library board,
loves working the event. “I remember many fun times, one
in particular was a family coming in and each child coming
up and asking for a sack to put their treasures in, “’…cause
mom said we can have as many as we want!’”
This year the book sale has a new home in the former
Younkers lower level. The sale is run entirely by volunteers
and donations.
Books come in all sizes and genres, plus records, DVD’s,
audio books and more. Prices range from $1 - $3. Money
from the book sale is used to help fund programs and
equipment for the Sioux City Public Library, including the
summer program.
The book sale starts on April 26 with preview day and runs
through May 4. The last day, May 4, all remaining books are
free.
Debbie LaCroix is a mother to two, freelance writer,
children’s book author, and owner of Just Because.
Younkers
(Ground level at Southern Hills Mall)
Friday, April 26: 6 – 9 pm
(Opening Night, $1 donation)
Saturday, April 27: 10 am – 9 pm
Sunday April 28: Noon – 6 pm
Monday, April 29 – Friday, May 3: 4 – 8 pm
Saturday, May 4: 10 am – when books are gone,
or 6 pm FREE DAY

Siouxland Magazine | Design Issue / 21

Siouxland Magazine | Enjoy / 64
Activities
Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center
Dorothy Pecaut Summer Day
Camp General Registration
April 10
For more information contact camps@
woodburyparks.org or visit http://
woodburyparks.org/summer-daycamps/.
Easter Egg Bird Feeders
April 19 • 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Celebrate the weekend by creating
Easter Egg Suet Bird Feeders. Please
dress for outdoor weather. Preregister
by calling 712-258-0838 or
email oparks@woodburyparks.org.
Live Animal Lunchtime
June 6 • 4:30 p.m.
Come and watch our live animals eat.
Learn about their habitat needs and
adaptations. Free! Open until 7pm on
Thursdays in June and July.
Evening Campfire & Music
June 7 • 7:00 p.m.
Join the Summer Naturalists and kick
off a great summer of activities while
we enjoy time around the campfirecomplete
with S’Mores. Local
musicians will be present to play some
Folk and Bluegrass tunes around the
campfire. Free!
Sierra Club
4th Tues. of every month • 6:30 pm
Located at 2508 Jackson Street
Nature presentation and discussion.
Always free.
Sioux City Art Center
The Briar Cliff Review Exhibition
April 25 – July 21
Opening Reception: April 25
6:00-8:30 p.m.
This annual, collaborative project
with Briar Cliff University includes a
wide variety of artworks by more than
thirty artists from across the region.
The reception marks the release of
The Briar Cliff Review, BCU’s annual
journal of art and writing.
Sculpt Siouxland Celebration
June 6 • 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Join us at the Art Center to celebrate
the arrival of new sculptures to
downtown Sioux City, while saying
farewell to those that are leaving after
a one-year exhibition. This free event
features hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar,
and a silent auction of sculptures.
ArtCamp
Beginning June 4
2019 marks the first summer ArtCamp
for children ages 7-14 at the Art
Center’s Gilchrist Learning Center.
Register now for any or all of the five
two-week sessions, which run through
August 15, 2019.
Summer Classes
Beginning June 10
June 10 also marks the beginning of
our eight-week summer classes for
adults and children.
Vangarde Arts
Harper & Midwest Kind
April 13 • 8:00 pm
Reverend Raven
May 25 • 3:00 pm
Siouxland Artists
1st Tues. of every month • 5:30 pm
Located at St. Mark’s Church,
5200 Glen Ave.
Learn & Create. Visit a meeting &
consider joining local art club.
Gallery 103
Art Gallery Grand Opening
April 26 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
April 27 • 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
HoChunk Centre, first floor
Sioux City Public Museum
Sioux City History Projects
Exhibition
Through May 11
The 28th annual display of models and
posters created by 4th grade students
of local historic landmarks, people, and
events.
