Issuu

OCTOBER 2026

M A G A Z I N E

Kirby the therapy dog delivers joy Also inside: Surround yourself with healthy vibes at home and away

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the leaves on the trees start to give us their colorful show, and the kids are settling into their school routines, this issue of EDGE is dedicated to the theme of surrounding yourself with healthy vibes – the things that make you happy. In other words, time for you. Hopefully the photo of Kirby, the therapy dog on the cover, brought a smile to your heart. He takes his “job” very seriously, bringing joy to the students and staff at his school. There are many ways to wrap ourselves in what brings us joy, like interior design that calls to us, carefully curated by experts, like those at B. Morton Design. The Omaha Pumpkin Company delivers a beautiful autumnal vibe right to your doorstep, while at Lauritzen Gardens you can walk in the crisp, fresh air, enjoy fall foliage and plan to experience the inspiring activities being held through the holidays. If you’re caring for an aging parent and it’s time for placement to a safe space, Bridge to Better Living’s commitment to “placement with passion” will warm your heart and give you assurance that your loved one’s care is paramount to them. Now’s the time to breathe, take some time for you and what brings healthy and happy vibes into your life.

Wendy Wiseman Managing Editor

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

Our cover features faithful therapy dog, Kirby, who brings joy to the students and staff at Heritage Elementary School in Bennington. Photography by Lane Hickenbottom

4 | EDGE

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OCTOBER 2026

V O L U M E

M A G A Z I N E

1 4 ,

I S S U E

MANAGING EDITOR Wendy Wiseman 402.884.2031 // Wendy@OmahaPublications.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Dave Trouba Dave@OmahaPublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Eric Allison CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rachel Birdsall Rachel@OmahaPublications.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nickie Robinson Nickie@OmahaPublications.com PHOTO STAFF Omaha Headshot Company 402.677.3096 Nat Ogura, Yum Omaha 402.541.8457 PUBLISHER Carole Sprunk 402.884.2056 // Carole@OmahaPublications.com Edge is published six times annually by Omaha Magazine, LTD, 5921 S. 118th Circle, Omaha, Nebraska, 68137. 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. Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, Edge assumes no responsibility therefore. Some sections of this issue were contributed by preferred partners. Contact us to become a preferred partner. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Edge Magazine, 5921 S. 118th Circle, Omaha, Nebraska, 68137

6 | EDGE

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Have a project in mind? Scan our QR code: O C TO B E R 2 0 2 6

CONTENTS 12

BUSINESS spotlight: B. Morton Design

OUR home:

WORTH the haul:

8 | EDGE

Thoughtful Renovations

Lauritzen Gardens

BUSINESS spotlight: Bridge to Better Living

OUR youth:

PROFILE spotlight:

How Kirby Cares

UBT Customer Focus

MY concoction: Pivot Prime

OUR view:

The Pumpkin Company

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T H E S H O W R O O M O F B . M O RT O N D E S I G N

A Life, Well Designed The B. Morton Design Philosophy

B. Morton Design, creating a beautiful home begins with understanding how its owners want to live—and how they want to feel. A home is never simply a collection of rooms. It is where mornings begin, families gather, holidays unfold and ordinary days become memories. The way a home looks matters, but the way it makes us feel matters even more.

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That belief is at the heart of B. Morton Design. “When you walk into a space, you immediately feel something,” founder and principal designer Brandea Morton said. “Whether that’s positive or negative, it has an impact on you.” Creating the right feeling requires far more than selecting attractive colors and finishes. Lighting, materials, furniture, room dimensions and architectural scale all influence how a space is experienced. A soaring ceiling can feel grand and dramatic. A smaller room may become intimate and comforting. Even a challenging space with low ceilings can feel light, open and inviting when it is thoughtfully designed.

S P O N S O R E D CO N T E N T

BUSINESS spotlight

STORY BY WENDY WISEMAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DANA DAMEWOOD DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

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BUSINESS spotlight

For Morton and her team, however, the most meaningful inspiration for a home comes from the people who will live there. A home may need to withstand the joyful chaos of young children and pets. It might be a forever home designed to evolve with a family for decades, a sec14 | E D G E

ond residence that offers a welcome retreat or a gathering place where children and grandchildren return for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Some homeowners love glamour and refined finishes; others want family fun space, comfortable furniture and rooms that encourage everyone to stay awhile.

