Edge Magazine - September 2013

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Three fascinating couples you might (and should) know

a family affair Working together, the Caniglia family builds Elkhorn’s top new homes

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LETTER from the EDITOR

DANIEL MULLER

As a resident

and business owner in West Omaha, I’ve often felt that something was missing when it came to area publications; something more personal, more targeted in its editorial content and area of distribution. Just over a year ago, the vision for Edge Magazine started to take shape, nameless at the time, but distinct in its presentation.

REACH US We want to hear from you. Ideas, suggestions, compliments and critiques, send them to us at Jack@EdgeMagazine.com

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Over the years I’ve been blessed to meet interesting people from different walks of life, many with unique life experiences. It’s these people and their stories that I will share with you each month as my incredibly talented staff and I assemble a magazine that stays true to its original vision, one I hope you welcome into your home.

As West Omaha has evolved, we’ve become fortunate in the fantastic array of businesses that are now convenient to us. From eclectic boutiques and fine dining establishments, to med spas and multi-screen movie theatres, our community has become one that offers so much. I look forward to introducing you to our area businesses, those that you will see in our first issue, and those that will be supporting us in the future.

Lastly, it’s always been my belief that every great magazine consists of photography that captures an event, a person, or a place with stunning imagery and grabs the attention of the reader.

I sought out someone who shared my vision and embraced the concept of differentiating us from other magazines.

With that said, I’m pleased to introduce the photography of Omaha’s very own Daniel Muller, who’s talent and passion matches everything I want Edge to be.

Without further ado, I bring you Edge Magazine. I hope you enjoy what we are and look forward to everything we intend to be.

Jack Shotbolt Editor in Chief

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Jack Shotbolt (402) 250-2529 // Jack@EdgeMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Matthes

Gifts for you & your home

Michael Aram Global Views • Uttermost Caspari • Compendium Waste Not Paper Maximal Art by John Wind Alex and Ani My Saint My Hero Elegant Baby • My Blankee Lug • Spartina • Bella Fiore Mon./Tues./.Wed./Sat. 10-6 Thurs./Fri. 10-8 Sun. 12-4 The Shops of Legacy 169th and West Center Road 402-934-8994

onawhim@cox.net onawhimomaha

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // Quentin@quenluen.com PHOTO STAFF Daniel Muller (402) 943-7151 // daniel@dpmuller.com Abi Smith (402) 651-9334 // lacyabigailsmith@gmail.com ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jack Shotbolt (402) 250-2529 // Jack@EdgeMagazine.com Pat Brannon (402) 250-3325 // Pat@EdgeMagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jolene Lake, Krystal Overmyer, Kris Patton, Kara Schweiss CONTACT US P: (402) 250-2529 // F: (402) 892-7048 Jack@EdgeMagazine.com 19269 Pierce Street Omaha, NE 68130 Edge is published monthly. Content copyright © 2013 Edge Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, without permission in writing from the publisher, Jack Shotbolt. Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, Edge assumes no responsibility therefore.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Edge Magazine, 19269 Pierce Street Omaha, NE 68130

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 56

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MY two cents 18

OUR health

OUR food

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42

OUR successors

MY business

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50

MY concoction

VARSITY corner

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c MODERN STYLE,

classic

WARMTH on·tem·po·rar·y by definition often provokes thoughts of cold, rigid, and non-practical space by those who prefer the traditional lines of mainstream home design.

Over the years, we’ve seen splashes of contemporary architecture throughout Omaha, both in residential and commercial building; and for those of us who have an admiration for unique design, it’s always been interesting (in a good way). “I love it, but...” is something we hear far too often by those determining the look and feel of their next home and considering the incorporation of modern flair. Pete Widhalm of Widhalm Custom Homes seeks to change this very kind of thinking.

As we tour his stunning Coventry Estates original, Widhalm talks about a Mid-Century architectural documentary he recalls watching at the age of 15 that planted the seed to his future.

Far from his rural Nebraska upbringing, Widhalm found himself drawn to the unique designs of Joseph Eichler, Frank Lloyd Wright, and others who were influential advocates of bringing modern architecture from large corporate buildings to residential homes. As a boy, Widhalm recalls admiring the work of his father who built the family home and operated a small cabinet shop on the property. Shortly after school, Widhalm began framing homes, teaching himself to read blueprints and to understand the trade from its inner 6|

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shell. As his experience grew, so did his thirst for knowledge and his desire to design; ultimately purchasing his first CAD design software, the same software he works from today.

“The desire to design led the way to build,” says Widhalm, who founded Widhalm Custom Homes just nine years ago as a way to express himself creatively. As he shares each intricate detail of the home, it’s clear he is motivated by the design, not the dollar.

Hearing him speak fervently about the various materials he likes to use, his incorporation of clean lines and dimensions, you begin to find yourself admiring not only his passion, but the well thought out living space the beautiful home provides.

Moving from room to room, you’ll notice the home’s unique ceiling treatments, refracted lighting, and perfect pairing of countertops, stain colors, and texture. As you compliment him on his sense of style, Widhalm stops to give immediate recognition to his wife Amy. “I like to design the shell; Amy likes working with the homeowner to make it a home.” It becomes clear that their partnership is synergistic, working together to create a special warmth for a family to enjoy for years to come.

