Edge Magazine June 2024

Senior Lifestyle

◊

◊

◊

◊

◊

◊

REACH US

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

LETTER from the EDITOR Taking care

of each other and our communities has been more important than ever, especially after April’s devastating tornadoes. We all know someone who was impacted, and the outreach of help and support was moving and uplifting. This issue of Edge celebrates that spirit of caring for one another.

Our cover story features Stephanie Grade, regional vice president of operations for Ovation Heartwood Preserve. She learned at a young age from her grandmother the art of hospitality. She embodies a passion for connecting with people and has helped Ovation set a new standard for the senior living industry.

Union Bank & Trust is this issue’s Community feature, chosen for its commitment to giving back. Employees are encouraged to bring opportunities for volunteering talent and treasure and then choose from an approved list to make an impact through those opportunities, helping make dreams come true for many.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is another company dedicated to philanthropy. In April, the organization launched its Nebraska Blue Foundation, which is dedicated to initiatives and programs that help improve the well-being of Nebraskans across the state.

Caring for customers through an exceptional experience is at the heart of our Food feature—the newly opened Mahogany Prime Steakhouse—and our My Two Cents feature—locally owned Square Donut. Make a point to visit both this summer, and then cool off with a craft cocktail from Barroco Wine Bar. Enjoy the beginning of summer and please continue to take care of one another.

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

Cover photo by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY

Discover BOYS TOWN!

true American treasure

There’s a square mile in Nebraska where miracles of the heart happen every day –where children and families find healing and hope for a brighter future.

At the Village of Boys Town, we welcome more than 100,000 visitors from across the United States every year. Experience Father Flanagan’s vision for changing the way America cares for children, families and communities at world-famous Boys Town today!

Hall of History Museum

Dowd Chapel

Historic Father Flanagan House

World's Largest Ball of Stamps

PUBLISHER AND OWNER

Carole Sprunk (402) 587-2259 // Carole@EdgeMagazine.com

CO-OWNER

Michael Meyer (402) 517-0350 // Michael@EdgeMagazine.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Kathy Rygg (402) 490-3213 // Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER / ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

Kasie Wilcox (402) 957-8780 // Kasie@EdgeMagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicole Buntgen, Anna Hartman, Shelly Nosbisch, Mike Watkins and Andy Williams

DESIGNERS

Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // Quentin@HanscomPark.com

Ben Vankat

Ben@HanscomPark.com

PHOTO STAFF

Christopher Tierney Photography (402) 350-5699

Omaha Headshot Company (402) 677-3096

CONTACT US

P: (402) 587-2259

Carole@EdgeMagazine.com PO Box 620 Elkhorn, NE 68022 Edge is published bi-monthly. Content copyright © 2024 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, Carole Sprunk. 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, PO Box 620, Elkhorn, NE 68022

Ashley Hedden

Nikaela Schroeder

Darcie Zauha

Kirsten Hilt

Ashley Bundy

SOPHISTICATION STRIKING

In the serene, tree-lined neighborhood of Country Club Oaks, an unparalleled experience awaits. Built in 2023, the 6,500-square-foot home exudes luxury from its marble-wrapped exterior to its abundant and bold interior. As a new build, the home is sure to be one of Omaha’s most exclusive finds with bold architectural elements that are truly one-of-a-kind.

STORY BY NICOLE BUNTGEN

PHOTOS BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

It was the original owner’s dream to build her future house, and for six years, she did. However, she decided to sell the property at the drywall stage. This led Michael Maley, realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate, to purchase the property.

“There was a ton of potential when we walked through it,” Maley said. “It just looked super sad and lonely.” He knew the property offered significant potential for future development or expansion.

For two years, Maley dedicated himself to home renovations with plans to sell the finished home to friends. Due to the project’s rising costs, he switched gears and built a spec home, which came with its own set of challenges. “With a $3 million spec, everything must be perfect,” he said. “It’s not like you’re flipping a regular house. If there’s a scratch on the

floor or the paint isn’t perfect, that will be an issue. People can be discerning about small things because nobody has to buy a home like this, but it adds a lot of pressure, which can cause delays in projects.”

Appearances can be deceiving, particularly when it comes to the home’s exterior. The blend of rectangular shapes and angular roof lines may seem disjointed, but the interior reveals the home’s geometric design and its harmony of creative elements that link each area.