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BUSINESS spotlight Each vision is personal. That is why B. Morton Design begins every project by listening. The firm’s onboarding process includes a detailed questionnaire, an interview with the design team and an in-person kickoff meeting. Clients are asked about their children, pets, travel, entertaining and favorite ways to spend time together. The team wants to know what brings the family joy, how the home will be used and what would make the completed project feel successful. Those conversations take place before discussions about paint colors, fabrics or finishes begin. “We are more interested in learning about how they’re going to use the space and what success would mean for the project at the end,” Morton said. This client-centered approach extends into B. Morton Design’s show room, a concept Morton describes as unique in the Omaha market. It is not a shop filled with candles, blankets and decorative accessories. Instead, it is a welcoming custom-furniture showroom that feels like stepping into a working design firm. Visitors are greeted by an interior designer who can answer questions and guide important decisions. Furnishings are made to order in the United States and can be customized through selections of fabrics, finishes and sizes. Morton has personally visited the factories of the vendors represented in the showroom, giving clients additional confidence in the products they choose. The experience allows someone to discover the perfect silhouette for a chair or sofa and then make it distinctly their own. More importantly, it helps homeowners avoid expensive mistakes.

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Scale is one of the most underestimated elements of interior design. A sofa that appears perfect online may overwhelm a room—or disappear within it. Seat depth, back height and overall proportions affect both appearance and comfort. A chair designed for an older generation may require a different seat height than one intended for a young family seeking everyday durability. Interior designers do much more than “pick finishes,” Morton emphasized. “They understand floor plans, space planning, proportion and the precise relationship between every element in a room. At B. Morton Design, clients can see and experience furnishings while relying on a professional to help them select pieces that will look right, feel right and live well.”

The firm’s uncommon attention to detail is rooted in Morton’s commercial design background. Before founding her residential practice, she worked on large, complex projects, including stadium lounges and international hotels. She brought the same discipline, detailed documentation and extensive advance planning to residential interiors. For a new home, finishes, specifications and drawings may be completed by the time the builder breaks ground, allowing construction to proceed with fewer delays and last-minute decisions. Morton always knew she wanted to be a designer. She was drawn to the emotional power of memorable hotels, restaurants and homes—the places people want to revisit because of how they felt while they were there. She founded her firm while raising two children. Today, she and her husband have four boys, ages 9, 7, 6 and 3. As her family grew, her business did, too through referrals and Morton’s innate sense of what to do next. “To have found a way to do something I love while having the flexibility to be there for my family has been the best reward yet,” she said.

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BUSINESS spotlight

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BUSINESS spotlight

Morton manages all the growth in her life by trusting her team whom she credits with allowing her to balance creative leadership and family life. Design directors, senior level staff, procurement specialists and logistics professionals work together on projects, while Morton oversees the creative vision. The net effect for B. Morton Design customers is interiors they love and process that makes it inspiring, easy and clear. It all comes back to creating a home that feels unmistakably personal: a place that supports daily life, reflects what its owners value and surrounds them with eserve,beauty, B. Morton comfortDesign and joy. Because gn showroom to a setting the best-designed homes do more impress guests. They make the firstthan idea through the the people who live there sidered with a tailored, happy to come home.

on g

mind?

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OWN E R BRANDE A M ORTON

20 | E D G E

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BUSINESS spotlight

Bridge to

Better Living

The Trailblazer of Senior Placement: How One Former Middle School Teacher Built Bridge to Better Living, Omaha and Lincoln’s First Senior Living Placement Service

STORY BY ERIC ALLISON PHOTO BY BRIDGE TO BETTER LIVING DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

22 | E D G E

he Census Bureau says

to expect 74 million baby boomers 65 and older by 2030. By 2036, Americans nearing their 80s are projected to grow 56 percent — even as the country builds only a fraction of the senior housing it needs.

