Edge Magazine February 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

M A G A Z I N E

DR. ZACH KUCERA: GIVING PEOPLE A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE

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LETTER from the EDITOR

We

finally made it to 2021! I hope your year is off to a healthy, happy start. A new year always brings a host of possibilities, and although we’re not quite back to “normal,” it finally feels in sight. Small businesses, non-profit organizations, and especially restaurants still need us right now, and nothing brings our team greater joy than sharing their stories.

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

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Health and wellness are top of mind this time of year, and we have two inspiring businesses dedicated to helping with your journey.

Dr. Zach Kucera with Kucera Chiropractic in Elkhorn fought through physical adversity as a college athlete, which led him to a career as a chiropractor. His personal approach to care focuses on helping people get back to doing what they love.

Sommer and Ryan Hahn are the owners of Omaha’s first Smart Fitness Studio, The Exercise Coach. Now with two locations in town, they use computerized equipment to help you gain strength in an efficient way that is safe for all ages.

Spring is right around the corner, and now is the time to plan your outdoor living space improvements. Deckorators specializes in composite decking—including a mineral-based composite product—that offers unique benefits and a cost-effective solution to traditional wood decks.

Omahans love their food and drinks, and two newer, locally-owned establishments that are must-tries include Meatball in West Omaha and Edge of the Universe in Benson. Give these places some love this Valentine’s month!

Finally, be sure to read our Varsity Corner and Youth feature articles. The kids in this community never cease to amaze me! Thank you for continuing to be loyal readers and supporters of Edge so we can keep sharing these important stories.

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

“It’s because of Boys Town that we have hope.”

— PAISLEE’S FATHER, JOHN STAHL

Boys Town Pediatric Neuroscience

IS CHANGING LIVES When 18-month old Paislee went from a spunky toddler to slumped in a chair, her father knew it was time to see a specialist.

Fortunately for Paislee, Boys Town Pediatric Neuroscience is here for the children of Omaha and its surrounding areas. Paislee was quickly diagnosed with the rare neuromuscular disease Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a life-threatening genetic condition that causes muscle weakness and deterioration.

2012-387-01

Dr. Shaguna Mathur promptly went to work getting Boys Town National Research Hospital® certified to administer a life-saving medication for SMA. Early intervention gave Paislee back much of her mobility and allowed her to be a kid again.

For more about Paislee’s life-threatening disease and her heart-warming recovery, visit boystownhospital.org/paislee or use your phone to skip straight to Paislee’s story.

FEBRUARY 2021

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V O L U M E

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I S S U E

FEBRUARY 2021

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M A G A Z I N E

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 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anna Hartman, Gabby Hellbusch and Shelly Nosbisch DESIGNERS Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // Quentin@HanscomPark.com Ben Vankat Ben@HanscomPark.com PHOTO STAFF Christopher Tierney Photography (402) 350-5699 Designing Impressions Photography (402) 321-3928 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Nicole Buntgen (402) 367-2526 // Nicole@EdgeMagazine.com Gabby Hellbusch (402) 320-7080 // Gabby@EdgeMagazine.com ACCOUNT SERVICES Liz Rease (402) 639-6622 // Liz@EdgeMagazine.com CONTACT US P: (402) 587-2259 Carole@EdgeMagazine.com PO Box 620 Elkhorn, NE 68022 Edge is published bi-monthly. Content copyright © 2021 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

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World Class Vision Correction & Vision Restoration Dr. Brandon Baartman Corneal, Glaucoma, Cataract & Refractive Surgery

Cataracts • LASIK • Glaucoma • Cornea • Research To learn more, visit vancethompsonvision.com or call (402) 506-9970.

FEBRUARY 2021

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

18

OUR food

WORTH the haul

MY two cents

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50

OUR business

OUR youth

36

52

26

OUR health

VARSITY corner

44

60

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exercisecoach.com/west-omaha exercisecoach.com/central-omaha FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR home

&

CUSTOM

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CONTEMPORARY

n order to fully capture the essence of the homeowners, building a true custom home is an intricate process that involves many moving parts. For Brian Falcone, owner/builder of Falcone Homes, the overall goal is to create an experience that results in happy clients who absolutely love their homes. This was precisely the outcome for Bruce and Roxanne Southwell who recently moved into their custom-built home by Falcone Homes in October 2020.

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“It was a seamless process from our side,” said Roxanne Southwell. “Brian and his team are highly professional, very thorough, and a delight to work with. We are beyond pleased with the experience.” According to Falcone, the success of Falcone Homes, which will be celebrating its 28th anniversary in March, directly contributes to the satisfaction of clients.

