Edge Magazine April 2021

APRIL 2021

Make Big Cedar Lodge your next golf destination Indulge in the art of the chophouse at The Committee

M A G A Z I N E

HIGHTOWER REFF LAW: EXPERIENCED, CONFIDENT ATTORNEYS AT YOUR SIDE

DESIGN BRANDING

STORY TELLING

WE CAN HELP YOU TELL YOUR STORY BETTER THAN THREE OLD FASHIONEDS. H A N S C O M P A R K . C O M

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Enjoy your independence in a maintenance-free community and have time to explore dining options, the Infinity Wellness Call 402-999-7900 Center and poolside activities to schedule a visit to the Ovation while making new friends and Reservation Showroom. pursuing new passions. It’s all just outside your door!

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LETTER from the EDITOR

Spring

has finally arrived! It’s nice to see neighbors in driveways, kids playing outdoor sports, and blooms budding on plants. It’s brought opportunities to get outside, feel the sunshine on your face, and start moving—physically and emotionally—toward something new.

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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The spring issue of Edge is filled with stories about caring and companies that make a difference. Our cover features Tracy Hightower-Henne and Susan Reff, founding attorneys of Hightower Reff Law, who have built their practice on caring for their clients and commitment to helping them through difficult situations. Their team brings a level of experience and confidence in a number of legal areas.

When 10-year-old Grant Petersen was a toddler, he underwent open heart surgery. Now he’s a champion weightlifter and just one of the many stories that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska is sharing to inspire others to tell their health stories. Nebraska Cancer Specialists is another organization built around caring for others. With dedicated physician teams, cutting-edge research, and specialty care clinics, it is transforming cancer care in our community.

Westside High School senior Andrew Li was recently a finalist in the global Breakthrough Junior Challenge for science and technology. His video submission proving that one infinite number can be smaller than another infinite number is a fascinating way to interest even the most skeptical students in math. Congratulations, Andrew!

If you want to venture out for a new dining experience, The Committee Chophouse at the newly opened Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel in The Blackstone District won’t disappoint.

With fresh seafood, prime steaks, and an atmosphere with elements from the original Blackstone Hotel, an evening at The Committee is sure to be indulgent.

Thank you to everyone who allows us to share your stories. The capacity for caring in our community is always such a pleasure to witness!

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

“The care here was just phenomenal.”

— LINCOLN’S MOTHER, KYLEE JOHNSTON

Boys Town Craniofacial is CHANGING LIVES By the time he was just 18-months old, little Lincoln had been diagnosed with sagittal craniosynostosis, a condition that causes pressure on the brain and keeps it from growing. For Lincoln, his only chance at a bright future was through surgery.

That’s when his parents discovered Boys Town National Research Hospital®. With a team of the region’s leading surgeons, Lincoln’s parents felt comfortable enough to go forward with this major surgery, which required removing a portion of Lincoln’s skull to allow his brain to grow.

“I felt like Lincoln was a priority at Boys Town Hospital,” said Kylee Johnston, Lincoln’s mother. “Seeing the difference already, it’s amazing. It lets me know we made the right decision.”

BOYS TOWN CRANIOFACIAL TEAM: Mark Puccioni, MD; Jason Miller, MD; Lois Starr. MD, Ph.D; Linden Fornoff, MD 2012-387-02

For more about Lincoln’s life-saving brain surgery and his 455-mile trek to get there, visit boystownhospital.org/Lincoln or use your phone to skip straight to Lincoln’s story.

V O L U M E

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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 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Nicole Buntgen (402) 367-2526 // Nicole@EdgeMagazine.com Gabby Hellbusch (402) 320-7080 // Gabby@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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Everybody has a story.

_ , whal s yours?

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APRIL 2021

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

26

OUR style

MY two cents

OUR food

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40

MY two cents

OUR youth

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56

22

OUR wellness

VARSITY corner

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APRIL 2021

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OUR home

masterpiece Modern Farmhouse

o

maha natives Jeff and Andrea Cohn always knew they wanted to build their dream home on an acreage in west Omaha. They also knew the process would take time and patience—and neither of them wanted to settle for anything less than what their family desired. Fortunately, their dream quickly became attainable in 2011 when a three-acre property in Skyline Ranches became available.

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Skyline Ranches, which has become one of Omaha’s most sought-after communities, was developed in the 1970s as one of the first equestrian communities in the U.S. Today, property in this neighborhood is extremely rare to come by, so the Cohns quickly snagged the land with hopes of one day building their vision.

It wasn’t until 2016 that the Cohns officially embarked on the build process for their modern farmhouse home. The couple enlisted Marshall Wallman with M. Wallman Design to not only design the home but style all of the interior elements as well. Built by Curt Hofer & Associates, the 6,000-sq. ft, 1.5 story home was crafted with family and utiliza-

STORY BY GABBY HELLBUSCH PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY JEFFREY BEEBE

TRANQUIL FRONT PORCH APRIL 2021

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MODERN, FUNCTIONAL KITCHEN

tion in mind.

“We wanted the house to feel warm, welcoming and informal for our family and friends,” Jeff Cohn said. “We also designed the spaces to keep everyone together.” The Cohns successfully did just that with the open main floor, which consists of a great room, flawless kitchen and eat-in dining area, den, and two bathrooms. Even the smallest details carry out the modern farmhouse theme, making the space feel authentic and comfortable.

Also on the main floor is the master suite, including a bathroom that embodies serenity. The wooden beams on the bedroom ceiling, which originally came from Cohn’s great-great grandfather’s barn, bring a special touch to the space too.

“I wanted to incorporate the wood because it’s a piece of my history,” he said.

