SLW Dec24

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SIOUXLAND WOMAN

Siouxland Woman CONTRIBUTORS

Account Executive

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

graphic designerS

Ashley Carrison, Makenzie Jorgensen

team of writers

Lydia Gleiser, Joanne Fox, Cheryl Wells, Michaela Feldmann, Lisa Croston

cover PHOTOGRAPHER

Shane Monahan Photography www.shanemonahanphotography.com

Editor

Heather Jordan | heather@michelscom.com

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING

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

REGIONAL MANAGER BLACK HILLS/GSM

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

chief of operations

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

HEATHER Poncelet

WRITTEN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: SHANE

Spirits of Gratitude

A walk down Historic 4th Street in Sioux City, IA offers a variety of establishments that have made their mark in the Siouxland area. One iconic pub in particular has not only been a beloved spot in Sioux City, but has been female owned and operated for the last 12 years; Buffalo Alice. Behind Buffalo Alice’s brightly lit holiday lights, range of spirits on tap and eclectic décor you will find owner Heather Poncelet, who has a grateful appreciation for the community and a heart of gold.

Heather grew up on the west side of Sioux City in an idyllic neighborhood on a dead-end street where memories were created and best friends were made. “I was fortunate that I had really great parents and the kids in the neighborhood had really great parents and together they all kind of parented the neighborhood kids and allowed us to go to each other’s houses to swim, hang out and have fun,” Heather shares.

Once Heather and her siblings were old enough to start Emerson Elementary School, her mother, Sally, went back to college to get her degree in social work from Briar Cliff University while Heather’s father, Howard, continued to work for the United States Postal Service.

“I remember at the time being so proud of my mother for being a non-traditional student when it wasn’t necessarily the norm,” Heather recalls. “Watching my mother obtain her degree in social work and then seeing her involvement in the Siouxland community really inspired me from an early age.”

Spending after school evenings and weekends at Girls Inc. became a regular occurrence for Heather and her siblings as Sally was the Program Manager of this non-profit, pro-girl, mentorship program in Sioux City.

“Not only was I blessed with loving parents who worked hard and instilled family values, but I had wonderful, involved grandparents from both sides as well,” Heather shares. “My grandfather on my dad’s side was awarded one of the original Points of Light by former president Bush. He had suffered over 19 strokes and had to go through physical therapy to regain the ability to walk and speak again.”

Heather’s grandfather eventually became a dedicated volunteer with over 20,000 hours of his time in 20 years in the stroke unit at Mercy Medical Center. “As a child I didn’t fully understand how much dedication this took, Heather remembers. “But now, understanding this as an adult is something I am still in awe of and so proud of.”

100 days of school with one of the amazing teachers

In

high school, Heather attended Bishop Heelan High School and began working at the local Pizza Hut. To Heather, her first job meant everything to her as she acquired more than just her assigned job duties.

“I had an incredible manager at Pizza Hut,” Heather says. “She was a younger, recently divorced mother who was not only kind, but a strong and ambitious woman. She had high expectations for all of her employees and she taught me the importance of seeing value in every employee. She was an awesome leader and whether she realized it or not, she became an important mentor for me.”

After graduating high school, Heather attended the University of South Dakota and continued to work, transferring to the Pizza Hut in Vermillion, now working as a shift manager. “I quickly learned that going to college was not for me and I began to struggle,” Heather shares.

Within three months, Heather dropped out of college and returned home and continued working. An opportunity opened up for another promotion to become a store manager at a Pizza Hut in Sioux Falls, SD. Heather applied and although she didn’t get the manager position, she did get an assistant manager role and soon she found herself moving to Sioux Falls.

It was during this time that Heather decided to start looking for a permanent home in the Sioux Falls area. “As a girl, I would love going to my aunt and uncle’s acreage on my mother’s side,” Heather recalls. “My mother’s mother loved nature and had so many varieties of flowers and plants. She was so knowledgeable about them, and I admired that.”

With this in mind, Heather began looking for an acreage in a rural area outside of the city that would allow her to one day own animals and horses, again, something she had dreamed of since she was a young girl. She also began to rethink her schedule that for years consisted of nights and weekends. After years of working at Pizza Hut, Heather decided to apply at Citi Group where she would be able to work daytime hours in a new work environment.

“Working for Citi Group was a phenomenal experience for me. I was initially hired as a phone representative and I had health benefits starting on the first day. That was a big deal back then!” Heather laughs. Within a few months a few opportunities arose and Heather was selected to assist with training. Heather was able to travel to different Citi Group sites around the country to train and coach other employees within the corporation. This opportunity jump-started Heather’s career as a sales coach for Citi Group.

Citi Group continued to recognize Heather’s drive, dedication and enthusiasm over the next 14 years she was employed there. “My time spent at Citi Group was so valuable because not only was Citi Group female-friendly, but I was surrounded with like-minded, executive women that helped to teach me how to work professionally in a corporate atmosphere,” Heather shares.

Heather had received a significant salary increase that allowed her to finally buy an acreage outside of Sioux Falls and start building her dream house located near Brandt Lake. “Here I was, 29 years old, not really knowing what I was doing in terms of starting and acreage, but knowing what I wanted,” Heather laughs. She took a couple of shifts at a local hang out called The Shipwreck that sat right on the lake to meet locals and get involved in the community. “I was so fortunate that I had people in the small community that were so inviting. They offered to help me build a fence around my house and helped out with various home projects,” Heather recalls. “As my acreage was coming together, I was even able to buy myself a horse!”

Heather and Kallie right after Heather purchased the bar during COVID
A few of Heather’s closest friends at their high school reunion
Heather’s 50th birthday dinner

Over the next couple of years, Heather met a man named Bob and together they had two daughters, Belle and Allie. Heather was able to be a stay-at-home mom while her girls were little. It was also during this time that Heather started coming back home to Sioux City to help out her sister Tif at Tif’s bar, Buffalo Alice.

Heather’s mother, Sally, also had been diagnosed with a slow progressing form of ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. The first couple of years, Sally’s ALS was manageable, but as the years went by, her mobility was starting to decrease and so Heather found herself in Sioux City more to not only help out Tif, but to be there for her mother.