“I love what I do and am very blessed to have an amazing team which has contributed to the longevity and continued success of Falcone Homes,” he said. “My Construction Manager, Jody, is a master craftsman and has skills and talents that are unmatched by others in the industry. Our Office Manager,Teia, (who we

STORY BY GABBY HELLBUSCH PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY

BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

F RO N T E N T RY

I N T E R I O R F RO N T E N T RY FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR home

WINE LOUNGE

consider our ‘boss’) keeps our projects running smoothly and wears many hats at Falcone Homes to ensure all of our clients are taken care of before, during, and after the build process.”

The most recent additions to the Falcone Homes team include both of Falcone’s sons: Landon, who is a Realtor for Falcone Homes, and Jaden, who is the Jr. Superintendent. “I am very fortunate to have two sons who are interested in the business, and I am lucky to have them work alongside me every day. I look forward to Falcone Homes becoming a second-generation company.”

This particular California modern home, which features spacious living areas, unique interior design details, as well as stunning indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces, was built to reflect the couple’s contemporary style, while also incorporating some midwestern charm.

Although expansive, the main floor is very warm and welcoming.

“The lower level, which doesn’t feel like a basement at all, is just as special,” Southwell said. “We have quite a few windows to allow as much daylight in as possible. Both our wine room and 10 |

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LOWER LEVEL REC ROOM

LOWER LEVEL KITCHEN

LOWER LEVEL LOUNGE FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR home

G R E AT R O O M

LOWER LEVEL OFFICE

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K I TC H E N / PA N T RY

K I TC H E N / H E A RT H RO O M FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR home

M A S T E R B AT H / B E D R O O M

LOWER LEVEL SIT TING ARE A /OFFICE

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C A B A N A B AT H FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR home

COVERED DECK

G R E AT R O O M / H E A RT H R O O M

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POOL/PERGOLA

my husband’s office are built with glass walls. The space is very unique, showcasing black and white quartz with gold, which is all very contemporary looking.

It has easily become one of my favorite aspects of the home because it has already become a gathering spot for the family.”

The location of this home is also rather spectacular, as it sits adjacent to the Elkhorn River Valley. The property backs to a common area with nothing between it and the river, allowing for wondrous views of the landscape. Both originally from rural communities where wildlife and scenic views were more present, the couple was attracted to the nearly one-acre lot because it felt like a piece of

their roots.

Bringing the outdoors into the home was also a very important component for the Southwells. The kitchen and great room area, which spans over 960 sq. ft. and includes a deluxe high-end kitchen with Thermador appliances, custom cabinetry, two fireplaces, and 12-foot ceilings, also features 24 feet of panoramic opening doors that lead to an incredible outdoor concrete deck.

With the doors fully open, the entertaining space grows to over 1,500 sq. ft. The concrete deck includes a 10-foot custom-built fire pit, built-in grill area with a TV, eight in-ceiling radiant heaters, and electric Phantom insect screens to totally enclose the area from pesky

insects. Additionally, the deck also overlooks a 20-foot by 45-foot pool, pergola, and outdoor grill area that includes a second custom fire pit.

“The property is meant for entertaining,” Southwell said. “We can’t wait to have our grandchildren over to swim in the pool this summer. We were also fortunate to be able to host a small wedding ceremony for our youngest son this past November. We look forward to making many more special memories while entertaining our family in our new home.”

For additional information about building a custom home, contact Brian Falcone with Falcone Homes at (402) 510-9797.

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COVER story

a second chance

d

Kucera Chiropractic helps people get a second chance at living their best life

r. Zach Kucera knows what it’s like to come back after facing adversity. During his junior year at Doane University, his baseball career came to a screeching halt after suffering a herniated disc that required emergency surgery. Told he would be limited to only daily living tasks and would never be able to golf, ski, or do the other activities he loved—including baseball—Kucera refused to accept it as fate. He sought the advice of a chiropractor, and his journey to health not only resulted in him returning to the field opening day of his junior year, but it led him to a career path of helping others achieve their goals.

After completing chiropractic school at Cleveland University in Kansas, Kucera rejoined his wife in Elkhorn (she teaches at Elkhorn South High School).

Set to open his own practice in February 2020, the pandemic put those plans on hold, which gave him the opportunity to help in other chiropractic offices.

This proved to be invaluable when he was finally able to open his doors last June. He and his office assistant, Mi-

chaela, take pride in the family-friendly environment they provide, emphasizing efficiency so that patients are seen quickly and conveniently.

There are many different chiropractic techniques, and Kucera uses one that is “gentle but specific”, utilizing the same techniques that brought him back to health. “We don’t twist and crack,” he said. “People are amazed that you can be gentle and get even better results.”

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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COVER story Providing his families with peace of mind and knowing they can trust that their loved ones will be taken care of is a priority. This is a fact that Kucera understands wholeheartedly given he has a four-year-old son at home.

“Parents comfort and trust is essential when treating our chiropractic kids,” he added.

Not only does Kucera employ gentle and relaxing technique, he provides patients with a space to relax, take a breath, and relieve some of the tension, stress, and anxiety that they face.

