Edge Magazine - February 2015

F E B R U A R Y

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M A G A Z I N E

Coffee empire Don & Linda Eckles take Scooter’s national Elkhorn Youth Sports Jakopovics give it their all

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I started 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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2015 thinking a lot about change and transformation. No matter who we are and what we do, everything changes – and that’s a beautiful thing. Every day we have the chance to make a difference in our lives and the lives of others. We can make the choice to follow our dreams. Do something different. Be someone better.

Many of the stories in this issue have the theme of transformation at their core. Take our story on Scooter’s Coffee, a local coffee shop that’s morphed into a successful national company. There’s also the story of one couple who has made an immense impact on West Omaha’s football and basketball leagues – a leadership role they took on for their kids. There’s the home that went from beast to beauty, thanks to a bit of TLC. And of course, this month marks Valentine’s Day; a time to think about the

people we love in this world, and how to make those relationships better.

I hope that these stories spark your own thoughts on how a simple idea or action can grow into something incredibly impactful. Every day, we have the chance to make choices that could ultimately become life changing. Here’s to having the courage to embrace that transformation.

Warmly, Jack Shotbolt Editor in Chief

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FEBRUARY 2015

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M A G A Z I N E

EDITOR IN CHIEF Jack Shotbolt Jack@EdgeMagazine.com DESIGNER Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // quentin@hanscompark.com PHOTO STAFF Daniel Muller (402) 943-7151 // daniel@dpmuller.com Valerie Wallace-Camp (217) 519-3245 // vwcphotography@mac.com Maureen Fritts Photography (402) 578-2963 // maureen@maureenfrittsphotography.com J. Leonard Photography ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Freedman (402) 250-2529 // Jessica@EdgeMagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Krystal Overmyer, Kathy Rygg TEAM MANAGER 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 © 2015 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, 15858 W Dodge Omaha, NE 68118

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2 0 1 5

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

22

OUR business

MY concoction

WORTH the haul

44

60

OUR food

OUR kids

46

62

36

GIFT guide

VARSITY corner

57

66

FEBRUARY 2015

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OUR home

home New life for an old

d

eborah and Darry Pearson aren’t strangers to building and remodeling their homes.

They’ve gone through the process several times while living in both Wisconsin and South Dakota, so after moving to Omaha and buying a home in 2012, they decided to do yet another remodel. This time it was on a 2,900 square-foot, 30-yearold, one and a half story home in the scenic Tomlinson Woods.

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The Pearson’s gutted the house down to the studs and even installed new insulation. “We kept the external footprint, but changed the internal footprint,” Deborah said. “The house had good bones, it was just ready for a facelift.” Most of the changes involved opening up rooms, removing bookshelves, and rearranging the placement of items.

To help design the remodel, the Pearson’s worked with Diane Luxor, ASID, with D-Lux Interiors. Deborah had attended a designer showcase and liked the room Diane had designed. When they met to discuss the remodel project, the two clicked. “Our vision for the house was the same and we all worked great together,” Diane said.

Diane recommended Jon Ish with Jordan Michael Signature Homes to do the work, and the Pearson’s agreed. “Jon had an amazing team of contractors, from the electrician all the way to the painter,” Deborah said. “We had nothing but a positive experience and trusted everyone who was involved.” The entire remodel took six months to complete and won an

STORY BY KATHY RYGG 13-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY

BY YAYLE RONCKA

L ARGE KITCHEN ISL AND FEBRUARY 2015

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F R O N T S TA I R C A S E W I T H N E W S TA I N C O L O R A N D U P D AT E D S P I N D L E S

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OUR home

DINING ROOM

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ASID project award.

The most dramatic changes were to the kitchen and master bath, which were entirely opened up and redesigned. The kitchen now features an oversized center island, oversized stainless steel sink, stainless steel range hood, granite countertops, and glass doors on many of the white cabinets. A faux-painted rotunda ceiling sits above the eating area that is surrounded by large windows, which overlook the paved patio and wooded backyard with mature trees.

