Edge Magazine June 2023

ASSISTED LIVING, & MEMORY CARE

UPSCALE SENIOR LIVING IN OMAHA

Your adventure continues here! Ovation is for older adults who wish to maintain the freedom they love while having assistance where needed. Our goal at Ovation Heartwood Preserve is to support an active adult lifestyle by promoting health, fitness, and relaxation.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

◊ No buy-in – unique in senior living!

◊ Month-to-month rent

◊ First-class concierge services

◊ Multiple in-house restaurants

◊ Fitness center with warm water pool and spa tub

MEMORY CARE BASED ON CONNECTIONS

◊ Connections program featuring music, art, and more

◊ NEW female-only memory care neighborhood, Meadowlark

Independent Living coming soon! Ask about being added to our waiting list.

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 Summer

is my favorite season—heat and humidity are easily managed by throwing on a baseball hat and escaping to the nearest pool or lake. Omaha is an entertainment destination accompanied by limitless food and drink options to match any occasion. June and July are prime months for sports, which befits this issue’s cover story. Gary Green, owner of the Omaha Storm Chasers and Union Omaha, has infused his love of sports into these local teams. He recognizes the impact they have on the community and strives to become a game changer for local youth and their families.

If you enjoy spending time outdoors but need some help sprucing up your yard, Jay Moore Landscaping can help with all your needs. His attention to detail will help ensure you have the perfect paver patio, retaining wall, or privacy landscaping to enjoy well into the next season.

There’s nothing better than a delicious summer breakfast or lunch on the patio complete with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice (with or without champagne!) Lula B’s in downtown Omaha is an ideal spot with an ideal staff that has a comprehensive food and drink menu that will keep you coming back all summer long. For evening cocktails downtown, go back in time to a modern take on a 1920s speakeasy, Anna’s Place. This issue is packed with additional informative, inspiring articles spotlighting local youth, businesses, and individuals making a difference for their customers and for our community. These include David Stevens with Stevens Capital Partners, Molly Billings with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, Darcie Zauha with House of Colour, and Andrew and Isaac Sorrows with Sorrows Family Barn. When you’re out and about this summer, make a point to stop in, connect with them, and spread some sunshine their way.

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

Cover photo by Omaha Headshot Company

Pictured left to right: Nick Loftin, Gary Green, Luis Gil

Boys Town is SUCCESSFUL FUTURES

The transition from high school to adulthood is daunting, even for those that have a family to support them. Imagine being a child with no place to go. Boys Town is changing that.

Be a part of the solution that gives kids the skills to be successful on their own out in the world. DONATE TO THE MISSION TODAY!

JUNE 2023

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

MANAGING EDITOR

Gabby Hellbusch

(402) 320-7080 // Gabby@EdgeMagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

DESIGNERS

Quentin Lueninghoener

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

Ben Vankat Ben@HanscomPark.com

PHOTO STAFF

Christopher Tierney Photography

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Omaha Headshot Company

(402) 677-3096

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

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CONTACT US

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Edge is published bi-monthly. Content copyright © 2023 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

FUNCTIONALITY flawless d

esigning a custom home with functionality in mind made perfect sense for homeowners Mike and Krystle Joneson. Ultimately, it was a decision that would make their everyday life easier so they could focus on what’s most important to them: their family.

The Jonesons began their custom build project in 2019 after remodeling their previous home and realizing they needed more space

to accommodate their household. After a thorough hunt for the ideal location, the Jonesons chose a oneacre lot in Indian Creek Estates to put down their roots. “It’s a beautiful neighborhood in the Elkhorn school district, which was very important to us, and we loved that it was a little off the beaten path but still had so many amenities close to us,” Mike Joneson said. “It’s not overly busy, and we loved the feel of the area.”

STORY BY GABBY

HELLBUSCH

PHOTOS BY JOE BRAUN

For the design and build, they enlisted a long-time family friend who owned a home building and commercial construction company. The process was seamless and took a little over eight months to accomplish. Owned by Joneson and fellow business partners Scott Butcher and Mike Brown, Hardscape Contractors—a one-stop company specializing in outdoor living spaces and landscaping— completed the natural stone veneer on the house, as well as the paver driveway and outdoor living areas.

From the outside, the home exudes southern charm that was inspired by the homeowners’ own love story. “We were married in Savannah, Georgia, and we have always been drawn to the south and southern-style homes,” Joneson said. “That’s why we had to incorporate a big wraparound front porch.”

From the barn wood paver patio equipped with a fireplace and plumbed for an outdoor kitchen to the expan-

GRAND LIVING AREA

sive lawn with newly planted trees for privacy, the Jonesons created a picture of serenity in the backyard. “We love to be outside with our kids, have friends over by the fire, and just enjoy being outdoors,” Joneson said. “Having a large— and flat—backyard was so important to us for outdoor activities and entertaining.”

