J U N E
M A G A Z I N E
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Elizabeth Pooley’s
sweet journey to
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LETTER from the EDITOR
Welcome
to the summer issue of Edge Magazine! Last month we celebrated my oldest son’s graduation from Elkhorn South High School, and I couldn’t be more excited for the opportunities that lie ahead as he begins his college career. The word “opportunity” is a common theme in this issue. Each featured entrepreneur shares their story of how they grabbed an opportunity and didn’t let go.
REACH US We want to hear from you. Ideas, suggestions, compliments and critiques, send them to us at Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com
Elizabeth Pooley with Square Donut graces our cover this issue. Despite the fact she doesn’t like early mornings or care for sweets, she brought the concept of the square donut to Omaha. After struggling through the pandemic, Pooley emerged on the other side with a successful business and a new appreciation for mornings, a cup of coffee, and even a sweet square treat. Summer is the perfect time to host a gathering with family and friends. Private Chef Seth Jonas with Conscious Kitchen can accommodate any size group—from an intimate dinner party to a corporate event for 100 or more. He also specializes in weekly meal preparation, including plant-based meals. He brings fresh, thoughtful cooking right to your home or office. Everyone loves a good cocktail, and the Jukes family in Elkhorn have married their craft of brewing with the art of cocktails. This issue our My Concoction section features the Beer Old Fashioned, which spotlights the Oil Stout Simple Syrup made in house at Jukes Ale Works. If you’ve driven around town and noticed someone’s front yard covered in plastic pink flamingoes, it was probably the work of Flock My Block, owned by 11-year-old Annah Vogelpohl. By day, Annah is a playwrite who penned a play that her school performed. By night, she flocks houses for hire to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. Her story is the perfect example of someone who embraces opportunity. Be sure to check out this issue’s other features, including family, finance, and trends. Enjoy all the opportunities waiting for you this summer! Kathy Rygg Executive Editor
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V O L U M E
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JUNE 2022
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M A G A Z I N E PUBLISHER AND OWNER Carole Sprunk
(402) 587-2259 // Carole@EdgeMagazine.com CO-OWNER Michael Meyer (402) 517-0350 // Michael@EdgeMagazine.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kathy Rygg (402) 490-3213 // Kathy@EdgeMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Gabby Hellbusch (402) 320-7080 // Gabby@EdgeMagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nicole Buntgen, Anna Hartman and Shelly Nosbisch DESIGNERS Quentin Lueninghoener (402) 517-1228 // Quentin@HanscomPark.com Ben Vankat Ben@HanscomPark.com PHOTO STAFF Christopher Tierney Photography (402) 350-5699 Omaha Headshot Company (402) 677-3096 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Nicole Buntgen (402) 367-2526 // Nicole@EdgeMagazine.com CONTACT US P: (402) 587-2259 Carole@EdgeMagazine.com PO Box 620 Elkhorn, NE 68022 Edge is published bi-monthly. Content copyright © 2022 Edge Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, without permission in writing from the publisher, Carole Sprunk. Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, Edge assumes no responsibility therefore. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Edge Magazine, PO Box 620, Elkhorn, NE 68022
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JUNE 2022
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CONTENTS COVER story
OUR food 18
8
MY concoction
OUR passion
BUSINESS spotlight
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34
56
OUR trends
OUR youth
40
58
28
OUR community
VARSITY corner
54
62
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COVER story
Elizabeth Pooley serves up her passion one square donut at a time
m
ost entrepreneurs realize at an early age they have a knack for business. This was certainly the case for Nebraska native and owner of Square Donut, Elizabeth Pooley. At age 11 she started a business, breeding hamsters to sell to local pet stores so she could buy a pair of Adidas basketball shoes. At age 20 she launched an interior plant maintenance and landscape company. After spending her early adult years living on a farm, she then opened and operated an outdoor family entertainment venue for eight years—Pooley’s Pumpkin Patch. For someone who was never a morning person and didn’t care for sweets, the thought of owning a donut shop never crossed her mind. But like many entrepreneurs will attest, opportunities have a way of presenting themselves.
Elizabeth Pooley
Story by KATHY RYGG Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 8|
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square
HIP TO BE
JUNE 2022
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COVER story While visiting her daughter in Alabama, Pooley tasted her first squareshaped donut from a small local shop in Auburn called D2 Donuts. “I was in awe at how good they were,” she said. A few months later, Pooley learned that D2 Donuts was for sale but quickly dismissed the idea of purchasing a donut shop in Alabama. The desire to have another business lingered, because Pooley said holding an ordinary job “kills your spirit” as an entrepreneur. After some gentle persuasion from a friend, Pooley finally called the owners of D2 Donuts to get some general information. That phone call eventually turned into nearly a dozen visits to Alabama. “The first few visits were supposed to validate all the reasons why I didn’t want a donut shop,” Pooley said. “But then I started to slowly wrap my head around it.” If she went forward with it, she wanted it to be different. For starters, it would have to be located in Omaha, and the equipment would have to be moved from Alabama. She’d also rename the business. D2 Donuts (which stood for D squared) sounded too mathematical. Pooley wanted a name that was easy to read and understand. She also wanted to develop new recipes from the shop’s originals. With those parameters, Pooley bought the business, bringing her new brand, Square Donut, to Omaha. The concept of a square donut is simple: four corners provide four more bites, so you get more donut for your dollar. This proved to be a novel concept during a time when there was a lot of donut competition in Omaha. She approached owning her own restaurant with cautious optimism, but plowed ahead and found space in West Omaha. The buildout took a year and cost more than originally anticipated, but Square Donut held its soft opening in March of 2020. “It was glorious,” Pooley said. Until the pandemic hit Omaha two days later. With bills to pay and a fully trained staff of 18 employees, closing was not an option, so Pooley immediately pivoted. They filled the donut case with empty pink Square Donut boxes and offered six options for pre-boxed donuts that customers could walk in and purchase. “It was rough and customers were angry that they couldn’t customize orders or buy single donuts, 10 |
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COVER story
HAND-MIXED
HAND-CUT
RAISED GLAZED AND CINNAMON SUGAR DONUTS
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HAND-DIPPED
SPRING INTO SUMMER!
