Edge Magazine - November 2014

N O V E M B E R

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M A G A Z I N E

Thankful

How adoption has changed the lives of three families

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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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beautiful November is upon us, and with it comes the season when we reflect on all we’re thankful for and those who we’re blessed to have in our lives. Each year I give thanks for so many things: my health, my family, and the wisdom gained over the last twelve months.

Through the years, there have been so many amazing things that have happened in my life. The one thing I am most thankful for happened forty-four years ago, when my parents elected to adopt after learning they weren’t able to conceive a child of their own.

My parents, and their families, embraced me from birth; they raised me in a loving home, where I learned the values needed to be a respectful young man and an accomplished adult. From hugs to spankings, my parents did what was necessary to guide me, giving me the love and support needed to grow up knowing the difference between right and

wrong.

In this issue, we are pleased to share three unique stories of how the power of adoption has changed the lives of those within our community. As you can imagine, this issue is special to me, and I hope you enjoy this issue as much as I do.

I hope everyone enjoys the Thanksgiving season and remembers to give thanks for the many blessings received.

Sincerely, Jack Shotbolt Editor in Chief

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NOVEMBER 2014

M A G A Z I N E

EDITOR IN CHIEF Jack Shotbolt Jack@EdgeMagazine.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR A Little Corner of France in West Omaha levoltaireomaha.com 569 N 55th Plaza | (402) 934-9374

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Chelsey Rawley Chelsey@EdgeMagazine.com CONTACT US P: (402) 250-3325 // F: (402) 892-7048 Jack@EdgeMagazine.com 15858 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha NE 68118 Edge is published monthly. Content copyright © 2014 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.

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

24

OUR passion

OUR business

WORTH the haul

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62

MY concoction

OUR athletes

50

66

34

OUR food

VARSITY corner

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74

NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR home

a

Comfortable

luxury s an advertising sales executive, Matt Karl, owner of MK Builders, didn’t plan to be in the construction business. After he and his wife Laura built their first home on an acreage in Lincoln, he received requests to do the same from family members and even neighbors just driving by. Eleven years later, he has left advertising sales behind and now builds 35 custom homes per year, primarily in rural developments.

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This past summer he built a home featured in the 2014 Street of Dreams located in the South Hamptons development in Gretna. With a stone exterior and dark stained knotty alder wood throughout the interior, the home has a Colorado rustic chic look, which matches the wooded lot surrounding it. There are six bedrooms and five bathrooms in the 4,400 square foot, one and a half story home that includes a finished basement and vaulted-ceiling loft that overlooks the tops of the trees outside.

“We designed this home so a family can grow into the house,” Matt said. In addition to the master bedroom on the main level, there is a second bedroom on the main level tucked away that can be used as a nursery, office, or guest room.

Laundry is also on the main level as well as a second laundry room upstairs. The lower level features a full island that overlooks the theater area. “We wanted to give the basement a full kitchen for informal entertaining, and just like upstairs, everyone likes to gather around the island.”

Jenn Haeg with Deeb Realty, who represents MK Builders, describes the home as “comfortable luxury” and said every as-

MK Builders provides a complete building experience

STORY BY KATHY RYGG 13-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY

BY THOM NEESE AND MARY KATE KAWACZ

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OUR home

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pect of it was built smart. “The home is beautiful, but you’re not afraid to live in it,” she said. “All of it flows together and is usable without any dead space.” She said it’s meant for a modern lifestyle with architectural focal points, such as the decorative hood over the gas range and the knotty alder doors, which Matt installed himself. “He’s definitely a craftsman,” she said.

In fact, Matt knows how to do every part of a home build himself, from pouring a foundation to installing an HVAC system. And he works with clients from the ground up.

“We’re more than just a building management company,” he said. “We do everything in-house so our customers don’t feel stressed during the process.” This includes complete design services from his wife Laura, at no extra charge. “I give 16 |

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OUR home

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our customers guidance on everything from floor plans and exterior elevation to cabinetry and lighting,” she said. “It doesn’t matter how many hours an appointment takes, I’ll be there with them to help make it a smooth process.”

Every aspect of their build is intended to make the customers feel comfortable. Haeg said MK Builders provides a transparent build process that includes a tracking schedule, which can be accessed via computer or mobile phone app so customers know everything the builder does. “It helps keep phone calls and mistakes to a minimum, giving everyone involved peace of mind.”