Indoors, Joneson described the home as “timeless,” as the details were carefully selected to last. Joneson credited his wife for the interior design while his focus was primarily on the exterior elements. Throughout designing their four-bedroom four-bathroom craftsman home, function was key. “We wanted each space to be usable,” Joneson said. The large pantry in the kitchen was a must to store household necessities. Additionally, the

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custom white cabinets that stretch to the ceiling and the large island offer extra space for tucking away items.

The Jonesons also chose 10-foot ceilings and natural wood floors with the intent to create an open and inviting environment. The focal point of the living room is a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with built-in cabinets and shelves on each side for added storage. The beamed ceiling complements the room by adding character, and the oversized windows with views of the backyard allow ample light to fill the space. Over the years, the Jonesons have enjoyed certain elements of their home—like the convenience of the Jack and Jill bathroom for their young children and the large his and her walk-in closet off the master bath complete with custom cabinets, an island, and makeup station.

As function was always at the heart of the home’s plans, garage space was an important factor. “A lot of people forget that when you’re building you should plan for the future and keep garage space in mind, as you use that space for tools, cars, toys, and a lot of other items,” Joneson said. “That’s why we decided on a four-car garage with 1,400 square feet of space.” The basement was unfinished by design to give their young children a play space, but now construction plans are included for the new homebuyers should they wish to finish the lower level.

As the family moves on to the next home in their journey, Joneson recalled the many good times they had doing the simple things they love—like hosting barbecues for friends, spending time outside with their children, and creating memories with family during the holiday season. “We want the next homeowners to continue what we started building,” Joneson said. “We want them to enjoy the backyard, raise their kids here, and maybe add the outdoor kitchen that I didn’t have a chance to do. We really hope they use and enjoy it the way that our family did.”

For more information, or to schedule a private showing, contact Andrea Oster, realtor at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Ambassador Real Estate, at 402699-4687 or andrea.oster@bhhsamb. com.

FOUR-CAR GARAGE

PRIVATE OUTDOOR PATIO WITH FIREPLACE

COZY FRONT PORCH

Union Omaha players greeting fans

one means

Story by NICOLE BUNTGEN

Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY and courtesy of UNION OMAHA and OMAHA STORM CHASERS

Two minor league teams’ missions to create cultural experiences in Omaha

the crack of a bat hitting a baseball and the smell of hotdogs and peanuts bring fond memories of days spent at the ballpark for sports owner Gary Green. His childhood consisted of family trips to Shea Stadium to cheer on Tug McGraw—his former neighbor and pitcher for the New York Mets who he dubbed as “one of the greatest and most interesting Mets of all time.” Green’s early experiences at the stadium ignited his love for the sport, which led the businessman to eventually own three minor league baseball teams, and, most importantly, one baseball and one soccer team in Omaha.

Green recalled his first meeting with Warren Buffett in 2012 to discuss ownership of the Omaha Storm Chasers—a Minor League Baseball team that is the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. After a 90-minute conversation about their shared love for baseball, Buffett agreed to sell him the team. “He was testing my love for baseball and making sure I had that passion and understood the game that he loved as well,” Green said. With their first press conference approaching, Green asked Buffett for an introduction as the new owner of the team, but he was quickly cut off. “You may own the team on paper, but this team belongs to Omaha,” Buffett said. Green immersed himself in the Midwest’s culture, and Buffett welcomed him to Omaha with open arms. “I felt right at home and that my career kickstarted again because I was with like-minded people,” Green said. “I knew this is where I wanted to be and belonged.”

Seven years after stepping into the baseball business, Green expanded his ownership into soccer and

created Union Omaha—the only professional soccer team in Nebraska and winners of the 2021 United Soccer League (USL) League One Championship. Between two Omaha sports teams and one shared stadium at Werner Park, Green took a deeper look at soccer and what it meant in Omaha. For Green, the team’s mission extends beyond simply filling seats in a stadium—it is to build the sports and entertainment industries, attract young people to Omaha, and create experiences and lasting memories.

“Young people gravitate toward professional soccer—it’s a communal environment where they’re all in it together and they love it,” Green said. “This is something different that young people can connect to, and I feel like there’s a need for that in Omaha.”

Green recognizes that a new stadium dedicated to soccer has to happen. And it doesn’t stop with Union Omaha. Starting a women’s team, building more youth opportunities, keeping and attracting young people, and tackling diversity make up the mission’s core purpose. “Having a soccer-specific

Storm Chasers players with young fans

stadium and a men’s team that is one level below the MLS has the ability to change the Omaha entertainment landscape for a long period of time.” Green continued, “Having a professional division one women’s team that has the top players in the world would allow Omaha to have its first major league team since the NBA Omaha Kings in 1975. That’s really exciting.”