Maley reassures that despite the exterior’s unique appearance, the interior flows perfectly and seamlessly.

Sleek and sophisticated, the modern home meshes warm vibes with rich walnut woods to showcase the cleanest lines amid its impeccable design features. Many renovations—like swapping finish-

FIREPLACE FOCAL POINT

PRIMARY SUITE

es, moving fireplace locations, and installing soaring ceilings— lifted the previous stark design to create the extravagant home it is today. Maley said the completely reimagined interior was worth the wait to get things perfect, leaving no detail missed and ensuring the right buyer would come along.

The $3 million home is a haven of luxury, featuring oversized custom windows that offer breathtaking views of nature. The home is a sight to behold, inviting exploring of each spacious room and its features. Whether it’s hosting lavish dinner parties in the chef’s kitchen (complete with exotic quartz and endless amounts of storage), unwinding in the primary bedroom’s attached spa-like bathroom, or enjoying a quiet read in the main floor’s library (featuring custom built-ins and a private guest suite), the home is a treasure of priceless features.

A trip down the custom spiral staircase welcomes you to the lower level, adorned with 20-foot ceilings. One may kick back at the private bar or hang out in the additional recreational room complete with billiards and overflowing amounts of space. Despite the home’s abundant entertainment options, the private decks and connected patios offer havens for quiet gathering spaces.

Beyond the square footage, the highend home appeals to the most discerning buyers. “The finishes are unseen in Omaha,” Maley said. “It is very well thought out in terms of the floor plan.” Those who appreciate artwork and design may also make great use of the plentiful space, creating endless opportunities to make this house a home.

Maley acknowledges that the house may not be desirable to everyone, but he believes its quality is unparalleled. “It’s fun to look at what it’s turned into over two years,” he said. “You’ll probably never see a house like this again. It’s beyond a house. Someone is buying a piece of art.”

For more information or to schedule a private showing, contact Michael Maley, realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate, at 402-981-7400 or Michael.Maley@ bhhsamb.com.

CREATING connections

Stephanie Grade with Ovation makes memorable moments for seniors

If Grandma Margaret could see Stephanie Grade now—living out her calling and life purpose to serve people and still applying lessons learned from when she was a little girl, tagging along at events her grandmother hosted at a Lincoln-area country club.

As regional vice president of operations for Ovation senior living communities and the leader of Omaha’s Heartwood Preserve senior living community, a day doesn’t pass before Grade thinks about something she saw her grandmother do when she was “touching tables”—a hospitality industry term for working the room, checking on every guest at every table and anticipating their needs during an event.

Story by ANDY WILLIAMS

Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY

Stephanie Grade with Ovation

“She would pay me with Andes mints when I worked with her, and I still love them to this day,” said Grade, who learned at Margaret’s side when big bands and big dinner dances were all the rage.

“She had this way of lighting up a room and finding that little something to make the night more fun and brighter. She would enliven a space, and I loved how she knew everybody and knew their stories. It was interesting to see how she connected with people, and I enjoyed that energy.”

Grade took that life experience and learned to “give a smile” at Iowa State University, where she switched early in her college career from microbiology to an immersive hospitality program where she worked as a banquet server and head waitress. That background served Grade well as she launched her post-graduate career in banquets and events management with John Q. Hammons Hotels and Resorts, at one time the largest full-service hotel developer in the U.S. with well-known brand names such as the Holiday Inn, Embassy Suites, Marriott, Radisson, and Sheraton. Over the next 15 years, Grade rose up the ranks of management in hotels and conference centers in Topeka, Kansas, LaVista,

Nebraska, and Little Rock, Arkansas, before becoming general manager of the Embassy Suites and DoubleTree hotels in downtown Omaha.

Grade became a regional opener, launching new locations like the expansive Embassy Suites complex in LaVista. She stayed at Embassy Suites to oversee all events and catering in the complex’s two hotels and conference center—and learned many more valuable lessons along the way. “In that opening environment, you had to get the people right, and you had to prepare everyone for the realities of an opening environment and its instability,” said Grade, who grew up in Crete, Nebraska. “You learn how to frame it to be a positive experience. Giving realistic expectations and creating a culture that thrives on engaging in change. I always give the example that ‘the spoon will be in the right drawer today, but tomorrow it’s going to be in the left drawer, and the next day it’s going to be back in the right drawer.’

