Ruhlman’s Steakhouse takes local to a new level
Agemark’s lasting impact on community
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LETTER from the EDITOR
The season
of giving, gratitude, and gathering with loved ones has
arrived, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Whether it’s enjoying a holiday dinner out, catching a live performance, or shopping local for a heartfelt gift, this issue highlights the spirit of the holidays.
If you want a weekend winter getaway, The Elms Hotel & Spa in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, just outside Kansas City offers a historic destination with modern luxury. The newly remodeled property provides ample relaxation, upscale comfort food, and its own ghosts of Christmas past.
The holiday season isn’t complete without dining out, and Ruhlman’s Steakhouse in Ashland, Nebraska, serves an extensive menu from its scratch kitchen. Led by co-owners Phil Ruhlman and John Benton, the team prides itself on quality food at an affordable price. After dinner, keep the festivities going with a holiday cocktail at West End, such as the Cloud 9 martini complete with citrus bubbles.
If you missed the Metro Omaha Builders Association 2024 Street of Dreams, we have an inside look at one of its featured homes. This mountain getaway
inspired design—a collaboration between Pohlad Custom Homes, Inc. and Interiors Joan and Associates—serves as a modern example of rustic luxury.
Our Community feature shines a light on Agemark, which exemplifies compassion not only for residents of its senior living communities across the state but also for everyone in the surrounding areas it serves, with a special emphasis on education and support for Alzheimer’s disease.
Check out the incredible young adults in the Youth and Varsity Corner sections, as well as the Passion Spotlight feature from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, which highlights its incredible commitment to community through its initiatives throughout the year.
Wishing everyone a safe holiday season and a Happy New Year!
Kathy Rygg Executive Editor
Edge staff at the 11th Anniversary event. Back row: Kathy Rygg, Lane Hickenbottom, Brianna Peitz, Anna Hartman, Shelly Nosbisch.
Front row: Carole Sprunk, Kasie Wilcox
Cover photo courtesy of THE ELMS HOTEL & SPA
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1. As reported by the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey for youth in grades 9-12.
DECEMBER
PUBLISHER AND OWNER
Carole Sprunk (402) 587-2259 // Carole@EdgeMagazine.com
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Kathy Rygg (402) 490-3213 // Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com
PARTNER / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Brianna Peitz (402) 699-6384 // Brianna@EdgeMagazine.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER / ACCOUNT COORDINATOR
Kasie Wilcox (402) 957-8780 // Kasie@EdgeMagazine.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Hartman, Shelly Nosbisch, Mike Watkins and Andy Williams
DESIGNERS
Quentin Lueninghoener Quentin@HanscomPark.com
Ben Vankat Ben@HanscomPark.com
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CONTACT US P: (402) 587-2259
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Edge Magazine, PO Box 620, Elkhorn, NE 68022
MOUNTAIN GETAWAY
in the city
tucked away in the growing neighborhood of Sanctuary Ridge in Elkhorn, Nebraska, is a modern mountain retreat designed and built by brothers Richie and Jay Pohlad, owners of Pohlad Custom Homes, Inc. Among its many amenities and features are a natural stone interior and exterior mixed with wood brackets and large, picturesque windows that welcome ample sunlight even on the dreariest days.
But even with all its rustic charm, what truly makes this property, which was among featured homes on the fall 2024 Metro Omaha Builders Association Street of Dreams tour, is the seamless marriage that’s been creating beautiful homes in greater Omaha for more than two decades.
Kris Patton, owner of Interiors Joan and Associates, has worked in concert with the Pohlads for more than 20 years on a host of homes—a relationship built on trust and comfort that creates useful beauty and customization that spans time and trends. Because of their familiarity and strong working relationship, Patton said her process for choosing
POHLAD CUSTOM HOMES
STORY BY MIKE WATKINS
PHOTOS BY AMOURA PRODUCTIONS
TWO-STORY GREAT ROOM
LUXURIOUS GUEST BATH
finishes, colors, textures, and other design elements is on point with limited discussion and tremendous confidence.
“Before every project with Richie and Jay, I start with a vision after meeting with them,” said Patton, a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), a third generation designer and the granddaughter of Interiors Joan founder Joan Sorensen. “We’ve worked together with Richie and Jay on so many properties that we know each other’s tastes very well. It’s easy and natural.”
