SLW May 24

SIOUXLAND WOMAN

Account Executive

Jill Foley 712-490-8506 | jill@michelscom.com

graphic designers

Ashley Carrison Makenzie Jorgenson

team of writers

Lydia Gleiser, Joanne Fox, Cheryl Wells, Sarah Grassel

Michaela Feldmann, Lisa Croston, Tanya Manus

PHOTOGRAPHER

Shane Monahan Photography www.shanemonahanphotography.com

Editor

Heather Jordan | heather@michelscom.com

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING

Cory Johnson 605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com

REGIONAL MANAGER BLACK HILLS/GSM

Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com

chief of operations

Hanna Michels 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com Siouxland Woman CONTRIBUTORS

The Basics of Braces

Why Kids Need Braces

• Crooked teeth

• Overlapping

• Overcrowded teeth

• Bad Bite (overbite/underbite)

The First Orthodontist Visit

• Examine your child’s teeth, mouth and jaw

• Ask if there are problems chewing or swallowing

• X-rays

Type of Braces

• Brackets, wires, and rubber bands

• 3M Clarity Aligners

Caring for Braces

• Brushing after meals is essential

• Daily flossing

• Regular dental cleanings and checkups

• Avoid certain foods

Peggy LASweet Success

As a shy and reserved little girl growing up in Sioux City, IA, Peggy La had big dreams of attending business school and leaving the Midwest. Never in her wildest dreams did she ever imagine moving back to Sioux City where her life would become more meaningful to her than she would have ever envisioned.

Upon graduating high school from North High, Peggy moved to Des Moines where she attended AIB College of Business earning her associate degree and then transferring to Graceland University where she continued classes to earn her bachelor’s degree in business.

This once cautious and timid child had now evolved into a charismatic, warm and outgoing person as Peggy fully embraced the college lifestyle.

“It was in college where I really found myself,” Peggy remembers. “I really came out of my shell and quit caring what other people thought. I started meeting new people and having fun while keeping up with my classes.”

Once she graduated, reality set in and so did the cost of credit card debt and student loans.

Peggy knew she had to start paying off debt. Not wanting to rack up more costs by renting a place while she looked for a job, Peggy grudgingly moved back home to start working at her parents’ grocery store Hong Kong Supermarket. “Moving back home and working at my parents’ store was never something I had envisioned for myself,” Peggy admits. “At the time, it’s what I had to do and while I started working full time there, I started noticing things that I thought would help improve the store from the products offered to the placement of items and arrangement of aisles.”

Peggy’s parents moved to the United States back in the 1970’s to work full time at formerly IBP, now Tyson. Immigrating from Vietnam, they worked tirelessly to give their children a life that they didn’t have back home. After retiring from the plant, Peggy’s parents opened Hong Kong Supermarket to provide for families that didn’t have access to specialized food and fruits and vegetables that weren’t offered in traditional American grocery stores.

“Over time, working at the store became very personal to me,” Peggy shares. “I fully immersed myself into Hong Kong Supermarket–being in charge of dayto-day operations, planning and ordering inventory, as well as the personal side of managing a grocery store.”

Peggy had big ideas for the store that her family had created and they slowly they came to life as her mother gave her full reign of the decision-making regarding Hong Kong Supermarket.

First, Peggy started by giving the store a much-needed facelift and by purchasing new fixtures. She also rearranged the flow of the aisles and started catering to the needs of families by putting in special orders for food and other needed items. “It became more to me than just putting in an order here and there for someone. I started feeling so honored and privileged to help others by getting them not only food for nourishment, but by being a part of the happiness that surrounds meals and get togethers. Helping others in the community became so fulfilling to me,” Peggy says.

While Peggy became a permanent fixture at Hong Kong Supermarket, she was recruited to be a part of the Asian Pacific Islander Commissioning Board for the State of Iowa by her friend and mentor George Sayavong. “George was so amazing in uniting the community in different cultural events,” Peggy shares. As much as Peggy looked up to George, George saw a leader in Peggy, and in 2012, he convinced her to co-found Siouxland Asian Fest. Inspired by the wellknown Asian Festival in Des Moines, IA, George and Peggy wanted to replicate the same type of celebration at a local level right here in Sioux City.

“At first, we didn’t really know how this festival would look or what exactly we would do, but we started throwing the idea out there to see who else would be willing to try to make it possible,” Peggy laughs. “We found dancers who could perform traditional lion dances and a handful of people who were able to cook authentic Asian dishes.”

Through Peggy’s business smarts and her ability to collaborate with other leaders in the community, this now annual event hosts hundreds of people from around the community and the tri-state area to celebrate their own diversity while learning more about Asian culture and heritage.

“I’m really proud of how much Asian Fest has evolved from where we started,” Peggy says. “Every year we just would look at what we did, what worked and

what we could do better, and each year we tried to make improvements to make it even more inviting and bigger than the year before.”

While owning and managing Hong Kong Supermarket and putting on an annual celebration wasn’t enough to keep Peggy busy, she also started growing her own bean and alfalfa sprouts (HKS Sprouts). She spent the next five years growing and selling her sprouts to grocery stores in Sioux Falls, SD, Sioux City, and Omaha, NE.

“I’m a jack of all trades, master of none,” Peggy jokes.

At the time, Peggy was planting her own roots as she worked hard and became heavily involved in serving on various boards in the Siouxland area that included the Red Cross, March of Dimes and the Art Center.

