Edge Magazine June 2021

JUNE 2021

M A G A Z I N E

aspireMD and Vance Thompson Vision redefine the patient experience

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LETTER from the EDITOR

The

sweet sights and sounds of summer have arrived! One of my favorite sounds is the ring of a metal bat striking a baseball at the fields in my neighborhood. It symbolizes a season filled with relaxing by the water, outdoor concerts, and family celebrations—even our staff photographer, Chris Tierney, has been busy shooting weddings every weekend.

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 season also brings with it a renewed feeling of hope and health. I had the pleasure of sitting down with a dynamic husband and wife team, Nicole Ascanio and Brandon Baartman.

They have both built practices in their respective fields of medicine—aspireMD Primary Care and Vance Thompson Vision—that redefine the patient experience. At its core, happier patients lead to happier providers, and their inspiring story illustrates what is possible in healthcare today.

Health comes in many forms, and the pandemic brought with it an increase in boutique fitness centers. There is something for everyone, and for those seeking a low-impact, higher intensity workout, Sculpt Studio in Elkhorn offers a unique combination of Lagree fitness and cardio. Owners Emily Burgat and Sarah Marshall combined their passion for strength, confidence, and community to welcome all fitness levels in a friendly, intimate setting.

Omaha held a Mayoral election this past May, as did Boys Town—electing 17-year-old Maddie Hagan as its Mayor for the next year. The student election is a 95-year-old Boys Town tradition first introduced by Father Edward J. Flanagan to help students realize the importance of this civic duty. Congratulations to Boys Town Mayor Hagan and to Omaha Mayor Stothert!

As you venture out, please continue to support our local restaurants! Biaggi’s is always a favorite for family celebrations, serving large portions of your favorite Italian dishes. If heading downtown to the Old Market, stop by V. Mertz in the Passageway and ask for the Vacay in Menorca, this issue’s My Concoction feature. It won’t disappoint!

I hope your summer is filled with health, happiness, and all the sights and sounds you enjoy most!

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

BUILDING

Bright Futures for

TOMORROW’S LEADERS Hailey, a 2021 Boys Town High School Graduate, received a prestigious four-year ROTC scholarship to attend Creighton University this fall.

Struggling at home and school, Hailey came to Boys Town where she credits the opportunities she received there the last four years in developing the building blocks for her next steps.

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See Hailey’s story and donate to help give more kids like her a bright future at BoysTown.org/Hailey.

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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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

22

OUR business 16

MY concoction

OUR passion

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54

OUR food

OUR youth

38

58

OUR health

VARSITY corner

46

62

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OUR home

n

revival

timeless

estled in the premier west Omaha neighborhood of Bay Shores, this updated halfacre property was given new life in 2013 when current homeowners Brenda and Tom Nicholas purchased the home, completely renovated it, and brought their custom modern farmhouse to fruition. At the time of purchase, every aspect was original to the nearly 6,000 sq. ft. home, dating back to the late 80s. Fortunately, interior design comes naturally to Brenda, who has remodeled various family homes over the years.

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For the Nicholases, it was the quiet location and friendly community that really sold the property. “It feels like we’re not in the city, but we still have all of the amenities of city life,” Brenda Nicholas said. “We have a huge backyard and we’re able to walk to the trails, which is very important, especially for an active family like ours. Plus, we have a great school district, and so many young families are moving into the area.”

Backing to the Zorinsky Reserve, this casual yet elegant residence features a manicured yard, a new DaVinci roof, as well as all new windows, siding, and deck. Inside, the traditional layout includes a grand staircase and entrance

STORY BY GABBY HELLBUSCH PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

MODERN FARMHOUSE TOUCHES JUNE 2021

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OUR home

ELEGANT OFFICE

with inviting Australian cypress wood flooring that winds throughout. Nicholas said the inspiration behind the rustic flooring came from previously living in the South where antique heart pine is popular.

The theme of the five-bedroom, 1.5-story home is simple, according to Nicholas: comfort with an elegant flair.

For example, the walls of the study are painted a striking black that contrasts with the white ceiling, giving the space a truly modern touch. In the dining room, the space boasts a crystal chandelier, black painted ceiling, crisp white walls, as well as a single brick wall insert composed of bricks from a historic building in downtown Omaha.

Vaulted ceilings, as well as oversized windows lining the walls, allow the main living area to feel bright and open. The gourmet kitchen, equipped with Carrara marble, antique Russian pendant lights over the island, and top of the line appliC O Z Y, S O P H I S T I C AT E D D I N I N G

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BRIGHT LIVING AREA

ances, was completely redesigned to exude a luxurious and crisp essence. To the family’s delight, a deck off of the kitchen overlooks the private backyard, which is often filled with charming wildlife critters like foxes, turkeys, and eagles.

A walkout covered deck is also accessible from the main floor master, which features a marble bathroom with a cast iron bathtub and Restoration Hardware vanities. Upstairs, there’s more than enough room for guests and family members alike, as the level presents a bedroom with an en suite, as well as two additional bedrooms that feature a Jack and Jill bathroom.

The family also recently remodeled the basement of the home, installing vinyl plank flooring and an exercise room. The space houses a large living area and kitchen, as well as another guest bedroom and bathroom. The lower level also includes a spacious 24-foot by 37-foot shop with a separate garage door LOWER LEVEL GAME ROOM JUNE 2021

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OUR home

CUSTOM, UPGRADED KITCHEN

E Y E - C ATC H I N G D E TA I L S

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OUR home

CHARMING DINING ROOM

entry that is ideal for storing all essential household recreational toys and vehicles such as snowmobiles, kayaks, riding lawn mowers, and more.

