Siouxland Sir 7.1

Randy Sabe & Cint Vos

BY: MICHAELA FELDMANN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: SHANE MONAHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

What’s a hero? For many of us, we think of Spider Man, Superman, Black Panther or Batman. But for many non-profts, Randy Stabe and Clint Vos are the true, everyday heroes.

The duo is humble when called that, but for over 30 years, they’ve been working together to raise millions of dollars for Siouxland charities.

“Randy and I were actually auctioneers before we really knew each other,” says Clint. “It was through auctioneering that we became good friends.”

“My dad started the auction business,” adds Randy. “When I graduated high school, I went to auctioneer school in December 1976, and then came back and worked with him. Eventually, we went on our own and I ended up connecting with Clint after he went to auctioneer school in 1977.”

Once they got started together, they never looked back.

“We can really get going once you put us together,” Randy laughs. “When we are up there, it just comes naturally. We just feed off each other and make little jokes or wise cracks to keep the audience’s attention and make them laugh. We don’t practice anything, and I never know what he’s going to say, and he never knows what I’m going to say.”

“Therein lies part of the problem,” jokes Clint.

It doesn’t take long to see why nonprofts have the pair on speed dial. Sitting around the table at Randy’s business, Stabe Auction and Realty, the duo are all laughs. They seamlessly

fll in the gaps of each other’s stories, fnishing each other’s sentences at times as they recount memories from the last 30 years.

“Really, the Boys and Girls Club is where we started together down at the stockyards,” shares Clint. “That was kind of the premier event. We would start at 6 p.m. and get done after midnight. Randy started bringing a baby pig to auction off.”

“The baby pig represented a butcher hog that they could come get and take it to get processed,” says Randy. “Rhonda with Rhonda’s Speakeasy bought it for $250 and then she said, ‘I don’t want that thing, donate it back!’ and so we did.”

“Then, someone else did the same thing!” remembers Clint.

“Right,” agrees Randy. “That guy bought it for a couple hundred dollars and then donated it back. Next, the third person bought it for another couple hundred, so we raised $600-$650 that night. That was fantastic. So, we did it the next year and raised about $1,300. The third year added another three thousand and it just kept snowballing. Now, most years we probably raise $20,000.”

And it took off from there. Soon word got around, and the duo was doing auctions left and right – never charging a dime for their time.

“Just give us a beverage to drink and something to eat if you have it,” jokes Clint.

The memories are endless for Clint and Randy.

“Somebody once told me, ‘You will get everything out of life by helping someone else get what they want out of life.’ Randy and I are inspired when helping other people get what they want. Helping to raise funds for someone who is battling cancer, or hoping for a cure from ALS or finding a room at the Boys and Girls Home, is very rewarding.”

-Cint Vos

From raising $30,000 on pumpkins at Camp High Hopes Haunted Lodge Party…

“Those two ladies were battling each other out to get the carved pumpkin,” remembers Randy. “So, we asked the guy carving if he would do a second one if we could get the other lady to give another $15,000 and he said yes. We raised $30,000 just on two pumpkins that night!”

To the Walt Fiegel Foundation Auction…

“This will be our 21st year of doing that,” says Clint. “When we started it, there were like six or eight tables. Now, the foundation is self-supporting because they have a great group of board members who put it all together. We are just one piece of the puzzle that contributes to the overall success.”

To the people they’ve met and the friendships they’ve built….

“We have met many wonderful people and built friendships over the years with people at these charity auctions. The people who organize and work behind the scenes treat us like family. One example, we have become great friends with General Mark Muckey and his wife Susan, whom we wouldn’t have met if it wasn’t for a charity auction. We just call him Mark, but he was previously the Commander at the 185th IANG in Sioux City.”

Once in a while, the two end up donating or buying something themselves.

“Sometimes we will have someone on the hook and they’re about to give up,” says Clint. “So, we will say if you give me

$1,100, I’ll get $1,200 from the other bidder. But then that guy says ‘No’. Well, you promised them you would get $1,200, so now I’ve just bought a chocolate cake for $1,200.”

The two laugh about those times because they know, it’s all for a good cause.

“It’s not uncommon to get $250,000 in some of these auctions and that’s a big deal,” says Randy. “The money that we’ve been able to raise and the impact that it has had, I don’t even know if you can put it into words. It’s hard to even estimate or imagine, but it means a lot to us that we can be such a small part to this.”

It’s not just the non-profts who notice their good work. In 2022, Randy and Clint were recognized as volunteers of the year at the “Heroes Game” between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

“I don’t look at myself as a hero,” says Randy. “That’s what the award was for, but I guess we are just doing our part and whatever we can do to help out in the community is what makes the difference. We were really honored with that award. To look at it as a hero, I don’t know if I can do that, but that was a fantastic experience, and we are very humbled.”

“It’s been pretty humbling to look back at what we’ve been able to do,” says Clint. “Somebody once told me, ‘You will get everything out of life by helping someone else get what they want out of life.’ Randy and I are inspired when helping other people get what they want. Helping to raise funds for someone who is battling cancer, or hoping for a cure from ALS or fnding a room at the Boys and Girls Home, is very rewarding.”