Bandits & Heroes, Poets & Saints:
Popular Art of the Northeast of
Brazil Exhibition
May 25 - August 11
The A traveling exhibit exploring
how the ancient cultures of Africa
blended with indigenous and colonial
Portuguese traditions to form the
vibrant and complex cultural mosaic of
modern Brazil. This exhibition has been
made possible through NEH on the
Road, a special initiative of the National
Endowment for the Humanities. It is
brought to you by Mid-America Arts
Alliance. Bandits & Heroes, Poets &
Saints: Popular Art of the Northeast
of Brazil was organized by Con/Vida–
Popular Arts of the Americas and the
Charles H. Wright Museum of African
American History, Detroit, MI.
History at High Noon: The Great
Depression in Sioux City
Thursday, April 18 • 12:05 p.m.
Presenter Matt Anderson, Curator of
History, will reflect on the economic
turmoil of the 1930s. Featured images
illustrate the challenges local citizens
faced during the Great Depression &
how they handled with them. Free.
Sioux City History Projects Exhibit
Reception & Awards Ceremon
May 11 • 1 to 3 p.m.
Students participating in the exhibit will
be honored with a reception from 1 to
2:30 p.m. with the awards ceremony
from 2:30 to 3 p.m. Free.
History at High Noon: D-Day
Remembered
Thursday, May 16 • 12:05 p.m.
Presenter Russ Gifford, a local writer
and instructor, will provide a view

from home front to mark the 75th
anniversary of the D-Day invasion
during WWII. Attendees are invited
to bring their lunches to this free
photographic presentation. Free.
History at High Noon:
Charles N. Taylor Photographs
Thursday, June 20 • 12:05 p.m.
Presenter Tom Munson, Archives
Manager, will showcase early
1890s images of houses, churches,
commercial buildings, street scenes,
and much more. Itinerant photographer
Charles N. Taylor’s photographs are
among the best documentation of
Sioux City’s Boom Era. Attendees are
invited to bring their lunches to this
free photographic presentation. Free.
Sioux City Railroad Museum
Movie Matinee in the Gilchrist
Theater.
April 13, May 11 & June 8 • 2:00 pm
3400 Sioux River Road
Featuring is either set in or features the
railroad. Free with cost of admission to
museum.
Sioux City Community Theater
The Complete Works of William
Shakespeare (abridged)
April 19 - May 5, 2019
The cultural touchstone that is
The Complete Works of William
Shakespeare (abridged) was born
when three inspired, charismatic
comics, having honed their pass-thehat
act at Renaissance fairs, premiered
their preposterous masterwork at
the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in
1987. It quickly became a worldwide
phenomenon, earning the title of
London’s longest running comedy
after a decade at the Criterion Theatre.
The Complete Works is one of the
world’s most frequently produced play
and has been translated into several
dozen languages. Featured are all 37
of Shakespeare’s plays, meant to be
performed in 97 minutes, by three
actors. Fast paced, witty, and physical,
it’s full of laughter for Shakespeare
lovers and haters alike. Purchase
tickets online or call box office at 712-
233-2788.
Performance Dates:
Friday, April 19 • 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 20 • 7:30 pm
Friday, April 26 • 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 27 • 7:30 pm
Sunday, April 28 • 2:00 pm
Thursday, May 2 • 7:30 pm
Friday, May 3 • 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 4 • 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 5 • 2:00 pm
New Stage Players
Barefoot In The Park
April 26, 27, 29, 30 & May 2-4 • 7:30pm
May 5 at 2:00pm
Neil Simon’s classic! Newlyweds get
a surprise visit from the bride’s loopy
mother and decide to play matchmaker
during a dinner with their neighbor-inthe-attic,
where everything that can go
wrong, does.
Annie, Jr
New Stage Players Penguin Project
June 15 & 16
Despite a next-to-nothing start in
Depression-era New York City, Annie
is determined to find the parents who
abandoned her years ago.
More info at newstageplayers.com
Launchpad Children’s Museum
Adventures in Animation
April 19 • 10:00-4:00
6-8 years old
$42 ($35 members)
Lights, camera, action! Children take to
the screen as they develop their own
stop-motion animation film. As movie
directors for a day, campers plan their
own script, design a background, and
create props. Exploring the world of
animation, children use stop motion
technology to bring their ideas to life.