This six-bedroom, six-bath, former Street of Dreams entry is currently listed at $789,000 and offers more than 5,700 finished square feet. Contact Amy Widhalm with CBS Home Real Estate for a private showing at 402-505-0975.

Bianco Antico granite adds contrast to the white cabinetry with stainless steel appliances and accents in the kitchen.

12-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY DANIEL MULLER STORY BY JACK SHOTBOLT

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The large master suite features a creative dividing wall while incorporating a drop ceiling.

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The sunken living room gives way to an open view of the kitchen and stunning dining room details.

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Gigi’s for Every Occasion!

One bite and it’s easy to taste why Gigi’s Cupcakes is a favorite for the whole family. With more than 150 varieties to choose, you can always find flavors perfect for your family celebration, event or party.

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GiGi’s West Omaha 168th & Dodge • Village Pointe South • 16811 Burke Street, Suite 115 • Omaha, NE 68118 (402) 991-9010 • Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm; Sun: Closed • www.GigisCupcakesUSA.com

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Music, t o H , s k a e t S Hot Hot Italian...

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Contemporary chrome light fixtures with simple chrome faucets are the perfect combination.

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The sunken kitchen is the focal point of the basement, featuring an original quartz island and natural stained cabinetry.

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The powder bath offers white features in combination with beautiful chrome accents.

The stool area utilizes the tall ceiling for special lighting to highlight the chrome artwork and decorative ledge.

Simple, yet elegant greenery throughout the home adds the perfect touch.

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Artwork featuring some of Pete’s inspiration hangs in the home office.

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rofessional interior designer Kris Patton, ASID, with Interiors Joan and Associates, knows a thing or two about good design. Successful design will look good, function well, and stand the test of time. While there are as many “looks” as there are individuals, there are a few things we can all keep in mind to take our home or office aesthetic to the next level. So here it is … My Two Cents: 1. Just like fashion you wear, home fashion has a palette of hues that are hot. Try using neutral colors as a backdrop... gray tones are very trendy right now, but mixing warm tones in the mix and utilizing complimentary browns helps your design from being too trendy, too gray and too cold. Layer in pops of brighter colors, like oranges, greens, and deep blues for accents.

2. Don't just layer colors. Utilize pattern and texture to give your space dimension and interest. Try on an ikat, chevron or flame stitch design for size!

3. There are a few quick, easy ways to update any space. Here are the most effective ways to inject updated style into a space, while not breaking the bank:

paint your walls, bring in a new rug, add new pillows to a tired piece of upholstery, update your window treatments, and add new art or accessories.

4. Metal finishes are changing... and so are the rules for their proper use! Mixing metal finishes on plumbing and light fixtures, for example, is not only ok, it gives your design longevity, depth and interest.

What's changing? Polished nickel is a newer finish, and can be blended with brushed nickel and bronze, for instance.

5. Style of carpet... carpet is more than something to cover your floor. Consider a cut loop pile that creates pattern in a room to draw great interest and disguise traffic patterns. This style also wears well over time.

Equate, Sienna/Brown (set of 3) | $747

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The above are a few of Kris’ handpicked treasures, each a solid representation of her “can’t miss” suggestions:

Textural gold pillow | price upon request

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MEET

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West Omaha

By KRYS TA L OV ERMY E R

Ask a power couple what makes them great, and the response will not include attributes like intelligence, ambition or beauty — though many of the Misters and Misses featured here have such qualities in abundance. They will not mention portmanteaus (see Bennifer, Brangelina, TomKat) or other mono-monikers to mark their power couple status — though many of our couples have certainly achieved it.

Instead, our three couples — a dentist and a doctor, a pair of educators, a philanthropist and a corporate executive — captured the attention of Edge not for their accomplishments (which are many), but for their partnership. They are couples for whom the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Their relationship drives their common goals, their actions and ultimately, their success.

Said Robin Khan of her husband: “My mom gave me my wings, but he gave me the wind.” It’s a sentiment echoed by other power couples. Each half empowers the other until, Ansar Khan says, they become “better together than we are apart.”

These stories offer a glimpse into the inner workings of a few standout West Omaha couples with diverse professions, ages and backgrounds.

Together, they form the Edge magazine’s first Mr. and Mrs. issue.

DANIEL MULLER

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Ansar Khan never intended to stay in Nebraska. It was 1980, and the young doctor had just finished urology training and a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. For Ansar, Nebraska was just a way-stop on his journey: From India to Chicago to explore cutting-edge medicine; Chicago to Minnesota to train at the world-class Mayo Clinic; from Minnesota to California to settle in the “land of glamor.” En route, he planned a quick stop in Nebraska to visit a friend.

Then he fell in love with Nebraska.

And then he fell in love with a girl.

Robin Khan, who grew up a “poor white girl” in the small town of Woodbine, Iowa, was working as an oncology and urology nurse when she met Ansar in 1987. Ansar had long ago dropped his California dreams after experiencing Nebraska’s quality life, quality people and quality opportunities. In Omaha, Fremont,9Blair and other rural areas, he found work that allowed him to be useful.

Working with oncology patients in Omaha, Robin and Ansar bonded over shared experiences and a common drive to take care of people in need. For Robin, Ansar was different than other doctors.

“I fell in love with him listening to him talk to patients,” she said. Robin remembers one patient, a 40-year-old woman diagnosed with end-stage renal cancer. Ansar delivered the diagnosis to the woman and her family.