“When people are here, they are the only thing that matters, and my goal is to get them back to a place where they can play with their kids or grandkids, go golfing, or whatever it is they enjoy doing. We want the entire process to be as simple as possible so they can focus on healing.”

The zone method is one of the tools Kucera uses to identify areas of the body that are out of balance. There are six zones, and each point along the skull correlates to a zone and an area of the spine to address. For example, zone 4 is the digestive system, and when this zone is in balance, people may experience improved digestion, elimination of waste, and a more normal appetite.

Kucera said it’s a good way to address issues beyond just headaches and back pain that patients may not even realize they have. It’s also a good way to help children with common problems such as bed wetting or constipation.

Another tool Kucera uses in his practice is needleless acupuncture, which is a way to accelerate healing in conjunction with the gentle adjustments. There are points in the ear that correlate to common complaints patients have, and the electrotherapy from the handheld acupuncture device is used on those points to help facilitate healing. Kucera has been able to address issues such as poor sleep, infertility, migraines, back pain, as well as other chronic conditions.

For example, one of his patients complained of severe migraines. Using the prone-style gentle neck adjustments, the patient is now headache free. Another patient came into the office dragging their leg when they walked, and after a course of care, the patient now not only walks correctly, but the patient’s boss also noted he could see a change in her 20 |

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COVER story

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energy level at work as well. “In our office we see physical changes, but we see a lot of emotional changes as well,” he said. “People who come in angry and in pain transform back to the happy people they once were.”

Even if someone has tried chiropractic care before and didn’t have a good experience, Kucera encourages them to try it again because every technique is slightly different. He also believes in having a conversation without being

committed to care, so consultations are always complimentary. Only after the patient decides to move forward does Kucera perform a full exam, digital x-rays, and relief treatment with a care plan that includes the length of time to get the patient back toward the direction of health.

Believing in his patients so that they can believe in themselves is at the heart of Kucera’s philosophy. “I’m not the doctor who tells people you are limited. I’m

the optimist who says if you want to do something, let’s find a way to make that happen. We see things people would call ‘miracles’ every day, but it never surprises me. The body was meant to function a certain way, which is a different approach to looking at health. We love seeing people regain the freedom to live life on their terms. We’re here to give you a second chance, just like I was given a second chance.”

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CARE

TREAT PAIN BEFORE IT SIDELINES YOU At Kucera Chiropractic we treat the root cause of your discomfort so you can get back to what you love. kucerachiropractic.com

Contact Us today to schedule an Appointment for: • Chiropractic Adjustments • Pediatric Adjustments • Needleless Acupuncture

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MY concoction

Edge of the Universe 6070 Maple St, edgeoftheuniversebff.com

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1

5

What you need: • 2 oz apple cider • 2 oz vodka • 1 oz triple sec • Drinkable glitter

2 Combine first three ingredients in a shaker over ice

steps

Shake well

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Edge of the Universe THE BARTENDER: Rachel THE DRINK: Fairy Dust

4

5

Sprinkle the drinkable glitter into your favorite vintage glass

Strain the cocktail over the glitter into glass FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR food

MEATBALL – WEST OMAHA 18101 Chicago St. 402-502-4782

The Blackstone Meatball – West Omaha offers a whimsical way to dine

a B L A C K S TO N E B L O O DY M A RY W I T H M E AT B A L L

Meatball madness Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 26 |

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t first glance, The Blackstone Meatball - West looks much like any hip west Omaha establishment: intriguing wallpaper, contemporary furnishings, dark, jewel-toned paint, and a cozy wood bar lined with copper mule mugs.

The vibe is playful and a bit nostalgic—from the kitschy aeronautical theme (a nod to the founder’s fondness for things that fly) to diners at the adjacent table impulsively playing a competitive game of name that tune to the classic rock pouring from the speakers. Relax and smile—you are in a welcoming place.

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OUR food

TBM GRILLED CHEESE

C L A S S I C B E E F M E AT B A L L S W I T H M A R I N A R A O V E R L I N G U I N E

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FRIED COOKIE DOUGH WITH ICE CREAM

The menu follows a “build-your-own” philosophy, entreating diners to first select a style (bowl, sub, or slider), ball (beef, pork, chicken, mushroom/white bean, or chef’s special), and finally sauce (Bolognese, marinara, pesto, garlic alfredo, el diablo, or chef’s special).

An expansive chalkboard lining the south wall describes the daily special under simple headings: Ball, Sauce, and Side.

Bowls are served over sides such as risotto, pasta, creamy cauliflower, or zoodles, and the slider is served on a sweet Hawaiian roll.

Simple, solid recipes highlighting classic techniques and fresh ingredients beget dishes redolent with familiar, homey flavors.