Patton explaned that with this house, she started with the words “modern mountain,” and during their discussion, she and her team mapped out all the appropriate finishes, colors, and textures that complemented the design. “Part of what makes the Street of Dreams special and exciting is watching our team of talented designers collaborate to put finishing touches on the home,” she said.
“We have such an amazing team. It is so fun watching them in their element.”
While the home’s exterior is stately, the interior is vast in an open-concept layout. A new build, the home boasts a stately staircase and two-story great room. The adjoining kitchen has floorto-ceiling soft-close cabinetry with highgrade commercial appliances, a 9-foot center island and large walk-in pantry.
The ensuite features heated tile floors, rain head shower, and custom-designed walk-in closet with laundry area. On the second floor, there is a loft/lounge area, three bedrooms with two bathrooms and a spacious laundry room. The lower level is perfect for entertaining with a tiled wet bar highlighted by an expansive picture window surrounding a large family room, bedroom, bath, and exercise/hobby room.
Other features that make this property special include:
• Wood flooring throughout the main living floor
• Ceramic tile floors and quality countertops in all five bathrooms
• High-efficiency Lennox furnaces
• Custom-paneled walls with heated tiled floors and a fully tiled walk-in shower and free-standing bathtub adjoining the primary bedroom
• Main floor executive office with custom barn doors
• Unique staircase with wrought iron balusters and custom-wood newel posts
• Covered front porch with flagstone and maintenance-free covered composite deck
• Heated and insulated 4-car garage with carriage style doors and electrical car charging port
• Professionally designed landscaping with sodded yard, sprinkler system and lighting
STUNNING LIGHT FIXTURES
STRIKING PRIMARY BEDROOM
FUNCTIONAL SPACES
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
SOPHISTICATED LOWER LEVEL FOR ENTERTAINING
• Pella windows, Heritage shingles, cement siding, and cedar timber accents
“We used so many natural materials to make this house unique and special,” said Patton, who is National Council for Interior Design Qualification certified, has been involved in ASID Designer Showhouse and Omaha Street of Dreams, and has won an ASID national design award for her work. “Adding texture to walls, floors, counters, etc., gives it a very warm, welcoming feel. Color and texture have interested me from a very young age, and I have always enjoyed working with people and tackling challenges.”
Although this house wasn’t built or designed for a specific client as Pohlad Custom Homes, Inc. has done many times in the last 30 years, Richie Pohlad said he and his brother had a specific “kind of buyer” in mind with this home while still striving to appeal to a variety of people. The Pohlads designed and built this house with the intention that the curb appeal would be strong enough to invite people in to see the amazing interiors—exposed beams, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, beautiful floors, and high-end finishes.
“Our pre-construction vision for this house was a reflection of or complement to the amazing landscaping and design of the neighborhood by Lanoha Developers,” said Richie Pohlad, who is a framing carpenter by trade which works seamlessly with his brother’s expertise in finish carpentry. “We knew what we wanted to build, and once we were done, we were honored to be part of this year’s Street of Dreams. We knew once people saw the inside of the house, someone would fall in love with it and want it for their future home.”
Pohlad said maintaining these close working relationships with previous clients is a lifeblood of their business and a true measure of pride for their work and reputation. “Many of our homes are commissioned by people we’ve designed and built for before, and it feels good to know they appreciate and love the work we’ve done for them, whether it is a new house or a second home,” he said. “We provide a very ‘hands-on’ experience with our clients and bring innovation, foresight, integrity, and professionalism to every home or project we do.”
The Elms Hotels & Spa remains rich in history with modern amenities
the Midwest is full of destinations within easy driving distance. Excelsior Springs, Missouri, is a small town of 11,000 people just 30 minutes northeast of Kansas City that has historical significance dating back to the late 1800s. Part of that history includes The Elms Hotel & Spa—a destination made famous by celebrity guests, luxury accommodations, and a few spectral residents that provide endless stories for hotel staff and guests to share and entertain.