As a result of MK Builders specializing in rural properties, Matt said they know how to efficiently design a house specific to conditions that you don’t find in the city. “All weather elements are amplified

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in the countryside,” he said. “So our homes need to be efficient with no air flow gaps and be able to stand up to extreme heat, cold, and wind.”

Due to the success MK Builders has had in Lincoln, Matt said that over the next 24 months they plan to expand and open a second office in Omaha that would include an in-house design studio.

Even though most of their customers are not first-time homeowners, Matt wants to give them a complete home building experience. “We don’t want customers to feel alone in the process,” he said. “We want to be partners and help them with every step along the way.”

L A R G E B A C K YA R D E N T E R TA I N I N G A R E A

S C E N I C V I E W F R O M PAT I O NOVEMBER 2014

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COVER story

West Omaha families share how their lives were changed through adoption

j

en Bartelt watches 8-month old Ava erupt into a huge belly laugh when older brother Carson, 3, enters the room. Ever since Ava came home, the children have been in love with each other, Bartelt said. Their family of four feels complete.

“The amount of love that I have for these two is just unmatched,” she said. “I had no idea how much love I truly had to give and how happy they would make our lives.”

Jen, her husband Duane, Ava and Carson are together today because of adoption. When Jen and Duane couldn’t get pregnant naturally, they explored the possibility of adoption through the Nebraska Children’s Home Society. The nonprofit organization supports biological parents, adoptive parents, and children as part of its statewide mission of serving children and families.

Ava and Jen Bartelt

Story by KRYSTAL OVERMYER Photos by DANIEL MULLER 24 |

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family FO R EVE R

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COVER story

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Ava, Jen, Carson and Duane Bartelt

In 2012, about 412 children in Nebraska were adopted; another 907 were awaiting adoption, according to the federal Administration for Children and Families. The Nebraska Children’s Home Society helped arrange adoptions for 62 children in 2013, including 33 infants. The organization helps children and families with guidance and services about pregnancy, parenting, foster care, and early childhood development. NCHS has the distinction of being the only agency in the nation that has not charged fees for its adoption services for 121 years.

The organization also provides support to men and women facing an unplanned pregnancy. “We can give them the information and support that they need to make an informed decision, and develop a plan for what is going to be in the best interest of their child,” said Jennifer Fuller, NCHS marketing and public relations manager.

That support can include helping the future parents make a parenting plan. But in some cases, parenting may not be the best option and an adoption plan is made, Fuller said.

NCHS connected Jen and Duane with Carson’s biological parents before he was born. Through the NCHS adoption process, biological parents have the opportunity to choose a family they feel would be the best parents for their child. Jen and Duane met with the biological mother and father multiple times during the pregnancy, and Jen was in the delivery room when Carson was born. The family remains in contact with the birth parents, a process that NCHS supports.

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402.682.8785 NOVEMBER 2014

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COVER story

“Research shows that the more individuals a child has to love them, the better,” Fuller said. “This includes an ongoing relationship with their birth parents.”

A few years after adopting Carson, the Bartelts began wondering if they were meant to welcome another child into their family. They started the adoption process again, and in Sept. 2013, they brought home Ava. Like with Carson, adopting baby Ava just felt natural, Jen said. “It is such an open and beautiful process,” she said.

Brook and Don Hansen had been married about 11 years when fertility issues prompted them to look into adoption. They started the process with the Nebraska Children’s Home Society in 2008, and welcomed Ari, now 4, into their family in 2010.

“I’ll never forget the drive home,” Don Hansen said, remembering the day they took home Ari. “Thirteen years of sometimes waiting patiently, while other

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COVER story

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LEARN MORE To find out more about the Nebraska Children’s Home Society’s mission and adoption services, visit www.nchs.org.

times it was very tough. It’s hard to describe in words how excited we were.”

Brook and Don said the two-year adoption process gave the couple a chance to become closer. The time it takes an adoption to take place can vary, Fuller said. Some families are matched with a child relatively quickly while other families wait longer, and some families do not get matched at all.

“As tough as that wait was, we are grateful for it in hindsight knowing we had the opportunity to grow together,” Don Hansen said.

