Edge Magazine February 2022

F E B R U A R Y

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M A G A Z I N E

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LETTER from the EDITOR

Welcome

to the first issue of 2022! A new year marks new resolutions, and this year we should all be focused on making our health and wellbeing a priority. It’s not something we can do alone, and luckily, we live in a community full of opportunities to find the support we need. This issue features local businesses and individuals ready to help with our physical, emotional, and financial well-being to ensure 2022 produces a happier, healthier you!

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

Fitness is often at the top of the New Year resolution list. If you’re looking for a solution that focuses on combatting age-related muscle loss, requires minimum gym time, and is completely customized to meet your needs, then try a free session at The Exercise Coach. Two of their lead trainers, Garrett and Zach, bring unique approaches to their clients that you won’t find anywhere else.

If you hear me say, “I’m a winter,” it doesn’t mean winter is my favorite season of the year (quite the opposite, in fact). It means that thanks to House of Colour, I know that I look my best when wearing the bright, clear, cool colors found in the “winter” color palette. Darcie Zauha works with both men and women to identify their best colors and style so that you look amazing every time you walk into a room!

Supporting local is as important as ever, and a short drive to Louisville to eat at Sauced by Alfaro is worth it. The menu features comfort food such as tacos, wings, and burgers that are jazzed up with Chef Michelle Alfaro’s personal touch. Be sure to check their off-menu specials each day as well.

I’d like to also thank our local partners that provide valuable information in this issue to help you with all of life’s needs— NuSpine Chiropractic, West Gate Bank, Hightower Reff Law, and Seven Salon.

Now is the time to take care of yourself so you can get off to a great start in 2022!

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

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ONE SHELL AT A TIME...

Wonders of Wildlife is making a national impact to protect one of our ocean’s most beloved creatures, Loggerhead Sea Turtles. Through partnerships with rescue organizations, WOW will once again welcome cold-stunned turtles for weeks of rehabilitation before releasing back into the Atlantic Ocean this spring. As the midwest’s only turtle rehabilitation center, your visit to Wonders of Wildlife allows us to continue this and many other national conservation efforts.

To learn more about our rescued sea turtles or to adopt an animal, visit:

WWW.WONDERSOFWILDLIFE.ORG/SEA-TURTLES

FEBRUARY 2022

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V O L U M E

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I S S U E

FEBRUARY 2022

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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 Nicole Buntgen, 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 © 2022 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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When you walk, run or donate to the Boys Town Memorial Day Run, you are helping another child, parent or family in need of care.

You are giving people access to second chances, to life-changing care, to hope. Help us change the

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

24

HEALTH spotlight

MY two cents

OUR business

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54

MY concotion

OUR youth

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58

22

OUR food

VARSITY corner

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62

Thankyou FOR AN INCREDIBLE YEAR

with over

31 MM+ IN SALES

MARKET EXPERTISE TAILORED FIT. FOR A

Luxury

ASKMICHAEL 402.981.7400

michael.maley@bhhsamb.com | michaelmaleyomaha.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR home

charm t EXTRAORDINARY SOUTHERN

ucked just outside of Austin, Texas, in the Dripping Springs community, the extraordinary Blue Sky Springs property is poised to welcome guests to an escape unlike any other. Ideal for family vacations, corporate events, and everything in between, this recently renovated seven bedroom and five-bathroom home is equivalent to a private sanctuary that also happens to be just a short 20-minute drive from the bustling downtown district.

The proximity to local breweries, wineries, and distilleries also has some dubbing this area “Austin’s wine country”.

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When searching for investment opportunities in other markets, Michael Maley and Charlie Yin, who are both investors for this property, landed on Austin for the city’s booming short term rental market. “Large corporations are moving to Austin,” Yin said. “Not only that, but people from larger cities like Los Angeles and New York City are looking to migrate to a change of scenery, and Austin is the perfect spot.”

The business partners and their team searched for homes in the area they would enjoy staying in themselves. This three and half acre property fit the bill and more. Upon purchasing the home, the investment team found a solid management company, Walker Luxury Vacation Rentals, to handle the asset and work directly with renters.

Without a doubt, Texas charm surely found its way into this 7,000 sq. ft. mid-century modern masterpiece

STORY BY GABBY HELLBUSCH PHOTOS BY CASEY CHAPMAN ROSS

INVITING SOUTHERN CHARM FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR home

S PA C I O U S L I V I N G A R E A

A M P L E S E AT I N G

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E XQUISITE KITCHEN FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR home

BRIGHT POOL VIEWS

G E N E RO U S G U EST Q U A RT E R S

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OUR home

L U X U RY B AT H

with touches like vaulted ceilings with Douglas fir beams, natural oak floors, and elements of stone throughout. The open concept home also features a chef’s kitchen equipped with high-end appliances centered around a large island that is perfect for socializing and entertaining. Luxurious finishes flow from one room to the next, ensuring a comfort factor throughout the entire space.

Just outside, well thought-out and beautifully arranged lounging and dining areas surround a stunning inground pool and hot tub, as well as an outdoor kitchen with a BBQ grill, Green Egg grill, refrigerator, and mounted television. Relaxing is made effortless at the property, especially in the evenings when every star is in view, according to Yin. “There is no light pollution and it’s so peaceful and quiet. Nature and wildlife can be enjoyed right outside the door.”

