Edge Magazine - July 2015

J U L Y

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M A G A Z I N E

GiGi’s Cupcakes Commitment to community

Sean Harley

Mollie & Jeff Evans

Taking fitness to the next level

Protecting parents’ greatest treasure

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GARY GERNHART 402-880-6056 TJ JACKSON 402-618-3526

JILL LEWIS-HARRIS 402-598-9121

STACEY CHILDERS 402-707-9953

MAMIE JACKSON 402-306-7864

DIANE HUGHES 402-218-7489

MORE THAN $100M CLOSED IN 2013-2014.

MORE THAN 500+ TRANSACTIONS.

LETTER from the EDITOR

DANIEL MULLER

July is 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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a month of celebration and a time not just to be thankful for our nation and its freedoms, but to be thankful for everyone who comes together to make our cities and communities extraordinary. In this issue we highlight those who have dedicated themselves and their businesses to going above and beyond to add value and bring something special to our community.

Mollie and Jeff Evans are launching a revolutionary product, the Baby Vida oxygen monitor, which will give parents around the world much needed peace of mind while their babies are asleep. Created out of love for their own children, the Evans are passionate about sharing their innovation with others on a global scale and helping educate parents about this important device.

We’re also featuring Gigi’s Cupcakes, which after three years in business, owner SuZanne Rogers is now able to focus more of her time and talent on new ways Gigi’s can contribute to the community,

whether through partnerships, fundraisers, programs for children, or helping employees become their own business leaders.

For those who’ve committed to a healthier summer, try a fresh, high protein, low carb meal from Muscle Maker Grill, or contact Sean Harley at ithinkfit gym, whose mission is to help others become the best they can be. This month get out and about and spend time discovering all that our great community has to offer.

Jack Shotbolt Editor in Chief

EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES

5201 DAVENPORT, OMAHA • $885,000

1203 N 141 AVENUE, OMAHA • $1,450,000

12351 S 74TH STREET, PAPILLION • $399,500

Magnificent Georgian Colonial mansion on .7 acre lot rich in Omaha history. Spacious rooms throughout with gorgeous mahogany in entry, walnut in dining, leaded glass bookcases in LR. This home boasts 4 fireplaces & is loaded w/ windows. Kit. was completely renovated in 1993. Amazing sunroom on main level not included in sqft. 2nd flr. has 5BR, 3 full BA. dressing rm. off master. 3rd floor has 4 BRs, family room, 2 BA plus kitchen.

There is a carriage house that was updated in 2006 & 2013.

JUDY CLEVELAND KEN COATS 402-697-4044 402-697-4045 judy.cleveland@ ken.coats@ cbshome.com cbshome.com

Linden Estates French Country Stunner. One owner built by Pat McNeil. Private lot backing to green space. In-ground salt water pool beautifully landscaped plus separate upper patio w/cozy FP. Inside features DBL crown moldings, smooth ceilings throughout, magnificent hearth rm w/beamed cathedral ceiling, Cherry cabs in kitchen w/Subzero separate freezer & fridge, breakfast bar, gas cooktop. On the main level there is a sunroom, butler’s pantry, separate office, laundry rm, 2nd staircase & Master BR.

This great ranch, loaded with upgrades, boasts an awesome kitchen with hickory floor, Knotty Alder cabinets, oversized island, granite, w/in pantry, double ovens & lrg dining area. The large master suite offers 9’ ceiling, walk-in closet, & walk-in shower. You will love to entertain in the walk out LL with huge rec room, wet bar, FP, full bath & 2 BR’s. All this plus fabulous view, surround sound, DR/office, lush landscaping & fenced yard at a great price! Pre-inspected.

JUDY CLEVELAND 402-697-4044 judy.cleveland@cbshome.com

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Huntington Park 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 2 story. Finished lower

Nestled on a hilltop w/a babbling brook running thru this impressive executive retreat. Priv, circuitous approach. This 1.5 sty built in 2006 has almost 6000 sq ft above grade. Attention to detail throughout. Generous LR & DR rms, remarkable gourmet kitchen w/SS, granite, double ovens, pantry. Stylish MBR retreat w/spacious closet/dressing room, soaking tub. 3 more bedrooms in addition to: study, library, office, gallery, den & so much more. Approx 26 treed ac. 5 corrals, out buildings with separate elec/water.