S P O N S O R E D CO N T E N T

S E ATE D: STE P H AN I E S ACCO, M A RY A NN STA LLING S SU RROU NDED BY (L TO R) KRIST INE DYKEM A N-SC HOENING, MARGARE T BURN H AM, J O DI LE DGE RWOOD A ND KAYE JESSKE . NOT PICT U RED: SU SA N L A NG FORD A ND JOLEE UR BA NOV SK Y O C TO B E R 2 0 2 6

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BUSINESS spotlight

Mary Ann Stalling, founder and president of Bridge to Better Living, knows these numbers cold. But she didn’t come to this business through a spreadsheet. It came from multiple experiences caring for family members and friends, including moving her mother more than 300 miles off the family farm. “Every time we went to help, we started all over again,” she recalls. Her husband’s parents, an aunt and uncle, a widowed friend, her own mother — each move taught her the same lesson: everyone’s needs are different, and nobody hands you a map. “It may have been a different need physically, it may have been a different need financially, but we didn’t know where to start,” she says. “We wasted a lot of time.” Those learned experiences were the foundation of her business plan. For the last year and a half of a 28-year career teaching middle school, Mary Ann quietly built what would become Placement with Passion,® known now as Bridge to Better Living. She officially opened the doors on February 1, 2010 — the first senior placement service in both Omaha and Lincoln. The service she built rests on one non-negotiable: it costs families nothing. Bridge to Better Living is paid by the senior communities, not by the people they help, which allows the company to focus on the right fit for each client. Starting out, she walked into senior communities cold with, as she puts it, “five reasons why Bridge to Better Living would be an asset to their community.” Some said yes right away. Others took a year or more to come around. Fit, in her world, comes down to four pillars — social, physical, medical, and financial — determined through an initial consultation. Is the client an extrovert who wants book clubs, or someone who’d rather keep to themselves? Do they need a walker, or memory care, or a community that accepts a Medicaid Waiver? “You’re looking for a place that matches your personality,” she says, “not just a place to rest your head.” Family tours are spaced out deliberately — no more than one a day, ideally with a day or two between — so families don’t confuse which community offered what. That luxury of pacing evaporates, though, for the families who call with 48 hours to find a retirement community that meets their needs before a hospital or rehab discharge. 24 | E D G E

For those cases, Mary Ann’s team already knows exactly where the openings are. It’s the expertise you count on when senior and assisted living demand has risen steadily for 20 consecutive quarters, pushing average occupancy close to 90% in some markets due to limited new construction inventory, according to NIC MAP, a data analytics platform built to track senior housing inventory. BRIDGE TO BETTER LIVING Her staff reflects the complexity of the job: a social worker, a registered nurse, an occupational therapist and colleagues who spent careers marketing and opening senior communities, all meeting weekly to compare notes on shared clients. It’s a “woman-powered team,” and Mary Ann says this diversity of expertise is what lets them see around corners families wouldn’t anticipate. By the end of the process, she says, the relationship has usually outgrown the transaction. “They’re no longer clients. They’re friends.” She’s collected enough thank-you notes calling her team “angels” that the word doesn’t feel like an exaggeration anymore. Her advice to anyone watching aging parents — or contemplating their own next chapter — is to plan before the emergency forces the decision. Build a short list of communities you like. Put down a deposit, or two or three; in nearly every case, an unused deposit is refunded. And do it while you can make your own choice rather than one being made for you. Mary Ann sums up what she wants families to remember in three S’s: smooth, stress-free, successful. It’s a tidy phrase for a messy, emotional transition — but for 16 years, it’s been the promise a trailblazer has kept — one family at a time. Bridge to Better Living https://bridgetobetterliving.com

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OUR home

Elevated Living, Inside and Out

Thoughtfully Transformed— Sophisticated and Welcoming

ome homes are updated. Others are thoughtfully transformed. Offered at $1,925,000, this exceptional residence belongs firmly in the second category, with an extensive collection of improvements designed to make everyday life more beautiful, comfortable and effortless.

26 | E D G E

From its fully refreshed kitchen and serene primary suite to its resort-inspired outdoor pavilion and private golf simulator, the home offers amenities that elevate nearly every aspect of living. Recent renovations and additions have been carefully integrated to create a property that feels both sophisticated and welcoming—a place equally suited to quiet evenings, active days and unforgettable gatherings.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MICHEAL BURKE, REALTOR, MBRE GROUP AT BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES AMBASSADOR REAL ESTATE 402.312.0227 DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

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OUR home

A Kitchen Made for Today At the center of the home is a fully refreshed kitchen featuring new countertops, appliances, sink and fixtures, completed between 2024 and 2025. The updates give the room a polished, contemporary feel while supporting the practical needs of daily cooking, entertaining and family life. New wood floors, installed in 2024, extend through the kitchen, bar and living room, creating a natural sense of flow among the home’s primary gathering spaces. The result is a warm, cohesive main level where guests can move comfortably from cocktails at the bar to dinner in the kitchen and conversation in the living room. Remote-controlled blinds throughout the home add convenience and allow natural light and privacy to be adjusted with ease. All interior fireplaces have also been converted to gas, combining ambiance with simplicity.