Owner and Executive Chef Joe Rensch credits his mom for his love of food, and it shines through in the cozy plates that feature fresh quality ingredients.

An Omaha native classically trained in San Francisco, Rensch spent several years in Maui under the tutelage of famed chef James McDonald, where he honed his skills in the kitchen but also learned to navigate the ins and outs of running a restaurant.

After a brief stint in Denver, the magnetic pull of the Midwest beckoned, and Rensch returned home to helm the Meatball kitchen. “Hospitality is in my blood,” he shared, “I love to make people happy.”

The Meatball Flight features five fluffy, tender meatballs (the standard four plus the special) paired with complementary sauces on a divided wooden lazy susan. Like a classic black dress, this dish can be dressed up with a classy floral cocktail like the violet-hued Water Lily or dressed down with a crisp draught lager.

On the other end of the cocktail spectrum is the irreverent

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OUR food

M E AT B A L L F L I G H T S E R V E D W I T H C R O S T I N I A N D F R E S H R I C OT TA

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R O M E S C O P O R K M E AT B A L L S O V E R C R E A M Y C A U L I F L O W E R FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR food

P E S TO C H I C K E N M E AT B A L L S O V E R R I S OT TO

and witty Blackstone Jam, a shot of Fernet (an Italian amaro) with a Busch Light back. Pair this homage to the industry with the TBM grilled cheese with the classic trio of Havarti, provolone, and mozzarella cheeses, topped with your choice of two meatballs and sauce.

Vibrant, herbaceous pesto tops the chicken meatballs on a bed of risotto, which can be paired with white wine on tap. Gluten free? Enjoy your meatballs atop luscious cauliflower.

Not in the mood for meat? The vegetarian option is a mushroom and white bean wonder—earthy aromas with a zingy chili kick. Bar staff takes pride in the spectacular Bloody Mary, and if you’re feeling adventurous, shell out the extra couple of bucks to add a meatball. To top off the meal, consider the fried cookie dough 32 |

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ball served with ice cream and caramel sauce, topped with whipped cream.

Founder Philip Schaffart, local musician and entrepreneur, is fond of saying, “you can’t spell meatball without team!”

Staff members don crisp tees emblazoned with simple iron-on block letters that read “Meatball Crew”. The efficient, tidy kitchen is open to the dining room, contributing to the casual feel.

Despite pandemic restrictions of the past few months, Creative Director Michaela Favara is finding unique ways to promote the restaurant such as the upcoming March Meatball Madness. Easy online ordering for take away is readily available for patrons not yet ready to dine in, and reservations are accepted to ensure safe in-house dining.

Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this

year, but why not surprise your friend, partner, or family with an evening out the day after? Monday’s feature is meatball subs and Manhattan cocktails (served appropriately “up” in a coupe glass), 6 dollars each.

Community support is important to the team, making charitable giving a priority through “10% Tuesdays”, coat drives, and vocal support of neighboring establishments. Once a month, they donate 10 percent of sales to local nonprofits including Youth Emergency Services and the Ronald McDonald House.

When the weather warms, an expansive patio beckons through accordion doors, ideal for enjoying appetizers with one of the beers or wines on tap. But don’t wait until then, inject some fun into your 2021 at The Blackstone Meatball!

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WORTH THE HAUL

DOWNTOWN OMAHA’S THE FARNAM There is a metamorphosis occurring in Omaha’s downtown, and The Farnam, Omaha’s new, curated, boutique hotel, energetically connects the city’s contemporary vibe with the heartbeat of its famous Old Market historic district.

Located at 1299 Farnam Street, The Farnam will be Nebraska’s first Marriott Autograph Collection hotel and will transform part of the 15-story, all-glass Landmark Building with 120 luxurious rooms, including 24 suites, as well as more than 5,000 sq. ft. of event space. It also will feature two explosive dining concepts—Dynamite and Catalyst—offering high-end culinary and mixology experiences as well as the city’s largest outdoor terrace, where locals and travelers alike can experience the energy and heartbeat of downtown Omaha.

The Farnam gracefully blends glass and steel with local art and history. It features elegantly appointed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, locally curated art, and a concierge-trained staff that can provide guests with a VIP experience with every interaction. The property’s design will be intimately connected to its surroundings by details like industrial, railway-inspired light fixtures and carpet patterns modeled after the Missouri River and Nebraska crop fields— just a few of the carefully crafted design details that make The Farnam the most unique hotel in the city.

The Farnam is poised to become “the place to be” for those seeking modern culture and accessible luxury with a taste of history. Elegantly representative as Omaha’s luxury urban clubhouse, the Marriott Autograph Collection hotel will offer a view of the city and service no hotel has been able to offer before. The Farnam is designed to be a home base for discerning travelers and local urban tastemakers alike, and will act as a center for the visionaries, the inventors, the adventurous and the curious.