But it was one day while working at Hong Kong Supermarket where Peggy learned that even though she was not looking for love, love found her as she first met her now fiancé, John. She laughs as she recalls that she was stocking shelves, and John came in and was purposely trying to annoy her by acting like the front of the store was busy and he needed assistance. After a few chance encounters and finally a date, John and Peggy have been

“I started feeling so honored and privileged to help others by getting them not only food for nourishment, but by being a part of the happiness that surrounds meals and get togethers.”

Without my mother’s support, I don’t know what I would’ve done or how my life would be.

ever since. Peggy jokes that John came up from Louisianna to complete a welding project and never went back home. And while Peggy was content with chasing her dreams on her own, having John by her side has been beneficial for the both of them as they have become a solid team in supporting each other.

“It was actually with the help of John that I have been able to do a lot of different projects like being able to cultivate my sprouts,” Peggy shares. Peggy has also been able to expand the outside of Hong Kong Supermarket as she had always envisioned working with food trucks, again, an idea that came to her when she and John were traveling to see his family in California.

“I’m always looking for different ways to improve things,” Peggy shares. “I found that every place we stopped at while driving along the way has these amazing food truck options and I knew I wanted to be able to provide a space like that back home.”

Back at home, Peggy was able to draw up plans, hire a consulting firm and work with the city to create Yummi Blox, an area outside of Hong Kong Supermarket on West 7th Street that is dedicated for food trucks and foodies.

“To me, building Yummi Blox from scratch and then watching the success of this area support the economic development of our city along with embracing these amazing small business food trucks was a huge win for me,” Peggy says.

Yummi Blox has been a huge achievement for Peggy as her efforts and accomplishments to better the Siouxland community have been recognized when she was honored with the Outstanding Immigration Business Award in 2020. But what is more important to Peggy cannot be found on an award plaque, but in acts of service by others. “When I look back on different cultural events that I have either been a part of or in charge of, I am so thankful to others in the community that have also had the same vision as me and supported me,” Peggy shares.

“My mother has always been a huge inspiration for my drive and ability to get things done,” Peggy says. “Without my mother’s support, I don’t know what I would’ve done or how my life would be.”

And while her life did not turn out exactly like she thought it would, she has found her place in the Siouxland community where she will continue to work and raise her family in the same city that she grew up in.

“We are firmly rooted here,” Peggy laughs. “I have my own family now and although I didn’t see it when I was younger, the Siouxland area has been so good to us. Being able to serve others and give back to Sioux City and watch it grow is what makes me truly happy. I can’t wait to see what develops next!”

More with PEGGY

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Peggy and John have two children togetherson, Zues (3 ½ years old), and daughter, Zena (2 years old).

John proposed to Peggy during the 8th annual Asian Fest by getting down on one knee in front of festival goers.

Peggy has one tattoo, a decision that Peggy shares was a sporadic one. Her tattoo is of a cherry blossom tree and a hummingbird to signify the different changes a person goes through in life just like the cycle of a cherry blossom tree. The hummingbird represents the freedom to do whatever you want.

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After several years of translating for REALTORS® in the Siouxland area, Peggy received her REALTOR® license two years ago and is now a licensed REALTOR® in the tri-state area.

Since having her own children, life has taught Peggy to slow down and prioritize her vices. She finds herself doing this by connecting with others, traveling with her family and making time for herself.

From the family...

In honor of Mother’s Day, I am sharing some family favorites from my little Mom and Grandma Odie (Joyce Wagner and

Letter Carriers to help Food Bank Stamp Out Hunger

“Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds” is a phrase long associated with the United States Postal Service.

In addition to “swift,” you can add the word “stamp” to their motto as this year Letter Carriers will again participate in the Stamp Out Hunger event on Saturday, May 11.

The nationwide community service outreach benefits nonprofits to combat food shortages. The Food Bank of Siouxland will be the local participant in this fight against hunger. Founded in 1991, the Food Bank of Siouxland is an Affiliate Food Bank of Feeding America and is a member of the Iowa Food Bank Association.

According to Sidney Marks, External Development & Communications Associate for the agency, this event enables the Food Bank to distribute food to more than 100 agency partners that serve 11 counties, eight in Iowa and three in Nebraska.

“Stamp Out Hunger is the easiest way to donate to the Food Bank of Siouxland,” Sidney says. “Your mail carrier will pick up any non-perishable items you put near your mailbox to be brought back to the Food Bank of Siouxland to be distributed to local neighbors.”

In the 30 years since it began, the National Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has collected approximately 1.9 billion pounds of food for those in need. From Alaska to Florida and Maine to Hawaii, letter carriers do double duty by delivering mail and picking up donations on this one Saturday.

People can participate in this drive in one of two ways, Sidney pointed out.

“First, you can help from the comfort of your own home by setting out non-perishable items for your mail carrier to pick up and bring back to the Food Bank of Siouxland to be distributed throughout local neighborhoods,” she says. “Second, join us at the Food Bank of Siouxland to help sort and box up donations, because this is one of our biggest donation days. We need all the help we can get to ensure our agencies are receiving the right items to feed our neighbors in need. We’re even providing lunch!”

Before you run to your cabinets or the grocery store, Sidney explains which nonperishable items are most needed.

“Our most requested items include: cereal, peanut butter, jelly, canned vegetables and fruits, canned meat, macaroni and cheese, soups, pasta, and rice,” she said. “But honestly, anything helps and we are just grateful to have anyone participate.”

You can even participate if you’re away from your letterbox that day, Sidney adds.

“The beauty of this event is that you don’t have to be home,” she says. “Your mail carrier will pick it up right at your mailbox for you.”

Individuals may also contribute with a monetary donation, Sidney notes, as even a one-dollar donation can translate into five meals.

