Edge Magazine April 2023

DANA MURRAY

empowering community through North Omaha Music & Arts

Something for everyone at Ernie’s in Ceresco

A Catered Affair makes food from scratch with love

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LETTER from the EDITOR

We made it

through another Nebraska winter, and the spring season brings an energized feeling of renewal. That energy permeates the pages of this issue.

We’re delighted to have Dana Murray with North Omaha Music & Arts (NOMA) on our cover. As NOMA’s executive director, he and his team have developed an innovative space for musicians and artists to collaborate and showcase their talents. He’s also a talented musician himself.

Ernie’s in Ceresco has been a household name since the 1940s and now serves as Nebraska’s largest family-owned home furnishing store. As you browse the expansive showroom, eating freshly popped popcorn, the store promises something for everyone.

For the past 20 years, Soaring Wings Vineyard and Brewing has served as a destination venue, hosting wine tastings, concerts, and weddings. Now owners Jim and Sharon Shaw are ready for their next chapter and hope to find someone who wants to take Soaring Wings to the next level.

Warmer temperatures call for patio time, and A Catered Affair is the perfect spot. Whether it’s a cup of coffee and giant cinnamon roll to go, a leisurely lunch on the café’s patio, or a fully catered event, co-owner Kathy Silvey and her staff make every dish with care and love.

This issue’s young entrepreneur is Skyler Fadell with Heartsewn by Skyler. Her early love of crafting led her to sew dolls by hand. This young business owner’s story is truly inspiring.

Our spotlight sections on Kucera Chiropractic and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska highlight each business’s genuine care for patients. If you’re looking for inspiration for your home this spring, check out the columns by Interiors Joan & Associates and NEAT Method Omaha.

If you have a suggestion for a local organization or individual bringing energy and opportunities to our community, please let us know.

Kathy Rygg Executive Editor

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APRIL 2023

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Soaring

for the past 20 years, Soaring Wings Vineyard and Brewing has served as a destination for entertainment, relaxation, and celebration. Owners Jim and Sharon Shaw have grown the family business into a venue known for concerts, award-winning wines and brews, and breathtaking views that overlook the hills of Springfield, Nebraska, just 10 miles south of Omaha. Now the Shaws are ready to retire and pass the baton on to new owners who will take Soaring Wings to the next level.

TO NEW HEIGHTS

Jim Shaw has been a brewer for most of his life. When he and Sharon moved to Nebraska in 1998, they decided to take advantage of the state’s Farm Winery Act that encouraged the growth of vineyards and wineries across the state. In 2001 they found the ideal land in Springfield—close to Omaha, right off the highway, and “the view was unreal,” Jim Shaw said. When they approached the farmer, he agreed to sell for a reasonable price. “The farmer thought it’d be a hoot to grow grapes. It was a homerun.”

The name Soaring Wings was a tribute to Jim Shaw’s time serving as a pilot in the Air Force and his career as a commercial airline pilot. The Shaws planted their first vines in 2002, made their first wine in 2003, and opened the tasting

STORY BY KATHY RYGG

PHOTOS BY AMOURA

PRODUCTIONS AND SOARING WINGS

SOARING WINGS GROUNDS

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room in 2004. Within the 29-acre property, there are 7,000 plants—13 hybrid varietals that can withstand cold winters—that sit on 10.5 acres and produce 3,000 cases of wine annually and have won more than 300 medals over the years. There is also a tasting room and event space that seats up to 120 people, commercial grade kitchen, winery, brewery, shed, outdoor shop, an outdoor amphitheater for 2,000 people, and a 3,900 square foot upscale home with four bedrooms and three bathrooms.

Because Soaring Wings encompasses both commercial and residential property, the Shaws use a collaborative sales approach. Paul Lanphier with Arise Ventures represents the business brokerage side, and Michael Maley with M2 Real Estate Group through Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices represents the real estate side. “This has been a great collaboration to get more exposure for a unique property,” Maley said.

After 11 years in the luxury real estate market, Maley recently launched M2

Real Estate Group with Steve Stuart and Tyler Trelles. Their approach to success in a competitive industry is based on offering a team that has a three-person leadership structure, which brings three different personalities and styles to the table. “We all have different techniques for how to be successful, and that sets us apart,” Maley said. “Representing a property like Soaring Wings allows us to showcase those strengths. There is no situation we can’t handle.”

The team has already grown to 14 agents in just two months, and Maley thrives on coaching each one. “I’ve seen it all in real estate, and there are a thousand ways to be successful,” he said. “Everyone has their own approach, and I want to help strengthen those ideas and niche perspectives.” Maley jumped at the chance to work with the Shaws and help them find the perfect owners to take over the property and business.

Jim Shaw said ideally he’s looking for an individual or group who wants to focus on running more events, because that has been such a successful part

of the business. “We’re one of the top wedding venues, top outdoor venues, and have won Best of Omaha for local wineries and vineyards,” Shaw said. “It only takes people one time here, and they feel like they’re in Napa or Sonoma.” When the winery first opened, Shaw said mostly older couples would visit. Now, it’s become a hot spot for a younger generation who bring their kids to run around the grounds while the adults enjoy a glass of wine.