Maley said a large amount of labor was involved to make the home what it is today. Perhaps one of the most unique facets is the garage that has been completely converted into a game room. The temperature-controlled space features 14 |

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CHIC COZY DECOR

goodwithhood.com

Shelly Hood

Agent and Mortgage Loan Originator

15825 W. Maple Road tel (402) 359-1555

FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR home

STUNNING POOL

wood flooring, a relaxed lounge area, and multiple game tables and TVs. Also entirely transformed, the outbuilding is a sports court for pickleball and basketball. “Entertainment options are endless without ever leaving the property,” Maley said. “However, if guests do want to venture to Lake Travis or have some fun in downtown Austin, they are just a short drive away. That is one of the main reasons why we fell in love with this property.”

To further enhance the experience for guests, concierge services are available and include amenities like pre-arrival grocery and stocked bar, transportation, food delivery, and access to a private chef. “These added conveniences are comparable to what is offered at a highend resort. It’s a unique experience that leaves guests feeling like they are somewhere extra special during their time here,” Maley said.

Investing in this property has been an exciting journey for Maley and Yin, who aim for the home to not only meet renters’ expectations, but exceed them. “We want our guests to fully experience the property and the Dripping Springs/Austin area. We hope they find something here that they haven’t found elsewhere that makes them come back for another stay.”

For more information, or to book a stay, visit https://www.walkervr.com/ vrp/unit/Blue_Sky_Springs-656-15 or contact Michael Maley, property investor and realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Services, 402-981-7400.

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S P O RTS CO U RT

E X T R A O R D I N A RY O U T D O O R E N T E RTA I N I N G FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR finance

WEST GATE BANK

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR A JUMBO LOAN? Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR West Gate Bank is where local meets luxury. Our commitment to customers goes beyond traditional banking services, as we are constantly thinking of ways to improve the customer experience. We continue to innovate and expand our offerings and are proud to now offer jumbo loans for qualified buyers.

At its root, jumbo loans are mortgages that exceed conforming loan limits. In most counties, conventional conforming loans are $647,200 or less, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). A jumbo loan is for properties that require financing which exceeds the local conforming loan limit.

Also referred to as non-conforming conventional mortgages, jumbo loans 18 |

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are less common in the marketplace with fewer options available for the consumer. Jumbo loans can’t always be guaranteed, and lenders are put in a vulnerable position, unprotected from losses if a borrower fails to pay. Jumbo loans often have varying terms between lenders as well as different requirements for borrower qualification.

Underwriting criteria for jumbo loans are strict, and you may be wondering, “What does it take to qualify?” First, lenders may require your FICO credit score to exceed the standard scores allowed for conventional financing. You will also need to consider your debt-toincome ratio. Documenting income to support the ratio requirements of the loan will be necessary. Cash reserves and liquidity are also helpful in the approval

of any jumbo loan. Sufficient liquidity can serve as a positive attribute during underwriting and may even be an option for income if qualified. Be prepared to prove your financial health through tax returns, W-2s, 1099s, and bank statements. Occasionally multiple appraisals are required. This generally has to do with the overall value or uniqueness of the subject property.

West Gate Bank is dedicated to serving our clients in their mission to find reliable and affordable financing for their next home. Our jumbo solution was developed with that in mind. Rest assured that our team of local experts will help you find financing that fits your plans, no matter how standard or grand. Learn more about our services and offerings at westgate.bank.

From engagement to full-family session, Christopher Weddings will capture every moment.

www.christopherweddings.net • 402-350-5699 FEBRUARY 2022

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BUSINESS spotlight

PLUNGE OF POSSIBILITIES 20 |

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Front Row (Left to Right): Andrew Russell, Christopher Vargas, Kevin Hebner. Row 2 (Left to Right): Adam McCreedy, Daniel Peterson, David Amburn, Anne Peterson. Not Photographed: Noah Wilkerson

Core Pool Solutions carries credibility through its work, one pool at a time Story by NICOLE BUNTGEN Photos courtesy of CORE POOL SOLUTIONS There are many admirable qualities that come with being a business owner.

Between the flexibility it offers, stability for the future, and the control it comes with, entrepreneurship is not something that should be slept on. While some businesspeople start companies because of a passion for creation, others have undergone personal situations that have made it difficult to achieve goals. These hardships have shaped these hustlers into the successful executives they are today, with one of these individuals working his way through school and starting his first company in college.

Kevin Hebner is an experienced entrepreneur with multiple businesses under his belt. Starting Hebner Construction during college, Hebner said the concept of construction came easily to him, focusing his company on residential

building. After his college run, Hebner created Core Construction in 2006 to shift his focus toward commercial building.

Installing pools is no easy feat, and many people don’t realize all the steps and services that go into the process.

Hebner understands this, and in the summer of 2020, he launched yet another company: Core Pool Solutions.

After seeing a need for something more in the pool and hot tub industry, Hebner utilized his construction background to ease the pool-building process and ensure everything is completed correctly. While most pool companies come from a landscaping background, Hebner makes use of his construction experience to offer a full-service company people can’t find anywhere else in Omaha.

While some companies simply dig a

hole in the ground and fill it with water, Core Pool Solutions handles everything from start to finish. Between acquiring electrical equipment, pouring concrete, retaining walls, filling pools, and adjusting chemicals, Hebner and his team make certain that each step is done to guarantee a pool that is ready to go without any extra work. Core Pool Solutions will even serve people whose pools they didn’t originally construct to certify all equipment is running smoothly.