28 | E D G E

A Primary Suite Designed as a Retreat Completed in 2023, the primary suite is one of the home’s most impressive additions. Vaulted ceilings accented by wood beams introduce warmth and architectural character, while heated tile floors bring comfort to the start and end of every day. The bath was designed with the feeling of a private spa. Its amenities include a steam shower, platform soaking tub, dual walk-in closets and two private water closets with bidet seats. Generous proportions and carefully selected comforts make the suite more than a bedroom— it is a restorative retreat within the home. All of the property’s additional bathrooms were completely remodeled in 2022. These include a main-floor powder room, a full hall bath on the second floor, a three-quarter ensuite bath and a full bathroom in the basement. Together, they provide updated style and functionality for family members and guests alike.

Outdoor Living at Its Finest The architecturally designed outdoor pavilion and patio, added in 2023, dramatically expands the home’s living and entertaining space. At its center is a double-sided fireplace that creates a striking focal point and allows the area to be enjoyed well beyond the traditional outdoor season. A complete outdoor kitchen features an island, sink, built-in grill and refrigerator, making it possible to prepare and serve an entire meal without

repeatedly returning indoors. Dual electric heaters add warmth during cooler weather, while an in-ground spa offers an inviting place to relax throughout the year. A dedicated equipment house provides useful storage, helping the entertaining areas remain uncluttered and ready for guests. Beyond the pavilion, a walk-path garden with a fountain creates a quieter experience—ideal for a morning stroll, an evening conversation or peaceful moments outdoors. O C TO B E R 2 0 2 6

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OUR home The professionally designed landscaping, completed in 2023, is enhanced by lighting throughout the entire property and continues to receive professional maintenance. Privacy fencing surrounds the backyard and front side yard, while a sprinkler system helps keep the grounds looking their best. A side-yard patio and pergola create yet another outdoor destination. An Enbrighten lighting system, installed on the house, garage and pergola, allows the property’s exterior to take on added personality and atmosphere after sunset. Recreation Without Leaving Home The 2023 golf simulator and exercise room gives the home a distinctive recreational amenity. Featuring a Trackman golf simulator, the space lets players practice, analyze their game and enjoy a round regardless of the weather. The room was also designed with future flexibility in mind. Egress windows are already included, allowing the space to someday accommodate additional bedrooms as household needs change. The upper-level loft was fully remodeled in 2022, with added square footage, spray-foam insulation and a mini-split heating and cooling system. It offers another adaptable area that could serve as a creative studio, office, lounge, playroom or guest retreat.

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OUR home

Exceptional Utility and Thoughtful Technology Even the garage reflects the home’s uncommon level of investment. Fully rebuilt and heated in 2022, it features an elevated ceiling, epoxy flooring, skylights, a custom glass garage door and an organization wall. An adjoining mudroom with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry provides abundant storage and a convenient transition between the garage and living spaces. The home also incorporates technology designed to offer greater control and peace of mind. A Moen Flo Smart Water Monitor helps track the property’s water system, while surge protection has been added at every air-conditioning unit. Most windows

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have been updated within the past decade, and a new skylight window brings additional natural light into the basement. Every major improvement contributes to a larger vision: a home that is gracious enough for entertaining, comfortable enough for daily life and flexible enough to evolve for years to come. With its beautifully renovated interiors, remarkable outdoor amenities, smart-home features and meticulously maintained grounds, this is a residence created not simply to be admired—but to be thoroughly enjoyed.

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OUR youth

The Golden Rule

How a 90-pound therapy dog named Kirby brings calm, connection and a little extra joy to school

STORY BY WENDY WISEMAN PHOTOS BY LANE HICKENBOTTOM DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

34 | E D G E

Tuesday and Thursday mornings, Kirby knows exactly where he is going. The six-year-old golden retriever arrives at school with his

owner, third-grade teacher Lauren Allen, his tail wagging and his enthusiasm fully charged. He pulls toward the doors, ready to greet students, visit old friends and begin another important day of listening, comforting and accepting scratches behind the ears. Kirby is starting his third year at Heritage Elementary in the Bennington school district where Allen teaches. She said the idea came out of conversation about therapy dogs at lunch one day.