When initially embarking on the renovation, Nicholas said the family purposely strived to achieve a timeless design so the home would continue to work well for new owners as time goes on. “It’s definitely been a work in progress the whole time we’ve lived here, but in our eyes, the house is pretty perfect now,” Nicholas said. “So much time has gone into the reviving of the home, and we certainly won’t be able to replace it when we move. Ultimately, it is our hope that the next family can sit back, relax, and really enjoy the house.”

This newly remodeled property was listed and sold in April 2021. For information on additional listings or to sell your home, contact Teresa Elliott with NextHome Signature Real Estate at 402445-4899.

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OUR business

Echo Systems offers stylish, custom at-home theater installation

t

he classic movie theater experience will always remain a valued pastime that is deeply rooted in American history. The big screen, the surround sound, and the dimmed lights create an ambiance unlike any other.

Today, movie lovers don’t have to travel far to indulge in a flick, as more and more families are opting for an at-home private theater experience versus the traditional movie-viewing outing at a commercial cinema. As this trend continues to increase in popularity, home theater options are becoming even more hightech and aesthetically pleasing.

Story by GABBY HELLBUSCH Photos courtesy of ECHO SYSTEMS 16 |

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T H E AT E R D E S I G N E D BY E C H O S Y S T E M S

high-tech

entertainment

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OUR business

G O L F S I M U L ATO R

“People are spending more time at home and are really starting to utilize and enjoy their own spaces,” said Doug Dushan, business development manager at Echo Systems. “Part of this dramatic uptick also has to do with many movie theaters closing during the pandemic.

Staying in, rather than going out, has also led homeowners to save money, which means they are more likely to invest in their homes. People who have existing theaters are also looking to update to more user friendly, higher performance technology. Overall, we are seeing home theaters more and more in new construction plans.”

In an industry that is still relatively young with few well-established processes, Dushan said the audio and video provider leverages custom design tailored to the needs of clients, while emphasizing the entire planning process from start to finish. “We aren’t just geared around the technology—everything for us starts in the drawing stage,” Dushan said. “Working with us is like working with an architect. When we are 18 |

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engaged on a project, we are going to have everything in black and white and mapped out prior to ever setting foot on site.”

Echo focuses on asking clients the right questions. For example, the team finds out very specific details, such as where the client likes to sit when they go to a traditional theater. “We try to recreate the experience as much as possible and really understand what their expectations are,” Dushan said.

“We’re not looking at the project from a cookie cutter model but rather custom designing it for that specific family or individual.”

In addition to the recent boom in home theater installations, Dushan said one of the more interesting trends in the industry is the lean toward the aesthetic application of technology. Today, when homeowners embark on a project, there’s much more attention placed on how the space looks. “Consumers are starting to realize there are products that can look as good as the rest of their space—TVs that look like artwork, speakers that can

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OUR business

W E T B A R AT E C H O S Y S T E M S E X P E R I E N C E C E N T E R

DOUG DUSHAN

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G A M E R O O M AT E C H O S Y S T E M S E X P E R I E N C E C E N T E R

be invisible behind drywall, or even electrical outlets that can be flushed with granite countertop,” Dushan said. In order to really get a feel for what they are looking for, Dushan encourages homeowners to visit the Echo Systems Experience Center, which offers a 30,000 sq. ft. view of aesthetic technology in a $2.5 million dollar space.

While native to Omaha, Echo Systems’s impressive technology is well known across the country.

Competing against companies

throughout the U.S. this year, Echo Systems received multiple national awards from audio/video publication CE Pro, including first place for Best Theater in America, first place for Best Equipment Room in America, and third place for Best Overall Audio and Video job over $150,000 in America. The company also took home first place for Best Showroom in America from both CE Pro and Lutron, a national tech company.

According to Dushan, who has

more than 20 years of experience in the audio and video sector, these achievements are a nod to the company’s high level of detail and organization. In addition to its custom home theater offerings, Echo Systems also provides lighting design, lighting control, motorized shading for indoor and outdoor, and the distribution of audio and video throughout the home. To contact Echo Systems, email Doug Dushan at ddushan@echosystemsmidwest. com or call 402-334-4900.

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COVER story

w

aspireMD and Vance Thompson Vision redefine the patient experience

hen Nicole Ascanio and Brandon Baartman met in medical school at Wake Forest University, they felt a calling to provide exceptional care and a connection with their patients. Ascanio followed a path to primary care and Baartman to ophthalmology. Their journey took them from the East Coast to the Midwest—first to Sioux Falls, SD and then to Omaha—where they have redefined the definition of excellence in healthcare for patients and employees in both their fields.

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Nicole Ascanio

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Happier healthcare

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COVER story

Baartman began as a fellow—only the third in its 20-year history—at Vance Thompson Vision in Sioux Falls. He was ecstatic to be chosen, calling the clinic “a beacon of technology and advanced medicine in the prairie.” Ascanio, a native of North Carolina, was skeptical about living in the Midwest but knew she could practice anywhere and that it was an opportunity her husband couldn’t pass up. They made the move, and she worked in urgent care while Baartman completed his fellowship.

When it was time to make a decision about their next steps, Ascanio admittedly hoped they could move back east, 24 |

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but Baartman didn’t want to leave Vance Thompson Vision. As a compromise, Baartman was given the opportunity to open a Vance Thompson practice in Omaha—a rarity in a field where the norm is buying someone out or starting completely on your own. For Ascanio, if they were going to put down roots, she wanted to make sure it was in a place they felt was safe, a good fit for raising a family, and a direct flight to her hometown of Charlotte, NC. Omaha checked all the boxes.

