metroMAGAZINE's January 2013 Issue by metroMAGAZINE

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2013: fresh start

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features / departMents

metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

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features feature stOry

6 COLLECTIVE IMPACT

midlands mentoring partnership

events

the metroSCENE

feature stOry

special editiOn: ak-sar-Ben CXVi keepsake

STRAIGH OUTTA PLANO girls, inc. presents karith foster

online at spiritofOmaha.com

•

10 12

JANUARY HOROSCOPES with sue moon

metrospirit

DEB BROCKMANN the happiness chick

MARY E. VANDENACK 2013: renewal resolutions

LEO BABAUTA 12 tips for living more like a zen monk

departments

PLANNING MATTERS pvw law

on the cover photography

©laurie and charles

TODAYS SAVINGS swartzbaugh, farber & associates

SAVE THE DATE

model

Evie she•la wardrobe

metroMagazine • Jan 2013

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THE EVENT BOOK & GIVING GUIDE 2013 DELIVERING NOW!

LOOK FOR THIS BANNER ON OUR HOME PAGE AND CLICK TO PURCHASE INSTANTLY ONLINE!

…order your copy Online Today at SpiritofOmaha.com ged the acknowled

HO HO’S W Businesses

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ties & of Area Chari

THE EVENT BOOK 2013

starting fresh

metro the Spirit of omaha

AndreA L. Hoig ahoig@Spiritofomaha.com

JAnuArY 2013 • voL. 25 no. 1 press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: p.o. box 241611, oMAHA, ne 68124 or e-mailed to: editor@Spiritofomaha.com

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Marketing Consultant

Andrea L. Hoig

Michelle Stephenson

Editor/Creative Director

Contributors

robert p. Killmer

Leo Adam biga Molly garriott daniel Flanigan roger Humphries

alh

Spiritofomaha.com metro MAgAzine 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 the mission of ALH publications is to recognize the ongoing efforts of omaha-area businesses, organizations and individuals to better the community through their support of charitable and civic causes. ALH publications also encourages people’s desire to give something back to the community through volunteerism and philanthropy. contents of this magazine are copyrighted by ALH publications, inc. in their entirety. no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior consent of the publisher. ©copyright 1990 – 2013 ALH publications, inc. All rights reserved.

p u b L i c A t i o n S

It’s 2013... a fresh start. Often times we think of the beginning of a new year as a fresh start, a time where the slate is wiped clean and we can start over. But the truth is, each moment allows us the opportunity of a fresh start. There is no need to wait for just the right time… I take great comfort in knowing that. Knowing that we can choose to think differently, act differently, show up differently in every moment allows unlimited possibilities to be present in our lives. I enter 2013 with a lot of energy, excitement and openness to new opportunities. I encourage you all to remember that a fresh start is available… all the time, whether you are feeling stuck, frustrated or perhaps overwhelmed… just take a deep breath and start over! I look forward to exploring, discovering and sharing all that 2013 has to offer, in each moment, with all of you!

metroMAgAzine • JAn 2013

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STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MIDLANDS MENTORING PARTNERSHIP

mentoring AWARENESS

collective impact midlands mentoring partnership

more than just collaborating with area mentoring groups, the midlands mentoring partnership seeks to better the lives of high-risk youth through the long-term process of collective social change.

midlands mentoring partnership (MMP)

is an example of collective impact in action. The premise of collective impact is that “large-scale social change requires broad, cross-sector coordination,” according to John Kania and Mark Kramer, authors of “Collective Impact” from the Stanford Social Innovation Review. However, Kania and Kramer caution that “the social sector remains focused on the isolated intervention of individual organizations.” Trying to affect change on an individual level often leads to frustration. To wit, consider the enormity that is public education. Kania and Kramer cite how a coalition of local leaders in the greater Cincinnati metropolitan area, called Strive, reversed a downward trend in student performance over a four year period despite budget cuts and a struggling economy. Strive pinpointed high school graduation rates, 4th grade math and reading scores, and kindergarten preparedness in preschoolers as its benchmarks for success. All three improved without the injection of additional funds.

sobering stats

omaha’s 2013 mentor of the year, tess larson with mentees: gabrielle jones, danaya johnson, and hawa ibrahim

Over 1 million high school students in the US drop out a year. Furthermore, the US is ranked 18th out of 24 industrialized nations for quality of public education. In Douglas and Sarpy Counties, nearly 30,000 students live below the poverty level. There are 6000 truant students in the metro area on any given day, and truancy is often linked to drug use and dropout rates. An estimated 1,900 ninth graders will not make it to graduation, and the economic repercussions are staggering. According the MMP website, lost earnings total $494 million and lost tax revenue totals $186 million. But the human toll is even more sobering; dropouts suffer an average 9.2 shorter life expectancy than their classmates who complete high school.

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

local solutions Significant prevention strategies are required, and one of the most effective ways to reduce dropout rates in high schools is mentoring according to a Gates Foundation study. Several local mentoring organizations have aligned with Midlands Mentoring Partnership to address these issues as a team. MMP is not a mentoring organization itself. “MMP is a unique city-wide ‘collective impact’ organization that seeks to increase the number and quality of mentoring programs in the Omaha Metro,” explains Deborah Neary, Executive Director of Midlands Mentoring Partnership. 12 mentoring agencies are full members of the collective; more than 40 are working towards associate memberships. Omaha’s MMP is one of 25 mentoring partnerships nationwide that directly support mentoring programs while generating solutions for the challenges of bringing mentoring to scale, says Neary. MMP promotes community awareness of mentoring and seeks to increase both the number of area mentors and the quality of mentoring in underserved populations. It also facilitates collaboration between metro mentoring agencies by connecting programs to available resources. The need for mentors is great. Currently, there are only 3,000+ existing mentoring relationships, the majority of which are being managed by organizations with five or fewer staff members and working with an operating budget under $100,000.

mentor of the year: tess larson The power of one is especially evident in mentoring. Each year, MMP recognizes an individual who exemplifies a truly giving spirit. This year’s Mentor of the Year is Tess Larson. Larson has been a mentor with Girls Incorporated of Omaha for over six years and currently is mentoring three young women. Larson enjoyed a strong network of caring adults, including involved parents, her mother’s friends who felt like second moms, and special teachers in high school. Acknowledging how fortunate she was and recognizing that there are many young women who lack this kind of stable, loving adult support, Larson decided to become a mentor. “Everyone really needs a few adults who care about them, want to hear about their day, and have a little advice or story to share,” says Larson. Larson volunteered at Girls Inc. and witnessed the power of mentoring. “I saw other mentor/mentee matches, and realized that I could offer what those mentors were offering.” “If you can listen, share a story or two, ask a few questions, and have a little bit of time to share-you’re good to go,” Larson says of what it takes to be a good mentor. She began mentoring two friends, Gabbi and DeNaya, when they were twelve. Both are now in their freshman year of college. She also mentors a young refugee from Somalia, Hawa, whom she met when Hawa was 16. She generally sees each of her mentees a few times a month. The activities they’ve done together have changed over the years. Early outings included trips to the mall, haunted house adventures, and excursions to the slides downtown. Now she attends their sporting events and helps them write their college essays. “The activities aren’t the important part. It’s the time spent together and that they know someone cares about what they’re going through or where they want to go in life,” she acknowledges.