LEARNING THE VALUE of Hard Work —RANDY STABE—

The value of hard work is something Randy Stabe learned at a young age and still carries with him to this day. He grew up just east of Hinton, Iowa on a farm – learning the values of patience, determination and teamwork.

“My childhood was a lot of hard work, but I enjoyed it. My mom raised about 1,500 to 2,000 chickens. Every day it was the job of me and my brother to collect the eggs and we would get several baskets full. Then, my sisters would help my mom with the washing and packaging. So, it was quite the process,” Randy shares.

It wasn’t just the chicken chores they helped with. Randy’s dad also managed a large cow/calf operation, a farrow-to-fnish hog operation, and farmed. If all those jobs weren’t enough, his dad was also an auctioneer, and his mom was a real estate broker.

“Every day we’d be doing chores like feeding the livestock and cleaning buildings and yards. It was a sunup to sundown, seven days a week job. In the summer, we would bale straw and hay and I would even help my neighbors bale. When my dad worked at the sale barn every Tuesday, I would go with him to help with the farm and household auctions where I could and just watch, listen, and learn from him. Whenever he was out in the feld, I was right there with him. It was a lot of hard work, but I really enjoyed it,” Randy recalls.

Randy says it was only natural that he followed in his dad’s footsteps. Randy now runs the auction business, has his

broker’s license and manages his own farming operation not far from his childhood home.

“I actually just live a mile and half away from the farmhouse where I was born and raised. My great-great grandpa purchased it from the railroad back in 1884. It’s been in our family name ever since and it’s coming up on its 150th anniversary. I also still farm the ground as well, so I’m really proud of that.”

Over the years Randy says the auction business started to really take off.

“I started helping when I got out of auctioneer school,” Randy adds. “When I was younger, my dad would do all the legwork and advertising and I would just show up on sale day because I was tending to livestock or farming. My mom would help him with all the bookwork, including settling and writing checks. As I got older, my mom developed Alzheimer’s and my dad wanted to take a step back from it all, so we kind of just switched roles. I started doing most of the legwork and then he’d come help me on auction day.”

As he took on more of the auction company, Randy’s passion for it started to grow.

“I try to give everything that I have for every auction. Whether it’s a big one or a small household, I still put 100% into it. I love that I get to meet so many great people in the community and see the genuine love and compassion in their hearts. I wouldn’t get that opportunity if I wasn’t in the business,” Randy explains.

In fact, Randy met his wife Shelley because of his auctioneering work with Clint Vos.

“Clint and I have become friends over the years, and he took me to a Trump Rally that was happening in town. Shelley ushered us to our seats, and I remember she was wearing a red dress and cowboy boots. I was sold,” Randy smiles.

Together, they have eight children including Ben, Bryce, Brittany, Kaitlyn, Chase, Kaylee, Jordan and Deanna, and 11 grandkids with two more on the way.

When it comes to the grandkids, Randy and Shelley have to take a pause…

“How many is it again?” jokes Randy as he asks Shelley. “With the grandkids, sometimes we have to stop and recount them all.”

When work and family isn’t flling their days, Randy and Shelley like to try to get away.

“We don’t get a lot of weekends off but if we do, we love to spend time up at Okoboji. We also try to go someplace warm in the wintertime. We’ve been fortunate enough to be able to visit several countries like Costa Rica and Panama. Our favorite place, and somewhere we want to go back again, is Belize. We really enjoyed that,” Randy refects.

5 things abou Randy

1. Randy and Shelley are both huge Iowa Hawkeye fans!

2.

Religion is very important to both Randy and Shelley. “While we attend different churches, we read the same Word.” The two make it a point to try and take ten minutes out of every morning to give thanks.

3. Randy used to have a large-scale cow/calf operation like his dad and raised pigs over the years. 15 years ago, as the auction business and farming operation got bigger, he had to scale back.

4. Randy has a passion for horses. His dad raised horses, as well. Randy even got involved in team roping competitions for 20+ years.

5. Randy lives by the motto, “Treat others as you want to be treated.”

EMBARKING ON Life’s Greatest Adventures

—CLINT VOS—

You never know where life is going to take you, or who you’re going to meet along the way. Clint Vos is a prime example of that.

You may know him for his fast talking, high-energy auctioneering skills. His passion for auctions started when he was just a young boy.

“I went to auctions with my dad and grandfather. My grandfather was very big into buying and selling cattle. He had his own airplane, and we would fy to Texas, Kansas or Oklahoma to livestock auctions. As a young man, it was fun to tag along. I was always so enamored by a good auctioneer and how they have control of the room and how they inspire. It’s just fun and it matches my personality as well,” Clint explains.

Born in Rock Rapids, Iowa, Clint and his parents Leroy and June Vos, moved to Kingsley in 1969 where his family farmed and raised cattle on a large feedlot. As he got older, life took him a different way and into sales at Lite Form Technologies. There, he would embark on one of his biggest adventures – helping to build commercial buildings in the Middle East.

“This was in the heart of the Iraq war in 2005. It was an interesting time and place. A lot of people might not have gone, but I’m not easily intimidated,” jokes Clint. “There was of course some fear, but it was one of the coolest things.”