Baartman found a space in central Omaha to open his clinic, and Ascanio quickly found a job with a large medical

center as a primary care provider at a local clinic. Unfortunately, she quickly experienced the downside to corporate medicine. “I really liked the outpatient family practice, especially at first when I had fewer patients and could spend more time with them. But as my practice grew, patients were rushed in and out, and I couldn’t spend the time with them they needed.” She grew increasingly frustrated with the demands for productivity, often having to fit 25 patients in a day with an average of only 5-7 minutes per patient. Not nearly enough time to cover every aspect needed for excellent care, let alone getting to

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COVER story know her patients. “Most people don’t understand how poor their primary care really is, and not because their doctor doesn’t want to provide excellent care— it’s just so under the corporate setting,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ascanio experienced her husband’s culture at Vance Thompson Vision, which was focused on empowerment. “Every single one of our employees are authorized to spend up to $100 a day on patients any way they want,” Baartman said. This could include sending flowers for a patient’s anniversary or having a cake ready for a patient’s birthday when they come in for their appointment. “A great patient experience naturally follows a great employee experience,” he added.

Ascanio soon found herself at a crossroads: give in to the corporate medicine model or leave and go off on her own.

The pull to be able to spend the time needed with her patients outweighed the guaranteed income, and she wanted what her husband had—to love going to work every day. “It was a scary jump, but I didn’t want to end up burned out like so many physicians do today,” she said. “People deserve time with their doctor, comprehensive and personalized care, and treatment plans that are decided by a doctor, not insurance companies.”

The summer of 2020 Ascanio launched her direct primary care practice, aspireMD, sharing space in her husband’s new location at Vance Thompson Vision near I-80 and L Street. Unlike “concierge medicine” that typically has costly membership rates and also bills insurance, aspireMD offers affordable monthly plans for individuals, spouses, and families. There are no co-pays or bills for visits, and visits are unlimited. Patients also have access to a texting app that allows for quick communication directly with Ascanio—not a nurse or admin. The only additional costs are for labs, but patients receive wholesale pricing. For example, an advanced lipid panel, which insurance often doesn’t cover, may cost a patient up to $200. At aspireMD, it only costs $18.

Being an aspireMD patient is not a replacement to your health insurance, which you would still use for specialists, surgeries, hospitalizations, etc.

But since most people start with their 26 |

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primary care provider for medical issues, Ascanio can spend more time with a patient—45 minutes on average—to gain a thorough understanding and better outcome. She will eventually limit the number of patients she has so she can always spend the time needed with them. “What I’m doing should be the standard of primary care for everyone,” she said. “If I can provide better care, which results in healthier patients, then they will have fewer specialist, urgent or emergency room visits. My patients are happier, and I’m happier.”

Finally sharing that vision with her husband has been a dream come true.

The couple said it’s hard to find physicians who truly love their job and are fulfilled by it, stating, “we both have that feeling now.” Baartman enjoys the specialized vision correction and restoration he provides, which includes cataract and advanced cataract surgery, laser vision corrections, corneal transplant, and glaucoma surgery. One of his best days was performing his father’s cataract surgery. “A lot of ophthalmologists can perform cataract surgery and LASIK, but we really pride ourselves on having the best technology and an experience that is second to none. I feel like I was

born to do this, and I think that feeling is shared by our whole team.”

The aging population needs a lot of eye care, and Baartman said there is a shortage of ophthalmologists in Omaha, which makes working together as an eye care system important. “We’ve created a world-class research center utilizing technology devices where patients can participate in research opportunities,” he said. “We’ve developed a collaborative eye care community and get most of our patients through partnerships with local primary eye care providers.” Baartman works closely with Dr. John Goertz and Dr. Kristen Walton, the in-house optometrists who recommend him for surgery when needed.

Now that Ascanio and Baartman have lived in Omaha for a few years, they definitely feel like it’s become home.

One of the best parts is having time to spend with their four-year-old daughter and one-year-old son, whether it’s simply eating dinner together or going to a park. They have both found a path that aligns with their “why” for going into medicine—a better patient experience.

And that patient experience starts with asking the simple question: “how can I make someone happy today?”

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BUSINESS spotlight

Senior living at its finest Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR | Photos courtesy of OVATION We’ve all heard the adage, “60 is the new 40; 70 is the new 50.” And it’s true.

Life after 55 has never felt more invigorating and exciting. Seniors today are getting involved and expecting their opinions to carry weight in society like never before. Given the rise of this dynamic class, it makes sense that residential communities would evolve to feel more like an all-inclusive resort than a traditional care facility.

To understand just how far senior living has come, check out Omaha’s Ovation Heartwood Preserve, a stunning 28 |

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new development that will definitely set a new standard. Divided into independent, assisted, and memory care living buildings, the campus features a variety of restaurants, rooftop clubs, an indoor pool and other amenities associated with high-end resorts. Each of the three senior living choices caters to its residents with customized programs designed to reflect the needs and interests of each specific resident.

Properties like Ovation Heartwood Preserve will raise the bar for exceptional senior living in the future as more poten-

tial residents demand an independent or assisted living environment that continues the quality of life to which they are accustomed. It’s hard to understand exactly how significant the residential design is without visiting. Fireplaces accent several terraces among many gathering places. The Carson Theater accommodates lecture series and films, while a visit to the Exploration Studio may stir up a passion for cooking or art. “It is our goal to offer a resort experience every day for our residents,” said Stephanie Grade, Ovation’s General Manager.

Research indicates that socializing is a key facet of maintaining one’s positive mindset and mental acuity. Ovation Heartwood Preserve offers a full spectrum of opportunities to interact with other residents. In assisted living this means encouraging groups of friends to meet for lunch, showing nightly films in the Brando Theater, and multi-denominational chapel services.

“Our residents will have numerous opportunities to participate in a vast array of experiences that align with their passions as they also explore new interests,”

Grade said. The resident’s day is filled with engaging activities from gardening to state-of-the-art virtual experiences that are proven to be soothing and help stimulate memory. “With around-the-clock nursing, you can be assured expert assistance is always available when needed,” Grade added.

Individual attention is critical throughout a forward-thinking hospitality operation like Ovation Heartwood Preserve.

