Expand Magazine - Volume 6 Issue 3

Formerly Siouxland Magazine
Rex
Mueller
Service to
Community &
Commitment
to Family
Accepting
Nominations
Unity
in the
Community
Is Sioux City
Getting a
Roundabout?
Relief from Allergies
ask the
Therapist
Fighting with
Your Partner?
Advice to Get Past
Gridlock
Volume 6, Issue 3

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ReLieve MuSCLe SoReNeSS
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iMpRove Speed of HeaLiNg
iNCReaSe MobiLiTy aNd fLexibiLiTy
aLLeviaTe LyMpaHTiC CoNdiTioNS
“Be well with THRIVE”
(712) 870-2574
819 Gordon Drive • Sioux City, IA

2023 Winners
Siouxland Magazine is proud to host the 13th annual 2024 10 Under 40 recognition! The
highly anticipated issue comes out in September, featuring young professionals in Siouxland who
are making a real difference in our community. We are accepting nominations up until July 1st.
Don’t hesitate. The form can be found on our website at Expand2More.com.
Here is what we look for in Siouxland’s 10 Under 40.
Look around to your co-workers, employees, bosses, friends, colleagues, and think about who meets the
following criteria:
• Under the age of 40 as of December 31st, 2024 (Yes, you may have to ask, but he/she will be
honored that you are thinking of them for an award!)
• Is a business owner or high executive/manager/director (or has experience in this area) within their
organization. This can be a large corporation, small business, or non-profit organization.
• Must be in their current position or have had experience in a managerial role for at least one year.
• Lives and works in the Siouxland area (approximately a 60-mile radius around Sioux City.)
Has a history of displaying:
• Vision and Leadership
• Innovation and Achievement
• Growth/Development Strategy
• Community Involvement/Contribution
• Consistent display of excellent character
and ethics
presented by

Expand /4
We are here to live a BIG life. To explore our inner and outer
world, moving us towards the leading edge to discover what we
are capable of that can be of contribution. To create a life designed
with intention and executed with passion.
This publication aspires to be a source of inspiration. We are
committed to connecting you with community experts and
information to help you live your best life. It is our intention to
encourage balance in your life, reminding you to prioritize your
health and wellness while pursuing your dreams. We wish for you
to be healthy, strong and radiant. We wish for you to find meaning
in your work and be of service to those around you.
In these pages, you’ll find advice and resources, but you will also
find community and love. It is our desire to be by your side on your
journey, providing articles, video content, podcasts, trainings, and
live events. We are here for your expansion.
This is your life.
For those who want more…
To be more, do more and give more.

Editors
NOte
Expand / 5
In this issue of Expand, we have the opportunity
to take a peek into the world of law enforcement. We
get to see the person behind the badge. We are not
only reminded of the importance of this role in the
community, but also that the people who wear the
badge are people, just like us. I am very honored to
share that our cover person for May is Police Chief
Rex Mueller.
When I first asked Rex if he would share his story,
he encouraged me to instead focus on more
deserving individuals, other law enforcement officers,
first responders, or the spouses who shoulder the
tremendous role of supporting their loved ones.
With that great insight, we decided to fold more
into this issue. Not only did Rex graciously answer
our questions, but we interviewed his wife, Sandra,
and Jennifer Braunschweig, wife of Officer Jason
Braunschweig. We also had a wonderful interview
with Monique Scarlett, the founder of Unity in the
Community.
Although we were able to share a few different
perspectives into this complex and consuming life
path, we know that we only scratched the surface.
It is my hope that it offers an opportunity to reflect
on the different aspects of the life of those involved
in law enforcement and to consider how we can be
a stronger community through mutual respect and
initiatives to work together.
Always approaching life with curiosity and love,
Stacie
Can we have the hard conversations
and maintain respect while also
holding steady to our values?
Styled by Rooted Boutique | Photo Credit Anna Marie Photography
Stacie Anderson
Owner of Empowering Conversations LLC & Expand
Certified John Maxwell Speaker, Trainer & Coach
Passionate about Leadership & Communication
Expand 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.

e more
8-9
10-11
12-13
14-15
16-17
18-21
do more
24-25
26-27
28-29
30
31
33
give more
39
40-41
42-43
45
Table of Contents
Ask the Therapist – Fighting With Your Partner
Health is a Journey – Pollen, Dust Allergies and You
Nurturing the Power of Your Intentions
Dare 2B Great – Body Types: Mesomorph, Ectomorph, & Endomorph Explained
Living Lumin – The Life I Love
Cover Story – Rex Mueller
Small Business Spotlight – Fastsigns of Sioux City
IWCI’s Business Feature – From Our Mesa Sourdough Microbakery
SBDC – Taking Care of Business – Calculating Your Startup Costs
Leadership Siouxland – It’s a World of Great Opportunity
Experience Downtown – Experience Downtown Like a VIP!
Council Connection – Decision Making 101: Get The Full Story
Inclusive Peek – Elizabeth Alcalá
Nonprofit Spotlight – Unity in the Community
Behind the Shield – Sandra Mueller and Jennifer Braunschweig
Hot Air with Tony Michaels – Motivational Mojo
ON THE COVER: Police Cheif Rex Mueller | Styled by Rooted Boutique | Photo Credit

EXPAND | BE MORE / 7
Who are you becoming?
Being more is simply growing beyond who you were yesterday.
No perfection. Just progress.
It’s about living life to its fullest and learning from every moment
so that we show up healthier, stronger, and more radiant.
Our writers want to support you on your journey of self-reflection
and discovery of your fullest potential.
Be more.

EXPAND | BE MORE /8
Q:
ask the
Therapist
By Jackie Paulson
My partner and I fight all the time. We have several issues that just
keep coming up and I don’t know what to do anymore. Please help!
Dear Reader,
Does any of this sound familiar to you?
• Constant, repetitive arguments.
• You can’t agree to disagree about the issue.
• Increased communication provides no
solution, and often makes things worse.
• You feel like you have no room for compromise
or negotiation because your integrity is on
the line.
• Apologies or repair attempts cease or are
unsuccessful.
• You and your partner frequently have angry or
hurt feelings.
• You feel alienated and cut off from each other.
If so, I wonder if what may be happening is called Emotional
Gridlock. Emotional gridlock is a normal and important
edge for the evolution of relationships - with ourselves
and others. Many couples experience the above list of
dynamics and believe that there is something wrong with
their relationship. When in fact, more often than not, it is
something really RIGHT! Their relationship is trying to grow.
In childbirth, just before the mother is ready to push, she is
often heard screaming “I CAN’T DO THIS ANYMORE!” and
it’s a great indication a baby will be here very soon. When
we meet these edges, it can feel overwhelming and like we
just can’t go on like this. It’s true - you can’t. You will be
asked to push and dig deep to birth something new into
your personal experience and that of your relationship.
“When misunderstood and mishandled,
gridlock leads to divorce. Given that
gridlock IS usually misunderstood and
mishandled, it is arguably the greatest
single cause of divorce around the
world. It is commonly misunderstood
as irreconcilable differences, or
communication problems, or falling out of
love. But gridlock isn’t caused by a lack of
communication, so more communication
won’t resolve it. When people are unable
to resolve gridlock with a communicationbased
approach, they wrongly
convince themselves their problems
are irreconcilable. If they depend on a
reflected sense of self, they feel unloved
and become unloving.”
- David Schnarch

Emotional gridlock occurs when what you want to do blocks what your partner wants to do, and vice versa. Conflict in
relationships is inevitable. When a partnership is gridlocked - it’s impossible to compromise, negotiate, or communicate
your way through it. That is why you think your differences are irreconcilable. However, GRIDLOCK CAN BE RESOLVED!
It just takes different strategies. And learning how to resolve gridlock is how you and your partner co-evolve.
Resolving gridlock requires (at least) one of you to increase your Four Points of Balance, a term and practice created by
Dr. David Schnarch that include these concepts:
EXPAND | BE MORE /9
THE FOUR POINTS OF BALANCE
Solid Flexible Self: Knowing who you are and holding onto yourself without dominating another.
Quiet Mind-Calm Heart: Soothing your mind and heart.
Grounded Responding: Getting emotionally grounded.
Meaningful Endurance: Tolerating discomfort for growth.
Unfortunately, when you are in a gridlock, addressing
these four points of balance is not often what you
usually want to do. You typically want your partner to
make you feel better. Although in processes like couples
therapy, we can learn ways to be there for our partners
when we have the capacity for it, ultimately, it is our sole
responsibility to tend to our needs.
Now this does not mean not getting support, it just
means that we don’t assume that it is always our partner’s
responsibility to continuously hold our sense of self and
emotional regulation in their own hands. Here we accept
personal responsibility for our states of being and tend
to ourselves in a way that allows us to show up maturely
in the relationship. This creates a sense of safety and an
easier way to be in conflict with one another. Although
sometimes we can be addicted to the drama cycle in
the relationship and that is another point to address for
another article!
You can think of Gridlock as nature’s way of encouraging
differentiation - and your journey toward becoming
more of the unique fascinating self that you were meant
to be in this world!
Both partners are involved in co-creating gridlock and
now you can both co-evolve by resolving it.
More on emotional gridlock soon, but for now. I invite
you to consider a 1-2-3-4 step approach for handling
difficult situations within your relationship:
Send Your
Questions
• Identify your situation as a differentiation (both
people trying to be themselves without contorting
and changing by force process.)
• Recognize you are losing your emotional balance.
• Break down your problem in terms of your Four
Points of Balance (this shows you where you’re
having difficulty and what you need to do).
• Use your mantra to keep yourself focused when
things get tough: Hold onto yourself.
If any of this is helpful, I invite you to read some of Dr.
Schnarch’s work. He has several books that share so
much wisdom about the importance of differentiation in
relationships and how to work through this kind of gridlock.
Also, don’t be afraid to get a third party involved. And I
am not talking about your friends or your mother! But a
professional who can support you both in discovering
what is getting in the way of each of you working towards
freedom and ease inside of the relationship, which is mostly
to say, freedom and ease inside of you FIRST!
If you are interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to reach
out to me. I offer couple’s intensives and couples therapy
to a limited number of couples per year depending on
my availability where I help educate, process, and support
couples in learning how to not only be a healthy functioning
adult and grow out of oppressive systems inside of our
bodies, minds, and hearts but also creating more of a brave,
pleasurable space for relationships to thrive.
Love Endures,
Jackie
You can submit your question for “Ask the Therapist” by simply scanning
the QR code or sending an email to jaclynpaulsongmail.com, putting
“Ask the Therapist” in the subject line. Your privacy is kept confidential.
Our questions are often shared with others. Let’s get answers together.
JACKIE PAULSON | LEAD INSTRUCTOR | E-RYT 500, LMHC
Jackie Paulson teaches yoga, is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Iowa, and yoga teacher in Sioux City. She holds a deeply held intention in her work:
to empower somatic awareness that increases the connection and sacred wisdom within individuals and communities. Jackie facilitates in-depth yoga trainings,
experiential process groups, individual + couples therapy, and energy work. The inspiration that fuels her teaching includes philosophy, myth, depth psychology, and
subtle body practices. A lifelong student of the practice, Jackie completed her 300hr Yoga Teacher October 2017 and continues her education of Tantra and Somatic
therapy with teachers from around the world.