“By the time we walked out of the room, she was thanking him. He had this ability to inspire hope. He had such a unique ability to do that with people — to somehow make them feel OK, that we’ll get them to the endpoint and it will be OK. She knew she was going

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DR. ROBIN KHAN AND DR. ANSAR KHAN She is: A dentist specializing in sleep apnea; founded three Omaha dental practices with a holistic focus He is: A 13th-generation doctor; founder of the Urology Health Center in Fremont Their strength: Tenacity in pursuit of professional excellence and care for others

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to die, but there was hope that it would be OK — that she would not be alone and there would not be suffering.”

“He was really there for people. How can you not love someone like that?”

In Robin, Ansar found a woman with whom he could share himself completely. Robin understood his work and his desire to care for people. She had the “compassion of a cancer nurse and the looks of a model,” he said.

She was also smart and driven, and he let her know that if she wanted to plunge into medical school, he’d support it. Ansar and his siblings are among 13 generations of doctors stretching back in his native India.

Medical education is a part of their DNA. “He always wanted me to feel like I was as empowered as anyone else in the family,” she said.

Robin started dental school, taking classes over her lunch hour. She and her 40-year-old bachelor were married soon after.

They settled at Ansar’s home in the Skyline Ranches community in Elkhorn, the perfect base for him to continue his medical practice in Fremont and for her to grow the first of not one, but three Omaha dental practices with a holistic focus. Ansar brings a quiet, even temperament to their home, while Robin is the soul.

“She motivates everybody,” he said.

“She is the nucleus of this family.”

Throughout their romance, Robin immersed herself in Ansar’s northern Indian culture. The importance of family and education are values the couple has passed down to their four children, aged 13-24. They are frequently traveling together to locations their children select, including Thailand, Turkey, China, Italy, Iceland and of course, India, where each child has spent some time attending school. Their home is dotted with photographs, art and sculptures from their travels, symbolizing their “East meets West” relationship, approach to living and love of culture.

What binds them together is their constant pursuit of excellence in their work.

For each, that pursuit has required tenacity — whether crossing the globe to achieve a goal, continually reeducating themselves on their craft, or challenging their children to be global citizens.

“We live life to the fullest,” Ansar said, “in the service of other people.”

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THE VAN DYKES

the difference-makers

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ight years ago, Greg Van Dyke called his wife over his lunch hour to deliver a surprise.

“I’ve got good news and bad news,” the Tenaska Energy CFO told her.

“The good news: I’ve cleared my schedule and taken care of all the logistics for you to go to Uganda with your sister. The bad news: You only have 24 hours to decide.”

Karen was shocked. Unbeknownst to her, her husband had overheard a conversation with her sister about a mission trip to Uganda. That was her dream, Karen told her sister: to go on a mission trip to Africa. With five children aged 2-12, she figured it was impossible.

Greg thought otherwise. He saw a chance to fulfill one of his wife’s dreams on her 40th birthday. He saw his wife, a natural organizer and doer, sharing her big heart with others.

Back then, neither of them knew his proposal would ignite a passion that has touched thousands of lives in the U.S. and Uganda. So powerful was her first trip that Karen founded Educate Uganda, a nonprofit that improves schools and provides scholarships to children in the area of Nkokonjeru, Uganda.

It didn’t happen overnight. On the

first trip with her sister’s church, Karen struggled. “If you would have asked me whether I would have come back again, I would’ve said no.”

The brick cottage where they stayed redefined the word “rustic.” It was smelly.

There were bats. All around, there was poverty. The experience stuck with her beyond the two-week trip. “It was hard to come back,” Karen said. “I felt like they are already living their purgatory. They are already suffering, and yet we don’t have any idea of what’s in store for us because (Americans) have so much.”

KAREN VAN DYKE & GREG VAN DYKE She is: Founder of Educate Uganda and mother of five He is: CFO of Tenaska Energy Their strength: Passion for making a difference Power couple strength: Passion

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Revealing beauty from the inside out Tue.: 9 Wed.: 12 Thu.: 9 Fri.: 9 Sat.: 9

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Lost and disheartened, she confided in her priest. “God gave to you what you have,” the priest told her. “The only sin you may have is the sin of forgetfulness.

God gave you this gift, to know this place.”

Eighteen months later, she was back in Uganda. She sought a way she could make a difference, however small. She found the answer in education, and what started as a small fundraising project among the couple’s close friends has grown to a full-fledged 501c(3) nonprofit organization. Educate Uganda employs in-country staff to coordinate projects in multiple villages funded by thousands of stateside donors.

Karen draws no salary for her efforts, leaving 100 percent of the donations to go to Ugandans. Their scholarship program encourages interaction between scholarship sponsors and children to build relationships.

“Knowing that someone in another country cares for them makes those children feel special,” Karen said. She encourages both children and sponsors to pray for each other, even though they may never meet.

Today, it’s hard to imagine what life would be like had Greg not paved the way for Karen to make a dream come true. Greg and the children are Karen’s cheerleaders. The kids mowed lawns and hawked lemonade to sponsor Ugandan children, and several have traveled to Uganda with Karen. Greg provides the support Karen needs to make it all happen, even from thousands of miles away.

Greg knows that just once during every trip to Uganda, Karen will call overwhelmed by the feeling of being a drop of water in an ocean of need. Greg listens.