It was all about helping teams navigate an opening environment, because openings are managed chaos.”

As much as she thrived in the pace and change of the hospitality industry, Grade’s leadership in launching a career program for young adults with

Ovation resident and staff making May Day baskets

Ovation residents taking an art class

Ovation Executive Chef Matt Ruttle

disabilities highlighted a missing element in her evolving career journey. “That gave me a first taste of purpose aligning with my work, and hotels weren’t fully filling my bucket from a values perspective,” Grade said. So, when she met with leaders at Avamere Living about developing and running luxury senior living communities, Grade found the place where her deep service background and skills found the perfect match for her passion for a purpose-driven career.

Grade opened the first Ovation Heartwood Preserve building in Omaha in 2019 and has overseen the growth of the campus that will add a new independent living community this summer. “I saw the move as an opportunity to align my personal passions with my profession,” said Grade, whose daughter Elaina was four at the time of the transition. “More than anything, I wanted my daughter to be proud of me and see me truly making a difference.” That’s because when Grade and her staff impact a customer now, it’s for more than night or two. “With senior

Lorraine’s Kitchen at Ovation

living, you’re not having this momentary experience with somebody,” Grade said. “You have an opportunity to truly enhance someone’s final chapters and to ensure those chapters are amazing.”

Amazing is how Grade describes Heartwood Preserve’s new independent living experience that will soon join Ovation’s assisted living and memory care communities. The level of amenities at the senior living community near Omaha’s Boys Town is every bit as resort-like as Grade’s 4-star hotels. The 148 apartments and two penthouses are “smart” apartments that have been designed based on cutting-edge research in senior living and include an IT concierge onsite.

The new senior living community also touts resort amenities such as underground parking, a pool and spa, movement studio and fitness center, onsite exercise physiologist and physical therapy, a theater, golf simulator, two outdoor kitchens, and a robust life enrichment program. “We are bringing

another perspective to the industry and bringing a level of service that hasn’t been here before,” Grade said. “We’re not playing Bingo here. We’re taking the experience to a valet level everywhere.”

That’s especially true in one of Grade’s sweet spots—food service. Ovation Heartwood Preserve will launch three new open-to-the-public restaurants, including a coffee shop by day/lounge by night and a finer dining restaurant with a private dining room and special wine wall designed for wine tastings. The dining options—which are four times the size of the national average in live-in communities—promise to deliver the same quality of dining experience as Ovation Heartwood Preserve’s current restaurant that brings in $150,000 of revenue from outside guests.

“That means my residents are having more family visitors and it makes the community more robust,” said Grade, noting another lesson learned from visiting Grandma Margaret in her assisted living

Ovation resident and staff

Ovation residents engaging in life enrichment programs

Tribute to Ovation’s founder’s grandmother, Lorraine Miller

community and not even considering staying for the food. “It makes it more fun and inviting and our residents are happier because of it. Here, we see people coming purposely to join Mom and Dad for steak night. It gives it a vibrancy and a connection that I don’t see in other communities. It’s really cool to see someone come on their lunch break to have lunch with Mom.”

Grade’s leadership has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Connie award (named after Conrad Hilton) for #1 hotel in the world for Embassy Suites three consecutive years, Ovation’s Sales Support Leader of the Year in 2022, Ovation’s Nicolete Leadership award in 2023, and a nomination for the 2023 Inspire: Visionary Award – Celebrating Women’s Achievements, which honors women who excel in their industries and contribute to the betterment of their communities.

Great leaders have great support, and Grade is quick to recognize those around her. “My husband, Shane, has supported

me and my career for over 20 years,” she said. “He has walked alongside me in every endeavor, encouraging me. My teams have been successful in creating change and navigating complex challenges. I am known for building strong cultures, embodied by one of my catch phrases, ‘Executing with Excellence.’ I’m proud of what we’ve done—that people can feel the love when they walk in our building.”

Grade has no doubt that all of this would put a huge smile on Grandma Margaret’s face—building high-performing, values-driven teams and life-changing experiences for seniors who are living out the sunset of their lives. “I think she would be proud,” Grade said. “I think she would think it’s amazing that I am where I am. I think she would find it pretty cool that the spunky little girl who had the pigtails with the haphazardly cut bangs is spearheading a division in a company and really trying to make a difference just like she did.”