If you’re considering building a pool and are unsure where to start, Core Pool Solutions promises to provide expert services that can’t be found elsewhere.

Beyond just a pool being built, Hebner and his team look at the whole project to provide a different, detailed experience.

“The difference is all of our work is completed by licensed people,” Hebner said.

“It’s a longer process; we don’t build as many pools as other companies, but we make sure everything is done right.”

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HEALTH spotlight

a heart for helping Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY Zach Wilson and Garrett Shaal

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ticking to a fitness routine can be challenging. One of the best ways to ensure it becomes a life-long habit is accountability. A personal trainer not only provides that accountability but also guides, supports, and cares about your health journey. A good trainer isn’t just knowledgeable about health and fitness—they need to have a natural passion and heart for helping others.

When Sommer and Ryan Hahn opened The Exercise Coach in Omaha nearly two years ago, they wanted to find trainers who had a desire to build relationships and make a difference in people’s lives. They already had the robotic equipment and method in place— two 20-minute workouts per week using

It’s a challenging 20 minutes, but it’s the most unique workout experience you’ll ever have. patented technology to diagnose exercise specifically for each individual in an effort to prevent and reverse age-related muscle loss. But the right trainers would impact their success. “We focused on finding people with a strong desire to make a difference,” Ryan Hahn said.

“Our trainers are the biggest reason we’ve been able to grow so quickly in the Omaha community.”

Nebraska native Garrett Shaal had been an engineer when the pandemic made him reflect on his career. Watching his wife help people as a physical therapist inspired him to get his personal trainer certification. His engineering background piqued an interest to combine fitness and technology, and a Google search connected him to The Exercise Coach. “Engineering is science based, and the fact we can show people through charts and graphs exactly how they are building strength is pretty cool,” he said.

The biggest surprise he’s experienced since joining The Exercise Coach is how people have made the 20-minute workout a priority in their lives, which he attributes to the fact that it works.

“It’s a challenging 20 minutes, but it’s the most unique workout experience you’ll ever have.” Safety is a priority, and the technology allows them to accommodate any injury. Shaal also likes the challenge of working with individuals. “My job is to find out what motivates you and get you to come in so we can meet those goals,” he said.

Zach Wilson is the studio manager and the lead trainer at the West Omaha location. He learned about the Exercise Coach from Sommer’s mother who belonged to a previous gym where Wilson worked. He jumped at the chance to help individuals with their health and fitness in a way that was never available to such a wide range of people, especially those in the 40 and up demographic.

Wilson’s caring nature developed at

a young age. His mother ran a senior home where he considered them to all be grandparents and has always had a “soft spot” for people in need. He feels The Exercise Coach provides a safe place to get stronger and experience all of the health benefits that come along with it.

This includes a teen who wants to excel at a sport, an adult who wants to remain active at golf, or a senior who has the flexibility to tie their own shoes. “We’re able to meet you exactly where you are in life,” Wilson said.

Shaal and Wilson are just two examples of the like-minded team of trainers at The Exercise Coach. “We have been so blessed with a truly amazing team across all our locations,” said Sommer Hahn.

Shaal will be the lead trainer at The Exercise Coach’s third studio, opening this spring in Northwest Omaha near 144th and Maple. “We’re here to help meet your goals and change your life,” Shaal said. “We take a lot of pride in that.” Visit exercisecoach.com to learn more and request two free personal training sessions.

Front Row: Ryan Hahn (Owner), Sommer Hahn (Owner), Ashley Remington, Bri Erickson, Taelar Solano Back Row: Garrett Shaal (Lead Coach), Macey Jones, Blair Fox (Lead Coach), Sherrine Sailors, Corey Holmes, Zach Wilson (Manager/Lead Coach), Corryne Millett Not Pictured: Allison Martin

FEBRUARY 2022

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COVER story

confidence T H E CO LO R O F

do

House of Colour helps you look and feel your best in all your clothes

you have a love-hate relationship with your closet?

Are there clothing items in it that you never wear, but don’t quite know why? Most people wear 20% of their clothes 80% of the time. Imagine if all the clothing and accessories in your closet complemented you and provided confidence every time you wore them. It’s much easier to accomplish than you might think.

House of Colour consultant Darcie Zauha first learned about the United Kingdom-based company much like everyone else—she had a color and style analysis. She learned which colors showed her at her best, which clothing styles, cuts, patterns, textures, and trends made her still feel authentic yet professional, and she learned how to shop for clothes that always made her feel amazing—and save money doing it. The experience was so eye-opening, she looked further into the company and decided to open her own franchise in Omaha almost four years ago. This past summer she added Kirsten Hilt to her team so they can accommodate both weekday and weekend appointments.

House of Colour provides three primary services: color, style, and makeup analysis. Closet edits, personal shopping, and Pinterest board consulting are also available. Most people start with color analysis, which is a comprehensive process based on a person’s skin undertones—either warm or cool. Using natural light, Zauha compares colored drapes in warm and cool tones to determine which ones create warmth and color in their skin while accentuating their eyes. The next step is to figure out whether soft and muted colors are better, or clear and saturated colors. When it’s all put together, a person determines their “season” for color.

For example, Zauha is a “summer,”

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 24 |

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Darcie Zauha FEBRUARY 2022

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COVER story

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which means she looks better in cool versus warm colors, and more specifically, the softer, muted colors in the summer category. A “winter” also looks better in cool colors, but they should be clear and very saturated. A winter should wear bright, sapphire blue whereas a summer should wear a softer, muted blue. Similarly, “autumn” and “spring” are the warm color categories.