“If anyone is interested in donating monetarily, stick it in an envelope in a donation bag for your carrier to pick up and they will deliver to us,” she says. “Just be sure to include any contact information needed for a receipt.” Questions? 712-255-9741 info@siouxlandfoodbank.org siouxlandfoodbank.org

Leticia Queen

I have always been passionate about community involvement. I enjoy volunteering and making community connections.

With countless supportive adults and mentors surrounding her throughout her journey to now, Leti says she had a great number of influential forces that helped her become the woman she is. The goal now is to be like one of those adults she had around her and to be a model for her own children and those that make up the community.

“If I can make a difference in at least one person’s life, then it makes all the work worth it,” Leti smiles.

Day-to-day in the office, Leti works with mostly GED students and English language learners. She works one-on-one with students who strive to achieve higher education. “The students work hard, and their determination is admirable,” Leti says.

Outside of her career and community work, Leti enjoys painting, reading, and just being surrounded by her biggest supporters and friends. During the summer months, the whole family spends a lot of time outdoors together where they work on maintaining a vegetable garden. In addition to reaping the benefits of delicious, fresh produce, the family takes it as an opportunity to learn new ways to live more sustainably.

Leti with her mother and two brothers celebrating her mother’s 50th birthday. Left to right; Samuel, Sara, Rene, and Leti

PRESENTING SPONSOR

OBSTETRICIANS & GYNECOLOGISTS

Siouxland Women’s Health Care has been treating women in Siouxland for over 50 years. From adolescence to menopause, our system of care recognizes each women’s uniqueness as she transitions through life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to inquire about any of our services. siouxlandwomenshealth.com

SAVE YOUR HEARING

May is National Speech Language Hearing Month, which is a great time to take action to do your best to save your hearing. Dr. Desiree Su, audiologist with Ear, Nose and Throat Consultants, shares valuable insight into this topic.

Why is it important to save your hearing?

Healthy hearing is vital to ensure a person’s ability to participate in effective communication with loved ones, peers, and friends. Our hearing organ is called the cochlea, which is home to tiny hair cells that send information to our auditory nerve. These delicate hair cells can easily be damaged from prolonged loud noise exposure. When damage occurs, it may result in temporary or permanent hearing loss. Individuals will notice difficulties discriminating clarity of speech resulting in mishearing similar words, disagreements between conversing partners, and asking for repetition. If you note these issues, consult with your local audiologist for a baseline audiogram and discussion about healthy hearing.

What can be done to save your hearing?

Hearing protection comes in a variety of styles that are easily accessible. Insert foam plugs and over the ear protective muffs can be purchased at the local convenience store. Custom hearing protection requires a visit with your local audiologist to take an ear mold impression of the ear to help the manufacturer build your custom ear mold. Hearing protection can be used during many recreational activities such as sporting events, concerts, fireworks shows and hunting.

Individuals can safely be exposed to 85 decibel sounds for eight hours. As the decibel level increases from the noise, the time frame for exposure decreases. A good rule of thumb to consider when determining whether or not hearing protection is needed is when an individual finds themselves raising their voice to be heard over the noise. Typically, this means the noise has exceeded 85 decibels, and this would be an opportune time to consider utilizing hearing protection. The louder the noise, the shorter the period of time one should be exposed to noise without proper hearing protection. Examples of noises above 85 decibels in our daily lives include: headphones, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, airplanes taking off, and firearms.

Distance from the loud noise source. The American Speech Language and Hearing Association recommends standing approximately 500 feet away from the noise source (i.e., speakers at an event or fireworks show). As distance is created from the noise source, the decibel level begins to decrease, which in turn can change the time limit of noise exposure.

Monitor the volume of the noise. There are many apps and gadgets that allow for noise level volume monitoring. For example, when listening to music or audio content, our cell phones can limit the maximum volume level set. Setting a time limit can prevent the possibility of exceeding 85 decibels when enjoying the audio content. In addition, smart watches, cell phones, or even a downloadable app can act as a sound level meter. A sound level meter is a great resource to measure the sound level of the environment. If the level is too noisy, this would serve as a great reminder to consider utilizing hearing protection or to create a greater distance between oneself and the noise source.

If you want to personally discuss ways to save your hearing with an audiologist, or if you are already noticing signs of hearing loss, contact Ear Nose and Throat Consultants at 605-217-4320 to schedule your evaluation today.

www.entconsultants.net

SERENITY NOW

JAPANDI STYLE EVOKES

TRANQUILITY, COMFORT

Clean lines, comforting textures, and calm. Japandi, the minimalist, multicultural trend that’s been taking interior design by storm, may be the ultimate style where everything appears orderly, but in a serene way.

Japandi blends the minimalist aesthetic of Japanese design with the natural materials and coziness of Scandinavian design. Japandi style brings together two cultures that value simplicity and tranquility. The resulting design style proves the beauty of the adage “less is more.”

Japandi style is uncluttered and sparse, with its muted neutral palette of cream, brown, gray and black, tactile organic materials, and the simple lines of contemporary furnishings. It creates rooms that are inviting sanctuaries with a sense of order.

The staff at Mod House Interiors can show you how to incorporate elements of Japandi style and its relaxed mood into your home. Mod House’s look books and one of its most popular Pinterest mood boards called “Flat Lay Design” are filled with inspiration for Japandi-style living, dining and bedrooms.

Mod House’s “Flay Lay Design” mood board is a primer for the essential elements of Japandi design. Mod House’s style for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms take their cues from the mood board. Each look book features furnishings, art and lighting that Mod House offers to bring Japandi design into your home.

“When creating a look for your home … rip out pages from magazines, save online images, and snap photos of your surroundings. You can even gather paint samples, fabric swatches, and other unique pieces that catch your eye,” says Lisa Kalaher, owner of Mod House Design.

