metroMAGAZINE’s AUGUST 2018 Issue

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champions!

OVERCOMING CHILDHOOD CANCER ConneCting our Community

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Spiritofomaha.Com

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auguSt 2018

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Thank You

Partners for Good are businesses and religious/civic organizations who have pledged an ongoing annual giving partnership with The Salvation Army. They understand the needs of the Greater Omaha Metro and are committed to solving the community’s toughest challenges.

Partners for Good give throughout the year, whether in response to special events or to a particular urgent need within the community.

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Our 2017 Partners for Good Platinum

Gold

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MEMBER FDIC

Tangier Cycle Patrol

Bank of the West Bishop Business Childrens Hospital & Medical Center Dingman’s Collision Center Inc. Farm Credit Services of America Health Care Information Systems Home Instead Senior Care Omaha Paper Co. Scheels Signature Performance SKAR Advertising U.S. Bank

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in this ISSUE

connecting our community

features

10

26

CHAMPIONS! overcoming childhood cancer

18

THE HOUSE THAT LOVE BUILT the $10K BIG connection: wine, women & shoes

28

A DREAM IN BLOOM lauritzen gardens antique show

departments/columns

24

SPOTLIGHT ON midwest american ballet

26

VIPS: VERY INSPIRATIONAL PEOPLE our series of continuing inspiring profiles

30

connecting to our future

24 18

connecting to our brilliance

THE BIG connection

SPOTLIGHT ON omaha gives! cheer pages

32

GAME CHANGERS • DR. JOANN SCHAEFER presented by planitomaha

37

SPOTLIGHT ON northwestern mutual life

38

32

connecting to our compassion

OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION omaha giving

39

metroSPIRIT

connecting to our advocacy

with mary vandenack

40

VW LAW planning matters

41

SWARTZBAUGH, FARBER & ASSOC. todays savings

41

STEPHANIE VONDRAK impact!

events

43

SCENE highlights from recent charity & cultural events

70

SAVE THE DATE upcoming events in the coming quarter

10

connecting to our victories

connecting to our gentility

4

mmagazine • aUgUST 2018

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CrediTS Aug. 1 – 12

Aug. 17 – Sept. 16

On sale now!

On sale July 24

aUgUST 2018 • VoL. 30 no. 4 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.o. Box 241611, omaHa, ne 68124

Aug. 17 – Sept. 16 On sale July 24!

or e-mailed to: editor@Spiritofomaha.com Publisher/Editor-in-Chief andrea L. “andee” Hoig

Creative Collaboration Harrison Financial Services elissa Joy

Sept. 14 – Oct. 14

Oct. 12 – Nov. 4

Editor/Creative Director robert P. “roB” Killmer

debra Kaplan

On sale Aug. 7

On sale Sept. 4

Community Engagement

Jim Scholz

Wendy moore

omaha Community Foundation Kara Schweiss Swartzbaugh-Farber & associates

Special Thanks Counterparts Printco graphics

VW Law Stephanie Vondrak d.d.S.

6915 Cass St. | (402) 553-0800 OmahaPlayhouse.com

m ichael J. Weaver, J.d.

metromagazine is wholly owned and operated by the publisher and is not affiliated with any other publication, operating solely on subscription and advertising revenues and the good will of the agencies and charities we support; all of which are very important to the continuing growth and quality of this publication. Thank you to all who support this endeavor.

OFFICE/SALES

402.932.3522 | sales@Spiritofomaha.com MISSION STATEMENT aLH Publications exists to inform, inspire and connect those who give back to the community through volunteerism and philanthropy, recognizing the ongoing efforts of area businesses, organizations and individuals who better our community.

Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by aLH Publications, inc. in their entirety. no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without prior written consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 1990 – 2018 aLH Publications, inc. all rights reserved.

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mmagazine • aUgUST 2018

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words FROM MY HEART

mmagazine • LeTTer from THe pUbLiSHer

joy ZONE! When I was a kid I had a great imagination and I LOVED to create things. I would spend hours in my room by myself playing the role of a teacher, a travel agent and a talk show host. I taught hundreds of kids, I sent families on amazing trips around the world and I interviewed some of the most fascinating people on the planet … all in my little bedroom on Hickory Street.

I also remember producing and choreographing dance recitals, plays and puppet shows in my backyard. I would gather as many neighborhood kids as I could. We would rehearse for several days—weeks, even—and then I would invite all the parents to come over and watch the masterpiece I created. I should mention that many times some of the younger performers would run crying off the stage, but I just figured that went with the territory.

One memory my mom often shares with me is that when I was in grade school there would be a talent show each spring. For most of my grade school years I would choreograph an original dance performance, create a costume and then try out … I never made it to the finals but that didn’t stop me from coming back each year. My mother was in awe … I had no fear. I just did it, year after year.

andrea L. Hoig ahoig@Spiritofomaha.com

In high school I wrote, produced and starred in a series of commercials that I created for a drama project. I convinced my best friend to co-star with me and my dad videotaped them. My brother Noel even had a cameo appearance in one of them. I have to say they are brilliant and hilarious. I still have the VHS tape to prove it!

During most of my childhood and early teenage years I was producing, creating, choreographing, hosting, starring in something. I loved making people smile and by doing these things it put me in what I now call my JOY ZONE. All of these memories came flooding back when the opportunity to produce and host my own TV show was offered to me in May. You know the saying that God or the Universe puts you in the right place at the right time … well, that is exactly what happened and metroTV was created. I wasn’t looking for it, but perhaps I was; I had been creating this on some level ever since I was 5 years old.

One of the things I love most about metroTV is that it fulfills my desire to connect with people on a more personal level. I love researching my guests that come on the show, I love sitting down with them and having a real conversation, I love sharing stories about people making a difference and living life in their JOY ZONE. The reason I am sharing this is that I have come to realize (at least in my case) that oftentimes when we look back at our childhood and become aware of what put us in our JOY ZONE as a child, that illuminates a path to our JOY ZONE as an adult.

I love metroMAGAZINE and have met many amazing people over the past three decades, but there has always been something missing: the opportunity to make a deeper connection with others (and perhaps to express my most original passions.)

My desire is to let metroTV evolve organically. Right now it is an opportunity to bring metroMAGAZINE and The Giving Guide and Event Book to life, but what else is possible? I look forward to finding out.

As I now tell our viewers … “STAY TUNED” and remember, it’s never too late to take a trip down memory lane and reconnect with your JOY ZONE! 7

mmagazine • aUgUST 2018

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Omaha Go Red For Women® Expo

Presented locally by

Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women - the number one killer of women! Go Red For Women inspires women to make lifestyle changes, mobilize communities, and shape policies to save lives.

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businesses GIVING BACK

SUPPORT FROM individuals and businesses SUSTAINS research AND families DEALING WITH CHILDHOOD CANCERS

champions! overcoming CHILDHOOD CANCER 10

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STory by KARA SCHWEISS | phoTography by JIM SCHOLZ

• mmagazine

EMMA GEHRING WITH BROTHERS AIDEN AND EASTON

northwestern mutual PROVIDING CHILDHOOD CANCER SUPPORT

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businesses GIVING BACK six-year-old emma gehring was diagnosed with a brain tumor in infancy and her fight goes on today, but she’s not fighting alone. her family is buoyed by hope as advances in medical research and treatment continue through the collective support of individuals and businesses.

TO SOMEONE NOT IN THE KNOW, THE TERM PILOMYXOID ASTROCYTOMA MIGHT APPEAR TO BE THE NAME OF A RARE CELESTIAL OBJECT OR PERHAPS A COMPLEX CHEMICAL COMPOUND IN A LONG LIST OF INGREDIENTS. “I THOUGHT I WOULD NEVER BE ABLE TO SAY IT,” SAID KATHRYN GEHRING. “NOW IT ROLLS OFF THE TONGUE.”

“

PEOPLE WILL ASK, ‘CAN I really MAKE A difference?’

THE ANSWER IS, absolutely YOU CAN!

She can not only pronounce it correctly, she can spell it perfectly and tell you about it in great detail, too.

Pilomyxiod astrocytoma is the type of brain tumor Kathryn and Brent Gehring’s daughter Emma, now 6, was diagnosed with at 7 months and has been fighting ever since.

The Gehrings, both educators with Papillion-La Vista Community Schools, met while attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Brent is from Creston, a town in Platte County, and Kathryn is from Hildreth in Franklin County. The couple, who now live in Papillion, started their family in 2009 with the arrival of son Aiden. They welcomed their daughter three years later. Within a few months of Emma’s birth, troubling symptoms— strabismus, increasing head circumference disproportionate to her overall growth, atypical motor coordination, low appetite with slow weight gain— began to emerge. An initial diagnosis was Duane syndrome, an eye movement disorder, but additional signs suggested a neurological problem.

“There were these little things that weren’t adding up,” Kathryn Gehring said.

“The first MRI request was actually denied by insurance because there wasn’t enough medical reason to do it,” Brent Gehring said. That quickly changed, and an MRI in the first days of 2013 revealed a mass that had already grown to encompass a third of the baby’s brain.

“We went from when it was just the eye thing and thinking that she’s not going to be able to play basketball or softball, and that seemed so important,” Brent Gehring said. “And then we find out it’s this and we’re worried about tomorrow.”

“

~ KELLY KRINGS, norThweSTern mUTUal

Family impact Emma and one or both of her parents have traveled to Boston more than two dozen times for treatment.

She’s had two inpatient stints at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital for physical and occupational therapy. Other treatment and checkups take place closer to home, including through Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, but a rigorous schedule is still warranted. From figuring out family leave benefits to coordinating childcare for the two Gehring boys (Easton was born in 2016), to having to keep Emma home or separated from her siblings when her immune system is compromised, “It’s hard on you as a family,” Kathryn Gehring said, and she means the psychological and emotional impact, too. “I don’t know that it affects Easton yet, but Aiden has seen a lot and experienced a lot that most 9-year-olds haven’t.”

“We hear him say things that are very, very real,” Brent Gehring said. For instance, he explained, Aiden, who turned 9 in July, chose to research brain tumors for a library activity in second grade. On the other hand, seeing his sister so ill has generated in him a sense of compassion beyond his years.

“Initially, one of my driving purposes was that I wanted to be able to write her a story of what she did and what she’d been through,” Brent Gehring said.

“It started out with so many calls and texts and everyone wanting to know how she was, and how we were, and what was up,” Kathryn Gehring said. “It was easier to write an (online) update and have everybody know. They were doing it because they loved us and cared about us.”

The Gehrings now also use emmastrong.com to promote fundraising events and directly raise money for pediatric brain tumor research and awareness, Kathryn Gehring said. “We are motivated to continue to share because maybe it’s going to help someone else.”

Currently, Emma is enjoying a respite from treatment, but it will inevitably resume and the larger journey is far from over. Pilomyxoid astrocytomas tend to stop growing once children reach adulthood, around age 21, Brent Gehring explained, and Emma just turned 6.

Anything can happen in the next 15 years, and promising research suggests that better treatment options may be ahead.

Looking for answers And there are other bright spots, too, like how friends Dr. Don Coulter, an associate professor of pediatrics with and family have helped with groceries, meals, housecleaning and child care. Students and colleagues of the University of Nebraska Medical Center who practices with Children’s Hospital & Medical Center and Nebraska Less than two weeks after the diagnosis, the foremost the couple have also organized multiple fundraisers.

Medicine, is a pediatric hematologist and oncologist. He expert on Emma’s condition, Dr. Liliana Goumnerova of said that although pediatric cancers are a small Boston Children’s Hospital, performed Emma’s first “We just think, ‘How did we do that? How did we make it percentage of all cancers and that Nebraska is not a surgery. A second surgery followed a year and a half later. through that?’ Because we had to, and because we had particularly populous state, statistics show that the The tumor’s location precluded 100 percent removal, so amazing support. We had a lot of support from a lot of pediatric cancer rate here is higher than the national ongoing chemotherapy has been needed, to varying people,” Kathryn Gehring said. average. For the last five years, Nebraska is tied with degrees of tolerability and success. “There was so much New Jersey for the third highest incidence. Those The Gehrings started a blog and ultimately a website, guessing. There were so many unknowns,” Kathryn numbers are concerning and need to be examined, Coulter said. emmastrong.com, to keep everyone apprised.

Gehring said.

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champions! overcoming CHILDHOOD CANCER “I want people to understand that statistics inherently are difficult to sort out,” he said. Looking at data going back 24 years, he added, Nebraska still has a higher-thanaverage rate of childhood cancers but not as high as most recently, so the trend needs to be carefully tracked to see if it continues. Research has already revealed one finding that appears to have held up over time, however: “When we mapped the data, we found that specific counties in different areas of the state do have a higher incidence,” Coulter said.

Theories as to why abound, he added, from the effect of chemicals used in local industries to genetic links that emerge in families rooted for many generations in a small community. Once the causes behind the data are identified and better understood, risk factors may be pinpointed and perhaps physicians can make earlier diagnoses or even educate patients on prevention strategies.

“

WE STILL NEED advocacy.

IT’S important WE RAISE awareness THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE. AND NOT JUST research DOLLARS, BUT ALSO direct assistance TO AFFECTED families.

“

~ DR. DON COULTER pediaTric hemaTologiST and oncologiST

“It’s going to take a long time to find those answers out, but in the meantime we have a population that needs help now,” Coulter said. “How do we take care of those kids?”

As researchers look for answers, Coulter said, it’s important to consider the immediate implications of serving families in a rural state who may live many hours away from providers with the expertise needed to help their child fight cancer.

“If you live in Bennington, that’s not too bad, but if you live in Grand Island or Scottsbluff, that’s a lot of hours driving and a lot of time that you’re spending,” he said.

A cancer diagnosis in a child is stressful financially and logistically for any family, but the effects are compounded when care isn’t accessible locally. Plus, he said, the majority of children who recover from cancer experience long-term health effects related to either the original disease or treatment. Follow-up care may be needed for decades. “There are huge impacts.”

DR. COULTER

Researchers work ceaselessly to find better treatments, not only to continue to improve survival rates, but also to reduce side effects and improve outcomes, Coulter said.

“We still need advocacy. It’s important we raise awareness that this is an issue,” Coulter said. “And not just research dollars, but also direct assistance to affected families. Companies can raise awareness and dollars to support that.” northwestern mutual PROVIDING CHILDHOOD CANCER SUPPORT

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businesses GIVING BACK

giving back • NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

pediaTric cancer diagnoSeS in nebraSka, 1990–2013 From “TEMPORAL AND GEOSPATIAL TRENDS OF PEDIATRIC CANCER INCIDENCE IN NEBRASKA OVER A 24-YEAR PERIOD” pUbliShed in CANCER EPIDEMIOLOGY, FEBRUARY 2018

Moving mountains Kelly Krings, chief marketing officer (Nebraska) with Northwestern Mutual, said his organization has now made childhood cancer its primary charitable cause.