Autumn’s colors are soft and muted versus the clear, bright colors of spring.

Neutrals are also important. A winter looks best in bright white, whereas an autumn looks better in cream or ivory and a summer should wear soft white.

Color is just as important for men as it is for women, and men make up about 25% of Zauha’s clients. Not all men should wear a black suit. Some may be more approachable in a charcoal suit. Or maybe they just need to know which shade of gray is best and then combine it with one of their power colors from their season. “If a man is going to invest in a suit, they should know which suit will look amazing,” Zauha said.

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COVER story

Knowing your season will influence everything from your accessories (shoes, purse, jewelry) to your hair color and makeup. House of Colour has its own full makeup line, and Zauha includes basic “90-second makeup” recommendations for an easy, finished look in the makeup colors perfect for your skin tone. “We find three perfect lipstick colors that draw attention to your eyes,” she said. There is one color that looks good on absolutely everyone, which is true red. That goes for lipstick and clothing. “Everybody needs a little red dress, not necessarily a black one,” Zau28 |

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ha added. The analysis includes a fabric fan with the colors in your season—perfect to keep in your purse to help make clothing shopping easier and more cost effective. “Knowing your colors helps you look your best and teaches you how to incorporate it into what you already have,” she said.

Style analysis is just as important as knowing your colors. It examines the patterns, scale, and proportions that are right for your current body type, such as what neckline is most flattering, or what rise of pant. “It’s about figuring out what you want to enhance

and help identify the looks you already like,” Zauha said. Style is based on six archetypes: dramatic, classic, natural, gamine, ingenue, and romantic. Zauha said that you can see these archetypes in literature, TV shows, and movies, and they tell an audience what to think about a character before they ever open their mouth. The same works for people in real life. But nobody falls into just one archetype. There are 23 different clothing personalities, so a style analysis helps interpret the personality that best fits you and how you want to be perceived.

Vibe IT’S A

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COVER story

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Zauha’s style personality is a Romantic Natural. “With every outfit I wear, I have a lot of layers, a mix of pattern and texture, and a little structure but not too much. It’s really all about taking what feels good to you already and enhancing it. And don’t be scared of the personality. ‘Dramatic’ doesn’t mean drama. It just means having something on that’s a little bold so that when you walk into a room, you look not just put together, but amazing and exactly right for you.” They say 60% of a first impression is your appearance. “Your first impression gets you in the door, and the rest of you keeps you in the room,” Zauha added.

There is no magic formula to color analysis, and Zauha never knows what season someone will be ahead of time.

Although style can be done virtually, color has to be done in person to be accurate. However, it can feel magical to the client when they see the change that happens in their face and eyes when wearing the right colors for them. “You can be yourself in everything you wear,” Zauha said. “You’re able to know immediately what is going to look good on you and communicate what you want without saying a word. It helps you be true to who you are both inside and out. That gives you confidence, and that’s the best accessory of all.”

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Give small-town travel a try M Y T WO

cents S S

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www.facebook.com/Ropersbarandgrill

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When it comes to going out to eat, the Omaha food scene is top-notch.

Between locally-owned restaurants, creative chefs, and a community full of foodies, it’s no doubt that Omaha is made up of a wide variety of culinary choices. While this is convenient, have you ever considered traveling outside the Big O for a different perspective, even if Omaha already accommodates everything you need?

There is so much that goes into a restaurant experience, and Roper’s Bar and Grill delivers this with an atmosphere you won’t find in a big city. Just an hour west of Omaha, Roper’s lies in David City, Nebraska— a unique small town comprised of brick roads, middleof-the-street parking, and a community that loves supporting local. With a wide-open dining room and a refreshing ambience, our sports bar will make you forget that you’re in a small town.

Small towns can be made up of some of the best places to go. Because these towns have smaller populations, consistency is key due to less walk-by and drive-by traffic. With a less busy scene,

parking is never a concern, which to some can make or break whether or not they dine out at a certain establishment.

The variety of items offered rivals that of any bigger city sports bar. At Roper’s, we have more than 60 canned and bottled beers, as well as six taps that rotate Nebraska-brewed beer. We also have an extensive menu, complete with happy hour specials, so we make sure you get that big-city feel in a small-town sports bar experience.

I lived in West Omaha for over 20 years, and I know driving 20 to 40 minutes downtown can be considered “traveling.” The next time you’re going out to eat, ask yourself what you want to do and see. If you’re looking for a nice, leisurely drive or are passing through town on your next trip to Columbus, Roper’s is the place to go. Just jump on Highway 92, take a right, hit the town square, and we’ll be here to greet you.

To learn more about Roper’s, our catering options, and hours of operation, you can reach Marty or Kris Roper at 402-367-5099, or you can find us on Facebook @ropersbarandgrill.

YOUR FITNESS EQUIPMENT REPAIR SPECIALISTS LOOK AMAZING EVERY TIME YOU WALK INTO A ROOM Make shopping and getting dressed easy and rewarding • Color Consultation • Style Consultation • Closet Edit • Personal Shopping • Pinterest Board Creation

Darcie Zauha 402-672-1122

darcie.zauha@ houseofcolour.com

Kirsten Hilt 402-800-8271

kirsten.hilt@ houseofcolour.com

Call today to schedule a consultation!

www.hocwestomaha.com

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Owner, Alex Pearson

Alex understands how frustrating it is when your go-to fitness machine is out of order.