Story by KATHY RYGG
Photos courtesy of THE ELMS HOTEL & SPA
The Boulevard Fountain at The Elms Hotel & Spa
DISTINGUISHED
dedication
Cozy sitting area in The Elms lobby
Royal Presidential Suite sitting area
The Elms lobby at Christmas time
Excelsior Springs earned its claim to fame at the end of the 19th century with the discovery of the country’s only spring that produced ferro-manganese mineral water, which was believed to have healing properties. Accounts of miraculous recoveries from illness spread via word of mouth, and soon people from around the world visited the small area. Houses quickly went up, and in 1888 The Elms Hotel—built from wood—served as an exclusive place to stay.
Less than a year later, The Elms burned down in a fire. It was rebuilt and opened in 1909 only to burn down again in 1910. This time, the hotel was constructed from limestone and reopened in 1912. For the next decade, the hotel prospered as a healing destination with its mineral spring baths, lavish parties, and dignitary guests. “The hotel has been a true survivor against all odds,” said Kara Harrington, Director of Sales, Marketing, and Events for The Elms. “Each time, the hotel rose from the ashes—literally—and was rebuilt into an even grander place.”
During prohibition, Al Capone ran a speakeasy out of the hotel basement. In 1948 the New York Giants football team turned a portion of The Elms property into its summer training camp. That same year, during the presidential election, Harry Truman spent election night at The Elms to avoid the chaos at his campaign headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, and awoke the following morning to the news that he had been elected President.
Over the years the hotel changed ownership numerous times, underwent renovations, including adding the 28,000 square foot spa and indoor lap pool surrounded by a track. After it was purchased by Hyatt in 2019, The Elms underwent its most recent renovation completed in 2022, updating all 153 guest rooms, the spa, outdoor pool, restaurants, and patio areas. The new décor blends seamlessly with the hotel’s original elements, such as the marble staircase and tilework in the lobby. “I love this hotel for its unique character and sense of nostalgia,” Harrington said. “It’s as if the walls themselves are whispering stories of the countless guests who have passed through.”
Today, guests can enjoy modern amenities amid the hotel’s historic
Outdoor stone fire pit
Warm winter lounge area
Outdoor dining at Three Owls restaurant
Pool deck fire pit
“They truly gave my mother moments of joy.” Kathy,
Daughter of CountryHouse resident
Moving her mom into assisted living was incredibly difficult for Kathy. So when she realized her mom needed even more advanced dementia care, she looked to CountryHouse for support. Not only did the team answer Kathy’s questions and help arrange a speedy move, but they took the time to really get to know her mom’s stories and interests.
“Kindness and respect are two words that come to my mind when I think of the caregivers at CountryHouse.”
Discover care exclusively designed for those with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.
Schedule a tour of one of our Omaha Metro CountryHouse communities!
aesthetics. There are six different types of suites, and the 5th floor concierge serves complimentary daily happy hour to guests staying on that floor. All rooms come with elevated amenities such as a Keurig coffeemaker, use of in-room luxury robes, on-site wellness classes, premium internet access, and free on-site parking as well as EV charging stations, to name a few.
Even though the once sought-after mineral baths are no longer available, the spa at The Elms offers an extensive list of rejuvenating services, including massages, facials, body treatments, manicures and pedicures, and treatments for couples. Every spa service includes access to the private indoor grotto, sauna, and steam room, and is popular for those staying at the hotel for a special occasion.
Whether it’s a wedding, girls’ weekend, family reunion, or corporate conference, The Elms boasts 11,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The outdoor gazebo amid the hotel’s 16-acre grounds is a romantic wedding venue that seats up to 300 guests. Two different ballrooms serve as elegant locations for receptions and meeting space for large groups. The hotel offers packages and discounts from 10 rooms up to 100 rooms or more (there are 153 rooms total).
There are three dining options available at the hotel. Café Soterian provides coffee, morning pastries, and wine in the afternoon. The Tavern features craft cocktails and light bites in a history-rich lounge atmosphere, accompanied by live music nightly. Three Owls serves rustic Midwestern fare in its upscale but comfortable dining room, led by Executive Chef Christian Arriaga. The menu changes seasonally and currently includes dishes such as Roasted Pumpkin Hummus served with toasted baguette, Butternut Squash Gnocchi topped with caramelized onions, baby spinach, and pumpkin seeds, and Beef Short Ribs with a ginger demi-glace. Beef is a staple on the menu, and seafood such as salmon is flown in fresh daily.