“I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, Kirby would be so good at that,’” she remembers. “Ever since he was a puppy, he’s been so mild tempered. He’s such a good listener, and he wants to be best friends with everyone he meets.” The more Allen thought about it, the more she wondered what it would be like to have him certified to be in her classroom. His journey to their home set the stage toward confirming he would be perfect. When she and husband, Austin, were looking for a Golden Retriever, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic. A breeder in Centerville, Missouri, had one male puppy left in a litter —the little fellow wearing the green collar. The breeder asked for a contactless pick up and said they would find him in a pen in the yard. After their five-hour drive, they arrived to see a goat in the front yard. “We thought, ‘Hopefully, we didn’t just buy a goat,’” Allen said, laughing. Fortunately, the transaction did produce a dog, and he was named Kirby. Soon after, the Allens welcomed baby Tatum, who is Kirby’s bestie at home, and the one who showed them that his temperament was just right to be around children.

Allen did her due diligence researching what it would take to have Kirby certified as a therapy dog, then made her case to principal Katie Woodrich. “I was beyond excited when Allen first brought the idea to me,” Woodrich said. “I had personally experienced the benefits of having a therapy dog in my classroom when I was a teacher and knew firsthand the positive impact a therapy dog can have on students and staff. I couldn’t wait for our Heritage community to have the opportunity to experience those same benefits.” With the green light, Allen trained Kirby for the job through Pups With a Purpose and got him certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. When asked what the difference is between a therapy dog and a service dog, she explains it like this: “A service dog is working, so I tell my students to not pet a service dog or talk to it, and to basically ignore it so that it can do its job. A therapy dog, like Kirby, is a volunteer. He’s volunteering to be here with us and make us feel happy.” Kirby volunteers on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 am to 4 pm. He’s allowed to come in three days a week, but Allen gives him a break. “He’s pretty exhausted at the end of his days,” she said. O C TO B E R 2 0 2 6

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OUR youth At school, Kirby has a bed at the front of Allen’s classroom and another favorite spot on the cool tile. During independent work time, students may sit beside him to read or complete assignments. After specials, the students gather in a circle on the floor with Allen and Kirby. They eat a snack and pet Kirby while Allen reads aloud from a chapter book. “It’s a good chill down time,” noted Allen. Other than that, Kirby can roam around the classroom for pets. When asked what effect Kirby’s presence has had on her students, Allen relayed there are many. “The students watch the volume of their voices, understanding that if they’re too loud, it may be hard on Kirby’s sensitive ears,” she said. “They keep the floor clean because he might eat something he shouldn’t, and when he walks away from someone, they have learned to just let him go because he’s ready to go talk to someone else. They learn to share attention and respect boundaries.” Principal Woodrich added, “Our students are genuinely excited to be at school, and having a therapy dog has added another layer of joy, comfort and connection to their school experience. Students light up when they see Kirby, seek out time with him when they need a moment to reset and benefit from the calming presence he provides. It’s amazing to see how naturally he has become part of our school community and the positive impact he has had on both students and staff.” While Kirby’s calming presence is easy to experience at Heritage, researchers* are finding measurable evidence behind that wagging tail. In one study, when students participated in dog-assisted sessions and relaxation sessions, they showed significantly lower stress-hormone levels over the school term, with particularly notable effects among children with special educational needs. The researchers concluded that structured dog-assisted activities may help moderate stress in schoolchildren.

36 | E D G E

CAPTION CAPTION

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OUR youth Research on reading with dogs is promising, too, although scientists caution that the evidence is still developing. Reviews have found potential benefits in reading motivation, confidence, classroom behavior and the creation of a relaxed, nonjudgmental reading environment. A therapy dog is not a furry substitute for a teacher—but he may help a child feel comfortable enough to try.