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COVER story
BOURBON WHISKEY CREAM FILLING
SMOKED BOURBON WHISKEY DONUT
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COVER story but because of the mandates, it’s what we had to do.” As the saying goes, things happen in threes, and that same month Pooley’s home caught fire, which displaced her for six months, and her mother became critically ill, spending five months in the ICU. Pooley carried on, and that summer some of the pandemic mandates lifted, allowing Square Donut to go back to single sales. Demand quickly skyrocketed, with people lined up throughout the parking lot and donuts selling out often by 9:00 am. “We made mistakes as we learned along the way, but we kept growing. The pandemic was really a mixed blessing.” Unfortunately, as the pandemic wore on into 2021, staffing shortages, supply chain issues, and inflation started to take their toll. Pooley and her son both worked 100-hour weeks, her head baker suffered a car accident and couldn’t work for three months, and Pooley felt like she was running on fumes. “Everything that could hit a business happened all at once,” she said. “I felt defeated, questioned if it was worth it, and considered closing. But right when you’re at the end of your rope, that’s when things fall back into place, and everything slowly started to fit together.” Pooley prevailed, and Square Donut found its groove. She upgraded the original equipment and focused on employee retention to make Square Donut a place where everyone wants to work. As someone who is “creatively motivated,” she dove into recipe development and has expanded the gluten-free product line. She’s also going to expand the vegan line and is developing a drunken donut line, which will feature alcohol-infused flavors such as smoked bourbon whiskey, bloody mary, and mojito. The restaurant always offers a donut of the month, which is a great way to allow the public to test new flavors. Coffee naturally complements donuts, and Square Donut sells the local Hardy Coffee brand and plans to add hot and iced espresso drinks. Determining how many donuts to make each day is more of an educated guess than a science. Unlike some of the chain donut shops that freeze donuts and heat them as demand dictates, Square Donut makes everything fresh from scratch daily, which is why product can run out on high demand days. But pre-orders are always welcome and customers can walk in and purchase up to 4 dozen donuts at a time. Pooley’s favorite part of owning a donut shop is interacting with everyone who enters. “I love seeing kids and families and talking to people—that’s so close to my heart. We truly care for you and care about meeting your needs.” Her advice for someone who wants to start a business is that you are capable of doing more than you think. “Crazy ideas happen, but you can do it, especially if you have lots of support and faith.” How does Pooley feel about mornings and sweets these days? “I have come to appreciate mornings—the ability to meditate and gather my thoughts. The sugar is still difficult for me, but I love seeing people interact with our product. It provides good vibes and happy stories.” 16 |
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DONUTS OF THE MONTH
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OUR food
CHEF SETH JONAS
A beautiful balance Story by ANNA HARTMAN | Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 18 |
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a
mid constant change and upheaval, work-life balance has taken a back seat to hustle, drive, and commitment as those in the culinary industry keep their heads down to stay afloat in challenging times. Slowly, many have made a conscious decision to step off the roller coaster and home in on what matters to them on a personal level.
SAFFRON FETTUCCINE CARBONARA WITH SCALLOPS JUNE 2022
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OUR food
G R AT I N G F R E S H PA R M E S A N
P R E PA R I N G T H E PAV E P OTATO TA RT
RAIKES BEEF WITH RISOT TO AND BROCCOLINI
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P L AT I N G T H E P I S TA C H I O S H O RT B R E A D C R U M B L E
Vibe IT’S A
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OUR food
GARLIC SHRIMP BOWL WITH BLACK RICE AND SRIRACHA EGG
SPICY TUNA NACHO
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OUR food Chef Seth Jonas has been in the hospitality business for the entirety of his working life. Trained at Colorado Mountain College, an apprenticeship program serving the resort industry, the instinctive cook gained a wide range of experience working with unique concepts under the tutelage of various chefs. Jonas credits his time at Inn Harms Way, a Lincoln, Nebraska family-owned eatery specializing in steak and seafood, with setting the tone for his approach to the sometimes-volatile industry. Since then, Jonas has diversified his experience portfolio through myriad kitchen positions, menu development, and managing large special events and banquets (including presenting tasting menus to clients). “I love food and always enjoyed being in kitchens and cooking,” said Jonas, but the unique challenges of the pandemic and ever-changing industry trends set him on a less traditional path with a smaller scope. In August 2021, Conscious Kitchen was born. The new business strives to delight, educate, and nourish clients through corporate event catering, elegant inhome private dining experiences, and full-service weekly meal prep. Meal prep is done in client homes, as is in-home private dining, and when larger quantities are needed for catering jobs, Jonas works out of shared kitchen space at the nonprofit entity No More Empty Pots. As an entrepreneur, Jonas also relies on the unique environment at Center Sphere, a collaborative networking organization that offers a variety of business opportunities. He said, “Not having a brick and mortar, the connections at Center Sphere enable me to meet like-minded, entrepreneurial individuals experiencing similar challenges.” The company name is a natural extension of Jonas’s desire to find balance in his own life through nutrition. Extended shifts on the line are physically and mentally challenging, and the work wasn’t providing the motivation he needed to fuel his body and mind properly. “At one point it was like a lightbulb had gone off—part of being conscious is how you eat and how it makes you feel.” Exploring more plant-based options inspires Jonas to broaden his repertoire. Experimenting with ingredients such as farro, chickpeas, nondairy milk, or 24 |
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P I S TA C H I O S H O RT B R E A D C R U M B L E W I T H B E R R I E S
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OUR food
PAV E P OTATO TA RT W I T H R O A S T E D C A R R OT