Green believes a primary driver to keeping Generation Z and Millennials in Omaha as well as attracting new talent is cultural experiences. Green said, “A new stadium will help Omaha retain professionals, create a diverse environment, and attract and keep young people. Now that I understand what soccer means both nationally and in Omaha, I’ve never

Top: Storm Chasers 2013 Triple-A National Championship trophy presentation

Bottom: Union Omaha 2021 championship celebration

had more conviction.”

Green credits other local sports such as Nebraska football and Creighton basketball for creating exceptional sports experiences. “Soccer is the fastest growing game in the world. We [Union Omaha] and the major league women’s soccer team want to put our flag in the ground and have our place as two more of the great Omaha sports teams.”

The mission extends to the Chasers in a similar realm, and Green attributes this to his childhood memories at Mets games. At the major league level, Green said two owners he looks up to are Jon Ledecky of the New York Islanders and Steve Cohen of the Mets. Often found high-fiving fans or out on center field, Green said he admires how they treat fans like family so they feel more involved. He said he always keeps this mentality in mind as he walks around at games. Legendary baseball owner Bill Veeck once said, “In baseball, the people with the most knowledge are usually the

people sitting furthest from the field.” At Chasers games, Green attempts to go to the farthest reaches of the stadium to talk to fans, “And then we’ll talk baseball for half an hour.”

For Green, conversations with fans and his praise toward his major league role models play a vital role in how he views the baseball industry. When speaking to his staff, he recognizes their impact beyond collecting tickets and selling merchandise. “There’s no other job where they have the ability to create memories for families for the rest of their lives, especially because with baseball we can’t control what happens on the field,” he said. “We’re not in the baseball business—we’re in the memory-making business.”

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant disruption to sporting events worldwide. Although the Owls and Chasers seasons were over, Green looked for other ways to add value to the community. “We had to pivot from a baseball

and soccer team to an organization that was there to help the community.” Some of these efforts included both organizations donating 500,000 masks to city hospitals, and hosting socially-distanced fireworks shows where people stayed in their cars. “We told ourselves that we’re not a sports team right now, we are a community organization and the community needs us.”

Growing the Omaha sports and entertainment industries means creating experiences, opportunities, and powerful memories that will last a lifetime. The importance of a new soccer stadium represents more than a designated home for the Owls—it will give fans that family-feel connection to ownership that sports teams strive to create. How does Green feel to be a part of two teams on a mission to enrich Omaha’s cultural experiences? “I feel incredibly lucky to have the chance to make a difference in such an amazing city. The opportunity is tremendous and it will be amazing.”

Union Omaha and Omaha Storm Chasers owner Gary Green

Photo by Omaha Headshot Company

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO EMPLOYEE WELLNESS

Gratitude, faith, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) helped Molly Billings, director of HR operations at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE), through the loss of her mom in September of 2022.

When her mom passed away, Billings immediately reached out to the EAP offered to BCBSNE employees. The program offers short-term counseling at no cost to employees going through difficult life events. Gratitude and writing daily affirmations were skills Billings learned during the 11 years she spent at Creighton University before coming to BCBSNE. “Grief is a tough subject, but thinking and writing down the moments I’m grateful for helps,” Billings said.

In addition to using BCBSNE’s EAP and the skills she learned while at Creighton, Billings credits her faith and

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR

Photos courtesy of BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA

Molly Billings

three pillars of well-being in helping her through the loss of her mom and keeping her on a path to better mental health. “The foundation of my well-being is my faith,” says Billings. “Beyond my foundation, I focus on nutrition, sleep, and movement.”

Guiding Billings and other BCBSNE employees are five pillars that make up the company’s wellness program: physical, financial, career, community, and emotional. These pillars kept Team Blue engaged and active during COVID-19 and continue to promote health and wellness in a hybrid work environment. “With so many employees working from home, we use Microsoft’s SharePoint to keep communication flowing and the Vitality app to promote fitness and host

a variety of classes on mental health,” Billings said.

Vitality is a health resource BCBSNE offers to employees. The platform encourages users to log their physical activity to earn points toward rewards like gift cards and smart watches. In addition, Vitality can assess a user’s mental well-being and suggest classes or resources within the platform to help them grow.

“I love being at BCBSNE and watching as we embrace how the world is changing and use new technologies to help our employees and our customers,” Billings said. “We try and think about the whole person and not just the person we see at work.” Work-life balance is an important part of the culture at BCBSNE. “I

know that if an email comes through at night, I can leave it until the next day,” Billings said. “We want people to come to BCBSNE and stay because they know we value them as a person.”

A holistic approach to well-being is key to a happy and productive workforce, and BCBSNE continues to prioritize wellness regardless of work location.

Vitality Health is an independent company providing workplace wellness services for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

CONDUCT YOUR DAYS YOUR WAY AT SYMPHONY POINTE

Elkhorn’s newest senior living community will help local seniors live life in harmony. Symphony Pointe will house 70 independent living suites and 52 assisted living apartments, as well as room for 30 individuals seeking memory care. This community opens this August and will be an amenity-rich, yet comfortable home.