Excelsior Springs is unique in that it is offers small-town charm—complete with a main street lined with boutique shops, the Hall of Water Museum, and eateries—quaint wineries, and an 18hole golf course. Kansas City is just a 30-minute drive if you want to venture
Spa couples treatment room
Spa grotto
Outdoor pool
Indoor lap pool
“I love this hotel for its unique character and sense of nostalgia.”
—Kara Harrington, Director of Sales
to the city before retiring to the hotel for an evening by the outdoor fire pit or a dip in either the indoor or outdoor hot tubs.
It seems only natural that a hotel as historic as The Elms would be accompanied by a few resident ghosts. Staff and guests have reported so many paranormal occurrences over the years, the hotel offers a nightly tour to share the stories. Reports include finding furniture upside down in guest rooms, ghostly apparitions, missing clothing items, and voices heard in empty rooms. The lap pool seems to be a ghostly hot spot with reports of children laughing, wet footprints that disappear into a wall, and the figure of a man who was thought to be killed in Capone’s speakeasy over a gambling debt. The SyFy Channel’s “Ghost Hunters” even recorded an episode at the hotel in 2013.
Harrington has had her own odd experiences. Four years ago, she walked into the hotel, which was vacant due to the pandemic. Immediately she heard music blaring and followed the sound to the ballroom where it was the loudest. All lights were off and when she checked the sound system, it was also powered off, as was the main sound system for the rest of the hotel. The music played for an hour until it abruptly stopped. She never saw anyone else in the hotel while she was there that day.
Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast, looking for a relaxing weekend away, or want to host an event, The Elms Hotel can provide a stay rich in history combined with modern elegance. “We are historic and haunted but also a haven for rest and relaxation,” Harrington said. “This hotel is the ideal destination for creating memorable experiences.” For more information, visit elmshotelandspa.com.
Three Owls dining room
Three Owls bar
The Tavern winter craft cocktails
Ruhlman’s Steakhouse
RUHLMAN’S STEAKHOUSE
603 US-6, Ashland (402) 780-8887
ruhlmansteakhouse.com
Chef and co-owner John Benton and co-owner Phil Ruhlman
Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by YUM OMAHA
s a theater major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Phil Ruhlman made ends meet by bartending at Lincoln steakhouse Misty’s Restaurant & Lounge. That experience, coupled with a desire to “direct something” planted a seed that lay dormant for over 30 years while Ruhlman navigated a successful career at Gallup and raised a family. The charismatic leader never abandoned his dream, and with the help of his family and local business savant Willy Theisen, the curtain on his second act rose when Ruhlman’s Steakhouse opened earlier this year in Ashland, Nebraska.
Ruhlman was introduced to executive chef and co-owner John Benton by Brian O’Malley, Dean of the Metropolitan Community College Institute for the Culinary Arts, and he’s grateful the meeting proved fruitful. After graduating school in 2008, Benton gained experience in local Lincoln restaurants, then headed east where he completed an advanced study program at the famed Johnson & Wales culinary school.
The co-owners share a mutual respect and admiration—Benton is grateful to be an integral part of the team at Ruhlman’s, noting how refreshing it is as a chef to have a partner with managerial experience who’s wired to think in a specific way. Ruhlman added, “John has a gift for food, it’s amazing how many people say, ‘this is the best dish I’ve had’.”
In addition to an expansive dining room and patio, a private dining room— walls lined with photographs and stories of both Ruhlman and Benton’s families— seats 12 at a table named after Ruhlman’s brother Matt.
Benton is proud of his high-energy talented team, which includes sous chefs Sergio Segovia and Cynthia Lopez. Save the fries and onion rings, every item comes from the shiny, open scratch kitchen. From protein fabrication to stock to pasta and focaccia bread, the kitchen team takes care and pride in crafting the best possible dishes.
From the wood-fired grill come starters
TRUFFLE DRY-AGED BONE-IN RIBEYE
CHINESE SHRIMP TOAST
RUHLMAN’S BACON BOURBON OLD
FRIED WALLEYE
20 LAYER WOOD ROASTED SHORT RIB LASAGNA
DRY-AGED BEEF
CURED MEAT
WOOD ROASTED CALABRIAN MEATBALLS
that introduce diners to unique flavor combinations such as grilled oysters with house-made sausage and Chinese shrimp toast with mustard oil and black vinegar. Soup selections include the French onion soup crafted with six types of alliums, Comte’ cheese, house made stock, and a balanced, flavorful blend of port, sherry, and Madeira.