“My great-great grandfather was the first 10 |

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CO Z Y H E A RT H RO OM

CHOOSE FROM OUR ASSORTMENT OF NOVELTY CUPS OR CUSTOMIZE YOUR OWN FOR NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE! P: 402-578-9833 E: JIM@JPCOOKE.COM

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WA R M , R E ST F U L P R I M A RY B E D RO O M

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Compassionate, Comprehensive, Convenient Cancer Care.

Wondering about memory care?

We can help.

Now open in Elkhorn!

Like our residences in Omaha and Council Bluffs, our new community is tailored exclusively to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Whether you’re just starting to research or ready to make a move, we can help you every step of the way.

Call to learn more or schedule an appointment.

CountryHouse.net/Elkhorn or 402-307-2004 3720 George B Lake Parkway, Elkhorn, Nebraska

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W E LCO M I N G E N T RY

PICTURESQUE EXTERIOR

R U S T I C D E TA I L S

MODERN FARMHOUSE

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CO U N T RY M E E T S M O D E R N ST Y L E

generation to move to Nebraska from Illinois. The barn was built in the 1920s and disassembled in the late 1990s.

Luckily, the wood was saved, and now it lives on in our home. It feels like we’re getting back to who we are.”

Even with the rustic details, the house remains smooth and modern. The house is also considered a “smart home,” as the entire property can operate via voice command functions. The upstairs was specifically built with their children in mind. Each room is oversized and features a full bath—ideal for the present as well as in the future when the kids bring their families back to visit.

Downstairs, the space can serve as either a private 600-sq. ft. guest suite or a lounge area for friends and family.

The entire space features a big screen TV, bar/kitchen, game room, bedroom and bathroom. That’s not all the lower level has to offer, though, as the home is also equipped with a 20x15-ft. virtual reality room for gaming and other activities.

The property also features a 2,400-sq. ft. fully finished outbuilding. On the inside, a bathroom, changing room, basketball court, pickleball court, CrossFit gym and storage area make the space one of Cohn’s favorites. Also outside, the 16 |

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S TA I R C A S E D E TA I L

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POWDER ROOM

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A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CARE

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APRIL 2021

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CHARMING BAR AREA

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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.

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E AT- I N K I TC H E N

OUTBUILDING

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B A C K YA R D E S C A P E W I T H S P O R T S P O O L

family’s entertainment is endless with a play set, trampoline, hot tub and pool. The Cohns enjoy the many faces of wildlife that frequent the backyard like swans, Canadian geese, horses, deer, turkeys, and foxes to name a few.

“Our home backs up to 60 acres of green space that is managed by Skyline Ranches,” Cohn said. “The neighborhood has full access to this space, which includes a pond, two corrals, a Quonset building, picnic area, playground, fire pit, and a horse-jumping area. There are

also 17 miles of horse trails interlaced throughout the community.

We have all of this and we are still within 15 minutes of the city.”

Along with more space to breathe, the Cohns enjoy the uniqueness that the neighborhood offers. Each home has been built by different builders and none look alike. Some homes were constructed in the 1970s, while others are undergoing million-dollar renovations. Cohn said the family was also sold on the area because of the Elkhorn Public Schools District.

Cohn, who is also the founder and owner of kwELITE Real Estate, said there really is no better place to put down roots, grow a business and raise a family than west Omaha. “When we were looking for a place to build our home, we always knew it would be in west Omaha,” he said.

“This neighborhood has a sense of community that almost feels old-fashioned today. Everyone is friendly, helpful, and you feel safe. We knew it was the perfect place for raising our children and we’re so glad to call this home.”

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EYE ON DESIGN OUR style

The hood is clad in zinc strapping, contrasting the glazed white wood surround. Floating shelves offer a casual space to display accessories or store kitchen essentials that need to be conveniently at hand. Simple but striking tile adds to the room’s clean aesthetic.

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Seeing firsthand the level of involvement the staff of Interiors Joan and Associates had in their family member’s new construction project, our clients approached Lisa Cooper, Allied Member ASID to design their new home on an Omaha metro area lake. The goal was simple: to create an environment that would allow their family and friends to gather and enjoy a well thought out space that was relaxing yet playful in energy and spirit.

This home is slab on grade, therefore there is no lower level. The lot size and orientation dictated specifics in how the floor plan would lay out, in order to accomplish every goal on the homeowner’s checklist. This home needed plenty of space and the materials used needed to be low maintenance, allowing them to perform well in a lake environment.

An early inspiration of a modern farmhouse, the home is also layered with architectural millwork details that elevate the design’s sophistication.

During the design process, our clients often laughed that, “Well…maybe we need more shiplap!” At times sarcastic, but then, why not? This architectural element truly gives this home, with its abundance of pure white color tones, such charm; elevating spaces that would typically be clad in color but lacking in warmth and personality.

A true collaboration between homeowner, designer Lisa Cooper, and Frontier Builders, the homebuilder on this project, resulted in the perfect realization of a dream home. Together they were able to embrace the energy and ambience they hoped to create in this home. Upon completion, the design layout was extremely functional for their lifestyle while incorporating the desired design elements, and the result was pure perfection.

Story by LINDI JANULEWICZ Interiors Joan & Associates Photos by TOM KESSLER

The boys’ bunk bath features a Brockway wash sink, which embodies charm and character indicative of the inspiration for the home’s design. This particular piece was key in the development of the space.

The boys’ bunkroom is thoughtfully laid out and crisply appointed. . . it embodies a lighthearted way to enjoy comradery yet is restful after a fun day on the lake.

Traditional vintage polished nickel plumbing fixtures offer a fresh approach to the ambience of this master bath. Herringbone set flooring and shiplap walls give the space an exciting mix of texture and pattern, while the perfectly symmetrical design pleases the eye.

DESIGNER BIO

Lisa Cooper, Allied Member ASID How was your interest in design sparked? I have always had an interest in architecture and design. The ability to create environments that bring people together and generate energy is key.

