Edge Magazine - April 2018

A P R I L

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M A G A Z I N E

Passion

paper Artist Danielle Easdale’s

for

Enjoy coastal dining at Midtown’s Della Costa

Try Perfect Pour winner’s Sweet Pepper Cocktail

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Undeniable results.

J A C K S O N G R O U P R E A L E S TAT E . C O M

LETTER from the PUBLISHER

CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY

From left: Christopher Tierney, Carole Sprunk, Quentin Lueninghoener and Kathy Rygg.

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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Spring

is finally making its entrance. I am not sure about you, but this winter seemed to drag on and on.

With cabin fever in full force there is no better time to take your kiddos to Kid Warrior Gym. Owners Casey Miller and Josh Hutchinson explain how they brought the popular TV show American Ninja Warrior to Omaha for kids to test their skills.

Also featured is the People’s Choice Award winner from this year’s Perfect Pour competition. Bartenders from as far as Kansas City came to compete and raise money for a worthy cause, Nebraska Children. I was able to attend the competition which involved cocktails made of Gin. If you know me, you know my choice is always bourbon (neat).

However, this was a fantastic evening.

Our cover story this issue is International Paper Artist Danielle Easdale. She was so gracious to make a custom piece just for our magazine.

The most beautiful part of this art is that it is made entirely of paper! Yet another favorite of mine. Much of my love for Edge comes from the fact that it is a tangible, credible, positive piece of history in the making. It is so easy to post something on social media, but it has limited longevity. Print, on the other hand, is permanent. The whole team at Edge strives to give you a beautiful, accurate, printed piece that will stay with you for years to come.

Carole Sprunk Publisher

EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES 2265 S 186TH ST, OMAHA • $419,000

1513 S 192 AVE CIR, OMAHA • $439,000

4034 S. 224TH CIR, ELKHORN • $565,000

Terrific 2 story in The Ridges w/open floor plan, 2 story entry. Nice kitchen w/lots of cabinets, SS appliances, walk-in pantry, work desk, wood floors.

Huge bedrooms w/connecting bathrooms, large master bedrm with 2 walk in closets. LL w/rec room, flex room or 5th non-conforming bedrm. Tons of storage. Newer deck (‘17), newer siding (‘17), newer paint inside (‘18), newer paint outside (‘17), downstairs A/C replaced in ‘16. Nice flat huge backyard. A must see & for quick possession. You won’t be disappointed!

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You won’t be disappointed! Gourmet kitchen w/granite counters, stainless steel appliances, Birch cabinets, breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, large dinette, formal dining and nice drop off area off garage. Private baths and walk-in closets for all 4 bedrooms. 5th room non-conforming, covered deck. Walk out LL, full iron fence, no backyard neighbors, sprinkler system. Move-in ready & a must see!

Enjoy this beautiful, large, 4BR 4BA lodge-style home in The Farm.

The only thing missing is a view of the mountains! Almost an acre of land, beautiful yard, spacious, updated, and well-maintained.

This home is move-in ready! The 2-story great room features a floor to ceiling fireplace and 3 walls of windows overlooking the yard. Enjoy both decks, too, as well as the quiet cul-de-sac.

New roof, gutters, downspouts, 2 new sliding glass doors, and one new furnace.

MARY THOMMI CRS GRI SRES E-PRO 402-650-6940 mary@marythommi.com

MARY THOMMI CRS GRI SRES E-PRO 402-650-6940 mary@marythommi.com

JENNI TOEBBEN 402.681.8966

JULIE TARTAGLIA 402.215.2156

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julie.tartaglia@cbshome.com

2439 S 186TH CIR, OMAHA • $569,000

15826 CALIFORNIA ST, OMAHA • $995,000

24720 MASON ST, WATERLOO • $1,250,000

Custom 1.5 story in The Ridges. Updated & Meticulous! 2Story great room & fireplace. Kitchen access to fenced yard, new paver patio, fire pit & water fall. Sound system to main & patio. Custom window treatments. Spacious master, fireplace, whirlpool tub, walkin shower & huge dressing room/closet. New carpet in Master & upstairs. 2 bdrms w/ jack & jill bath & Bonus room up. Entertainer dream lower w/sunken media 10’HD screen, full wet bar, gym.

New hail resistant roof. Heated garage w/ drain.

Fabulous! Festive! This magnificent home has been thoughtfully updated and immaculately maintained. It boasts large gathering spaces, yet privacy for everyone. Perfect for an active family, the walk-out LL includes a 36’x12’ gym, media room, exercise room, playroom and rec room. The 3/4 acre fenced lot is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac walking distance to elementary school and park. The desirable location minutes to Dodge corridor makes commuting and errands a breeze. Too many amenities to list!

Enjoy luxury resort living, fall in love with this premier lakefront custom built ranch home that is filled w/ fabulous features but we are going to skip the 8 car garage, pass by the private quiet time rm w/fp and whisk by the gourmet kit to see the insanely cool backyard paradise behold the incredible views, expansive partially covered deck, enjoy the outdoor kitchen, hot tub, heated pool, fire pit or relax in the finished basement to watch a movie or just watch the glow of the fireplace.

