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DENNY & JAMIE WALKER OF JET LINX AVIATION
Celebrating Commitment to the Community
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SpiritofOmaha.com
• june 2013
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features / departMents
metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha
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Distributing NOW!
features
events
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cover story & FeatUres
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TAKING OFF
the metroSCENE
departments
denny & jamie walker & jet linx
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metroJUne 2013
BREAKING THE CYCLE boys and girls clubs of the midlands
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FIREWORKS SAFETY
DEB BROCKMANN intuitive empath
national safety council nebraska
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MARY E. VANDENACK high vibrational foods
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pet & animal entHUsiast
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let’s get away from it all
PRETTY IN PINK children’s hnospital & medical center wine, women & shoes
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“hot summer. cool omaha.”
CANINE CUISINE nebraska humane society dining with dogs
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MULBERRY LANE
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TRENDING... beauty • fashion • wellness tips from our local panel of experts
Q&A: TOO MANY COOKS omaha restaurant association
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featured events
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PRETTY IN PINK children’s hnospital & medical center wine, women & shoes
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CANINE CUISINE nebraska humane society dining with dogs
DANCE FEVER outtakes: 46 MAGIC! 62
omaha starsdancing with the
gala
For Dad! 16
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SAVE THE DATE
FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE!
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metroMagazine • JUne 2013
opera omaha
SHOOTING THE COVER WITH ©LAU RIE AND CH ARLES
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June 2013 • voL. 25 no. 6 press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: p.o. box 241611, oMAHA, ne 68124 or e-mailed to: editor@Spiritofomaha.com
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cover STORY
JET LINX
i’m not one of their biggest customers. but everybody there treats me like i’m their biggest customer. ~ LARRY KAVICH JET LINX CUSTOMER
DENNY & JAMIE WALKER JET LINX AVIATION
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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ©LAURIE AND CHARLES
metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha
taking off
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cover STORY
For business traveler Sue Thaden, traveling by private jet through JET LINX is not just a way to maximize face-to-face opportunities with clients and do business more efficiently, it also gets her home at least 34 more nights each year (and she counts every single one) to tuck her children in at bedtime.
ON BOARD for aircraft owners, jet linx takes care of personnel management, pilot training, maintenance, fuel, hangar operations, federal aviation administration compliance and insurance. the company also helps new buyers during the acquisition process, using its corporate buying power to negotiate favorable purchase prices.
for retiree larry kavich, jet linx means he and his wife andi get to travel between their homes in omaha and owners can also capitalize on revenue-generating scottsdale with their “girls”, two standard poodles opportunities by retaining ownership and making the named sadie and belle, accompanying them in the aircraft available for charter, or by offsetting a portion cabin. as he puts it: “i would no more put them in a of ownership. both strategies can help them cover crate on a commercial airline than i would put my some of the costs of owning an aircraft. grandchildren in a crate on a commercial airline.” and as a relatively recent kidney transplant recipient, it also “it helps reduce our cost per flight hour over the long protects his impaired immune system from risky run,” nietzel said. “so as we own this aircraft, we’re exposure to large groups of people in the airport and getting revenue when we’re not using the aircraft. that during crowded flights. helps defray our costs, which can be fairly substantial.” because of jet linx, dick bell, a retired executive, can move up his departure times with no fuss and get home from his travels sooner. and paul nietzel, an aircraft owner representative, has found jet linx to be a means of defraying some of his company’s costs associated with corporate aircraft ownership.
FIRST CLASS
NON-STOP jet linx has grown significantly since 1999, when founder denny walker, who still serves as chairman of jet linx management company today, set out to build a private jet company that would provide “the industry’s best customer service experience”. it’s the little things that make people feel important, like washing their car, delivering a left-behind ipad to a person’s front door, accommodating pets, celebrating personal milestones, and simply making a point to get to know regular clients and learn about their families and interests, jamie walker explained. his clients readily attest to jet linx’s outstanding customer service.
private jet travel was once reserved for the upper echelon—top global executives, world-class celebrities and the politically elite—but it’s becoming more and more accessible to both business and personal travelers through services like jet linx, said president jamie walker. jet linx provides two basic types of services: jet card, which offers two different plans for flyers, and aircraft management services. “i’m not one of their biggest customers,” kavich said. “but everybody treats me like i’m their biggest customer.” jet card programs provide access to a private jet with guaranteed availability and hourly rates. the “it was easy to go with them but now we find it’s easy Longitude Jet Card requires a one-time enrollment to stay with them because of the service we get,” fee and users pay an hourly rate for unlimited flight nietzel explained. “our experience has been nothing hours on any of three sizes of private jets, depending but positive.” on their needs, and no upfront deposit for utilization. the Latitude Jet Card is available in 25-hour “they just do a great job of thinking through all the increments with a prepaid deposit for activation and aspects of what they can do to make it so easy to optional renewal. one-way rates are available, and travel with them for business,”thaden added. “they clients can travel anywhere in the u.s., canada, take all of the ‘what-ifs’ away.” mexico and the caribbean. the company can also provide service to europe, the middle east, africa, ABSOLUTE ALTITUDE asia and south america. with reviews like this, it’s easy to see why the company was ready for expansion within only a few years of its “we have a healthy balance between business users inception, and this is where jamie walker, the founder’s and personal users; we have more personal jet card son, came in. an omaha native who attended college users, more individual clients, but business users at the university of kansas before launching a access the service more,”walker said. successful career in sales and marketing, the younger
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walker was working in new york city in the real estate industry in late 2001. “when 9/11 happened, new york real estate went on pause,” he said. back home, his father’s business was poised for growth but the elder walker was not involved in daily operations. the family business was ready for someone in the family to take it to the next level, so “i took a leap of faith and moved to omaha in 2002,” walker said. “the challenge intrigued me, but it’s been much more challenging than i anticipated.” jet linx’s early success was based on a differentiation from other private jet services that operate massive floating fleets from one central office and utilize thirdparty airport fbos (fixed-base operators). the company established a local base of operation at omaha’s eppley airfield to directly manage every aspect of the customer’s experience, from scheduling through a local representative to departing from a private terminal to flying with familiar pilots. “i know if you ever needed to get to the big cheese at one of their competitors they’d be out of the office or in another city,” kavich said. “you can call jamie or dan (dan longo, jet linx omaha president) and talk to them. i know where to find them, and that kind of makes them a hometown favorite.”
HOMING IN the local emphasis was enhanced by the fact that the walker family was already personally well-connected in omaha through denny walker’s business and philanthropic interests, including the founding of MemberWorks Corporation (formerly cardmember publishing corporation) and Walker Enterprises; serving on the boards of Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands, Boy Scouts of America Omaha Chapter, Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben, TeamMates of Omaha, TeamMates of Nebraska, and other nonprofits. jamie walker is an active member of Ak-Sar-Ben and served from 2010 to 2012 as the chairperson for the Ak-Sar-Ben Floor Committee. as a business entity, jet linx omaha supports numerous community groups. in order to expand, jet linx had to find a way to place that same community-oriented, personal service business model into markets in which the walkers were veritable strangers. as jamie walker explained, the first expansion market, indianapolis, was established through the purchase of a 30-year old local charter company. but subsequent expansion— to dallas, denver, san antonio, scottsdale, st. louis,
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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha
taking off atlanta and houston—was through partnerships with reputable community leaders in each location, where they helped establish the jet linx business model and brand in the local market.
if you measure by reputation, we’ve earned respect in omaha and we’re winning that respect in other communities as we become more established. ~ JAMIE WALKER JET LINX AVIATION PRESIDENT
jet linx also emphasizes safety, earning the highest safety ratings possible in its class and implementing several formal internal safety management systems and training programs, including several in advance of faa requirement. “if you measure by reputation, we’ve earned respect in omaha and we’re winning that respect in other communities as we become more established. it’s gotten us this far, but we can’t just rest on what got us here,”walker said. “as we grow our footprint, we want to be known on a national scale by those who are looking for this kind of service.”
WINDOW OF CONVENIENCE the demand for private jet service continues to grow as more businesses consider the value of time and productivity lost by travelers to the domino effect of delays and cancellations, long waits at airports during the commercial flight process and even travel fatigue. “if you want to avoid the tsa or if you want to get to places that you would otherwise have a hard time getting to and time is of the essence, owning an aircraft is a great business tool,” nietzel said. thaden agreed. “i can do more face-to-face time with more customers and not compromise my ‘tuck-ins’. and i’m more rested and more efficient for the company.” once they’ve tried jet linx service for business travel, many clients will turn to jet linx for personal travel as well, walker said. “jet linx had done an excellent job at hdr so it just carried over for the last two years i’ve been using them,” bell said. “they’re certainly there when i want things done. i have certain expectations and they always know what they are. and they’re very adaptable. i have a habit of always moving up my departures so i can get home earlier, and they’ve always been very flexible.” “i like the way their terminal is set up in omaha. if we’re due to take off at 10:15, we arrive at about ten after and walk straight through the through the lobby, up onto the aircraft. we are in the air in about twelve minutes,” kavich said. “it just eliminates all the stress you would have of not knowing where the plane is going to land
JET LINX
and what time it’s going to land and if you’re going to be stuck on the runway due to some condition.” “it’s the personalized attention, the sensitivity to our needs and our likes and dislikes, catering to them and knowing what we like on our aircraft, knowing our habits,” nietzel said. “some of the larger carriers, they can’t address our needs in the same way that jet linx has.” “their people are very helpful; they seem to understand the service concept and certainly go above and beyond for us. and if we have any issue or problem they jump right on it and solve it,” bell said. “i’ve flown on other carriers and they’re all good, but it just seems that the walkers have the proper formula for success. they’re the type of people i like to do business with.” m
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community leadersHIP
breaking the cycle these are kids that need us. some of our members may have trouble at home or on the street.…if they want to escape that trouble and turn to a safe place, we want to embrace them, invite them in and offer them a better way of life.
“
”
~ IVAN GILREATH
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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha
without organizations like boys & girls clubs of the midlands, individuals that aren’t gifted with opportunities like so many of us couldn’t begin to understand what opportunity looks like.
boys and girls club INSPIRING YOUTH IVAN GILREATH, PRESIDENT AND CEO
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community leadersHIP
CONTINUED
breaking the cycle Itwe arehasmerelybeen said before, the products of our environment. Without organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands, individuals that aren’t gifted with opportunities like so many of us couldn’t begin to understand what opportunity looks like. The organization, which originally began as BOYS CLUBS IN MASSACHUSETTS over 100 years ago, has a rich history of instilling values and creating a safe environment for anyone between the ages of 6 and 18 who are simply willing to look for it. Ivan Gilreath, President and CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands, speaks with a passion for troubled youth one rarely encounters. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands, founded over 50 years ago in 1962, provides a safe haven for kids throughout the Omaha, Council Bluffs and Carter Lake area. Current enrollment stands at 5,000 members with about 1,400 daily visitors to the Clubs, but for Gilreath, clearly it isn’t nearly enough. “Our job is to provide good youth development that will lead them to be productive and caring citizens in society” Gilreath said. In fact, if his job allowed him the time to drive around scouring the streets for troubled youths, it’s obvious he’d do so in a heartbeat.
giving back Gilreath himself grew up in the North Omaha Club. One of five children in a single-parent household, he attributes much of his success to the positive male role models he met during his time there. Only the fifth CEO in the last fifty years, Gilreath received his MBA from the University of Nebraska–Omaha, spending a 28-year career in the for-profit sector, serving as Senior Vice President at Mutual of Omaha and the President of Employee Benefits at ING before taking on the leadership role at the Boys & Girls Clubs. “I have been working with youth all throughout my adult life” he said, “volunteer work, coaching. At some point I thought I would go and work directly with youth. Quite frankly I envisioned this with Boys & Girls Club because that’s where I was raised and learned a lot of my own values.” The Boys & Girls Clubs have an open door policy for all area children ages 6 through 18. This clearly stems
from the passion for the work that is done here and the opportunities it has provided its alumni. The Club has provided over 152,000 member alumni with programming in healthy living, career and academics, character and leadership and the arts over the past fifty years. Gilreath feels that every single child who walks in his doors, without exception–despite their past experiences and missteps along the way–have the power to become caring, respectable and admirable citizens. Thirty dollars covers a yearlong membership, no matter how many times per week youths visit or how late they stay. This membership includes a healthy daily meal (or two during the summer), sports programing, access to the latest technology, tutoring, field trips and more. Last year the Club served over 207,919 meals. Gilreath emphasizes that, while thirty dollars may seem a minuscule amount, it can actually be cost-prohibitive for some families. In such cases, clubs find ways for the youth to earn their way in. “These are kids that need us. Some of our members may have trouble at home or on the street. We don’t make judgments about that. If they want to escape that trouble and turn to a safe place, we want to embrace them, invite them in and offer them a better way of life,” Gilreath asserts.
making education priority The more affluent among us may have the luxury of taking learning for granted. A natural assumption is that any participant in the public education process automatically can or should receive optimal benefit from that educational structure. But not every child enjoys the same educational opportunities or aptitudes, and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands recognizes and responds to these fact of life:
• In the Metro area more than one out of five high school students will not graduate on time. • Nearly 50% of Nebraska students receiving free & reduced lunch fell below state reading test levels.