EXPAND | BE MORE /10
Pollen, Dust
ALLERGIES
and you
By Megan Fuhrman-Wheeler
T
he earth is alive! The flowers are
blooming, birds are chirping, and
pollen is blowing in the wind. And that
means … allergies. If you are dealing
with watery eyes, a running nose, and sinus
pressure, this article is for YOU!
The word allergy describes a hypersensitivity of the
immune system to typically harmless substances. It
occurs when our bodies’ immune system reacts to
something we ingest, inhale, or touch. Allergies were
first noticed and given a name in 1906 by a German
doctor whose patients reacted more strongly to
their second dose of the smallpox vaccination. The
name allergy originates from the German word
Allergie. It stems from the combination of the Greek
root Allos, meaning other, different, or strange, and
Ergon, which means activity, function, or task.
Allergies appear in many forms throughout the year…
not just during the spring. However, allergies like
allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema, and asthma correlate
to our surrounding environment and can flare up in
the spring when dust and pollen levels are high. So,
what exactly is happening to your body during these
reactions? Why are some spring seasons worse than
others?
When dust and pollen are released into the air in the
spring, these antigens are breathed in and become
stuck in our sinuses. When pollen becomes stuck in
the nasal tissue, sneezing is triggered. If exposure to
pollen and dust lasts for two to four days, your body
produces antibodies. Antibodies are used to attack
invading items like viruses, toxins, and bacteria. All
this is happening behind the scenes with that running
nose and watery eyes. Those symptoms are the side

effects of your body and its immune system trying to flush the antigens or pollen and move those toxins out
of your system.
Why is it that some years our allergies are worse than others? Part of the answer is an obvious one; some years,
there is more pollen and dust in the air; thus, in turn, there is more for your body to handle. However, that is
just one aspect. When considering our immune system and all the processes in place, when pollen activates
our immune system to produce antibodies, these processes take nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. These
vitamin and mineral deficiencies can lead to increased inflammation and a depressed immune response. A
few things that can exacerbate vitamin deficiency are chronic stress, illness, food irritants, lack of sleep, lack
of nutrient-dense foods, etc.
EXPAND | BE MORE /11
If you have been ill or more stressed than usual going into a season where you typically have allergies, this
could worsen overall symptoms. How do you modulate this, and what vitamins and minerals should you add
to your supplements?
Vitamin D has a direct effect on the body’s
response to infection and can reduce
systemic inflammation.
Magnesium is an essential mineral for antiinflammatory
and antihistamine reactions in
the body. It is one of North America’s most
common mineral deficiencies, affecting up
to 80% of the population.
Fish Oils and Omegas act as an antiinflammatory
and moderate the allergic
response.
Vitamin C plays a role in supporting the
stabilization of the immune system and the
release of histamines.
Aside from adding supplements, many
herbs can also support your body and
immune system during this time. When
focusing on herbal support, I consider
the following herbal actions: Hepatics,
Immunomodulators, Nutrients, and
Astringents.
Hepatics are a group of herbs that support the
liver; thus, they support the removal of toxins
from your body.
• Dandelion Roo • Burdock Root • Milk Thistle
Immunomodulators are herbs that work directly
with the immune system; they can be stimulating
and balancing.
• Echinacea Root • Astragalus Root • ElderBerry
Nutrients are herbs that are food-like and rich in
vitamins and minerals.
• Nettle Leaf • Oat Straw • Rose Hips
Astringents are herbs that tone and reduce
inflammation of the mucous membranes; these
are good for running noses.
• Yarrow • Boneset • Nettle Leaf
Resources:
1. Wikipedia contributors, “Allergy,” Wikipedia, The Free
Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Allergy
&oldid=1209197203 (accessed February 29, 2024).
2. NIH “Lymphocyte,” National Human Genome Research
Institute, https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/
Lymphocyte#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20main%20
types,by%20viruses%20or%20become%20cancerous. (accessed
February 29, 2024).
3. Burger, Paul. Inflammation, Hypersensitivity, Allergies. p1-4
c.2015.
By Megan Fuhrman-Wheeler
It is her goal to spread herbal knowledge to rural
America in a safe, constructive, and accessible manner.
Owner, MEGAN & CO. Herbal Apothecary + Teahouse
www.meganandco.com
Trained at the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism
Certified Clinical Herbalist
Certified Clinical Nutritionist
Certified Flower Essence Practitioner

EXPAND | BE MORE /12
Nurturing
Power
THE
of
your
intentions
By Erin Kuehl
ur world is full of constant distractions, diversions, and doing. Living an intentional life affords us
a sense of clarity and helps to define our purpose. Intention is a popular buzzword. What does it
really mean to live with intention, set our sights on what we want to create, and navigate the road
to manifestation? Answering these questions, we will dive into human consciousness, exploring the
interweaving of thoughts, intentions, and reality. We hold and direct intention. Intention directs
energy. Energy ultimately directs matter. OImagine intention as a tuning fork, resonating a frequency that harmonizes the surrounding energies. Just as a tuning fork
produces similar frequencies, setting intentions enhances our ability to produce harmonious connections as senders and receivers
of intention. Science recognizes that thoughts are energy affecting the world around us. Research indicates that collective thoughts
possess palpable energy, intensifying as more minds converge on a singular idea, solidifying the importance of intentional living.
Where your thoughts go, your energy follows.
Understanding this phenomenon and the science behind it helps harness this power in our lives. The journey begins with
contemplation. We first identify our core values. Exploring who we are and what we stand for, and then aligning with that to create
a deep well of stillness to draw upon. In this stillness, we become aware of the physical, the mental, the emotional, and at
the deepest state of awareness, we become acquainted with the spiritual essence within. In stillness, aligned in all the
wisdom bodies and connected to Source, we set our intention.
Intention isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s a deliberate act of envisioning ourselves within the desired conditions and feeling the
reality of those conditions actualized, trusting in the universe’s capacity to collaborate and shape our reality. Letting go. This trust,
the letting go of the control of the outcome, coupled with the awareness of the felt sense of your intention actualized,
breathes life into our aspirations, infusing them with the vitality of creation itself.
Translating intention into tangible outcomes requires practice. Practicing presence of mind, an awareness that sees the wonder,
joy, and sweetness in the mundane daily activities that wear us down. The law of co-creation underscores this process, emphasizing
our role in aligning ourselves with the power and the felt sense of our intention. We pay attention to the states where we
operate and exist. In a good feeling state, we allow acceptance of fluidity and birthing the reality we envision. In not-sogood
feeling states, we hoard our energy inward and find constriction and retraction, not cohesive grounds for birthing
new ways of being.

Creativity emerges as a potent force, a conduit for
channeling our intentions into the physical realm. Whether
through art, writing, or ceremony, creativity empowers us to
give form to our intentions, bridging the gap between the
ethereal and the concrete. Japa meditation, the repeating
of sacred sounds, is one pathway to manifestation, tapping
the creative energy of the universe to materialize our
intentions. Recitation of the sacred sound of Source,
speaking the name(s) of the force of creation that
you align with while embodied in the energy of your
intention, focusing and magnifying your intention,
becoming a vortex that draws like energies to you.
EXPAND | BE MORE /13
Dr. Wayne Dyer’s book, The Power of Intention, emphasizes
the power of kindness and love. Acts of benevolence not
only elevate the spirits of recipients but also provide a
sense of joy for the givers. A sacred act of reciprocity. An
NIH study on the impact of giving and receiving kindness,
reported acts of kindness benefited givers even more
than the receivers. They show identical trends towards
increased happiness, boosts in life and job satisfaction, as
well as a decrease in depression. The science of kindness
has additional benefits of increased immunity, lowered
depression, and increased natural serotonin, dopamine,
oxytocin, and endorphin production. Improving our abilities
to regulate our happiness and contentment hormones
naturally also diminishes tendencies to constantly seek
external sources for validation.
In a universe governed by reciprocity, small acts
of kindness reverberate, aligning us with the
universal flow of giving and receiving, keeping
us in harmony with the key elements in the art of
intention and manifestation.
Love, too, emerges as the overall guiding principle, a
testament to the inherent unity of existence. Our existence
is the embodiment of divine love. We work to echo the
boundless energy that birthed us into being. By fostering
beauty and expansiveness in our lives, we align
ourselves with the ever-expanding nature of intention,
embracing sustainable abundance in all its forms,
becoming embodied mindful loving compassion.
Love and kindness are essential when we discuss
manifesting intentions. When we align with present
awareness, we allow our consciousness to open, soften,
and become more receptive to our desires. When we
further align by developing a felt sense of what we are
intending, we then create that intention. A magnetic force pulls
the energy of what we are manifesting to us. When aligned in
mindful loving compassion, we are in the creative divine force of
universal consciousness. We become super-attractors. When we
can remain in this state of consciousness through mundane
daily tasks and walk in love and kindness in a world that
bombards us with the opposite, we are open to wonder and
joy - the creative forces align, and manifestation happens.
As we journey into the world of living intentionally, we might set
initial intentions toward accomplishing things. In the beginning,
we are still focused on external acquisition. By mastering the art
of intention, we move from the external to the internal. We align
with the feeling of already integrating our desires and wants.
The focus becomes our felt sense.
Living an intentional life is more than a mere philosophy; it’s a
sacred pact with the universe. We participate actively in this
cosmic dance of reciprocity - right giving and right receiving.
“Our expert instructors guide students through various
yoga styles, meditation, and wellness practices,
providing the tools to tap into their inner wisdom and
find balance in their lives. Whether you’re looking for a
challenging physical practice or a peaceful escape from
the demands of daily life, Evolve has something to offer.
Join us in our journey of self-discovery and evolution.
Erin Kuehl
hello@evolvesiouxcity.com
712-898-4286
Since 2012, Erin has been the driving force behind Evolve
Yoga and Wellness Center, a holistic healing hub in the heart
of Historic 4th Street that integrates Yoga and mindfulness
into transformative classes designed to nurture physical,
mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

eXPAND | BE MORE /14
Dare 2BGreat
By Cody
Rininger
Body Types: Mesomorph, Ectomorph,
& Endomorph Explained
I
f you walk down the street on any given day, you will likely notice that bodies come in all shapes and sizes.
This allure with appearance and shape eventually led to scientific research to classify the three body types we
know today (endomorph, mesomorph, and ectomorph), to determine the reason that we have that body type,
and whether it can be altered by our lifestyle and health choices.
WHAT IS A BODY TYPE?
A body type, or a somatotype, refers to the idea that there are three generalized body compositions, or body shapes,
that people generally fall into. The concept was theorized by Dr. W.H. Sheldon back in the early 1940s, naming
the three body types: endomorph, mesomorph, and ectomorph. Dr. Sheldon believed that these body types were
predetermined, unchangeable, and that they also directly influenced a person’s personality traits. The body type link to
personality traits eventually fell out of favor within the science community, but the three body types are still used today
to develop personalized health and fitness plans for people. WHAT ARE THE THREE BODY TYPES?
The three body types are endomorph, mesomorph, and ectomorph. While body types are often discussed in relation
to women and fashion, a body type is not gender specific. Both men and women will fall into one of the three body type
categories. Here’s a breakdown of each body type and some of their most common characteristics:
Ectomorph: Slender with less muscle mass, narrow
shoulders, and hips with respect to height, naturally fast
metabolism making it difficult to gain mass.
Mesomorph: Naturally muscular and athletic with
shoulders wider than the hips; efficient metabolism making
it easy to gain muscle and lose fat.
Endomorph: More round or soft physique, gains, and stores
fat more easily, loses fat slowly, naturally slow metabolism.