The minority owner and managing partner on the project is Agemark Senior Living. Headquartered in Omaha, the company owns and/or manages 29 senior living communities—five of which are located in the Omaha metro area. Agemark has served seniors since 1987 and is one of the nation’s most trusted senior living providers.

Life at Symphony Pointe will include fun, life-enriching activities and outings, delicious food and resort-style amenities. Part of Agemark’s philosophy is to ensure that residents are living ful-

ly and vibrantly, and with that in mind, the community will offer opportunities that address physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social wellness. Participation is always the resident’s choice.

Amenities: Symphony Pointe’s indoor amenities allow residents to sip, snack and play in style. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Amenities include:

• Indoor pool & hot tub

• Expansive fitness area

• Restaurant-style dining & grab-andgo meals

• Game room with pool, shuffleboard & poker tables

• Fully-stocked bar to enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine

• Multipurpose activity spaces

• Living rooms that make the community feel like home

Residents also have many options for enjoying the outdoors, including many pet-friendly areas:

• Beautiful courtyard & patio with chaise lounges

• Outdoor kitchen with a grill station

• Pickleball & bocce ball courts

• Walking paths that surround the community

Community members also benefit from underground parking, an on-site concierge, free local transportation, and on-site storage units.

Apartments: Independent living apartments include full kitchens with large islands, decks or balconies, and plenty of storage. Floor plans range from one-bedroom, one-bathroom to deluxe two-bedroom, two-bathroom options with more than 1,200 square feet of space. In assisted living, smaller options like studios and one-bedrooms and larger options like two-bedroom and two-bedroom deluxe allow residents to have as little or as much space as they need and desire. Woodwinds Memory Care at Symphony Pointe offers primarily private rooms with inroom bathrooms, but also four companion suites set up Jack-and-Jill style with shared restrooms.

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR

Photos courtesy of SYMPHONY POINTE

Move-in special: More than 50 individuals have already reserved their space at Symphony Pointe. By placing a deposit early, these founding community members are benefitting from exclusive move-in perks—including a waiver of the community fee, a free month of base rent, a two-year base rate lock, moving expenses paid up to $1,000 with a preferred moving provider and first choice on apartment selection, underground parking spots, and storage units. This special offer will only last until the community is officially open in August.

Symphony Pointe’s General Manager is Katrina Ondracek and the Senior Living Sales Consultant is Terri Morrow. Ondracek and Morrow currently work out of a temporary leasing office located at the building site on the southwest corner of 192nd and Harney Street. Model apartment tours and appointments are available by calling 402-502-8577 or visiting SymphonyPointe.com.

Pack smart & still be stylish

Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re limited to a carry-on bag. However, with a bit of planning and smart packing techniques, you can pack for seven days of outfits in a carry-on bag and look amazing! Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently for your next trip.

• Choose your neutral. It could be black, white, navy, camel, or another neutral. Then choose a top, bottom, and a topper in this color to start, such as a jean jacket.

• Choose two more bottoms, three more tops, and one more topper that coordinate with your neutral. Don’t be afraid to choose patterns, but keep patterns to either 1 top and 1 bottom, 2 tops, or 2 bottoms. Choose pieces in your style that you feel great wearing.

• Mix and match these 9 items. You could get up to 36 different outfits with these pieces! Ladies, add a dress that works with your toppers, and you’ve got three more outfits.

• Packing cubes help organize your items and keep everything compact, maximizing space in your bag.

• Rolling your clothes instead of folding helps reduce wrinkles and takes up less

space.

• Pack versatile shoes—a casual shoe and a dressier shoe in your chosen neutral, plus a tennis shoe if you plan to sightsee. Stick to just these shoes. Consider wearing your bulkiest shoes on the plane to save space in your bag.

• If you exercise during your vacation, don’t forget 2 sets of workout wear and your shoes. They can air out or be washed as needed. Or you may forego the workout for a margarita!

• Accessories change up your outfits and add variety to your looks. Plus, jewelry doesn’t take up much space in your bag.

Knowing your best neutrals is the key to a cohesive wardrobe, and you can discover them through a color analysis with anyone from our House of Colour team. You can also learn the cuts and styles of clothing that fit your body architecture and are authentic to you. That makes shopping, packing, and simply getting dressed each day easy and even fun.

Packing for seven days of outfits in a carry-on bag requires some planning and smart packing techniques. Knowing the colors and styles that suit you best makes it easy.

Darcie Zauha of House of Colour West Omaha

Experiences Worth Sharing

Dine in our private or semi-private rooms with pre-set menus tailored to your needs. Each room offers WiFi and an array of audio visual amenities.