He reassures her that all is well at home, and she can focus on the tasks at hand without worrying about the kids. Then he tells her where to find one of the many letters he hides in her luggage. One letter is aimed at cheering her up: a handwritten joke about a snail, with footnotes describing how to deliver the joke to get more laughs in front of the group. (For example: “You’ll get the loudest laugh if you’ve had a glass of wine.”) Other letters she savors just before bed, after she crawls under a mosquito net and prepares herself for another day helping children.

His letters are the last thing she reads before she goes to sleep.

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rittany and Troy Sidders have long felt the call to educate children. As a young girl in Edgar, Neb., Brittany dreamed about being a teacher like her mother and grandfather. Troy always liked kids growing up in Kenesaw, Neb., and in college he realized his gift was teaching others.

They met studying teaching at Doane College and coincidentally landed jobs at Skyline Elementary Elkhorn after graduation. Troy taught fourth grade; she taught first. A deeper friendship was born when Troy recruited Brittany to be his co-sponsor for the fourth and fifth grade student council.

They both took the same approach to their role: Empower kids to take ownership of their own projects, and stay out of the way once they do.

The kids flourished. They hosted fundraisers for Toys for Tots and Siena/ Francis House. They called local organizations to schedule guest speakers.

They organized a volleyball tournament to raise money for mosquito nets for Africa.

“We can’t take any credit for that, other than we let them do what they wanted,” Troy said. “Sometimes people limit kids because of their age, but they just want to matter and be important.

If you trust them to do the right thing,

than kids will want to do the right thing.”

The student council friendship grew a romance, and the two were married in 2008. Troy transitioned to being a principal at Westridge Elementary, while Brittany continued to spark that “aha” moment among her first graders. Outside the schoolhouse, they dedicate the daylight hours to two young daughters.

After bedtime, they continue their constant quest toward being better teachers and educators, often late into the night.

BRITTANY SIDDERS & TROY SIDDERS She is: First grade teacher at Elkhorn’s new Sagewood Elementary He is: Principal at Westridge Elementary Their strength: Empowering students and teachers alike Power couple strength: Empowerment DANIEL MULLER

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Their drive to empower kids to reach their potential binds them together.

“She has passion,” Troy said of his wife.

“She knows what kids need and when they need it. She’s a learner, constantly looking for new ideas to incorporate with her own. She’s one of the hardest workers I know.”

In turn, Brittany taps into Troy’s experiences as a principal for ideas and inspiration. “He can give me insight and perspective based on what he’s seen,” she said.

Both Sidders take inspiration from the children they teach and the teachers around them. For Brittany, the personal reward is in a child’s expression when he finally grasps a difficult concept. “No one in first grade will necessarily say ‘thank you,’ but they say it with their hugs, high-fives and sadness at the end of the year,” she said.

“Even though 6-year-olds won’t tell you thank you, you know that you’re giving them something that can last forever.”

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OUR health

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DANIEL MULLER

A HEALTHY

BALANCE Hormone replacement therapy

By J O LE E N L A KE M SN , F N P, N P-C 34 |

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hen the word “hormones” is uttered, visions of raging menopausal women come to mind for most. Truth be told, hormonal changes affect everyone—both men and women—from birth to death, yet we seem to have a very negative association with that word. Hormones play an important role in our health, in the way we feel as we age and in many areas of life quality such as mood, mental clarity and sleep quality. Hormones serve as powerful chemical messengers to specific cells throughout the body to precisely orchestrate all internal organ functions. The work that hormones do is subtle—yet when they fall out of balance, the effects on our health may be anything but.

Estrogen is a woman’s most important hormone. Without hormone replacement therapy, the loss of estrogen puts her at increased risk for osteoporosis, heart disease, colon cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, tooth loss, impaired vision and diabetes. The longer a woman is without the protection of her own estrogen, the greater the risk for serious health consequences of these conditions. Progesterone helps balance estrogen and protects the breasts and uterus from cancer. It also helps her relax and sleep well at night. Testosterone is a key player in the complex chemistry of human hormones and plays a lead role in the health and well-being of both sexes. It is a very important hormone for women, especially in terms of staying fit, lean and sexually active. This hormone is also important in maintaining a woman’s energy level and mental clarity, regardless of her age. Low testosterone levels in pre- and postmenopausal women can diminish motivation, contribute to low libido and induce fatigue, depression and anxiety. By age 30, a woman has already lost 50% of her testosterone production.

For men, testosterone is his most important hormone. Men lose 1–3% of testosterone production per year starting around age 30. Then, sometime between age 40 and 55, testosterone levels drop dramatically and signal the onset of andropause (the medical term for the male equivalent to menopause).

When this happens, a man often finds himself lacking in sexual desire, gaining weight, losing muscle mass and feeling sluggish, depressed and irritable.

Hormone replacement can rejuvenate, regenerate and restore you to how you felt when you were younger.

The goal should always be hormonal balance based on science rather than experimentation or guessing. Some therapies merely attempt to replenish estrogen, progesterone and testosterone—but never achieve balance.

Choosing the best method of hormone replacement is important in achieving that balance and feeling your best.

Types of hormone therapy include pills, injections, patches, creams and bioidentical pellets. What is “bioidentical”? Bioidentical hormones are perfectly matched to the hormones produced in your body. They are plant-based substances that our bodies can metabolize naturally, minimizing side effects.

These compounded bioidenticals can be matched to each person’s unique needs.