Shaw said the operation is turnkey and would be seamless for someone to step right in. Soaring Wings has a fulltime wine maker, a vineyard manager, and he’d be happy to teach the brewing. “I want the new owners to be successful and will help them with the transition.” He recently retired as a pilot, and the Shaws are ready for their next chapter. “It’s bittersweet, but I’m ready,” Jim Shaw said. “I devoted 22 years to it, and now I want to golf, spend time with my family, and enjoy it without having to worry as a business owner. We’ll definitely be back.”

WINE BARRELS AT SOARING WINGS

JIM AND SHARON SHAW

60 YEARS OF STYLE

One of the area’s most respected names in interior design, Interiors Joan and Associates, is celebrating 60 years of serving the Omaha community. August will mark the six-decade anniversary of when founder Joan Sorenson started the company in 1963 with her partner and friend, Joan Berglund. Both had studied interior design and together felt there was a need for great interior designers. Little did they know they were setting out to blaze a trail of style, grace, and innovation.

In 1966 the partnership became a one-person operation. Berglund married and moved to Thailand, and Sorensen moved her office to Fremont, Nebraska, where she specialized in paint, carpet, drapery, and drapery installation. A year later, Sorensen moved the business into the J.M. McDonald house on 310 E. Military in Fremont, a building rich in history that had also been the hospital where she was born.

When a business spans decades, a number of twists and turns are expected. Changes have included sensational growth as well as location changes. Sorensen’s daughter, Diane Gernstein, joined the company in 1977 and added an Omaha location at 156th and Center in 1984. Nancy Pesavento joined the team as a designer in 1985, sparking a dynamic relationship that led to a partnership between her and Gernstein. They purchased the company from Sorensen, ushering in a new generation of leadership.

In 2003, the company added a Lincoln, Nebraska, location at 70th and Pioneers Blvd., and in 2006 consolidated the Fremont and Omaha locations under one roof at 132nd & West Dodge Road. Today, an incredibly talented team of designers work with a wide variety of contractors, builders, installers, and architects to help plan the perfect space. The two showrooms also have a large array of artwork, accessories, and exceptionally stylish, high-quality furniture that can be purchased off the showroom floor or

custom ordered. The possibilities are limitless.

Sorensen said that many people make the mistake of sacrificing design with the misconception they are saving money. “I would rather do one room well than six rooms mediocre.” Her formula for longevity is simple: “Hard work, always look for something new and different, and remember to keep the customer happy.” This has proven the test of time and led to three generations of ownership, a celebration in itself. Kris Patton, Gernstein’s daughter and Sorensen’s granddaughter, now owns the company.

Alongside Patton is the most critical component and core of the company: a wealth of talented designers, many who have been there for over 25 years and were mentored by Sorensen. Patton grew up watching many of the designers and admires their expertise and customer service. Interiors Joan and Associates has a uniquely gifted team that provides a timeless, elegant, and fresh look that has become synonymous with one of Omaha’s most established and respected design firms.

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR

Photos courtesy of INTERIORS JOAN AND ASSOCIATES

Interiors Joan and Associates team

Nancy Pesavento, Kris Patton, Diane Gernstein, and Joan Sorensen

North Omaha Music & Arts empowers community through music education

BEYOND THE STAGE

children are often asked what they want to be when they grow up. At three years old, Dana Murray was gifted his first drum set and instantly knew he wanted to become a percussionist. After establishing his professional music career in New York City, the seasoned musician moved back to his home territory in Omaha and was presented with the opportunity to launch a music academy for youth. Now serving as the Executive Director of North Omaha Music & Arts (NOMA), the musical artist applies his background to educate young people and redevelop North Omaha through the power of music education.

Story by NICOLE BUNTGEN

Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Dana Murray

During his childhood, Murray was surrounded by artists who allowed him to dive behind the scenes into the world of music. Murray’s biological father worked as a tour manager, which served in his favor when he seized the opportunity to experience being backstage at a Marvin Gaye concert. While other 11-year-olds his age spent time outdoors or playing board games, Murray saw firsthand the lifestyle of musicians and concert tour buses—a lifestyle he claimed he only saw in movies. “I finally had something that was tangible, and I think that’s where the drive started,” he said.

Murray’s early years behind a drum set fueled his passion to become a musician. His desire to further his skill sets led him to New York City where he later performed with big-name artists such

as Roy Hargrove and Norah Jones and produced multiple albums and records. At the end of his time in the Big Apple, Murray expanded into contemporary and hip-hop genres, despite his love for jazz. “It evolved me as a human and gravitated me toward artistic things,” he said. “It introduced me to so many limitless possibilities.” One included Dojo Percussion, a competitive percussion ensemble Murray founded in Omaha.

Before NOMA, Murray returned to Omaha to raise his son and step away from his professional music life. Despite this, the musician knew he wanted to continue making music. He founded Dojo Percussion, a competitive percussion ensemble. He also wanted to educate others and used his professional musical background to network and connect with local schools and orga-

nizations. When presented with the opportunity to bring a music academy to North Omaha, Murray ventured into NOMA—a dream he said he envisioned for over 10 years but with a focus on percussion. Today, NOMA is an all-encompassing music academy that builds artistry and collaboration through music and arts education. Monday and Tuesday evenings offer jam sessions open to the public, and future plans include renovations to the existing building.

The loss of people Murray grew up with to drugs motivated him to pivot his life in music education predominantly in underserved communities. “That’s why my mission is so important; that could have easily been me if I didn’t have something to channel and focus my attention on,” he said. Inspired by the learning process, Murray attributes

NOMA jazz session

his success to the mentors he grew up with and translates that into his educational platform. “We’re teaching people to be emotionally self-sufficient. When you do that, they become more complete human beings and life becomes more fulfilling.”