Stephanie Grade and the Ovation leadership team

Ovation resident

MOHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE

Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through October 15

refreshed ELEGANCE

for over 20 years, Mahogany Prime Steakhouse has played an integral part in celebrations for Omaha residents and travelers who delight in stellar service, prime beef, bold cabernets, and decadent desserts. After a great run on the north side of Dodge Street, the Mahogany Prime Steakhouse ownership and management team determined it was time to expand, refresh, and renovate.

Recently ensconced in the new mixed-use development Heartwood Preserve, the restaurant is now helmed by executive manager Andrew Roy, a seasoned hospitality professional, certified sommelier, and award-winning bartender who started as a dishwasher and worked his way up the ladder. Roy attended college in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and soon found his way to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to be near his wife’s family. But fewer than five years after moving, the restaurant group needed help opening the refreshed restaurant in Omaha.

Mahogany area partner Jake Regier and executive manager Andrew Roy

Story by ANNA HARTMAN • Photos courtesy of MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE

Christopher Tierney Photography

Roy is grateful for the career opportunities available at Hal Smith. “Amy VanTuyl, the General Manager in Tulsa, took me under her wing and encouraged me to do this.” The hospitality professional continues to learn and grow, becoming more adept at the business side while maintaining his thirst for advanced wine knowledge. A Certified Sommelier since 2014, he next has his sights set on achieving the Advanced Sommelier certification.

According to Roy, the original location was not designed as a Mahogany, so when the opportunity to build from the ground up arose, the restaurant group was eager to expand the kitchen, add more space and flexibility for large groups, and improve staff and diner flow. Seemingly trivial concepts like an area to

BAR CHIPS

COWBOY RIBEYE WITH LOBSTER

compose a drink in front of a guest at the bar, adding a unisex family restroom, and additional private dining added up to big improvements.

The elegant décor of the establishment complements the cuisine in the new space, which features dark coffered ceilings, dazzling chandeliers, and abstract art adorning the walls. A copy of Wine Spectator graces the host stand, which lies between the captivating glass-walled, climate-controlled wine cellar and the main entrance.

Mahogany is an upscale steakhouse, so quality beef is the star of the show, but diners can also indulge in quality seafood, chicken, or vegetable-laden pasta dishes. Executive chef Brad Johnson, located in the Oklahoma headquarters, develops and dis-

seminates featured seasonal dishes in addition to the static menu.

Starters such as the succulent cocktail shrimp, lobster cargot, or crispy onion ring tower whet the appetites of diners, and the classic caprese salad combination of tomatoes, basil, fresh mozzarella and balsamic vinegar provide a platform for garden produce to shine. Custom-aged U.S. Prime midwestern beef cuts comprise the steak menu, and varied sides, sauces, and accoutrements encourage diners to create their own flavor profile to satisfy their palates.

The beverage program is what you’d expect to find at a classic steakhouse—whiskies, craft cocktails, and red wines such as big, bold Napa cabernets, Bordeaux blends, or global Pinot Noirs.

Dr. Zach Kucera

CAPRESE SALAD

FILET WITH CRAB

CARROT CAKE

OLD FASHIONED WITH STAMPED ICE

Christopher Tierney Photography

Christopher Tierney Photography

Craft cocktail menus are changed seasonally, always including a nonalcoholic version. To wit, the current menu features the Cranberry Sauce whereas the mocktail version’s moniker is Cranberry No Sauce.

The restaurant features a total of six seating areas, including four that can be set apart by walls or sliding doors to foster private dining experiences, including one area that seats up to 40.

The semi-private room adjacent to the bar area is also available by reservation, and according to Roy, is a popular and lively space for celebrations of any kind. “We strive to offer the best product at best price, taking steps to ensure guests are comfortable and happy with their dining experience,” Roy summarized.

In addition to providing an impeccable dining experience, the team plans to continue their involvement in community impact projects, with a particular focus on those that involve children or those in need. Follow Mahogany Prime Steakhouse for the most recent information regarding future wine dinners and special events.