More than 800 Mortadella meatballs are hand-crafted in the kitchen each week, served with a spicy arrabbiata sauce and showered with Grana Padano, an Italian crumbly aged cheese similar to parmesan. For those with heartier appetites, a 20-layer wood-fired lasagna alternates al dente pasta sheets with truffle bechamel, short rib-oxtail arrabbiata sauce, and sunflower pesto.
All steaks are wet aged and hung for 14 days but the dry-aged beef and cured meats have proven so popular the establishment is planning to soon expand its Stagionello cabinet capacity. One benefit of the cabinet is the ability to infuse flavors during the aging process, evident in the truffle-aged, bone-in ribeye, served with crispy stuffed potatoes and mushrooms.
According to manager Joseph Potter, the cocktail and wine lists are designed to be “approachable with funky twists.” A bespoke Sideshow bourbon provides the base for the creative bacon bourbon old fashioned, and guests have been intrigued with the parmesan martini, an uma-
WOOD ROASTED OYSTERS
FRENCH ONION SOUP
RUHLMAN’S STEAKHOUSE IN ASHLAND, NEBRASKA
WOOD FIRED TOFFEE COOKIE WITH CINNAMON ICE CREAM
mi-forward cocktail garnished with a cherry tomato. Ruhlman’s also offers a custom Rutherford chardonnay and red blend. In a thoughtful local touch, the wine bottle labels (designed by Phil Ruhlman’s daughter Olivia) display a roadmap of the city of Ashland.
Though inspired by great metropolitan steakhouses such as Smith & Wollensky, Ruhlman knew he wanted to offer quality food at an affordable price point for both locals and those travelling from nearby municipalities. Buying whole cattle from Connealy Angus Ranch keeps costs down—the restaurant currently orders eight head per week, and the extra ground beef is sold at local Hy-Vee stores under the Ruhlman brand.
According to Ruhlman, Benton has developed deep relationships around food over the years, which makes purveyor partnerships vital. In addition to the tight-knit relationship with Black Angus producers Connealy, the team sources Berkshire pork from Albert’s Heritage Pork and edible flowers and microgreens from Milford Old Depot Farm. Even the dining room tables are local, crafted by downtown Omaha’s General Manufacture.
In addition to recycling, little is wasted in the scratch kitchen. Namely, parmesan rinds are steeped in vodka for the parmesan martini, brunch bacon is used in the fat-washed bourbon, and the vegetable oil is turned into bio diesel. Benton also added, “The best way to be sustainable is to spend dollars locally.”
Benton sums up the early success of the steakhouse to a simple phrase, “Surround yourself with great people and products and success will follow.”
Champion of Health and Well-being
For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has proudly served its members and communities across the state. In 2024, the company upheld its longstanding traditions while launching new initiatives that support its commitment to giving back for years to come.
Throughout the year, BCBSNE fulfilled its mission of championing the health and well-being of both its members and the communities it serves by:
LAUNCHING THE NEBRASKA BLUE FOUNDATION
In April, BCBSNE launched the Nebraska Blue Foundation, enabling the company to make impactful and focused
investments in promising programs and community initiatives statewide. Since its launch, the foundation has:
• Donated $75,000 to the Community Wellness Collaborative
• Contributed $200,000 to the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Building
• Donated $10,000 to five Nebraska nonprofits
CONTINUING TIME-HONORED TRADITIONS
For more than 40 years, BCBSNE employees have led an annual fundraising campaign for United Way of the Midlands, exemplifying the company’s long-standing tradition
Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photos courtesy of BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA
BCBSNE employees packaged 1,500 hygiene kits for OneWorld Community Health Centers
of giving and community engagement. This year’s campaign included a variety of fundraising and volunteer efforts, such as packing 1,500 hygiene kits, with all proceeds and materials benefiting local nonprofits.