“During the day, while the girls were in early elementary school, I was able to volunteer at their school, again something I felt so lucky to be able to do while still getting to be very active in my girls’ educational experience,” Heather says. “On the weekends, I would go back and forth, splitting my weeks between Sioux City and Sioux Falls either being in Sioux Falls with my girls, or back home helping Tif, or staying with my mom.”

By 2019, Tif had asked Heather if she would be interested in buying Buffalo Alice and Heather felt that she was at a place in her life where this investment made sense. “My girls were older and I had been able to work out a great schedule with Bob. My mother’s health was declining and staying with her part-time was equally as important to me. I had been working at Buffalo Alice for years now and keeping the business in the family would be a great transition.”

Since taking over Buffalo Alice, Heather has used her time wisely by giving it a face-lift during COVID all while praising the numerous employees that volunteered their own time reflooring, painting, reupholstering old furniture and cleaning old signs and vintage pieces that were hung around the bar.

One of Heather’s favorite photos of her mom
Heather’s daughters crossing the bridge at one of her favorite places, Itasca State Park
Heather with her first horse, Tally

“It was during this time that my young employees made me so proud and appreciative to have them working at this establishment. No one really knew what was going to happen next during this shut down time, but everyone really pulled together like family and I am just so thankful for their hard work and for showing up every day,” Heather beams.

Heather said during this time that she was not scared for herself or the business long term, but she could not have made it through without her staff. She also took the quarantine time as a way to spend quality time with her daughters and her mother, taking in every day and cherishing every moment.

It is with this upbeat positive attitude that drives Heather to love being in the heart of Sioux City’s historic district while owning and operating Buffalo Alice. “I absolutely cherish my employees and love working with them. They are so young and it’s exciting to see that they have their whole lives ahead of them, and I’m glad I get to be a small part of that.”

Not only does Heather enjoy her job and work family, but she values her community as well. It is no secret that Heather finds fulfillment in giving back to Siouxland in various ways including fundraising for the Warming Shelter, the Siouxland Human Society, the Sioux City Symphony, The Gospel Mission, Downtown Partners and ALS among other various non-profit organizations.

“Anytime I can help a business, group or individual out in the area, I will make it happen,” Heather shares. Being able to donate and assist others in need is something that comes naturally to Heather as she witnessed her own family members serve others many times while she was growing up.

“Looking at what I have achieved in my life, I know it wouldn’t have been possible if I didn’t have the right people guiding and supporting me along the way,” Heather smiles. “I am truly blessed for what I have and I want to be able to share it with others. If I can make a positive difference in someone else’s life, then I know that I am doing the right thing, and that’s all that truly matters.”

MORE WITH Heather

Every August, Heather and her old neighborhood friends get together for a “reunion.” Some of these friends live near and others are further away, but the strong bond that they formed while growing up in the same neighborhood remains strong as they all attend this annual event.

Heather is always excited to see her younger employees dressed up to go to school dances. As a teen, Heather was so focused on working that she would choose to work instead of going to school dances. “I never went to a prom or homecoming dance. I got asked to go to dances, but I always picked up shifts and worked instead,” Heather shares.

Believe it or not, Heather admits that she has a fear of public speaking. She says that she will speak at public events if she has to, but she gets really nervous every time and prefers to stay out of the spotlight.

Heather is an animal lover and has loved horses since she was young. As an early teen, she volunteered at STARS.

Of all Heather’s accomplishments, she is the proudest of her daughters. “I feel so blessed to be the mother of two smart, kind, intelligent, creative and energetic girls. I try every day to see the good in people and to stay focused on the positive. I am so thankful that my beautiful girls possess that quality!”

Heather’s mom and daughter at Little Sioux Park in Correctionville
Heather and her siblings at Stone Park

Giving the Gift of Life

“There are so many people out there going through life looking like they’re healthy individuals, but they are living today because of a transfusion.” – Shay Willis

Every two seconds someone needs blood and one in seven people entering the hospital will need blood.

“You can’t manufacture blood,” says Shay Willis, LifeServe Blood Center Director of Public Relations and Marketing. “It can’t be created in a lab. Until someone creates a substitute, it truly must come from volunteer blood donors.”

And, it’s no easy task. In fact, to keep up with the needs of the communities they serve in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and parts of Illinois, LifeServe requires 150,000 units of blood annually for local hospitals.

“As of today, we have 174 hospitals that we provide blood products to, and we are actively growing. Those hospitals rely on LifeServe Blood Center so they can give it to their patients,” Shay explains.

Patients need blood for a variety of reasons such as car accidents, gunshot wounds, cancer or mothers having postpartum complications.

“Thankfully in Sioux City, we have not had that many catastrophic events,” says Rebekah Armstrong, Public Relations Marketing Coordinator for the north region. “But that doesn’t mean there are not daily car accidents that are happening around town, so there are people getting transfused in our Sioux City hospitals all the time. We just don’t always hear about that.”

People like Curt Green who, because of blood donations, is here today.

“Curt is now a driver for LifeServe,” adds Rebekah. “He is living today because of the blood products he received. He can’t donate anymore, so he wanted to return the favor and help give back to his community by working for LifeServe.”

“Unfortunately, this year we had a school shooting in in Perry, Iowa,” says Shay. “We service Dallas County Hospital, so if any victim of that shooting went to that hospital, or if they were transferred into the Des Moines hospitals, there’s a good chance if you donated blood prior to that, that your donation potentially impacted those people.”

Without donors, many people’s lives could be at risk.

“We like to say right product, right time, right place,” says Shay. “Because ultimately without those, our patients are going to be in a much different situation. Unfortunately, our country is experiencing a blood shortage right now.”

Shay and Rebekah say that’s due to several reasons.

“The first reason I think has a lot to do with our older generation that is so dedicated to our mission of saving lives is aging out of the process due to being on more medications, traveling more or just not being in good health,” adds Shay. “In turn, we are not seeing the younger generation filling that gap.”

Donors can donate blood as early as age 16 with parental consent, but Shay says the real challenge is keeping those donors throughout their lives.

“Often, we get them at 16 or 17 and then they kind of fall off. They go to college and eventually start families and they don’t really see the need to donate until they’re a little older,” Shay explains.

Another reason could be the inconvenience someone thinks it is to donate.