Naturally, providing this level of detailed care takes a certain type of individual. To locate these team members, Grade and

her staff follow one of the longest onboarding protocols in the industry. Each potential employee spends two weeks learning about the Ovation values, culture, and operations of the community.

Today’s seniors are determined to remain engaged with all aspects of society, from culture to politics to remaining active in the gym and on the trails. The modern senior living community must adapt to the expectations of this generation. Visit the Ovation Heartwood Preserve website for an extensive look at the future of senior housing.

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OUR wealth

Inheritance tax basics

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

In the case of inheritance tax, no truer words have been spoken than those of Benjamin Franklin: “in life, taxes and death are the only certainty.” Nebraska is one of six states that collects inheritance tax. (In case you were wondering, Iowa does, too). Nebraska’s inheritance tax statutes assess a tax against those who receive assets from a decedent at the decedent’s death. The tax applies if the decedent was a resident of the state at the time of death. All personal property and real estate (located in Nebraska) owned by the decedent at the time of death is subject to tax, excepting life insurance. Additionally, spouses and charities do not pay inheritance tax.

The rate of tax and applicable exemption amounts depend on the relationship of the beneficiary to the decedent. Here are some examples: • A child of a decedent will receive a $40,000 exemption; the value of any assets received above $40,000 will be taxed at 1%.

• A niece or nephew of a decedent will receive a $15,000 exemption; the value of any assets received above $15,000 will be taxed at 13%.

• A nonfamilial beneficiary will pay 18% tax above a $10,000 exemption.

On the inheritance tax worksheet, the filing party can also take deductions for things like attorney fees, accountant fees, other administrative expenses, and paid claims and bills of the decedent. There are also other applicable deductions that come into play for children, such as an exempt property deduction.

Determination of inheritance tax is a court proceeding in Nebraska. On a base level, a petition, inventory and inheritance tax worksheet must be filed in court in the county where the decedent lived at the time of death.

The county attorney reviews these documents at the time of submission. If approved, the pleadings are then submitted to the court for approval. Once the order of tax is entered by the judge, the inheritance tax is paid to the county treasurer.

An inheritance tax must be filed and paid within one year from the date of the decedent’s death to avoid penalties and interest.

Additionally, a lien is placed on any real estate owned by the decedent until the tax is paid.

A qualified attorney can answer your questions regarding inheritance tax, be it in your own estate or one where you are a beneficiary.

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OUR community

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MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

W

ell known for its love of fireworks, Nebraska’s pyrotechnics scene is gaining more traction every year. Avid fireworks enthusiasts and co-founders of Twisted Thunder, a fireworks supplier located in the Omaha area, Ryan Steffen and Mark Texel first set out to help put Nebraska on the map in 2018. In just three short years, the business has grown from one location to six. Their philosophy is simple: offer higher quality products and more selection at a better price.

“We noticed this massive gap in the market from a product quality and performance standpoint, as well as price,” Steffen said. “While some companies might just carry one or two brands, we aim to offer more variety. We cherry pick from at least 20 different brands around the country in order to find the very best products.”

From artillery to smoke bombs to novelties, the team thoroughly analyzes each product offered to customers. In fact, research is such a key element for the business that it means watching more than 10,000 YouTube videos each year to make selections.

Along with product selection, Steffen said catering to customers is also at the core of the business—catering to a truly unique and customized experience. For this reason, the business not only provides a traditional fireworks stand experience but also the ability to purchase online and opt for delivery or curbside pickup. Each product on the website also features a video so buyers

know exactly what they’re getting prior to purchasing.

The fireworks industry, like many others, faces uncharted territory this year, as massive shortages of product can be felt throughout the country. Despite this challenge, Steffen said Twisted Thunder will be well stocked and ready to serve customers this summer season.

Plus, the recent passing of LB152, which lifts certain restrictions on fireworks, is a new cause for joy this year, Steffen said, as the new bill deems rockets legal throughout the state.

“This news is a really big deal,” Steffen said. “For us, it’s very exciting to witness such a big change like this in our

community. We love interacting with our customers and working with local nonprofits, all while having fun.”

Twisted Thunder will be open from June 25 to July 4. To order or view products, visit https://twistedthunder.com.

For questions, contact Ryan Steffen at 402-318-5227 or ryan@twistedthunder.com.

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Taxes: certain uncertainty M Y T WO

cents J. SCOTT WHEELER, CPA

S

S mma-cpa.com 34 |

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We have all heard the famous phrase from Benjamin Franklin in his letter to French scientist Jean-Baptiste Le Roy: “…In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” And while this has continued to ring true in the 230+ years since it was written, the uncertainty surrounding tax law has only increased.

Each year, new laws are passed by Congress, and new regulations and rulings are issued by the Department of Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service. Keeping up with these changes is a constant task, resulting in misinformation spread throughout the media, at the local coffee shop, around the water cooler, or at gatherings of family and friends.

At Masimore, Magnuson & Associates, PC, we pride ourselves on our ability to not only keep up with these constant changes, but to apply them to our clients’ current, past, and future tax and financial situations. A mainstay in Omaha for 47 years, with hundreds of years of experience between our partners and employees, Masimore, Magnuson & Associates, PC, provides accounting,

audit, tax, consulting, and business advisory services to hundreds of clients both locally and across the country. Our diverse backgrounds and experiences allow us to provide outstanding service to businesses of all sizes and types, and to the individuals who own and run them.

As you navigate 2021 with all the potential changes in tax law being proposed, there is no better time than now to work with a Certified Public Accountant to plan for your future.

Whether you complete your bookkeeping, financial statements, tax returns and other accounting projects internally or work externally, the team at Masimore, Magnuson & Associates, PC, is always willing to sit down to discuss your business and personal accounting needs and goals, and work with you to alleviate your pain points, and help you surpass your current goals and expand upon them.