Krings wanted to find out more about cancer in children and how Nebraska compared to the rest of the nation.

“On a local level, we started researching how big of a problem it was and what was happening with childhood cancer for the state of Nebraska,” he said. “The more “I believe childhood cancer is a silent epidemic; people research we did, the more alarmed we were when we have no idea how big of an issue it is in our state unless realized Nebraska led the country in mortality rate and they’re exposed to it personally through a family member, friend or coworker,” he said. “Cancer is terrible that we were ranked fifth nationally in childhood cancer at any age but when it’s a child…oftentimes the chemo, rates for under age 15.” the radiation, the treatment, take a longer toll. Even if Through a host of events and activities, “Northwestern you beat cancer, you’re going to have other issues Mutual has raised $350,000, contributed 4,000 volunteer throughout your survivorship. The fight isn’t over just hours and hosted more than 50 events in the state of because you’re cancer-free; it’s a lifelong battle.”

Nebraska,” he said.

Northwestern Mutual’s involvement began with Rallying around a single cause helps a company corporate sponsorship of Alex’s Lemonade Stand concentrate efforts and see results, Krings added. “It’s Foundation, the leading national childhood cancer more than just writing a check. I would ask other nonprofit. Krings has seen cancer strike adults in his businesses, ‘Are you doing as much as you can do? Have family and seen families like high-school pal Brent you rallied around a couple of causes to make a bigger Gehring’s cope with cancer in a child. His interest was impact?’ We chose childhood cancer for our one big focus also sharpened as he served on the board of Angels Among Us, a Nebraska nonprofit that provides financial for the state, and we’ve really moved mountains in a support to families who have a child battling cancer. So short period of time.”

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mmagazine •

Grassroots and word-of-mouth Tim Harrison, founder and CEO of Harrison Financial Services (HFS), said it’s not just massive corporations that make a difference. His team of 15 has embraced the cause; some events that support cancer charities are part of the larger Northwestern Mutual effort and others are independently coordinated. Year-round activities range from participating in golf tournaments and walks/runs to direct fundraising, but participants never forget who they’re helping.

“Cancer impacts all of us on almost a daily basis because we all know people who are struggling,” said Jack McKeegan, advisor and director of investments with HFS. The people of HFS have also seen up-close how childhood cancer affects families, he added. It helps sustain their motivation to support the cause through various reputable cancer nonprofits, whether they fund research or direct assistance to families.

“Three of our clients have had children with leukemia…

You want to help parents whose shoes you’d never want to walk in,” McKeegan said. “We’re involved in a number of organizations fighting childhood cancer.”

aUgUST 2018

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addiTional imageS and graphicS coUrTeSy oF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL and CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER conTinUed

• mmagazine

champions! overcoming CHILDHOOD CANCER “It fits into our larger essential purpose statement; it’s to help people create a better plan for their life, legacy and community,” Harrison said. “It’s easy to get people rallied around one thing we want to accomplish and think we can make an impact on. Nobody wants to see kids suffer; it’s one thing everyone will agree on.”

Midwestern humility aside, business leaders and employees need to be willing to serve as an example and actively encourage others to step up, too, Harrison said. Whatever the cause, giving begets giving.

“It’s important that people not only do it themselves, but tell other people,” he explained. “If I’m not talking about it and inspiring other people to also do things like this, than who is? We owe it to others to be thinking about these things because the reality is, how else did I get involved? How else did other people get involved? It’s through grassroots and word-of-mouth.”

Making it better “People will say, ‘Can I really make a difference?’” Krings said. “The answer is, absolutely you can.”

Families like the Gehrings will agree. Despite the rigors of treatment, Emma is first and foremost a little girl, and she wants the same things as any other 6-year-old. She’s into everything pink, Disney princesses, American Girl dolls, and making pretend meals with her play kitchen.

She likes art activities in school and iPad learning apps.

One of her most exciting experiences ever was meeting Minnie Mouse and Doc McStuffins on a Make-A-Wish trip to Disney World in Florida. “I danced!” she said.

To help Emma keep dancing, the effort to support research and families like hers must continue.

“We want to fight for everybody,” Brent Gehring said.

“Our biggest hope is just to make it better for our kids,” Kathryn Gehring said.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON NEBRASKA CHILDHOOD CANCER CHARITIES AND THE NEBRASKA COALITION TO END CHILDHOOD CANCER, VISIT WWW.NEBC3.COM.

PICTURED: A FEW OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL’S FUNDRAISING PROJECTS

northwestern mutual PROVIDING CHILDHOOD CANCER SUPPORT

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E! E DAT S H T E ’ SAV AZINE 2019

MAG metro NT G EVE The BI 7, 2019 ry 1 ter Janua gn Cen i s e D a Omah 8pm 5pm –

For events presented between June 1, 2017 & May 31, 2018 Nominations accepted August 1 – September 15!

• Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEventNOMS

Nominations accepted in these Categories: BEST EVENT THEME • BEST EVENT FOOD & WINE • BEST WALK / RUN BEST EVENT UNDER 500 • BEST EVENT OVER 500 PLUS: • Outstanding Guild Award

Voting runs November 1 – December 15!

Winners in each category will be honored at The BIG Event!

*

The TOP VOTE-GETTING organization will WIN the

VOTING deadline is DECEMBER 15, 2018!

• Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/TheBigEvent-VOTE/

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ANNOUNCING!

CONNECT WITH US!

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BIG connection

WINE WOMEN & SHOES

steps up for children and families

the house that 18

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STory and imageS coUrTeSy of CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

• mmagazine

the first wine women & shoes fundraiser in 2012 was an instant success, bringing in 260

participants and generating $115,000 to support children’s hospital & medical center’s carolyn scott rainbow house. the ultimate girls’ night out has been brought back by popular demand every year and has raised more than $1 million to date.

carolyn scott rainbow house

love built. children’s hospital foundation THE BIG CONNECTION

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THE BIG connection

WINE WOMEN & SHOES

carolyn scott rainbow ho MORE THAN YOU know WINE WOMEN & SHOES MAY BE ALL THINGS PINK AND SPARKLY AT FIRST GLANCE, AN EVENING FOR WOMEN TO GATHER WITH THEIR GIRLFRIENDS IN THEIR SASSIEST COCKTAIL ATTIRE TO SIP WINE, DO SOME DESIGNER SHOPPING AND TAKE SELFIES. But make no mistake; Wine Women & Shoes is much more than sky-high stilettos and bubbly champagne.

This annual, rapidly growing fundraising event is a meaningful and valued endeavor for the women involved, who are committed to improving the health and well-being of the region’s families.

Proceeds from Wine Women & Shoes support Children’s Hospital & Medical Center’s Carolyn Scott Rainbow House, a “home away from home” to thousands of parents and family members of children receiving services at Children’s who live 60 miles or more from Omaha.

“The Carolyn Scott Rainbow House is one of my love affairs,” said Ellen Wright, philanthropist, volunteer and advocate for Children’s.

PLAYROOM

Wright and co-chair Erin Pogge initiated and led the first Wine Women & Shoes in 2012 at Happy Hollow Club.

Around 260 women gathered at that inaugural event, raising $115,000 by sipping, savoring and shopping for the Rainbow House.

Fast forward to April 6, 2018: After outgrowing both the Happy Hollow Club and Champions Run, Wine Women & Shoes drew a crowd of nearly 600 people to the Omaha Design Center and raised more than $190,000. To date, Wine Women & Shoes has raised more than $1 million for the Rainbow House.

“We are delighted to watch the excitement around Wine Women & Shoes grow each year as it introduces new supporters to the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House,” said Beth Greiner, executive director of Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation. “I love how this event was initiated by women, continues to be led by women and is enjoyed by women who value the community treasure that is the Rainbow House, a dream that became reality thanks to the tireless fundraising efforts of a woman!”

Carolyn Scott’s legacy

GUEST ROOM

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It was the wish of community advocate Carolyn Scott to build this special place for Children’s families. She understood how scared and stressed parents with a sick child would feel, and was determined to offer them a safe haven of rest as they faced such daunting emotional and financial burdens.

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carolyn scott rainbow house

Scott was so passionate about the need for the Rainbow House that she spearheaded fundraising for the project while she herself was fighting cancer.

Four months before she passed away, the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House opened and welcomed its first family in 1983.

“Mother’s personality made a big difference in making sure the Rainbow House came to fruition,” said Amy Scott, Carolyn Scott’s daughter, who served as an honorary chair of the very first Wine Women & Shoes, along with her sisters Sandy Parker and Karen Dixon.

“She had her own personal struggles in daily life. Getting up in the morning and making it through the day was sometimes extremely difficult for her, and I think that allowed her to have that great compassion for what other families might be dealing with,” Scott said. “As an adult, watching your child go through that is another story. She had unbelievable passion and compassion for making sure families could do that together. And the Rainbow House was that avenue to make it happen.”

As Children’s grew bigger and busier—and attracted more patients regionally and nationally—the need for the Rainbow House increased. There were many nights when the original Rainbow House at 7815 Harney Street was full. Children’s leadership, along with generous hospital supporters, thoughtfully considered the evolving needs of patients and families and decided to build a new Rainbow House, which opened at 7825 Farnam Drive in January 2015. This beautiful facility features 56 private guest rooms and welcoming common areas for patient families to enjoy.

“I think Mom would be thrilled to know it’s still here,” Sandy Parker said. “Hopefully in another 30 years, the facility is still there taking care of children and families.”

“

HOPEFULLY IN ANOTHER 30 years, THE FACILITY IS still there TAKING CARE OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES.

”

Rainbow House amenities Tens of thousands of patient families have enjoyed the comfortable accommodations of the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House. Last year, those families came from more than 30 states, Puerto Rico, Belize and Guatemala.

The welcoming three-story building offers 56 rooms with either one or two queen-size beds, a pull-out sofa and private bath. The house has four guest rooms with zero-entry showers. Cable television and Wi-Fi access are available in each guest room. All families share a large kitchen and dining room where they have access to dishes, cooking utensils and some basic food items.

~ SANDY PARKER daUghTer of rainbow hoUSe nameSake and firST advocaTe, carolyn ScoTT

THE WELCOMING ENTRY FEATURES HUNDREDS OF BUTTERFLIES FOR GUESTS OF ALL AGES TO ENJOY

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THE BIG connection

WINE WOMEN & SHOES

giving back

A personal pantry and refrigerator is provided for each family. Media, game, meditation, exercise, computer and play rooms offer comfort and convenience for children and adults and free laundry facilities are available. A large patio at the back of the facility offers tables, additional seating and a play area for siblings and patients so families can enjoy time outside together.

The Rainbow House also offers a shuttle bus which transports families to and from Children’s on a scheduled basis.

ELLEN WRIGHT

There is a suggested monetary donation per night at the Rainbow House, but no one is turned away due to their inability to pay. That’s where Wine Women & Shoes steps in to fund operations so that out-of-town families have an affordable, convenient place to stay when their children are receiving care at Children’s.

Recipe for success At the very first Wine Women & Shoes fundraiser in Omaha, guests enjoyed live and silent auctions and delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Many of the recipes were from Carolyn Scott’s own kitchen.

2018 EVENT CHAIRS EMILY ANDERSON & ANN PITSCHKA

Today, this favorite girls’ night out is a celebration of fashion and compassion that continues to attract Omaha women with a fabulous marketplace full of designer fashions, jewelry and accessories from national and local retailers; wine tasting; a glamorous fashion show; live and silent auctions; and much more.

The facility cost $850,000 to build and was funded by a communitywide penny drive and contributions made by 30,000 people in Nebraska and western Iowa. True to Margaret Doorly’s vision, from its first day open, Children’s has never turned away a child with a medical need due to the family’s inability to pay. In March 2018, Children’s celebrated 70 years of serving children and their families.

The Carolyn Scott Rainbow House will continue to be an important resource for families as Children’s experiences significant growth in the number of patients served and the variety of programs and services provided.

Construction is underway on the new Hubbard Center for Children, a nine-story expansion set to open in 2021.

Dozens of “Shoe Guys,” handsome and helpful volunteers, This transformational project will include a Neonatal provide another unique element that makes this Intensive Care Unit, Fetal Care Center, Cardiac Care Unit, fundraiser a huge hit. Through online fundraising of their Surgical Services, Emergency Department, Oncology Care own prior to the event, the Shoe Guys raised $14,000 for Unit and more, and will help Children’s accommodate the Rainbow House in 2018. growing demand for services and improve pediatric care for patients and families.

Serving children and families

2017 EVENT CHAIRS ANGELA CUTLER & CHRISTINA GROTELUSCHEN

Margaret Doorly was paying her bill after being discharged from a local hospital when she overheard the hospital attendant turn away parents who did not have the required $10 to admit their ill child. Doorly stepped up and paid the bill, then went home and shared her concern with her husband. He agreed there was a need for a hospital where no child is ever refused for lack of ability to pay. In 1943, Henry Doorly met with Dr. C.W.M. Poynter, the dean of the University of Nebraska Medical School, whose dream it was to open such a hospital. And on March 14, 1948, Children’s Memorial Hospital opened its doors at 42nd and Dewey Avenue in Omaha.

“Children’s has a rich history of female leadership – women who insisted that children’s health should be a priority for the Omaha community,” Greiner said.

“Carolyn Scott and her family, Ellen Wright, and all of the Wine Women & Shoes leaders are in good company with Margaret Doorly, wife of Henry Doorly, the former publisher of the Omaha World-Herald, who saw a need for a children’s hospital in 1942 and took action.”

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“We live in a tremendous community where you can volunteer your time for just about anything – health care, social service, the arts – we’ve got it all. But when you have an opportunity to become involved with Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, you want to continue,” Wright said. “When you see 600 young women participating in Wine Women & Shoes and always remembering the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House, it’s truly emotional.”

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“

WHEN YOU SEE 600 young women PARTICIPATING IN WINE WOMEN & SHOES AND ALWAYS remembering THE CAROLYN SCOTT RAINBOW HOUSE, IT’S TRULY emotional.

”

~ ELLEN WRIGHT co-chair CAROLYN SCOTT

Carolyn Scott Rainbow House • “By the Numbers” • 45,000 square feet • 56 guest rooms • 15,000 stays in 2017 • 72% - Average occupancy in 2017 • 3-4 nights - Average length of stay

FAMILY GATHERING SPACE

• 2 years - Longest stay • 111 adults and children – Average number of people who stay at the Rainbow House on a typical night • 60 miles or more – Families living this distance from Omaha are eligible to stay at the Rainbow House • 30+ states, Belize, Guatemala & Puerto Rico - Where families staying at the Rainbow House traveled from in 2017 For more information about getting involved with Wine Women & Shoes, please contact Morgan Thomsen, Director of Annual Giving, Children’s Foundation, at 402.955.6852 or mothomsen@ChildrensOmaha.org.