• In the city of Omaha alone, there are more than 25,000 kids living below the federal poverty
14
level (that’s enough to fill 333 school busses) and each one of these kids is six times more likely to drop out of school than their peers. By maintaining a respectful and collaborative partnership with area school districts, Boys and Girls Clubs positively and emphatically influences those outcomes:
• 96% of current Club members are on track to graduate on time based on date of birth and grade progression.
• The Clubs were open 238 days last year • Our club average daily attendance grew more than 20% last year
• Area Club kids logged 836,193 hours in a Club
last year. If a person were to live that many hours, they would be more than 95 years old!
• 7 years old Club readers in our reading program
who attended the Club at least 3 days per week for 12 weeks gained over a year’s worth of reading skills in that time.
• All high school seniors in our Keystone character and leadership club graduated on time last year.
The Club’s strategy is to hook kids in with fun activities, sports, games, computers and friends while making sure that getting one’s homework done is a precursor to accessing the things that they love. One essential component is a daily schedule at all Clubs which aims to keep order among the youth. While some activities are optional, others are required. “We work hard before we play hard,” Gilreath emphasizes. One major program, Readers to Leaders, is a reading curriculum in which all 7 and 8 year old members are enrolled. For those who finish the curriculum, (estimated to take about 6 months) children are not only guaranteed to learn how to read, but also guaranteed comprehension of the material.
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metroMagazIne • The Spirit of Omaha
boys and girls club INSPIRING YOUTH “Last year we had 596 kids in this program and their average reading level increased one full grade. Their oral fluency increased 37%. Now that’s obviously not just us, but education is one of the key things we’re trying to achieve” Gilreath said.
“We serve a population of kids who rely and thrive on the services we provide,” Gilreath said. “We teach our kids to give back to the community that has given so much to them. The gifts we receive are not only vital for our kids, but for the greater Omaha area as well.”
aware of the age difference
“I think it’s just vital to their futures to have organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs because the value that they provide is immeasurable.”
Many people prefer to forget that they were ever teenagers. For some, the memories are riddled with angst over feeling misunderstood, anger at all the decisions forced upon them, and a general feeling of somewhat terrified helplessness. Combine that with growing up in a poverty stricken neighborhood or with a single parent–and adolescence becomes a daunting challenge to navigate, or perhaps even survive! A newer program which kicked off in March is “The Club”, focused on teenage youths. “The Club” features later hours going until 10 pm Tuesdays through Thursdays and midnight on Friday and Saturday in an effort to give troubled teens late night options. A hot meal is served every night at 8 pm, which for some may be the only meal they receive all day. “We are one of the only organizations that offer hours on weekends for kids, in particular teens,” Gilreath said.
a helping hand In an effort to continue operating, Boys & Girls Clubs hosts a major annual fundraiser, “On the Road” which will be taking place on June 14th. Celebrating its 17th year, this event hosts between 400 and 800 people and aims to educate individuals about the Clubs and garner support. This year, guests will enjoy food, libations, a live auction, and entertainment from talented members of Boys & Girls Clubs at the Jet Linx private air hanger, at 3910 Amelia Earhart Plaza in Omaha. An additional twist–the three highest bidders and one guest will be whisked away that very evening on a private jet to enjoy the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado over the weekend. The package, valued at over $7,500 per couple, includes a roundtrip flight for two on a private jet, two passes to the Food & Wine Classic, and hotel accommodations in Aspen. Guests are being encouraged to arrive with suitcases packed, ready for departure. Tickets for “On the Road” can be purchased online at http://ontheroad.bgcomaha.org or by calling April Koske at (402) 342-1600.
m
Our job is to provide good youth development that will lead them to be productive and caring citizens in society.
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~ IVAN GILREATH
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metro SHOPPER
TOP father’s day gift ideas CELEBRATE DAD! He’s Dad. Pop. Father extraordinaire. He’s amazing and the way you celebrate him should be no different. This Father’s Day, shop Borsheims or borsheims.com for a wide selection of “Dad” gifts, from watches and cuff links to barware with personality, all at the unrivaled Borsheims price.
Borsheims Fine Jewelry and GiFts regency Court • 800.642.GiFt • www.borsheims.com
IT’S A GOOD DAY TO BE A DAD The world’s greatest dad deserves the world’s most delectable cake. Our hand-made cakes are the perfect gift for the man who has everything, even a sweet tooth. These luscious cakes are made with the finest, premium ingredients, including fresh eggs, real butter and cream cheese. Perfect for any occasion, the handcrafted recipes and inspired decorations celebrate special moments with a delightful charm and wit. The best cake you will ever taste, share and give!"
nothing Bundt Cakes one Pacific Place, 10347 Pacific street, omaha, ne 68114 402.933.9305 • www.nothingbundtcakes.com
DAD DESERVES TO BE PAMPERED TOO! Treat dad to a Swedish, deep tissue or hot stone massage or perhaps a relaxing and revitalizing facial customized to his skin’s specific needs. One Drake Place also offers manicures, pedicures and waxing services. Our expertly trained stylists, technicians and therapists are dedicated to providing clients with memorable customer service experiences. Gift certificates available.
one drake PlaCe 12100 west Center road, suite 910, omaha, ne 68144 402.933.7253 • www.onedrakeplace.com
UPDATE HIS LOOK Let us help update his look with personal service and expertise to help him look his best! Unique Clothing, Sportswear & Shoes for Men & Women Since 1966. Free Gift Wrap. Hugo Boss, Diesel, G Star, Hudson, Alternative Apparel, Donald J Pliner, Olukai, Sanuk, Calvin Klein, DKNY, Ted Baker, TOMS, Cole Haan & more! M-F 10-7, Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5
Post & niCkel 108th & w. Center rd., (11015 elm street) rockbrook Village 402.333.5206
DAD’S ARE SPECIAL!
Every dad is different, which can make him a hard person to shop for. So this Father’s Day let dad do the choosing with a versatile gift card, good at his favorite Village Pointe stores and restaurants. Dad can find great gifts to suit his sense of style and lifestyle from Scheels, Jos. A. Bank, Apple, Best Buy, J.Crew, Fossil, Gap and more.
VillaGe Pointe shoPPinG Center 168th and west dodge road • 402.505.9773 • www.VillagePointeshopping.com 16
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bookReVieWS by sandra wendel
great
“FROM THE MOMENT ASHLEY WAS BORN, WE BEGAN ASKING THE QUESTION, WHY? WHY WAS OUR CHILD BORN WITH A HEART DEFECT? WHY DID WE HAVE TO DEAL WITH THIS? WHY DID THIS HAPPEN AND WHAT WENT WRONG?” SONDRA DUBAS SAID.
for Dads!
Rebirth of a Dream A Young Black Man's Fearless Mission to Resurrect His Father's Vision ~ Five Star Clarion Review
“In The Perfect Catch, a simple weekend fishing trip becomes an occasion for an aging father and his three sons to rediscover how much they love each other.” ~ Rabbi Harold Kushner, author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People “Kevin has done it again. He always finds a way to use sports as a backdrop to bring people together. The Perfect Catch is a warm story that will touch you.” ~ Jim Nantz, American Sportscaster Three adult brothers, all husbands and sons with families of their own, join their elderly father for one last family trip. They’re going fishing. Not just any old trip. This is the trip of a lifetime, and likely the last one they’ll do as a family. They’re going to Fredonia, New York, to fish for monster-sized steelheads and brown trout in the tributaries of Lake Erie. The timing is unintentional, but perfect just the same. It’s the week of Thanksgiving. They’ll give thanks together in the beginning of the week, before returning to their own families for dinner on Thursday. Think A River Runs Through It meets Saving Private Ryan. There is a feeling of finality among all those involved. But instead of sadness, there’s great cheer. The adult children of 73-year-old Bob Walsh all sense that this is probably the last time they’ll all be together in reasonably good health. Bob senses it too, paying for the entire guided trip before even asking if his sons were available on the selected dates. It’s not just the people. It’s the fish. Many are on their final life trip too; returning to the exact spot where they were born, to lay and fertilize their eggs to continue their legacy. It turns out this is the perfect place for brothers to connect as adults, with their father bearing witness to the men and fathers his sons have become. It is the perfect time to bond as a family one last time, to have changes of the guard, meaningful conversations, resolve lingering family issues and resentments, and share proud moments and admiration for those we grew up with before it’s too late. And not only are the father and brothers family members; at long last they are now friends too. The Walshes’ journey is not of their own. Readers will vicariously see themselves and their own relationships with their siblings and fathers for how they are, or wish them to be. This is a book for men by men, and the women who love them. The fishing turns out to be fabulous. And as luck or fate would have it, the man who made it all possible caught the largest and most striking fish of all. That’s what makes the large steelhead trout in Bob Walsh’s hands: The Perfect Catch.
Escaping poverty can be like trying to crawl out of the belly of a snake— the constriction of adverse forces leave many feeling frustrated, hopeless, and lost. For Ean Garrett, those forces were particularly binding: His father was murdered in front of him when Garrett was just four years old, his mother suffered from drug dependency, and he endured a foster care system that held him down rather than lifted him up. Yet, amazingly, Garrett didn’t let his circumstances define him or lead him into a life of crime and poverty, a fate suffered by so many people around him. He earned a law degree and became a national spokesperson on the benefit of mentoring. Eventually, he founded the Infinite Institute, an organization that brings leadership training and entrepreneurial opportunities to young black men. Garrett’s drive comes in large part from his father, who also dreamed of rising above his circumstances and finding a life of purpose. “[M]y father was faced with a choice whether to be overwhelmed by his situation or to escape it, and he chose emancipation,” Garrett writes. “With his success he was able to help those around him, while serving as a model of upward mobility.” Although he believes that the rebirth of his father’s dream is what propelled him forward, it is obvious that Garrett has plenty of passion and determination of his own. So often in this inspiring and well-written memoir, Garrett emphasizes that people can elevate themselves as he has, but notes that it takes a level of fierce optimism that cannot be allowed to flicker. That type of ferocity is what allowed Garrett to avoid becoming heavily involved with gangs or addicted to drugs himself. Also, many relatives and friends contributed to bolstering his resolve. Garrett often mentions those who step in to answer his calls for help, and it is this continual wash of gratitude and humility that balances beautifully with the steely tenacity he builds up over time. Garrett’s spare, lean prose works well here, and allows his passion to shine through. He writes, “Every day, my experiences were teaching me that if you want something and are willing to go through hell to get it, then it’s yours.” The relentless determination and humility that Garrett chronicles elevates the work and provides inspiration to those who might be facing the same struggles. In chronicling his journey from poverty and difficulty to success—being a guest on Oprah, meeting Barack Obama, giving a speech on mentoring at the Library of Congress, among so many other notable achievements—Garrett doesn’t shrink from relating his challenging times as well. Along his path, he has made many mistakes and poor choices, but these have served to strengthen his mission to achieve his father’s dreams as well as his own. Adversity can break you or empower you, Garrett believes. Fortunately for him and for anyone looking for a role model to follow, he chose the latter option. This exploration of determination and optimism—against seemingly impossible odds—is an outstanding and touching memoir that resonates long after the last page.