P O RT R A I T BY DANIEL MULLER

Experience/Qualifications: I earned my bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from UNL and established myself in 1993 as a designer

A favorite space in the home is the long gallery hall that has floor to ceiling windows, wood clad ceilings, and lovely pendant lights.

Shiplap in Pure White lines the walls of the great room, giving the space warmth and texture. Built in shelving and bench seating aid in the creation of a room meant for entertaining and lounging.

in Omaha. I have received The Bala Award (Best in American Living) and several ASID awards, including Best in Show.

Community involvement: ASID Member What is your favorite spot in your own home? Our great room. Sun floods this space, drawing me to it all year round. I also like the ambiance that a fireplace offers on a cold and snowy winter day.

Design Tip: Less is more! I like rooms to be serene and harmoniously balanced as too many strong elements demand your attention.

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What to look for in a memory care community

M Y T WO

cents S

S

COUNTRYHOUSE.NET/ELKHORN 402-302-0454 3720 GEORGE B LAKE PKWY, ELKHORN, NE 68022

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Dementia doesn’t just affect the person who has it, it affects their entire family. It’s often challenging to provide the care your loved one needs while juggling other responsibilities. It’s also hard to know when it’s time for memory care or where to start your research process.

CountryHouse helps family members who are walking this journey and can be counted on to provide helpful advice for caregivers. Ultimately, if you feel it’s time to consider a memory care community, our team can help you navigate that process, answering any questions you may have.

Not all memory care communities are created equal and when considering a community, you should prioritize a few key concepts including: • Safety and security • 24/7 caregiver support • Comfortable accommodations and amenities • Transparent pricing structures • Life enriching activities to encourage socializing and interaction • Support for family members What may be most important, though, is finding a place where your loved one will feel at home—something we take seriously at CountryHouse. We strive to

create an environment that speaks to the warm embrace of home.

A common question that arises: Is a move to a community really needed or will in-home care work? There’s no easy answer as it depends on your loved one’s specific needs and the availability of family members to be full-time caregivers. In-home care can be a reasonable solution for some, especially in the early stages of dementia. In many cases, though, memory care becomes the better option. Caregivers at a community like CountryHouse are expertly trained to care for those with dementia.

Supporting family caregivers is a primary goal of CountryHouse. We also provide short-term care and respite stays for families who need to travel, work or simply take a break as well as free programs such as support groups, educational events and a virtual dementia tour to aid in the multi-sensory understanding of what dementia is and how it affects the individual.

To learn more about one of our three locations in the Omaha metro, visit our website CountryHouse.net or call 402-307-2004. The newest CountryHouse community opened in Elkhorn in January 2021.

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13665 California St., Omaha, NE 68154 | (402) 445-4380 mahoganyprimesteakhouse.com APRIL 2021

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COVER story

Hightower Reff Law takes a personal approach to helping navigate life’s toughest events

s

ome of the most stressful events in life require the assistance of an attorney: divorce, death of a loved one, facing a criminal charge, or a workplace injury. Finding someone experienced who you can trust is critical, but you also want to ensure they have an entire legal team that can help navigate and set expectations at every step along the way. With expertise in the areas of divorce and family law, estate planning and probate, criminal defense, workers compensation, immigration, and business formation, Hightower Reff Law provides a seamless process and personal touch for all its clients.

Hightower Reff Law is unique in its approach to client care as well as the fact it’s led by two female attorneys: Tracy Hightower-Henne and Susan Reff.

The women met more than a decade ago when they each were practicing independently at a co-op office space.

Hightower-Henne, an Omaha native, had recently left a corporate tax law position, and Reff had spent the past seven years

as a criminal defense attorney for the Douglas County Defenders Office. With the lease expiring at the shared office, the attorneys decided to partner and open a practice together in 2012. Hightower-Henne would focus on divorce cases, and Reff would focus on criminal defense.

Reff began taking on divorce cases as well, and soon both attorneys were

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Tracy Hightower-Henne and Susan Reff

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COVER story focused on that area of practice. Their first office was located directly across the street from the courthouse in downtown Omaha. Two years ago, they decided to move to a more central location near Westroads Mall and one that offers ample parking and convenience for clients from all parts of town. Now the firm boasts seven attorneys and seven additional staff, as well as a very thorough intake process to ensure every client is matched to an attorney that is best suited for their individual case. That process and team approach is what makes the difference for clients, especially during a time that is often traumatic. “Everything a client experiences is familiar to us, but it’s new to them, so helping them with expectations, even something as small as where to sit in the courtroom before they go in, makes all the difference,” Hightower-Henne explained.

One of the challenges that lawyers often face is battling misinformation, especially found online. Reff said having a consultation is so important because every situation is different and every judge is different in how they approach a case. She said it’s also important to know how to personalize each case. “Lots of lawyers know how to handle a divorce, but do they truly care about their client and listen to their worries? We help determine your goal with your case and that’s where we focus our time. At the end of a consult, whether you choose to retain us or not, we just want you to feel better. They don’t teach you compassion in law school.”

With spouses forced to spend more time at home together during the pandemic, the divorce rate rose, and Hightower Reff Law saw a significant increase in its own caseload. In fact, last year was the firm’s highest performing since its inception 10 years ago. The partners attribute that growth not only to their approach to running the business and emphasis on client care, but they’ve also spent a lot of time developing other attorneys, which they said is not often the case at other firms. “We strategically think about how else we can help people,” Hightower-Henne said. For example, they have a Spanish-speaking attorney working in immigration law and an estate planning attorney who helps clients set up a new will following divorce cases. The firm also has a trusted 28 |

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network of other professionals, such as financial planners and realtors who can help clients in those areas. “We want to be considered thought leaders in the legal community and provide the same level of care to our clients in all areas of the law,” she said.

