metroMAGAZINE's May 2012 Issue by metroMAGAZINE

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haute city 2012 STEP Group’s Caroline Moore Hinrichs and Rachel Richards

Celebrating Commitment to the Community

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SpiritofOmaha.com

• may 2012

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

features

events

19 36

cover StOry

SO HAWT

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HAUTE SPOTS haute city 2012

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DESTINATION: UNDERSTANDING ravel unravel • project interfaith bliss boutique

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MAY HOROSCOPES with sue moon

BRAVO! BRUCE’S BOONE full article

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on the cover

departments

BRAVO!

CAROLINE MOORE HENRICHS & RACHEL RICHARDS

journey to the center of the earth

KVNO CLASSICAL KIDS

STEP Group

april through june 2012

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Photography

BUNGALOW 8 Hair Styling: Eric Burden, master stylist Make-up Styling: Rebecca Forsyth, stylist and make-up artist

CHRISTEL’S CLOTHING 6

metroMagazine • May 2012

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FROM THE PUBLISH ERS

metro the Spirit of Omaha

May 2012 • vOL. 24 nO. 5 press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: p.O. BOx 241611, OMaHa, ne 68124 or e-mailed to: editor@SpiritofOmaha.com Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Contributors

andrea L. Hoig

Leo adam Biga Shelby Craw Molly garriott Michelle Hagen ashley rosonke david Williams

Senior Editor/ Creative Director

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

402-333-7499 sales@SpiritofOmaha.com MISSION STATEMENT the mission of aLH publications is to recognize the ongoing efforts of Omaha-area businesses, organizations and individuals to better the community through their support of charitable and civic causes. aLH publications also encourages people’s desire to give something back to the community through volunteerism and philanthropy. Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by aLH publications, inc. in their entirety. no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 1990 – 2012 aLH publications, inc. all rights reserved.

June 8, 9 & 10 Downtown Omaha Farnam Street 10th to 15th Streets

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Browse and buy original artwork from 135 juried artists including beautiful paintings, jewelry, ceramics, glass, photography, fiber and more.

View the complete Artists’ Gallery at summerarts.org • 7

metroMagazine • May 2012

cover story metroMagazine step group’s haute city, premiereing at midtown crossing, promises to turn the heat up on the omaha marketing front.

haute city 2012

gone are the days when Brie, begonias and a Budweiser could cut the mustard (honey Dijon or otherwise) in any marketing mix worth its weight in wasabi. A 2005 study by George P. Johnson Company and Meeting Professionals International found that 93 percent of marketing executives considered the importance of event marketing to be “constant or increasing,” a trend that has accelerated the race to connect with consumers in new and more effective ways. Don’t look to CAROLINE HINRICHS and RACHEL RICHARDS to have a wine, cheese and flowers hand in the formulaic world of passive, ho-hum parties. The founders of STEP GROUP see power in a new brand of branding, that of experiential marketing. Now entering their second year of business, the duo that met through their mutual involvement in Omaha Fashion Week is about to launch Haute City, their most ambitious undertaking to date. Featuring over 50 participants in Midtown Crossing’s Turner Park on May 19th, Haute City is a pioneering initiative in interactive, pop-up shopping. 8

metroMAGAZINE • MAY 2012

STORY BY DAVID L. WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ©LAURIE & CHARLES

“Omaha is a blank canvas in the realm of experiential marketing and Haute City is a great opportunity to both create and educate,” said Hinrichs, a veteran of marketing positions at Creighton University and the Strategic Air and Space Museum. “This is an experience-based event that will connect people with brands in new and creative ways. To our clients, the pop-up platform will allow them to brand themselves in an innovative environment. To the public, Haute City will allow consumers to become engaged in lifestyle offerings in new and more meaningful ways.”

lifestyle options bloom “Haute Spots” in the arenas of fashion and beauty, entertainment, culinary arts, design and décor, and fitness and wellness will bloom in Turner Park. The day’s music and entertainment-filled tasting, sampling and shopping will culminate in a VIP rooftop soiree featuring a fashion show highlighting the work of emerging national designers, all capped by a performance by Quixotic Fusion, the Kansas Citybased collaborative ensemble of artists that dwells at the intersection of dance, film, aerial arts, music and fashion.

metroMAGAZINE is a co-sponsor of the event and will have its own pop-up, as will our sister publication,

Pet & Animal Enthusiast Magazine, making Haute City a pet-friendly romp in the park. “STEP Group exists to build interactive connections between people and brands,” said Richards, formerly the brand and marketing director for Nomad and co-founder of Omaha Fashion Week. “This isn’t about mere transactions or businesses ‘talking at you.’ It’s about building relationships, the bonds that lead to brand loyalty.”

good first impression Some of those relationships have already paid off in big ways for STEP Group and their clients. The company’s first big splash came with last year’s Oprah Finale at AKSARBEN CINEMA, an event that was featured on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” “It’s one thing to completely transform the physical space of the theater the way they did,” explained ANDREA BARSTOW, Aksarben Cinema’s

marketing director, “but it’s another to virtually re-invent and re-define the very idea of who we can be … the idea that we can be so much more than movie screens and popcorn.” Aksarben Cinema seized on its new identity as a multi-use venue and later went on to host the STEP Group-produced the 2011 presentation of THE BIG EVENT, metroMAGAZINE’s annual award gala. Other STEP Group efforts have introduced such businesses as Red Mango, Saigon Surface and Kimball Lofts, among others. Non-profits have also been fertile ground for STEP Group. “Non-profits already ‘get it’ and there’s not as much need for education there,” Hinrichs said. “They already understand the value of donor engagement, that creating an experience — not just an event — can pay off in advancing their mission in big ways.”Clark Creative Group also brought in STEP Group on another non-profit project, teaming up to deliver February’s “A Mixer in Mad Style,” Opera Omaha’s homage to all things “Mad Men.”

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

isn’t about mere “this transactions or businesses ‘talking at you.’ it’s about building relationships, the bonds that lead to brand loyalty.”