“We are very proud of Tess and her mentees,” says Esther Mejia, Board President of Girls Inc. “They are living proof of just how powerful and important the bond between mentors and mentees can be and how both can benefit from the relationship.” Because of mentors like Larson, she continues, “girls are more likely to grow up ‘strong, smart, and bold.’” If you are tinkering with the idea of becoming a mentor, don’t hesitate. “Just do it!” Larson encourages.

advocate of the year: oppd Numerous local corporations are also strong proponents of mentoring. This year MMP has named OPPD “Mentoring Advocate of the Year” in recognition of the company’s continued support of Partnership 4 Kids, a local mentoring agency. Since 2007, the company has sponsored yearly mentor recruitment drives. This year, OPPD has over sixty employees serving as mentors. Tim Burke, Vice President of Customer Service and Public Affairs expanded the pool of potential mentors to include recent OPPD retirees. Burke considers mentoring “an investment in the future” because “it fosters relationships, builds selfesteem, and identifies talents” within Omaha’s youth. The population OPPD employees serve agrees. Deb Denbeck, Executive Director of Partnership 4 Kids, says that “96 percent of our students report that they are more motivated to finish high school because of their mentor relationships.” More proof of what Tess Larson already knows: “Mentoring really does change the world, one child at a time.” For more information on mentoring organizations in Omaha, visit www.mmpomaha.org.

activities aren’t “the[as important as] the time spent together [knowing] someone cares about... where they want to go in life.”

~ TESS LARSON

More than 60 oppd employees are mentors in the community.

mentee mario ballinas plays chess with his mentor john imig, an oppd employee. john mentors through partnership 4 kids.

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S S

mentoring AWARENESS

mentoring directory S

100 Black Men

T American High School students to The 100 Black Men of Omaha works with African instill leadership and reinforce the importance of education. T information contact: vbradley@100blackmenomaha.org For more

Ally Mentoring Ally Mentoring is a program for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth. These youth are matched with GLBT adults to create a safe environment basedP on support, respect, and validation. For more information, contact: ally.mentoring@gmail.com

girls inc. executive director, roberta wilhelm, with mentee, mychael shields

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands B Partnering with parent/guardians, schools, corporations, and others in the community, Big Brothers Big Sisters carefully pairs children with screened and P trained volunteer mentors and monitorsB and supports them throughout the program relationship. For more information contact: dsczepaniak@bbbsomaha.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands BGCM offers mentoring relationships with youth and volunteers in a supervised and structured environment. For more information contact: rtwilliams@bgcomaha.org

Compassion in Action CIA offers a mentoring program designed to assist young girls in different areas of life who are striving to be accepted, respected and successful. For more information contact: icareyouthservices@msn.com

Girls Inc. Pathfinder Pathfinders is a long-term match program where mentors work with a young lady until she is a senior in high school. Girls are accepted into the program between the ages of 8 and 18. For more information contact: mobermeyer@girlsincomaha.org

Hope Center for Kids Mentors spend six hours per month with a specific student in fourth through twelfth grade. For information, contact: volunteer@hopecenterforkids.com

Ollie Webb Center, Inc. P

oppd employee & mentor kelsey martz, with partnership 4 kids mentees ana and zaida mendez, & veronica grano

Ollie Webb Center Inc offers a peer mentoring and friendship program that matches adolescents (ages 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18 years) with developmental disabilities (e.g., Learning Disabilities, Down syndrome, Autism, etc.) PT to adolescents without disabilities. For more information contact: cdebruin@olliewebbinc.org PT 8

metroMAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ JAN 2013 T T T T

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metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ The Spirit of Omaha

midlands mentoring partnership P Partnership 4 Kids P

Partnership 4 Kids offers a goal setting and group-mentoring program. For more information visit: www.p4k.org P T T

Release Ministries The Release Ministries Juvenile Justice Mentoring Program is designed to help youth lay a foundation upon which they can continue to build toward success in every aspect of life. For more information contact: woody@releaseministries.org T T T TeamMates Mentoring Program T

TeamMates is a school based mentoring program which matches caring, screened and trained adult volunteers with students. For more information contact: ksears@teammates.org

Youth Emergency Services (YES) The mentoring program at YES serves the youth in the Maternity Group Home and Transitional Living Program. The mentors provide support and guidance as the residents work to become independent and successful. For more information contact: tcobbs@yesomaha.org

midlands mentoring partnership

symbol key: One to One Mentoring One adult to one young person.

Big Couple Mentoring Adult couple mentors one young person.

Group Mentoring One adult to up to four young people.

Team Mentoring Several adults working with small groups of young people in which the adult-to-youth ratio is no greater than 1:4.

Peer Mentoring A caring youth mentoring another youth.

School & Site Based Mentoring Mentoring that occurs in a school setting or at a site predetermined by the organization.

Community Based Mentoring Mentoring where mentors and mentees meet at any location of their selecting within the community.

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celebrity SPOTLIGHT

Q&A:

GIRLS INC. PRESENTS On Thursday, January 31, 2013, Girls Inc. and the GirlFriends Board host the 19th Annual Girls Nite Out. This special event helps support the Girls Inc. programs inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

What would you try if you had no fear? I’ve already tried stand-up comedy and it doesn’t get much scarier than that. I think I’d have to say running for a political office. That both exhilarates and terrifies me.

The event’s headliner is Karith Foster.

What was your most memorable meal ever? In Burbank, CA- it wasn’t a fancy place or even a fancy salad- but it was the first meal I shared with the man who would become my husband exactly 1 year to-the-date later.

Stand-up comedian, motivational speaker, TV & radio personality, actress, author and entrepreneur are all titles fitting for Karith Foster. She is one of the hottest comics to come out of New York City according to both The Hollywood Reporter and Backstage Magazine who named her one of the “Top 10 Comics to Watch.” A native Texan, Karith began her comedy career in New York City where she has since risen to the top of her game as a national headliner. She is best known for being Don Imus’ sidekick on his nationally syndicated “Imus in the Morning” on WABC Radio. She has hosted her own popular internet talk show “Karith Foster: America’s Girlfriend” on Shovio.com. She is the author of “Laugh Your Way to Happiness: 101 Ways to Have a Great Laugh” and creator of Laughter Bootcamp™. Karith is a writer for the Huffington Post. She has appeared on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, NBC’s Today Show and Last Comic Standing, and a variety of VH-1 shows including Best Week Ever, the Awesomely Bad series. Her greatest triumphs include performing on Showtime at the Apollo (getting applause, not boos), doing live audience warm-up for the Oprah Winfrey Show and Skypeing as a guest with Oprah. Her comedy CD “Karith Foster: Straight Outta Plano” is currently in rotation on Sirius/XM’s Raw Dog Comedy Channel. Karith most recently appeared on the TV Guide Channel’s “Stand-Up in Stilettos” and will likely be featured on next season’s America’s Got Talent on NBC.