At 4:00, the hard work will pay off as
parents are invited in for a screening of
the short films. Films will be available
online for families to access. Lunch and
snack are provided with camp.
All About Animals
Session 1: June 25 • 9:30-12pm
Session 2: June 25 • 1-3:30pm
4-6 years old
$35 ($29 members)
Celebrate “Year of Ag in Siouxland” with
LaunchPAD’s All About Animals. Children
will explore types of animals and discover
fun animal treats. Campers will have the
chance to meet our special guests and
their furry friends to learn about the
animals in their own community. Crawl,
slither, or hop on in now to register. All
campers will receive a LaunchPAD camp
shirt. Snack is provided.
Good to Grow
Session 1: July 9 • 9:30-12pm
Session 2: July 9 • 1-3:30pm
4-5 years old
$35 ($29 for members)
Ready, set, grow! Explore the science
of gardening at LaunchPAD’s Good
to Grow. Campers will use hands-on
exploration to discover the parts of a
plant. Our Master Gardener instructor
will help children discover what
plants need to grow and determine
the differences between plant types.
Children will apply what they learned
by gardening their own seeds to grow.
All campers will receive a LaunchPAD
camp shirt. Snack is provided.
Good to Grow
July 10th • 9:30-3:30pm
6-8 years old
$72 ($62 for members)
Ready, set, grow! Explore the science
of gardening at LaunchPAD’s Good
to Grow. Campers will use hands-on
exploration to discover the parts of a
plant. Our Master Gardener instructor
will help children discover what
plants need to grow and determine
the differences between plant types.
Children will apply what they learned
by gardening their own seeds to grow.
All campers will receive a LaunchPAD
camp shirt. Two snacks and lunch
provided.
Register at www.launchpadmuseum.
com/camps or call 712-224-2542.
Bandits Football
Saturday home games, start time
7:05 p.m., listed below. See website
full game schedule: www.scbandits.
com/schedule
April 27 • Bandits vs. Liberty
May 3 • Bandits vs Force
May 18 • Bandits vs. Venom
June 1 • Bandits vs. Force
June 8 • Bandits vs. Revolution
Explorers Baseball
Home games listed below. See
website for full game schedule: http://
www.xsbaseball.com
May 16 vs. Saltdogs • 7:12 pm
May 17 vs. Saltdogs • 7:12 pm
May 18 vs. Saltdogs • 7:12 pm
May 19 vs. Saltdogs • 4:02 pm
May 28 vs Airhogs • 7:12 pm
May 29 vs Airhogs • 11:00 am
May 30 vs Airhogs • 7:12 pm
June 7 vs Red Hawks • 7:12 pm
Siouxland Magazine | Enjoy / 65

Siouxland Magazine | Enjoy / 66
June 8 vs Red Hawks • 7:12 pm
June 9 vs Red Hawks • 4:02 pm
June 10 vs Salt Dogs • 7:12 pm
June 11 vs Salt Dogs • 7:12 pm
June 12 vs Salt Dogs • 7:12 pm
June 13 vs Salt Dogs • 7:12 pm
June 21 vs Canaries • 7:12 pm
June 22 vs Canaries • 6:05 pm
June 23 vs Canaries • 4:02 pm
June 25 vs Goldeyes • 7:12 pm
June 26 vs Goldeyes • 7:12 pm
June 27 vs Goldeyes • 7:12 pm
Farmer’s Market
May & June: Wed & Sat 8 am - 1pm
Located at 100 Pearl Street Downtown
Sioux City
Downtown Live
May 31, June 7, 14, 21 & 28
11am - 1:30pm
Located on the lawn of the Sioux City
Public Museum
Downtown Partners Stop
& Sips
3rd Tues. every month • 5 pm - 7pm
Events
Live Healthy Iowa 5k
April 13 • 8 am
Location: Sergeant Bluff Community
Center
Le Mars Holistic Healing Fair
April 13 • 10 am
Location: Le Mars Eagles Club
SCGO presents Music Bingo
April 17 • 6:30 pm
Location: Doxx Warehouse
Women’s Power Lunch
April 24 • 11:30 am - 1 pm
Event provides single-parent
scholarships for local parents
attending local colleges.