From master classes by day to jazz concerts and street music festivals by night, the academy strives to build critical thinking skills and inspire young people to unlock their potential. Murray’s current role as NOMA’s founder and Executive Director has kickstarted his curricular-based programming, providing further educational opportunities for North Omaha. This, coupled with the organization’s passion for helping young people succeed, crafts NOMA’s identity and culture in the community.

The organization strives to inspire young people to use music as a catalyst, which Murray believes can help them develop a range of life skills. Using a hands-on approach, NOMA encourages students to seek enjoyment and dedicate their time to doing things they love. “Education is teaching someone to teach themselves,” he said. “It’s more than music—it’s really a lifestyle. If you’re committed to being a more enlightened human, music is a great vehicle.”

Murray has helped many students obtain scholarships, college degrees, doctorates, and performances in larger cities. He credits his time in New York City for his educational methods and how he prepares people for future situations. “A lot of young people have a perception of what real life is like until they’re faced with reality,” he said. “I want to give them the building blocks to prepare themselves if they weren’t brought up with that type of mentorship.” He said it’s common for people to view things in a box when they’re cut off from bigger markets, such as aspiring Omaha musicians envisioning careers in New York City. “Once you show people what’s outside that box, they know what they’re preparing for.”

Whereas the nonprofit stands by its vision, mission, and core values, Murray said his ultimate goal is for NOMA to serve as a transformative agenda in a traditionally underserved community. With a commitment to shaping the next generation of talent, NOMA strives to change lives by providing equitable educational opportunities in a culture of

inclusion and empowerment. “It’s a music academy, but we are a human academy, first and foremost,” he emphasized. When educating the modern student, Murray said setting a bar of excellence helps drive home the “why” behind what people do. “Developing oneself is an emotional process, especially with music. The ‘why’ is where inspiration finds its home.”

Early exposure to a future passion accelerated Murray into the opportunities he continues to provide for the commu-

nity. Beyond music and arts education, the steps NOMA takes to redevelop North Omaha shine through Murray’s devotion to inspiring young people and transforming their lives. When looking back at his life, Murray said that NOMA is everything he would have wanted growing up as an aspiring artist. “There is a rich legacy of music and culture in the North Omaha community. Although we are not reinventing the wheel, we are trying to reignite that fire and bring the spirit of days past to the present.”

Aerial from corner of 24th and Lake Streets

NOMA building

Rendering of future NOMA building

get organized

An organized home can add function, ease, and overall peace of mind to your life. NEAT Method Omaha, a professional home organizing company, has some helpful tips on getting your home more organized, whether you are trying to create new organized habits or preparing to sell or purchase a home.

1) Categorize. Rather than attempting to organize one cabinet or shelf at a time, remove everything from the space you are organizing and then divide it into types and categories. You will more than likely find the same types of items were being stored in different areas, and you’ll also discover items you forgot you had. Once everything is categorized, you can then create zones and organize the number of items and sizes for each zone.

2) Measure. You must measure the height, depth, and width of the space you are organizing prior to purchasing products such as bins, baskets, or canisters. For organizing products to be most effective, they need to fit the space and the items they’re holding.

3) Edit. You can have the space or the items, but not both. Regularly take stock of what is in your kitchen, closets, storage areas, and kids’ areas. Edit what you’re not using anymore and donate or toss. Understand that items can serve a purpose but have a timeline. Letting go of things does not mean they didn’t once have value in your life. Keep only what you use, what brings you joy, and what fits in the space.

4) Outsource. Consider hiring a professional organizing service to create customized solutions for your home. NEAT Method Omaha specializes in all aspects of creating function and flow in a beautiful way for all spaces in the home, from organizing kitchens with product selected to fit perfectly in each cabinet and drawer, to designing and installing new closet systems, to tackling garages and storage areas to improve efficiency and add space. NEAT Method also can handle all aspects of the moving process from pre-move editing to packing and unpacking. They can also work with your designer and builder to ensure spaces have the right organizational structure and flow from the start.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact NEAT Method Omaha: neatmethod.com/pages/Omaha, on Instagram at @Omaha_neat, or at 402-305-2626.

The 77-year evolution of Ernie’s in Ceresco

aspiring entrepreneurs can find opportunities in the smallest things, including where they reside. When Ernie Swanson opened a grocery store in the ‘40s, he didn’t realize the prominence he would have in the small town of Ceresco, Nebraska. Swapping TVs for appliances and expanding into furniture and flooring, the former food mart transformed into a one-stop shop for all home-furnishing needs. Today, Ernie’s in Ceresco serves as the largest family-owned total home-furnishing store in the state and continues to craft the customer experience.

TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Story by NICOLE BUNTGEN

Photos by CHRISTOPHER

Tyler Swanson

The company has grown to serve more than Saunders County—Lincoln, West Omaha, and small towns like Wahoo and David City make up plenty of the business’s market. President Tyler Swanson, grandson of Ernie Swanson, said this speaks to the company’s versatility and illustrates that his team knows how to speak to a variety of customers. “We listen, and we want our customers happy,” Swanson said. “Our job is to help them achieve what they’re trying to accomplish within their space.” Encompassing over 100,000 square feet between its showroom and warehouse, Swanson said the large inventory helps capture instant gratification and build client relationships with people across the state. “The population of Nebraska is too small to not do it right, so you have to have that repeat customer. We try really hard to live up to those standards.”