~ RACHEL RICHARDS

because we know they were courted by others. Haute City is going to be the type of event that can crystallize the image of Omaha as a city on-thego for young professionals. It’s a premier, unprecedented event at a premier, unprecedented destination.”

“Molly and her team believed in this “Everyone is accustomed to cleverly themed events,” said ROGER WEITZ, project right from the start,” Richards added, “and, just like all of our efforts, Opera Omaha’s general director, “but we are going to over-deliver on this was more than that. They found a Haute City for them, our clients and way to help us captivate the the community.” imaginations of a group of young professionals, a group that is really important to our future and the marketing without borders future of any arts organization. It was STEP Group’s inaugural year of a great idea executed flawlessly and operation has not been without the we absolutely loved it.” occasional bump in the road. Their business plan, a decidedly malleable Starting a company like STEP Group affair for any start-up, has already in Omaha was not without any gone through some minor twists and number of risks of the locationturns. location-location variety. “We knew we needed to concentrate “It may have been wiser to start this on Haute City before turning our business in a larger metropolitan area,” attention to our regional and national Hinrichs said, “but we believe in aspirations,” Hinrichs said, “but we’ve Omaha. The entrepreneurial spirit already picked up projects in Kansas here is full of creative energy. This is a City and California in the process.” very progressive city and we are proud to begin our work here.” So what happened to their selfimposed vow to clear the calendar One of STEP Group’s biggest fans is until after Haute City? MOLLY SKOLD, Midtown Crossing’s marketing director. “It’s just that we keep bumping into the most fascinating people who “Midtown Crossing understands the share a vision for innovative ideas,” importance of experiences,” Skold said, Richards added with a wink. “I guess “and we’re so thrilled that they chose we’ll just have to catch up on our Midtown Crossing and Turner Park sleep later.” m

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haute city 2012 metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

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metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ MaY 2012

destination: METRO

STORY BY DAVID L. WILLIAMS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF PROJECT INTERFAITH

destination:

understanding “can we talk?” these three little words sum up the mission of project interfaith’s bold initiative to foster greater exchange and understanding between people of diverse beliefs.

the area surrounding omaha may appear to be a uniform, unvarying landscape, but the religious, spiritual and cultural topography of the region is anything but homogenous. Now the dramatically diverse depth and breadth of beliefs and faiths practiced by our neighbors is about to be showcased in RAVELUNRAVEL, a community project conceived by PROJECT INTERFAITH, the non-profit that aims to inform, connect and engage people of all faiths… or none at all. “RavelUnravel borrows the theme of a tapestry in representing the fabric of a community,” said BETH KATZ, PROJECT INTERFAITH’S FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, “but it also speaks to a process of deconstruction where people unravel and demystify perceptions and assumptions about faith and belief systems.” A small army of volunteers spent seven months in late 2010 and early 2011 visiting 47 sites to film a video library that now houses 720 interviews representing the voices of over 40 religious and spiritual identities.

starting conversations The online initiative officially launches May 17th, but a promotional trailer is already live at ravelunravel.com. The public will soon be invited to upload their own videos to the site that will also feature discussion guides, online forums and links to credible resources on religious and cultural diversity.

Starting conversations on almost any other subject is generally devoid of too many of those weighty, “don’t go there” landmines, said the woman who has taken the Project Interfaith message to a conference at the White House and gatherings across America, Europe and, most recently, a United Nations symposium in Morocco.

religion has for too long been considered a taboo topic… these are exactly the kinds of conversations we should be having... ~ BETH KATZ FOUNDER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“Religion has for too long been considered a taboo topic,” she said. “These are exactly the kinds of conversations we should be having. It is incredibly enriching and empowering to hear someone share how they experience the world.” The RavelUnravel rollout will continue in June with a month-long interactive installation where select interviews will be screened on towering sheets of fabric. Juxtaposed against the interviews will be projections of text, the real-time public conversations keyed in by viewers at social media stations scattered throughout the space.

Interview topics include how one selfidentifies spiritually and the “why” behind it, discomforting and sometimes ugly stereotypes encountered, and the varied manifestations of expression in Omaha’s wide spectrum of beliefs. Responses vary from bring-out-the-handkerchief brevity to the wittily humorous to what might be more anticipated or expected, but the everexpanding diversity of our community is the common thread that ties together stories that are often transcendent – in both a figurative and literal sense.

hitting the streets Project Interfaith also plans to take the conversation on the road with the introduction of the RavelUnravel Bus so that places of worship, neighborhood and civic groups, schools, community events and non-profits may become better engaged. The mission of the bus program will be to collect additional interviews from throughout the city in exploring life’s biggest questions with the goal of growing the archive to 1,000 videos by summer’s end. In the process, they’ll be educating and energizing the community in discussion on the forces that shape the very essence of who we are and how we interact in weaving the social and spiritual fabric of Omaha. One of the tour stops will be a July appearance at TRUGS: ACTIVATING STREETS, the summer-long EMERGING TERRAIN streetscape experience that will transform an otherwise gritty stretch of Leavenworth Street between 24th Street and Interstate 480.

metroMagazine • MaY 2012

11-13-RAVEL-5.12-FINAL_- 5/3/12 11:02 AM Page 13

maha o r e t a e r ort to g p s s a p r u yo

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

A national campaign supported by a fleet of buses is the group’s longer-range goal. “We’re hoping through this tour will become a catalyst for a national conversation about religious and spiritual identity and diversity,” Katz said. “Every one of us has worn some type of label, often an unwelcome or misunderstood one, and RavelUnravel explores a parallel idea,” Katz emphasizes. “It’s an examination of what unites us in being human. It’s about what is to be found in the great diversity within each and every belief. No group is monolithic. There is depth, complexity and great diversity not just between different religions, but also within each religion. There is not one face, one label that you can attach to a perception of any given culture, religion or identity.”

and 2013 will bring the staging of their first theatrical work, a presentation of “The Domestic Crusaders,” a provocative play by Wajahat Ali that chronicles a single day in the lives of a Muslim PakistaniAmerican family in the aftermath of 9/11. Katz’s biggest surprise in weaving the RavelUnravel tapestry?

