metroMAGAZINE's January/February 2011 Issue

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The Spirit of Omaha

SpiritofOmaha.com • jan/feb 2011

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

features

features / DEPARTMENTS

departments

25

cover STORY

11

11

READY 2 SERVE non-profit & YP profiles

GIVING SPIRIT

26

20 years of celebrating Omaha

YP Q&A • YOUNG PROFESSIONALS “why is it important for yp’s to be involved?”

47

metroCOMMUNITY leukemia and lymphoma society

75

special SECTION

29

SAVE THE DATE

metroWEDDING your winter wedding

metro

44

LIVING SINGLE with mary e. vandenack

45 35

with dixie clark

metroWELLNESS

46

celebrating heart awareness with the omaha metro division of the american heart association

articles | columns

35

49

events

55

the metroSCENE

with aristotle group

50 51

PLANNING MATTERS

bravo!

TODAYS SAVINGS

18

with swartzbaugh-farber & associates

53 78

LOOK WHO’S SHELTERING

honoring local prodigiesour

RENAISSANCE 20 years of applause: arts & culture

22

ARTFULLY SPEAKING

with the nebraska humane society

with keith allerton

HOROSCOPES

girl scouts art venture The Sp irit

with sue moon

on the

cover

metroMAGAZINE Publisher Andrea “Andy” Hoig

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY by ©Laurie and Charles

18

DON’T POSTPONE YOUR LIFE with roger fransecky

OPTIMAL LIVING

with pvw law

bravo!

THE SOUL’S JOURNEY

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metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2010

of Oma ha

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from the PUBLISHER

CELEBRATING THE

spirit

It’s hard to believe… metroMAGAZINE (2006 to the present) formerly known as Metro Monthly (1991-1995) formerly known as Omaha Metro Update (1990).

Two decades of celebrating “Omaha at its Best!” I look back over the past 20 years and I am both amazed and exhilarated by the tremendous growth that has taken place in the greater “metro” area. Back in 1990-1991 the publication covered an average of 85 events a year.

Over 20 years later, metroMAGAZINE covers an average of over 500 charity events a year, and we can’t make it out to nearly as many as we would prefer (but we’ll keep adding more, I promise!) Omaha is such a giving community, therefore one thing I do not find amazing is that the majority of these events raise record numbers each year – helping thousands who would not be benefitted otherwise.

During the past two decades, as we’ve evolved into ALH Publications, we’ve reported on millions and millions of dollars being raised in the service of our great community and those who dwell in it. (Although I don’t have the immediate opportunity to check the figures that apply, by now it wouldn’t surprise me if the funds raised during the past 20 years totalled well into billions.)

At the heart of those efforts is something we have come to call the spirit of the Omaha community. The term spirit is universally used to define the capacity in every individual to awaken something enduring and uplifting within us– to connect to our own unique and personal “Source.” No matter what creed (or lack of one) we adhere to, we can all identify with both the concept (and the experience) of connecting to our own “Source-point.” I believe that, just as individuals become more defined and known by their unique “Source-point” or spirit, that communities and nations do as well.

What a genuine privilege it has been, then, to have been a part of discovering the spirit of Omaha during these past 20 years! In this issue, in honor of that shared journey, we begin a twelve month 20th Anniversary celebration of looking back and looking forward. (One year late, due to our necessarily prolonged recovery from the fire which destroyed our offices in 2010.)

However, even though we are indeed “late to our own party,” we’re eager to get it started! Presented in this inaugural 2011 edition are two compelling features, one celebrating the community-wide giving spirit we’ve witnessed and shared, the other celebrating two decades of arts & culture. Fitting introductory material for what we hope will be a genuinely uplifting year of service to our readers and community.

As we look ahead to the next 20 years and beyond, we are revitalized and rededicated in our commitment to sharing the experience of that spirit: the energy that fuels the positive, the optimistic, the glorious, within and around this region.

It’s our sincerest hope that our efforts in 2011 will provide much more coverage of the things which not only inform, educate and inspire, but also… endure.

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

metro The Spirit of Omaha

JAN/FEB 2011 VOL. 23 NO. 2 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

Staff Photographers

Andrea L. Hoig

Daniel Flanigan Cindy Grady Caroline Hurley Jim Lamb Linda Shepard Dave Stock Lionel Tay

Editor/Creative Director

Robert P. Killmer Sales Manager

Ryan Lally Sales Associates

Katie Cook Chuck Pauly

Staff Writers

Administration

Francesca Peterson Web Content Manager

Megan Olson Events Editor | Layout

Krystal Bottcher

Leo Adam Biga Molly Garriott Susan Kuhlmann Dave Link Donald Rashid David Williams Distribution

Loni Craft

Interns

Michael Neisius | Jaime Roe Jason Rumbaugh | Erin Sarmiento

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

402-333-7499 ________________ 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 2010 ALH Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

cover STORY metroMAGAZINE

ONE YEAR AGO

what was to have been a celebratory milestone marking this magazine’s 20th anniversary became a time for recovery and renewal. At the time plans were underway to initiate a year long celebration of 20 years of service and cooperation with the philanthropic community in the greater Omaha region. Instead, the small, local publishing house found itself reevaluating its mission and vision and initiating the process of rebuilding its infrastructure and, in many ways, starting over.

A January 7, 2010 middle-of-the-night fire destroyed the offices of ALH PUBLICATIONS, along with three neighboring businesses in the Boardwalk mall. No one was hurt, but ironically, a magazine whose niche for 20 years has been chronicling the charitable scene suddenly found itself in need. With a vanguard of long-standing, committed supporters rallying around it, the ALH team regrouped and forged through 2010 with a more profound sense of gratitude, determination and rededication to fulfill its mission to “inform, educate and inspire.”

The night of the fire was one of the coldest on record.

As publisher Andy Hoig and editor Rob Killmer surveyed the smoldering devastation while firefighters pumped water, Hoig saw 20 years of efforts at partnering with “Omaha at its Best!” potentially going up in smoke.

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“I was crying,” said Hoig. “It wasn’t really crying for me. Fire is such a powerful thing and when you’re watching things burn there’s an emotional connection.”

“I just remember thinking, ‘You know, this would be a really respectful way to end this if I wanted to. I’ve been doing this for 20 years, maybe this is a sign.’ Within 24 hours I knew that was not one of the reasons this happened, because people just started coming out of the woodwork.”

The outpouring of support began while the fire still raged and news reports leaked out.

“It wasn’t more than an hour after the fire began that I started getting text messages,” said Hoig. “I got phone calls and emails.

People genuinely wanted to help.”

during the past 20 years metroMAGAZINE & publisher andrea hoig have evolved while covering “omaha at its best!” & celebrating Omaha’s spirit

PHILANTHROPY

giving spirit

20 years of celebrating the spirit of Omaha

STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA & GRANT FERGUSON | PHOTO ANTHOLOGY BY METROMAGAZINE 11

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

continued

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cover STORY

A GIVING COMMUNITY

O!

Heralding how the giving community addresses myriad needs is what Hoig and her staff have done for a living for two decades.

Being on the other end of things took some getting used to.

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“It was something I didn’t really know how to handle at first,” she said. “I’m used to being the one who says, ‘How can we help?’

Now I was on the flip side of having people reach out to me.

I actually learned through this, that receiving gracefully is a gift you actually give people. By not receiving we’re denying the person who’s giving to us.”

The expression of concern gave her a new perspective on the value of her own work and mission, and most importantly, the value of the giving community her publications have celebrated for the past 20 years.

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“It’s funny how it takes a catastrophe to affirm that what you’re doing has made a difference, especially for those who are making a difference themselves. Out of this whole situation that was the biggest gift I could have ever received.”

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“

andy’s motivation is sincere. she wants not only to do good but she sees the importance of… [promoting] these agencies. ~ ELLEN WRIGHT

a t of Omah The Spiri

”

A HERITAGE OF GIVING

Charitable professional ELLEN WRIGHT understands, as well as anyone, the harmonious connection between Omaha’s philanthropic community and its most avid media supporter over the last two decades. She co-sponsored a fund (and spirit) raising soiree for metroMAGAZINE on February 22, 2010 at the Omaha Community Playhouse. Wright said the event was a show of appreciation for Hoig and company.

“When you pick up the METRO you know you’re going to be reading about the nonprofits in the community and the community leadership,” she said. “It’s become the source, the number one place you go. It’s an opportunity for nonprofits to talk about what they do. It gives people a chance to read about agencies and their missions. It lets people see how rich the community is with volunteer and charitable opportunities to give your time and treasure to. It fills an important niche. It’s something we didn’t have before.”

As deeply grateful as Hoig is for that kind of affirmation, what she and her staff view as most important about it is the surrounding culture that compels them to be that “source.”

As Killmer emphasized, “If it wasn’t for the literally thousands of people who consistently make a difference in this community, day in and day out, we wouldn’t be inspired to be who we are trying to be. It’s their ongoing dedication that matters. The fire and its impact on us is secondary, the messages behind it are what have mattered most to us since that night.”

Those messages have been about an ongoing vision for honoring the integrity of a philanthropic community unlike any other.

“I’m not an Omaha native,” adds Killmer. “Over the last decade I’ve been granted a unique opportunity to observe how special and generous this community can be, in ways many Nebraskans may not appreciate. It matters a great deal to all of us here to be permitted to play a role in honoring that spirit. The events of this past year have ‘rekindled’ our desire to continue doing so.”

12

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Hoig said, “The vision has always been about passing on that inspiration to make a difference, whether you look at something and say, ‘I want to be a part of that,’ or, ‘That looks like fun,’ or reading stories about people who are doing inspirational things.

2

“I look at the magazine as having this ripple effect. I want people to have an emotional experience reading it and when they’re done to kind of sit back and self-reflect. It’s really about who’s getting involved, how people are getting involved and how you can get involved.”

HAL AND MARY DAUB agree. The couple consider METRO a lifeline for staying tuned in to the community’s pulse.

“My wife and I like the current events nature of it,” said Hal. “It keeps us up to speed on what’s going on. It gives us a great deal of pride every time we finish reading it about how much is going on in our community that we want to be sure to catch up to.

It [has always portrayed] Omaha in such a positive way… the volunteers, the organizations. We love the volunteerism of this town [and the way this magazine has captured] all that.”

As Wright sees it, METRO reflects Omaha’s famous generosity, something everyone at ALH emphatically affirm.

“People in Omaha care so greatly. I feel philanthropy makes this city, makes this state function. Business and philanthropy are intertwined, and METRO has been able to mirror that. Andy’s motivation is sincere. She wants not only to do good but she sees the importance of [promoting and celebrating the work and focus of] these agencies.”

Wright said the way the philanthropic community responded to METRO’s setback was an expression of how much it would be missed if gone.

“I think the fire shook us that this precious jewel could have been lost, but Andy wasn’t going to let that happen. People recognized how she’s extended herself to so many and how she’s filled a huge gap for us and how we are so incredibly fortunate to have this vehicle.”

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER CHERYL WILD said METRO’s coverage of fundraisers, particularly small grassroots ones, draws crucial interest and support: “I attribute so much of my success with events to Andy’s great coverage.”

METHODIST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION president and CEO CYNTHIA PEACOCK said METRO “is a champion of collaborative community betterment. They are to be applauded for their continued commitment.”

UP FROM THE ROOTS

5

What many don’t know is that METRO was launched by her father, Midlands Business Journal publisher BOB HOIG. Originally a tabloid-format newspaper, it began as the Metro Update in 1990 and became the Metro Monthly. Andy got her start as a photographer, later learning layout and production skills.

By the mid-’90s the paper struggled enough that Bob Hoig was about to shut it down. That’s when he got his first glimmer of his daughter’s ambition and grit, both to his surprise and pride. continued

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cover STORY “Andy gave new life and direction” to the enterprise by refocusing on “charities and causes she believes in” and by tirelessly pursuing coverage of regional philanthropic and cultural activities.

Such grit and determination sustained Hoig through a decade of essentially being a “one-woman show,” responsible for every aspect of operations, from photography of events, to copywriting, layout, and delivering each issue to the printer. Prior to the turn of the century, much of this work was not done digitally as it is today, and Hoig often endured work processes which required her to work days in a row without sleep.

NEW BLOOD

10

In 2001, Hoig was introduced to ROB KILLMER, creative director for an ad agency in Fort Worth, Texas. Killmer immediately recognized the value of Hoig’s mission, and the vision and integrity of the publisher. He began offering advice on how to upgrade the presentation of the publication.

“I totally bought in to who I understood Andy to be, and the merit of what she was trying to accomplish, and expressed my beliefs that the quality of the presentation should match the quality of her intentions, and those of the agencies and individuals she was covering.”

As the two began collaborating more, Hoig received increasing praise from readers and agencies alike, noting and approving the efforts at enhancement. Eventually Hoig invited Killmer to join her full time and he eagerly accepted. The creative harmony between the two has helped vault the publishing house into a place where it is highly regarded, not only for its virtues, but for the standards of excellence it aspires to in order to fulfill them.

“Rob’s heart beats very close to mine with all of this. He ‘gets’ me and what I’m about, and why it matters. A lot of the heart and soul of our enterprise has his life blood poured into it. Now I’m the one out in front drawing attention to our vision and image, which is exactly where I belong. Rob has helped make that possible. We have a very special synergy and bond.”

The pairing has helped set Hoig free to channel more of her talents and vision into places she had always dreamed of applying them before, and she has embraced those opportunities with relish, adding key members to her staff along the way who share her vision, and whose talents and ambitions compliment her own.

“One of the things I’ve discovered about myself… is that I love creating and ‘visioneering’,” she said. “I’ve got great people that take that vision and make it a reality. Starting the creation process is what I absolutely love to do and I look forward to the day when that’s what I do all day long, and that day will come. I want to get METRO to a place where it is rock solid and sustainable, putting us in a position to make a more global impact.”

New series are in the works, such as Who Inspires You?, while series that have become staples in the METRO menu continue to reap praise: metroSPIRIT, YP Connections, metroSTYLE, metroWELLNESS, and the arts and culture section, Bravo!, are among the magazine’s ever-expanding array of departments.

Still, the heart of METRO’s impact remains The metroSCENE, the section of the magazine and web site dedicated to extensive coverage of the philanthropic and social calendar. Every month in the magazine, and every day on the web site, community doers and givers will find photos and features covering their activities.

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

15 20

TRENDSETTER & INNOVATOR

THE NEXT TWENTY

As Hoig and her team continue to work to transform her visions into reality, their products’ appeal grows ever more sophisticated. Hoig seems driven to explore new ways to bring people in the community together, and to continue to honor its servants in a manner that would pay fitting homage to the relationship forged with them over two decades.

As Hoig and her enterprise have matured, she has progressively branded it as not just a for-print publication, but a community resource. She has consistently been an innovator and undertaken initiatives that others have chosen to imitate or duplicate.

ALH introduced Omaha’s first modern dedicated fashion magazine, OmahaStyle™, breaking new ground with visually stunning covers and spreads mirroring publications with national or even international appeal. In 2005 ALH joined forces with locally based, internationally renowned photographers LAURIE AND CHARLES KAY, in an ongoing creative collaboration that still flourishes today. Over the past decade visitors to Omaha have commented about the surprising trendiness of Omaha’s culture, and METRO has consistently been among the names cited.

SpiritRADIO, Hoig’s weekly “Spirit of Omaha” radio program, offered in collaboration with SALEM RADIO OMAHA, provides nonprofits and community activists yet another platform to promote their agendas, and a new alliance with KMTV ACTION 3’S Morning Blend, promises to expand on those intentions.

“There has been growth. It’s been a trial and error evolution,” Hoig acknowledges. “Part of it is reaching out to different demographics. We have an incredible YP (young professionals) community here that looks to get involved and that has been contributing to our growth. We want to embrace a whole new generation of givers and support their vision for the future.

In 2009-2010 Hoig created FACES - Omaha’s Model Search, in partnership with 89 TALENT MANAGEMENT. The goal was to discover Omaha’s newest generation of difference-makers, once again emphasizing “substance over style.” Of all the things Hoig has reason to take pride in, helping raise community awareness about nonprofits is easily that which she finds most gratifying.

“We’ve spent the last twenty years developing relationships in the community, doing our best to promote those who make a difference, and we’ve been enriched by that exchange. We’re going to continue to celebrate that relationship all of 2011, in all the ways we intended to during 2010, before the fire rerouted our plans.”

“The majority of the past twenty years, covering Omaha’s nonprofits wasn’t viewed as particularly popular or profitable. Now everyone has gotten on board, and as a result, celebrating nonprofits has moved more to the forefront than ever before. I feel wonderful about having been a part of making that happen, but nowhere near finished!”

Through the years, Hoig has added one department after another to promote those making a difference and leading inspirational lives. The JOURNEYS series has featured in-depth profiles of doers and givers who travel around the world, not merely vacationing, but making an impact on lives. Her Joy of Giving series profiles local individuals who reflect the same theme.

In 2005 ALH launched The Event Book and Giving Guide, a comprehensive annual directory of nonprofits/cultural calendar that won both accolades and awards. In 2007 The BIG Event, an Academy Awards styled awards recognition gala for area fundraisers, premiered. The intention behind this endeavor was to draw even more recognition and attention to area nonprofits and was immediately embraced by the philanthropic community.

“I think Andy’s really intuitive and I dare say a little bit cosmopolitan,” said DATA MEDIA SOLUTIONS CEO and president JEFF WILKE. “She gets the fact that if she’s not changing she’s probably going to be left behind, and she’s always looking for the next opportunity to make sure she’s evolving with her clients.”

