Discover Omaha’s new upscale, urban community for active adults. Whether you’re retired or still working, Ovation Heartwood Preserve is a place to set your own pace, expand your independence and make new friends. It’s a place to pursue new interests and live life with less stress and more financial freedom. And it gives you peace of mind because a continuum of support is right on campus. Simply put, Ovation Heartwood Preserve brings a way of life that connects you with what matters most.
Front: Gabby Hellbusch, Carole Sprunk, Michael Meyer, Kathy Rygg, Nicole Buntgen
Back: Anna Hartman, Chris Tierney, Lane Hickenbottom, Quentin Lueninghoener
Not pictured: Shelly Nosbisch and Ben VanKat
comes to a close, I’d like to extend my gratitude to our advertising partners. We’ve formed great connections, and our entire team appreciates your partnership. I’d also like
thank the Edge Magazine staff who work tirelessly to produce a beautiful, high-quality print publication every issue. You are incredibly talented, and we love to have fun!
While you’re busy decorating, shopping, and planning holiday celebrations, remember to gift yourself the gift of health and well-being. This issue includes several stories about local businesses that provide unique services to save money, time, and foster self-care.
The cover this issue features Dr. Shikhar Saxena, CEO of Milan Laser Hair Removal, who together with his high school classmate purchased their first location in Papillion, NE, in 2012. Now 10 years later, the company operates 275 locations in 28 states with 1,600 employees. With state-of-the-art technology and the only laser hair removal company to offer a lifetime service guarantee, Milan helps customers realize the importance of self-care for a variety of hair removal needs.
Everyone deserves a well-organized home, and NEAT Method Omaha can help create a beautiful,
efficient system to make your life easier. Whether a closet, kitchen, or garage, owner Allison Helligso and her team help you edit items, they provide product, and often start and finish a project in one day.
Connecting with friends and family is important to your well-being, and Stories Coffee Co. provides a welcoming space to gather. With new locations in Gretna and Midtown Crossing, Stories provides fresh menu items and beverages for any time of day with an energetic community vibe.
When you’re out and about this holiday season, stop into Talus Spirits & Sustenance for cocktail cheer or grab a bowl at Lucky Tiger in the Blackstone District. Check out other feature favorites in this issue, including the stunning home and inspirational youth. Happy Holidays!
Kathy Rygg Executive Editor
The holiday season is much more than just decorations and presents to the boys and girls at Boys Town. it’s about hope. hope for new holiday traditions. hope for making happy Christmas memories. hope for the gift of a second chance. Your donation gives hope, and so much more, to struggling children and families that need more hope and help during the holidays. thank you ! boystown.org/donate
VOLUME 10, ISSUE 6
DECEMBER 2022
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home is not only a place to retreat and relax, it is also a setting for some of life’s most precious moments. For homeowners Steve and Chris Fisher, the walls of their custom-built home have held their family’s stories for nearly a decade.
Built in 2013, this contemporary masterpiece is nestled in the trees of the Hamptons community, where tranquility and luxury intersect. The neighborhood comprises many unique homes and boasts majestic views of the Elkhorn River and the area’s vast wildlife.
Walking trails are conveniently located nearby for residents to further immerse themselves in nature. The property guarantees privacy and is a short drive to restaurants, shops, and entertainment,
creating the perfect blend of country and city life.
When the Fishers met with their architect and builder to finalize design plans for their fourth custom home, they had two must haves on their list—an open floor plan for entertaining guests and a theater room to enjoy one of their favorite pastimes. “It all came together perfectly,” said Chris Fisher. “This was truly our dream house.”
Situated on 1.27 acres, this three-bedroom, four-bathroom property features an attached heated and epoxied threecar garage, heated driveway, and artfully designed landscaping. Beautiful stone steps accompanied by a custom handrail—assembled on site and welded together—lead guests to the front door. Inside, an expansive window creates a
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stunning focal point in the great room. The crisp views of nature intertwine with the cozy atmosphere inside.
Another distinct design detail that adds character to the home is the curved ceiling in both the great room and kitchen. Additional elements like the stone fireplace and stone beams at each end of the kitchen bar evoke feelings of warmth and comfortability.
Each room in the 4,326 square-foot property provides ample space for large family gatherings. In particular, the lower level equipped with a bar, game room, and home theater has welcomed its fair share of festivities, as the Fishers enjoy hosting lavish movie nights for their loved ones.
In addition to spending much of their down time in the home theater,
the Fishers enjoyed watching wildlife from their covered deck. They’ve experienced many unforgettable sights—like witnessing a deer give birth to a fawn on their lawn.