coaxing flavor out of ingredients with smaller amounts or different types of fat have led to earthy, satisfying plant-based meals that appeal to even the most ardent meat-eater. An indoor garden of fresh herbs and microgreens provide freshness, pops of color, and nutrients to gorgeous dishes. Conscious Kitchen strives to serve organic, whole foods in unique, delicious ways, creating dishes that are flavorful but not soaked in butter or fat. Jonas shared, “There are a growing number of people in the area looking for healthier options, so we bring our knowledge of food to the table and curate food that is healthier for the body yet pleasing and enjoyable to eat.” Working on a smaller scale enables the culinary expert to shop locally and take the necessary time to find just the right ingredients, “As a chef, you know 26 |
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where to find the best ingredients in town, so I shop where quality is best. Collaborating with local vendors and farms aligns with our goal of sourcing local, organic, sustainable products.” Raikes Beef is a favorite and the meticulous chef is proud to feature the local company’s products in menu items such as the Raikes beef filet with sundried tomato and mushroom risotto. In addition, Conscious Kitchen works with a program at No More Empty Pots that connects to local vendors to source nearby produce. Suggested menu items such as jalapeño ponzu tuna nachos, fresh pasta, and garlic shrimp provide a starting point, but Jonas finds joy in opening a client to a new experience, especially if it feeds his insatiable curiosity for research and recipe development. “It’s difficult to create something new that
hasn’t been done, but reconstructing dishes and presenting flavors in surprising ways can breathe new life into the dining experience.” Jonas is fully present from the initial client conversation to the final plating touches, ensuring the customer experience is stellar from start to finish. He is grateful for the support and partnership of his wife, Lindsay, who works behind the scenes to manage clients, keep social media posts fresh, and photograph the artfully plated dishes. The small company size affords flexibility in scheduling, but Jonas recommends clients should book at least 2 weeks in advance of an event. Whether you’re planning to host a private dinner party, family celebration, corporate event, or need help with healthy weekly meals, Conscious Kitchen can provide a thoughtful, personalized experience.
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MY concoction
Jukes Ale Works 20560 Elkhorn Dr. Elkhorn (402) 779-8496 jukesaleworks.com
28 |
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1
5
What you need: • 2 oz. bourbon • .5 oz. Jukes Elkhorn Oil Stout simple syrup
• 3 dashes orange bitters • Orange garnish
2 Combine first three ingredients in cocktail mixing glass
steps
Stir
3
to the perfect cocktail THE BAR: Jukes Ale Works THE BARTENDER: Megan THE DRINK: Beer Old Fashioned
4
5
Pour into lowball glass
Add ice and orange garnish JUNE 2022
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OUR families
CUSTODY 101
By SUSAN REFF, PARTNER ATTORNEY, HIGHTOWER REFF LAW “Where are my kids going to live?” “Will I get to decide where my children go to school?” “Are my kids going to be OK?” These are all questions lawyers hear when discussing custody issues with clients in divorce and paternity cases. There are two types of custody that are determined in every child custody case. The first is legal custody. This is the decision-making power for educational, medical, and religious needs for the children. The second is physical custody. This is the parenting time schedule. Both types of custody can be primarily with one parent or jointly between both parents. Every case is unique and no two cases are ever the same. In a custody case, whether in a divorce or a paternity case, the judge will decide custody issues based on the best interests of the children. To determine what is in the best interests of the children, the judge will consider what each parent wants, as well as look at the bigger picture of how each parent is situated and their ability to parent the children. Sometimes, work schedules dictate when a parent is available. In some cases, parents aren’t living close to each other. These types of things have no bearing on whether a parent is capable but more whether the parent is able to regularly parent their children. There is a myth that moms will always get full custody. This may have been 32 |
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true in the past but now, most judges approach custody determinations with a belief that both parents are capable and should have equal parenting time. Another myth is that at a certain age, children can “pick” which parent they want to live with. That is just not how it works. In some cases, the judge will consider what the children want. But even in these situations, the wishes of the children are only one factor in the decision. Another falsehood is that a judge might “take away” one parent’s ability to see their children. This is possible but only in cases of physical or sexual abuse or a severe inability to parent, usually due to mental health, drug, or alcohol use by the parent. And even in these cases, a judge usually allows therapeutic or supervised parenting time. When parents can’t agree on custody issues, the judge will decide the custody arrangement. We often hear from judges that these decisions are some of the hardest they must make. They don’t know the family and each side is trying to make the other look as bad as possible. This is why settlement of custody is encouraged by attorneys and judges. Settlement also allows the parents to personalize their parenting plan to their children’s specific needs. The majority of cases end up with a shared custody arrangement with the
children spending equal or almost equal time with both parents. The bottom line in child custody cases is to keep focused on your children’s best interests. The key to making this stressful process a little easier is to work with an attorney who has experience with child custody cases and is willing to listen to your goals and work toward those goals with you.
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OUR passion
Guitars for Vets helps veterans find solace through song
m
ost people have experienced a degree of trauma in their life, and some of these traumas can leave a lasting impact and change their behavior. When you serve in the military, exposure to various traumas can lead to veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD.) While there are many ways to cope, one nonprofit was founded to provide veterans with an instrument to form camaraderie through the power of music.
