Edge Magazine October Issue by Edge Magazine

Ernie’s in Ceresco serves community first

Fall in love with Clio’s homestyle European food

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LETTER from the EDITOR Welcome

to everyone’s favorite time of year—pumpkin spice latte season! Although I’m not a fan of this fall flavor, I do love the fall activities that surround it: fire pits, craft fairs, and of course, football. October is also the month when we celebrate the anniversary of Edge Magazine. This issue is our 11th anniversary edition and marks my 10th year with the publication. I continue to be in awe of the inspiring people whose stories we are entrusted to share each issue.

One example is AnnMarie Marlier, Executive Director for Business Ethics Alliance, which is an organization dedicated to strengthening Omaha’s leaders and organizations through positive business ethics education and having meaningful discussions about current hot topics that we all encounter.

Another company making an impact in our community is Ernie’s in Ceresco. True to its legacy for serving others, the company answered the call for help during last spring’s tornadoes by donating items such as gift cards, appliances, furniture, and flooring to families in need.

If you’re looking for new fare to try this fall, check out Clio, a new mediterranean concept from Flagship Restaurant Group. And if you want to tap into the more mystical pursuits of the season, stop by The Tarot Room, a speakeasy located inside Circo (ask the hostess for a “reading”).

Be sure to read this issue’s Youth and Varsity Corner sections on two outstanding young individuals as well as the My Two Cents and Passion Spotlight sections for upcoming events, news, and information. Thank you to our hardworking staff, our partners, and our readers—we couldn’t publish Edge without you!

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

Cover photo by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY

“

c hange d ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING. she saved my life.”

SEE HER STORY AT boystown.org/kenna

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1. As reported by the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey for youth in grades 9-12.

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TREE HOUSE MID-CENTURY

Milwaukee-born (and Lincoln-raised) Don Polsky was famous for his mid-century modern designs. After graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Engineering and Architecture (now the College of Architecture) in the 1950s, he took his talents to California and made a name for himself before returning to his Midwest roots in the 1960s, namely back to Omaha.

SPRAWLING CUSTOM COUCH

PRIVATE WOODED PROPERTY

STORY BY MIKE WATKINS

PHOTOS BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS

MODERN KITCHEN

In 1968, Polsky designed and built a timeless property on Armbrust Drive in District 66, a home where modern elegance meets architectural brilliance. The property—a treehouse in the heart of the city—is a true representation of luxurious living at its finest. “Be prepared to be captivated by the seamless blend of sleek lines and the open concept floor plan,” said Teresa Elliott with NextHome Signature Real Estate.

Mid-century architecture was frequently employed in residential structures with the goal of bringing modernism into America’s post-war suburbs. This

style emphasized creating structures with ample windows and open floor plans, with the intention of opening up interior spaces and bringing the outdoors inside.

Many homes of this design used the then-groundbreaking post and beam architectural design that eliminated bulky support walls in favor of walls seemingly made of glass. Function was as important as form, with an emphasis on targeting the needs of the average American family.

On the exterior, a home of this design style is normally very wide, partial brick or glass walls, low footprints with floor to ceiling windows and flat rooflines,

while exposed ceilings and beams, open floor plans, ergonomically designed furniture, and short staircases connecting rooms throughout the house often define the home’s interior.

In true form, the large-scaled rooms of this home are highlighted by towering windows that allow for an abundance of natural light. The family room and kitchen are at the center of the home, perfect for entertaining. Featuring a massive walkthrough pantry and laundry room, the lower level is a gamer’s dream come true. It includes lower-level game

room, theater, offices, workout room, and pool/ hot tub dressing/bath area. “This is an entertainer’s dream come true,” said Taryn Wilke, also of NextHome. “The sellers have had dinner parties where they’ve hosted between 50 and 75 guests.”

The lush landscaped gardens, heated swimming pool, hot tub, and spacious patios provide an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. When the current owners discovered the house several years ago, they said it was love at first sight.

PRIVATE OUTDOOR OASIS

Their passion for mid-century modern design and admiration for Polsky made the home a perfect match. In 2014, Polsky was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for Excellence in Architecture by the UNL College of Architecture. “We are the fourth owners, and like the families before us who raised their children here, we have cherished every moment in this space,” said the owners, who prefer not to be identified. “Now that we’re empty nesters, we’ve enjoyed using the house for entertaining and family gatherings. Its location is incredibly peaceful,

nestled in a wooded area, yet conveniently close to everything Omaha has to offer.”

