OCTOBER
2015
M A G A Z I N E
Ritz Lake
Sharing a hidden oasis
Above and beyond
Eagle Scout Greg Cross raises the bar
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch More than 30 years of family tradition
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. TRUSTED ADVICE.
Undeniable results. DIANE HUGHES SHELLY PETERS
(402) 612-5410
402-218-7489
JILL LEWIS-HARRIS
402-598-9121
MAMIE JACKSON
402-306-7864
STACEY CHILDERS-REID
402-707-9953 TJ JACKSON
402-618-3526 GARY GERNHART
402-880-6056
YOUR
IN WEST OMAHA
LETTER from the EDITOR
DANIEL MULLER
REACH US We want to hear from you. Ideas, suggestions, compliments and critiques, send them to us at Jack@EdgeMagazine.com
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Fall has
arrived and brings with it many opportunities to gather with family and friends to watch football, go on a hayrack ride, or simply sit around an outdoor fire pit during a cool fall evening. In this issue we feature businesses and individuals that have relied on the strength and talents of everyone in their families to bring something special to the community that other families are able to enjoy. Vala’s Pumpkin Patch in Gretna has been a tradition for families for more than 30 years. Tim and Jan Vala and their family work year-round to provide a unique experience. Whether it’s picking the perfect pumpkin in the 55-acre patch, eating a homemade chicken pot pie, or trying out the new ropes course and zip line, everything at Vala’s is meant to be enjoyed by the entire family. Another example of a family dream coming to fruition is with the development of Ritz Lake in Fremont. A project 20 years in the making, Doug Ritthaler and his family are now sharing the beauty of their property by offering luxury lakefront lots for other families to enjoy for years to come. Elkhorn South Sophomore Greg Cross has turned his Eagle Scout project into one that families within the Elkhorn Soccer Club will appreciate. He doubled
the original amount of money he needed to raise in order to make improvements at the soccer club’s JPM fields. The project will include a flower garden, fixing entrance structures, and multiple benches for parents and players. Finally, we feature Stories Coffeehouse, which was created as an outlet for others to share their stories. Amber and Kevin Christ, along with several family members, provide a platform for home-based businesses to work out of, all the while providing homemade food and of course coffee, which has become a source of comfort for many. Spend time this fall visiting these and other places that families have worked so hard to build so that you and your family can enjoy quality time together. Jack Shotbolt Editor in Chief
Exceptional outdoor
living at its
finest.
CUSTOM SWIMMING POOL PROJECTS, CABANA HOUSES
& OUTDOOR KITCHENS, FIRE & WATER FEATURES, PAVER DRIVEWAYS, PATIOS & POOL DECKS, UNIQUE
LIGHTING TO ENHANCE ANY OUTDOOR SPACE
402-330-7811 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OCTOBER 2015
M A G A Z I N E
EDITOR IN CHIEF Jack Shotbolt Jack@EdgeMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Kathy Rygg 402-490-3213 // KathyRygg@Hotmail.com DESIGNER Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // quentin@hanscompark.com PHOTO STAFF Valerie Wallace-Camp (217) 519-3245 // vwcphotography@mac.com Maureen Fritts Photography (402) 578-2963 // maureen@maureenfrittsphotography.com Tom Kessler 402-556-4200 // kesslerphotography@cox.net ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jack Shotbolt (402) 250-3325 // Jack@EdgeMagazine.com CONTACT US P: (402) 250-3325 // F: (402) 892-7048 Jack@EdgeMagazine.com 15858 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha NE 68118 Edge is published monthly. Content copyright © 2015 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, Jack Shotbolt. 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, 15858 W Dodge Omaha, NE 68118
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Make it delicious. This isn’t just another night – it’s an experience. So make it your own.