Suspect your hormones may be “out of whack”? Find a healthcare provider who is an expert in the field of hormone replacement therapy. After lab work is complete, the provider will discuss the results with you and determine how to best address it—without adding a multitude of unnecessary medications and side effects. To protect your body and feel your best, consider receiving hormones that your body recognizes (bioidentical), in the proper dosage (determined by accurate testing and analy-

sis) and delivered into the bloodstream using a method that makes hormones available around the clock—the same way the body delivers hormones. Research shows that subcutaneous pellet insertion is the only method that meets all of these criteria.

Don’t give in to aging. There is no reason to feel like you’re “getting old.”

Prevent the symptoms and medical conditions of aging with bioidentical hormone replacement, which can give you the energy, vitality, motivation, mood enhancement and sex drive you used to have. You will truly feel like you have your life back.

Joleen Lake is a board certified family nurse practitioner in Omaha, Nebraska, and is founder of Optima Medical Hormone Replacement. Her advanced education and experience in the antiaging arena enables her to provide superior diagnoses and treatment for patients who want to maintain hormonal balance as they age. Her extensive experience and passion for wellness continues to make her a well sought-after medical provider utilizing bioidentical hormone pellets.

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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Caniglias The

OUR successors

As

By K A R A S CH WEIS S

far back as high school, John Caniglia was innately drawn to the sounds of carpentry and construction. Instead of perceiving it as a disruptive racket, he found that the clamor actually helped him concentrate when it was time to hit the books.

“It was more soothing to me to be able to study around construction noise, like wood lathes and drill presses,” he said. “So I would just take everything down to the wood shop and write whatever I had to there while everything was buzzing or humming.”

He’s the son and grandson of barbers, but Caniglia – the owner, founder and president of John Caniglia Homes – always knew that he was more interested in buzz saws than in buzz cuts, preferred diamond blades over barber blades, and liked pole framing far more than barber poles.

The Caniglia team, from left to right: Jesse, Cory, John and Kylie.

DANIEL MULLER

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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OUR successors “I really started liking that type of work, and at the time it wasn’t “work”, when I was a kid in junior high, in wood shop and industrial arts,” he said. “I guess that influenced me more than anything; I knew I liked it then.”

Caniglia, who grew up in a neighborhood just off Western Avenue near Creighton Prep, headed to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln after graduating from Westside High School. But he quickly realized that what he really wanted was to just dive into the construction business.

“Really, right out of high school I knew I wanted to work as a carpenter,” Caniglia said. “So after a short stint in college – that didn’t work out so well – I just went out and started working with framing crews, at the time with stick-frame houses. I was maybe 20 years old.”

Caniglia progressed from framing jobs to working for a small builder, which introduced him to all phases of homebuilding. He then learned another aspect of the trade during a short stretch in Colorado working on condominiums and apartment complexes. “Homebuilding, it’s a learn-as-you-go type of thing, it’s handson,” he said.

With more experience under his tool belt, he returned to Omaha and married Cindy, also a Westside alum. The year after the couple started a family, John started the business, JKC Construction, Inc., which was launched with a partner in 1978. The company’s first house was completed in 1979. Caniglia was already operating JKC on his own a little more than a decade later, gradually growing the company – and his family – in the ’70s and ’80s. Firstborn son Cory was followed by another son, Jesse, and then

DANIEL MULLER

The Caniglia’s inside one of their many Elkhorn homes under construction.

daughter Kylie. Cindy Caniglia had always been involved in the administrative side of the company to some degree, but as the second generation of Caniglias was growing up, the company (now known as John Caniglia Homes) evolved into a full-fledged family business.

“It really kind of happened naturally. From the time they were born they watched what I did,” Caniglia recalled.

“When Cory was born, I had a framing crew and worked outside a lot, framing houses; and by the time Jesse was born I had started working inside on trim carpentry and cabinets. By the time they were 10 or 12, I had a cabinet shop, and they would come in and sweep the floors.

And then they actually started to build drawers and work with their hands a

little bit. I think that’s when they might have just liked doing that, because they didn’t see the business side of it, just the fun stuff like the nail guns and what have you.”

The brothers entered the business side soon enough, Caniglia said. Although he never pushed them to work for him, their roles and commitment inevitably became more substantial as their shared knack for the business became evident.

“About the time we started remodeling and building homes, Cory was getting a little older, 15 or 16 maybe. He was working with me, helping me do things, and Jesse followed in much the same manner. He liked what we were doing and wanted to be part of it too,” Caniglia said. “It wasn’t really planned. They liked the thought of working with their hands and working with people and building houses… The two boys never had much of a chance to work elsewhere. As soon as they were out of high school, for the most part, they were heavily involved in the business.”

“I remember coming back on the weekends, when I was in (college in) Lincoln, doing closets and wood trim to make the truck payment,” son Cory recalled.

He studied construction management in college, but said, “Being on the job site, that’s the only way to really learn.” Now 36, he serves as a project manager and foreman for the family business, and also has a real estate license.

33-year old son Jesse is also a project manager and specializes in trim carpentry. He took real estate classes to have a greater understanding of that side of the business. He said he recalls bussing tables and washing cars as a teen, but has no regrets being part of John Caniglia

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Homes at a relatively early age.

Daughter Kylie, 28, who serves as the company’s sales director and realtor, came into the business at her own time.