He’s excited to help local residents and businesses keep their fitness equipment running in top shape!

TREADMILLS EXERCISE BIKES ELLIPTICALS STEPPER MACHINES

CALL TODAY!

402-871-4735 Fitnessmachinetechnicians.com/omaha-lincoln

Guitars for Vets has been sharing the healing power of music in Omaha since 2016.

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visit us at www.guitars4vets.org or email us at ne.omaha@guitarsforvets.org FEBRUARY 2022

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MY concoction

Cumbia 329 S 16th St.

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1

5

What you need: • 2 oz. Macchu Pisco • 1 oz. lime juice

• 1 oz. simple syrup • 1 oz. egg white • 3 drops of bitters

2 Combine 2oz Macchu Pisco, 1oz lime juice, 1oz simple syrup, 1oz egg white in a shaker and shake for 10 seconds

steps

Add ice and shake again

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Cumbia THE BARTENDER: Santiago THE DRINK: Pisco Sour

4

5

Strain drink into glass

Add 3 drops of bitters FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR food

SAUCED BY ALFARO 221 Main St, Louisville, NE (402) 234-1064

CHEF MICHELLE ALFARO

Feeling Saucy?

Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 36 |

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m

ichelle Alfaro, owner and executive chef of Sauced

by Alfaro, wants to bring love and light to all through her fresh, scratch made foods, rooted in her Mexican/Italian history. This wasn’t the original plan for her life, however. Halfway through a doctoral program in human capital management, she felt the pull of a higher power calling her to something bigger.

B A N G B A N G S H R I M P TA C O S FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR food To help her oldest son fund a mission trip to El Salvador, the self-taught cook started selling the salsa she first learned to make from her mother-in-law, which proved more popular than anticipated.

Alfaro mustered the courage to contact Hy-Vee, who agreed to stock her product in nearly all area stores.

Salsa success sparked a drive to try her hand at cooking, and Alfaro was gaining traction catering and putting on popup events until the pandemic forced her to temporarily shutter her proverbial doors. However, the dream of having her own restaurant was still alive, so she used the time to gain restaurant experience in both front and back of house, managing a bar and restaurant, then overseeing a professional kitchen.

Based in Louisville, NE, Alfaro is astounded by the distance her patrons travel. “People have embraced us so much, so welcoming and loving, coming from Wisconsin, Tecumseh, Lincoln, Nebraska City – really all over, just to try our food.” She affectionately refers to her business as “a food truck with no wheels”, as it is situated next door to Good Times Saloon, an establishment that generously allows customers to order and receive food from Sauced at their table while enjoying a wide selection of beverages.

Alfaro’s strong work ethic and naturally hospitable nature stems from a childhood devoid of material things but rich in food and love. “My Grandma Violet was a farm girl who found joy in using simple ingredients and making them simply good.” She fondly recalls a dish her dad made when she was a child: chicken and barbecue sauce on noodles. According to Alfaro, a version of that nostalgic dish is a favorite of her regular customers. “It takes the essence of Italian food and marries it with barbecue—sweet, savory, a little heat—all from scratch.”

The clever name was born in a conversation with her husband. Alfaro, a self-professed nerd, adores puns, and many of her sauces are booze-based, thus the Sauced by Alfaro moniker.

Social media accounts are rife with the punny wordplay (their most used hashtag is #getsauced) and Sunday Punday is the best time to check them out (whiskey business, anyone?).

The team trusts its taste buds when developing new recipes. “We usually say 38 |

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BOURBON BUTTERNUT ALFREDO

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OUR food

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OUR food

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OUR food

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‘what do we want to make today’, look at what have, and go from there,” shared Alfaro. Seasonal ingredients drive dishes, and the group of creative cooks enjoys stretching its creative muscles, tweaking a dish until it wows their own palates before serving to guests.

This pursuit of perfection pays off in award-winning dishes such as the Puffy Bang Bang shrimp tacos—jumbo, hand-breaded shrimp with purple slaw, green scallions, and black sesame seeds—a dish that emerged victorious in a recent local food competition.

“We try to take traditional favorites, things people are familiar with, and elevate them,” explains Alfaro. A fine example of this intention is the popular limited edition Bourbon Cranberry & Brie Burger, featuring locally butchered, fresh-ground beef. The hand-formed patties are topped with bacon, pepper 44 |

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jack cheese, black pepper honey aioli and fresh bourbon cranberry sauce, served on a buttery brioche bun.

Often multiple dishes are combined to create a new one, such as the surprising Bourbon Butternut Alfredo, recently highlighted on the menu. Alfaro punches up the flavor of her traditional alfredo sauce by adding sweet butternut squash puree, warming spices, Calabrian chili peppers, and ground Italian sausage.

Redolent with garlic and fresh rosemary, the dish is finished with candied bourbon walnuts. Calabrian chilis are a favorite ingredient, providing just the right amount of heat to tickle the throat and tempt the palate. “A little heat and acidity do a great job of cutting through the richness of the dish.”

Sous chef Tara March hails from Wisconsin, making her the resident cheese expert. “Her grilled cheese sandwiches

are golden brown and absolutely stunning,” said Alfaro. In the winter months, variations on the oozy delight are served with piping hot scratch-made soups—a cozy combination for cold days.