Between 2005 and 2007, Clint made 12 to 13 trips to the Middle East helping to build three, three-story buildings in

Kuwait. It was there that he found greater strength in his faith and religion.

“In Kuwait, they allow for religious freedom, and I attended a Protestant church there. I was fascinated by it all. There was a young man, an engineer from Egypt, who worked for the construction frm that was building with Lite Form. He was a Coptic Christian with a cross tattooed on his wrist. That just put me more at ease knowing that if something happened to me, I would have my Christian friend with me. Actually, I felt safer walking the streets of Kuwait City than the streets of Chicago.” Clint remembers.

Throughout his trips, he would work the trade shows, then have opportunities to tour the areas. Touring countries like Qatar, Jordan and Egypt taking in all the culture he could. From riding camels around the Pyramids of Giza, washing his hands in the Jordan River, standing at Mt. Nebo or swimming in the Dead Sea, these were very eye-opening experiences. Clint recalls.

Clint’s strong faith also led him to his partner Carmen.

“I was doing some work at church and borrowed a piece of equipment from a fellow church member. When I got done using it, he said he wanted me to meet someone that was renting some property from him. Here comes Carmen walking down the road – just the cutest little redhead and I instantly thought, ‘Oh my gosh. What a doll!’ We met socially with some friends over the course of time and the rest is history,” Clint smiles.

Carmen and Clint have three sons - Kollin, Kellen and Brian.

Kollin is the Vice President of Power Production at Arkansas Electric Cooperative. His wife Alyssa is a dental hygienist. Kellen is a Master Fire Fighter in Sioux City, and his wife Amanda is an account executive at Avel eCare. Brian is a Major in the United States Air Force. His wife Alyssa is a nurse with California Public Schools.

Travel still fows through Clint’s veins.

“When Brian was in Europe, we few to Germany and drove all throughout Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. We’ve done Rome, Venice, Costa Rica and Panama,” Clint shares.

But where is their favorite place to travel to? The cattle country of Wyoming and Montana.

“We were coming home from a trip, and we stopped in Dubois, Wyoming, a little town south east of Yellowstone. When I was a young man, we used to buy cattle from Walt Disney Ranch. They eventually dissolved the ranch, but I wanted to stop and see it. Along the way we stopped at Turtle Creek Ranch to see if the local rancher knew where we could fnd it. It ended up that, in his barn, the rancher had a teeter totter that you could put an elephant on and there were two Wells Fargo stagecoaches. It turns out that he trains the Clydesdales for Budweiser and drives the Wells Fargo Stagecoach for TV commercials. That was just so cool. You just really never know who you’re going to meet,” Clint recalls.

5 things

abou

Cint

1.

Clint has been a Kansas City Chiefs Fan since the 60s – stressing he’s not a bandwagoner. “I’ve been through thick and thin. More thin than thick,” jokes Clint.

2.

Clint is passionate about mentorship and the impact it can have on young peoples’ lives. He credits what he’s been able to do throughout his life to his mentors: his dad, mom, uncles, and grandparents.

3.

Clint spends a lot of time with his 87-year-old mother June helping her around the farm. He says, “To this day, she still enjoys working two days a week at The Fashion Shop in Kingsley.”

4.

Clint is currently a sales manager for GCC Ready Mix, farms and raises cattle.

5.

Clint and Carmen love to spend time on their boat in Okoboji. Every year, they relax on the water with friends, including Randy and Shelley Stabe.

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By: Tanya Manus

By:

The entire nation seems this year, about how upcoming affect

But should you your concerns about your investment strategies?

The entire nation seems on-edge this year, about how the upcoming presidential election might affect the economy. But should you let your concerns about politics infuence your investment strategies?

Don’t make any sudden changes based upon your worries about which party is, or could be, in power, according to Sioux City-based fnancial advisor Gregory G. Giles of Legacy Financial, LLC.

Don’t make any based upon worries about which party is, or could be, power, according Sioux City-based fnancial advisor Gregory Giles of Legacy Financial,

“People are antsy about the November election, and how that could play out on the stock market,” Giles says. “Always be investing, regardless of the news cycle. Just keep putting dollars away, making them work. The magic of compound interest is that you put away ‘x’ amount of dollars, and within a number of years, your money has doubled (the famed “Rule of 72”). You just have to reduce the noise.”

“People are about the November and how that could out on market,” Giles “Always be of keep putting away, them work. The of compound interest you amount of dollars, and within a number of years, money has doubled (the famed “Rule of You just have reduce the noise.”

Concerns about high prices for gasoline and food, the national debt ceiling, potential budget cuts, and fears about the United States running out of money, are issues which reoccur at least every few years.

Concerns about for and food, the national ceiling, potential budget cuts, and about the United running out of are issues which reoccur least every few years.

“Unemployment is currently at near-historic lows, an indicator that the nation’s economy is not on the brink of collapse,” Giles says. “If unemployment and infation were both high, yes, those might be signs of trouble.”