FEMALE BODY TYPES
Women come in all shapes and sizes and even have their list of body type descriptors, used especially in the fashion
industry. Some recognizable examples of these body types are:
Pear-shaped: Narrow shoulders, wider hips.
Apple-shaped: Round throughout the torso, lean legs.
Carrot: Broad shoulders, narrow hips.
Celery: Rectangular in appearance.
Hourglass: Equal size across the bust and hips with a narrow waist.
This list doesn’t negate the three main body types used for men and women. The female-specific body type descriptors
are more often used in the fashion industry to help women select the styles that will best complement their shape.
Although it is more common now to see most of these body types represented in fashion magazines and the media,
that wasn’t always the case. Starting before the 1900s, the fashion industry has served as a visual example of the most
acceptable body type for culture. Many women have felt pressured by these images to fit into a certain body type to be
considered beautiful or successful. Thankfully, over time, we’ve begun to realize that beauty and health aren’t found only
in one single body type.
Apple
Pear
Carrot Celery Hourglass
EXPAND | BE MORE /15
HOW TO IDENTIFY YOUR BODY TYPE
A body type doesn’t define or limit my clients
based on their appearance, rather it can be
used as a powerful tool for me to help my clients
reach their current goals. When you know the
assets and challenges that are associated with
each body type, this information becomes an
aid as I put together your fitness plan, taking
out the guesswork.
When identifying body types, consider the
characteristics of the three body types listed
above for endomorphs, mesomorphs, and
ectomorphs. Many of these characteristics can
be identified visually, like bone structure and
the amount of muscle mass or fat the client
carries. With 2B Imperium’s new technology,
it only solidifies and carries our discussion
further. For some of the other qualities, I
consult with my clients and ask them the
following questions:
• Do you find it easy or hard to gain muscle
mass when you try?
• Do you have any metabolic or chronic
conditions? (these may indicate a slow
metabolism)
• How easy or hard is it for you to gain weight?
To lose weight?
CAN I CHANGE MY BODY TYPE?
A person’s observable body type represents the current sum
of their physical, dietary, and lifestyle choices up to that point
in time, combined with a variety of uncontrollable factors,
like genetics and surrounding environment (i.e. access to
healthy food and a safe place to exercise). The fitness industry,
at its core, is all about helping people learn to use the tools
they can control (i.e., improved lifestyle, diet, and exercise
techniques) to overcome challenges presented by genetics
and environmental factors that they have less control. By
making intentional and consistent changes to your lifestyle,
physical activity, and nutrition, you can change your body type
over time.
It’s important to remember that even if your physique isn’t
where you want it to be, it’s okay to have a positive self-image
of where you are today. Focus on all the wonderful things that
your body can do right now! Avoid comparing yourself to
others and spend time with supportive people. By maintaining
a healthy self-image, you’re more likely to enjoy the process
should you decide to act and change your body composition
in some way.
In my next article, I will go into detail on how to train these
three body types and give you pointers on how to make that
happen for yourself. Thank you for your time, and as always,
DARE 2B GREAT.
Photo Credit Truli Julie.
Cody Rininger
website 2bimperium.com | phone 712-870-0758
email rininger@2bimperium.com
For more information on specific training and nutrition, contact Cody. He is certified by the
National Academy of Medicine as a Professional Fitness Instructor in Cardiorespiratory Fitness,
Heart Variance, Nutrition, Neuromuscular Flexibility, Supplements, and Mental/Behavior
Performance. He incorporates techniques for concentration, focus, motivation, and ways to
cope with anxiety. He has been featured in National Fitness Magazines and has spoken on
several national Podcasts. Cody received his Master’s in Instruction, so has first-hand experience
with differentiating personalized instruction, planning, and goal setting. He was named 2022
and 2023 Siouxland Trainer of the Year Award and nominated for 2024 Siouxland’s Choice Best
Weight Loss Center. Cody trains out of the Four Seasons in Sioux City and North Sioux City.

eXPAND | BE MORE /16
living
LUMIN
By Dr. Meghan Nelson
& Dr. Ryan Allen
The LIFE I
For Aaron Davis, Nathan Jones,
and Matt Kramer
L
ove
Lumin at Three Hearted Recording.
I
f one becomes a writer when one writes something, then I can say that I became a writer when I was 12 years
old and in the 6th grade. I don’t know what made me do it, but I distinctly remember walking into my bedroom,
closing the door, finding a notebook, and writing a poem about eyes called Change. It was about how in a single
moment, in the blink of an eye, everything can and sometimes does change. Divine revelation, I know, but this
thought to the 12-year-old version of me, I think, was rather dramatic. Within days, I wrote another poem, and then soon
after, I met Kathy Crawford, and a whole torrent of words and emotions spilled forth from my prepubescent pores and
brain about love, life, friends, and dreams. Ever since that last time I blinked before I wrote something, the thoughts, ideas,
and visions have kept coming. So, too, has the need, for some mysterious reason, to share it with others. I can’t explain
it and don’t quite understand where it comes from, but I find it
nearly impossible to look at the world and not have something to
say about it. Whether people want to listen, now that’s an open
debate.
But 34 years later, the faucet is still running—my mind, still racing,
my body, still reaching, my spirit, still searching. I don’t know if
I’d want it to stop if I could make it. Regardless of whatever else
I’ve been doing in my life, whether as a camp counselor, grocery
stock clerk, or professor, I see an artist when I look in the mirror. I
see a creator.
Recently, I consumed Rick Rubin’s book, The Creative Act: A
Way of Being (2023). It was a gift from my longtime friend and
collaborator, Aaron Davis, a multi-instrumentalist songwriter,
band leader (Grilled Cheese, Furthermore, Global Review, Screen
Grilled Cheese

Door Porch, Aaron Davis & The Mystery Machine), and producer (Three Hearted Recording). I’ve been thinking and feeling
a lot about creativity, influence and inspiration, intuitiveness, and practice. I always told my creative writing students that
no one in the history of the world was ever born with a pen and paper in their hands and able to write fluent, well-crafted
sentences that moved people to every extreme of emotion. The point was to suggest that developing an understanding of
space, craft, form, and technique takes time. That it takes practice. So, there’s something to this that extends to all our lives
and all of creation.
The big things in life usually take time.
EXPAND | BE MORE /17
Those who find IT, whether in word, image, or act and can express IT to the masses, amaze me. I’m wowed by technical
mastery, by folks who put in their 10,000 hours, and it doesn’t matter what the discipline is, as I find myself dazzled by
professional prowess just as much in guitar playing as I do in woodworking. Sculptors, crafters, creators, we come in all
shapes and sizes and produce in all forms.
There is beauty in everything. It’s everywhere.
I learned this first-hand during my freshman year of high
school when I moved to a new town full of new people. I
was miserable and alone. Already a fan of bands like The
Who, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd because of a cool
older brother, it took some solitude and isolation for me to
discover Bob Dylan, but when I did, the floodgates opened.
His voice, words, and ability to turn a phrase have never
stopped moving me.
Fast forward a few years into high school; I was consuming
not only Dylan, but going to see my heroes in concerts to
experience it all live. Neil Young and Willie Nelson at Farm
Aid, taking a college visit to go see Phish in Dayton. So
many more.
Co-Creating.
A palimpsest is often defined as a manuscript or something similar where
the original writing or impression has been effaced or erased but where
some of the original traces remain. It comes to us via Latin from the Greek
palimpsestos, from palin (again) plus psestos (rubbed smooth). That’s what
we were doing in our time together. Taking ideas, words and phrases, beds
of sonic sound, and scratch tracks from our pasts, our heroes, our dreams,
and transforming it all into a story of feeling and finding, breathing,
believing, and being, living and loving, from morning birds to campfire
night—a journey to and through the layers of Self to the cave of the heart
in the center of the center of Source. And no matter how many circles
there are, there is always still a center. Layer after layer, impression upon
impression, still, a center to it all.
At about this time, too, a few of my close friends started
playing instruments and soon our late-night rager jams,
once filled with others’ music, were now full of our sounds
and expressions. In On the Road Again, Willie sings, “The
life I love is making music with my friends,” and it’s true. Now
close to 30 years later, we’re all still moving and grooving—
making albums, writing books, performing, the works. We
recently convened at Three Hearted Recording in Hoback,
Wyoming, to record my upcoming ambient spoken word
meditation album, Palimpsest. For four days, there we were,
as old school as it gets, forging forward, making something
new. Collaborating. Listening. Laughing. Experimenting.
Sharing.
The steps in this adventure are of course our own, but what I’ve learned
over this time is that we are never really alone. Angels, guides, ancestors,
ascended masters, friends, and teachers, all are a part of you, and you are
a part of them. We come to that place together, that seat around the fire,
where all things are one.
And we are free.
Palimpsest, original art by Bob Allen.
Lumin Therapy provides integrative health and education for the mind, body, and spirit to those suffering or struggling to step into and live
their heartfelt mission and purpose. Through the practice of physical therapy, medical therapeutic yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and resiliency
mentoring, Dr. Meghan Nelson, DPT, and Dr. Ryan Allen, Ph.D., bring their over forty-plus combined years of knowledge and experience
serving individuals, families, and organizations to learn and heal and live without boundaries.
Photo Credit, left page, Ryan Allen and Grilled Cheese Archives. Right page, Mike Paulson.