“It’s really such an easy process and we have a phenomenal staff that will take great care of you,” says Rebekah. “But people worry about if it will hurt, or about getting the needle or about the time it will take and they’re not necessarily thinking about the person who may need this life saving care. It’s a minor inconvenience to what a patient is going through.”

That’s why being a blood donor and a regular blood donor is so important. Whole blood donors can give blood every eight weeks. Double red cell donors can give every 16 weeks and platelet donors can give as often as every two weeks.

“Unfortunately, people don’t make it a priority or habitual,” says Shay. “People’s lives are busier. Our attention spans are shorter. We are busy going a million different ways and so unfortunately, sometimes that donation is not on the top of the priority list. But it should be. If you have an appointment, keep it.”

And if you’ve been deferred for high blood pressure, a temperature or low iron in the past, don’t let that stop you from trying again. If you truly can’t donate blood, there are other ways to contribute to this life saving cause.

“You can recruit a friend, family or coworkers to donate,” says Rebekah. “You can host a blood drive or recruit people to come to it. We also have a great volunteer program.”

LifeServe encourages high school students to donate, and young donors are rewarded with a red honor cord for donating blood three times before graduation. “LifeServe will award up to $500 in scholarship funds to students who organize a successful blood drive during the summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day) or winter (December and January) scholarship periods!” Shay explains. “To be eligible for the scholarship award, students must recruit donors, act as the chairperson for the blood drive, and register 25 donors ($250 awarded) or 40 donors ($500 awarded). Individual scholarships are offered to any student seeking or currently achieving a higher level of education.”

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As the year comes to a close, we are grateful for another year of serving Siouxland! 2024 marks our 27th year and as your bereavement specialists, we hope you know you can still call us for your sympathy and celebration of life floral needs! Each bouquet is handcrafted by our expert team and you know you trust Petal Pusher to exceed your expectations!

Thank you Siouxland, Kate and Dave

• RUBY WASH & HAND MOP

• EXTERIOR WIPE DOWN & SPRAY WAX

• EXTERIOR GLASS CLEAN

• RIMS CLEAN AND TIRE SHINE

• EMERALD WASH & HAND MOP

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• DIAMOND WASH, CERAMIC & HAND MOP

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• RIMS CLEAN & TIRE SHINE

• DOOR EDGES WIPE DOWN

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CLEAN, FAST GETAWAY

BringsCheeChristmas r & Excitement

The garland is strung and the Christmas lights on the tree twinkle brightly every year for the Siouxland Tour of Homes and this year is no exception.

Five incredible homes were decked out for the holidays by local designers all to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland.

“The Tour of Homes is Big Brothers Big Sisters’ largest annual fundraiser and a cherished tradition in the Siouxland community” says Kristie Arlt, Executive Director of the organization. “Originating in the early 1990s under the American Red Cross, the event was taken over by our organization 14 years ago. Proceeds from this signature fundraiser play a vital role in supporting our youth mentoring programs, helping us make a lasting impact on the lives of children in our community.”

“Last year, the tour featured five charming, historic homes on the Northside, each showcasing stunning architectural details,” adds Kristie. “This year, it was an exciting change to bring the tour to Wynstone and McCook Lake, where we highlighted modern, beautifully designed homes. The homes this year were truly remarkable, and many attendees said it was one of their favorite tours in years!”

This year’s Tour of Homes headed to the Wynstone neighborhood for the first time and included a pair of homes in the McCook Lake/North Sioux City area.

“Many of those who attended the tour have been loyal participants for years, and we are thrilled to hear that it has become a cherished holiday tradition they look forward to each year,” Kristie shares.

Kristie says her favorite part is seeing generations continue the tradition.

“We just sold tickets to a woman who is bringing her mother. She remembers going with her mom when she was younger, and now she’s taking her own children. It’s cool to see that tradition and full circle moment. We are so grateful that people come out year after year to support this incredible cause,” adds Kristie.

The 2024 Siouxland Tour of Homes was scheduled for November 21 – 23, and each year features a new neighborhood on display in its Christmas best. This year’s tour was held in Wynstone and McCook Lake/North Sioux City.

Homes on the 2024 tour included:

• 707 Lakeshore Drive

Jay and Nicole Layman, Decorated by Purpose Interior Design

• 803 Lakeshore Drive

Dave Layhee, Decorated by Purpose Interior Design

• 977 Wynstone Drive

Josh and Tiffany Wendling, Decorated by Mod House Interiors

• 989 Wynstone Drive

Dustin and Brooke Sorenson, Decorated by Holland House

• 990 Wynstone Drive

Brian and Liz Johnson, Decorated by Holland House

Tour of Homes - 2025: If you or someone you know is interested in showcasing your home on next year’s Tour of Homes, scheduled for November 20–22, 2025, we’d love to hear from you! Please email Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland at bbbs@bigbrothersbigsisters. com or call us at 712-239-9890 for more information.

Jay & Nicole LAYMAN

You’ll get all the Christmas nostalgia, mixed with a little music and a cocktail vibe from Jay and Nicole Layman’s home. Designed by Nila Braun of Purpose Interior Design, it’s the perfect space for the duo’s friendship and business partnership to thrive.

“We co-own Purpose together, but Nila actually designed my house long before Purpose was ever born,” says Nicole.

“It made my job a lot easier because I already know her vibe and style,” says Nila. “I like to call their home industrial chic and you’ll see that on display. I wanted to take the traditional vibe and all the things she currently uses for Christmas, but elevate that.”

From retro Santas and snowmen to a 12-foot Christmas tree and flocked trees in several rooms, this home will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland.

“My vibe is really that traditional family Christmas filled with warmth,” says Nicole. “You’ll see themed Christmas trees not only in our two-story living room, but in the master and my daughter’s room.”

“She has a large banister that will be covered with greenery,” says Nila. “But we’re trying not to overdo it. Her home has a lot of character. We want people to be able to enjoy the details. When you’re at Nicole’s house, you’ll get a taste for everything.”

One thing Nicole wanted incorporated was her turntable and records. You’ll find that in her dining room area where it feels like an adult Christmas party.