SHRIMP COCKTAIL

FILET WITH LOBSTER

THE BAR: Barroco Wine Bar

THE BARTENDER: Shana

THE DRINK: Dragonfly

Dare to be square

I enjoy being creative. Whether it’s interior design, refinishing antiques, or art, I enjoy putting a special spin on things and challenging tradition. Our donuts are no different, just a different medium we use for creative expression. From custom designs to the donut of the month series, we have so much fun pushing the envelope with designs and new flavors and textures. I’m so grateful to Omaha and our customers for allowing me to embrace my strengths and use my imagination to make our donuts not only taste good, but look good as well.

Across all my businesses, hospitality is at the core of everything I do as an entrepreneur. It’s important that customers feel heard, seen, and valued, and these are the principles deeply ingrained in Square Donut’s daily operations. Not only do the customers recognize this, but our staff understands the importance of hospitality in how we train our team and

the lengths we take to ensure customer satisfaction. Rather than customers hear a monologue of donut options and prices, we have a dialogue between our team and the customer. There’s hospitality, and then there’s Square Donut hospitality— the difference is our customers leave with not only donuts but an experience.

Yet, hospitality and creativity alone wouldn’t sustain Square Donut without the cornerstone of our success: the quality of our donuts. It would be easy to pre-make and freeze the dough, but we’d sacrifice taste in the process. Instead, we make batches from scratch every day, meaning there are only a few short hours between when the donut is finished and when the customer takes a bite. Quality ingredients are important but so are the techniques and processes used from the time the dough is mixed, to the decoration table, to the case. We pride ourselves in making soft, pillowy donuts and this is thanks to the attention to detail and technical skills of our bakers. Even the shape of the donut itself is important— you get four more bites of a square donut than you do a round donut. That’s about 27% more product the customer is receiving and 27% more of our delectable donuts.

Elizabeth Pooley, owner of Square Donut

Marking Milestones for Health

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR

As Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) celebrates its 85th anniversary in 2024, the health insurance company’s president and CEO celebrates a milestone of his own: One year of service. Jeff Russell joined BCBSNE in June of 2023, becoming part of the company’s rich legacy of being there for Nebraskans along their health journeys and taking the lead in mapping out how BCBSNE will support its members and communities in the decades to come.

Russell’s approach? Ensuring BCBSNE remains true to its roots while widening the aperture of what it means to support the health of Nebraskans. “For 85 years, our promise has been to be there when our members need us when they access the health care system,” Russell said.

“I hope to only access the health care system a few days a year. How can we

Packing hygiene kits with the Nebraska Blue Foundation

support members the rest of the year, helping them live their best and healthiest lives? That’s our opportunity and our responsibility as a company.”

The launch of the Nebraska Blue Foundation in April reflects BCBSNE’s commitment to championing the health of its members and the communities it serves through new avenues. The foundation powers BCBSNE’s philanthropic initiatives and supports programs improving the well-being of Nebraskans and the economic vitality of the state.

“As our name makes clear, we are ‘of Nebraska,’” Russell said. “Our customers and employees have lived, worked, and made memories here for generations.

The Nebraska Blue Foundation builds on our legacy of supporting the communities we serve and will play an important role in our next chapter as it expands our capacity to be there for Nebraskans.”

The foundation has made two inaugural gifts, a $75,000 donation for workforce pipeline programming and community health navigation at the Community Wellness Collaborative, and a $200,000 donation for the completion of the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Building on the University of Nebraska at

Kearney’s campus.

“These donations reflect the two parts of our state, rural and urban,” Russell said. “Our gift to the Collaborative will help address emerging community health needs in addition to funding health care scholarships. We recognize the need for more health care providers in rural parts of the state and are proud to support the building of this new facility on the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s campus.”

Relationships will also play a key role in BCBSNE’s next chapter. For Russell, that includes building strong relationships with the company’s employees. “We’re in the relationship business,” he said. “It’s important that I have strong relationships with our teams so that I can support the relationships they have with our customers.”

Reflecting on his first year, Russell is most proud of seeing employees live the company’s new mission of championing health and well-being. “We could not continue to be there for Nebraskans without the time, dedication, and commitment of everyone on Team Blue. Our employees are part of BCBSNE’s legacy and are helping shape our history for years to come.”

Jay Warren-Teamer and Jeff Russell with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska

Welcome home at Lynbrook

It’s no secret that it’s becoming more and more expensive to buy and own a home these days. Insurance premiums are rising as continued inflation continues to impact the cost of goods and supplies related to building and rebuilding. A solution to this is renting with the feeling of buying with Lynbrook Townhomes in Elkhorn.