Fatherhood inspired him to write a book, “By the Content of Your Character,” dedicated to Brook and Ari. He wrote the book to help young adults and men build the upmost character, he shared. “My focus was, ‘How do I raise this man the best way possible so he can be the best person he can possibly be?’” he said.

Ari’s birth mother is Sudanese, and the precocious 4-year-old is beginning to ask questions about his skin color. Brook and Don, who are both caucasian, use his questions as an opportunity to talk about Ari’s birth mother, his connection to Sudan, and how difference is beautiful. Ari also goes to a diverse Montessori school.

Loralee, Don, Mason (15), and Emerson (4) Coulter NOVEMBER 2014

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COVER story

Fuller, of the Nebraska Children’s Home Society, said that finding the right match between biological parents, children, and adoptive parents is an extensive process. Prospective adoptive parents are asked to think carefully about the types of situations in which they would feel comfortable parenting, and they are given the opportunity to learn more about transracial parenting and parenting a child with special needs.

“We are going to do everything we can to make sure that when we have a match, it’s going to be a perfect fit,” said Fuller.

The Coulter family – Loralee, Don, and 15-year-old Mason – found their perfect fit with daughter Emerson, now 4. A complicated delivery with Mason left Loralee unable to have more children. In 2008, the couple began to explore the idea of growing their family through adoption.

In 2010, they met baby Emerson.

Loralee said the experience of bringing Emerson into their family was euphoric.

“Both my kids are miraculous, but in completely different ways,” she added.

For Mason, Emerson is the younger sibling he always wanted. As for Emerson, “she thinks that (Mason) hung the moon,” Loralee said. When a feral cat scared Emerson in the backyard, Mason was the first to grab her and rush her inside. Emerson called him her superhero.

The family encourages discussion about adoption. In fact, Loralee and her siblings were adopted by her stepfather.

One of Emerson’s cousins is also adopted. Through the Nebraska Children’s Home Society, the family has connected with other families touched by adoption, including the Hansens and Bartelts. Emerson and Ari are “the best of friends,” Loralee said.

The children know adoption is one of the things that makes them special, she said.

Brook, Don and Ari Hansen

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OUR passion

w

Elkhorn’s Womenade group helps families

omenade of Elkhorn was born from a simple equation: Children in Elkhorn needed support and a community of women wanted a way to offer help.

“Everyone could be a day away from a tragedy that could put their family in need,” said Robin Heller, a longtime Womenade of Elkhorn member. “We are here for families that need to get through a couple of rough years and get on their feet.”

Womenade started in 2004 with a handful of women who worked with Elkhorn elementary school principals to help families with a specific need. When an Elkhorn family lost a father in a motorcycle accident, Womenade was there to bring supplies to the widowed mom, help with cleaning, and organize tutoring for the children.

When another child needed a new pair of shoes during a financially tough time for his family, Womenade was there to help too.

Story by KRYSTAL OVERMYER Photos by DANIEL MUELLER Robin Heller, left, and Theresa Johnson 34 |

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bridging THE GAP

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OUR passion

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NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR passion Ten years later, Womenade has grown from a small group to a network of more than 600 women working together to support children. The program has expanded from two elementary schools to schools across the district. “As our community is growing, our need is growing, and so our program is growing,” Heller said.

While Elkhorn Public Schools may be more affluent than other districts in the metro area, there are still many families who struggle to make ends meet, Heller explained. According to the Nebraska Department of Education, about eight percent of Elkhorn students qualified for free and reduced meals in 2012-2013. For some families, purchasing school supplies or winter coats can be a challenge.

“As much as you think it’s not happening in our area, it happens every day,” Heller said.

Womenade initiated multiple programs to address the needs expressed by Elkhorn’s school counselors and principals. Its backpack program offers backpacks and school supplies to about 80 families in the district. Womenade members pur-

LEARN MORE To find out more about Womenade of Elkhorn, call Robin Heller at 402-289-0055.

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OUR passion

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chase supplies by the hundreds over the course of the year and organize a day for students to pick out their own items.

“That whole experience of going back-to-school shopping when you were a kid is a big deal; it’s part of the connection with education being a positive process,” Heller said. “We want to make sure kids that receive the backpacks have a positive relationship with going back to school, and that it’s not a stress for families.”

