Edge Magazine December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

Ovation Heartwood Preserve brings total wellness to senior living Enjoy elegance and comfort at Flatiron CafĂŠ

Give the gift of peace at

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WHY GO ON VACATION WHEN THE VACATION CAN COME TO YOU? SETTING THE BENCHMARK

INTEGRITY. HONESTY. QUALITY. JAKE LAVAGNINO AND TEAM 402.630.1161

LETTER from the PUBLISHER

CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY

Shelly Nosbisch, Melissa Minassian, Carole Sprunk, Quentin Lueninghoener, Kathy Rygg, Christopher Tierney and Ben Vankat.

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

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Here

we are with another year coming to an end. Did you accomplish what you set out to do? Every year I set goals both personally and professionally. I’m proud to say that a professional goal of mine was to bring a high-quality food and beverage publication to Omaha.

In October of this year, we did just that with the introduction of Dine Magazine.

This is a food and beverage publication that will be available on a quarterly basis.

I’m so pleased with the initial publication and look forward to the growth along the way. I have an amazing team around me who support and help the vision along.

Do you recognize the woman on the cover of this issue? If you’ve followed Edge since the beginning, then you might.

Robin Khan was on the inaugural cover of Edge Magazine and six years later, she is gracing the cover again. In addition to her successful dental practice, Robin has brought a luxury spa to West Omaha. Sakoon the Spa is an upscale, tranquil place to relax and replenish yourself.

If the colder weather has you hungry for comfort food, revisit a classic restaurant in the heart of downtown Omaha: Flatiron

Café. Kathleen Jamrozy and her team will give you an elegant experience with a twist on familiar dishes that won’t disappoint.

Be sure to read the additional features on Ovation Heartwood Preserve, which is bringing a state-of-the-art senior living facility to Omaha; Operation Super Jack, which is partnering with Children’s Hospital to provide a “safe zone” in the Emergency Room for immune-compromised children; and the impressive kids featured in Our Youth and Varsity Corner sections.

We look forward to bringing you even more in 2020. If you haven’t made it to an Inside Edge event yet, check out our Facebook page for event details or sign up for our email invites. As always, we’d love to hear from you. Cheers to a fabulous year ahead!

Carole Sprunk Publisher

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Making sure my clients have the correct coverage in their time of need is my main priority!

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My focus is to make sure that my clients are educated and have a plan that fits their needs.

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DECEMBER 2019

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M A G A Z I N E

PUBLISHER AND OWNER Carole Sprunk (402) 587-2259 // Carole@EdgeMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Kathy Rygg (402) 490-3213 // Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gabby Christensen Anna Hartman Shelly Nosbisch EDITORIAL INTERN Ashtyn Tridle DESIGNER Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // Quentin@HanscomPark.com Ben Vankat Ben@HanscomPark.com PHOTO STAFF Christopher Tierney Photography (402) 350-5699 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Melissa Minassian (402) 490-3799 // Melissa@EdgeMagazine.com ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Liz Rease (402) 639-6622 // Liz@EdgeMagazine.com Tom Patton (402) 214-5070 // Tom@EdgeMagazine.com CONTACT US P: (402) 587-2259 Carole@EdgeMagazine.com PO Box 620, Elkhorn, NE 68022 Edge is published bi-monthly. Content copyright © 2019 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 OUR business

OUR home 8

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OUR business

OUR passion

OUR leisure

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50

MY concoction

OUR youth

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OUR food

VARSITY corner

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Omaha’s Ovation is Here N O W A C C E P T I N G R E S E R VAT I O N S Nebraska deserves an Ovation. Opening in mid-2020, Ovation by Avamere is an active lifestyle village where people will live, thrive, invent, volunteer and innovate. Ovation features exclusive wellness and fitness programs, concierge services, multiple gourmet restaurants, innovative technology and everything you need to enjoy life to its fullest.

Ovation is your reward for a life well-lived.

Reservation Showroom Pepperwood Village 573 North 155th Plaza, Suite 573 Omaha, Nebraska 68154

Independent | Assisted | Memory Care 402-999-7900 | ovationbyavamere.com heartwoodpreserve@ovationbyavamere.com DECEMBER 2019

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OUR home

Exquisite executive

w

estate

hen homeowners Joyce and Don Kracl set out to find their current residence, they knew they wanted a property that could accommodate their large extended families. They also dreamed of being closer to their children and grandchildren in Gretna, while still being able to commute to Lincoln for work. The moment they walked into this traditional 7,009 sq. ft. executive estate in Ashland, it was clear this home fit the bill and much more.

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Just far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this home is situated across from the Iron Horse Golf Club and within minutes from Nebraska Crossing Outlets, Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, Glacial Till Vineyard, and Mahoney State Park.

The community, which offers a mix of lifestyles and family dynamics, is also working to beautify Highway 6 and gearing up for potential developments in the near future. Additionally, the area’s Class C school district is another plus for families who opt for smaller classroom sizes.

With the added appeal of a lakefront view and luxury pool, the Kracls nestled into the bedroom community in 2013 and have since made the home their

STORY BY GABBY CHRISTENSEN SIX-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

CHEF ’S KITCHEN DECEMBER 2019

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OUR home

HIGH-END KITCHEN APPLIANCES

O V E R- S I Z E D I S L A N D F O R E N T E RTA I N I N G

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own through various renovations. Some of their new improvements include a patio and no-maintenance deck with railing, updated pool equipment, new shutters, a 50-year roof, fresh paint and carpeting, updated fireplaces and light fixtures, as well as new kitchen appliances, counters, and cabinets.

Upstairs, the open layout is great for entertaining, with a captivating view of the lake. The 12-ft. ceilings, paired with heated tile floors throughout the home, create an open, spacious feel with a cozy touch. Near the entry lies an office equipped with a hidden door in the bookshelf leading into the walk-in master closet, which also features built-in shelving.

The roomy master suite offers an in-room coffee bar and walk-out balcony. The recently remodeled master bath boasts beautifully contrasting textures and sleek style throughout.