. 17
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trendingnOW metroMagazine
trending...
“hot summer, cool omaha!”
effortless beauty this summer jackie makarov • salon fusion omaha
• As summerapproachesits easy to brighten your look with a few tips from our stylists. Bring on the highlights and start the tan? Almost always less is more. • Ask your stylistabout highlighting only 1-3 levels lighter than your hair. Also consider an outgrown highlight or ombre. These subtle hair color techniques will give your hair a natural summer glow. • Keep your style on trend and stress-free. Aloose side-braid or a braided topknot is a great way to keep your hair •
out of your face. It also transitions to a sultry evening look. Take your braid out, scrunch in a little Tousle Whip from Redken, and you have loose sexy waves. Quick daytime makeupcan be easy and flattering with a few basics. A smoothing yet lightweight concealor can be used as a highlighter on upper lids, above cheek bones and around nostrils. Accent highlighted areas with a bronzer that is only slightly warmer than your own skin for a true sun kissed look. Bold eyelashes are the finishing touch. Try waterproof mascara that contains moisturizers. This will protect your lashes from breaking and mascara from flaking.
revamp! caitlin donahue, personal stylist • oolala! l.a. boutique
• As summer finally approaches the Omaha metro, it’s time to re-vamp your wardrobe! Whether you’re out participating in College World Series events or just trying to survive the hot to frigid air conditioning transition, there are easy solutions. We recommend keeping your light, long sleeve sweaters out since they’re perfect for layering over your summer pieces when it gets cold in the office. Long, breezy dresses are always a must during this season for the woman on-the-go. They’re automatically a complete outfit that only requires a few added touches such as a great bag or a killer necklace. Denim shorts and capri’s are also a summer time staple because of their versatility. Pair them with a short sleeve tee and hat for a daytime look, or a flowy, chiffon top and heels for night. With the right wardrobe, it’s easy to keep cool and look hot for the season!
look hotter and feel cooler this summer gerard stanley, m.d. • sculpt: contemporary cosmetic surgery
• “You only look as good as you feel.” • What happens when you find yourself feeling better than you look? Regardless of your gender, we all want to look & feel good. The whole concept of this trending section is to help us dress better, find a style that really fits us as an individual, or even open up the discussion about how medicine can help you look and feel better. Omaha is in the midst of a renaissance in cosmetic and aesthetic medicine/surgery where minimally invasive procedures have opened doors to allow each of us the opportunity to look and feel our best! Take the time to re-discover yourself, take the time to explore your options because not looking and feeling your best really isn’t an option. There has never been a better time to discuss how you can look hotter and feel cooler this summer! Be Well!
SCULPT • 402.884.6700 • www.sculptomaha.com | Salon FUSION • 402.934-4747 • www.salonfusionomaha.com | OoLaLa! • 402.614.7779 • www.myoolala.com 18
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intuitive empath
by deb brockmann
are you an intuitive empath? “SometimeS i feel crazy. my emotionS are on a roller coaSter. i have anxiety that there iS no logical explanation for. i know when Someone iS upSet becauSe i feel it aS if they were my emotionS.” these are only a handful of the complaints i hear from intuitive empaths. Questions To Ask Yourself that may indicate intuitive empath ability: Are you.... - often exhausted by others? - confused about your own desires, path and purpose? - weepy, overly sensitive and emotional at inopportune times?
Do you... - feel what others are feeling in your emotional and/or physical body? - have the extreme desire to help others even when it means hurting yourself? - have strangers tell you very personal things about themselves even though you didn't ask? - need a lot more alone time than most people even if you don’t actually take it?
Sounds Odd But Feels Right to know about the intuitive empath, you must understand energy. Some call it energetic vibration or vibes. no matter what you call it, the empath must understand that at its basic, everything is energy and you are affected by all energy. if you’ve never heard of energetic vibration or an intuitive empath, this may feel foreign to you. however, most empaths will try anything to feel better; even when it seems farfetched. i ask that you try the following tools for seven days straight and check back in to see how your mood has changed. as an empath you won’t have inner peace unless you are naturally great at setting energetic boundaries. for those of us who have a hard time with saying no and taking care of our emotional self, please try the following tools. they are fast, free and effective. Protect Your Energy from the Outside World a few simple tools will change your world around when you’re an intuitive empath. Bubble up: take 5 seconds (or more) several times a day and imagine yourself in a protective bubble of sparking light. this will strength your energetic body and make it very hard for negativity to move into your space. Don’t worry though! this will allow all love and goodness in freely. Ground Often: with your feet on the floor (or the ground), imagine roots shooting out of the base of your body and feet then extending into the earth. breath in the earth energy. this works well especially when you’re feeling confused, weepy or suddenly emotional. these are two of thousands of ways to care for yourself as an intuitive empath. remember to do these exercises, and others that you may find, on a daily basis. your mind, emotional state, mental well-being and spiritual health will thank you.you’ve given so much for so long. it’s time that you, the empath, cared for you now. it will always feel selfish to you to do so, but fight that empathic instinct and nurture yourself first. everyone else will benefit when you’re at your 100%. The Happiness Chick Deb Brockmann - Intuitive debbrockmann.com 20
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metroMagazIne • The Spirit of Omaha
high vibration foods eating for health • • •
by mary e. vandenack
“May you always be pleased with freedom, both inside and outside of yourself!” in recent weekS, i have been purSuing a path of healing. in purSuit of “We shouldtoconsider day lost on which have not least once.” nutrition Supportevery healing, i reviSiteD theweconcept ofdanced eating at higher “When youfooDS fall inaS love withaSyourself, you begin to feeltothe positive vibration well giving more attention how certain fooDS self-esteem affect me. that comes when we don’t deflate ourselves.” ~ BARBARA BECKER HOLSTEIN “FOUR GATEWAYS TO HAPPINESS” There is disagreement among the experts FROM on whether certain foods fall into the category of high vibration foods but there is general agreement on the concepts that encompass high vibration foods. this article presents the concepts that most authors on the subject agreed upon. food can help or hinder health and energy levels. high vibration foods are considered to be those that contain more energy “life force”. high vibration foods provide positive, uplifting energy to the person consuming them. Such foods enhance the body’s natural ability to rejuvenate. high vibration foods generally are whole, organically grown, locally grown, and in season. farming practices used to grow the foods should be clean and sustainable. foods that should be excluded from a high vibration diet are anything processed or genetically modified and additives, artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated, and refined sugars. High Vibration Food Categories Fruits and Vegetables. choose fresh fruits and vegetables. consider fruits that grow closer to the sun. include lots of leafy green vegetables. Super Foods. lists of superfoods abound. Some of my favorites are chia seeds, kale, turmeric, garlic, sea vegetables, shitaki mushrooms, steel cut oatmeal, blueberries, wheatgrass, spirulina, lentils, ginger, and green tea. the right “superfood” for you is dependent on your body and any conditions. Soy may be good for one person but not for another. rely on your body to let you know what the right foods are for you. experiment with otation diets, food meditations, and food journals to discover how foods really impact you and learn which are best for you. remember that the best food for you at a moment in time may not be the best for you at another time. high vibration eating requires diligent attention to the changing needs of the body. Cacao. cacao is a raw form of chocolate found in the pod fruit of the cacao tree. cacao is considered to contain a host of high vibrational qualities.
by “mulberry lane”
let’s get away from it all...
you were bunDleD up in your puffy parka until mother’S Day. you wore your well-worn mittenS to moSt of the Spring Soccer gameS. inSteaD of SanDalS, you wore uggS to your Daughter’S Softball practice. anD you nearly loSt it when you haD to Dig out the kiDS’ gloveS on may Day. But if you’ve spent more than a few seasons in nebraska, your mind automatically taunts you with one thought. what if mother nature decides to make up for the cold snowy spring by bringing us an insanely hot, humid summer? you see, nebraska weather is much like a jerky boyfriend. for a few days, he shines warm loving attention on you, and you’re wondering why you ever thought of leaving. but then out of nowhere, he gives you the cold shoulder–leaving you in such a depressed state that you don’t want to leave the house, let alone figure out what to wear. and you really contemplate moving to california. but look at the bright side. you got through it and you seriously honed your survival skills, like staying in the van with the heat on during baseball practice. you mapped every coffee drive-thru from your house to the practice field. got the punch cards to prove it. but now that we’re firmly planted in summer and our chilly spring has passed, it’s time for you to take your own “spring break.” odds are you never got one, or if you did, it was probably snowing. each of us sisters will share our idea of “getting away”–and maybe you’ll be inspired to take your own little “break.” Rachel: i take a morning oasis every once in a while, and instead of hitting the floor running, i get up earlier, grab a few magazines i haven’t had time to read, and get a drivethru coffee before everyone in the house is awake. i find a sunny spot outdoors, enjoying magazines without interruption (like, for instance, might i suggest: metroMAGAZINE?) Bo: my hubby and i take our two little kids to a local hotel and we’ll have a mini-vacation in town. complimentary breakfast, indoor swimming pool, room-service-pizza & movie-night, and knowing i don’t have to go far if i forgot something... not much planning, not much luggage, not much hassle–just relaxing fun. Allie Kat: my “break” is staying up late. i’ve been a night owl since i was a kid. i love it when my 3 year old is fast asleep and i can do whatever i want for a few hours. whether it’s writing a song or online shopping, it’s most likely accompanied by a glass of wine.
Goji Berries. goji berries are rich in antioxidants, amino acids and multiple nutrients. Reiki Infused Foods. Some experts say that the use of reiki to energize and activate food raises the vibration of the food.
and don’t forget to join us every Saturday from 10–noon on the mighty 1290 koil for “your weekend getaway.”
Raw Foods. foods that are raw or minimally processed retain more of their natural ingredients.
you’ll meet inspiring local and national musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs to help you keep your creative mojo. best part? because it’s radio–it doesn’t matter what the weather does–get your “getaway” every weekend with us!
Sea Salt. natural sea salt contains significant vitamins and minerals. Eating Habits. good eating habits can support the energy of high vibration foods. eat in moderation. eat mindfully. be present to the process of eating. avoid eating in the car, at your desk, on the run. chew food thoroughly. notice the effect of the food on your body. Eating Environment. to the extent possible, create a calm and pleasant eating environment. turn off external distractions. express gratitude for and bless your food. Mary Vandenack, while a lawyer by profession, has studied extensively in mind/body areas of fitness and wellness. She is Yoga Alliance RYT-200, Power Pilates certified and ACE certified.
You can hear “The Mulberry Lane Show,” a music, arts, and lifestyle talk show every Saturday morning on The Mighty 1290 KOIL from 10am – noon, brought to you by Elisa Ilana Jewelry. Visit www.facebook.com/mulberrylane. 21
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pet&animal enthusiast paemagazine.com
getting away
SAFELY
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY • PROJECT PET SAFE
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3.
2. 1.
1. Petchup: Petchup now has even more varieties for both dogs and cats! Muttstard (for dogs) turkey flavored, Catsup (for cats) salmon flavored, Meowstard (for cats) turkey flavored, Petchup (for dogs) beef flavored.
2. ZEN™: ZEN™ is the perfect holistic remedy to help reduce your dog’s anxiety. Just add it to their water. Whether due to thunderstorms, fireworks, owner separation, or veterinarian visits (just to name a few!), help reduce Fido’s anxiety and keep his tail wagging with ZEN™.
3. Primal freeze-dried:
5.
Primal freeze-dried dog food offers you the convenience and benefits of a well-balanced, safe and wholesome rawfood diet without having to grind, chop, measure or mix the ingredients yourself. Available in beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, or duck.
4. Kool Collar: Kool Collar helps keep your dog cool, safe and comfortable in warm weather. Melting ice acts as artificial perspiration keeping your pet cool.
5. Banana Split Wafers: Banana Split Wafers are back for summer! These drool-icious treats come in a combination pack of banana- and peanut-flavored biscuits with cherry and carob chip cookies, too.
4.