Faux paint treatments were used in several areas of the house. In addition to the ceiling in the eating area, the formal dining room features a faux-painted accent wall, and the guest bath walls are covered in a textured plaster treatment with metallic silver paint. “We tried to update the home with a contemporary look, but one that will also age well and stand the test of time,� Deborah said.

The large, main-floor master bedroom has warm, dark wood floors and a master bath that includes a walk-in European shower, his and her vanities, and a large free-standing soaking tub. They also included a cozy sitting room at the

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OUR home

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OUR home

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OUR home

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front of the house with built-in bookcases on either side of a fireplace surrounded in thin slate tile. “We’re empty nesters, so we spend lots of time in the front room reading, watching TV, or just enjoying the fireplace,” Deborah said.

There is an additional 330 square feet of finished space in the basement that can be used as a game, exercise, or TV room. The second story has three generously sized bedrooms with multiple closets and a remodeled bathroom. “This home is perfect for empty nesters,” Diane said.

“There are large areas such as the open kitchen and great room for entertaining, as well as plenty of bedrooms for when family comes to visit, but the upstairs isn’t so big that it’s a waste of space when they’re not in use.”

Having those large areas to entertain is what the Pearson’s were trying to accomplish with the remodel. “We’ve always enjoyed having people come to our home,” Deborah said. “It is how we like to connect with people, so we wanted to have a comfortable, usable space to do that.”

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coffee ROYA LTY

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COVER story

Omaha-based coffee shop is nationally known

t

here’s no better way to start the day than with a fast, fresh, great-tasting cup of coffee, especially when it’s served with a smile.

That has been the business model that Scooter’s Coffee co-founders Don and Linda Eckles established 17 years ago when they started the company with their first drive-thru location in Bellevue, and it’s still the business model for expanding Scooter’s to more than 150 franchises across the country this year.

Don and Linda’s first foray into the coffee business began while they were living in California when they opened a coffee shop. They learned about the coffee world with only an hour of training and worked the shop themselves. “One day I saw someone building a drive-thru coffee kiosk, and I knew he was on to something,” Don said. They relocated back to Omaha and opened their first drive-thru Scooter’s Java Express, named for the quick “scoot in-and-out service.”

Don and Linda Eckles, president and co-founders

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by DANIEL MULLER FEBRUARY 2015

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COVER story “Linda worked the window and I helped make coffee,” said Don. “She was the face of the business and always greeted everyone with a smile.” In fact, she was the one who started the smiley face stickers that now go on every cup of coffee. “I love smiley faces and thought it’d be fun for people to get their coffee and know someone hoped they had a good day,” Linda said. “I used to buy the stickers at Walmart, and now we have our own that are trademarked.”

The Eckles never imagined their company would grow nationally. After the first few years, Don said family, friends, and customers wanted to open their own Scooter’s franchises. “We realized we had a nice business,” Don said. “But franchising is a lot of work if you want to do it right because you have to help everyone figure out how to be successful. So we brought in some really smart people to help us, and we’ve developed a great team who have positioned us to be a national company.”

Not only does the Scooter’s executive team bring an impressive amount of experience, but their enthusiasm for the company, its goals, and every person within the organization is evident. Heidi Bedlan, National Director of Business Development, said Don and Linda’s values carry through every part of the company. “They are such good people, from the way they believe in the quality of our product, to how they run the business, and even how they’ve raised their family,” she said.

One of her projects was developing a partnership between Scooter’s and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to sell Husker coffees in stores, both bagged and single serve cups. “Don loves the Huskers and wanted to support the university, so we give 10 percent of all Husker coffee sales back to the UNL Athletic Fund,” Heidi said. “It’s great coffee supporting a great Nebraska tradition.”

Representing the community is important to Scooter’s. Jen Chaney, National Director of Franchising, said it’s surprising how many people don’t realize Scooter’s is an Omaha-based company. “As we continue to grow nationally, we want every-

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COVER story one to know that we’re from Omaha and have Midwestern roots and values,” she said. Every day Jen fields calls from people interested in owning a franchise, and she wants to help educate them on a national level. “Through our new web site, advertising, and marketing, we want to get the word out that we have many franchise opportunities available,” she said.