Woodland Homes “Williamsburg II” walkout ranch villa w/3-car garage - open floor plan. Great room bow window - fireplace wood floor - dinette bay window & wood floor. Kitchen wood floor - enlarged pantry - stainless appliances. Main floor laundry. Drop zone. Master bath snail shower, double sinks & walk-in closet.

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A rare find in THE RESERVE, custom 2 story with in-ground pool, great lot backing to Zorinsky Lake, walking trails & spectacular views from large covered deck. Features 4 beds, 7 baths, oversized 3 car heated garage, office, exercise/dance rm, Master suite w/ fireplace, sitting room, exceptionally large walk-in closet, large white kitchen with hard surface tops, formal dining rm, spacious LR, screened in area to relax. Heated tile floors in LL, includes temp controlled 1000+ wine bottle cellar.

Gorgeous all brick ranch in gated community overlooks Oak Hills Golf Course. Top of the line remodel in 2012 w/ high end finishes. Kitchen w/ maple cabinetry, granite, dble ovens, warming tray, built in refrig & beverage refrig. Plantation shutters.

All rear windows are tempered glass. LL w/ huge open rec rm, game rm & wet bar area. All bedrooms w/ private bath. Covered brick patio w/ accent lights 12”construction grade brick driveway.

High end HVAC new in 2011. Abundant storage.

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Amazing Kit w/Sub Zero Frig & Frz, Breakfast Bar, W-I Pantry, A Cooks Dream! Open & Airy Flr Plan w/Lg DR, FAM Rm, 2 Br’s on Main, MSTR is Huge & W/O to The Enormous Dk. 10’ Ceils on Main LVL, Artist Touch on DR ceiling. LL is Fin w/XL FR, Lg Kit, Wine Rm, Exercise Rm and 2 BRs w/2 BAs. Landscaped to Perfection!Access to 2 Pools & Club House! AMA

BILL BLACK 402-680-2500 bill.black@cbshome.com

TERRY STORK 402-657-2067 terry.stork@ cbshome.com

SHARI GRIMES 402-659-6553 shari.grimes@ cbshome.com

GEORGIE VINT 402-690-1578 georgie.vint@cbshome.com

search all of our homes at cbshome.com

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JULY 2015

M A G A Z I N E EDITOR IN CHIEF Jack Shotbolt Jack@EdgeMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Kathy Rygg

402-490-3213 // KathyRygg@Hotmail.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 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Natasha Blank-Jimenez (402) 250-2529 // Natasha@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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Make it shine.

This isn’t just an errand – it’s an experience.

So make it your own.

168th & W Dodge Rd | 402.505.9773 | VillagePointeShopping.com

More than 60 stores & restaurants including…

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

26

OUR leisure

OUR food

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32

42

OUR fitness

WORTH the haul

34

50

MY concoction

OUR kids

40

52

locally crafted food & drink

STONEHENGE CENTER 1814 N 144 TH STREET CALL 402.493.4743 FOR A RESERVATION

COVER story

Plan forTomorrow, Live forToday.

If you haven’t been 100% completely and totally satisfied with the advice and most importantly the communication you have received with your current advisor, can you see the wisdom of getting a second opinion?

Registered Representatives of and securities and investment advisory services offered through Voya Financial Advisors, Inc. (member SIPC) Stortz Financial Group is not a subsidiary of nor controlled by Voya Financial Advisors

www.stortzfinancialgroup.com 16820 Frances St., Ste. 205 Omaha, Nebraska 68130 402-934-9944 800-519-1784 20928631_1015

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OUR home

elegance CASUAL

w

hen Charlie and Joanie Salter moved to Omaha nine years ago, they were looking for a house with a floorplan and enough room for entertaining, both indoors and out.

They found it in a home located in West Omaha’s Barrington Bark just north of 156th & Dodge Streets.

After remodeling much of the 7,400 sq. ft. house, they finally had their French country style home, filled with ample space where family and friends could enjoy all the amenities and features the house offers.

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Charlie worked with a builder to design the remodel. To achieve the European style, they included features such as large Michigan fur wood beams in the ceiling of the hearth room off the kitchen, stone and hardwood floors, and iron railings to match those around the expansive outdoor patio. Having built several homes before, the Salter’s knew what materials they wanted to use and the functionality of each area of the house. “When I saw it I knew immediately it had the structure and room we could transform,” Charlie said.