For students who start out initially afraid of Kirby, the relationship develops slowly. At first, these children back away whenever the large dog comes near, but over time, after watching classmates interact safely with him, the students grow comfortable with him. “We have had parents reach out to ask if Kirby could help their children work through a fear of dogs,” added Woodrich “Therapy dogs in the

times seem very big. Kirby cannot teach multiplication or correct a spelling test. What he offers is simpler and, on certain days, just as important: a peaceful presence, a patient listening ear and a reminder that school can be joyful. “Kirby has truly become a part of the Heritage family,” said Woodrich. “We are so grateful for the time, training and dedication Mrs. Allen has put into making this op-

Kirby’s influence extends well beyond one third-grade classroom. Kindergartners call his name when they see him. Fourth and fifth graders who knew him in earlier years stop to say hello. Once, Allen found nearly half a fourth-grade class gathered around him in the hallway during transition time. She sent their teacher a picture with the message: “Found your class.”

classroom ‘teach’ calming strategies, or simply provide some extra comfort and reassurance. It has been wonderful to see families recognize the positive impact Kirby can have and embrace him as an important part of our school.” School carries serious responsibilities. Children are learning to read, solve problems, meet expectations and navigate friendships—all while managing feelings that can some-

portunity possible. Watching the relationships students have developed with Kirby has been incredibly rewarding, and I am excited to see how his role continues to grow within our school community.” “When people see him, you can just tell that a little bit of joy comes into their hearts,” Allen says. “Kids and adults – we all need that.” It’s something chief volunteer Kirby knows – and delivers on – very well.

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MY concoction

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40 | E D G E

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Double strain into a martini glass

Garnish with three espresso beans for good luck! O C TO B E R 2 0 2 6

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WORTH the haul

Lauritzen Gardens

Fall Color, Cultural Celebrations and Holiday Inspiration Await

autumn settles over Omaha and the holiday season approaches, what Lauritzen Gardens offers in the three months is art, music, cultural celebrations, family activities and opportunities to experience the changing beauty of the natural world. From October’s brilliant foliage and fascinating “Wicked Plants” to November’s nature-inspired artwork and December’s festive design events, the botanical garden provides plenty of reasons to return throughout the season. October is especially busy at Lauritzen Gardens, beginning with Cultivating Curiosity, a free drop-in program offered Thursday mornings throughout the month. Designed to encourage discovery and a closer connection with nature, the program gives families an easy way to add learning and exploration to their garden visit. The month also takes a walk on nature’s darker side with Wicked Plants, happening thru October 31. The exhibit highlights plants with dangerous, deadly or simply devious characteristics. It is a fittingly mysterious attraction for Halloween season—and a reminder that not everything beautiful in the plant kingdom is harmless. Enjoy music outdoors during October at the Quinn Family Oasis and Amphitheater. Andre Vander Velde performs October 7, followed by Heidi Henry on October 21. Both concerts run from 6 to 8 p.m., giving guests an opportunity to enjoy live music surrounded by the colors and atmosphere of the garden. Lauritzen Gardens members can start Tuesday mornings with the Members Early Entry Self-Guided Walking Club on October 6, 13 and 20. Early entry begins at 8:30 a.m., offering a peaceful time to walk, exercise and experience the grounds before the garden opens to the general public.

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October 10 brings a free Bat Appreciation Month Celebration from 10 a.m. to noon. The program draws attention to these frequently misunderstood animals and the important roles they play in healthy ecosystems. Two new art exhibitions open October 10. Butterfly Habitat by Albert Rhea and Flora and Fauna— Nature’s Palette by Anna McCaslin invite visitors to consider nature through the eyes of artists. Both exhibitions remain on view through November 16, providing ample time to enjoy them during a fall visit. Beginning October 12, the garden will host a Día de los Muertos Community Ofrenda. The community altar offers a meaningful way to honor and remember loved ones while experiencing the symbolism and traditions associated with Día de los Muertos. The ofrenda continues through November 3. Young visitors have another reason to explore on October 15, when Lauritzen Gardens welcomes the Omaha Public Library for a free Out and About Storytime. The 30-minute program begins at 10:30 a.m. and combines the joy of books with the beauty of a botanical setting. November begins with several October attractions continuing into the new month. The Día de los Muertos Community Ofrenda remains open through November 3, while Butterfly Habitat and Flora and Fauna— Nature’s Palette continue through November 16. These exhibitions make November an excellent time for an introspective visit. As the outdoor gardens transition toward winter, the artwork offers another perspective on the plants, animals, colors and patterns that inspire people throughout the year.