What life experience has strengthened you the most? Having survived working for Don Imus I now know I can survive ANYTHING. I was able to truly see that life is way too short to be angry or miserable and that it is a blessing to use comedy for good not evil. When you’re down what do you do to feel better? It’s totally cheesey, but I watch The Wedding Planner w/ JLo & Matthew Mcconaughey or just about any Disney movie. Which temptation do you try the hardest to resist? Bread . I wish there was more to extrapolate on but bread is my weakness- in all forms. How would you like to spend your elder years? Traveling to the most beautiful beaches in the world with my husband.

What do you miss about childhood? Not that much. I honestly couldn’t wait to grow up so I could be free to travel and do what I wanted when I wanted to. What song evokes the strongest memories for you? It’s a tie. “After the Love is Gone by Earth, Wind and Fire”- takes me back to hanging out in the den listening to the stereo with my dad in my childhood home and Billy Joel’s “Just the Way You Are” reminds me of running errands with my mother as a child thats became “our” song. What would you love to find at a yard sale? A beautiful fireplace screen.

What’s the best way to spend a rainy weekend? Dining on comfort food and cuddling under a blanket with a fire going and a good book.

If you could do something dangerous just once (with no risk) what would you do? Parachute out of an airplane - but now that I’m a mom I can’t. What if something were to go wrong?!

What’s your favorite quotation? “Endings are only disappointments for those who have no faith in life or love.”

What one question would you ask a psychic about the future? Will I have two or three children?

What does your perfect day look like? Would consist of waking up after 6-8 hours of sleep, heading to the gym for a kettle bell class, a fruit shake for breakfast, lunch with a girlfrienf, taking my baby to a park for some sunshine, working on new jokes, dinner with my husband then performing to a great crowd at a club or event then coming home taking a nice hot shower then climbing into bed with my hubby to do it all over again the next day.

If you owned a boat what name would you choose for it? Savannah Sage- after my daughter.

STRAIGHT OUTTA PLANO

What was your favorite childhood meal? My mother’s Chicken Kiev, with mac & cheese and Brussell sprouts. If you were to own a fabulously impractical car what car would it be? A Maserati -where does the baby seat go? Doesn’t get more impractical than that for me right now. What makes you laugh the hardest? Being silly with my family or friends. m

karith foster 10

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by deb brockmann

drive-by joy Happiness is desperately desired and is often equally elusive. Most of us know, logically, tHat Happiness does not live in our Heads but ratHer it is a feeling tHat resides inside our Hearts. ironically Most of us searcH HigH and low for joy using our Minds – incorrectly. we read, we talk to close friends, we think about our lack of happiness almost obsessively. this whirlpool of thought multiplies exponentially as we move through life seeking, searching, yearning for more. we think about how much we’re missing and phrases such as “when this happens, i’ll be happy,” run rampant through our minds.

It’s January. the gyms will be full. diet programs will enroll many new members. the standard new year’s resolutions include losing weight, getting fit, finding a new job, finishing the old household projects, and resolving relationships. consider a different approach to your new years resolutions for 2013. Make some resolutions to shake things up on a different level. instead of focusing on weight loss, focus on some actions and changes that might result in weight loss. instead of focusing on improving a particular relationship, focus on changes you can make that can result in improving many relationships.

Mysteriously, happiness just shows up at times. taunting us, tantalizing our senses. you relish in these special little twinkling moments as they move fleetingly through our hearts. then they seem to “exit stage right” as soon as “real life” rears its ugly head. you’re left wondering, “was it fantasy or fact? where did it go? How can i get that feeling back?” Maybe you were the recipient of drive by joy. it’s sounds a bit “woo woo” but those spontaneous moments of joy are directly related to the moments you connect to your feelings. not the “lay on my couch and tell me about your mother,” type feelings. rather, “being in the moment and getting in touch with your inner goody” feelings.

SOME POSSIBLE “RENEWAL” RESOLUTIONS Change your patterns. change the order in which you do things when you get up in the morning. instead of brushing your teeth first, take your shower. Many of us have an unshakeable morning routine. routines are part of patterns. if we want to change patterns, change routines. this will help break mental patterns. you will notice things you have been missing – about yourself, about your surroundings, about others. drive a different route to work. stop at a different coffee store. try a new drink. Subtract at least one thing from your weekly schedule and replace it with a “refill”. our lives are full and busy. with technology, we are always connected. we have friends, spouses, children, extended family, jobs, community commitments, and endless activities. we spend a lot of our time turned on and using energy. review your commitments and obligations. find just one thing that you can eliminate. replace it with something that refills you – a massage, tea with a friend, an hour at the bookstore, or whatever it is that helps you to replenish and recharge. schedule that hour in your calendar now for the whole year. Make some new connections seeking out those who have what you want. look around and notice who is keeping weight off despite a crazy lifestyle. notice who has positive relationships and a great outlook despite life challenges. notice whose career path is moving in the right direction or who has successfully transitioned to retirement. find some time to include those who are succeeding at the things that you would like to have in your life. when you are surrounded by others who are committed to health and happiness, you have a built in support system for a healthier lifestyle. Give a piece of your heart rather than a piece of your mind on a regular basis. anger perpetuates anger and fosters resentment. encouragement creates positive shifts. it is easy to be compassionate to someone who has cancer. it is more challenging, but more important, to be kind to those whose wounds are reflected in behavior that you see as negative. remember that your words and treatment of others are likely to be passed on. when you encourage someone, you lift their heart and create the opportunity for an energy shift. in 2013, support positive shifts. encourage. lighten hearts.

getting in touch with one’s goody is not as difficult as we may think. yes, i said it, “think”. thinking, without purpose, creates a false feeling of control. it also creates the every so over-used “persona”. a persona is essentially a role that we take on as to fit in, be professional, or protect ourselves from scrutiny. essentially this mask is created to hide our truest self. Happiness cannot live within a persona. let your happy live. How, you ask? the first step is understanding that you can not solve the problem of seemingly unattainable happiness with the same mind that created it. let’s put that another way. you will never be happy when you are focusing your mind on everything that is making you unhappy. Your joy comes from feeling. thoughts ignite the heart to feel. so, consciously employ your mind. take control over the whirlpool of obsessive thoughts. create new habits of thinking; focus on thoughts that will open the heart and turn those drive by joy moments into hours of joy, then days, weeks, months and years of happiness. first, recognize how often your mind “complains” about all the unhappy things in life. then gently, lovingly force a new and supportive thought of joy. remember a time that you were happy or think of something that you would love to see happen. it’s all up to you. There are several ways to connect to the inner you and side step that analytical beast of a brain; meditation, walking in nature, really observing your child, viewing art, or even focusing solely on your breath. whatever you choose, start small, but start today. Move away from the vortex of negativity and into the heart of joy, love and happiness. Bring your happy home. The Happiness Chick Deb Brockmann - Intuitive debbrockmann.com