“We really didn’t know if anyone – and I mean anyone, one single person – would be willing to talk to us,” Katz said with a chuckle. “Instead we found that people really want to connect in this way. They want to share who they are in real, meaningful and authentic ways, but they don’t always know how. There is something about us as a people, as Omahans, as Midwesterners, with that proverbial politeness that gives a lot of power to that idea that there are some getting noticed questions that you simply don’t dare ask. Even before the premiere of RavelUnravel Issues of religion, belief and culture can be interviews and before the first mile can be counted on to top that list. We’re trying to logged on the RavelUnravel Bus Tour, help people do that and, better yet, feel Project Interfaith continues to gain national comfortable with it, whether it’s at a health and international attention. club, in a cafeteria or in a book club.” THE PLURALISM PROJECT AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY selected the program as one of only 33 to be included in its innovative AMERICA’S INTERFAITH INFRASTRUCTURE pilot study of model efforts that have the power to change how we think about… how we think. Project Interfaith also recently announced a fall conference on the subject of women’s leadership in different religious traditions

I’m a baha’i… you get preached at a little bit, but that’s okay. it opens up channels for discussion. ~ CLANCY

A Practicing Roman Catholic… I believe in The Resurrection. I [also] believe that things that are true are true. If my friend, who is a practicing Muslim [or] Jewish has a truth, there might be something I can learn from him. ~ MARTIN

Conversations almost always begin with a question, usually a simple one. “We don’t claim to have all the answers or even any answers,” Katz said, “but we like to think we ask some really compelling questions.” m

Learn more at ravelunravel.com.

An Atheist… I can be an atheist and be a tremendous person. I’m not going to fight you. I’m not going to hurt you. I’m not going to abscond with your children. ~ VICTORIA

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celebrating the arts

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

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

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

Bruce’s Boone

WILLIAM WHITE APRIL 2012

storY bY LEO ADAM BIGA

April’s Classical Kid is William White who plays the trombone. A 13-yearold student at Lewis Central Middle School in Council Bluffs, several memorable experiences include his selection as Second Chair in an honor band and his participation in the Jim Weidner UNO Jazz Camp. William likes to produce stop-motion videos, specializing in silent movies. He enjoys KVNO because he can “get lost” in the music. KVNO is grateful to the Soener Foundation, in honor of Mary Soener for their support of Classical Kids in 2012.

When film impresario Bruce craWford presents the 1959 Big screen version of Journey to the center of the earth may 19 With star and special guest pat Boone he’ll celeBrate three milestones. LEGENDS A 7 p.m. event at Joslyn Art Museum's Witherspoon Concert Hall benefiting the Nebraska Kidney Association marks Bruce Crawford's 20th year of classic film revivals and 30th screening. The program also pays homage to the centenary of the movie's late great composer, Bernard Herrmann. Growing up in Nebraska City Crawford developed such a strong affinity for movie music and special effects he cultivated friendships with idol Herrmann and stop motion master Ray Harryhausen. He says he never imagined his film passion "would by my life and career and take me all over the country and the world." Boone's the latest in a long line of legends Crawford's brought to Omaha, following Harryhausen, Patricia Neal, Janet Leigh and Debbie Reynolds. Crawford's rep as a movie maven and historian finds him contributing to documentaries and hosting movie music concerts. He and Kim Novak hosted a program at the recent TCM Classic Film Festival in L.A. Always a showman, he puts on the dog at his Omaha events with red carpet, searchlights and reenactors. For Journey he's arranged for bagpipers in quilts and steampunkers in period costumes and gear to set the mood for the Jules Verne Victorian science fiction tale.

JASMINE PARMLEY MAY 2012

Jasmine Parmley is KVNO’s Classical Kid for May. A 13-year-old student at Millard Central Middle School, she plays the piano, viola and percussion. Jasmine was inspired by Nobuyuki Tsujii, a blind Japanese pianist. She realized how important music is in expressing what words cannot say. Jasmine likes to read, travel and study Japanese. She listens to KVNO because the music is calming and helps her focus. The Soener Foundation, in honor of Mary Belle Soener sponsors KVNO’s Classical Kids.

ADDISON DUNBAR JUNE 2012

BOONE OR BUST The ultra square pop singer Boone was under a seven-year 20th Century Fox contact when he refused doing a Marilyn Monroe picture on moral grounds. That's when the studio compelled him to make Journey. He initially balked, preferring romantic comedies and musicals like his idol Bing Crosby. Besides, sic fi movies were usually cheap, B program fillers then. Under threat of suspension he acquiesced when Fox assured him they planned a big budget production with A-list cast (James Mason) and crew director Henry Levin), plus top billing and backend profits for him.

June’s Classical Kid is Addison Dunbar, a 9 year-old pianist and violinist who attends Omaha Christian Academy. She received a Superior rating in the Nebraska Music Teachers Association State Music Festival. Addison is also a competitive figure skater and says playing music helps her skating performances. She finds KVNO’s music calming and says it inspires her to excel. KVNO thanks the Soener Foundation for their support of the award winning Classical Kids program.

Classical Kids is sponsored by the Soener Foundation in honor of Mary Belle Soener. For more information, contact Anne Hellbusch at 559-5866, or by email at ahellbusch@mail.unomaha.edu, or visit www.kvno.org.

READ THE COMPLETE ARTICLE AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM 15

metroMagazine • MaY 2012

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todaysSAVINGS • swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

stretch your shopping dollar with marsha anzalone

spring is here

and with that comes new fashion and trends to shop for. Just take one look at a fashion magazine and it won’t take long to figure out that the “it” trend this season is color, color, color! This season, fashion designers seem to have given us all kinds of fun fashions that offer vivid prints, stripes, and geometric designs. So, don’t be surprised the next time you visit the mall and you pass a table full of vibrantly colored denim jeans, jeans in a plethora of bright colors like purple, yellow, orange and green.