On the fire’s one-year anniversary the METRO team uncorked a bottle of champagne that survived the blaze, finally placed in new surroundings, raising glasses to a trying but growth-filled period and toasting the start of the company’s next 20 years. Having been “tried by fire” and as a result having experienced first-hand the Spirit of Omaha, Hoig and the METRO family are poised to celebrate that spirit in increasingly uplifting and compelling ways.

“

[metroMAGAZINE] is a champion of collaborative community betterment.

They are to be applauded for their continued commitment. ~ CYNTHIA PEACOCK

”

Hoig continues to innovate. The company’s slogan of “Omaha at its Best!” evolved into “The Spirit of Omaha.” The Event Book and Giving Guide were incorporated into a richly developed and fullfeatured website, SpiritofOmaha.com. The site expands ALH’s capacity to support community interest and awareness, offering resources and referral tools to help “educate, inform and inspire” visitors in ways never before realized by the community.

“We should not underestimate METRO’s potential as a connector– making a difference in the lives of nonprofits, donors and beneficiaries of the generous, caring community we call home,” said Methodist Foundation’s Cynthia Peacock.

the metroMAGAZINE STAFF KATIE COOK, FRANCESCA PETERSON, CHUCK PAULY, ANDY HOIG, ROB KILLMER, RYAN LALLY *not pictured but very much appreciated: Staff members KRYSTAL BOTTCHER, MEGAN OLSON and a small army of talented freelance writers, photographers and interns

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20 years OF CELEBRATING OMAHA

TWENTY YEARS AGO

Omahans grumbled about there not being enough to do here.

For a city searching for an image in a flyover state straining to retain its best and brightest and attract new talent, it sounded an alarm.

Seemingly, Omaha arts-culture plateaued. Major players retrenched while smaller, newer ones tried finding their way. It appeared Omaha collectively lacked the vision or confidence to enhance its horizons. The status quo went stale.

Then, whether by design or coincidence, Omaha enjoyed a renaissance in the space of a single generation. This flowering shows no signs of slowing down.

ALL THE OPTIONS

“Over the last 20 years Omaha has grown up a lot and the arts have grown up with it,” said TODD SIMON, Omaha Steaks International executive and a major arts funder, “There’s certainly a lot more variety and a lot more choices for our community. Any night of the week you can open up the newspaper or go on the Web and you can find something of interest to you. Whether it’s music, art, film, live theater, there is something for everyone every night of the week in Omaha now.

“If you’re bored here it’s because you’re not breathing. If you can’t find something to do in Omaha right now, shame on you.”

SADDLE CREEK RECORDS executive JASON KULBEL was among those bemoaning the lack of options. No more.

INDIE MUSIC

“Simply put, there’s more to do now,” he said. “There’s so many different things to pick and choose from. Whatever interests you, whatever your thing is, it’s here now. It’s really cool.”

He champions the live indie music scene now having more venues and he embraces the festivals that have cropped up, from MAHA to PLAYING WITH FIRE to the newly announced RED SKY MUSIC FESTIVAL.

bravo! celebrating the arts

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

during the past 20 years the omaha metro has given rise to an arts-culture renaissance in the space of a single generation

renaissance ARTS & CULTURE 20 years of applause STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA | PHOTO ANTHOLOGY BY METROMAGAZINE

18

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

!

NEW MARKET O!

Kulbel and SCR colleague ROBB NANSEL have added to the mix with their block-long North Downtown complex. It includes their company headquarters, the Slowdown bar-live music showplace and the FILM STREAMS art cinema. Together with the new TD AMERITRADE BALLPARK, QWEST CENTER OMAHA, the HOT SHOPS ART CENTER and the MASTERCRAFT art studios, anchors are in place for a dynamic arts-culture magnet akin to the Old Market.

From the opening of the downtown riverfront as a scenic cultural public space to the addition of major new conference, events and cultural arts venues like the Qwest and the HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER to the launching of new music, film and lit fests to the opening of new presenting organizations, Omaha has experienced a boom. Major concerts, athletic events and exhibits that bypassed Omaha now come here.

ARTS VENUES

Artists like world-renowned JUN KANEKO put Omaha on the map as never before. The indie music scene broke big thanks to artists recording on the SADDLE CREEK label. ALEXANDER PAYNE immortalized his hometown by filming three critically acclaimed feature films here. THE GREAT PLAINS THEATRE CONFERENCE brought Broadway luminaries in force.

THE OLD MARKET solidified itself as a destination thanks to an array of restaurants, shops, galleries, theaters and creative spaces.

THE BEMIS CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS, the BLUE BARN THEATRE and the OMAHA FARMERS MARKET became anchors there. OMAHA FASHION WEEK and the KANEKO added new depth.

OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS president JOAN SQUIRES said she’s seen “a huge change” since arriving eight-plus years ago from Phoenix to head the organization, which programs the HOLLAND and the ORPHEUM THEATER. “The first time I drove in from the airport the Qwest Center didn’t exist, the Holland wasn’t here, a lot of the small groups weren’t around. If you were looking for things to do and it wasn’t the Orpheum or a few other places, it was limited. Now on any given night the breadth of what you can do is exciting. There’s a synergy about it that’s reaching all segments of the audience.”

Omaha native RACHEL JACOBSON left New York to launch Film Streams, one of several attractions that’s taken things to a new level.

Growing up here, she said, “there was a lot of good stuff to do but nothing really bringing people to town or being talked about in the national and international press, other than CHIP DAVIS. Today, the Omaha arts community is strong, it’s alive, it’s visceral, it’s something we’re known for worldwide. Musicians continue to move here from other cities to make their home here because of Saddle Creek Records. Visual artists move here because of the Bemis and Jun and Ree Kaneko. New galleries are opening up all the time.

“It has really blown up in the best way.”

continued

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n and Broadway offers a wide range of classical, performan jazz, danc Orpheum e, popular Theater. The ces at the Holland entertainers Performing schedule of ances, a New Arts Center events also Year’s Eve and the includes spec celebratio ebration of n at the Holl ial add-on the 80th anni performand Center, versary of and a yearperforman long celce at the Orp “I’m prou heum Thea d to anno unce the third ter. a season filled season of with incre Oma ha Perform dible perfo Omaha Perf ing Arts Pres rmances,” orming Arts said Joan . “There’s Squires, pres ents, the stunning something Alvin Ailey for ever yone ident of Dance Thea master violi , including tre on its nist and form 50th anni er prodigy, movie ente Midori; telev versary tour; rtainer Man dy Patinkin; ision Jazz Orch the incredible , stage and estra; Dan Zanes, the New Orle ner for child 2007 Gram ans ren’s mus my® Awa ic; Monty rd win2005 Ton Python’s y® Award-w Spam innin alot Eve Cele bration featu g musical and a New the ring Chri Year’s hottest trum s Botti, peters toda one of the y.”

Omaha Perf orming Arts subscription also intro duced a option, the new “This choo À La Cart se-your-own e Series. series was response to created in subscriber requests for ibility,” Squi more flexres said. “It’s for those the perfect with a wide option array of inter a busy sche ests and dule who still want benefits of to enjoy the being a subs criber.” À series perfo La Carte rmances are schedule both the d for Holland Performing Center and Arts the Orpheum Theater.

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an s. s pro at sin years nservator y what’s now Pieces,” wa rave review n 18 It’s bee Training Co est to open “America in but received dw re Theat the Mi production, aha winter t Om ted to ,” migra eir firs of a typical Pieces l re. Th rica in Theat in the dead “Ame ience, is stil m et se d fro core aud budg a ls of tho s remove . decade n of a city and t on the hea s 1989 gh y two That wa . Nearl the admiratio g that it fou 07 20 id din to . ning intrep t s for fun in 1989 Forward pite gai those Flash e Barn, des same battle rise back lowed er their firs . its aft who fol ent the Blu some of the pstarted berer, ly two years developm jum To ng t fighti e-acts tha mentl housimate in its on san Cle n) approx crossroads ing ful aha,” three tor Su see a now hav Om ic Direc (sight un hat of Barn to e a niche in rn Artist to Omaha is at somew to the Blue hav Ba e we ms Blu ued shows e Barn coming r pilgri contin theate says the Blu en people a nutshell, h. sev that, in Barn’s growt arrival, gone from e ws and e “We’v soldout sho bing the Blu es and while descri s she say 7 V 200 • NO ZINE

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Great Plains Theatre Conference artistic director KEVIN LAWLER, a Blue Barn founder, has seen a more adventurous scene develop. “There are several new generations of artists making work in all genres and receiving support and interest from their peers and others,” he said.

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“This heralds the beginning of a new, vibrant era for arts and culture here. That small group of philanthropic leaders who have been supporting the arts in Omaha for years have enabled enough fertilization for this new blossoming to begin.

Love take s attract love many forms and has the mag rs of all kind ic, power s. and mystery Omaha Perf to special vale orming Arts and Bro ntine with the love storie S T Andrew adway Across Ame Opera,” ORIES s from lo ically lush directed by Hal Lloyd Webber’s “Th rica present a cal coupl Prince. In musical, love es most intr this darkly e Phantom of iguing trian takes a new dire romantic, ctio gles mag OPAS PR n with one . of theater’s ESENTS Now play ing omaha p Tony® awa at Omaha’s Orp erformin g arts soc and three rds including Best heum Theater, this iety has woven Outer Critics Circ Musical; seven Dra winner of seven le ma Desk more than its mystical spell overawards, The Pha Awards PAT’S BA ntom of t standing CK! he Opera ing chorus 100 cities worldw room only ide. patricia n stor y evok numbers will take The soaring melo audiences in eal and t he great plains th history andes ideas and conceptsyour breath awa dies and rouseatre con y. The literatur that long ference the beast have been sweeping and the powe: the outcast, the part of mythology er of mus ARTFUL ic. of beauty our Adapted LY SPEA and from Gas KING ton Lero pense, the with keit ux’s h allerton traces the sweeping and melo classic novel of mys dious Th beneath thestor y of the hide e Phanto tery and susousl over all its stage of the Pari y deformed Pha m of the Opera s ntom who soprano, occupants. He fallsOpera, exercising lurks Christine, a reig inst n of terror antly in love the Opera. and devo tes romance Andrew Lloyd Web himself to creatingwith the young and tragedy ber’s beau a new star from the beauty and of this stor y that tiful music heighten for candlelit s the undergroun color of the Pari transports the audienc s Opera to d lair. the Phantom e ’s

61 62 63 64

Popular events drew ever larger crowds, such as JAZZ ON THE GREEN, the CATHEDRAL FLOWER FESTIVAL, the SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL and the COLLEGE WORLD SERIES.

Funder DICK HOLLAND describes the arts as “an economic engine” and “a big part of the community.”

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Existing organizations found new digs.

THE OMAHA SYMPHONY made the Holland its home.

The Emmy Gifford Children’s Theater moved into the old Astro (Paramount) movie house, renamed THE ROSE, and became the OMAHA THEATER COMPANY.

“When you open a major facility and you bring in new arts offerings the community continues to lift up,” she said.

“It broadens and really makes more things possible. In the last five years we’ve reached 1.7 million people. We’ve seen nights where both buildings sold out and there’s a lot of arts going on at other facilities all at the same time, and there’s an audience for everybody. We’ve got a growing and thriving arts community.

I think it’s very encouraging.”

I 91 95

Old venues received serious makeovers. An Orpheum renovation allowed the largest touring Broadway shows to come. The city spent millions in renovating ROSENBLATT STADIUM, in turn helping it become a national icon.

Even with all the new options, it didn’t appear as if Omaha reached a saturation point. Rather than pulling audiences from one another, the increasing number of options has “grown the pie.”

Using the Holland and Orpheum as examples, Joan Squires noted the presence of these two venues has only increased patronage.

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Established organizations have shown new life.

JOSLYN ART MUSEUM built a huge addition designed by noted architect SIR NORMAN FOSTER. It’s since added a pair of sculpture gardens. THE DURHAM MUSEUM underwent a refurbishment and gained Smithsonian affiliation.

THE OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM found a new home and completed extensive renovations. THE OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE redid its theater and lobby spaces.

THE HENRY DOORLY ZOO built the Lied Jungle, the Desert Dome, the Lozier IMAX Theater and other new attractions.

The Bemis expanded its gallery exhibition schedule and educational programming as well as added the UNDERGROUND and the OKADA. Now it’s poised for new growth.

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“When we began the Blue Barn there were almost no theaters willing to take on new, challenging work as a regular part of their seasons. Now, there are a number of groups that follow this path.”

Lawler notes there “is a new generation of artists staying in

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

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Omaha to make work because they feel there is enough energy in the community to support and respond to their work. I feel this trend reflected not only in theater, but all the arts. There are stages to the cultural life of a city. Omaha is in a blossoming stage.

It is a rare and exciting time to be here.”

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The linchpin behind this growth is private support. “Omaha has an exceptionally generous philanthropic community that understands the value of investing in its cultural institutions,” said Bemis director MARK MASUOKA, adding that funders here appreciate the fact the arts “improve quality of life.”

by leo a. biga s Film Stre ams nears the downtow the one being a maj n art cinema canyear mark of operatio Founder/D or player on the feel secure in alre ns Om ady irec aha tor York Times than projected atte Rachel Jacobson cultural scene. grant and article, a three-year ndance, positive can claim higher fallout from good resu Nebraska lts from part Arts a nerships. Council Basic SupNew “We’re tryin port as we can, g to make this as ” exciting becaJacobson said. “Thviable and establish ed an orga e Nebrask use it mak niza a Arts es us feel like an insti Council grant is tion She could really tution.”

The Ruth well boast, too, abo area’s hom Sokolof Theatre at ut delivering high taries from e to new indepen 14th and Websterquality programs. den wood and around the world. t narrative featureshas become the screened as foreign films. LiveRepertory series revi and documeniting artis well. Operacasts have action and anim ve classic Hollyts ated shor proven pop discussions and expert panels ts are ular controversia about the socially engage filmmakers. Q & As with visand rele l work exhi bited ther vant, thought-prov audiences in e. oking, even Omaha’s cinema para plex. Tha diso is part t indie mus joint SCR-Bluesto of the Saddle Cre ne developm ek along withic label’s headquarter ent inclu Records comspaces. Tog an Urban Outfitte s and Slowdown des the Omaha Qwest Cen ether with the Cre rs store and com live music venue, mer ighton cam these ame ter and the city’s plan pus, some cial-residential nities are view ned $140 new ed as anch million base hotels, the ors for the Jacobson emerging ball stadium, welcomes NoDo distr ren area. more dest ict.

Mor the planned e vehicular and ination spots in wha t’s still a fairl bode well Wall Street condosfoot traffic, plus resid y barfor the box project a few blocks ents occupying office. away, can only

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He said the Bemis is close to reaching its $2.5 million capital building campaign goal “thanks to several generous gifts from local foundations and individuals.”

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S CALEN arts, mus DAR ic and cu ltural eve nts in jul y 63

What losses there were sparked new opportunities. After years of struggle the GREAT PLAINS BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM rebounded. When Ballet Omaha folded Omaha Performing Arts brought in top dance troupes and BALLET NEBRASKA soon formed. The Omaha Magic Theatre closed only to birth new ventures. The Indian Hills Theater was razed but Omaha movie houses multiplied. The KENT BELLOWS STUDIO AND CENTER FOR VISUAL ARTS arose after its namesake’s tragic death.

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By any measure, it’s been an era of net growth for the creative community and leaders see more progress ahead thanks to a spirit of innovation and support.

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“Just in the last month I’ve heard about wonderful projects in the works. I’m excited for the next 20 years.”

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Dick Holland said few cities can boast Omaha’s philanthropic might.

He favors a public-private coalition to undergird and concentrate arts funding.

“A strong legacy of investing in the arts here has been established and I believe it will continue to proliferate,” said Rachel Jacobson.

“We’ll see new initiatives develop, especially arts in education and social-community development arts projects. There are a lot of high-energy, incredibly innovative people who have a huge heart for this city and will make a strong commitment.

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Todd Simon said, “Many not-for-profits have struggled and I think they’ll continue to struggle in these economic times, but I also think there is a dedicated group of supporters in our community who will step up to fill the gaps.” These lean times, he said, encouraged “many organizations to get smarter in how they use resources and how they collaborate with each other, where they leverage the talent and the resources they have.

I think that trend will continue.”

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~ RACHEL JACOBSON THE RECESSION impacted large and small organizations alike.

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Dreams of Broadway Can Come True

about the artists

KELLY KADU In 2008-09, CE AS NEDDA Kelly Kadu traviata (Ma ce lmö Opera), sang Desdemona in role in Salo Otello (Ken Countess in Le me tuck land Opera), (Opera Theatre of Sain nozze di Figaro (Flo y Opera debut), Violetta in rida t Louis). In Nedda in La Pagl with Florida 2009-10 she Grand Opera), and in the title Grand Ope iacci (Florida Gran sings Mim d Opera), Recent high ra), and Don the title role ì in La bohème (Por lights inclu na tin Suor Ang de Mimí (Op Elvira in Don Giov title role of elica (also anni (Mic era Pacific Rusa higan Ope debut), Mar of Saint Lou lka (Minnesota Ope ra Theatre). guerite in ra), Cio-Ciois, Boston Faus Lyric Ope tiago), recit ra), title role San in Madama Butt t (Malmö Opera), als (Santa erfly (Opera in Suor Ang Fe Chambe pet in Tan Theatre elica r Music Festi Dun’s Tea val and Bate (Teatro Municipal (Santa Fe Carlson’s de s College) Opera). Wor Anna Kare , and Princess/ Sannina (Flo ld prem Rosasharn Pupin Gordon’s rida Grand Opera/O ieres include the title role The Grapes pera of of Wrath (Min Theatre of Saint Louis) and nesota Ope ra).