Having “substance” as he called it was an important element Charlie wanted to portray throughout the home. Using larger baseboards, increasing the height of doorways, and arching the tops of

STORY BY KATHY RYGG 16-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY

BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

LIVING ROOM J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR home

D O U B L E S TA I R C A S E S I N F OY E R

F RO N T E N T RY

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LIVING ROOM

9/1/2015

authorized dealer

PROTECTION

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Call for a free estimate

BEAUTY

( 402) 933- 4 545 J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR home

GOURMET KITCHEN

C U STO M C A B I N E T RY

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“Even though it’s big, you don’t get lost in it, the rooms just flow.”

C U S TO M S TA I R R A I L I N G

doorways and windows all helped create that feel. “It’s not something people notice, but it gives a grand, old world appearance,” he said. Countless upgrades also add to the quality of the home, such as two Subzero refrigerators that service the kitchen, extensive custom built-in cabinetry and storage, and smart home features to control lighting, music, and window coverings throughout the house.

The lower level was the second remodeling phase and where Charlie was able to create the ultimate man cave. A billiards room, home theater with dropdown screen and speakers, and a card room with a built-in bar and full kitchen offer multiple spaces and activities for guests in an English pub style environment. But the hidden gem is the secret 1000 bottle, climate controlled wine cel-

R E A L E S TAT E . R E A L LY S I M P L E .

Jenn Haeg Real Estate has a passion for saving you both time and money, because we know nothing is more valuable.

JENN HAEG 402-885-3145

w w w. L o v eW h e r eYo u L i v e O m a h a . c o m J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR home

K E Y PA D E N T RY

HIDDEN WINE CELLAR

BILLIARDS ROOM

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H E A RT H RO O M

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Exceptional outdoor

living at its

finest.

CUSTOM SWIMMING POOL PROJECTS, CABANA HOUSES & OUTD

PAVER DRIVEWAYS, PATIOS & POOL DECKS, UNIQUE LIGHTIN

W W W.ELITEL ANDSCAPINGOMAHA .COM 16 |

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DOOR KITCHENS, FIRE & WATER FEATURES,

NG TO ENHANCE ANY OUTDOOR SPACE

402-330-7811 J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR home

BASEMENT BAR

P U B S T Y L E S E AT I N G

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CARDS ROOM

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bottled sakĂŠ and reserve wines not included. not available in puerto rico J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR home

M A S T E R B AT H

H E AT E D T I L E F L O O R

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MASTER BEDROOM

lar concealed behind a bookcase that uses an electronic keypad to enter. “We lived near Napa Valley and love wine, so we loved this about the house,” Joanie said.

Her other favorite area is the hearth room and kitchen where she enjoys cooking. The oversized center island has built-in cabinets all the way around it, and Joanie added an additional pantry with slide-out shelves in the office/ work space off the kitchen. “It’s set up perfectly for cooking or catering, and I just love the warm feel of those main rooms,” she said. “There are so many zones where people can be, the house just lends itself to entertaining.”

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OUR home

A S I A N I N S P I R E D G U E S T B AT H

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DINING ROOM

G U E S T S U I T E B AT H J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR home

O U T D O O R PAT I O

MASTER BEDROOM DECK

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GRAND EXTERIOR

Prime Steak Fine Wine Premium Service Private party rooms available for 6 to 40 people.

Voted top 100 Restaurants in America by OpenTable!

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Besides the basement, Charlie’s favorite feature is the massive stone fireplace that anchors the patio. A built-in grill and serving space with stainless steel drawers for chilling sit on either side. One end of the patio features an in-ground oversize hot tub with skimmer that’s nestled behind a stone wall, and at the other end an extra lot offers a deep side yard surrounded by lush landscaping. “It’s ideal for a pool or tennis court since the privacy is already in place,” Charlie said.

The Salter’s have enjoyed every aspect of their home and are now ready to retire and downsize. They said the home would be ideal for anyone who loves to entertain. “We’ve had lots of parties here, and it’s a very good entertaining house,” Joanie said. “Even though it’s big, you don’t get lost in it, the rooms just flow.

Every aspect of the house makes it completely move-in ready.”

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COVER story

Fresh, fun, and forward-thinking

w

Gigi’s Cupcakes’ SuZanne Rogers is sweet to community and employees

hat does it take for a boutique bakery to be successful in today’s market? A great tasting cupcake is number one, but SuZanne Rogers, owner of Gigi’s Cupcakes in Village Pointe would add that helping the community and helping her own employees are just as important. And after being in business for three years, she is grateful every day for being a part of such a supportive community.