Expand | Cover Story / 18
Rex
Mueller
Be More
What would people be surprised to find out about you?
Most would be surprised to know that my first talent was always art.
From a very young age, I was drawing or pursuing creative projects. I
always looked forward to art class or any opportunity to do something
creative in school. When I began my college education, it was with
the belief that I would be using my artistic talents to build a career. I
studied to become a fine arts teacher. I attended education classes
and spent much time in the art studio producing work. I truly enjoyed
the experience of being surrounded by other artists and the creative
atmosphere that career path fostered. I took a criminal justice course
during my sophomore year at the University of South Dakota. This
completely changed the course of my life. Something about the
class inspired me. I knew public service had to be my life’s work. I still
get to use my artistic talents occasionally, but not as often as I’d like
to use them.
What is your life purpose?
That has changed over the years. Indeed, a big part of my life is about
service to a community that has given me so much throughout my life.
Sioux City is a wonderful place to grow up. Serving in a role where
I can give back and work around excellent public servants doing
meaningful work is an honor and a privilege. It provides me with
meaning and purpose, and it helps drive me. But I also realize that I
have a far more important role as a husband, father, and family man;
putting that in perspective and meeting my obligations to my family
and God is my ultimate purpose.
Do you have a personal
mission statement for
this phase of your life?
I strive to maintain a healthy
balance between service to my
community and commitment
to my family. My job is
sometimes overwhelming, and
knowing that my family is my
primary responsibility helps
keep me grounded. Far too
often, my family gets the short
end of the stick. I’m fortunate
that they are understanding
and supportive. One of the
toughest jobs in the world is to
be a law enforcement officer’s
spouse or family member. The
uncertainty of watching their
Mueller family

Rex and Sandra with friends.
loved ones walk out the door daily requires strong faith
and belief in their purpose. I am blessed because my
immediate and extended family are all amazing and
supportive.
What drives you?
I want to know that I am fulfilling my obligations in my job
and role as a husband and father. I like to set goals for
myself each day for a sense of accomplishment. I am not
very good at simply sitting still and relaxing. I feel better
when I can reflect on my day with the knowledge that
I’ve done meaningful work. It may be managing a major
incident or project at work or as simple as teaching my
son life skills such as checking the oil in his car. While
each has different degrees of impact, both are equally
important in the grand scheme of things. Each day
allows me to try to be the leader that my department and
my family deserve. I say try because I question myself a
great deal and try to reflect on how to be better. That
self-reflection tells me that I have a long way to go, but
I’m giving it my best effort.
What have been the most valuable lessons
you have learned?
That satisfaction and reward do not come from others,
it is truly intrinsic and must be found by the individual.
If you are going to determine the value of your life and
your actions by the praise you get from others, you may
be waiting a long time. Satisfaction in life comes from
looking at yourself in the mirror at the end of the day
and asking yourself some key questions… Did I do the
best I could today? Did I make a difference in someone’s
life? Did I utilize my God-given talents for good? If you
can honestly do that, and the answer is yes, then you are
probably doing ok.
cup of coffee probably doesn’t hurt… I’m not getting any
younger.
How do you decompress or unwind?
Time with family is probably my biggest reward for a
hard week’s work. We maintain traditions like going out
for dinner with my family on Friday evening. We each talk
about our week and enjoy having a few days away from
work/school. My family keeps me grounded and reminds
me of what’s truly important. This and other diversions
are also an important way to stay engaged. At my age,
maintaining some level of fitness is important to maintain
a sense of well-being, but creative pursuits also tend to
recharge my batteries.
Where do you find joy?
I try to find joy in every aspect of my life. Sometimes, it is
as simple as a sunrise when I stop to enjoy God’s majesty.
Sometimes, joy comes from seeing the fruits of my efforts.
Mostly, joy comes from time with family and friends, the
people I love.
Who do you look up to?
I definitely look up to my wife; as a two-time cancer
survivor, her daily courage inspires me. I’ve watched how
she endured a steady stream of surgeries, chemotherapy,
radiation, and endless doctor’s appointments. After all
that, she still finds the energy to be an amazing wife and
mother. She’s the bravest person I know. Her challenges
have brought perspective and inspiration to my life.
How do you want to be remembered?
I don’t need a legacy; having my name on a plaque
on a wall means very little to me. I will be happy if I am
remembered as someone who genuinely cared about
and served others.
Expand | Cover Story / 19
What habits have you built into your life that
increase your stamina and help you power
through long days?
Loving what you do and being surrounded by amazing
people makes the long days go quickly. I am energized
by the dedication and bravery of all the officers who
serve this community. If I don’t work as hard or harder
than the people around me, I feel as though I have
failed them. Sneaking in time for workouts and a good
Rex and his wife Sandra.

Expand | Cover Story / 20
Do More
What sets your department apart from the rest?
The Sioux City Police Department has the most selfless
officers and civilians imaginable. They amaze me daily
with their bravery, dedication, and professional service.
I’ve had exposure to a variety of police agencies in
my life. The law enforcement in the Sioux City area is
second to none! In Sioux City, we focus on community
outreach and community policing. This way of bringing
the public and the police together is crucial to building
empathy and cooperation. Sir Robert Peel said, “The
police are the public, and the public are the police.” This
is a simple way of saying that to succeed, the citizens
and the officers must work towards the same goal: a
unified front. That symbiotic relationship significantly
impacts making this a safe community to raise your
children.
Rex and the band KISS.
What are you most proud of?
Despite the constant attacks on the law enforcement
profession, our officers and staff get up every morning
and find the courage and motivation to keep doing
a very difficult job. Witnessing their bravery and
dedication despite seemingly impossible odds inspires
me. I’m proud to have the opportunity to serve them in
my current role.
How do you approach obstacles or setbacks?
Setbacks happen every day. I’m a problem solver by
nature, so I normally step back, retool, and try a different
approach. Obstacles are a part of my job, but I try not to
get flustered by them. Prepare for the worst and hope
for the best are words to live by.
Advice for others starting out in public
service?
These days, it is getting harder to convince young
people to become police officers; however, it is one
of the most meaningful and rewarding professions an
individual can pursue. I’ve never regretted my choice
of profession and am constantly thankful for the
opportunity to serve. As I prepare to leave this agency
in the coming years, I hope to inspire the younger
generation of officers to join our ranks and take my
place. Public service is more than a job; it’s a career
and a vocation. It allows you to contribute to the safety
and well-being of the community directly. If you want to
look back at your career and feel like you have made a
difference, this job is for you.
What have been the most valuable
lessons you have learned in your
leadership role?
Leadership is earned. It’s not the brass on
your collar that gives you authority. People
choose to follow you because they believe
in you and the mission you give them.
It requires trust building and a constant
understanding of servant leadership. Leaders
make mistakes, and I have certainly had my
share. Remembering that I not only serve the
community but also serve the officers and
staff in my agency is critically important. Each
day should be a quest to earn the trust of the
people around me and not assume that my
role provides me with instant respect. Finally,
it never hurts to surround yourself with good
people. That can be the difference between
success and failure in an organization.
Rex with co-workers.

Let’s talk customer service…what’s the
client experience?
It may sound funny, but law enforcement is a customer
service business. As public servants, we’re expected
to provide positive public service. Sometimes,
customer service is an enforcement action like
writing a traffic ticket that hopefully encourages our
teenagers to modify their behavior to be safer drivers.
Sometimes, customer service is a prompt response
to a critical incident or a lifesaving action. Doing all
these while maintaining a professional demeanor and
understanding what the public expects of us is all part
of the customer service experience.
Expand | Cover Story / 21
Rex speaking with community members.
Have you ever had to change course?
My profession has its ups and downs. Our amazing officers are frequently under fire,
figuratively and sometimes literally. Knowing when to make adjustments to better
deal with the current climate is important. Often, change is forced upon us by the
environment we live in. In those cases, all you can do is make decisions that minimize
the negative impact on your team. By nature, most people resist change, so it is
important to help build resilience in your staff, so change is more easily adopted.
Unlike a business, our course changes can impact the safety of the community and the
officers, so change must be carefully weighed.
What are your thoughts on business evolutions?
The law enforcement landscape has changed since my career began 28
years ago. Most of those changes were for the better, others not as much.
Maintaining the best trained, equipped, and operationally ready workforce
is critical, but the core of police work will always be about people and
human relationships.
Who have been your mentors along the way?
I grew up with loving parents who always supported me, and I’ve also
had many teachers, co-workers, and leaders who influenced me. I
always tried to cherry-pick the best qualities each embodied and make
them my own. In my adult life, my wife, Sandra, has always been my
biggest influence. She always supported me even when my path was
difficult for our family. I was always happy in whatever position I was
in, but she always encouraged me to seek roles and responsibilities
that would challenge me. I owe most of my successes to her love and
encouragement.
Page 18, photo of Rex, Photo Credit Anna Marie Photography. Page 19, photo
of Rex and his wife, Photo Credit Anna Marie Photography. Bottom of page 21,
Photo Credit George Lindblade. Other photos Contributed by Rex Mueller.

EXPAND | Do MORE / 23
How do you contribute?
When we find meaning in our work it feeds the soul.
Our work can be an expression of love when we weave service
into the cracks, contributing to our community by delivering
excellence in everything we do.
Whether we run our own business,
or work at a level of excellence as if it were ours -
It is felt by others.
Our writers encourage your professional development
and contribution to our community, and provide you
the tools and resources to
do more.

EXPAND | DO MORE / 24
Small Business spotlight
FASTSIGNS
of Sioux City
I
f you are in business, you know the
importance of signage. If you want people
to find you, it’s all about making your brand
visible.
Janae Chochon is the owner and operator of FASTSIGNS
of Sioux City, but fortunately for all of us, is a licensed
sign contractor for all three states: IA, NE, and SD,
allowing her to fully service our tristate area. She’s
a small business but also brings greater resources to
the table. “We’re independently owned and operated
locally, but part of a bigger brand. The company started
nearly 40 years ago, and today we have 770 national
and international centers,” said Janae.
When a business is considering the proper signage to
promote itself, the questions and components they need
to consider go far beyond simply the designing factors
of the signage. “It’s a lot of project management, putting
all the pieces together. From start to finish, it’s not only
building and creating the sign but also installing it. It’s
Double sided tension banner for Explore Siouxland.
Vinyl decals and vinyl counter cover at Peachwave.
amazing! We want to help you make your statement!
We can help you design your signage with your logo or
start from scratch and help you develop your brand,”
explained Janae.
By investing all that time with their customers to help
them achieve their signage goals, Janae and her team
can eliminate any wasted time or money by the clients.
Many times, when building these materials is done
strictly online, without the help of a trusted expert by
your side, signs may be completed as promised to the
specifics done online. Still, when the sign is taken to the
location or the building, aspects of it do not work. It had
to be scrapped, and the process started all over again.
“It starts with a graphic designer, then we survey the
building location and the site where you want the sign
to go. Then we build a virtual site there to make sure the
design you want works with the location,” stated Janae,
explaining the process. When a business wants to have
signage placed on their business, there are specific
guidelines required by various government agencies
that also come into play. “I check the regulations
with city guidelines, be it in Sioux City or any city in
the Siouxland area, to ensure we’re following the sign
regulations and city codes. Then we also take care of