From rural modern farmhouses to urban lofts in the city, the Omaha market continues to help the company fuel its growth. Dubbing Ernie’s as a hidden gem, Swanson said different people have different motivations, and marrying high-quality brands with versatile price points allows the company to attract distinct audiences like West Omaha. “It’s attention to detail, and we try to slow the process down and meet them [customers] where they’re at,” he said. Even if a specific item isn’t in the store, Swanson said his team’s job is to stay on top of trends and know where to go when something isn’t available so they can meet customers’ needs.

Despite its prominence as a large Nebraska retailer, the small-town store has relationships with niche vendors, allowing it to offer items that can’t be found in bigger markets. From traditional to contemporary, Ernie’s provides unique furnishings that people typically wouldn’t find at mass merchandisers—all in a town just shy of 1,000 people. “You’ve got to have things that are unique to your look, and that adds to the experience,” Swanson said. “We’re not meant to be transactional—we’re meant to be experiential.”

Not only did the COVID-19 pandemic reshape the way people work, but it also changed how people view their homes. Furniture stores like Ernie’s benefited from these adjustments thanks to the 2020 remote work revolution. “People got used to being home; it became more of a sanctuary during COVID,” Swanson said. Despite obstacles with shortages and distribution, Ernie’s learned to be fleet of foot and work within the supply chain better than some of its

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competitors.

The company’s team is a key factor to Ernie’s continued accelerated growth. When speaking about the staff, Swanson dubbed his team a “strength point” for the store, noting they have the experience and demeanor customers want. “Our sales professionals are more than fast-track retail associates—they pay attention to detail and take time on every individual project.” When hiring installers, all contractors are certified through buying groups, which Swanson said exemplifies the company’s care for investing in people who are experts in their industry.

To stay relevant in a small town, Swanson said the key to success is to continue evolving with customers while attracting new ones along the way. “A lot of that is done through experience. Once they have a good experience, they tend to stay with you.” He said the store holds the highest customer return rate in the region, which he attributes to daily walk-in traffic and strong client relationships. A stroll through Ernie’s doors invites people on a journey that starts with the aroma of freshly popped popcorn available to every customer. This tradition traces back to Ernie

Swanson’s college days when he sold popcorn at drive-in movie theatres. From the oil it’s popped in to where the popcorn is sourced, the meticulous care that goes into this salty snack represents the company’s operations philosophy.

Building a business takes time, dedication, and a commitment to delivering a quality customer experience. Whether it’s the savory scent of its signature popcorn or the countless furnishings

that decorate the spacious showroom, the company’s notable features keep people coming back for generations. The prominence of Ernie’s is the culmination of relevant pricing and precise attention to detail all while staying true to its humble Ceresco roots. Since 1946, the third-generation store continues to succeed by delivering quality experiences near and far—one customer at a time.

High-end furniture

Amish bedroom set

fromwithscratch, love

Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

born of a generous nature and unwavering work ethic, A Catered Affair has been facilitating Omaha events, occasions, and holidays for nearly 15 years. The unassuming name belies a business that provides everything from onsite dining and catering services for gatherings and occasions of all sizes to take-home holiday meals and private aviation.

Amid pandemic cancellations, the company put a temporary hold on a planned move to an 8,000 square foot facility on 134th and State Street. The expansion eventually came to fruition in August 2021, and later that year, co-owner Kathy Silvey opened on that site what she refers to as her “pride and joy:” a dine-in café, deli counter, and retail shop.

Silvey has been in the hospitality industry since college stints as a server and bartender, eventually moving into managerial positions with well-known restaurant corporations. In 2008, she and her husband Scott left the corporate world to build A Catered Affair from the ground up, and the pair hasn’t looked back.

The family-owned company’s core philosophy is to provide quality scratchmade food and attention to detail. Silvey shared her passion for hospitality, “I worked for a gentleman when I was younger who taught me the importance of being kind to people and treating genuinely the people I meet, whether guests in the café or someone at an event in an office or one of my employees. You never know what’s happened to someone before they arrive, so we try to embrace the moment and put smiles on their faces.”

The café seats just under 30 and offers patrons a cozy, warm and welcoming space for work or pleasure. Local artwork lines the walls—much of it created by Silvey’s son—and a retail area near the deli

KATHY SILVEY

counter displays gourmet food and kitchen items. Silvey trusts her personal taste, stocking intriguing items such as unique sauces, condiments, and seasonings. In addition to artwork available for purchase, locally crafted artisanal items such as hand-blown glass decanters, ceramic bowls, and dishes provide opportunities for shoppers to support local talent.

According to Silvey, many café customers are regulars, popping in daily for coffee, lingering over lunch with friends, or spending a few hours working in the bright, open space. “It’s a popular place for business meetings as well,” she added.

The catering business offers an extensive menu, but the café features a curated breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu of seasonal, well-crafted comfort foods such as dips, pastas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Farm-to-table is reality here, where fresh eggs hail from a nearby farm and microgreens from a neighboring ten-year-old and his brother just across the road. In a cheeky nod to the one-page menu, Silvey joked, “We serve one hamburger not eight.”