168th & W Dodge Rd | 402.505.9773 | VillagePointeShopping.com
More than 60 stores & restaurants including… Apple . Ann Taylor . Chico’s . Banana Republic . J.Jill . The Art of Shaving . Soma . Coach . White House | Black Market . PANDORA J.Crew . BRAVO! Cucina Italiana . Scheels . Jos. A. Bank . Charming Charlie . Sephora . Kona Grill . Francesca’s . lululemon . Old Navy DSW Shoes . Firebirds Wood Fired Grill . Periwinkles for Her . Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse . Pier 1 Imports . Garbo’s Salon & Spa . LOFT Gunderson’s Jewelers . Brix . Fossil . Gap . Best Buy . Buckle . Athleta . LUSH . Victoria’s Secret . Lucky Brand O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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CONTENTS COVER story
OUR home 8
24
OUR leisure
OUR food
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20
38
WORTH the haul
OUR hearts
22
46
MY concoction
OUR passion
36
54
EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES
18723 HANSEN STREET, OMAHA • $415,000
2133 S 191 STREET, OMAHA • $725,000
1904 BARRINGTON PKWY, PAPILLION • $350,000
Beautiful custom built one-owner two-story home in popular West Bay Springs. Features include: 5 true br, 5 ba, oversized three car garage, large open kitchen with ss appliances, granite & walk-in pantry. Finished lower level with large wet bar, Br and bath, and lots of storage. Master suite includes sitting room, double sinks with granite counters, double walk-in closets & whirlpool tub. Professionally landscaped with iron fencing & walk out lot that backs to pond area. Truly wonderful home.
Enjoy fabulous views in this spacious 1.5 story situated between the 14th green and 15th tee box of Shadow Ridge CC. Kitchen boasts maple cabinets, granite, walk in pantry, double ovens, warming drawer and cozy hearth room. Upstairs find 3 BRs each with own bath, walk in closet and built in desk. 4th bed up has private bath with double vanities, walk in closet. Walkout LL features game room, theater area, kitchen/bar and exercise or 6th bed. Cart garage, covered deck, upgrades.
Efficiency, safety and style with cutting edge, disaster resistant “Reward Wall” system. Large gourmet eat-in KIT with vaulted ceilings & custom cabs. Charming upstairs loft/ BR. Must see OCTAGONAL master BR. Backyard sanctuary with no grass to mow! AMAZING “Endless” indoor pool for relaxation or exercise. Basement BRs, craft room + “safe room”. Like nothing else you’ll find in this price range. Over 500k to recreate.
RALPH MARASCO 402-697-4272 ralph.marasco@cbshome.com
CINDY MAHER 402-699-7272 cindy.maher@cbshome.com
JASON BIRNSTIHL 402-669-0415 jason.birnstihl@cbshome.com
1402 S 78 STREET, OMAHA • $575,000
15810 S 57TH ST, PAPILLION • $1,150,000
6702 N 160TH STREET, OMAHA • $395,000
Country French inspired home. Designed by Architect Reinholdt Henning based on accounts of a wounded American Airman who was sheltered by a Normandy family from the German army. Beautifully restored & enhanced by the current owners w/attention to detail & quality throughout. Imported flooring, antique chandeliers & scones. Gourmet kitchen w/granite, 2 duel convection ranges. Recently renovated Master retreat w/14x13 closet, chandeliers, scones & inviting FP. 3 spacious BRs, 2 private patios.
Nestled on a hilltop w/a babbling brook running thru this impressive executive retreat is just 25 mins to the airport. Private, circuitous approach. This 2006 1.5 sty has almost 6000 sq ft above grade w/ attention to detail throughout. Generous LR & DR rms, remarkable gourmet kitch w/SS, granite, dble ovens, pantry. Stylish MBR retreat w/spacious closet/dressing rm, soaking tub. 3 addl bedrooms, library, study, office, gallery, den and so much more. Apprx 21 treed ac.
This stunning home situated on a prime lot in Stone Creek, backs to the golf course. You will love the warm & inviting Family Room w/ fireplace. The huge kitchen features hardwood flring, batwing center island, granite, SS appliances, planning desk, walk-in pantry, dining area & deck access that offers a great view! The walk-out LL includes 2 bedrms, full bath, rec rm w/ 2nd fireplace & wet bar that is perfect for entertaining. Covered patio & deck, sprinkler system, security system & extensive landscaping.
CAROLYN KESICK 402-669-0940 carolyn.kesick@cbshome.com
CAROLYN KESICK 402-669-0940 carolyn.kesick@cbshome.com
GEORGIE VINT 402-690-1578 georgie.vint@cbshome.com
NEW ON CBSHOME.COM: DISCOVER YOUR HOME’S 1457 N 143RD AVENUE CIR, OMAHA • $959,900 Fabulous 1 owner executive 1+ in prestigious Linden Estates. Spacious main floor Mstr Ste w/newly remodeled spa area. Lg bedrooms w/a 2nd level bonus room that could easily be a 5th BR. Volume smooth ceilings, abundant crown molding, large eat in kitchen w/granite & walk-in pantry. LL offers large rec room w/ wet bar. Screened in porch plus a large patio off kitchen. All brick front, side load garage, oversized cul-de-sac lot (.76 acres), new DaVinci composite Shaker Roof. Wonderful Home.