SUPPORTING THE HEALTH OF NEBRASKA
BCBSNE’s 2024 Health of Nebraska sponsorship continued to support 12 Combined Health Agencies Drive (CHAD) member agencies across the state. Through this sponsorship, nonprofits are empowered to support individuals facing a wide range of health challenges while expanding access to care throughout Nebraska.
WORKING TOGETHER TO UPLIFT NEBRASKANS
In partnership with YMCAs across the state, BCBSNE hosted two key events in 2024:
• National Walk at Lunch (NW@L) Day: In April, BCBSNE donated $5,000 to Special Olympics Nebraska when nearly 15,800 people took the pledge to walk at least 30 minutes on NW@L Day. Additionally, Brady Public Schools received a $1,000 physical education grant for its participation in NW@L.
• Community flu shot clinics: In October, BCBSNE hosted 21 free flu shot clinics at YMCAs across Nebraska, open to everyone aged six
and older, regardless of insurance coverage.
SUPPORTING NEBRASKA’S SCHOOLS
BCBSNE’s commitment to education shines through initiatives supporting both students and teachers. In April, five Nebraska educators were recognized with the Outstanding Nebraska Teacher Award as part of the company’s Touchdown for Teachers campaign, in partnership with Husker Athletics. The campaign received 850 nominations statewide, highlighting teachers who go above and beyond for their students.
The company’s commitment to schools extends to physical education as well. Beatrice and Bryan Elementary Schools received new fitness equipment and curriculum through Project Fit America grants from BCBSNE. The grants funded indoor and outdoor fitness equipment, a dynamic curriculum and activities that promote fitness, social skills, and leadership.
Furthering its support of student well-being, BCBSNE recently launched the Healthy Home Team initiative, with the goal to award grants to all 309 Nebraska high schools over three years. This year, 100 schools each received a $500 grant, with one school awarded a $5,000 grant in November to further enhance its health and wellness efforts. Learn more about BCBSNE’s community engagement at NebraskaBlue.com/Community.
The Nebraska Blue Foundation awarded five Nebraska nonprofits a $10,000 donation
agemark’s senior living communities offer residents much more than world-class facilities, amenities, and dining. The 10 communities across Nebraska focus on providing meaningful volunteer opportunities and supporting causes that are near and dear to the hearts of Agemark families. “We do everything we can to help our residents live the life of purpose they always dreamed of,” said Agemark CEO Martin Hug. “Anybody in our communities who wants to help somebody else out has many opportunities to do that and live the life of purpose we all want.”
Alzheimer’s Walk 2024 participants
Story by ANDY WILLIAMS
Photos courtesy of AGEMARK
Communities of compassion
Christmas volunteers
Dementia educational event with Dr. Daniel Murman
Residents in Agemark communities across Nebraska—Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, Hastings, and Grand Island—connect to causes in their local cities and get involved with volunteer opportunities that include:
• Humane societies: socializing with animals, collecting and creating donation items, and cooking up homemade dog treats from scratch
• Making and delivering treats to local senior centers
• Trick-or-treat bags for Family Advocacy Network
• Visiting and volunteering at a local children’s museum for holiday events
• Making and collecting items for local homeless shelters
• Filling and donating back-to-school
backpacks for students in need
• Hosting holiday toy drives and donating to local families and shelters
• Mentoring elementary school students to foster multigenerational connections. “Residents get the opportunity to sit and talk with kids, read to them, work on projects together, and help them understand the life they’ve lived and the things they’ve seen transpire in the world,” said Hug, an Agemark leader for 38 years. “Everybody wants to be seen and heard, and this provides a great opportunity for that.”
In keeping with its pioneering innovation in memory care and its drive to see Alzheimer’s cured, Agemark directs much of its philanthropic efforts and
community giveback to dementia education and support. Believing strongly there is a lack of knowledge about dementia and more resources are needed to attack the Alzheimer’s epidemic, Agemark offers many free services for dementia caregivers and professionals: Educational Events: Agemark educates both seniors and their families and local professionals on various topics of interest, such as Dementia Communication, Caregiving During the Holidays, and more. The organization also hosts support groups, respite stays, and day stays for family caregivers.
Virtual Dementia Tours: Licensed with Second Wind Dreams, Agemark sponsors tours that give people an idea of what it’s like to live with dementia.