One of their favorite aspects of the house is its design. The unique blend of rectangles and circles is captivating, and the large pool area is completely private, providing a serene retreat. The theater room is another highlight, with its spacious and simple layout, and there’s ample wall space throughout the house, perfect for displaying artwork.

“Since we’ve owned the house, we’ve made several updates to enhance its modern appeal,” the owners

PRIMARY BEDROOM SUITE

PRIMARY BATHROOM LOWER

said. “We upgraded the entire electronic lighting system throughout the home, ensuring it’s both efficient and easy to use. We also installed new kitchen appliances while maintaining the original kitchen space. Additionally, we replaced the decks and refinished the floors in the garage and furnace rooms, preserving the home’s pristine condition.”

More than 25 years after its completion, a significant renovation was completed in 1994, guided by the original architect, who passed away in 2021. The project transformed the indoor tennis court/gymnasium into an office, workout room, and theater while adding the pool.

The integrity of the original structure was meticulously preserved, with the same tile and design carried throughout the house.

“It’s undeniably one of the most unique homes in Omaha,” the owners said. “We’ve decided to sell because we’re planning to travel more and need a smaller space. However, parting with this extraordinary home is bittersweet.” For more information or to schedule a showing, please contact Teresa Elliott with NextHome Signature Real Estate, 402-690-1573, Teresa@ElliottOmaha. com.

Ashley Bundy Ashley Hedden

Darcie Zauha

Kirsten Hilt

Nikaela Schroeder

Business Ethics Alliance team Jessica Schaaf, CJ Braccia, AnnMarie Marlier, Shannon Underwood

taking the high road

IStory by ANDY WILLIAMS

t was an ethical bombshell that would change American business forever and send shockwaves back to Omaha.

The Enron scandal of 2001—the mega-corporation had recently moved its headquarters from Omaha to Houston when news broke of the company’s superfraud—rocked Omaha’s business leaders and sparked necessary, uncomfortable conversations. Those soul-baring discussions propelled a Creighton University faculty member and Omaha’s business titans to lay the groundwork for launching an organization, Business Ethics Alliance, that 15 years later is still leading brave discussions about sticky ethical issues.

Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY and courtesy of BUSINESS ETHICS ALLIANCE

Photo by Omaha Headshot Company

“Business leaders here were stunned when Enron happened,” said AnnMarie Marlier, Ph.D., Executive Director of Business Ethics Alliance. “They said, ‘Man, we golfed with Enron’s executive team. Our families went to school with each other. But that’s not who we are. That’s not how we do business.’ They started talking about this happening in our backyard and how we should address this as a community, saying, ‘We need to stand up and do something to show this is who we really are.’”

Beverly Kracher, Ph.D., the Robert B. Daugherty Endowed Chair in Business Ethics and Society at Creighton University at the time, conferred with guiding lights of Omaha business such as Creighton

Heider College of Business Dean Anthony Hendrickson, Ph.D., Better Business Bureau of the Midwest Plains Chief Executive Officer Jim Hegarty, and former Omaha Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer David Brown. They discovered that many companies had compliance policies in place, and state and federal regulations provided guardrails for ethical behavior; Missing was a community-wide vehicle for ethics education where business leaders could learn better practices from each other and challenge each other to take the high road. “That’s what the Alliance was formed to address,” said Marlier, noting that all of Omaha’s heavy hitters signed on—Kiewit Corpo-

Madeleine Albright receiving the BEACON of Ethics Award

ration, Union Pacific, Tenaska, First National Bank of Omaha, and others. “How do we form an ethical community for our businesses that will have positive implications for the rest of the community using positive, practical business ethics education?”

The Alliance began with workshops and signature events with special guest speakers and even an occasional road show with Kracher leading more informal after-hours discussions about ethics. The organization continues to evolve by helping orga-

nizations of all sizes, across all industries, and with leaders at all levels to navigate complex topics or potentially controversial current events—topics that make even Alliance leaders nervous at times.

“That’s what we’re charged with,” said Jessica Schaaf, Business Ethics Alliance Director of Community Relationships. “How can we make topics that are scary or maybe have been given a bad rap more approachable for everyone to conversate and collaborate on? We’re very clear in saying we don’t have

AnnMarie Marlier

Photo by Omaha Headshot Company

all the answers, that the topics are ever-evolving. But now the conversation is out in the open. Here’s a way to set the tone to have respectful conversations about these issues with your peers and your colleagues. It might be a scary one if it’s a hot-button topic, but there are ways to make tough conversations inclusive for everyone without harming your organization or being divisive.”