STORY BY WENDY WISEMAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LAURITZEN GARDENS DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

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WORTH the haul On November 5, the Loveland Garden Club Lecture with Austin Eischeid brings another dimension to the season. Scheduled from 6 to 7 p.m., the lecture offers garden enthusiasts an opportunity to hear from an accomplished professional and gather ideas that may influence their own landscapes. Beyond the scheduled events, November is an ideal month to notice the architecture of the garden. Without summer’s abundance competing for attention, seed heads, bark, branches, evergreens and ornamental grasses become part of the show. Indoor spaces such as the newly enhanced Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory offer warmth, greenery and an inspiring tour of plant life from around the globe. Starting on November 27th and going until January 3rd, Lauritzen Gardens provides the ultimate holiday experience with a spectacular lineup of programming that turns every visit into a cherished family tradition. Step into Holiday Harmony, where talented musicians fill the floral display hall in the daytime with festive melodies. At night, the hall bedazzled with the Merry & Bright holiday experience, featuring more lights than ever before. This year, the Gardens has partnered with the renowned artists of HYBYCOZO to illuminate the conservatory like never before. Discover intricate layered train displays, pose by the iconic poinsettia tree (one of many new selfie and family portrait hotspots), and explore the newly redesigned Festival Lawn and Sophia’s Play Garden, both transformed into immersive, glowing wonderlands. Even when the weather outside is wintry, Lauritzen Gardens remains a destination for families, friends and out-of-town guests. A walk through the conservatory, time in Sofia’s Play Garden and a visit to the model railroad garden can turn an ordinary December day into a memorable seasonal outing.

Lauritzen Gardens is open Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sofia’s Play Garden closes at 7:30 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday through Sunday. • The model railroad garden is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday through Sunday. • The Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory and the Quinn Family Oasis and Amphitheater are also open during hours of operation and are available to rent. • Kenefick Park is free and open during the garden’s hours of operation. The benefits of membership With so much is happening every day at Lauritzen Gardens, it’s easy to see the benefits of membership, including gift shop discounts, special event opportunities and more. Plus, free, plentiful parking is available every day for all guests. Learn more, buy memberships, RSVP for events at LauritzenGardens.org.

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PROFILE spotlight

Building on Growth How UBT Helped Midwest Respiratory & Rehab Finance for the Future

idwest Respiratory & Rehab was founded in 2005 by father-son duo Edward C. DeLashmutt (Ed Sr.) and Edward A. DeLashmutt (Ed Jr.). Originally supplying nebulizers for pediatric patients in Papillion under the name NebDoctors, the business has grown into a full-line medical equipment provider, specializing in serving hospice patients and nursing homes across its 16 locations in Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Kansas, Wisconsin, Missouri and Arkansas. Around 2021, Midwest Respiratory identified a need for a new building to serve as its corporate head-

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quarters. This building would require a design that was unique compared to the business’s other locations: It would need to provide call center space, traditional office space and flexible workspace all under one roof – in addition to a full-sized warehouse. They knew that turning this space into a reality would be no small feat — so they worked alongside longtime collaborator Union Bank & Trust (UBT, Member FDIC) to help bring the project to life. The relationship between UBT and Midwest Respiratory has always been a natural fit — both companies are service-oriented and focused on taking care

S P O N S O R E D CO N T E N T

of their customers’ needs with a personal, relationship-driven approach. Over the years, the two teams have navigated several major milestones together, including Ed Sr.’s retirement, multiple expansions and acquisitions and now the financing of Midwest Respiratory’s new headquarters. “Finding the right property took time, but once they found the right fit, the project moved forward. Honestly, it was one of the easiest construction projects I’ve been involved with,” says Wes Cole, VP of Business Banking at UBT. Indeed, progress moved very quickly — once construction began on the nearly 20,000-square-foot building in Waterloo, it took only 12 months

to be fully completed. UBT helped keep the project moving from start to finish, providing financing and support along the way. “The new building has allowed us to bring our team together in a much more functional and efficient space,” says Ed Jr. “Our employees have easier access to one another and a significantly improved working environment compared to our previously leased spaces.” Moving forward, UBT and Midwest Respiratory are excited to continue to build their partnership, navigating the business’s rapid growth together. “Watching them grow over the past few years has been impressive,” says Wes. “They’re excellent operators and

very thoughtful about how they approach their growth strategy — they seem to think through every angle and make smart decisions along the way.” For UBT, the completion of the new headquarters is a testament to the bank’s long-lasting commitment to get to know each customer, understand their goals and help them see them through to the end. “UBT hasn’t simply provided financing — they’ve worked alongside us as a partner,” says Ed Jr. “They’ve consistently taken the time to understand our vision, providing the financial support and capital necessary to help us continue growing.”