RALPH MARASCO 402-697-4272 ralph.marasco@cbshome.com
VALUE! cbshome.com/homevalue
search all of our homes at cbshome.com
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OUR home
dream home
e
ach year the Metro Omaha Builders Association hosts the Street of Dreams, enabling builders, designers, and vendors to showcase their talent and creativity. People walk through the Street of Dreams looking for ideas and inspiration for their own homes. For Thomas David Fine Homes, their showcase home in this year’s Street of Dreams at Windgate Ranch in Elkhorn included many of the elements that current homebuyers want in a house—a home that’s built for functional living and entertaining.
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Metro Omaha Builders Association
Launched in 2004 by Dave Tewes and Tom Shafer, Thomas David Homes focuses on higher end luxury homes primarily in West Omaha. Tewes grew up helping his father remodel homes, his grandfather was a homebuilder, and he has experience in commercial construction. Thomas David has built several other Street of Dreams homes and is invested in the section of land in and surrounding where Street of Dreams was held with about 30 lots available between all the areas. This home is their expanded Tahoe executive ranch. It’s over 3800 sq. ft. with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The main level includes one of their signature gourmet kitchens, complete with Bosch stainless steel appliances and a waterfall style countertop on the oversized center island. “People often want double ovens,
STORY BY KATHY RYGG 12-PAGE PHOTO PORTFOLIO BY KESSLER PHOTOGRAPHY
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OUR home
G A M E D AY M E D I A PA C K A G E
WA L K- O U T BA S E M E N T
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TRANSITIONAL FIREPLACE
a microwave/convection oven, and warming drawer,” Tewes said. Rather than remove cabinet space to accommodate all that, we designed a large walk-in pantry and placed the second oven in there since it’s not used as often.” The basement includes 12-ft. ceilings and features what Tewes called the game day package. Rather than a separate theater room with one large screen TV, the main area of the basement includes a wall with a low fireplace and room above it for multiple TVs plus an adjacent wet bar. For this particular home, they also installed a golf simulator and putting green. “We are increasingly asked about that kind of amenity with our executive ranch buyers,” Tewes said. They incorporated extensive LED architectural lighting throughout the home, which Tewes describes as strongly transitional. “Our clients are gravitating toward that look from either a purely traditional or extremely contemporary home,” he said. They also designed the home to be a split bedroom ranch, with the master located on one side, next to the kitchen, utility room, and garage, and the off bedrooms on the other side of the house. “The homeowners’ primary entrance is the garage, so we put all the main living space next to each other for convenience,” Tewes added. “That way
A H I D D E N OA S I S
Tour the area’s newest spring fed lake with clear blue waters and unmatched beauty ExIT AT LuThER Rd.
«
RITZ LAKE
RITZ
Fremont
RL
LAKE
LUXURY LAKE LIV ING
Valley
• Large walk-out lots on 80 acres of water
275
• City water, gas, sewer, electricity and cable • No SID’s, outside FEMA flood zone
Waterloo Just a 22 minute drive west of village Pointe
Dodge St.
• Fishing, boating and waterskiing
Visit www.ritzlake.com for more information O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OUR home
L U X U RY S H OW E R
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G U E S T B AT H
halloween october 31st
M A S T E R B AT H
drink specials costume contest
over $500 in cash + prizes dj playing from 8p –12a happy hour specials starting at 1p and going all night
village pointe shopping center 295 n. 170th st omaha, ne 68118 402-779-2900 www.konagrill.com
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OUR home
LIVING ROOM
EXECUTIVE RANCH FLOOR PLAN
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KITCHEN DINET TE
R E A L E S TAT E . R E A L LY S I M P L E . Jenn Haeg Real Estate has a passion for saving you both time and money, because we know nothing is more valuable.