Although the Omaha and Lincoln markets are full for new business owners, Jen said they would love to talk to people from Omaha who are interested in owning a franchise in another market. “If you’re within a comfortable driving distance of the location and have a strong foundation for operational support through family or friends, then we can look at that,” she said. “It’s really about us and our franchise owners being compatible, sharing goals, and growing together.”

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Jen Chaney (National Director of Franchising)

Kelli Steidle (Director of Operations)

Jamie Hamburg (Director of Marketing)

Kyle Anderson (VP of Business Development)

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COVER story

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COVER story

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is extremely important and one that Chief Financial Officer Todd Graeve spends a lot of time cultivating. “For us, a good franchise owner is one who understands the importance of the strength of the system,” he said. “Franchise strength comes through consistency from store to store, communication, protecting the quality of the brand, and aligning with our vision for customer service as we expand nationally.”

Site selection is critical for any retail location and even more so for a drive-thru business. In addition to obtaining city or county traffic studies, Scooter’s will conduct its own traffic studies to determine daily counts, especially during the morning commute. The site also needs to be on the correct side of the road, avoid medians, and have good visibility.

It doesn’t stop there. “Even if you have the location right and get the customer to drive thru, we still need to give them a great experience,” he said.

That great experience is based upon three principles listed in the company’s slogan: Amazing people, serving amazing drinks, amazingly fast. “To be successful, we have to drive our unit profitability,” Todd said. “And when the franchisees are providing a great cup of coffee, quickly, and with great

FEBRUARY 2015

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COVER story

Left to Right: Clay Cox, Heidi Bedlan, Todd Graeve, Jen Chaney, Kyle Anderson, Jamie Hamburg and Kelli Steidle

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COVER story

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customer service, then we gain loyalty and it increases sales for them. When we experience same store sales growth annually, then we’re able to experience franchise growth annually. It’s not a complicated business when you focus on what works.”

Bringing in leaders who have experience in what works when it comes to franchise growth is key as well. Clay Cox, Chief Operating Officer, spent years growing another company’s national franchise. He recently came out of retirement to help Scooter’s with its national growth. “I decided it would be a fun opportunity and brought in a great team of people to help,” he said. There are currently 117 locations throughout nine states and 30 new stores going up this year. The company is also doubling its 45,000 square foot corporate offices.

“We’ve built up to a point where we’ve got the people and systems in place to deliver on a national basis.”

As Scooter’s grows nationally, they want the brand that has become so strong in the Midwest to flourish nationally as well. Director of Marketing, Jamie Hamburg, said using technology is one way they can expand their reach to customers. “We’ve been developing a mobile app for the past six months,” she said.

“It’s a way we can help our customers have an easier, faster experience and also expand our customer rewards program.”

Kyle Anderson, Vice President of Business Development, said there is constant communication and feedback between them and the franchise owners to help improve that customer experience. “We make ourselves accessible to our owners, managers, and franchisees through day-to-day phone calls, emails, and our annual franchise meeting,” he said. “Through them we’re able to always stay connected to our customers and what they want.”

As for Don and Linda, what they want is to be the second largest coffee company in the country, but to do so while maintaining the core values and principles upon which they built the company. “We want our franchise owners to be profitable so they can provide for their families,” Don said. “We want to be a great company that continues to grow and one where people and other businesses in Omaha are proud to say that Scooter’s is an Omaha company.”

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OUR business

cleaning KING S

If you can wear it, Camelot can clean it

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lothing has changed dramatically over the years, with business casual replacing traditional suits, ties, and shift dresses. With that change has come more embellishment—beading, leather trim, and new fabrics—all of which can pose problems when trying to wash them at home. Having a quality, reliable dry cleaner is actually more important than ever, and Craig Courtney, President of Camelot Cleaners, said they can provide the expertise, customer service, and value it requires.

Camelot is celebrating its 31st year in business this month. The company was started by Craig’s father, who ran Stepanek dry cleaners in Omaha for 20 years until he decided to venture out on his own. “My dad saw the shortcomings that can occur when you’re a big business,” Craig said. “He didn’t want to be the biggest in town, he wanted to be the best, so he put his effort into having very high quality with just a handful of stores.”