Henry Farnam, the hotel’s namesake, was a pioneer in helping develop the city of Omaha and was instrumental in constructing the transcontinental railways—a development that changed Omaha’s trajectory forever when it became the eastern terminus for Union Pacific Railroad. Like the man who came before, The Farnam will firmly anchor Omaha’s defining spirit for the enterprising and energetic, inventive and entrepreneurial.

The Farnam will open in spring 2021. You can book now at thefarnamhotelautographcollection.com.

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FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR business

Deckorators brings innovative products to the outdoor living industry

t

he home improvement industry saw a big increase last year, as people spent more time at home during the pandemic. Outdoor living as an extension of the home has become popular, especially one that can be relatively maintenance-free.

Composite decking is not new to the market, but not all composite decking is created equal. There have been some impressive advances, and one company is standing out as an industry leader.

Decks Decks & More Decks

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos courtesy of DECKORATORS 36 |

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distinguished decks

FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR business Deckorators may not be a familiar name in the composite decking industry, but the company’s products speak for themselves. What started as an aluminum spindle company for decks in 1998 is now a manufacturer in almost every category of the outdoor living experience: composite deck boards, porch floor, aluminum and cable railing, aluminum spindles, post caps, lighting, stone post covers, among other accessories.

Jeff Falke, who is a Channel Manager for Deckorators, said for the last 20 years there have been primarily two types of composite decking available in the industry: a blend of wood and plastic, and full plastic (PVC). Deckorators manufactures wood and plastic composite boards, but also has a third option that is in a category all on its own as a mineral-based composite.

Made of polypropylene plastic and ground limestone (there is no wood in it), Falke explained that it overcomes objections of PVC boards, and is superior for water and ground contact such as docks, boardwalks, and around pools.

“When the boards are wet, they have 34% more traction than any other deck board,” he said. It makes it an especially good option for any application where traction is critical.

Another unique feature of mineral composite boards is that the Voyage series comes in varied plank sizes—from 3.5” to 9.25” in width—which normally would be too heavy in traditional composite decking, but the mineral-based boards are lighter weight and provide greater stability, which makes this possible. The visual look of the plank boards is also unique, offering options that look like reclaimed wood, similar to what is popular with interior composite products.

Falke said the company has been extremely happy with the performance of the products. Callbacks—when contractors must fix issues—are a tool used to measure performance, and the percentage of callbacks on the mineral-based composite has been very good.

Deckorators also offers unique warranty.

Where other companies replace boards but do not cover the cost of labor, Deckorators offers a 25-year structural, stain and fade, as well as removal and replacement warranty (50-year structural on the mineral-based boards).

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H U S K E R D E C K A N D PAT I O

H U S K E R D E C K A N D PAT I O FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR business

We spend a lot of time listening to contractors and making adjustments to our products to ensure ease of installation.”

JEFF FALKE

Deckorators also recognizes that homeowners have different budgets, so the company offers three lines of the mineral-based composite decking: Frontier, Vault, and Voyage, with the latter being the higher-end mineral-based option. In the wood plastic composite category for 2021, Deckorators will be expanding color options to their already popular Vista line, and Falke said they’re also coming out with an entry-level product called Trailhead. “It’s for the homeowner teetering between wood versus composite.” Making the move to composite decking from all wood may seem like a big investment, but with the increase in price for treated pine or cedar, one year of routine maintenance for a wood deck pays for the difference.

Installation has not been an issue with the new products either. Falke said either screws or hidden fastener clips can be used with the decking. The bigger issue facing the industry as a whole is finding skilled laborers. “We spend a lot of time listening to contractors and making adjustments to our products to ensure ease of installation.” For example, Deckorators offers a welded panel aluminum rail so that a contractor doesn’t have to put a railing kit together.

This shortens installation time and provides the homeowner with an attractive sturdy rail.

In addition to decking, Deckorators offers porch flooring. Often used on covered front porches and on older homes, such as in areas near the city or in rural Nebraska, Deckorators porch floor is a tongue and groove product similar to a hardwood floor. It comes in three color pallettes: gray, brown, and cream, and has no gaps between boards.

It can also be used on ceilings, such as with an all-seasons porch.

If you want to replace your wood deck or upgrade your outdoor living space this spring and summer, Deckorators has multiple options at every price point. Simply have your contractor reach out to one of the local lumberyards, visit www.deckorators.com or contact Jeff Falke directly at jfalke@deckorators.com.

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H U S K E R D E C K A N D PAT I O

H U S K E R D E C K A N D PAT I O

H U S K E R D E C K A N D PAT I O FEBRUARY 2021

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OUR wealth

What is probate?