Several programs in the metro prepare potential Broadway-bound actors for the big stage and a special few actually make it there!

continued 57 MAGAZINE • OCT

20 years OF APPLAUSE

2009

Andrew Rannells, Omaha native and Creighton Prep grad, will star in a muchanticipated new Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon. The show (already being called “the funniest musical ever”) starts previews February 24th at Eugene O’Neill Theatre and opens on March 24th. Trey Parker and Matt Stone, creators of South Park, and Robert Lopez (Tony winner for the hysterical Avenue Q) team up on book, lyrics, music and direction. This will be a huge, irreverent hit!

Andy has appeared on Broadway previously, most notably as Link Larkin in Hairspray and as Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys. This time, however, he originates the lead role as Elder Price. Check out www.BookofMormonBroadway.com for show information. We can be proud of his accomplishments and career. He is a former winner of the local Theatre Arts Guild Scholarship.

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Speaking of former TAG scholarship winners, Quiana Smith appears in a featured role in the national touring production of Mary Poppins. Omaha Central grad, John Rayson, recently played here in Legally Blonde in a featured role, but also is the stand-in for the male lead and was able to perform that part while appearing in Omaha. He also appeared on Broadway in the musical, A Year with Frog and Toad.

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These three honed their craft in school productions and many community theatre productions before they left Omaha for the Big Apple. Broadway hopefuls may wonder how they can duplicate this success. There are several great programs locally that can help these aspiring performers.

Omaha Community Playhouse and The Rose both offer a myriad of classes in the performing arts throughout the year. The Playhouse also offers First Stage, a concentrated summer program. Omaha South High Magnet School for the Performing and Visual Arts hosts Summer Stage @ South! Omaha Public Schools also produces a citywide summer musical. aha it of Om The Spir

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Participants will have the chance to work with Broadway veterans and receive training in acting, dance and vocal performance. Last year, close to 100 students participated. Six of them were featured in a benefit production in New York City.

Papillion’s Analisa Swerczek was one of these performers. I have had the pleasure of seeing her perform Breathe from In the Heights; she is a great vocalist with a wonderful instrument. I also did a play reading with her for the Great Plains Theatre Festival; she is also a remarkable actress. She has performed in Footloose at OCP and with the Young Americans.

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A newer entry into this arena is Broadway Dreams presented by the Holland Performing Arts Center. This is the second year for this program, Summer Performing Arts Intensive to be held July 11-17, 2011. Hopefuls need to apply and to audition for consideration; two more rounds of auditions will be held March 20th and June 4th and 5th. The fee is $695; a limited number of scholarships are available. Contact www.mybroadwaydreams.com.

My prediction: She will be the next metro performer to make it Big! ” 1999

RAIT “SELF PORT

d continue

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KVNO’s award-winning Classical Kids program is made possible with support from the Soener Foundation, in honor of Mary Soener.

Each month, KVNO honors the gift of the arts in our youth by recognizing an outstanding student musician, or “Classical Kid.” A panel of local music educators and KVNO staff members choose a youth whose musical efforts exemplify the value and richness of the arts in a young person’s life.

ELIZABETH MATTHEWS JANUARY 2011

2011’s first Classical Kid is Elizabeth Matthews. A 13-year-old pianist, she attends St. Margaret Mary’s School. Her most memorable musical experience was a trip to Austria with her piano teacher where she studied at the Carinthian International Piano Academy and visited Mozart’s birthplace. Elizabeth also enjoys participating in team sports, movies and international travel. She enjoys listening to KVNO because it helps her learn about various composers. KVNO thanks the Soener Foundation for their support of the award winning Classical Kids program.

RACHEL HALL FEBRUARY 2011

February’s Classical Kid is Brownell-Talbot student Rachel Hall, who plays the violin. Eleven year-old Rachel recalls performing at the Holland Performing Arts Center as the principal violinist for the Omaha Area Youth Orchestra, which she describes as “scary and exciting all at the same time”. In addition to music, she loves to watch and play volleyball. She is a KVNO fan and listens while doing her homework. Thanks to the Soener Foundation, in honor of Mary Soener for their support of KVNO’s Classical Kids program.

JENNA LEE MARCH 2011

Jenna Lee is KVNO’s Classical Kid for March. A 13-year-old, she plays the piano and French Horn and is in the choir. Jenna attends Papillion Junior High School. A recent memorable musical experience was her participation in the Omaha Children’s Musical Festival, where she was “euphoric” after being awarded a “superior” rating and a medal. Her musical taste is varied but she says she loves KVNO because, “you can’t find as much variety at a rock station” and she wants to hear music she may get to play. KVNO is grateful to the Soener Foundation, honoring Mary Soener for their ongoing support of Classical Kids.

Classical Kids is sponsored by the Soener Foundation in honor of Mary Belle Soener.

For more information, contact Anne Hellbusch at 559-5866, or by email at ahellbusch@mail.unomaha.edu, or visit www.kvno.org.

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

www.ready2serveomaha.org

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS CONNECTING “YP” ORGANIZATION PROFILE

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PROFILE

young art patrons

teammates CONTACT ADRIANNE WATSON AWATSON@TEAMMATES.ORG

CONTACT LORA KAUP LKAUP@JOSLYN.ORG

MISSION STATEMENT: Joslyn Art Museum’s YAP membership provides young professionals with art education opportunities and exposure to the arts community with the goal of fostering an appreciation of the arts.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Those who are interested are encouraged to call (402) 661-3858, or e-mail lkaup@joslyn.org for more details or to join.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP, WHO IS THE IDEAL MEMBER: YAP membership is open to art admirers between the ages of 25 and 40.

Membership in Young Art Patrons is $100.

ACTIVITIES/EVENTS THAT THE GROUP HAS PARTICIPATED IN: YAP members have the opportunity to attend events that emphasize the richness of the Museum’s special exhibitions and collections, provide exposure to a variety of programs, and feature privileged access to the Museum’s staff and board. Young Art Patrons provides a more involved Museum experience designed to foster a lifelong commitment to the arts.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW:TeamMates serves nearly 800 youth in the Metro Omaha area. TeamMates is a school-based, one-to-one mentoring program.

Matches meet at the school during school hours. This provides a safe, neutral environment with games, activities and staff resources to help support the match. The focus of the TeamMates mentoring relationship is for an adult volunteer to help build a positive relationship with a student in order to help them reach their full potential.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteers (Mentors) meet with their mentees for one hour each week. By showing interest in their life, mentors can increase the likelihood that the youth will graduate from high school and become contributing members of society. Mentors help identify the talents of young people that provide them a sense of hope and vision for their life.

To get involved, visit teammates.org to download an application, or call 1-877-531-8326. Potential mentors will need to attend a short training course, and then they will meet their student. Through the application process, applicants are able to choose what school they would like to mentor at. In the Metro Omaha area TeamMates is a part of the following school districts: Bellevue, Millard,Westside, Ralston, Papillion-La Vista, CORE Catholic Schools, Omaha Public Schools, Gretna, Council Bluffs, and Plattsmouth. TeamMates matches are based on common interests and hobbies.

WEBSITE: http://www.joslyn.org/Join/YAP

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

joe zadina WHAT ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? Lamp, Rynearson & Associates (Community Involvement Coordinator), Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, the Open Door Mission, the Salvation Army, Boys Town, Omaha Public Schools WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GET INVOLVED WITH THESE ORGANIZATIONS? The need is present, and I feel fortunate enough with my life that I wanted to give back to our community. I enjoy volunteering my time and learning more about the organizations in and around Omaha that help those less fortunate. Organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, have an enormous impact on so many families and our community. They couldn’t accomplish their mission without the generosity of volunteers and donors. These organizations also provide a great opportunity for coworkers to get involved in something 25

senior project engineer LAMP, RYNEARSON & ASSOCIATES bigger than themsleves while helping others and having fun in the process. Omaha is a pretty amazing place. If any city can be described as philanthropic–it is Omaha. I’ve been involved with youth mentoring at Boys Town since my manager provided me the opportunity six years ago. I get one hour a week with a student at Boys Town, primarily to assist with math tutoring, but I really enjoy getting to learn more about these kids as individuals.

Professionally speaking, I really enjoy being involved with the Omaha Chamber of Commerce Council of Companies, which promotes and encourages the establishment of young professional groups within organizations and fosters growth and involvement of all young professionals within our community.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING INVOLVED? The benefits from being involved are numerous, and I only wish I had more time to devote to the many great organizations within the Omaha community. With a wife and two little boys (and a third little boy due in March 2011), I find myself having to be more efficient with my efforts. The greatest benefit is realizing the positive impact you’ve had on someone else’s life as well as taking advantage of the opportunities to improve our community. metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

important for “ youngprofessionals to beinvolvedin the lamarr womble community? why is it

“

metroMagazine • SpiritofOmaha.com

speaker/life coach • 27 PASSION FOR LEADERSHIP

AS A YOUNG PROFESSIONAL IN OMAHA, I FEEL IT IS IMPORTANT for us to be involved because there are thousands of people in our city that need our help. From kids to seniors, they need our passion, energy, ideas and thoughtfulness. It's important to take the issues you care about and make a difference. If you love poetry, how can you make a difference? If you love designing clothes, how can you make a difference?...Do what you love and positively impact our community and people’s lives by way of your passion. Omaha is on the verge of great things over the next 10 years, and I just want to be a part of it!

hillary nather-detisch director of donor accounts • 35 OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION I AM PERSONALLY INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY because I was taught by my mom to do so and more importantly, I enjoy it. I love giving back–regardless if it is time, talent or treasure. Knowing I am making a difference is what motivates me every day in both my job and my own personal commitments to community organizations. I look forward to teaching my three daughters the importance of giving back to the community and being involved. From a philanthropic point of view, it is important because frankly, it is our responsibility as a steward of the community. If every young professional in Omaha started to get involved, in a small way–what would that look like? From political and government involvement to business leadership involvement, to education and philanthropy, we would set a standard for generations following in our footsteps and that would make Omaha an even more amazing place to live.

christian gray executive director • 38 INCOMMON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FOR THE PAST 50-PLUS YEARS, AMERICANS have increasingly become disengaged from community life and civic participation, that is, until now.

The generation(s) that make up the “Young Professionals” demographic has begun to reverse this detrimental trend in significant and creative ways... The question remains, “Will we continue to press on in this challenge of restoring the vibrant civic life so formative–and great–in this Nation’s history?” This, of course, is not a question that can be resolved with words, only through personal and collective action...Action is contagious, and a collective movement of active, reengaged young citizens is exactly what our community–and country–needs most as we face the challenges and opportunities of today.

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phil mcdonnell manager, investor solutions • 27 TD AMERITRADE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HOLD MUCH OF ITS FUTURE in their hands. Without them in our future, sustained growth or prosperity is impossible. Their talents are in high demand, which means we are constantly competing for their loyalty. The needs of today's young professionals must be very important to the community and must be taken into consideration by today's leadership. Young professional recruitment in the community then becomes similar to young professional recruitment in business. Whoever does the better job meeting the needs of the talent will recruit the better candidates and ultimately have the greatest potential to succeed...This is precisely why it is so critically important for them to engage with the community. The more influence young professionals have, the better the community can become for their needs and the more success they will have recruiting and retaining the better talent for our future.

sarah brownlee public relations manager • 27 OMAHA SYMPHONY AT THE RISK OF SOUNDING CLICHÉ AND CHEESY, IT BOILS DOWN TO THIS: We are the community’s future. In practice, this means some healthy give and take between current and future generation leaders.

The give? Young professionals must take ownership in their community, getting involved and speaking up. If we want to enjoy the arts down the road, we are wise to invest in them now. If we want better jobs and infrastructure tomorrow, we had better pay attention and do our part today. The take? Area business leaders and civic influencers need to listen to us and encourage our presence at the table, where decisions that impact Omaha’s future are being made.

Omaha is a cool city for young professionals—a great place to live, work and play. Why not step up and contribute to its future growth and opportunity? We have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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C

AN YOU IMAGINE getting married by candlelight as the snow falls gently? The glistening landscape provides a natural, cozy and heartwarming setting. After all, this is the season of giving, of family, and with a new year, it is also the season of new beginnings.

There are many variables to consider when planning a winter wedding.

FIRST, KEEP IT LOCAL. With everything that’s available through Omaha’s local retailers and providers, there is no need to risk the weather delaying the arrival of all your necessities. To help you create your ideal winter fairytale, they can help you add the little touches that will make your wedding and reception unique and memorable.

THEME

YOUR

Your theme should be the third major wedding decision that you make (following only the who and when.) Choosing a theme in the beginning of the planning stages will help you to coordinate your dresses, invitations, cake, decor and more. It gives you a general idea of what you are looking for so that you are not so easily overwhelmed by the number of local options available to soon-to-be brides. When choosing your theme it is important that your personality as a couple should shine through! Will it be more casual or more formal? Will it be centered around the holidays? A specific culture? How many guests do you intend to invite and what are the ages? What sort of activities, if any, do you want to provide at your reception? continued

STORY BY KRYSTAL BOTTCHER | PHOTOS BY METROMAGAZINE

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metroWEDDING

continued

Winter wedding themes are endless if you just let your mind explore all of the options. For something more formal and fairytale-like, think around the ideas of a Crystal Palace, where your decor can be centered around ice sculptures with a pale color theme; clear crystal, pure and glistening white, and ice blues. If you and your soon-to-be spouse are very family oriented, then a holiday theme can help you share the love and provide a nice, intimate setting for you and your guests. Jewel tones such as ruby, sapphire, emerald and a deep purple are warming colors for a Holiday-inspired wedding. And, if you are looking for something more casual and upbeat - a New Year’s inspired theme can be fun and unique with bold colors like bright blue, silver, and highlights of black.

If you are feeling overwhelmed with all the decisions, consider talking to one of Omaha’s outstanding event planners. It’s important that you keep this a celebration of love and avoid allowing it to become a stressful burden.

I NVITATIONS

YOUR

Invitations set the mood for any wedding, after all it is the “first impression” for your guests. ELIZABETH BASHAW WITH SOCIAL GRACE suggests that you set the tone with soft paper, the feeling of snow and watercolor softness. For an elegant touch, metallics make a great addition. If you desire something more bold, Bashaw recommends holiday reds.

Just remember that your invitations need to speak about who you are and the aura of your wedding. Are you a fan of mother nature?

Birds are classy and becoming a big trend; find the bird that most fits the personality of your wedding.

LOCATION, LOCATION,

LOCATION!

Your location needs to not only fit your budget but also the theme of your wedding. If your heart desires a destination wedding, but your budget does not, consider venues like COCO KEY. You can have a Tropical-inspired wedding, with the joys of an indoor waterpark for your reception. Just remember to tell your guests to bring their bathing suits!

For a more intimate and natural setting, KIM KNOLL WITH LAURITZEN GARDENS suggests the use of fireplaces. Considering it gets darker earlier in the winter, she also recommends candles, uplighting, and LEDs in centerpieces. And, for the sake and safety of your guests, Knoll suggests that you hold your wedding and reception at the same location.

Some questions to ask of your venue when planning a winter wedding: • What are canceling and rescheduling policies if the weather gets bad?

• Under what circumstances does the venue close?

• Who is responsible for shoveling the sidewalks?

• Who will tend to the fireplaces or candles?

Other things to consider when choosing your location: • Capacity, how easy will it be to get there?

• Parking space?

• Decorating policies?

• Does the venue provide help in setting up and tearing down?

• What will you need to do yourself or hire someone to do related to the locations you’re considering?

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

F LORALS

YOUR

Flowers are, of course, a wonderful way to add a splash of color to a softer theme, to emphasize a certain hue or shade in a more vibrant wedding, and to add a touch of life and vitality to your decor. More traditional winter wedding arrangements focus on the holiday jewel-toned colors such as burgundy, white, and forest green. However, the more modern bride may consider using blues, silvers and purples for a contemporary feel.

Though most flowers are available year round, it is important to remember that out-of-season flowers are going to be more expensive.

To keep your floral arrangements cost effective, consider these seasonal varieties: Amaryllis, Daffodils, Forget-Me-Nots, Holly, Jasmine, Poinsettia, Sweetpea or Tulips. Your year-round choices include Baby’s Breath, Calla Lilly, Carnations, Eucalyptus, Gardenia, Orchid, Rose and Scabiosa.

Silk flowers make a great addition to your floral arrangements as well.

Consider going silk with any use of flower petals, for your centerpieces, and for headdresses.

BEVERAGES

FOOD &

Winter provides the opportunity to enjoy many of the comfort foods you wouldn’t typically find present at a spring or summer wedding.

JEFF SNOW, WITH CATERING CREATIONS suggests offering your guests warming beverages (for the heart and the body) such as hot chocolate, hot apple cider, or even non-alcoholic hot butter rum.

Make it fun by including a station with a variety of toppings such as homemade marshmallows, peppermint and cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, chocolate sprinkles, and fresh whipped cream.

Don’t forget to keep it creative! Though mom’s homemade meatloaf or spaghetti may hold a dear place in your heart, there are a number of other options we tend to neglect. Many local caterers offer an extensive list of mouth-watering items that will leave your guests feeling satisfied.