The Alliance educates, tees up discussions, and tries to stay in front of ethical trends on tough topics such as artificial intelligence; diversity, equity, and inclusion; digital ethics; the rapidly-expanding postCOVID remote workforce; bioethics; social media;

transportation ethics; and ethics of the future. Many of the group’s events in 2024 centered on “authenticity” as an ethical conversation point: Can you bring your whole, authentic self to work or not?

In a panel discussion in June, all the participants recounted a time in their work history when they wanted to express themselves through a t-shirt, hairstyle, or picture, but they weren’t allowed that part of them to show.

“Sometimes when an organization clamps down too tightly on that conformity piece, what’s lost are the individual talents and individual perspectives and individual ways of engaging,” said Marlier, a

Mark Pohl of OPPD; Dan Harbecke of Google; Kathy Meier-Hellstern of Google; AnnMarie Marlier of Business Ethics Alliance; Stuart Chittenden

Attendees at the Summer 2024 Mind Candy Dialogue

A SYMPHONY OF LUXURY

An impeccably orchestrated, upscale lifestyle is waiting for you at Symphony Pointe, Omaha’s newest destination for luxurious senior living, now open in Elkhorn.

Experience resort-style amenities you’ll love, including an indoor pool, pickleball courts, restaurantstyle dining, and a beautiful space to enjoy happy hour cocktails. Here, you’ll age harmoniously, with Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care all in one place. Allow us to conduct a personal tour. Schedule your visit today at SymphonyPointe.com or call 402-502-8577.

higher education leader for more than 24 years before joining the Alliance. “Those contribute to creative thinking, innovation, efficiencies, and effectiveness. That’s when true relationships develop. That’s when trust happens. Without authenticity, it’s hard to build trust, and trust is critical when it comes to ethics.”

As one of the few ethics organizations in the country that are non-profit and non-affiliated with a college or university, the Business Ethics Alliance is supported and funded through “mission driver” organizations that provide foundational financial support; “trustee partner” individuals who attend and promote programs, volunteer, or provide inkind services; media sponsors; and event sponsors.

Over the years, the Alliance has expanded beyond corporate business relationships to collaborate and partner with a broader set of community and non-profit organizations. Individuals and organizations interested in helping build a more ethical community can check the Alliance’s website (www. businessethicsalliance.org), follow the organization on social media, or attend an event such as the EthicSpace conference in March 2025 with more than 300 expected attendees. “Every type of organization needs to think about the ethical implications of how we conduct business internally and externally, and there are amazing organizations doing amazing things in Omaha,” Marlier added.

Fueled by the Business Ethics Alliance’s com-

Jim Harter with Gallup speaking at the EthicSpace 2023 conference

munity collaboration and current core values of “Brave, Engaged, and Authentic,” it’s the kind of ethical community development envisioned by founders and by business leaders who initiated those “this is not who we are” discussions two decades ago. “From the days of ancient Greece and before, ethics have always been an issue,” Marlier said. “Aristotle, the Egyptians, [philosophers like] Sir Thomas More…this isn’t a problem or a challenge we are one day going to solve

and say, ‘We’re good. It’s all good.’ The opportunity to continue educating others about what’s new, what’s around the corner, what do we need to think about, what’s coming back again—there’s lots of work still to be done. We’re focused and we’re authentic to our mission of providing positive, practical business ethics education. We’re honest with those we’re engaging with, we know who we are, and we know what we need to do. We’re excited by the opportunity.”

2023 Annual Trustee Partner meeting

BEACON Ethics Award winner Condoleezza Rice

Fight Against the Flu

As fall sets in and flu season begins, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) is stepping up to support the community with free flu shot clinics throughout the state.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that flu, COVID-19, and RSV cause thousands of deaths and hospitalizations yearly in the U.S. Josette

Gordon-Simet, M.D., BCBSNE’s chief medical officer, said the flu vaccine is one of the best defenses against viral infections. “Getting your flu shot is an essential part of preventing illness, protecting not only your health but also the health of those around you,” he said.

As part of the company’s mission to champion the health and well-being

of its members and the communities it serves, BCBSNE hosts free flu shot clinics for community members ages six and up, regardless of health insurance coverage. This year, BCBSNE and YMCAs across the state will host 21 free community flu shot clinics in partnership with Hy-Vee Pharmacy and local health departments.