JENN HAEG 402-885-3145
w w w. L o v eW h e r eYo u L i v e O m a h a . c o m O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OUR home
B A S E M E N T E N T E RTA I N M E N T A R E A
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BASEMENT WET BAR O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OUR home
O U T D O O R PAT I O A N D F I R E P I T
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MEDITERRANEAN STYLE EXTERIOR
you don’t have to walk across the house to reach any of your rooms.” The outdoor living space, designed by Pam Johnsen with Lanoha Nurseries, combined a number of hardscape materials and created all hard angles, including a rectangular gas fire pit and an L-shaped wall for built-in seating. A mixture of more than 25 trees line the property, and the angled theme was carried through to the front including oversized pots to hold plants. “The entire exterior is designed with a Mediterranean/southwestern look with stone and stucco, a lower roof line, and wide eves,” Tewes said. The home received very good feedback from those who visited during Street of Dreams, and Tewes pointed out that it’s located in the desirable Elkhorn South school district. He also noted that many homeowners don’t want a huge house, but they do want it to be well appointed with high end finishes. “There is a strong demand for new home builds, which is why if you end up being one of our clients, then you end up being friends with us,” he said. “We treat people right and do a good job for them.” O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OUR leisure
dynamic Three
D E S T I N AT I O N S
M A N D A R I N O R I E N TA L
BY
land
Mandarin Oriental | Atlanta, GA When to travel: Year round When to book: 3-6 months in advance Why Mandarin Oriental: Enjoy refined opulence and unparalleled views of the Atlanta skyline at the Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta. Feel your stress melt away with one of the Mandarin Spa’s extensive selection of services, or take a dip in the 60-foot, climate-controlled luxurious pool where tall French windows afford a tantalizing view of the lush English Garden. In the evening, relax in plush leather chairs at the Taipan Lounge and listen to celebrated, local jazz artists. Virtuoso Exclusive Offer*: Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability, daily continental breakfast for up to two in-room guests, $100 USD resort or hotel credit and early check-in/late check-out.
BY
air
8 Day Four Seasons Kuda Huraa & Explorer Sailing Four Seasons When to travel: Dec.-April When to book: 9-12 months in advance Why 8 Day Four Seasons Kuda Huraa & Explorer Sailing: Upon arrival at the lavish Four Seasons Resort, you’ll admire traditional architecture with Maldivian thatched roofs crafted with indigenous materials. Choose between sumptuous dinners on the beach, dolphin cruises, exotic cooking classes, thrilling seaplane adventures, relaxing massages on isolated sandbanks, diving with whale sharks and more. Then, step onto the intimate Four Seasons Explorer, a luxurious 3-deck catamaran from which you’ll experience the lush gardens of Kuda Huraa, the pristine Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and the uninhabited beaches and secluded villages in between, with the opportunity for adventure at every turn. Travel and Transport Exclusive Offer*: Mention promo code FOUR2015 at the time of booking and receive a complimentary $300 Travel and Transport gift card. FOUR SEASONS KUDA HURAA & EXPLORER SAILING
BY
sea
Alaska and the Yukon | Holland America Line 402.399.4555 2120 S. 72nd St. | Omaha, NE
travelandtransport.com For over 68 years, Travel and Transport has made vacation dreams a reality. In total, our knowledgeable and seasoned travel specialists have visited over 50 countries on all seven continents and have sailed on over 50 cruises. Our global connections allow us to provide our valued clients with the most advantageous pricing and upgrades with leading hotels, resorts, spas, cruise lines, tour companies, rail lines, airlines, and ground operators. Through Virtuoso, we are able to offer exclusive amenities, experiences and privileged access not available to the general public.
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When to travel: May-Sept. When to book: 6-9 months in advance Why Alaska and the Yukon with Holland America: Alaska’s world-famous scenery and unblemished wilderness are on full display with Holland America. Cruise along the breathtaking Inside Passage and gaze upon its gleaming glaciers from the comfort of your elegant stateroom, enjoying personalized service at every turn. Once on land, tour Denali National Park and traverse the Yukon’s secluded mountains with the help of thoughtprovoking guides. Exclusive event*: Join Travel and Transport and Holland America Line on Thursday, November 5th at 7:00 pm for an exciting On Stage Alaska performance and enter for a chance to WIN two free airline tickets. For more details or to RSVP, please contact us at 402.399.4555.
*Restrictions may apply.