On the other end of the home, there’s an additional office lined with windows overlooking the phenomenal view of the outside oasis. The impressive kitchen features an oversized island, wine bar, and a walk-in pantry and laundry room with an additional large fridge. This four bedroom, six bathroom move-in ready, no maintenance residence also provides a surround sound system throughout both levels.

Down the spiraling staircase, the basement of the home is equipped with a wine cellar, billiards room, two guest suites with full bathrooms, a pool room with towel storage, a hot tub and sauna, a convenient second laundry room, a full second kitchen featuring a Kegerator, as well as a playroom and fitness room.

Additionally, a staircase leading from the garage to the lower level of the home deems the basement a true “in-law suite.”

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DECEMBER 2019

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OUR home

S T U DY W I T H B U I LT- I N S H E LV I N G

LARGE WINDOWS FOR A GRAND VIEW

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© 2019 Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc. I Photos © Dom Koric Photography

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

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OUR home

ELEGANT DINING ROOM

LUXURIOUS MASTER SUITE

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H I D D E N B O O K S H E L F D O O R I N ST U DY DECEMBER 2019

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OUR home

BILLIARDS ROOM

WINE CELLAR

SAUNA

B R E AT H TA K I N G B A C K YA R D E S C A P E

The Kracls said they frequently use every single room in the house but spend quite a lot of their time downstairs. “The basement is especially ideal for large gatherings, as guests can easily walk out to the pool and lake,” Don said. The expansive pool deck also offers ample space for seating. Conveniently, there are docks available on the lake as well, so residents can spend their free 16 |

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time fishing or boating. Equipped with a three-car heated garage, there is plenty of space for vehicles, recreational toys, and other home gadgets, too.

As the Kracls look to transition into their next “home sweet home,” they look forward to watching as a new family moves into this lakeside escape. “Over the years, we’ve made it a point to take very good care of the house through

maintaining and updating aspects whenever needed. We cherished our time and memories spent in this home, and it is our hope that it will bring just as much joy to another family.”

This elegant estate was listed on the market in late September. For additional information or to schedule a private showing, contact Michael Maley with Berkshire Hathaway at (402) 981-7400.

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DECEMBER 2019

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OUR style

This season’s trends The High Point Market is the largest furnishings industry trade show in the world, bringing more than 75,000 attendees and 12 million square feet of show space together every 6 months. The Interiors Joan and Associates team has been attending High Point Market for over three decades, and the importance of this biannual event to our business is immense. The October Market was full of beautiful new introductions, but these 5 trends really stood out to our design team.

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A resurgence of the traditional look. Everything has been clean and modern for so long that it is refreshing to see a reappearance of the more detailed, curved and traditional pieces. Some lines are offering pieces in a lighter wood finish as a way to freshen the sometimes heavy appearance of traditional furnishing pieces. But don’t discount brown. The ever-popular gray has taken a turn and is appearing in much warmer tones, while brown and its warm, earthy complements are definitely back.

Caning. Remember the octagonal caning that graced the backs of dining chairs in the 70s and 80s?

Caning in a much more modern and appealing fashion is having a moment, and the natural texture brings with it a welcome, tactile, look. Find caning on dining chairs, case pieces, beds, even upholstery frames. The earthen characteristics of this natural fiber are versatile in look and can elevate a simple design.

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Inlay and texture in casegoods.

Casegoods are “hard” furnishings, like bookcases, cocktail tables, end tables, and credenzas. This Market showed a delightful selection of consoles and credenzas that have every making of a showstopper piece. Some had brass framing and basing with book-matched faux crocodile doors, while others boasted live edge wood encased in hard surface materials to create a striking contrast of color, material, and texture.

Still others featured painted glass doors and massive sizes, an answer to today’s open floor plan home layouts.

Brass. While all metals are en vogue, golden hues are here to stay. The past few Markets have featured the modern tones of French Brass, Burnished Brass, and gilded golds, and even more lines had product offerings with brass or gold detailing this season. Don’t think of the tawny brass of yesteryear. Today’s golden hue is warmer, less green, and adds sophistication to any furnishing element.

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Bars and cabinets with surprise interiors. Bars and bar carts continue to be a huge trend. These functional beauties are both smart and stylish, offering storage, convenience to any hostess short on space, and they make a classy statement in great rooms or other entertaining spaces. They also hark to the midcentury modern ages when entertaining with a cocktail was tres chic! Today’s cabinets and bars have surprise interiors that are painted or lacquered in bright colorful hues. These pops of color offer a zing of fun when you open them and undoubtedly serve as a conversation piece for company or a jolt of energy for yourself when you open them up.

Story by LINDI JANULEWICZ Interiors Joan and Associates Photos Courtesy of Interiors Joan and Associates

DESIGN FOR HOW YOU From flights of fancy to spaces reimagined, repurposed and redesigned to bring your visions to life – Interiors Joan and Associates creates design for how you dream. So you can relax and enjoy the interior design process that makes it all possible.

Dare to dream.

Call or come by our design showroom.

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DECEMBER 2019

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OUR business

wine walk TAKE A

Vino Mas offers personalized expertise and a variety of wine, beer, and gifts for every palate

t

he upcoming holidays are marked by a variety of gatherings with family, friends, and co-workers. Following the rule to never show up to a party empty-handed, a bottle of wine, accessory, or gift basket makes for an easy, personalized gift. Vino Mas in West Omaha not only carries a wide selection of these, but owner Deanna Albertson helps every person who comes into the store with their own personal “wine walk.”

Albertson spent most of her adult life drinking beer and martinis instead of wine. But when a group of her friends drank wine every time they got together, she finally adopted the “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” philosophy. To her surprise, she not only enjoyed drinking wine, but she realized she had a palate for it. Albertson also discovered she

had a “wine memory.” She could easily remember flavors, varietals, brands, and even what people liked to drink. “I can’t remember much else, but I can remember wine,” Albertson quipped.

In 2013, she found herself at a pivotal point in her career when the small tech firm she worked for closed its doors.