CINDY MAHER 402-699-7272 cindy.maher@cbshome.com

CAROL LEHAN 402-697-4064 carol.lehan@cbshome.com

BILL BLACK 402-680-2500 bill.black@cbshome.com

HIS T T ORY U T K O S E! EC NG’S ISSU H I C ST IS LI N TH I

170 SKYLINE DRIVE, ELKHORN • $1,699,000 This architectural treasure awaits you on the edge of the Elkhorn Valley. One owner custom built all brick home rests on 2.1 acres of gated, secluded, private grounds with mature landscaping. Features include: 5 BR, 6 BA, 3 FP and a large 3 car garage. Gourmet updated kitchen has SS appliances, center island and a wonderful hearth area. Main floor library, soaring ceilings with beautiful windows, lower level game area and exercise room. Hidden wine cellar, spacious patio and deck areas. A Pat McNeil masterpiece. Welcome home!

RALPH MARASCO 402-697-4272 ralph.marasco@cbshome.com

3311 S 228 AVE CIR, OMAHA • $1,878,000 Enduring value, sophisticated, great design plus individuality are the trademarks of a Ken Oster home and this one is no different. Sensational exterior spaces to enjoy. Casual living in a natural setting with 5 bedrooms, 6 car garage, amazing details & lots of WOW!

DIANE & ANDREA OSTER 402-690-0518 • 402-699-4687

diane.oster@cbshome.com • andrea.oster@cbshome.com

V O L U M E

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M A G A Z I N E

PUBLISHER AND OWNER Carole Sprunk (402) 587-2259 // Carole@EdgeMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Kathy Rygg (402) 490-3213 // Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER Pat Sangimino DESIGNER Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // quentin@hanscompark.com PHOTO STAFF Christopher Tierney Photography (402) 350-5699 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Missy Fischer (402) 312-1987 // Missy@EdgeMagazine.com CONTACT US P: (402) 587-2259 Carole@EdgeMagazine.com PO Box 620, Elkhorn, NE 68022 Edge is published bi-monthly. Content copyright © 2018 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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OMAHA’S PREMIER LUXURY HOME BUILDER

BUILDING IN THESE FINE COMMUNITIES

BRIAN FALCONE LOOK FOR US IN THE 2018 STREET OF DREAMS IN BLUE SAGE CREEK!

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CONTENTS COVER story

OUR home 8

22

OUR business

MY concoction

OUR youth

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38

58

OUR food

OUR leisure

40

56

30

OUR health

VARSITY corner

50

62

OUR home

hill-top home Grand

o

ne of the most coveted views in West Omaha is one that overlooks the Elkhorn River bluff.

Only a few homes can boast having that view while still enjoying privacy, and one in particular has an especially exquisite combination of both. Situated on top of a hill along Skyline Drive in Elkhorn, is a sprawling 9,500 sq. ft. single-owner home with a spectacular view that stretches all the way to Fremont.

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Built in 1992 by one of Omaha’s premier home builders, McNeil Company, the majestic 1.5 story home with a finished basement had unique beginnings.

The lot it was built on sat empty for 20 years. The homeowner took daily walks past the empty lot until one day noticing a for sale sign in the corner. Not knowing if it was even possible to build on top of the hill, she asked her father, who was a builder out of state. His response was, “You can build on anything.” So the homeowners ran the idea by McNeil Company, who said they could modify the nearly 2-acre lot in order to make it suitable to build.

The homeowners borrowed a floor

STORY BY KATHY RYGG 10-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO

BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

APRIL 2018

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OUR home

LIVING ROOM

OVERSIZED WINDOWS

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STUNNING VIEW

I will pay cash for your house!

Before you list your house for sale, call me at 402-680-8448 for an instant offer!

• No Fees • No Commissions • No Appraisals • No Repairs • Sell It “As Is” • Cash in your pocket in 7 days!

• If I don’t buy it, I’ll sell it for you!

Van C. Deeb – BIG Omaha Realty

Deebbuyshousesfast.com | Direct Line: 402.680.8448 | Email: van@vandeeb.com APRIL 2018

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OUR home

GOURMET KITCHEN

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A M P L E C O U N T E R S PA C E

APRIL 2018

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OUR home

MASTER SITTING ROOM

MASTER BEDROOM

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M A S T E R B AT H APRIL 2018

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OUR home

LOWER LEVEL BAR

HIDDEN WINE CELLAR

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HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED DISAPPOINTING RESULTS WITH HORMONE REPLACEMENT?

plan from a house in Atlanta they liked and had McNeil alter it to the fit the lot. Their goal was to have enough space for their family of four as well as space to accommodate large groups for entertaining. They had no problem accomplishing both. The five bedroom, 6 bathroom home provided plenty of space for individual family members to spread out, especially in the basement, with its oversized living room, pool table room, home gym and sauna, as well as the golf simulator room, which can be converted into a home theater.

The entry way opens up into a grand living room with 20 ft. ceilings, windows, and double doors that open onto a sweeping patio that looks onto the priceless view. In fact, the homeowners often had live music playing on the patio while guests mingled both indoors and out, flowing into the lower level with its full bar and walk-out access to another covered patio and entertainment area.

Equally impressive is the 21 x 23 ft. kitchen, which was remodeled several years ago. Not only can a large family all gather in the room for a holiday get together, but it has enough counter space for multiple people to cook at once.

The homeowners held an annual cookie party in which 20 ladies would all bake simultaneously. Likewise, the formal dining room is large enough to seat that many guests.

Attention to detail in the craftsmanship is also prevalent throughout the home. Solid woodwork, arched doorways, and ornate crown molding give it a stately look and feel.

Baldwin hardware was also used on all doors. The master bedroom and bathroom were also remodeled that includes a giant walk-in shower, custom his and hers closets, and a Victoria Albert bath tub. The entire exterior of the home is solid brick, and the roof was one of the first in Omaha to use DaVinci slate.