Part of that care is educating clients on value. The value of a lawyer is the first. The saying “you get what you pay for” is true, according to Hightower-Henne. She urges people to always look for a value consistent with an attorney’s experience, trust, and professionalism. Clients who work with Hightower Reff Law will have a level of comfort knowing its attorneys routinely discuss and help each other with cases, ensuring that knowledge and best practices are shared among the whole team.

The second component is the value of a settlement versus going to trial. She explained that clients don’t realize the longterm consequences of going to trial and letting a judge make decisions for you, especially related to co-parenting in divorce cases, so her firm takes the time to make sure a client truly understands what trial entails.

Overall, Hightower Reff Law set out to be different and continues to strive for that every day, whether it’s through the firm’s modern offices, eye-catching marketing materials, or tracking each and every call and inquiry they receive. In an emotionally-charged profession that has to help people through grief, sadness, and relief, they try to be a positive force in the community for their clients and for themselves. Hightower-Henne stated, “There are a lot of good attorneys in town, and we consider ourselves to be among those who are the best.”

Technology Solutions

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www.ecs.rocks APRIL 2021

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M Y T WO

cents JEFF COHN, FOUNDER & CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER S

S

WWW.kwELITE.COM

More than a Realtor For decades buyers and sellers have used real estate agents to serve as their fiduciary when buying and selling real estate; from searching for the perfect property, analyzing valuations, negotiating, and everything in-between.

However, in a virtual world where things are moving faster than ever before, and accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers demand more, and rightfully so.

As Founder & Chief Visionary Officer of kwELITE, keeping the agent at the center of the transaction to protect their livelihood and provide unprecedented value to their clients has been our top priority. We aim to take everything that was once only possible in a physical location and provide clients and agents with a virtual option.

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To this end, kwELITE partnered with a Lincoln-based digital tech marketing firm in 2020, getVRLY.com, which provides a technology solution never before seen in the industry. Fully immersive 6D tours of existing homes and pre-construction are digitally rendered. These tours utilize virtual reality technology, 360-degree scans, and computer-aided design (CAD) blueprints to make the unthinkable our reality. kwELITE’s 10,000-sq. ft. campus was designed to serve as a hybrid tech-powered HUB that will partner with, train, and equip real estate brokerages across the country. The future is teaching the traditional agent to become an agent advisor and adding value to the consumer experience by helping to save the client time and money long after the transac-

tion is over.

The utilization of technology platforms built with predictable analytics and machine learning (AI), allows our agent advisors to provide the consumer with real-time data pertinent to their needs. This could include specific information custom-tailored for each individual client, specific to listing updates, price reductions, estimated cost pro-formas, home valuations, mortgage rates, insurance rates, concierge services, and much more.

It’s not about the money, it’s about becoming the best version of ourselves so that we can create the most impact and influence in the lives of others to aid them in living out the life of their dreams. And to that end, we are here to serve you.

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OUR wellness

Keeping yourself in the game

By DR. ZACH KUCERA It is estimated that 90 percent of elite athletes utilize chiropractic care. Beginning around 1980, the United States has been utilizing chiropractic care for its Olympic athletes. Today, all 32 NFL teams have a chiropractor on staff. Chiropractic is known for helping patients with neck pain and headaches, but did you know athletes utilize care to get ahead in their respective sports? Whether you consider athletics to be CrossFit, body building, dancing, youth sports, or being a weekend warrior, chiropractic offers much more than just pain relief.

So why do these athletes seek out chiropractors?

Research supports athletic benefits such as quicker injury recovery, injury prevention, increased flexibility, and even quicker reaction times.

According to the Journal of Neurological Sciences, “The quality of healing is directly proportional to the functional capability of the nervous system to send and receive nerve messages.” Imbalances due

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to the high stress placed on the body during athletic activity can result in decreased neurological function. Through chiropractic care balance is restored, and nervous system messages, including those that facilitate healing, can be sent and received faster and more effectively.

This statement was also supported by research conducted at the New Zealand School of Chiropractic, which demonstrated enhanced reaction time for those who received chiropractic adjustments. When testing reaction times against a control, those who received adjustments enhanced reaction time by almost double the control group.

Evidence continues to pour in supporting the positive effects chiropractic care has on athletes.

Ready to recover faster, and move more efficiently?

Schedule your consultation to see how we can help keep you in the game 531-721-2050. Walk-ins and same day appointments available!

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HEALTH spotlight

Comprehensive cancer care Story by KATHY RYGG Photos courtesy of NEBRASKA CANCER SPECIALISTS

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, fear and uncertainty can make navigating next steps difficult. Having an entire care team at your side is critical to your journey back to health. Nebraska Cancer Specialists has a comprehensive approach that includes a dedicated physician team, integrative services, a cutting-edge research department, on-site pharmacy, and specialty care clinics, all designed to provide a higher level of comfort for cancer patients and their families.

With more than 200 dedicated oncology professionals and eight clinics across the state and growing, Nebraska Cancer Specialists does much more than just provide chemotherapy treatment.

Kelly Horn, Physician Liaison, explained that every patient has a dedicated physician team that includes a medical oncologist, nurse practitioner or physician assistant, medical assistant, a nurse case manager, and a scheduler.

Because trust between patient and physician is crucial, the physicians rotate clinics for flexibility so that a patient sees the same physician every time. The physicians also serve on a local tumor board to discuss challenging cases and share best practices.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists also recognizes that cancer care involves much more than just medical treatment for a patient. Their well-being as well as that of their family and caregivers is just as important, so they offer services such as occupational therapy, mental health, genetics, nutrition, and even onsite fitness classes such as yoga, Tai chi, and strength training—all essential to a patient’s recovery. Nebraska Cancer Specialists doesn’t want a patient to forego these additional services due to cost, so patients meet with a Patient Financial Advocate to assess their need for financial assistance. There are many organizations, including the HOPE Foundation, that can help with expenses such as rent, car insurance, and medication 34 |

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co-pays to alleviate those stresses.