She partnered with Gigi’s out of Nashville, TN to bring a store to Omaha because she wanted to add value to the community from a business perspective.

It matched her love for baking and emphasis on quality desserts. What began with cupcakes and cheesecakes has now expanded into mini cupcakes, wedding cakes, 17 flavors of cheesecake, frosted sugar cookies, muffins, breads, and seasonal pie. They also have a large selection of gluten-free flavors and some vegan flavors.

“Being able to bake everything fresh

and customize it for our customers is so important to us,” Rogers said.

Gigi’s is committed to making its fun, fresh treats available to everyone in the community. They have partnered with organization such as Children’s Hospital, Children’s Museum, the Elkhorn Public Schools Foundation, and the First Responder Group in Omaha. They also have a program creating cupcakes the Girl Scouts can sell and then donate a portion of the proceeds to another organization.

Gigi’s also participates in a reading

Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by MAUREEN FRITTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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COVER story

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COVER story

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program with local schools. Teachers assign kids a number of hours or books to read and when completed, they are given a certificate good for a free cupcake. “When they come in we make it a celebration and talk with the student about how important reading is,” Rogers said. They’ve already given away 1,000 reading certificates this year.

Donations are another big aspect to their community involvement, receiving up to five requests daily, all of which they honor. Whether it’s to support an organization or an individual suffering from illness or injury, Rogers said they will provide a gift certificate or cupcakes that can be included in a drawing at an event. “We want to help everyone who comes in, so we’ve created a way to do that, and it’s a part of our business I’d like to focus on and continue to expand,” she said.

Giving back to the community is important to the entire Rogers family. SuZanne’s husband, Grant, and their two sons, Jack (17) and Sam (15) all spend time in the store and volunteering. “The ideas for ways we can be involved have come from years and years of being part of the community,” she said. “We know where we can help in a meaningful way, and our guests and employees often give us great ideas as well.”

In fact, its employees are vital to the success of every aspect of the business. Rogers said she has tried to create an environment where their employees can work independently, learn about business, and become better business people themselves. “Our goal isn’t to just have an employee come in, do their job, and leave,” she said. “We want them to grow as people and get them involved in the community with fundraising and volunteering as well.”

Thanks to Rogers’ business prowess and desire to put others first, Gigi’s is thriving. “There’s a serious nature to making sure the cupcake business is successful and that we continue to earn our guests’ trust,” she said. “But it’s a happy, fun business where people come in to enjoy a cup of coffee and a treat or to order items for an important event. That was my dream from the beginning, and being successful in that way is what makes me happy at the end of the day.”

Mike Miller, C LU

402.392.5802

HO M E • AU TO • BU SI N E SS • H E A LT H • L I F E

Specializing in coverage for homes with wood roofs Omaha’s Fastest Growing Insurance Agency www.RedOneInsurance.com J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR leisure

dynamic Three

D E S T I N AT I O N S

P H I L A D E L P H I A , PA

BY

land

Ritz Carlton | Philadelphia, PA When to travel: Year round When to book: 3-6 months ahead Why the Ritz Carlton Philadelphia: Right in the middle of the City of Brotherly Love and surrounded by landmarks of our nation’s birth, the enormous marble rotunda of this stately hotel was built in the early 1900s and was modeled after Rome’s Pantheon. Step outside to explore Philadelphia’s charm and vast history, including key sites from the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence and more. From the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge on the 30th floor, take in expansive views of City Hall, the skyline and the Delaware River before retiring to your luxurious room.

Exclusive Offer*: Upgrade on arrival, daily full breakfast for up to two in room guests, $100 USD food and beverage credit, early check-in/late check-out.

BY

air

Rosewood Jumby Bay Private Island Retreat l Saint John’s, Antigua & Barbuda | Classic Vacations When to travel: December-April When to book: 9-12 months ahead Why a Private Island Retreat at Rosewood Jumby Bay: For a total getaway, escape to this private 300-acre island in the Caribbean only accessible by boat and known as one of the finest resorts in the area.

Surrounded by white sand beaches and a network of bicycle paths (no cars allowed), the resort offers sophisticated rooms in octagonal-shaped cottages with wrap-around terraces overlooking the sea. This peaceful setting is ideal for waterskiing, snorkeling, sampling a wide variety of gourmet dishes, or simply enjoying deep rest.