“Unemployment at near-historic lows, indicator that nation’s economy is not on brink of collapse,” Giles “If unemployment and were both high, yes, those signs of

2-3 MONTHS

“We have recessions, but they’re countered by the fuidity of the U.S. economy. It’s so resilient. The stock market soldiers on to new highs… it’s the business cycle of boomand-bust,” Giles states. “Don’t panic and sell your stocks!” “Investors, generally, and those soon-to-retire, specifcally, might be fearful another political party is going to do something crazy, whomever the other party might be. We haven’t had major market collapses simply due to one party or the other being in charge,” he explains. “Don’t lose hope, because the U.S. economy always bounces back.”

“We have recessions, but by fuidity of the U.S. economy. It’s so resilient. The stock market soldiers on to new highs… it’s the cycle of and-bust,” Giles states. “Don’t panic and your stocks!” “Investors, generally, and those soon-to-retire, might be fearful another party is going to something whomever the other party might be. We haven’t had market collapses due one party or the in he explains. lose hope, U.S. always bounces

In fact, according to sources, (including Standard & Poor’s 500, which tracks the 500 biggest public companies traded on the U.S. stock market), the national economy thrives most when power is split between Democrats and Republicans.

In according & Poor’s 500, which the 500 biggest public traded on the U.S. the national economy thrives most power is between and Republicans.

Giles says historians from S&P and other expert sources at Bloomberg and CNBC say data show the nation’s system of checks and balances — tri-partite power, divided between two parties — produces better economic results for the country, and that’s true no matter which political party is in the White House.

Giles historians from and expert sources Bloomberg CNBC data show the system of checks balances — power, divided two parties better economic results for country, true no matter which party is the White House.

“No matter who wins the election, over the long arc of history … one party in the Senate, one in the House and one of the two in the White House is good,” Giles states.

“No who wins over the long arc of history one party in Senate, in House and one of in the White is good,” states.

“The United States is an established, strong economy and, all politics aside, the republic shall stand,” he adds.

Giles encourages people to continue investing and saving to build secure fnancial futures for themselves and their families.

“When economic downturns occur, and they invariably do, if you have some cash at the ready when the market is down, it’s an excellent buying opportunity to purchase stocks,” Giles explains.

Additionally, he says the bond market is more stable right now as well, and that may be a good option for investors preferring less risky investments.

“The worst thing you could do in the months leading up to an election is liquidate your portfolio, your hardearned retirement savings, whether that’s a 401(k) at work, or an investment account elsewhere. You’ve got to stay the course,” he implores.

In addition to investing, Giles encourages everyone to provide themselves a fnancial cushion by saving for unplanned events. While many fnancial experts advise saving six months of living expenses, Giles said that’s unrealistic for most people, and recommends saving two to three months of cash for emergencies.

“Don’t reduce your input in your employer-based 401(k), and if you’ve got cash, put it to work,” he states. “There will be abundant opportunities in the months between now and the inauguration; indeed, there could be a signifcant boom starting in January.”

“Whatever happens, we’re going to be fne and investing is the way to go, whether on your own, with an advisor, or through your employer. It’s always prudent to keep socking away savings and to invest,” he concludes.

For more information, call Gregory at 712-587-8070 or e-mail him at gregory@legacyrdawealth.com

Gregory G. Giles, J.D. Vice President – Legacy Financial LLC

Phone: 712.587.8070

505 5th Street #604

Sioux City, IA 51101

Fax: 712.258.6633

Email: gregory@legacyrdawealth.com

Website: www.legacyfnancialllc.com

My aim, working with clients in a multigenerational approach, is to create fnancial plans which mesh with their existing estate- and tax-planning outlooks, and to help achieve secure retirement. After 25+ years in the entertainment industry, I joined the fnancial services feld in 2015. If you’re seeking a fnancial advisor with whom you can feel comfortable discussing your retirement plans, and the many components which comprise your goals, please contact me. I’m currently accepting new clients desiring a personable, purposeful wealth management experience. An initial consultation is always complimentary.

Advocae fo Cidren by Vounteering wih te CASA Program

By: Joanne Fox

What do a construction worker, banker, and waiter all have in common?

They are all trades of the men who volunteer with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program in Woodbury County.

Most children grow up in a house without physical abuse, addiction, and neglect, but those who do may fnd themselves removed from the home and stuck in a cycle of court hearings -- wondering what’s going to happen to them.

CASA volunteers assure the child’s voice gets heard and look out for their best interests, while the child welfare system determines if the family can reunite.

Volunteers work with child welfare professionals, educators, and service providers to ensure that judges have the information they need to make the most wellinformed decisions for each child.

According to Amy Hennies, CASA program coordinator for Woodbury County, there are 939 state organizations and local programs in 49 states and the District of Columbia with 97,900 volunteers nationwide.

“Volunteers are motivated by seeing children fnd stability and happiness in a stable home environment,” Amy says. “Our CASAs appreciate the fact they can help a child see things improve in their home life.”

Amy, an Okoboji native, previously worked with her husband as family teachers for Boys Town in Omaha. She has served as the local CASA coordinator for almost nine years.

“I’ve seen soe powerful

success stoies...”

AMY SHARES.

“One I recall was when the mom and dad were estranged and unwilling to co-parent. The CASA volunteer was able to identify what they each did well and observed them learning to co-parent, which was what the child needed.”