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OUR view

Falling for Convenience

The Pumpkin Company Delivers the Season

here is something magical about a beautifully decorated fall porch. Pumpkins gathered around the front door, colorful mums tucked between gourds and a few well-placed cornstalks can transform an ordinary entrance into a warm seasonal welcome. Creating that effortless look, however, often requires more effort than expected.

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STORY BY WENDY WISEMAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE PUMPKIN COMPANY DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

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OUR view Omaha Pumpkin Company was founded to make fall decorating joyful, convenient and completely hassle-free. The local seasonal decorating and delivery company brings pumpkins and professionally curated displays directly to homes, businesses and events throughout the Omaha metropolitan area. Its service area includes Omaha, Bennington, Elkhorn, Gretna, Millard, Papillion, Waterloo and Valley. Customers can select from several packages, ranging from a charming collection of pumpkins delivered to the

pany handles the hauling and, depending upon the package selected, the design and installation as well. Displays are not limited to residential front porches. The company also creates customized fall settings for businesses, storefronts, weddings, birthdays, baby showers and community events. Cornstalks, mums and decorative corn can be incorporated into special orders, allowing each installation to complement the location and occasion. Every pumpkin is also cleaned with a natural, animal-safe solution to remove dirt and reduce naturally occurring bacteria before delivery. The company’s local roots extend to its products and

doorstep to an abundant display that includes delivery, setup and end-of-season removal. Founder Kim Kidder created Omaha Pumpkin Company around a simple belief: preparing for one of the most beautiful seasons of the year should be fun—not another chore on an already crowded list. As a wife, mother of three and teacher, Kidder understands both the joy and the “beautiful chaos” of family life. Her experiences as a classroom volunteer, room mom, Scout leader and board member helped her develop the organizational skills and community-centered outlook that now shape the company. Throughout those roles, she discovered how meaningful it can be to create memorable experiences while also making life a little easier for others. Fall, with its rich colors, comfortable gatherings and unmistakable sense of celebration, has always held a special place in Kidder’s heart. Omaha Pumpkin Company allows her to combine that enthusiasm for the season with her desire to serve families and the broader community. The company describes itself as a “pumpkin concierge,” and the phrase fits. Customers do not have to visit multiple stores, fill the back of a vehicles with pumpkins or wrestle oversized gourds onto the porch. Omaha Pumpkin Com-

its purpose. Pumpkins are sourced from Nebraska producers specializing in pumpkin production. When customers add end-of-season pickup, Omaha Pumpkin Company removes the pumpkins and straw bales and donates them to animal sanctuaries and farms. That spirit of generosity is also reflected in Purposeful Pumpkins, the company’s community-giving initiative. Through the program, customer orders help support organizations and needs across the Omaha area. During the 2025 season, the company contributed through sponsorships, product donations and direct service to local schools, human needs organizations, animal sanctuaries and more. Omaha Pumpkin Company delivers more than seasonal decorations. It delivers time, convenience and the pleasure of arriving home to a picture-perfect celebration of fall. Best of all, every welcoming porch, festive storefront and autumn gathering can help spread that seasonal joy a little farther throughout the community.

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For more information and to see all the packages, visit OmahaPumpkinCompany.com.

02 Dinner two of ten

You don’t know where you’re going. You don’t know who’s cooking. October 31.

Location drops the day of the event. The chef stays secret until you sit down. SCAN FOR TICKETS

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EDGE M A G A Z I N E 5921 S. 118th Circle Omaha, Nebraska 68137

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Putting our hearts where your home is When you’re building or buying a new home, it’s reassuring to know you have someone at your side to guide you every step of the way. Like the team at UBT, who will get to know your must-haves, wants, and needs, then match them to financing options that fit. We’ll focus on all the details so you can feel secure and confident throughout your new-home journey.

At UBT, people don’t have your money — your money has people. Loan products subject to credit approval. Member FDIC

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