Research is another critical area that contributes to a patient’s care. Horn said Nebraska Cancer Specialists is a regional leader in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research. In some cases, they have been elected as the first site in the world to offer certain trials, and have enrolled more than 200 patients in oncology clinical trials over the past two years. “We have a cutting-edge research department that seeks out these trials, and we can get a patient up and running on a trial in as little as two weeks,” she said.

They also offer cutting-edge treatment such as the DigniCap® Scalp Cooling System, which reduces chemotherapy induced hair loss associated with the treatment of solid tumors such as breast, ovarian, uterine, and prostate.

“We are the first in the region to have one, and it helps retain dignity during a critical time,” Horn explained.

Additionally, Nebraska Cancer Specialists offers specialty care clinics, such as geriatric care, palliative care, and survivorship. They also have an accredited on-site pharmacy that includes three pharmacists Board Certified in Oncology and 10 dedicated pharmacy technicians. “We are lucky to have this caliber of care right here in our community,” Horn said. “Providing innovative, cutting-edge, robust care for our patients makes all the difference in the world.”

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PASSION spotlight

Raising the bar without skipping a beat Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA AND RAIL + STEAM

Grant Petersen is stronger than he looks. At just 10 years old, he is a Nebraska weightlifting champion with sights set on going to the Olympics someday. “I’m always trying to lift more than myself,” Grant said about what motivates him. At Nationals in December 2020, that meant a 21-kilo (46-pound) snatch and 30-kilo (66-pound) clean and jerk.

Quarantining at home during the COVID-19 pandemic has given Grant the opportunity to focus on his form, setting new personal records and, as he says, “earning bigger weights.” He goes to school in Omaha Public Schools (half the time from home, learning remotely at a desk he built with his grandparents) and works out with his parents and a coach in much of his free time.

“Our whole family does weightlifting together,” said Kerry Petersen, mom to Grant and his two brothers, ages 6 and 12. “What I love about it is that there’s always something to work towards.”

Kerry’s own strength training and CrossFit routine is what got Grant interested in weightlifting in the first place. That was roughly two years ago.

What you wouldn’t guess from watching this boy smoothly lift a 46-pound bar over his head is that just five years earlier, he had open-heart surgery. When Grant was a baby, his doctors discovered a murmur and, at age 3, he had surgery to patch the tiny holes in his heart. “I work in the medical field, so I knew a lot of the people that would be involved in his surgery; I knew what to expect,” Kerry said. But even with that understanding, she worried as much as any mom would.

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“Even if they consider it a small surgery, it’s still very scary as a parent to know that your baby is going to be opened up on the table to do something like that to his heart.” Fortunately, the invasive procedure went smoothly. Grant was recovering from home within 48 hours and hasn’t looked back since.

“Blue Cross and Blue Shield has always meant having one less thing to worry about,” Kerry said. “Working in health care, I know how hard it is for families and how stressful it is for families to have bills racking up, and we have been so lucky to have Blue Cross and Blue Shield on our side.”

A small scar on Grant’s chest is all that remains of his health scare, and the many weightlifting medals he’s sporting around his neck more than cover it up.

It’s clear Grant puts heart into everything he does. “I am so proud of Grant in what has been a trying year for everybody,” Kerry said. “Whether he needs to work on his form using low weights or focus on an iPad to learn Spanish, Grant just shows up and brings his all every day.”

Grant’s strength is an inspiration for all of us.

To see more of Grant’s story and other health journeys like his, or to share your own, visit NebraskaBlue.com/YourStory.

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MY concoction

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse 13665 California St. mahoganyprimesteakhouse.com

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1

5

What you need: • 1 oz. lemon rum • ¾ oz. Apple Pucker • ½ oz. Golden 8 Pear Brandy

• ½ oz. pineapple juice • ½ oz. lemon juice • ½ oz. sweet & sour mix

2 Combine all ingredients in a shaker

steps

Add ice

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Mahogany Prime Steakhouse THE BARTENDER: Brittany THE DRINK: Golden Appletini

4

5

Shake well

Strain into chilled martini glass with green apple wheels fanned in bottom of glass APRIL 2021

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OUR food

VA R I O U S C U T S O F M E AT W I T H S H A L L O T S , T H Y M E , A N D S A LT

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THE COMMITTEE CHOPHOUSE 302 S. 36th St. 402-810-9500

T W I C E C O O K E D P O R K B E L LY

classic cuts The Committee brings back the art of the chophouse The Committee Chophouse, located in the Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel (a reinvention of the landmark Blackstone Hotel) owes its name to a group of card-playing gentlemen, hosted on Sunday evenings by Blackstone owner Charles Schimmel, who affectionately dubbed themselves “The Committee.”

Sly nods to the poker-playing group are found sprinkled around the subterranean dining room, including custom wallpaper printed with historical images, that line cozy banquettes and the menu head-

ings “Omaha Hold’ Em” and “The Jackpot.” For diners who wish to go “all in,” a small private dining room features the original poker table, bedecked with a set of playing cards featuring likenesses of the Schimmel sons.

A second, larger private dining area is situated near the wine cellar, draped in velvet, and walled off for greater seclusion. Original tile floors, mid-century modern wood furniture and lighting, and leather tufted banquettes add to the nostalgic ambiance in this modern chophouse.

Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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OUR food

P R I M E B E E F C A R PA C C I O

Midwesterners know and love their steak, and Executive Chef Ryan Arensdorf is no exception. Educated at Kendall College in Chicago, Arensdorf always knew he wanted to be a chef. He fondly recalled cooking fresh garden vegetables and pies with his grandmothers in his native state of Kansas. His path to Omaha wound through myriad award-winning spots in Chicago and most recently to the east coast where he took the reins of the Salamander Resort.