Guitars for Vets graduation day
Story by NICO LE BUNTGEN Photos courtesy of GUITARS FOR VETS 34 |
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camaraderie COMMUNITY OF
JUNE 2022
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OUR passion In 2007, musician Patrick Nettesheim and Vietnam veteran Dan Van Buskirk founded Guitars for Vets in Milwaukee after seeing a need to provide support for veterans struggling from symptoms of PTSD. Eric Weinstein began volunteering as an instructor in 2011 after reading about the nonprofit in a Chicago publication, where he resides. “I know first-hand how therapeutic music is for me, particularly guitars,” he said. Seeing the potential in Guitars for Vets, Weinstein leveraged his skills and became the organization’s executive director in 2012. Whether it is isolation or a loss of community, the organization helps veterans re-enter their lives and feel a part of something whole. The program consists of one-on-one instruction over 10 weeks of guitar lessons. Aside from picking up a new skill, the course helps form a bond between the instructor and student and bring veterans into the Guitars for Vets community. Boasting an environment that not only provides a tool for veterans but also ensures their wishes are met through lessons is key to the equation, Weinstein said. Veterans are referred into the program either through the Veterans Affairs (VA) or a healthcare provider. Upon completion of the 10-week course, students graduate and are gifted with their own guitar and accessory kit packed with strings, cables, and picks. Graduates are then invited back to future group sessions to retain engagement in chapter activity, and some even go on to perform at events or become volunteers themselves. “The objective is to find new ways to reach these people and have them experience what we have to offer,” Weinstein said. “Hopefully we
US Army Veteran, Keith, on graduation day with his instructor, Brian
Air Force Veteran, Carla, with her instructor, Jim
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CARE
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Contact Us today to schedule an Appointment for: • Chiropractic Adjustments • Pediatric Adjustments • Needleless Acupuncture
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To see packages and locations visit twistedthunder.com JUNE 2022
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OUR passion can provide them with tools they can use in their battle against PTSD or other injuries they’re fighting.” With over 120 locations nationwide, the nonprofit’s Omaha chapter thrives as one of the country’s most prosperous sites. Air Force veteran Peggy Ullom is the National Development Director and Nebraska Chapter Coordinator. She said having a team that mainly consists of veterans helps the Omaha chapter exhibit the patience, acceptance, gratitude, and empathy needed to establish trust with their students’ unique needs. The chapter also partners with several other local nonprofits that provide basic human needs. “It isn’t just one person or a couple of people that make Omaha special; it truly is a special community that has committed to the well-being of our veterans and their families,” Ullom said. “We live to be the example, not the exception, for other communities and chapters.” Both her chapter and other local nonprofits are trying to accomplish the same task: minimize the 22-a-day statistic, which is the average number of veterans who die daily by suicide. “Our community does not hesitate to have our back when we fundraise or throw out a request for assistance,” Ullom said. By believing in the power of music, Weinstein said his team can create an experience that everyone involved will find truly beneficial. If you’re looking to give back, help those who have served you, enjoy music, or are a guitar player who understands the power of the guitar, Weinstein said this is the opportunity to help those who have helped you. “We’re not therapists, and we’re not trying to create the next ‘Guitar Hero,’ Weinstein said. “You do learn guitar, but it’s much more about camaraderie, relationship-building, and feeling a sense of accomplishment while learning to play an instrument. The instrument is an added benefit to the experience.” Weinstein thanks the people in the Omaha community who have been supporters of Guitars for Vets for many years. He said the team hopes to meet more people who share the same passion over the years. For information on Guitars for Vets and its mission, visit guitars4vets.org. If you are interested in volunteering in Omaha, email ne.omaha@guitarsforvets.org.
xxxcaption
Guitars for Vets graduate, Levi, and his wife on graduation day
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MARKET EXPERTISE TAILORED FOR A FIT.
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OUR trends
Transformation haircuts Story by SHANNON BINGHAM, SEVEN SALON Photo by MAJE The warming of the Midwest may lead one to ponder a chop. Some of the hottest looks in the coming seasons are the off-the-shoulder bob, the bixie, and also the classic pixie cut. The spring and fall fashion runways of New York, Milan, and many more, heavily featured the off-the-shoulder bob. This look was very crisp, blunt, and clean in the majority of its appearances on the models, often sleek with a side center part. This is a highly adaptable haircut for any style of fashion. Celebrities who have worn this cool French girl vibe are Debbie Harry, Jennifer Lawrence, and Margot Robbie. This look can be worn sleek or with subtle waves for an undone feel. The bixie, a throwback haircut to the 1990s, has also begun to resurface in street style blogs on the fashion scene. This versatile, transient look has taken the classic bob and made an attempt toward a pixie. There is a lot of texture and layers to create a wearable, yet sexy look. When asking for this look from a stylist, bring inspiration pictures and ideas. Some famous actresses who sported this look were Drew Barrymore, Meg Ryan, and Winona Ryder. This look can be worn many ways, including the ever classic “ear tuck.” And last, but by far not the least, is the pixie cut. This classic style has stood the test of time. As women were once advised to not cut their hair, the look has been worn by some of the fiercest and sexiest women of all time. This look can be modified to suit the individual, but mostly it has an edgy feel. Celebrities that have worn this haircut are Linda Evangelista, Charlize Theron, and Jennifer Lawrence. After pondering the chop, here are some helpful insights when approaching a stylist about creating one of these looks: 1. Ask about their experience cutting short hair. Not all stylists are comfortable creating these looks. 2. Consider your face shape and discuss with your stylist what look will be best for yours. 3. Bring inspiration pictures, knowing fully that your hair may differ from the looks but can give the stylist insight on your desired end result. 4. Be aware of the maintenance of a shorter shape and how that will impact the look. 5. Ask about products needed to create these looks. 6. Consider your daily fashion when determining how aggressive to go with the look. 7. Feel through your hair to determine the density. This may require more weight removal throughout the haircut to achieve a beautiful look. 8. Cowlicks and challenging hairlines must be taken into consideration prior to cutting. Although these looks aren’t for everyone, it can be fun to try them at least once in a lifetime. After all, it is just hair, which will grow back. Be confident with style and rock the look chosen with swagger! 40 |
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Whether you are separated, divorced or thinking about separation or divorce, one thing is certain; family life will change a lot. With the help of an experienced attorney, these changes don’t have to rob you or your child(ren) of positive and healthy relationships. From the initial divorce and parenting plan process to custody modifications down the road, our team of confident, clear and committed attorneys will personally guide you so you have the best chance at an outcome that’s best for you and your child(ren). Call or text us to schedule a consultation, gain clarity and learn about your options. See our article in the “OUR lives” section of this issue to learn about the basics of custody.