Alfaro is grateful to be part of the growing, tight-knit community in Louisville, taking advantage of the mutually beneficial business relationships in town. The restaurant proudly serves breads from Rotella’s Bakery and meats from local butcher The Market, but she is always striving to increase use of local ingredients where possible.

Alfaro’s faith and generous nature is evident in all she does, from collecting donations for local charities to including personal kindnesses in to-go orders.

A short drive from Lincoln or Omaha, Sauced is open four days a week, ready to serve saucy dishes with a side of smiles (and napkins, lots of napkins).

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OUR trends

Daring hair during a pandemic

By SHANNON BINGHAM, SEVEN SALON “Do something wild. No one cares right now!” Attempting something daring and out of character seems to be the running theme of the last year and a half in terms of fashion and hair. Although there has always been a need to express one’s self, the importance of a new type of self-expression over the last few months has been evident and almost a necessity.

When choosing to do something new and different, it is important to discuss the journey with your trusted stylist. Whether it’s split-tone color, a new fashion shade, a shag, or a fashion forward chop, your stylist can help walk you through all of the steps to be successful in the transition. Be open to hearing how long the process will take and how much the process might cost to produce and maintain.

After covering all of the steps and maintenance, next is visualizing what this new look will actually look like on you.

Does it match your daily vibe? What kind of wardrobe change is required for such a look? Any upcoming weddings or formal occasions that you may need to consider before executing the look with the pro? Is enhancement in makeup needed? Don’t forget about the products needed to keep the color or help out the style. These are all questions that go through a stylist’s mind before they themselves make a major change. One thing is for sure, the entire project will be an adjustment.

Overall, the abrupt change is fun, exciting, and creates a shock value that not many will see in these early months of 2022. Considering most are still working from home, many will not even see the change live, perhaps only on social media.

So do what you want, wear what you love, and make that change if you are ready! And be sure to document the process. It will be something to look back on in the years ahead. Opinions will be given by some, but overall, anything can be changed again!

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Our WELLNESS

So much more than pain relief Story by DUSTIN SPARKS NuSpine Chiropractic Some of the most common reasons for seeking out a chiropractor include back pain, neck pain, and headaches. However, pain management is only one of the many effects of chiropractic care.

We have receptors all throughout our bodies that send information to the spinal cord and then up to the brain to be processed.

After processing the information, the brain sends a reply down the spinal cord, out through the nerves, and back into the body on how it should respond to the initial information. This all happens in a fraction of a second. The joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your body contain a high number of these receptors. They detect movement, the force of movement, and velocity of movement, all to help your brain to know where your body is in space and time.

Through physical stress, such as trauma and everyday wear and tear, the vertebrae in your spine can start to move in an abnormal way, causing an interruption in the flow of communication between the brain and the body. The dysfunction can appear gradually, such as from bad posture, or from trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or a sports injury. The messages sent from a dysfunctional movement can be inaccurate or never reach the brain at all. This affects the brain’s ability to know where the body is in time and space. This dysfunction is what chiropractors call a vertebral subluxation.

Emotional stress and chemical stress also have major effects on the health of your nervous system and can cause vertebral subluxations. Emotional stress-

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ors change the way you hold yourself, your overall posture, your digestion, the internal pressures on your spine, and the tension in your muscles. Chemical stressors, such as nutrition, hormones, and environmental chemicals, all have an impact on the way your brain and body communicate and interpret information from the surroundings. Having a healthy state of mind and a nutritious diet is crucial to your overall health.

The dysfunction created by the abnormal movement in the spine and extremities can show up in many different ways.

Some people may experience headaches, neck pain, back pain, hip pain, and other complaints generally associated with the spine and chiropractic care. Other people may experience signs and symptoms that are generally not associated

with the spine, such as digestive issues, poor balance, decreased focus, decreased reaction time, numbness, and tingling amongst others.

Chiropractors remove the subluxation by restoring the normal movement of the spine and extremities, aiming to return your body’s optimal flow of communication. At NuSpine Chiropractic +Hydrotherapy Massage, we do this by specific manual adjustments, the adjusting tool Activator, and Hydrotherapy Massage. We also give our patients specific exercises to help support the spine and the changes we are trying to make.

If you have any questions regarding chiropractic care, ask us at NuSpine Chiropractic +Hydrotherapy Massage: 402-999-7410.

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OUR families

Divorce: the process in a nutshell

By TRACY HIGHTOWER-HENNE, PARTNER AT HIGHTOWER REFF LAW Divorce is never easy, even when you think it might be easy. It comes with emotions, expenses, and requires the capacity to endure the process.

Ending your marriage and separating all the things you and your spouse acquired can be exhausting and never really feels fair. Talking with friends and family is helpful but one person’s divorce should never be compared to another’s. To manage this overwhelming situation, consult with a lawyer when divorce is imminent. Everyone’s situation is unique and your lawyer should treat yours as such.

The relationship you have with your divorce lawyer is especially important. In an initial consultation, an experienced divorce lawyer will walk through the specific facts of your situation and help you put together a plan. The plan may include when to file for divorce; how to file and how to notify your spouse; and a safety plan to protect assets. Doing a consultation with a divorce lawyer should help you feel more at ease and answer most of your initial questions. If you leave a consult with a divorce lawyer feeling more stressed than before the consult, arrange to meet with another divorce lawyer. Keep speaking to different lawyers until you feel comfortable and less stressed.

Once you retain your divorce lawyer, you will need to provide your lawyer with more information.