Amy continues, “Another incident was when the parent was so immersed in their addiction that they tried to push away everyone who tried to help or give suggestions on how to keep the family together. The CASA volunteer stuck with that parent and slowly but surely, the parent began to see that we wanted the family to get healthy and succeed. That parent was able to get their kids back and successfully close their case.”

Men are particularly needed as CASA volunteers, Amy points out.

“Men help diversify the volunteer base by offering a different perspective,” she adds. “They can provide a positive male example, especially for boys and male youth.”

Most volunteers are comfortable with the commitment, Amy acknowledges.

“It is 30 hours for pre-service training,” Amy explains. “On average, it is fve to ten hours a month for case-related activities. Then, there are 12 hours per year for continuing education.”

Amy notes that CASAs get appointed to cases where the child has experienced some form of abuse or neglect and are involved with the juvenile court.

“The volunteers regularly visit the child they advocate for and develop an understanding of the child’s situation in order to make recommendations to the court about the child’s needs and best interests,” Amy explains. “So not only are volunteers impacting children’s lives, they are learning about social services, juvenile justice, and child development.”

Training for individuals interested in CASA occurs every other month, but people need to apply now to complete the background check and begin the process.

The CASA program is overseen by the Child Advocacy Board, which became part of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services July 1, 2023. CASA of Iowa is affliated with the National CASA/GAL Association for Children.

What: Court Appointed Special Advocates

Who: Amy Hennies, Program Coordinator

Address: 822 Douglas St., Suite 202, Sioux City, IA

Phone: 515-823-3496

Email: amy.hennies@hhs.iowa.gov

Website: CASAiowa.org

You may be surprised to learn that hearing loss can be more prevalent in men compared to women. Both men and women can develop hearing loss; however, the progression of the hearing loss can be impacted by external factors and decisions we make as adults. The main contributing factor is noise. Compared to women, men are more likely to have more hazardous noise exposure in their daily activities. Noise exposure may come from occupation setting, or it could be more related to recreational hobbies and activities.

Hazardous noise is noise that is loud enough to pose a risk of damaging the auditory system. For eight hours, you can safely be exposed to 85 decibels (dB) without risking damage to your auditory system. As the noise becomes louder, the amount of time you can safely be exposed to a noise decreases. When the noise level grows to 100 dB, you can only be safely exposed for 15 minutes before there is a risk of developing hearing loss.

Many male-dominant occupations can involve hazardous noise exposure. While women are also present in these work environments, men may be more likely to work in construction, factories, the military, trucking, farming, or law enforcement. These occupations often include the use of heavy machinery, power tools, and sometimes frearms. If you do work in a loud environment, it is likely that your employer supplies a hearing protection option and may even evaluate your hearing routinely as part of their hearing conservation program. Always make sure to follow these protocols.

Outside of work, men might also fnd themselves involved in noisy hobbies such as working in their workshop with power tools, riding motorcycles, going to the shooting range or hunting, or attending a sporting event. All of these activities pose the risk of noise induced hearing loss, especially if you spend a long time doing these activities, or if you opt to not wear hearing protection.

T OW

One of the best ways to start hearing better tomorrow is to be proactive today and take steps toward protecting or conserving the hearing ability that you have. Consider the use of hearing protection that is comfortable and reliable. This looks different for each person and his or her individual needs. There are many custom ft options that work great. Put your hearing protection in a convenient location, like your car, so it is ready on-the-go. If you fnd yourself in a position without hearing protection, you can increase your distance from a loud noise source, or

decrease your time of exposure. If you notice diffculty hearing or understanding others, you can immediately implement communication strategies like face-to-face communication, reducing distracting background noises (like the TV) when communicating, and having good lighting. A hearing evaluation is also helpful if you notice some communication diffculties or hearing loss so that you can be informed on your current hearing status and additional ways to start hearing better.

“MY EXPERIENCE IN THE MILITARY HAS MADE ME THE MAN I AM TODAY. “

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO JOIN THE MILITARY?

JOSH LUCK

–FEATURED VETERAN–CSM, IA, ARNG, G1 SGM, 2/34TH IBCT CSM

I first joined the Iowa Army National Guard in 1998 during my junior year of high school to help with college tuition assistance. I took full advantage of this opportunity and over the years ended up getting my Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Grantham University. Since then, my motivation to continue my service in the military has changed drastically. Service to our nation and soldier care is what drives me to continue doing what I do.

WHERE DID YOU SERVE THE MAJORITY OF TIME IN SERVICE?

I served the majority of my time in the Siouxland area. After joining in 1998, I was stationed in Sioux City. Following a deployment to Kosovo in 2004, I began full-time National Guard duty in LeMars, IA. In 2013, I became the operations noncommissioned officer in charge in Sioux City. I stayed there until I was selected in March of 2020, as the G1 (personnel) sergeant major for the state of Iowa. I currently work full-time in Johnston, IA, but still live in Sioux City and commute back on the weekends. My current position is the 2nd Brigade 34th Infantry Division Command Sergeant Major, which consists of approximately 3,300 soldiers, about half the force of the Iowa Army National Guard.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BOOT CAMP OR TRAINING EXPERIENCE.