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• AMERICAN MIDWEST BALLET

• mMAGAZINE

HAVE YOU HEARD heard THE big news?

How did it all start? Ballet Nebraska began as a grassroots organization in 2009 and has steadily grown into a key cultural asset in the region. The people behind Ballet Nebraska have given their lifeblood for eight years, and have created a wonderful professional company that the community can be proud of.

What is happening now? The community is coming together to advance the ballet to the exciting next phase in its development! Plans revolve around enhancing operations and creating a permanent home for the ballet to provide long-term sustainability for the company. As a reflection of the company’s increasing stature as a regional asset, Ballet Nebraska is rebranding under the new name American Midwest Ballet. We’ve always been a presence in both Omaha and Council Bluffs, and this name more fully reflects our identity. For our upcoming Season 9, we’ll begin performing under the American Midwest Ballet name.

An operating support campaign is also underway to strengthen core operations by investing in staff and dancer infrastructure. The company is grateful to its many supporters who are making this possible, including major operating gifts from the Iowa West Foundation, the Fred and Eve Simon Charitable Foundation, the Richard Brooke Foundation, the Holland Foundation, the Peter Kiewit Foundation, and the Nebraska Arts Council.

What’s the next step? American Midwest Ballet has accepted an invitation to become the resident dance company of the Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center, slated to open in 2019 in downtown Council Bluffs. The new arts center will provide a state-of-theart facility that will allow the ballet to consolidate its rehearsal, costume and scenic construction, and administrative functions under one roof. It also will give the company access to a fully equipped onsite theater, the Polina and Bob Schlott Performing Arts Center.

All of these improvements will let us concentrate even more of our energy on our primary mission: bringing high-quality ballet to the region.

Who is making this possible? Pottawattamie Arts, Culture and Entertainment (PACE) is the nonprofit organization leading the program in partnership with the Iowa West Foundation. PACE will transform Council Bluffs’ empty Harvester II Building into a destination for art, theater, and entertainment. Funding for the $26.8 million project is in the final stages of the campaign with less than $1 million left to raise in the community campaign. Leadership gifts include a $9 million gift from the Iowa West Foundation, a $2 million gift from Ted and Polly Hoff, a $1 million gift from Polina and Bob Schlott, a $1 million grant from Enhance Iowa and additional major gifts from regional foundations along with the generous support of many community members.

Does this mean you’ll be leaving Omaha? Not at all. We’ll still be performing at the Orpheum Theater, collaborating with Joslyn Art Museum, and working with our community partners including Omaha Performing Arts, Omaha Symphony, Opera Omaha, Omaha Public Schools, and numerous social service agencies. We’ve been active in both Nebraska and Iowa from the very beginning, and the new center will help us maintain and strengthen our activities on both sides of the river.

What changes can audiences expect to see? Any changes you’ll see will be positive. While the Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center is in development, we’ll keep operating as we have been. Once the new arts center is completed, we’ll move in and start benefiting from its facilities. And we’ll be able to be part of the exciting interdisciplinary and community programs that the center will host with us, other partners, and the community.

How can I keep up with what’s happening? We’ll post regular updates on amballet.org and our Facebook page, and PACE will keep the community informed on the overall project.

We look forward to having all of our supporters with us as we take this exciting next step in our growth as the region’s resident professional dance company.

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BALLET NEBRASKA BECOMES

AMERICAN M I D W E S T

ballet 2 018 —2 019

As a reflection of its increasing stature as a regional asset, Ballet Nebraska is rebranding under the new name American Midwest Ballet. We’ve always been a presence in both Omaha and Council Bluffs, and this name more fully reflects our identity.

Get the full story at amballet.org

Future growth: American Midwest Ballet has accepted an invitation to become the resident dance company of the Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center, slated to open in 2019 in downtown Council Bluffs.

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VIP

VERY inspirational PEOPLE

INSPIRATIONAL EXAMPLES

CALE FERRIN has always been the kind of kid who sees anyone and everyone as a potential friend, his mom said. “He’s my ‘no stranger danger, no fear’ kind of child.” During a shopping trip when Cale was just three years old, “He says, ‘Mom, see that lady behind you? I think she needs a hug.’ And I said, ‘No, honey, stranger danger; you just can’t do that. We don’t know her.’

“It comes natural to me,” Cale said. “Because I’m one of those who are just out there, talks a lot, is happy all the time pretty much.”

“And he said, ‘Mom, sometimes strangers need a hug, too.’”

In 2014, Cale heard a radio ad for a talent evaluation contest with The International Presentation of Performers and urged his parents to let him participate.

“He sees a camera out of the corner of his eye and will run right over there: ‘Hey, how you doing?’” Britteny said. “It’s like he’s a magnet to a camera. He loves it.”

Cale is almost 12 now, an age when many of his peers shrug off affection, but he’s still very much a hugger. It’s a natural extension of how he approaches life: he “I went to this competition for modeling and acting called ‘iPOP!’,” Cale explained.

“I was modeling so well and I even did ‘the sprinkler’ (dance move) at the end of embraces it. the runway. They contacted me and I got a modeling agent.” He was also set up with a talent agent.

Justin and Britteny Ferrin knew from prenatal scans that their baby had hydrocephalus. But Cale’s hands, which are missing thumbs, and If you can dream it, you can do it other physical indicators evident at birth suggested that It’s been a whirlwind ever since. Cale has appeared on something else was going on. At 10 days old, Cale was “Sometimes I kind of episodes of TV Land’s “Teachers” and Nickelodeon’s “Nicky, diagnosed with Fanconi anemia, a rare genetic Ricky, Dicky & Dawn” in addition to a music video and disorder—so rare that Cale is believed to be the only surprise myself at two short films. He’s the lead in a film called “Nesting Nebraskan with that diagnosis. the things I do….

Doll” now in post-production. He’s modeled for a It’s that saying, Target ad, Parent Magazine, and an international Ups and downs inclusion campaign for Nike. He’s done some local The couple had been prepared for the possibility of ‘If you can dream it, work, too, including appearances on KMTV’s former cognitive impairment, which sometimes accompanies you can do it.’” talk show “The Morning Blend,” emceeing for a Project hydrocephalus. But Fanconi anemia can cause skeletal Harmony gala and Omaha Fashion Week, and narrating problems and organ malformation or malfunction in some CALE FERRIN “Meet the Bluejays” videos for Creighton University.

F patients. Worse, it leads to bone marrow failure and a substantially increased risk for eventually developing certain cancers.

Britteny is a human resources consultant and Justin works in finance, “That is the part of Fanconi anemia that is really hard to understand or to adapt to, so with no professional entertainment management experience they had to learn that it’s dormant. All these other surgeries and such have been just maintenance… a lot about video auditioning and talent promotion fast. Cale now has his own the monster is dormant until who knows when, and then when it happens it website (caleferrin.com), IMDB page, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to support happens,” Britteny said. “They always tell you another birthday is great, but it’s his budding career. He’s heavily involved in choosing content, but his parents are careful curators. They’re also conscientious about Cale’s bookings. closer to destruction.”

Cale’s younger sister Anna, now 6, was conceived through in-vitro fertilization and “He has a lot of uniqueness to offer and I think it’s something beneficial for other determined to be a match to Cale before implantation so she could serve as his kids who are different like him to see, and I think Hollywood and modeling are bone marrow donor if or when the time comes. Her umbilical cord blood was also starting to realize it’s time. It’s still way behind the curve, but it’s getting better,” harvested at birth. Cale is close to big brother JJ, 13, who he calls “my hero,” but Britteny Ferrin said. “He’s ready to break through that ceiling.” he’s “almost spiritually connected” to his sister, Britteny said. “They are naturally just best friends because they get along so well. They miss each other within five Cale joked that he’s been successful as a model and actor so far “Because I’m cute!”

But more seriously, “I’m an inspirational person. I’ve done things that could be out minutes of being apart.” of the odds. Some people want to do what I do but they’re afraid. It’s that saying: There have been ups and downs. Cale has learned to cope with some neurological ‘If you can dream it, you can do it.’ I feel like that’s inspiring. To me, too,” he said. effects of hydrocephalus. But Fanconi anemia has affected Cale’s body extensively “Sometimes I kind of surprise myself at the things I do.” and more than 25 surgeries, all before the age of 7, have been needed. Cale also “Justin and I are still grounded in the intention of this. It’s not to make money, it’s has ataxia, which means his balance and coordination are compromised. not to make him a celebrity. If things are meant to be, we believe in divine intervention,” Britteny Ferrin said. “We feel that there is a greater purpose to him Larger than life Despite the trying times, Cale’s larger-than-life personality bloomed. In fact, and we’re along for the ride. We sit back and watch and we continue to see this journey unfold.”

Cale has started a modeling and acting career.

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THE CAMERA loves

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spotlight on

• LAURITZEN GARDENS ANTIQUES SHOW

in its 15th anniversary year the lauritzen gardens antiques show features engaging speakers and exceptional antiques dealers and exhibitors. organizers are proud of the reputation they’ve built not only for presenting an enjoyable event, but also providing top-notch hospitality.

“When we started this out, Kim (Lauritzen) and I said we wanted it to be the way charitable events used to be, where we have a committee of friends—and new people to bring into it—who would enjoy one another and plan a beautiful event,” Lauritzen Gardens Antiques Show co-founder and honorary chair Mary Seina said.

“We wanted it to be pleasant, not so serious.”

Serious funds have been raised, however. The annual four-day September event, which is planned and executed by volunteers, has brought in a total of $6.75 million for Omaha’s botanical center since 2004.

Diny Landen, who heads the show’s vision committee, said a strategic plan is in place that looks five years ahead; show planning and executing takes place throughout the year and work begins for the next show almost as soon as the last one ends.

“This show has garnered a reputation to be one of the best antique shows and weekend events in the country. We work really hard to make sure that we keep that up, but also that we stay relevant for new people coming in and for younger people with interest,” Landen said at a summer planning meeting with general chairs Mary Johnson and Mimi Post (Seina’s daughter) at Seina’s home.

“We’ve had a lot of fun!” honorary chair Cindy Bay said. “That’s one of the great things about this: the camaraderie, the friendships and working together.”

Among friends It really is a committee of friends, like the founders envisioned. It’s also fitting that the close friendship between Kimball “Kim” Bowles Lauritzen and Mary Seina was one of the very seeds that helped the first Antiques Show bloom in 2004 and raise more than $200,000.

“She was fabulous,” Seina said of the legacy of her friend, who died of cancer in 2008. “And she was a great fundraiser.”

Lauritzen also happened to be a gifted advocate and recruiter, Bay said.

“Kim brought me in just to help raise a little bit of money. And each year I helped her do a few phone calls,” she explained. Thanks to Lauritzen’s gentle persistence, by 2007, Bay found herself committed to the event for the long term as an honorary chair alongside Seina, and she has served in the role since.

As her surname suggests, Lauritzen’s family was a big supporter of the former Omaha Botanical Center that began in the mid-1990s and ultimately carried the family’s name.

“Kim had this dream of Lauritzen Gardens,” Post said.

“And her husband and family continued to make this dream grow,” Seina added.

“They’re very supportive of our show.”

It’s an especially exciting year for the Lauritzen Gardens Antiques Show.

Organizers are celebrating its 15th anniversary, a new logo, a schedule of compelling speakers and high-caliber vendors and exhibitors, and a reputation for presenting one of the best shows on the circuit.

In a decade and a half, the show has expanded to four days of events offering a greater number of activities, providing more educational seminars and appealing to a broader audience than ever. The 2018 events will kick off with a preview party on Thursday, Sept. 20, and featured speakers include acclaimed interior designer and author Miles Redd on Friday, author and self-proclaimed “serial entertainer” Steven Stolman on Saturday, and Master Sommelier and restauranteur Matt Stamp on Sunday. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and a full schedule of events and exhibitor listing is available at OmahaAntiqueShow.org.

Welcoming atmosphere Bringing in nationally and internationally known speakers has become easier over the years, Landen said.

“In the early days, it was ‘You want me to go where? Omaha?’” she said. “Now we have speakers encouraging others…We’ve had so many wonderful speakers.”

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Some exhibitors have participated since the beginning, like Tony Scornavacco (Anthony Scornavacco Antiques), Graham Arader with Arader Galleries, and Coulee Oriental Rugs.

“There are dealers that have been with us a long time and they have a clientele they have developed in Omaha,” Landen said. “But we are also careful every year to bring in new dealers.”

In addition to the longstanding offerings visitors have come to expect, this year’s show will feature mid-century merchandise, antique linens, French art glass, and Asian furniture and accessories. A variety of price points help ensure “there’s something for every collector,” Landen said.

Any given show takes around 90 volunteers between the planning committee and the event staff, plus members of the Lauritzen Gardens team. Nearly 500 volunteers who have stepped up since 2004 have made the show run smoothly, Seina said.

Many volunteers are returnees and some volunteers, like Phyllis Choat, Nancy Whitted, Fran Dowd and Judy Clark, come back year after year.

“They have run the hospitality room since the very first show,” Seina said. “Antique exhibitors run back to that room to see them when they get here.”

“Our exhibitors, our dealers, love coming to this show,” Landen added. “We want them to do well and develop these relationships.”

Some dealers known to be very selective choose Omaha’s show and only one or two others, Bay said, because they feel so comfortable and welcome here.

“We take good care of them,” she explained.

Johnson and Post both said they have noticed a stark difference in how their team treats participants compared to the standards of other antiques shows across the country.

“It just fills you with a sense of pride that we do this well compared with other, huge cities that have a large following,” Johnson said.

“We have great hospitality; it’s a little step above,” Seina said.

Unique treasures The organizers and volunteers enjoy participating as shoppers and hearing the presenters, Seina added. As the show has expanded and provided more activities, they’re now seeing a more diverse group of attendees, too.

“You don’t have to leave Omaha to find these great items and unique treasures for your home. After a show weekend, you can feel like you were shopping in Europe or shopping in New York City because you cannot find these specialty items here,” Bay said. “You have everybody under one roof for a long weekend, with a huge diversity and variety, and it’s a fun atmosphere.”

Post said she sees attendees who have made the event a family tradition. It’s a trend among the planning committee and volunteers, too.

“We have this group of incredible, amazing women who start probably in our 30s and go up to…” (The assembled group began to laugh.) “Go up,” she said. Seriously, though: “We have this great group of women who are all ages and we get along. You don’t see that many places.”

Landen said the show has attracted more than 57,000 attendees, with about twothirds from the local area and the rest from other communities and even distant states.

“It really has a wonderful regional draw,” Landen said, adding that the antiques show not only raises money for Lauritzen Gardens, the show’s events all take place there. “It’s nice for the Gardens. You bring people to the show and you also introduce them to Lauritzen Gardens.”

“The Gardens to me is a beautiful 100-acre oasis that is continuously growing and changing. That’s very exciting,” Bay said.