As a good budget conscious shopper, you are going to check the prices at each of your favorite stores. Look for sales and make sure you get the best price you can when shopping for those new summer trends. If you’re like me you are going to look for deals on the trendier looks and spend the majority of your wardrobe budget on quality pieces that are more timeless. You may also shop the vintage and consignment shops looking for something that will compliment today’s trend at yesterday’s prices. However you do it, we all budget shop, at least we do for most things in our lives. One might ask what does shopping for reasonably priced summer trends and health insurance have in common? Quite simply put by Martin Rosen, a former health insurance company executive and co-author of The Healthcare Survival Guide, “We in our daily lives look for a deal, trying to save money.” Our desires of saving money doesn’t only apply to our shopping for clothing and trends but is also considered in health insurance and the costs associated with it. Experts say “Consumers with health insurance typically don't ask for a price when going to the doctor or the hospital for health care services.” Why is it that what may be one of our largest monetary outlays is also the one thing that we never question the price on? If we all were as budget conscious with our health care spending as we are with our other purchases, we could save a lot of money. Here are a few suggestions to consider the next time you need to utilize your health insurance:

For Those CLOTHES You Really Care About

• Make sure you are utilizing care at the most appropriate setting. Don’t go to the emergency room for something that your primary care physician should be handling. Emergency room charges will break your budget. • When considering surgery, ask your surgeon what he is going to charge. Ask him how many of these types of surgeries he has done and what have been the outcomes. • If you need some outpatient x-ray or lab tests, call around for the prices. The price difference in pricing on an MRI can be in the hundreds of dollars. • Take advantage of any tax savings opportunities your employer provides such as a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA). By utilizing either of these vehicles you can stretch your medical dollar by 30% immediately. The average U.S. family saw a 50 percent increase in medical costs over the last five years, according to the health care expense-tracking site Simplee.com. With that kind of increase in medical costs, we all need to do a better job of stretching our health care dollars. Just as it’s important to be mindful of cost and budget when shopping for summer trends it’s even more important when it comes to your health care spending.

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fashioncleaners.com | 402-342-3491 metroMAGAZINE • MAY 2012

Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets

You Still Have Time to Reserve Camp Spots

Camp Kindness is the camp for kids who love helping animals. Children get a behind-thescenes look at shelter life, plus visits from all sorts of furry, finned and feathered friends. This year kids will join the medical team to help diagnose and treat homeless animals. They’ll help foster animals, work with kennel buddies and get up close and personal as they learn their way around the shelter. Visitors included wildlife handlers, exotic bird experts and dog trainers whose agility, carting, and herding dogs strut their stuff. Our day camps run June and July in week long, half day, sessions. For more information and easy online signup go to www.nehumanesociety.org/campkindness.

Help Fido Weather Bad Weather (and fireworks)

Mary and Troy with Action

Mary Nelson and Troy Martin If Action could talk, he’d tell you he is the apple of his mom’s eye… and his dad’s favorite son. Mary Nelson and Troy Martin adopted Action 4 years ago after a careful search. Troy had schnauzers growing up. Mary had everything else, “We grew up in the country, so we had the usual array of strays arrive at our house and we loved all of them.” Action trumps them all. “He has this zest for life that is incredible,” Mary explains “but it was his little Elvis lip curl that I just couldn’t pass by at the shelter.” Action has flourished at Mary and Troy’s house. From an initially shy dog, he has blossomed into an active athlete, but he also loves to cuddle and snooze while watching Golf Channel. Visitors are greeted enthusiastically, something Action didn’t always know to do. “When we got him he didn’t seem to know how to bark,” says Troy, “now he is a first team all-American.” Mary is so proud of Action’s patience and bravery as he gets daily treatments for a recently diagnosed dry eye condition. “He is so good when we put the drops in. I’m grateful that he knows he can trust us.” We’re sure Action feels the same way, Mary!

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

metroMAGAZINE • MAY 2012

Does your pooch tremble at thunder and fireworks? Stop by Animal Outfitters on the NHS campus and pick up a Thundershirt. Thundershirts are stretchy vests with Velcro panels that are tightened to provide gentle pressure to a dog’s torso. Similar to swaddling a baby, the pressure can help alleviate anxiety in stressed dogs. The constant light pressure can help calm pets who suffer from fear, noise anxiety, travel anxiety, separation anxiety, and even general stress. The vests have been so successful the company offers a money-back guarantee. With an 80 percent success rate, it might just be worth trying, for his peace of mind, and yours. NHS Animal Outfitters Store hours are 10-7 weekdays and 10-5 weekends.

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

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ICAN 2012 WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

CUES THE GATHERING

OMAHA SYMPHONY OMAHA SYMPHONY GALA

NEBRASKA LAWYERS FOUNDATION 2012 BARRISTER’S BALL

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF OMAHA AMERICAN GIRL FASHION SHOW

metroMagazine • May 2012

OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE ACT II’S DESTINATION: WORLD’S FARE

OMAHA FILM FESTIVAL 7TH ANNUAL OPENING NIGHT PARTY

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HEIDI DROSS, HONOREE JOHN FASER AND EVENT CHAIR SUSAN HARPSTER

GRAND BALLROOM STAGING

SPONSOR GOBOS

girlPower ican 2012 WoMen's leadershiP ConferenCe Over 2,000 women participated in the ICAN Women's Leadership Conference, a one-day educational and spiritual summit held on April 4th at the CenturyLink Center. The conference featured keynote speakers, Arianna Huffington, Sue Korth and Jeannette Walls; 18 breakout sessions throughout the day; 46 exhibitor booths; a Rangoli artist, Vijaya Mohan, who created a beautiful Rangoli especially for ICAN.