Our dedicated Private Dining Coordinator will handcraft your experience for a memorable celebration.

Scan the QR Code for room details, menus, and to connect with our Private Dining Coordinator.

inside out bring the

Jay Moore Landscaping creates your dream outdoor living space

Story by KATHY RYGG

there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting in the serenity of your own outdoor space. Maybe you surround yourself with evergreens for privacy, colorful flowers that attract butterflies, or a fire feature for evening ambiance. Designing the perfect space requires planning, expertise, and quality work, and Jay Moore Landscaping brings all three to each custom project.

Jay Moore was born into landscaping. His parents started Moore’s Landscaping & Nursery in 1961. Moore spent summers, weekends, and after school working with his family, and it was a way of life he truly loved.

Photos courtesy of JAY MOORE LANDSCAPING

Jay Moore

Photo by Christopher Tierney Photography

In 2005 he decided to spin off and started Jay Moore Landscaping. The main differentiator between the two family businesses is that Moore’s has a retail garden shop and Jay Moore doesn’t. “I didn’t want to do retail—just focus on design, build, install, and maintenance,” Moore explained.

That strategy has served his company well, establishing Jay Moore Landscaping as a leader in landscape renovation, paver patios, retaining walls, fire and water features, and outdoor drainage and water problems. Whether it’s an elaborate outdoor design surrounding a home or planting a few bushes, Moore said it never feels like work. “Planting flowers is fun, and it puts homeowners in a good mood. They’re investing in something they enjoy, as opposed to spending money on repairs.”

Moore takes pride in several areas of his business: materials, labor, and customer service. He has an acre and a half on site for his nursery and sources much of his plant materials from colder climates such as South Dakota, northern Illinois, Minnesota, and Oregon. Plants from warmer climates are less expensive, but they don’t fare as well in Nebraska’s colder climate. “We can have 100-degree temperature swing during the year, so plant material has to be tough,” Moore said.

Because of the state’s harsh winters, homeowners want to get the most out of the shortened growing season—the most color for the least amount of maintenance. Moore said new hybridized breeds of hydrangeas are becoming popular for their colors and extended bloom times. Dwarf butterfly bushes and dwarf hibiscus are also customer favorites and have replaced shrub roses, which tend to fall victim to Japanese beetles every summer.

Moore’s favorite plant material are evergreen trees because

PAVER PATIO

PAVER WALKWAY

they provide color and privacy yearround. “People are building bigger houses on smaller lots and spending more time outdoors, so if your neighbor’s house is close, evergreens make great privacy screens,” he said. Because of their popularity, evergreens can be challenging to source, but Moore does whatever he can to ensure he has them when needed.

Patio pavers and retaining walls are another area where Moore keeps up to date on materials. With new colors and options coming available all the time, he works closely with Watkins Concrete Block Company in Omaha. Customers can peruse options at Watkins, but once they’ve made a selection, Moore takes samples to the home to ensure the homeowner is happy with the color once they see it next to their home. Moore also installs rooftop suspended paver patios on buildings, which allow for a proper invisible drainage system and have become popular, especially in the downtown area.

Labor shortages have been an issue with many industries as of late,

but Moore said that has subsided for landscaping. He has a core crew that has been with him for 25 years and has had to turn down seasonal labor because his workforce is full. His philosophy is to pay workers well and have them work fewer hours in the day. “They have families and other interests, and they perform better when they only have to work until 3pm and then have the rest of the day open.”

When it comes to customer service, Moore’s outlook is simple: if someone is unhappy, he corrects it at no charge. “Everyone drops the ball, it’s a matter of how you pick it up. I try to correct issues as fast as I can.” Mistakes are infrequent because Moore is so hands-on with every project. He meets with the customer, designs the plan himself, presents the plan, paints bed lines, flags tree locations, and oversees the project. “I want to be involved in all the initial work so the customer is happy,” he said. That might include having the homeowner sit in their “spot” on the patio so Jay knows exactly where to put trees for privacy,

or placing patio furniture to ensure the space is large enough.

Taking a homeowner’s lifestyle into account is a key aspect to the design of the outdoor space. Customers who have a modern style inside their home will prefer angular flower beds, black mulch, and ornamental grasses. Homeowners with a more traditional taste probably prefer curved beds and a variety of color.

“The inside of the home has to match the outside,” Moore said No matter the project, Moore said landscaping doesn’t have to be complicated, and the cost is worth it, adding value to your home over time. “As plants and trees grow, they add value every year. Paver patios are more expensive than concrete, but pavers will last much longer, so it’s a better investment.”

Whether you want to spruce up your outdoor living space or turn it into a low maintenance, long-term private oasis, Jay Moore Landscaping can help extend your indoor living space outside for yearround enjoyment.