Roasting marshmallows at the fire pit in the backyard was a favorite activity for creating lasting memories with grandkids. The doting grandparents often ventured into the woodsy meadow behind their home with their grandchildren.
Over the years, there have been countless good times spent with loved ones in the home that will be fondly remembered by the couple. They will also miss their friendly, helpful neighbors who looked out for one another. “While it is time for us to downsize, we are really going to miss this home,”
Chris Fisher said. “It is the only home where I’ve had really sad feelings about leaving because the house itself, along with the neighborhood, has been perfect for us.”
The Fishers hope the next homeowners will appreciate the time and care that went into crafting the home. “We hope the new homeowners will enjoy this home and value the setting and the neighborhood because it really is such a nice place to live,” Steve Fisher said. “It’s a great home for anyone, and I think whoever ends up with it will love it as much as we have.”
For more information, or to schedule a private showing, contact Teresa Elliott, realtor at NextHome Signature Real Estate at 402-445-4899 or teresa@elliottomaha.com.
Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of INTERIORS JOAN AND ASSOCIATES
Designers from Interiors Joan & Associates recently visited the largest furnishings industry trade show in the world in High Point, NC. The show encompasses over 11,500,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, 180 buildings, 2,000 exhibitors, and represents products from 100 countries. Our designers logged more than 20,000 steps each day in an effort to bring Omaha the latest trends in interior design fashion.
The designers love seeing the latest craze, but they also have a strategic focus to find what best fits our demographic and client demands. Their days are packed with miles of product exposure, speaking with vendors, and networking with other designers. Market provides an opportunity to rebuild,
maintain, and start new relationships. It lets our designers reinvent themselves and embrace inspiring new perspectives.
Here are some of the trends seen at market:
Warmer colors: Cooler gray tones are diminishing and being replaced by warmer colors. Browns and creams are
layered with saturated greens, blues, and beautiful warm rust colors.
Furniture details: Creative and unique architectural details such as nail heads, proudly set wood panels, and trim add to softened lines of furniture.
Sofa seating: Companies are making furniture more comfortable, lush, and
inviting. Sofas are designed and built so you can comfortably perch on the arm/back, using all sides. Chairs swivel so they can be used in multiple spaces, and cocktail ottomans provide for additional seating and a place to prop your feet.
Market allows designers to experience items in person rather than solely online. Artwork and accessories are hand selected for our showroom. Designers can sit on finished furniture and meet with company reps to learn about the line, providing designers with confidence in the product. Seeing wood finishes in person also provides designers with an understanding about the depth, color, sheen, and texture, which helps them choose custom pieces for their clients’ homes. Ready to update your home with some of the newest trends? Stop in to our showrooms in Omaha and Lincoln today!
some friendships made in high school can last a lifetime. At 30 years old, Omaha native and University of Nebraska College of Medicine graduate Dr. Shikhar Saxena, who is board certified in internal medicine and cardiology—launched an Urgent Care practice in Papillion. When approached by a physician who owned a laser hair removal clinic across the street, Saxena leaped at the idea and called his best friend and fellow board-certified internal medicine physician Abe Schumacher. In 2012, the high school companions purchased the practice next door and transformed it into the first Milan Laser Hair Removal location.
What started as a side business for two eager entrepreneurs has turned into the largest laser hair removal company in the country. Saxena and Schumacher opened the subsequent 10 locations themselves. They worked in every role, from the front desk to overseeing construction. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, Milan is on track to own and operate 275 locations in 28 states by the end of the year with 1,600 employees nationwide.
No matter what someone’s goals are in life, investing in oneself not only
boosts confidence but it also shows a commitment to self-care. There are many reasons people choose to have laser hair removal, such as to save money on shaving or waxing, reduce ingrown hairs, and achieve dolphin-smooth skin. Traditional medical spas typically offer packages of 3 or 6 treatments, but Milan’s data shows that most patients require between 7 and 10 treatments to become completely hair free. Not only does its service allow for that many initial treatments, but Milan offers a lifetime guarantee with additional treat-
Story by NICOLE BUNTGEN Photos by KALEB DUNCAN PHOTOGRAPHY
ments at no cost. “We have a service offering that no one else in the industry has,” Saxena said. “If you purchase a package with us, we’ll cover whatever you need—unlimited—for the rest of your life.”
Another differentiator for Milan is its commitment to offering only one service—laser hair removal—which allows its providers to give patients the expert care they need. “I’m a very strong believer in doing one thing, and you do it very well,” Saxena said. “We’re only going to do services that are highly effective.”