The home’s décor is a mix of traditional and contemporary. Many of the home’s pieces were purchased during the homeowner’s travels, such as the light fixtures from New York, the master bedroom fireplace from France, and a number of antiques from around the world. A number of rooms in the home are also adorned with unique styles of wallpaper that still have a timeless look.

Even with a home of its size, there is plenty of room to grow. There’s the capability for a fourth space on the current three-car garage, room in the back yard for a pool, and other areas where the house could easily be modified.

Lush landscaping with unique varieties of trees and flowers surround the home as well, all of which compliments that view. And although it’s difficult for the homeowners, who are ready to downsize, to give up, they are ready for someone else to enjoy it as much as they have. For more information about this home, contact Ralph Marasco, CBS Home Real Estate, 402-690-7777.

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APRIL 2018

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OUR style

WHY HIRE AN INTERIOR

designer?

Everyone wants to live in a home that is a beautiful reflection of his or her own personal taste. What they might not realize is that just as importantly, your home should also perform perfectly to fit your lifestyle. Achieving this functional aesthetic may sound next to impossible, and that’s where professional interior designers come in. A beautiful space that stands the test of time and wear doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the careful result of a team of professionals working through minute details. Here are the top 6 reasons why you should call a designer to assist you with your next project…

1

Working with a designer will save you money.

Have you ever purchased a piece of furniture that didn’t fit in your space or spent countless hours and resources trying out paint colors until you found the “right” one? Designers can save you money by avoiding costly mistakes. We are here to spend your dollar wisely, as if it were our own, not to spend your every last dollar.

You’re going to save time.

Designers are used to working on timelines. We know what needs to be done by when and we keep the whole team on point when it comes to deadlines.

Designers provide professional evaluations.

Interior design is a balance of art and science, and professionals have gone to school to study and learn both. All of our

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design staff members have college degrees in interior design and are affiliated with the American Society of Interior Designers, (ASID). We see things you don’t, like scale, color and pattern, and we put together a strategic plan to keep your project on point.

Designers are your qualified liaison.

Designers know the lingo.

Communication between contractors, electricians, plumbers, painters, installers, etc., has to be open and has to be professional. We know the best people in the business and we know how to work with them to properly manage your time and your money.

Designers have the resources and the contacts.

We’ve been doing this for 55 years. We know the best contractors and vendors and we work with the most talented people in the business. We also have the

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Story by LINDI JANULEWICZ Interiors Joan and Associates Photos courtesy of Kessler Photography and Interiors Joan and Associates Article Reference / Source: “The Kuotes,” A Blog From Kathy Kuo Home

relationships and buying power with the best home furnishings companies in the world, and we’re honored to pass that quality, tradition, and value on to you, our clients.

You’re going to have the WOW factor.

Our designers are trained to think creatively. We pay attention to details like making sure you have the proper lighting, the correct furniture placement, creative and functional fabric selections, a perfect color palette, even the best fixtures, hardware, artwork, accessories and lamps. We have access to trade-only pieces, and we can help you to create a home that is truly unique to your tastes and lifestyle.

Don’t go it alone… pair with a professional and live the dream in your DREAM HOME! Cheers to your next project!

6

GOOD DESIGN MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE. Consider the possibilities of a home renovation!

SHOP OUR OMAHA SHOWROOM! interiorsbyjoan.com

Omaha

•

132nd & W. Dodge Rd. | Lincoln

•

71st & Pioneers

APRIL 2018

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OUR wealth

The “write” plan a column on estate and financial planning for everyone

By LISA M. LEHAN, J.D.

Smart gift planning includes combining a donor’s charitable intent with income tax efficiency. As a donor, you want to assure you are maximizing your gifts to your favorite charities, while also maximizing your personal income tax benefits. Gifts of long-term appreciated assets can achieve both objectives.

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 planning needs, please contact me directly at lisa.lehan@koleyjessen.com or 402.343.3881.

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A gift of property that a donor has owned for more than one year provides a potential double benefit to the donor from an income tax perspective. First, the donor generally will not realize any capital gains at the time he or she makes the gift, thereby avoiding the payment of capital gains taxes on the amount the property appreciated in value while the donor owned it. Second, the donor is permitted to deduct the full fair market value of the gifted property on the donor’s income tax return, subject to applicable IRS limits and carryover rules.

The simplest example of this gifting technique is to consider a gift of stock.

If you purchased a share of stock for $100 over one year ago, and you donate it to a qualifying charitable organization when the stock’s value equals $1,000, then you avoid paying capital gains taxes on the $900 of appreciation. In addition, you could receive a charitable deduction equal to the current value of $1,000, depending on your adjusted gross income and the overall charitable donation limits.

Another appreciated asset that donors may not immediately consider gifting to charity is ownership in their business.

When you begin thinking of business succession planning, whether due

to retirement or moving on to a new venture, one of the biggest challenges an owner faces is determining how to exit the business with minimal income tax consequences. Working with your advisory team and a charity to evaluate your planned giving options in this situation may provide a unique solution to meet both your business and charitable legacy goals.

Gifting publicly traded stock is very easy to do and may be accomplished quickly. Gifting a business interest is more complicated and therefore should be explored well in advance of the planned transition date. In either situation, donors should consult with their tax advisor as they evaluate their options in supporting charities and the constituents those charities serve.

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STARTING MAY

5

MAY

26 JULY

AUG.