Albertson explored the possibility of

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Deanna Albertson

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OUR business

CUSTOM GIF T BASKETS

W I D E VA R I E T Y O F U N I Q U E W I N E S

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opening some type of franchise, but she really wanted to start her own business.

She wrote a business plan for a wine bar, but it was too high risk for banks to invest in. That’s when her friends John Langwith and Laurel Prestridge stepped in. “They decided to invest in me and we became business partners, along with my husband, Greg,” Albertson said. “I started working on this idea in May of 2013, we signed a lease on the store in August of 2013, and we opened in November of 2013.”

The name “Vino Mas” is a combination of a few languages. “Vino” means wine in Italian and Spanish. “Mas” means more in Spanish, and in French it means a traditional farmhouse found in the Provence and Midi regions of France overlooking a vineyard. Albertson wants everyone who comes into the store to feel comfortable and at home. One of the ways she fosters that is by finding out what customers are comfortable drinking and then encouraging them to try other varietals that she thinks they’d enjoy based on that. She also likes to take some people outside of their comfort zone and open their eyes to new flavors. “People who say they only drink chardonnay or pinot noir are usually the most surprised when I have them try something different and they actually like it,” she said.

The loyalty that Vino Mas has earned over the past six years is not only due to the store’s personalized customer service but is also attributed to its wine club.

With every grocery store, gas station, and even pharmacy selling wine, it’s difficult to generate and keep new customers. But the wine club is what draws new customers in and a reason that they stay. “Our wine club members receive good wines every month for an inexpensive price,

plus they get free wine tastings,” Albertson explained. Even if you’re not a wine club member, Vino Mas has a majority of its wines priced under $25 and a section of six or more wines for $10. They also have more expensive bottles for special occasions and gifts.

A consistent staff, sharing her passion for wine and educating others, and giving back to the community are additional elements that make Vino Mas unique.

Albertson considers the entire staff to be family and they in turn treat all their customers like family. The store also supports many local non-profits—that spirit of service has long been part of the Albertson’s value system, with Deanna

and Greg having spent 10 ½ years as foster parents, seven as live-in parents at Boys Town after Greg served 12 years in the Navy.

Another unique feature of Vino Mas is that there are always 30 wines on tap to taste, and if you just want a beer, they offer that as well as bourbon. Gift certificates are always available, there is a gift registry for weddings, and they offer free corporate delivery. No matter where you are in your “wine walk,” Albertson said Vino Mas can help you along your path.

“Whether you want to become a highend or casual wine drinker, we can help teach you and develop your palate so that you are comfortable with wine.”

WE SPECIALIZE IN SENIOR DENTAL CARE At Chadwell Family Dentistry our mission is to provide our patients with compassionate dental care of the highest quality in a friendly and caring environment.

Amy Chadwell DDS 16909 Lakeside Hills Plz #111 Omaha NE, 68130

(402) 884-1828 • chadwelldentistry.com

402.592.2918 800.277.9722 omaha.itex.com www.itex.com

DECEMBER 2019

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OUR fashion

Look Fabulous for the holidays Story by SUSIE KIZER Photos by Maria Kizer

I

t truly is the most wonderful time of the year! The holidays are upon us which means, most likely, we will be spending time celebrating the season with family, friends, and co-workers.

Invitations to different holiday events might have you wondering what to wear.

We’ve identified three popular holiday events with suggestions for what to wear to look fabulous.

Jane McLeay with daughter Elle Seals

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Office Holiday Party: Choosing an outfit for an office party can be difficult since you want to look professional, but also stylish. Pair a skirt or black pants with an animal print top and a fun, furry vest. Blazers are also a big trend this season. A blazer can add chicness to any outfit. Pair it with stylish jeans or unique leggings. Make sure that both your neckline and hemline are appropriate for this type of event.

Home Dinner Party with Friends/Family: This party tends to be more intimate and relaxed, yet still festive! Jeans are a wonderful staple to wear to this type of party. Consider wearing a comfortable pair of jeans with a fun metallic or embellished motto jacket and a festive red or gold cami. A dressy top with sparkles or jewels paired with jeans is another holiday option.

Pop a color with bright colored pumps or snake skin booties.

You will want to dress comfortably, yet show your great fashion taste.

New Year’s Eve Bash: Unless the dress code is otherwise specified, you will see many different styles at this event. Fancy dresses, fun jeans, sequins, pearls, rhinestones, and furs. All these options would be a hit for a New Year’s Eve Party. A one-of-a-kind faux fur jacket can be styled with the simplest of outfits—a little black dress, jeans, or dress pants, making your outfit a head turner! Black leggings with a glitzy jacket will also make a statement. Show your true fabulous self at this event and have fun!

The bottom line for dressing for holiday events is to keep your look classy while also finding ways to show off your charm and charisma.

Fabulous Fashions Boutique stylists will help with your holiday party wardrobe needs. Come shop with us or shop online @fabulousfashionsomaha.com. Shipping is always free! Also, follow us on Facebook (Fabulous Fashions Boutique - Omaha) and Instagram (@fabulousfashionsomaha) to find out about our happenings and events!

Feel Fabulous, Look Fabulous, Be Fabulous!

Fabulous Fashions Boutique is an upscale contemporary women’s apparel and accessories boutique targeting sophisticated, trendy women of all ages.

www.fabulousfashionsomaha.com 14450 Eagle Run Drive | 402.578.3415 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

DECEMBER 2019

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wellness EM BR ACI N G

Ovation Heartwood Preserve offers a new approach to senior living

a

s people continue to live longer, healthier lives, the idea of senior living is changing. This population doesn’t just want nicer living spaces and more dining options—they want to live in a truly active community that provides an environment of total wellness, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual health through a variety of activities that connects them not just where they live, but with the greater community as well.

Ovation Heartwood Preserve by Avamere is developing that vision right in the heart of West Omaha.

The concept for Ovation mirrors that of many luxury hotels—a high-touch, customer service-oriented environment.

But it’s never been done before in the senior living industry and is Avamere’s “Ovation,” culminating 25 years of the company’s experience. Ovation’s

President, Nicolette Merino, said it combines everything the company has learned about senior living and is the first approach to developing a community for the next generation that takes the consumer’s perspective into account in every aspect.