The organization also coordinates an annual Celebration of Giving event that brings over 1,000 holiday gifts to the district’s children in need. The program works like an angel giving tree; Womenade creates a list of needed gifts, and the district’s parents, staff, and community members can then choose a gift to fulfill. Gifts are distributed discreetly to families with the goal of relieving some of the financial burden and stress of the holidays.

Throughout the year, Womenade organizes clothing drives, responds to emergency requests, and helps high school students with the cost of school activities.

Heller shared that families helped by Womenade come from diverse situations. Some families are struggling after the death of the family breadwinner.

Other families are experiencing financial hardship because of divorce. Some parents are making sacrifices to end the cycle of poverty.

“There are parents who are trying to break the cycle and live in Elkhorn because they want their children to get a good education,” she said.

Womenade of Elkhorn is in the process of acquiring 501(c)(3) status as a nonprofit. Heller hopes the organization will continue to bring women together to support the next generation of children.

Heller praised Elkhorn’s community of women for their willingness to answer the call to help children and families in need. “If we say we need it, they spring into action,” said Heller.

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OUR leisure

dynamic Three

D E S T I N AT I O N S

FOGO ISLAND INN

BY

land

Tucson, Arizona | Canyon Ranch When to travel: Year-round When to book: 3-6 months in advance Why Canyon Ranch: Canyon Ranch’s modern southwestern style tales a cue from the serene Sonoran desert, spanning 150 acres.

Formerly a historic guest ranch, the resort still retains features from ages past. Considered the world’s premier health resort, Canyon Ranch offers more than 40 fitness classes a day, an impressive wellness staff, extensive spa treatments, and award-winning, healthy cuisine. Adventures abound, from advanced mountain hiking or lowkey canyon bike rides.

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Fogo Island the Land of Seven Seasons | Fogo Island Inn When to travel: May-Sept. When to book: 9-12 months in advance Why the Fogo Island Inn: Nestled on the rocky Newfoundland shore this gem offers stunning architectural design against the backdrop of the other worldly coastline and long-standing local traditions. The Inn is the ideal place to rest, with cozy quilts and furniture crafted just down the street, or to chat with hospitable locals. With activities for all seasons, including hiking, iceberg tours, boatbuilding, seal-watching or simply sitting by the fire or in the rooftop sauna, you will leave feeling peaceful.

Virtuoso exclusive offer*: Complimentary room upgrade upon arrival, daily buffet breakfast for up to two guests, $120USD resort and hotel credit, early check-in/late check-out (all subject to availability) C A N YO N R A N C H

BY

sea

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travelandtransport.com For over 68 years, Travel and Transport has made vacation dreams a reality. In total, our knowledgeable and seasoned travel specialists have visited over 50 countries on all seven continents and have sailed on over 50 cruises. Our global connections allow us to provide our valued clients with the most advantageous pricing and upgrades with leading hotels, resorts, spas, cruise lines, tour companies, rail lines, airlines, and ground operators. Through Virtuoso, we are able to offer exclusive amenities, experiences and privileged access not available to the general public.

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When to travel: March-May When to book: 6-9 months in advance Why Tulip Time Cruise with AMA Waterways: You will delight in Dutch and Belgian tulips, gardens, windmills and architecture in this seven-night, springtime cruise, starting and ending in Amsterdam.

Sail the canals and visit the Anne Frank house in Amsterdam, visit WWII battlegrounds and palaces in Arnhem, and stroll through the enchanting streets and castles of Ghent.

Exclusive offer*: Virtuoso amenities offered by AMA Waterways vary by sail date. Please contact a Travel and Transport advisor for the details and amenities offered on the sail date of your choice. *Restrictions may apply.

NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR business

Sunderland Brothers Co. brings style to your home

i

t’s a remarkable achievement for a family-owned company to have existed more than 132 years, but Sunderland Brothers has met that milestone. The accomplishment is due to the company’s ability to adapt to changing needs of the market, from selling coal, cement, and lime in the late 1800s, fabricating marble at the turn of the century, to distributing tile, stone, and quartz today.