“I really wanted it to be fun – filled with music and cocktails,” says Nicole. “So, we are using the album covers as placemats. Kind of a cool way to bring a little more attention to the turntable and just play up the entertainment aspect of the season.”

It is the perfect space for Nicole, Jay their four children Jerimiah, Majok, Jake and Violet and their pets Frankie and Sully.

Photo by Kristie Miller-Arlt

Dave LAYHEE

Life is full of surprises and the Christmas season brings plenty of opportunity for awe including Dave Layhee’s home for the 2024 Siouxland Tour of Homes.

“My daughter actually signed me up to surprise me,” says Dave. “But I’ve always loved the Tour and the Christmas season.” Not only was the Tour of Homes a surprise, so was the design which was brought to life by Nila Braun and Nicole Layman with Purpose Interior Design.

“We left everything a complete surprise for Dave,” says Nila.

“I left it very open to them,” says Dave. “I brought them to my warehouse and showed them all the decorations and trees and said use what you want, and it was fun to see what they created!”

Built in 2021, the modern style home features lots of blacks and whites, giving Nila and her team the perfect starting point. “We wanted to aid that monochromatic black-and-white that he has with pops of brighter greens and some reds,” says Nila. “He has a very simple but modern home. So, a little bit goes a long way.”

That meant bringing in some rugs, pillows and furniture to accompany some of Dave’s decorations and tree.

“He has a very tall tree that we wanted to incorporate,” says Nila. “With his home being more modern, we didn’t have to fill the tree as full as we normally would, but it still brings that ‘wow’ factor. I think the surprise element just brought even more excitement for us and I hope everyone walking through feels that.”

“My hope for this tour is that the love for family, friends, and visitors takes center stage inside and out,” says Dave. “I have four daughters, 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Christmas means family to me, and this year was just another added layer of fun.”

Tiffany & Josh WENDLING

Rustic and modern blend beautifully together in Josh and Tiffany Wendling’s home. Decorated by Lisa Kalaher of Mod House Interiors, this home brings all the fun. “Every room was a little bit different with themes and trends,” says Lisa. “Just kind of throwing some of the rules out the window for Christmas and letting the holiday be about the person’s interests.”

That meant sitting down to find out more about Tiffany, Josh, and their daughter Briel, a 6th grader at Dakota Valley.

“Lisa is amazing,” says Tiffany. “She really wanted to learn about our family to build the design around us. Briel is very girlie! Lots of pink and fun vibes. She loves dance and enjoyed being part of the volleyball team this year.”

“I wanted to bring that fun to life,” adds Lisa. “Her room has all the pinks, but she has this sort of play area/clubhouse that was so fun to do – think really big disco balls and a candy theme in there. Make it fun and appealing for her, too.”

Upstairs you’ll find fun pieces that highlight the modern, simple vibe of the home with mixed metals and a classic look. Downstairs, a moodier Christmas vibe emerges with dark woods, exposed beams and natural items.

“Our house is very simple, and Lisa was able to find ways to make it more exciting and show who we really are,” adds Tiffany.

Throughout the home, you’ll see Tiffany and Josh’s interests highlighted in the design.

For Tiffany’s love of books… “It was kind of a book tree concept. I wanted to throw in those non-traditional items that are holiday themed.”

To Josh’s love of golf, whiskey and cigars. “You’ll see that golf theme in a couple different places,” adds Lisa. “He has a bar and whiskey area that was well suited for us to highlight. I love to take people’s personalities and interests and put that into a reimagined Christmas.”

Dustin & Brooke SORENSON

When Dr. Dustin and Brooke Sorenson first designed their home, they wanted something timeless, classic, cozy and inviting. That same feeling can be found when you walk through their home on the tour.

“Christmas is our family’s favorite time of year,” says Brooke. “We have three kids; Lilly, and our twin boys Brayden and Camden. Last year we surprised them with our puppy Aera – like the Taylor Swift ‘Era’ Tour.”

Designed by Marie Turano of Holland House, the Sorenson home brings the spirit of Christmas with a little bit of glitz and glam.

“It’s really fun to come in with fresh eyes,” adds Marie. “I’m always most excited when we finish decorating and walk through with the homeowner. Seeing the light in their eyes and how excited they are is what makes it so fun.”

One of the things Brooke was most excited to see – her Christmas dishes on full display. “My husband and I have been together 17 years, and my mom started this tradition of

giving us Christmas dishes. So, they created a whole dining room table display. That was special to see,” Brooke shares.

Marie says she loves to use items that are sentimental to homeowners. For Brooke, that meant her Christmas dinnerware, baby grand piano and her collection of nutcrackers.

“My daughter was in the Nutcracker at the Orpheum last year and we bought tons of nutcrackers,” adds Brooke. “We love the arts, dancing and music, so that was fun to see.”

“One of the things I was most excited about was her staircase,” Marie explains. “It’s beautiful and we wrapped it in garland and ribbons. When people open the door, their eyes go right there, and they see the staircase with that baby grand piano at the curve. It’s just absolutely beautiful.”

“We really hope our home shows love and faith this holiday season,” Brooke reflects.

Brian & Liz JOHNSON

Beautifully welcoming perfectly describes Dr. Brian and Liz Johnson’s home. Decorated by Marie Turano of Holland House, this home will give you all the traditional Christmas vibes.

“I would say I lean more traditional except my trees are very simple,” says Liz. “So, I would say it’s very traditional with a little whimsical in it. This year, I wanted beautiful and elegant. Something that gives the Christmas feeling, but a little more reverence. Peaceful but beautiful.” And that’s exactly what designer Marie created.

“I ordered things very special for Liz just because she is more on the traditional side,” explains Marie. “We did a gorgeous bell tree with just lots and lots of bells. That was really fun because it gives it sort of a modern twist on something that can feel traditional.”

But that’s not the only tree you’ll find in the home.

“We have three trees that we put up every year and there’s a story called the three Christmas trees,” says Liz. “It’s based on

a story about Christ and the trees that were used throughout his life. One was for the manger, another for his cross. We read the story every year, so we will probably have that book out on the coffee table just to incorporate Christ into the season.”

It’s a tradition that Liz says is near and dear to her family’s heart. “We have six kids: Landon, Mackenzie, Madison, Audrey, Evelyn and Lillian, and then our two Dalmatian’s Winston and Penny. We are a close family that just loves getting together during the holidays, so this will make it even more special.”