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metroMagazIne • The Spirit of Omaha with acknowledgment to leo babauta

2013:

by mary e. vandenack

renewal resolutions

12 essentials: to live more like a zen monk

“ Be the change you wish to see in the world.” ~ MAHATMA GANDHI

“ We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.” ~ THICH NHAT HANH

Why live more like a Zen monk? because who among us can’t use a little more concentration, tranquility, and mindfulness in our lives? because Zen monks for hundreds of years have devoted their lives to being present in everything they do, to being dedicated and to serving others. because it serves as an example for our lives, and whether we ever really reach that ideal is not the point. you can live your life in a more Zen-like manner by following a few simple rules. thich nhat Hanh simplified these rules in just a few words: “smile, breathe and go slowly.” it doesn’t get any better than that. However, for those who would like a little more detail, read below:

consider a different approach to your new years resolutions for 2013. Make some resolutions to shake things up on a different level. instead of focusing on weight loss, focus on some actions and changes that might result in weight loss. instead of focusing on improving a particular relationship, focus on changes you can make that can result in improving many relationships.

1. Do one thing at a time. single-task, don’t multi-task. when you’re eating, just eat. when you’re bathing, just bathe. don’t try to knock off a few tasks while eating or bathing. Zen proverb: “when walking, walk. when eating, eat.”

SOME POSSIBLE “RENEWAL” RESOLUTIONS

2. Do things slowly and deliberately. you can do one task at a time, but also rush that task. instead, take your time, and move slowly. Make your actions deliberate, not rushed and random. it takes practice, but it helps you focus on the task and on keeping more peaceful.

Change your patterns. change the order in which you do things when you get up in the morning. instead of brushing your teeth first, take your shower. Many of us have an unshakeable morning routine. routines are part of patterns. if we want to change patterns, change routines. this will help break mental patterns. you will notice things you have been missing – about yourself, about your surroundings, about others. drive a different route to work. stop at a different coffee store. try a new drink.

3. Do things completely. put your mind completely on the task. don’t move on to the next task until you’re finished. if, for some reason, you have no choice but to move on to something else, try to at least putting away the unfinished task and clean up after yourself.

Subtract at least one thing from your weekly schedule and replace it with a “refill”. our lives are full and busy. with technology, we are always connected. we have friends, spouses, children, extended family, jobs, community commitments, and endless activities. we spend a lot of our time turned on and using energy. review your commitments and obligations. find just one thing that you can eliminate. replace it with something that refills you – a massage, tea with a friend, an hour at the bookstore, or whatever it is that helps you to replenish and recharge. schedule that hour in your calendar now for the whole year. Make some new connections seeking out those who have what you want. look around and notice who is keeping weight off despite a crazy lifestyle. notice who has positive relationships and a great outlook despite life challenges. notice whose career path is moving in the right direction or who has successfully transitioned to retirement. find some time to include those who are succeeding at the things that you would like to have in your life. when you are surrounded by others who are committed to health and happiness, you have a built in support system for a healthier lifestyle. Give a piece of your heart rather than a piece of your mind on a regular basis. anger perpetuates anger and fosters resentment. encouragement creates positive shifts. it is easy to be compassionate to someone who has cancer. it is more challenging, but more important, to be kind to those whose wounds are reflected in behavior that you see as negative. remember that your words and treatment of others are likely to be passed on. when you encourage someone, you lift their heart and create the opportunity for an energy shift. in 2013, support positive shifts. encourage. lighten hearts.

4. Do less. a Zen monk doesn’t lead a lazy life: he wakes early and has a day filled with work. However, he doesn’t have an unending task list either– there are certain things he’s going to do today, and no more. if you fill your day with tasks, you will be rushing from one thing to the next without stopping to think about what you do (mindfulness). 5. Put space between things. don’t schedule things close together– instead, leave room between things on your schedule. that gives you a more relaxed schedule, and leaves space in case one task takes longer than you planned. 6. Develop rituals. ritual gives something a sense of importance– and focus. create your own, for the preparation of food, for eating, for cleaning, for what you do before you start your work, for what you do when you wake up and before you go to bed, for what you do just before exercise. 7. Designate time for certain things. this ensures that those things get done regularly and in order. you can designate time for your own activities, whether that be work or cleaning or exercise or quiet contemplation. if it’s important enough to do regularly, consider designating a time for it. 8. Devote time to sitting. in the life of a Zen monk, sitting meditation (zazen) is one of the most important parts of his day. each day, there is time designated just for sitting. this meditation is really practice for learning to be present. you could use any activity in the same way, as long as you do it regularly and practice being present. 9. Smile and serve others. this reinforces humility, and ensures that our lives are not just selfish, but devoted to others. also consider volunteering for charity work. 10. Turn activities into opportunities for meditation. practice mindfulness, by turning chores into a form of meditation. take notice of your motives and behavior while doing things, cultivating awareness about what this teaches you about who you are becoming. 11.Think about what is necessary. there is much in our lives that isn’t truly necessary, and it can be useful to give some thought about what we really need, and whether it is important to possess it. 12. Live simply. who among us doesn’t wax nostalgic about when times were “simpler”? for you, they still can be. eliminating non-essential “clutter” from your life can help cleanse it from your soul as well.

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. 13

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new medicare tax

planningMATTERS • with pvw law

applies in 2013 STRATEGIES FOR MINIMZING THE COST BACKGROUND Tax Prior to the Health Care Act. Prior to the 2010 Health Care Act, wages were subject to FICA at the rate of 6.2% on the employer and 6.2% on the employee (although the employee rate was reduced to 4.2% in 2011 and 2012) up to a threshold amount of wages ($110,100 in 2012). The Medicare tax was imposed at the rate of 1.45% on both the employer and the employee with all wages being subject to Medicare. For those with net earnings from self-employment (“NESE”), self-employment tax was imposed at the rate of 12.4% (reduced to 10.4% in 2011 and 2012) up to the annual threshold and 2.9% on all net earnings from self-employment tax with no threshold.