Each residence—apartment and/ or townhome—offers the amenities of homeownership without the costs and responsibilities associated with it. And unlike a condo, there are no homeown-

ers association fees and all maintenance services are included.

“Renting gives people more flexibility and less responsibility (than buying),” said Marketing Director Mike Culver. “Lynbrook Townhomes offer some of the largest for-rent townhomes in the greater Omaha area, ranging from 1,856 to 2093 square feet. “Each townhome also includes a partially finished basement, some with a walk-out patio. We offer a two-bedroom ranch-style floorplan, along with a two-bedroom/two-story and three-bedroom floorplan.”

Story by MIKE WATKINS

Photos courtesy of LYNBROOK TOWNHOMES

Lynbrook townhome

Lynbrook properties in Elkhorn, Nebraska

But the apartments and townhomes at Lynbrook Townhomes provide respite for more than just those not yet in the home buying market. From people looking for a temporary place to stay while their dream home is being built to young families looking for a neighborhood-type setting to folks looking to move on from home ownership without sacrificing square footage, Lynbrook is a comfortable option.

“You will not find anything larger, in terms of square footage, than what we offer at Lynbrook Townhomes,” Culver said. “The partially finished basements were a big thing we considered when constructing the layout for the townhomes. We also include an attached 2-car garage with every townhome, adding to the ‘home’ feeling of the community.”

As Elkhorn continues to expand, Lynbrook Townhomes provide easy access to West Dodge Road or 204th Street from its 19910 Lake Plaza location. In addition to apartment homes and townhomes, residents at Lynbrook Townhomes have access to a pool, fitness center, and an Amazon Hub for pack-

age pickup—all included in the rent.

Another standout feature of Lynbrook homes is the use of smart technology and automation where residents can remotely control, monitor, and manage all their smart home devices using one app. “We can’t wait to see how residents take advantage of the energy and money-saving features that smart home automation provides,” Culver added.

Using the mobile app will allow residents to connect the app to voice assistants, like Amazon Alexa devices, or Google Home, and form an ecosystem of smart devices including the addition of in-home cameras, smart plugs, and smart light bulbs. Residents can also remotely lock or unlock their doors using the app or use their provided door code.

“Residents will be able to create temporary codes for family and guests, as well as easily update keyless credentials from the app within seconds,” Culver said. “You’ll never have to worry about losing your keys or letting a guest into your home again.”

Visit www.lynbrookapartments.com for floor plans, virtual property tours and other leasing information.

Lynbrook apartments

BUILDING CONNECTION THROUGH CONVERSATION

Seventeen-year-old Peter Rygg grew up listening to the stories of his grandfathers, Donald Sattem, age 82, and Lester Rygg, age 99. Both served in the military— Rygg in the Navy during World War II, and Sattem in the Airforce during the Vietnam war. Their conversations created important connections for Rygg and his grandfathers and inspired him to create a way for other veterans to share their stories. After helping with landscaping at Saint Augustine’s of Canterbury Hitchcock Memorial Garden in Elkhorn, Nebraska, Rygg decided that adding two outdoor benches in the garden’s prayer walk would serve as the perfect location for such conversations—and the “Visit with a Veteran” project was born.

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY

Peter Rygg

Edge: What are you hoping to create with these benches?

Rygg: I want to create an outlet for veterans to share their experiences with anybody in the community. I am also hoping to create a safe space for anyone to share stories and connect with one another through conversation. I want these benches to be a place where anyone can just express their thoughts and share stories to anyone who wants to listen because conversation is a great, healthy way to express oneself.

Edge: What are your plans for fundraising?

Rygg: Fundraising is already underway and includes donations made directly St. Augustine’s where the benches will be placed, asking friends and family to donate and spread the word, an online fundraising page where people can donate, as well as social media pages (Facebook and Instagram) that give up-to-date information about the project under the name “Visit with a Veteran.”

Edge: What is the timeline for the project?

Rygg: Fundraising will continue until August 1st, and then I will purchase and install the benches in early fall. I’m also planning a dedication ceremony on Sunday, Nov. 10th, and encourage anyone from the community to attend.

Edge: Two of your grandfathers were veterans. How did they impact your life?