“Each year, the flu strain may look dif-

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA

ferent,” said Gordon-Simet. “It’s important to keep your vaccination current, so you’re not bringing illness to your family and loved ones. The clinics are a great way for us and community members to show commitment to health and well-being.”

Last year, over 600 Nebraskans received their flu shot at BCBSNE’s clinics, a testament to BCBSNE’s commitment to health and well-being. Gordon-Simet emphasized the motivation behind the clinics is keeping people healthy. “We are committed to expanding access to vaccinations,” he said. “Our belief in this community and our dedication to keeping people healthy drives everything we do.”

Visit NebraskaBlue.com/FluShot to register for an appointment at one of the clinics:

Westview YMCA

Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon

Sarpy Community YMCA

Oct. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m.

YMCA of McCook

Oct. 8 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA

Oct. 9 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Southwest YMCA

Oct. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Northeast YMCA

Oct. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Gretna Crossing YMCA

Oct. 10 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Buena Vista YMCA Express

Oct. 11 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Fallbrook YMCA

Oct. 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Butler-Gast YMCA

Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon

Maple Street YMCA

Oct. 15 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Fremont Family YMCA

Oct. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Downtown YMCA

Oct. 16 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Kearney Family YMCA

Oct. 16 from noon to 2 p.m.

Beatrice YMCA

Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon

Armbrust Family YMCA

Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Columbus Family YMCA

Oct. 21 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Cooper YMCA

Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon

Copple Family YMCA

Oct. 25 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Twin Rivers YMCA

Oct. 30 from 9 to 11 a.m.

BCBSNE

Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A Mélange of Mediterranean Flavors at Clio

Story by ANNA HARTMAN

Photos by YUM OMAHA

Since opening its doors in early June, new Flagship eatery Clio beckons guests from the streets of Omaha’s historic Old Market with enticing aromas, brilliant colors, trickling fountains, and draped greenery reminiscent of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon pictured in mid-century encyclopedias.

Lexi Christiansen, general manager, explained the inspiration for the concept. “Clio went through an interesting evolution. Initially it was a wine bar with antipasti, but the team quickly realized they could do their own take on mezze platters and serve them alongside large plates. The name is borrowed from the Greek muse of history, which aligns with Flagship’s family history, the unique flavors, and how we brought them to Omaha.”

KEFTA BEEF KABOB

The restaurant’s wow factor is unique, and Christiansen said they receive numerous comments on both the food and aesthetics. “I think environment adds to the experience, food comes out so beautifully, aromas, colors, textures, greenery, it’s just homestyle European food.”

Donnie Topolski, executive chef, echoes Christiansen’s enthusiasm for the concept and the space, adding, “The plateware welcomes the food. Colorful tagines decorate the restaurant, and the lamb dish is served in one as well. The oval entree plate has artwork scattered on it, which echoes the dining room vibe.”

Neither Topolski nor Christiansen took formal paths to the hospitality industry, but both possess an ardent passion for service; Flagship provides the training, support, and work-life balance for their innate skills to flourish. The work culture at Clio mirrors this ardor, as Christiansen further expounds, “I think Clio does a great job of encompassing greater Flag-

HUMMUS, MUHAMMARA, LABNEH, AND BABA GANOUSH SPREADS

LIMONCELLO SPRITZ

ship culture. Teamwork, collaboration, genuine care for one another—we have each other’s backs and love to serve our guests.”

Serving foods and flavors inspired by the eastern Mediterranean, small plates emphasize family sharing and camaraderie around a table. Four spreads are available to start the meal: piquillo pepper-based muhammara, chickpea-based hummus, yogurt-based labneh, and tahini-based baba ganoush. To scoop up the spreads, the team crafts 600 – 700 fresh pitas daily, using local Miller Dohrmann Farm wheat flour.

Though many of the flavor profiles may be new to diner’s palates, they are rich and diverse, with a combination of fresh, aromatic, and earthy ingredients, according to Christiansen. “As you take a look at the menu, lots of flavors repeat but are expressed differently depending on sauce. For example, the tomato sauce for the merguez sausage stuffed date dish is similar to the Turkish beef dumplings, but the flavor profile is so different.” According to Topolski, the flavors resonate

LAMB TAJINE

SHAWARMA SPICED HALF CHICKEN

SAGANAKI FLAMING CHEESE

Clio General Manager Lexi Christiansen

with those who grew up with them as well, “Garlic, onions, lemons, lime, pomegranates, a combination of nutty flavors including walnuts, pistachio, tahini paste, chickpeas, rich and creamy yogurt, and labneh are some of the foundations of a lot of the flavors that come from our dishes. We’ve had people who order the labneh and falafel and said they are as good if not better than others they’ve tried.”