2010 Act – Impact on Medicare Tax January 1, 2013. The 2010 Health Care Act increased the Medicare portion of the self-employment tax by .9% (to 3.8%) on earnings (wages or net earnings from self-employment) in excess of $250,000 for taxpayers filing jointly and $200,000 for other taxpayers. The Act also subjects investment income to the Medicare tax. This is the first time in history that investment income has been subject to the Medicare tax. As of January by mary e. vandenack 1, 2013, the 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on investment income to the extent that modified adjusted gross income exceeds $250,000/$200,000. Net Investment Income (“NII”). NII includes interest, dividends, royalties, and rents other than those derived in the ordinary course of a trade or business. NII also includes any net gain attributable to the disposition of property not held in a trade or business. Items of interest, dividends, annuities, royalties, rents, and gains, which pass through a flow-through entity to its owners will retain the character of investment income and be subject to the tax. Who Will Be Affected by the Tax? Sole proprietors and owners of single member LLC’s with active businesses will be subject to the surtax. The new tax will apply to undistributed NII of estates and trusts on income subject to the highest tax bracket. Partnership income is likely to be subject to either the surtax or the tax on NII. S corporation distributions from a business in which an owner material participates is the one exception at present. PLANNING STRATEGIES Use S Corporations to Operate Business. For shareholders who materially participate in the business, it appears that such shareholders can avoid the surtax on earned income and the 3.8% tax on net investment income. The caveat is that such a shareholder should take a reasonable salary from the S corporation. Net gains on the sale or redemption of the shareholder’s interest in the S corporation should also be exempt. If you are starting a new business or currently own an LLC, consider whether making an S election is advisable. Overall Business Structure. Review your overall business structure. Consider whether an S corporation can be used in the mix. This may work where an LLC electing partnership tax treatment owns real estate. Such an LLC can pay management fees to an S corporation. In a limited partnership arrangement, evaluate the possibility of an S corporation general partner. There are a variety of strategies to minimize the new Medicare tax. Review your entire income picture to identify exposures to the new tax and possible reduction. For more information visit www.pvwlaw.com

metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2013

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todaysSaVingS • swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

take a step back

REVIEW YOUR LIFE INSURANCE

red

with kirk swartzbaugh

THE end of the year is a good time to assess things; to think about what went well in the previous year, and what could be done better in the next. It’s also a good time to evaluate your long-term planning.

Many people believe that life insurance is only useful for one’s heirs. While there isn’t a more powerful tool to create an instant estate than life insurance, it holds more options than a simple after-death benefit. A heavily-funded permanent policy can supplement your retirement assets as well as help with unexpected costs such as medical expenses and/or planned costs such as children’s college expenses. Most policies also have a provision where you can “access the death proceeds early” for health care expenses due to a terminal illness. For those who already have policies in place, periodic review is essential. Studies suggest that only a minority of policy owners has reviewed policies within the past five years, a majority of existing policies could be restructured to provide more value since people are living longer and costs for insurance are decreasing. Plus, circumstances change, life insurance charges typically decline, tax laws come and go. Thus, many people’s insurance portfolios could benefit from an overall review. People who do very well financially can find themselves with estates burdened by high estate taxes. In this situation, people should consider getting their insurance ownership/beneficiary changed to irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILIT). No matter the ages at which consumers purchase life coverage, ILIT-owned insurance is a great tool to leverage assets on a tax-free and estate tax-free basis. At this point a person might say, “That’s a great idea, but I have health problems. I can’t get coverage.” Not true. All carriers have their niches, and here is where the independence of your advisor is paramount. Many insurance advisors shy away from difficult cases, since they take a lot of work and negotiation. However, some advisors are very experienced in this arena and can find competitive offers even when several carriers have declined the same case. Unfortunately, many consumers commoditize insurance carriers and products. Thus, many miss the fact that there are specialized products and exclusive solutions available through exclusive distribution channels that can save them a lot of money. For example, M Financial Group (www.mfin.com) has tracked mortality rates on their clients since 1978, resulting in 17%-24% better rates than normal. Therefore, M’s member firms can offer proprietary products with renowned insurance carriers that are more competitively priced than typical life insurance products. Last but not least, no one can tell you how much life insurance you need. An independent advisor can show you all of your options, but it is a very personal decision that only you can make. Thus, we ask that you take a step back and ask yourself: Will my life insurance help to accomplish what I want? 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. 15

metroMagazine • Jan 2013

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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets

Our Animal Summer Camps are Just Around the Corner Be the early bird to sign up for NHS Summer Camps. Registration opens in February for our 2013 sessions of Camp Kindness. These summer day camps for kids are chock full of animal fun; a sure hit with young pet lovers. Kids get hands-on experience with dogs, kittens and critters, see what it’s like to be a veterinarian, interact with dogs and trainers, pick a kennel buddy, learn why wild animals should stay wild, and generally have a doggone good time! Camp Kindness runs June to August in week long sessions. We have information and easy online signup at www.nehumanesociety.org/campkindness.

New Year’s Resolution: Train the Dog! NHS can help you with Fido’s manners—whether he needs a tune up, or a full course in behavior. We offer: • Basic obedience: what every dog should know. • Owly Growly: for dogs who don’t like other dogs. • Drop in Classes: for busy schedules—drop in when you can! • Fun with Fido: learning tricks, honing obedience through games, even working through distractions to make your dog a good citizen.

Stephanie and Jim Moline with Ceres, Pandora, and Bentley the cat

Stephanie and Jim Moline “It’s a good thing she’s cute,” Jim Moline jokes about the newest family member Ceres, “because she is definitely a puppy.” Ceres, a mini golden doodle with puppy inquisitiveness, likes to steal bones from her big sister Pandora, and try to entice Berkley, the cat, to play. Still, she has filled something of a void in the Moline home. “Pandi grew up with our older golden retriever who passed away. We thought it would be nice for her to once again have another dog in the house,” explains Stephanie. Pandi is a typical tolerant adult who, only occasionally, scolds Ceres for her mischief. Ceres, meantime, has blossomed in the Moline house. “She was scrawny and undernourished when we got her from NHS,” says Stephanie, “Staff there thought she was kept confined nearly all the time.” Rescuing pets is a family affair. Stephanie’s daughter has a dog, Lucy, from NHS, while her mother has Bentley the cat and Aramis, an irrepressible PBGV, whom she takes to play bridge. Berkley, Stephanie and Jim’s cat, is also an NHS alum. All are treated as loved family members as depicted by Stephanie’s recent weekend plans. “I’m going to visit my daughter, Nicole, who is coming back here for the holidays. We’ll drive the 10 plus hours back here, instead of flying, because her dog Lucy doesn’t fly well!”

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

metroMagazine • jan 2013

We have full descriptions and easy online signup at www.nehumanesociety.org/training or call 402-444-780 ext. 272.