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WORTH THE HAUL CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA 445 North 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 341-1500 www.CenturyLinkCenterOmaha.com Tickets: www.TicketMaster.com or (800) 745-3000 UNO Hockey: All tickets $15-$25
3 Oct.
Elton John @ 8 p.m., $27.50-$197
BAXTER ARENA 67th and West Center Road www.unomaha.edu/athletics/arena
27 Oct.
Alvin and the Chipmunks @ 6 p.m., $32-$42
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16 Oct.
Kristen Chenoweth @ 8 p.m., $60-100
OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS Holland Center: 1200 Douglas St., Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 345-0606
WORTH THE HAUL
9-10 CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA
Oct.
Taylor Swift @ 8 p.m., $27.50-$197
CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA
24 Oct.
Terrance Crawford vs Dierry Jean Jr. Welterweight Championship Fight @ 6:30 p.m., $25-$125
CENTURYLINK CENTER OMAHA Janet Jackson @ 8 p.m., $47.50-123
30 Oct.
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COVER story
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Vala’s Pumpkin Patch focuses on family first
f Moments M AG I C A L
or many families, fall wouldn’t feel complete without a trip to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch in Gretna. Whether it’s bouncing on the giant jumping pillows, enjoying homemade kettle corn, or riding the hayrack to pick the perfect pumpkin, a day at Vala’s means a day filled with fun for the entire family, which is exactly what Jan and Tim Vala hoped to create when they started farming strawberries more than 30 years ago.
Tim and Jan Vala
Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by MAUREEN FRITTS PHOTOGRAPHY O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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What began as a 10-acre u pick strawberry operation quickly transformed after Tim planted too many pumpkins their second year into farming and sold them out the back of his truck. The next year he hooked a hayrack up to his tractor and drove customers into the field so they could pick pumpkins themselves. “It was a slow start,” Jan said. “Over the years we would add a few things here and there, and acquire a little more land.” That 10-acres is now more than 400, with 55-acres of pumpkins and gourds that Tim still farms himself every year. Today, Vala’s hires 725 employees for its season, which runs from Sept. 18-Oct. 31st, and welcomes around 200,000 visitors. Jan and Tim are delighted that is has truly become a family business, with all three of their daughters and son-in-law helping in various areas. “Each one has taken a different aspect of the farm and made it their own,” Jan said. It’s a big help to her and Tim, who are on site every day during the season, which is necessary to ensure that one of the country’s largest farm and orchard attractions runs smoothly. Now on its third generation of families who come to Vala’s every year, Jan said they
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camelotcleanersomaha.com
LOCATIONS 8590 Frederick St. 12131 Pacific St. 655 N. 132nd St. 619 N. 114th St. 2514 S. 140th St. 17726 West Center
Offering the area’s most convenient locations and exceptional service.
402-393-5257 402-333-1430 402-492-8076 402-493-7880 402-330-1987 402-330-3250
enjoy coming up with new ideas to incorporate. Throughout the year their family visits other similar operations around the country. They are also members of the North America Farmers Direct Marketing Association and the Association of Music Parks and Attractions which hosts conferences and trade shows that they attend every year. “We also work with an organization that designs and implements mazes,” Jan said. This year Vala’s expanded its corn maze from 2 to 4-acres to accommodate demand. Other new features for the 2015 season include the barnyard ropes course and zip line, an improved pumpkin mine, additional funnel cake and turkey leg concessions, a coin toss to raise money for the Nebraska Make a Wish Foundation, and a second set of permanent restrooms by the pie barn, which is a big undertaking but a much needed and appreciated addition. They also brought back O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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the chicken pot pies that were a huge hit and sold out in the first month last year. The Vala’s work the farm all year long, winterizing buildings, repairing exhibits, and implementing new projects during the winter months, then planting pumpkins in the spring and summer months. However, much of the preparation happens in the weeks leading up to the opening and during the season. And Tim and Jan aren’t slowing down. In fact, they recently planted 9,000 apple trees with more than 30 varieties and will plan another 9,000 so they can offer apple picking to families during the fall season as well. “Our philosophy from the O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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very beginning was to have a place where parents and children could do things together,” Tim said. “So before we implement something new, we always ask ourselves if it meets that criteria.” That’s also why they charge a general admission rather than a pay per activity model. “We want parents to play graveyard gold with their kids, or go through the spook shack with them, rather than just pay for the child to do it by themselves,” Tim added. Fostering that family time is first and foremost for the Vala’s. During staff meetings, they hand out M&Ms to employees, with the reminder that they are all there to help create “Magical Moments” for families. “Everyone is so busy these days, and family time is valuable,” Tim said. “We’re honored that families choose to spend that time with us, so we want to make it as nice as we can for them.”