Permanent results speak for themselves, and it starts with authentic customer service. Every Milan Laser clinic is corporate owned and operated to ensure the company’s core values are carried through to every patient interaction. Even its 100-person call center is centralized at the company’s Omaha headquarters. This ensures that patients are always speaking with an expert in laser hair removal and allows clinic employees more time to consult, treat, and care for patients. “When you remove everything except deliver an excellent service, you are the master of one thing: client experience through laser hair removal,” Saxena said.
The accelerated growth Milan continues to achieve can be attributed to the company’s team culture. Saxena’s commitment to reinvesting in the company translates into the jobs he creates for the community. Whether it’s education, technology, marketing, construction, or even interior design, Milan recruits top-level talent locally and from across the country. Colleen Papek, the company’s president, is one of those people. Her previous experience as vice president and director of stores with Bonton Stores was the perfect fit for her current role at Milan. Five years later, Papek continues to oversee the continued growth within the company, all while helping increase Milan’s footprint in new markets. “We know there’s a need out there,” Papek said. “I would have never dreamt of how successful we would be, but it’s because we’ve stayed true to who we are and the reinvestment in our infrastructure.”
The company has created a culture of teamwork and inclusion, which is evident through the design of Milan’s new corporate headquarters in West Omaha.
Along with open workspaces, there are plenty of areas for collaboration and fun, such as ping-pong, which Saxena often plays with employees.
The never-ending cycle of shaving or waxing to achieve smooth skin can be exhausting and expensive, but the convenience and effective results of laser hair removal attract people to seek the permanent procedure. Milan’s growth into new markets is focused on increasing awareness of laser hair removal benefits. “It’s an unbelievable product that should be accessible to everyone,” Papek said. Thanks to a consistent staff who share the same goal as clients, which is to get people hair free as quickly as possible, Milan can connect with clients, build relationships, and fuel innovation—all of which align with the company’s core values. “They [staff] have to be in it for the customer and provide world-class customer service,”
Saxena said. “We’re always keeping the customer number one.” Because of this, clients are excited about their results and eager to continue the process of becoming permanently hair free.
One of the biggest concerns surrounding laser hair removal is the discomfort and time it takes to achieve hair-free results. Hair removal alternatives, such as waxing, cost more over a lifetime and require regular maintenance. Milan’s advanced technology uses FDA-cleared lasers to target hair directly at the root to deliver permanent results for any skin type, making laser hair removal an accessible option for everyone. As technology continues to advance, laser hair removal has become quicker and more comfortable, aligning with consumers’ lives so they don’t have to go out of their way to achieve the results they want. “We want you to have a five-star experience and be incredibly
excited that you’re going to be hair-free for life,” Saxena said. “Whatever your goals are, we want to be that company for you.”
Passionate about the product they provide, Saxena said he believes Milan’s services can translate to other medical industries. With a vision to have multiple medical verticals under the Milan umbrella, the brand has already kickstarted its growth through its new vertical business, Athens Robotic Hair Restoration, which just opened in August in central Omaha. Specializing in state-of-the-art hair transplant technology, Milan plans to apply its same operations strategy to Athens so the company can similarly grow under the Milan group. “This is something that’s not just one and done,” Saxena added. “We’re going to be here for a long time.” For a free consultation and one complimentary treatment, visit www.milanlaser.com.
“I’m not letting that guy see me naked!”
A friend of mine asked for referrals for Omaha’s best masseuse. That guy came highly recommended, but when my friend looked him up online, she saw a duck-lipped selfie shot from that guy’s car while wearing a backwards ball cap. He lost money that day because his profile photo didn’t communicate that he was a leader in his industry.
First impressions are important–you only get one chance at them. How you present yourself to the world is how the world will perceive you. Most people who are in personality-driven professions want to come across as somebody who is likable yet knowledgeable. This includes financial advisors, attorneys, medical providers, realtors, coaches, and bankers. People in these professions ask their clients to expose their finances, health, and physical bodies—their most intimate vulnerabilities.
A Princeton University study showed that it takes people only 0.1 second to judge whether a person is likable and trustworthy when looking at a photo.
Their first impression is unlikely to change, so you need to look like someone with whom they want to conduct business.
It’s important to consider two questions when choosing a profile image, especially on professionally-driven platforms such as LinkedIn:
1. Who is your audience?
2. How do you want to portray yourself to that audience?
If you’re the type of person who receives online referrals, the answer to the first question is probably your customers. If you run a business that targets budget shoppers, a cell-phone selfie might be on brand.