Under the tutelage of Martial Noguier, famed chef of Chicago’s Bistronomic, Arensdorf fine-tuned flavor profiles and 42 |

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came to understand, through Noguier’s eyes, why he thrives in the fast-paced culinary industry (hint: it has something to do with playing with fire). Another mentor, Todd Stein, Corporate Executive Chef of Davidson Hospitality Group, helped Arensdorf find restraint, encouraging him to respect the inherent simplicity of food, taking fewer, more thoughtful steps to reach an end.

This simplicity is reflected in the menu developed by Arensdorf for The Committee. “My philosophy is simple: impeccable protein, vegetable, garnish, and sauce,” he said. “If you follow these

tenets, you’ll hit it out of the park.”

Innovation might seem impossible in a steakhouse, but at The Committee, it’s the team’s entire focus. Diners eat with their eyes first, so combining quality ingredients, beautiful plating, and a mix of flavors and textures to tantalize patrons’ palates is the restaurant’s mission.

On the path to perfect flavor balance, Arensdorf first tastes proteins in their raw state. “You can tell a lot about how an animal is fed and treated by the taste,” he explained. “Its history shines through.

Season simply, inside and out, then balance with a beautiful sauce.”

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OUR food

C H E F RYA N A R E N S D O R F

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C H AT E A U B R I A N D F O R T W O

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OUR food

“My philosophy is simple: impeccable protein, vegetable, garnish, and sauce. If you follow these tenets, you’ll hit it out of the park.”

—Executive Chef Ryan Arensdorf

Local purveyors such as Greater Omaha Beef and Plum Creek Farms provide quality proteins, nearby gardens and small farms supply in-season produce, and all seafood options are sustainably caught.

In any historical establishment, the past informs the present, so when designing the opening offerings, the team reviewed old menus and gathered inspiration from historical photos and diner accounts. Access to old recipes meant bringing back an original cheesecake, and Arensdorf also plans to develop a new dessert option based on his grandmother’s banana bread.

The cocktail menu is crafted by inhouse mixologists, offering time-tested classics alongside creative innovations in the adjoining speakeasy, The Cottonwood Room. New or old school, the cocktails pair with starters such as Prime Beef Carpaccio, a dish with earthy shaved black truffle, crispy caper berry, tangy shallot, and sweet garlic puree.

The Twice Cooked Pork Belly is nestled atop a swoop of spiced carrot puree, bits of fermented red cabbage and jus de vie. The Chilled Shellfish Tower features plump cocktail shrimp, lobster salad, and king crab surrounded by a bracelet of sparkling oysters, served with classic cocktail sauce and a zingy citrus ginger mignonette.

As you’d expect from a top chophouse, all cuts of steak are served with a perfect 46 |

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Enjoy up to 2,100 sq.ft. of Luxury Living without the stress of home buying. www.edwardrose.com/lynbrook | 402-739-8215 APRIL 2021

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OUR food

TO M A H AW K ST E A K W I T H C I P P O L I N I O N I O N S A N D H O U S E M A D E S A U C E

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Once again,

YOUR LUXURY EXPERT THIS YEAR SERVING THE AREA’S FINEST HOMES

402.981.7400

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BAKED ALASKA

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P O RT E R H O U S E ST E A K

char and mid-rare interior. Treat yourself and your sweetheart to the Chateaubriand for two, served with demi-glace and your choice of two sauces, or enjoy the more petite baseball cut Steak Diane alongside side dishes such as Creamed Corn with parmesan brulée, the Committee Gratin served hot and bubbly with onion, bacon, leek, and raclette cheese or asparagus spears dusted with espelette and a shower of Grana Padano cheese.

Great steak loves great wine, and Arensdorf is working with Committee General Manager and Sommelier Terrance Dougherty on a broad selection of global wines from bold Spanish reds to interesting bottles from boutique vintners. The dessert menu varies, but a customer favorite is the Baked Alaska, featuring Coneflower Cherry Tart Crumble ice cream and bruléed meringue atop almond cake brushed with clementine syrup, all of which is flambéed tableside.

Classic cuts, simple, solid preparation, and flawless execution make The Committee Chophouse a worthy destination for travelers and locals alike. “The road has already been paved,” mused Arensdorf, “we just need to follow it.”

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TRAVEL spotlight

The next big thing in golf Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of BIG CEDAR LODGE Located within the Ozark Mountains of Missouri lies a destination that is teed up to be the next big thing in golf.

Johnny Morris, noted conservationist and founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, created Big Cedar Lodge as a place for families to reconnect with nature. Over the years, Big Cedar Lodge has been redefining golf in the Ozarks.

Top of the Rock, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, is the first-ever par-3 course included in a PGA TOUR-sanctioned event. Perched high above Table Rock Lake, the peaceful waterfalls, wandering creeks, bass filled ponds and pristine lakes of Top of the Rock complete a true celebration of nature and the Ozarks.

Buffalo Ridge Springs, acclaimed as one of the region’s top golf courses, has been transformed by Johnny Morris and renowned course architect Tom Fazio.

The course layout brings players in close contact with nature and free-ranging bison from nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. The course has been rated the #1 Public Course in Missouri by Golf Magazine and holds a Golf Digest rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Gary Player and Johnny Morris teamed up to create Mountain Top. The 13-hole course was designed to bring a more accessible experience to families, juniors and golfers who are learning the game as it routes through unforgettable rock formations and includes some of the best vistas in the region.

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Top of the Rock

Buffalo Ridge Springs

Payne’s Valley

for nature and conservation, making Ozarks National a fitting tribute to the Ozarks region and a challenge to avid golfers. The course was recently named the “Best New Public Course in America”

by Golf Digest and rated the #1 Course you can play in Missouri by Golfweek’s 2020 rankings.