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OUR finance
WEST GATE BANK
MAXIMIZE YOUR MONEY Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Maybe you’ve heard it called “cash management.” Perhaps you’re doing it already, but you know there’s probably a more powerful way to make customer money work for you. We know small business owners are constantly juggling tasks throughout the day, and finances can cause headaches. But they don’t have to. Our Business Banking Solutions team offers tools to maintain stress-free control over your finances. DESKTOP TELLER Desktop Teller is an innovative service that eliminates the need to bring check deposits to the bank, saving you time. Scan checks, coupons, and money orders, and electronically transmit the 42 |
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scanned images to the bank for posting and clearing. Our Desktop Teller includes advanced features that make it a step above the rest. Among these features is the ability to view previously scanned deposits and access to full Helpdesk support to get you back on track if you encounter any issues. LOCK BOX When using our Lock Box service, your payments from customers come straight to us for sorting and handling. This means zero hassle for you. Then that money is deposited right into your company account. MERCHANT CARD PROCESSING Merchant Card Processing allows your business to accept debit and credit cards. It also helps with equipment
purchasing and leasing, check authorization processing, e-commerce payment processing, convenient reconciliation, and more. INTRAFI NETWORK The FDIC only allows up to $250,000 in insurance per individual per bank. We can help you get the best interest rates and insurance coverage on your deposits. West Gate Bank is a member of the IntraFi Network which allows us to provide our customers with easy access to multi-million-dollar FDIC Insurance for funds placed into demand deposit accounts, money market deposit accounts or CDs. Our Business Banking Solutions team is standing by, ready to help you keep your business on track. Connect with us today at westgate.bank.
2022
CARIBBEAN NIGHT FOR A CURE 10.15.22 | 6:00 pm
Omaha Marriott Downtown Dinner, Cocktails, Live Music, Live & Silent Auction, and more!
Purchase tickets today at: nightofchampionsnebraska.org
An evening dedicated to raising critical dollars needed to find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Landscape designs for how you live, entertain and relax
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OUR business
WORRY-FREE
FINANCIALS
f
Advantage Insights assists beyond taxes
or some, working in the corporate world is a safe and secure space: job security, competitive pay, and benefits are just some of the opportunities these careers can offer. For others, a long run in this type of environment can lead to pivotal moments in life that provoke a passion to start something of their own. After 30 years in the corporate world, Mary Ferry, owner of Advantage Insights, took a different path in her career after her corporate job at Conagra Foods was set to relocate. Although she enjoyed the process development and services she provided to her company leaders, Ferry realized small business owners have the same needs as larger companies without the ability to hire as many employees. To provide the level of support needed for these proprietors, Ferry took key concepts from her cor-
porate work and combined information with budget and financial planning to launch Advantage Insights. Founded in May 2017, Advantage Insights serves more than 60 clients across the country. With a focus on clients who make less than $10 million in revenue, Ferry said bookkeeping is the primary service she and her small team of five provide to its growing clientele. “Most business owners don’t think they need someone like me until there’s a pain point,” Ferry said. “Whether it’s getting
Story by NICOLE BUNTGEN Photos by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY
Mary Ferry
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OUR business
From left to right: Missy Gearhart, Mary Ferry, Ellen Anderson and Amber Lovitt
Mary Ferry with a client
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“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! CountryHouse.net or 402-307-2004 Omaha
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OUR business
Staff at Advantage Insights
their taxes filed or understanding their financial information, that’s when they decide they need our services.” Aside from helping clients understand the foundation of their financials, Ferry and team use specific software programs to assist with budget management and analytics. With this comes key performance indicators, which enable clients to align their objectives and ensure they are meeting and understanding monthly performance goals. “We tailor the processes around it, streamline, and make it as efficient as possible so they don’t have to spend any more time with their accounting than they need,” Ferry said. Advantage Insights breaks its services down into three key levels. Level one is Essential Insights, focusing on bookkeeping to ensure each business transaction is properly recorded. The com48 |
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pany also provides payroll as an add-on service. The next level shifts to Progressive Growth, which concentrates on budgets, financial analysis, and includes monthly meetings to review financial information. This allows business owners to dive into analytics including cashflow management, sales, and accounts receivable monitoring, and management performance reporting for their business. The final level is Advanced Performance, which Ferry described as Advantage Insights functioning as a client’s accounting department. Ferry acts as a chief financial officer, and the team takes care of anything needed from an accounting perspective. “Everybody always tells business owners they need a lawyer and an accountant, and they only think they need the accountant for their tax returns,” Ferry said. “But they need a
management accountant if they want to do something more with their financial information than pay their taxes.” With over 30 years of experience, Ferry brings her knowledge, education, and background to help business owners figure out what they need, bring their financials into focus, and improve overall company performance. While business owners may have an idea of what these necessities are, Ferry said Advantage Insights helps verbalize these needs through professional advice, strategic planning, and a unique process that designs customizable solutions so executives can reach their goals. “The enjoyment I take from having my own business is helping others be successful and watching them grow, meet their goals, and be a part of their success,” Ferry said. “That’s what keeps me going.”