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STORY BY ALLISON JANDA • PHOTOS COURTESY OF NHS
cover story
••• getting away safely PROJECT PET SAFE PROTECTS FURRY VICTIMS
SPECIAL BONDS ARE CREATED THROUGH PET OWNERSHIP– THE MUTUAL FEELING OF NEEDING AND BEING NEEDED. ABANDONING A FURRY FAMILY MEMBER IS OFTEN UNTHINKABLE, EVEN WHEN IT MEANS REMAINING TRAPPED IN A DOMESTICALLY VIOLENT RELATIONSHIP. For those of us who are not the direct victims of domestic violence, an issue that affects millions of men and women, it might be easy to be critical of individuals trapped in a cycle of abuse. However, for victims, staying sometimes seems less dangerous than leaving, especially when another life is threatened by one’s own efforts to escape. “You’ll never see your dog again” or “I’ll kill the cat if you ever leave” are words meant to paralyze their victims. And often they hit the target, for should a victim manage to escape, their pets often have nowhere to go.
A SAFE ALTERNATIVE Shelters offer abuse victims and their children temporary reprieve until suitable housing is found. Yet before Project Pet Safe came into being, the Nebraska Humane Society regularly received phone calls from WCA (at the time the YWCA.) Women looking to escape violence in their homes were hesitant to leave without household pets, but abuse shelters could not accept animals. The Nebraska Humane Society, aware that these threats against animals in violent homes were real, responded with a carefully conceived program.
hoped to achieve. Already in place when Denise Gurss, Director of Shelter Training and Behavior, entered her role with NHS, Project Pet Safe was a need that she says was born of necessity.
JUNE/JULY 2013 VOL. 3 NO. 6/7 www.PAEMagazine.com
“People that abuse an animal will usually go on to abuse a human.” she says. “That’s part of the joint effort of the advocate and the Humane Society to say ‘this isn’t a good place for you or your pets. Let us help you out, let’s get you on your feet and get on with your life in a better way.’” Individuals fleeing an abusive situation don’t always have sufficient funds, so free of charge, Project Pet Safe requires only that its services are shared with other victims of domestic violence. Last year, the program required over $8,000 in funds from a budget which Gurss and her team attempt to supplement through underwriting grants. The program wasn’t created to generate income; it was made to assist individuals needing an out. “We will work with victims of domestic violence, male or female, as long as they have an advocate and are working on a program to get themselves out of the situation and not go back” she said.
CONTACT PET & ANIMAL ENTHUSIAST P.O. BOX 241611 • OMAHA, NE 68124 402-932-3522 ADVERTISING/SALES INQUIRIES sales@SpiritofOmaha.com PRESS RELEASES/GENERAL INQUIRES information@SpiritofOmaha.com Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Pet & Animal Enthusiast Magazine 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 2013 Pet & Animal Enthusiast Magazine. All rights reserved.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andrea L. Hoig EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Robert P. Killmer CONTRIBUTIONS Wendy Moore COVER MODELS Wendy Moore CONTINUED
ABBY
GETTING STARTED Knowing that domestic violence went beyond the Omaha metro, The Humane Society began researching pet safe programs along the west coast which provided services similar to what NHS
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JUN/JUL REMEMBER TO LOVE
PROJECT PET SAFE
CONTINUED
cover story
••• getting away safely
here for the “We’re animals we’re trying to help them and their people go forward with their lives.
”
~ DENISE GURSS NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY
CREATING OPPORTUNITIES
CRINGER
While every situation is unique, the program generally houses animals for no longer than two weeks. In addition to being boarded free of charge, pets are brought up to date medically and given lots of extra care and attention. Through these efforts, Gurss hopes to keep animals at the shelter rather than placing them within private home situations that may increase a pet’s fear and anxiety. “I can’t keep an animal here if it’s mentally not handling it well” said Gurss. In these situations, she may encourage individuals to look into giving pets up for adoption. She divulged that most victims, especially those that have children, understand it may be time to give their pets a chance at a better life, such as they themselves hope to achieve.
CAROLINE
BUSTER
Anyone able to get a pet to the Omaha metro is granted access to the program. While humane society officers can’t retrieve pets from domestically violent homes due to safety concerns, they have been known to meet pet owners fleeing in the middle of the night at the Humane Society. Gurss herself normally answers her phone until 10 pm unless she’s currently involved in a case, when she has been known to leave her phone on at all hours. Pet owners evading dangerous settings without informing friends and family can also leave pets in the 24-hour drop box, located at the front of the building, where animals will be retrieved by staff in the morning. “We’re here for the animals we’re trying to help them and their people go forward with their lives,” says Gurss. Nebraska Humane Society 8982 Fort Street • Omaha, Nebraska 68134 (402) 444-7800 9 a.m. -7 p.m. Weekdays 10 a.m. –5 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. -5 p.m. Sundays
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••• adopt a shelter cat FROM THE NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY
••• ask the vet VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS OF OMAHA
JUNE IS ADOPT A SHELTER CAT MONTH.
PREVENTIVE HEALTHCARE FOR CATS
WHY? THAT’S WHEN, NATIONWIDE, THE PROBLEM OF CAT OVERPOPULATION HITS A CRISIS POINT AND SHELTERS FILL UP WITH FELINES. IT HAPPENS EVERY SPRING. CATS WHO ROAM FREELY BEGIN REPRODUCING AND LITTERS OF KITTENS COME THROUGH THE DOORS.
THE AMERICAN ANIMAL HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION AND THE AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION HAVE PAIRED UP TO DEVELOP PREVENTIVE FELINE HEALTHCARE GUIDELINES TO HELP VETERINARIANS AND CAT OWNERS KEEP CATS HEALTHY AND HAPPY.
At the Nebraska Humane Society, summer is known as “kitten season.” EARLY EACH YEAR we gear up for kitten season by recruiting Guardian Angel Foster Care families. These volunteers truly save lives. They take kittens out of the shelter and into their homes, nurturing the babies until they are weaned and old enough for pediatric spaying and neutering. Many of the kittens are adopted right out of their foster homes. Others come back to the shelter, or are placed for adoption at area PetsMart stores. Foster care not only provides a healthy, social environment that allows the kittens to thrive and become more adoptable, it also frees up kennels at the shelter for cats who are ready for adoption—a win/win situation. IN AN EFFORT TO CURB our ever-multiplying cat population, the Nebraska Humane Society has embarked on a mission to spay and neuter cats in our community. A year ago the doors of the Nebraska Humane Society Low Cost Spay Neuter Center opened. In our first year we spayed and neutered more than 5000 animals, including many free roaming cats, who are trapped, neutered and returned to their homes. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs coupled with a high quality, high volume clinic have been successful in reducing cat populations in several cities. Our goal is to do the same for Omaha. The center provides high quality spaying and neutering for cats and dogs, and offers low income families assistance. Information is available online at www.omahaspayneuter.org. HOW CAN YOU HELP? Celebrate cats this month! Alter your pets, don’t allow your cats to roam, and consider adopting a shelter cat. At NHS, all cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, have had first vaccinations, and have been tested for feline leukemia and FIV. Additionally, cats offer companionship but require less space than dogs. They don’t have to be let out. They don’t require walks or games of fetch. They purr. They warm laps. And they will show you their vulnerabilities when they are truly comfortable. So adopt a cat this month…you’ll be saving his or her life, and enriching yours too!
Cat Trivia: • A cat’s skeleton is very close to that of a human,but its lack of shoulder blade is what gives its forelegs the ability to turn in just about any direction. • Helping with movement, a cat has 290 bones and 517 separate muscles. • A cat uses his whiskers to determine whether his body will fit through an opening. • Cats, camels and giraffes are the only four footed animals that walk by moving their front and hind legs first on one side and then the other. • Domesticated cats have been known to reach running speeds of 25 miles an hour-- a frightened cat can run 30 miles per hour. • A group of adult cats is called a clowder and a group of kittens is called a kindle.
All medical professionals are increasing their reliance on scientifically grounded clinical guidelines to improve patient health, quality of care, and quality of life. Veterinarians recognize the usefulness of these guidelines in elevating the standard of care they can provide to their feline patients. The guidelines can ultimately help cats live longer and healthier lives. We know that most cats do not receive the level of veterinary care that they need and deserve, mostly because they don’t visit their veterinarian frequently enough. These cats are missing out on regular wellness care, and their owners aren’t taking advantage of professional health guidance from their veterinarians, both of which can help extend cats’ lives. What are the details of the preventive healthcare guidelines that apply to my cat? The guidelines recommend that all cats receive a complete veterinary examination at least once a year, although many cats should be seen more frequently, depending on their individual needs and health concerns. The visit should include a review of the cat’s recent history, lifestyle, life stage, activities of daily living, general behavior, and diet. The physical examination itself should include a dental assessment, pain assessment, and body condition scoring. All cats should receive a complete veterinary examination at least once a year. Contact VCA 80 Dodge Animal Hospital or VCA Animal Medical Center of Omaha to schedule your cat’s free first exam appointment today! VCA 80 Dodge Animal Hospital 8022 West Dodge Road, Omaha, NE 68114 • 402-509-6090 VCA Animal Medical Center of Omaha 2323 South 64th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68106 • 402-507-4847 pet & ANIMAL enthusiast | 27
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FROM THE PAGES OF THREE DOG BAKERY COOKBOOK • THREE BY DANBOG DYEBAKERY & MARKCOOKBOOK BECKLOFF REPUBLISHED FROM THE
JUN/JUL
••• ginger's fourth of july snaps
recipe:
MAKES 18 CRISPY, CRUNCHY SUMMERTIME SNACKS. MAKING THESE COOKIES IS A SNAP AND THE RESULTS WILL BE EXPLOSIVE!
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
• • • • • • • • • •
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. • In a bowl, combine molasses, honey, water and oil. • In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and pecans. Stir dry mixture into wet and mix well. • On a lightly floured surface, knead and roll out dough to 1/4-inch thick, then cut into shapes. • Place on a greased backing sheet and back for 20 minutes. • Cool on a rack then store in a sealed container.
1/2 cup molasses 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup vegetable oil 3 cups white flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 2 tablespoons ground ginger 1/4 cup chopped pecans
••• in-the-pen-dence day FIRECRACKERS CAN TURN YOUR PUP INTO A RAGING TERROR. KEEP PETS INDOORS AND COMFORT THEM WITH TREATS AND EXTRA LOVE. THIS IS CALLED DESENSITIZATION-INTRODUCING YOUR DOG TO SCARY SITUATIONS, THEN REWARDING HIM POSITIVELY.
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BY JAKE THACKER • EXECUTIVE MANAGER & PASTRY CHEF
••• from the chef keeping your pet during summer’s dog days
CHEF’S COLUMN JUN/JUL
cool
ALTHOUGH MY MAIN AREA OF EXPERTISE COULD BE CONSIDERED SPECIALTY DOG FOODS AND TREATS, HAVING WORKED IN A ALTHOUGH MY MAIN AREA OF EXPERTISE COULD DOG STORE FOR ALMOST SIX YEARS HAS EXBE CONSIDERED SPECIALTY DOG FOODS AND TREATS, POSED ME TO SOME REALLY COOL DOG PRODHAVING WORKED IN A DOG STORE FOR ALMOST SIX YEARS UCTS. (YES, THAT PUN WAS INTENDED. AND HAS EXPOSED ME TO SOME REALLY COOL DOG PRODUCTS. (Yes, that pun was intended. And yes, you’re allowed to groan.) With summer quickly approaching (Let’s hope! What was with that snow in May?!), it’s important to consider that dogs can easily become overheated. This excess heat can lead to serious problems such as heatstroke and other heatrelated health problems for your dog. One of my absolute favorite products I use to prevent this from happening to my dogs and recommend to my customers’ dogs is the KoolCollar. This easy-to-use invention works great both indoors and outdoors. CeCe, my Shih Tzu/Brussels Griffon mix, is a furry, furry girl! When we go out to the lake in the summer, she and my boss’ two Shih Tzus, Chuckles and Maurice, all have to wear their KoolCollars to keep, well, cool. It’s easy for us have a tiny cooler full of ice cubes that we can continue to fill their KoolCollars with as the ice melts down in the collars throughout the day. Since dogs don’t sweat like we humans, the KoolCollar’s melting ice creates an “artificial sweat” that promotes evaporative cooling for our furry friends. For me and my boss, it’s easy to tell that the Shih Tzus know it works; they expect to have their KoolCollars put on when we have our weekly day off at the lake.