the sign permitting process.” stated Janae. And this is
all done when Janae is working with her clients in the
planning stages. Nothing is done that might need to
be undone until they are certain that everything their
client wants meets all the necessary guidelines and
codes.
EXPAND | DO MORE / 25
“The majority of the products we make are done inhouse.
Being able to do that, we help ensure quality
products for our customers. We’re handling the
materials as they are being made, and by doing that,
we can ensure that they are durable and will last. We
stand by our products. If there is ever anything that
goes wrong or a product isn’t met with the customer’s
satisfaction, we will make it right. Quality and reliability
go a long way in establishing your name, brand, and
reputation. We are proud of what we produce and
want to ensure our clients that we will back it up,”
stated Janae.
Aluminum Composite Material (ACM) exterior signage for Central Kitchen & Bath.
a transactional center. Our customers are part of the
FASTSIGNS family. We want to help them bring their
visions to life. We want them to trust us and know they
can turn to us for all their signage needs,” shared Janae.
Post & Panel sign for Farmers Coop Society.
A Van Ladder is one of the new tools Janae has at hand
for FASTSIGNS clients. “Essentially, it’s a bucket truck.
It’s allowing us to take our business to a whole new level.
We can put up a lot of exterior signage. Our number
one seller right now is aluminum composite. It’s a
durable outdoor sign covered with vinyl and laminate,
non-illuminated, and a more reasonably priced option
for businesses. We can go 45 feet up in the air with the
Van Ladder. It allows us to put up channel letters and
cabinet signs, and we even changed out some parking
lot lights for customers. We can do LED Retro Fits, too!”
stated Janae.
FASTSIGNS of Sioux City can produce custom signs,
business hour signs, custom banners, custom feather
flags, wayfinding signs, building signs, dimensional
letters, digital signage, vehicle graphics as well as
monument and free-standing signs.
That also includes any of your business branding/
marketing needs. “We can assist with promotional
products such as flyers, brochures, business cards,
pens, notepads, apparel, hats/caps, and chapsticks.
We even made stress balls for a business to hand
out at events. We focus on the relationships with our
customers; they come first and foremost. We are not
Helping small businesses thrive and succeed is
something that Fast Signs of Sioux City takes to
heart. For more information about FASTSIGNS, the
company is located at 312 West 28th Street in Sioux
City, 712-248-4617, or visit their Facebook Page.
Siouxland Magazine is Committed to
Supporting Siouxland’s Local
Small Businesses and Nonprofits.
We have a platform,
and we want to share it with you.
Get in front of the community by joining
Stacie on a Facebook Spotlight.
Get the details by scanning
the QR code or visit
siouxlandmagazine.com.
Photos Contributed by local FASTSIGNS team.

EXPAND | DO MORE /26
Iowa’s West Coast Initiative Feature
From Our Mesa Sourdough Microbakery
Business Owners: Sisario & Anabel Mesa
Business Name: From Our Mesa Sourdough Microbakery
Main Products/Services: Sourdough breads & baked goods
Location: Sioux City, IA
Connect: www.hotplate.com/fromourmesa
IG & FB: From Our Mesa
Short description of your business:
We are a home-based sourdough microbakery in Sioux City,
Iowa, serving small-batch, long-fermented artisan sourdough
breads and baked goods. While we are not organic certified,
we do use organic flour in all our baked goods and love
incorporating organic, high-quality ingredients.
What motivated you to start your business?
During the pandemic, I was determined to make good bread for
our family and learn the art of sourdough. In March 2022, I made
a sourdough starter from scratch and started making bread. I fell
in love with the process! My first few loaves were a bit flat, but I
didn’t care. I was just excited to be making bread at home!
Our friends asked if I’d sell to them, but I wasn’t ready. I didn’t
think my bread was good enough to sell, and I was also working
full-time. I didn’t have the time and energy to dive into bread
making on a full-time basis. I just continued baking for our family
and gifting a few loaves here and there. In retrospect, that’s what
helped me improve my baking, so I’m grateful for that.
In July 2022, we found out we were expecting our greatest
blessing, allowing me to stay at home. This gave me time to
bake, but then I had to stop because the morning sickness was
pretty rough. After our baby arrived, making sourdough bread
stayedl on the back burner because we wanted to soak up that
precious time with our newborn.
I really missed baking for my family, so I finally started doing
it again. In July 2023, I sold a few loaves, and it just took off
from there. In August, we officially launched From Our Mesa
Sourdough Microbakery. The name From Our Mesa is special to
me - it is a play on our last name! Our last name (Mesa) means
table in Spanish, which is fitting because I started making
sourdough in our
home, on our dining
table. It’s a true joy to
get bread from our
mesa to yours.
In September, we had
our first-ever vendor
pop-up, and it sold
out within a couple of
hours. I was baking
more than 20 loaves
in our home kitchen
oven, which would
take me more than
eight hours because
I could only bake two
loaves at a time every
40 minutes. In October,
we prayerfully decided
to purchase a bread
oven that allows me
to bake 12 loaves in
just 30 minutes! We
are now baking more
than 60 artisanal loaves
and other sourdough
goods every week!
What drives you
each day?
My family; I’m grateful
for the privilege of
being able to stay at
home with our baby
and for the opportunity to pursue this creative outlet that
accidentally turned into a business. I will never take that for
granted. I’m also strongly motivated by the joy that it brings me
to be able to make good bread for our community.
What’s unique about your business?
We specialize in small-batch, handmade sourdough breads, and
baked goods. Everything we bake is made with our sourdough
starter “Bruno”, and we never use commercial yeast! We are a
small family business and take pride in our work. Yes, I’m the
baker behind From Our Mesa, but I could not do this alone. My
husband does a lot of the vital behind the scenes work in the
business, doing the packaging and organizing of the preorders.
He loves being organized and has an impeccable attention to
detail. We also have a lot of help from my dear mom, sisterin-law,
and nephews, who lovingly watch our son when it gets
a little hectic on prep days. My dad, uncle, and older brother
helped us with our bakery room set-up, and our cousins and
friends have been there to cheer us on since our very first popup.
It really does take a village!
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome as
you grow your business?
Balance. I’m still working on it, I love baking , but I have other
important things in my life that take first place and I never
want to lose sight of that.
What has been your greatest reward?
I see how this business has blessed our family. My husband
was able to stop working nights and be home with us. We still
work hard, but now we get to do it together! Another great
reward is seeing the joy in our customers’ faces when they
pick up their bread. Their positive feedback keeps us going!
How have you benefited from the startup
community in Sioux City and the region? What
resources did you use?
The startup community and customers have been very
supportive of the launch of our business. We would like

to thank Iowa’s West Coast
Initiative for providing us
with this opportunity for the
article. We are also grateful for
the kindness Flippin Vintage
Boutiques & Thrift, Red Valley
Natural Foods, Council Oak
Supply, and Jefferson Beer
Supply extended to us in
allowing us to do pop-ups. We
also received the support of
Best Of Siouxland. They kindly
shared one of our reels on their
page at no cost to us.
Why is it important for
the community to support
Owners Sisario & Anabel Mesa
startups and small businesses?
Community support is vital for businesses; without it, we wouldn’t be
successful. We feel that we truly have the best customers! Week after
week, we are blown away by their positive feedback. We have been
consistently gaining new customers each week and that has been thanks
to our customers who tell their friends and family about us. Our hearts
are filled with gratitude when we continue to see our customers return.
Everyone can shop where they please, but for them to reach out to us
and choose our product is something special!
What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew
when starting your business?
I think fear sometimes holds us back, so if we had known that our
community would be so supportive, we wouldn’t have been so afraid.
Another beautiful aspect of owning a small business is experiencing the
support of other businesses in our area—they get it, and they are happy
and ready to lift you up!
What advice would you give to someone looking to start
a business?
Don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing something you’re passionate
about! Give it your best, and don’t get discouraged if things don’t work
out in the beginning. Reach out to other small business owners and
ask questions; you’ll be surprised by how many entrepreneurs in our
community are willing to help you!
How can the community continue to help your business?
Keep telling others about us! Share a picture when you pick up your
baked goods and tag us. Leave an honest review on our Facebook
page. If you like our baked goods, tell us, we love to hear about it!
What are some future goals for your company?
We are content with where we are now, but as we continue to grow,
we have also thought about long-term goals for this little business! We
hope to one day have a storefront with the rest of our family. We also
hope to be at the farmer’s market this season!
EXPAND | DO MORE / 27
Iowa’s West Coast Initiative (IWCI) is a collaboration between the
economic development organizations in Plymouth, Monona, and
Woodbury counties, and includes the following organizations: City of
Sioux City, Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council, Siouxland
Economic Development Corporation, The Siouxland Initiative, Le Mars
Business Initiative Corporation, Woodbury County, and Monona County.
Learn more about IWCI at www.IAWestCoast.com.
Photos Contributed By Our Mesa Sourdough Microbakery.

EXPAND | DO MORE /28
The road ahead never
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4601 Singing Hills Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51106 | 712-274-6622
VernEideSiouxCity.com
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Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com

SBDC
Taking Care of Business
By Todd Rausch
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Calculating Your Startup Costs
The key to a successful business is preparation.
Before your business opens its doors, you’ll
have bills to pay. Understanding your expenses
will help you launch successfully. Calculate your
business startup costs before you launch.
Calculating startup costs helps you:
• Estimate profits
• Conduct a break-even analysis
• Secure loans
• Attract investors
• Save money with tax deductions
• Identify your startup expenses
Most businesses fall into one of three categories:
brick-and-mortar businesses, online businesses, and
service providers. You’ll face different startup expenses
depending on your business type. There are common
startup costs you’re likely to have no matter what business
category you choose. Look through the following list, and
make sure to add any other expenses that are unique to
your business:
Common startup costs:
• Office space
• Equipment and supplies
• Communications
• Utilities
• Licenses and permits
• Insurance
• Lawyer and accountant
• Inventory
• Employee salaries
• Advertising and marketing
• Market research
• Printed marketing materials
• Making a website
Estimate how much your expenses will cost. Once
you have your list of expenses, you can estimate
how much they will actually cost. This process will be
different for each expense you have. Some expenses
will have well-defined costs — permits and licenses
tend to have clear, published costs. You might have to
estimate other costs that are less certain, like employee
salaries. Look online and talk directly to mentors, vendors,
and service providers to see what similar companies pay
for expenses.
Add up your expenses for a full financial picture. Once
you’ve identified your business expenses and how much
they’ll cost, you should organize your expenses into onetime
expenses and monthly expenses. One-time expenses
are the initial costs needed to start the business. Buying
major equipment, hiring a logo designer, and paying for
permits, licenses, and fees are generally considered to
be one-time expenses. You can typically deduct one-time
expenses for tax purposes, which can save you money on
the amount of taxes you’ll owe. Make sure to keep track of
your expenses and talk to your accountant when it’s time
to file your taxes.
Monthly expenses typically include things like salaries, rent,
and utility bills. You’ll want to count at least one year of
monthly expenses, but counting five years is ideal. Add up
your one-time and monthly expenses to get a good picture
of how much capital you’ll need and when you’ll need it.
Use your startup cost calculations to get startup
funding. It’s a good idea to create a formal report of your
expected startup costs. You want it in a format that’s clear
and easy to understand. Investors and lenders compare
expected costs to projected revenue and determine the
potential for your business to profit.
The SBDC is federally and state funded with the sole purpose
of helping small businesses to succeed! Our entire purpose
is to help you move your business forward.
Todd Rausch, Regional Director for the Small Business
Development Center at Western Iowa Tech Community College.
712-274-6454 | Todd.rausch@witcc.edu