Snow recommends a delicious tomato bisque station along with old-fashioned pot pies. With a choice among chicken, beef, a more modern seafood and potato or southwest pork and white bean, every guest is sure to find something that suits.

Last but not least, your dessert can be just as fun. Chocolate fondue stations are a big trend, and even your pickiest guest will find something fun and tasty to cover with this delicious alternative (or addition) to typical desserts.

Keep in mind there are a number of ways to serve delicious food (that’s luscious and local) to your guests. For a sit-down meal, consider family-style for each table. For something less formal, you can offer a buffet or have servers (which can certainly be provided through our local caterers) navigate the crowd with delicious hors d’ouevres on hand.

Or, mix it up! It’s all about what suits your taste.

RENTAL ITEMS

YOUR

There are a number of items you want to be sure to include on your winter checklist. KATIE DURAN WITH AAA RENTS, suggests soup bowls, ornate coffee makers, and tons of candles. Katie has an abundance of ideas and experience to offer, along with an eagerness to dream with you (and the staff to help make those dreams come true!)

That, along with the typical rental list of linens, tables and chairs, plates, mugs and glasses, and silverware should cover all the bases for you. continued

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continued

RENTAL ITEMS

YOUR

CONT’D.

For your own records, it is recommended that you keep notes of the deposit amounts and due dates, delivery date and pick-up date, charges for lost or damaged items, and the quantity of each item that is to be delivered.

And be sure not to let a slippery, wet floor ruin the dresses or a good time! Duran also suggests renting a lot of mats and carpeting, and don’t forget the coat racks! Consider having a friend to act as a coat check at your reception for the convenience of your guests. It’s these little details that will elevate your wedding plans beyond a comfortable and hospitable experience to the realization of a truly magical “fairy-princess’s” dream.

DREAM COME TRUE

YOUR

Your winter wedding can be a magical experience for you and your guests, especially when you’ve covered all the bases required for our Nebraska winters. And that’s just another reason to use your local vendors; who else will know best what you need for that perfect, great plains wedding? Omaha’s local vendors are well capable of providing you with the tips and details that will ensure everything lays out as “smooth as ice.” For an extensive list of resources available in the greater Omaha area, visit our EVENT-PLANNING GUIDE AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM where you can find everything from venues, flowers, caterers and rentals to deejays, transportation, dry cleaning and photography. m

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february 2011

DOING IT BY THE THE OMAHA METRO DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

YOU KNOW YOUR Social Security Number, your teenager’s cell TO COMBAT THIS TREND, the American Heart number, how much college tuition is going to set you back, and that groceries are going up (again). But the numbers you should star, circle, and underline in your brain could save your life. What is your cholesterol level? Know your blood pressure or triglyceride level? How much sodium is excessive? Know these numbers and you significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke-our leading cause of death and long-term disability.

JENNIFER REDMOND, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE OMAHA METRO DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION, says the first step in creating a healthy life, free of coronary heart disease and stroke, is “know your numbers,” meaning your blood pressure, cholesterol level and triglyceride levels, as well as your weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) or percentage of body fat. (See the accompanying sidebar for a complete list of your numbers and the healthy levels.)

The American Heart Association invests much of its energy in raising awareness about preventing coronary heart disease and stroke. Focusing on our youth is one of the proactive focuses of the association. Obesity rates in children have skyrocketed. Since 1980, obesity rates in children have tripled, shooting from 6.5% to 19.1% in ages 6-11 and 5.0% to 18.1% in 12-19-years-old, according to a report by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Association is targeting dieting and exercise awareness in our nation’s youth. Coming under scrutiny are school lunches that are notoriously high in sodium, saturated fat, and sugar, especially in the form of high fructose corn syrup. These are the trifecta of unhealthy eating. Sodium is a direct contributor to high blood pressure. Saturated fat found in partially hydrogenated oils, butter and animal fat, is linked to high cholesterol levels. And immoderate amounts of refined sugar are correlative to obesity. Redmond says, “The American Heart Association is working to improve school lunches and to get food manufactures to cut sodium, fat, and added sugars.”

YOU’VE HEARD IT BEFORE, BUT IT BEARS REPEATING: DIET is just one component of healthy living. EXERCISE is another. The increase in childhood obesity rates is also linked to an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Television, the Internet, and gaming systems mean more children spend more time in front of a screen than they do riding their bikes and are playing kick the can. One way the heart association aims to reverse this trend is with its JUMP ROPE and HOOPS FOR HEART programs.

In the 2009-2010 fiscal year, 495 Nebraska schools participated in this event, says Redmond, which translated into thousands of school children getting off the couch and into gyms and playgrounds across the state.

STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT | PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

“WE… ARE ABLE TO GET UP EVERY DAY AND SAY THAT WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS.” Jennifer redmond Executive Director of the Omaha Metro Division of the American Heart Association 35

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

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metro WELLNESS

THE OMAHA METRO DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

DOING IT BY THE

THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION works closely with the medical profession to improve cardiac care at hospitals. The association’s GET WITH THE GUIDELINES quality improvement program was initiated to help hospitals “improve their responsiveness so patients can be assured the best quality of care,” explains Redmond. “Currently this program has resulted in guideline-based care for over 10,000 patients in the state of Nebraska. Seven hospitals have combined for 12 current performance achievement awards.”

Non-medical personnel also impact heart health. By offering more online and on-site CPR courses, the AHA hopes to achieve a goal of training more than 12 million Americans this year. Last year, 65,000 Nebraskans trained with the American Heart Association’s Emergency Cardiovascular Care life-saving courses.

EDUCATION is more important than ever for heart and stroke, which are largely preventable. A group of 45 local healthrelated organizations, LIVE WELL OMAHA, conveyed that a recent federal study ranked Omaha 142nd out of 182 metropolitan areas.

The study considered such factors as average weight, activity level, number of fruits and vegetables consumed on a daily basis, alcohol consumption, and smoking. All are linked to coronary heart disease and stroke.

Omaha’s ranking may be abysmal, but the good news is that most cases of coronary heart disease and stroke are preventable through lifestyle changes, like modifying your diet, shedding extra pounds and strengthening your heart through exercise, enjoying moderate consumption of alcohol and eschewing binge drinking, and quitting smoking. Even non-smokers are at risk; the AHA recognizes the hazards of second-hand smoke and is at the forefront of antitobacco legislation that aims to clean the air we breathe.

Redmond sees a more informed public on heart health today than in years past. “I feel that more people are becoming aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke, and the American Heart Association has played a huge role in this education,” she states. Signs of heart problems include: shortness of breath; discomfort in the chest, similar to a squeezing, fullness, or pressure; discomfort in other areas of the body, like one or both arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach; nausea; lightheadedness; and cold sweats.

Stroke indicators include confusion and trouble speaking, difficulty seeing in one or both eyes, trouble walking or maintaining balance, severe headache with no known cause, and numbness of face, arm or leg, typically localized on one side of the body.

For more information about the American Heart Association and its local fundraising events, visit www.heart.org/Omaha.

36

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

Redmond began her not-for-profit career with the National MS Society. She celebrates her ninth anniversary with the heart association and was promoted to Executive Director in 2010.

“I found that I really enjoyed working for an organization that gave back to the community,” she offers and sees her role as Executive Director of the local AHA chapter a continuation of “giving back.”

“It is rewarding. We [she and her staff] are able to get up every day and say that we are making a difference in the lives of others.

We all know someone who has been impacted by heart disease and stroke. We all, in one way or another, have benefited from the research and education of the American Heart Association.”

Last year, the American Heart Association spent more than $142 million on research. The Omaha office hopes to contribute 1.2 million dollars this year. This research is funded in large part by the association’s fundraisers. The premiere event is the Omaha Heart Ball, held this year on February 5 at the Embassy Suites, La Vista.

This spring at Ak-Sar-Ben Village-Stinson Park is the association’s largest community event, the annual Start! Heart Walk, on May 21, beginning at 8:00 am. The goal of this fundraiser is $600,000.

To date, $134,671 has been raised. In November, AHA will host the 7th Go Red For Women Expo to raise money for and awareness about women’s heart health. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. You can also show your support for the cause by wearing red on February 4, National Wear Red Day. Redmond believes that “Omaha is such a philanthropic and giving community. We have so many individuals who contribute in so many ways to make Omaha a great place to live. Whether it’s starting a Heart Walk team, or volunteering at our Heart Ball or Go Red For Women Expo, or simply educating people you love about heart disease, make it your mission to be involved and save lives.”

“I WAS 37 YEARS OLD. I’D HARDLY BEEN SICK A DAY IN MY LIFE. I WAS IN GREAT SHAPE.” ~ debbie massey

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

A TALE OF TWO DEBBIE MASSEY and JENNY PETZ are the women every woman wants to be. Thin, beautiful, successful. On top of the world.

They also share an unbelievable diagnosis. Debbie and Jenny have made sharing their stories their mission in hopes family, friends and complete strangers will choose to learn about our nation’s number one killer and live to tell a different tale.

DEBBIE’S HEART It couldn’t possibly happen to me. I was 37 years old. I’d hardly been sick a day in my life. I was in great shape working as a dancer/choreographer. I was performing my dream role in “Gypsy” at the Omaha Community Playhouse. I ate decent and exercised constantly. Life was perfect–until the evening of June 8, 2009, when I was visiting my parents’ home and had a heart attack.

My symptoms came on suddenly. I had an uncomfortable but bearable squeezing sensation in my chest, neck and upper left arm recurring every few minutes. My mother tried to give me an aspirin, which I refused. I often ignore any type of oncoming illness, but this time my gut was telling me I needed help. I felt silly walking into the ER 30 minutes later. I convinced myself I was feeling better even though during the drive my entire left arm became tingly and “hot.”

The ER staff listened carefully and before I knew it, I was admitted to ICU and hooked up to all kinds of machines. Test after test came back perfect and doctors spent hours trying to figure out why someone “like me” was having a heart attack.

I was petrified and refused to let those two words register.

People die from heart attacks, but not people my age! A heart cath procedure finally revealed the answer. I had a blockage, concluded to be the result of heredity, which had gone previously undetected.

I choose to believe this happened to me, and I survived so that I can be a voice for other women. Heart disease can happen to you.

Know your family history, get regular cholesterol screenings, eat healthy, listen to your body and do not ignore symptoms. Educate yourself and your loved ones. My prognosis today is excellent, and I continue to do everything I did before my attack. The only difference is now I take nothing for granted.

-Debbie Massey

JENNY’S HEART ONE LOOK AT ME and you’d never suspect I’m living with coronary artery disease. You’d never believe that I actually had a heart attack. On the evening of January 3, 2008, my world was turned upside down when I had a rare type of heart attack called a spontaneous dissection. What makes it even more rare is that I was only 32 years old at the time, and I’ve never smoked or been overweight. I’ve always been rather thin and eaten fairly healthy.

When out of the blue I started having ‘classic’ heart attack signs, I couldn’t believe what was happening to me. I only had a few minutes warning as my throat started closing, a horrible tingling feeling traveled down to my shoulders, and my left arm went numb.

I fell to the ground. I WAS DYING ON MY KITCHEN FLOOR. I had an 80-day-old newborn son and 3-year-old daughter whose mommy was in and out of consciousness with excruciating chest pains! In the ambulance and ER, I heard whispers of possible acid reflux, a stroke, or some sort of seizure. Finally an EKG revealed that I was, in fact, having a heart attack! I was immediately wheeled to the cath lab where they inserted three stents– one in an artery that was 100 percent blocked from plaque build-up from high cholesterol– a complete shock to discover! Pregnancy is hard enough on HEALTHY hearts but my arteries had been working overtime to compensate for this one that had apparently been blocked for a long time. I WAS A WALKING TIME BOMB. With the help of my cardiologist, the American Heart Association, friends and family, I am able to say this happened to me for a reason. I have a platform to speak up for young women and heart disease. Know your numbers! I will probably be on medication to control my hereditarily high cholesterol for the rest of my life, but that is ok. I know I am doing everything I possibly can to keep my heart healthy and spreading lifesaving knowledge as I go.

-Jenny Petz

“ I WAS ONLY 32.

I’VE NEVER SMOKED OR BEEN OVERWEIGHT. I’VE ALWAYS EATEN… HEALTHY.” ~ Jenny petz

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metro WELLNESS continued

THE OMAHA METRO DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

THE IDES OF MARCH FOR KACEY NELKIN PEDERSEN’S DAD a severe heart attack and cardiac arrest almost cost meeting his first grandson.

“BEWARE the ides of March,” Dad joked as I told him the day we’d chosen for my baby shower. How true that statement would become. In the late hours of Sunday, March 15, 2009, my Dad Neil Nelkin suffered a heart attack.

After returning home from my baby shower that afternoon, Dad began feeling unbalanced and dizzy and eventually drove himself to the emergency room at The Nebraska Medical Center. Upon arrival, he immediately went into cardiac arrest and nearly died.

The only identification the hospital had was from his wallet, which contained no next-of-kin or emergency information. Through the night doctors found a blockage in the front part of his heart and were able to put in two stints. He had suffered a massive heart attack.

On Monday morning I received a call from worried coworkers who had not heard from my Dad. The police eventually tracked him down at the hospital. By the time I arrived at the hospital, Dad was on a ventilator to breathe, under heavy sedation and had a balloon inserted into his heart to help it function. It was unknown exactly how long he’d gone without sufficient oxygen and if he did wake up, if he’d be the same. His cardiologist told me the next few days were critical in knowing the outcome of this situation. He had no future goals.

Seeing my Dad in an incapacitated state was extremely difficult.

He had always been my strong rock, the person I went to in times of need. Now he was the one who needed me. I was a ticking time bomb of emotions and hormones at seven months pregnant.

I’ll never forget the way his nurses looked at me the moment I walked into his room in the ICU that day. I sort of became their patient as well. They were so good to me, acknowledging that I would need as little stress in this situation as possible… if possible.

Dad spent the next five days recovering under heavy sedation.

Every day that passed he made tremendous progress and continually amazed the doctors and specialists who observed him. Midway through the week, his cardiologist admitted he did not expect him to be alive, let alone be thriving.

By Friday his ventilator was removed and all the other machines were gone. The first time I saw him awake again was such a blessing, but for one very brief moment I wondered if he’d be the same.

My Dad is well known for his quick and keen sense of humor. He was tired, weak and confused and could barely speak. But when he did finally speak, he was that same old funny person who was my Dad. He cracked jokes about his unborn grandson and was amazed at the amount of time that had passed.

Soon the realization hit that we had a long road to recovery and a whole new lifestyle to embrace. In addition to the heart attack, we learned Dad had been living undiagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes for some time. When Dad left the hospital his heart was functioning at 33 percent. He began cardiac therapy that summer where he learned about his new diet and exercise routine.

Success hasn’t always come easy in this process, but with sacrifice and determination he has successfully managed his diabetes—going from insulin injections to a twice daily pill, has maintained a 60-pound weight loss with diet and exercise, and has 38

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

been tobacco-free since the day of his heart attack and cardiac arrest. He goes in for regular check-ups and blood work and sees his cardiologist every July.

Today my Dad is living his life again with his heart functioning at 80 percent! He is healthy and happy and I am so grateful he made such an outstanding recovery. I’m overjoyed to report that he spends Sunday’s with his grandson, Maximus. To think that Max came so close to never knowing his grandfather overwhelms me with emotions. I am so happy to know they will have a long-lasting relationship for many, many years to come.

“ SEEING MY DAD IN AN INCAPACITATED STATE WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT.” ~ kacey nelkin pedersen

EDITORS NOTE: Neil Nelkin was recognized as an Alegent Health Lifestyle Change Winner at the 2010 Omaha Council Bluffs American Heart Association Start! Heart Walk. To submit a nominee for the 2011 award, visit www.OmahaHeartWalk.com and click on Local Participant Tools.

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

5

KNOW YOUR

10

MAKE IT YOUR MISSION to save lives by telling 5 women that and we can help stop heart disease in our lifetime, and that you want them to live.

21

10 REASONS TO FIGHT HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN:

1

HEART DISEASE AND STROKE are the greatest health threats to women of all ethnic backgrounds, but only 21 percent realize it.

4

HEART DISEASE is still the No. 1 killer of women age 20 and over, killing approximately 1 woman every minute.

90

90% OF WOMEN have 1 or more risk factors for developing heart disease.

MORE WOMEN DIE of cardiovascular disease than the next 4 causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. In fact, while 1 in 30 American women die of breast cancer, about 1 in 3 die of cardiovascular disease.

Still, only 1 in 5 women believes that heart disease is her greatest health threat.

80

80% OF CARDIAC EVENTS IN WOMEN could be prevented if women made the right choices for their hearts involving diet, exercise and abstinence from smoking. minutes of physical activity everyday is enough to keep your heart, 1 GETbodyACTIVE.and Justmind30healthy.

Play with your kids, walk the dog or so some quick laps around the office at lunch – find a way to work 20 minutes of movement into your day.

CHOLESTEROL. Know your numbers and get your cholesterol checked.

2 CONTROL A cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or higher puts you in a high-risk category and is cause to take action.

SEVEN SIMPLE STEPS TO A HEALTHIER HEART Getting and maintaining a healthy heart is vital to living a long and active life. Many people mistakenly believe that heart health is a goal they can’t obtain, but all it takes are a few simple changes to your everyday habits to be on the road to feeling better and living longer.