31-5

community OUR 18TH ANNUAL BLUE JEANS & DREAM BENEFIT FOR

HETRA Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) is holding its annual benefit from 5-11pm at the HETRA Barn in Gretna. Attire is Western/Cowboy Casual. Silent and Live Auctions, Meet & Greet our Therapy Horses, Line Dancing, BBQ Buffet by Hy-Vee. Tickets and Reservations at HETRA.org or at https://www.classy.org/event/blue-jeansand-dreams/e169903.

OMAHA FARMERS MARKET 2018 marks the Omaha Farmers Market’s 25th season! The Old Market location (11th & Jackson Streets) is open every Saturday, May 5th-October 13th, from 8:00am-12:30pm.

The Aksarben Village location (67th & Center Streets) is open every Sunday, May 6th-October 14th, from 9:00am1:00pm. For more information and a list of vendors, visit https://omahafarmersmarket.com/.

SATURDAYS AT STINSON Join your friends every Saturday night in Stinson Park at Aksarben Villagefor the Saturdays @ Stinson Concert Series. You will be entertained by the most talented bands in Omaha and the best part its FREE! There will be food and drink vendors, face painting, balloon artists, kids will play in the fountain and on the playground equipment. For the concerts you may bring chairs, blankets, an umbrella, and coolers. Please bring koozies for your cans and plastic cups for other drinks as no glass is allowed. Please do not bring tents, canopies or stake anything into the ground.

Please have fun and enjoy your time in Stinson Park!

Aksarben Village‌where there is always something fun going on!

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT Have an event you want listed here? Drop us a line with the details: Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL ROBOTICS CAMP The CREATE Foundation, in conjunction with our Chinese partner, BESTIC, is very pleased and excited to announce a first of its kind, international robotics camp. Twenty students from China are coming to America July 31st - August 5th to participate in an international robotics camp. We are pleased to be able to invite 12 American students to join them (6 elementary students, 6 middle school students). The camp will be held at Mount Michael Benedictine. For more information and to register (space is limited), visit http://www.create-found.org/.

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COVER story

art CUTTING EDGE

Local artist Danielle Easdale hand carves paper into one-of-a-kind pieces

f

or many artists, such as painters and photographers, their medium is expressed on paper. But for local artist Danielle Easdale, the paper is the art itself. For many years she has been hand-carving layers of paper to create unique portraits and images that have an unbelievable 3D quality to them even though they are made from nothing more than pieces of flat paper and her attention to the most minute detail.

Danielle Easdale

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 22 |

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COVER story

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Born in Australia, Danielle set out for London in her early 20s to travel and explore Europe. It was there that she first discovered the art of paper cutting. A popular medium in Great Britain, it was primarily presented in single layer works.

The art form itself has been in practice since the 4th century, found in other countries such as Japan, Switzerland, and Mexico. In fact, the famous Danish fairy tale author, Hans Christian Andersen, was also a paper cutting artist.

Danielle said she was drawn to the art form because it mimicked her love for photography with its depth of color and contrast. She decided to play around with the concept without any formal classes or training. She said she started working on her own style and using multiple layers rather than just one. “It took a number of years to get to the style I have now.” That style uses a realistic approach, similar to photography, in which she layers paper that she hand cuts using a medical grade scalpel, with shadows using darker colors of paper and highlights using lighter ones.

Three years ago Danielle moved to Omaha where she has continued to work from her home studio. Although there are other paper artists around the U.S., she’s only aware of one other artist in Chicago who has a similar style as hers. Most of the pieces she does are by commission, such as wedding portraits, pets, or memorial artwork for loved ones. She works from a photo, sketches it out, and then plans each layer ahead of time, allowing for deviations to the plan depending on how the project progresses.

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COVER story

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Danielle uses acid free paper for its archival quality and to keep its color and vibrancy intact. She uses a variety of colors and paper, but prefers ones that have a linen texture. She hand carves each piece and layer of paper, often changing out her scalpel every 20 minutes to keep them sharp. That’s a lot of blades, given the average length of time she spends on a piece is 40 hours. She secures each layer using adhesive and seals the finished piece in a frame, ensuring it will last for generations.

“My favorite part of creating is learning the story behind the subject,” Danielle explained. “As I’m working, I have that story and image in my mind of what that person—or pet—is or was like. Each piece I do is completely unique. Nobody will have the same piece.” One of the compelling aspects of paper cutting is that every time you look at a piece, you see a different detail you didn’t notice before. “It gives it a 3D feel with a depth from the layering that is hard to achieve in a normal photograph,” she added.

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Serving you

Danielle recycles all of the leftover pieces and scraps of paper, which is fitting since she also works as the community program manager at a local recycling company. Eventually she’d like to take a paper making class so she can make her own paper out of the cuts she doesn’t use. Additionally, Danielle is an active member of Omaha Artists, Inc., which has shows throughout the year. And she is one of the artists whose pieces are on display and for sale in the Passageway Gallery downtown, which will feature her Safari collection she’s working on.

One question Danielle is often asked is if she’ll ever teach paper cutting? “I’ve only ever taught one person how to do it,” she said. “I was self-taught and developed it over a number of years. But I would consider teaching others.” In the meantime, she enjoys working with people to capture their own story and give it that Wow factor. “I love working with paper—it’s texture and the detail you can create. Because even though it is so fragile, it can truly last forever.”

Omaha’s premier home builder

Gourmet food. Craft cocktails.

Indoor golf.

PIZZA WEST

JIMMY JOHNS

Pizza, drinks and sports

Subs, sandwiches and chips

120th and Giles • East of I-80 at the Giles exit www.southporteast.com

Now is the right time to plan for your family’s future.