Service training is professional and extensive, with an emphasis on menu and flavor knowledge. “We lean into that ‘cool as cuke’ vibe, laughing with guests and sharing our

expertise, while not coming off as rude,” said Christiansen. Part of staff knowledge is a respect and awareness of allergies and dietary restrictions—to wit, Clio offers a separate gluten sensitive menu. The restaurant welcomes all, encouraging guests to come as they are, whether that’s dressed up or down, dining solo or with children.

The unique wine list, curated by Shannon Saulsbury, Flagship sommelier, focuses on traditional and naturally-made wines from indigenous grapes hailing from Mediterranean regions such as Italy, France, Spain, Greece,

SPACIOUS OUTDOOR PATIO

HARISSA TROUT

Lebanon, Macedonia, and Armenia. In addition to savoring wines by the glass, bottle, or flights, patrons can join the Clio Wine club (three bottles/ month for $69).

Sustainability and local sourcing are evident through Flagship’s purveyor relationships. For seafood, the team consults the Monterey Bay Aquarium seafood watch list and sources steelhead trout from Riverence Provisions in Idaho. Perfect ice and coffee are supplied by Maven Bar and local specialty coffee company Hardy Coffee Co. and, in addition to providing the flour for the pita, Miller Dohrmann Farm

provides eggplant.

Community support and service also comprise a significant part of the culture at Flagship establishments. During Clio’s soft open, the team raised money for the Heart Ministry Center, and every Omaha Flagship concept supports the Ronald McDonald house, whose efforts directly affect the health and well-being of children.

Christiansen is grateful to the team and to Omaha for the love they’ve shown Clio thus far. “I feel very grateful for the support of the true labor that goes into the beautiful work we’re doing here.”

• 1.5 oz. Citron vodka

• .25 oz. Elderflower liqueur

• .5 oz. Chartreuse yellow liqueur • .25 oz. honey

• .25 oz. lemon juice • .5 oz. passionfruit syrup • Edible flower

THE BAR: The Tarot Room

THE BARTENDER: Dylan THE DRINK: The Sun

Shake well

Double strain into glass

Garnish with edible flower

CHARTING A COURSE FOR CURES

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is set to make waves in Nebraska with its Night of Champions Gala on November 9th at A View West Shores in Waterloo, Nebraska. The event will spotlight the Foundation’s bold “Let’s Go There” campaign. This event aims to chart a course for cures and bring inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) into the spotlight. IBD impacts 1 in 100 Americans and includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Since its founding in 1967, the Foundation has invested more than $500 million in research to find causes, treatments, and cures for IBD.

The Foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of those affected by IBD is unwavering. It has played a crucial role in every major IBD research breakthrough, including the discovery of groundbreaking biologic therapies. However, the Foundation is venturing into uncharted territories, funding promising new ideas that might otherwise never

nightofchampionsnebraska.org

find support.

IBD is a topic that many find uncomfortable to discuss, but the Foundation recognizes that living with the condition is far more challenging. It has become a trusted source for patients navigating life with IBD, providing support at every step. The “Let’s Go There” campaign ignites conversations about living with IBD and advocates for patient access to quality care.

This campaign tackles various issues, from sharing resources on dating and

intimacy with IBD to ending the stigma surrounding the condition. It aims to make IBD more visible by encouraging open conversations and changing laws to improve access to better treatments. The Foundation is committed to ensuring that everyone can receive the right diagnosis and treatments.

Mental health is another crucial aspect of living with IBD that the Foundation addresses. By bringing discussions about IBD and mental health into the open, it provides comprehensive support for patients. The Night of Champions Gala is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a rallying cry for the IBD community to celebrate progress and look forward to a future free from Crohn’s and colitis. Join the Foundation in making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by IBD by participating in the Night of Champions Gala on November 9th to “Chart a Course for Cures” (www.nightofchampionsnebraska.org).