Travel and Transport Exclusive Offer*: Mention promo code JUMBY2015 at the time of booking and receive a complimentary $100 gift card.

MEDITERRANEAN BEACHES 15-NIGHT

BY

sea

Mediterranean Beaches 15-Night | Southampton, United Kingdom Round Trip I Royal Caribbean International

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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: June-July 2016 When to book: 12-15 months ahead Why Mediterranean Beaches on the Independence of the Seas: Sail the Mediterranean in style while enjoying endless activities like a surf simulator, rock wall, ice skating rink and mini golf course. Starting at the historic port of Southampton, cruise to the Rock of Gibraltar on Spain’s brilliant Costa del Sol. Tour Belle Époque architecture in Nice, visit Napoleon’s home in Corsica, and explore pre-historic monuments in Sardinia. Then get lost in cathedrals, fortresses and twisted lanes in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Virtuoso Exclusive Offer*: Book a balcony on any open 7+ night sailing and receive a complimentary dinner for two. Book a suite on any open 7+ and receive a complimentary dinner for two PLUS the choice of three complimentary spa treatments: La Therapie Hydrolift Facial, Swedish massage or reflexology including massage. Restrictions may apply; please see terms and conditions for details.

*Restrictions may apply.

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OUR fitness

e

Sean Harley helps build better lives

veryone knows the dedication it takes to develop a fitness routine and then stick with it. Committing to daily workouts and a healthy diet has its challenges, but it also has infinite rewards. Sean Harley, professional body builder and owner of ithinkfit gym in Omaha has taken that dedication to the highest level to achieve his personal goals, and now he’s helping others achieve their own goals on multiple levels.

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by VALERIE WALL ACE-CAMP 34 |

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discipline S U CCE S S THROU G H

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OUR fitness

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Growing up in Schuyler, NE, Harley was always a natural athlete and wanted a career in the fitness industry. After graduating from Midlands College, he moved to California where he was discovered on the beach by a fitness photographer, which launched his career into fitness modeling. In 2009 he won the bodybuilding.com body spokes model contest, which garnered him publicity and led to magazine covers such as Iron Man, Muscle & Fitness, Physique, and dozens more industry publications around the world.

He began competing in 2011 at the amateur level and then earned his International Federation of Body Building (IFBB) pro card at which he currently competes. As he continues to strive for personal excellence through competitions, his professional focus is on growing his businesses, which include the ithinkfit gym and his line of Rock Solid nutritional supplements, which he and business partner Heath Murray developed together and sell as part of an overall approach to health and fitness. “We opened the gym in 2008 and 10 WEEK TRANSFORMATIONS

Create your AFTER body!

SUSIE BEFORE

Call us today at 333-iFit for a FREE consultation!

AFTER

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OWNER

JAMIE BEFORE

Heath Murray OWNER

AFTER

The HOTTEST gym in the midwest! Bring this ad in for one FREE WEEK of group classes or one FREE personal training session.

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OUR fitness

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started with one medicine ball and one kettle bell,” Harley said. “We slowly acquired more equipment and grew into the space.” The 15,000 sq. ft. gym offers unique equipment such as 250 and 350-lb. tractor tires, a rope ladder, and a treadmill that inclines up to 30 degrees.

Clients purchase a monthly subscription to the gym, which gives them access to 34 different weekly classes, body analysis, and nutritional guidance.

There are a variety of classes for all interests and styles of training. Fit Camp is a circuit training class geared for all fitness levels; Rock Solid training incorporates functional moves such as flipping tires or swinging ropes; and the Olympus Class focuses on weight lifting and muscle isolation. The gym also offers massage, spray tanning, and cold laser therapy for injuries.

There are six personal trainers on staff plus Harley and Murray, and Harley said a majority of their clients are busy professionals who are serious about their workouts and looking for a challenge.

“What makes us different is that we are dedicated and live the lifestyle,” he said.

“We are customer goal-oriented and care about their results.” They hold 10-week transformation contests in which two winners each receive $1,000. “Having an end date motivates people, similar to what I do when I’m training for a competition,” Harley added.