If you are interested in discussing how Masimore, Magnuson & Associates, PC can help you and your business succeed, please visit our website at www.mmacpa.com, email me at jsw@mma-cpa. com, or call me at 402-334-0600.

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MY concoction

V. Mertz 1022 Howard St vmertz.com (402) 345-8980

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1

5

What you need: • .75 oz orange fennel • 1.5 oz Gin de Mahón syrup (Xoriguer distillery) • 2 dashes Old • .75 oz lime juice Fashioned Bitters

Add all ingredients

2

steps

Shake well

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: V. Mertz THE BARTENDER: Alex THE DRINK: Vacay in Menorca

4

5

Double strain into glass

Garnish with orange peel and fresh mint JUNE 2021

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OUR food

BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO 13655 California St. biaggis.com (402) 965-9800

Z AC H A RY L I N K A N D RO B I N W H I T E

Food fit for a celebration Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 38 |

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b

iaggi’s Ristorante Italiano is at once comfortable and homey, beckoning diners with warm woods, earth tones, and delicious aromas even in midday. The ambiance is upscale, yet relaxed—white tablecloths without a hint of pretension.

B R U S C H E T TA JUNE 2021

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OUR food The eatery has found a unique niche here, serving regulars from all over Omaha whose lives include regular visits and celebrations marking important milestones. Patrons relish top-notch service, scratch-made dishes, and the satisfaction that comes from being in a welcoming, safe space surrounded by people who genuinely care.

Elkhorn native Zachary Link, Managing Partner, has been in the hospitality business in one form or another for 17 years, working in restaurants while pursuing a business degree, even spending a few years in Sioux Falls running a kitchen for another popular Italian spot.

When he heard about an opening in Omaha, he was compelled to return home to raise his family. Link recalls great enthusiasm for a chance to work at Biaggi’s, “If I wanted to impress someone, I’d bring them here.”

The affable and enthusiastic Link has no formal culinary training, learning instead on the job. It was a bit daunting to move into the kitchen in the Omaha location—the prior chef had been there 14 years (eons in kitchen time), but he settled in and quickly gained his footing. Ultimately, he took over the manager position in Omaha after spending about a year in the kitchen, that knowledge proving invaluable in a managerial capacity.

Ironically, Link despised spaghetti as a child, growing up with a limited menu and palate, “I didn’t even know what asparagus was,” he shared, chuckling. Given the rare opportunity to dine out now, he enjoys trying local spots and different cuisines, “Omaha is a great restaurant town, with so many options, and I love being a part of it.”

Privately held, Biaggi’s opened in 1999 in Bloomington, Illinois, and has since expanded to 17 locations in 9 states. Todd Hovenden, founder, is a detail-oriented foodie, constantly working to innovate and refine dishes. Per Link, Hovenden is hands on, meeting weekly with the corporate chef to keep things fresh, changing the menu at least twice a year to avoid stagnation.

Mentors over the years imparted to Link the importance of maintaining high standards in a nurturing environment for both staff and guests. This philosophy translates to the tactful handling of coachable moments, using 40 |

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LOBSTER CORN SOUP

C H I C K E N PA R M E S A N

SE ARED SCALLOP RISOT TO JUNE 2021

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OUR food

R I G ATO N I B O L O G N E S E

W H I T E C H O C O L AT E B R E A D P U D D I N G

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the best products, and paying heed to the tiniest details.

The pandemic was hard on everyone, but Link expressed great pride in the way his team handled the unprecedented events of the past year.

“We have a fantastic team, who really nurtured each other in many ways.”

This location is unique in that many employees have been there for over 10 years—Robin White has been a server for 14 years—so the level of knowledge is high, enabling Link to run lean while maintaining high levels of service.

Dishes emerging from the scratch kitchen are hearty, appetizing, and creative. The establishment has been named Omaha’s Best Gluten-Free Menu multiple times, offering dozens of gluten-free dishes, including spinach fettucine, rice penne, and alfredo. Flexible with other dietary considerations as well, service staff boasts strong menu knowledge, and when unable to answer

a question or request on the spot, they will take steps necessary to provide the most delicious solution.

Risotto, a traditional Italian dish with arborio rice, appears in myriad forms on the menu, scattered with simple roasted, seasonal vegetables for lunch and topped with more decadent scallops for dinner. A rotating soup menu is a smart lunch choice when paired with a salad.

Nebraskans love their steak, and Biaggi’s features a tender 8-ounce filet mignon that arrives at the table perched atop buttery mashed potatoes, ringed with a sundried tomato cream sauce, and accompanied by earthy asparagus, mushrooms, and roasted tomatoes. One of Link’s personal favorite dishes is the Bombolini (Italian doughnuts), bitesized sweets similar to the impressive bread pudding.

Biaggi’s boasts two private dining spaces available for anything from

weddings to wine dinners. The more intimate wine room seats up to 18 and the banquet room up to 72. One of the most cherished parts of Link’s job is hosting special occasions, “Our regulars celebrate here for big events in their lives, from first communion to weddings to funerals. It’s a privilege to be there for our guests throughout these milestones and the gamut of human emotions.”

When possible, the restaurant makes time for charitable community involvement such as the annual Art & Soup Fundraiser hosted by the Visiting Nurse Association. “It’s an honor to be in a position to help in any way throughout the community.”

Summing up his philosophy, Link mused, “At the end of the day, there is no better value for the quality of food and service. I want diners to leave here content with wide smiles on their faces.”

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WORTH THE HAUL STIR COVE:

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18 June

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26 June

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18-30 June

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OUR health

Sculpt Studio takes your fitness to the next level

d

uring the pandemic, an interesting trend was the move from big box gyms and fitness centers to smaller fitness boutiques, due in large part to social distancing.