BREAKOUT SPEAKER BEVERLY KRACHER

MAHA

The event’s honorary chair was Sue Korth of Methodist Women's Hospital. The event was co-chaired by Susan Harpster of Lincoln Financial Group and Jackie Pueppke of Baird Holm, LLP. Honorees of this event included ICAN Tim Rouse Award: John Fraser, Legacy Award Winners: Tim Rouse and Carol Hunter, Best Places to Work for the Advancement of Women Award Winner: Ervin & Smith, and Event Coordinator: Lisa Turner.

MARY PREFONTAINE

ICAN is a trusted resource to organizations for innovative leadership programs and experiences. ICAN offers individual and team development through individual and group coaching, mentoring, and in-house customized programs. Visit www.icanglobal.net.

RANGOLI DONE BY ARTIST VIJAYA MOHAN

MAHA

Photos courtesy of iCan

EXHIBITOR BOOTH

Th k you tto ALL our Thank 2 2012 Women’s Leadership Conference sponsors and participants. Keep K eep this Global Glob bal Conversation n going! Sign up for one of ICAN’s leadership programs at: icanglobal.net

metroMagazine • May 2012

EVENT CO-CHAIRS MIKE AND SIGRID MOYLAN, JEFF AND BETH MOBERG, AND BILL AND KATHY GERBER

HONORARY CHAIRS HANI KENEFICK (THIRD FROM RIGHT) AND THE KENEFICK FAMILY

JOE AND JEANNE BARMETTLER, SACRED HEART SCHOOL PRINCIPAL KATIE BARMETTLER, WITH FELIX AND PEGGY CARBULLIDO

seasons ofTheheart cues The gaThering

DAVE CRIPE AND NIKKI BOULAY

The Gathering, a benefit for Sacred Heart School sponsored by the Christian Urban Education Service (CUES), was held March 24th at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel. In following the theme of “Seasons of the Heart”, the guests were treated to a visual delight of butterflies, birds, leaves, and snowflakes. Honorary chairs for the event were Hani Kenefick and the Kenefick Family and the event co-chairs were MAHA Bill and Kathy Gerber, Jeff and Beth Moberg, and Mike and Sigrid Moylan.

MIKE AND DANA MEYER WITH NICK BORMAN

Father Tom Fangman, Pastor at Sacred Heart Church and CUES Executive Director, presented two awards to individuals who have donated their time and energy to the students of Sacred Heart. Mrs. Dana Meyer received the Heart Award for her volunteer work as coordinator of the Enrichment Program. Mr. Jeff Sauvageau, Executive Vice President of Sirius Computer Inc., received the John C. Kenefick Award for his leadership as the 2011 CUES Corporate Drive chairman. Sacred Heart School is a Catholic, mission elementary school for children of all faiths. Visit www.sacredheart-cues.org.

JEN BETTGER, JULIE KENNEY, AND MARI RENSCH

MAHA

Photos by dan flanigan

DEBRA AND STEVE GINN

metroMagazine • May 2012

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NANCY AND WARREN WHITTED

SAM CLINCH AND JANE SCHOENIKE

WENDY MOORE, BRADIE BENJAMIN, EMILY BONNEAU AND SARAH MOORE

runfortheroses

nebraska lawyers foundation 2012 BarrisTerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ball

STACEY AND BROOKS CALL

KIM ROBAK AND BILL MUELLER

The 2012 Barristersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ball, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Run for the Rosesâ&#x20AC;?, was held April 14th, at the Hilton Hotel in Omaha. Approximately 350 people attended the event and took part in a fun-filled evening of music by Pam and the Pearls, silent and live auctions, dining and dancing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; helping raise $77,163 for the Volunteer Lawyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Project (VLP). This Barristersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ball was dedicated to recognizing the efforts of volunteer lawyers and supporters of the Nebraska Lawyers Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VLP, which works to help lowincome Nebraskans achieve justice in their lives.The Nebraska Lawyers Foundation funds the Volunteer Lawyers Project. The VLP was founded on the belief that all citizens should have access to the legal system regardless of ability to pay. VLP is a program of last resort. The Volunteer Lawyers Project in 2011: â&#x20AC;˘13,690 calls were received. â&#x20AC;˘440 low income clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cases were placed with volunteer lawyers. â&#x20AC;˘Another 3,784 individuals were served at SelfHelp Desks in Lincoln, Omaha and Grand Island. â&#x20AC;˘1,148 eligible clients were turned away due to lack of resources or available lawyers. The mission of the Nebraska Lawyers Foundation is â&#x20AC;&#x153;to serve the public and legal profession by securing contributions dedicated to the improvement of the legal profession and the administration of justice.â&#x20AC;? Photos by andrea hoig

JIM GORDON AND KAREN KILGARIN

S. SCOTT MOORE, SAM CLINCH, AND JOHN KNICELY

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metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ May 2012

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SENATOR BEN NELSON WITH SUE NEMERS AND GEORGE HADDIX

ERIC AND JULIE KEEN WITH MIKE AND WENDY MORAN

DAVE AND SUE MORRIS WITH ANGIE AND TREV ALBERTS

nightin hollywood omaha symphony oMaha syMPhony gala

JAMES JOHNSON, BARBARA KATZ AND JENNIFER KATZ

For more than ten years the Omaha Symphony Gala has been held. This year’s event raised over $150,000 with 265 guests in attendance. The Gala was held at the Holland Performing Arts Center with an Old Hollywood theme. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour and music followed by dinner; after dinner there was an on-stage presentation of the Dick and Mary Holland Leadership Award to Fred and Eve MAHA Simon; and finally, the Omaha Symphony featuring Michael Feinstein concert.