Near the beginning of your divorce case, you will likely go through a process called ‘discovery’ to identify the debts and assets acquired during your marriage. Oftentimes, couples have created a partnership where one spouse is in charge of budgeting and paying the bills. It’s normal that one spouse may have no clue about debts (or assets).

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This discovery process allows for a level playing field and to make sure both spouses (and their lawyers) know what makes up the marital estate in order to help facilitate a settlement or prepare for trial.

In a settlement negotiation, your lawyer will walk through different ways to split the marital estate while keeping your goals in mind. You may have a goal to receive more liquid assets or keep more of your retirement funds. Your lawyer should be able to tell you whether your goals are realistic and if they are, craft a settlement offer that attempts to meet your goals. Settlement isn’t always possible in every divorce case but it is the hard work in settlement that will likely avoid the need to go to trial.

If you and your spouse are unable to reach a settlement agreement, your case will go to trial, handing control over the financial and custody outcomes and timing of the end result of your case to a judge. Deciding to settle means you retain more control over your case. And keeping those things in your control may be the best thing you can do when everything else may feel out of control.

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OUR business

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experience A HIGHER-LEVEL

Through innovation, Ovation elevates senior living

c

ontrary to what some might believe, transitioning to a senior living community doesn’t have to be a life-altering change that impacts quality of life. In fact, the newly established Ovation Heartwood Preserve by Avamere, an urban and upscale lifestyle community in West Omaha, is focused on not only maintaining, but enhancing, the lives of residents by placing an emphasis on an active connection to community and family.

Stephanie Grade, General Manager of Ovation Heartwood Preserve

Story by GABBY HELLBUSCH Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAP HY FEBRUARY 2022

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OUR business

BEES KNEES BISTRO

“When creating the brand, we aimed to offer a choice for multiple levels of senior living that would be both upscale and vibrant,” said Stephanie Grade, general manager of Ovation Heartwood Preserve. “We conducted numerous focus groups within the Omaha market to ensure that we were aligning with what the community desired. Ovation was born out of our value of innovation.”

The village, which offers personalized independent living, assisted living, and memory care options, was inspired by the charming energy of Omaha’s local culture. To bring its vision to life, Ovation houses multiple dining and socialization options that range from fine dining and wine tasting to coffee bars and bistros, ensuring that residents are able to access all of the amenities they were previously accustomed to receiving. Designed to allow residents the opportunity to engage in the Preserve, roll-up doors and roof top decks are featured throughout the community as well. Additional conveniences like valet and concierge services, an onsite physical therapist, 24-hour on-call nurses, and a pool and fitness area are also available to residents.

A noteworthy feature—especially during a global pandemic—is the facility’s visitation room specifically designed to permit loved ones to visit residents even during a potential infectious 56 |

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H OT E L-ST Y L E L U X U RY

disease outbreak that would lead to a community closure. The room features a sliding glass door and a special plexiglass wall to ensure that both visitors and residents remain safe during the meeting.

According to Grade, residents don’t have to fret about a big buy-in, either, because the facilities are leased on a month-to-month rental. Grade said the Ovation team is proud to re-earn the business of residents each month. “Our job is to enhance the lives of our residents, and if that means taking a greater

risk for ourselves, then we will do that.

We have faith in our team members and we believe that what we stand for and what we offer is the better choice.”

Grade, who previously worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, said the process of developing the brand and training team members has been a tremendously gratifying experience. “It is so rewarding to know that we will be able to enhance the life of every person we serve through the programming that we created. It’s a lot of fun.”

Continued growth is in the future

for Ovation. The company is currently identifying new sites across the nation.

Locally, a new model in Papillion is also in planning stages.

“I love being part of an evolution, and the next phase in creating a ripple effect in senior living—not just throughout Omaha, but throughout the nation,” Grade said. “It’s certainly an experience that hasn’t been done before in this market. I feel so fortunate to be part of this team and offer something that the entire community truly needs. Our goal is to make sure residents are happier and healthier within 90 days of moving in, which is why we actually give them a survey after that time period to measure our true impact and refine our process.

This not only shows that we enjoy getting to know every resident, but that we care about making sure they’re satisfied and living their best life at Ovation.”

For more information about Ovation Heartwood Preserve by Avamere, or to schedule a tour of the facilities, call 402-999-7900 or visit ovationbyavamere.com.

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OUR youth

DAD & DAUGHTER DUO Parents often wonder how to get their kids interested in their work. For Nathan Eckles, a real estate investor, it was relatively easy—he took his daughter, Ryleigh, on the job with him when she was just an infant. Over the years, it became second nature to Ryleigh, and now at age 15, she’s an active part of their real estate business: dadanddaughterbuyhouses.com.

Edge: How did your interest in real estate progress?

Ryleigh: I’d go to properties with my dad when I was young and we’d make a game out of it, like ‘let’s see how can get to the basement first.’ As I got older I’d pick up the lawn, paint walls, etc. My dad would always involve me, so it was never boring.

Edge: Why did you decide to enter into business with your dad?

Ryleigh: I would always listen to him talking to the sellers, and I’d take in all the info. Now my favorite part is interacting with people. I love helping them with their problems, and I also love networking. It’s not about what we do inside the business, it’s about what

we do outside the business.

Edge: How did you come up with the business?

Nathan: When I was getting started, I talked to people about how involved Ryleigh was, and a lot of them said I needed to include that in my business.