Aim for getting in more vegetables and fruits. They are 3 EAThighBETTER.in vitamins, minerals and fiber and low in calories & may help you control your weight and your blood pressure.

BLOOD PRESSURE. By keeping your blood 4 MANAGE pressure in the healthy range (less than 120 mm Hg systolic AND less than 80 mm Hg diastolic), you reduce your risk of your heart having to pump harder.

5

LOSE WEIGHT. 145 million Americans are overweight or obese & at higher risk for such health problems as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and diabetes.

BLOOD SUGAR. 6 REDUCEThe American Heart Association considers diabetes and high blood sugar one of the six major controllable risk factors for cardiovascular disease. In fact, adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or a stroke than adults without diabetes.

VISIT MYLIFECHECK.ORG TO SEE HOW YOU’RE DOING RIGHT NOW IN TERMS OF A HEALTHY HEART & GET TIPS ON KEEPING THAT TICKER GOING STRONG FOR YEARS TO COME.

SMOKING. Smoking is the most important 7 STOPpreventable cause of premature death in the United States.

Smokers have a higher risk of developing many chronic disorders, including numerous issues that can be either indirectly or directly linked to atherosclerosis – the buildup of fatty substances in the arteries – which can lead to coronary heart disease, heart attack (myocardial infarction) and stroke. Controlling or reversing atherosclerosis is an important part of preventing future heart attack or stroke.

10

HISPANIC WOMEN are likely to develop heart disease 10 years earlier than non-Hispanic white women.

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ince its inception in 1996, Project Harmony has made a dramatic difference in the handling of abuse and neglect reports and investigations while reducing the long-term trauma for each child and their nonoffending family members in eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa. To better serve the children Project Harmony is pleased to announce its relocation to 11949 Q Street. The new facility will allow: • Increased numbers of children and families being served • Further growth of the collaborative partnerships and services offered under one roof • A safe, separate and confidential area for families being served. It will include private play areas and consultation rooms for families to meet with service providers • Medical evaluation and forensic interview rooms designed specifically for children • A Triage transition center that provides children being removed from their homes with a safe and comfortable environment where they can wait while placement is being arranged • A clothing closet where children who have been removed from their home can select clothes and other essential items before they are placed in foster care • Space to accommodate an expansion of existing services and the addition of new

partnerships (e.g. mental health counseling and play therapy rooms) • Expanded facilities for the Project Harmony Training Institute and multi-disciplinary tenants • Additional parking for families and training participants

Please join in the efforts to raise the needed funding for Project Harmony to continue to fight against child abuse.

To schedule a tour of the new facility, call 402.595.1326. Donate online at www.projectharmony.com Mark your calendars for Wednesday, March 2, 2011. The fourth annual Speaking of Children will take place at Qwest Center Omaha. Keynote luncheon speaker is Mr. Andrew Bridge. Fulbright Scholar, Harvard Law graduate, author, children’s rights advocate and former foster child, Andrew Bridge will speak of his life with his mother, a young mentally ill woman, of her efforts to keep and care for him, and of his life in foster care without her. The story is told in his New York Times best-seller, Hope’s Boy. Four professionals will present trainings both in the morning before the luncheon and again in the afternoon after the luncheon.

This training will educate nurses,

physicians, attorneys, law enforcement, teachers, social workers and mental health professionals; continuing education credits will be offered.

While the day is focused on professional advancement, Speaking of Children is a community-wide effort to inform and inspire all in the fight against child abuse.

The community is cordially invited and enthusiastically encouraged to attend.

For lunch and/or full day reservations, visit www.projectharmony.com or contact Julie Fritz at speakingofchildren@gmail.com.

2011 Speaking of Children Honorary Chairs: Lynne and John Boyer Event Co-Chairs: Donna Erker and Ann Tjaden Presenting Sponsors: Barnhart Press Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Lozier Mike and Lin Simmonds / Members MD Gale and Judy Wickersham Corporate Sponsors: Nebraska Iowa Wireless Association Peter Kiewit Sons’, Inc.

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e

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

livingsingle

single

• LIVING A HAPPY AND LOVE-FILLED LIFE AS A SINGLE

by mary e. vandenack

“IF YOU KNOW HOW TO LIVE DAILY LIFE, LIFE BECOMES A LIBERATING EXPERIENCE.” -Michael A. Singer

Every year, when the February issue comes around, I have a lot of anxiety about writing my column for the issue. As a single person for whom a long-term special relationship has been elusive, I feel unqualified in many respects to write about love, at least the romantic variety. I will never experience the beauty of a sixty-year marriage between two people who care about each other immensely and have shared a rich history. On the other hand, I have found happiness as a single person. Don’t get me wrong. Like most of us, I would love to find that heart stopping relationship. The fact is that while I had a beautiful experience with my soulmate (who lost his battle to health), I don’t have a long-term, romantic relationship, but I am happy. I built myself a good life and chose not to put my life on hold until I met the right person. I decided to write a column this year for those that are single. You can be happy as a single person... and you may well find more happiness than many that are in troubled relationships.

After my divorce many years ago, I took seriously the suggestion of taking some time off from the dating world.

After an initial transitional relationship, I decided to take a break. I set out to become physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially dependent. I wanted to become so emotionally healthy and happy that I wouldn’t change my single status unless I met someone who really added to my life.

I achieved that. I’m not always there. It ebbs and it flows, but I am happy far more than I am unhappy and my life is full.

The risk of seeking and achieving independence is that you might end up alone. I am pretty sure that if you are truly happy, you will not choose poorly when you do choose. The beauty is that you become truly content with yourself and who you are.

You become patient. You learn that not having someone is not a negative reflection on you but rather a positive. When you choose a relationship from happiness, you will have a better chance of sustaining the relationship. That has certainly been true of other THERE ARE PLENTY “OUT THERE” relationships in my life. One of my all-time favorite quotes is, A comment I often hear from singles is, “there is no one out there.” “A relationship is most beautiful when two people’s love for each I am amused by that statement because there are many of us “out other exceeds their need for each other.” there.” For the first time in US history, there are more homes IT’S ALL RIGHT TO BE MYSELF headed by single individuals than married individuals. I am very My favorite recent song is “This Is Who I Am.” I absolutely love confident that pretty much anyone who wants to be in a the lyrics. “Well, it’s alright to be myself, I have learned to stand. relationship can be. It isn’t that there is no one out there. It is It’s okay to be who I am. I’ve spent years really hating me longing simply that we are becoming more selective about relationships to be friends...I don’t care if I’m fat or if you think my clothes are that we enter into. That is a good thing. bad. I’m a good person... This is Who I am.”

BEING SINGLE IS BETTER THAN BEING IN A BAD RELATIONSHIP

When I was newly single, I had dinner with a long-time friend of my father. My dad’s friend had lost his wife of 35 years and had remarried quickly. He said to me, “You know Mary, there is nothing better than a great marriage. The next best thing is being single. The most challenging situation is that of being in a bad relationship.”

I recall the eighteen months that my dad was dying. At the time, I was married but the marriage was at its rock bottom moment.

It was the loneliest period of my life. People assumed I had support because I was married. The fact is those 18 months were a long walk alone down a very dark hall.

BUILDING A LIFE THAT WORKS The happy person is happy in a relationship or out of one. If we aren’t happy on our own, we really can’t bring happiness to a relationship. True happiness exists when your state of mind isn’t dependent on having someone or something. It is a way of looking at life. You can be annoyed by the fact that mosquitoes bite or amazed that such a small creature would have the courage to bite something so much larger than itself. You can choose to be jealous that someone can afford to drive a car you cannot or thrilled that someone invented automobiles and that there is such a great variety of them available.

In my yoga practice in recent years, the constant message has been that all love starts with self-love. While I could understand that intellectually and thought I had that down, the fact is I still struggle. One of my significant revelations of the past few years is that self-love comes when we are okay with who we are as we are RIGHT NOW. My internal message used to be that I would care about myself when I had become who I wanted to be instead of who I am. I have finally let go of that knowing that achieving personal change is a process and that the process will actually happen faster if I really do accept where I am.

LIVE YOUR DREAMS NOW Admittedly, there was a time in my life that I put things on hold while waiting for the “right person” to do them with. Fortunately, someone suggested to me to do the things I wanted to do regardless. That is what I’ve done. It has been fun. Buy your dream house. Invite people over. Have parties. Go to parties.

Go on fabulous vacations. If you want a child, you can have one.

Take up golf, dance lessons or any activity that interests you.

Make a list of things to do for tough moments. If you can’t stand being home alone on Saturday nights, make a list of fun things you can do on dateless Saturday evenings and do them.

A “to do” item is to choose friends who have healthy and positive relationships. I tend to avoid hanging out with single friends who are totally focused on “finding someone.” They tend to ditch you when the find that someone. I focus on my long-term friends, whether married or single and choose activities that I enjoy.

BELIEVE THAT THERE IS SOMEONE OUT THERE IF YOU WANT THAT If you want to have a relationship, don’t give into the idea that there is no one out there. Believe that there is. Simply find patience and avoid desperation. Find happiness while you are looking. Desperation and loneliness result in poor choices.

Pursue your path. Live well. You are most likely to meet someone that will be a good fit for you if you meet them doing something you want to be doing. The best relationships and friendships that I have had are those with guys I met who were present on the same path that I was walking.

Instead of connecting for the purpose of “finding someone”, consider connecting with people because you are interested in who they are. People are fascinating. I made a decision a few years ago to simply focus on connecting with people. I spent more time asking questions, listening, and caring. I took the time to get to know people that walked to the beat of a different drummer than I. I have developed some rewarding friendships that have filled my life with all kinds of love by simply learning to be interested in others rather than seeking to fill my own needs in connecting. You may or may not meet a special someone with the connection efforts but you will definitely fill your life.

A Note to Those that are In Relationships I am not an advocate for divorce. In fact, despite TIMES magazine reporting that marriage is obsolete in the US, I still believe in it. Because I am divorced and remain single, I often get calls from someone struggling in a relationship. The caller usually seems surprised when I suggest that they do their very best to find a way to rediscover their love and re-invent their relationship using radical forgiveness and loving-kindness. .As my dad’s friend said, “A good marriage is the best of situations.”

A struggling marriage does not mean divorce is inevitable. A good friend of mine often says, “More love is always the answer.”

IT’S OKAY NOT TO DO SOME THINGS If there are things that you are uncomfortable doing as a single person, don’t do them. I quit doing mostly couple dinner events.

There are plenty of events that don’t require you to have someone along. It is okay to avoid those people who make you feel like you are not whole if you are on your own.

44

“COMMITTING YOURSELF TO UNCONDITIONAL HAPPINESS WILL TEACH YOU EVERY SINGLE THING THERE IS TO LEARN ABOUT YOURSELF, ABOUT OTHERS, AND ABOUT THE NATURE OF LIFE.”

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

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the soul’s journey •

with dixie clark

choices2011 I WALK DOWN A DIFFERENT STREET Autobiography in five short chapters

by Portia Nelson

The start of a new year can often seem like a breath of fresh air.

It can be a time filled with hope and possibilities. We set our goals, make our resolutions, declare our vow to do things differently this year.

The idea of creating new patterns, manifesting more abundance, letting go of what no longer serves us, can fill us with a sense of lightness and joy. When what we want to manifest, either internally or externally is still in the ethers, or on the imagination level, the energy is very high. It often feels as though it’s Divinely inspired. We are then in the Essence of infinite supply that our soul is plugged in to. The problem may come in when we start to move that energy into form, and need to bring it into the reality of our day to day existence. We begin to make choices that sabotage our change. Making choices doesn’t mean just the behaviors that we do every day that either lead us towards what we want or away from it. Making choices also means looking at what inner experience we are creating.

If we’re trying to manifest abundance from a place of fear or lack, it’s not going to happen.

If we’re trying to change a pattern of anger from a place of judgment and shame, we will continue to repeat the old ways. We can go unconscious in all the ways we create, promote, or allow the old patterns by the daily choices we make, both internally and externally.

Chapter 1.

I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I fall in.

I am lost, I am helpless. It isn’t my fault. It takes forever to find a way out…

Chapter 2.

I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I pretend not to see it. I fall in again. I can’t believe I am in the same place. It isn’t my fault. It still takes a long time to get out…

Chapter 3.

I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I see it is there. I fall in… it’s a habit… but my eyes are open. I know where I am.

It is my fault. I get out immediately

Chapter 4.

SO, HERE ARE SOME WAYS WE SABOTAGE MOVING FORWARD:

I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I walk around it.

• Wanting guarantees of success before we make a decision to change • Trying to manifest from a mental level, and wanting to analyze, reason, control

Chapter 5.

• Giving our power away to fear, limiting beliefs, doubting our abilities

I walk down a different street.

• Giving up when it seems too hard • Living from a place of anger, resentment, jealousy, any negativity

IN THIS NEW YEAR WE CAN BEGIN TO CHOOSE TO:

• Living each day on autopilot, unconsciously creating the same things over and over • Blaming others • Continuing to focus on what we don’t want instead of setting our intentions for the new We were given the power of choice to learn how to use it wisely and to co-create with God. Each day we are creating our experience by the choices we make. Our Soul does not interfere, as it learns from it all. When we are tired of the consequences of the old patterns, when we’ve learned what we’ve needed to and realize this is no longer how we want to express ourselves, we begin to make different choices.

The process of change and manifesting involves moving from unconscious programming to making conscious choices.

It involves aligning with the higher level energies and inner experience that will assist in moving us towards what we want. It involves setting intentions that are for our highest good and learning to let go.

In this new year, let us all become aware of the choices we make each day. Let us all open up to a sense of purpose or intention to guide us.

Healing starts with the intention to change. The choices we make each day, both internally and externally determine our quality of life.

• Create an inner environment that allows for changes to manifest such as loving, joy, compassion, enthusiasm. All the qualities that our Soul thrives on • Focus on our intention, our purpose, and being willing to sacrifice the negativity that would pull us away from what’s truly important • Let go of judgment of ourselves and others • Identify what we want, and believe we have the right to speak our Truth • Take care of ourselves on all levels daily • Live from a place of soul awareness and do whatever it takes to stay on that path • Identify who we want to be at this stage in our life, and make choices that lead us toward that • Live in trust that we are being Divinely supported • Endure to the end on this spiritual path we’re on There are so many blessings of Grace and abundance that await us. We can open up to these gifts by making choices that will create a space for these to come forward.

Use your power of choice wisely.

Many blessings to you all in this New Year.

Dixie Clark, MS, MSS, LPC is Director and co-founder of Morning Star Center, a holistic wellness center. a licensed counselor and ordained minister, she holds a masters’ degree in both counseling and spiritual science and is currently obtaining her doctorate in spiritual science. With over 26 years experience in mind/body therapies, she combines psychology and spirituality to help people release emotional blocks, heal past trauma and change limiting beliefs to open to soul awareness.

dixie clark, MS, MSS, LPC | www.morningstarcenter.com | www.dixieclark.com 45

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

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e don’tpostponeyour metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

Life

• DON’T POSTPONE YOUR LIFE AGAIN THIS YEAR!

by roger fransecky

“MAN IS BY NATURE A GOAL STRIVING BEING. AND BECAUSE HE IS BUILT THAT WAY HE IS NOT HAPPY UNLESS HE IS FUNCTIONING AS HE WAS MADE TO FUNCTION... AS A GOAL STRIVER.” - Maxwell Maltz, PSYCHO-CYBERNETICS

I delight in seeing people realize their dreams and accomplishing the goals they set for themselves, whether it’s paying off a stubborn debt, finishing their first 10K, or finally having the courage to make a relationship better. The promise of a new year motivates many of us to create our annual lists of goals: to lose those 10 lbs.; to finally take that dream trip; to courageously wrestle with that gnawing question that still hangs in the air year after year; or take a leap, even a baby step, toward happiness.

Too many of us lead deferred lives. We don’t feel worthy of our dreams until our “work” is done and since our obligations seem omnipresent, our dreams take a back seat and ultimately fade away. No wonder so many of us at this time of year cringe just a bit when the mall’s cheerful sound system tries to sell us that this is “the hap – happiest time of the year!” If only our life paths (especially the ones immediately ahead of us) could be counted on to be well lighted, inviting, and clear of obstacles and doubt. If only our days could be well-ordered and flush with certainty. If only work always ended in success, love without surrender, loss without grief, and lapses with persistent forgiveness.

Instead we roil in uncertainty, surf on chaos, and shape shift from day to day. With maturity we have the chance to finally begin to embrace the persistent and trusted anchors of love and hope, belief and values, history and recollection, and the steady sweetness of the moments we choose to create (and especially the ones that catch us by surprise and take our breath away). But “real life” too often steps in and we relent, saying “maybe next year.”

ENOUGH. Allow me, please, to share a simple system that works. I know it works because I’ve used it and I’ve helped many clients, pals, partners and students use it.

MAKE A GOAL CHART. In the early 80’s, Nancy and I led complex and overscheduled lives in New York. With a son in junior high school, incredibly demanding careers (Nancy was a NBC TODAY SHOW correspondent, and I was a corporate executive with offices on both coasts), we found ourselves attempting to balance relentless career and family demands.

Maintenance soon pushed out meaning, and we were often swamped navigating the logistics of car pooling to football and music practices, dog grooming appointments, home shopping and repairs and hours of daily commuting. We were grateful for our gifts but we were also deeply exhausted. What, we too often wondered, happened to delight . . . to fun? Is this what we worked for?