My Basic Training was 26 years ago, and I don’t remember a lot from it other than it was tough. At that point it was the toughest thing I had ever done and it shaped me to be the man I am today. I just experienced a basic training this past February at Fort Moore, Georgia almost 26 years from when I attended. It was pretty cool to see, especially knowing that those young men and women just started a journey that will change their lives.

WHAT’S YOUR PROUDEST MILITARY MOMENT?

My proudest military moment(s) would have to be seeing Soldiers over the years grow up in the organization and become leaders

BRANCH: ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

in the Iowa Army National Guard. The individuals I have gotten to know over the past 26 years are an extension of my family, so to see them succeed quicker and be better than me is really satisfying. The Iowa Army National Guard has every opportunity you could imagine from basic goals, big goals, and citizenship opportunities! The opportunities are endless.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOURSELF BEFORE ENLISTING?

If I could go back in time knowing what I know now, I would definitely do a few things differently. I think the biggest things I would change would be to seek out some mentors and do a little more research on the opportunities that are available, such as benefits and school opportunities. I didn’t have any

THANK

From top to bottom: CSM Luck, SGM Hove, SGM Lunning at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, IA visiting some of the residents, CSM Luck after completing a Spur Ride, a 36-hour event that tests your skills on Cavalry based tasks. At completion participaqnts receive a pair of Silver Spurs, Conducting an Aeiral Sniper Gunnery from a UH-60 Blackhawk, Avery Luck, CSM Luck, Kenlie Luck (Luck’s two daughters), Change of Responsibility Ceremony when he took over as the Command Sergeant Major (CSM) of the 2/34th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in December 2024, CSM Luck presented one of his coins to a resident at the Iowa Veterans Home who had just turned 95 and it was her first coin that she had ever received.

experience with the military and didn’t have anyone to mentor me on the route I should have taken. I now take every opportunity I can get to share my experiences with junior soldiers to help them reach their goals as well as goals they might not even know are out there! With all that of said, I’m glad things happened the way they did. I have had an outstanding career in the Iowa Army National Guard.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO MEN AND WOMEN LOOKING TO ENLIST?

Just do it! What a fantastic opportunity it is. I have been able to travel the world, experience things I never would have been able to do, most of my college education was paid for, I am currently eligible for retirement at the age of 43, and I’ve made some

of the best friendships anyone could ask for all while serving our great nation and our local community.

By: Natalie Frazier

The Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort’s commitment to providing its guests with an exceptional all-around experience only heats up as the summer months approach. They continue to provide patrons with numerous opportunities for an extra special vacation.

Marketing Director for Grand Falls, Greta Stewart, says “The commitment to exceptional experience is ingrained in our corporate mission; the goal is to make each visit the gold standard.”

“We really work hard to make each guest feel like they are a priority here, because they are,” Greta adds. “We really want to remind people that they don’t have to travel far to feel like they are on vacation.”

From certain amenities opening up over the summer, to summer holiday meals, Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort has a little bit of something for everyone to feel like a V.I.P. on their next vacation.

“Grand Falls o ers so much more than you may think,” Greta shares.

Beat the summer heat with the Grand Falls outdoor pool lounge

With summer rapidly approaching, Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort is excited to open its outdoor pool lounge.

Guests can kick back and enjoy a relaxing poolside environment while having the opportunity to order food and beverage service from a lounge chair or cabana.

Throughout the summer, live music will be held in the lounge area every Saturday from 1-4 p.m. The pool will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

If you are not a guest at Grand Falls you don’t need to worry, as daily passes are available for $25.

“The pool is one of our best-kept secrets,” Greta says. “Our pool is super relaxing. You get full service while kicking back and enjoying the water, food and drink, and sun.”

Greta suggests getting to the outdoor pool lounge early as cabanas and lounge chairs are first come, first serve and fill up quickly once the summer weather hits. In addition to the outdoor pool lounge, Grand Falls has an indoor pool and indoor-outdoor hot tub that is open all year around to hotel guests.

A golf experience for beginners and experts alike

“Our golf course is truly a work of art,” Greta explains. “The Falls is a championship golf course which is a big deal to those serious players. You won’t find anything like it in the area.”

The 18-hole course was designed by Rees Jones, a designer who has created over 100 di erent courses throughout the world. Jones’ courses have been home to 16 major championships and a variety of di erent professional golf events. The Falls spans over 7,100 yards and is home to gorgeous views of the countryside, and includes a 30-foot waterfall that flows into a 12-acre lake.

The beautiful layout and attention to detail in The Falls Golf Course will create a memorable experience for novice players and experts alike. To top it all o , the golf course also o ers a fullservice golf shop.

As the summer months approach, tee times are already filling up fast. You can find more information online at Grand Falls’ website on how to book a tee time.

Not your typical Midwest Casino

“We have a lot to o er out on our gaming floor,” Greta explains.

The Grand Falls Casino will make you feel like a Las Vegas high roller without without buying a plane ticket. You won’t have to travel far to receive that red carpet casino feeling. The casino o ers the latest slot machines and video poker as well as table games throughout the gaming floor. You can even step away for a break at the Center Bar or Sports Bar and Grill.