Named in honor of the late Payne Stewart, Payne’s Valley is the first public-access course in America by Tiger Woods’ design firm TGR Design.

A partnership between Johnny Morris, Tiger Woods, and the Stewart Family, the course showcases the region’s beauty through a 19-hole championship course—the bonus hole designed by

Johnny Morris. Morris let his imagination run wild and showed the world why he’s earned the reputation as “The Walt Disney of the Great Outdoors.” Morris envisioned the bonus hole as an epic expression of his vision of nature golf.

Below a massive rock wall lies an island green. If a golfer is skilled enough to land the ball on the green protected by two sand bunkers, they can reach the island by crossing a bridge. In classic Johnny Morris fashion, the lake below is teeming with giant Missouri Trout and Largemouth Bass.

Once golfers complete the hole, the nature adventure shifts into high gear onto “Cliffhanger Trail,” a nearly one-

mile trail that ascends the sheer rock face. Golfers travel through a natural spring-fed cavern system that dates back millions of years, alongside 250-foot cliffs, across a handcrafted metal bridge that spans a 100-foot-deep gorge, and through ancient waterfalls.

The resort also has an endless number of attractions to enjoy: Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, Shooting Academy, Fun Mountain, and Cedar Creek Spa. In addition, Big Cedar Lodge opened Angler’s Lodge in Hollister, MO, to offer additional lodging options. Just a short drive away is Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife. To book your stay, visit www. bigcedar.com or call 1-800-225-6343.

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BUSINESS spotlight

Jazz up your job site Story by KATHY RYGG Photos courtesy of REDBOX PLUS If you’ve ever remodeled a home, commercial office space, or had a roof replaced, you know that having a dumpster—and often a porta potty—parked in your driveway or parking lot is often part of the project. They can be unsightly, and contractors are familiar with their pitfalls, which can include scheduling conflicts for the containers and porta potty hazards such as tipping over. Redbox Plus, a new Omaha company, addresses those concerns, making dumpster and porta potty rentals easy and efficient for anyone who needs them.

Mark Fredrickson, who is the franchise owner of Redbox Plus for the Omaha and Lincoln markets, has experience as an entrepreneur. After working as a licensed land surveyor for 21 years, he helped launch the healthy takeout food company Eat Fit Go. After exiting that business, he wanted something new that was both recession and pandemic proof. With close to 60 franchises across the country and a model built around customer service and quick turnaround times—something the container industry generally lacks—Fredrickson decided Redbox Plus was the perfect business model to bring to Nebraska.

He brought on Steve Caffery as his Operations Manager, who is also a CDL driver. The pair works well together, with Fredrickson focused on business development and marketing, and Caffery focused on scheduling, delivery, and pickup. They work with homeowners, roofers, commercial contractors, and fire and water remediation contractors.

They’ve seen an uptick during the pandemic with homeowners cleaning out basements and garages, as well as realtors who specialize in house flips.

Redbox Plus offers a truly unique product. The bright red, powder-coated containers, which are manufactured in the U.S., are meticulously designed for 54 |

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Mark Fredrickson

Steve Caffery

durability. They come in 20 and 30-yd sizes, both standard and elite, which are ideal for larger projects. The elite containers include two porta potties, securely mounted onto the front of the container, ensuring they can’t be tipped over or stolen—a common problem for the industry.

“Including the porta potty with the container adds one less worry for the contractor,” Fredrickson said. If a porta potty isn’t needed, it can be locked and the container used just as easily.

The second unique aspect of Redbox Plus is its level of customer service. “Our goal is to service the customer within 24 hours, for both delivery and pickup,” Fredrickson said. “Lack of customer service is a common frustration in the industry. We want to avoid inconveniencing the customer so that a container isn’t sitting in a driveway all weekend or taking up three parking stalls once the project is finished.” Scheduling is easy, with a simple call or text and a contractors app, which will be coming soon. The routing component of the company’s software lets them control scheduling to ensure the 24-hour turnaround time.

An additional perk of the Redbox Plus elite containers is that the front doubles as a billboard. For repeat customers, Fredrickson said they can produce a magnet with the customer’s logo, which serves as advertising while on the job site. “You never know when it might influence your next project, which makes a professional-looking dumpster worth it.”

To contact Redbox Plus, email mfredrickson@redboxplus.com, scaffery@redboxplus.com, or call 402-205-3105.

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OUR youth

wisdom

infinite

Story by EDGE STAFF

t

Photos by CHRIS HOLTMEIER, FOTON FOTO

he pandemic has proven to be a challenging time for everyone, but it has also brought opportunities for creativity. While quarantined at the start of the pandemic and unable to attend school, Westside High School senior Andrew Li received an email from his physics teacher about a global math and science competition called The Breakthrough Junior Challenge. A natural math enthusiast, Li decided to enter the competition and was a finalist among students from around the world for his innovative video submission titled “Some Infinities are Bigger than Other Infinities.”

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Edge: Why did you decide to enter the competition?

Li: I had a bunch of time on my hands since we were in quarantine, so I thought it would be a good opportunity.

I love watching math and science educational videos on YouTube, so it seemed perfect.

No specialized knowledge was required, just three minutes and the ability to experiment.

Edge: How did you come up with your idea?

Li: I took a class at UNO in abstract mathematics, theory, and functions. My professor talked about different sizes of infinity and how when we count, it’s just paring up things. That was interesting to me.

Edge: How did you go about creating your video submission?

Li: I started by watching a lot of videos on similar topics, but most were way longer than the 3 minutes allowed

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OUR youth

for the competition. I also read blogs from previous contest winners on the process they went through. I started scripting my video, and then one afternoon I borrowed a tripod from a friend, set up my phone, and filmed it. Editing it was the most time-consuming part.

pretty narrow focused on academics and arts. I play the alto saxophone and got into jazz playing two years ago. It’s where I’ve found my element.