By TOSHA RAE D. HEAVICAN, SENIOR ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY, HIGHTOWER REFF LAW

Probate, at a base level, is a process used in the court system to satisfy creditors and distribute assets of a deceased person to his or her beneficiaries, either named in a Will or based on Nebraska law (if the person died without a Will). The probate process applies to probate assets. Probate assets are assets that are held or titled in the name of the deceased person only, with no beneficiaries. For example, a house owned by John Smith is a probate asset; a house owned by John and Jane Smith, as joint tenants, is not a probate asset.

In Nebraska, when a person dies, their estate is distributed through the probate process in the county where the decedent lived at the time of death.

Exceptions apply when the estate value is under $50,000.00 in tangible assets and $50,000.00 in real estate assets. At the start of an estate case, it is important to identify what assets are owned by the deceased person, how the assets are titled, and how much they are worth. By doing this, it can be determined whether a probate proceeding is necessary.

If probate is required, a petition is filed in county court. A personal representative is appointed to administer the estate, notify creditors and collect assets of the decedent. Notice of the estate is published in a local newspaper and an Inventory of the decedent’s assets is prepared. After these initial tasks are completed, the personal representative will be able to evaluate what assets are in the estate, what debts are owed, and whether all debts can be satisfied.

Once creditors, taxes and administrative costs are satisfied, any remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries.

Depending on the situation, an inheritance tax determination may also be required. Once these steps are complete, the personal representative can petition the court to close the estate.

There are planning tools available to avoid probate, such as using transfer-ondeath deeds, titling, trusts, or beneficiary designations. A qualified estate attorney can answer questions you have about probate, where to go from here, or how to best lay out your own estate plan.

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OUR health

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The Exercise Coach offers custom, technology-driven solutions for proven health benefits

he single greatest barrier to health is often time. Not just finding time to exercise, but time itself with regard to the natural aging process.

Loss of strength is the biggest problem as we age. It leads to weakened cardiovascular health, decreased bone density, and a slower metabolism. But there is an efficient, safe, and effective option in Omaha that can give you back time—both in your day and how old you feel.

The Exercise Coach is a boutique fitness studio that opened in West Omaha last year, and owners Sommer and Ryan Hahn just opened their second location at Countryside Village this month. The Omaha natives and former corporate marketing professionals wanted to change career paths to be able to spend more time with their three daughters.

After finding success as entrepreneurs in which they helped launch GraceHill Church with six other families, the

couple knew that finding a business centered around helping people change lives was paramount.

The health and fitness industry was a natural fit, and The Exercise Coach was one of several franchises they explored.

But after visiting the founder and seeing first-hand how this particular science and technology had the capacity to work, the Hahns knew The Exercise Coach aligned perfectly with their own values and would be able to help so

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by D ESIGNING IMPRESSIONS PHOTOGRAPHY

Owners Ryan and Sommer Hahn

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smart fitness

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EXERCISE COACH

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OUR health

many people who have struggled maintaining a fitness routine. “The Exercise Coach captures the more reluctant exercise consumer—people who are either too busy to spend a great deal of time at the gym, dislike the gym scene and/or are afraid of injuring themselves.

We are both over 40 and have busy children. We know what it’s like to have aches and pain due to getting older and being on the go all the time. The Exercise Coach addresses these barriers and so many others we all face with fitness, that’s why we were so excited to be able to bring it to the Omaha community,” Sommer said.

One of the key differences between The Exercise Coach and other gyms is that The Exercise Coach only requires two 20-minute workouts per week.

Even the Hahns were skeptical about this concept at first. What they discovered is that it is truly possible by combining a better understanding of exercise science with new technologies that create protocols that are personalized to each individual’s strength and capabilities. The key to maximizing fitness results is optimizing the amount of exercise an individual’s body can perform. The healthier and more productive approach is to exercise smarter, not longer. This is difficult with traditional tools because they have inherent dangers and inefficiencies and don’t have the ability to work with human bio-mechanics and muscle physiology.

The Exercise Coach uses patented equipment called Exerbotics®. Sommer explained that this allows them to diagnose exercise specifically to an individual. During a client’s first session, they are given a 15-second computerized strength test. From there, the technology provides different protocols that include variables for the amount of load you are lifting and the intensity of each repetition. This type of strength training engages more muscle units so that you’re working more of your body in one exercise than you do in traditional strength training. Their approach stimulates dramatically better results for men and women of all ages.

“We’re not trying to make body builders out of baby boomers,” Ryan quipped. “We’re trying to keep them active to avoid injury. People age 40 and 46 |

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OUR health

older get away from strength training either due to an injury, they are afraid of becoming injured, or they don’t like the environment of big gyms anymore. The founder of The Exercise Coach has said the most important biomarker of health is the condition of the muscles, so he created The Exercise Coach to close that gap. We can work around injuries and in an environment so that you don’t have to be afraid.”

The Exercise Coach currently has over 100 studios across the country, and each studio is private with personal coaches who work with clients by appointment only. With no more than 10 people in a studio at a time, including coaches, this format has been especially beneficial during the pandemic. With strict Covid-19 safety protocols still in place, combined with the short workout sessions, clients have a trusted level of health and safety when they workout.