STONE RETAINING WALL

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 typesof dementia. Schedule

“I made the right choice for my parents AND for

in the heart of bustling, revived downtown Omaha is a convivial brunch beacon where fun hasn’t been forgotten. A place where airline workers, tourists, and locals alike revel in shared experiences over scratch-made, southern-influenced bites and beverages at Lula B’s.

The restaurant opened just before the Olympic Swim Trials in early June 2021—general manager Alyssa Roach joked that the grand opening was a literal case of “sink or swim.” During that time, bar manager Taylor Arensberg joined the close-knit staff as a server, quickly working her way up to her current position under Roach’s guidance.

Story

by ANNA HARTMAN

Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

areweekendmornings for mimosas

As a journalism and business marketing student, Arensberg combines her studies with her job, collaborating with Roach on social media presence and posts as well as developing popular seasonal drink menus. Arensberg is proud of the friendships forged and the inclusive environment fostered at Lula B’s, noting, “Customers are more relaxed because staff turnover is extremely low, and we get along well, displaying great chemistry.”

The new bar manager is grateful to Roach for her constant mentorship and presence. “I’ve learned so much from Aly, the way she interacts with customers and builds relationships with regulars.” Roach’s management philosophy is effective but simple, “I treat staff how I want

TAJIN BLOODY MARY

to be treated.” She also attributes uncharacteristically low turnover and strong camaraderie to the downtown location, declaring it an exciting place to be with new developments such as Steelhouse Omaha and Kiewit Luminarium attracting a fresh crop of visitors to the area.

The two-year-old eatery seats over 200, including 65 in a rentable party room and 40 on the covered patio. Weekend brunch service is especially busy, but staff works together to keep things running smoothly and maintain an energetic atmosphere. Though weekends are physically and mentally taxing, Arensberg thrives under pressure knowing that if she needs a moment or a breather, the entire staff is there to turn to for help or support.

Dishes such as the Smoked Chipotle

West Gate Bank Has An Account For Everyone

Turkey Club have been staples since the start (Arensberg counts the spicy sandwich as one of her favorites), but kitchen staff is constantly striving to freshen and improve menu and drink offerings, switching things up every few months to jibe with traditional seasonal flavors.

Located in the thriving Capitol District, Lula B’s is currently open 7am – 2pm weekdays and 7am – 3pm weekends, during which time patrons can indulge in either breakfast or lunch menus. Bottomless mimosas, including the popular Magnum Mimosas (a magnum of champagne accompanied by mix and match juices), are served 10am – 2pm Saturday and Sunday, and drink specials are creative, fancy, and fun.

According to Arensberg, service is typically fast, and breakfast items such as the Strawberry French Toast and the

GROWN UP CHOCOLATE CHIP PANCAKES

Grownup Chocolate Chip Pancakes are solid crowd pleasers.

Highlighting and working with local businesses is important to Roach and her team. To wit, their well vodka and gin are crafted at local Old Market distillery and brewery Brickway. “When people ask, it’s nice to tell them it’s local,” shared Arensberg.

Bartenders craft their own Bloody Mary mix, starting with a base of tomato juice and Zing Zang, enhanced with “I’ll never tell” spices. The sought-after brunch cocktail is garnished with pickle, pepperoncini, pepper jack cheese, and an olive, which Arensberg said pairs perfectly with the Avocado Egg Toast.

The Tequila Mockingbird is a play on a spicy margarita featuring jalape-

no-infused tequila, and for those palates unaccustomed to strong alcohol flavors, Arensberg recommends the light and refreshing Strawberry Fields, a spiked strawberry lemonade that pairs well with spicier dishes such as Shrimp Tacos.

Along with a well-curated selection of wines, the bar serves local beers such as Kros Strain’s Fairy Nectar and Infusion’s Vanilla Bean Blonde. For brunch-goers who prefer something caffeinated, the team offers an expansive menu of boozy coffee additions.

According to Roach, the Spring Fling drink menu features botanical focused, herbaceous, spritzy libations perfect for outdoor sipping on the patio—a summertime spot ideal for couples or groups who want to catch up over a variety of

SMOKED CHIPOTLE TURKEY CLUB WITH TATER TOTS

TAYLOR ARENSBERG

shared bites and drinks on balmy summer mornings.

Fans attending special events such as the College World Series will find an outdoor bar and more grab-and-go items for early games this year. “We are one of the only spots open for food and drink at 7am, so we get a lot of repeat customers,” explained Roach. In addition, the team is pleased to provide a list of staff recommendations for nearby businesses to all visitors.

Roach and Arensberg, along with the entire dedicated staff, are grateful for the chance to inject a bit of sunshine into the days of their diners. “We love seeing people from nearby events and look forward to seeing familiar faces.”

SHRIMP TACOS

Anna’s Place 1802 Dodge St. (inside Hotel Indigo) facebook.com/ annasplaceomaha

Pour into lowball glass

Garnish with dried apple slice

DELIGHTING

clients

when he borrowed his dad’s suit for a job interview over 20 years ago, David Stevens never imagined it would lead to the launch and meteoric growth of his Omaha-based SEC Wealth Management firm Stevens Capital Partners (formerly known as Purposeful Wealth).