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by J. LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY

times CH A N GIN G WITH THE

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John and Janel Sunderland NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR business

OMAHA’S

PinotsPalette.com/Lakeside Lakeside@PinotsPalette.com 46 |

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Fourth-generation CEO John Sunderland has taken what his great-grandfather started when horse-drawn carriages lined the unpaved roads of downtown Omaha, and transformed it into a nationally-renowned business. He said part of the company’s success has more to do with its broad geographic reach rather than product breadth. With six locations throughout the Midwest, Sunderland is a leading wholesale distributor that does 70 percent of its business in tile. And the company recently received the Best of Omaha award for Best Tile Store of 2014.

The vision of the company is clear, and they know where they fit in the industry. “A lot of people don’t realize we have one foot in the building industry and another foot in the fashion industry,” John said. “Everything is about color and style, so we have to have products that are up front and ahead of the curve.

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We’re willing to take a little bit of risk with that.”

Many of those products come from Italy and include trends such as large rectangular sized tile, brick and wood tile, and hexagon-shaped tile, all in various colors. “We’re looked at as trend setters,” said Janel Sunderland, Vice President of Marketing. “But it takes a careful balance, and we have a mix of commercial and residential clients, so we try to meet lots of different needs.”

To meet market needs Sunderland has both an outside sales staff who educate architects, designers, and builders on

their products, as well as in-house designers who work in the showroom. But all employees are knowledgeable about every aspect of the business. “Everyone in the company receives cross training, including working on an install so they know exactly how it’s done,” Janel said.

Communicating to customers is another priority. Janel said they hold a number of events throughout the year that serve as educational opportunities, such as lunch and learns where designers can see the latest products, to contractor nights where they demonstrate how to install new items. “And our

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OUR business

showroom is always open to the public,” she added.

The company also has a dedicated social media manager. Marketing Coordinator Erin Fairchild makes sure the company’s projects and message are communicated on a regular basis using Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and Houzz. “Because so much of what we do is about style and color, we want customers to see photos of what’s possible,” Erin said. Sunderland just received the five-star rating status on Houzz for having more than 2 million hits on the site.

Looking at photos is one thing.

Deciding on what to put in your own home is another. John said there’s a natural anxiety about making permanent changes. “Many people hesitate to use different materials or try a new color, so our job is to understand how much we can influence style and color and help them feel comfortable,” he said. “People dress themselves in their own personal style they love every day. They should dress their homes the same way.”

As a leader in the industry, John said they have a responsibility to continually adapt and change with their customers’ needs, just like his great-grandfather’s philosophy more than a century ago. It’s how Sunderland Brothers survived the Depression and two World Wars. “Every thirty to forty years, the company has gone through a major shift,” he said. “We have always focused on looking to the future without forgetting our past.”

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NOVEMBER 2014

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MY concoction

Louie’s Wine Dive 16920 Wright Plaza, Shops of Legacy (402) 884-8966 Open daily

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Top with ginger ale NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR food

KONA GRILL 295 N 170th St. 402.779.2900 konagrill.com

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C H R I S C O N G D O N , L E F T, A N D J O S E AV I L E S

Fresh ingredients ALWAYS FROM SCRATCH Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by J. LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY 52 |

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nown for its large happy hour following and popular sushi bar, Kona Grill in Village Pointe has even more to offer than many may realize. Considered a polished casual American restaurant, its diverse menu features long-time favorite entrees such as its famous Macadamia Nut Chicken, as well as a quarterly promotional menu with new items developed by chefs from its 27 restaurants around the country.

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G R I L L E D A S PA R A G U S S A L A D

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OUR food

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OUR food

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Kona recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in Omaha, and while the restaurant’s layout hasn’t changed over the years, all other aspects have evolved.

“We have something for everyone,” said General Manager Chris Congdon.

“From our elegant dining room to the full bar, sushi bar, patio, and private dining room that seats more than 30 guests.”

What began as an outdoor bar with a garage-style door, the year-round patio is now heated and air conditioned and is a hot spot for Kona’s happy hour, which is offered twice a day and all day Sunday. In addition to mixed drink specials, margaritas, and three types of sake sangria, the happy hour menu includes appetizers and small plates such as avocado egg rolls, smoked gouda fondue served with apples and baked pretzel bites, five types of flatbreads, and eleven sushi rolls. “Husker Happy Hour” is also available during every Husker football game, and guests can enter a free raffle every time they attend for a chance to win a 50-inch Samsung TV at the end of

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the season.