If you want to portray yourself as an industry leader who offers a high-quality product or service, then anything less than a headshot from a professional photographer who is equally skilled at their craft might be detrimental to your bottom line. A professional headshot is a small investment that can go a long way toward reinforcing your brand and gaining a loyal customer.
LUCKY
luckytigeromaha.com 3852 Farnam St., Omaha (531) 213-2443 luckytigeromaha.com
jose Dionicio, known for edgy concepts, has been feeding Omahans for over 20 years, introducing Midwestern palates to Nikkei cuisine, a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors emblematic of Japanese immigration during WWII in Peru.
Dionicio’s family has been in the restaurant industry since he can remember (his father emigrated from Peru to the United States when he was a young boy). At a young age he committed to working full-time in the field, starting in Omaha at Kona Grill.
From Ika, Kaitei, JoJo’s Diner, and Mas Chingon in Benson to Lucky Tiger in the Blackstone District, each of Dionicio’s eateries carries an indelible sense of place and passion in that the décor, menu, and drink items are crafted with intention. An innate sense of business acumen has contributed to his success, but he readily admits most of it was learned on the job.
“As a small company, I’m proud to be able to create employment for people, including things I didn’t see growing up in the industry such as health insurance and holidays off,” he said. These changes are just the beginning as the proud owner continues to strive toward a hospitality culture in which people encourage and rely on each other. “You can think you can do a lot of things, but without a good team you can’t.”
Today he is grateful for a wonderful staff, crediting his team as the most crucial aspect of his journey. “As a cook growing up, I felt invincible, I could do anything. I felt I was the best, and that put me in a situation where it was hard to hear feedback. Because of that I was set back a little in reaching my goals.”
The accomplished chef and restaurateur loves to travel, relishing the taste of unfamiliar flavors in unique places. Some might call him inventive, but Dionicio employs a pragmatic, thoughtful approach to new dishes, sharing, “Somebody told me there’s nothing new under the sun, but there are a lot of things new to this market. When it comes to inventiveness, I don’t like to use the word fusion but collaboration— different cuisines borrowing ingredients from another culture.”
Centered around an open kitchen, the
space Lucky Tiger inhabits was originally designed by the previous tenant. According to Dionicio, “It was already put together beautifully, we added a sushi bar, and gave it a more industrial feel.” Graffiti, a big part of Dionicio’s childhood memories, adorns the walls at all his establishments.
The menu at Lucky Tiger features unique ingredients such as negi (Japanese long green onion), wood ear mushrooms (named for their ear-like visual appearance), and the rich flavors of black garlic. Often served with ramen are egg preparations such ajitama, jammy boiled eggs soaked in an umami marinade or onsen tamago, a custardy soft-cooked egg floating in a broth laced with soy (in Japan, onsen describes the temperate hot springs in which visitors bathe, and tamago is the word for egg).
The Lucky Tiger staff executes their
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duties with the customer in mind, putting in careful time and effort to create a unique, pleasant experience. Dionicio describes Lucky Tiger as “fun, fast, very low key, there’s nothing fancy about it. It’s created for groups of people to try different things and enjoy a drink.”
Ingredient-driven cocktails are paired with small plates that strike a balance between tender and crunchy. Options include the fried chicken steam bun or the spicy tuna tots, which reinvent a familiar hot dish component with crispy rice, spicy shredded tuna, sweet soy laced mayo, and negi.
Patrons can find unique twists on ramen, including the popular Vin Diesel: noodles topped with Nashville hot chicken, negi, ajitama, and avocado in a chicken-based broth. Regardless of type, the ramen broth is rich, especially so in the traditional tonkotsu or its variation, the Blackstone Tonk. Both pork-based, the Blackstone Tonk amps up the umami with the addition of black garlic oil, pork belly char siu, and tree ear mushrooms.
The ubiquitous bowl is taken up a notch with oven baked options such as Mongolian beef, walnut shrimp, and the zingy bukkake bowl draped in a fried egg. More traditional Donburi bowls are topped with fresh fish, and for special celebrations, diners can order Peking duck served with lotus buns, spicy cucumbers, salsa verde, hoisin sauce, and green onion.