My black Labrador Retriever mix, Jaz, can easily become hot under the sweltering summer sun, even if she’s just outside for a bit to go to the bathroom. With the purchase of a KoolCollar, you get both the collar and a KoolTube freezer tube. The freezer tube is a synthetic ice cube tube that slips in the collar. The KoolTube is great because it allows Jaz, a sloweddown senior girl, to stay cool while napping for hours on end in her bed on summer days without worry of water leaking from melting ice. KoolCollars come in three sizes: Small (11”-17.5”); Medium (17.5”-24”); and Large (24”-30”). The collars also available in blue, black or red as an added bonus. With the purchase of a KoolCollar, you also get one of the KoolTubes. However, if you would like, extra KoolTubes can be purchased separately. If you have any questions about KoolCollars or would like for your dog to try one on for size, we’d love to have you stop in at either one of our locations at Village Pointe or Midtown Crossing at Turner Park.
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pet & ANIMAL enthusiast | 29
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SPONSORED BY HEARTS UNITED FOR ANIMALS • WWW.HUA.ORG
••• legacy of love amazing makeover
THE GREATEST GIFT WE CAN GIVE OUR COMPANION ANIMALS IS TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT THEY ARE CARED FOR IF SOMETHING SHOULD HAPPEN TO US. UNFORTUNATELY WE CAN TELL YOU STORY AFTER STORY OF DOGS AND CATS WHO WERE ABANDONED AFTER THEIR PEOPLE PASSED AWAY.
Consider that out of every litter of 7 puppies, 5 of them will have 3 different homes by the time they are 2 years old. Only 1 out of 7 will live in the same home for its entire life. An older dog will fare even more poorly, often deemed not adoptable at a city shelter. Think carefully about the needs of your companion and make the decision in advance about who will care for them. Discuss it with the person you have chosen. Talk to them about the animal's needs and be sure they are willing to undertake the responsibility. Include the information about the caretaker in your will. For those who do not have a family member or friend who will happily take on the responsibility of caring for your pet, Hearts United for Animals has created the Legacy of Love program. HUA has prepared a booklet that lists all of the information that anyone would need to care for your precious friend. The categories and detail are extensive to insure that you don’t forget anything. Mary Williamson of Omaha recently passed away, leaving behind Mo, a Standard Poodle, as her only surviving family member.
HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED WHAT WOULD HAPPEN TO YOUR PETS IF SOMETHING HAPPENED TO YOU?
As a long time supporter of HUA, Mary knew that providing for Mo in her will was important. When HUA heard of Mary’s passing Mo was picked up and immediately taken to a veterinarian for a check up and then taken to the HUA Sanctuary where he was provided comfort and love while he grieved the loss of his dear person. Mo tugged at the heartstrings of a good former adopter and was soon off to his second home where he is enjoying his new life of love and happiness. Mo’s adopter loved learning all about Mary. She was a woman of great importance, not only to Mo, but to her friends, family, students and to the history of the United States. Mary was one of the first WASPS (Women Air Force Service Pilots), having served in World War II. She was also an accomplished Professor of Communications at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her most cherished role however, was as caregiver for Mo. She left this world at peace knowing that she had provided well for him, as well as for other animals at the Hearts United for Animals, a no-kill shelter and sanctuary. Mo’s person has gladly made the promise to Mary’s friends that he will return to Mary’s memorial service this summer to help say his final good-byes and pay tribute to this wonderful woman of distinction, or as he knew her, “mom”.
Protecting your animal companion.
Pet owners have several options available to them to ensure the care of their animals in the event of death or hospitalization. PVW can customize a trust that provides for the continued care for one’s pets in the event the owner is no longer able to care for his or her pets.
5332 South 138th Street, Suite 100 | Omaha, Nebraska 68137
(402) 504-1300
www.pvwlaw.com 30 | pet & ANIMAL enthusiast
Please write to lori@hua.org to learn more about the Legacy of Love program.
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FEET
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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets
Camp Kindness Summer Camp for Kids Don’t miss out! Register your children for our summer day camps for kids. This camp is a surehit with young pet lovers. Campers get hands-on experience with pets and wildlife, interact with dog trainers, wildlife rehabbers and veterinarians and generally have a doggone great time. Camp Kindness runs June to August in week long, half day, sessions. To register or find out more check our website at www.nehumanesociety.org/campkindness
Bone Jour Dog Daycare This is your one stop shop for doggie daycare, grooming and even overnight boarding. 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 dog-todog-sitter ratio in the metro. Your dog will have a “good day” of fun and leave tired and happy. And if you plan a vacation, he can stay overnight with the same dedicated staff that he loves during the day. 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. Karen McCormack-Carlson and Jack
Karen McCormack-Carlson If you walk into Robert Max Opticians in Countryside Village, you’ll see a tall, dark, handsome guy named Jack. He won’t be greeting you at the door, but, instead, might be sprawled on the floor or snoozing next to the settee. He’s Optician Karen McCormack-Carlson’s companion of 11 years, and he’s perfect. “I got him at just 12 weeks old,” explains Karen, “he was visiting the Bookworm here at Countryside and he was irresistible.” Jack began going to work almost immediately, which was a plus for potty and obedience training . “He fit right in from the beginning. He was never a crazy puppy,” says Karen, “he’s always been kind of laid back.” Mellow is the word that comes to mind for this gentle 12 year old who is easy going and easy to be around. Still, Karen takes precautions to keep the harmony. “When a toddler comes in, I give him a look and he’ll go downstairs until the client is finished and out the door.” Are these two on the same wavelength? We think so!
www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!
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Call Bone Jour for scheduling at (402) 5712273, Bone Jour Grooming at (402) 571-8200 or visit www.Bonejour.org.
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event galleries
scene OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM FOR THE KIDS BENEFIT
ROCK THE NEST “TRIVIA NIGHT”
FONTENELLE FOREST GUILD FEATHER OUR NEST
LIZ’S LEGACY 8TH ANNUAL KICKS FOR A CURE
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
CREIGHTON PREP BASH
CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE CABARET
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER WINE WOMEN & SHOES
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY DINING WITH DOGS
Purchase photos from these events online or from your smartphone, and metroMAGAZINE will donate 10% back to that organization. Join us in giving back! Enter the code “GIVE10” on the checkout page of your shopping cart. • please remember to trade with our advertisers, whose support helps make the publication of these important events possible
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eVenT
spotlight metroMagazine
children’s hospital & medical center
THE RAINBOW HOUSE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA HOIG & ROGER HUMPHRIES
pretty in pink
THE SHOE GUYS
LORI SCOTT, AMY SCOTT AND SANDY PARKER 38
Around 260 women gathered to sip, savor and shop at the first-ever Wine, Women & Shoes to benefit Children’s Hospital & Medical Center’s Carolyn Scott Rainbow House at Happy Hollow Club. The May 10 event raised $115,000. Attendees tasted luxury wines from world-class California vintners while they shopped a fabulous Marketplace, full of hot shoes, cool jewelry and stylish accessories. Guests also enjoyed live and silent auctions, a raffle drawing and delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts–with many of the recipes from Carolyn Scott’s own kitchen. The Shoe Guys–handsome and helpful volunteers who presented shoes and jewelry on silver trays–were just another unique element that made this new fundraising concept a huge hit. Honorary chairs were Sandy Parker, Amy Scott and Karen Dixon. Ellen Wright and Erin Pogge served as the event’s co-chairs. WOWT’s Malorie Maddox was the evening’s emcee. Sassy and sophisticated décor was provided by Kyle Robino of Old Market Habitat. “We are grateful to our incredible chairs and our hard-working Wine, Women & Shoes committee who made this new event so special and successful,” said Roger Lewis, executive director of Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation. “I know the children and families we serve at the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House will be thankful, too.” The Carolyn Scott Rainbow House Since 1983, the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House has provided lodging and support to thousands of parents and family members of children receiving services at Children’s who live 60 miles or more away from Omaha. In 2012, the Rainbow House served around 2,000 families from more than 25 states. There is no formal charge to stay at the Rainbow House—just a small suggested donation. True to Children’s mission, no one is turned away if they are not able to pay. It was the dream of community advocate Carolyn Scott to build this special home away from home for Children’s families. The original Rainbow House opened in a remodeled apartment building on the present site in 1983–just a few weeks before Mrs. Scott passed away. The need for the Rainbow House continued to grow, confirming Mrs. Scott’s vision, and the original facility was expanded in 2000. Children’s is currently planning a major redevelopment project to enlarge the facility and continue to meet the needs of patient families.
metroMAGAZINE • JUNE 2013
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| wine, women & shoes
SHARON MCDERMOTT, DAVID SCHNEIDER, MINDY DUFF AND JANE OLSEN
FROM STATEMENT KRISTEN GEISSINGER AND MEGAN GEISSINGER
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
SUSAN KNAPP, VANITA LUND, CINDY IRVINE AND LORI MOEHN
NICKI DEREN AND GINA MCDEVITT WITH THE SHOE GUYS
ERIN POGGE WITH DAUGHTER, BROOKE ANN
ANDEE HOIG, MARY LOU BRASEE, MELANIE HECKER AND LUCY NEWBERRY
KATIE VAP, AMIE KROEGER AND MALORIE MADDIX
CYNDY PEACOCK, CONNIE RYAN AND LAURA CROBSY
SHELLEY CALLAHAN, ROXANNE HALEY AND MELISSA MARVIN
JESSICA BLACKMAN AND SANDY SIDEBOTTOM
KAREN HAWKINS, ELLEN WRIGHT AND LORETTA PATTERSON
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eVenT
spotlight metroMagazine
nebraska humane society
FRIENDS FOREVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA HOIG
canine cuisine ESSENTIALS:
The Friends Forever support guild of the Nebraska Humane Society held its bi-annual Dining with Dogs event in late April at the DoubleTree Hotel. Over 450 humans attended along with 200 plus delighted dogs. Three Dog Bakery was on hand to serve delectable dinner treats to the tail-waggin’ attendees. The Nebraska Humane Society (NHS) was founded in 1875 and is the fifth oldest Humane Society in the United States. NHS provides education, gives sanctuary to animals, encourages adoptions and promotes responsible pet ownership. By providing animal control services to much of the metro area, NHS also serves the community by upholding laws enacted for the protection of people and animals. For more information visit www.NEHumaneSociety.org or call 402.444.7800
KATIE AND MICK MINES WITH JUDY VARNER
CELLA QUINN, MAC MCCALLUM AND SMILEY
ANNE THORNE WEAVER WITH HONEY 40
EMILY, RACHEL AND SARAH DOLL WITH DUDLEY AND BUDDY
metroMAGAZINE • JUNE 2013
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| dining with dogs
CECE
JOHN AND AMY THOMAS WITH BARRETTE
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
JUDIE AND STEVE OLSON WITH CHEWY AND MOLLY One hundred and seventy people came together during the cocktail hour at this event where a representative from each of the seventeen groups came forward and selected a knife from a knife block with the name of a chef/restaurant. The chosen chef came out to greet his group of ten and ushered them back to his table where they were winded and dined by him for the rest of the evening. Each chef provided a five course meal with pairings. At the end of the night each chef came forward to offer their food and services for a party of ten in their homes to be auctioned off. This auction alone brought in $18,500. The Hilton Omaha served as very gracious host for the evening. Chairs for this event were Chef Bobby Mekiney from Vivace, Chef Glenn Wheeler from Spencer's, Dan Preusser from Omaha Steaks and Jennie Warren, Executive Director of the Omaha Restaurant Association.
LINDA FORD WITH GINGER
TOM SIMON AND GORDON KRENTZ WITH MO AND GUS For more information visit www.dineoutomaha.com.
Browse & Buy from dozens of photos from this event!
MELODY STARK, JOHN EBDON AND DAN MARTIN WITH JAX
Our Photo Store has hosted Over 17,000 visitors purchasing from over 25,000 event photos! http://metroscene.zenfolio.com/recent.html
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
event GALLERIES
Getthemtothe GREEKS creighton prep BASH
Over 645 guests gathered in The Heider Center on Saturday, April 20 as Prep hosted its 43rd annual fundraiser. Amy Knight, special events coordinator for Prep, said the successful event netted over $685,000. BASH plays a very important role in Prep’s ongoing commitment to deliver educational excellence to over 1,000 young men. The monies raised during BASH are a key component in our ability to keep tuition affordable for everyone, as well as to provide more than $1.75 million in financial assistance annually to approximately 45 percent of our students.