Japandi’s unique East-meets-West design prioritizes functional objects over items whose only purpose is to be decorative. It focuses on everyday beauty — the earthy hues of tables and chairs, geometric shapes, and subtly patterned rugs. These rooms are refreshingly free of excess, accessorized only with a select few practical items such as vases and mugs.

The modern lines and timeless neutrals that serve as the foundations of Japandi design are complemented by organic textures — woven baskets, cane, fluted wood, cotton, and muslin.

“Textures play a crucial role in Japandi design, with elements such as rattan, linen, and wool adding visual interest and tactile appeal to the space,” Lisa says.

Personalize your Japandi-style rooms with accents such as ceramics, baskets and minimalist or monochromatic artwork.

Lisa and her staff invite you to visit ModHouse to find out how they can help you design a stylish, harmonious home with a tranquil, comfortable atmosphere.

Come by. Explore.

Ask questions and get a feel for what’s possible.

- Lisa Kalaher Owner

Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm Saturday 10am - 2pm

5 Stages of Grief Every Family Law Client (and Person) Should Know

Family law encompasses a wide range of issues, from divorce, child support, child custody, grandparent visitation, guardianships, adoptions, etc. Lawyers, financial advisors, insurance agents, accountants, bankers, hairdressers – you name it – we all have clients who lean on us to listen and understand them if they are going through a family law case. One of the best things I’ve learned and implemented into my legal practice is identifying and being mindful of my client’s stage of grief. I’ve also learned that most settlements occur when both parties are at the final stage – acceptance. If one party is in denial and the other party is simply angry, the chances of settlement are slim.

Whether you have a loved one, friend, or client who is in the midst of a family law matter (or any period of grief such as loss of a loved one, loss of a relationship, or loss of a job), it will help you immensely to be aware of the five stages of grief. The Swiss American psychiatrist, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, was inducted to the American National Women’s Hall of Fame for her theory on these five stages:

Denial

Many of my divorce clients start out in a stage of denial. More often than not, one spouse is more ready for a divorce than the other, leaving the less prepared spouse in a state of disbelief and outright denial. Denial can be a useful coping mechanism, as long as it doesn’t prevent the person from moving to the next stage.

Anger

Nearly all divorce clients I’ve encountered have experienced some level of anger during their divorce. The client may be angry their marriage failed, their spouse is making things difficult, they’ll have a schedule as to when they spend time with their children, their spouse has moved on to another relationship – the reasons are endless. At the end of the day, a client involved in a family law matter generally has the right to be angry. Like denial, the anger stage is expected (and actually healthy) for the person’s eventual healing. I recall a family law trial which took us three days to try. Midway through the Judge spoke to the parents off the record and said, “Now that you’ve each had the opportunity to testify and speak your piece, you might try and settle this matter.” The Judge’s point was clear – once people can release their anger and be heard, they’re in a better position to move forward.

Bargaining

People in the bargaining stage will try to undo the damage that’s been done. This stage is generally the result of the person feeling they’ve reached their emotional breaking point and just want life to get back to normal. I’ve seen a few people in this stage reconcile and call off the divorce or modification case. Most others, however, eventually progress to the next stage of emotion.

Depression

A state of depression is to be expected for anyone involved in a divorce or child custody matter. People may find themselves unable to sleep, watching infomercials and eating Oreos well into the early morning hours. It’s important for people to cry and talk through these emotions to anyone who will listen. There is also nothing wrong with seeking professional counseling and guidance when battling depressive episodes. I’ve recommended this to many clients and seen the person come out much stronger and happier.

Acceptance

This stage is the light at the end of the tunnel. Here, people finally accept what is happening. There will still be times of sadness, anger, etc., but a person who has reached the level of acceptance understands he or she is a survivor and life will go on – not as he or she originally imagined, but it will go on and there will still be many good times ahead.

At the conclusion of most family law cases, I encourage my clients to capitalize on their fresh start; their new normal. Clients should update their estate plans, work with their accountants, insurance agents, financial advisors, therapists, and other professionals to make this happen.

The information contained herein is for informational purposes only, and is not legal advice or a substitute for legal counsel.  You should not act or rely on any information herein.

www.buchheitlaw.net

633 1st Street, Sergeant Bluff, IA 51054 712-823-1024 Lindsey@Buchheitlaw.net

Farm to Table Family Operation: The Nohava Dream

The Nohava family has been around cattle for as long as they can remember. From the time that Bryan Sr. was little, he was helping his grandpa in the cattle barns with chores and was always finding ways to be involved in the cattle industry.

The company has installed close to 23 million square feet of Duro-Last roofing across more than ten states in the Midwest.

During the week, the business takes up to 80 hours of Bryan’s time, but he missed working with cattle. At the time that Bryan and Brenda had their youngest son, Bryan Jr., they started getting back into the cattle industry. Bryan Sr. adds, “It started off as a hobby for myself, really.”

“I grew up on a livestock farm in South Dakota, and I used to work at the sale barn in high school,” Bryan Sr. shares. He also hauled livestock from time to time and was no stranger to working long hours. After the barn Bryan Sr. worked at closed, he got out of the industry for a while.

Picking up a passion for roofing from his father, Bryan turned to their family commercial roofing business and was a subcontractor for seven years before he and his wife Brenda decided to start their own company. In 1998, Nohava Construction was founded and is still running successfully today.

With only a few cows from a rancher in Alzada, Montana, the beef was enough to feed the family and keep Bryan’s passion for the ranching life alive. “Brenda found a rancher in Alzada that was actually one of the first to bring the Scottish Highland X Longhorn breed to the United States,” Bryan explains.