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the

metro

scene

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

Purchase photos from these events online or from your smartphone, and metroMAGAZINE will donate 10% back to that organization. Join us in giving back! Enter the code “GIVE10” on the checkout page of your shopping cart. • please remember to trade with our advertisers, whose support helps make the publication of these important events possible.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS

WOMEN’S CENTER FOR ADVANCEMENT

HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICE

STOCK MARKET CHALLENGE™

TGIF

SALUTE TO FAMILIES NEBRASKA

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER HEARTSTRINGS

NEBRASKA KIDNEY ASSOCIATION 40 YEARS OF AMERICAN GRAFFITI

metroMagazine • Jan 2013

NEBRASKA AIDS PROJECT NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STARS

OPERA OMAHA COTILLION

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starry,starry nite nebraska AIDS project nigHt of a tHousand stars December 1, 2012

MACY RILEY WITH MAYOR JIM SUTTLE AND DANIEL MATHEW

SHAYLA SLATE, BILL BERRY, ASHLEY SIMONE AND RUSSELL HOLSTE

JESSE LEE CRASE AND SHANE LINDSTROMM

JAMES KAUP, JOSHUA DIAZ AND DAVID GOMEZ

BILL AND SANDI BRUNS

NATHAN KASSELDER, MOHAMMED JABER, DANIEL SHUGRUE AND JAMES JOHANSEN

JASON AND KRISTENJ PAPENFUSS WITH NICK KANNING

STEPHEN HUG, SCARLOTT RANNELLS, NATALIE WHITNEY AND TOM ELSER

Photography by roger Humphries

DAVE WINGERT WITH CAROL WANG

JOHN PROUTY, JAMI PROUTY, CAROL AND JIM PROUTY

BRYAN SWOTEK AND SARAH STOWELL

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• Spring

2013 Edition Coming in April!

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allaboutfamily heartland family service salute to faMilies nebraska November 15, 2012

Photography by dan flanigan

CONNIE KINNEAR AND MARY MARGARET NELSON

KIM LUBECK, E.D., JOHN JEANETTA AND MARY ZLOMKE

TOM AND VICKI WIESE

RICK AND CAROL RUSSELL, BILL AND SHARON GRIFFIN AND DORENE SHERMAN

FAITH LOUIS, CHARLIE GOODRICH, CHERYL WILD AND MIKE KELLY

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD RICK, BOB, BETTY AND DAVE DORR

SUE SHIPLEY, KIM LUBECK, MARCIA ELLISON, MARY BIRKENTALL, KAREN PIGNOTTI AND CHARLENE FLETCHER

GLORIA RODGERS, CHARLENE BLAIR AND JEAN TUCKER 20

SARAH NIHSEN, JEANIE OWEN, PATTI PRYOR AND SALLY STALNAKER

metroMagazine • Jan 2013

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Mike DiGiacomo

Mary Nelson Matt Monroe

Ryan McPike

John Walsh

WEEKDAYS AT 9:00 A.M.

On KMTV Your Action 3 News Station

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roofraisers habitat for humanity raise tHe roof gala November 8, 2012

ALICE AND JERRY NORRIS

CSG RANDY VANDEMARK, PETER KALAN, LISA VANDEMARK, DARLA THOMPSON, RANDY WEISE AND KEVIN THOMPSON

RICK AND CAROL RUSSELL WITH MIMI QUINN AND DAROLD BAUER

KEVIN FUSTOS, JILL SAUSER, TAYLOR SCOTT AND KARYN DROESSLER

Photography by dan flanigan

SENATOR BEN AND DIANE NELSON

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metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ Jan 2013

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tg4givers! womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s center for advancement tgif

LINDA RAPHAEL WITH JEFF AND SUSIE ZINDEL

STEPHANIE TROESTER, HALEY WALKER, SHELLI KLEMKE AND REGAN MUHS

Location: Champions Run Date: November 9, 2012 Number attended: Over 300 Chairpersons: Shelli Klemke, Regan Muhs, Stephanie Troester and Haley Walker Honorary Chairs: Dr. Gail and Mike Yanney Event featured: A silent and oral auction Mission statement: Helping women and their families build lives of strength, growth and self-sufficiency. The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center for Advancement (WCA) is a comprehensive woman- and family-focused agency in Omaha that assists clients in pursuit of achieving personal, social and economic success. WCA offers a holistic model of serving women from all walks of life and assisting them on their journey through domestic violence/sexual assault, crisis, poverty, or career and life transitions. Individual paths may vary, but the WCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs and services create meaningful change in the lives of our clients with lasting, measurable impact. For more information contact Lori Bechtold, Chief Development Officer at (402) 345-6555.

MIKE AND GAIL YANNEY

TOM AND SHARI SAMEK AND CATHI AND GENE ARNOLD

Headline headline

Photography by andrea Hoig

Lori Lori Bechtold, MPA Chief Development Officer

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222 S. 29th St Omaha NE 68131 LoriB@wcaomaha.org www.wcaomaha.org Tel: 402.345.6555 Fax: 402.345.0635

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Photo courtesy of Creighton Prep

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Preppies

creighton prep loyola dinner Creighton Preparatory School honored four individuals for their service and loyalty at the annual Loyola Dinner of Honor and Distinction on Oct. 11 in the Henry L. Sullivan, S.J. Campus Center at Creighton Prep. Creighton Prep is committed to instilling Christian and Jesuit values in its students helping them to become “Men for Others." The Alumnus of the Year award is given to an individual who embodies the values Prep aspires to instill in its graduates through a commitment of living a life devoted to serving others. LTC John A. Nagl '84 was honored as Creighton Prep’s 2012 Alumnus of the Year. The Hall of Fame award is given each year to individuals who have displayed distinguished service to Prep as teachers, staff, coaches, alumni, parents or friends. The primary consideration is to honor individuals who have provided direct service to Prep and who are good examples of living personal lives of faith and service. Rev. Eugene M. Dutkiewicz, S.J. and Robert L. Willits were inducted into the 2012 Creighton Prep Hall of Fame.

REV. EUGENE M. DUTKIEWICZ, S.J., MARY MOESCHLER, ROBERT L. WILLITS, LTC JOHN A. NAGL '84 AND REV. ANDY ALEXANDER The Ancilla Domini award is given each year to a woman characterized by her caring, nurturing and unselfish dedication to her faith, family and community. The celebrated life is an example of how to use to the fullest, the gifts given to her by God. This year’s award was given to Mary Moeschler, a woman with an amazing record of service to the Catholic faith, Jesuit education, her community and beyond.

The Loyola dinner has been a Prep tradition for 16 years and continues to grow in attendance. The evening began with a cocktail reception followed by dinner and the awards presentation. Catered by: Abraham Catering Mission: Creighton Preparatory School forms men of faith, scholarship, leadership, and service in the Catholic and Jesuit tradition. Attendance: 142 people

“kewl!” nebraska kidney assoc. 40 years of aMeriCan graffiti On Friday November 2nd Omaha Film Historian Bruce Crawford hosted his 31st classic film salute in Omaha with a special screening of "American Graffiti".