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Nicolette Merino

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DECEMBER 2019

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R E N D E R I N G O F O VAT I O N ’ S H E A RT W O O D P R E S E R V E

O VAT I O N ’ S L O U N G E

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Headquartered in Wilsonville, OR, Avamere is currently building two Ovation communities in the country: Omaha and St. George, UT, with 17 additional markets undergoing studies.

The current markets were selected after conducting extensive market research studies and focus groups. Hundreds of Omaha residents participated, and the responses were all similar: people ages 55+ want a complete wellness environment that enables them to build an entire engagement-based lifestyle right where they live. Omaha also has a thriving community at large with entertainment, attractions, sports, and most importantly, a philanthropic culture, and Ovation will incorporate opportunities into its programming to promote 30 |

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residents’ desire to give back.

Avamere ultimately chose the Heartwood Preserve development for Omaha’s Ovation in part because of all the parks, walking, and bike trails that were already planned for the development.

Scheduled to open its 150 independent living apartments in the fall of 2020, followed by 90 assisted living and 60 memory care apartments, Ovation will be much more than typical senior living housing. Most communities have a 28% ratio of apartment to common space, but Ovation’s ratio will be 40% in its independent living property. It will include five different restaurant options, open teaching kitchens for cooking classes, a concierge, valet, yoga studio, pool, hot tub, massage room, salon and

barber shop, full fitness center with more than a dozen classes, rooftop lounges and outdoor BBQ areas.

Ovation currently has a walk-in showroom located off 156th and Dodge Streets, and some of the amenities they are incorporating are based off discussions they’ve had with future residents.

For example, one inquired about bike storage and outlets for electric bikes, so those have been added to the plan.

Another mentioned soft drawer pulls/ closes so that has been included in the apartments. Merino said after being with the company for 11 years, it’s exciting to see their dream finally come to life. “We want to meet seniors’ expectations, all with a heavy focus on hospitality.”

O VAT I O N ’ S B I S T R O

Technology is another area that is critical to engagement. Ovation Connect is the community’s app that is available on personal smartphones or tablets.

The app includes apartment temperature control, automatic lighting, daily menus from all the restaurants, private video, talk, and text with friends and family as well as photo sharing and calendar reminders. Residents are also given wearables to track health stats that can be recorded and shared with family members. “Staying connected is a big component of that overall wellness philosophy that Ovation supports,” Merino said.

About a dozen early adopters have already put deposits on apartments and are part of the founders “Ovation Club,” which will be the first 20 residents.

They were able to see a 3D virtual tour of each individual apartment to pick out which unit they wanted and their view.

They will also be given special perks and have monthly club member events.

Anyone is welcome to stop by the showroom Monday-Saturday from 8:00am5:00pm, or Sunday by apartment to see a virtual tour that includes apartments, lobby, restaurants, and common areas.

Ovation hopes that it’s campus will not only meet seniors’ needs, but exceed their expectations. “Not only do we want to offer an amazing lifestyle for seniors, but we also want to help connect them with the type of environment they want and need,” Merino said.

“Ovation will simply be an extension of the existing vibrant, urban Omaha community that makes it a top 10 city for retirement.”

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DECEMBER 2019

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OUR passion

Operation Super Jack creates “safe zone” for immunecompromised kids

j

ack Speichert is a name that will soon be celebrated by families from not just Omaha, but from across the country. At just two-yearsold, Jack was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer that he bravely fought for 13 months, but unfortunately did not survive. Following his passing, Jack’s parents, Tim and Sarah Speichert, reflected on the experience, choosing to focus on the positive aspects. The result was the formation of Operation Super Jack—a non-profit organization dedicated to developing a “safe zone” in Omaha where children with compromised immune systems, whether from cancer treatment, transplants, or any other condition, could quickly and safely receive medical care.

Sarah and Tim Speichert

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by ANDREW BURNETTE 32 |

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remember A NAM E TO

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Annual Operation Super Jack Bowl-a-Thon

Jack underwent his cancer treatment at St. Jude Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. St. Jude is known for treating the toughest childhood diseases and cancers free of charge to families.

Jack’s particular type of brain tumor was rare—there have only been 75 documented cases, according to his parents. A side effect of his treatment was severe fevers that would often require a visit to the emergency room.

St. Jude has a triage process for patients that is not only fast and efficient, but it includes a dedicated area for its immune compromised patients. “We stayed in Memphis during Jack’s treatment,” Tim said. “Every month he would develop a fever. I’d call St. Jude, they’d tell us what time to come in, and when we 34 |

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arrived at the hospital it was mere minutes and he’d be seen. We wanted to help provide some of that same experience right here in Omaha.”

The Speicherts approached Children’s Hospital and Medical Center with the idea, and their timing couldn’t have been better. The hospital’s renovation included transforming the Emergency Room, so the Speicherts decided to help donate to the building project with the intention of implementing a safe zone room in the ER. To date, donations from Operation Super Jack have funded $25,000 toward the hospital project to sponsor the room.

It will be a special triage area within the ER for any child with a compromised immune system. The next step

will be to help determine what the process will look like and how to manage it. The Speicherts hope to work with a liaison at the hospital to help streamline that process. “We want to bring that stress-free experience we had at St. Jude to Omaha,” Sarah said. “Especially since so many families come here from rural parts of Nebraska and other cities across the Midwest.” The hospital renovations are expected to be complete in 2021.

Going forward, the Speicherts will determine how much additional funding to allocate from Operation Super Jack and what that will provide.

The organization accepts donations on its website, operationsuperjack.org, and it also holds two annual fundraising events: a golf tournament in June and a

bowl-a-thon in October. Each event sees 100-120 attendees and raises most of the organization’s funding each year. The Speicherts are also actively involved in other non-profits that work to fight childhood cancer, including Sammy’s Superheroes and Team Jack. “We try to be part of anything we can to raise awareness and just want to give back,” Sarah said.

“You tend to isolate yourselves when going through a tragedy, and that’s not the best way to go about it. You should have a strong support network, and we want to try and help provide that.”