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PASSION spotlight
Jillian Ridpath
POWER OF CARE THE
AT YO U R F I N G E RT I P S Story by EDGE CONTRIBUTOR Photo by WAYNE MARTINO
For as long as she can remember, Jillian Ridpath had a passion for helping others. Her caring nature and ability to connect with people led her to find her true calling. As a nurse health coach at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE), Ridpath helps members navigate their health care journey through Wellframe, a confidential, mobile-based application program provided to BCBSNE members at no cost.
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“Cost is a huge factor when it comes to health care,” Ridpath said. “With this program, we’re able to provide more members with access to mental health resources and care by breaking down financial barriers.” When members engage with the digital health management tool, they are paired with a nurse health coach who works with them to come up with a personalized plan to help achieve their individual mental health and wellness goals.
Once a plan is in place, the member engages with their assigned nurse through the app at least three times a week. During these check-ins, the member receives personalized support tailored to their needs. The guidance may be a message of encouragement from their nurse care manager, a helpful article on how to reduce stress or anxiety, or other tips on how to manage their health. “People feel stress in different ways for different reasons,” said Ridpath. “Understanding the cause of the stress or anxiety, then learning techniques to help ease the symptoms, can help you lead a more balanced, healthier life.” Offering stress management services by way of the mobile application is another added benefit of the program. Members can receive care in the comfort of their own homes and when it’s convenient for them. “Providing a safe space in a virtual environment can sometimes help ease any anxiety someone may feel about seeking help in the first place,” Ridpath said. “We are still able to provide members with personalized care, even when we’re working with them via the mobile app.” Ridpath added that part of why members experience success with the program is due to the individualized care they receive. “Being able to establish relationships with members and empower them with the tools they need to focus on feeling better is one of the most rewarding parts of the job,” she said. When asked about the challenges she faces when working with members who are experiencing stress and anxiety, Ridpath reflected on her past struggles. “Anxiety is something that I have dealt with in my life,” she said. “I know how terrible it can feel and how life-altering it can be. Knowing that I’m helping someone overcome their health obstacles, improve their health and find enjoyment in life is why I do what I do every day.” To learn more about Wellframe, 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. JUNE 2022
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Let your fireworks display dazzle M Y T WO
cents S
S S
S twistedthunder.com
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Well known for its love of fireworks, Nebraska’s pyrotechnics scene is gaining more traction every year. Avid fireworks enthusiasts and co-founders of Twisted Thunder, a fireworks supplier located in the Omaha area, Ryan Steffen and Mark Texel first set out to help put Nebraska on the map in 2018. In just three short years, the business has grown from one location to six. Their philosophy is simple: offer higher quality products and more selection at a better price. “We noticed this massive gap in the market from a product quality and performance standpoint, as well as price,” Steffen said. “While some companies might just carry one or two brands, we aim to offer more variety. We cherry pick from at least 20 different brands around the country in order to find the very best products.” From artillery to smoke bombs to novelties, the team thoroughly analyzes each product offered to customers. In fact, research is such a key element for the business that it means watching more than 10,000 YouTube videos each year to make selections. Along with product selection, Steffen said catering to customers is also at the core of the business—catering to a truly
unique and customized experience. For this reason, the business not only provides a traditional fireworks stand experience but also the ability to purchase online and opt for delivery or curbside pickup. Each product on the website also features a video so buyers know exactly what they’re getting prior to purchasing. The fireworks industry, like many others, faces uncharted territory this year, as massive shortages of product can be felt throughout the country. Despite this challenge, Steffen said Twisted Thunder will be well stocked and ready to serve customers this summer season. Plus, the recent passing of LB152, which lifts certain restrictions on fireworks, is a new cause for joy this year, Steffen said, as the new bill deems rockets legal throughout the state. “This news is a really big deal,” Steffen said. “For us, it’s very exciting to witness such a big change like this in our community. We love interacting with our customers and working with local nonprofits, all while having fun.” Twisted Thunder will be open from June 25 to July 4. To order or view products, visit twistedthunder.com. For questions, contact Ryan Steffen at 402318-5227 or ryan@twistedthunder.com.