New weather-proof benches will be purchased and installed with funds raised

Nancy, Daughter of CountryHouse resident

Nancy’s parents recently moved into CountryHouse and right away she appreciated the homelike atmosphere and welcoming community. If she has any questions or her parents need accommodations, Nancy knows she can count on the expert staff.

“I feel comfortable and at ease knowing that the staff is caring for my folks with fun, helpfulness, compassion, understanding and expertise.”

Discover care exclusively designed for those with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.

Schedule a tour of one of our Omaha Metro CountryHouse communities!

Rygg: I’m grateful both of my grandfathers are still living. They have both greatly impacted my life. Every time I visit them, they always have some wisdom to impart on me that makes me realize and wonder how they were so tough and resilient while they were growing up and how they can live such a peaceful life today.

Edge: What have you learned about yourself through working on this project?

Rygg: I have learned that I am dedicated and disciplined while working on something that matters to me. I have also developed good time management and sense of responsibility because if I do not do

something for this project then it won’t get done.

Edge: What is your vision for the project? How do you see people interacting on the benches?

Rygg: My vision for this project is that the benches will become a generational landmark. I hope they will be there for decades to recognize our veterans. I see hundreds of people using them to admire the garden and connect with each other through conversation. If even one life is changed, then the benches were more than worth it.

To learn more about the Visit with a Veteran community project, visit givebutter.com/VWV.

Saint Augustine’s Canterbury Hitchcock Memorial Garden in Elkhorn, Nebraska

ENHANCE

IMPROVE

RELIEVE

MINIMAL

MAKING DREAMS

as Omaha Community Relations Coordinator with Union Bank & Trust (UBT), Darbi Warden enjoys a great many things about her job—namely learning about nonprofits in the community. “It amazes me how many nonprofits are out there and the work they do is very important but may not get noticed as they should,” she said. “It makes you wish you had endless funds to support all of them.”

Giving back to the community often by supporting nonprofits and their various causes is an integral part of the UBT mission. As the gatekeeper and presenter of nonprofit sponsorship requests that come to the Omaha management team—of which Tom Weinandt is marketing president—Warden enjoys the opportunity to talk to individuals to learn more about how nonprofits impact the community and align with UBT’s pillars of giving.

By MIKE WATKINS

Photos courtesy of UNION BANK & TRUST

Bags of Fun Group Volunteer Opportunity: Alissa Derby, Cameron Dixon, Lindsey Richardson, Chase Krueger, LuAnne Stang, Assenet Claussen, Caleb Kirchhoff, Brent Frahm, Darbi Warden, and Tom Weinandt

come true

“At UBT, we have an annual community involvement calendar that I put together for our Omaha team,” said Warden, who’s been with UBT for 17 years. “It consists of multiple opportunities to volunteer and give back. Employees are also allowed to choose what nonprofit matters most to them and volunteer their time and talents for a couple of these opportunities. I love hearing about new organizations from employees and the nonprofits they are passionate about.”

Warden said UBT has an Omaha Management Committee that votes on events to support. The committee is made of Omaha’s Senior Management. Bank-wide focus includes community betterment and education while the Omaha team has an additional focus on youth.

Weinandt said focusing on organizations that enhance and contribute to the

societal and cultural improvement of the community ensures growth and sustainability within each community UBT serves. “Education is key to an economically sound and growing community,” said Weinandt, who has been with the bank for 15 years. “Our Omaha area’s commitment to youth development is rooted in the belief that we need to cultivate and develop our youth because they represent the future of our ever-growing community.”

Warden continued, “They will be our leaders and innovators, so it’s up to organizations like ours to provide them with the tools they need to flourish and succeed—for the betterment of the community as a whole. There are several factors that play into the decision-making process. We look for organizations that match our pillars of giving and/or have

Tom Weinandt and Darbi Warden

ABOVE: Food sorting volunteer opportunity at Food Bank of the Heartland

Back row: Forrest Newburg, Ray Grace, Michael Morong, Rachel Morong, Darbi Warden, Lisa Nelson, Carrie Weiler. Front row: Trisha Scherer, Mackenzie Warden, and Logan Starre

employees/customers that are directly involved in the organization.”

Weinandt enjoys being part of the team that helps make dreams that make the community better and stronger. “It is very rewarding to attend our approved events and see their impact right here in our community,” he said. “Our core value is caring about each other, our customers, and the communities we serve.”