SCOTT AND KARLA CASSELS AND MICHAEL AND DONNAMARIA GIAMBELLUCA WITH FR. ANDY ALEXANDER S.J.
LAURA SMITH AND KATHY LANGDON
The evening started at 5 p.m. with a social hour and silent auction featuring over 370 items. The gourmet dinner was provided by Abraham Catering. The evening ended with the $10,000 raffle drawing and a live auction that included 40 items. Some of the highest bidding items included a gourmet dinner with Prep’s future president Michael Giambelluca and his wife Donnamaria, a Breckenridge getaway, a Prep themed video arcade designed by a Prep student Connor McCoy ‘13, a Travel and Transport gift certificate, Nebraska vs. Minnesota game tickets with private air transportation and Berkshire Class B stock.
JILL PETERSEN, FR. GEORGE SULLIVAN S.J. AND TERRY PETERSEN
In its 10th year, Prep's online auction, eBASH, featured 280 items and brought in over $70,000. Items included skybox tickets to all Nebraska home football games, a collection of fine wine, Orange Bowl tickets, a Las Vegas weekend getaway, a golf getaway to Stonewall Golf Club in Philadelphia, tickets to the Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood and Bon Jovi concerts and many custom-made Prep items, autographed memorabilia and much more.
PREP STUDENTS
PETER AND CHRISTINA PIPERIS WITH NATASA AND DIMITRI KATSAVELIS
KIM AND CHAD MEYER WITH TERRI HALLER AND DANEEN PIEPER
Executive committee chairmen and women were Pat Barrett ’76, John Belford, Jan Braun, Kristi Kellen, Suzanne Kotula, Tom Nichting, Jill Petersen and Christina Piperis. For more information visit www.PrepBASH.com. CREIGHTON PREP PRESIDENT ANDY ALEXANDER, S.J. ’66, CHRISTINA PIPERIS, PAT BARRETT ’76, KRISTI KELLEN, JOHN BELFORD, JILL PETERSEN, JAN BRAUN, TOM NICHTING, SUZANNE KOTULA AND EVENT COORDINATOR AMY KNIGHT
PHOTO BLOCKS BENEATH THIS TY AD BOX
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SatiricalHILARITY child saving institute CABARET
LEIF ERICKSON, ANDY AND DICK HOLLAND WITH MARIAN LEARY
JOHN AND CARRIE JENKINS WITH GAIL AND SHANE GRAEVE
On Saturday, May 11, nearly 600 guests enjoyed the hilarious political satire of Capitol Steps at Child Saving Institute’s 21st annual Cabaret fundraiser for at-risk kids. The ballroom at Embassy Suites La Vista was decorated with a patriotic theme featuring red, white and blue flags—all to set the mood for the beltway MAHA troupe. Cabaret 2013 raised more than comedy $275,000 for the children, youth and families served by Child Saving Institute programs. Cabaret 2013 was hosted by CSI's Board. Honorary Chairmen were Lori & W. David Scott. Benefit Chairmen were Gail & Shane Graeve and Co-Chairmen Carrie & John Jenkins. KETV Channel 7 was the media sponsor and KETV NewsWatch 7 Senior Anchor Rob McCartney, along with Gail Graeve, served as event emcees.
DAVID AND LORI SCOTT
ED AND BEV BURCHFIELD WITH MARY AND REGENT HAL DAUB
Money raised from the evening will support CSI’s emergency shelter, intensive family preservation, adoption, MAHA therapeutic foster care, developmental childcare, and parenting classes. Child Saving Institute, a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit child welfare organization, is dedicated to the prevention, intervention and treatment of child abuse, neglect and abandonment. CSI has met the changing needs of metro area children over the past 120 years based on the belief that ALL children should have homes where hope is kindled and dreams can be achieved
FRED AND NANCY JETTER WITH DENISE HAZELRIGG
SAMANTHA AND MITCH MOSSER WITH RAY AND JULIE GRACE
JOHN AND RENEE CAMPBELL
JOHN AND MARY LIVINGSTON
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JOHN AND CARRIE JENKINS WITH MAXINE AND JOHN MORRIS
MAHA
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event GALLERIES
WhoROCKS? central high school ROCK THE NEST “TRIVIA NIGHT””
JESS MOORE, MATT MOORE, KATY DICKERSON ’95 AND NATE DICKERSON
MIKE DIGIACOMO ’91, RITA RYAN, AND DOMINIC DIGIACOMO ‘95
On April 29th The Central High School Foundation (CHSF) held its annual fundraiser Rock the Nest “Trivia Night” on Sunday, April 28th. Three hundred Central High School (CHS) parents, faculty, alumni, students and friends gathered on Sunday night at the Scoular Ballroom in Omaha to celebrate “Eagle Nation” and support past, present and future CHS students and staff. Guests enjoyed dinner, a raffle and a friendly Trivia competition. The event raised over $35,000 for Central High School. Trivia was one the of the evening’s activities that brought everyone together. After 6 rounds including “Wii would like to Play!”, “Are you Smarter than a Fifth Grader”, and “Number Frenzy!” the following teams were recognized:
MICHAEL WEINBERG ‘60, BABS WEINBERG, CAROL VAN METRE AND CHRIS HAMMANS
ELIZABETH ROUSE, MATT DARLING ‘99, LENA HOSFORD ’00 AND MIKE MUNGER
JIM HUBBARD, DAVE HUBBARD, AKOY AGAU ’13 AND AUSTIN MCGAUGH ‘14
MICHAEL GRIFFIN, JAKE REED, PATRICK NOLAN, ADAM ERICKSON AND JOHN KRAMER
• First Place, Team #26: Liam Chleborad & Jen Stastny, Vicki Deniston-Reed, Gary & Paula Groff, Brooks Humphreys, Scott Wilson and Jean Whitten • Second Place, Team #17: Bob and Molly Atherton, Stephen and Lyn Bouma, Doug and Melissa Hegarty, and Chuck Reed & Anne McCormick • Third Place, Team #12: James Buckley & Linda Johnson, Henry Cordes & Susan Stiles, Mike and Cheryl Goodwillie, and Steve and Carol Kuzelka • The Grand Prize raffle winner of a one week stay at the Surfside Resort in Destin, Florida and two round trip airline tickets, donated by Matt and Sheri Aden valued at $4,000, was Jessica Prososki. The Central High School Foundation partners and Rock the Nest sponsors include Coca-Cola, First National Bank of Omaha, Midland University and Nebraska Methodist College: The Josie Harper Campus. Special thanks to Omaha Steaks, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Paramount Parking, and Hiro 88. CHS, established in 1859, is the oldest, largest, and one of the most diverse and competitive high schools in Omaha. Its mission is to continue a tradition of excellence emphasizing academic achievement, responsible global citizenship, pride in diversity, and enduring scholarship. For more information visit www.chsfomaha.org
MANDI AND CHAD HELTON, DON AND SUE WEBER AND RON METZ
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Photography by roger Humphries
FortheFOREST fontenelle forest FEATHER OUR NEST – 2013
The Mutual of Omaha Dome was the setting for the Fontenelle Forest Guild’s Feather Our Nest – 2013. The April 26, 2013 “backyard bash” was a celebration of Fontenelle Forest’s past 100 years and a look toward the next century. The festivities began with a silent auction and cocktails while nearly 500 guests were greeted by birds of Raptor Recovery Nebraska, the evening’sMAHA Honored Organization. These impressive birds ranged from a Mississippi kite to a great horned owl and gave the attendees an up close and personal view of the important work that Raptor Recovery engages in. Dinner and a live auction commenced at 7:30 p.m. Of the 8 auction items, the one-of-a-kind Kiewit built tree house brought the most competitive bidding and was the night’s highest sold item. The evening wrapped up with an after party featuring DJ Dugout’s Blazin’ Pianos. The Feather Our Nest 2013 leadership committee was Andrea Gutta, Rachael Moreano, and Christine Schulte, event chairs; Kara Krehbiel, Guild President; Laura Shiffermiller, FF Executive Director; Christi Churchill; MAHAFF Director of Development; Kareen Hickman, FF Development Associate; and Brad A. Watkins, FF Director of Communications. The Fontenelle Forest Guild exceeded their support goals with this event and will be presenting a check to the Forest during their Fall Annual Meeting. Monies raised by the guild help fund youth education programs. Honored Chairpersons: • Mogens Bay • George F. Haddix • Rhonda A. and Howard L. Hawks • Gerry and Bruce Lauritzen • Marilyn Mammel • Nancy A. and Michael R. McCarthy • Cynthia C. and Thomas F. McGowan • Suzanne and Walter Scott • Ann Stinson
MAHA
KARA KREHBIEL, ANDREA GUTTA, RACHAEL MORREANO AND CHRISTINE SCHULTE
TOM STALNAKER AND LAURA SHIFFERMILLER, MIKE AND NANCY MCCARTHY WITH GERRY AND BRUCE LAURITZEN
HOWARD AND RHONDA HAWKS
EMILY AND CLARK LAURITZEN
JANET STANDER AND BARN OWL
BETH AND JERRY SMITH
Honored Organization: Raptor Recovery Nebraska Fontenelle Forest’s mission is to provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature. For more information visit www.fontenelleforest.org. MAHA
DENNIS AND JESSICA PATE WITH BILL AND KATHY LYDIATT
MAHA
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PAUL AND MAUREEN HALBUR
MAHA
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
event GALLERIES
HereComestheSUN the sunshine kids SUNSHINE KIDS EVENT 2013
The Sunshine Kids Event was held at Prudential Ambassador Real Estate, on April 25th. Prudential Ambassador holds a new Sunshine Kids event every 18 months. The event was catered by many local and national restaurants. MAHA ESSENTIALS: • Special Guest(s): Tommie Frazier and Johnny Rodgers • When It Happened: April 25, 2013 • Where It Happened: Prudential Ambassador Real Estate, 13340 California Street, Omaha 68154 • Why/How It Happened: To raise funds for children with cancer to enjoy childhood as much as possible while in treatment or after treatment • Your Mission: Dedicated to helping children with cancer • Honorary Chair(s): Brewsky's • Event Sponsors: Welch Law Firm, Circo Enterprises, MAHA Malibu Homes, • Attendance: About 1,000 attended • Funds Raised: $250k+
JIM MILITTI, KATIE MILITTI, JULIE LAURITSEN AND ELIZABETH MILITTI
JUDI ANDING AND JOHNNY RODGERS
JANET DRAGON, DENISE POPPEN AND SHEILA KUSMIERSKI
ELIZABETH EDWARDS AND SHARON HYER
For more information: Visit www.sunshinekids.org or www.prudentialambassador.com MAHA
SUMMER SARGENT, AIMEE KETCHAM, TED GLAZE AND SHERI HINKEL
CRAIG AND TIFFANI WOLF
EMERY TARDY, JAMES TARDY, MAGGIE MILITTI, LUCY MILITTI AND JULIE LAURITSEN
CORY CUTSHALL AND ALICIA FORST
ANDREW AND JEAN BENNETT WITH REGI AND LISA POWELL 46
SHARON DIBIASE, LAURIE LEISEY, VINCE LEISEY, CHELSEY RAWLEY, ASHLEY SUM AND ALEAH PETERS
DARCI AND JEFF WILLIAMSON WITH RYAN MILLER
BRYAN AND MICHELLE GUSTAFSON, SUSAN LESSMANN AND GLORIA AND LYNN LESSMANN
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
GettingTheirKICKS liz’s legacy 8TH ANNUAL KICKS FOR A CURE
ESSENTIALS: • Friday, April 19- dinner at the Doubletree Hotel • Saturday, April 20- free soccer exhibition games at Morrison Stadium • $310,665 raised; Checks presented to Dr. Ken Cowan, University of Nebraska Medical Center EppleyMAHA Cancer Center and Dr. Henry Lynch, Creighton University Hereditary Cancer Center • Now in only its eight (8th) year, Kicks for a Cure has raised and contributed more than $1,435,665 to support the extraordinary work of these two local institutions to find a cure for cancer. • General Chairs: Amy & John Deardorff, Cindy & Brian Leiferman • 550 attended dinner on Friday night • 2,000 attended games on Saturday David Karnes and his five daughters – Korey, Kalen, MAHA Kara, Laurel and Kate – as well as granddaughters Elizabeth and Grace served as honorary chairs for the event, which honors the life and cancer awareness works of Karnes’ first wife, the late Elizabeth Karnes. She died of ovarian cancer in 2003 following a 13-year battle with the disease. Angela Benson, a sophomore Creighton soccer player from Gillette, Wyoming , was awarded sixth Liz Karnes Memorial Scholarship awardee. This $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a player who exemplifies a passion for athletics, high moral standards, impressive leadership skills and the ability to work through adversity in all aspects of life. The award is presented each yearMAHA during the Kicks for a Cure banquet.