“I love the Gardens and I love antiques,” Seina said. “This show, to me, is heaven on earth. And it all started, and it continues to be done, with my dear friend. How could it be better than this?” mmagazine • aUgUST 2018

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STory and phoTography by KARA SCHWEISS

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CINDY BAY, MARY SEINA, DINY LANDEN AND (SEATED) MARY JOHNSON AND MIMI POST

A dream IN bloom

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spotlight on

• OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

stOry by KARA SCHWEISS

• mmaGazine

some omaha gives! participants are so enthused about a cause that they advocate for others to contribute, too. personal cheer pages give them a turnkey means to personalize their platform.

“When your friends and your family ask you to make a donation or to give, that’s a pretty powerful ask,” said Kali Baker, Omaha Community Foundation’s vice president of community investment.

With that in mind, the effort to inspire personal engagement has been one of the principal factors behind the ongoing success of Omaha Gives!, an online giving event Omaha Community Foundation (OCF) has presented annually since 2013. This past May 23, more than 18,000 people collectively raised $7.4 million in 24 hours to support 960 organizations.

Anyone can donate directly to a registered nonprofit, but some Omaha Gives! participants are so enthused about a cause that they advocate for others to contribute, too, Baker said. OCF provides an array of tools to help participants promote their favorite nonprofit to family, friends and colleagues through their existing social media or other communication channels. Personal Cheer Pages, a feature introduced just two years ago, has been particularly well-received.

“It gives them a more powerful role in actually being able to fundraise on behalf of nonprofits,” Baker said.

Turnkey template Participants start with their existing donor profile or create a new one if they are new to Omaha Gives!. All donor profile pages include a Cheer Page tab, which provides a template for a custom web page with pictures, video and a personal appeal. The participant determines a unique URL for his or her Cheer Page, sets a fundraising goal and submits the page to the nonprofit for approval. Once the page is ready, the participant can share the link with his or her circle of friends and acquaintances through social media, email or other messaging.

During the 24-hour Omaha Gives! event, Cheer Page participants are notified via email whenever donations are made and can log in at will to track their campaign’s progress in real time. This year, OCF also awarded monetary prizes for the top three Cheer Pages which raised the most total dollars and the top four which attracted the greatest number of unique donors; those bonus funds go to the registered nonprofits.

Mary Ann Tietjen has participated in Omaha Gives! in prior years, but she created her first Personal Cheer Page this year in support of Mercy High School.

“My daughter is a third-generation Mercy girl,” she said. “Mercy High School has given so much to our family, so many intangibles, that this is just a small thing I could do.”

Tietjen set a modest goal of $500 but ended up raising $2,885 (more than 10 percent of the total raised for Mercy High School through Omaha Gives!) and winning a prize for most dollars raised through a Cheer Page campaign.

“It was really fun to watch the total jump up and to completely exceed my goal,” she said. “My Cheer Page brought a whole new level of excitement. It made it easier for me to get the word out with my friends who are alumni and family…a lot of nostalgia that day.”

Personalized promotion Jason Olson, whose Cheer Page campaign in support of Sing Omaha raised $950 and brought in the greatest number of unique donors, said Omaha Gives! is “really our organization’s only true fundraiser throughout the year.” More than $19,000, including a $1,000 award for Olson’s Cheer Page and a $1,000 Participation Prize for the campaign, was raised this year.

Olson has been involved with Sing Omaha since its 2007 inception, which reflects his deep appreciation and advocacy for the arts.

“Music, especially choir, has been part of my family as I was growing up for as long as I can remember,” he said. His Cheer Page reflected not only his endorsement for Sing Omaha, but also his image of choice, a performance video and heartfelt messaging. “The personalization was a huge factor.”

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“

AN APPEAL FROM SOMEONE YOU know ALWAYS WORKS better THAN AN APPEAL FROM YOUR ORGANIZATION FROM SOMEBODY YOU don’t know.

”

~ DAVID LAFERLA Omaha Gives! Cheer PaGe CreatOr fOr rOnCalli hiGh sChOOl

Olson is a banker by profession, so he’s not experienced in designing web pages.

Nevertheless, “it was easy to use the tool,” he said. He and other Sing Omaha supporters also incorporated social media activity, including singing (of course) via Facebook Live.

Class competition Roncalli High School supporters fostered a little competition between several graduating classes, including David Laferla’s.

“I didn’t personally coordinate the effort, but I was asked to be the ambassador for the Class of ‘71,” he said. Laferla graduated from the all-boys Archbishop Rummel High School, which merged with the all-girls Notre Dame Academy in 1974 to create Roncalli, so the final few Rummel graduating classes have a particularly strong sense of unity, Laferla said. He felt appealing to his former school chums using a Personal Cheer Page would be effective.

“It was actually quite easy; I had pretty good instructions on how to get it set up,” he said. His efforts generated nearly $2,000 in contributions, which garnered an additional $1,000 Cheer Pages prize for being one of the top three in total dollars raised.

Laferla, a member of Suburban Rotary with a longtime history of supporting various charitable causes, said he’d recommend Personal Cheer Pages to other organizations raising money through Omaha Gives!.

“It may not be a bad way to get them to their microsegments,” he said. “An appeal from someone you know always works better than an appeal from your organization from somebody you don’t know.”

Baker said that last year, approximately 300 participants raised $65,000 through Cheer Pages. Increased awareness of the tool in 2018 resulted in 328 pages raising a total of $91,000.

“We’re constantly evaluating how to make them as intuitive as possible and how we create tools to share the pages,” she said. Users have also discovered that sharing their personal reasons for supporting the organization for which they’ve made a Cheer Page or telling others how the organization has helped them or someone close to them helps reach potential donors.

“Those are the most compelling stories that encourage others to give,” she said.

Cheer Pages, which Omaha Gives! participants can set up at any time throughout the year, were originally inspired by other online community giving campaigns using similar mechanisms, Baker said. The team behind Omaha Gives! strives to stay abreast of giving trends and what engages individuals in online platforms.

“Things change quickly,” she said. “We are trying to stay relevant in how people experience online giving.” mmaGazine • aUGUst 2018

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cheer up • NOW IT’S personal

cheer up • NOW IT’S personal

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game CHANGERS

• presented by

“

I JUST WANT TO live EVERY MINUTE AS full AS POSSIBLE. ~DR. JOANN SCHAEFER

”

when dr. joann schaefer found out she had inherited liver disease, she thought half her life was over. the gift of half a liver from a living donor 12 years later gave it back. now an insurance executive, schaefer draws from the patient perspective as she strives to make healthcare more affordable and more understandable.

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story by KARA SCHWEISS | photography by JIM SCHOLZ

• mmagazine

DR. JOANN SCHAEFER

advocating.

PRESENTS

game changers

DR. JOANN SCHAEFER

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game CHANGERS

• presented by

advocating.

JOANN schaefer “from the whole provider perspective and member Joann Schaefer iS an M.D., So of courSe She perspective we’re trying to make a better healthcare system aDvocateS for anD practiceS healthy behaviorS for our members and nebraska as a whole,” she said. “and like conScientiouS nutrition, aDequate Sleep anD exerciSe. She iS alSo aMazingly fit, with More than we try to keep our eyes on the member in everything we do.”

30 half-MarathonS anD full MarathonS anD even Life decisions a 50k behinD her.

Schaefer dreamed of being a physician when she was still a youth growing up in San Diemas, california, a city most but blue cross and blue Shield of nebraska’s (bcbSne) people associate with the 1989 cult classic “bill & ted’s executive vice president for health delivery engagement excellent adventure” (Schaefer doesn’t own any wyld also intimately understands what it’s like to be on the Stallyns gear, but she does have a “San Diemas high School patient side of things. a little over ten years ago, Schaefer was desperately ill from an inherited medical condition that football rules” t-shirt). She earned her undergraduate degree at california State university, fullerton, and came to had become life-threating: she was in need of a liver omaha by way of creighton university Medical School. transplant. friend and fellow physician gary gorby turned out to be a match, and Schaefer received half his liver.

Schaefer said she’s grateful even for the harrowing aspects of the experience.

liver continues to function well. “i just want to live every minute as full as possible.”

Schaefer has always been involved in professional organizations like american academy of family physicians, nebraska Medical association, and Metro omaha Medical Society, but with restored health she’s also able to devote time to causes like live well omaha and the Salvation army board of directors. She also serves on the board of directors for the lane thomas foundation, which supports families of children undergoing solid organ transplants and promotes education and research. the foundation was founded by Matt and Melissa graves, whose son died under tragic circumstances.

“omaha is an amazing city and state and i love it,” she said. “i’ve been here 27 years and now it’s home.”

“they are trying to give as much light (as possible) to lane’s death through the foundation,” Schaefer said. “i feel i was Schafer didn’t know she had inherited liver disease until— perfectly placed to help that family. it’s been a huge honor. ironically—an insurance checkup on the last day of and if i had not gone through what i had gone through, i medical school revealed some problems. would not be in this moment to help them.”

“it’s been the best gift ever given to me because it really hones in my ability to understand what’s important and what isn’t. it’s made life much sweeter. health is really a “My grandmother had the same disease and died at 52, so i Can’t ever lose touch precious thing and for years i didn’t have it,” she said. thought half of my life was gone. i was really afraid i would “when i got it back it was amazing to have it…i wish i Schaefer said she feels compelled to give back “to the die young,” she recalled. looking back, she said “it was could capture in a bottle the difference that i feel now that community that has given me so much.” probably best” her disease wasn’t discovered sooner i’m healthy versus when i wasn’t and then give people a because she might not have chased her dream of becoming note of how that feels so they would understand how a “i feel like you can’t ever lose touch with your community. i a physician knowing her life could be cut short. but the little investment in health could go a long way. but i don’t news did affect other life decisions for Schaefer and her have grandchildren now and i want them to be in a great want to ever minimize how hard that is to do; i get that husband. community and see what it means to give back to a and i really understand the challenge of dealing with a community, that it’s bigger than you,” she said. chronic disease.” “it changed the way i approached life and our family and our expenditures; i wanted more experiences and less things.

Schafer and husband phil haines, a retired Marine corps before joining bcbSne in 2013, Schaefer was chief medical keeping up with the Joneses was so not important to us,” gunnery sergeant, have been married 26 years and raised officer and director of the Division of public health for the she said. “and i didn’t want to be some crabby person who two daughters. Schaefer also helped raise her goddaughter, nebraska Department of health and human Services. was bitter at the world, so i laughed a lot. having that whose mother had been her best friend and died at the She previously practiced family medicine and served as a experience was a good lesson to learn in life early.” hands of an abusive ex-husband. tenured associate professor in the Department of family New liver, new living Medicine at creighton university Medical School. today, “i tried to turn as much good out of that as possible,” she said.

Schaefer oversees the risk adjustment, health network the transplant aftermath wasn’t immediately perfect. “i’ve been very involved in the wca (women’s center for services, case management, reimbursement strategy, advancement, an organization whose services include utilization, quality, pharmacy, medical policy and wellness “i had a long run of complications i had to get through, but helping women experiencing domestic violence) and we areas at bcbSne. She strives to make healthcare easier, safer, once i got through those, it made me very thankful to be more affordable and more understandable. alive because i felt 100 percent better,” she said. her new just opened a room dedicated to her mom.”

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story by KARA SCHWEISS | photography by JIM SCHOLZ

• mmagazine

DR. JOANN SCHAEFER

“

I THOUGHT half OF MY LIFE WAS gone. I WAS REALLY afraid I WOULD DIE YOUNG.

”

~DR. JOANN SCHAEFER

“

IT changed THE WAY I approached LIFE…HAVING THAT experience WAS A GOOD lesson TO LEARN IN LIFE early.

”

~DR. JOANN SCHAEFER Schaefer credits her career success not only to her “make the best of it and make a difference” approach to life, but also to the support of people around her.

flowers and is learning the virtual medium of 3-D painting. her favorite painting is a work by claude Monet titled “impression, Sunrise” and considered to be the inaugural

creation of the impressionist genre. the 1872 work was not “i’ve had a lot of help with an amazing support team and countless mentors and people willing to guide me,” she said. well-received at first, she said, but Monet had confidence in the innovative style. “i mentor a lot of people from high school students to college students, residents, other professionals. i enjoy giving back and they teach me a lot.” “he was right and started a whole movement. it reminds me every day to be different, to think of new things and that

Creating something new

you never know when you’re going to create something not only will Schaefer stop and smell the roses, she may new and change everybody’s way of thinking,” Schaefer said. even paint them. although she never “sealed the deal” for an art minor in college, she enjoys painting landscapes and “i keep that that painting on that wall because it inspires me.”

PRESENTS

game changers

DR. JOANN SCHAEFER

This special feature is sponsored by planitomaha. planitomaha is dedicated to honoring women whose influence not only impacts the boardroom but the community.

“Welcome to

”

one of the largest and most prestigious meeting planning firms in the midwest omaha magazine B2B winners since 2008 national, regional and local meetings and events nationally recognized as a leader in the meetings & event industry supporting our community through our nonprofit work and the boards/organizations we are members of planitomaha has been providing event and meeting management solutions for over 19 years. we are a client-centric firm that provides unmatched service and professionalism. while proudly located in the midwest, our crazytalented event team works from new york to la and everywhere in the middle.

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• mmagazine

spotlight on

• HARRISON FINANCIAL SERVICES

six risks TO BE prepared FOR IN RETIREMENT

As baby boomers approach retirement, many may find themselves in different economic circumstances than what they planned for. Recent economic events have taught us the downside of risk, yet careful planning can help soften the impact. At Harrison Financial Services, we believe your retirement plan can stay on track if you focus on these six key risks.

Health Care Risk: Rising medical and prescription drug costs, fewer employer-sponsored retiree benefits and limitations of Medicare are all impacting income and retirement savings.

According to Medicare.gov, estimated annual health care costs for a 65-year-old range from $3,000 for someone in excellent health to $10,000 for someone in poor health, including premiums, deductibles and co-pays but not including long-term care, vision or dental expenses.

Inflation and Taxes: With inflation reducing purchasing power and taxes impacting liquidation strategies, less money will be available to spend or invest in retirement planning.

Longevity Risk: Americans are living longer and the possibility exists that they could outlive their resources. There is a 10 percent chance that a 65-year-old male will live to 97 years of age and a one percent chance the same male will live to 105 years of age. Yet, the “average” life expectancy is only 85 years, meaning half of the population will die before that age and the other half is expected to live longer.

Legacy Risk: Many Americans want to leave a legacy, making an impact beyond their lifetime by leaving a financial gift to a loved one or a charity. It is necessary to balance this desire with the need to fund an individual’s retirement.

Long-term Care Risk: The cost of care for an unexpected event or long-term illness not covered by private insurance or Medicare is requiring more Americans to prematurely deplete their assets. A 2009 LIMRA (Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association) survey of pre-retirees and retirees aged 55 to 75 found that health care and long-term care expenses together account for between 12 and 15 percent of retirement expenses, depending on the household income.