Prime Steak Fine Wine Premium Service Private party rooms available for 6 to 40 people.
402.445.4380 13665 California Street Omaha, Nebraska www.mahoganyprime.com
Voted top 100 Restaurants in America by OpenTable! O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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MY concoction
Blatt Beer & Table 2835 S. 170th Plaza STE 200 (402) 697-7802 www.blattbeer.com open daily
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1
5
What you need: • 5 oz. honey simple • 2 oz. Maker’s Mark syrup Whiskey • Ginger beer • 5 oz. lemon juice
Mix all ingredients
2
steps
Add ice
3
to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Blatt Beer and Table THE BARTENDER: Ilene THE DRINK: Twist & Stout
4
5
Top with ginger beer
Garnish with lemon twist O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OUR food
STORIES COFFEEHOUSE 1129 S 180th St, Omaha, NE 68130 (402) 502-0914 storiescoffeehouse.com
s K E V I N A N D A M B E R C H R I S T A N D T H E I R D A U G H T E R J A E LY N
More than a cup of joe Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by MAUREEN FRITTS PHOTOGRAPHY 38 |
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tories Coffeehouse…is it a coffeehouse or is it a story? For owners Kevin and Amber Christ, it’s both. They define the concept for Stories as “simple synergy” and said it provides the perfect environment for individually-owned start-up culinary companies to launch and flourish. With access to commercial kitchen space, shared rent and overhead, reduced risk, and several passionate business owners driving traffic to one location, the business model is not only innovative but bold. With décor rich in history and a touch of whimsy, customers can expect much more than a coffeehouse.
G E R M A N C H O C O L AT E C A K E , K A H L U A S T R AW B E R RY C H E E S E C A K E , S T R AW B E R RY E C L A I R , K E Y L I M E , R E D V E LV E T C A K E B I T E O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
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OUR food
Stories Coffeehouse has a story. When it first opened over two years ago, six home-based businesses came together to share costs and space. Homemade by Amber, owned by Amber Christ, was one of those first six businesses. She had been looking for kitchen space to promote and expand her ready-to-bake meal business. She couldn’t find kitchen space options until Stories Coffeehouse. A couple months before the coffeehouse opened in July 2013, Amber’s brotherin-law, Juston Terpstra who has more than 25 years of culinary experience, came on board as the Stories Coffeehouse’s fulltime chef. They developed full lunch and dinner menus, including appetizers and a limited breakfast menu by working together to get a home-cooked and “comfort foods” feel. All items are made from scratch, including an in-house smoked Gouda four cheese macaroni, peanut butter chicken tortillas, homemade meatloaf and offering soups created from scratch daily, such as jalapeño chicken corn chowder, creamy chicken artichoke, butternut squash, and chicken salsa. Six other businesses are currently sharing space at Stories Coffeehouse, which Amber said serves as a stepping stone for these businesses. “We consider this to be an incubator platform,” she said. “Some people will learn they love having their own business and might move beyond this space. Others like it here and will stay long-term, while some people realize it’s just too much for them to own a business. But we’ve always been able to bring in just the right mix of businesses.” With a customer’s single purchase, they can support several local businesses in the Omaha area including Carried Away Confections, Black Bottom Biscotti, Junque Shed, Granny Mae’s Kettle Corn, Beansmith Coffee, A Hill of Beans Coffee, Old World Oil and Vinegar, LePetit French Bakery, Bliss Old Market Bakery, and The Cordial Cherry. Carried Away Confections bakes in-house peanut butter monster oatmeal cookies infused with vanilla bean blond beer from Infusion Brewery in Benson. 40 |
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SMOKED GOUDA FOUR CHEESE MACARONI
BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
C H E E S E P L AT E
As Omaha’s premier land and hardscape experts, we pride ourselves in taking your vision and making it reality. Our skilled team will work with you every step of the way to ensure your expectations are exceeded.