Silvey offers a boutique wine list featuring smaller Napa vineyards and Oregon wines along with a menu of unique craft cocktails to accompany café dishes. Aligning with the scratch kitchen philosophy, cocktail ingredients include house-made liquor infusions, fresh herbs, and juices that result in flavor combinations not found elsewhere.

Across all services, a staff of 85 engaged employees serve an average 500 to 1000 people per day, taking pleasure in facilitating client celebrations and gatherings from intimate to elaborate: dinner parties, weddings, showers, cocktail parties, or corporate

CARAMEL TURTLE BROWNIE

CALIFORNIA SANDWICH WITH TRUFFLE FRIES

PORK BELLY TACOS

BREAKFAST SANDWICH WITH HOMEMADE CROISSANT

breakfasts.

The broad catering menu features a range of dishes made from scratch in the onsite kitchen. Silvey teases staff that “they need to taste the love” when preparing the food. The co-owner further explained, “I want our customers to feel like we gave them a hug when they enjoy our food—it should sing, look pretty, and most importantly, taste great.”

Bringing client visions to life requires a positive “can-do” attitude, and the team at A Catered Affair will make every effort to make it happen. When describing event set up and decoration, Silvey shared, “You name it, we have it—a little bit of everything.”

The close-knit team is constantly striving to learn and improve when developing new dishes and menus. “Good is the enemy of great,” Silvey said. “I think we do well as a company to get better every day, searching for better ingredients, or making dishes taste or look better.”

A Catered Affair relishes any opportunity to collaborate and give back to the community, including donating event leftovers to local nonprofit Saving Grace, which ensures the food is used where most needed.

The café is open from 7am – 6pm weekdays, and 8am – 6pm Saturdays. Stop in for a meal or put together a picnic with delectable deli case items and a bottle of wine. Silvey recommends keeping an eye out for live music on Thursdays once the weather warms, as summer hours will extend later in the evening to allow diners to take advantage of the expansive patio and food and service created from scratch, with love.

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A WONDERFUL RESCUE

Wildlife rescue, conservation, and education are three key pillars in the efforts of Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (WOW) in Springfield, MO. This year is WOW’s third year partnering with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the non-profit Turtle Fly Too, to rescue cold-stunned loggerhead sea turtles. In January, WOW received 10 loggerhead sea turtles that were stranded on the coast near Cape Cod. The turtles suffered from cold stunning, which is a form of hypothermia caused by water temperatures that rapidly decline, leaving the animals lethargic and unable to move to warmer waters or reach food.

Conditions in the Northeast resulted in nearly 1,000 sea turtles washed ashore from cold stunning – making this year the third largest number of sea turtles found stranded on record out of the Northeastern United States. Care and rehabilitation take about 12 weeks, and loggerheads require a facility that can accommodate their larger size. WOW is one of the few facilities that has enough space to care for them, which makes it the only rescue, rehabilitation, and release center in the Midwest. “For our team to have a hand in the rehabilitation and future release back into the wild of these animals means so much to us,” said Mike Daniel, Director of Animal Care at WOW. “We want to do everything we can to make sure we don’t lose these amazing animals from the world’s oceans.”

Each turtle has a customized care plan based on its particular needs. For example, six of them had pneumonia, one had frost bite, and another had a fractured shell. The turtles are constantly monitored and adjustments made to achieve the fastest route to recovery, which include gradually warming the animals back to a stable body temperature and ensuring they can eat and swim normally. The goal is for each turtle to make a full recovery and be released back into the ocean. Each of the 10 turtles was named after local cities or towns in the Springfield, Missouri, area to thank the

community for its support, and they have gained a following on social media.

This marks another year that each turtle has made a full recovery and will be released back into the ocean. Each of the 10 turtles was named after local cities or towns in the Springfield, Missouri, area to thank the community for its support, and they have gained a following on social media. Although the turtles are not on display to the public, guests can visit WOW’s two green sea turtles that were

Story by EDGE STAFF Photos courtesy of WONDERS OF WILDLIFE

rescued and rehabilitated and on display in the Open Ocean exhibit. WOW has partnered with Mother’s Brewing Company in Springfield to help with conservation efforts. The brewery created a beer called Izzy Lager— named after one of WOW’s green sea turtles—that can be purchased throughout the area and proceeds are donated to WOW’s conservation efforts. To keep up to date on Wonders of Wildlife’s Sea Turtle Center, visit https://wondersofwildlife.org/sea-turtles/.

Rescued loggerhead sea turtles

HELPING you do what you love

Many people enjoy going to a nice restaurant or hotel where they know the service is phenomenal. For Dr. Zach Kucera, this level of service–whether inside or outside the office–plays a vital role in his philosophy and translates into his passion for helping others through chiropractic care.

After a remarkable recovery from a sports injury in college, Kucera embarked on his journey toward becoming a chiropractor. Devoted to helping patients return to activities they enjoy, Kucera knew he belonged in a service-based field because of his commitment to helping people feel their best. He translates this care into his family life with his wife and two sons, which includes coaching sports. “When I’m at practice and games, I’m the coach helping improve skill sets,” he said. “It’s still serving, but in a different way.”

Kucera understands the importance of spending time with family and doing things outside of work or chiropractic appointments. “I never want to disrespect a patient’s time. My goal is to deliver what they need efficiently to get patients back to what they love. That’s why we keep office time purposeful. I’d rather my patients have more time in the day for their family or to do activities they love than spend time in the office talking about football scores or the weather.”