And although donations are important, the Speicherts really want to get their message out to as many as possible, emphasizing that their mission isn’t about the money. Sarah added, “If you know a family who is dealing with childhood cancer, we are happy to talk to them. It gives us a sense of purpose because we get to think about Jack and honor him. It’s not easy to talk about, but when you open up, it’s better for us and it helps other families.”

Jack has been gone for more than four years, but he continues to be very much part of the Speichert family. They celebrate each of his birthdays with noodles and Oreos—his favorites—and share fond memories such as their vacation with him to Paris that included a photo of Jack standing in front of the Eiffel Tower. He is also not only part of the community fighting childhood cancer, but he will be part of a much larger community by helping to make every child’s experience of fighting a devastating illness a little bit better.

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DECEMBER 2019

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MY concoction

West Omaha’s newest spa, Sakoon, offers massage and facial services as well as med spa treatments and a lounge to enjoy craft cocktails.

Sakoon The Spa 1529 S 203rd St. (531) 466-8200 sakoonthespa.com

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1

5

What you need: • Aperol • St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

• Seedlip Garden tonic • Ginger Beer • Lemon

2 Add first three ingredients to shaker with ice

steps

Shake well and strain into chilled glass

3

to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Sakoon The Spa THE BARTENDER: Tonya THE DRINK: Annapurna “Goddess of the Harvests”

4

5

Add splash of ginger beer

Garnish with lemon wedge DECEMBER 2019

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OUR food

FLATIRON CAFE 1722 St Marys Ave # 110 (402) 344-3040 flatironcafeomaha.com

Kathleen and Joe Jamrozy

Flatiron Café offers comfortable food in an elegant, historical setting

i A culinary classic Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 38 |

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n the early 90s, after years honing their hospitality chops at institutions such as The French Café and V. Mertz, Kathleen and Steve Jamrozy dreamed of opening an innovative chili restaurant in Omaha’s Old Market. When the lease fell through on their intended location, they found themselves clambering over dirt piles with toddlers in tow to tour an alternative site in a blighted area of town. The new site was the Flatiron, far better suited to fine dining, so the couple pivoted, relying on pure grit and family support to build The Flatiron Café from the ground up in 1995.

SEARED SALMON WITH A LEMON BEURRE BLANC DECEMBER 2019

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OUR food

TOURNEDOS OF BEEF WITH RED KING CRAB AND BERNAISE

G R I L L E D B E E F T E N D E R LO I N W I T H A B R A N DY A N D B L AC K P E P P E RCO R N S A U C E

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OUR food

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OUR food

C H O C O L AT E TO RT E W I T H P E C A N S

Kathleen epitomizes old-fashioned hospitality, exuding a pleasant combination of class and kind sincerity that puts everyone at ease. The establishment has no formal hospitality training, preferring instead to allow each team member to express their own innate sense of service in organic ways, not unlike the way grapes express their terroir.

Many employees stay with Flatiron for years, and it’s easy to see why. The vibe during afternoon set up is reminiscent of a close-knit family, with Kathleen’s daughter vacuuming floors and servers chatting as they ready the elegant vintage dining room for evening service.

Kathleen’s son Joe was a natural choice to take over as general manager, given his intimate familiarity with the establishment through years spent there as a child and young employee. An avid hunter, Joe is also an excellent and creative home cook with a passion for good wine and a knack for orchestrating the attentive, yet unobtrusive, service that defines a top-notch dining experience.

The best service cannot override subpar food, and that is not the case here. For the past seven years, Chef Rob Hill has developed and refined an imaginative, modern menu focused on classic dishes with eclectic twists. “I grew up eating hearty comfort food,” Hill said, “and that is the type of food I love to cook.” Hill describes the Flatiron menu as New American, a melting pot of flavor leveraging seasonal produce, classical 44 |

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French techniques, and hearty, comforting flavors.

Plates are beautiful but intended to enhance an environment in which diners can enjoy each other’s company alongside perfectly prepared food. In this same vein, flavors are designed to delight, not challenge palates.

First plates include crispy, rich arancini studded with crispy pork and served with bright tomato preserves, and an incredible warm beet dish sure to please even the vegetable averse. The colorful, well-balanced dish uses duck fat to enhance and carry the aroma and flavor of the beets, and blue cheese, making it impossible to stop at just a bite or two.

Main plates include a classic French beef tenderloin, well-seasoned and cooked to perfection, each bite like a warm hug in front of a roaring fire.

The glistening salmon fillet is perched atop a crispy king crab and sweet corn croquette and highlighted by a classic lemon beurre blanc. Tournedos of beef are accompanied by a stunning Peruvian potato puree and more luscious king crab.

An exceptional wine list provides both new and old world options to please the most discerning palate. Knowledgeable servers are happy to recommend a glass or bottle to pair beautifully with your meal. For dessert, the shareable chocolate torte topped with a delicate caramel sauce is an excellent option.

Refreshingly, each plate presents exactly as described by Hill, who allows the food to do the talking in the best, most unpretentious manner.

Throughout the entire operation, hospitality and a sense of teamwork are expressed in myriad ways, including the quality service and product provided by purveyors such as Lone Tree Foods, Dutch Girl Creamery, and Plum Creek Farms. Kitchen staff is minimal, so everyone pitches in. As Hill shared, “Being successful is our job, and sometimes that means you do the dishes.”

Regular patrons span generations— couples celebrate anniversaries annually for 25 years, and in later years their children visit as young adults, discovering the satisfying joy of a delicious meal in an elegant setting. The restaurant is enjoying a bit of a renaissance, with younger clientele discovering and making this their celebration destination. “When the energy is right, there is a great buzz in

the room, both back and front of house,” Kathleen remarked. The proximity to the historic Orpheum Theater also makes the spot an ideal pre-theater dinner destination; staff works hard to ensure diners do not miss curtain times.