Throughout the summer, the casino o ers free live music on Friday and Saturday nights in the Center Stage Lounge.

A Local Luxury Experience at Ruthie’s Steak and Seafood

Ruthie’s is known to be an intimate dining experience that allows you to experience an elegant luxury meal while still feeling comfortable. The high-end American steakhouse brings the finest Midwestern cuts of steak and the freshest seafood to your table complemented by other local house-made fare.

Greta says that throughout the summer months guests can look forward to a variety of summer holiday meals. The brunch bu ets at Robert’s Bu et will be open for the Fourth of July and Labor Day.

Whether you wish to relax poolside at the outdoor pool lounge, hit the links on a meticulously groomed 18-hole course, or enjoy luxury cuisine, Grand Falls Casino Resort and Golf Resort has your summer fun covered.

By Joanne Fox

On average, a man’s prostate is about the size of a walnut.

But like a piece of gravel in your shoe, it can provide equal levels of discomfort if ignored.

June is Men’s Health Month and keeping that prostate happy is critical.

The prostate’s main function is to produce fluid as part of the male reproductive system. The prostate surrounds the urethra (the tube that empties the bladder) so when problems arise in the prostate, it can lead to issues with urine retention or leaking.

According to Dr. Leah Noel, physical therapist at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers of Dakota Dunes, if your prostate is working well, you generally have no symptoms.

“Some common signs of prostate issues are trouble excreting urine, as well as leaking urine,” she said. “It is not, however, uncommon for men to have no noticeable symptoms, which is why regular blood test screenings are important. These are often done by primary care providers.”

Dr. Mallory Hertz, the FYZICAL center’s director, added that prostate cancer is the number one cancer in men.

“If cancer is indicated on blood test results, a urologist will likely perform a biopsy to get samples of the prostate to check for cancer,” she said. “One of the courses of treatment is a radical prostatectomy -- removal of the prostate.”

Dr. Hertz observed that most men do quite well with the surgery; however, the biggest issue after surgery is incontinence or urine leaking.

“When the prostate is removed, the anatomy is changed so the pelvic floor has to do di erent and more work to maintain continence than before surgery,” she said. “Research recommends 4 to 6 weeks of exercise prior to surgery. The stronger you are before surgery, the better you will recover after. This will help solidify nerve connections, so the muscles are easier to activate after surgery.”

A specially trained pelvic floor physical therapist can help make sure that an individual is doing the contraction correctly and can set up an appropriate exercise routine, Dr. Hertz noted.

At FYZICAL, we have two therapists trained in pelvic health,” she said. “That is the most years of combined pelvic experience in one clinic and the only clinic in Siouxland that specializes in male pelvic health.”

Dr. Noel stated that just like any system in the body, healthy living is the key to keeping the prostate happy.

“Maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating fresh fruits and vegetables and speaking with a primary care physician about getting PSA levels tested are all critical to good prostate health,” she said.

It’s no surprise that a supportive and understanding partner is also necessary for health and healing, Dr. Noel pointed out.

“The patient is usually frustrated already so patience is key,” she said. “FYZICAL also has a biofeedback machine to monitor pelvic floor musculature and help a patient visually see what a muscle is doing to help integrate strengthening into a plan of care -- resulting in wonderful success stories.”

Let FYZICAL be a part of your journey to loving your life again – no referral needed.

Dr. Leah Noel PT, DPT, FYZICAL Physical Therapist

Dr. Mallory Hertz PT, DPT, FYZICAL Director

Pumps

24/7 Emergency Service

When your heater goes out, time is of the essence. That’s why we provide 24-hour emergency heating system services in the Sioux City area. We return all calls as quickly as we can, and we will offer you a free, no cost estimate for repairs once we have assessed your situation.

How to support the men in your life

By: Michaela Feldmann

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. That’s the message Aaron Youngberg has for men. As a mental health counselor at Heartland Counseling Services, he sees men of all age ranges struggle with their mental health.

“I think it can be hard for men to talk about what they’re going through. As men, we’re kind of conditioned and told that we should just deal with it or if we show any emotion, it’s weakness. When that’s ingrained into you, it can be hard to break out of.”

That stigma is something Aaron says that he had to work through himself as well.

“I think, especially as younger men, we don’t want to worry our parents. I didn’t tell my parents my own struggles with depression when I was in high school. They would have been very helpful and supportive had I brought it up. So, they were surprised later in life when I did tell them,” Aaron shares.

Now he uses his own experience to help other men struggling in the same way. Aaron says different generations often feel differently about talking about it.

“I think the older generation is still in that mindset that I can’t go to counseling because it’s going to show weakness. This younger generation is way more willing to talk about their feelings because they’re learning it’s not weakness. They’re not doing themselves any favors if they don’t address what’s going on,” Aaron explains.

Holding in those emotions and that stress can have a real impact on not only your emotional well-being, but your physical health as well.

“It can lead to higher blood pressure or heart problems. Stress can start to present as anger as well.” It can also lead to real issues with substance abuse.

“Sometimes, we will see people with addiction problems because they are not dealing with their feelings,” says Aaron. “They might want to drink heavily or use other substances.”