expand | DO MORE /30
Leading the Way
Leadership Siouxland
By Peggy Smith
It’s a World of Great Opportunity
T
his is a quote from Andrew Carnegie, and it
focuses on the importance of being visionary
– looking forward not with trepidation, but with
hope, courage, and enthusiasm. The world around
us can seem to be spinning out of control, and it is easy
to feel helpless and discouraged. Leading in these times
can be challenging at best, and without appropriate
leadership skills, it can be a tough road.
I have been doing some research on what are the most
important skills a leader needs to develop and implement,
especially when in difficult situations. It wasn’t a surprise
to read that communication is vital. Communication
needs to be frequent, clear, and concise, and the person
communicating needs to ensure that the recipient heard
the message correctly. I can’t assume that you understood
my message unless I ask for feedback. Another item that
is so important is to ensure that you are supporting your
team and that they truly feel that support. Empathy and
compassion towards others (and towards yourself) are
also a part of leadership that should not be neglected.
Self-care as a leader is essential. If I don’t take the time to
re-energize, I cannot expect my people to do so either.
Expressing gratitude is also critical. A simple thank you,
a recognition of work well done, and a small token of
appreciation goes a long way. It is also important to offer
opportunities for your people to hear from, and learn
from, other leaders. So is having a group of colleagues
that you can bounce ideas and problems off of is very
helpful for continued growth and self-development.
The participants in the current Leadership Siouxland class
have had the opportunity to hear from many great leaders
in our community. Sioux City Police Chief Rex Mueller;
Iowa Director of Economic Development Debi Durham;
Julian Lee, DBA, MHA of Siouxland Community Health
Center; and Heidi Kammer-Hodge MSW of Briar Cliff
University are just some of the great leaders who shared
”
their insights, experiences, and wisdom with the group.
These interactions as well as the interactions with other
class members are vital in helping people alter their
perspective, find their voice, and their passion, and gain
the courage to pursue it. Learning about our community
– what is great, what is lacking, what are the met and the
unmet needs – is always a great journey. This year, our
class is teaming up with several different organizations
to complete projects that will positively impact our
community. The process of working together as a team
to choose a need that speaks to the group’s combined
passions, then working together to determine the
project’s scope and goals, and then actually completing
the project and measuring the achieved results is a
wonderful experience for each team member.
“The world of great opportunity is available now,
as it has always been, only for those with great vision.
– Andrew Carnegie
Applications are now being accepted
for the 2024 - 2025 class.
If you are interested in being part of our next
Leadership Siouxland class, submit your application!
Applications are accepted through August, but class
size is limited so please apply now. You won’t regret
taking advantage of this great leadership opportunity.
The mission of Leadership Siouxland is to develop diverse,
passionate leaders who positively impact our community
for today and tomorrow. Leadership Siouxland began in
1984 and is proud of the over 1200 graduates who make
positive differences each and every day. To learn more,
contact Peggy Smith, Executive Director, at 712-898-8594
or email info@leadershipsiouxland.org.
Peggy Smith, Executive Director of Leadership Siouxland, an
organization devoted to developing leaders who make a positive
difference in the Siouxland community.

Experience
Downtown
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Experience Downtown like a VIP!
H
ey downtown residents and
employees…Downtown Partners
has some exclusive discounts
just for you to enjoy at a few of
our favorite downtown spots!
Designed for those who live and work in downtown
Sioux City, the Downtown VIP program gives you
access to a special VIP card that unlocks a variety of
deals and specials. Cash in on anything from 10% off
your favorite specialized brew, to yoga packages,
and yummy fresh-squeezed lemonade. This program
gives you a chance to enjoy your favorite tried and
true, or something new, all while supporting local
businesses.
How can you get your very own VIP card? If you live
or work downtown, ask your employer or building
representative to get in touch with us at info@
downtownsiouxcity with a full list of employees and/
or residents on company letterhead. You can also
stop by our office at 1119 4th Street, Suite 104, with
employer identification or proof of residency.
Head to
downtownsiouxcity.com/vip
for a full list of
participating businesses
and specials.
Stay in the loop with everything happening in
Downtown Sioux City and learn more about our local
businesses by heading to our website, signing up for
our weekly event list, and following us on social media.
Contributed by Downtown Partners, a non-profit organization
that works with downtown stakeholders to create a vibrant,
expanding downtown. To learn more about Downtown
Partners and stay up-to-date with downtown projects and
events, visit downtownsiouxcity.com
If you are a downtown business, we’d love to add you
to the VIP program! Participating doesn’t cost your
business a dime and helps bring more awareness
to your business. If interested, please send your
business name and the special you would like to offer
to us by email or call our office at (712) 252-0014. Be
sure to make all staff members aware of your special
and give an image of the VIP card.

So beautiful,
you may want to design your home around it.
712.252.4431
siouxcitydoor.com
2500 Dace Ave., Sioux City, IA 51106
Overhead Door Co. of Sioux City
The industry leader for over 100 years, Overhead Door garage
door systems add beauty distinction and value to any home.

Council
Connection
By Alex Watters
EXPAND | DO MORE / 33
I
Decision Making 101: Get the Full Story
n this fast-paced world where attention spans are shorter, and everyone seems endlessly busy, it can be difficult to
ask people to gather information before rushing to judgment. However, this dilemma becomes more frustrating
when an elected official tries to explain the complex rationale behind unpopular decisions.
For example, the people of Sioux City are fired up about the prospect of a roundabout being built at one of our
intersections. I took some time to attend the public meeting and visit with residents in that neighborhood to hear
their thoughts on the upcoming project. Before the public meeting, I had already been contacted by people in that area who
thought the project was too expensive and money should be spent elsewhere in the city. In addition to the $1.7 million price
tag referenced, many were frustrated with the proposal that they use a provided golf cart to get to and from their home since
their road would be closed during construction. I figured I wouldn’t be welcomed to the meeting with open arms.
Neighbors immediately started lining up to voice their displeasure with the proposed intersection improvement. I was told that
there wasn’t any traffic that would warrant this, that nobody in our community wants roundabouts, and that it was a waste of
taxpayer dollars. Since Woodbury County was taking the lead on this project, and the city was merely splitting some of the cost
for this improvement, I wasn’t as knowledgeable about the subject as I probably should have been when entering that room.
However, I listened and promised to investigate the justification for such a thing.
At first glance, I, too, was surprised that the roundabout
installation would cost more than 1.7 million dollars and agreed
with homeowners that there certainly didn’t seem to be enough
traffic in that area to warrant such an improvement. After
discussing the project with City staff, here is some context that
I think was missing from the headlines of that public meeting:
• The $1.8 million estimate for the project included the
paving and utilities for more than 1/3 of a mile of Elk Creek
Road and the roundabout improvements. The roundabout
portion costs approximately $150,000 of the total project.
• The use of golf carts was originally proposed to avoid
damaging a drainage area on a homeowner’s property;
however, City staff is working on securing access for a
temporary roadway to homes during construction.
• The addition of the Elk Creek subdivision will add 143
homes, at complete build-out, to that area and the paving
of Elk Creek Road will likely result in more development
of that area. Therefore, while current traffic may not justify
increased safety controls and improved traffic operation at
that intersection, improvements in the future would surely
be necessary. And if we anticipate needing changes in the
future, I would rather make those improvements while the
road connected to it is being paved and before dozens
more homeowners are traveling through that intersection.
• Finally, this intersection is unique in that it has five
different legs. Therefore, a lighted intersection would not
address or improve access to the additional street.
Change isn’t always easy, but sometimes it’s necessary.
I understand we don’t currently have any roundabouts
in Sioux City. Still, communities throughout our region
and countries across the globe use roundabouts and
have found them safer than traditional intersections with
stop lights. They require less upkeep than stoplights and
aren’t susceptible to outages or regular replacements.
If serving the people of Sioux City has taught me
anything, it is that there is often more to the story than
just the headline. If we take a moment to be curious
rather than critical and listen just as much as we speak,
I’m confident we can work together to build a better
future. Just know that I’m not judging you if you get
stuck driving around the roundabout more than once.
We are all learning, and we are all doing this together.
Alex Watters, City Council of Sioux City
awatters@sioux-city.org

Spring Cleaning: Which Documents to Keep
(and When to Toss)
If you hang on to every receipt and piece of junk mail sent your way for fear you may need it
later, consider this your wakeup call. It’s absolutely not necessary to keep all of your financial
documents forever. In fact, clearing out the clutter created by stacks of paperwork will likely
make you feel better and work smarter.
Here’s a guide on what financial paperwork to keep – and for how long – and what to
throw away:
TOSS THESE ITEMS TODAY:
Most junk mail can go straight to the dumpster or recycling bin after being shredded. This
includes solicitations for credit cards, home, life and auto insurance plans, etc. The same
goes for all of the marketing materials inside credit card and financial institution statements.
KEEP FOR A MONTH:
It’s a good idea to hang on to ATM receipts and other receipts as long as you don’t have plans
to return the item, or need the receipt for a rebate or warranty, for a month or two. Exceptions
would be for big-ticket items such as electronics, appliances, computers, and anything you
want to deduct from your taxes, including business meals and equipment used to do your job if
you are self-employed.

TOSS AFTER A YEAR (AND AFTER YOUR TAXES ARE FILED):
There are some things that need to be kept in your files for a year, or at least until end-of-year
consolidation statements arrive in your email or through the mail. These include:
• Cell phone
• Cable, telephone, internet and other streaming service statements (unless you’re deducting
them for work or home office-related expenses)
• Brokerage statements
• Credit card bills
• Pay stubs
• Social Security statements
• Utility bills
• Statements from financial institutions
PRO TIP: Go paperless and sign up for eStatements, and you can access your transactions and
financial statements anytime. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about the clutter!
THROW AWAY AFTER SEVEN YEARS:
Think about this list as the items you should keep in files inside a cabinet for safekeeping for
seven years or when you won’t need them any longer for tax purposes.
• Child-care records
• Flexible-spending account documentation
• 401(k) and other retirement plan year-end statements
• RA contributions
• Purchase records for investments
• Records of charitable donations
• Records on houses you’ve sold
• Tax returns along with the documentation used to prepare them
• Correspondence from the IRS
KEEP THESE FOR AS LONG AS YOU OWN THE ASSET:
It’s important to keep some paperwork for as long as you own the item or property.
These include:
• Titles
• Warranties
• Insurance policies
• Receipts for important purchases such as art, technology, antiques, jewelry;
• Receipts for home renovations or investments made to your home or other property.