“It’s a fitness solution that works for people who want a smaller, private environment,” Ryan added.

Nutrition naturally goes hand-inhand with exercise, and The Exercise Coach includes a Nutrition Playbook focused on a 30-day metabolic reset, followed by whole food nutrition.

“Clients who see results the quickest combine the whole food nutrition with whole effort exercise,” Sommer said.

“Choices you make at home with food work in conjunction with what you do here.” But the nutrition doesn’t have to be overwhelming—even making one small change per day helps.

Everything about The Exercise Coach is designed to help make this a fitness program you can stick to. The sessions are coach-led so you don’t have to worry about the technology, and data results are given via real-time feedback on each machine’s monitor. Anyone can even try two sessions for free without any obligation. “We believe this is the future of strength training,” Ryan said.

“We are shifting away from the message of movement quantity toward muscle quality. That is what works, for any age and any stage of your life.” For more information and to schedule your two free personal training sessions, visit exercisecoach.com.

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WARM WEATHER VACATION HOME, ANYONE? As we sit in the cold winter weather, have you ever asked, “Why do we live here, it is cold and we do not see the sun for months?” I personally ask myself this numerous times during the winter.

In 2017, I visited Arizona for the first time and absolutely fell in love with it, from the weather to the activities, the upkeep of the area, and just mingling and getting to know locals and other Nebraskans who frequent Arizona, it has become a sort of second home.

Through my business, Michael Maley Real Estate, I have mastered the market in Omaha and truly take the time to learn what my client wants locally. Now I have partnered

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with my good friend and top Arizona realtor Kelly Connolly to do the same for you in Arizona.

The idea of owning a second home in Arizona excites me, something totally different than I have here locally. Although I love my Omaha home, the architecture, nature, mountains, and so on just provide such a great backdrop for my home there.

There are many options available in Arizona, from condo, villa, single family home, ownership in a resort, etc. The opportunities are endless.

The newest opportunity and best one in my mind is buying a home and using it as an Airbnb. I never would have thought that I would venture into the hospitality world, but that is

what I found to be the smartest and most economical way to purchase a second home in Arizona.

Through local resources, the property will be entirely managed and taken care of for me. I visit when I want and leave it in someone else’s hands when I do not want to be there. This creates a virtual “free vacation home” for me without any worry.

To find out more about making your warm weather winter dream a reality, contact Michael Maley, Owner/Developer/Agent, 402.981.7400 michael.maley@bhhsamb.com or Kelly Connolly, Agent, 402.996.0510, KConnolly@ArizonaBest.com.

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OUR youth

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ids often try numerous activities before they find one that sticks. But when 11-year-old Faith Crooks stepped onto an iceskating rink for the first time four years ago, she was immediately hooked. It was no surprise to her father, Chris, who grew up playing and later coaching hockey, but what started as an after-school activity has turned into a joy and passion for the whole family.

Faith Crooks

Story by EDGE STAFF Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 52 |

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OUR youth

Edge: What made you decide to try ice skating?

Faith: We watched the Olympics, and I saw an athlete do a hard move, and I wanted to try it.

Edge: What do you remember about your first time on the ice?

Faith: It was slippery! I held onto the boards, nervous and excited. The first time I pushed off I fell. But I watched the older girls and wanted to keep going.

Edge: How long did it take you to start competing?

Dawn (Faith’s mom): She started competing three years ago. Normally she does six competitions a year, but this past year because of the pandemic she only did four. Since she switched to Moylan Premier Skating Club, she’s made huge strides.

Faith: The head coach takes you to regionals if you reach a certain level. It’s hard work to get to the point where he tells you you’re ready. I wanted to work hard to be able to be there. This year I got to be in the send off room, and I was so happy!

Edge: What do you like best about skating?

Faith: I really like gliding on the ice, and I like jumping because it feels like flying.

I also like wearing the dresses and all the sparkle and bling!

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OUR youth

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Edge: What’s a skill you recently accomplished?

Faith: A double flip. I was under rotating it at the beginning, and I finally did it, which made me feel like I really accomplished it.

Chris: She also got the axel, which is a big marker in skating.

Edge: How often do you practice?

Faith: Six days a week, sometimes morning and night. I have to get up at 5am. Sometimes my mom has to wake me up after my alarm.

Edge: What did you do to train during the pandemic?

Faith: We built a space where I could train at

home and made a spinner to train on. I’d also do Zoom workouts like ballet, yoga, and Pilates. And my coach would come to my house and take me through a jumps class. It was fun.

Edge: What are you training for next?

Faith: I want to get to juvenile. It’s a higher level and I’m almost at pre-juvenile. I have to do three double jumps and an axel in my routine. I’ve got my axel and I’m working on getting those doubles now. My long-term goal is to get my senior moves and gold medalist jacket.