Edge: What programs did you use for the graphics?

Li: I enjoy playing my sax and listening to music from a lot of different genres—hip hop, funk, and R&B. I like transcribing music. I also like hanging out with my friends.

Li: I used Adobe programs. I made some clipart in Illustrator, and for the rest of the graphics I used After Effects. I had some experience in it, but this helped me further that experience.

Edge: How long did it take you to complete the video?

Li: From initial idea to final product was about a month. There were a few rough patches in learning the software, but I made it through. The videos were due on June 25th, and I submitted it on June 24th because I had some last-minute changes.

Edge: What was your reaction when you found out you were a finalist?

Li: It was before they sent the email. I was scrolling the web site and saw my video. I ran downstairs and told my mom. It was very cool. There were a lot of people on the judging panel I look up to, and it was crazy to have them judge my video.

Edge: Besides your interest in math, what other activities are you involved in?

Li: I am in a lot of music activities— marching band, concert and jazz band, other ensembles, and Quiz Bowl. I’m

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Edge: What do you like to do during your free time?

Edge: Where do you plan to attend college?

Li: I’m waiting to hear back from a few schools, including MIT I’m thinking of a double major in math and computer science. I love building and testing software. MIT also has a good music ensemble program.

Edge: What do you think you want to do for a living?

Li: Maybe work for a startup and then move into research or academia. I gravitate toward teaching, and my talent is that I’m a fast learner, so I can reserve time to think about how to teach things so that others can understand it. Math isn’t the rote memorization we learn in school. It should be an innate human desire to think about patterns, especially with numbers, and make it more exploratory. It’s great to see all the different ways people approach problems. It shows the beauty of mathematics. I want to get the message out that math is fun!

To see Andrew Li’s video, visit breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org

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VARSITY corner

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INFLUENTIAL

ASPIRATIONS Lauren Harris | Senior | Marian High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Portrait by RON COLEMAN, C4 PHOTOGRAPHY Marian senior Lauren Harris is grateful for everything she’s learned from being involved in both her club and high school track teams. “I have met amazing people who became my friends, I’ve traveled all over the country during the club track season, and I have been given the opportunity to commit to the admissions process at Princeton University.” She plans to get a degree in a STEM field, become an entrepreneur, and help increase the amount of diversity in the STEM professions.

Harris loves being a part of Marian’s team. “Whenever I’m feeling down during the school day, I can look forward to track practice because I know the girls will have a funny joke or silly dance to lift my mood. We are always there for each other to have a laugh with and to push each other to new personal records.” She’s motivated by a desire to reach her goals and by her support system. “It always feels good to achieve a new personal best, but I know that there is always an opportunity to do better if I continue to work hard.”

A few years ago, she was having extreme difficulty breathing during and

after practices. She was diagnosed with asthma as well as a vocal cord dysfunction, which closes her airway when she runs. “There is no known cure, so I learned breathing exercises to try and force my vocal cords to work correctly.

It takes extra concentration and mental effort to breathe in a way that comes natural to most; but with practice, I have been able to better control my breathing and continue to do the sport I love.”

At Marian, Harris is an officer in the National Honor Society, President of Marian’s Diversity Board, and a member of the Science Club and the Young Medicine Club. Outside of school, she’s involved in the greeter’s ministry at her church. She also enjoys baking as well as playing the ukulele and the piano.

Greg Golka, Marian Cross Country and Track coach said, “Lauren is an elite athlete, but her athletic success is simply an extension of the kind of person she is. She is active in her church, has a strong sense of family, and she has been a leading voice in the Marian community when it comes to issues of diversity and inclusion. Lauren is a person of integrity and compassion.”

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VARSITY corner

RISING TO THE

CHALLENGE Jack Sorensen | Senior Mount Michael Benedictine High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Portrait by KATHY JOHNSON PORTRAITS Jack Sorensen’s determination, focus, and humility have helped him lead his cross country team to its highest finish in the state meet in over three years.

Mount Michael high school Cross Country and Track coach John Gathje believes Jack has “helped his teammates survive and thrive during the pandemic.”

As a freshman, Sorensen signed up for cross country, and it was instant love.

“Being on the cross country team has been one of the best parts of my high school career,” he said. The camaraderie between us made practice something that I looked forward to every single day.”

One of his greatest accomplishments on the cross country team was his comeback from the 2019 season. Sorensen had a poor performance in a race at the district meet, and despite having a successful season, the team didn’t make it to state. According to Gathje, “This past fall, Jack finished second in the district and lead his team to a second-place finish at the district, which qualified the team for the state meet. Simply put, Jack performed at a very high level when the stakes were the highest.”

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Sorensen gives credit to his team for their success. “That failure gave us so much motivation going into this year’s season, and I am really proud of how we bounced back this year. We tied for first in the district and finished 4th in state after being seeded 10th. On top of that, I placed 8th individually at state which made me feel like I had finally found redemption.”

Besides being involved in sports, Sorensen is also Senior Class President for Student Council and on the journalism team. “Being on Student Council has been a great way to interact with the students from other classes.” On the journalism team, he oversees the production of the school newspaper. “Creating layouts for the paper is a lot of work but seeing everything come together in a finished product makes it all worth it.”

He will attend Creighton University in the fall, majoring in business. He hopes to be the team manager on the cross country team even if he’s not competing at the varsity level. His drive to succeed will keep him focused and motivated to keep chasing his personal best, both on and off the track.

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Local businesses, YOU INSPIRE US 2020 was rough on local businesses. They had a lot to overcome.

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We’re HONORED to tell their stories and help connect them with their communities.

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Visit coxmedia.com/tell-your-story or call (855) 755–2691.

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