There have been times when I’ve walked into houses without her and they want to know where my daughter is.

Edge: What are some of the business aspects you do now that you’re in high school?

Ryleigh: I do all of our YouTube video walk-thrus. It’s like HGTV, and I get to be the face of the company. I also do our social media and follow other real estate

Story by EDGE STAFF Photos courtesy of NATHAN ECKLES

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OUR youth

pages to see how they do it. I also help put door hangers on houses and talk to sellers. We’re doing our first furnished rental, which is really exciting.

Nathan: Once she starts driving, she’ll be able to canvas neighborhoods on her own and negotiate with sellers. She will also be able to help with the bookkeeping, and look for other gaps in the business she can fill.

Edge: You’ve also presented at a national conference, correct?

Ryleigh: Yes, I presented in Orlando in front of 700 other investors. It was incredible! I loved it. Talking in front of my peers is actually harder than talking in front of 700 adults.

Edge: What did you present?

be involved from an early age, and she took to it. We get to spend time together and she’s a true part of the business.

She’s always asking to do more—I’m probably holding her back!

Edge: What do you like to do when you’re not working?

Ryleigh: I love playing video games, reading, and I’m a mom to over 50 plants. I’m also on my school’s (Millard North High School) first girls wrestling team. I wanted to try something new, and it’s going pretty well.

Edge: What are your future plans with real estate?

Ryleigh: I definitely want to continue doing it. It might not just be in one category. I’ll dip my toe into every category and see what I like best.

Ryleigh: How to expose kids to their business at an early age. You have to dip their toe in it.

Edge: Do you ever want to have your own tv show, like on HGTV?

Nathan: It was a necessity to have her

Ryleigh: That would be nice!

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VARSITY corner

A CHAMPION

SPIRIT

Mick Huber | Senior | Gretna High School Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photo by CREATIVE OLSEN Gretna High School senior Mick Huber gives his all into everything he does. State championship football and baseball teams take up much of his time, but he still manages to keep a 4.0 GPA while balancing dual enrollment classes, One Act plays, National Honor Society (NHS), Gretna Boys G club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

Huber keeps himself grounded by focusing on why he’s doing it. “I want to be just as successful academically as I am athletically because there will be a day when sports will come to an end for me and I’ll have to rely on what I have learned.”

He’s currently deciding between playing baseball or football in college, and he plans to study either physical therapy or business.

His focus and drive come from knowing that the harder he works the better he will get. According to Gretna’s Varsity Head Football coach Mike Kayl, “What makes Mick such an outstanding athlete, teammate, and student is his ability to make everyone around him better. Mick holds himself to an extremely high standard in whatever he does, which motivates those around him. Despite all the success he’s had, he’s still the same person. Mick never puts himself above anyone else and always thinks of others first. He exemplifies what we want out of our student athletes here at Gretna.”

Playing in the Class A Nebraska state football championship in the fall was a dream come true.

“It honestly is an indescribable feeling when you work so hard for something and you finally see that work come to light,” Huber said. “It just made it so much better that pretty much the whole town of Gretna came to watch our game. Just making it to the state championship was awesome, but it wasn’t our end goal: we wanted to win! And that is exactly what we did.”

Huber appreciates the fact that his football team has played together since they were young. “We won back-to-back-to-back championships together from fifth through seventh grade. It made it so much more special playing with a team that just has something that no other team in Class A has.

We truly are a town team, and everyone loves each other. It makes it easy to lead a team when you already have a special bond with them.”

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SETTING SIGHTS ON

THE GOAL Reese Booth | Sophomore | Elkhorn North High School Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photo by RYAN WOLF Elkhorn North High School sophomore Reese Booth plays basketball, volleyball, and track for her new school, which opened in fall 2020. The fledgling basketball team took it all the way, winning the Class B state championship. “It was an amazing experience and feeling,” said Booth.

“Now that we have that experience, for the next three years we know what we are working towards each day.” The volleyball team, which was only freshman and sophomores last year, also succeeded in making it to a district final game in its first season. “Even though we lost that game, the next year we made it even further to the state semi-finals.”

Booth grew up surrounded by college volleyball players. Her mother, Kirsten Bernthal Booth, is the Head Volleyball Coach for Creighton University. “I learned a lot through watching. Seeing my mom’s team made me realize from a young age that I want to play volleyball in college, so that is a goal I am striving for. I have grown up around her players, and they have all been great role models and people to look up to.”

Booth’s athletic career began with playing basketball and volleyball in kindergarten, and she was playing club volleyball with Premier by fifth grade. “I am most proud of winning National level at Nationals on my 14s team. It was an experience I won’t forget.” Although it was a successful season, she also faced an obstacle that year. “I started out as a defensive specialist/ libero when I was younger and then on my 14s team I was switched mid-season to a setter. I had to learn really fast. I would do setting drills at my house to touch the ball and worked on connections at practice.” This past year, her 16s team ended up eleventh in Open division, which is the top level.

Booth gets her drive from focusing on the outcome. “What gets me motivated is the end goal.

Every game contributes to our post season, so being focused and ready to go helps us get better each game.”

Elkhorn North Head Volleyball coach Jenny Gragert believes Booth is an exemplary athlete. “Reese is a true leader on and off the court. Her work ethic is unmatched. She goes hard in every practice which carries over to matches. Reese is a fierce competitor with high volleyball IQ. I appreciate that she makes everyone she plays with better!”

FEBRUARY 2022

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