Market Risk: Participating in the stock market can give an individual’s retirement savings and income the potential to keep pace with inflation; however, volatility in investment markets can significantly affect retirement income and savings.

At Harrison Financial Services, our purpose is to help clients create a better life, legacy and community. We focus on providing an innovative approach to wealth management planning with creative solutions and strategies. To learn more about the Harrison Financial services team, visit www.harrisonfinancialservices.com.

Harrisonfinancialservices.com | 402.891.2302 Harrison Financial Services is a marketing name for Tim Harrison and is not a broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, federal savings bank, subsidiary or other corporate affiliate of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI, including its subsidiaries, nor is it a legal partnership or entity. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Tim J Harrison is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, Milwaukee, WI (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. Tim J. Harrison is an Insurance Agent of NM and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (long-term care insurance), a subsidiary of NM. Tim Harrison is a Registered Representative of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (securities), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC.

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Kali Baker is Vice President of Community Relations at the Omaha Community Foundation

omaha giving

• Omaha COmmunity FOundatiOn

RESIDENT ENGAGEMENT drives new PHILANTHROPIC opportunities Last fall, the Omaha Community Foundation embarked on a listening campaign to hear from people in our community. Our listening journey is part of the work of The Landscape (TheLandscapeOmaha.org), a community-driven research project that incorporates data, policy review and insight gathered from engagement with residents in targeted areas of the community.

Working in partnership with six local nonprofits, we sought to hear directly from individuals about their experiences in our community.

Over many months, through both individual and small-group conversations, we listened to more than 1,600 residents to better understand their lives, what’s working for them and what may be standing in the way of opportunity.

Throughout these conversations, six themes emerged that help tell the story of our community today and what our residents—especially those from the most disinvested communities—are facing and feeling every day: Social and Support Networks Local residents place a high value on the available support networks through their lives. These networks can include local schools, mentors and other supportive adults or advisors, and family and friends. Some participants also mentioned that in the absence of a family network, they turn to schools or nonprofits for support.

Arts, Culture and Recreation Many residents value the strength and assortment of our region’s arts, culture and recreation activities and believe this strongly contributes to the quality of life. However, there were many listening participants who spoke about difficulties accessing these activities, or the lack of awareness about what opportunities may be available or affordable to them.

Vibrant Neighborhoods Residents want their neighborhoods to be more engaged, safe and livable spaces. Participants are concerned about issues regarding safety and beautification—many would like a heightened sense of security in their neighborhoods. People are also seeking more affordable, accessible activities to connect with friends and neighbors.

Financial Stability Many residents are working diligently to build a strong financial future, but they face multiple barriers that prevent them from achieving financial stability. People expressed frustration that there are many basic obstacles to everyday needs (high cost of childcare, absence of paid leave options, etc.) that limit their opportunities to secure employment or grow their career, and kali baker overall inhibit their economic mobility.

Segregation Residents want a more open, honest dialogue when confronting issues of segregation in our community and a path forward that embraces diversity, equity and understanding. Listening session participants often acknowledged the differences in individual experiences; one’s race or socioeconomic status dictates vastly different opportunities in our community.

Access to Public Transportation Residents have a desire for more multi-modal transportation and increasing the accessibility of our public transit options. People shared that our community is too car-centric, and those who do not have—or cannot afford—a car are extremely limited in their availability to get around.

A common thread that emerged throughout was that everyone has a strong desire to connect more with the community—connect with neighbors, meet new people, and create lasting relationships.

We are committed to this listening work, because we believe that by hearing from the people most affected by the issues identified within The Landscape, we can better understand how to affect change in our community, and strategically invest in its future.

To learn more, we invite you to visit TheLandscapeOmaha.org, where you can read the full Community Listening Report, or contact the Omaha Community Foundation at (402) 342-3458.

Listening, Learning, Investing.

We all have a desire to connect with our community—to engage our neighbors, meet new people, and create lasting relationships. The Landscape is a community-driven research project that incorporates publicly-available data, policy review, and insight gathered from engagement with local residents. It provides a structure for knowing the community and for understanding how to invest in its future.

Check out the new Community Listening Report: TheLandscapeOmaha.org

OmahaFoundation.org

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maRy E. VandEnaCK Mary Vandenack, while a lawyer by profession, has studied extensively in mind/body areas of fitness and wellness. She is Yoga Alliance RYT-200, Power Pilates certified and ACE certified.

PRACTICING gratitude TO ENHANCE leadership skills THERE ARE A LOT OF QUALITIES THAT MAKE GOOD LEADERS.

What is a Gratitude Practice?

PRACTICING MINDFULNESS CAN CULTIVATE THESE QUALITIES. A gratitude practice first involves noticing and appreciating that which is around you and in your life. You pay attention and become consciously aware of things you may have taken for granted. ~ William Shakespeare You consider simple things, such as sleeping well or being able to walk.

The second aspect is expressing the appreciation. Expression in this sense does not have to be verbal. It can be an internal acknowledgement.

Benefits of Gratitude Practice Various studies have shown that engaging in a regular gratitude practice has multiple benefits.

Positive psychology research shows a correlation between a sense of happiness and a regular gratitude practice. The benefits of your gratitude practice will also extend to those around you.

Simply saying “thank-you” can improve relationships. You can verbally express those two words, send an old-fashioned note, or use the words in an email or text. If you are in a relationship, expressing gratitude for your partner can enhance the relationship. In the workplace, expressing gratitude for the efforts of others can improve the team structure.

Engaging in a gratitude practice can help your sense of well-being. You are less likely to experience depression. When you practice gratitude, you are less likely to experience negative emotions such as envy and resentment. A gratitude practice can assist in recovering from the impact of trauma.

A gratitude practice can have physical health benefits. Those who engage in such a practice are more likely to take care of themselves.

Another way to engage in a gratitude practice is to use a gratitude jar; you can also use a box or a bowl or whatever you might think of that provides you a positive feeling when you look at it. Print out several slips that say: “I am grateful for ______________.” Put those in the container you have chosen. Once in a while, pull out some of the gratitude slips. It is okay to express gratitude on a regular basis for the same thing.

How to Engage in a Gratitude Practice You might choose to engage in a formal gratitude practice. A formal gratitude practice can take a variety of forms. A formal practice typically involves selecting a particular time and place each day to focus on that for which you are grateful.

You can take a gratitude walk. You can simply walk outside wherever you are or you can find a place that supports you in finding a grateful spirit.

Some practitioners engage in journaling. Doing so each time one engages in gratitude practice can help support a consistent habit; however, some find it works better for them to journal occasionally.

Place items that remind you about what you are grateful for in places you will regularly see them. If you have an office, create an environment in your office that promotes gratitude. Look around your home, particularly where you spend the most time. Create surroundings that support a peaceful and grateful existence.

ENVISION YOUR FUTURE: PREVENT DISEASE DISCOVER HEALTH! YOU DESERVE A BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILE!

Dr. Stephanie Vondrak • Dr. Ashley Rainbolt Vondrak Dental (402) 289-2313 info@drvondrak.com

THE CHOICE IS YOURS! 39

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planning matters

• with Vw law

THE impact OF tax reform ON SERVICE PROFESSIONALS The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 included a 20% deduction for “pass-through” businesses. This deduction was intended to provide a benefit to owners of flow-through entities that has an impact similar to the reduction in tax rates for C corporations. Section199A is an interesting maze of rules, definitions and limitations. There are specific limitations with respect to service professionals. Service professionals, solo and otherwise, should revisit tax status and entity structure early in 2018 to determine whether restructuring is in order to benefit from the new tax law.

IRC 199A – The Deduction Generally The 199A deduction is available to individual taxpayers and trusts who own pass-through trades or businesses. The deduction reduces taxable income (not adjusted gross income). While the deduction essentially provides a deduction of 20% of qualified business income, the calculation is somewhat complex. The details are beyond the scope of this article but can be found at our website (vwattys.com).

In certain cases, there is a wages calculation that applies. To the extent that the calculation does come into play (or can be used as a strategy by separating “income” from “other than services,” the wages must be W-2 wages).

Independent contractor payments do not count. mary e. vandenack Guaranteed payments to partners are not W-2 wages.

In other cases, a qualified property test may apply. If the qualified property test comes into play, the property must be tangible property subject to depreciation under IRC Section 167. The property must be held by and available for use by close of taxable year and must be used during the taxable year for the production of qualified business income.

What Businesses Are Qualified Trades or Businesses?

Pass-through businesses are eligible. “Passthrough” for this purpose includes partnerships, S corporations, disregarded entities and sole proprietorships. There are limitations that apply to “specified service trade or business.”To the extent a pass-through entity is a specified service trade or business, the deduction for the owners of the entity will be phased out. Any trade or business involving the performance of services in the fields of health, law, accounting, actuarial science, performing arts, consulting, athletics, financial services, or brokerage services are considered specified service trade or businesses. Engineers and architects are not service professionals for this purpose.

Limitation Specified Service Trade or Business For an owner of a specified service trade or business, if the taxable income of an owner is less than $157,500 for a single taxpayer or less than $315,000 for a married taxpayer, the limitation does not apply and the taxpayer’s trade or business will be treated as a qualified trade or business. If the taxable income of a business owner who is a single taxpayer is greater than $157,500 but less than $207,500, a phase-out of the deduction shall apply. If the taxable income of married taxpayer is greater than $315,000 but less than $415,000, a phase-out shall apply.

Separate Limitation Based on Taxable Income Even if a business is qualified trade or business (and not a specified service trade or business), various limitations apply if taxpayer income exceeds $157,500 for a single taxpayer and $315,000 for a married taxpayer. When a business owner’s income exceeds the threshold amounts, limitations apply based on the amount of W-2 wages paid and the amount of qualified property owned by a qualified trade or business.

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• swaRtzbaugh-FaRbER & assOCiatEs, inC.

todays savings

impact!

REVIEW YOUR

• yOuR dEntal hEalth

HEALTHY ENVISION role-model YOUR

beneficiary designations marianne d. johnston, flmi, clu

MOST PEOPLE are familiar with the terms “beneficiary arrangements” and “beneficiary designations,” but may not be fully aware of their importance and usefulness in planning for future financial situations.

parenting scaredy

stephanie vondrak d.d.s.

AND first sleepover camp, SENDING my little girl off to hercat!

I am one of many moms wondering, “Where did the time go?” It seems like just yesterday I was losing sleep from midnight feedings, cutting coupons for diapers and baby-proofing the stairs.

What does “beneficiary” mean? It refers to the person/persons, and/or entity/ies, entitled to receive specified benefits at the time of a designated future event. Generally we think of this in terms of benefits from life insurance policies payable at the death of the insured. It can also include proceeds from annuity policies, deferred compensation plans, individual retirement accounts, employer-sponsored retirement accounts (such as 401(k), 403(b), etc.), trusts, “payable on death” accounts for bank accounts and certificates of deposit, and “transfer on death” accounts for investment accounts, among other assets.

Some municipalities also allow for titling real estate and vehicles with a contingent owner.

In most instances, the default beneficiary of any asset, if none is named, will be the estate of the owner. This should usually be avoided for several reasons. Estates of deceased persons might be subject to estate taxes, claims of creditors, and delays in disposition. Each state has its own laws that pertain to the parties that will have a valid claim on the estate, and these are not likely to be consistent with the wishes of the deceased property owner.

It is fairly common to name family members, such as spouses and children, as primary and contingent beneficiaries. This can work well as long as the arrangement is kept up to date and there are provisions in place for a guardian or trust to receive any assets that will go to minor children. Life insurance companies often provide “settlement options,” which can be used to detail amounts and frequencies for beneficiaries to receive funds if this is a planning concern. Using “class” beneficiaries allows you to automatically include future children, and using “per stirpes” designation is a way to include future grandchildren should one of your children predecease you.

The biggest problems we see in this area tend to arise due to the arrangements not being reviewed and updated when a person’s life circumstances change. Often, a former spouse will be entitled to a certain benefit related to financial obligations for alimony or child support, outlined in a divorce property settlement agreement. Once the liability has been met over a period of years, the records need to be updated with the insurance company.

Another problem area seems to be when trusts are established to own or be named as beneficiaries for life insurance policies, and the trust provisions are not reviewed with the client’s attorney periodically. It is critical to be sure that the legal documents are still appropriate to meet the client’s ongoing needs and desires. Other considerations to be discussed with professional advisors would include any arrangements for “special needs” dependents, uses of financial assets as collateral for debts, business arrangements, and the impact of changing tax legislation on planning goals and strategies.

We highly recommend that you do a thorough review at least annually to itemize the various assets that will pass to someone at your death. Determine whether the legal arrangements are in place for these assets to be disposed of in the way you intend. If not, create an action plan and follow through to update them!

For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber – ‘Client Centered – Client Advocates™’. This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor or plan provider. Securities Offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Swartzbaugh-Farber & Associates, Inc. is independently owned and operated.

The thought that my 10-year-old will be “on her own” for the next three days is exciting and scary at the same time. In my heart, I feel she’s prepared her for this new adventure and the challenges it may bring. But how do you really know?

As a mom, I can easily reverse the question and wonder, “Am I setting a good example of how to be prepared? Am I taking the time to care for myself and my own healthcentered needs? “ As a health-centered dentist, I coach my patients on prevention. I generate conversations about the reality of their current health and possibility for an improved future.

I strive to help them understand their individual needs, set goals and conquer fears. My internal challenge is to take the time to practice what I preach.

Day after day, I see moms who are frazzled running kids from activity to activity.

(Sometimes just looking in the mirror.) Many say, “I don’t have time to schedule my sixmonth cleaning” or “I was so tired I fell asleep before brushing and flossing. I just hope my teeth are okay.” If this sounds familiar, I have some valuable health-centered reminders for you and for me.

Reminder one: You are your child’s best learning example! By taking the time to brush and floss adequately each day, you are preparing yourself for a better dental future.

Believe it or not, your children will mirror your behavior, developing great homecare habits for themselves! NOTE: These habits may not surface for a few years, but I promise the foundation is there.

Reminder two: When you are down and out, who picks up the pieces?

Neglecting your dental health by skipping a six-month cleaning…or two…or six… increases your likelihood of a dental emergency. Dental emergencies such as infection or fractured teeth are painful and expensive, which takes time away from the family you love and the obligations you have. Trust me, neglect is not a risk worth taking.

Reminder three: Your kids deserve to see your happy, healthy smile!

As a health-centered dentist and momma, my philosophy for life is prepare, prevent and perform! Most of us are blessed with 28 spectacular teeth we use every day to eat, smile and speak. With consistent dental cleanings and excellent homecare, we can prepare for health, prevent disease and perform at the highest level. So, for all us moms that are searching for that lost LEGO or yawning exhausted while we tuck the last kiddo into bed, I want you to know I get it. I understand. Take these simple reminders as permission to care for yourself and prepare for your future. Remember, you are teaching your youngster to care for his or her precious smile, so take the time to care for yours—you deserve it!