Estate Planning Tax Planning Business Succession Planning Also specializing in IRS Tax Controversy Lisa M. Lehan, Shareholder lisa.lehan@koleyjessen.com 402.343.3881 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800 Omaha, NE 68124 koleyjessen.com

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OUR luxury

The first-ever BMW X2

TURN IT OVER. The inverted kidney grilles create a bold new look, for a fresh take on a distinctive icon. Positioned low like a coupe, the chrome frame and black high-gloss bars of the grille add to the focused, energetic appearance of the X2 — barely containing the power within.

ON YOUR MARK. The C-pillar roundel is a bold badge of distinction — a

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throwback to an era that established BMW’s reputation for sporty, aggressive vehicles, and changed automotive design forever. It’s a perfect complement to the unique high gloss black B-pillar and the racy coupe-like silhouette of this unconventional X. WIRELESS CHARGING AND WIFI HOTSPOT Maintain constant connection. A charging pocket in the central console provides inductive Wireless Charging for your compatible smartphone. 1 The onboard WiFi Hotspot lets your passengers connect with ease — with 3GB of data included free for 3 months.

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features

of the perfect car

H&H PREMIER AUTOMOTIVE 716 N. 102nd St. 402-695-7020

bmwofomaha.com

OUR business

Bring out your child’s inner ninja at Kids Warrior Gym

o

ne of the most popular family TV shows for the past several years has been American Ninja Warrior. Kids especially love the thrill of watching athletes try to complete demanding obstacle courses. It’s also what inspired local entrepreneur Casey Miller, along with his brother Joel, to create a place where kids could feel like contestants from the TV show.

And last summer, they successfully opened Kids Warrior Gym for children up to age 12, at two locations within Omaha: 168th & Blondo, and 180th & Q Streets.

Casey Miller and Josh Hutchinson

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 30 |

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skills MAD

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OUR business

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Serving Omaha for 10 years!

CATERING Whatever your reason to gather and celebrate, Sam & Louie’s is here to make you look good.

Your Comeback Story Starts Here!

SamandLouiesPizza.com/Catering

Main Clinic 625 N. 144th Ave., Ste. 102 Omaha, NE 68154

Athletes In Motion Clinic 14706 Giles Road Omaha, NE 68138

(NW corner of 144th & Dodge)

(inside the Omaha Sports Complex)

(402) 934-8688 • www.OmahaPTI.com

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OUR business

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Having been the owner of nearly a dozen child care centers, two pet grooming and boarding facilities, two fitness centers, and a catering business, Casey has years of experience as a small business owner. He said he wanted to provide an alternative to traditional sports for kids, and something that was gender neutral. “The TV show is so popular with kids, but there really isn’t an avenue to develop those skills at a young age,” he said. Creating a class-based model where kids learn week over week with an instructor, was the driving force behind Kids Warrior Gym. Josh Hutchinson, who has degrees in early childhood education and physical education, first worked with Casey at one of his daycare centers. When Casey asked him to join him in the Kids Warrior Gym venture, he didn’t hesitate.

“Fitness and kids have always been a passion of mine,” Josh said. “It gets kids out from behind their computers, off their iPads, phones, and video games.”

As an instructor at the 180th & Q location, Josh developed his own class curriculum to help teach kids about health and fitness while also having fun.

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A typical class begins with the kids stretching and talking about different muscle groups, an active game to get warmed up, followed by working on just one particular obstacle on one side of the gym. Josh shows the kids techniques for how to complete that obstacle better and faster, based on their age. He then has them do a simple exercise to strengthen the muscles used on that obstacle. The second half of the class they move to the other side of the gym and work on a different obstacle. For example, if the first obstacle was leg intensive, then the second obstacle uses the upper body. At the end of class, they often run through the entire obstacle course.

Each class builds on the previous lesson, and to incorporate overall fitness, kids are often given “homework” in between classes to keep them active, even if it’s something as simple as sit ups. Kids achieve a different colored headband every time they successfully complete an obstacle, and there are 12 different levels (one for each month of the year). “Our motto is to ‘commit, train, and succeed’ in our program, which is what we emphasize every

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OUR business

class,” Josh added.

In addition to month-long classes, Kids Warrior Gym also offers birthday parties, open gym time, and field trips for day cares and organizations. During open gym time, parents stay at the facility with their kids, and are even encouraged to participate. For birthday parties, kids can enjoy one full side of the gym with a private party host for 45 minutes, followed by another 45 minutes on the public side of the gym, and an addition36 |

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al 30 minutes in the private party room.

Because the Blondo Street location is a slightly smaller gym, birthday parties are completely private there.

One of the things that makes Kids Warrior Gym especially unique is that they manufacture every obstacle in their gyms such as the warp wall, quad steps, and spider wall. They also easily have the option to change out obstacles over time. “We scoured hundreds of obstacles in adult gyms but tailored them to kids,”

Casey said. “We found a partner who was able to design and make everything, which cuts down on our costs tremendously.” In fact, earlier this year, Casey auditioned for Shark Tank in hopes to win funding to expand Kids Warrior Gym into other markets and eventually franchise the concept. “We’ve learned a lot in our first year, and we definitely fill a gap with this type of activity for kids,” he said. “Everyone wants to be a ninja warrior!”

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When you join our Farm Bureau Family, I ask questions, then listen and educate so we can maximize your insurance coverages that are the best value for your money while still protecting you and your family from everyday risks.