In a town laden with diverse eateries run by local talent, what is the secret

to longevity for an Omaha restaurant? Kathleen gave a simple answer: the people. The Flatiron Café creates comforting, classic dishes complemented by unfailingly excellent service in a beautiful, historic space, resulting in an experience that is at once high-end and homey, perfect for any occasion.

DECEMBER 2019

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OUR wellness

Arm your family against cold and flu season

By DR. STEPHEN STINN

Unfortunately, this is the time of year that kids and adults alike start to feel the effects of cold and flu season. With that, I want to give two quick tips you can implement to be preventative in staying healthy this winter season.

Vitamin D3 & K2: I take an enormous amount of vitamin D throughout the winter months. This is a necessary vitamin for your immune system to work properly. Because we are not out in the sun nearly as much in the winter, it must be supplemented. When taken with food (fat) as well as Vitamin K2, it absorbs into your body much better.

I personally take 10,000 IU of vitamin D every day throughout the winter months as a preventative measure to not getting sick. Holding the vitamin D in your mouth for 10-20 seconds before swallowing also makes it absorb more into the mucosa in your mouth. That’s why I recommend a liquid form or dissolvable pills that stay in your mouth instead of the hard gels.

Maintaining a well-balanced Nerve System: What is your nerve system?

It’s primarily your brain and brainstem.

The brainstem controls an area of your nerve system called the Autonomic Nerve System (ANS). This ANS is what controls your immune system! So, the more stressed your brainstem and ANS are, the more it downregulates your immune system. Thus, making you more susceptible to colds and flus.

The easiest and most accurate way to measure the state of your ANS is through technology called Heart Rate Variability (HRV). The more we get stressed through the holiday season, the more strain it puts on our immune system.

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If you’re interested in getting a snapshot of where your HRV score is and seeing your “stress test,” I am offering a complimentary HRV screening to anyone who calls and mentions this article. The test itself takes about 5 minutes and the appointment would last about 15 minutes total. This is a fantastic way to see what state your ANS is in for the upcoming cold and flu season and to see if your immune system is up to the task! Our office number is 402.504.4676 and we’re located just North of 204th and Dodge in Elkhorn.

Have a great and healthy holiday season!

– Dr. Stephen Stinn

INSIDE Our November Inside Edge event was bold, beautiful, and inspiring!

Interiors Joan and Associates hosted at their gorgeous showroom, which featured the latest trends in furniture, dĂŠcor, and included a special art show flown in just for the event! Thank you to their entire team and everyone who attended. Be sure to follow us on Facebook to find out what we have planned for our exclusive Inside Edge events for 2020!

DECEMBER 2019

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October celebrated the launch of Edge Magazine’s sister publication, Dine Magazine, which is focused on elevating the Nebraska dining experience.

We partnered with The Institute of the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College to hold a launch party in celebration of the first issue of Dine, which will publish quarterly.

More than 100 guests from the food and beverage industry, partners, and consumers enjoyed the poutine buffet, signature cocktails, and an inside look into the pages of Dine!

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very veryandmerry oh so joyful.

FINDING GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE CAN BE TOUGH.

Give them the gift of estate planning this year.

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DECEMBER 2019

| 49

WORTH THE HAUL ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S 16th St, Omaha

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Nutcracker

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22 DEC

Elf the Musical

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23-26 Jan.

2020 International Auto Show

CHI HEALTH CENTER OMAHA 445 North 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 341-1500 Tickets: www.TicketMaster.com or (800) 745-3000 UNO Hockey: All tickets $15-$25

DECEMBER 2019

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OUR leisure

dynamic Three

D E S T I N AT I O N S

TOPPING ROSE HOUSE

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land

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Travel and Transport Exclusive Offer*: Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability; complimentary full breakfast for two daily, $100 USD Spa Services credit, early check-in/check-out, subject to availability, complimentary Wi-Fi

BY

air

7-Day Aruba Exclusive at the Ritz-Carlton | Delta Vacations When to travel: October – May When to book: 9-12 months in advance Why the Ritz-Carlton Aruba with Delta Vacations: An island escape featuring vibrant sunsets and serene turquoise waters awaits you at the Ritz-Carlton Aruba. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sandy beaches or are seeking thrill and adventure, the island has a plethora of activities to offer. Spend your days navigating the pristine beaches by windsurfing, snorkeling or skiing or explore the island’s breathtaking natural wonders, including Arikok National Park and various deserts and caves. At the end of the day, unwind at the RitzCarlton’s expansive spa or test your luck at the hotel’s casino. Full of peace and tranquility, adventure and immersive cultural experiences, this island excursion will have you never wanting to leave.

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Travel and Transport Exclusive Event: Join us on Thursday, January 16th, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Travel Design Lounge for a formal presentation from our partners at Delta Vacations as they showcase exclusive options and amazing travel options for travel to Mexico and the Caribbean. For event inquiries, details or to RSVP, please email us at TDLEvents@TravelDesignLounge.com or call us for details at 402.548.3280.

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sea

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For over 72 years, Travel and Transport has made vacation dreams a reality. In total, our knowledgeable and seasoned travel specialists have visited over 50 countries on all seven continents and have sailed on over 50 cruises.

Our global connections allow us to provide our valued clients with the most advantageous pricing and upgrades with leading hotels, resorts, spas, cruise lines, tour companies, rail lines, airlines, and ground operators. Through Virtuoso, we are able to offer exclusive amenities, experiences and privileged access not available to the general public.

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When to travel: Departures vary throughout the year When to book: 12-15 months in advance Why Panama Canal with Princess Cruises: Venturing from ocean to ocean your trip with Princess Cruises will be as memorable as your various destinations.

Soak in the exotic views from Los Angeles, CA to the lush terrain and calm waters of Central American paradises of Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.

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DECEMBER 2019

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THE WRITE PLAN

a column on estate and financial planning for everyone

Estate plan check-up

By LISA M. LEHAN, J.D.

I

f it has been a while since you’ve reviewed your estate plan, use this list to help you determine if your plan needs any updates. If you do not yet have your estate plan in place, review this list to help you think through some key decisions before meeting with your lawyer.