The namesake of the cattle enterprise, Nohava Ranch started with the phrase, “Let’s all go out to Nohava Ranch!” and the moniker stuck. A hobby farm by design, the term “ranch” was applied after mentioning the distance driven between Le Mars and Hawarden, Iowa, a mere 35 minutes that seemed “so far away,” Brenda shares.

“Dad has always raised a unique breed, from the toughness of the cattle themselves to the quality and tenderness of the meat. “

Bryan

Jr.

Adding the Last Piece to the Puzzle

For years after consuming their own beef, Bryan Sr. had a dream for the ranch. The idea of selling directly to consumers began, but it required a lot of help and hard work to make it a reality. That’s where Bryan Jr. and his wife Lexi come in.

While continuing the family commercial roofing business,, Bryan Sr. started bringing more cattle into the herd and the operation sprouted. However, it was going to take every bit of help from those around him. “It turns out, Bryan Jr., Lexi, and Brenda are the brains, and I am the brawn,” Bryan Sr. admits. Ranching comes easy to Bryan, but the marketing and logistics of how to move the product was somewhat of a challenge.

Bryan Jr., who grew up with cattle, was the most interested in the operation out of his three other siblings. He shares, “I gravitated more towards helping with the chores growing up and genuinely enjoyed the agricultural scene.”

Outside of the family operation, Bryan Jr. went to college for agricultural management and holds a full-time job at CNH Industrial America in Fargo, ND as a logistics specialist. “My job has really helped me gain insight into what became the next step of the family operation,” Bryan Jr. states. “When it came to moving product and inventory, shipping, and direct distribution to consumers, my position opened my eyes to see just how to make that a reality.”

Everyone has their role to play. Lexi adds, “All four of us bring something unique to the table. I have a master’s degree in architecture and work fulltime in interior design, but I also market for other Midwest brands and local companies, so I knew how to get the ranch’s social and e-marketing on a roll.”

Brenda helps where she can. “She fills in the gaps,” Bryan Sr. smiles. Running to pick up products from the local butcher when it’s processed, or helping during the busy calving season, Brenda has a hand in all parts of the operation.

“Consumers are beginning to shift as a society in being intentional about what is put into our bodies. People care that our product is 95% lean and where it comes from. We know there are other people out there like us who want to eat meat that hasn’t been filled with hormones, preservatives, steroids, etc.“

In addition to family members lending a helping hand, Brock Nohava and Brandy Sanchez also tend to the cattle when Bryan Sr. and Brenda are away or Bryan Jr. and Lexi are unable. During winter storms if Bryan is gone on the road, Brock opens up the driveway and feeds the cattle hay, while Brandy keeps an eye on the watering systems during hot, summer days.

In the last year or so since Lexi and Bryan Jr. really stepped in, the family dream is becoming closer and closer to a reality. They all hope to see it continue to expand in the future and are excited for the new possibilities the foursome can accomplish together.

Lexi shares, “We can now ship directly to your doorstep nationwide, and we’re proud of our product.”

Bryan Sr. says the end product is just the way nature intended them. With a focus on raising low-stress cattle, the family keeps a relatively small herd at a time giving them proper space to graze. The quality of product the Nohavas sell is what sets them apart.

The herd size is roughly 30 cattle that have free-range of 40 acres to roam. The Nohava family has a goal and plans to raise and process anywhere from 300500 head per year. They’ve seen a huge demand for quality products in the area and are excited to fill the need in the community and region as a whole.

Each step of the way, the family is intentional about everything. “We are proud to eat our own beef and we would not sell something that we don’t love ourselves. We mostly sell farm to table to single households,” Bryan Sr. says. The customers the Nohava Ranch reaches are families who care about where the cattle are raised, how they are fed and cared for, and the story behind the people who raise them.

When Bryan Sr. started on the operation on a larger scale, many products reached the community first through donation. “I sold some, but we donated to many different non-profits, and 15 years ago Brenda had a great idea to start a backpack program,” Bryan explains. The inspiration came from one of Bryan Jr.’s third-grade football teammates. Giving back to the community, the backpack program now serves approximately 375 students a week.

FREE APPETIZER OR DESSERT for lunch or dinner for all active military.

GETTING A HANDLE ON ANXIETY

Many of us have felt anxious at some point in our lives – whether it was giving a big presentation or talking to someone new – we’ve probably felt our heart racing or had knots in our stomach.

“Anxiety impacts each of us so differently,” says Emily Laffin, Director of School-Based Therapy at South Sioux City Schools for Heartland Counseling Services. “And anxiety itself is adaptive. It’s something we developed to keep us going and protect us. Even though we don’t face the same things our ancestors did, it’s still built into our genetics,” Emily shares.

Meaning many times, we may experience anxiety and not know why.

“You have different kinds of anxiety,” Emily explains. “First is contextual, which is appropriate to the event and is time limited. It’s ‘I’m feeling anxious about something and it’s preparing me to cope as best I can.’ Then when the event is over, we can shake anxiety off pretty well.”

But you can also experience persistent and parasitic anxiety.

“People can experience things like paralysis where we feel stuck, and we are not able to go into any of our healthy preparation,” says Emily. “Some people completely shut down and avoid the issue.”

If you don’t get a handle on anxiety, it can impact your ability to function in your daily life. You can be restless or irritable, have headaches, heartburn, stomach aches, hives, a lack of sleep and appetite or an overwhelming sense of dread.

“Because our bodies are on such high alert and hyper vigilant, a lot of people feel fatigued, drained and sluggish.”

And, it’s not just happening in adults. As a school-based therapist, Emily works with kids and teens.