The upstairs and downstairs will also have different feels.

“The upstairs is a little lighter and brighter,” says Marie. “Think lots of textures. Then, downstairs is more moody and darker –kind of like a Ralph Lauren feel. We’re just going to use some of those things that they love and make sure they’re displayed so people can see.”

960 QUAIL HOLLOW CIR., DAKOTA DUNES, SD

5 BEDROOMS | 4.5 BATHROOMS | 4-CAR GARAGE | 5,341 SQ. FT. | .59 ACRES | $850,000

You’ll never want to move again once you take in the sheer perfection of this 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom, 2-story home nestled among the trees on the number 10 tee box. A grand 2-story entry welcomes you to a formal dining room just to the right. The family room makes its own statement with an 18' ceiling, stunning wood burning fireplace and built-ins. Off the family room is a library with built-in shelves. The kitchen is simply stunning after an extensive remodel in ‘10. It has high end cabinetry, large island, wood floors, new counters, backsplash, lighting, and a butler’s pantry. There’s also an eat-in area with door to the new outdoor trex deck. The ceiling is vaulted with lovely wood accents. Off the kitchen is a beautiful new 4 season sunroom. The main floor primary bedroom has new carpet, an amazing custom walk-in closet and bath with whirlpool, separate tile shower and heated floors. Off the primary bedroom is a new laundry room with cabinets, a bay window and engineered floor. A half bath and mudroom off the garage complete the main. The second floor has a bedroom with its own bath and

walk-in closet. Two other bedrooms share a bath. There’s an open loft area for office work as well. Be wowed with all the lower-level offers! There’s a large, open family room (projector and screen included!), wine cellar, oversized bar area and full kitchen with new counters and gas fireplace. Doors off this room take you to a walkout 3-season room. The 5th bedroom has a walk-in closet and egress window. Rounding out this area is a ¾ bath with a steam shower, and storage area. There’s a laundry room down here as well. Other features include: an underground pet fence, heated 3-car garage plus a detached one-stall garage with office area above with heat and air. No water in ‘11. Just SOME of the recent updates: new HVAC ‘22 with 2 furnaces/CA and 4 zone heat, new carpet in ‘22 on both main and lower level, Davinci shingles in ‘17, new exterior paint in ’24, new landscaping and edging ‘23. This home sits on one of the best lots in the Dunes and is unrivaled in its style and elegance!

"Barb Maxon is a rock star in our eyes! We whole heartedly recommend Barb. We have moved many times and she is the most knowledgeable, hardest working, and chill REALTOR ® that we have worked with. She did not make us practically redo our house before listing it, as other REALTORS ® have insisted we do. Because of Barb's recommendations, our house sold in 5 days. We appreciate her experience, professionalism, knowledge of the industry, and her humor. She has an incredibly amazing team working with her. Barb was always on time, communicated well, explained the process, answered our many questions, and allowed us whatever time we needed to show her stuff around the house. She made the entire experience a pleasure. Thank you, Barb, so much."

- Patricia and Eric, Dakota Dunes, SD

DUNES, SD $625,000
858 E. SAWGRASS TRAIL DAKOTA DUNES, SD $1,500,000 874

Hear

FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Dr.

The holiday season is a joyous time of the year.

Traditional or Chocolate Pecan Pie

Just add eggs or egg substitute, with your choice of butter, margarine, lite margarine or NO margarine!

Preservatives & Toppings Award

Preserves

Delicious fruit and pecan pourable toppings for waffles, pancakes, ice cream or cheese cake. Try it on fish or your favorite piece of meat!

First-ever to feature Sioux City churches

Tour of Steeples

Michelle Smith has taken the Tour of Homes concept to a “loftier” level with a first-ever Tour of Steeples Sioux City.

This inaugural event, featuring 12 churches, will be held, Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A free-will donation is asked with proceeds divided between the Soup Kitchen and the Warming Shelter in Sioux City.

It was November 2023 when Michelle first came up with the idea.

“I mentioned it to my husband, who had already heard about nine million of my crazy ideas, but he thought this one had merit,” Michelle shares. “I asked some of my friends and they loved the idea.”

Michelle mailed a flyer outlining the idea in April to every church in Sioux City.

“I said I wanted an organizational meeting in May and hoped somebody would show up,” Michelle says. “My goal was to get four or five churches on board.”

To Michelle’s surprise, a dozen churches were represented and particulars like time, date, and place were finalized.

“We wanted an event where people could come and go and check out the churches, their stained glass, and their altars,” Michelle states. “We wanted everyone to experience the beauty of these churches.”

Join us

Saturday, December 7th

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 12 locations

People often attend a church for a wedding or a funeral and are focused on the event rather than the church itself, Michelle notes.

“You think, ‘This is a neat church, but I’m not interested in attending a service here so I probably won’t be back,’” Michelle adds. “This tour will allow people to really look at the architecture of the church.”

Michelle was tickled to see the churches had ideas on how to be welcoming to their visitors.

“Some churches are going to have vocal music, some are going to have tours, some are going to have informational materials,” Michelle explains. “Some are going to have snacks, which could be a real draw.”

Another plus is the December 7th date, Michelle adds.

“Quite a few of the churches will have Christmas decorations up,” Michelle reports. “A few are using this opportunity to ‘upgrade’ their decorations.”

The time frame of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. worked well, too, Michelle notes.

“Only the Cathedral of the Epiphany has a noon

Mass on Saturday,” Michelle explains. “Volunteers will be there to meet and greet, but to make sure people understand that Mass is going on.”

Which nonprofit(s) would receive the free-will donations generated some discussion Michelle acknowledges.

“We asked ourselves what churches do for outreach and the Soup Kitchen and the Warming Shelter were at the top of the list,” Michelle adds. “And how appropriate that our Christian faith tells us to feed the hungry and take care of the needy.”

Michelle concurs that 12 churches may seem like a lot to visit in four hours. “But some are close to each other,” Michelle says. “You could start in Morningside and make your way Downtown or start on the Westside and work your way around.”

Michelle was confident that the Blizzard of 2024 would not happen on December 7, so there is no “rain date. I pray a lot,” Michelle says. “I’m not even thinking that weather will be an issue.”