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by J. LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY

FEBRUARY 2015

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OUR business

Craig worked for his dad during high school then returned after college to help run the business. Now he oversees all six locations throughout Omaha, and his father, who is 81-years-old, still comes into work every day. Other family members also work in various parts of the business, which Craig said makes a difference. “Dry cleaning is all about the details, and those are taken care of when you have dedicated, long-term employees and family members working there,” he said. “Everyone is vested in the business and has an interest in making sure everything that goes out the door reflects them personally.”

Dry cleaning is a business based on experience, Craig explained they have to be able to recognize challenges and know 38 |

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when to recommend a different method if needed. “Every garment is unique, and care labels aren’t always correct, so we test anything we might have a question on and then consult the customer right away,” he said. “Different methods of cleaning are required for different items.”

For example, all household goods are typically laundered, which uses traditional water and detergent, including bedding, tablecloths, blankets, and quilts.

Dry cleaning does get clothing wet, but uses a solvent instead of water. Craig said they were one of the first dry cleaners in the country to introduce an organic solvent with high cleaning performance.

They also use top of the line spotting agents, detergents, and equipment.

Camelot is a full-service cleaner with

an “if you can wear it, we can clean it” policy. This includes wedding gowns, formal dresses, leather and suede, especially Ugg boots. They also offer same-day service. If clothes are dropped off by 9 a.m. they can be picked up the same day after 4 p.m. Also, two of their locations have drive-thru service with car hops who bring your items to your car — one on 132nd and Dodge and another off of 84th and Frederick.

“All of our stores are higher quality than the industry norm,” Craig said. “We have two locations that have plants, where the work is done, and each plant serves three stores. A truck picks up from each store every morning and delivers again every afternoon.” Whether it’s expensive items or more casual clothing, Craig said they

Craig Courtney, President FEBRUARY 2015

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treat every piece with the same attention to detail. “People should look sharp if they’re wearing a suit or a pair of khaki pants.”

Craig said they run their business the

way they’d want to be treated as customers, which is something his father instilled in him when he started the business. “We treat our customers fairly, honestly, and give them a great product

for a price they’re comfortable with,” he said. “We also try to be consistent with our quality at all of our locations. When you pick up your clothes from us, you know they will look great.”

COMMITMENT MEANS STAYING LOYAL TO WHAT YOU SAID YOU WERE GOING TO DO LONG AFTER THE MOOD YOU SAID IT IN HAS LEFT YOU. Schedule a free intro session (beginners welcome) through www.CrossfitElkhorn.com or 402-916-4623.

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BRACE YOURSELF THIS LOVE THING IS ABOUT TO GET UNREAL

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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: Oct. 7, 2015 When to book: 6-9 months ahead Why Charming New England with Regent Seven Seas: Sail in luxury in the midst of the inspired history and culture of Quebec and New England.

Beginning in Montreal, tour historic quarters by horse-drawn carriage and explore the Underground City. Journey to Quebec City’s castle of Château Frontenac. Navigate the fjord of Saguenay while observing whales, then cruise the St. Lawrence River. Marvel at Maine’s coastal beauty and taste freshly caught lobsters. Learn about Boston’s history first-hand and tour Newport’s mansions before concluding in New York.

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MY concoction

Railcar Modern American Kitchen 1814 N 144th St Stonehenge Center (402) 493-4743 railcaromaha.com open daily

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1

5

What you need: • 2 lemon slices • 2 orange slices

• ¾ oz Railcar thyme syrup • 2 oz Bulleit bourbon • Ice

2 Add 1 lemon slice, 1 orange slice, Railcar thyme syrup and Bulleit vourbon into a shaker

steps

Muddle ingredients together and stir (do not shake)

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Railcar Modern American Kitchen THE BARTENDER: Josh Granun THE DRINK: Bulleit Bourbon Smash

4

5

Add ice to shaker and stir (do not shake)

Pour into a bourbon glass and garnish with remaining fruit slices FEBRUARY 2015

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OUR food

f

Blatt Beer & Table hits home run Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by J. LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY 46 |

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or many locals, the name “Rosenblatt” is synonymous with baseball, and when most people think of baseball they think of cold beer and warm food.