Story

BUNTGEN

by NICOLE

Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Dr. Zach Kucera

Since becoming a chiropractor, Kucera has made life adjustments to ensure he always gives his best to his patients. For example, instead of working out in the morning, he waits until after work to go to the gym so his hands are steady and he isn’t fatigued before going into the office. Although invisible to his patients, this type of attention to detail allows him to focus fully and provide the most precise care.

Kucera understands his patients’ needs but also recognizes there is a fine fine line between what they want to hear and what they need to hear. “That’s why I don’t push,” he said. “I’m willing to meet patients where they are, but it’s their health; I can’t force a result.” Instead, Kucera focuses on mindset and positive reinforcement.

This step-by-step approach transitions their focus from pain to improvement, which is a positive. “The brain doesn’t comprehend negatives such as not or don’t,” Kucera stated. “Just like telling someone not to think of purple elephants, you can’t tell someone not to think about pain, or that’s exactly where their mind goes. Instead, we help transition their attention to the positive. By asking a patient, ‘How much better was your morning?’ instead of ‘How is your pain this morning?’ we shift the patient’s focus towards the progress they are making. If you allow yourself to shift your focus, you’ll see improvements versus setbacks, which is huge.”

Kucera emphasizes physical, emotional, and mental corrections. “Self-care isn’t selfish. If the time spent in our office is the only time a patient spends on himself/herself, it should be meaningful.” He often jokes with patients, “As much as we love seeing you, it’s our goal not to. I’m here to serve you so you can continue to work and do the things you enjoy with the people you love.”

If you allow yourself to shift your focus, you’ll see improvements versus setbacks, which is huge.”

AN ANGEL ON EARTH

Last winter, the Omicron variant of COVID-19 was surging, filling hospitals and alarming heath authorities worldwide. Meanwhile, Jim Sanderson of Hastings, Nebraska, was hard at work pursuing his passion as a singer-songwriter.

Sanderson crossed paths with COVID-19 in January 2022, and his condition turned severe. He was hospitalized at Hastings’ Mary Lanning Hospital, spending eight days in intensive care. Even as he developed pneumonia and his blood oxygen levels plummeted, “the care I received was incredible,” Sanderson recalled.

When his numbers stabilized, he was discharged to recover at home. In his first days at home, he got a phone call from Susan Coughlin, a registered nurse and case manager at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE).

Coughlin’s initial outreach is a standard part of BCBSNE’s Care Management program, which connects members newly discharged from inpatient care to a team of in-house nurses. But that one routine phone call led to a strong and lasting friendship between the two Nebraskans.

BCBSNE’s case managers know the member’s coverage details and can advise on specific benefits and policies in addition to providing medical guidance and support backed by nursing expertise. Members can talk to their nurse care manager via phone calls or chat through a specialized, free mobile app. “She encouraged and supported me,” Sanderson

Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR

Photos courtesy of BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA

Susan Coughlin

said. “She helped give me hope.”

“Communication is 95% listening,” explained Coughlin, now in her 31st year as a registered nurse. “In this job, you have to listen and be there with the person on the other end of the phone. They may be sad, overwhelmed, angry; we walk through it all with them.”

In October 2022, Sanderson released a moving new song, “Angels (Here on Earth),” honoring the many health professionals who went above and beyond during the height of the pandemic. A corresponding video, published to Sanderson’s YouTube channel, features photos of doctors and nurses who cared

for him during his COVID-19 journey. One of those photos features Coughlin. “I think she was a little taken aback when I asked her to be in the video,” Sanderson recalled, “but she was a critical part of my recovery, and I wanted to honor that.”

“I always wanted to be a teacher or a nurse,” Coughlin said. “My heart was always drawn to helping other people.” In her current role at BCBSNE, she estimates 30% of patients have specific health or insurance questions. The other 70% simply benefit from the kind and caring support offered by Coughlin and the other nurses at BCBSNE. The

relationships, she said, are the best part of the work.

“My wife and I always looked forward to our calls,” said Sanderson. “We treasure our friendship with Susan. In many ways she feels like part of our family now. Susan let me know that Blue Cross was here for me and would do everything they could to help me get better again. She was interested in me—not just as a member, but as a person.”

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

it took one StretchLab session for Jessica Plummer to know she was hooked and wanted to bring the unique wellness concept to the Omaha area. The StretchLab studio near 204th and Pacific streets in Elkhorn offers one-on-one customized, assisted stretching sessions for a monthly membership fee.

Benefits of StretchLab’s methods, which have been perfected since the franchise launched in California in 2015, include greater flexibility and range of motion, reduced muscle and joint pain, enhanced sports performance, better posture, and less stress.

new normal CREATE A

Story by ANDY WILLIAMS

STRETCHLAB

Photos courtesy of

Caron Erickson, StretchLab member

“I got a stretch at a studio in Texas when we researched the company, and I loved it,” Plummer said when discussing the move to open her first studio in July 2022. “I had been dealing with hip pain for a while, and after one stretch I was pain free for six days. I told my husband, ‘We need one of these at home. If nothing else, I’ll be a customer.’”

The 380 StretchLab locations in the U.S. and Canada share the same basic design with several stretching benches (think massage tables) where highly-trained “flexologists”—a term trademarked by StretchLab for its professional staff—address areas of tightness, instability, weakness or minor pain.