Why Tour of Steeples and not Tour of Churches?

“I’m kind of an old soul,” Michelle confesses. “I love the older churches with steeples and I think using ‘steeple’ gets people’s attention.”

The promotion of the event has even impacted Michelle personally.

“When I put the flyer on my personal Facebook page, my husband’s aunt contacted me and asked if I knew that my husband’s grandfather helped build the steeple at St. Boniface,” Michelle shares.

“And I did not know. So that’s a part of this - that people used their time, talent, and treasure to build a worship center for God. It’s so awesome to find that commonality and I think others will find something similar.”

Tour of Steeples Stops

Morningside

Faith United Presbyterian Church 4327 Morningside Ave.

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church 1212 Morningside Ave.

Rustin Avenue Community Church 2901 Leech Ave.

St. James Global Methodist Church 2032 S. Cypress St.

St. Luke Lutheran Church 2039 South St. Aubin

St. Mark Lutheran Church 5200 Glenn Ave.

Downtown Cathedral of the Epiphany 1003 Douglas St.

First Presbyterian Church 608 Nebraska St.

St. Boniface Catholic Church 703 W. 5th St.

St. Joseph Catholic Church 1112 8th St.

Westside

Bethany Lutheran Church 1201 Dubuque St.

Mayflower Congregational Church 1407 W. 18th St.

For more information: Check Facebook Tour of Steeples page or each church’s website.

Photo credit: Michelle Smith

Wow, cheers to 10 years!

Dear Readers and Partners,

Wow! Cheers to 10 Years! Talk about an amazing milestone! We would like to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. For the past ten years, every single issue has meant the world to us. Each a reflection of the passion, dedication, and heart of our team, our families, our partners, and, of course, our faithful readers. Every person who has been a part of this journey has helped make this magazine what it is today, and we are profoundly grateful for your support.

The responsibility of being Siouxland’s only women’s magazine, as well as the most respected publication in the region, keeps us grounded in the immense value and significance of Siouxland Woman Magazine to all of us.

Through the empowerment of women and the sharing of their stories, we’ve had the privilege of connecting with each of you. The journey we’ve shared has been a true source of inspiration, and it continually reminds us of the strength, resilience, and remarkable spirit of the women we are honored to celebrate.

Our growth has been a shared experience, and we are deeply obliged to be part of something so meaningful - supporting one another’s dreams and celebrating the incredible power of women in Siouxland. The last ten years have been nothing short of extraordinary, and we are truly humbled by the opportunity to serve this community. We feel an immense sense of appreciation for every moment, every connection, and every story that has brought us together.

Looking ahead, we are filled with excitement and anticipation for the many more years to come, as we continue this journey together with all of you.

Thank you once again for your unwavering support. Here’s to another decade of honoring and empowering the incredible women who make Siouxland a brighter, stronger place for us all.

With sincere gratitude, Your Siouxland Woman Team

SIOUXLAND WOMAN

Q+A

50% of women are affected by bladder control problems such as urine leakage! Love Your Life with BETTER BLADDER CONTROL!

Take this quiz to find out if you have a bladder control problem.

Do you leak any urine; even a small amount?

Do you go to the bathroom “just in case”?

Do you ever have to rush to the bathroom?

Do you go to the bathroom more than eight times per day?

Do you have to wear pads when you leave the house?

Do you wake up more than one time per night to urinate?

Do you feel like you are not able to fully empty your bladder?

Do you have frequent urinary tract infections?

Do you have urine leaks when coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising or lifting something heavy?

Have you experienced causes of leakage due to any of the following:

Pregnancy

Constipation

Infection

Childbirth

Medicines

Menopause

If you answer YES to any of these questions, try physical therapy first!

Signs Your Loved One is Ready for Assisted Living 5

Deciding to place a loved one into assisted living is one of the most difficult decisions you may face in life. Watching a loved one age and seeing their abilities change can leave many feeling helpless.

Have there been any red flags? Has your loved one fallen, gotten in a fender bender,confused medications or had a medical scare? These can be indicators that it may be time to look into assisted care.

Is the house in disarray? If mail is piling up, trash is not being removed, the house is not as clean as it used to be or laundry and linens aren’t getting clean, maintaining the house is probably becoming more than your loved one can manage.

Noticeable weight loss, body odor or change in looks? These are signs that your loved one is having a problem managing activities of daily living. Assistance may be needed in areas like food preparation or personal hygiene. This is also a sign of loneliness or depression.

StoneyBrook Suites is here to help when that time comes. 1 2 3 4 5

Complaints of loneliness, depression or social withdrawal? Losing a spouse or close friend, or having limited social opportunities due to a lack of mobility or transportation, may leave your loved one isolated and depressed.

Signs of fire, trouble with appliances or entrances left open? Safety and security issues are common reasons to research an alternative living arrangement. The thought of a major accident can be terrifying. As loved ones age, they may begin to forget things that can lead to safety concerns.

Our passion for assisted living shines through every day at StoneyBrook Suites. It is our goal to be more than just a retirement center. We want to ensure your loved ones feel at home with a listening ear, a caring embrace and an overall sense of community. The sculpture, known as the Inukshuk, found outside of each of our facilities, symbolizes the message that “You are on the right path” and that life is an “Endless Journey.”

Comfort, joy & peace of mind.

OUR MISSION

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

AMENITIES

• Coffee Shop

• Salon

• Walk-in Whirlpool Spa

• Centrally located meals and activities

SERVICES

• Caring, trusted, 24-hour staff

• Personal housekeeping

• Theater

• Courtyards

• Spacious suites all on one level

If time spent with loved ones over the holidays sparks a conversation about assisted living, we are here to help every step of the way. Schedule a tour and see the quality of life available to you or your loved one.

• Three homestyle meals per day

• Professional medication administration and laundry

• On-site physical, restorative

• Scheduled daily social and and cognitive therapy exercise activities

• Wellness clinic

• Personal pendant system

• Assistance with activities of daily living

Dakota Dunes

Annual angels

Your Annual Angel donation will be utilized to provide the clients served by Opportunities Unlimited with items and opportunities that would otherwise be unattainable with their limited personal funds. Annual Angel Funds are used to:

• Purchase age-appropriate toys and learning materials

• Purchase necessary items for a client that the family cannot afford on their own - winter coats, shoes, etc.