Volunteering for Kids Against Hunger
Reading in the classroom
Delivering backpacks to kids
Reading in the classroom
A recap conversation helps participants understand adjustments needed to better understand those they care for. “It’s a really powerful experience for those who work with people with dementia and loved ones of people with dementia,” said Agemark Vice President of Marketing and Communication Ashley Gloystein-Klatt.
Alzheimer’s Association: Agemark’s 10 communities sponsor local Alzheimer’s Walks and form teams to fundraise for the events. Agemark leaders also regularly participate in legislative forums in Washington, D.C., to advocate for Alzheimer-impacted residents and families. “One of the most dynamic opportunities we have is to care for our residents and families who are going through their worst times and bring them hope and moments of joy,” Hug said. “Working toward a cure for Alzheimer’s and helping residents and families going through it is a passion of ours. We can’t wait until the day another person doesn’t have to suffer the debilitating effects of that disease.”
Agemark expanded its corporate office last year, with 253 employees in Omaha and 489 statewide to care for just over 500 seniors in independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The Omaha corporate office supports local organizations that serve seniors, such as the Dreamweaver Foundation. Omaha employees adopt local seniors during the holidays through the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging and regularly volunteer at the local food bank. Additionally, Agemark has developed a unique Heart to Hand program to take care of employee special needs. Employees contribute to the fund through donations and fundraisers, and the program is used to help employees in times of trouble or hardship, such as during a health issue for an employee or family member, incidents where homes are damaged or destroyed, or unexpected events such as the death of a family member where financial support is needed.
All this giveback activity adds up to Agemark’s communities being places of connection and service. “We’re a relationship-centered company, and a big part of that is building relationships with our neighbors,” Hug said. “We’re not just taking from our communities; we’re focused on giving back and making an impact. We believe every person matters and wants to make a difference.”
Residents with animals at the shelter
ONMARCHING
Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH
Lexi Ruiz is a remarkable 8-year-old. When her dad, Gabriel Ruiz, began training for the 50 Mile March in 2023 to raise money for veterans facing mental health challenges and homelessness, Lexi started training with him. The training included walking five miles three times a week. When she asked if she could join him on the march, Gabriel approached the organizers to see if it was possible. Participating in the march meant walking for 22 hours—50 miles—from Lincoln, Nebraska, to Omaha, Nebraska. No one that young had ever asked to join the march.
• Photos courtesy of 50 MILE MARCH
50 Mile March participants and volunteers
Lexi Ruiz
Edge: Why did you decide to do this march?
Ruiz: My dad was doing it, and I didn’t want him to do it alone.
Edge: What did you do to prepare for the march?
Ruiz: I trained by walking—a lot.
Gabriel Ruiz: This past year we trained harder than we did in 2023. We did a lot of 10-mile rucks (training sessions), 12-mile rucks, and 15-mile rucks. For the qualifier, we started with calisthenics: two sets each of one minute of high knees, one minute of planking, and one minute of jumping jacks. Then we walked 15 miles with 25 pounds in the backpack.
Edge: What was it like on the day of the March? Were there other kids there?
Ruiz: Lining up, I was nervous. Any other kids were there to support their people who were doing it, usually their parents.
Edge: How long did you march?
Ruiz: Twenty-two hours. I had to stop because I was really tired. I couldn’t keep going.
Gabriel Ruiz: She had walked about 34 miles, it was 5:30 in the morning, and she’d been up for 22 hours. We had to push her to stop because she was not talking at all, which had me worried. The medic convinced her to take a break (after the 3rd attempt), with the ability to jump back in after the next stop. In years past, if you stopped, you were not able to resume. This year the feel-like temperature outside was 100 degrees. She instantly fell asleep in my lap.
Edge: What was the hardest part of the event?
Ruiz: Continuing to walk. I got a hot spot on my foot and it was killing me.
Edge: What was the most rewarding part?
Ruiz: Getting the patch at the end [for participating in the march].
Gabriel Ruiz: After we got the patch for the qualifier, her face lit up. That
Lexi with her father Gabriel Ruiz
reminded me that she’s a kid, so the little things like the coin are a big deal.
Ruiz: I also made a deal with one of the board members during the qualifier. If we raised enough money, I got to pie him in the face. That was the best. He kind of pied me back, though.