As a 19-year-old in borrowed clothes (“Bell bottoms, fit for somebody 50 pounds heavier”), Stevens was following the lead of two college friends and thought he was interviewing for a mail room job at stock brokerage TD Ameritrade. In a twist unsurprising to his current clients, he scored so high on a

Story by ANDY WILLIAMS

Photos courtesy of STEVENS CAPITAL PARTNERS

quantitative analysis exam that Stevens was whisked right past the mail room to become the youngest in a training class full of MBAs and retired military personnel. Stevens later graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and accomplished his series 7 and series 66 as well. “That started my journey into investing and financial advising,” Stevens said of his first job, fielding client and investor services calls. “I latched onto it and loved it from the first day.”

Stevens’ journey, which includes raising four children with his wife, was a 20-year career at TD Ameritrade where he worked in all major divisions of the firm and became the top consultant in the nation out of 800 associates. That experience inspired him to conduct business differently if he were ever to start his own Registered Investment Advisor firm. He used the insight he gained from working with more than 100 investment advisory companies to establish Stevens Capital Partners. “I created a firm that took the best of what everyone did well,” said Stevens, who has earned the highest

designation in the industry as a Certified Financial Planner practitioner. “I wanted to provide deeper care, better financial planning, and more dynamic investment options. I have always been relentless about client service and going above and beyond.”

One of the biggest gaps Stevens said he’s seen, from a client’s perspective, is that most advisors portray a lack of care by doing more talking than listening. “I start every conversation with, ‘I view this as a 30-year partnership,’ and I sincerely mean that. We guide each family, creating a comprehensive financial plan based

upon their qualitative and quantitative personal goals. To further our impact, our firm maintains a 10% pledge, where 10% of net profits go to charitable causes such as health care for low-income families and fighting human trafficking.”

That philosophy is working, as the firm focuses on its core services of financial planning, investment management, and estate planning for individuals, families, businesses, and non-profits. Since transitioning in November 2020—in the heart of the COVID-19 outbreak—his business has doubled in size through organic growth and has a 99% retention rate. The company grew by 36% in 2022 during a down-market.

“At the end of the day, our top priority is exceeding our client’s expectations,” Stevens said. “Our vision is to partner with each family, guiding them beyond success into true legacy. We will continue to provide excellent service that positively impacts industry standards. This, beyond all else, is what sets us apart.”

David Stevens

FARM TO TABLE family

When 12-year-old Andrew Sorrows and his 11-year-old brother Isaac started their microgreens business—Sorrows Family Barn—in February 2022, they had so much work ahead of them. First, they researched how to grow product. Then they needed a greenhouse, so they created a business plan. They learned about input costs, fixed costs, and how to use Microsoft Excel. They applied for and received youth loans from the USDA for $5,000 each. They had to sign so many documents, it was like getting a mortgage. All that work has paid off as they have a budding business and loyal customers.

Edge: Why did you decide to start the business?

Andrew: We have a restaurant named A Catered Affair just down the road from us. They were buying microgreens shipped from California. By the time the microgreens got to them, they did not last for long in the fridge since a lot of time was spent on the truck. We decided to be a local source so they have a longer time to work with the ingredients.

Isaac: I also thought it was cool to have a business at a young age.

Edge: What do you sell and is it yearround?

Edge: Who do you sell to?

Isaac: Right now, we sell to A Catered Affair, Au Courant, and V. Mertz. We talk to the chefs about their recipes and what they need.

Edge: What is the process to grow the microgreens?

Andrew: We prep the trays on Sunday by filling them with soil made from ground up coconut shells—it’s environmentally friendly. We plant the trays on Mondays.

Isaac: I weigh the seeds on a scale and use a recycled parmesan cheese container to sprinkle them onto the trays.

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photos

by

OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY

Andrew: We sell microgreens yearround. We grow and sell vegetables like tomatoes that are purple, yellow, or striped. We also grow and sell cut flowers. Since we hope to sell these yearround, we built a greenhouse.

Andrew: Microgreens don’t need sunlight to grow. We put weights on the trays because it helps crack open the seeds. After seven days we harvest and package them. I drew the logo we use on the stickers we put on the packages.

Edge: How do you transport the microgreens and veggies?

Andrew: We put them in the trunk of our car. A Catered Affair has a really big freezer, so they ask for the actual trays that we use. When we travel downtown, we put the plastic containers into a cooler. They stay cool for hours.

Edge: What’s the biggest challenge with running your own business?

Isaac: Planting enough microgreens to have enough product and making sure that I put the right amount of seeds on the trays.