Imagine a rejuvenating massage, but instead of kneading muscles, StretchLab flexologists devise a custom program using a variety of techniques, positions, and dynamic and static stretches that net long-term benefits.

“Our flexologists can do things for your body that you could never do by

stretching on your own,” said Plummer, a hair stylist for 20 years who led group fitness classes before discovering Stretch Lab. “It’s amazing what they can do.”

Flexologists receive more than 100 hours of extensive training that includes work with a master flexologist in a nationally accredited program. Before applying at StretchLab, flexologists must have a background in an anatomy discipline such as exercise science, sports training, or even dance instruction. “That’s what sets us apart,” Plummer said, “the training level of our staff.”

A phased approach for each client begins with a movement assessment using StretchLab’s proprietary infrared scanner and a consultation where clients discuss injury history, current lifestyle, and wellness goals.

“It’s common for people to create a ‘new normal’ for their body from an injury that occurred 20 or 30 years ago,” said Wyatt Nickels, StretchLab Elkhorn’s general manager and a certified

flexologist. “We are very results oriented in helping clients address their wellness needs or fitness goals.”

StretchLab Elkhorn has seen strong growth in client numbers and success stories: youth athletes are performing injury free, and golfers of all ages are putting more pop in their swing. A 60-year-old is independently navigating stairs with no pain. A client in her late 70s moved from inflexible and weak to running a 5k race. “She was so proud, she wore her medal and gave us all the credit,” Plummer said. “People from 10 years old to 90 are feeling and seeing a difference.”

The area’s first StretchLab has been so successful, Plummer is planning to open a second studio this spring in LaVista. “There are so many needs, we just wanted to do something to help people,” she said. “It’s been so rewarding to provide this, and the feedback has been awesome.”

Elkhorn StretchLab

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At West Gate Bank, it means our interest is you.

DOLLS with heart

A seventh-grade homeschooled student, Skyler Fadell created her hand-sewn doll business Heartsewn by Skyler because she loves crafting and sewing gifts for people. She taught herself to sew at six years old and loved it from the start. She began by finding old clothes, cutting them up, and creating a stuffed animal or doll. As she’s grown older, she watches YouTube tutorials or reads library books on sewing and crafting. Fadell has taught herself anything she wanted to learn and has grown her skill set through trial and error over the years. She’s inspired by projects she sees online and then adds her own spin to create something new.

Edge: Where did you get your inspiration for Heartsewn by Skyler?

Fadell: I have loved crafting since I was a little girl. I’ve always had a habit of keeping common, everyday items that most people would throw away so that I can turn them into something to play with, like using cardboard boxes to make doll houses or using buttons or water bottle caps to make heads for tiny dolls. My sister and I have a huge collection of paper people that we have made over the years. Also, my mom has her own small business and when I heard about the Children’s Business Fair, I wanted to do my own.

Edge: How did you prepare for the Omaha Children’s Business Fair?

Fadell: For the Children’s Business Fair, I made a little over 20 dolls. I drew signs to display at my booth, and I thought about a good price to sell the dolls in case there were businesses like mine there. I gathered supplies and decor and planned out how to set up my booth. I also invited friends and family to come to the fair.

Edge: What was the experience like?

Fadell: Being naturally shy, I was nervous about talking to strangers. It was so full of people. My dolls sold out more quickly than I expected. Overall, it was fun and a good learning experience.

Edge: What is your process for sewing each doll?

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY

Skyler Fadell

Fadell: First, I cut each sock the length I want. I sew a straight stitch around the cut of the white sock, stuff it with fluff, and pull the needle so the thread gathers to close the sock.

I begin sewing the body by flipping the cut sock inside out. I cut about two inches up from the toe of the sock and then I sew around the cut using a straight stitch before flipping it rightside out and stuff it with fluff. I sew the body closed and then I sew the head and the body together.

Next, I sew the arms and attach the hair. For the doll’s hair, I use yarn and measure the length I want for the hair and then double it several times. I attach the hair with hot glue. Once I have securely glued the hair, I braid the yarn on each side and tie them off with a short piece of yarn.

For the face of the doll, I draw two curves where I want the eyes to be and sew over them using black or dark brown thread. I add two little stitches for eyelashes at the end of each eye and lastly, I use blush for the cheeks.

Edge: What challenges have you encountered with Heartsewn by Skyler?

Fadell: I love creating new things, so sewing multiples of the same thing over and over has been a little bit hard for me, but selling my dolls allows me to make money for making new things, which helps me overcome it. Also, knowing that my dolls bring joy to other people makes me happy.

Edge: What do you like to do in your free time?

Fadell: I love to draw, craft, sew or play with my sister and my brothers.

Edge: Is there someone who inspires you?

Fadell: My mom is very creative, and my grandmas and great grandmas have also sewn a lot in their life.

Edge: Any other business ideas that you’d like to explore?

Fadell: I’ve considered teaching sewing classes to younger children such as my little cousins who have asked me to teach them how to sew and possibly expanding my business by offering more handmade products.

PREPARED FOR SUCCESS

Molly Von Seggern | Senior | Millard North High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photo by ADRIANA HALL

Although Millard North High School senior Molly Von Seggern began swimming at age three, she took her swimming to the next level when she joined Greater Omaha Aquatics Leopardsharks (GOAL) at age ten. “The GOAL team structure provides a fun, positive, and challenging program,” she said. “I enjoy traveling to many different areas of the Midwest and meeting other swimmers. GOAL has not only given me the opportunity to become a better athlete but has also given me lifelong friends and skills that I can take with me as I start my college career.”