She attended Michigan State University and studied human resources and business management with a sales concentration, returning to Omaha after graduation. “I think I always knew I was going to have some part,” she said.

Despite seeing each other nearly every day at the office or on job sites, the family still enjoys connecting outside of work. The men fish and golf together regularly, the entire family sometimes dines together, and everyone (including Cory’s and Jesse’s wives and children) goes along on an occasional family vacation. The Caniglias admit their close relationship makes it impossible to stay strictly professional at the office at all times. “Yes, we talk to each other differently than we would if we were in a corporate structure,” Kylie said.

The jokes and teasing are near constant (John: “I was kind of hoping these guys would actually be brain surgeons.” Kylie: “They won’t let me have tools.” Cory: “Cause she’d hit us with them.” Jesse: “I kind of miss that car wash job of mine, actually.” John: “We make each other cry now and then…just kidding.”). But when it’s time to get down to business, the family works as an effective team, and the respect they have for each other is evident.

“For the most part, everyone knows their role and what we’re trying to accomplish,” John Caniglia said. With each family member bringing a different area of expertise to the table, John Caniglia Homes has branched out into multiple facets of homebuilding and looks very different today than it did in its earliest, circa 1978, incarnation.

So how does he explain the distinction of John Caniglia Homes? “Most everybody we deal with comes to us, so we don’t advertise heavily or do any hard marketing. It’s been word of mouth. I think because it’s a family-ran business, it’s unique in that way.” Caniglia added, “One of the things I really sell to the customers is that you have three builders to work with in case something was to happen to one of us…they get that one-on-one service. A lot of people offer that and there’s a lot of great builders in town, but I think with being a family of people who are all in it to stay, it makes a difference.”

The company, which entered its first

Street of Dreams in 1999, is probably best known for high-quality craftsmanship and striking custom homes in noteworthy neighborhoods in and around Omaha, such as Deer Creek Highlands, Five Fountains, Pacific Point, Silverleaf Estates, Tuscan Ridge, Fairway Pointe and West Baywood II. Despite its overall prosperity, the company has had its share of up and downs, most notably about five years ago during a recession period when building slowed dramatically and everyone in the sector was taking a hit, Caniglia said. Several prominent builders failed during this period, and clients today are more cautious even as economic recovery is progressing.

Long-term relationships with trusted subcontractors helped retain the company’s stability, Caniglia said, plus keeping his business in the Omaha area whenever possible: “Definitely (we use) local suppliers and we always try to work with local banks, local lenders.”

“We’ve been through some really good and some really tough times now because we’ve all been together 15, 20 years or longer. I think the tough times brought us closer together as a business and in trying to figure out what our new

business model would be…we really had to diversify and start getting some kind of a business plan together.”

Never one to stay still, Caniglia is already looking toward the future of John Caniglia Homes. “My continuation probably won’t be more than maybe 10 more years maximum; I’d like to escape-plan and just help out a little bit, maybe (it will) be sooner. I don’t have any plans of quitting work, retiring…but I’ll back off after a while and let these guys continue.

And if they don’t want to do that, they can do whatever they would like. But at least there’s a base here they can work with.”

And perhaps John Caniglia Homes will eventually carry through to a third generation. John and Cindy already have five grandchildren. Both of their sons are married with children: Cory has daughters ages 7 and 4, plus a son who’s nearly 2, and Jesse has a 5-year old son and 3-year old daughter. And although they joke about pushing their children into medical careers, both brothers said that, based on their own experience, they would sincerely welcome any of their children into the family business someday. Or, as Cory put it, “I’d have no problem with that.”

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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MY concoction

Luke Kothe from Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse and his “Italian Evening” martini

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1

5

1.5 oz. DeKuyper Cherry Pucker. That’s no misprint: Cherry. Pucker.

1.5 oz. Pallini Limoncello

2

2 oz. fresh-squeezed orange juice and 1 oz seltzer water

3

steps

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse THE BARTENDER: Luke Kothe THE DRINK: Italian Evening

4

5

Chilled, sugarrimmed glass

Shake and serve with orange slice garnish SEPTEMBER 2013

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OUR food

C H E F TO M S AW Y E R

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STUFFED SALMON EN CROUTE ABI SMITH

Today’s

TOM SAWYER STORY BY JACK SHOTBOLT | RECIPE BY TOM SAWYER

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est Omaha offers some of the area’s finest dining choices, but perhaps none has a story quite as sentimental as that of Omaha natives Tom and Tricia Sawyer’s Harvest Café & Wine Bar. For years, Sawyer operated the family owned construction business, as his wife managed the clerical side of the company while raising their son Jake.

Although Tricia enjoyed helping Tom run the company handed down to him by his father, she always had a love for the culinary arts, often planning family vacations around dining destinations and experiences across the country.

Over the years her interest grew, and with the encouragement of her husband, she enrolled in culinary classes at Metropolitan Community College.

As her classes progressed, it became clear that she could no longer ignore this passion and over time, the idea of “Harvest” started to take shape. Originally slated for a downtown Elkhorn location, the idea of seasonal dishes with a “farm to fork” approach incorporating local produce and ingredients was a vision they sought to make reality. This was until the summer of 2005, and the news that would suspend the plans for the restaurant. It was at this time that they learned Tricia had been diagnosed with breast cancer.