Dr. Stephanie Vondrak is board certified by the American Academy of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine to treat patients suffering from sleep apnea with sleep apnea appliances.

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METHODIST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION A NIGHT UNDER THE BIG TOP

NEBRASKA CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY 125TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

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Photography by Debra S. Kaplan

CLOWING

Around

Volunteers In Partnership/ Methodist Hospital Foundation A Night Under the Big Top When: April 20 ANNA KOTULA, CAROLYN GRIFFIN, KELLY KROEGER, CAMERAN RUNGE AND GABI HAYFORD

Where: Happy Hollow Club Why: A fundraiser for the Methodist Hospital Emergency Department Expansion and Renovation project Honorary Chairmen: Dr. Bill and Bev Karrer Partner Sponsors: Harry & Gail Koch and Methodist Medical Staff. Leader Sponsors: Cynthia Butler, Jerry J. Hoban, Pinnacle Bank. Dessert Sponsor: Electric Company of Omaha. Decorations Sponsor: The Fred & Sally Bekins Foundation. Program Sponsor: Dr. Bill & Kathy Lydiatt

SUZANNE KOTULA AND DR. RUDOLF KOTULA

Event Planner: Chairman: Suzanne Kotula (President of the Methodist Volunteers In Partnership)

DR. MARK & KATHY WILSON

Attendance: 380 Amount Raised: Over $192,000 Mission: To improve the quality of life by supporting excellence in health care and health care education provided

by Methodist Health System. The Volunteers In Partnership are a support group of Methodist Health System who partner with the Foundation and support Nebraska Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital through volunteer service and special event fundraising.

BEV AND DR. BILL KARRER

BRENDA GOESER AND STEVE GOESER

About: In the next year, Methodist Hospital will embark on a major expansion and renovation project for its Emergency Department - the first structural remodel since 1995. The renovation will mean more space, less waiting and easier access for patients and their families. The project will double the number of patient rooms, increase privacy, add a fast track triage area and include a specialized space for victims of sexual assualt, domestic violence and sex trafficking.

For more Information: 402.354.4522 | www.methodisthospitalfoundation.org

DR. ROBERT AND MARY JO LANGDON

LORI AND TOM WOLFE

MYRON PLACEK, RYAN SNOWDON AND BRAD ROHRIG

JULIE COLLINS, COURTNEY NIXON AND JANET TRUELSEN 44

PAM AND DR. PAT MCCARVILLE

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Photos courtesy of Omaha Police Foundation

HONORED

Officers

Omaha Police Foundation 18th Annual Officer of the Year Awards When: April 25 Where: Scott Conference Center STEVEN MARTIN

JOHN KNICELY

Why: Twenty-five Omaha Police Department officers, two non-sworn personnel and the Forensics Unit were recognized for their outstanding work in the prior year.

The 2017 Officer of the Year was chosen from among the honorees and the Forensics Unit received the Foundation’s Community Impact Award.

Special Guests: Honorary Luncheon Chair and CEO Emeritus of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska Steven S. Martin, Mayor Jean Stothert, Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson, Master of Ceremonies John Knicely, Chief of Police Todd Schmaderer, Omaha Police Foundation President Mr. D.C. “Woody” Bradford

STEVEN MARTIN, MAYOR JEAN STOTHERT, SERGEANT STEFAN DAVIS, CHIEF TODD SCHMADERER, WOODY BRADFORD AND JOHN KNICELY

Attendance: 375 Amount Raised: $68,000 Mission: Guided by the priorities and vision of the Omaha Chief of Police, the Foundation works to purchase critical equipment, recruit police officer candidates, strengthen police-community relationships, enhance department morale and increase public awareness of the Omaha Police Department’s contributions to the community.

OFFICER OF THE YEAR STEFAN DAVIS

WOODY BRADFORD, CAPTAIN EDWARD REYES, CHIEF TODD SCHMADERER AND MAYOR JEAN STOTHERT

WEYSAN DUN, KATHY LEWIS, SIERRA MORRIS, ROBIN REICHWEIN AND DETECTIVE DUSTIN MORRIS

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About: Since 1999, the Omaha Police Foundation (OPF) has worked in partnership with the Omaha Police Department to provide financial support and create community partnerships that ensure the Department has highly qualified officers who have the training, equipment and technology to prevent crime, save lives and make Omaha a safer community. Over the past 18 years, the Foundation has raised more than $4.5 million to fund a variety of initiatives not covered by funding from the City of Omaha. Currently, with the support of Luncheon Chair Steve Martin, OPF is raising funds to purchase an additional 460 Body Worn Cameras to be able to outfit the entire Uniform Patrol Bureau, as well as the Special Operations Section of the Criminal Investigations Bureau.

For more Information: Elizabeth Balazs – 402.345.5401 Ext. 102 ebalazs@vgagroup.com | www.omahapolicefoundation.org

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Photos courtesy of Omaha Children’s Museum

PARTY Time

Omaha Children’s Museum For The Kids Benefit: Let The Fiesta Begin When: May 5 Where: Omaha Children’s Museum KIM HEFFLINGER, MEGAN HAWK, AMANDA DANA, LAURA DIMAIO AND DEIDRE OCHSNER

Why: For The Kids Benefit is the largest annual fundraiser for the museum.

Special Guests: Amanda Dana, Laura DiMaio, Megan Hawk and Kim Hefflinger served as event chairs.

Attendance: 400 Amount Raised: $250,000

RUSSELL COLLINS, LINDY HOYER AND DEIDRE OCHSNER

EMILY AND CAMERON YOUNG

TRENT AND AIMEE DEMULLING

KIM AND MATTHEW PAPE

Mission: Omaha Children’s Museum’s mission is to engage the imagination and create excitement about learning.

About: Funds raised at the benefit help support multiple projects at Omaha Children’s Museum, including Omaha Children’s Museum Welcome Fund, which is a 100% donorsupported fund designed for the purpose of sharing the museum experience with families and children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy the programs and exhibits. The museum has nearly 1,000 Welcome Fund memberships. Other programs supported by the fundraiser include the Partner School Program, which involves 27 Partner Schools in Western Iowa and Eastern Nebraska and specifically serves pre-kindergarten through second grade students. The benefit helps provide free field trips, free outreaches in classrooms, and free Family Nights for each Partner School.

Additional events that are supported through donations include Carefree Kids, a night for children and their families whose immune systems have been compromised; and Autism Nights, for children with autism and their families.

For more Information: 402.342.6164 | www.ocm.org

ROB AND RACHEL MAGLINGER

NICKI AND BRODY DEREN

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Photos courtesy of Brownell Talbot

PICTURE

Perfect

Brownell Talbot School Gala 2018: Portraits of Excellence When: May 11 Where: Brownell Talbot School, Omaha MELISSA RIDER, BELINDA BEAVERS, BETHANY GRAVES AND SHANNON GILROY

BILL BEAVERS AND DIANNE DESLER

Why: Gala is Brownell Talbot’s premier fundraising event, which supports our students, faculty, and school throughout the year.

Brownell Talbot’s student musicians created the soundtrack for the evening, with the a capella group Pirate Radio welcoming guests with an al fresco performance. Raider Blues Jazz Combo also performed throughout the evening as guests shopped the silent auction in Scott Gymnasium. In honor of the this year’s theme, Portraits of Excellence, a special feature of this year’s silent auction was a section that showcased art in many mediums from local and national artists.

ZACH AND NATALIA ATCHLEY WITH CHLOE AND DAN FIRESTONE

SEEMA TRIVEDI, PRIYANKA BORAH WITH ANGELA AND DAMIEN SHULL

Honorary Chair: This year’s Honorary Chair was BT’s former headmaster Dianne Desler. Desler worked at BT for 42 years, beginning her teaching career as a mathematics instructor in 1970. In 1988 Dianne became the school’s first female headmaster and served in this role for 24 years until her retirement in 2012.

Sponsors: DiVentures; Bill Beavers; Seim Johnson; The Lori and David Scott Foundation; Belinda Beavers, ‘87, and Shelby Bell; Bethany, ‘86, and Todd Graves Attendance: More than 400

CORRIE AND JESSE SHUMAKER WITH APRIL COMBS

KRISTIN AND SHIKHAR SAXENA

Amount Raised: $914,595 Mission: Brownell Talbot is a safe, caring community dedicated to academic excellence and to preparing students for success in college and in life. Through experiences in academics, activities, and the arts, students learn passionately, think critically, act responsibly, and lead with integrity.

About: Brownell Talbot is Nebraska’s only private, preschool through grade 12, independent, coeducational day school.

For more Information: 402.556.3772 | brownell.edu

ALISON BROCKMAN, JAN BROCKMAN WITH RICHARD AND JACKIE VINCI

CATALINA AMADOR AND PHILIPP STREUBEL WITH MARTHA AND JON CRANE

JIM LANDEN, KRISTI GIBBS AND JOHN CHRISTENSEN

AMY WIECHMANN AND MEGAN BELCHER 47

SCOTT AND DANA PORTER WITH LOIS AND TOM MCELDERRY

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Photos courtesy of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

OUTSTANDING

Individuals

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Man & Woman of the Year Grand Finale When: May 12 Where: Embassy Suites, La Vista JOHN EWING JR, TERESA MILNER, ADAM HOEBELHEINRICH, KRIS BALLARD, COURTNEY KREIFELS, DR. MATT LUNNING, SUSIE DOTSON, JENNIFER MOSSEY-DANIELS, TONY SORRENTINO AND DON BELLINO

Why: The event is the end of a 10-week fundraising competition where the Man & Woman of the Year are announced. The man and woman that raise the most money are the winners.

Special Guests: Julie Cornell & Bill Randby from KETV News Watch 7 were the emcees. Billy McGuigan was the keynote speaker.

Award Winners: Dr. Matt Lunning – Man of the Year Susie Dotson – Woman of the Year and Tony Sorrentino – National All Star Man of the Year

SUSIE DOTSON AND DR. MATT LUNNING

AVA REINERT AND CHRISTIAN DEXTER

Sponsors: David Spence Cancer Foundation, Simmonds Family Foundation, AbbVie, Carson Wealth Management, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Midwest Cloud Computing, Nebraska Medicine, Union Pacific, ACI Universal Payments, Five Points Bank, Seattle Genetics, Streck, TG Therapuetics Leadership Team Co-chairs: Karen Warner and Anisa Hoie Multi Media: Dog & Pony Productions Attendance: 560

BRADY REINERT, AVA REINERT AND AMANDA REINERT

Amount Raised: $590,000

BILLY MCGUIGAN

Mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

About: Largest nonprofit blood cancer research firm in the world. Last year 18 new cancer therapies were approved by the FDA and LLS touched 11 of them.

For more Information: 402.344.2242 | www.lls.org KAREN WARNER, TERESA MILNER AND CARSON WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND ANISA HOIE

TONY SORRENTINO, KAREN WARNER AND ANISA HOIE

JANELLE AND BRAD DEXTER WITH CHRISTIAN

KAREN WARNER, SUSIE DOTSON ROSE RUTHERFORD WITH TEAM LOVE & HOPE AND ANISA HOIE 48

KAREN WARNER, ANISA HOIE, ROSE RUTHERFORD DR. MATT LUNNING AND TEAM RUNNING4LUNNING

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Photography by Debra S. Kaplan

FOOD FOR

Thought

Completely KIDS Pinot, Pigs & Poets BRIAN LEIFERMAN, MIKE MACKINTOSH, REGAN MACKINTOSH, PHIL MCDONNELL, KATIE MCDONNELL, ERIN POGGE, JOE POGGE, KIM MANNING, JACK MCDONNELL, TERRI MCDONNELL, STEVE TURNER, KYLE ROBINO, MIKE ROBINO, JODIE MACKINTOSH, MAUREEN TURNER, MIKE JUNG, EMILY JUNG, MARY JO LANGDON, BOB LANGDON, JODY CARSTENS, JOHN LANGWITH, GAYLE CARSTENS, BOB EDICK, NANCY EDICK, DREW ANTONIO, KRISTYN ANTONIO, JOHN HOGAN, SARA HOGAN, MARIAN ANDERSON, STEVE ANDERSON, DAWN DINSDALE, SID DINSDALE, SHELLEY HOMA, AMY KNUTH AND JOHN DEARDORFF

GAYLE AND JODY CARSTENS WITH TERRI AND JACK MCDONNELL

When: May 30 Where: Happy Hollow Club Why: Pinot, Pigs & Poets benefits the weekend and afterschool food programs of Omaha nonprofit Completely KIDS. Due to the event’s success, Completely KIDS has been able to increase the number of children enrolled in the Weekend Food Program, which provides healthy, childfriendly food to take home every Friday. The weekend and after-school food programs fit within the organization’s mission to educate and empower kids and families to create a safe, healthy, successful and connected community.

Completely KIDS is currently undergoing renovation and expansion. Once complete, the agency plans to grow its weekend food program from serving 460 kids to 930 kids over the next few years. Proceeds from Pinot, Pigs & Poets will be instrumental in that growth.

BRIAN LEIFERMAN, JOHN DEARDORFF AND GAYLE CARSTENS

Attendance: 425 Amount Raised: $400,000 Mission: Completely KIDS empowers kids and families to create a safe, healthy, successful and connected community.

For more Information: 402.397.5809 | www.completelykids.org/ JACK MCDONNELL, JOHN SAEMANN AND SCOTT SCHUETTE

GINA KEPLINGER, MATT MASON AND PAT MCEVOY

STIRNELLA CHEF MATT MOSE

JOHN SAEMANN AND SCOTT SCHUETTE

CAPTIONS

CAPTIONS 49

CAPTIONS

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Photos courtesy of Child Saving institute

BELLY Laughs Child Saving Institute Cabaret When: June 2 Where: Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District

JOHN SOVA WITH DONNA TUBACH-DAVIS AND STEVE DAVIS

ROBERT AND ADDIE HOLLINGSWORTH WITH EMILY AND TASSO SIDERIS

Why: To raise funds to help children and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect.

John Knicely, WOWT Channel 6, served as emcee for the evening. Local student volunteers from eight area schools sold raffle tickets during the cocktail hour. The Fill the Heart portion of the evening, led by John Knicely and Melanie Hecker, a member of the Board of Directors and a CSI adoptee, raised over $30,000.

MELANIE AND DAVID HECKER

Cabaret 2018 featured comedian Jeff Dye. The quintessential, all-American guy stars in NBC’s comedy adventure series “Better Late Than Never.” The NBC show follows the travels of Henry Winkler, William Shatner, Terry Bradshaw, and George Foreman with Jeff as their tour director on the adventure of a lifetime. He had CSI’s guests laughing throughout his set.