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As an agent with Farm Bureau I strive to provide my clients with a quality product, along with an unmatched level of customer service. Whether one becomes my client or not, my job is to educate people about their everyday risks and develop personalized plans to protect themselves, their families, and livelihoods.

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MY concoction

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5 APRIL 2018

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OUR food

S H AW N P H I F E R A N D RO N S A M U E L SO N

Mediterranean in Midtown

w

hen opportunity knocks, it’s best to answer the door. That’s exactly how Della Costa in Midtown came to be.

It’s one of restaurateur Ron Samuelson’s most recent endeavors, which he opened last May in partnership with his nephews Justin and Aaron Halbert. Following on his success with M’s Pub and Vivace downtown, and Herb Sainte in Aksarben 40 |

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Della Costa provides seasonal seafood from a variety of regions

Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY Village, Della Costa was many years in the making with the right place and the right time finally coming to fruition.

In the former Brix location at Midtown Crossing, Della Costa offers numerous options for public and private dining. The main room can seat large parties with tables in a variety of configurations, the “Grotta di Nereo” private

dining room can seat up to 50, and the outdoor patio overlooking Turner Park is perfect for any occasion. “It’s an easy space to come into and have a really nice dinner,” Ron said. The color scheme, local artwork, and fresh table flowers grown by Ron himself all add to the open comfort of the restaurant.

Throughout his career, Ron has strived

DELLA COSTA 220 S 31st Ave. (402) 614-5100 dellacostaomaha.com

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OUR food

AHI TUNA SALAD

G R I L L E D OYST E R S

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to making dining out “an event,” which is what it was when he was growing up.

“Eating out was always celebratory, and I found restaurants to be a fun atmosphere,” he said. “It’s also about building relationships, the energy that people have when they’re enjoying a meal, and being creative in the kitchen.” That creativity is evident at Della Costa with the menu that Chef Shawn Phifer has perfected.

“Fresh, seasonal, interesting seafood” is how he described the dishes. But it’s what he strives for with every ingredient on a plate. “Each dish is highly composed,” he said. “Not because that’s what we have on hand or because the items look nice together. But because those ingredients are interesting and delicious when we’re done with them .” Shawn cooks with products and flavor influences from all different regions: Italian, Spanish, and French to name a few.

“We take items that are easily accessible and familiar to people and make them unique.”

For example, the Mediterranean Burger isn’t just ground beef, but rather half beef and half lamb. “A burger is something people are used to eating, but we’ve put our own thumb print on it,” Shawn said. “And it’s one of the better burgers in town.” Some of Shawn’s other favorites include the Linguine di Mare with lobster and scallops, and panseared fish such as snapper served with lemon-thyme broth, pancetta, leeks, and heirloom tomatoes. Della Costa also has an in-house bakery, so breads are made fresh on site. In fact, they will be adding a Spanish style café within the restaurant B U C AT I N I P U TA N E S C A

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OUR food

FLAN DI MARE

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APRIL 2018

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OUR food

TA RTA D E S A N T I A G O

that will serve soups, salads, sandwiches, pastries, and coffees.

Specials change seasonally on the menu and includes a year-round prix fixed menu that takes advantage of items from the local farmers markets as well as fresh fish flown in daily. Catering for private parties is another big part of Della Costa’s offering. “Shawn is gifted at listening to what people want for 46 |

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their event and giving them unique but reasonably priced options,” Ron said.

His nephew Aaron is also a sommelier and brings in wines from the same regions that Shawn is drawing from for his dishes so that everything compliments each other perfectly.

In addition to being open for lunch, dinner, and corporate as well as special events, Della Costa is open for brunch

on Saturdays and Sundays, and has a happy hour menu and drink specials. “The Midtown neighborhood is a melting pot of people, and we felt the Mediterranean palette would be a good fit,” Ron said. “We like to think of Della Costa as a Chicago-style restaurant with Omaha prices. We have a beautiful space and great people who love to cook.”

APRIL 2018

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WORTH THE HAUL

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12 May

Chris Young

26 April

Brad Paisley

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| 49

OUR health

Quality CARE

o

Midwest Pain Clinics uses best care practices to manage chronic pain and improve quality of life

ne of the biggest impacts on quality of life is chronic pain. Finding the right treatment can be frustrating, time-consuming, and physically and emotionally exhausting. Rather than give up and settle for a less than optimal outcome, physicians at Midwest Pain Clinics take a multi-disciplinary approach to each patient who sees them. Their goal is to develop a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan that can be conducted at one facility to ensure convenience, affordability, and the best results possible.

Pain management is a specific field of medicine focused on reducing pain and its associated physical and emotional suffering. Although physicians try to identify the underlying cause of the pain, even when that’s not clear, Midwest Pain Clinics will still treat patients to relieve their pain. Some of the more common conditions they treat are pain

associated with arthritis, especially in the back and neck, headaches, leg and foot pain, as well as knee and hip joint pain. “We see anyone whose pain is severely impacting their lives and are seeking care beyond what their primary care physician can offer,” said Matthew Nadler, MD. Although they do treat acute pain as

Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Matthew Nadler, MD

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APRIL 2018

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OUR health

Kevin Balter, MD

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well, most injuries heal over time, and they can address pain during that healing phase. But for conditions that don’t improve over time, Midwest Pain Clinics have a number of methods they can incorporate. And diagnosing the problem is one area in which they specialize. “We can often identify a problem that has been overlooked in the past,” said Kevin Balter, MD. “A patient who sees us can often get a correct diagnosis and reduce their risk of a more invasive treatment, such as surgery, which is permanent.”