Sculpt Studio in Elkhorn, which opened mid-pandemic in August of last year, is an example of a fitness boutique success. Owned by Emily Burgat and Sarah Marshall, Sculpt Studio combines Lagree Fitness, a full body conditioning workout, for strength and Woodway curved treadmills for cardio, offering a complete body workout for all fitness levels.

Sarah Marshall and Emily Burgat

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 46 |

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health EMPOWER YOUR

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OUR health

Burgat has Nebraska roots but lives in Phoenix AZ, where she’s taught Lagree for the past 10 years. Marshall lives in Omaha and owns Elevate Cycling and Fitness Studio. The women met through a mutual friend and discussed ideas for a new fitness offering in Omaha. Burgat had seen studios in Los Angeles that combined Lagree and spin but not one that combined Lagree with treadmills.

Before long, they decided to become business partners, enabling Burgat to regularly come back to Omaha to visit family and friends.

The women signed a studio lease in December 2019 with a scheduled March opening. Their equipment was delayed in shipping due to Covid, so they finally opened their doors in August 2020.

From day one they’ve put safety first for their clients, ensuring equipment is cleaned after each use. The studio specializes in smaller class sizes, offering 11 Megaformers and 11 Woodway treadmills, which are manually powered for a higher intensity cardio workout.

The Megaformers have some similarities to a Pilates reformer, such as the spring-loaded tension that activates various muscles at once in a low impact manner. They are designed to bring the most challenging elements of Pilates and combine them with strength training.

The machines target every body part—legs, arms, and obliques—by focusing on constant tension. “It’s very slow paced and low impact but high intensity,” Burgat explained. “We focus on burning out one muscle group, such as your abs, before moving on to the next muscle group.” There is even a term called the “Lagree shakes,” which signals muscle failure. Burgat said muscle failure is the only proven path to successfully achieving muscle definition.

According to Sculpt, some of the benefits from a Lagree workout include a stronger core, better posture, greater strength and endurance, a leaner physique, a shift in body composition, and improved body confidence and energy.

Marshall said they don’t focus on weight loss, instead they want each client to feel good in their own body. “It’s a workout where you feel more toned 48 |

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OUR health

and tighter and want to maintain your posture,” she added.

For example, a client attending their first class might not be able to a hold a plank. After only a month of classes, they can hold a plank for an entire 30 seconds using perfect form. “As instructors, we always notice the difference in strength first,” Burgat said. “They can hold a move longer than they could a month ago, or they need fewer modifications. The more classes you take, the less modifications you require. We also see how it builds confidence in our clients.”

Sculpt offers two types of classes: a 50-minute Megaformer class and a 50-minute Hybrid class, which is 30 minutes on the Megaformer and then 15 minutes on the Woodway treadmill, which adds an additional level of intensity. Marshall said their treadmills burn 30% more calories than a traditional treadmill and have less impact on the body. All new clients receive their first class free, and Sculpt recommends the 50-minute Megaformer class that can easily be modified for beginners.

Both individual packages and monthly or yearly memberships are offered, with the unlimited monthly membership as the most popular. Reserving a class is easily done through the studio’s web site or app, and you can even choose which Megaformer and corresponding treadmill you want to reserve.

Burgat and Marshall said another benefit of Sculpt, in addition to how easy it is to modify the workout to any fitness level, is the sense of community and personal connection that occurs.

“We can provide one-on-one attention, you connect with your instructor, and you become friends with people in class and share personal experiences,” Burgat said. Their instructors each bring their own creativity and fun by making their own playlists with upbeat music and designing their own routines. Marshall added, “We strive to create a clean, welcoming, uplifting environment that provides a low impact but challenging workout.” To schedule your first free class, visit thesculpt.studio.

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TRAVEL spotlight

Best summer ever at Big Cedar Lodge Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of BIG CEDAR LODGE Summer has finally arrived, and there is no better way to dip your toe in the water—literally—than to visit Big Cedar Lodge in the Ozarks. There are activities for every interest and age, but the sweeping views and lush surroundings serve as a tranquil backdrop for all who visit.

FAMILY FUN Big Cedar Lodge offers activities that cater to everyone, but there is nowhere better to have family fun. Fun Mountain offers go-carts, a ropes course, rock wall climbing, and bowling. The Kids Adventure Camp is available Monday through Saturdays, which is an interactive experience led by the camp’s activities team.

Twice a week, little anglers can receive free fishing instruction at the Kids Fish Pond and participate in cast and catch competitions—all with poles and bait included! Families can also play mini-golf, experience horseback riding, play archery tag, and participate in the Cedar Hollow Hoop-De-Doo, complete with a campfire and s’mores!

ON THE WATER A trip to Big Cedar isn’t complete without getting out on the water at Table Rock Lake. Check out one of the resort’s two marinas for daily and hourly boat rentals for fishing, cruising, skiing and tubing, all are all available at Bent Hook Marina. The month of June you can receive a complimentary tube rental with any 8-hour boat rental. The marina also rents canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, or just relax on its sandy beach and soak up the sun!

ADVENTURE For the more active vacationer, Big Cedar offers a host of activities for the nature enthusiast. A scenic walk at Top 52 |

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Big Cedar Lodge registration

Top of the Rock

of the Rock features waterfalls and rock formations along the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, or you can do the tour on a golf cart. Dogwood Canyon, a 10,000 acre Nature Park, offers activities such as Segway tours, private jeep tours in the resort’s cross-country vehicles, and wildlife tram tours where you can get glimpses of bison, elk, deer, and Texas Longhorn. The Bass Pro Shops Shooting Academy includes a variety of options for both adults and youth, and the resort’s five world-class golf courses designed

by Nicklaus, Player, Fazio, Coore & Crenshaw, and Tiger Woods provide ample opportunities to take your game to a new level. These courses provide ample opportunities to take your game to a new level.