A LEGACY OF

Service, Community, and Quality

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR

Though Ernie’s in Ceresco may operate out of a small town, it delivers big on quality, service, and heart. Established 78 years ago by Ernie Swanson, this local business has earned a strong reputation for its unwavering commitment to customer care, its growth into Nebraska’s largest familyowned home furnishing store, and its dedication to the community. Swanson’s vision for his small store was simple but profound: to create a place where neighbors could trust in the value of their purchases and feel genuinely supported by friendly, reliable service.

Now, under the leadership of Tyler Swanson and Dean Swanson, Ernie Swanson’s grandson and son, respectively, the store continues to uphold the very principles on which it was founded. While the store has been handed down through three generations, the commitment to delivering top-notch service and maintaining a family-oriented culture has remained unchanged. The team at Ernie’s is deeply committed to ensuring that every customer feels valued, knowing they will leave the store with not only high-quality products but also a positive experience.

Photos courtesy of ERNIE’S IN CERESCO

“OUR FOCUS HAS ALWAYS BEEN ON DOING WHAT’S RIGHT FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND OUR COMMUNITY. WE’RE HERE TO SERVE THOSE WHO GIVE US THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE HERE”

When tornadoes tore through the communities surrounding Ceresco this past April, Ernie’s was approached by a local church and schools to help in a way that embodied its long-held values. They worked as a team to provide gift cards and other incentives to assist families in need—helping them replace essential items like appliances, furniture, and flooring. This initiative was an illustration of Ernie’s community-first approach, reaffirming its dedication to serving others, especially during times of hardship.

For Tyler Swanson and his team, this wasn’t just about selling products. It was about offering comfort and stability in difficult times. “At Ernie’s, our focus has always been on doing what’s right for our customers and our community,” he shared. “We strive to offer not just products but quality encounters that make a difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s through exceptional customer service or community support, we’re here to serve those who give us the

opportunity to be here.”

Ernie’s goes beyond being a furniture store; it’s a vital part of the local fabric. From supplying popcorn to schools and community events to supporting fellow small businesses, Ernie’s consistently finds ways to give back. The company even partnered with local animal rescues, like Saunders County Lost Pets and Capital Humane Society, hosting adoption events in the store to connect families with new furry friends.

As Ernie’s approaches its eight-decade milestone, it stands as a shining example of what a small-town business can achieve with dedication to quality, service, and community engagement. In a competitive market, Ernie’s continues to thrive by fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring that every interaction is a memorable, positive experience. Their legacy is one of community spirit, and that legacy only grows stronger with each passing year.

trail BLAZER

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH • Photos courtesy of CALE FERRIN

What makes Cale Ferrin stand out from other child actors? He’s already had a 10-year career at the age of 17, but he also has Fanconi Anemia (FA), a rare, genetic, and terminal disease that affects bone marrow. Despite having FA, Cale is a high school senior with a big vision for his life. Writing, producing, and continuing to act are all in his future.

Edge: Since our last feature, you’ve been acting for several years now. You’re currently in a TV series called “Shadrach.” What is it like to play a character with Fanconi Anemia?

Ferrin: Playing a character with Fanconi Anemia in “Shadrach” is great because they adapted the role to match my disorder. It promotes authentic representation and brings attention to this rare condition.

Cale Ferrin

Edge: How are you helping to change the industry for underrepresented actors?

Ferrin: I’m helping change the industry by using this platform to highlight that disabled actors represent only 2 percent of all acting roles. That’s not a lot, although I do feel like things are getting better. I use social media to promote authentic representation and emphasize that disabled actors can play regular characters without their disability being central to the story. I’m just a regular kid who can play a regular kid character.

Edge: How do you keep up with your schooling while you’re filming?

Ferrin: I’m a homeschool student using online programs, so I can take my schoolwork anywhere, including film sets. For “Shadrach,” we filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, and it started just a few days before school got out.

Edge: How does Fanconi Anemia currently affect your life?

Ferrin: As I’ve gotten older, FA affects me more. I have more frequent doctor appointments, cancer screenings, and blood quality monitoring. I’ve also developed epilepsy, which adds complexity, but we are managing them both with our medical team. There currently is no cure for Fanconi Anemia. My family and I work hard to raise awareness and fundraise to help further research.

Edge: Of all the characters you’ve played, which one are you the proudest of?