DAVID AND MELANIE HECKER

Gala contributions help support the Omaha Symphony, including the orchestra’s awardwinning education programs for children. The Omaha Symphony’s mission—to share the joy of music—extends far beyond the concert hall to classrooms and civic organizations throughout the region. Its nationally-recognized education programs touch the lives of more than 30,000 schoolchildren in Nebraska and Iowa each year. Whether working with preschoolers, high school students, or senior citizens, the symphony delivers fun, accessible opportunities that emphasize interactive learning. Vist www.omahasymphony.org

SPENCER CREWS AND JULIE REILLY

ROBIN HESSELGESSER AND MICHAEL ALEXANDER

MAHA

Photos by dan flanigan

KELLY MILLER, ADAM GOOS AND MISSY RAGATZ 23

KURT AND ANN TJADEN WITH BRIAN AND CINDY LEIFERMAN

LYNDEN AND SUE TENNISON WITH SUSAN AND DEACON CHUCK ADAMS

metroMagazine • May 2012

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Wine&dine easter seals nebraska Wine evenT

KAREN CARLSON, MISS NEBRASKA KAYLA BATT, OMAHA MAYOR JIM SUTTLE AND INGRA ANDERSON

DIANA BUSHE, ALAN COLSON, DOUG AND DAWN NELSON AND CARLEE WADELL

Preliminary figures show Easter Seals Nebraska’s Wine Event, held March 3rd, at Embassy Suites La Vista, grossed over $255,000 expected to generate additional revenue beyond the event as it is used as a fundraising vehicle throughout the year, according to Easter Seals Nebraska President and CEO Karen Carlson. The night included a Vintner’s Reception, Dinner, Silent and Grand Auctions. Over 500 participants enjoyed the various wine-related activities in this fundraiser to support Easter Seals Nebraska (ESN) programs. Proceeds benefit Easter Seals Nebraska, an organization dedicated to ensuring individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities. Carlson says the funds raised will be used to expand the camping and respite programs, in addition to helping people improve mobility, return to work, or gain greater independence through Easter Seals Nebraska’s programs and services. Visit www.ne.easterseals.com.

KAREN CARLSON WITH JASON AND ROBERTA TONJES

RON AND SUE ROHLFS WITH DAN AND ROXANE CLATANOFF

metroMagazine • May 2012

Photos by dan flanigan

Whatadoll junior league of omaha aMeriCan girl fashion shoW

MIA MONAGHAN

GIRLS ENJOYING THE EVENT WITH THEIR AMERICAN GIRL DOLLS

The 20th Annual American Girl Fashion show was held at Happy Hollow Country Club in Omaha, from March 2nd through March 4th. A total of seven fashion shows took place throughout the weekend. It is estimated that approximately 2,000 people attended the event. The event included catering provided by Happy Hollow Club, a silent auction for each show, a raffle with many American Girl items, a boutique featuring American Girl items offered exclusively at the fashion shows, and several local vendors. The American Girl Fashion Show benefits the Junior League of Omaha’s community projects, including “A Book of my Own,” a project designed to get books into the hands of children ages birth through 14 years old, and “Packs of Hope,” a project to supply a backpack of necessities and activities for youth entering protective services. Visit www.juniorleagueomaha.org.

AMY HENDERSON AND JEFF JOSSE WITH AVA KOSSE labore

JULIE PETERSON, AIMEE DEMULLING, JUDY ALTER AND STACY ALTER

Photos by ariel fried

The Omaha Adventure Free Family Festival is a guaranteed winner. Grab the family and enjoy free fun and lots of games with your favorite Omaha attractions May 19th • 10am – 5pm Village Pointe Shopping Center Pick up an Omaha Adventure savings pack filled with more than $50 in discounts to top Omaha attractions and stay ahead of the game and start your summer off right.

metroMagazine • May 2012

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lights Cameraaction omaha film festival 7Th annual oPening nighT ParTy

SHARI PREISTER OWNER OF CUPPYCAKES AND JEREMY DECKER FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

MARY FRATES WITH DIRECTOR FAMKE JANSSEN

The opening night party followed a screening of the film “Bringing up Bobby” which stars Milla Jovovich, Bill Pullman, Marcia Cross, Rory Cochrane, and SpencerList, followed by a Q&A with Writer/DirectorFamke Janssen (X-Men, Taken, Nip/Tuck). After viewing the opening night film attendees were able to join Ms. Janssen at the Capitol Lounge located at 10th & Capitol for a one-of-a-kind opening night party produced by STEP Group. Guests were greeted with a complimentary arrival cocktail compliments of Quality Brands, Soaring Wings, and Lucky Bucket, tasty appetizers provided by Capitol Lounge, and original couture desserts by Cuppycakes. And they enjoyed VIP treatment when they got to have their picture snapped on the red carpet, listened to local musical entertainment and engaged in conversation with fellow filmmakers and festival friends. Visit www.omahafilmfestival.org.

SARA CRAW, CAROLINE HINRICHS, TOM RILEY, RACHEL RICHARDS AND RENEE HOLLINGSWORTH

SHARI PREISTER, TAYLOR NAGY AND AMY NAKAI OF CUPPYCAKES

metroMagazine • May 2012

Photos by dan flanigan

redCarpetevent

alzheimer's association - midlands chapter osCar nighT aMeriCa The Alzheimer’s Association Midlands Chapter joined the Hollywood stars on the red carpet with their 10th annual Oscar Night on February 26th at the DC Centre. Over 250 guests walked the red carpet and posed for pictures before enjoying a night of extraordinary silent and live auction packages, including trips to Mexico and Dominican Republic, autographed, Hollywood and sports memorabilia, along with many other fabulous items. Visit www.alz.org/midlands. Photos by dan flanigan

VIV AND JOHN EWING, LIZ KEARNEY, DUANE GROSS, JOE AND ROBIN DONOVAN

MARY DAUB, MRS. NEBRASKA KIM DANIELS AND HAL DAUB

CELEBRATE CELEBR AT E CINCO O DE M MAYO, AY O , 5.5.12 AY

CAROLINE HENDRICKS, ANDREW SCHILLING AND DAN KIM 27

deC 2011 2012 metroMagazine • May

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TopChef food bank for the heartland CeleBriTy Chef Food Bank for the Heartland’s 11th annual Celebrity Chef fundraiser presented by ConAgra Foods on February 23rd raised more than $225,000. The event featured Chef Rick Bayless, champion of Bravo’s first season of Top Chef Masters and recipient of multiple James Beard Awards. It drew a crowd of over 900 guests to the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista. Food Bank for the Heartland is a nonprofit organization that donates surplus food to feed hungry individuals, families and children. Visit www.FoodBankHeartland.org. Photos by dan flanigan