Since fitness and nutrition go handin-hand, Harley developed Rock Solid supplements, which are available online and in the gym. Harley said they started with a fat burning product then expanded to include proteins, natural testosterone boosters, and amino acids. The grass-fed whey protein is a best seller and is available in flavors such as cake batter, rocky road, and cinnabun. “All of our products have been studied and proven, and clients tell us they’re the best tasting,” Harley said.

Helping others achieve their goals is a big motivator for Harley. He still does a couple competitions per year and tries to improve a little each time. “As you get older you usually don’t compete as much, but it’s good to see what you can accomplish,” he said. “I’m doing what I’m passionate about and what I love. Overall it’s about the strong relationships you have with people, the positive effect you have on them, and how you’re able to change their lives for the better, forever.”

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Denise Pollard, MSN, APRN, BC 402-937-0101

www.restore-you.com J U LY 2 0 1 5

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MY concoction

Copa Cabana Cocktails & Cigars 17520 Wright St. (402) 991-4500 Open Monday-Saturday at 1 p.m.

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1

5

What you need: • Bacardi Dragon Berry Rum • Fresh blackberries

• Mint • Lime • Club soda

2 Pour rum into shaker.

steps

Muddle the mint and blackberries.

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Copa Cabana Cocktails & Cigars THE BARTENDER: Jeff THE DRINK: The Copa Blackberry Mojito

4

5

Squeeze fresh lime.

Shake and pour into tall Collins glass. Top with club soda.

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OUR food

MUSCLE MAKER GRILL 2835 South 170th Plaza, Suite 208 (402) 804-1997 Open daily

A B BY C L A R K , J O H N B O S H A N D TAY L O R M A R T I N

Muscle Maker Grill provides healthy fast food Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by MAUREEN FRITTS PHOTOGRAPHY 42 |

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veryone is busy and has struggled on more than one occasion with the temptation to drive through a fast food restaurant while on the go. Unfortunately there are few healthy choices. Rather than sacrifice good nutrition, especially if trying to maintain a diet plan, one smart alternative is Muscle Maker Grill in the Shops of Legacy, which provides both dine-in and weekly meal preparation. And all with fresh, high protein, low carb madeto-order items.

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OUR food

C A J U N C H I C K E N & P E N N E PA S TA

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OUR food

D I N E - I N S E AT I N G

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PREMIUM BURGER J U LY 2 0 1 5

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OUR food

EUROPEAN WRAP

LEAN & MEAN CHEESEBURGER SALAD

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Owner John Bosh, in partnership with his brothers Brian and Brad, opened Muscle Maker Grill last fall after looking for the right business opportunity for several years. They visited the franchise headquarters in Newark, NJ, where they fell in love with the food and the concept. The Bosh’s parents owned their own restaurant for many years in Schuyler, NE, so the brothers had grown up in the industry, and each brought a unique skill set to the business.

John oversees employees and works with customers, Brian handles food, and Brad manages the accounting.

John said the type of food they serve appeals to anyone who wants meals quickly but that are healthy and who care about what they put into their body. A majority of their items are made with fresh, lean chicken, vegetables, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, low-carb sauces, and a number of gluten-free options. They don’t use breads, high carb wraps or salad dressings. Any chicken items can be replaced with grass fed beef, shrimp, or tilapia.

The most popular entrée is the Godfather, which includes grilled chicken breast, portabella mushrooms, red roasted peppers, mozzarella cheese, gluten- and fatfree balsamic vinaigrette, and served over broccoli. The XXL Turkey Burger Wrap uses lean ground turkey, turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheddar cheese and a fat-free sauce in a low-carb wrap. “People have the concept that healthy food doesn’t have any flavor, but our food is full of flavor,” John said. “If you taste our food, you’ll be back.”

The other half of Muscle Maker Grill’s business is its meal preparation. Customers can choose up to four meals five, six, or seven days a week. All items can be customized according to each customer’s preference, and all meals are prepared fresh and stored in microwavable containers.

What’s unique about the Omaha location is that it has become the most successful meal prep store in the Muscle Maker Grill franchise. In fact, with almost 200 customers already ordering weekly meal plans, John had to create his own tracking system.

He attributes its success to the loyal customer base and word of mouth. “Rather than requiring customers to order their food online and have it delivered, we discuss individual meal plans with our customers,” John said. “They appreciate the personalization, and everyone is upbeat when they come in. It’s a great vibe and environment to be around.” He said he enjoys educating people about the food and their different choices or options for substituting ingredients.