UNVEILING THE POSTAL COMMEMORATIVE ENVELOPE

CINDY WILLIAMS AND FRIENDS

EDDIE MEKKA

TIM NEAL, MAYOR JIM SUTTLE AND BRUCE CRAWFORD 24

metroMagazine • Jan 2013

Special guests Cindy Willians and Eddie Mekka. Bruce were in attendance as Crawford had re enactors dancing in the lobby to the strains of 50's and early 60's rock and roll. The event was a benefit for the Nebraska Kidney Association. The Joslyn Art Museum's Witherspoon theater was filled with a most enthusiastic and sold out audience. Eddie Mekka came on stage and sang songs from the film and did a sing a long with the audience. Cindy Williams shared how she was selected for the film and how a nearly broke George Lucas had a hard time finding enough money to finish it. The film shown was a pristine restored print, with superb sound and gorgeous color photography. Artist Nicolosi once again did an original art print for the event, but this time it was a commemorative United States Postal envelope honoring 40 years of American Graffiti. Rumor has it that Lucas himself may have been in the audience as several believe they saw him. This film started the 50s nostalgia craze that continues to this day. Photography courtesy of bruce Crawford

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daytraders boys & girls clubs of the midlands stoCk Market CHallenge™

‘ENERGIZERS’ TEAM FROM TENASKA CAPITAL

‘THE UNTOUCHABLES’

On November 8th Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands (BGCM) Club teen members and corporate sponsors went on a stock-exchange floor adventure at the Stock Market Challenge™ at the Scoular Ballroom. The Fifth Annual Stock Market Challenge™ marked the first joint event of Club youth and adults. Three teams of finalists from a Club Youth Stock Market Challenge the week prior came together to compete for a $5,000 scholarship from the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST). The winning team, ‘The Untouchables’ from the Carl & Joyce Mammel South Omaha Boys & Girls Club secured the lead spot, granting each team member $1,250 to spend on higher education. “I’m so excited right now,” said Untouchables team member, Memo. “It’s out of this world. I feel like I’m dreaming.” “The Stock Market Challenge teaches kids financial literacy,” says Ivan Gilreath, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands. For more information visit smc.bgcomaha.org.

EVENT CHAIR BETSY BELMONT

Photography courtesy of bgCM

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Whether you’re taking the first step to ear earning ning a degree or you’re ready to National American University can help you along

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metroMagazine • Jan 2013

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lookingup outlook nebraska, inc. banquet Outlook Nebraska, Inc. (ONI), a nonprofit organization providing employment and other opportunities for people who are blind and visually impaired, recently held its 2012 Banquet to Celebrate the Capabilities of the Blind. It took place at the LaVista Embassy Suites Convention Center. The evening highlighted the accomplishments of ONI, its associates and others that value the impact ONI is able to make on the lives of the blind. One award given out during the evening was given to Eunice Nyamatore, the 2012 blind associate of the year. “I was very grateful to receive this award,” Nyamatore said. “Rain or shine, I am ready to go to work and give my all because I truly enjoy what I do.” Event guests included emeritus professor and former chairperson of UNMC’s department of ophthalmology Dr. Stan Truhlsen and his wife Dorothy, as well as Merv Riepe, chairperson of the ONI Board of Directors. UMB Bank was the Diamond sponsor for the evening. Photography courtesy of oni

EUNICE NYAMATORE

HearttoHeart children’s hospital & medical center Heartstrings

REV. EUGENE M. DUTKIEWICZ, S.J., MARY MOESCHLER, ROBERT L. WILLITS, LTC JOHN A. NAGL '84 AND REV. ANDY ALEXANDER

Heartstrings, a new philanthropic women’s group at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, had its kick-off coffee on September 12 at the hospital. The group’s co-chairs are Danielle Bradford, Shelley Homa, Mimi Gleason, Lori Paul and Lynette Singer. Members enjoyed a breakfast reception before attending a program that centered on the renovation of Children’s Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Dr. Lynne Willett, NICU Clinical Service Chief, spoke about exciting developments on the horizon for the department. A mother, whose son spent 70 days in the NICU and weighed barely two pounds at birth, also shared her positive Children’s experience. He is now a healthy eight-year-old. At the end of the program, members were given a tour of the NICU facilities. Heartstrings provides its members an innovative means to support the hospital, as well as social and educational opportunities. The annual funds raised by the group will be pooled and granted by a vote of the membership to a program at the hospital to support the life-changing medical care that takes place at Children’s. For more information www.childrensfoundationomaha.org. Photo courtesy of Heartstrings

Couragebeads midwest lampworkers’ guild and wear yellow nebraska art in tHe bag Art in the Bag, held the evening of Friday, October 19th at the Hot Shops Art Center, featured a silent auction of handmade bags, totes and purses with beaded lampwork key chains. All proceeds benefitted the establishment of the Beads of Courage program at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. Beads of Courage is an International arts-in-medicine program for children fighting serious illness. The event catered by Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops and supported by Upstream Brewing Company raised $5,000. Guests of honor for the event were Mindy and Paige Lindner. Paige was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at the age of 3 which she fought on multiple reoccurrences. She participated in the program throughout her years of treatment in Omaha and Minnesota, earning beads for her courage. Her mom, Mindy, is one of the catalysts helping to bring the program to Omaha. For more information visit www.artinthebag.com. Photography courtesy of art in the bag 26

MARGIE EHLERS, DORI SETTLES, PENNY SLATER, KELLI SWEET, CHRISTINE HOWARD, KAREN SILVIA AND CANDACE ORR metroMagazine • Jan 2013

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Chancellor’s treat unmc Holiday Party

LESTER KATZ, JENNIFER KATZ AND JAMES JOHNSON

ROGER AND KATE WEITZ, BEVERLY MAURE WITH DR. LEE AND MARIE SIMMONS

Guests of the University of Nebraska Medical Center gathered at Happy Hollow Country Club in December to celebrate the holidays. Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D. and his wife Beverly hosted donors, faculty, friends, and many prominent community guests. Among those dignitaries in attendance were Mayor Jim Suttle, several former and current University of Nebraska regents, and many top Omaha business leaders. Guests were treated to a buffet of hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Guests look forward to this annual event and many travel from all across Nebraska to attend. Through world-class research and patient care, UNMC generates breakthroughs that make life better for people throughout Nebraska and beyond. Its education programs train more health professionals than any other institution in the state. Learn more at www.unmc.edu.