That’s exactly what you’ll find at the new West Omaha Blatt Beer & Table located in The Shops of Legacy.

While there are many similarities to its counterpart downtown, the new restaurant is quickly making a name of its own.

“Consider this Blatt 2.0,” said Andrew Connell, General Manager.

“The original restaurant was built for the College World Series, so it’s packed during the summer and has a little different menu. We’re more of an equal mix between bar and restaurant.” Connell said that weekends draw a big pub crowd, but weeknights are a great time for families to come in with their kids.

DOWN SOUTH PORK FEBRUARY 2015

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S’MORES POT DE CREME

KALE CAESAR SALAD

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OUR food

CHICHARONES

GRILLED MIXED SAUSAGE ON A STICK

FISH AND CHIPS FEBRUARY 2015

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OUR food

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Known for specializing in craft beer, Blatt has more than 25 beers on tap and changes them frequently. Connell said he developed a passion for craft beer after working at Granite City, which has its own brewery, where he learned about the brewing process. “We have canned and bottled domestics, but a lot of people are excited to try something new on tap,” he said. “It’s been surprising to see how many customers want to try and sample new beer and even new food.”

Executive Chef Josh Singleton described the Blatt as a gastropub, which simply means they serve higher end beer and food. In fact, many items are handmade in-house, such as the Bavarian pretzel bites served with German rosemary mustard and Gruyere fondue, as well as their sausages. The grilled mix on a stick includes their beer-braised bratwurst, jalapeño Polish sausage, and smoked kielbasa sausage, all served with the German rosemary mustard and a smoked tomato ketchup.

The most popular menu item, and Singleton’s favorite, is the Blatt burg-

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FEBRUARY 2015

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BEER CHEESE SOUP

BAVA R I A N P R E T Z E L B I T E S

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BORDER FRIES

er, which is Angus beef smothered in parmesan-peppercorn aioli, Guinness-braised onions, lettuce, tomato, and garlic dill pickles served on a buttered brioche bun. “I literally eat one every single day,” Singleton said. That’s high accolades coming from a chef who grew up in the South and has worked at Mexican, Asian, and even corporate

restaurants such as for Union Pacific and Google where the menu items change daily.

In addition to making items in-house, Connell said they are committed to supporting local companies anytime they can, especially in the area of craft beers. “If someone comes in wanting a domestic beer on tap, we’ll offer them FEBRUARY 2015

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OUR food

a sample of a local alternative that they often like just as well, if not better,” he

BLATT BEER & TABLE 2835 S. 170th Plaza STE 200 www.blattbeer.com

said. “Providing that slight twist on traditional favorites is something we love to do here.”

Singleton said he was impressed with Omaha from the first time he visited, and he enjoys putting those twists on Midwest food. “We have such a variety 56 |

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and are always working on new things and ways to improve,” he said. “Whether it’s trying different kinds of sausages or perfecting something like our fish and chips. We take a lot of pride in what we do and all share the same mindset.”

That Midwest focus carries throughout every aspect of the restaurant. In fact, Connell called their offerings “Midwest approachable” with an emphasis on being price-friendly. “We have the staples that everyone loves—burgers, sausages, and kid-friendly foods like mac and cheese and chicken tenders,” he said. “But they’ll all be unlike anything you’ve had anywhere else.” It’s the combination of established traditions and new approaches that makes this version of Blatt Beer & Table unique.

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VALENTINES GIFT GUIDE | borsheims.com | 800-642-GIFT | 120 Regency Parkway

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WORTH THE HAUL CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA 445 North 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 341-1500 www.CenturyLinkCenterOmaha.com Tickets: www.TicketMaster.com or (800) 745-3000 UNO Hockey: All tickets $15-$25

11 Feb.

Barry Manilow @ 7:30pm | $20-$120

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Omaha Home & Garden Expo/Omaha Lawn Flower & Patio Show | $10

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Night Ranger with Quiet Riot @ 7 p.m. | $25-35 60 |

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Future Faces of KAT Country Riot @ 6 p.m.