“A lot of people think of us as a sushi restaurant, but we’re far from that,” Congdon said. “We have everything— salads, steaks, burgers, pasta, sandwiches, and seafood.” In fact, fresh fish selections are flown in five times a week.

Kona also offers a gluten free menu, a

vegan menu, and a special kid’s menu “bento box” style. It offers nine entrees from grilled cheese to grilled salmon and two sides such as French fries, fried rice, or edamame. It also comes with an orange shaped into a bear, courtesy of the sushi chefs.

One unique aspect about Kona you

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OUR food don’t find with many corporate restaurants is that every single item is made from scratch—there are no frozen company products brought in, which is a big appeal for Executive Chef Jose Aviles. “Kona takes pride in everything they do from scratch,” he said. “I have always worked in scratch kitchens, and I like the fact they encourage their chefs to come up with, and submit, their own ideas.”

Aviles said many customers don’t realize they can order from the full menu at anytime, anywhere in the restaurant, whether in the patio or the dining room.

He recommended the Hawaiian ribeye, served with parmesan garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and the sea bass, which is served with fried rice and ratatouille. “And our sushi chefs can make just about anything requested,” he added.

Other special offers include custom menus for business or private family functions, catering and delivery for weddings, “Wine Down Wednesdays” with half price bottles of wine all day, and “Perfect Pairings” lunch on weekdays.

Black Friday also kicks off the restaurant’s gift card promotion, which is buy

any amount gift card and get a second gift card for half price. After that if you buy a $100 gift card you get a free $20 bonus gift card, through the end of the year. There is also the “Konavore” email based loyalty program, which includes coupons and special offers by joining for free on the Kona Grill web site.

And if you’re traveling to other states where there’s a Kona Grill, Aviles guarantees you’ll find the same quality and fresh from scratch taste. “Every location stays true to that concept,” he said. “No matter where you go, the food is just as good.”

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13 6 4-5 Nov.

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Mötley Crüe–The Final Tour, $20-$95 at 7 p.m.

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Slipknot with Special Guests Korn and KING 810, $36-$65 at 7 p.m.

Walking with Dinosaurs, $30-$72

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T

he holidays are a special time for gatherings around the dinner table — rich with tradition and meaning. Whether an elaborate feast or a more simple meal, nothing compliments food, friends, and family quite like a good glass of wine. To help

take some of the guesswork out of which wine to serve, Dan Matuszek, Founder and CEO of Brix, has suggestions for styles of wines, both red and white, that lend themselves to different types of traditional holiday meals.

Check out his wine gift giving guide for those who want to show their appreciation to the chef.

Turkey: MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir – Russian River Valley-Sonoma County: $19.99 Zaca Mesa Viognier – Santa Ynez Valley: $19.99

S

M Y T WO

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Ham: Maso Canali Pinot Grigio – Italy: $17.99 Eroica Riesling – Columbia Valley: $24.99 Beef tenderloin: Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon – Sonoma County: $22.99 Girard Artistry Red Wine – Napa Valley: $37.99 Lamb: Klinker Brick Farrah Syrah – Lodi: $19.99 Stags’ Leap Winery Petite Sirah – Napa Valley: $39.99 Duck: Chateau Mont Redon Cotes du Rhone – France: $17.99 Paraiso Pinot Noir – Santa Lucia Highlands: $24.99

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Thanksgiving dinner: Herb Roasted Turkey with Wild Mushroom Risotto Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir – Monterey County-Santa Barbara County-Sonoma County: $22.99 Roasted Apple and Sage Stuffing J Wrigley Vineyards Pinot Gris – Willamette Valley: $22.99 Pumpkin Cheesecake with Cinnamon Caramel Sauce Robert Mondavi Winery Moscato d’Oro – Napa Valley: $19.99 Holiday entertaining: Bacon and Caramelized Onion Quiche Muga White Rioja – Spain: $17.99 Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Pita Bread Hall Sauvignon Blanc – Napa Valley: $19.99 Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Assorted Vegetables Tres Picos Garnacha – Spain: $19.99

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Christmas dinner: Smoked Salmon Gravlox Chamisal Vineyards Pinot Noir – Edna Valley: $29.99 Slow Roasted Prime Rib Parcel 41 Merlot – Napa Valley: $22.99 Chocolate and Pistachio Pie Justin Obtuse Cabernet Port – Paso Robles: $14.99 (half bottle)

