Author: Kathy Rygg

Beating the Odds and Giving Back

“No child should die in the dawn of life.” This quote by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Founder Danny Thomas holds incredible meaning for the family of 12-year-old Ethan Benson.  After he was diagnosed in January 2023 with an aggressive brain tumor located on the brain stem, he spent nine […]

women and a girl

Beyond the Crown with 2023 Mrs. Nebraska International

The pageant industry has significantly evolved since the first Miss America Pageant was held in Atlantic City, NJ, more than a century ago to draw tourists to the boardwalk. Today’s top pageants place emphasis on community and philanthropy rather than beauty and provide a platform for women to elevate their […]

building

A Century of Growth

“You’ve got to look for places that people don’t do things.” This quote by Jay Dunlap, founder of Union Bank & Trust (UBT), has always been the bank’s philosophy—find a way to help customers where others can’t. This third-generation, family-owned bank has a century-old history founded on hard work and […]

building

Bring the Inside Out with Landscaping

There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting in the serenity of your own outdoor space. Maybe you surround yourself with evergreens for privacy, colorful flowers that attract butterflies, or a fire feature for evening ambiance. Designing the perfect space requires planning, expertise, and quality work, and Jay Moore Landscaping brings all […]

winery building

Soaring to New Heights

For the past 20 years, Soaring Wings Vineyard and Brewing has served as a destination for entertainment, relaxation, and celebration. Owners Jim and Sharon Shaw have grown the family business into a venue known for concerts, award-winning wines and brews, and breathtaking views that overlook the hills of Springfield, Nebraska, […]

women

One of a Kind Daring Décor

Curated, edgy, conversational, one-of-a-kind—these are just a few words that describe the look, feel, and experience at Hearts & Fire furniture and décor boutique located in Rockbrook Village. Owned by mother/daughter team Lori Kirkpatrick and Tahnee Chedel, Hearts & Fire specializes in custom furniture and artisan-made pieces in a mix […]

coffee and breakfast sandwich

A Craving for Community Inspired Stories Coffee Co.

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but often it can lead you to a place of purpose and passion. Such is the case for Brooke and Dan Loutzenhiser who own Stories Coffee Co. Both from rural Nebraska, they met in 2015 after Dan’s wife passed away and he […]

woman

Living the Dream in a Meaningful Way

You often hear people mention experiences that are on their “bucket list.” Sometimes it’s visiting a specific destination and other times it’s reconnecting with someone from the past. Unfortunately, for many seniors, especially those who are terminally ill, their bucket list is no longer an option. That is where the […]

people in parade

Strength in Numbers to Take Care and Support People

Many top employers in the U.S. have made great strides toward prioritizing diversity and inclusion for employees. But ensuring every single individual within an organization feels truly valued and heard goes far beyond compliance with programs such as affirmative action. It requires a constant commitment from everyone in the company […]

donut store owner

Hip to be Square for These Glorious Donuts

Most 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 […]