26 Feb.

Merle Haggard Country Riot @ 7:30 p.m. | $50-$55

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Hot Sardines, Holland Performing Arts Center, Scott Recital Hall, @ 7 p.m. | $35 and up

OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS Holland Center: 1200 Douglas St., Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 345-0606 The Orpheum: 409 S 16th St, Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 661-8501 www.omahaperformingarts.org Tickets: www.TicketOmaha.com or at the Ticket Omaha office inside the Holland Center

Feb.

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Sinbad, Holland Performing Arts Center, Kiewit Hall, 8 p.m. | $25

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Orpheum Theater, Slosburg Hall, 7:30 p.m. | $15

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National Geographic Live’s Extreme Planet with photographer Carsten Peter, Holland Performing Arts Center, Kiewit Hall, 7:30 p.m. | $10 and up

Feb.

Randy Brecker, Holland Performing Arts Center, Scott Recital Hall, 8 p.m. | $25

FEBRUARY 2015

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y

OUR kids

Jakopovic’s passion benefits kids and community

outh sports programs have exploded in the past few years with more kids competing now than ever before. That’s due in part to the rapid growth of school districts and thanks to parents and community leaders like Todd Jakopovic, President of the Elkhorn Youth Sports Association (EYSA), and his wife Dannye, who together run the Elkhorn Attack and Elite boys and girls basketball programs for third through eight graders, and Elkhorn youth flag football program for kindergarten through sixth graders.

Todd’s involvement began 10 years ago when he volunteered to coach his son’s football team; he was then was asked to become an EYSA board member and shortly thereafter its president. “At the time it was just tackle football and there weren’t any basketball teams in the program,” he said. In 2006 he decided to coach his son’s basketball team.

In 2007 he coached two teams, and as interest continued to gain, he formed the Attack program for boys in 2009. “We had 15 teams that first year,” he said. “Today we have 61 boys’ teams and 21 girls’ teams, plus 55 flag football teams. I believe they are all the largest programs of their kind in the state.”

Dannye Jakopevic burning the midnight oil

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by J. LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY 62 |

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All of the programs are primarily made up of kids from the Elkhorn School District. Flag football has more than 600 kids, boys’ basketball sees about 500 kids per year, and girls’ basketball has 200 per year. With that many kids participating, it requires many hours of administrative work, which Dannye oversees, including registrations, the web site, and ordering uniforms. Todd also works a regular full-time job and said most nights he is up until 1 a.m. working on some aspect of EYSA’s programs.

The couple is also committed to making the programs affordable for families, and one way they’ve been able to keep costs down is by working with the Elkhorn School District’s administration for the use of gym space. “None of this would be possible without the district’s leadership, and we are so grateful for that,” Todd said. “They have been amazing to work with.”

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Todd also gives credit to the many parent volunteer coaches. “Sometimes parents are hesitant to coach, but once they go through our training and work with the kids that first season, they are usually hooked and want to coach long after their kids are no longer in the program,” he said. The coaching positions aren’t paid because Todd believes part of the success of the programs is for parents to have a stake in their children’s development.

“We try to be progressive in everything we do,” he said. “All of our coaches undergo background checks and we provide training and coach’s clinics in addition to providing them with staff shirts, bags, supplies, and a full coaching manual.” Todd is also on a coalition board that helps youth sports programs adhere to concussion law. “We teach coaches how to recognize possible concussions and the steps that must be followed before a player can return,” he

added.

In addition to the regular season games, EYSA hosts two annual basketball tournaments. The Elite Girls Rule tournament this past December had 171 teams participate. In January they hosted the boys January Jam tournament with 276 teams. “These tournaments bring in more than 5,000 people to Elkhorn, which supports the local economy,” Todd said.

The programs don’t just benefit Elkhorn. Todd has worked with other communities, including both Bennington and Blair, in helping them develop their own youth sports programs. “I’m happy to share information so that we can all get as many kids as possible involved in sports programs to keep them active, healthy, and learning how to make good choices,” he said. “We always put kids first and focus on them. We want them to have fun, develop, and learn important life skills.”