EXPAND | DO MORE / 36
KEEP THESE ITEMS FOREVER:
The documents you need to hold on to for your lifetime should be stored in a fire-proof safe or
safe-deposit box, with a second copy in another safe place that’s not inside your home or home
office. These include:
• Adoption papers
• Appraisals
• Birth certificates
• Citizenship documents
• Custody agreements
• Deeds
• Divorce or annulment papers
• Financial aid documents
• List of credit card numbers, bank and brokerage statements, insurance policies, passwords
and contact information, including email and phone numbers.
• List of important contacts, including your lawyer, accountant, physician and relatives.
• Military records
• Powers of attorney
• Stock certificates
• Wills and living wills
A WORD ON SAFELY TOSSING OUT DOCUMENTS:
For anything that might contain your personal information, use a shredder. A good crosscut
shredder can be purchased for less than $100 and using one will make it nearly impossible for
thieves to steal your information. That’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Robin Beck is the Branch Manager and Ag Services Officer at Security
National Bank’s location in Moville, Iowa. She is experienced in a
wide range of financial services including ag and commercial lending,
account opening, customer service, staff management.
SNBonline.com
Member FDIC

EXPAND | GIVE MORE / 37
“The meaning of life is to find your gift.
The purpose of life is to give it away.” -Pablo Picasso
We can give of ourselves through our work.
We can rise to the call when we are needed to volunteer
or participate on a nonprofit board.
We can hold space to comfort someone in need -
Lend an ear or a shoulder.
When you think you have nothing to give -
Give more.

Inclusive
PEEK
Elizabeth
Alcalá
ELIz
A
What challenges have you experienced in Siouxland?
I am an avid reader, and one of my favorite books is by Pam Muñoz Ryan. The story is about a young
girl who is forced to flee her country and struggles to adjust to her new home. There is a part in the
story where Esperanza describes the segregation between cultures. Down one street, she finds
comfort in Mexican stores, food, and people; on the next street, she feels strange because nothing
reminds her of home. Sioux City feels to be this way despite the many cultures and ethnicities that are
here. I am a person who likes to branch out and learn about new cultures and meet new people, but I feel I am limited in doing
that. Another big challenge I see, not just in Sioux City, is the lack of Mental Health information in other languages. In the Hispanic
community, mental health has always been a big taboo. I wish we had a way of properly informing our diverse community.
How has Siouxland been welcoming?
Sioux City has been amazing at providing activities for our diverse community. Every year, it gets better and better. I have seen
the Greek Fest, celebrations for the Latino community, and the Asian Festival in Riverside, which is so awesome!!! I love how our
community, for the most part, is so open-minded in learning about new cultures.
Sioux City has also been great at providing information and help to our diverse community. Again, it keeps getting better every year.
What do you want the people of Siouxland to know?
We live in a city bursting with diversity. I work at an elementary school, and here alone, we speak more than eight languages. If we were more
inclusive and accepting of other cultures, we could become a much more impressive city. Just think of what all that diversity has to offer.
EXPAND | Give more /39
“ ”
In Spanish
Be so fiercely you that you inspire others to be themselves, too.
– Samira Vivette
¿Qué desafíos ha experimentado en Siouxland?
Soy una ávida lectora y uno de mis libros favoritos es Esperanza Rising de Pam Muñoz Ryan. Cuenta la historia de una joven que se ve obligada a
huir de su país y su lucha por adaptarse a su nuevo hogar. Hay una parte de la historia donde Esperanza describe la segregación entre culturas. En
una calle encuentra consuelo con las tiendas, la comida y la gente mexicana, y en la siguiente calle, se siente extraña porque no hay nada que le
recuerde a su hogar. Sioux City se siente así a pesar de las muchas culturas y etnias. Soy una persona a la que le gusta expandirse y aprender sobre
nuevas culturas y conocer gente nueva, pero siento que estoy limitada para hacerlo.
Otro gran desafío que veo, y no sólo en Sioux City, es la falta de información sobre salud mental en otros idiomas. En la comunidad hispana, la salud
mental siempre ha sido un gran tabú. Ojalá tuviéramos una manera de informar adecuadamente a nuestra diversa comunida.
BE t H
¿Cómo ha sido la bienvenida de Siouxland?
Sioux City ha sido increíble al brindar actividades para nuestra diversa comunidad. Cada año se pone mejor y mejor. He visto el festival griego, las
celebraciones de la comunidad latina y el festival asiático en Riverside, ¡¡¡y eso es increíble!!! Me encanta cómo nuestra comunidad, en su mayor
parte, tiene la mente tan abierta a la hora de aprender sobre nuevas culturas.
Sioux City también ha sido excelente al brindar información y ayuda a nuestra diversa comunidad. Y nuevamente, sigue mejorando cada año.
¿Qué quieres que sepa la gente de Siouxland?
Que vivimos en una ciudad llena de diversidad. Trabajo en una escuela primaria y solo aquí se hablan más de 8 idiomas diferentes. Si fuéramos
un poco más inclusivos y aceptáramos otras culturas, podríamos convertirnos en una ciudad mucho más impresionante. Basta pensar en lo que
toda esa diversidad tiene para ofrecer.
”
“Sé tan ferozmente que inspires a otros a ser ellos mismos también.
– Samira Vivette

EXPAND | Give more / 40
Nonprofit spotlight
Unityin the
Community
Want to join
Stacie on a
Facebook
Spotlight?
The mustard seed that initiated this
organization was planted in Monique
Scarlett’s heart after the world witnessed the
slaying of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Florida
in 2012. Monique sat at home, watching the news with
the rest of the world, wondering how to keep this from
happening in her community.
“I sat crying in my recliner that night watching the news
because I didn’t want to see that happening here. I
wondered what we could do to be proactive. We needed
to collaborate,” stated Monique. That collaboration started
with a conversation, specifically with some people on the
city council.
“I spoke with past councilwoman Rhonda Capron, the
Director of Human Rights Commission Karen Mackey,
and former Chief of Police Doug Young. We had a
good conversation, and they said they were on board
with whatever was needed. I contacted some faith
leaders in the community because I honestly believe
the four components of unity in the community are
love, hope, peace, and prayer. That’s what keeps us
bonded together and in a spirit of unity,” said Monique.
This seed was planted with the hope that this group
of people, an organization, would be able to sit down
and have candid conversations that are sometimes very
uncomfortable; however, it is necessary to learn from one
another. In 2016, Unity in the Community was established.
“I’m so fortunate because I feel our organization is strong
because of our police department and its contributions to
our discussions. The strongest person is your leader,
and then everything trickles down from there. Chief
Rex Mueller started with us when he was a Sergeant
and has continued since being promoted to Chief. That
just really opened it up for true community policing and
collaboration. Unity in the Community was just able to
blossom and make connections,” stated Monique.
Once people understood the mission statement of the
organization and the meaning behind it, more people
got on board and involved. Now, you hear the word
unity not just locally but also nationally!
“That’s what keeps us bonded together and in a spirit
of unity. Our board would discuss a lot of topics. We
felt so blessed that those discussions started here in
Sioux City. Suddenly, people noticed and talked about
it in Des Moines, Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, and Omaha.
It just began to grow, and we got calls from people
in Kansas City and Colorado. People wanted to know
what we were doing here in Sioux City and how Unity
in the Community was truly bringing our community
together,” said Monique.
Monique believes that the organization’s board
deserves good credit for its success. “If you have an
effective board, then you have an effective organization
and a great team,” stated Monique, the Founder and
President of the organization.
“Margarite Reinert is the Vice President and a specialist
in social work. She identifies and assists with the
mental health issues we face. She recognizes the racial
disparities and understands being a product of the
world, and of the city, and being raised here. She’s just
“I honestly believe the four components of unity in the community are love, hope,
peace, and prayer. That’s what keeps us bonded together and in a spirit of unity.
– Monique Scarlett

EXPAND | Give more /41
Better Together
a true gem. She brings energy to everything. When
we plan our annual block parties, that is her baby, she
takes it up to a whole new level with interaction and
collaboration,” stated Monique.
Other members of the board include Secretary Linda
Steele, Special Services Director at Dakota Valley,
who brings in the educational piece of the puzzle, not
only from the expertise in her field but also from the
students’ perspectives; Treasurer Erin Cron, a Sioux
City school counselor and is also hands-on in her
community with the church and the school district;
Marketing Director Jay Rhodes who taught at Briar
Cliff University.
“Jay has lived and breathed the message that we’re
sending. As a young man growing up, there were not
as many positive interactions with law enforcement. I
think that being a part of the board, he has grown and
developed, and he appreciated hearing from the other
side, so there’s respect on both sides,” said Monique.
This year, for the Youth for Unity event, the organization
targets middle school, high school, and college
students. “We want them to come together and start
building healthy relationships and collaborations with
local law enforcement early. We want to help them
see at an early age that just because, perhaps, our
grandparents did not have a good relationship with
law enforcement doesn’t mean that WE, Generation Z,
can’t,” stated Monique.
In addition to the monthly meetings, the
organization holds an annual block party and a
Youth for Unity event. This year’s block party will
be held Saturday, June 8, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at
Cook Park. The Youth for Unity event will be held
Saturday, April 20, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the
Boys and Girls Club, 823 Pearl Street, Sioux City, IA
51101. Lunch will be provided.
This year’s Youth for Unity event was a hope and
vision from Vice President Margarite Reinert. “She
said we’ve just got to get to the YOUTH. Once
Leadership Siouxland awarded us an opportunity to put
our organization out there on a bigger page, that made
a big difference, and we were able to make this happen.
I believe that is why we’ve found success here in our
community. You hear it at our city council meetings where
our mayor has given the police department accolades.
‘Mirror our police department and watch them and what
they are doing.’ You have to be very intentional if you
want to understand your community. Your leaders and
those that hold government offices should reflect what
your community looks like; then you know you’re hearing
everyone’s voice and perspective,” replied Monique. Unity
in the Community is an organization that is alive and well
and doing great things in this community.
Follow on Facebook @unityinthecommunitysiouxcity
Donations can be sent to Unity in the Community
PO Box 5154, Sioux City, Iowa 51102.
Amy Buster has been a writer/editor for the past 25 years,
specializing in newspaper and magazine publications.
Siouxland Magazine is Committed to
Supporting Siouxland’s Local
Small Businesses and Nonprofits.
We have a platform,
and we want to share it with you.
Get in front of the community by joining
Stacie on a Facebook Spotlight.
Get the details by scanning
the QR code or visit
siouxlandmagazine.com.