DAVID AND KRIS KARNES
CHRIS DUNHAM AND DR. KEN COWAN
CRAIG AND JANE POHLMAN AND BRUCE RASMUSSEN, WITH SANDY AND DAVE PARKER
AMY AND STEVE LINDSAY
DR. HENRY LYNCH AND DR. PETER SILBERSTEIN
MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER TEAM
Bruce Rasmussen and the Creighton University Athletic Department were presented with the Inspiration Award. Kicks for a Cure featured a free admission to soccer exhibition games featuring several of the top area high school and university Division I soccer teams. For more information visit www.kicksforacure.org.
WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER TEAM
MAHA
Call for Nominations! • Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEvent2013Noms
2013
For events presented between June 1, 2012 & May 31, 2013. Deadline to receive nominations is July 31, 2013!
Finalists will be announced in our September 2013 issue! Voting begins September 1, 2013 6 Categories: • Best 1st or 2nd Annual Over 500 Attending • Best Over 1000 Attending MAHA MAHA• BestTheme • Best Food & Wine • Best Under 500 Attending MAHA • Best 47
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event GALLERIES
Photography courtesy of JLO
SHOWgirls junior league of omaha AMERICAN GIRL FASHION SHOW
LAUREN MAYO, “SAIGE” AND SCOTT MAYO
THE AMERICAN GIRL COMMITTEE
During the first weekend in March, the Junior League of Omaha held its largest fundraiser of the year – the 21st Annual American Girl Fashion Show – at the Happy Hollow Club. During eight fashion shows, nearly 350 young models, ages 5 to 10, took the stage wearing inspired clothing and carrying matching dolls from the American Girl clothing collection, American Girl of Today and the American Girl Bitty Baby collections. Patron shows were held on Friday and Saturday nights. During the Patron shows, models walked the runway escorted by a family member. The weekend also featured silent auctions and a boutique filled with items for girls, as well as the entire family. A guitar autographed by country music superstar Carrie Underwood was one of the featured silent auction items. Proceeds from the shows support the League’s child-minded community projects A Book of My Own and Project Hope Pack. During the weekend, the American Girl Fashion Show Committee collected new and gently-used books and new stuffed animals for the projects. For more information visit www.jlomaha.org.
CHAIR MEGAN RIEBE AND PRESIDENT-ELECT BECKY WIECHMAN
COMMITTEE MEMBERS MOLLY O’TOOL AND JULIE WATSON
headline HEADLINE organization EVENT
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
event GALLERIES
Growing& GLOWING omaha children’s museum FOR THE KIDS BENEFIT
ESSENTIALS: What: Things that Go and Things that Grow!
MAHA
CHUCK AND JANET CAMPBELL
LINDY HOYER AND MAYOR JIM SUTTLE
Where: Omaha Children’s Museum When: Saturday, May 4th 2013 6:00pm Caterer: Attitude on Food Attendance: 425 Amount Raised: Over $230,000 Honorary Chairs: Denny and Diana Walker, Jet Linx Executive Director: Lindy Hoyer
MAHA
DAVID AND STEPHANIE COTA WITH JENNIFER AND LEE HANDKE
PIPER JOHNSON, MELISSA SCHAFER AND SARAH HINSLEY
Dignitaries: • Douglas County Commissioner Chris Rodgers • Mayor Jim Suttle • Councilwoman Jean Stothert • David Brown, Omaha Chamber of Commerce Mission: To engage the imagination and create excitement about learning
MAHA
BECKY AND MIKE APP WITH MARK AND LORI WATERSTRAAT
JILL LOOKABILL, ELLEN GRACE AND TRACI COPPLE
TROY AND JAMIE MEYERSON WITH GINA AND RYAN WESTFALL
MAHA
MAHA 50
JOE AND JEAN STOTHERT
SARAH LEWIS, SAMANTHA BARNHART, ALLISON WELCH AND THERESA MCCLATCHEY
MAHA
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event GALLERIES
Photography courtesy of Mount Michael
OhWhata KNIGHT mount michael NIGHT OF KNIGHTS
IAN ALFIERI AND WILMA DENTON
MR. RICK & MRS. JENNIFER BOHNHOFF, DR. JOHN & MRS. PAT DRAHOTA AND MR. JEFF & MRS. CONNIE JAMROG
Night of Knights, a Mount Michael Benedictine annual dinner and auction, was started by Mount Michael parents twenty four years ago. It is the school’s most important fundraiser each year and is critical to the annual operating budget. The continued success of Night of Knights is due to the enthusiastic participation of all Mount Michael families. Attending the event were over 575 guests who gather on the Mount Michael campus for an entertaining and celebratory evening. Many alumni travel back to partake in the festivities as well as show their support of the school. All the efforts made by the volunteers as well as the guests who support our fine school always will be truly appreciated. Nearly a quarter of a century later, Night of Knights is still going strong. It was truly a Knight to Remember! Co-Chairs of Night of Knights were three couples:
MR. TOM & MRS. PATTY HASTINGS AND FATHER JOHN HAGEMANN, O.S.B.
KARI HERBST, MICHELE WHITAKER, JENNY POWELL AND KIMBERLY VOLPONE
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• Mr. Rick and Mrs. Jennifer Bohnhoff • Dr. John and Mrs. Pat Drahota • Mr. Jeff and Mrs. Connie Jamrog
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event GALLERIES
Photography courtesy of Completely KiDS
Author! AUTHOR! completely kids guild 12TH ANNUAL AUTHOR LUNCHEON
CHARLES E. LAKIN AND PENNY PARKER
KEYNOTE SPEAKER DR. MICHAEL OSIT
Completely KIDS Guild sponsored Wednesday the 12th Annual Author Luncheon in support of Omaha nonprofit Completely KIDS. Keynote speaker Dr. Michael Osit, a clinical psychologist from New Jersey and author of “Generation Text: Raising Well-Adjusted Kids in an Age of Instant Everything,” laid out many challenges that parents and professionals face due to what he calls Generation Text. Dr. Osit offered ways that adults could embrace the technological age while continuing to shape youths’ values, attitudes and behaviors in a positive manner. The luncheon, held at Hilton Omaha, 1001 Cass St., and presented by Cox Communications, drew nearly 400 people and raised more than $60,000 for Completely KIDS. Serving as emcee, KETV’s Brandi Petersen kicked off the event and introduced Completely KIDS Executive Director Penny Parker. After a brief update about the organization, Parker presented The Men Behind Completely KIDS Award to Dave Erker and Charles E. Lakin, and introduced the 2013 honorary chairmen, Joy and Gordon Watanabe.
ANNETTE BYMAN, DR. MICHAEL OSIT, JOY AND GORDON WATANABE, PENNY PARKER, ANN MARIE ABBOUD AND SUSIE ZINDEL
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For more information about Completely KIDS or its events, visit completelykids.org.
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Photos by Blacksheep Photography
event GALLERIES
FUNKYtown nebraska kidney association KIDNEY CRUISE
AMEE ZETZMAN
TAMRA MALOUSEK AND TIM NEAL Champions Run was the scene of the 2013 Nebraska Kidney Association’s Kidney Cruise, themed “Funky Prom”. Guests reached into the backs of their closets to find only the best prom clothes, representing eras from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. Chairperson, Tamra Malousek, Vice President of Interstate Industrial Instrumentation, Inc. rocked her best Joan Jett look while receiving a President’s Award for her years of service and support to the Nebraska Kidney Association. MAHA President and CEO of Dialysis Center of Lincoln, Larry Emerson, was awarded the Wayne G. Schroeder Award for his many years of service on the Board of Directors. Special guest speaker Amee Zetzman, who donated a kidney to her father, Larry Kavich, described her experience as a living donor. Linda Jacobsen and Butch Atherton were voted Funky Queen and Funky King for their costumes and shared a dance.
MAHA
The Nebraska Kidney Association will hold their annual Liberty Mutual Golf Invitational on Friday, May 3rd at Iron Horse Golf Course in Ashland. To register please MAHA call the NKA at 402-932-7200.
LINDA JACOBSEN AND BUTCH ATHERTON
JON AND JEN CUNNINGHAM WITH JOE SCOTT AND CINDY HOFFMAN 56
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
FinePAIRING cystic fibrosis fdtn. BEER EXTRAVAGANZA
CATHI AND GENE ARNOLD WITH TAYLOR AND STEVE KERSCHKE
CF TEAM ASHLEY PARSON, ASHLI BREHM, SHANNON GUBBELS, AMY WAXMAN AND NICKY MCCARVILLE
MAHA
MAHA
MAHA
MAHA
MAHA
MAHA
MAHA
The Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation held the 3rd annual Beer Extravaganza Friday, April 26th at the Living Room in the Mastercraft Building. Fine cuisine prepared by Attitude on Food was expertly paired with specific specialty beers from Empyrean Brewing Company. Over $55,000 was raised for the Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Briana Marino, a 21 year old CF patient, captivated the room by speaking of her brave fight with not onlyMAHA cystic fibrosis but being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2012 as well. Funds raised through sponsorship, ticket sales, and auction for this event support the Foundation’s mission to find a cure and improve the quality of life for those with cystic fibrosis. Nearly .90 of every dollar goes directly into research. For this and other reasons the CF Foundation has been hailed one of the most efficient non-profit health agencies in the country. For more information visit Nebraska@cff.org .
JULIE GRAFF AND CAROL KYSER
TRACY AND TODD CLEVENGER WITH MARCIA AND BRETT SESKER 57
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Support your favorite team by voting online at www.SandintheCityOmaha.com
For event information contact Tracy Fisher 401.898.7783 tfisher@nchs.org
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save the date Jun 1
June 5
ActivAte OmAhA UrbAn AdventUre rAce
YOUth FrOntiers' AnnUAl OmAhA event Youth Frontiers, Inc.
Omaha Civic Auditorium | 1804 Capitol Ave | Omaha | 8 am – 2 pm Form a team of two and be prepared to bike, run, paddle, splash and navigate your way through Omaha while searching for hidden check points and completing mystery team challenges. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED! Strategy and teamwork often trump sheer athletic ability - all fitness levels are welcome! Proceeds support the work of Activate Omaha. Cost: $90-120 per team of 2 More information: www.OmahaAdventureRace.com | 402-934-5971 More information: 515-661-8089 | http://www.scleroderma.org
Jun 4 tribUte tO WOmen Women's Center for Advancement
Omaha | 5:30 pm – 7:45 pm As we celebrate our 25th Anniversary and our eighth school year in Omaha, Youth Frontiers has the opportunity to work with a record 11,000 young people and educators in Nebraska and Council Bluffs this year – and 110,000 kids nationwide! Along with our Omaha hosts, we ask you to be a part of this event – and help take a big step toward meeting our annual goal of raising $110,000 to pay for our work in Omaha this school year. Ticket Information– Single Ticket: $75.00; Table of 8: $600.00 More information: Sarah at ssoucek@youthfrontiers.org or 888.992.0222!