As she began treatment, Tom reflected on life and how he wanted to spend his time. He decided to sell the family business to spend more time with his family. Over the course of a two -year period, they traveled around her treatment regimen while continuing to plan for the eventual restaurant they dreamed about, penning ideas as they emerged.

In early 2007, they learned her cancer had spread to her lungs, bringing a now terminal condition. The plans for the

A RT I S A N C H E E S E P L AT E ABI SMITH

BL ACK COD WITH GINGER MISO BROTH

CRÈME BRÛLÉE

SEPTEMBER 2013

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OUR food

STEP 1

Once the puff pastry is rolled evenly, remember to lightly butter the edges prior to covering the salmon.

STUFFED SALMON EN CROUTE STEP 2

Carefully slice the salmon filet to create a pocket

6 8 ¼ ¼ ½

oz. Scottish Salmon Filet oz. cream cheese cup capers cup green onions fresh lemon juice

THE PASTRY: Roll out the puff pastry extra wide on a floured

STEP 3

Add the stuffing slowly so the capers are not crushed

STEP 4

Carefully roll the salmon in the puff pastry.

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surface as to fit the salmon filet. Brush the edges with butter for the folding and baking process.

THE FILLING: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, green onion slowly, folding in the capers at the end as not to crush them. Salt and pepper to taste.

THE SALMON: Using a small knife, carefully cut the salmon filet, not to the end, but to create a pocket for the stuffing. Then carefully add the stuffing, remembering not to crush the capers or tear the salmon filet.

ROLLING: Once the filet is neatly stuffed, carefully roll the salmon in the puff pastry, cutting away excess so the pastry cooks evenly and doesn’t become too doughy in the end.

BAKING: Place the finished filet on a lightly greases pan and bake at 500 degrees for 12-14 minutes, watching it so it doesn’t become overly brown or burn.

restaurant dissipated.

Immediately following the diagnosis, they left Omaha to live in Napa, California for six months, seeking peace and enjoying all the area had to offer.

As they learned about California cafés and culinary interpretation, it provided a special kind of therapy, allowing them to experience the things Tricia once

dreamed of. Returning to Omaha in the fall of 2007, the cancer continued its course. Conversations about the restaurant faded. On October 11, 2010, Tricia lost her battle to cancer.

After the loss, Tom took time way from everything, coping, alongside Jake…looking for direction as to how he’d spend his time. Considering many

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OUR food

MEYER LEMON CAKE

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WINE SELECTION ABI SMITH

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OUR food

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options over the course of eighteen months, he saw the vacant location he now occupies and the vision slowly returned. “I felt that the restaurant could be a way to carry her passion and spirit, giving me a constructive way to remember her,” said Sawyer, the now Owner and Chef of Harvest.

Opening in the summer of 2012, true to its original vision, Harvest offers a menu that spotlights original culinary dishes, as well as a few traditional items with a slight California spin. The salads unique, the appetizers pallet-pleasing, and the entrées savory, the lineup is rather stunning. Each dish is paired with a recommended wine based on Sawyer’s time spent traveling the country with his wife, and the six months spent in Napa learning the marriage between food and wine.

Harvest Café & Wine Bar is a true West Omaha treasure, nestled into Lakeside Plaza. The restaurant’s comfortable surroundings bring a sense of relaxation.

Upon opening the menu, it becomes clear that it’s not one that had been put together quickly, but created through the experiences and dreams of the couple.

Here you will find fresh ingredients, organic and locally grown produce and meats, well thought out combinations and original concepts.

At Harvest, Tricia’s spirit lives on; and Tom has truly found his calling while presenting a dining experience sure to be enjoyed by many.

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G N O C H I W I T H S U M M E R V E G E TA B L E S ABI SMITH

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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MY business

At Gigi’s Cupcakes, West Omahan SuZanne Rogers offers sweet treats with a community flavor

s

uZanne Rogers believes in the power of the cupcake. Now approaching her one-year anniversary with Gigi’s Cupcakes at Village Pointe, Rogers is thrilled to see how her hand-stirred, baked-fresh daily cupcakes piled high with icing can change a person’s day.

“Everyone has a story and a need,” she says, “and cupcakes are an experience. They can be a special treat for someone having a great day – or for someone needing a pick-me-up. Or they can be part of a major event like a wedding, when the whole family is involved.”

SuZanne Rogers, owner of Gigi’s Cupcakes.

DANIEL MULLER

Icing ON THE

CUPCAKE

By KRYSTAL OVER M YER

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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MY business Rogers and her husband, Grant, are TOP FIVE local owners of the Nashville-based GiROGERS’ gi’s Cupcakes. The journey to their “jewRULES elry store of cupcakes” began about four 1. Whatever you years ago. A West Omaha resident for are, be a good 25 years, SuZanne Rogers felt inspired one to open a business in her neighborhood 2.

Foster true that would utilize her entrepreneurial treasures: family, spirit, business background and comfriends and munity-focused heart. She just needed country to find the right concept.

3. Work smart and The ensuing search involved the “just keep going” whole family. Rogers’ two teenage sons, Jack and Sam, investigated business op4. Do not expect portunities from cookie shops to assisted what you do not living services. Their guiding principle: inspect What can we bring to West Omaha that’s 5. Play hard and special and currently unavailable? always order “The yearning to do business and dessert something special in the community brought us to Gigi’s,” Rogers said.