DINING Big Cedar Lodge offers spectacular views with any meal. Top of the Rock features Osage Restaurant and Buffalo Bar where you can enjoy open-air seating and a full menu. Or, if you just want to wind down with a glass of wine, the End of the Trail wine cellar overlooking Table Rock Lake is the perfect spot. If you’re looking for a dining activity, Lady Liberty yacht cruises Table Rock Lake several nights each week and for Sunday brunch.

Buffalo Bar deck

SPECIAL EVENTS In addition to all the weekly activities Big Cedar Lodge offers, you may want to plan a visit in conjunction with a special event. Maybe you want to join the Father’s Day 5K run through the resort’s stunning trails.

Or you want to celebrate July 4th at

the resort’s Patriotic Picnic, which will include games, inflatables, an air show, entertainment, a dance party, concert, food, and, of course, fireworks.

For a complete list of summer activities, visit bigcedar.com/seasons/best-summer-ever JUNE 2021

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OUR passion

day

election

Many Omaha citizens may not have realized that two mayoral elections took place last month in the community. One was for the City of Omaha, and a second election voted in 17-year-old Maddie Hagan as this year’s Mayor of Boys Town—a tradition the small city has held the majority of the past 95 years.

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos courtesy of BOYS TOWN

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Boys Town Founder Father Edward J. Flanagan believed that every student should have civic responsibility. His hope was that when kids left Boys Town, they would go on to hold office in local government as a way to foster change.

To prepare kids for that duty, he wanted Boys Town to be a place where kids could share their ideas and were treated with respect in doing so. Boys Town’s first mayoral election took place in 1926, and William Roach was its first Mayor.

More organized elections were held throughout the 1930s, and Tony Villone became its second Mayor.

Candidates created campaigns and gave speeches to the other students.

Every boy voted, and Fr. Flanagan was the only adult who voted. A voting area was set up on campus. Kids filled out a paper ballot, dropped it into a ballot box, and adults on campus counted the votes.

This system occurred annually through the 1980s.

Thomas Lynch, who has been Boys Town’s Director of Community Programs for the past 35 years and the Boys Town Historian, said elections have grown to become full campaigns. “Boys would organize political parties, campaign rallies, and post signs around campus. All boys

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Boys Town Mayor Maddie Hagan

MIKE BUCKLEY

would vote regardless of race or religion, even when laws in the country prohibited from doing so.” There is a famous scene from the 1938 movie Boys Town, starring Mickey Rooney, in which his character runs for Mayor and a band marches through the Village as part of his campaign rally.

During the 1930s, Fr. Flanagan set up his own “Supreme Court” system at Boys Town. If a student had an infraction, they went before a court of peers, in which Fr. Flanagan served as judge. Penalties might include having to do extra chores on the farm or not being able to watch a movie on movie night.

Lynch said it’s similar to the reward system Boys Town still uses today. When the population at Boys Town grew to more than 900 in the 1940s, it wasn’t feasible to retain the court system, but the Mayoral election remained.

Fr. Flanagan worked with the Truman administration as a missionary on fact finding missions to Asia and Europe, setting up communities for war orphans. Following World War II, allied forces visited Boys Town, learned about its student election system, and then brought that system to children in Germany, Japan, and Korea to teach children the importance of a free election. “It was such a unique concept at that time,” Lynch said. “Father looked at kids as individuals, and he changed the way kids were perceived across the U.S. and around the world.”

Today, all Boys Town students have Civic as part of their social studies curriculum so they understand the importance of voting. On election day, time is set aside for every student to vote. Hagan is 56 |

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one of many female Mayors, the first of which were elected at Boys Town in the 1980s. Paper ballots and ballot boxes are still used. Candidates begin campaigning in April, and the election is held in early May, with the winner announced during the annual awards convocation. Hagan, along with Vice Mayor Jay Ballard, will spend the next year working with school administrators to implement students’ ideas. Hagan’s campaign slogan was “We are better together through discussions, encouraging, and being kind to everyone.” Hagan said, “Boys Town has changed the trajectory of my life. I want to be an encouraging leader and lead the campus towards a more inclusive and proactive Boys Town.”

The Boys Town Mayor doesn’t just represent the students but represents Boys Town as a whole as well. When dignitaries visit Boys Town, such as when former Second Lady Karen Pence visited in 2020, Mayor Hazakiah Williams welcomed her when she arrived. In the 1930s, Fr. Flanagan arranged to have the Boys Town Mayor, who was the mayor of the smallest city in the U.S. visit the Mayor of New York City—the largest city in the U.S. True to Fr. Flanagan’s vision, Boys Town has had many of its students go on to hold civic offices, including state representatives, law enforcement, and many who have been instrumental with social movements and social equality. “Going out into the world and helping your fellow man is an important concept that Fr. Flanagan had,” Lynch said. “We make sure to carry that on with our boys and girls today.”

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OUR youth

critters crafting for

Story by EDGE STAFF Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

l

ast summer during the pandemic, 11-yearold Reese Neu, a fifth grader at Prairie Queen Elementary in Papillion, wanted a project she could do at home. Her neighbor kept tiny buckets of nuts on a picnic table to feed the squirrels, and it sparked an idea. Reese set out to make picnic tablestyle feeders for squirrels, calling her construction “Reese’s Critter Tables,” with 75 happy customers to date.

Edge: How did you come up with the design for the table?

Neu: I saw some on Amazon and decided to figure out how to make one myself.

Edge: Had you ever done wood working before?

Neu: No, so when I started my dad showed me how to use all the tools. We used small pieces of wood to make measurements. We made some changes after the first one so it looked better.

Edge: Were you nervous to use power tools?

Neu: I was a little nervous at first but then jumped right into it.

I didn’t use the table saw until later on, but I used the nail gun right away.

Edge: How long does it take you to make one table?