GOAL swim coach Tom Beck believes Von Seggern has a strong work ethic. “Molly is not afraid to work extremely hard to better herself as an athlete. She thrives in pressure situations where others might easily tighten up. She’s a tough, hard-working competitor.” She was awarded an All American in the 200 and 400 free relay her sophomore year, an All American in the 200 free relay junior year, and qualified in 200 medley relay and 100 backstroke her senior year. She also earned the Metropolitan Conference All Academic Award her junior and senior years and received the All American Academic Award with a 3.86 GPA her senior year. Von Seggern was state champion in the 100 backstroke her senior year as well as in the 100 fly both her junior and senior years. Her relay team placed first in the medley relay and third in the 200 free relay at the recent Nebraska state swimming competition.

Von Seggern is proud of her decision to transfer to Millard North her senior year. “This has been a positive experience for me both academically and athletically. It has allowed me to grow and has prepared me for college.” She plans to study exercise science and swim for the University of Nevada this fall. “I hope to meet new people and try out new things the university has to offer. In moving to a new place, I hope to gain new experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.”

Millard North varsity swim coach Andy Cunningham added, “As an athlete, Molly is special because of her willingness to put in whatever work is necessary to be her best. At no point in her training does she settle for average. Molly leads by example and is a mentor to the younger swimmers. As a coach, she is someone that challenges me constantly by moving the bar. She makes coaching fun.”

PLAY TO WIN

Alec Noonan | Senior | Elkhorn South High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photo by SYDNEY SWETALA

Elkhorn South High School senior Alec Noonan has always enjoyed playing basketball, especially against his twin brother, Maverick. “I have always been around sports and played every sport I could when I was younger, but the sport I always looked forward to playing the most was basketball,” he said. “I started playing when I was in fourth grade, and I enjoyed playing one on one with my brother, but I always got mad when I lost. I would not let Maverick go inside until I beat him. Those games made me fall in love with basketball and gave me the desire to win.”

Growing up in an athletic family encouraged Noonan to push himself to improve. “The main thing that motivates me is being able to win. I love winning, and working the hardest I can helps me win more.” That hard work has paid off. He’s led scoring in class A basketball all season and will be attending Midland University on a basketball scholarship this fall. Additionally, he was third team All-Metro last year and honorable mention All-State.

Elkhorn South boys varsity basketball coach

J.J. Zumbrennen has had the privilege of coaching Noonan for several years. “Alec is a great athlete and player because of his work ethic and attention to detail. I know that a lot of people may say that about kids who are successful, but Alec has a ‘refuse to lose’ mentality. He is never satisfied with where he is at in terms of his abilities or skill level. There is always something he thinks he can be better at. Alec also brings a calmness to our team. As a senior leader, he is the guy everyone looks to when the night may not be going our way. He always remains calm, demands greatness out of his teammates, and has the mental and physical ability to take over a game when it is demanded of him.”

Despite being the leading scorer in class A basketball this season, Noonan doesn’t let that pressure him during the game. “I do not go into a game telling myself I need to score this amount to keep my average. I play to win.” He feels fortunate to play for Elkhorn South with Coach Zumbrennen. “I have got a great relationship with my coaches and teammates. When we win, it makes it that much better that I get to win with my friends.”

A TRUE WARRIOR

Maverick Noonan | Graduated Senior | Elkhorn South High School

Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH

Photo by SYDNEY SWETALA

Maverick Noonan, a recent graduate of Elkhorn South High School, is currently early enrolled at the University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL) after receiving a football scholarship for the Huskers. “I’m excited about being able to play in front of 85,000 fans every weekend and having my family close to watch,” he said. In his senior year, Noonan was named First Team All-State and Captain of the All-State Defensive Team. He was also named team captain of his Elkhorn South varsity football team.

Starting at UNL mid-year might be a challenge, but Noonan was up for it. “I feel like having an extra semester of working out and training with my teammates is really going to help me be better prepared for my first season. Workouts are hard but fun, and it’s been great getting to know my teammates.” His biggest challenge was when he popped a tire on his scooter in the first week. “I had to walk to practice at 5 am.”

Maverick Noonan and his twin brother, Alec, grew up playing sports together. “Playing with my twin was like always having your best friend to play with. We played a lot of basketball in the driveway and we always competed with each other in everything we did.” They both played basketball and football until their sophomore year at ESHS when they decided to specialize—Alec with basketball, Maverick with football.

Noonan had to work hard to prove himself that year. “My sophomore year I didn’t get to play much at the beginning on varsity, but I ended up getting in and proving myself. I played a lot at the end.” Elkhorn South varsity football coach Guy Rosenberg explained, “As a sophomore, Maverick was battling against talented veteran players. Maverick is a team-first player, so he lined up on the scout team and gave the veteran players the best look possible. He let his actions do the talking. As coaches, we noticed that. As the season progressed, he was playing as much as the starters and earned a scholarship offer from Nebraska as soon as the season was complete.”

Coach Rosenberg is proud of what Noonan accomplished. “Maverick Noonan has been a tone-setter for us on defense and offense. His effort level and physicality are off the charts. His focus and effort are the same no matter the opponent, score, or situation. He’s a true warrior.”

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