Dannye and Todd Jakopovic FEBRUARY 2015

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VARSITY corner

MAN OF MANY

SPORTS

Jared Samuelson | Age 16 | Gretna High School Jared has a passion for a variety of sports that started at a young age. When one sports season is over, he moves on to the next. As a student at Gretna High School, Jared is a three sport athlete. In the past he played football, basketball, and baseball for his school. This year, as a junior, he has exchanged baseball cleats for track shoes.

Starting in the third grade, Jared began playing organized basketball through the Gretna Basketball Association. After spending some time in a weekly fundamentals league, he progressed to playing on competitive teams. This season, as a junior, he averages 18 points, five rebounds, and two assists per game. Upon completion of last season, he was recognized as an All-Conference, All-Area, and All-State Honorable Mentions.

During the past two summers, Jared has played basketball with the Nebraska Bison AAU basketball program. As a member of that team, they have won two national tournaments — one in Minneapolis and the other in Las Vegas.

Much like his basketball career, Jared also picked up football in the the third grade. Like many boys, he started with flag football and moved on to play tackle football with the Gretna Youth Sports Foundation in the fifth grade. Jared plays quarterback for Gretna and this past fall averaged 119 yards of passing per game. His efforts earned him Academic All-State, All-Conference, All-District, and All-State Honorable Mentions.

When Jared isn’t busy with sports, he participates in Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Spanish Club, and Chess Club at school as well as carrying a 4.0 GPA and being a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, he is an active member of the youth group at Gretna United Methodist Church. He also assists youth organizations in Gretna by officiating football and basketball games on the weekends.

Jared is the son of Jay and Amber Samuelson of Gretna and has an older brother, Nolan, and older sister, Halley.

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STAR

Lauren Maciejewski | Age 17 | Elkhorn South High School As a young girl at the age of four, Lauren’s parents can recall her running up and down the driveway dribbling a basketball both right and left handed. They recognized her talent and enrolled her in youth basketball with the YMCA and Lauren’s love of the game has only continued to grow.

Through the years, Lauren played competitive basketball with a variety of leagues: Elkhorn Elite, Omaha Sports Academy, Retro Hoops, and Crusaders.

Since her freshman year of high school, she has been a member of the varsity team and has been a starter in every game since her sophomore year. Lauren averages 10 points per game, five rebounds, two steals, and is 75 percent at the free throw line. She was named a 2013 All-State Honorable Mention, 2013 All-Conference, and a 2013 Academic All-Conference basketball player for her efforts on the court.

Basketball isn’t the only sport that Lauren excels in. When not dribbling a ball on the hardwood, you can find her on the soccer field.

She grew up playing competitive soccer with the Elkhorn Soccer Club. Much like her high school basketball career, Lauren has played on the varsity team since her freshman year and been a starter since her sophomore year. She was also honored with a 2013 Academic All-Conference soccer award.

Lauren is no stranger to adversity where sports are concerned. Her right shoulder has been surgically repaired three times. It began after her freshman year, she tore a muscle during a competitive summer basketball game and had to undergo surgery and rehabilitation. She was forced to sit out her fall club soccer season that year but was good to go come basketball season. Another tear requiring surgery became evident the following summer when summer basketball began and she once again missed fall club soccer moving into her junior year. And again into her senior year, she repeated the cycle. Lauren, and her parents, hope the third time is the charm and that her shoulder no longer causes her problems in the future.

When she is not busy playing the sports she loves, Lauren shines in the classroom holding a GPA of 4.2 and is in the top 10 of her class. She is an active participant in band and is the president of three student organizations: Student Council, National Honor Society, and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD). In addition, she volunteers for a variety of organizations including Food Bank of the Heartland, the Salvation Army, Open Door Mission, and Red Basket.

Lauren is the daughter of Chuck and Colleen Maciejewski of Elkhorn and has an older brother, Cameron.

VALERIE WALLACE-CAMP

FEBRUARY 2015

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Omaha OB/GYN is an in-network provider for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska.

Omahaand OB/GYN is an in-network provider for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska.