Dionicio wants customers to feel at ease and savor the experience when dining at the lively eatery. He shared, “There are fine dining options, but we aren’t that. The world has changed since 2019, and we don’t take any of it for granted.”
life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but often it can lead you to a place of purpose and passion. Such is the case for Brooke and Dan Loutzenhiser who own Stories Coffee Co. Both from rural Nebraska, they met in 2015 after Dan’s wife passed away and he was a widower with two young daughters. Dan and Brooke both worked in the health care industry, but he felt the need to take a step back from the demands of corporate life and instead find a career that enabled him to give back and help others—something that he valued during his time of need.
by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Coffee has always been a staple in the Loutzenhiser’s life. Dan and his father enjoyed roasting their own coffee together, and he and Brooke loved frequenting coffeehouses, including the original Stories in West Omaha. When the couple learned that the coffeehouse was for sale in 2017 because the previous owners were moving out of state, Dan and Brooke decided to purchase the Stories name. “We knew we wanted to create a space that was welcoming to everyone and an environment where people could come and go all day long, but we didn’t know the exact timing or how it might look and feel,” Dan said.
For the first three years, Stories was a mobile coffee business until the Loutzenhisers opened their first storefront located off 114th & Dodge Streets. Stories opened its doors in March of 2020 only to have to operate solely as a drive thru due to the pandemic. But when it was able to fully open in May, the community embraced the concept, especially with more people working from home who craved a change of scenery, a space for a business meeting, or to meet friends. The coffeeshop even had to upgrade its internet speed to accommodate online traffic from customers.
Stories has retained its allure as an all-day destination, whether it’s coffee in the morning or a cocktail in the evening, complete with live music. It also includes a full menu of breakfast, lunch, happy hour, and dinner specials, with most made in house. What’s changed from the previous concept is that the brand has evolved into a true community space. Whether it’s a family hosting a graduation or baby shower, or a high school student who works at one of the company’s five locations, Stories is “about all of us and taking care of the greater good,” Dan said. In fact, each quarter, the company gives a percentage of its sales to local non-profit organizations.
In August 2022, the Loutzenhisers opened a location in Gretna and last month opened another in Midtown Crossing at the former Culprit Café location, which will also serve as a centralized kitchen for all the Stories locations. Dan’s 73-year-old father is also still roasting the coffee served at all four shops.
Although the couple now have five coffeeshops and four children at home,
they aren’t slowing down. “We thrive off it and don’t like to sit still,” Brooke said. “When we do, we think, ‘what’s next?’” Acknowledging that it gets easier with each shop they open, the couple attributes the success of Stories to surrounding themselves with people who complement their own skills. “We’re creative and we’re visionaries, but we fill holes with others who make us better as a business,” Brooke said. “Expanding is easier once you know who you are as a brand.”
Today, that brand is defined by the high-quality coffee and the high-quality people who enjoy Stories’ lively, friendly vibe. “We were surprised by how much energy a coffeeshop could generate,” Dan said. “Although we have the option for drive-thru and a quick transaction, we also provide a space for people to reconnect and build relationships. We want to be a second home where people can gather. And enjoy great coffee!”
To see a list of upcoming events or reserve space at any Stories location, visit storiescoffeecompany.com.
I recently considered this question within the context of estate planning and had an epiphany. It is at the core of this question that the motivation and objective of estate planning are revealed. By thinking about what makes your life meaningful, you begin to determine the direction in which your estate plan is headed. With that direction in mind, we can begin to lay a clear roadmap to your goals.
With a tailored estate plan, you get to decide what happens to the things that are most important to you such as yourself, spouse, children, pets, assets, and charities. As you begin to think about what makes your life meaningful, you may find it easiest to begin your journey by considering these three prevalent estate planning road markers:
1. You. In the realm of self-care, think about what would make you feel most comfortable and secure in a time of tragedy. Basic documents, including powers of attorney for health and finance, along with a Last Will and Testament, can help confidently place individuals in the right roles to care for you when you most need it.
2. Your Loved Ones. Whether those near and dear to you are younger,
older, or covered in fur, there are different estate planning tools that can provide for longevity of assets and protections to ensure for their care from your estate if you aren’t here to provide it directly. Additionally, it is important to talk about who would help care for your child(ren) and/or pets if you are gone.
3. Organizations You Believe In. If charities are something near and dear to your heart, you can reduce your taxable estate by using qualified assets to benefit charitable organizations. Because these entities are tax exempt, a gift to them reduces the amount of taxes assessed against your estate. Additionally, if you hold life insurance assets, make sure they are payable to a named beneficiary or a trust. By doing so, the insurance policy payout will maintain tax exempt status.
Having given considerable thought to what makes your life meaningful, you are well on your way to creating an estate plan you and your loved ones can trust. Don’t hesitate to put those thoughts in writing. Contact Hightower Reff Law to get started on your estate planning roadmap today.
Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA
Jenny Hemmer was always interested in health care. “For a while, I wanted to be a doctor,” she said. “I’m an empathetic personality. I like to help people.” That caring heart led her to fulfilling work as a nurse in Omaha for over ten years. But overnight shifts and unpredictable schedules grew hectic, and family life called for a career change.
In 2016, she found a perfect fit as a Nurse Care Manager at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE). Hemmer uses her nursing experience to lead the Pregnancy Care program, which guides and supports BCBSNE members through pregnancy and into motherhood, at no extra cost.
“Pregnancy is often a person’s first in-depth encounter with the health care system,” Hemmer explained. “Many times, a woman has only known check-ups or occasional visits.” She helps members navigate unfamiliar tasks, like understanding new prescriptions, finding in-network providers, or ordering medical
Jenny Hemmerequipment like breast pumps.
The program runs through Wellframe, a confidential, mobile-based application. Through the app, members can set reminders for medications and appointments, and find peer-reviewed content tailored to their stage in pregnancy. Most importantly, they can connect with Hemmer via chat or phone for one-on-one consultation and support.
“I follow a member through her pregnancy and help her get the most from her benefits,” Hemmer explained. That includes complex pregnancies: gestational diabetes, twins or triplets, and postpartum depression are just some of the situations the program supports. “Our goal is to help every mom to a full-term, healthy delivery and confident transition into motherhood,” she added.
When asked about the most common challenge for maintain-
ing a healthy pregnancy, Hemmer didn’t hesitate: “Stress levels. We have regular check-ins to monitor members’ levels of anxiety and depression, and I get alerted about higher scores. Since COVID, those numbers have been higher across the board.”
“I’m very glad I can be there to support members in their ups and downs in life,” Hemmer shared. “When I worked in the hospital, I only had a short window of time to be there with patients. Now, I’m able to make sure our members have that continued support. I’m able to be more available to them, and that’s very fulfilling.” To learn more about the Pregnancy Care program, visit NebraskaBlue.com/Member-Services.
Wellframe is an independent company that provides mobile-enabled care management services to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska. Wellframe is responsible for its services.
Mental wellbeing can be impacted by many factors, including one’s environment. A well-organized and visually attractive home can evoke feelings of peace and comfortability, while a cluttered home lacking structure can be stress-inducing. Fortunately for Omaha homeowners, Allison Helligso, owner of NEAT Method Omaha, implements thoughtful design and skilled attention to detail to deliver home organizing services that help clients maintain functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.
A lifelong believer in the positive impacts of organization and cleanliness, Helligso’s entrepreneurial journey first began in 2010 when she launched Pink Shoe Cleaning Crew. She used her background in training and development to exponentially grow the brand before selling the home cleaning company in 2017. Because Helligso enjoyed the hard work, transformation, and relationship building that came with working in the home industry, she knew she wanted to further explore the realm of home organizing.
Helligso decided to pursue her dream of owning a home organizing business and opened NEAT Method Omaha in
October 2021. “I had been following NEAT Method on social media for several years, and I loved that the brand had a sharp, luxurious, yet still accessible look to its organizational systems,” Helligso said. “It was exactly what I wanted to offer. I have the support of corporate and the brand behind me, as well as the company’s product line. I also love having a network of other owners to learn from. It’s the perfect fit for me.”
The business’ primary service is creating function and flow through an organizational process. Any room or space can be organized, including kitchens, pantries, garages, playrooms,
Story by GABBY HELLBUSCH Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY
closets, mudrooms, laundry rooms, or just a single drawer that needs help. The client experience begins with a consultation to gather details regarding the family’s goals and needs. Next, Helligso takes precise measurements and sources customized products needed for each particular space. Perhaps the most convenient part is that the NEAT Method Omaha team can complete a project from start to finish in just one day.
NEAT Method Omaha can also help with moving and work with interior designers and builders to coordinate plans so that each space is optimal for organization. “Additionally, we can help pack for a move and coordinate the movers and help with pre-move editing and purging,” Helligso said. “We can also unpack and organize the new space so it is organized and smart from the very start.”
Helligso said individuals can become overwhelmed with the task of organizing a space. “People sometimes feel a heaviness when they walk into an unorganized home,” Helligso said. “Having a more organized home or space is so freeing and can bring so much joy. I want everyone to be able to experience this kind of peace.”
While professional home organizing has evolved and gained more interest over the past few years, there are still some individuals who are unfamiliar with the concept. It is Helligso’s goal to bring more attention to her brand and the industry as a whole.