With its emphasis on local creativity, the franchise cupcake shop was an ideal fit. Rogers, who is a published children’s book author and a long-time volunteer at schools and hospitals with her certified therapy dogs, was attracted to the company’s national support for education and literacy. Among initiatives Rogers brings into her business: A reading rewards program that offers youth a free cupcake for every 10 books Elite Cheer they read; fundraising opportunities for South 140th Circle 2410 schools; and even cupcake donations Omaha, NE on a teacher’s birthday. The shop also 402.537.0855 donates unsold cupcakes to hospitals, elitecheer.com fire departments and community organizations.

What makes your company an Omaha favorite and a great For Rogers, cupcakes are her tool to Nebraska’s value to your customers? offer her community a personal treat lite Cheer has been in business sincelargest 1993– we are a family while giving back. “Cupcakes are perbased company that trains kids to become moremost than they ever and sonal, and I’m personal,” she said. imagined. Our program instills family values into our athletes every day recognized Choosing which one to try, then mentality. Perseverance, accountability, confidence, and discipline are savoring the flavor – there’s something competitve just a few major characteristics we teach. Teaching kids, long term goals about a Gigi’s cupcake that is special. squads without instant gratification, but earning skills cheer through hard work and As she looks ahead with Gigi’s, Rogers dedication instills a confidence unimaginable inas today’s society. seen on anticipates continuing her spirit ofWhy “good do customers trust and rely on your business?

ESPN service, good products” with new flavors lite Cheer prides itself on being not only the best in our area, and niche items. She’s excited to expand but also an industry leader. Both owners are state directors within the her fundraising partnerships with local national safety organization and also requested toOver travel across 100the country schools and continue to give back to and internationally to teach athletes as well as other coaches the in’s and national her community with her sweet, special out’s of our industry. Our program believes in customer satisfaction that cheerleading treats. maintains client dignity and integrity. The majority of our clients commit long term because of the benefits of our trainingtitles program.

“I feel all the more wiser and all the since more ready for new things,” she said.

1996 and a

Cheerleading Club

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VARSITY corner

RISING STAR

Mason Meier Age 13 Elkhorn Valley View Middle School Having competed since the age of 8, Mason Meier has developed into one of the area’s rising young stars on the youth tennis scene. Meier trains 4 or 5 nights a week to compete in both the 14s and 16s Divisions, where he has experienced extraordinary success over the last year.

In the fall of 2012, Meier won a 64draw tournament in Wichita, competing in the 14s Division, and captured the title in both the 14s and 16s at the Omaha Holiday Tournament. This year he has added to those accomplishments by winning 6-of-7 matches in a top-32 tournament held in Omaha in June, and went undefeated (6-0 in singles and 6-0 in doubles) representing the district of Nebraska in May at a Wichita-section team competition. Meier’s performance helped fuel Nebraska’s Team crown at the event.

In July, Meier competed at a National Team event in Dallas, playing against the premier players from Florida, the Caribbean, Texas, and Southwest US sections.

Nebraska did well, and Meier was able to come through with some solid wins.

Meier is also involved in select basketball and has played at a high level since the age of 8 in the Elkhorn area. Mason is the son of Dr. Craig and Beth Meier of Elkhorn, has an older sister Megan and a younger brother Miles.

– Jack Shotbolt DANIEL MULLER

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VARSITY corner

FACE FUTURE OF THE

Brittany Witt | Age 16 | Marian High School Rarely does a freshman burst onto the scene in High School athletics and make their mark, but that’s just what Brittany Witt did for Marian High School last fall. Straight from the halls of St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Elkhorn where she was a standout athlete and scholar, Witt found herself not only making the Varsity Volleyball team in 2012, but was named starter at the Libero position for the Marian Crusaders during their State Runner Up campaign where they finished 42-1.

Her play hardly went unnoticed as she received multiple awards both locally and nationally for her impressive play. Named Prep Volleyball’s 2012 National Freshman of the Year, to the 2012 Nebraska State All-Tournament Team, 2012 All State Honorable Mention and recognized as of one of 2012 Prep Volleyball’s Frosh 59.

In 2013, she joined the Nebraska Junior 16-1 Team, helping them to a 10-1 finish at the AAU Nationals Tournament this summer in Orlando. Her play again brought attention as she was awarded 2013 AAU 1st Team All American honors. Her team finished 5th out of 90 teams nationally.

Witt has returned to Marian for her sophomore season, this time as the returning veteran on a team sure to advance far in their 2013 march toward State.

Brittany is the daughter of Bob and Tracy Kill from Elkhorn, and Tom and Cindy Witt of Falls City. She has a 19 year old sister Brooke who attends Kansas State, and a 6 year old sister Hailey.

– Jack Shotbolt DANIEL MULLER

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OUR little secret

DANIEL MULLER

Brenda Jacobsen and her dog, Jessie; Julie Rouse with her horse, T.C.; and Patti with daughter, Halle, and their dog, Coca.

Patti Brannon’s special place is an area she’s strolled for nearly 20 years. As a Skyline resident in Elkhorn, she’s enjoyed her refreshing morning walks with her dog, taking in the scenic views at Skyline Ranches.

“It’s my own little slice of heaven, it’s where I go to de-stress and escape” says Patti. The private area is for residents of the neighborhood and is complete with geese, a stocked pond, and horses that are often being exercised for show.

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FOLLOW US

This is just the beginning As we grow, let us help your business grow Jack@EdgeMagazine.com (402) 250-2529