Edge: How did you help with the fundraising?
Ruiz: I did lemonade stands for donations. We had a little cup for donations or people donated directly with the QR code.
Edge: What was your goal for fundraising?
Ruiz: The minimum amount walkers were supposed to raise was $2,500 each. [My dad and I] really wanted to raise $10,000 and we went over that. [The march raised almost $600,000 in 2024].
Edge: What was it like at the end of the march?
Ruiz: Before the march, a guy asked me what I really wanted at the end of the march. I said ice cream, so I got that. I also got a cowbell from a lady who rings a cowbell to encourage us [during the march]. At the end, people were just
running over to give me things.
Gabriel Ruiz: There was a huge welcome home party with about 2,000 people at Nebraska Brewing Company honoring those who marched.
Edge: What advice would you give other kids who might want to participate in the march?
Ruiz: You can’t say you’re going to do it until you’ve trained at least six times, at least five miles each time.
Edge: What percentage of a chance is there that you’ll march again next year?
Ruiz: 99 percent.
Gabriel Ruiz: 99 percent? (laughs)
Lexi and her family
Ashley Bundy Ashley Hedden
Darcie Zauha
Kirsten Hilt
Nikaela Schroeder
DOMINATING THE LINKS
Annabelle Bang | Junior | Elkhorn High School
Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH
courtesy of ANNABELLE BANG
Elkhorn High School (EHS) junior Annabelle Bang fell in love with golf when her dad began taking her out to play every other weekend. “At first it was more for fun, but about five years ago I started playing in tournaments and worked on my swing. Golf started as a sport that my dad and I could play together, and now it has turned into a much bigger passion. I remember at one of my first tournaments at Ashland Golf Course I had holed out from 120 yards. That was one of the many moments where I realized that golf was my sport.”
Playing golf with EHS has been a great experience for Bang. “Many of these girls I have known since middle school, which makes the team environment more tight-knit. I really like that the team is so supportive of any golf level. My coaches, Mr. Meyer and Mrs. Struble, are two of the best coaches you can ever ask for. They both make the environment positive, and they are always there to help you get better no matter what.”
EHS girls golf coach Ben Meyer has high praise for Bang. “Annabelle has been one of the most diligent workers I’ve ever had as a player,” he said. “Ev-
erything she has overcome is a testament to that work ethic. Her mental fortitude is years beyond her peers as well. She never gets rattled, which is a great characteristic to have as a golf player. It is an honor to be able to coach a player like Annabelle.”
Making it to the state championship has been a challenge for Bang, who has had to overcome several injuries. “I had my first ACL reconstruction surgery in 2021,” she shared. “I had been participating in a soccer tournament when I felt my knee pop, and I realized I had really done something wrong. Then in 2022 my ACL graft had disintegrated within my body, and I needed a second ACL reconstruction surgery. It was a yearlong recovery, so I barely had any time to practice golf in the summer before the 2023 season. During that season, I kept getting better and better each round and ended up placing 10th at the Class B State golf tournament. Overcoming this never-ending injury has just shown me how strong I truly am, and I am so proud of myself for never giving up.” Bang is motivated by the belief that you can overcome anything. “Once I had my first surgery, I didn’t think I was going to be able to return to sports. The second surgery made me feel like I was
always going to be in pain, so sports wouldn’t even be an option. I always strive to be the best person I can be, and I don’t want surgeries to define me. After the surgeries, I made it my goal to prove that you can overcome anything if you believe in yourself.”
Mental toughness is the goal now. “My dad always tells me after a bad shot, ‘Don’t let it affect the next one.’ That little phrase has always stuck with me because it is always hard to bounce back after a bad shot or a bad hole. I make sure that I always have a clear mind. It is very hard to always be positive on the course, but over the years I have built up that toughness, and it has improved my game.”
When she’s not playing golf, Bang is also involved in Students Against Destructive Decisions at EHS. “We work on ways we can spread awareness throughout the school and help people who may be in a tough place.” She also enjoys downtime with friends. “My friends and I try to meet up once every month to catch up on each other’s lives. We have dinner or shop, and some nights we have a sleepover where we talk all night.” Bang plans to attend college as a student athlete, hopefully going into the medical field.
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