I think people are less guarded and are more at ease to talk about mental health issues like anxiety.

“I would say it’s one of the top two issues we see in schools. I’m not sure if it’s more prevalent, but I’ve noticed people are finding it more acceptable to talk about. I think people are less guarded and are more at ease to talk about mental health issues like anxiety,” Emily states.

It’s a trend Emily says she’s feeling positive about. “When people talk about it, they aren’t suffering in silence. There was so much that was being held hostage within themselves that was coming out in other ways like sleep disruption, anger or depression because it doesn’t just go away. Now, these kiddos have the opportunity to talk about it and know it’s nothing to be ashamed of and know they are not alone.”

Having that place to turn to for support is vital to working through and dealing with life on life’s terms. But how do you learn get a handle on anxiety and cope? Emily says first, listen to your gut.

“90 percent of the serotonin that our body makes to regulate our mood is made in our gut and one of the main places anxiety shows up in physical symptoms is our bellies. When we are listening to our bodies, we are able to navigate where we are holding on to this tension.”

So, Emily says, start with some basic probiotics.

“Gut-brain health is huge. If our guts are off, it will impact our mood and anxiety.”

Next, take a look at how much exercise and sleep you’re getting. If the foundational needs are not being met, it can throw everything off.

EMILY LAFFIN LIMHP, LADC

Emily has worked at Heartland since 2012. Beginning July 1, 2021, Emily was promoted from School Based Mental Health Therapist for the South Sioux City Middle School to School Based Mental Health Administrator. Emily specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and co-occurring diagnoses. She has experience working with all ages of individuals and is the past Substance Abuse Administrator for Heartland. Emily is an approved registered service provider with Nebraska Probation.

If you need help please visit heartlandcounselingservices.org

PO Box 355, South Sioux City, NE 68776

1201 Arbor Dr., South Sioux City, NE 68776 402-494-3337

221 W. Douglas St., O’Neill, NE 68763 402-336-2800

938 E. Zero St., Brown County Clinic, Ainsworth, NE 69210 402-336-2800

“We have to move in some way,” says Emily. “It doesn’t have to be going to the gym and lifting weights. People find so many different ways to stay active. As long as your body is moving, it’s helping.”

Now, take a look at your diet. Are you eating a lot of processed food or foods that inhibit gut access?

“Nutritional changes are really important. Also, introduce some anti-inflammatory vitamins, B vitamins and foods with probiotics. The foods we eat have a tremendous impact on our mental health,” Emily explains.

Emily also recommends you take a look at your sugar and caffeine intake. Then, there are things like mindfulness and breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, spending time in nature, taking some time for education and self-exploration and setting boundaries.

“I think one of the most important things you’re doing though is being very kind and patient with yourself when you’re navigating anxiety and life. None of us know what we are doing, and we are doing our best. Negative self-talk can very easily creep in. It’s important to know, you are not alone and there is help and support out there.”

Congratulations Class of 2024

Call any of the Siouxland Hy-Vee’s today for your Graduation Party Planning!

Get all the best catering options, graduation cakes and desserts, and themed decoration ideas. Your Siouxland Hy-Vee’s can help create a celebration to remember.

SCAN FOR YOUR GRADUATION GUIDE!

Motherly Advice…

Say please and thank you.

My favorite memory of my Mother… Mom was always there.

- LaMerle

Motherly Advice...

Take care of yourself and others while being loving!

My favorite memory of my Mother… She was always there for my sister and me.

- Lavine

Motherly Advice…

Have them know there is someone greater (God) than they are and to respect others.

My favorite memory of my Mother… Sitting on the floor while she read books to us.

- Erma

My favorite memory of my wife as a Mother…

Having all the kids!

- Ollie

from StoneyBrook Suites Assisted Living

Motherly Advice…

Always tell the truth.

My favorite memory of my Mother… Her sense of humor.

- Mary

Motherly Advice… Listen.

My favorite memory of my Mother… Her cooking.

- Dorothy

Motherly Advice… Sometimes it’s best to keep your mouth shut.

- Geri

Motherly Advice…

Always be as kind as the people that work at StoneyBrook!

My favorite memory of my Mother… She would sit in her chair with 5 kids around her to say the evening prayer.

- Mae

“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.”

- Tia Walker

Life is Sweet in Stoneybrook Suites

OU r M i SS i ON

We are a full-service assisted living community “To foster the well-being of each resident by nurturing the mind, body, and spirit while maintaining each resident’s enjoyment of independence and dignity in a secure and supportive environment. We invite you to come to StoneyBrook Suites, where our joy is in serving you.”

a M e N i T ie S

• Coffee Shop

• Salon

• Walk-in Whirlpool Spa

• Centrally located meals and activities

S erV i C e S

• Caring, trusted, 24-hour staff

• Personal housekeeping

• Theater

• Courtyards

• Spacious suites all on one level

• Three homestyle meals per day

• Professional medication administration and laundry

• On-site physical, restorative

• Scheduled daily social and and cognitive therapy exercise activities

• Wellness clinic

• Personal pendant system

• Assistance with activities of daily living

If you’re considering assisted living, we are here to help every step of the way. Schedule a tour and see the quality of life available to you or your loved one.

Never stop growing, exploring, learning, and challenging yourself.