YOU DREAM IT
WE BUILD IT
YOU LIVE IT!
www.CarsonEnterprise .com
Waterfalls Patios & Walkways
Fire & Water Features Outdoor Kitchens
Poolscapes Retaining Walls
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN VALLEY AT 6828 N 264TH CIRCLE OR CALL 402.676.5579 TODAY! O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5 | 41
OUR food
BAKED GOODS
A U T U M N L AT T E
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All inclusive. Personal domestic outgoing wires
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Stop payments Cashier’s checks Check orders Safe deposit box Concierge service to assist you with all of your banking needs
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O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5
NMLS# 423054
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OUR food
ST R AW B E R RY S A L A D W I T H C H I C K E N
P E A N U T B U T T E R C H I C K E N TO RT I L L A S
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S’MORES TOASTED MARSHMALLOW HOT COCOA
Much of the décor in the coffeehouse is for sale from another business, Junque Shed, and Stories Coffeehouse supports local musicians with its live music every Friday and Saturday night, and contemporary Christian music on Tuesday nights. Kevin said Stories Coffeehouse has a family feel. In fact, his daughter Jaelyn has worked at Stories Coffeehouse since it opened, and for her it’s definitely home. “No matter what is going on in my personal life, Stories has always been my constant,” she said. “Seeing the customers and staff always makes me feel good. I know our customers’ names and faces, and they come here knowing we’ll pamper them.” Stories Coffeehouse has a loyal customer base and continues to grow their presence in Omaha. They also want to get the word out that they are more than a coffeehouse “We have food, desserts, wine, microbrews, coffee liqueur drinks, mimosas, and bloody mary’s made with homemade bloody mary mix and house infused vodka,” Kevin said. Stories Coffeehouse goes well beyond what they offer to eat and drink. A shared passion and conviction of business owners and dedicated employees at Stories Coffeehouse plays a supportive role in creating a community that encourages companionship, comfort, and a welcoming and honoring hospitality. “It’s personal,” Kevin added. “It’s a community for people and relationships. It’s about comfort and it’s about love.”
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Greg Cross takes a unique approach to earning Eagle Scout
heights S OA R I N G TO NEW
a
chieving Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts program. It requires years of requirements in order to pass from one rank to another and earning merit badges in skills such as first aid, camping, and survival tasks as
well as hold leadership roles in elected positions. Completing a community project is the final requirement for the rank of Eagle Scout and often takes more than 100 hours to complete, including submitting a report and gaining committee approval.
Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by MAUREEN FRITTS PHOTOGRAPHY
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Elkhorn South High School sophomore Greg Cross faced that final hurdle last spring. A lifelong Boy Scout, he spent several months brainstorming ideas for his Eagle Scout project. He also plays soccer for Elkhorn Soccer Club and noticed they didn’t have any benches at their JPM Soccer Fields. He wondered if they might like some so players and parents had a place to watch practice and games. He approached the club’s administration, who met him at the fields to discuss ideas. “We came up with all kinds of options for ways to improve the fields that would benefit all of the club’s families,” Greg said. Some ideas included painting the goals, rearranging the parking lot boundaries, and a picnic shelter for shade. “Some of the ideas weren’t feasible since the fields are in a flood zone, but we agreed on mutual projects,” he said. After receiving approval from the club’s board members, Greg was ready to plan out four projects: installing three permanent benches, building a flower garden by the main entrance sign, putting a box around the irrigation system, and fixing the entrance posts so a proper chained gate could be secured when the fields are closed. Greg’s next step was to prepare a budget for materials needed for all parts of the project so he knew how much money to raise, which he said was the most challenging. But Greg’s mother Kathleen said he spent hours online researching prices for everything from lumber to nails. He determined a budget of $1200. Elkhorn Soccer Club agreed to
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contribute $500, so he knew he had to raise $700 in order to complete all four projects. One of the club’s board members suggested he use Red Basket for his fundraising, which is a non-profit organization funded through WoodmenLife in Omaha. Red Basket set up his online fundraising campaign, issued a press release, and helped promote it through social media. “They made it really easy,” Kathleen said. “And it’s completely free. Greg got 100 percent of all the funds he raised.” He also wrote an email explaining his project, which Elkhorn Soccer Club sent to all of its participating families. The result was overwhelming. In just
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over a month, he not only reached his goal of $700, but he doubled it, raising a total of $1,355. “The Elkhorn families were so generous,” Kathleen said. “We expected mostly $5 and $10 donations, but many contributed $100 or more.” Greg was so excited by the result, he went back to Elkhorn Soccer Club and asked if they’d want three additional benches. They said yes and increased their contribution to $700 for a total of $2,100 so that Greg could expand his project. “It was even more successful than I thought, and I was surprised by how much money people gave,” he said. All of the projects are scheduled to be complete in early October, and Greg will ask his Boy Scout troop for volunteers to help, as well as friends and family. His father and older brother are both Eagle Scouts, and his younger brother is on track to become one as well. “I was surprised by how long the process took, but I’m excited to see the finished project,” he said. “And to have a bench to sit on during soccer.”