CHANCELLOR HAROLD MAURER AND BEVERLY MAURER

BRENT AND JESSICA BRUMMER

Photography by dan flanigan

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402.397.7057 or 402.504.3880 402.885.8700

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Comingout opera omaha Cotillion November 9, 2012

DR. RUDY AND SUZANNE KOTULA WITH ROGER WEITZ

BACK ROW: CHRIS EDENS, LAURA AND DANIEL KELLEY, AND DAN KISON FRONT ROW: CORRIE EDENS, LACEY DAVIS AND SABRINA KISON

JENNIFER, AVA, AND RICK BETTGER

NICK AND GRETCHEN VONDRAK WITH TED, SARAH AND GARY GERNHART

Headline

Photography by dan flanigan

GREG SCHMIDT, ISABELLE SCHMIDT, RHONDA SCHMIDT AND KATE BRASHEAR

metroMagazine • Jan 2013

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January 13

January 19

January 26

MIDLANDS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION REFLECTION BALL Midlands Community Foundation Embassy Suites 1111 Jones Street, Omaha, NE 68102 The Reflection Ball is an annual dinner and dance sponsored by Midlands Community Foundation. At the 2013 Ball, Dave and Lori Pankonin will be honored with the Reflection Award. The 2013 Reflection Ball proceeds will be donated to Ted E. Bear Hollow, a non–profit organization whose mission is to mend the grieving hearts of kids and their families. Honorary Chairs are John and Gail DeBoer and Event Chair is Kyle Black. Cost is $125. Visit www.midlandscommunity.org.

“ONE PITCH AT A TIME” Dobleman Head & Neck Cancer Institute Roncalli Catholic High School 6401 Sorensen Pkwy. “One Pitch at a Time”, an anti-tobacco event will be held at Roncalli Catholic High School. 80,000 Americans will be affected by some form of head and neck cancer this year. And 75% of these cancers of the skin, ears, nose, throat, thyroid, voice box, mouth and tongue will present in the later stages making it more difficult to treat. Major League Red Sox Pitcher, Mark Melancon, will join area coaches in providing a baseball clinic for kids 7-14 years on Sunday, January 13th from 1:30-4:30pm A dinner and auction will follow at 6pm. Contact Mary at Dobgolf72@cox.net or call 402-393-7050.

START UP ASSISTANCE BALL – A BLACK & WHITE AFFAIR Metro Omaha Womens Business Center Marriott Regency 409 S. 16th Street, Omaha, NE 68102 Mystery, intrigue, romance, auction &amp; live entertainment 5:30pm Marriott Regency 10220 Regency Circle, Omaha, NE 68124 Help us financially grant women–owned, small business start–ups $45 Member | $60 individual for table of ten Get Tickets Here! Order Now And Watch Our Grant Tally Rise! Cost is $45 –$ 60 Visit www.mowbcf.org.

DOWNTOWN OMAHA INC. GALA 2013 Doubletree Hotel 16th at Dodge – 5:30 pm Join us in recognizing downtown businesses and individuals for the work they have done. Dress in your interpretation of the '50s or cocktail attire. Check out the incredible silent auction items, dance to fabulous '50s music and enjoy fabulous '50s food. Admission is $75 per person. RSVP no later than Jan. 22, 2013. Visit http://downtownomahainc.org.

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January 5

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EPS 17TH ANNUAL BENEFIT DINNER Essential Pregnancy Services Essential Pregnancy Services 17th annual benefit dinner will be held on Sunday, January 27, 2013 at the Embassy Suites in LaVista. There will be a silent auction and social hour from 5-7 pm with dinner to follow. This year's award recipients are Nicholas Manhart recveiving the EPS Special Service Award, Denis Walsh receiving the EPS Heart of Gold Award, and Pat Gehringer and Terese Lux, OSM receiving the Spirit oif EPS Award. All proceeds from our Benefit Dinner will be used to support the annual operating budget. Dinner reservations can be made by calling the EPS office at 402-554-0121.

ANNUAL MENTORING SUMMIT & AWARDS LUNCHEON Midlands Mentoring Partnership DoubleTree Hotel 1616 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68102 The 2013 Mentoring Summit will feature nationally renowned mentoring experts, an awards luncheon to honor this year’s Mentor of the Year and Mentor Advocate of the Year, and break–out sessions. The 2013 Mentor of the Year will be awarded to Tess Larson of Girls Inc. The 2013 Mentor Advocate of the Year will be awarded to OPPD for their service to Partnership 4 Kids. Cost is $25 for the Awards Luncheon and $45 for the Summit registration. Visit www.mmpomaha.org.

GIRLS NITE OUT Girls, Inc. Mutual of Omaha Dome –3301 Dodge St., Omaha – 5:3pm – 9:00pm Girls Nite Out is a hilarious, fun-filled event to support the work of Girls Incorporated of Omaha and their mission of Inspiring all Girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold! GNO will feature Comedienne Karith Foster, a comedian, TV & radio personality, actress, inspirational and motivational speaker, entrepreneur and author. Cocktails, shopping and socializing, a raffle and buffet dinner will precede the evening of fun and merriment. Corporate tables are avalable. Cost: $75.00 or $100.00. Call (402)457-4676 and ask for Jane Allamong.

PRUDENTIAL AMBASSADORS' DANCING WITH THE OMAHA STARS Prudential Ambassador's Real Estate and Omaha Ballroom Century Link Center Omaha 10220 Regency Circle, Omaha The 4th annual Dancing with the Omaha Stars sponsored by Prudential Ambassador's Real Estate will be benefiting The Sunshine Kids Foundation which is a nonprofit organization that helps plan events for kids affected by cancer. Enjoy a seated dinner, silent, auction and watch local celebrities dance for the mirror ball trophy. This year we have 18 local celebrities, 6 professional instructors from Omaha Ballroom and 8 judges! Purchase your tickets at ticket master.com or contact Elizabeth at Omaha Ballroom 402-290-4869 Cost is $850 a table with dinner. $20 for GA tickets with no dinner. www.dancingwiththeomahastars.com.

February 8 OUR LADY OF LOURDES HOPEFUL HEARTS ENDOWMENT DINNER & FUNDRAISER Contact Belinda Barntsen, Event Chair at (402) 341–6031.

vibrations • with sue moon

january horoscopes It’s a New Year and the balance of power between the masculine and the feminine is grinding into action. We will see power struggles between our material and spiritual beliefs. The right use of power is what we are struggling to understand. Is it right when multi-billion dollar industries dictate what we eat, wear, say, think etc? The Collective Consciousness is waking up in everything and change is afoot! This month heralds a huge shift in global politics, structure and the way things have been done for too long, much of it without our knowledge. There is a great need rising up in people to be better, do better, help others and find meaning in their lives... READ MORE NOW ONLINE!

capricorn

dec 22 - jan 19

With so many planets (Pluto, Mercury, Juno & Venus) in your sign, the month shines a strong light on you. Your sterling character of seeing what needs to be done and doing it will be a rally call to your friends to step up their efforts at self improvement too! Be sure to keep up with any health concerns because Jupiter continues to be a strong influence for the better in that area, which means any little step you take to READ MORE NOW ONLINE! heal your body will bring healing much faster! Read your full horoscope from Sue online NOW at SpiritofOmaha.com!

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