Chris: When she achieves her free skate and field moves, then she’s allowed to get a jacket from U.S. Figure Skating for a gold medalist level of achievement, which she needs if she ever wants to coach.

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OUR youth

Edge: Do you want to coach at some point?

Faith: I think it’d be fun to coach the little ones. I like the smile on their faces when they do something.

Edge: What do you enjoy about competitions?

Faith: That my friends and I all support each other and stay to watch even after we’re done competing.

most proud of the fact she has never quit. Even when she’s physically wiped out, she’s never quit on a lesson.

Dawn: Ice skating is a solo sport, but being in a club has allowed her to make friends, and she has a lot of fun with the girls.

Edge: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not on the ice?

Chris: She works really hard, and we’re 58 |

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Faith: I like to read and write fairytales.

And I like to travel a lot—sleeping, eating, and swimming in the hotel pools!

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VARSITY corner

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SERVING UP

SUCCESS

Nora Wurtz | Freshman | DC West High School Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Portrait by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY Nora Wurtz is not a typical Varsity Corner athlete. She plays Varsity volleyball for DC West High School, but she and her family live on a farm outside of Valley, NE, and she has responsibilities that many other athletes don’t share. “My family raises Simmental and SimAngus cattle, so I am the official gate opener and tractor driver for the operation,” she shared. “I enjoy halter-breaking, feeding, and showing my calves in 4-H during the summer and watching them grow up into great cows.” She would love to find a career in working with animals.

She hopes someday to play Division 1 volleyball, but she started out her volleyball career with more humble beginnings. “We moved back to Nebraska from Texas in 2013 when I was in second grade, and I started playing volleyball at our local YMCA. I was really bad. I couldn’t even get the ball over the net serving underhand, but I fell in love with the sport. I wanted to get better, so I started doing the Youth Development Program for a few seasons at Nebraska Elite and improved from there.” Bob Wald, head volleyball coach for DC West, said, “Nora has a really great work ethic. She is never satisfied with what she does, and she wants to continue getting better and better every day. Nora can be very dominating at the net.”

When Wurtz began high school, she was worried about fitting in as a freshman. “I was so nervous. I thought the upperclassmen wouldn’t be very welcoming having a couple of freshmen on the team. During summer camps I quickly found that they were very supportive and encouraging. Throughout the season, we all developed close friendships and we had an amazing season.” She also splits her time with the DC West basketball team, riding horses, and hanging out with friends.

Wurtz is especially proud of starting on Varsity volleyball this year, making the Capitol Conference first team, and All-State Honorable Mention.

“Sometimes practices and workouts seem to last forever, but reaching my goals make it all worth it.” She stays motivated by reaching her goals and “seeing my hard work in the gym and lessons pay off.” Her teammates’ support also gives her a drive to compete, “because I want to be better for them, too. We push each other to get better every day.”

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OWNING

THE MOUND Jaxon Jelkin | Senior Bellevue West High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Portrait by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY His passion for the game of baseball keeps Bellevue West High School senior Jaxon Jelkin focused and willing to sacrifice to reach his goals. After graduation, he’s pursuing his baseball and academic goals at South Mountain Community College in Phoenix, AZ. “Being able to continue to play the sport I love at the next level is a dream come true,” he said.

“My ultimate goals are to play Division I level baseball and hopefully have the opportunity to pitch at the next level after college.” Bellevue West Varsity baseball coach Jason Shockey said, “I have really seen a bigtime growth in him as both a player and as a person. He has worked extremely hard both on and off the field to put himself in a position to go on and have success playing at the next level.”

Jelkin got the spark for baseball at an early age. “I started playing baseball as soon as I was old enough to understand the game. At a young age my dad was a high school baseball coach and taught me everything I now know about the game.

My earliest memories playing baseball were when my two grandmas would watch me hit balls off the tee in the backyard and pretend to run around the bases.” He comes by the love of the game honestly as his dad, Bill, played baseball for Millard South High School and University of Nebraska Kearney.

At age 11, Jelkin’s select baseball team won the USSSA Major State championship, but that same year he was also diagnosed with a rare disease called juvenile arthritis. The disease affects the joints of his body but is controlled with medication. “Dealing with this condition has taught me perseverance and fight.”

He’s self-motivated to overcome this obstacle when it comes to baseball, “because I have so much fun playing it. My love and passion for the game motivates me to excel in the weight room and on the field.”

His parents, Bill and Kathy Jelkin, are thrilled that his hard work and sacrifice have made it possible for him to play baseball at South Mountain Community College. Bill said, “We know that if he shows the same dedication he has to this point, he undoubtedly will find success.”

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“People in America should really make an effort to come and see what exists here. It’s beyond one’s belief.”

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