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Beauty and comfort meet at Ritz Lake in Fremont
ust 20 minutes from West Omaha off US Highway 275 in Fremont sits a lake that for the past 20 years has been privately owned by Doug and Mary Ann Ritthaler and enjoyed by their three children and grandchildren. Now they’re sharing their hidden oasis by offering luxury lake living on large walk-out style lots that overlook one of the cleanest and most beautiful lakes in the area—Ritz Lake. The Ritthaler’s have had farming and irrigation operations in Fre-
mont for decades and once farmed the land which became Ritz Lake. While drilling an irrigation well on the farm, Doug discovered a 100-ft. deep aquafer. He asked Nebraska based Lyman-Richey Sand and Gravel Company to test the gravel, which turned out to be desirable for mining. The company began removing topsoil and mining in 1995 and finished a few years ago, resulting in a 50-ft. deep, 80-acre spring-fed, sand bottom lake surrounded by a 20-ft. berm, allowing for all walk-out style homes.
Story by KATHY RYGG | Photos by EDGE STAFF
Doug and Mary Ann Ritthaler, Cris Zandt and Robyn Ritthaler-Zandt
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Because the location has never experienced flooding—it’s outside the FEMA flood zone—the water is crystal clear with plenty of flow and circulation, giving the lake its beautiful blue color. The first phase of the 160-acre development allows for 50 large lakefront lots with sand beaches and 28 villas. The second phase will add another 25 lakefront lots and a marina. The Ritthaler’s had the lake shorelines dynamited to stabilize them, which established a solid foundation for the lots so the homes and beaches don’t experience shifting over time. They also planted more than 500 trees, fully landscaped the entrances, and stocked the lake with catfish, bass, bluegill, and trout. The development also includes paved streets and city amenities such as water, sewer, snow removal, city gas and electricity. “This has always been a dream of ours,” Doug said. “It’s a well-conceived development, and we’ve had a lot of time to plan it. Every lake development has something to offer, and ours has the unmatched beauty combined with its location, appealing to a mix of people young and old.” Ritz Lake offers a private feel while still being in Fremont with all the city conveniences. Those amenities, combined with its beauty, are what make the development attractive to homeowners. “The lake is beautiful, it’s quiet, with easy access to Omaha,” said Joan Hawthorn, who with her husband Jeff is moving into their
new home on Ritz Lake this month. Matt Pruss and his family have just begun building their home, which was designed by Doug’s son-in-law, Cris Zandt with Studio 22 Architectural Design & Illustration. “I work in Fremont and my wife works in Omaha, so it was a good fit,” Matt said. “We’ve been looking for a while and were so excited to find something this nice with clean water. You can’t find this clear of a lake anywhere.” The development is open to any builder, and they’ve already attracted some from Omaha, Elkhorn, Fremont, and Lincoln. The Ritthaler’s children—Brent, Bryan and Robyn—are all very involved in the project. Doug’s daughter, Robyn Zandt, helps with sales and marketing for the property, and said the fact Ritz Lake is only 22 minutes from Village Pointe is a big draw. “It’s truly a gem,” she explained. “We grew up with it as our family lake, and now it’s our family business. It’s a big project, but we work together really well, so it’s been a fun project.” Doug agreed. “It’s been a real adventure,” he said. “It’s a lot of work, but we’re a strong family unit.” They’re looking forward to working with other families to help them build their dream homes and enjoy high-end lake living complete with fishing, boating, and watersports. “We just started promoting it in the spring,” Doug added. “Now we want to spread the word that it’s here.”
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