• Provide opportunities for community integration such as sporting, musical, and theatrical events

• Purchase therapeutic equipment to improve range of motion, strength, and dexterity

• Any other item or activity that may enhance a client’s quality of life or aid in reaching his or her goals

Upon completion of the full Angel amount ($365 or greater) you will receive a precious OU keepsake to thank you for the magnitude of your gift as well as a place of recognition on the Angel Wall at the entrance of the Opportunities Unlimited Center.

Dream Home by the Missouri River

A LABOR OF love

“I was still water, held by my surroundings. I am now a river, carving my own path.”
– Scott Stabile

or over a decade, Gary Ogden, owner of Ogden Construction, has built a name for himself in Siouxland, frequently partnering with Dennis King of Central Kitchen & Bath to craft both custom and spec homes. Together, they’ve shaped some of the area’s most distinctive homes, an alliance that stretches back even further to the early 2000s. However, the latest home on their roster is unlike any other.

This isn’t just another project; this is Gary’s personal labor of love. Every room offers a million-dollar view, and as Heidi O. reflects, after a long list of loves, “I love the view.”

Perched on a bluff in South Sioux City, NE, this modern marvel looks out across the Missouri River. When asked about the inspiration for the home, Gary recalls a trip to Phoenix, Arizona, where he was drawn to the contemporary designs.

“We are interested in modern and sleek,” Gary told Dennis. With that vision, Dennis set to work, designing a home that reflects sophistication and modernity while making it feel unmistakably like home.

Each room in the Ogdens’ house was designed with a unique touch, blending sleek elements with handpicked details gathered from their travels. Every feature was chosen to build a warm, inviting space that Gary and Heidi could truly call home—a place where they could grow together for years to come.

Dennis King Designer/Sales Consultant

dennis.king@centralkitchenbath.com 712-255-6891

he heart of the home, the kitchen, is open and airy, featuring Polar White Lacquer Frameless Cabinetry from Artizen Cabinetry, a division of Woodland Cabinets out of Sisseton, SD. The space dazzles with quartz countertops, a mix of black, stainless, and brushed gold accents, and large windows framing views of the Missouri River. It’s a place where both cooking and gathering feel effortless and inspiring.

Each room in the home stands alone in style and functionality. The laundry room, for instance, features smooth, calm lines with white shaker cabinets from Koch Cabinets, making even laundry a serene experience. Each bathroom offers something unique, and the master suite is no exception. It features sleek, frameless black cabinets from Wynnbrook Cabinets, also a division of Koch Cabinets, complemented by quartz surfaces and Delta Faucet’s Nicolli Champagne Bronze fixtures. The master bath includes a spacious His and Her shower, a feature that’s become as iconic as it is practical—large enough to fit a Harley, though Gary jokes it might be a tight squeeze through the doorways.

The basement bathrooms showcase Koch Cabinets’ exclusive Charcoal Blue Slab Doors, a finish found only at Central Kitchen & Bath. These dark, chic cabinets continue into the basement’s wet bar, ideal for entertaining with yet another stunning river view that’s sure to impress guests.

Reflecting on the project, it’s clear this home is a true labor of love. Every room, every detail, reflects the time, thought, and care that Gary and Heidi put into making this home a reality. Central Kitchen & Bath is honored to have been a part of this journey, working alongside Ogden Construction to bring the Ogdens’ vision to life. Here’s to Gary and Heidi’s new beginning—and to Dennis King and Ogden Construction for years of collaboration as we look forward to 2025.

A Holiday Season of Giving Back

This holiday season, Central Kitchen and Bath (CKB) is thrilled to host a special coloring contest for the community, designed to bring joy to kids and families while supporting those in need. Families are invited to stop by our store to pick up a contest flyer. On the back, participants can fill in their name and share something they’d love to receive from Santa this year. The contest runs from two weeks before Black Friday until a week before Christmas, giving families ample time to come in, participate, and help make a difference.

For every piece of artwork submitted—whether by email or in-person—CKB, in partnership with Plumbing and Heating Wholesale (PHW), will donate $10 to a local homeless shelter. Each entry represents a little bit of holiday spirit shared with those who are most in need of comfort and support during this season.

with Central Kitchen and Bath

And there’s a surprise for the kids too! One lucky winner will receive an item from their Santa wish list, making their holiday a little brighter.

Sarah Pepper

In the words of Sarah Pepper, VP of Marketing at PHW, “We make beautiful houses, but for those who are homeless, we want to do everything we can to make their life comfortable too.” This simple statement speaks to the heart of our values: to create a warm, caring community not only through beautiful spaces but also through compassionate giving. So come on by, pick up a flyer, and be a part of a holiday season filled with joy, creativity, and a spirit of giving back. If you have any questions about our charitable donations, please call us at 712-255-6891.

Pick yours up at

844 Gordon Drive

Sioux City, IA 51101

Oh Christmas Tree

Oh Christmas trees... yes, plural.

Growing up we had one tree placed in front of the bay window in our living room. Today, I have four trees, almost one for every room. And that is the trend. Having multiple Christmas trees in the home has become popular, creating a festive holiday environment.

Owner of Ash+Manor, Christmas tree designer, Amber Musgrave, reveals that multiple trees per home have become common. Enthusiasts of festive decor and those in pursuit of the ‘more-the-merrier’ ambiance often opt for several trees to adorn different spaces within their homes.

This year's popular Christmas tree themes encompass a wide array of colors. While red and green have traditionally dominated, gold has been a close contender for years. However, now colors such as purple, pink, black, and white are creating stunning and unique trees.

Remember the Buffalo Check craze that swept through a few years ago? It started with red and black, white and black, and even purple and black plaid clothing. By December, Buffalo Check tree themes adorned with sprigs and twigs became a popular choice.

Looking for inspiration? The annual Festival of Trees in Sioux City showcases a variety of holiday trees to ignite the creative spark. From traditional themes to designs featuring snowmen, candy canes, and my favorite, Harry Potter, local volunteers craft beautiful masterpieces that are auctioned off for charity. This festive event offers an easy option to have a beautifully decorated tree delivered to your door, all while contributing to a charitable cause.