Injections, medications, chiropractic, physical therapy, and counseling are all available approaches that Midwest Pain Clinics have on site. In fact, one of its most unique aspects is that they offer all options right under one roof, including an on-site pharmacy. “We are able to stock all the medications we prescribe, and our pharmacists are familiar with options to reduce out of pocket costs for our patients,” said Dr. Balter. And because they have their own surgery center on site, they are also able to provide IV sedation for anxious patients undergoing procedures, even if insurance companies don’t approve it. In fact, Midwest Pain Clinics believe so strongly Rafal Krejza, DO

APRIL 2018

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OUR health

in helping all chronic pain sufferers, they won’t turn away patients, even those with financial limitations.

Dr. Balter explained that providing treatment options at lower costs improves outcomes. In fact, they are conducting their own studies to show that through cost saving pain management options, it keeps patients from more expensive treatment options, such as going to the Emergency Room or having surgery. “We can focus on the needs of the patient by eliminating any barriers to care,” he said. “If a treatment option will make a difference in the quality of a patient’s life, then we will do what it takes to provide that for them.”

Pain medication is often used as one of the treatment options, but Midwest Pain Clinics recognizes there are a wide variety of options rather than just standard pain medications. Although they do prescribe narcotics for some cases, given the current opiate crisis, they are very careful to evaluate when it’s appropriate and when a patient may be suffering from an addiction and a psychiatrist is needed as part of the care team. “It’s so important for us to have good communication with our patients so that we are aware of any issues before prescribing medications,” Dr. Balter said.

Midwest Pain Clinics has locations in Omaha, Lincoln, Columbus, Missouri Valley, IA, and Dakota Dunes, SD. Their physicians have a wide variety of backgrounds and specialties, who all work together to provide a team approach to healthcare. “All chronic pain is not the same and shouldn’t be treated the same way,” said Richard Bose, MD. “We are able to communicate directly between all our physicians and pharmacists on site and collaborate with all disciplines.

Our patients don’t leave our facility without some form of treatment to help ease their pain.”

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Richard Bose, MD

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APRIL 2018

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OUR leisure

dynamic Three

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Kenoa Exclusive Beach Spa & Resort | Barra de Sao Miguel, Brazil When to travel: June to Sept. When to book: 3-6 months before Why Kenoa Exclusive Beach Spa & Resort: Relax in tranquility at this exclusive Brazilian beachfront resort. Between pristine tropic rainforests and stretches of deserted beach, you will experience stunning nature—horseback riding on the beach, snorkeling through coral reefs or canoeing to an oyster nursey. Delight your senses with gastronomical treats at the Kaamo Restaurante and enriching treatments at the Kenoa Spa. This world-class resort combines luxury and privacy to create an intimate, transcendent stay.

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12 Day Inaugural Australian Cruise Chairman’s Voyage Ponant Yacht Cruises & Expeditions When to travel: April to Aug. When to book: 9-12 months before Why Ponant Yacht Cruises & Expeditions: Looking to expand your culinary and cultural palette? Board this 12-day food and wine cruise of Australia. From Cairns to Sydney, you’ll explore the eastern coast of Australia and take a cooking masterclass with one of Australia’s most acclaimed chefs, Guillaume Brahimi—named the 2015 Chef of the Year by GQ Australia. After full days snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef or uncovering tropical flora at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, enjoy delicious multi-course degustations with perfect wine pairings.

Travel Design Lounge Exclusive Event: Join us on Tuesday, May 8th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a formal presentation from our partners at Globus as they showcase vacation experiences to Australia and New Zealand. For event inquiries or details, please email us at TDLevents@traveldesignlounge.com or call us for details at 402.548.3280.

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BY

sea

8 Day Riches of the Mekong (Prek Kdam, Cambodia to My Tho, Vietnam) | AmaWaterways When to travel: Nov. to Feb. When to book: 6-9 months before Why Riches of the Mekong: From bustling, colorful marketplaces to the exotic fauna of lakeside wetlands, explore the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia on this intimate Mekong River cruise. On shore excursions, you will receive a blessing at a Buddhist monastery, take a tuk tuk ride through Phnom Penh, learn the traditional art of rice paper making and more. On the spacious but intimate AmaDara cruise ship, you’ll experience comfort, convenience and luxury during your unforgettable journey.

Travel and Transport Offer*: Fine dining with all meals included during your cruise; multiple dining venues; unlimited wine with every lunch and dinner on board; complimentary house-brand spirits, beer and soft drinks during cruise; bottled water in every stateroom, replenished daily; choice of life-enriching tours and excursions daily with personal headset included; Welcome Dinner and Farewell Cocktail Party & Dinner; all transfers with the purchase of cruise & air package.

*Restrictions may apply.

APRIL 2018

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OUR youth

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leading l THE WAY

Caroline Gomel, Age 16

ife has a way of opening new doors when others close. For sixteen-year-old Caroline Gomel, she worried that when she stopped showing horses competitively, she wouldn’t be able to be around them anymore. But that changed when a friend told her about the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) in Gretna. Caroline didn’t hesitate to attend a volunteer tour and quickly signed up to help groom, exercise, tack, and lead horses, which she’s been doing two to three days a week for almost the past three years.

APRIL 2018

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OUR youth Edge: What appealed to you about volunteering for HETRA?

also lead horses during lessons. It’s really hands on, which is what I love.

Caroline: I’ve always loved horses—we owned horses and I showed them when I was young. When I decided to stop competing because it was too much pressure, I still wanted to have horses in my life. So this has become a way to do that—it’s my horse fix!