Nancy was a life-long student of achievement systems and she had interviewed literally hundreds of experts over a decade. I also taught part time at NYU and UCLA, so I had

up-close exposure to some of the best and smartest CEO’s, psychologists and researchers on psycho-cybernetics, neuropsychology and, what we called thirty-years ago, “brain science.” In 1985, Nancy shared her life lessons in a wise book titled “BOUND FOR SUCCESS” (sadly, the book is now out of print) . We decided to put our lessons into practice in an attempt to break old patterns and rise above the “noise” of busy, overscheduled lives. We created our own laboratory. Our collaboration resulted in a simple chart that yielded incredible results.

Here’s how we created it. Every December we’d get large white pads from an office supply store and we’d separately list the 2-6 individual goals we wanted to realize in the coming year. This took some tough self-talk.

We quickly discovered that in order for the process to have authenticity we needed to, ironically, start with those things we had deferred or edited away from previous lists out of fear or self-doubt.

We agreed to cluster our goals into three categories: selfimprovement (lose that 10 pounds, finish the book, begin to learn yoga); wealth creation (save a certain amount, begin a family budget, pay off all debts); and finally (the one that initially gave us the most discomfort), new experiences to share which often seemed outrageous and self-indulgent (travel to Paris, a weekend at Canyon Ranch Spa, dance classes together).

At the bottom of each chart we ended (in all CAPS): HAVE MORE FUN! After completing our lists, we sat together, usually with a glass of wine, explaining, debating, pondering and playing with each other’s ideas. This is where the real “work” (and a lot of magic) happened. With some laughter and a few tears, we landed on our final 2-3 individual goals and our 1-2 (no more!) shared intentions. We learned that if we tried to tackle too much we ended up getting lost in our lists.

The Result: we achieved or exceeded every goal each year! Often within 6 months.

To use Nancy’s term, we were high achieving “gritters.”

We pushed and prodded our lives to some level of accumulation and accomplishment but did so at the expense of constant busyness and missing out on time together leaving neither of us feeling as if we were having much fun. Sound familiar?

This trusting process to create our goal charts and our commitment to acting on them, moved our To-Do lists to To-Become lists.

GIVE YOURSELF A NEW YEAR’S GIFT. BEGIN YOUR GOAL CHART NOW. After the resolutions for another New Year begin to fade, it’s useful to remind ourselves of the simple vows we can make to change how we show up in the world: “But I’ve had enough of turning to look back, the old post-morteming of defeat: people I loved but didn’t touch, friends I haven’t seen for years, strangers who smiled but didn’t speak – failures, failures.

No, I refuse to leave it all to that, because somewhere, off camera, January is coming like Venus up from the murk of December, revirginized, as innocent of loss as any dawn.

Resolved: this year I’m going to break my losing streak, I’m going to stay alert, reach out, speak when not spoken to, read the minds of people in the streets.

I’m going to practice every day, stay in training, and be moderate in all things.

All things but love.” ~ from “New Year’s Resolution”, 1988, by Philip Appleman

We then captured the essence of our agreements on new, visually fun, and creative new posters that we hung inside our master bedroom door where we would see “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that them all the time. They became part of our visual space is our power to choose our response. In our landscape so we couldn’t avoid them. We checked in response lies our growth and our freedom.” regularly to see how we were doing; what we were ~Victor Frankl resisting and postponing. The chart launched some of our deepest and best conversations.

Each year, when the final Goal Charts were posted, we went to a wonderful dinner to celebrate our intentions.

That was our reward. We committed to support one another, and we agreed to push ourselves to tackle the things that made us most uncomfortable...the things that seemed self-indulgent, excessive, even outrageous, at least to us.

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To learn more about Roger Fransecky, visit our website at SpiritofOmaha.com and discover more about how his practice equips leaders to become more effective, and to produce exceptional results. in a world of possibility we can choose to create conditions for greatness, and to exercise our intention upon the world; we can choose to take responsibility for our lives and our future, and in so doing, unleash incredible energy to live and perform at our best.

metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

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LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY MAN & WOMAN OF THE YEAR CAMPAIGN

T

he Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man and Woman of the Year (MWOY) campaign is a national 10-week campaign to raise funds to help find cures for blood cancers. The campaign includes individuals in the community who agree to utilize their leadership abilities and resources to conduct their own fundraising campaigns to help the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) fund blood cancer research and provide education and support services for patients and their families.

Local individuals will come together to participate in Omaha's first annual Man and Woman of the Year competition.

This inaugural year has intrigued many in business, as well as, the medical world. “We are so excited to be able to offer Omaha, the surrounding metro area, in fact all of Nebraska, with a new and fun approach to raising funds for our critically needed research and patient services,” commented Pattie Gorham, Executive Director of the Nebraska Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS).

Candidates are individuals who are passionate about finding cures for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. From corporate presidents to ultra-marathoners, the diverse candidates and nominees always have two qualities in common: humanity and zeal.

All candidates display the requisite traits of enthusiasm, competitive spirit, and are philanthropic minded. Only those who have been nominated, passed the thorough examination process, and accepted the nomination reach the competition phase of this campaign. “This is a very spirited event that combines individuals building their own fundraising campaigns and forming teams where people work together to meet their goals and to engage more people along

the way,” said Stephen Peters, MWOY Leadership/Nomination Committee Chair and President of LLS’s Board of Trustees.

The MWOY campaign begins with a local kickoff event in the spring. This year the kickoff is March 8th, sponsored and held at Flemings. At the kickoff, candidates learn more about LLS’s mission, their fellow

candidates, and meet the local Boy and Girl of the Year. The kickoff also provides an opportunity for survivors to share their stories and allows LLS to thank community sponsors.

A host of activities prepare the candidates to run a very successful campaign even prior to the kickoff. Candidates develop their campaign team, create letters and emails to be sent out, and utilize social media mediums to jumpstart their campaign.

Each candidate also receives a webpage associated with the MWOY website.

At midnight on March 8th, 2011, candidates will begin to execute their fundraising plans by mailing out their letters, sending their e-mails, and holding their first fundraising event.

The male and female candidates who raise the most funds during the campaign will be awarded the title of the local chapter’s Man and Woman of the Year, respectively.

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metroMAGAZINE • JAN/FEB 2011

“Candidates are judged solely on their success in raising money, each dollar counting as one vote,” said Rhonda Smallwood, Campaign Manger for the local MWOY campaign. Their totals are then considered for the national title. Candidates run in honor of the Boy and Girl of the Year, who are local blood cancer patient survivors and sources of inspiration to others. The amounts raised are kept secret and are not disclosed until the two winners are announced at a Grand Finale celebration.

The program culminates with candidates and their guests joining sponsors and other prominent community members at a Grand Finale celebration for the announcement of the Man and the Woman of the Year. The outstanding achievements of all candidates are celebrated at the gala event, which includes live and silent auctions, food, cocktails and music. This inaugural year, the Grand Finale will be held May 14, 2011 at the Hilton– Omaha. Local sponsors include Flemings, Hilton–Omaha and metroMAGAZINE and SpiritofOmaha.com. Following the campaign, the winners are recognized through local and national publicity.

The original Man and Woman of the Year competition began in 1990 in Northern California. The first event was held in remembrance of John Spencer, a valued Hastings Department Store employee who died of leukemia at the age of 39. It was in John’s memory that Hastings began supporting LLS. Since then, more and more chapters have added the Man and Woman of the Year campaign. In 2010, candidates raised more than $11.8 million for blood cancer research and patient services.

To learn more about the Man and Woman of the Year campaign, visit www.MWOY.org.

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optimalLIVING • aristotle group 49

achievingyourfullpotential

newyear

inthe The Art and Science of Human Flourishing

The Art and Science of Human Flourishing

are you flourishing?

On a daily basis, do you feel as if you are living your life purpose?

Are you achieving your full potential? At the dawn of the last decade, questions like these prompted researchers from noted universities to begin a scientific exploration of human flourishing.

Positive Psychology is the scientific study of the strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive. The Values in Action (VIA) Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues represents a convergence of valued human strengths across culture and history and provides a useful framework for identifying, measuring, and leveraging human strengths.

Discovering your unique strengths can help you be your best in 2011.

Signature strengths are positive traits or virtues that a person owns, celebrates, and frequently exercises.

The Values in Action Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS) is a self-report questionnaire that measures 24 strengths of character organized under six core virtues. The questionnaire takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and results in a printable report providing a rank order of strengths.

The VIA-IS can be accessed free of charge at www.authentichappiness.org.

From your individualized report, look at your top scoring strengths. The top five are referred to as “signature strengths.” Take your list of top scoring strengths and for each one ask if any of these criteria apply: • A sense of ownership and authenticity (“This is the real me”) • A feeling of excitement while displaying it, particularly at first.

• A sense of yearning to find new ways to use it.

• Invigoration rather than exhaustion when using the strength.

• Creation and pursuit of projects that revolve around the strength.

If one or more of these criteria apply to your top strengths, they are signature strengths. The “good life” consists in deriving happiness by using your signature strengths every day in the main realms of life.

Scientists, psychologists, and economists are making significant progress in understanding the biological and psychological components of life satisfaction.

At the start of this new decade, we have the opportunity to apply empirically based findings from the past decade to achieve higher levels of life satisfaction, experience, greater meaning and flourish. Over the next 24 months we will explore each of the 24 strengths of character identified in the VIA.

by gordon h. parry

Let’s begin with gratitude.

Gratitude is the acknowledgement of goodness in one’s life and recognition that the source of goodness is at least partially outside one self. Gratitude is more than an emotion, it requires a willingness to recognize and acknowledge.

Gratitude has the power to elevate, inspire, energize, and transform.

Studies show a direct correlation between gratitude and higher levels of life satisfaction, vitality, and optimism and lower levels of depression and stress.

One of the largest longitudinal studies on successful aging identifies gratefulness as a key ingredient in a life well lived.

Exercise: “The Three Blessings” or “What Went Right” An easy exercise, shown to have sustained positive effect, is the “three blessings” or “what went right” exercise. Every day for the next week or two, set aside ten minutes to write down three things that went well and why they went well. Pick a time of day and the method that works best for you (i.e. a journal or your computer). The items can be big or seemingly small.

Next to each of the three blessings identified, note why this happened.

Capturing the “why” behind positive events in your life may be awkward at first, but will be easier with practice and is an important part of the exercise.

You can do this exercise on your own, with a partner, child, parent, sibling or close friend. Expressing gratitude together offers additional benefits in strengthening relationships.

The following resources provide more information on positive psychology and gratitude: • Positive Psychology Center: www.ppc.sas.upenn.edu/ • “Happier.” by Tal Ben-Shahar, PhD • Robert Emmons, PhD., University of California Davis: http://psychology.ucdavis.edu/Labs/emmons/ • “Thanks! How the new science of gratitude can make you happier.”

by Robert A. Emmons, PhD

Leveraging your signature strengths and practicing gratitude will help you achieve your new year’s resolutions and offers the potential for greater meaning and purpose in 2011.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” ~ Aristotle

Gordon Parry is the President of Aristotle Group, a firm dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations achieve their full potential. In 2005, Gordon was one of 35 students selected globally to complete the first graduate program in the new field of applied positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania.

gordon.parry@aristotlegroup.net www.aristotlegroup.net

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planningMATTERS • with pvw law 50

the privatefoundation mini

the

long standing recommendation for feasibility of forming a private foundation is that a donor be ready and willing to donate three to five million dollars to the foundation. Early in my career, I accepted that recommendation.

The basis for the suggestion related to the complications of a private foundation as compared to alternate forms of making donations such as an outright donation or contributing to a donor advised fund. As I’m writing this article, I have in front of me a recent article from Trusts & Estates that tells advisors that their first question must be “whether the client is willing to make a significant financial commitment” to this option.

Over the past several years, I have worked with numerous clients who fit the profile of private foundation donors but aren’t at a point of being ready to donate three million. Admittedly, I have generally been an advocate of the outright donation. More recently, I evolved the concept of the mini private foundation.

It doesn’t take three million to make a private foundation relatively worthwhile. The reasons to consider a private foundation include the desire to create a charitable vehicle to which donations can be made and managed over a period of years along with the desire to involve family members and/or friends. Perhaps, there is a certain type of mission you wish to support. Just as small groups of family and friends form investment clubs, small groups can gather together to form mini private foundations.

If your goal is to simply have the best possible current charitable donation at the lowest possible cost, then the best strategy continues to be the direct donation.

If you don’t want to be actively involved in charitable activities but want to have some ability to direct distributions over a period of time, then consider a donor advised fund or a community foundation. If you want to be actively involved in a charitable mission over time, with friends or family, a foundation really is feasible.

by mary e. vandenack

The mini private foundation does require a commitment to expending some time as well as learning the rules governing foundations.

From a cost perspective, there are initial formation costs and a filing with the Internal Revenue Service. For the most part, formation is relatively easy.

The tax exempt filing with the Internal Revenue is best accomplished with professional guidance but in most instances, the cost can be kept down by working with a professional who knows how to engage the client in the process.

Operating the private foundation involves various annual filings, distribution requirements, and rules about the type of transactions that are permitted. It is extremely important for the foundation to avoid engaging in activities that are considered prohibited transactions.

PVWLaw has developed a streamlined process for the formation of mini private foundations that make the use of such vehicle available for the “average” donor.

For more information visit www.pvwlaw.com

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todaysSAVINGS • swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

51

canyou picture a

healthier

youin2011? often

with mary drueke

times we make health-related resolutions this time of year and for good reason – everything is new, and it feels like a fresh start.

Any decision to improve your health status is a good one no matter what time of year it is. One of the biggest challenges in changing any habit is sticking to it.

The “stickiness” of your New Year’s Resolution can be influenced by many factors. Tell other people what your plan is and how they can help you stick to it.

Vary your new routine; find several ways to accomplish your goals and rotate them so you don’t get bored.

Working toward a new you can be exciting and the benefits go far beyond your mirror. When you improve your health status you can also improve your outlook on life. A positive attitude will go a long way not only in helping you meet your goals but also in life.

The first step to becoming a HEALTHIER YOU is to confront the fact that something needs to be done and that you may need to make some changes.

As with many vices, a person needs to figure out why they are going to do what they are about to do. Above all, give yourself permission to make the changes.

As you work on building your new habits this year, take advantage of the many community and web-based resources that are available. Become aware of the overwhelming statistics on the costs of obesity related diseases like diabetes, and chronic health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease.

Sometimes employer pressure can be helpful. Employers are becoming very engaged in getting their employees healthier in order to increase productivity and lower health insurance costs. However, in most successful cases, the basis behind wanting to improve ones’ situation is for themselves and/or their family. Each person simply needs to discover their own reason.

Then, you could create a “stop doing” list. In most cases, little things could make a huge difference in the long run. For instance: • Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs – easy little workout that doesn’t require any additional time to be worked into your day.

• Instead of snacking on unhealthy foods, snack on healthier foods – don’t deprive yourself; just snack smarter.

• Instead of going to the soda pop machine, grab a glass of water – not only is it healthier; it is also much less expensive.

Eating healthier alternatives at meal time and increasing exercise help as well.

The key is to get into a groove so when you do make unhealthy food choices or miss a workout, that you miss the good feelings you get when you take better care of yourself. Part of that good feeling comes from not eating such heavy or greasy foods; the other comes from the releasing of endorphins, which are the natural “happy” chemicals that are released during exercise.

Another key is to find the exercise that you enjoy whether it is weights, running, walking, rock climbing, boxing, or Pilates to name a few. It can help to keep things fresh by alternating between activities and/or finding an exercise partner.

So go ahead and make your “stop doing” lists, discover your reasons, and find your groove so you can see that picture of a HEALTHIER YOU in 2011.

For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber, Client Centered – Client Advocates™

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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets!

Save the Date!

Camp KindnessSummer Camp for Kids Our summer day camps for kids are chock full of animal fun. This camp is a sure hit with young pet lovers.

Kids get hands-on experience with pets and wildlife, interact with dog trainers, wildlife rehabbers and veterinarians and generally have a doggone good time.

Camp Kindness runs June to August in week long sessions. To register check our website in early March at www.nehumanesociety.org.

Bone Jour Dog Daycare We now have full service grooming at Bone Jour Dog Daycare. Fido can come in for a day of play, socialization, and enrichment and get a makeover too.

Talk about convenience! Bone Jour still has the best dogto-dog-sitter ratio in the metro. Your dog will have a “good day” of fun and leave tired and happy. All proceeds support NHS homeless animals, so as you take care of your dog you also help take care of thousands of others looking for loving owners. Call Bone Jour for scheduling at 571-2273 or visit Bonejour.org for information.

Andy Hoig with Sophie

metroMAGAZINE Publisher Andrea L. Hoig “This was meant to be,” says Andy Hoig referencing her June adoption of Sophie. “I had planned several times to get to the shelter to look at cats, and each time something came up.” But on the day Andy did make it in, Sophie was enjoying her first day on the adopt floor. “I would have missed her had I come earlier.” Sophie is a beautiful dilute tortie with a leader-of-the-band personality. She loves to be the center of attention and doesn’t get fazed by cameras, lights or strangers in the house. She is remarkably active considering that she had one leg amputated after an injury. “She gets a little crazy and gallops around the house. She’ll zip under the furniture, roll onto her back, and then pull herself out like she’s doing the backstroke. It’s hilarious.” Sophie is the perfect pet for Andy, who is on the go much of the time. She is content to bird and squirrel watch during the day but when Andy gets home she loves attention. “She is very talkative and she loves to cuddle at night,” Andy explains, “she just makes me so darn happy!”