Our Services Obstetrics Our Services Obstetrics Gynecology and Contraception Obstetrics Gynecology Contraception Gynecologicand Surgery Gynecology and Contraception Gynecologic Surgery Laparoscopic and Robotic Gynecologic Surgery Surgery Laparoscopic and Robotic Laparoscopic Surgery Diagnosis and Robotic Infertility and Surgery Treatment Infertility Diagnosis and Infertility Treatment Diagnosis and In-Office Ablation and Treatment In-Office Sterilization Ablation and In-Office Sterilization Ablation and Pelvic Pain and Sexual Sterilization Medicine Pelvic Pain and Sexual Pelvic Medicine Pain and Sexual Menopause Medicine Menopause Urodynamics Menopause Urodynamics AIUM Ultrasound Certified Urodynamics AIUM Ultrasound Certified AIUM Ultrasound Certified

Our Team Our Team Physicians Our Team Physicians

Jill K. Burke, D.O. Physicians Jill K. M. Burke, D.O.M.D. Linda Collins, Jill K. M. Burke, D.O.M.D. Linda Collins, Franklin D. DeVries, M.D. Linda M. Collins, M.D. Franklin L. D. Hill, DeVries, Jennifer M.D.M.D. Franklin L. D. Hill, DeVries, Jennifer M.D.M.D. D.O. Andrea M. Leishman-Barb, JenniferM. L. Leishman-Barb, Hill, M.D. Andrea Raymond L. Schulte, M.D. D.O. Andrea M.L. Leishman-Barb, D.O. Raymond Schulte, Nick Steinauer, M.D. M.D. Raymond L. Schulte, Nick Steinauer, M.D. M.D. Nurse Practitioners Nick Steinauer, M.D. Nurse MelissaPractitioners Dahir, D.N.P. Nurse Practitioners Melissa Dahir, D.N.P . .R.N. Jullie Greenwood, A.P Melissa Dahir, D.N.P . .R.N. Jullie Greenwood, A.P LeAnn Havener, A.P.R.N. Jullie Greenwood, A.P .R.N. LeAnn Havener, A.PA.P .R.N. Jackie McNichols, .R.N. LeAnn Havener, A.P .R.N. Jackie A.P.R.N. Wendy McNichols, Salado, A.P.R.N. Jackie A.P.R.N. Wendy McNichols, Salado, A.P.R.N. Wendy Salado, A.P.R.N.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY SCHEDULE TODAY East OmahaAN APPOINTMENT West Omaha East Omaha

East Omaha Call (402) 552-2700 Call (402) 552-2700 4239 Farnam St., Ste. 734 Call (402) 552-2700 4239 Farnam St., Ste. 734 9 a.m.-5 4239M-F Farnam St., p.m.

Ste. 734 M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

West Omaha

West Omaha Call (402) 991-1900 CallLakeside (402)Hills 991-1900 16909 Ct., Ste. 201 Call (402) 991-1900 16909 Lakeside Hills Ct., Ste. 201 M-F 9 a.m.-5 16909 Lakeside Hills p.m.

Ct., Ste. 201 M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

W W W. OMAHAOBGYN .COM W W W. OMAHAOBGYN W W W.OMAHAOBGYN.COM .COM

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT 2088

EDGE M A G A Z I N E 15858 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha NE 68118

Get ready for summer!

Joel Schlessinger MD is a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon with the expertise and knowledge to find the right treatment plan for you. Now is the perfect time to prepare your body for summer with procedures such as leg vein treatments, tattoo removal, Smartlipo, UltraShape or Coolsculpting. Stop in today and set up a consultation.

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Doctors’ Choice Awards

Best of Omaha Winner 2015 Best Dermatologist, Best Cosmetic Surgeon, Best Beauty Supply Store, Laser Hair Removal and Day Spa Winners’ Circle

2802 Oak View Drive | 402-334-7546 Cosmetics@LovelySkin.com LovelySkin.com/Dermatology

4

Bizrate Circle of Excellence, Platinum Fourth Year in a Row

2929 Oak View Drive | 402-697-6565 Retail@LovelySkin.com LovelySkin.com/Retail