So how can you recognize that something is going on, and that maybe the men in your life are struggling? Aaron says it depends. Sometimes there are the more obvious signs.

“Some people will make jokes or comments around selfharm or suicide. They might talk about how life would be better if they weren’t here. They’ll start to get really withdrawn from social situations or they don’t have the same energy. They might start to be really pessimistic about life never changing and how things won’t get better. Look for statements like that.”

Then, there are the less obvious signs. Aaron says because men are taught not to talk about it and to suppress their feelings, you might not notice when someone is anxious or depressed.

“It kind of depends on the person in how it appears. They might be a little “slumped,” or more quiet than usual. If it’s a man you’re around a lot, how is his body language and his facial features compared to usual? They might talk about how they just want to sleep all the time,” Aaron shares.

Aaron says, it’s all about keeping in contact with people, especially the men in your life.

“Remain open to what they have to say. If you do notice that there are some changes in their behavior, just ask them if they’re OK. Let them know that it’s OK to not be OK.”

Thankfully, Aaron says he’s seeing how the conversation is turning in a positive direction.

“We are seeing more men seeking out mental health help. When I was working in the high school doing counseling, I was surprised to see just as many young men asking for help as young women. People are also more willing to understand that this can impact anyone.”

Aaron’s biggest piece of advice for men is to speak up –break the stigma that surrounds you and that might have been a part of your lives growing up.

“Someone once told me that a wise man knows when to ask for help. Sometimes it’s about being wise with ourselves and knowing ourselves. If something is not right, reach out and don’t worry about how other people are going to think of you. It doesn’t make you weak. It’s much better to seek help than to go through it alone and suffer in silence,” Aaron says.

In Rhythm with David Gro

By: Sarah Grassel

David Gross didn’t grow up in the Sioux City area, but his name is well known across the Midwest. Currently serving as the Executive Director of the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra, David has been involved in music most of his life.

Starting back in the ffth grade, David decided to give percussion a try in school. “I remember my frst instructor would whack me with the sticks if I messed something up,” David laughs. “I fgured that it wasn’t the best way to learn percussion, so eventually my parents and I pursued private lessons because I was still serious about learning the drums.”

While most kids may have just dropped out of band or lessons, David was committed. Although, he didn’t realize the impact music had on him until a moment in high school. At 15 years old he was playing in a jazz trio in local bars on Fridays and Saturdays, and he just continued to develop a passion for the drums.

David was also invited to play with the Saratoga School of Orchestral Studies in high school. He explains, “I saw the Philadelphia Orchestra Timpanist play, and I knew that was what I wanted to do.”

Fascinated by the colors and sounds of how the timpani specifcally ft into the ensemble as a whole, music became everything. David was involved as a performing musician for 28 years. Some of the renowned groups he’s played with include the Grand Rapids Symphony, Kansas City Philharmonic, and the Colorado Music Festival. David has also been asked to perform as the guest timpanist with the Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and Columbus orchestras.

Perhaps one of the most memorable experiences was when he performed with the original group who inspired his career, the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Philadelphia Opera Company. With an astounding list of accolades and accomplishments, David knew that eventually, his time performing would come to a close.

“I knew that I wasn’t going to be able to perform forever, and when I left, I wanted to make sure I was performing well,” David says. Feeling like it was time, David moved from being a part of the hands-on scene in music to working behind the scenes in music. He transitioned into union work and representation at the Lansing Symphony where eventually he worked his way up into the Executive Director position there.

Over the years, David also served on the faculty across several Midwest universities as well as the University of Delaware.

“It’s been very rewarding to work behind the music. Now I am able to provide the same opportunity and experience I had as a musician to other musicians and patrons that are up and coming in the music industry,” David shares. He has since enjoyed a career as an arts administrator of more than 15 years including being invited to Capitol Hill to speak to the offces of the House Ways & Means Committee of the U.S. Congress.

Today, as he serves as the SCSO Executive Director, David’s main focus is working closely with the leadership on the board of directors to manage both the human and fnancial resources of the organization. An important part of the group, the position is primarily responsible for raising money on behalf of the orchestra, negotiating contracts with guest artists, and assisting the music director in season planning.

Slowing down for the summer, the orchestra is already putting together a wonderful fall program for patrons in the community to look forward to.

“Right up until the last concert I played, the adrenaline rush of being a part of making a unified sound, I couldn’t sleep until one or two in the morning because I would be on a music high.”

Getting Technical

With a profession in timpani and percussion music, David was approached by several large music corporations to help further the development of sound and the inner workings of the instruments being produced.

David smiles, “I have always been very fascinated by the physics of sound, especially with the timpani.” Yamaha Percussion was one of the frst companies to partner with David on further research. “It just so happens that their headquarters are located in Grand Rapids where I was playing at the time, so we started to collaborate on making changes to the instrument to provide a more focused and blended sound,” David adds.

David’s offcial title with Yamaha was artist representative. He also served in that position with Adams Percussion, Evans Drumheads, and Sabian Cymbals. One of his biggest accomplishments was designing a signature series of timpani mallets that were sold worldwide.