976 WYNSTONE DR., WYNSTONE, SD

5 BEDROOMS | 7 BATHROOMS | 5-CAR GARAGE | 8,529 SQ. FT. | 3.31 ACRES | $2,900,000

Native Cottonwood trees and stunning Midwest sunrise and sunsets adorn this custom Estate. Rare opportunity to live on the coveted Wynstone Drive - 181' of waterfront on the Missouri River. Sophisticated elegance with French Country inspired finishes. Carefully curated with custom architectural appointments, fine woods, custom iron work, brick and stone. Main and lower levels are perfect for entertaining with walls of windows opening to the covered deck, massive pool patio terrace, hot tub and full cabana for grilling and drinks. Great room with 35' beamed ceilings open to the chef's kitchen, custom cabinets from Pioneer cabinets, gas stove, separate pantry, all granite counters. Luxurious master suite with spa like bathroom with fireplace and vanity mirror, TV. Guest bedroom with 3/4 bath, formal dining, office, and 1/2 bath and main floor laundry

with drop zone and bath complement the main floor. Access to the covered concrete deck from Master bedroom, and kitchen eating area. All plantation shutters. Upper level features 2 bedrooms with shared full bath and another large bedroom with walk-in closet and another bath. This level is heated by separate geothermal unit for this level. Lower level features movie theater room, walk-out family room area with oversized bar area, exercise room and another bath. This level has heated floors and two geothermal units for the main house. 5-stall garage complex and so much more. The balance between quality and function is evident with Savant smart technology, geothermal systems and top grade mechanical. Custom built by Terry Schultzen, this one owner home checks all the boxes.

"Barb Maxon is a consumate professional. She knows the Siouxland market and went above and beyond to help us purchase our new home. Barb has the experience, market knowledge and skills to help any home buyer or seller with their real estate needs."

- Pat and Marilyn, Dakota Dunes, SD

Styled to Perfection from Head to Toe

“ It ’ s so fun to get dressed up , go to work every day and make people look and feel great ,” says Sydney Muff, owner and master stylist for Head Rush Salon.

They started out with eight chairs and two rooms for services like facials, eyelashes and waxing, but Sydney knew she wasn’t done there.

“Last year we expanded and doubled in size. Now we have 3,400 square feet of space, 14 chairs and 12 stylists. We also expanded from two treatment rooms to four and that allowed us to expand our services as well,” Sydney explains.

Services like No Filter Aesthetics that offers laser hair removal, chemical peels, dermablading, Hydrafacials and more!

“I can’t even go over all of the things Angie does because there are just so many options. The Hydrafacials are just the best thing ever if you have an event like a wedding or graduation coming up. It just gets that gunk out of your skin and brightens it up.”

In another room, you’ll find a lash technician who does extensions, microblading, lamination of the eyebrows, lash lifts and tints.

“People want to take care of how they look –whether it’s hair, facials, lashes or nails. It just makes you feel better. I love that we have become this fullservice salon and we are able to help promote one another. It’s important to take care of yourself and feeling good does make a difference in your mood,” Sydney shares.

Head Rush Salon also recently added a barber that accepts walk-ins.

“That has been really exciting,” says Sydney. “A lot of the men, the husbands of my clients, don’t want to come to me because they don’t want to make an appointment. They want to go to a locally owned place, so, I think that’s awesome that we have a barber now.”

Not only do clients have plenty of options in services, but they also benefit from years of experience.

“Everyone, aside from the girls who just graduated, has been here since the beginning. I think that speaks volumes. We don’t have a lot of staff turn over here. Customers come in and they see the same faces that have been here for years. You can trust that you’re going to get great service whether it’s getting your hair done or caring for you as a person,” Sydney states.

And anyone who has gotten their hair done knows how important connecting with your stylist is.

“I always joke that we are your hair-a-pists. Not only are you going to get great service, but you’re going to get some advice in our chairs. We form those relationships with our clients as well,” Sydney smiles.

Those clients are also what help Head Rush stand out.

“It just such a fun vibe when you walk in. I can tell the clients love it and they’re just having a great time. Plus, we play some awesome music.”

As Sydney looks ahead to the next five or so years, she says she hopes to keep doing what she’s doing now.

“ I love my clients and I love my girls . I just want to provide a great place for people to come .”

Keep your Cool with

For nearly 20 years, O’Connor Heating & Cooling has been providing the air conditioning services Sioux City residents need to keep their homes comfortable when temperatures rise.

Our friendly and knowledgeable technicians will service and repair any brand of air conditioning system, regardless of age. In addition, we install new Rheem AC systems and would be happy to speak with you about their benefits.

Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repair and Installation

Bursting with Flavor

Primetime Steak and Chop House Brings Big City Flavor

It’s big city flavor, with a small-town vibe.

That’s what you’ll get when you take a trip to Primetime Steak and Chop House in Hinton, Iowa.

“We really pride ourselves on being more than just a place to eat,” says owner and head chef Luke Howell. “It’s really a place where you can come with your friends and family and have a fantastic meal.”

Creating that kind of atmosphere is something Luke says he is passionate about. In January 2022, he and his wife Tiffany (Cali) Howell opened the doors to Primetime, helping fulfill a lifelong dream for Luke.

“ We really pride ourselves on being more than just a place to eat.

“I’ve loved being in the kitchen since I was a teenager. I remember one of the first times I walked into a kitchen and someone was cooking roasted garlic and onions. That smell has been seared into my memory ever since,” says Luke.

Luke worked his way up from dish duty to fry cook and by the time he graduated high school, he knew he wanted to go to culinary school.

“I finished the two-year program in a year and a half because I was so passionate,” Luke adds.

As we all know, life happens and Luke ended up taking a detour in his passions –working in the lawn service industry for 20 years. Then, life brought him to Le Mars, IA. Five years later, Luke found himself with the opportunity he’s always dreamed of.

“I got a call and they said, ‘This restaurant is for sale. Do you want it?’ I was blown away. My wife Tiffany was 110 percent supportive. She knew my passion and that this was my dream. She told me to go for it and I jumped at the opportunity!”