Whether you dedicate days to decorating your tree(s) or just a few hours - or even minutes - may your Christmas tree bring you joy.

MANAGING THE WEIGHT OF SOCIAL ANXIETY AND HOLIDAY STRESS

Anxiety. It’s not a new emotion to many of us. But, in recent years social anxiety has risen, especially in the younger adult.

“Social anxiety has really increased after we all had to quarantine and try to find our new normal,” says Paige Kracl.

“Anywhere from 17 years old to 35, social anxiety is really affecting them. We also see an increase in teenagers as well,” Paige adds.

So, what exactly is social anxiety? Paige describes it as that pit in your stomach or the feeling that something bad is going to happen and it is increased when we are out in social settings.

“When we have those anxious thoughts, it’s more about how others will view me and how can I interact with others. That makes it social anxiety versus any other anxiety,” Paige explains.

Paige says the first step is to identify it, which can be difficult. Look for signs like shortness of breath, muscle tension, increased heart rate, feeling cold and clammy or having the sweats. “We as a society think we are supposed to tough our way through it, but you have to recognize it to know you don’t want to feel that again. Your motivation needs to be within yourself.”

Start with mindfulness activities.

“Being aware of yourself, instead of your surroundings, helps take the focus off others and how they are viewing you, and instead you’re focusing on yourself in the present moment. Saying to yourself, ‘I can tell I’m feeling anxious. My breath is getting short. So, I’m going to tune in and I’m going to focus on long, controlled breaths to slow my heart rate down.’ Once we do that, we can move onto where my thoughts are going. Right now, I’m noticing that I’m thinking about how others may be perceiving me, so I’m going to turn in and I’m going to ask myself how I’m feeling in this moment in time.”

Paige says if you don’t do the work, you’re likely to avoid social situations all together.

A perfect time to work on your stress levels is before the holiday season - a time when we see stress increase.

“If you don’t like the way something makes you feel, you’re not going to want to be around it, but social situations are inevitable. We need to be around other people. The human brain is set up to make connections and if we isolate ourselves, that can lead to increased rates of depression and more anxiety. So, we need to be able to develop coping skills so we can get to a place that it’s not crippling social anxiety,” Page notes.

A perfect time to work on your stress levels is before the holiday season – a time when we see stress increase.

“You have so many factors that play into that. There is often increased financial stress. Just our basic baseline of emotions is increased. We have additional work and family expectations as well. All of those things play into anxiety because we don’t have time to take care of ourselves,” Paige points out.

And when we don’t take care of ourselves, everything around us starts to unravel.

“We can’t work hard and take care of others if we aren’t prioritizing ourselves. I know that’s easier said than done, but making time for self-care is super important so we can regulate our emotions better. If I’m stressed, I know I need to take at least five minutes a day to take care of myself and make myself happy so I can enter the next day doing things for others.”

So, how do we ensure that we are taking a break?

“It’s really easy to take a break as long as you prepare for it,” adds Paige. “It feels like the holidays sneak up on us, but the day is coming. Learn your triggers. Maybe

PAIGE KRACL

Paige is one of Heartland’s school-based mental health therapist working with students ranging from preschool through grade six in O’Neill Public Schools. Paige has been working in the mental health field for five years, and is trained in PCIT, Adoption Competency, and CBT, and DBT. Paige specializes in mood disorders, behavioral disorders, attachment, adoption and trauma. Paige began working at Heartland in October 2023.

certain family members make you feel anxious, or you have negative experiences around them. Open the notes app on your phone and write down some positive self-talk before you go to an event. I also think it’s beneficial to practice conversations with them and then set your own limits,” Paige advises.

That means paying attention to your anxiety and stress levels. When you start to feel overwhelmed, think back to the tips you prepared.

“Taking a mental break can look different for everyone. Maybe it’s going to the gas station and getting yourself a snack, taking a drive in your car, listening to two minutes of your favorite song or walking around the block for a bit. Don’t be afraid to take some time alone to watch something on your phone or do a mindfulness activity. Small things like that can make such a difference especially when our emotions may be heightened in the moment,” Paige says.

If you need help please visit heartlandcounselingservices.org

PO Box 355, South Sioux City, NE 68776

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

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

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

STATE TEAMS

Boys Team placed 3rd as a team in the state: Jack Brown (3rd), Jamison Gould (13th), Cole Brown (18th), Geoff Nelson (53rd), Will Schnabel (110th), and Bennett Jensen (124th).

Girls Team placed 6th as a team in the state: Sophia Redler (5th), Alex McCullough (14th), Ella Otten (38th), Jaycie Rush (85th), Maylee Rose (91st), and Mia Riibe (98th).

These 12 individuals did such an amazing job, and it is all in their dedication toward the sport. They have all put in the miles, they have all pushed their hardest, they went to Rapid City with a calm but motivated heart. This

on

Ethan Hamm

7th - 12th Grade

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Brayden Hamm

7th - 12th Grade

David Thieman 10th-12th Grade

Jack Brown 7th - 12th Grade (3 time state qualifier and medalist)

Sophia Redler 9th – 12th Grade (3 time state qualifier and medalist)

“Dakota Valley Cross Country Team runs as one, works as a team and finishes as a family. We train every year to peak for state, but our goal is to make running a lifetime sport!” - Tiffany Wendling 7th-12th Boys and Girls Cross Country Head Coach

ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY MEAT BUNDLES!

For almost 30 years, the Nohava family has been providing people with local, grass fed, premium beef. In 2023, their son, Bryan Jr., and his wife, Lexi, had a dream to bring our family’s grass fed beef from our farm to your table. Today we offer a culmination of care and quality in every bite, ensuring that our standard of excellence is extended to your family’s dinner table. We ship nationwide! www.nohavaranch.com

“I can’t recommend Nohava Ranch Premium Beef enough! The flavor was second to none and they exceeded my expectations for sure. I also love the fact that they are a family run business. You can tell they take pride in the quality of their beef! Highly recommend if you are looking for high quality, delicious beef!”

- Seth L.

Bryan Sr. & wife
Brenda
Bryan Jr. & wife
Lexi

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