Andrew: Working with my brother and arguing over things. We have two different personalities and that makes us fight once in a while. I’m outdoorsy and I like to fish and hunt, and Isaac plays with his friends on his PC indoors.

Edge: What are your future plans for the company?

Isaac: Try to grow and sell more variety of products year-round with our greenhouse.

Andrew: Also selling sweet corn and green beans to have more products to choose from.

Edge: Of everything you grow, which are your favorite to eat? Are there any you don’t like?

Andrew: My favorite microgreens are sunflowers, popcorn

microgreen shoots, and peas. My least favorite is nasturtium because it tastes like wasabi and is really hot.

Isaac: My favorites to eat are radish, peas, sunflowers, and sometimes I like to dip the sunflower shoots in chocolate (so healthy!). My least favorite are basil and sorrel.

Edge: Why should other fifth and sixth graders start their own businesses?

Andrew: For later in life. You get money for college, and you learn more about your passion. It also helps you learn communication skills.

Andrew Sorrows

BUILDING CHARACTER ON THE COURT

JJ Ferrin | Graduated Senior | Skutt Catholic High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Skutt Catholic High School senior JJ Ferrin has had a ball in his hand ever since he could walk. Even his first word was “ball.” He’s been playing basketball on an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) select team since third grade (playing in a fourth-grade league). “Summer, winter, and spring was always basketball,” he said. “Our family vacations in the summer were always for basketball tourna-

ments with my select teams. I’ve been on travel and select teams all my life. I have had some of my best life experiences because of basketball.”

A few of Ferrin’s favorite memories include playing on the Omaha Sports Academy (OSA) Platinum National team during third through fifth grade. “We played some of the best teams across the country and even played a game against

Lebron James’ son, Bronny. We are all the same age. We also took home trophies for All-State in Nebraska and the NY2LA tournament. In fifth grade, our team placed fourth in an AAU Nationals tournament of about 85 teams.”

Although he’s had a successful basketball career, it wasn’t always smooth sailing. “I didn’t make the top team going into middle school. It was a major

disappointment to me then, but it also opened up the opportunity to play for a different AAU team, and there I met some of my best friends that I still have today. I feel like it was a ‘blessing in disguise’ now that I look back at those days, from where I am today. The coaching and leadership lessons I have learned have already made me into a better ball player and a better person. My parents always tell me that adversity builds character, and I see what they mean. I honestly don’t know where I would be today, if those obstacles didn’t lead me down a different path.”

Ferrin said winning the state championship in his senior year with his Skutt team was an unforgettable experience, “Especially after ending last year as state runner-up, which was such a disappointing end to my junior season. Using last year’s loss as a motivator really helped us to focus on what we wanted to accomplish this year. We met our goal, and the championship win this year made it all worth it. I’m just glad we could end my high school career with the state trophy. I’m so proud of that.”

Skutt boys basketball Head Coach Kyle Jurgens said, “JJ is one of the hardest working athletes I’ve ever coached. When it comes to working on their game, very few players in the history of our program have ever put in the number of hours that JJ has. He loves his teammates and is always willing to sacrifice for the group.”

Ferrin will play basketball for Wayne State College on a full-ride scholarship this fall. “I love their high intensity, fast paced offense style of play,” he said. “They have a great coach, and I’m really looking forward to being a valuable asset

to this team. I’m going into college with an open mind. I want to focus on things coming up and trust in God to lead me down the right path. I’m excited for what my future will hold. I know I’m going to love it.”

He will undoubtedly miss being around his family when he leaves for college, including his younger brother Cale, who has a disability. “I am proud to say that I have worked really hard to set a good example for him,” Ferrin said. “He has been through so much, both medically and emotionally, and I admire his strength. He has endured over twenty-seven surgeries and has three life-threatening diagnoses. I feel that I was meant to be born first so I can be a good role model for him and guide him to always know that he is so loved and

appreciated. I have helped him learn to walk, dress, feed and even shoot a basketball.”

Ferrin continued, “I feel that having him as my brother has really helped me learn what true character means. My brother has taught me more about what is important in life than anything else I have experienced. I believe that has made me be more patient and kind, and to share these attributes with others around me. Both of my siblings mean the world to me. My little sister Anna loves playing basketball because she wants to be like me. We love to play basketball outside on the hoop in our driveway. It’s going to be hard to leave them when I move away to college. I know they look up to me, and I will always try to show them how much they mean to me.”

Hot Truck Summer Hot Truck Summer

Hot Truck Summer Hot Truck Summer

BAR.

BAR.

Meet our newest members to the Maven family.

Maven.Bar cocktail truck & Via Farina’s mobile wood fired oven.

Now Booking Spring & Summer Events

Meet our newest members to the Maven family.

Maven.Bar cocktail truck & Via Farina’s mobile wood fired oven.

www.Maven.Bar

Now Booking Spring & Summer Events

www.Maven.Bar

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