June 6
Embassy Suites LaVista Hotel & Conference Center 12520 Westport Pkwy | LaVista | 12 pm – 1:30 pm The Women's Center for Advancement's signature event, Tribute to Women, is now in its 26th year of celebrating the achievements of distinguished Omaha women. The contributions of the honorees make our community extraordinary. Cost: $75 More information: http://wcaomaha.org | 402-345-6555
bAckstAge bAsh Nebraska Shakespeare
June 5
UNO Milo Bail Student Center | 6001 Dodge Street | Omaha | 5:30 pm – 9 pm Join in supporting Nebraska Shakespeare at the annual fundraiser, Backstage Bash, on Thursday, June 6, 2013. The evening features the faced-paced circus of hilarity of Two Minute Shakespeare plays. Since its founding, more than 50,000 students have seen a live theatrical production of Shakespeare thanks to donors. More information: http://www.nebraskashakespeare.com/events/annual-fundraiser---backstage-bash
children's schOlArship FUnd OF OmAhA's AnnUAl chAnce lUncheOn
June 6
Hilton Omaha | 1001 Cass Street | Omaha | 11:30 am – 1 pm This year’s guest speaker is Former Governor of Indiana and current President of Purdue University, Mitch Daniels. Creighton University President Fr. Timothy Lannon, and Creighton Senior and CSF alum Josh Jones will be this year’s honorary co-chairs. For sponsorship information or individual tickets, please call Kylie Fisher at 402-819-4990 or email kylie.fisher@csfomaha.org. Visit csfomaha.org for more information. Cost: Sponsorship opportunities available, individual tickets are 75 More information: 402-819-4990 | http://csfomaha.org
pinOt, pigs & pOets Completely KIDS Happy Hollow Club | 1701 S 105th St. | Omaha Pinot, Pigs & Poets is a premier wine and food tasting event that features outstanding Pinot Noir wines, savory pork dishes from some of Omaha's best chefs, and quick-witted slam poetry. Proceeds benefit Completely KIDS. More information: 402-397-5809 | http://completelykids.org
UpcOming
event spotlight
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
June 14 On the rOAd tO Aspen Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands CenturyLink Center Omaha | 455 N. 10 St. | Omaha | 5:45 pm – 9 pm 17TH ANNUAL EVENT IS OMAHA’S FIRST AND ONLY SUITCASE PARTY The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands will host On the Road to Aspen, Omaha’s first and only suitcase party Friday, June 14, 2013, 5:30 -10:30 pm at the Jet Linx private air hangar, 3910 Amelia Earhart Plaza in Omaha. The event will feature a night of first-class food and libations, a live auction and entertainment by talented Boys & Girls Club members followed by local favorite the Pat O’ Show. Guests should arrive ready for departure with their bags packed for a weekend of fun as the live auction bidding begins. The three highest bidders and one guest each will be whisked away that evening on a private jet. Less than two hours later, they’ll disembark, ready to wine and dine at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado for the weekend. This package, valued at $7,500 per couple, includes a round-trip flight for two on a private jet, two passes to the Food & Wine Classic, and hotel accommodations in Aspen. HONORARY EVENT CHAIRS are Diana & Denny Walker and Haley & Jamie Walker, and event chairs are Samantha Wahl and Laura DiMaio. Celebrating its 17h year, On the Road was founded by supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs who had three important objectives: increase awareness of the Club and its mission; raise much-needed monetary support for the Club; and have a great time doing both. 59
DURING 2012: The eight Boys & Girls Clubs were open 238 days. • Membership grew to 5,041 and 207,919 meals were served. • 96% of Club members were on track to graduate based upon date of birth and grade progression. • Average daily attendance was 1,289 for the school year, an increase of 20.2% from 2011. • All high school seniors in our Keystone Clubs graduated on time. • The Club’s early childhood literacy program, Readers to Leaders, served more than 569 members between the ages of 7 and 8. Seven-year-old Club readers gained on average one school years’ worth of reading skills after only 12 weeks. • The cost to a Club member’s family: $30 •
Tickets are $150 each. To make a reservation, a donation or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact April at 402-342-1600 or email akoske@bgcomaha.org. metroMagazine • JUne 2013
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save the
June 7 – June 8
June 8
cAttlemen’s bAll OF nebrAskA
Ollie's dreAm gAlA Ollie Webb Center, Inc.
Hanging H Ranch | Sutherland | 6:00 pm – 11:30 pm The Cattlemen's Ball of Nebraska promotes beef as part of a healthy diet, showcases rural Nebraska and raises money for cancer research at the UNMC Eppley Cancer Center, as well as local charities. Cost: $Top Hand Ticket: 75; Trail Boss Ticket: 350 More information: http://www.cattlemensball.com
June 7 – 8
Hilton Omaha | 1001 Cass Street | Omaha | 6:30 pm – 10 pm An evening of wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, live music, silent and live auction benefitting Ollie Webb Center, Inc. Proceeds will help people living with developmental disabilities and their families. Cost: $100 per person More information: www.olliewebbinc.org | 402-346-5220
OmAhA beer Fest Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy
June 8 – 9
Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | More information: (402) 850-6776 The third annual, two day Omaha Beer Fest. Nebraska’s growing craft beer culture can taste and appreciate specialty brews from all over the country at what is again expected to be the largest craft beer festival in Nebraska. Hundreds of unique craft beers will be available for tasting from 50 American craft breweries. Several breweries will make their debut this year at the festival. Friday night, ticket holders will enjoy the popular Homebrewer Expo, where guests can taste through dozens of experimental brews created by members of local homebrewer clubs. Attendance to all events supports Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. Tickets are now available online at www.omahabeerfest.com.
June 7– 9 OmAhA sUmmer Arts FestivAl Downtown | 10th to 15th on Farnam Street | Omaha | 11 am – 8 pm
nebrAskA children’s hOme sOcietY’s sAnd in the citY® CenturyLink Center Parking lot at N. 10th Street and Capitol Ave. Kick off your Summer by attending the area’s ultimate Beach Party. 375 TONS OF SAND will transform the middle of downtown Omaha into a beach. The public is invited to a weekend full of family fun. View the sand sculptures, vote for your favorite, enjoy great food and local entertainment on the main stage. Play in the interactive Kid Zone, featuring two GIGANTIC sand boxes, bouncy houses, face painting, cookie decorating and other kids’ games and activities. No admission charged. Donations appreciated to support the mission of the Nebraska Children’s Home Society. More information: 402-451-0787 | www.sandinthecityomaha.com
June 9
The Festival will fill downtown streets with art, music, children's activities, food and more along the Gene Leahy Mall from Friday, June 7 through Sunday, June 9. In addition to an Artists' Market, the Festival features art demonstrations, live music, great food and a Children's Fair. General Festival hours are 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Cost: Free More information: www.summerarts.org
WizArd OF Oz: YellOW brick brUnch ACT II, Omaha Community Playhouse Guild
June 7
mUnrOe-meYer institUte gArden WAlk 2013
JOslYn Art mUseUm AnnUAl gAlA Joslyn Art Museum Association Joslyn Art Museum | 2200 Dodge Street | Omaha | 6:00 pm – 12:00 am Renoir to Chagall: Paris and the Allure of Color Joslyn Art Museum Association Gala celebrating Renoir to Chagall: Paris and the Allure of Color. Cocktails at 6 pm in the Sculpture Garden followed by dinner in the ConAgra Foods Atrium at 7:30 pm. Cost: $Individual tickets 175 (Patron tickets 350) More information: 402-661-3821 | http://www.joslyn.org
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Omaha Community Playhouse | Omaha
June 9 9 am – 5 pm Garden Walk on Sunday, June 9 will highlight five of Omaha's best gardens. The public is invited to attend the Garden Walk, hosted by the Munroe-Meyer Guild, a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities through fundraising for the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Munroe-Meyer Institute. Advance tickets available for purchase at: Hy-Vee Stores, Canoyer Garden Center, Mulhall's Home & Garden Showplace, Sunrise Lawn and Garden, Blue Pomegranate Gallery More information: 402-559-5771 | www.unmc.edu/mmi/2013gardenwalk.htm
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date
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
June 13
July19 – 20
FAther OF the YeAr gAlA American Diabetes Association
hOpe in the heArtlAnd gAlA American Cancer Society
Hilton Omaha | Omaha 5 pm – 9 pm The third annual Nebraska and Western Iowa Father of the Year Awards Gala will be held on Thrusday June 13, 2013 at the Hilton Omaha Downtown. THis year’s event will include a red carpet silent auction taking place during the pre-gala cocktail hour. Following the auction, there will be dinner and a brief program to include the presentation of awards to our honorees. Last year, the event raised over $180,000 to fund diabetes research, education and advocacy. More information: www.diabetes.org/NebraskaFOTY
Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | 2285 S. 67th Street | Omaha | 6 pm – 12 am The funds raised at this event will enable the ACS to continue it's life saving fundraising through research, government advocacy, community education, crucial programs that support patients battling cancer, the families behind them in their fight, and future generations hoping to defeat cancer. Together, we are fighting back with the Omaha community by helping people stay well, get well, find cures, and fight back. The Hope in the Heartland Gala will feature video horse racing, midway games, food, drinks, music by the Finest Hour, live and silent auctions and much more! We hope to see you at Stinson Park and help the American Cancer Society create a world with more birthdays! Cost: $Ticket prices vary, see website for details More information: www.hopeintheheartlandomaha.org | 402-398-0764
July13 OWl ride 2013 Meyer Foundation for Disabilities Downtown Omaha | 7 pm – 12 pm Join over 2,000 riders at this night time urban biking adventure is sponsored by the Meyer Foundation for Disablities which raises funds for recreational programs for teens and adults with developmental disabilities in the greater Omaha area. Cost: $30/person 60/family More information: www.owlride.org | 402-559-5771
July 20 cinderellA – silent Film With live OrchestrA Omaha Conservatory of Music Omaha Conservatory of Music | Omaha Cinderella – a 40 minute silent film from the Mary Pickford collection. An orchestra of talented young musicians from around the country will premiere a new film score by acclaimed composer, Maria Newman. This work, commissioned by the Omaha Conservatory of Music, will be the centerpiece of the intense weeklong summer institute held at OCM July 1420, 2013. TicketPrices: General seating –$10, preferred seating available More information: 402-932-4978 | www.omahacm.org
July 27 dAnce FOr A chAnce YouthEmergencyServices Skutt Catholic High School 3131 S. 156 St. | Omaha | 6 pm – 10 pm Local celebrities will strut their stuff on the dance floor to raise money and awareness for hundreds of homeless youth in the Omaha metro. Dance for a Chance is a competition similar to the show "Dancing with the Stars." Contestants are paired with dance instructors to perform a short routine in front of celebrity judges and attendees. Funds raised through voting, ticket sales, silent auction and raffle benefit the youth and programs at YES. Cost: $50 In advance | $60 At the door More information: (402) 345-5187 ext. 105 | www.yesomaha.org
July 28 JOslYn cAstle clAssic cAr shOW Joslyn Castle 3902 Davenport St. | Omaha | 10 am – 4 pm See hand-selected vintage cars and motorcycles displayed on Joslyn’s beautiful grounds, tour the Castle and enjoy food and fun for the entire family. Online ticket sales for the Joslyn Castle Car Classic are open now on the Joslyn Castle website. Tickets will also be available at any Omaha Hy-Vee location after June 1. Tickets purchased online will be waiting for you at the 40th Street entrance to the Joslyn Castle. Sponsor: Toyota Cost: $10 in advance, 12.50 at door, 12 & Under are free, 5 for Military Personnel More information: 402-595-2199 | www.joslyncastlecarclassic.com
ESERVE R YOUR SPACE NOW! CALL 402.932.3522 EXT. 103 TO RESERVE SPACE FOR YOUR NON PROFIT OR BUSINESS PROFILE
ed the acknowledg
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or email sales@spiritofomaha.com
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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha
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2013
Call for Nominations! For events presented between June 1, 2012 & May 31, 2013. • Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEvent2013Noms
Deadline to receive nominations is July 31, 2013! Finalists will be announced in our September 2013 issue! Voting begins September 1, 2013 6 Categories: • Best 1st or 2nd Annual • BestTheme • Best Food & Wine • Best Under 500 Attending • Best Over 500 Attending • Best Over 1000 Attending
• Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEvent2013Noms
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PrEsOrtEd staNdard U.s. POstagE
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p u b l i c a t i o n s
Omaha, NE PErmit NO. 2013
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