Dispositive Provisions. Over time, objectives for how and when your beneficiaries receive property may change. Perhaps even the beneficiaries themselves may change. Has your family grown? Has your net worth changed?

Do you have a new charity you’d like to benefit? Take a look at the dispositive provisions of your Will or Trust and ask yourself whether the provisions meet your current objectives. If you do not yet have a Will or Trust, consider who you’d like to benefit from the legacy you’ll leave.

Fiduciary Selections. Consider whether the person you named as your Personal Representative, Trustee, or Agent still has the appropriate skill-set and the availability to serve. Have you talked to the person you’ve named as your Agent for medical decisions about your wishes?

Are the guardians you named for your minor children still up for the job?

Asset Titling. How you own property may override the provisions of your estate plan. You should review the titling of real estate, bank accounts, investment accounts, and other assets to assure proper coordination with your documents.

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Beneficiary Designations. Do you know the current beneficiary designations for your life insurance policies, retirement plan accounts, and annuities? Make sure you consider any available roll-over options – and the associated income tax deferral options – for qualified plan assets when naming beneficiaries.

Use of Gift Exemptions. Depending on your tax situation and current objectives, it may make sense to use annual gifting exemptions and some or all of your lifetime gift exemption to transfer property now. Gifting may allow you to minimize your future estate tax liability. If you are in a position to gift away property, doing so should be done with your overall estate plan objectives and tax planning in mind.

Your estate planning attorney can help you with each of these items, and more. If it has been a while since you’ve reviewed your estate plan, take some time to reflect on what you have in place and any follow-up actions you should take now. Or if you do not have an estate plan yet, add planning to your goals for 2020.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR I am a shareholder of Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., located in One Pacific Place. My practice is focused on estate and tax planning. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children.

For help with your family’s estate and tax planning needs, please contact me directly at lisa.lehan@koleyjessen.com or 402.343.3881.

B E FORE

A F T ER

S

M Y T WO

cents

S

S

Many desire to have youthful, long, and luxurious hair, and will go to great lengths to achieve it. The latest trend to obtain this goal is hand-tied extensions.

Hand-tied extensions have taken over the scene as a wildly popular service and are known for how gentle they are on the hair with proper installation. These types of wefts (versus machine wefts) are incredibly lightweight and one of the most natural feeling extensions on the market.

Researching the extensions used by salon professionals is a great idea as not all extensions are processed the same. The longevity of the hair and the direction the cuticle lays are factors to consider in terms of quality. Companies such as Aqua Hair Extensions have a quality you can see and feel, and are viewed as one of the best. Most professional brands of extensions are well made. The same hair can be used for six months or longer depending on home care.

There are different techniques used to apply these extensions. One of these used by Seven Salon, a local Omaha salon with certified extension specialists, is to apply the beads in a side-by-side arrangement along the section of hair to create a foundation. Once the beadwork is in place, the stylist utilizes a thread to tie and knot the weft into place. Multiple layers of the weft can be put into the sections to add thickness.

Once the hair is in place with the density and positioning agreed upon by the stylist and customer, the extensions can be cut to blend. The professional should be experienced in cutting extensions to achieve the best possible outcome. The hair shouldn’t be shampooed or in a ponytail for at least 48 hours. Hair can be curled, worn in a ponytail, and cared for like natural hair. Daily brushing is recommended with a boar bristle brush, and typically extensions will come with their own hair care line. Leave-in conditioner should be applied daily to extend their life. Recommendation for re-installation is approximately eight weeks.

You can find certified Aqua Hand Tied Extensions Specialists at Seven Salon at 3117 North 120th Street.

DECEMBER 2019

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S

OUR community

NEW MULTI-SPORT OUTDOOR COMMUNITY COMPLEX The Elkhorn Soccer Club and the Elkhorn Athletic Association recently made the exciting announcement that they have entered into a merger agreement. The organizations share similar missions, visions, and values that align to provide premier youth sports opportunities for kids throughout the greater Omaha area. The merger includes plans to develop a multi-sport outdoor community complex to address the lack of field space that both organizations have faced. The state-of-the-art complex will encompass more than 140 acres near 264th and Ida Streets off Highway 275. It will be a signature destination facility for outdoor youth athletics and community recreation.

For more information on the complex, contact Bruce O’Neel, bruceo@ elkhornathletics.org, or Rob Herringer, director@elkhornsoccer.org.

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Vision: Youth sports will be the complex’s anchor, but the expansive and professionally designed facility will serve as a year-round destination for community recreation, offering features ranging from picnic areas and playgrounds to running and walking paths. The organization will own and operate the complex, which will be largely privately funded. The association is currently not planning on any local tax dollars or any other local government funding for the complex. The operation and maintenance will be funded through fees from tournaments, private endowments, community partnerships and sponsorships.

Timeline: The goal is to open the initial baseball, softball, soccer and football fields within the next two years.

Additional fields will open in future years. The association will add additional athletic features and the desired recreation features in phases over the next three to five years.

Plan: The primary focus will be expanding and enhancing athletic opportunities for children and teens at one location. The complex will give the Elkhorn Soccer Club and the Elkhorn Athletic Association a home and an identity, in a single location.

Additionally, this endeavor is a great opportunity to collaborate with the community to support parents, kids and coaches to enable stronger programs for young athletes.

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OUR youth

e

mma Freedman, a junior at Elkhorn South High School, took up baking after a back injury from playing hockey when she was a freshman in high school.

Nearly four years later, she has turned her hobby into a business and an art. Today, Emma works at Culinary Kidz, where she teaches the younger generation the art and science of baking and cake decorating.

Emma Freedman

Story by ASHTYN TRIDLE Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 58 |

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dreams DECORATING

DECEMBER 2019

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OUR youth

D E V I L W E A R S C H O C O L AT E C A K E

Edge: How did you get into baking?

Emma: I got into baking about three years ago when I was 14. Baking was a way to manage anxiety and coping with no longer being able to play hockey and it became a release point to me.

I realized that I was actually good at baking too.

Edge: What did you start out baking?