But John said the most rewarding aspect is when a customer comes in and shares their progress, whether it’s weight loss or simply having more energy from healthy eating. “I love hearing that a customer is down 15 pounds,” he said. “We congratulate them, give them a high five, and really celebrate the accomplishment.”

Now that their first location is running smoothly and they have a knowledgeable team working with them, John said he and his brothers are looking forward to opening a second location in Omaha. “We were diligent about the quality of our products and our customer service, and I feel comfortable about where we’re at,” he said. “It’s a big step, but we’re ready to expand. And I believe if your dreams don’t scare you, then they’re not big enough.”

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OUR kids

love INNOVATION OU T OF

Mollie and Jeff Evans bring peace of mind to parents

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eing the parent to an infant is both exhilarating and exhausting, not to mention at times a little intimidating. Nothing is more important than the health and well-being of a child. Parents educate and arm themselves with resources and tools to help navigate the first year of their baby’s life. But even the most prepared parents know the unsettling need to check their infant’s breathing while they sleep. Thanks to Mollie and Jeff Evans of Omaha, there is now a product that will help give parents some peace of mind—the Baby Vida Oxygen Monitor.

Mollie & Jeff Evans with their children Tatum (1), Talia & Tinley (5), and Tanner (8)

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by VALERIE WALL ACE-CAMP 52 |

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OUR kids

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When her oldest of four children, Tanner, was born, Mollie was prepared for everything except the realization that if he stopped breathing in his sleep, she would have no idea what it sounded like. The only oxygen and heart rate monitors available were very expensive devices used by medical professionals.

She approached Jeff, who had experience developing products and bringing them to the marketplace, and discussed her desire to develop a home oxygen monitor.

“This idea was born out of Mollie’s love for our children,” Jeff said. “But once we realized how important it was, we wanted to make it a real product available to moms and dads throughout the world.” Once Mollie started talking to other parents about the product, she J U LY 2 0 1 5

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realized the concern regarding a baby’s breathing was universal. Hearing other parent’s stories became the motivator to continue to develop and perfect their product, which took two and half years to complete.

The Baby Vida Oxygen Monitor is a small device that gently wraps around the back of a baby’s foot and covered with a soft, comfortable support sock to keep the monitor in place, which can be worn alone or underneath infant socks or footed sleepwear. The device uses pulse oximetry to constantly monitor the baby’s oxygen level and heart rate.

Sophisticated algorithms produce accurate readings while taking into consideration sudden movements and normal

baby behaviors.

The monitor connects to any IOS or Android smart phone or tablet via Bluetooth, and using the free Baby Vida app, parents can select predetermined ranges based on the baby’s age, anywhere from one day to one year old. Should the child’s oxygen level or heart rate fall outside of the ranges, the smart device will flash red and sound an alarm through the Baby Vida app.

If it sounds like a high tech, complicated product to develop, Mollie and Jeff will tell you it was. In July 2012 they went on a worldwide search for electronic and mechanical engineers to help them with initial concepts. Then they teamed up with Communications

Systems Solutions out of Lincoln, NE, who was able to use new technology to get more accurate readings from the monitor. “We spent thousands of hours testing to ensure proper readings,” Jeff said.

Then in February 2014 they held a focus group. At that time the monitor was handheld and looked like an alarm clock. Although it worked well, parents said they didn’t want to have to carry it around and would rather have it app based right on their smart phone or tablet. “It was going to be an expensive change, but we knew we had to listen to them,” Jeff said. “So went to work with our team developing an app and syncing it to the monitor. When we held J U LY 2 0 1 5

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clinical trials, it was so accurate and worked so well, it blew our expectations out of the water.”

Once the product was viable, they worked with local and regional companies to manufacture it. Omaha Graphic Designer Anna Chappell created the logo and packaging for Baby Vida, which will be available in Wal-Mart stores nationwide beginning July 15th.

Mollie will begin traveling around the country promoting Baby Vida and telling their story, including appearances on national daytime shows. “With four children, I know babies, and I know what parents want,” she said. “This is something that should be used for every baby, every time they sleep.”

Now that they have brought Baby Vida to life, they’re ready to begin the next stage of their mission. “We knew if we could get the product to work, then we wanted to get it in the hands of every mom and dad out there, which is why we did it,” Jeff said. “The foundation for this product was built on love, and that’s what enabled it to happen.”

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