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

All proceeds stay at the shelter to benefit homeless animals so as you take care of your dog you also provide for those still waiting for loving homes.

Call 571-2273 for appointments or log on to www.bonejour.org.

For more information go to “Programs and Events” on the NHS Website at www.nehumanesociety.org, or call 444-7800 ext 273

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Sylvia Maenner, Mike Maenner, Christian Warneke, and John Koch

Noelle Mapes, Kiley Eccker, Maddie Huerter, and Jill Tiedeman

Photos by Dan Flanig an

anenchantedevening

scene

the

Miranda Walker and Ashley DeBolt

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EXCITING • PHILANTHROPIC • INSPIRING • FUN

e of charity g ra e v o c a and photo e metro are Highlights th in ts n e v e and social

Alex Doll, Grant Jerkovick, Mike and David Maenner

Lakelyn, Mickele, Jacquelin and Lori Hogan

Pamela Foley, Donna Foley, T. Adam Goos, Ann Marie Abboud, and Ernest Richardson 55

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Viv, Alexandria and John Ewing

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Allie McGillick and Brooke Benjamin

Jeanie Carson, Leota Busse, and Peggy Haeffner

Mike, Ashley and Debbie DeBolt

Photos b y Dan

Flanigan

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anenchantedevening

OMAHA SYMPHONY DEBUTANTE BALL

on Ellie Hogan Grossman and Catherine Hogan

December 27th, the Omaha Symphony’s 45th Annual Debutante Ball was held at the CoCo Key Convention Center.

Forty seven Debutantes and 36 Stags made their social debut to more than 680 family members, friends and supporters of the Omaha Symphony. Families of the participants were also honored for their time and talent to the Omaha Symphony and other civic and community organizations.

Debutante Ball Committee Chairman, Ann Marie Abboud, presented a check for $95,000 to David Slosberg, the Omaha Symphony association Chairman of the Board, and Donna Foley, President of the Omaha Symphony Guild.

The money is used to support the Symphony’s educational programs.

Gilbert and Spencer Head

David and Nola Schettler with Maxine and Shelley Siemers

Bischof and Pritchard Family

Tampke Family 56

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Anna and Janet Kohll with Rachel Prentiss

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2/4/11 10:47:41 AM

Diana Fuller and Emily O’Connor

Micki Pane, Nate Evans, Griff Evans, Joe Pane and Allison Pane

Sandra Davidson, Jane Pohlman, Barbara Greene, and Amy Knuth

The debutantes, wearing white gowns, held presentation nosegays of red roses finished with gold cording. The stags, in white tie and tails, wore red rose boutonnieres. This year, the Debutantes and Stags presented their mothers with a white gardenia fastened to a crystal wristlet.

Mr. Tom Kerr was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. The first dance of the evening belonged to the Debutantes and their fathers and the Stags and their mothers. Then, everyone danced the evening away to the music of Robert Glaser and the Sing, Sing, Swing Orchestra.

Dwyer Photography served as the Ball photographer. Suburban Bridals assisted with the Deb’s dresses and Mr. Tuxedo dressed the Stags and fathers.

For more information on the Omaha Symphony, visit www.omahasymphony.org.

Carson Family

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2/4/11 10:21:02 AM

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dazzlingsupport NEBRASKA CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY HOLIDAZZLE

on

Event Chairs Beth Reher, Theresa Cole, and Sandy Breault Debbie and Stephanie Sinner

December 2nd, the Nebraska Children’s Home Society (NCHS) Family Guild presented the 2nd Annual HoliDazzle at the Happy Hollow Country Club. The event raised more than $11,000 to benefit the Nebraska Children’s Home Society.

The evening featured a wide array of holiday gift exhibitors, live presentations by All Seasons Floral and Pleasure Your Palette Catering and a special Younkers Fashion Show. Attendees enjoyed festive hors d’oeuvres and desserts catered by the country club, a silent auction and a raffle prize of a Broadway evening downtown for four to see Mary Poppins, which included an evening stay at Embassy Suites and dinner at M’s Pub. The event was chaired by guild members Sandra Breault, Theresa Cole, and Beth Reher.

Executive Director Karen Authier and Special Events Manager Kim Singletary Photos by Dan Flanigan

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To learn more about the Nebraska Children’s Home Society, visit www.nchs.org.

Shelley Siemers and Julie Russell

2/4/11 10:21:05 AM

Chris Davis, Ken Glendenning, Patty and Jim Trebbien, Sean Larson, and Scott Korth

metroMAGAZINE staff

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Photos by Dan Flanigan

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE HALL OF FAME DINNER

October 17th, Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and the Omaha Restaurant Association inducted six leaders of the hospitality industry to the Omaha Hospitality Hall of Fame at MCC’s Institute for the Culinary Arts. In addition to honoring the achievements and contributions of those locally involved in the hospitality industry, the event also raised funds through ticket sales and attendee donations for students that have financial need or meet high academic standards.

This year raised more than $8,000 for scholarships.

About 300 people attended the 17th annual event, making it one of the largest Hall of Fame gatherings. Co-chairs for the event were Rich Bartmettler and Joellen Zuk. NACE and the ACF became actively involved in the event.

The 2010 inductees were: Aristides “Arty” Abariotes, Denis J. Hall, Stephen H. Simon, Andrea “Andy” Hoig, Donald R. Everett, and Brian O’Malley.

Fred, Eve, Alan and Todd Simon

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Ron Hug and Karen Gooding

Marve and Bob Miller

Terry Foreman, Wade Lewis, and Cory Carlson

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GRACE UNIVERSITY GOLF4GRACE

Bob and Andy Hoig

Paul Troupe and Wally Armstrong, with Tom, Rob, and Doug Troupe Donna and Jim Nissan with Tom Lynch and Jana Hrabik

Betsye Paragas and Carrie Kentch

Brian and Tracy Lundin

2/4/11 10:21:42 AM

Bernard Monbouquette, Janet and Jim Place

Jan Vrana, Ulrich Bosner, and Mary Kerr Jack Becker, Kelly Thedinger, and Ulrich Bosner Photos by Dan Flanigan

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Lynette Singer, Amy Schmid, and Helenann Cox

Debbie Wood, Kimberly Key, Suellen Willett, Karen Burkley, and Suzanne Oberdorf

ulrich&arts JOSLYN ART MUSEUM LUNCHEON

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November 8th, Joslyn Art Museum held a luncheon hosted by Mary Kerr and Jan Thedinger. This luncheon raised more than $37,000 for the museum and its educational programs.

Over 300 people attended this event which included lunch, a silent auction and guest speaker Ulrich Boser, a national best-selling author. Boser’s lecture gave guests insight into the art underworld, new developments in the 20-year-old case and the colorful cast of characters in the book.

For more information about the Joslyn Art Museum, visit www.joslyn.org.

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UNMC CHANCELLOR’S CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY

Lois and Dr. Ron Roskens with Dr. Peter Whitted

Dr. Linda Ford with Beverly and Chancellor Hal Maurer

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December 6th, the University of Nebraska Medical Center Chancellor’s Club gathered at Happy Hollow Country Club to celebrate the holidays. Approximately 250 members were treated to a buffet of hors d’oeuvres and desserts.

Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D. and his wife Beverly along with Clarence L. Castner, president of the University of Nebraska Foundation, hosted the event.

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.

For more information on the University of Nebraska Medical Center, visit www.unmc.edu.

Dr. Jialin Zhen with UNMC International Students Dr. Stanley and Dorothy Truhlsen

John and Joann Niemann with Gretchen and Nick Vondrak

Scott and Gail Robertson

Photos by Dan Flanigan

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Honorary Chairs Bob and Chris Turner

Kevin and Victoria McLaughlin with Ann and Edward Easterlin

Ruth and Jim Smith

Photos by Dan Flanigan

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Patty Cornish, Joan Nelson, Bev Burchfield, and Renee Campbell

ahistoricaljourney DURHAM MUSEUM LINCOLN EXHIBITION CELEBRATION

Joe and Jean Stothert with Tom Janssen

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November 19th, nearly 300 guests attended the Durham Museum to Sentimental Journey with a celebration of the upcoming Lincoln Exhibition. The event raised over $115,000.

This year’s theme was “Have Yourself A ‘Mary’ Little Christmas” with festivities paying homage to the holidays and the upcoming, “With Malice Toward None: The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Exhibition”.

Mary Wilson and Shawna Forsberg

David and Lynn Anne Banks with Lisa and Marty Braun

Honorary Chairs were Christy and Bob Turner. The evening included a performance by Omaha humorist Mary Maxwell, as well as a guest appearance by Fritz Klein, an Abraham Lincoln impersonator.

For more information on the Durham Museum, visit www.durhammuseum.org.

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â–ź Dr. Kort and Marie Igel with Vicki and Jeff Payton

Executive Director J.J. Replogle and Event Chair Dr. Devin Fox

shining stars

NEBRASKA AIDS PROJECT NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STARS

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November 20th, 2010’s Night of A Thousand Stars was held at the Joslyn Art Museum. More than 600 attended the gala, which raised money to support the efforts of the Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP).

John Tyrrell and John Hasna

William and Andrea Hare, President Robert Girthhoffer, and Judy and Mike Vcelik

Attendees enjoyed the open art galleries, participated in the silent auction and were entertained by the band Session 7.

Appetizers and a cash bar flowed throughout the evening.

Twenty pre-event host parties were held throughout the year and a grand total of $106,000 was raised for NAP. Nebraska AIDS Project is the only organization providing comprehensive services to people in the Nebraska and Southwest Iowa living with HIV and AIDS. The organization also provides confidential testing of sexually transmitted diseases in response to an alarming rate of infection in our area.

Renee and Lynn Fox

Nikki Strayer, Jon Tindall, Liz Prusha, and Rick Prusha II

Stephanie Perrigo and Jake Stepanek

For more information on the Nebraska AIDS Project, visit http://www.nap.org/

Photos by Dan Flanigan

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2/4/11 10:22:04 AM

Hesse McGraw and Stuart Chittenden

Rebecca Bortolotti and Pam Krecek Andrew Liakos, Kyle Blaney, and Lisa Barrientos

Lois McElderry and Joyce Sumner

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forthearts

BEMIS CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS 12TH ANNUAL ART AUCTION

Ross and Kathleen Bellinghiere

Rob Gilmer, Amy Mather, Kristina Bramhall, and Creighton Bassett

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November 8th, the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 12th Annual Art Auction was an outstanding success, with over 1,000 collectors, donors, artists and art lovers fillling the galleries during the week of events.

More than 250 international, national and local artists contributed close to 400 artworks for this year’s auction. The fundraiser grossed over $460,000 throughout the four-week auction exhibition and event, making it the most successful art auction to date.

James Ahern and Victoria Hoyt

For more information about the Bemis Center, visit www.bemiscenter.org.

Photos by Dan Flanigan

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bells

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BERGAN MERCY HOSPITAL AUXILIARY CANDLELIGHT BALL

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Nellie and Rick Miller with Martin and Lorraine Mancuso

Dr. Thad and Sydney Woods with Dr. Deanna Armstrong

November 20th, Bergan Mercy Hospital Auxiliary held their Candlelight Ball “Silver Bells” with glitter as the theme for the evening at the Embassy Suites LaVista.

This year’s Candlelight Ball Honorees were Bergan Mercy staff physicians, Dr. Ernie Chupp and Dr. Thomas Dunbar. These physicians were honored for their many years of service to Bergan Mercy and the community.

Danny Chupp, Dr. Ernest Chupp, Brenda, Ryan and Andy Chupp

Robin Reida, Lori Johansen, and Jeanne Schreier

To learn more about Bergan Mercy Hospital Auxiliary, visit www.alegent.com.

Val and Ann Oasan

Name

Dr. Katie Norton, Savannah Uden, Brittany Thompson, and Dr. Coleen Stice

Laurette Hess and Vernie Jones

Photos by Linda Shepard

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OMAHA BALLROOM DANCING WITH THE OMAHA STARS

Kevin Warneke, Mary and Hal Daub, and Elizabeth Edwards

Jessica Querry and Ted Kaasch

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January 22nd, Omaha Ballroom held its second annual “Dancing with the Omaha Stars” at Champions Run Pavilion. Business owners, beauty queens, radio and television hosts danced swing, tango, quickstep, waltz and more with professional instructors to raise $13,000 benefiting the Ronald McDonald House of Omaha.

Judging this year were former mayor Hal Daub and his wife Mary, Gina of Kat 103.7, last year’s winner and Ronald McDonald. The show included appetizers, cash bar, silent auction and fashion show with the models of Agency 89 Model and Talent.

Participants included Brook Hudson, former Miss Nebraska; Dani Bradford, board member of the Ronald McDonald House; J.P. Smitty, owner of Big Brain Tattoo; Jordan Monroe, Playboy Playmate Miss October 2006; Kayla Bought, Miss Omaha; Kyla Vala, Vala’s Pumpkin Patch; Matt and Ben, Twister 93.3; Mike Digiacomo, The Morning Blend; Mindy Schreiber, Miss Douglas County; Nelson, Q98 FM; Rusty Lord, meteorologist from Channel 6, Shan Stavropoulos, choreographer for UFL Nighthawks Cheerleading Team; Tim Gorham, owner of Six Points Self Defense; and Victory Jay, Mixed Martial Arts Promoter of the Midwest. This year’s winners were Rusty Lord, meteorologist from WOWT, and Dani Bradford from The Ronald McDonald House.

“I can’t think of a better way to spend an evening than to watch friends and local celebrities compete on the dance floor. And, the bonus is that this fun event will help families with sick children. We at Ronald McDonald House Charities are honored to once again benefit from Dancing with the Omaha Stars,” said Kevin Warneke, chief executive officer of Ronald McDonald House of Omaha and a contestant of last year’s event.

For more information about Omaha Ballroom, visit www.OmahaBallroom.com.

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Dani Woodward and Jeremy Waymire

Mike Kendall and Victory Jay

Rachel Richards, Ronald McDonald, and Ben Johnson

Elizabeth Edwards with the male participants

Lexi Sanderholm, Doug Gorham, and Tim Gorham

Dave and Patti Johnson

Jeremy Jamison with the female participants

Photos by Dan Flanig an

2/4/11 12:10:34 PM

Peg Harriott and Carmen Smith

Photos courtesy of Child Saving Institute

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Traci Penrod-McCormick and Georgie Scurfield

fortheyouth CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE ANNUAL LUNCHEON

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November 4th, the Child Saving Institute held their annual luncheon at Happy Hollow Country Club. Board President-Elect Joel Russell and President and CEO Peg Harriott hosted the event. A number of volunteers, community partners and staff members were honored during an awards presentation. A few notable recipients were Cathy Pasko and Dan Pasko, who received the Volunteer Award; Lincoln Financial, who received the Corporate Award; and Traci Penrod-McCormick, who received the Guardian Angel Award. Child Saving Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect.

Danny and Cathy Pasko with Georgie Scurfield

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To learn more about Child Saving Institute, visit www.childsaving.org.

OMAHA HEARING SCHOOL HEAR FOR THE HOLIDAYS BREAKFAST

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December 8th, the Omaha Hearing School (OHS) held the HEAR for the Holidays Breakfast at Fernando’s restaurant on 114h and Dodge. The holiday-themed breakfast raised more than $20,000 for the school.

With more than 300 attendees, all sponsorship, ticket and raffle proceeds will benefit OHS programs and provide scholarships for OHS students.

Co-chaired by Martha Stofko and Babs Weinberg, the gourmet breakfast buffet was prepared by the restaurant. Local celebrity servers included Tom Becka; Deb Gray, figure/fitness champion; Todd Andrews, KETV anchor; Nighthawks cheerleaders; and Creighton University athletes and athletic department staff.

For more information about the Omaha Hearing School, visit www.hearingschool.org.

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Ann Hosford (OHS Board President), Scott Darling “Santa” (OHS Board Member), and Babs Weinberg (OHS Board Member and event co-chair)

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partyandpraise ▼ GREATER OMAHA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER APPRECIATION HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

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December 2nd, nearly 500 Greater Omaha Chamber members celebrated the season during the Chamber’s Member Appreciation Holiday Open House.

Along with laughter and the buzz of networking, the Chamber was filled with sounds of the season. Brass and vocal ensembles from the University of Nebraska at Omaha performed at the event.

Numerous Chamber-member companies provided a variety of hors d’oeuvres, delicacies and beverages in every corner of the building.

From sushi to pizza, nachos to cupcakes, there was something for every taste.

To learn more about the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, visit www.omahachamber.org.

Photos by Dan Flanigan

Jamie Grittman, Gina Tielebein, Marnie Amdor, and Ellen Osborne

James Taylor and Christine Malmos

Max Kathol and Cait Leute

Ashley Abbouda and Jason Ferris

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Joe Gudenrath, Kim Folta, and Joe Moise

Paul Troupe and Wally Armstrong, with Tom, Rob, and Doug Troupe

Cindy Goff, Andy Alexander, Norita Matt, and Michael Weissman

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2/4/11 10:22:33 AM

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fromtheheart AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION GO RED EXPO FOR WOMEN

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November 4th, the American Heart Association held the 2010 Go Red For Women Expo.

The expo was presented by Nebraska Methodist Health System at Embassy Suites La Vista.

Lori Hogan and Barb Miller

Pam Alfrey Hernandez

Sue Korth and Karen Tesina Cannia

The expo raised funds for research and education and also offered educational breakout sessions, interactive exhibits and informational booths.