CHEF RICK BAYLESS, CHAIR MICHELLE SCOTT, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT & PUBLIC RELATIONS BRIAN BARKS AND EMCEE MATT SCHICK

KIM REEVES, MELISSA MARVIN AND JAYNE TIMMERMAN

In conversation with Academy Award-winning director Alexander Payne. Honorary Chair: Susie Buffett Sunday, July 22, 2012 Holland Performing Arts Center Tickets on sale at filmstreams.org or call (402) 933-0259 ext. 13. FEATURE PARTNERS DESIGN PARTNER

CHARLIE AND JOANIE SALTER WITH PATTY AND CHRIS KIRCHER 28

metroMagazine • May 2012

sailaway

omaha community playhouse aCT ii’s desTinaTion: World’s fare Almost 300 people “set sail” on Saturday, March 31st at the Omaha Community Playhouse with ACT II’s Destination: World's Fare Benefit. Guests enjoyed “traveling” to four exciting destinations within OCP, each with its own décor, specialty cuisine and entertainment.

“CAPTAIN CALICO JACK” CHAD CUNNINGHAM WITH DEANA WALOCHA

LAURETTE HESS WITH CARTER AND VERNIE JONES

COURTNEY BIRNSTIHL WITH EVENT CHAIRS DEANNA WALOCHA AND JENN LOCKE

LINDA HEAD, NANCY HANSON AND SUZANNE KOTULA

metroMagazine • May 2012

This year’s ports of call included: S.S. Jones Featuring fabulous entertainment and delicious desserts, the Captain’s reception aboard ship was the place to be. Local performers, such as talented singers, amazing magic, flair bartending and more, entertained guests of Honorary Chairs “Captain” and Mrs. Carter and Vernie Jones. Alaska- Guests relaxed and sample the bounty offered in the majesty of Alaska. Jamaica- Attendees let their hair down at the Barefoot Tiki Bar with signature cocktails and enjoyed Caribbean cuisine as the reggae sounds of Jamaica played in the background. Guests could also compete in the ring toss and have their hair braided in the local custom. Mystic Reef- The watery world of the Caribbean amazed guests in our cool blue lagoon…a secret entrance lead into the Patron’s Pirate Cove where the Linoma Mashers rocked the night away. Vist www.omahaplayhouse.com Photos by dan flanigan

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Wineanddine habitatomaha.org/restore

the partnership for our kids The vinneBrasKa Wine evenT, sPring-2012 The Winemakers’ Reception and Gourmet Dinner was held at the Happy Hollow Country Club. Nearly 230 guests arrived for a tasting reception on March 30th everyone adjourned to the ballroom for dinner to be served. The second evening of the weekend event was held at the Mutual of Omaha Dome. Nearly 850 guests attended and tasted premier wines from 25 of the top wineries and vineyards in the country. Vist www.thepartnershipforourkids.org Photos by dan flanigan

improvement discount outlet. Home improvement Prices 50-70% lower than retail cost. Open to the public.

One block south of Leavenworth on S. 24th Street Monday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm (402) 934.1033 Habitat Omaha ReStore diverted 1,600 tons of usable materials from landfills in 201 1. 2011.

HONORARY CHAIRS NANCY, DAVID AND RACHEL JACOBSON

Molly Ma id clean is now green! Trust Molly Maid to clean your home so thoroughly, people are guaranteed to notice!

5 Reasons why it makes sense.

1 2

Molly Maid’s private label cleaning products are environmentally safe, biodegradable and non-toxic.

ANDY HOLLAND, HONORARY CHAIR DICK HOLLAND AND PRESIDENT DEB DENBECK For a Cleaning Plan designed around your home and your lifestyle Call your Local

It’s healthier for my family, the products are all natural cleaners and disinfectants, I don’t worry about fumes, residue or build up.

I’m doing my part to help the environment. Even the smallest contributions can make a big difference over time.

Molly Maid’s “Small Efforts. Big Results.” brochure provide additional information about creating a more green friendly home.

People always notice how clean and fresh my home is, now I’m proud to tell them it’s also a Molly Maid Green Home!

MOLLY MAID OF CENTRAL OMAHA/COUNCIL BLUFFS

402.932.MAID (6243) A clean you can trust!

Each franchise independently owned and operated . cathy.tichy@mollymaid.com

GEORGE MEYERS AND KATHLEEN HEITZ MEYERS OF HEITZ WINE CELLARS 30

metroMagazine • May 2012

dreams &realities habitat for humanity Ceo Build and dediCaTion The CEO Build is an annual community-wide endeavor offering Omaha CEOs and their associates the opportunity to work together to build a Habitat Omaha home that will be purchased by a low-income family. More than 70 Habitat for Humanity of Omaha donors, volunteers, family partners and staff attended the house dedication for new Habitat homeowner, Angela, as part of the inaugural CEO Build on February 25th. It was a day of celebration and new beginnings for not just Angela and her family but also for Doreen and hers as the event dedicated both of their houses which are next door to one another. Both families dreams became realities when they were presented with the keys to the homes they purchased and helped build.

DON BROWERS WITH SID AND DAWN DINSDALE AND SARAH LOPEZ

AMANDA BREWER AND OMAHA MAYOR JIM SUTTLE

The house dedication brings five months of hard work and sacrifice by the new homeowners, volunteers and Habitat Omaha staff to a heartwarming close which changes lives and as well as the landscape of the community. Visit www.habitatomaha.org. Photos by dan flanigan

KIRK KELLNER AND DICK SCHENCK OF WELLS FARGO

HANNAH WIESE AND RANDY WIESE 31

metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ May 2012

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KATRINA OLSON, BRUCE MAU AND SARAH JOHNSON

THADDAEUS BODE, PATRICK FINIGAN, CLINT LANGAN AND CHRISTENE BYWATER

PHUONG TRAN, SEAN MEYER, COREY DERBY, MARY TRECEK AND ANGELA COOPER

up&Coming

greater omaha young professionals 2012 yP suMMiT Visit www.omahayp.org.