Edge: How many hours have you volunteered at HETRA? Caroline: I’ve done over 700 hours since I started. I won the New Volunteer Award in 2015.

Edge: You also get to work with students at HETRA. Do you enjoy that?

Caroline: I love working with the students, especially when I’m able to work with one for a long period of time. I’m able to see how much they’ve improved,

Edge: That’s awesome! What’s your favorite part of volunteering?

Caroline: I knew I’d enjoy it since I’d be around horses, but I didn’t know it’d be this much. It’s way more fulfilling than showing horses. It’s all about helping someone else, rather than helping myself. I’m home schooled, so it has really helped me with my people skills, taught me how to get along with all kinds of people, and it has allowed me to work with kids. I also love working with the other volunteers there.

Edge: Is it something you want to continue to do?

Caroline: Definitely. HETRA is a big part of my life, and I want to volunteer there as long as possible. I’d love to be a barn leader some day.

Edge: How old do you have to be to volunteer?

Caroline: As early as age 12 you can be an equipment person, and at age 14 you can be a side walker. HETRA has over 200 volunteers, and there are always people to help you. I highly recommend it for anyone.

Edge: What else do you enjoy doing?

and it’s really rewarding.

Edge: How often do you volunteer?

Caroline: During the school year I volunteer every Wednesday afternoon and Saturday morning, and in the summer I often add another day.

Edge: What does your volunteering entail?

Caroline: I groom horses, tack them— put on their blanket, saddle, and stirrups, exercise them before lessons, and I

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Caroline: I’ve played piano for eight years, I’m active in my church youth group, I teach vacation bible school in the summer, I’ve gone on two mission trips to help kids in Guatemala, and I’d like to major in interior design in college.

Edge: That’s a full plate!

Caroline: (Laughs) It is, but I enjoy it all. And HETRA has been my saving grace. It allows me to have horses in my life, but in a positive way. It makes me, and my parents, happy that I can go out to the HETRA barn and do what I love!

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APRIL 2018

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VARSITY corner

WINNING

DUO

Lauren Camenzind

Lauren Camenzind 8th Grade | DC West

By PAT SANGIMINO

It seems logical that Lauren Camenzind—a few minutes older than her sister Hannah—is considered the impatient twin. But when it comes to softball, that theory is debunked by the realization that Lauren is a shortstop and catcher. The very nature of her position is anticipating, while waiting, always waiting, for the ball to be put in play.

The straight-A student, who someday wants to be a veterinarian, passes the time waiting for the ball to come her way by always being on the move. “When you’re a middle infielder, you’re always moving your feet,” she said. “You’re always moving back and forth. You’re getting the sign and speeding things up on your own.”

It’s her way of staying in a game that has become her world. Consider that she and her sister are playing this season for a select team, the DeMarini Aces, in Kansas City. That means that each weekend they are on the road, either traveling to a tournament in, say, Oklahoma City, or to practice no less than three hours away.

“If you’re going to travel that far for a sport, you have to love it,” Lauren said.

Patience is required, and is being acquired, in the backseat of the family car. Chad and Amanda Camenzind can’t begin to calculate the number of miles driven last summer to take in tournaments in California and Georgia, as well as college camps all across the country, but it has taken a complete family commitment.

The added exposure is paying off for the twins. Following a weeklong tryout camp in Alabama they were named to the USA Elite Select All-American Class of 2022. And just last month both Lauren and Hannah were named to the Elite 100 list of 2022 grad softball players.

When they were offered full-time spots on the Aces, they told their father, “Dad, this is the team we want to play for.”

Chad’s response was simple: “We’ll figure it out. We’ll find a way to make it work.” And through their same attitude of teamwork on the field, that’s what they’ve done off the field as well.

Hannah Camenzind

CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHER

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Hannah Camenzind 8th Grade | DC West

By PAT SANGIMINO Hannah Camenzind is a left-handed pitcher with a full array of pitches, including a drop ball and curveball that are considered lethal to most 14-yearold hitters. Yet there are times when she admits that her mechanics get out of whack and “just doesn’t feel right.”

It’s then that she breaks down her delivery and finds the solution, sometimes in the middle of an inning. “I’m usually able to figure it out on my own just based on where the ball is going,” she said. “A lot of times I try to throw super hard and I just get out in front of myself.”

It’s rare that r a 14-year-old is able to self-correct anything, much less a mechanical flaw in her pitching delivery.

Maybe that’s what helped Hannah, along with twin sister Lauren, earn USA Elite Select All-American honors for the Class of 2022, and more recently to the Elite 100 list for 2022 grad softball players.

On weekends, they travel to practice in Kansas City or to tournaments throughout the country before returning to their home in Valley, NE. During the week, they spend most days training after school at Elkhorn Training Camp.

“We work on our own during the week,” Hannah said. “I don’t pitch every day, but I hit and take grounders every day.”

Hannah is driven in softball and in the classroom. Her goal is to earn a scholarship to a school in one of the nation’s Power Five conferences. Whichever school she chooses, she plans on going to school with Lauren. “We’ve talked about it a lot,” she said. “We want to go to college together.”

The Camenzind sisters have embraced their twin-ship. It’s always been an icebreaker in school and a talking point with teammates. “You get asked a lot if you are twins,” Lauren said. “Everyone thought it was cool when we would go to camp that we’re pitcher-catcher twins.

It’s not very common.” It’s also what makes them not only unique, but so successful as well.

Lauren Camenzind

Hannah Camenzind

CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHER

APRIL 2018

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

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