POLLY AND SCOTT HAIAR

Honored Chair: Donna Tubach-Davis Chairs: Emily and Tasso Sideris Co-chairs: Addie and Robert Hollingsworth Attendance: More than 570 Amount Raised: over $316,000 Mission: Responding to the Cry of a Child JAKE AND JESSICA HOLDENRIED

KEVIN AND SARA DEMERS WITH GAUTHAM PALLAPA AND RAMA SALLANGULLA

About: Child Saving Institute works with families plagued with serious mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, lack of needed resources, violent neighborhoods, trauma, abuse, neglect, etc. For many families, CSI helps build new lives.

For more Information: 402.553.6000 | childsaving.org

REGAN MUHS, CHRIS LAFEVER, WHITNEY NEBOLISA AND NICK NEMER

NICK AND GINA PATRICK

ADDIE AND ROBERT HOLLINGSWORTH

ROY AND STACEY PATTERSON, JAMIE CHRISTENSEN AND CHRIS JOHNSTONE WITH KAREN AND MIKE BIRD 50

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Photos courtesy of nebraska Children's Home Society

TRADITION

Continues

Nebraska Children’s Home Society 125th Anniversary Celebration When: June 9 Where: Embassy Suites Conference Center, La Vista JANICE FONDA, JAMES AND LESLIE FONDA WITH DARLENE AND RANDY MUELLER

MATT AND RACHEL BURKE, BRANDIS AND NICK ADAMS WITH ALISON AND MATT ALVARADO

Why: To celebrate 125 years of service to children and familes Emcee: Julie Cornell Honorary Chairs: Darlene and Randy Mueller Sponsors: Ruth & Dr John Sage, The Darlene & Randy Mueller Family, PenFed Credit Union, ALH Publications, Travel &Transport, Knights of Columbus, Baird Holm LLP, Zig Drywall Inc., CHI Health Committee: Kelli Sweet, Beth Ziegler, Erin Froscheiser, Patti Koraleski, Tracy Fisher and Jen Monjaras

MARY KEEFNER, BENIGNA PARTIDA, SANDRA EVENSON, LYNETTE SPORTSMAN, MIRA SHAW, ROSETTA DAVIS, LISA BRANNON, MELISSA GODFREY AND DEE BELL

Attendance: 475 Amount Raised: Over $170,000 Mission: To Provide Safe and Loving Care to Children of All Ages For more Information: 402.451.0708 | www.nchs.org

MIGUEL GONZALEZ ,CAROL GONZALEZ, GARY GILKISON AND GINA ANTONIO

KELLI SWEET AND DREW HALLOCK

JOCELYN, JULIE AND MADELINE CORNELL

JACQELLE LANE, ANDEE HOIG, KELLY NYBERG AND SCOTT MOORE

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JON AND JODY KATHOL

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Photos courtesy of CHi Health Foundation

HOLE IN One

CHI Health Foundation Swing for Health When: June 10

Where: Players Club at Deer Creek, Omaha Why: Raise funds to support technology, equipment and programs for the CHI Health metro hospitals.

Title Sponsor: Altus Eagle Sponsors: Ameritex, Darland, Davis, JE Dunn, Leo A Daly, McCarthy Bldg., MCL, MMC, NE Spine Hospital, NexCore, Physicians Realty Trust Birdie Sponsors: American National Bank, Banyan Medical Systems, Brown’s Medical Imaging, CHI Health Foundation, Commercial Flooring, Cox Business/UPN Fiber, Dundee Bank, Electronic Sound, Farris Engineering, Hiland Dairy, Ideal Images, Keystone Glass, Mercy Med Staff, Midwest Medical Transport, Midwest Scaffold, Miller Electric, NE Cancer, Omaha Neon, RSM US LLP, Specialized Engineering Solutions, Surgical Care Affiliates, Titanium Fire Sprinkler Attendance: 144 Amount Raised: $115,000 Mission: CHI Health Foundation is a 501(c)(3) formed to raise awareness and manage and dsitribute funds to support the mission of CHI Health. We bring together the needs of the our patients with the generosity of our employees, individuals, corporations, foundatiions, physicians and volunteers. Fostering relationships in our community is critical as they result in caring constituents making financial gifts to transform the lives of those in need.

About: Established in 2004, CHI Health Foundation has more than $16 million in gift assets under management.

The Foundation is governed by a board of directors, which includes one director from each hospital campus charitable council, as well as at-large members from the community.

Kathy Bertolini serves as the Division Vice President of Philanthropy for the Foundation.

For more Information: 402.343.4550

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Photos courtesy of greater Omaha Chamber

CAREER

Greatness

Greater Omaha Chamber Omaha Business Hall of Fame When: April 17 Where: Holland Performing Arts Center Why: For some, their names are as recognizable as a leading household brand. For others, their work stands as a testament to their innovative thinking and never-say-never commitment to their business, industry and the community.

Every year, past and present outstanding Omaha-area business leaders become part of the Omaha Business Hall of Fame at a gala event. Initiated in 1993 as part of the Greater Omaha Chamber’s centennial anniversary, the Hall of Fame event included a dinner reception, induction ceremony and dessert. Achievements are then showcased in a permanent display at The Durham Museum.

2018 Omaha Business Hall of Fame Honorees: Larry Courtnage, Owner and Chairman – C&A Industries, Inc. Bruce E. Grewcock, Chairman and CEO – Kiewit Dianne Seeman Lozier, Corporate Counsel – Lozier Corporation, Vice-Chair – The Lozier Foundation Dan O’Neill, President (retired) – First National Bank Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM, President – College of Saint Mary Sponsors: Fraser Stryker PC LLO | KPMG LLP | U.S. Bank Attendance: 525 Mission: Celebrating 125 years, the mission of the Greater Omaha Chamber is to champion a thriving business community and prosperous region through visionary leadership and collaboration.

About: Recognized for its “We Don’t Coast” attitude, Greater Omaha is home to more than 30 communities and nearly 1 million people, with a youthful population (more than 40 percent are age 24 or younger), low cost of living and steady economic growth that outpaces the nation.

Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha, Peter Kiewit Sons’ Inc. and Union Pacific – all Fortune 500 companies – call Greater Omaha “home.”

For more Information: www.omahachamber.org

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Photos courtesy of Women’s Center for Advancement

OUTSTANDING

Leadership

Women’s Center for Advancement Tribute to Women

When: June 12 Where: Downtown Omaha Marriott at the Capitol District HONOREES

Why: The WCA honors 10 women annually who are doing exceptional work in our community and extending the mission of helping women.

Platinum Sponsors: Dianne and Allan Lozier, Union Pacific Attendance: 600 Amount Raised: Nearly $170,000

DREW COLLIER AND DIANE DUREN

Mission: The WCA saves hundreds of lives each year.

It is the go-to place for anyone in the Omaha area who is experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking. Our free, high-quality services address our clients’ immediate safety needs and help them to grow into independence over time.

For more Information: wcaomaha.org | 402.345.6555

DR. GINA TOMAN

FATHER TOM WITH MELISSA AND MATT GRAVES

SERESE COLE

ELIZABETH POWER AND FREDDIE GRAY

AMY RICHARDSON 54

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Photos courtesy of Boys Town

A LITTLE

Magic

Boys Town Boys Town Booster Banquet

When: May 1 Where: Embassy Suites, La Vista Why: 51st annual booster banquet honors Boys Town student-athletes for their outstanding accomplishments throughout the season. The Boys Town Boosters were formed more than 50 years ago to ensure that any child who is at Boys Town has the opportunity to play sports. Every year, the Booster Banquet brings Boys Town and the Omaha community together to recognize Boys Town’s student-athletes and raise funds for sports equipment, uniforms and other necessities.

FATHER BOES, HANNAH TERRY, TI’JIAH DAVIS AND JON DORENBOS

Special Guests: Jon Dorenbos, Former NFL long snapper, magician, and inspirational speaker Attendance: 1,400 Boys Town supporters Amount Raised: $137K net Mission: Changing the way America cares for children, families, and communities by providing and promoting an Integrated Continuum of Care that instills Boys Town values to strengthen body, mind, and spirit.

JON DORENBOS

JON DORENBOS, DASHAWN BATES AND FATHER BOES

For more Information: 402.498.1300 | www.boystown.org

a national and regional powerhouse in meetings & events | planitomaha.com

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Photography by Roger Humphries

UNCORKED

Potential

Ollie Webb Center, Inc. Ollie’s Dream Gala 2018

When: June 2 Where: Hilton Downtown Why: Ollie’s Dream raises funds to support programming that helps people with developmental disabilities gain social and life skills, along with offering support to family members.

Attendance: 300 Amount Raised: $67,000 Mission: To enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through support, programs and advocacy About: About 300 people tasted wine and bid on memorable auction items and experiences while being inspired by Marcus Sikora’s ‘can-do’ take on life.

For more Information: 402.346.5220 | www.olliewebbinc.org

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Photos courtesy of Habitat for Humanity

POWERFUL

Toolkit

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Women’s Power Luncheon

When: May 4 Where: Omaha Hilton Why: The Women’s Power Luncheon kicks off the start of Habitat Omaha’s annual Women Build – a house built by women and purchased by a local family in need of decent, affordable housing. The event celebrates powerful Habitat Omaha advocates who embody the mission of the Women Build: to recruit, educate and inspire women to build and advocate for safe, affordable housing in our community.

Attendance: 610 Amount Raised: $280,000+ Mission: “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.”

About: We build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter.

For more Information: 402.457.5657 | habitatomaha.org

Savor the experience Voted Best of Omaha Eight Years in a Row

402.558.3202 cateringcreations.com

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Photos courtesy of Fresh Start For All nations

THERE’S More

Fresh Start For All Nations 2018 Celebration Banquet

When: April 14 Where: Scott Conference Center Why: Celebration, Appreciation & Anticipation Special Guests: Pastor Elmer & Nancy Murdoch Attendance: 200+ Mission: Providing The Opportunity For A Fresh Start, For Every Heart, In Every Nation!

About: It’s NEVER too late... for a Fresh Start!

For more Information: 855.968.4448 | freshstartforallnations.org

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Photos courtesy of Kids Can Community Center

ALL ABOUT

Attitude

Kids Can Community Center Can Do Luncheon

When: April 18 Where: Downtown Marriott in the Capitol District

SANDY MAASS, MARYUM ALI AND BARB FARHO

MARYUM ALI, ROBERT PATTERSON AND BARB TRUE

Why: This event celebrates the “Can Do” attitude in our community, Having a ‘can do’ attitude makes things happen, breaks down barriers and finds resolution to issues facing our community.

Special Guests: Maryum Ali, Oldest Daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali Attendance: 380 Amount Raised: $100,000 + Mission: At Kids Can Community Center our mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood and out-of-school experiences.

About: Proceeds will be used for the center’s early childhood education and out-of-school programs.

For more Information: 402.731.6988 | www.kidscanomaha.org

MEERKAT MELODIES FROM NELSON MANDELA ELEMENTARY

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Photos courtesy of Omaha Symphony Association

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MUSICAL

Adventures

Omaha Symphony Association Omaha Symphony Gala

When: April 21 Where: Holland Performing Arts Center; Omaha

CAROLYN AND DAVID DIAMOND

ANNE AND JOHN P. NELSON

Why: The Omaha Symphony Gala raises funds to support Adventures in Music, the symphony’s array of music education programs that serve over 30,000 children each year.

Gala Chairs: Judy and Robert D. Bates Dick & Mary Holland Leadership Award Recipients: Anne and John P. Nelson Attendance: 235 Amount Raised: $160,000 Mission: The Omaha Symphony’s mission is to enrich people’s lives through the exhilarating experience of live orchestral music.

For more Information: www.omahasymphony.org

ELISSA AND NEIL HAMILL

CINDY AND MOGENS BAY

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Photos courtesy of Creighton University Athletics

FEMININE

Strength

Creighton University Athletics Leaders for Life

When: May 4 Where: D.J. Sokol Arena Why: The Leaders for Life Luncheon allows female student-athletes the opportunity to thank the supporters of women’s athletics who make it possible to compete in the BIG EAST and at the NCAA Division I level. Additionally, this Luncheon provides Creighton Athletics an occasion to honor two influential supporters of women’s athletics for their continued leadership and advancement at Creighton and among the community.

Leaders for Life Award: Dr. Shannon Hoos-Thompson Believe and Achieve Award: Dorothy Nipp Attendance: 430 Amount Raised: Over $130,00 For more Information: 402.280.5577 | gocreighton.com

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Photos courtesy of First Responders Foundation

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Duke IT OUT First Responders Foundation Guns N Hoses Boxing Challenge

When: April 28 Where: Baxter Arena Why: The second Annual Guns N Hoses featured first responders (RED vs BLUE) boxing each other to benefit the First Responders Foundation.

Attendance: 3,300 Amount Raised: $100,000+ About: Police officers and firefighters put their lives on the line for us each and every day and face hardships that most of us will never have to know. They are the first people on the scene when an emergency strikes and willing to do whatever it takes to save and protect the people of our community. We are the only foundation that focuses on all first responders and we partner directly with the region’s police and fire chiefs to serve and honor first responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work, and enhance public safety.

For more Information: firstrespondersomaha.org

November 3, 2018 CenturyLink Center Omaha

RACHEL PLATTEN

Inspirational Hit: “Fight Song”

ChildrensOmaha.org/Gala | #ChildrensGalaOmaha

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Photos courtesy of Joslyn Art Museum

ROYAL Affair Joslyn Art Museum Joslyn Art Museum Association (JAMA) Gala

When: June 2 Where: Joslyn Art Museum

RYAN AND BRADY GIBSON

JIM LANDEN, QUEEN ELIZABETH AND DINY LANDEN

Why: The Joslyn Art Museum Association (JAMA) Gala served as the opening to the new exhibition, “Treasures of British Art 1400–2000: The Berger Collection.” Funds raised from the Gala support the Museum’s extensive education and outreach programs.

Caterer: Abraham Catering Multi Media: GranStan Services, LLC/United Rent-All Attendance: 409 Amount Raised: Over $430,000 Mission: Joslyn Art Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the visual arts of the highest quality, fostering appreciation and enjoyment of art for the benefit of a diverse audience.

For more Information: 402.933.8220 | www.joslyn.org

KATE GRABILL AND COMPANY

SUNDAY, OCT. 7, 2018 Baxter Arena | 9 a.m.

3-mile & 1-mile walk komengreatplains.org

BE BOLD. BE FEARLESS.

BE MORE THAN PINK. 63

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event galleries

Photos courtesy of Open Door Mission

SUCCESSFUL

Venture

Open Door Mission Mission Possible 5k/10k

When: June 10 Where: Shadow Lake Towne Center, Papillion Why: Provide hot, nutritious meals for the hungry and homeless in our community Sponsors: Runza, Nebraska Total Care, 100.7 the Fish, LifeSpring Church, Sam’s Club of Papillion, HyVee Shadow Lake, Runner Church, La Vista Chiropractic & Wellness Center, Mattress Firm, Ima Clown Attendance: 300 Amount Raised: $12,000+ About: Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 816 safe, shelter beds to homeless men, women, and children, serves over 2,100 hot, nutritious meals, and provides preventive measures to more than 1,082 people living in poverty.