WINE GIFT GIVING For the Enthusiast: Manos Negras Malbec – Argentina: $19.99 Conn Creek Herrick Red – Napa Valley: $24.99 Gina Gallo Signature Series Chardonnay – Russian River Valley: $27.99 For the Cellar Dweller: Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir – Santa Maria Valley: $44.99 Col Solare Red Wine – Columbia Valley: $69.99 Duckhorn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley: $74.99 64 |

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NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR athletes

Hoffman’s Hoops Academy helps athletes make it

f

or more than a decade Brian Hoffman has trained kids of all ages how to become better basketball players. Whether first grade youth league teams or former Creighton University star Doug McDermott, he has helped players develop every aspect of their game from footwork to free throws. And since the opening of his state-of-the art facility, Hoffman’s Hoops Academy in Gretna, he can now work with even more players on both an individual and team level.

Hoffman’s expertise comes from playing basketball at Wayne State University under current Creighton University basketball Coach Greg McDermott, as well as coaching at the middle and high school level, all while helping train kids and teams individually on the side. His business grew until he had more kids than he had available gym time at other facilities. “When I had my vision for this space, I wanted to teach with as much objective feedback as possible,” he said.

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by J. LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY Brianne and Camerin Inselman of Bellevue West working with Brian Hoffman 66 |

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champions BUI LD I NG BASKET BALL

NOVEMBER 2014

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OUR athletes

Kennedy Bailey and Cade Matthes wtih Hoffman After converting a storage building into a gym with multiple ¾ size courts and ten hoops, he now has space for multiple groups of two to six players or an entire team. And the facility includes high-tech equipment that provides instant feedback. “The first thing I do is evaluate every player by recording them

shooting,” Brian said. “Most kids are visual learners so it helps them see what they’re doing right and where they need to improve.”

During training, one of three Noah Basketball Systems will measure the arc and depth of a player’s shot, both via video and audio feedback. The instant

feedback allows immediate correction to the shot and builds muscle memory. Hoffman is also an official partner with 94Fifty Smart Sensor basketballs, which have 5,000 sensors that measure a player’s control, power, and speed when handling the ball. In addition, the facility has a Dr. Dish shooting machine

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Cade Matthes working with Hoffman NOVEMBER 2014

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Hoffman that funnels the ball and passes it back to the player, allowing them to take more than 500 shots in an hour. “It’s a great tool for repetition and creating the habit that will help them become

HOFFMANS’S HOOPS ACADEMY 205 West Hwy 370, Gretna 402-650-7648 www.hoffmanshoopsacademy.com

a consistent shooter, which is one of the most important skills in the game,” Hoffman said.

Michael Cale, whose son is a junior at Lincoln North Star High School, said he noticed a difference in his son’s shooting skills almost immediately after he start-

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ed lessons with Hoffman. “Brian focused on my son’s technique and rhythm, which resulted in a much smoother and accurate shot,” he said. Tim Kudron, whose two sons ages 12 and 13 work with Hoffman, agreed with the improvement he’s seen. “Brian is a great teacher of fundamentals,” he said. “Both of my sons have seen great improvement in their dribbling and shooting skills.”

Hoffman said his goal is to develop a complete player and give kids the ability to self-coach. “When they’re practicing by themselves I want them to be able to know why they’re missing and making shots,” he said. “They also need to know

footwork—what moves to do, how to do them, and when to do them.” A lot of that comes from watching film, which Hoffman incorporates as part of his training.

Other aspects of his academy include gym memberships at the gold, silver, and bronze level, which allow players to workout with Hoffman from one to three times a week. He also offers shooting and position camps, as well as summer programs. Mike Emory, a coach at Pierce High School in northeast Nebraska, has several players who have attended both the summer camps and small group workouts. “I’ve seen

huge improvements with my players, especially in their footwork and ability to read defense,” he said. “Brian teaches with great attention to detail.”

Hoffman is excited so many youth want to play the sport and that there are more opportunities for more kids to play the game more often. “My goal within this facility is to work with as many youth league players as possible to help improve the basketball community within the whole state of Nebraska,” he said. “I can supplement training and help make better players so that schools and organizations’ programs can be that much stronger.”