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Downtown | 53 Ceresco JUNE 2022
OUR community
SPRINTING AHEAD
Story by GABBY HELLBUSCH Photos courtesy of ELKHORN TRAINING CAMP
In a community where sports are an integral part of everyday life for many of its youth, access to proper athletic training and programming is essential. When Elkhorn Training Camp (ETC) first opened its doors in 2017, its very purpose was to meet an underserved need in the Elkhorn/Gretna area by providing a range of services to youth athletes in a state-of-the-art sports training facility. Since then, ETC’s 54 |
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momentum has continued to grow with three additional locations, the acquisition of Dynamic Velocity, and a 25,000-square foot expansion project underway next to the original facility. Sports have always been a passion for business partners Mike Alessandro and Max Fearnow, who first connected when Alessandro enlisted Fearnow—a former Omaha Westside and Stanford University baseball player—to give
private lessons to his oldest son, Sam. At the time, Alessandro worked in the technology sector and Fearnow was heavily embedded in the baseball training community. The pair decided to combine their complementary skillsets and shared vision to bring ETC to life. The co-owners credit a strategic relationship spearheaded by Jason McDonald with Elkhorn Athletic Association to jumpstarting the business
Max Fearnow, ETC co-owner
operation. While ETC started with a softball and baseball focus, other sports such as soccer, lacrosse, and football have all been able to use the facility. With cutting edge sports technology and industry-leading equipment, ETC offers private lessons, memberships, and training space to the community, as well as a strength, conditioning and agility training program through an exclusive partnership with Xplosive Edge. Gibbie Duval, founder of Xplosive Edge, said the primary mission of the program is to help athletes maximize their athletic performance. “Our Developing Edge program is for children ages nine to 12, with a goal to lay solid foundation for the future,” Duval said. “We teach them all of the fundamental movement principles that might get neglected at practice.” Youth ages 13 to 18 are also welcome to engage in the Prep Edge program, which Duval said is geared toward athletes looking to improve their overall performance. Additionally, ETC recently launched Advanced Speed Camp in partnership with Xplosive Edge. “We don’t engage in sports-specific training because that’s what practice is for,” Duval said. “We engage in athletic development training. We provide athletes with better warm up and cool down strategies and corrective exercises they can use before entering the weight room.” Xplosive Edge has trained thousands of athletes over the years, including two Super Bowl champions, a Stanley Cup champion, an Olympic gold medalist, and a Heisman Trophy winner. “Elkhorn Training Camp and Xplosive
Edge offer the best facility and program in the area for sports performance training for amateur athletes, second only to the University of Nebraska Lincoln,” Duval said. Sports are often used as a tool to teach important values and life lessons, and ETC aims to offer all children an avenue to not only improve their athletic ability, but gain confidence and self-assurance. “We serve the whole spectrum of athletes, regardless of the level they play,” Fearnow said. “Every kid age four to 18 can find something here, and I think that’s powerful.”
Over the years, ETC has trained thousands of kids and grown its team to include more than 25 instructors. Down the road, ETC has plans to potentially enter additional sports markets and add to its complementary offerings, while keeping goals of regional and national expansion on the horizon. For the time being, the focus remains on building the brand and opening the doors of its new building this fall. “The community need drove us to expand,” Alessandro said. “At the end of the day, we are here to provide resources and opportunities for as many athletes as possible.” JUNE 2022
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BUSINESS spotlight
t
NAVIGATING YOUR FINANCIAL JOURNEY Story by GABBY HELLBUSCH Photo by GLAM HAVEN PHOTOGRAPHY
o avoid any unforeseen detours along the way, it’s best to navigate the journey to financial freedom alongside a team of trusted professionals who understand what it takes to reach the final destination. Everyone’s route to financial success is different, which is why Josh Passler, financial advisor at Innovative Wealth Partners, believes it’s important to analyze all aspects of a client’s situation in order to craft a truly personalized road map. Entering the financial industry in 2014 was an easy choice for Passler, who always knew he wanted to use his skillset to help others develop a solid finance strategy. After spending seven years in the financial consulting realm, he decided it was time to take a different route by founding Riverview Financial Group in November 2021. Soon after opening, a new opportunity presented itself and in February 2022 he officially joined Innovative Wealth Partners—a move that he said has been an exceptional learning experience, resulting in rapid growth. “Partnering with Innovative Wealth Partners has been amazing, and it was the best possible choice I could have made for my career and my clients,” Passler said. “I heard this a couple of years ago and really took it to heart: ‘If you want to do good, you can do things by yourself, but if you want to do great, then it’s best to work with and learn from others.’” The team works to create a tailored experience for each client while focusing on the four cornerstones of finance: protection planning, cash management planning, investment planning, and estate planning. Passler is also an advocate for financial psychology, meaning he places emphasis on understanding a client’s
mindset and financial habits. Additionally, Passler’s wife, Michelle, is in the process of a completing a certification course for financial psychology at Creighton University and plans to join the firm. “She will be able to see things in a different light and help us make even more appropriate recommendations. We’ve been married six years, and she has been integral to all of my success and continues to be there every step of the way.” As for the future of the firm, which established in 2019, Passler said the sky is the limit. “I would love if we could make this LLC into one of the biggest financial advisory firms in Nebraska,” he said. “I want to help people understand how we can help them with the four cornerstones of financial planning. I also want to make sure that CPAs, attorneys, and other professionals know we are an open book when it comes to working with other professions and can make their clients’ lives a lot easier.” On a personal level, Passler also plans to focus on offering financial educational content at no cost. At the end of the day, Passler said his role as a financial advisor is not all about the money, but instead about the overall impact that he can make for his clients.
Josh Passler
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OUR youth
s
ome people are natural-born storytellers, and 11-yearold Annah Vogelpohl is one of them. At the age of three, she recited stories to her mother, Olivia, who wrote them down for her in blank books while Annah drew the illustrations. She’d even make edits while her mother read the story back to her. Now Vogelpohl has added playwrite to her writing resume and recently performed the play titled “The C of the Cven Seas” with her classmates at Acton Academy Omaha.