Neu: It only takes about 10 minutes to make one, but I precut everything and have an assembly line. First, I chop up the wood, then put the back and table together, then the legs, which is the hardest part, then the bench holders, the benches, and finally the screws for the corn. I usually spend a whole

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Saturday making about 30 at once.

Edge: When did you decide to turn it into a business?

Neu: I made two tables before turning it into a business. I put the first one on our tree, and then our neighbor saw it and wanted one. People love feeding squirrels, so I knew they’d buy them.

Edge: How did you set up your business?

Neu: We thought about the name a lot.

My dad suggested Critter Tables, and then we added Reese’s Critter Tables. My mom set up a Facebook page, and we found someone on Fiverr to make the logo.

Edge: What is the most challenging part of having your own business?

Neu: Keeping track of sales and making sure everyone gets what they ordered.

Plus knowing how much material to buy.

Last Christmas, we didn’t know how much wood to buy, so we bought extra to get us through. I had the most sales over Christmas.

Edge: What is the most rewarding part?

Neu: Once I got money, that was nice. I bought an electric scooter and paid it off on my own.

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Brian Neu (Reese’s father): She’s learned a lot of responsibility, and the economics of buying material with her own money and then building something with it to make a profit. She’s also had to learn about spending more on materials so the product lasts, such as using galvanized nails and more expensive wood. It’s hard for an 11-year-old to make those decisions.

Edge: What else do you like to do when you’re not making tables?

Neu: I do martial arts twice a week at Chung Shin Warrior. I like the Tang Soo Do discipline because it teaches you to listen to other people and to defend yourself. I also like to hang out with my friends or Facetime them.

Edge: How can someone order a critter table?

Neu: You can just send a message on the Facebook page, and we’ll deliver it to you within a week. We include corn—my grandpa and grandma let me walk their field after harvest and pick up the cobs— but you can also buy corn from Fareway or Tractor Supply. And you can send us photos of squirrels at your table and we’ll put them on the Facebook page! facebook.com/reesescrittertables

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VARSITY corner

MAKING A

SPLASH Logan Kuehne | Senior Westside High School Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photo by MICHAELA REDDEL, TRUE BEAUTY PHOTOGRAPHY For Westside High School senior Logan Kuehne, swimming is a family tradition. “My mom swam for Northwestern University, and my dad swam for Wisconsin-River Falls. My younger sister, a sophomore, also swims for Westside, and it’s been really fun training and going to meets with her. I’m so glad I got to share the past two years with her.”

Kuehne pushes herself to train harder and beat her own times, but “the internal drive to beat the person in the lane/s next to me is oftentimes what pushes me through a race.” Winning the State Championship in the 100 freestyle in her junior year and committing to the University of Illinois are high points in her swimming career. “They both exemplify what I am truly capable of when I work hard and have a good mindset.”

Despite her previous success, Kuehne struggled with motivation during her senior year. “Due to the obvious obstacles surrounding COVID-19, it was hard for me to go to practice and train for a February State Championship meet that was, at the time, hypothetical.

Everything throughout the year was so unknown that it was also hard to stay focused on getting stronger while still having to stress over the possibility of getting sick.”

She also wasn’t able to go attend in-person college visits due to the pandemic but eventually committed to the University of Illinois where she will be enrolled in the Gies College of Business as a marketing major. “I am most looking forward to competing in a highly competitive conference with other talented athletes,” she said. “I am excited to get to know the new team and coaches and train harder than I ever 62 |

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have before.”

Westside swim coach Andy Rider said Kuehne will make the transition well because of her focus on training, improving, and performing at the highest level. “In the water, Logan is all business.

She is one of the fastest girls to ever come out of Westside High School. She

holds two individual school records and is part of a school record relay. Logan is also an amazing student. She was part of the all-metro academic team her junior and senior year. I am excited to see what she can do in and out of the water when she attends the University of Illinois in the fall.”

TAKEOFF TO SUCCESS Reid Nelson | Senior | Elkhorn South High School Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photo by NATE OLSEN Sports have always been a big part of Reid Nelson’s life. A senior at Elkhorn South High School, Nelson played basketball and participated on the Elkhorn South Track team all four years.

He comes by his track and field talent naturally. His dad was a track athlete for Nebraska Wesleyan University, his brother Jake was on the track and field team at University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), and his brother Alex is currently a sprinter on the UNL track team.

Tim Ebers, Elkhorn South Track Head Coach, believes Reid’s versatility and coachability help him stand out from the pack. “He is a fierce competitor, while having a very humble spirit. This

is a very special quality. Reid is willing to put in extra time at practice since he is a multi-event athlete. His poise, focus, and ability to make adjustments during his high jump competitions have stood out to me over the years. We are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Nelson is grateful for his 2019 State Championship Class A High Jump and Class A Long Jump titles, especially since the track and field season was derailed by COVID-19 in 2020. “Missing last season was hard, but this group of guys has bounced back ready and eager to compete,” he said. “Although most of track is individualized, winning the state meet as a team is our number one goal.”

In fourth grade, Nelson became a member of the West Omaha Track Club,

which allowed him to try multiple events until he discovered that high jump and long jump were his favorites.

Because of his lifelong participation in sports, he’s also battled his share of injuries throughout his high school career.

“These injuries have made me appreciate how lucky I am because I have been able to work through them and improve. Sports have been a big part of my life, and I am thankful I have been able to stay involved and compete.”

Due to COVID-19, college recruiting was challenging, but Nelson committed to UNL to continue his track career at a Division 1 school like his brothers.

“I am a natural competitor and love a challenge. I am not afraid of putting in hard work and always work to improve.”

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ESCAPE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS CAMP LONG CREEK AT BIG CEDAR LODGE

888.976.1034 64 |

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EDGE M A G A Z I N E PO Box 620 Elkhorn, NE 68022