One way they accomplish this is through the UBT Community Involvement Program. The program is designed to give associates the opportunity to contribute their time, talent, and treasure to causes that matter most in the communities where we live, work, pray, and play.

One example of UBT’s community im-

pact is through Project Linus, which provides a sense of comfort to children who are seriously ill or traumatized through the gift of new, handmade blankets, crafted by employee volunteer “blanketeers.”

Other collective volunteer opportunities include working with Ronald McDonald House Charities, Carolyn Scott Rainbow House, Habitat for Humanity, and Bags of Fun Omaha, to name a few.

“One never knows when they may need to lean into those within their community to get through a trying time,” Warden said. “It’s a blessing to know there are many resources and people who care out there. Many times, it may be behind the scenes work but it is just as important and rewarding.”

Food sorting volunteer opportunity at Food Bank of the Heartland

Helping on a Habitat for Humanity build in North Omaha

MAXIMIZING SUCCESS

Ben Gustafson | Graduated Senior | Elkhorn South High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photo by KATHRYN GUSTAFSON

Elkhorn South High School (ESHS) graduated senior Ben Gustafson has always loved sports. His first love was basketball. Even at the tender age of two, he threw a fit when he had to leave a Husker basketball game at half time. “Apparently, it was my bed time,” he said. Football has also been a huge part of Gustafson’s life. “Being a part of the Elkhorn South football junior teams growing up and then playing for Elkhorn South High School has been awesome. All my friends go to school there, and I have played football with a lot of them since kindergarten.” He got started with football by throwing the ball around with his dad and then joining flag football early on. “Once I was big enough, my parents let me join a club tackle football team. I also played club and school basketball.”

Gustafson has been a highly sought after football college recruit. “Some of the schools that recruited me were South Dakota State University, University of Northern Iowa, University of Montana, University of South Dakota, Kansas State University, and University of Nebraska. I chose Northern Illinois University (NIU) because I really liked how the coaches talked to me and made me feel. It felt like a family I wanted to be a part of. I knew I wanted to decide before my senior year started. My mom and dad both encouraged me to do what was best for me. They may not be very excited about the distance, but they are excited to watch me play there. Once I made my decision, I posted my commitment on Twitter/X.” Gustafson plans to major in business finance or accounting at NIU.

Elkhorn South varsity football coach Guy Rosenberg believes Gustafson is an excellent player and a leader. “He’s got great feet from his basketball background. We love multi-sport athletes here at

Elkhorn South and Ben’s combo of size, athleticism, and work ethic are tough to beat. Ben really invested in the off-season and maximized his development physically during his time at ESHS. And what’s even more exciting is that his best football is ahead of him. I know that coaches at Northern Illinois can’t wait to have him on campus. With his height, long arms, athleticism, and mean streak, Ben is a prototype offensive tackle. These traits make him a great pass protector.”

Gustafson was happily surprised at the district playoff game against Millard South High School last season. It was the second time they’d played each other. “We were down 14 points starting the third quarter, then everything just started to click for us. The stadium was so loud from our fans, and we were jumping up and down cheering on the sidelines. Winning that game sent us to the state championship at Memorial Stadium.”

He is proud of how hard his high school team has worked. “All four years of my high school career, Elkhorn South made it into the district playoffs. I was so happy and excited that my senior year we made it all the way to the state finals. It wasn’t the ending we would have liked but what an experience to play in Memorial Stadium.”

Outside of varsity football, Ben stays busy. “I play intramural basketball and volleyball. My friends and I also get together and play poker, go swimming, boating, or golfing. We had to extend my golf clubs over the winter due to my height. I have vastly improved my golf game this year.”

There were some obstacles that Gustafson has had to deal with over the years. “I have had to overcome some injuries from playing basketball. I have broken my wrist, sprained an ankle badly, and broken the same foot twice. Sitting on the sidelines is not fun, but I always showed up to cheer on my teammates.” His internal drive has kept him focused. “I just like to win.”

Debbie Lentz NMLS ID #536955

Mike Fosdick NMLS ID #422481

Evan Soneson

Malinie Staben NMLS ID #536957

LuAnne Stang NMLS ID #1382203

Brent Frahm NMLS ID #422443