Having worked in personal environments for 12 years, Helligso possesses an expertise that is both genuine and heartfelt. Her passion for the home industry and her clients
Estate planning is more than just assets. And it is more than just passing wealth. Estate planning is about family and making sure you and everything meaningful to you are taken care of. With a comprehensive estate plan, your family will have the chance to be there for you and focus on what you want, rather than worrying about the legalities of how to take care of you and your affairs. Call or text us to get started on your estate planning roadmap today.
See our article in the “OUR families” section of this issue to learn more.
produces an elevated end-result. “Organizing is fun because it’s a marriage of design, logic, and function,” Helligso said. “I thrive on that challenge. I love seeing a client’s reaction to their new and improved space. I watch as a weight is lifted from their shoulders.”
Helligso often receives positive feedback months after a project’s completion. Some clients express how much time and money they’ve saved since enlisting the help of NEAT Method Omaha, while others inquire about
future projects—which Helligso said makes her work even more rewarding.
Some homeowners worry about preserving organized spaces, but Helligso is quick to reassure clients. “We create this plug and play system where you know exactly where to put everything because each item has a place,” she said. “You can’t mess it up and it becomes easy to maintain.”
As the brand continues to grow in Omaha, Helligso looks forward to building relationships with more local
designers and builders so that both parties can work together to fulfill their clients’ needs. Helligso also hopes to plan an event in which guests can gain organizational tips while browsing product. “Ultimately, my biggest goal will always be for our clients to love their spaces and feel comfortable where they live,” Helligso said. “Hiring a professional organizer is an investment in yourself, your mental health, your peace, and your clarity—it’s an investment that pays off.”
Have you ever been in a car accident or a light fender bender? One in 63 Americans are in the same boat. Did you know whiplash, neck, and back pain are a few of the most common injuries following said accidents? What most people don’t realize is whiplash can occur at speeds as low as five to ten miles per hour. Whiplash can occur anytime there is rapid change in momentum causing the neck to “whip” or snap rapidly front to back or side to side. This whipping motion can cause injury to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in and around the neck.
In the moment, you may not notice any pain or discomfort due to adrenaline. You may assume you’re unharmed, but as that adrenaline wears off, it’s
common to experience symptoms such as headaches, muscle stiffness, decreased range of motion, radiating or shooting sensations, and muscle weakness. These symptoms may appear immediately but often may not become apparent until days to weeks after the accident.
At Kucera Chiropractic, we conduct a thorough physical examination to help answer the questions you have as you work to get back to your day-to-day life. During your exam, we will explain what’s wrong or what your injury is, how we can help get you back to doing the things you want and need, and how long it may take.
Research continues to pour out in support of non-invasive rehabilitative
techniques to control pain, improve range of motion, and return patients back to a pre-injury state. One study noted early intervention demonstrated more positive outcomes when compared to immobilization with a neck collar. Other studies noted manipulation and acupuncture saw increased effectiveness and improved quality of life with decreased likelihood of chronic pain.
Let us help you get back to spending time doing the things you want without the distraction of pain and discomfort. Know someone you think we can help? Scheduling is easy. Appointments can be made over the phone (531) 721-2050 or via our website at www.kucerachiropractic.com.
At a young age, Ainsley Van Deun dreamed of being a hip hop dancer. Now a Millard West sophomore, Van Deun has since trained and performed in many more styles of dance such as tap, contemporary, ballet, lyrical, and her favorite, jazz. She began her dance career in Olney, MD, but moved to Omaha, NE, four years ago and hasn’t missed a beat.
Edge: What drew you to dance?
Van Deun: I watched a competition team practice when I was about five years old, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do.
At my previous studio in Maryland, I auditioned for the competition team my second year and made the team. I’ve been dancing in Omaha at The Dance Authority since 2018, and it’s my favorite place to be. So, it’s safe to say it feels like a second home. I love all my teammates and teachers. We are like family. The girls I dance with are some of the closest friends I’ve ever had.
Edge: Has anyone influenced your dance career?
Van Deun: My first teacher, Ms. Allison Bawek, and all the teachers I had at The Studio of Ballet Arts in Olney, saw something in me at age four. They encouraged me to try new things and have fun. However, my current mentor at The Dance Authority is my studio director and owner, Darci Bray. She has cultivated my love for all types of dances. She is always pushing me to be better at dance and to be a good person. She treats me with respect and often has
NOSBISCH
to show me some tough love when I am not doing things right. She is always looking out for the best interests of the team and me.
Edge: What challenges have you encountered while performing?