For more Information: 402.422.1111 | opendoormission.org

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Photos courtesy of andee Hoig

RUN FOR THE

Roses Take Flight Farms Jumpin’ Juleps

When: May 5 Where: The Farm at Butterflat Creek ANDEE HOIG AND ELLEN WRIGHT

TINA CHERICA, MELANIE HECKER AND KRISTEN BROWN

Why: Jumpin’ Juleps was the inaugural Omaha fundraiser for Take Flight Farms.

Honorary Chairs: Susan Dennis and Loretta Patterson Chairperson: Ellen Wright Mission: To develop capable and resilient individuals by incorporating horses into therapeutic and learning programs.

About: Take Flight Farms is a nonprofit serving the Omaha and Lincoln area of Nebraska. Take Flight Farms uses horses for equine -assisted psychotherapy and learning.

For more Information: 402.930.3037 | takeflightfarms.org

LIZ PRICE, CODY ALWIN, SAMANTHA BERGMANN AND BREANNE DEMERS

Employee Benefits Executive Benefits ▪ Wealth Management Business Succession and Estate Planning Financial Plaza, Suite 418 9140 West Dodge Road Omaha, NE 68114 402.397.5800 www.swartzbaugh.com Our Employees and Our National Alliances – They’re What Set Us Apart.

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Swartzbaugh-Farber & Associates, Inc. is independently owned and operated.

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Photos courtesy of The Salvation army

event galleries

RECORD

Fundraising

The Salvation Army

D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon

When: May 8 Where: CenturyLink Center

HAIDEN KREBER, DALI O’NEILL, GARRETT LONG, ALEASHA POTRATZ, STEPHANIE PEREZ BOLANOS, KYLA WALLINGER, AMANYA PAVELKA, HOPE WEBER, MARTYNA HOLTHUS AND ABDINUR MUQTAR

Why: The 20th annual DJ’s Hero Awards Luncheon honors Nebraska high school seniors with $10,000 academic scholarships. Funds raised from the luncheon support Salvation Army youth development programs including Back to School, After School Programs, Kids Crusin’ Kitchen and Gene Eppley Camp Special Guests: John Elway, Scott Frost, Lieutenant Governor Mike Foley, David and Peggy Sokol Attendance: 1,400 Amount Raised: $585,000 About: 100,000 people in the Omaha Metro served annually through programs in seven focused areas: food, housing, youth development, anti-human trafficking, older adult services, behavioral health and material assistance.

For more information: salarmyomaha.org | 402.898.7700

SCOTT FROST

ROB MCCARTNEY, JULIE CORNELL, AND JOHN ELWAY

For more Information: 402.346.7372 | onefestivalomaha.org

ANNOUNCING!

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Photos courtesy of Omaha Community Playhouse

LEGACY OF

Generosity

Omaha Community Playhouse 2018 Gala: Celebrating the Golden Age of Hollywood

When: April 24 Where: Omaha Community Playhouse ROBERT OWEN, CAROLYN OWEN ANDERSON, KATHIE STEMM, PEGGY GRAY, BARBARA SCANLAN, RICHARD OWEN FRONT ROW: DEE OWEN

Why: The event honored the legacy of generous, longtime participants and supporters of OCP, Ed and Dee Owen. The event also gave a salute to the closing musical of OCP’s 2017–2018 season, Singin’ in the Rain.

Attendance: 200 Amount Raised: Nearly $90,000 Mission: The Omaha Community Playhouse is a performing arts organization that enhances quality of life through live theatre, professional touring and arts education. We are dedicated to enriching the lives of audiences and participants through entertainment, thought-provoking stories and firsthand involvement.

For more Information: 402.553.4890 | www.OmahaPlayhouse.com

PAUL TRANISI AND CAMILLE METOYER MOTEN

LEANNE HILL CARLSON AND J. ISAIAH SMITH

Mingle among the masters of design, antiques and entertaining.

September 20–23, 2018 OmahaAntiqueShow.org

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ALL TICKETS ON SALE AUGUST 20!

Concerts listed below take place at the Holland Center, except for the Symphony Joslyn series which takes place at the Joslyn Art Museum.

SYMPHONY POPS

SYMPHONY ROCKS

MASTERWORKS

Frankie Moreno: Blue Suede Tunes

‘70s & ‘80s Power Rock

Beethoven’s 5th

The Music of Elvis, the Beatles and more!

October 6 & 7, 2018

October 13, 2018

September 21 & 22, 2018

Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration

The Music of Michael Jackson

Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto

January 12, 2019

October 26 & 27, 2018

Faith: A Tribute to George Michael

Russian, French and American Tales: A Festival

December 8-16, 2018

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific in Concert January 26 & 27, 2019

Unforgettable Nat and Natalie

February 16, 2019

January 11 & 19, 2019

America Rocks the ‘60s with Billy McGuigan

Brahms’ 4th March 1 & 2, 2019

March 30, 2019

Celebrating 100 years of Nat King Cole March 9 & 10, 2019

Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances

The Midtown Men

Tchaikovsky’s 5th

Stars from the Original Broadway Cast of Jersey Boys April 27 & 28, 2019

May 10 & 11, 2019

April 5 & 6, 2019

Mozart & Mahler

Leslie Odom Jr.

May 31 & June 1, 2019

Star of Broadway’s smash hit Hamilton June 8 & 9, 2019

SYMPHONY JOSLYN Schubert & Haydn September 30, 2018

Mozart’s Paris Symphony November 18, 2018

Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony

MOVIES

Full-length movies with LIVE Orchestra!

January 6, 2019

FAMILY

Bach’s Brandenburg 4

Symphony Spooktacular: Out of This World!

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in Concert

February 24, 2019

October 28, 2018

November 24 & 25, 2018

Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite

Aladdin, Cinderella and More Magical Tales

March 24, 2019

February 10, 2019

March 16, 2019

Bizet’s Symphony in C

Pirates Ahoy!

Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert

May 19, 2019

March 31, 2019

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial in Concert

May 3 & 4, 2019

© 2018 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © DISNEY. Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd. and Warner/Chappell Music.

Order now to get the Best Seats!

402.345.0606

|

OMAHASYMPHONY.ORG

August2018-SCENE-desktop-ROB.qxp_EVENTS 7/17/18 4:55 PM Page 69

Don’t let your dog miss out!

September 30, 2018 • 11am-2pm Nebraska Humane Society Meadow

It’s the biggest dog-friendly event of the summer!

Help us raise funds for homeless pets while you have a tail waggin’ good time with yours, with activities like: • Mile-Long Walk • 5K Run • Dog Games and Activites • Pet-Themed Silent Auction • Vendor Giveaways • Keepsake Photo Booth • Beer Garden • Kids Zone

And much, much more!

www.nehumanesociety.org/walk

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community CALENDAR

save the date Learn more details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mMAGAZINE’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/

CONNECT with over 100 nonprofits and learn more about their mission and how you can help!

Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2018 today at mMAGAZINE’s SpiritofOmaha.com.

featured

VENTS

Complete information for the following events is available at metroMAGAZINE’s SpiritofOmaha.com CALENDAR PAGE or each organization’s website.

August 3 | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM NEw AMErICAN ArTS FESTIvAL 2018 Lutheran Family Services Benson Neighborhood | Military Ave and Maple St. | Omaha Free | 402-660-7537 | www.facebook.com/events/228597801035970/

August 5 – August 7 SOAr IN ThE SANdhILLS wITh ThE EAGLES Central High School Foundation Dismal River Club | Mullen $800 per golfer $3,200 per foursome | 402-556-1996 www.chsfomaha.org | www.chsfomaha.org/events/soar-in-the-sandhills-at-dismal-river-club

August 6 | 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM ShOOTOuT FOr CANCEr Northwestern Mutual Champions Run Golf Course | 13800 Eagle Run Dr | Omaha $1,500 | 402-390-8251 | http://omaha.nm.com

August 10 | 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM hOLy SMOkES Heart Ministry Center The Diamond Room Pricing unavailable | 402-451-2321 | www.heartministrycenter.org

August 17 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM JEFFErSON hOuSE STANd up FOr kIdS! COMEdy NIGhT Heartland Family Service Fremont Golf Club | 2710 North Somers Avenue | Fremont Tickets $50 per person ($35 tax-deductible) | 402-552-7424 | http://HeartlandFamilyService.org

August 18 | 9:00 AM 20Th ANNuAL rEMEMBrANCE wALk Grief's Journey Miller's Landing | Gallup's Riverfront Campus | Omaha TBD | 402-502-2773 | www.griefsjourney.org

August 19 | 8:00 AM BOxEr 500 – A ShOrT ruN TO FIGhT COLON CANCEr Great Plains Colon Cancer Task Force Werner Park | 12356 Ballpark Way | Papillion $15 for kids | $25 for adults | FREE to Colon Cancer Survivors | www.coloncancertaskforce.org

August 25 | 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM JdrF ONE wALk, OMAhA-COuNCIL BLuFFS 2018 JDRF Omaha-Council Bluffs Chapter Lewis & Clark Landing | 515 N Riverfront Dr | Omaha No cost to register (Participants fundraise individually or as a team) | 402-397-2873 | http://walk.jdrf.org/omaha 70

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featured

VENTS

2018-19 SEASON

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2018!

PAGLIACCI

August 25 | 6:00 PM SuMMEr BASh FOr ChILdhOOd CANCEr Metro Area Youth Foundation

Leoncavallo OCTOBER 19 & 21, 2018

Embassy Suites Conference Center | La Vista $100 | 402-734-0720 | http://summerbashforccc.org

THE ELIXIR OF LOVE

August 25 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

(L’ELISIR D’AMORE) Donize FEBRUARY 15 & 17, 2019

TOuCh-A-TruCk Child Saving Institute First Data Parking Lot | 6902 Pine St. | Omaha FREE | 402-504-3664 | http://childsaving.org

LES ENFANTS TERRIBLES

September 6 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM BrEw hAhA: A BENEFIT FOr hABITAT FOr huMANITy OF OMAhA Habitat for Humanity of Omaha

Glass APRIL 3, 5, 7, 13 & 14, 2019

Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | 2285 S. 67th St. | Omaha $50 in advance (General Admission); 100 (Patron Party) | 402-884-5957 | http://habitatomaha.org/brewhaha/

FAUST

Gounod APRIL 12 & 14, 2019

September 6 | 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM IMAGINE Our yOuTh GALA Omaha Home for Boys Marriott Omaha Downtown - Capitol District | 222 North 10th Street | Omaha $75 to $200 | 402-457-7014 | https://omahahomeforboys.org/omaha-home-for-boys-events/i magine-youth-fundraising-celebration/

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW 402.346.7372 | OPERAOMAHA.ORG

September 7 | 6:00 PM BrOAdwAy BALL Omaha Performing Arts Holland Performing Arts Center $250 | 402-345-0202 | www.omahaperformingarts.org

September 7 | 7:00 PM wINGS ANd whEELS GALA Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha Signature Flight Support | 3636 Wilbur Plz | Omaha $120 per ticket | 402-346-9377 | www.rmhcomaha.org

September 13 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM uNSuNG hErOES CASA for Douglas County Kaneko | 1111 Jones St. | Omaha $75 | 402-932-5683 www.casaomaha.org | www.casaomaha.org/unsungheroes/

September 13 | 4Th ANNuAL BEAuTIFuLLy BrOkEN BANquET Rejuvenating Women Embassy Suites Conference Center | La Vista (800) 402-0601 | www.rejuvenatingwomen.com www.rejuvenatingwomen.com/event/rejuvenating-women-4thannual-restored-wings-banquet/?instance_id=662

September 14 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM qLI'S AN EvENING AT ThE FAIr QLI Baxter Arena | 2425 S 67th Street | Omaha $150 per ticket | 402-573-3738 | www.teamQLI.com 71

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community CALENDAR

Learn more details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mMAGAZINE’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/

September 21 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM ANGELS AMONG uS GALA - NO pLACE LIkE hOME Angels Among Us A View on State | 13467 State Street | Omaha $150 per person; Sponsorships available | 402-934-0999 | www.myangelsamongus.org

MOMENTUM: RHAPSODY IN BLUE OCTOBER 19 | JOSLYN ART MUSEUM OCTOBER 21 | IOWA WESTERN ARTS CENTER THE NUTCRACKER NOVEMBER 18 | IOWA WESTERN ARTS CENTER DECEMBER 8 & 9 | ORPHEUM WORLD PREMIERE: THE WIZARD OF OZ MAY 4 | ORPHEUM

September 22 | 5:30 AM – 9:00 AM LEukEMIA & LyMphOMIA SOCIETy LIGhT ThE NIGhT wALk The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Stinson Park | 2285 S 67th Street | Omaha FREE | www.lls.org/nebraska

September 23 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM SupErhErO hEArT ruN OMAhA Werner Park | 12356 Ballpark Way | Papillion Adults $30 / Children $10 | 402-960-9287 | www.heartheroes.org | www.superheroheartrun.com/sponsor/

September 25 | 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM

subscribe and learn more: amballet.org

GO rEd FOr wOMEN ExpO American Heart Association Embassy Suites La Vista | 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista $250 Individual | 402-810-6842

September 26 | 5:30 PM ENvISION 2018: FOOd TruCk wOrLd TOur Immigrant Legal Center, an Affiliate of the Justice For Our Neighbors Network Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus | CAET Building 24, 5300 North 30th Street | Omaha $75 ticket admission includes food provided by local Omaha food trucks, drinks, and music.

402-898-1349 | www.immigrantlc.org www.immigrantlc.org/food-truck-world-tour-2018/

September 27 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM OpEN dOOr MISSION AuCTION & dINNEr Open Door Mission Embassy Suites La Vista | 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista $750 for table sponsorship / No charge to attend - Free Will Offering | 402-829-1503 | www.opendoormission.org/

September 28 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM kANEkO OpEN SpACE SOIréE KANEKO KANEKO | 1111 Jones St. | Omaha $175 Individual | $75 Young Professional | 402-341-3800 | www.thekaneko.org | https://thekaneko.org/programs/soiree/

September 28 | 7:00 PM GLOw IN ThE GArdEN Joslyn Art Museum Joslyn Art Museum | 2200 Dodge Street | Omaha TBA | 402-933-8220 | www.joslyn.org

September 30 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM MArGrE durhAM wALk FOr ThE ANIMALS Nebraska Humane Society Nebraska Humane Society | 8929 Fort Street | Omaha $35 registration | 402-905-3483 | www.nehumanesociety,org 72

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