The opportunity afforded Luke the ability to create something spectacular: a restaurant featuring mouthwatering dishes and high-quality service, bringing people from all over Siouxland and beyond to small-town Hinton, Iowa.

“We’ve had guests from Sioux City, Elk Point, Yankton, Sioux Falls and more come into Primetime and say what a wonderful experience they had. A lot of times, they don’t know much about the community or our location, so it’s a great opportunity to share some history over a great meal,” Luke explains.

If you’re looking for a little more comfort with your seafood, check out the gourmet white cheddar lobster mac & cheese.

A great meal featuring Primetime’s signature dish: the Luke Special, a 24-hour marinated, eight-hour slow roasted prime rib that leaves your mouth watering just hearing about it.

“It’s beyond expectations, and we have it every day of the week that we are open. It really gets this nice bark on the outside and allows the flavors to integrate into the meat,” Luke shares.

Looking for an explosion of flavors in your mouth? Look no further than the jalapeño cornbread.

“That is a HUGE seller for us,” says Luke. “It’s nice and moist. The sweet cornbread has a little bit of spicy jalapeño, and we put some honey on top of it. It’s really extraordinary.”

The steak options are endless from the ribeye – aged up to 30 days and tender from the first bite – to the cast-iron Delmonico steak.

“The Delmonico is a ribeye steak, and we sear it on the flat top,” Luke explains. “While we do that, we get our homemade mushroom cream alfredo sauce ready. We start with sliced shiitake mushrooms, and we put them in a pan with a little bit of garlic, butter, and salt to sauté them. Then, we add a bottle of Guinness and reduce it down letting those mushrooms soak it all up. Next, we put our homemade alfredo sauce in there. We combine it all in a cast iron pan with the steak and it is just to die for.”

Is seafood more your style? Take a delectable bite into the honey bourbon or cedar plank salmon, or sample the shrimp or scallops.

“We just came out with a new menu, and it includes a crab-stuffed tilapia. Oh my goodness, is it good. It’s two fillets of tilapia seasoned and seared. Then we take crab stuffing, chop it up, add a little bit of heavy cream mixture into it and sandwich it in between the two fillets and throw it in the oven to finish it off. It is truly amazing,” Luke smiles.

“We add five different cheeses for this dish including a little bit of our lobster cream sauce that has been baked into the macaroni and cheese with the penne noodles,” Luke shares. “Then, we place a lobster tail on top. The taste is just a burst of flavor in your mouth.”

It’s those big city flavors, along with high-quality service that sets Primetime apart.

“Our food and dining experience are really number one,” Luke adds. “We put out high-quality meat and seafood and don’t skimp on any of the ingredients. We hope our customers always walk out flooded with the feeling of a truly exceptional experience and tell everyone about Primetime Steak and Chop House.”

In fact, they were just featured on America’s Best Restaurants. “The team came out to record us back in November and decided they wanted to share our restaurant with the rest of the country,” says Luke. “We’ve spent the last two years pushing ourselves to make this restaurant a dream come true. To be able to have this recognition, not only from the Siouxland community, but on a national level, means all of the hard work, tireless nights, long days and lost weekends has paid off.”

Check out Primetime for yourself: 200 E. Main Street –Hinton, IA.

To watch the interview with America’s Best Restaurants, visit Primetime’s Facebook Page.

Check out Primetime for yourself!

NATIONAL NURSES WEEK

MAY 6 - MAY 12

Join Tri-State Nursing, the Midwest’s leading nursing staffing agency, to honor the varying roles of nurses and their positive impact in our lives. Nurses make a difference as trusted advocates who ensure individuals, families, and communities receive quality patient care and services.

Nurses make a difference every day!

If you are interested in making a difference, become an RN, LPN, or CNA/CMA with Tri-State Nursing! We are professionals with pride!

“As a nurse myself, I know first hand the care and compassion these individuals display is incredibly profound! A career in nursing is extremely rewarding and limitless!”

We honor and strengthen the interconnections between people and plants. Our hand-crafted, small-batch blends are created with mindful precision to arouse the senses, stimulate the imagination, and to support vibrant well-being. Our commitment to total wellness means our teas are good for you, and good for the plants.

Aquarius

A functional blend crafted to enhance the vitality of Aquarians using grounding plant allies that help restore balance between the para-and sympathetic nervous systems, strengthen heart function, build blood, increase focus, and reduce stress.

CAPRICORN

Inspired by the determination and staid focus of Capricorns, this blend of plant medicines are uniquely suited to bring moisture balance, strength, flexibility, and purification to the Capricornian constitution.

HUNTRESS

A powerful, richly layered adaptogenic tonic that promotes increased vitality, stamina, and creativity. Featuring our beautifully floral Artemis Grey black tea and siberian ginseng.

NOCTURNE

Nocturne helps ease and relax the body and mind in preparation for quiet slumber. Grounding and sensually uplifting, Nocturne is smooth, fragrant, and gently intoxicating.

Giveaway!

Meet the SweetWater Staff!

Simone

Harris-Evans

began her career at SweetWater seven years ago, where she worked her way up from Barista, to Supervisor, and now Assistant Team Manager. She currently oversees the Downtown (skywalk level) location! Her hobbies include reading, gardening, and spending time with family.

our staff at any of our 3 Siouxland locations!

Visit any one of our locatio to enter for a chance to w $100 Visa gift card!

Visit any one of our locations to enter for a chance to win $100 Visa gift card!

Planning a special event...Let SweetWater Cafe help you be the best host! From intimate gatherings to corporate meetings, our inviting cafes and unmatched catering services make event planning a breeze.