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VARSITY corner

DRAGON

POWER

John Roll | Age 17 | Gretna High School Like many boys, John started playing baseball and football as an elementary school age kid.

At age seven, John began swinging the bat on the baseball diamond and every summer since then has been filled with baseball. For the four years leading up to high school, John was a member of the Marick Gators select team. Each fall, he would take a position on the football field, first playing flag football and eventually moving up to tackle in a Gretna football league.

In middle school he played for his school team.

Youth sports served John well when he made it to high school. At Gretna High School, John is a member of the football and baseball teams and also competes in powerlifting. As a member of the baseball team, John played two years on the junior varsity squad helping them win the championship his freshman year. As a junior, he played on the varsity team and lettered last season.

As a football player, John has the uncommon position of playing on both sides of the ball, taking up both offensive and defensive spots. He has been a backup quarterback and a receiver and now plays both as an outside linebacker and offensive guard. John is happy to volunteer to play in positions where the team needs him most. As a junior, John made the All-Conference Academic team and this fall was the senior captain of the team.

Weightlifting was a sport John originally picked up to increase his size and his success on the football field. During his sophomore year, he began really concentrating on his weightlifting and it was his trainer that suggested he compete in powerlifting. John entered the state powerlifting competition his junior year and took first place in the 198 pound weight class.

With that victory, he also set a Gretna High School school record for powerlifting.

When John isn’t keeping busy with football, powerlifting, or baseball, he also plays intramural basketball for Gretna High School, winning the championship last year. He returns to his football roots when he referees youth flag football for a local league. John also enjoys spending time outdoors and hunting.

Ranked first academically in his class, John strives to do his very best with his studies. He is vice president of the senior class and a member of the National Honor Society.

John has high aspirations after high school — he is seeking a nomination to the United States Military Academy at West Point. He and his family will not know until January, when appointments are revealed, if he will be headed to New York. John is the son of John and Teresa Roll of Gretna, and has three siblings: Emily (19), Joe (10), and Dan (8).

DANIEL MULLER

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PITCH

PERFECT Laura Roecker | Age 17 | Elkhorn High School When Laura started playing softball at the age of six, she could only dream of leading her team to a state championship game.

At age 10, Laura was in love with softball and joined the Elkhorn Slammers select team. That year, the team went on to win the Class C State Championship and she started to take an interest in pitching. Laura was able to throw the ball incredibly hard but with little control — pitching lessons helped to perfect her pitch.

Laura continued on to play with the Millard Athletic Association Sizzle select teams for five years and then moved on to play gold level with both the Nebraska Fury and Nebraska Gold softball organizations.

As a member of the Nebraska Gold team this past summer, Laura had a 1.9 ERA pitching and the team finished 17th in the nation in the PGF National Tournament in Huntington Beach, California. Laura will end her select softball career playing on the Omaha Quakes Gold team.

At Elkhorn High School, Laura has been a varsity starter on the softball team for four years. As a freshman, Laura also played basketball and even lettered in the sport but chose to give it up to concentrate on softball. During her sophomore year, she led the softball team to both conference and district championships and a second place finish at the Class B NSAA State Tournament. Laura was selected to the Class B All-State team and All-Conference honors for her pitching performance that year. Heartbreak followed her junior year. Due to an arm injury she suffered during the summer season, she was unable to pitch for four months.

Laura battled back the summer before her senior year to lead her team through an incredible season. Elkhorn High School Lady Antlers finished the season with a 30 - 5 record. Laura completed the season 21 - 3 including 10 shutout games. In those 24 games, she had 273 strikeouts and an ERA of .90. In addition, Laura had a batting average of .434 her senior season.

The crowning achievement of Laura’s senior season was winning the Class B NSAA State Championship in October. Elkhorn High School had to face Elkhorn South High School in two elimination games and were victorious.

Off the field, Laura is a four year Honor Roll student and volunteers at the VSP Club and the Life Care Center of Elkhorn. Next fall, Laura will attend the University of Nebraska Omaha where she will play softball for the Mavericks.

Laura is the daughter of David and Susan Roecker of Elkhorn. She has two older sisters, Kayla and Ashley, and a younger brother, Joseph (15).

DANIEL MULLER

NOVEMBER 2014

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