Emma: I would bake chocolate chip cookies after school and then eventually I started to bake cakes. Now, I like to bake chocolate cakes, but occasionally I will make a white cake. My favorite is a Devil Wears Chocolate cake that I created. We also have a family Kahlúa cake that is really easy but so good.

Edge: How did you learn to bake?

Emma: Some of it I learned from taking classes at Whisk and Measure, a local bakery, but most of my technique is self-taught from watching Food Network and Youtube.

Edge: Are your parents supportive of your baking journey?

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Emma: My parents have been very supportive. My dad wants me to go to culinary school. I’ll actually be graduating a semester early next year so I can attend Metro’s Institute for the Culinary Arts.

Edge: Since you work at Culinary Kidz, what’s your life like there? What do you get to bake with the children who come in?

Emma: We normally have 15 kids per class. They’re around 5-8 years old, and they’re a lot of fun to work with. I’ll help teach classes or celebrate birthday parties there. The classes I teach are cake decorating classes. Each student gets to decorate their own three-inch cake as either a unicorn or mermaid. It’s really cute.

Edge: You seem to enjoy baking cakes the most. Do you still like to bake cookies?

Emma: I like to bake peanut butter cookies because they are my favorite. I like to eat cake so I don’t normally make cookies, but they’ve become a bit more fun to make because I learned how to frost them with royal icing so it has an

in-depth design.

Edge: What is a misconception people have about baking?

Emma: People don’t realize that everything has to be precise with baking, so math skills are important. You have to have exact measurements and level everything off. And you can’t use a liquid measuring cup for solid ingredients.

Salt is also really important even though you’re making something sweet.

Edge: Tell us about your plans for the future.

Emma: I’ll be going to culinary school and hopefully study abroad in France. I plan to open my own business one day, possibly in Colorado Springs. I played in hockey tournaments there and really liked the city.

Edge: Do you sell any of your baked goods?

Emma: I have friends who will send me orders through Instagram, and I’ve baked cookies for some local businesses. I use the name “BakeEm,” which will hopefully be my bakery name someday.

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VARSITY corner

DOMINATING

THE LINE Teddy Prochazka | Junior Elkhorn South High School

By SHELLY NOSBISCH When Elkhorn South High School junior Teddy Prochazka committed to play football for the University of Nebraska—Lincoln (UNL), he texted the football program but kept it a secret from the coaches. Right before the Ohio State game, Teddy went down on the field to tell Coach Scott Frost in person. But he was even more excited to tell Coach Greg Austin, the offensive line coach, who was the last to know since he was the last one out of the tunnel. “It was pretty funny,” Teddy said. “He was super excited to hear about it, though.”

According to Elkhorn South football coach, Guy Rosenberg, “Colleges want height and athleticism at Offensive Tackle and, as a result, Teddy was in high demand.” Teddy had been waffling between Northwestern and Nebraska, “but just going to a few more football games at Nebraska kind of tipped the scale in that direction. And being so close to home.” Teddy’s family had also been supportive with the process.

“No pressure on my decision at all because of home state. I really appreciated that.”

At 6’9”, Teddy’s physical presence on the field is impressive, but growing up, his size made him feel like the odd man out.

“I remember even as a kid, just being awkward for how big I was. Always the tall kid.” Going into his freshman year, Teddy decided to use his size to his advantage. “I don’t really worry about it anymore. It’s more of a positive thing than a negative thing.”

Teddy loves playing football for Elkhorn South. “The coaches do a good job of making sure it’s player-led, so the captains on the team are real leaders.” Once football season ends, Teddy rolls right into basketball season. This year will be his last playing basketball for Elkhorn South because he plans to graduate in December 2020 and early enroll at Nebraska. Teddy plans to pursue a degree in sports marketing, but he can’t wait to play football. “I want to get out there and start working out with them, making good connections with the football coaches.”

Coach Rosenberg believes Teddy will be a great addition to the UNL team. “Teddy has a rare combination of height, power, and athleticism. When you combine that with his work ethic and mean streak, he’s a force on both offense and defense.”

CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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LIFE-LONG

LOVE OF THE GAME

Syd Nuismer | Senior Elkhorn High School

By SHELLY NOSBISCH

Syd Nuismer, a senior at Elkhorn High School, is all about family. “My uncle played UNK (University of Nebraska Kearney) baseball, so I grew up playing in the dirt at the baseball fields,” she said. Her dad has been her coach from the beginning and is still coaching her in her final select season with Nebraska Gold. “I play for my dad. That’s something that’s real important to me. It grew a huge bond, and it taught me how to treat a coach. He didn’t let me take it easy.”

One of her favorite parts of softball is traveling with the select team in the summer. “I’ve been to so many states on both sides. One time we drove from Georgia to California—41 hours. We stopped once.

Poor Dad.” This past summer Syd experienced a special tournament. “My team got third at Nationals, which is a huge deal. We played teams that had all their players going to huge schools like Oklahoma, which is pretty cool for a little Nebraska team to come in and show them what we’ve got.”

Syd hopes to combine her love of art and her passion for working with kids with special needs into a career in special education. She seeks out opportunities like helping special needs students in weights class, participating in the inclusive study hall, and joining the Unified Bowling team.

Her commitment goes back to the importance of family. “I grew up with an aunt who has special needs. At school, I hang out with them all the time.

I figured it would be something I’d like to do for the rest of my life.”

Syd will be pitching for University of Nebraska Omaha in the fall of 2020. Allen Schutte, her coach at Elkhorn, believes Syd will do well. “Syd has worked really hard to get where she is today,” he said. “She has an outstanding work ethic and a drive to do her best. Syd puts a lot of pressure on herself, whether it is in the circle, batter box, or in the classroom.” Her hard work has paid off with a Regents scholarship to cover her tuition and a softball scholarship to cover everything else. For her part, she is glad to be staying in Omaha. “I’m really close with my family.”

CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

DECEMBER 2019

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EDGE

With so many stores, restaurants, and experiences to choose from, you’re sure to find holiday gifts as unique as everyone on your list at Village Pointe – expect an experience.

168th & W Dodge Rd | 402.505.9773 | VillagePointeShopping.com |

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