Van Deun: It’s always difficult to be a dancer. Because it is such a physical sport, we constantly deal with injury, sore muscles, and juggling dance with other obligations like school and part-time jobs. Dance keeps me on my toes! I’ve gotten really good at time management.
Edge: Do you plan to continue dancing as you grow older?
Van Deun: My short-term goal is to make the Penn State Li onettes Dance team. Dancing in college is a big dream of mine because I love the sport so much. However, bodies age and priorities change, so I have a long-term goal of going into the medical field.
Edge: What are you most proud of regarding your dance expe riences?
Van Deun: One of my favorite moments was last year at Nexstar Nationals in Round Rock, TX. My small group dance called Leave Your Hat On beat every other dance in the senior age category, and we won a national cup and first place. The feeling of achieving something so big with my best friends is a feeling that cannot be topped.
Football is a Ballard family tradition. Cole Ballard, a senior at Elkhorn South High School (ESHS), is following in the footsteps of his older brothers, Connor and Caden, by becoming a three-sport athlete (football, basketball, and track) as well as captain of his football team. What makes Ballard’s story unique is that both of his older brothers fought and survived leukemia (Connor at age five, Caden at age two). “We have a very unique bond,” he said. “I’m so proud of what they have accomplished, and even though they battled and defeated cancer, they still accomplished so much. Connor helped lead his team to Elkhorn South’s first State Championship in 2015 and Caden was part of the Championship team in 2016. Caden also played a big role in quickly making us competitive in Class A. The legacy I want to leave at Elkhorn South is really just to live up to the standard that my brothers set for me on the football field.”
Ballard’s coaches all agree that he puts his team first. Elkhorn South boys track coach Tim Ebers believes Ballard is a natural leader. “Cole is disciplined, steady, and has a toughness about him. He easily earns the respect of his teammates because of his work ethic and how he carries himself. Cole is extremely coachable and is eager to do what is best for the team.” Elkhorn South varsity basketball coach JJ Zumbrennen added, “Cole has been a crucial piece of the ESHS basketball program for the last four years because of the toughness and attitude he brings on a daily basis. He is one of the most selfless and confident leaders I have been around.”
Playing three sports has had its own challenges. “It isn’t easy, especially in terms of time management and balancing school with sports,” Ballard said. Despite the struggle, he’s kept a 4.1
GPA and is currently being recruited to play college football. “I’m very fortunate to have some really good scholarship opportunities, and I hope to play football in college. Along with football, I am hoping to pursue a career in medicine.”
Elkhorn South varsity football coach Guy Rosenberg said Ballard has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches. “Cole was voted Offensive MVP by
his teammates as a sophomore and as a junior and he’s having an outstanding senior year so far. But Cole is about more than just stats; he’s about doing whatever it takes to help the team win.”
Ballard’s philosophy and approach to athletics is simple: “My motivation comes from a competitive edge that I developed when I was young,” he said. “I just love to compete and win.”
Millard West High School sophomores and twin sisters Norah and Neleigh Gessert are such skilled basketball players they received a Division I offer before ever playing a high school game. Neleigh believes being twins makes them more effective players. “Having a twin to play with is definitely unique. There is an instant connection. We motivate each other and we’re always competing. I always know where she is on the court.” Norah agreed, “I love playing with my sister.”
Marc Kruger, Millard West varsity girls basketball coach, has known the sisters since they attended Millard West’s summer camps. “They played in our Lady Cat program each year, and it’s been exciting watching them grow and get better. They love to play and compete, they are hum-
ble, and they push and motivate each other.” Neleigh said, “The best part of being on the team is getting to make new friends and getting to do the thing I love most with them.”
Norah is proud of their Everything to Gain (ETG) Elite Midwest 2024 travel team. “Even though the other players were a grade older than us, it felt like we connected right away,” she said. Last summer, the team was invited to participate in the 3 Stripe Select Basketball circuit on the Amateur Athletic Union tour, sponsored by Adidas. Norah was excited to go to four different beaches in California, but the best part was their team made it to the championship.
“They are both valued members of the team,” said ETG coach Ann Prince.
“Norah has great length, three-point shooting ability, and is also a great passer. Neleigh is a versatile player who can play many positions with the ability to score inside and out. They both played up a grade level with us but you would never know that as they are physically mature and have a very good understanding of the game of basketball.”
Both Gessert twins play volleyball as well as basketball for Millard West. They were invited to take part in the Athletic Leadership Academy and mentor other youth and athletes. Neleigh and Norah also work part-time at a local retirement home. They hope to play collegiate basketball in the future, but for now their goal is to continue to take their teams to the next level.
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