Location: Delta Hotels Conference
Center. Tickets: unitedwaysiouxland.
com.
Protecting Places of Worship
Forum
April 25 • 5:30 pm
Location: Sioux City Public Museum
Sioux City Litter Dash
April 26
Toastmasters District Conference
April 26-27
Location: Delta Hotels
Bee Hotel Building
April 27 • 10 am
Location: South Sioux City Public
Library
Launchpad’s Pirates & Princesses
April 27 • 12:00 pm
Location: Lauchpad
2nd Annual Briar Cliff Clinic 5k
Run, Walk & Roll
April 27 • 8 am
Adams Homestead & Nature Preserve
Sergeant Bluff Craft Fair
April 27 • 9:00 am
Location: Sgt Bluff Community Center
Spay-getti & No Balls Dinner
April 27 • 5:00 pm
Location: Sioux City Convention
Center
Earth Day Event
April 28
Summer Solstice Market 2019
May 11 • 8:00 am
Location: the Koffie Knechtion, South
Sioux City
Fowler Forest Wildflower Walk
May 11 • 1:00 pm
Fowler Forest Preserve, Smithland
Donkey Dash 5k
May 18 • 9:00 am
Adams Homestead & Nature Preserve
LaunchPad Scheels Free Day
June 6
Awesome Biker Nights
June 6-8
Location: 4th Street Downtown
8th Annual Asian Festival
June 15 • 12:00 pm
Location: Riverside Park
Bike/Run/Walk the Hunger
Games
June 22 • 8:00 am
Location: Adams Homestead & Nature
Preserve
Camp High Hopes’ Ribfest
June 22 • 11:00 am
Location: Hard Rock
Tennis Shoes on the Tarmac,
a STEM Kids Camp
June 24-26
Location: Mid American Museum of
Aviation and Transportation.
Mental Wellness Festival
(SC Community School District)
April 27 • 10: am
Location: Spalding Park Elementary
School
Boys & Girls Clubs of Siouxland
Club Kid for a Night
April 19 • 5:30 pm - 9pm
Here’s your chance to be a kid again. A
night filled with games, refreshments
and adult beverages. Free will
donation.
Located at 823 Pearl Street
Sergeant Bluff Craft Fair
April 27 • 9:00 am
Location: Sgt Bluff Community Center
Siouxland Autism Awareness
Walk
April 28 • 1:00 pm
Location: WITCC
LeMars Celebration Dates
Ice Cream Days and
Sesquicentennial
June 12-16
Camp High Hopes Easter Egg-
Stravoganza
April 20 • 1 pm - 4 pm
Sensory friendly Easter egg event
focused on individuals with varying
disabilities.
Location at Camp High Hopes - 5804
Correctionville Road
Dining Car Tea
May 2 • 1:00 pm
Railroad Museum
Siouxland Holistic Health Market
May 11 • 9:00 am
Location: Siouxland Holistic Healing
Center

Siouxland Earth Day
Celebration
Sunday, April 28, 2019
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Delta Hotel Convention Center
(indoor and outdoor areas)
Educational booths, speakers, and activities related to:
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Natural Resources
• Waste Reduction
• Recycling
• Renewable Energy
• Siouxland Area Parks and Recreation Opportunities
Family Friendly event
Free Admission
Food Vendors
Check out Siouxland Earth Day 2019 on Facebook

Why go anywhere else?
We Beat Big Box Store Prices!
When you buy from Pflanz you get:
• Professional sales staff
• All the best brands
• Best prices in town
Oh, and we’re here to help you after the sale.
That’s just what we do.
Locally owned, proudly serving
Siouxland for 60 years!