Sherrye Hutcherson, OPPD, and Deb Sanders, Leo A Daly, co-chaired this year’s event. Sue Korth, Methodist Women’s Hospital, served as honorary chair. Kate Dodge, was introduced as the honorary chair for 2011 and Karen Tesina Cannia and Korth announced that Nebraska Methodist Health System would continue as presenting sponsor of the 2011 and 2012 Go Red For Women Expos.

For more information about the American Heart Association, visit www.americanheart.org.

Becky French, Mary Grabow, Jackie Austad, Diane Stewart, Barb Miller, Sarah Waldman, Deb Sanders Sherrye Hutcherson, and Alexi Wellman Photos courtesy of Dusek Photography

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savethedate CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE “WILD AND CRAZY” CABARET 2011

child

Saving Institute’s (CSI) Board will present Cabaret 2011 on Saturday, May 14, 2011.

With a “Wild & Crazy” theme, this year’s entertainer is bubbly and hilarious actress and comedienne Melissa Peterman. Best known for her character, “Barbara Jean,” on the popular sitcom “Reba,” she is also the host of “The Singing Bee” and is now starring on the new CMT sitcom, “Working Class” with Ed Asner.

Honorary Chairmen are Suzanne & Walter Scott and Dian & Jim Warren; General Chairmen are Wendy & S. Scott Moore and Stephanie & Nick Vondrak.

KETV Channel 7 is the media sponsor and Metro Magazine is the print sponsor.

Money raised from the evening will support CSI’s emergency shelters for children and youth, intensive family preservation, adoption, therapeutic foster care and developmental childcare.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.childsaving.org, or call 504-3661.

Child Saving Institute, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit child welfare organization, is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect. Since 1892, CSI’s mission has never wavered from providing care for abandoned, neglected and abused children. CSI has met the changing needs for children in the Omaha metro area based on the belief that children are the community’s most valuable resource.

CSI’s Mission: Responding to the cry of a child.

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2/4/11 10:22:47 AM

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OMAHA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY SCHOLARSHIP DINNER

Chuck Sigerson Family

Anthea and Bruce Swanson

Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy with Andrew Butler

Kathy Larsen, Bev Sapp, Lucille Sapp, Jerry & Betty Tagge, Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, and David Pauli

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November 5th, Omaha Christian Academy (OCA) held its “Creating Futures” Scholarship Dinner to raise funds for need-based scholarships and to honor a member of the community for their community service.

The event’s honorary dinner chairs were Bill and Lucille Sapp with Betty and Jerry Tagge serving as Co-Masters of Ceremony. Guests were also treated to a surprise visit

by Sue Mitchell (Miss Sue), played by Kathy Bates in the movie, who took Michael Oher under her wing and guided him in his academics.

To learn more about Omaha Christian Academy, visit www.OmahaChristianAcademy.org

Photos by Dan Flanigan

Matt and Renee Stukenholtz with Susan and Loren Johnson

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Roy Rogers, Jack Hawk, Rick Sweeney, Richard Sweeney, and Zach Lee

Christi Krehbel and Kerri Tulsie

2/4/11 10:23:01 AM

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savethedate feb February 12

February 12

ROCKIN’ ROSIE A benefit for The Rose Theater The Rose Theater Guild will host its 18th annual Rockin’ Rosie fundraiser, this year themed Rosie Rocks the Silver Screen.

Sure to be a rockin’ good time, the event includes dinner, dancing, and both silent and oral auctions.

CoCo Key Convention Center – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Call 402-345-4849 or visit www.RoseTheaterGuild.org.

WINTER IN WONDERLAND! A benefit for Wings of Hope Cancer Support Center Guests at this event will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, taste featured beverages, and have fun at the celebrity snowman “building” contest.

Ameristar Ballroom – Council Bluffs – 6:30 P.M. Visit www.wingsofhope.org.

FIESTA A LA MERCY A benefit for Mercy High School FIESTA (Friends in Earnest Supporting Tuition Assistance) directly supports negotiated tuition, the heart of Mercy High School’s mission. The evening consists of Mass, dinner, silent and live auctions and a $10,000 raffle drawing.

Mercy High School – Omaha – 5:00 P.M. Call 553-9424.

February 18-19, 25-26 MURDER MYSTERY A benefit for Joslyn Castle Joslyn Castle Trust presents “The Eyes Have It”, a radio show whodunit in the era of the Shadow and The Thin Man radio mysteries. Evening includes dinner buffet and cash bar. Advanced reservations are required. Big Band Era attire encouraged!

Joslyn Castle – Omaha – 6:15 P.M. Visit www.joslyncastle.com.

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February 19

February 25

February 26

THE CARNIVAL OF LOVE A benefit for Heartland Family Service Step right up for fun and merriment that builds support to help people help themselves. This fun event includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, silent and live auctions, games, dinner and dessert.

It’s casual attire, so wear your jeans!

Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. Visit www.HeartlandFamilyService.org.

FANDANGO A benefit for Adoption Links Worldwide, an affiliate of Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska Suit up to hit a home run for kids, and sport your favorite baseball gear at this event supporting foster child adoption in Nebraska. Enjoy cocktails, silent and live auctions, dinner and program.

Champions Run – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Visit www.lfsneb.org or call 661-3138.

ST. PETER CLAVER CRISTO REY GALA A benefit for St. Peter Claver Cristo Rey High School This inaugural gala fundraising event borrows the theme of the popular television show, “Dancing with the Stars”. Celebrities from the Omaha area will include well known personalities from business, television and radio, government and education.

Embassy Suites – Omaha Call 734-0167.

February 20 FEATURE III A Film Streams event in support of the Ruth Sokolof Theater Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh will be the special guest for Feature III, during which he will take center stage for a conversation about his extraordinary career-in-progress.

Following the interview will be a celebration with drinks, food, music and dancing.

Holland Performing Arts Center Omaha – 6:30 P.M. Visit www.filmstreams.org.

February 24 CELEBRITY CHEF A benefit for Food Bank for the Heartland This year’s tenth annual event will feature George Duran, chef, author, entertainer and host of TLC’s The Ultimate Cake Off. The evening will feature a cooking demonstration by Chef Duran and will include appetizers during a silent auction followed by dinner and a live auction.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 5:30 P.M. Visit www.FoodBankHeartland.org or call 331-1213.

February 26 JDRF GALA A benefit for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation The theme for this fourteenth annual JDRF Gala is “Big Dreams, Big Hearts …

Real Hope for a Cure.” A VIP reception will be held at 5:00 p.m. and the gala follows with a cocktail hour and silent auction. Dinner is followed by a live auction, Fund-A-Cure, and entertainment.

Qwest Center – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Call 397-CURE (2873).

February 26 EASTER SEALS NEBRASKA’S WINE EVENT 2011 A benefit for Easter Seals Nebraska In addition to superb silent and live auctions and a Vintners Reception, this event includes the Vintners Formal Dinner, featuring some of the country’s most prestigious and knowledgeable vintners and their wines at a multi-course dinner.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 5:00 P.M. Visit ne.easterseals.com.

February 27 ART AND SOUP 2011 A benefit for Visiting Nurse Association This event features incredible soups and desserts created by over 30 Omaha and Council Bluffs best chefs, and original artwork from 55 area artists. Guests will relax to the sounds of smooth jazz and have the opportunity to bid on great silent auction items and packages.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 2:00 P.M. Visit www.thevnacares.org.

February 27 OSCAR NIGHT AMERICA A benefit for Alzheimer’s Association Midlands Chapter The Alzheimer's Association Midlands Chapter has partnered with the Academy of Motion Pictures to hold the only licensed Oscar Night party in the region.

Oscar Night features silent and live auction items, entertainment, cocktails, and dinner, followed by a live telecast of the Academy Awards. Each guest will receive the official Oscar show program given to the stars.

DC Centre – Omaha – 5:00 P.M. Call 502-4301.

mar March 2 SPEAKING OF CHILDREN A benefit for Project Harmony This extraordinary day inspires and informs the community in the fight against child abuse. The day includes morning and afternoon training sessions for professionals, and features luncheon speaker, Andrew Bridge, Fulbright Scholar, Harvard Law Graduate, author, children’s rights advocate and former foster child.

Qwest Center – Omaha Visit www.projectharmony.com.

March 3 2011 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SUMMIT From I to We: Changing the Conversation is the theme of the 2011 Greater Omaha Young Professionals Summit, the place for young professionals interested in contributing to business and the community to gather and get inspired.

The event includes interesting speakers, breakout sessions and interactive discovery activities to get you thinking and engaged.

Qwest Center – Omaha – 8:00 A.M. Visit www.OmahaYoungProfessionals.org.

March 4-5 RESTORE OMAHA CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION Hosted by Metropolitan Community College Now in its sixth year, Restore Omaha is an organization that teaches and motivates the public to restore and preserve older properties. MCC South Omaha Campus – Omaha Visit www.restoreomaha.org.

March 4-6 AMERICAN GIRL FASHION SHOW A benefit for Junior League of Omaha Seven shows for this 16th annual event will be held featuring historically inspired clothing and matching dolls from the American Girl clothing collection, American Girl of Today and the American Girl Bitty Baby collections. Several exciting raffles will be held and each show will feature a silent auction and an expanded and fantastic boutique.

Happy Hollow Country Club – Omaha Visit www.juniorleagueomaha.org.

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March 5

March 12

CRUISE AWAY A benefit for The Stephen Center This year’s theme is “Cruise Away to the Jungle” and will include dinner, dancing, and silent and live auctions. Music will be provided by the Fishheads.

Champions Run – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Call 715-5476.

IRISH FEST A benefit for Catholic Charities Featuring a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, and live auction, this is Catholic Charities’ most entertaining night of the year. Musical entertainment will be provided by Finest Hour and The BroadBand Horns.

Qwest Center – Omaha Call 829-9261.

March 5 COLUMB’S CEILI A benefit for St. Columbkille Parish This annual parish benefit celebration takes its name from the shortened form of St. Columkille and the Celtic word referring to a festive party. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, and silent and live auctions.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 5:00 P.M. Call 339-3285.

March 9 HEROES IN THE HEARTLAND A benefit for the American Red Cross Now in its 11th year, this event honors individuals who have saved another person’s life during the past year or who have positively impacted the quality of life in Northeast Nebraska, Southwest Iowa or the Omaha Metro.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 11:45 A.M. Visit www.redcrossomaha.org.

March 12 BLUE JEAN BALL A benefit for Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska Join the Friends Council of the Make-A-Wish Foundation for this elegant, yet casual evening to help fund wishes for children in Nebraska. Wild About Wishes is the theme for this year’s event, which will include cocktails, dinner, live and silent auctions, and entertainment provided by Tunafish Jones.

Mutual of Omaha Dome – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Visit www.nebraska.wish.org.

March 12 KALEIDOSCOPE A benefit for the Clinical Research Center “An International Affair, Advancing Science for a Global Purpose” is the theme for this year’s University Hospital Auxiliary Kaleidoscope event. Proceeds will help to fund the new Clinical Research Center, which will be located at The Nebraska Medical Center’s main campus.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. Call 552-3510.

March 14 LITERACY ALIVE A benefit for Literacy Center Featured speaker at this event is Jacques Demers, a distinguished figure in the National Hockey League, Stanley Cup-winning coach, and TV commentator.

Demers’ story creates dialogue and helps build common-ground solutions to the issue of adult literacy.

Scott Conference Center – Omaha – 12:00 P.M. Call 342-7323.

March 19 HOLT INTERNATIONAL GALA A benefit for the Ilsan Center Holt International, the country’s oldest and largest inter-country adoption agency, will celebrate its 55th anniversary of serving homeless children at their annual gala dinner and auction. This year, all proceeds will benefit the Ilsan Center in Korea.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 5:30 P.M. Visit www.holtinternational.org/events.

March 19 SPOTLIGHT GALA A benefit for Voices for Children The theme for this annual event continues to represent the organization’s efforts to illuminate the needs of children throughout the state. The evening includes cocktails, silent auction, dinner, awards and live auction.

DC Centre – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Call 597-3100.

March 26 CATHEDRAL COMEDY AND CUISINE Benefitting Saint Cecilia Cathedral Grade School This annual fundraiser is the main source of funding for classroom and capital improvements for Saint Cecilia Cathedral Grade School. This 14th annual event will this year recognize and honor the Sinsinawa Sisters who founded the school 103 years ago.

Fr. Henry Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep – Omaha Call 551-2313.

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vibrations • with sue moon

We start this year with a whollop of a solar eclipse that is slamming doors on old patterns of the past.

It’s such a big year in so many ways. We have Neptune (spirituality/illusion), Uranus (inspiration or chaos), Jupiter

(higher mind) and Chiron (heal old wounds or not) changing their signs this year, that’s a lot of powerful change. On March 11th, Uranus moves into Aries and is going to make aggressive changes in your life. It’s a vital energy that asks to be used strongly and will last until March 6, 2019. That energy will help you creatively uplift your life from inaction to action.

On January 22nd, Jupiter (expansion) moves into Aries (take a leap of faith), until June 4th when it moves into Taurus (contentment/beauty) for a year until June 12, 2012. On April 4th, Neptune returns home to the sign it rules-Pisces. During this time the people of the world will accelerate into a higher spiritual awareness and it lasts until January 27, 2026. Chiron moves into Pisces in April to stay until April of 2018. June brings another set of eclipses, a New Moon partial eclipse at 11 degrees of Gemini on the 1st. June 16th brings a Total Solar Eclipse at 24 degrees of Sagittarius… another summer of closing out the old and personal changes. The theme is accelerated transformation for the peoples of planet earth.

aries

Mar 21 - apr 19

Whatever you thought your purpose in life was is changing in dramatic ways. January closes the door on an old way of life, and you can move to a brand new level. If you don’t know what you want you will be run over and at others dominion. February lightens your load immensely and brings an altruistic love and benefit to your career zone.

There is much more, go for it!

taurus

nOV 22 - dec 21

jul 23 - auG 22

If you have a pet, make sure they are up on their shots and healthy. Don’t neglect your health either. If you feel like redecorating your home, do it,Venus (love & beauty) wants to help you make your home more inviting. Your unusual and crazy relationships are a bit of an overload at the moment, when February comes try some new angles. Your mind is traveling into the higher stratospheres all Feb.; grab a few brilliant ideas and channel them down into your life, this will surprise everyone except you.

apr 20 - MaY 20

January is ‘rock ‘em sock ‘em’ for you! Your philosophies are changing to match the times. Legal matters may look grim, but turn out well. Love is profound and deepens your appreciation of life. In February, look to lucky career moves and a new zest for just what you can do here in your life. An expansive energy has moved into your connection to guides and institutions and is highly beneficial!

gemini

leo

virgo

auG 23 - sep 22

If you have children they are a source of deep emotion in January. Your creativity is being developed in long-lasting and profound ways. Money is good if you are responsible, not so good if you aren’t. In February, the shift will move to work and health. The theme is to be original and innovative.

sagittarius

Your money sector demands some attention and change.

The eclipse in January closes a door on old money issues so that a fresher approach can be seen. Changes in the home are ongoing. February sees you delving deeply into communicating who you are, and if you are a writer, you will be very prolific this month.

dec 22 - jan 19

capricorn

Re-creating yourself continues not only in your exterior but interior too! Saturn lauds your career and friends are filled with love for you! February shifts into bringing out new talents and looking at how you make money-it might need a more original approach. Career is GOOD! jan 20 - feb 18

aquarius

MaY 21 - jun 20

Time for some major rejuvenation for you! New beginnings as doors close on your past. Time to handle some pretty chaotic energies and turn your life into what you want it to be. Don’t worry if you haven’t got a plan just yet, you are still being re-made and your mind is reforming for a grand debut in the years to come. Yes, you will be recognized and appreciated at last!

cancer

jun 21 - jul 22

Hold on, you will be ok, it’s just that Pluto (power/change) and a lot of his friends are re-working your committed relationships. The Eclipse on Jan. 4, has you reeling with relationships changing on you, some deepening, others leaving. By February the shift effects you deeply and someone may be leaving this life. Your career is changing now and bringing you a lot more satisfaction.

www.morningstarcenter.com www.suemoon.com

libra

sep 23 - OcT 22

January continues to bring the focus to your home.

You may move or make some dramatic changes in that area.

Work is good and there is plenty of it- enjoy it while it lasts.

February bring unusual and unexpected fun and joy.

Sometimes that will be with children or a great vacation.

scorpio

OcT 23 - nOV 21

The power of your mind is quite profound these days, and you are on the prowl for deep encounters. You are very attractive now, something you love so much. In February be careful in the home, there is an unpredictable energy at work. A good use of that would be to create a unique atmosphere that is original and completely your own.

Your dreams have got to be “off the charts” weird and inspirational! If your money energy is illusive it is only because you need to be a little more creative in how you earn that. February is a great time to start a different exercise program and re-think how you present yourself to the world. You are a star, let people see that!

pisces

January continues to be a time of confusion on how to reflect yourself out to the world. Friends are changing, change is inevitable and you may be wondering where you fit into all of it. February intensifies your connection to the other worldly by vivid dreams and more. Institutions you work for or are involved in may surprise you, hopefully in a good way.

Sue Moon has been a student of astrology since 1972 and is an experienced journeyman and practitioner in a number of life enhancement disciplines. You can find her astrology materials and dailies at www.suemoon.com and on Facebook. She is locally based at Bright Spirit Center • www.brightspiritcenter.com.

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