EXPAND | Give more / 42
Behind the
SHIELD
Sandra Mueller
and
Jennifer Braunschweig
The life of a law enforcement officer is one of service. It’s complicated, challenging, and even self-sacrificing. We will
never fully understand what it would be like to stand in their shoes. Not even their spouses can fully comprehend their
lived experiences and complex emotions. But in talking with Sandra Mueller and Jennifer Braunschweig, two wives of
local law enforcement officers, we can expand our empathy and demonstrate greater support for area law enforcement.
Jennifer: While dating my husband in high school, he
mentioned that he planned to be a police officer. We had
an argument about it because it was such a dangerous
profession. At that time, I was focused on the physical danger,
not even considering the mental toll it would take. I was not
prepared for the reality of that. I was not equipped to have the
difficult discussions around his experiences and how to cope
with the emotions he would go through.
I read a book entitled I love a cop when we were first married
that I’d recommend to any law enforcement spouse. It helped
me better understand what they go through. They are paid
to be in charge, and everyone expects them to solve issues.
As wives, sometimes we just want them to listen and be a
sounding board, yet they want to fix things. That’s what they
are trained to do. When the roles are flipped, and they are
talking, we don’t always have an answer, but we make sure we
are always available to listen and show our appreciation for all
they do. That is the biggest takeaway for the community - we
just don’t understand what they’ve gone through, but what we
can do is offer love and encouragement to their daily sacrifice
of protecting and serving.
Sandra: I always ask about his day. I’ve learned from his
responses that sometimes he leaves some things unsaid,
and I don’t push. It is not because he’s trying to be hurtful or
keep things from me. Sometimes, he just needs to process
the events of his day before he shares them with me. I would
encourage new law enforcement spouses to ask questions
and, together, figure out a system that will work best for
their families. What works for us may not work for others.
Our spouses see difficult things. When they talk about it,
we can’t begin to fully understand their experience. They
lived it with all their senses. It can be intense. Sometimes,
I don’t know what to say but can listen. I can relate, yet I
cannot relate. I show empathy but feel the frustration of not
knowing if what I am saying is exactly the best thing to say
at that moment. It can be difficult to hide my emotions, but
often, I try to keep them to myself because I do not want to
add to his stress.
Moment of Reflection from the Editor:
• Many probably don’t realize the responsibility that
falls on the shoulders of law enforcement spouses.
We may not wear the badge, but we certainly
are walking this line with them. Leaning on other
spouses is a comfort, but knowing that our spouses
are supported and respected would provide a muchneeded
peace of mind.
• Spouses are committed to being a source of
support for their spouses. However, the nature
of the job has changed drastically, and the
scope of danger has increased significantly.
Spouses must balance showing support and
managing their emotions. The stress of the job
can take its toll on the family.
Jennifer: The one thing I say a lot to him is, “You can’t
do it all. You can’t fix it all.” Even though he goes above
and beyond, and at times, to a fault. I also remind him
that someone didn’t just wake up and decide to commit a
crime. They deal with people when they are at their worst.
They may not stay that way, but that is where they were
at that moment. It helped that I did ride-alongs with my
husband early on in his career, and he could explain to
me what he was doing and why. I was able to understand
his job better and see how careful he is when he’s on
Sandra Mueller (on the left) and Jennifer Braunschweig.

duty. But now, in this climate, I am worried. There are many
more calls with mental illness accompanied with addiction
while the police force is understaffed. Our officers need our
respect and support.
Sandra: We want people to remember that although our
husbands wear the uniform, they are people first. And, yes,
they may be having an encounter with law enforcement,
but that doesn’t mean that law enforcement officers are
bad people. Again, they are enforcing the laws. The entire
profession has been painted with a broad brush. The actions
of one suddenly changed the way people viewed all officers,
and it was unfair and untrue. The narrative has changed, and
there is this anti-police sentiment, which makes their job
more dangerous. I think we are lucky in Sioux City that our
community is more supportive than other communities. You
shouldn’t have a problem with them if you are following the
law. Unfortunately, sometimes, people would rather blame
the cop than take personal responsibility for their actions.
Now, if you don’t like a law, work with your legislators to
make a change. But our officers are law enforcement. They
are simply enforcing the laws. They just want to do their
jobs, serve the community, and make it home safe to see
their family at the end of the day. I feel like people forget
that. It takes a special kind of person to do this job. They are
committed to us and our safety. It is hard work. Regardless
of how they are treated, they still work to protect all of us.
Who else would do that?
Jennifer: Every single thing they do, they have to be
prepared for the worst. A simple traffic stop could cost them
their life. It is one of the most dangerous things they do. Can
you imagine that?
Sandra: Can you imagine that somebody would not value
another person’s life, that they would rather kill someone
than get a ticket or get arrested? Officers arrest or issue
citations for a reason, whether it is speeding, running
a stop sign, warrants, or drug or alcohol-related. When
I see a patrol car with a car pulled over, I say a prayer for
that officer’s safety. There is no such thing as a routine stop
anymore. Their jobs have become increasingly dangerous.
The sight of a police car causes some people to quickly tap
their brakes or make sure they come to a complete stop. For
many, it is just another cop trying to meet their quota. They
see a cop whose salary they pay. They see a pig, as so many
disrespectful people refer to them. They view the police as
the enemy. They blame the police for the consequences of
their poor choices.
For me and many other spouses, the person in that patrol
car is our life. They are the other half of our hearts. They are
the people we love most in this world. They are a husband
or wife, father or mother, son or daughter. Every time I
drive by a police car, especially when they have someone
pulled over, I don’t just see a cop. I see a human being who
chooses every day to show up for a thankless job in a world
that continues to spiral further into chaos. I see a person
who most likely hugged or kissed their loved ones on the
way out the door, not knowing if they will return safely to
them. I see someone who shoulders so much responsibility
and has pledged to protect those who often hate them or
would not care if their lives ended today. Yet, they put that
badge and uniform on every day. When I see a patrol car,
I see something most people don’t see. I see the person.
I see a hero. I see the heart behind the badge and pray
that they get home safely at the end of their shift. I wish
people could see what I see.
Jennifer: It is a really dangerous job, and they are often
judged and disrespected. But they choose to do it, and they
come back to it every day. I just want to hear the sound of
Velcro at the end of his shift. The sound of him taking off his
bulletproof vest. Then, I can breathe knowing he is home safe.
My husband has mentioned to me many times the level of
responsibility he feels he owes the community. He feels that
his role is a privilege, and I see his devotion to all of us.
I want to use this positive platform and share with
everyone how meaningful the Thank You Law Enforcement
billboards are to our law enforcement and their families. I
always get emotional when I drive by one.
Sandra: While we all get to sleep safely in our beds at
night, these men and women deal with difficult and lifethreatening
events we are not even aware of. They are the
line between us and potential harm. They are committed to
doing their job and doing it well. They love their jobs and
their community. The narrative must change. The hate and
divide have to end. We are fortunate in this community, but
there is still work to be done. Our faith and trust in their
training help ease our minds. We want to thank Unity in the
Community for helping to provide a bridge between law
enforcement and the community. We want to encourage
everyone to get involved.
Events the Policy Department does
within the Community:
Neighborhood meetings
Annual Town Hall meetings
Cones and Pops with a Cop
Ice Cream Cart - they take out into the community
High-five Fridays - officers go to elementary schools
and high-five kids as they come in
Bike Rodeos - officers teach bicycle safety
National Night Out - officers go to various locations to
meet the public
Unity in the Community Annual Block Party
Unity in the Community Annual Forum
Career Fairs at various College campuses
Citizen’s Academy
Bicycle Patrol on trails and underserved neighborhoods
Youth Academy
Junior Youth Academy
Shop with a Cop at Christmas
Police Trading Cards
Police Museum Tours
Multicultural Fairs
Crime Prevention Presentations
And many, many more
Interviewed by Stacie Anderson and Angela Osdoba Ericson.
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CONGRATULATIONS
TO MARY STERK
FORBES AWARD-WINNER FOR SEVEN YEARS RUNNING
INCLUDING FORBES BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH ADVISORS,
FORBES TOP WOMEN IN WEALTH, AND…
2024 FORBES TOP WOMEN WEALTH ADVISORS
BEST-IN-STATE, #1 IN SOUTH DAKOTA
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance offered through Sterk Financial Services
which is not affiliated with Osaic Wealth. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here
are independent of Osaic Wealth. The ranking for the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list by SHOOK Research is based on due diligence meetings to
evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance
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Hot
Air
By Tony Michaels
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Motivational Mojo
I
am a sucker for motivational artwork.
For more than a decade in my office at work,
I had a silhouette of a Husker football player
with the heading DETERMINATION. Below it read
something like “Out-hustle others who don’t have your
work ethic,” or perhaps it read, “We used to be really good
for three decades and we lost our way.” I know it was a
good conversation starter and now I have no idea where it
is located. I’m sure it’s somewhere next to a cassette tape of
the Cocktail soundtrack and an academic award I received
my first year of college before I got distracted. Oh, no! I lost
my determination. I was out-hustled by others. Or were they
just more organized?
For the past few weeks, the platform of LinkedIn put me
in touch with professionals who have made a massive
career to care for a loved one. A guy I never met reached
out to me to talk about the transition from a hot-air maker
like me, on-air personality, to that of a caregiver for his son
who happens to have autism like my son. I had a heartfelt
conversation with my good friend in Nashville who left her
award-winning business to look after her mother. Both
individuals had no idea where life would take them when
they started on their career track. For me, that was WAY
back when I had glorious flowing locks of hair like Patrick
Swayze in Roadhouse. It got me thinking. If you were to walk
into the den of these individuals what motivational artwork
would be on the wall? I pondered this question and went
about my tasks at hand.
My journey has led me to a quieter life rooted in reflection and
caregiving. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if it was in my wheelhouse.
Then, I looked at Trey. If he dares to do uncomfortable
activities and ends up with a grin, I can find the fortitude
to become something else. I may not introduce a big-time
musical act on stage anytime soon, but I am the wingman for
the loudest person in this office.
Determination.
No artwork needed.
By Tony “Michaels” Michalski, he used to be on the radio daily.
Now, you can find him at doctor’s offices. He’s the author of: Tacos
and Beer Atmosphere” and founder of www.baldandwitty.com
The very next day, I took my son to a busy doctor’s office
filled with commotion and loud noises; his kryptonite. We
mustered through it and with my 20-year-old highly active
and loud. The motivational header popped into my brain
“Disruptive – When an ordinary situation needs a frontman
like Axl Rose’s lungs and energy.” We got through the
visit. “Perseverance – you felt like crying but now it’s over.
Breathe.”
Then, Trey surprised me. Kind words from a nurse put a
smile on his face. He began laughing and it looked as
though he was having the best day ever at Disneyland and
not just at the medical office on a Tuesday morning.
It was then, I saw the sign. This was an actual piece of
artwork and not one that just popped up in my imagination.
“Journey – A bend in the road is not the end of the road –
unless you fail to make the turn.”

Coming to Siouxland this Fall
A world-class leadership experience you won’t want to miss.
Stay tuned for all the details.
VISIT
or
expand2more.com
@expand2more
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT ORPHEUMLIVE.COM

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