Annah Vogelpohl
Story by EDGE STAFF Photos by CHRISTOPHER TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY 58 |
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storyteller NATURAL
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OUR youth Edge: It sounds like you’ve been creative from a very young age. Vogelpohl: All my family members are creative. My dad writes plays, my mom is a good artist and photographer, and my brother is working on making films. Olivia Vogelpohl: She would have art shows in her bedroom and we’d have to pay to take pictures off her walls. She also held her own dance recital and even catered it herself. Edge: What made you decide to write a play? Vogelpohl: I love writing stories—my friends and I play “and then” where each person builds on to the story. It can get really dramatic! This play came out of our process drama class. I went home from school and started writing it. I wrote until ten o’clock at night, then got up at 4:00am and finished it. It’s about 16 pages, so a 16-minute play. Edge: What is the play about? Vogelpohl: It’s about two groups of pirates: one trying to find treasure and the other trying to protect the treasure. The name of the pirate ship is C of the Cven Seas, and most of the character names begin with the letter C. Edge: How did your class decide to turn the play into a performance? Vogelpohl: I read the play to the class, we had a Socratic discussion about it, and then we voted. There are 11 students, and we assigned character roles as well as jobs. I’m playing one of the villains, and I’m also one of the lighting directors. We’re each drawing our character and writing from their perspective so we get to know them better. Edge: Are you nervous about performing? Vogelpohl: I’m a little socially awkward so I’m nervous to perform in front of people, but I believe that everyone [in my class] can do it, including me. Edge: What do you like best about writing? 60 |
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Flock My Block
Vogelpohl: I love the creative process. I have tons of ideas. I’m currently working on my own book with its own universe. I get to create characters, worlds, languages, and gods. I love reading fantasy too, like Harry Potter and Upside Magic. Edge: What do you enjoy doing during your free time, besides writing? Vogelpohl: I like hanging out with my friends, art, and playing softball. I also like coding and am getting ready to code my own web site. I’m also creating an app that is a game with a story. I love learning new languages too. I find it funny that my last name means “bird bath” in German. And my first name is from one of my dad’s plays, and I love to write plays.
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Edge: And you have your own business as well? Vogelpohl: It’s called Flock My Block. I have 120 plastic yard flamingoes, and people hire me to place them in a yard or in front of a business. It’s really popular for birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. I started the business to pay for my tuition. Edge: Do you think you’ll write more plays? Vogelpohl: Definitely, and I already have ideas. I can’t give any details yet though!
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VARSITY corner
ACHIEVING A
DREAM Regan Rosseter | Sophomore Westside High School
Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photo by OMAHA HEADSHOT COMPANY When Westside High School sophomore Regan Rosseter was four years old, she watched her cousin Ryder wrestle, and she was hooked. “I was so nervous. I didn’t know what to expect on my first night of practice, but the coach’s daughter was there also.” She has wrestled for Coach Tony Vanderpool at Nebraska Wrestling Academy since she was five years old. Now she’s one of the oldest girls on the team. “On some of my nights off, I help coach the little kids. Coaching them really helps me understand a move and the importance of the relationship between a coach and the athlete.” Her freshman year, Rosseter was the only girl on Westside’s wrestling team. “The boys treated me like one of them. I loved how they supported me when I was wrestling for the state title my freshman year.” Her sophomore year, the state finally sanctioned girls wrestling. “Wrestling at the CHI Arena with the boys and getting the same recognition as the boys do was unbelievable. It was an honor being able to be the first 126-pounder to win a state championship for the state of Nebraska!” Her early dedication to wrestling has paid off. Rosseter hit her fiftieth career win in her sophomore season and was also named one of the Westside team captains for the boys and girls team as a sophomore. “It’s just an honor to be able to do what I love and be able to set records for my school.” According to Coach Bob Mulligan, Westside girls head wrestling coach, “What makes Regan so special is her drive and determination to be great. She knows her goals and ambitions and understands what it takes to get to the level she wants to get to. She is truly a fierce competitor but also an extremely motivated athlete.” Rosseter traveled to France in May to represent the United States for the 2022 International School Sport Federation (ISF). She also has big goals for her future. “I want to see myself in the Olympics. I also want to go to college for wrestling and become a wrestling coach in the near future.” She credits her coaches, parents, and family members for her motivation and drive to compete. “They make me love the sport more because they support me in what I love to do.” 62 |
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CHAMPION David Harmon | Senior | Millard North High School Story by SHELLY NOSBISCH Photo by USMAN SYED It takes a special team to win back-to-back state championships. Millard North High School senior David Harmon was blessed with being a part of a varsity basketball team that did just that. Harmon believes it all goes back to the year that they didn’t win the state title. “We worked hard during the off-season to become better players. During the season, practices were intense and serious. We were all of one accord. Because everyone was ambitious and focused, we got a second chance.” After winning the first championship, they lost three key members of the team to Division I schools. “A lot of people thought we were not going to be anything like last year’s team, and that we had no chance to win a back-to-back championship, but everyone on the team believed that we could get the job done. We won because we played as a team.” Harmon learned early that relationship building was the key to success. “I played on the same soccer team for nine years. When I first started playing, I was frustrated because we were not winning games because I was selfish and just focused on scoring goals. After a few years of trying to win games by myself, I realized that I could not do it. I needed my teammates. I built a friendship with each player on that team. I invited them to my house, and I went to their house. We began to trust and listen to each other. We knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses. By the time I was in middle school, we were undefeated for three years.” According to Millard North’s varsity basketball coach Tim Cannon, “David stands out as a teammate by his absolute joy in seeing others do well. He is totally about the team and relishes the team success. David typically has a smile on his face and brings enthusiasm and joy to others.” Lenora Howard, Harmon’s mother, keeps him motivated. “She believed in me and pushed me to work hard on and off the court. She invested in me and made sure I had the opportunity to play to the best of my ability.” In the future, Harmon plans to play basketball in college and get a degree in Marketing and Communication. JUNE 2022
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b i g c e d a r. c o m 64 |
EDGE
EDGE M A G A Z I N E PO Box 620 Elkhorn, NE 68022
You Have a Business to Run. We provide the solutions you need to succeed. Today’s economy demands that businesses maintain tighter control of their finances. West Gate Bank® Business Banking Solutions offers the comprehensive products and services to run your business efficiently and effectively. Trust our team to provide a custom, solutions-based approach to support your efforts and help your business succeed. Contact us today to learn more!
Brandi Ballan
Megan Froehlich
402.758.8717 bballan@westgate.bank
402.758.8733 mfroehlich@westgate.bank
westgate.bank | 402.434.3422