Ferrin: Each show I’ve done has had its own unique challenges based on different circumstances in the storyline, and I’m proud of all my projects. “More Beautiful for Having Been Broken” (Amazon Prime) and “Endlings” (Hulu) stand out. “More Beautiful” was challenging as my first feature film and lead role, but our awesome cast and production team made it easy. “Endlings” challenged me with long-distance family separation, CGI work, filming in Canada winters, multiple co-leads, and changing director

Cale riding on the set of “Shadrach”

Cale and the cast of “Shadrach”

Cale with actor Greg Allan Martin

Cale

teams for each episode. I would say that I have learned to adapt well and have become pretty great at overcoming challenges.

Edge: What goals do you set for yourself?

Ferrin: One of my major goals is to write my first movie or TV series. Right now, scripts don’t exist with a character like me. So, I’m going to write my own. I’m also pursuing being a producer. I am currently on the production team for a feature film in Fremont, Nebraska.

Edge: How often do you book a gig?

Ferrin: Before the 2023 union strike, I booked a new project each year since 2014. Post-strike it has been a lot slower, but I

recently booked a role in a local feature film. I am also making my debut as a producer for the film! Being both an actor and producer has been a lot of fun so far. I’m learning so much.

Edge: Do you have any tricks for memorizing a script quickly?

Ferrin: I memorize scripts scene by scene and work with acting coaches to bring my personality to the character. The biggest part of playing a character is to find that “one thing” that you have in common. Don’t try and be the character, but instead, figure out how the character is more like you.

Edge: Any tips for other kids who want to pursue acting?

Ferrin: Just go for it! Try out for

roles unique to you. Start looking into acting coaches and getting on board with some film agencies in our area to get started. Nebraska just passed LB 1022, the Cast and Crew Nebraska Act, so there will be a lot more opportunities coming our way. This is an exciting time to be a local actor!

Edge: When you’re not working or in school, what do you like to do in your downtime?

Ferrin: In my downtime I enjoy spending time with my brother and sister and playing video games. My favorite games are Roblox, Fortnite, and College Football 25. I am also writing new scripts and stories to hopefully work them into a film or new TV show. I love traveling with my family and I also love to swim!

Cale on the set of “Shadrach”

TRIPLE THREAT

Kalvin Janssen | Senior | Gretna High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photo by MELISSA KATHLEEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Gretna High School senior Kalvin Janssen believes being part of a team is one of the best aspects of sports. “It’s the relationships you make with your teammates who become friends for life,” he said. “I have made lifelong friends through baseball, basketball, and football. Some of my old club friends are some of my best friends today.”

Janssen gets his drive to improve from his family. “My dad has coached me throughout my life, and one of his rules was to always try hard. He is one of the most influential people in my life. My mom has also been my biggest supporter, and I don’t know what I would do without her.”

He’s had to deal with his share of injuries over the years, including tearing his medial patellofemoral ligament twice during his sophomore year. “It was heartbreaking after the second tear because I

knew I would have to have surgery and there would be a long road of physical therapy in my future. I missed basketball and spring baseball my sophomore year, but I was able to get all three in my junior year. I feel better today than ever thanks to my doctor and therapists.”

Janssen is now considering studying physical therapy thanks in part to his physical therapists who helped him come back after injury.

Gretna’s varsity baseball coach Bryan O’Flynn believes Kalvin Janssen is a special player for many reasons. “What’s impressive about Kalvin is how well he moves for his size. He easily led our team in infield hits this season, which is attributed to his surprising speed. His ability to hit the baseball is his biggest strength. He can hit to all fields and hit for average, or he can use his power to drive a ball over the fence. I’ve been coaching baseball for 16 years and have only seen maybe one other player that can consistently hit a ball as hard as Kalvin can. He is a good teammate and a

quiet leader. He has very good relationships with his teammates on and off the field. He’s a very good young man and I am proud of all his accomplishments.”

Janssen has many achievements in his athletic career at Gretna. “I’m proud of winning the state football championship my freshman year and runner up my sophomore year, winning two state baseball championships in youth baseball, and being recognized as an All-Nebraska Football First Team my junior year.”

Although extremely busy with football, basketball, and baseball, Janssen also enjoys time with his friends. He also participates in Hope Squad, which is a suicide prevention group at Gretna, and he plans to play football in college.

Gretna varsity basketball coach Bill Heard added, “Kalvin is an athlete. He hit over .400 in baseball this summer, got All State in football, and is going to be a major contributor in basketball. In today’s day and age, a three-sport athlete is hard to come by. Kalvin can do it and will excel at all of them.”