Photos by dan flanigan

MEGAN SULLIVAN AND NIKI STROTMAN

CAILAN O’GRADY AND MADDIE ATHEY

MAHA

JENNIFER EPP, CHAD CARR, JEN HELLMAN AND VIC PADIOS

MAHA GREG HARRIS AND DUSTY DAVIDSON

DAVID BELIEU, SHANE BUMSTED, JAIME EMANUEL AND STEFANIE HALL

RICK LANCASTER, RIA PRAMSTALLER AND MATT KROLL

BETH RILEY, ADAM KALLHOFF, LISA THOMSEN AND JIM FREDERICK

MARK SPOTANSKI, MICHELLE SCHRAGE AND DOUGLAS SUTKO

Photos by linda shepard

metroMagazine •

May 2012

flowerPower

cathedral arts project CaThedral floWer fesTival PaTron ParTy

TIM DYMEK AND SHEILA GREGORY

TIM DYMEK, DAVID SCOTT, RICK CAREY AND JULIE RUSSELL

The Flower Festival Patron Party is the major fund-raising event in support of The Cathedral Flower Festival which has become a regional event with over 10,000 people attending annually. The patron party was held on January 27 with over 200 people in attendence. Patron ticket holders were invited to tour the Cathedral and see the flowers before the event opened to the general public. The viewing was followed by a party held in the Cathedral’s Cultural Center. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were served by Brandeis Catering. The theme of this year’s show was “Garments and Garlands.” The chairs heading the Concept Committee in planning the Flower Festival were David Scott and Rick Carey. They were assisted by Sheila Glaser and Bro. William Woeger. The Cathedral Arts Project was founded almost 30 years ago to promote and present the arts within the Omaha community. It is through the generosity of its patrons that Cathedral Arts Project is able to offer beautiful events such as the Flower Festival absolutely free to the public.

SPENCER CREWS AND BETSYE PARAGAS

JULIE, DON, MARIE, MAGGIE AND DINO LOSOLE, NOMINEE FOR RESTAURATEUR OF THE YEAR 2011

metroMagazine • aPr 2012

Visit www.cathedralartsproject.org. Photos by dan flanigan

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Better Together abide network soha-sTyle oMaha, helP all ChariTy fashion shoW Over 160 people from the Omaha metropolitan community united for one stylish and fabulous event called SOHA, which stands for Style Omaha, Help All.

JENNIFER NAHAS, KATY YOUNG, AND ELIZABETH NAHAS

Over 25 models showcased 70-plus wearable and affordable outfits from 13 local Omaha boutiques and SOHA’s headliner, Seer Outfitters—a trendy clothing line by Kyle Korver of the Chicago Bulls that benefits underprivileged children and those in need. The mission of SOHA is to incorporate fashion, philanthropy, and community spirit into an event that fosters unity, charity, and awareness.

JOSH DOTZLER, KALEB KORVER, BRIAN KOOIENGA, AND KLAYTON KORVER

SOHA raised over $1,000. Proceeds generated from the $5 cover charge and the raffle benefited Omaha’s Abide Network, a local non-profit whose mission is to involve caring people in the lives of children, youth, and families in under-resourced areas. Vist www.abidenetwork.org

KIANNA MOORE

DANIELLE DUBAY, ANNA GLEICHMAN, LAURA REINSCH, AND BREANN BECERRA

Photos by Pam rochholz

anewlook restore omaha oPening reCePTion Nearly 500 people came to view recently rehabilitated apartments along Park Avenue, at the Restore Omaha opening reception March 2nd in midtown Omaha. Attendees toured four two-bedroom apartments at The Barnard Flats, a 1902 building at 804 Park Ave. designed by John Latenser, and also viewed an apartment in the nearby Art Deco's apartment buildings along Park Avenue and visited a rehabilitated home at 3126 Marcy Street. Guests included members of the City Council, City Planning Board and the Landmarks Commission along with staff from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Heritage Nebraska and the Nebraska State Historical Society. Urban Village Development,developers of the project, sponsored the event. CRAVE catered the food, which included passed bruschetta, beef tenderloin skewers with

BOB PUSCHENDORF, NICOLE MALONE, PATRICIA GAY, ANNE AND MIKE BOYLE, JERRY REIMER AND SCOTT SEMRAD

EMILY BANNICK LACEY AND BARB NAUGHTIN

Visit www.restoreomaha.org.

JACK AND MARIE KUBAT WITH GWEN AND SARA HOWARD

Photos by dan flanigan 34

RYAN ROURKE AND NICK HUFF OF CRAVE

metroMagazine • May 2012

superheroes

american red cross heroes in The hearTland

A record number of attendees, approximately 700, joined the American Red Cross at Embassy Suites La Vista on March 14th for The Heroes in the Heartland Awards Luncheon. The luncheon honored individuals from Southwest Iowa and the Omaha metro who have saved a life or positively impacted their community. This signature event, now in it's 12th year, is based on the organization's belief that bravery, commitment, dedication, and selflessness should be recognized, honored and encouraged.

COUNCIL BLUFFS MAYOR TOM HANAFAN, TRICIA QUINN, OMAHA MAYOR JIM SUTTLE AND TINA LABELLARTE

HONORARY CHAIR MIKE FAHEY AND EVENT CHAIR ROCHELLE MULLEN

This year’s honorees were Dr. Curtis Case (Call to Action), Reverend Servando Perales (Commitment to Community), Officers Matthew Digilio and David Ullery (Public Servant), Connie Scherzberg (Military), Steve Cavlovic (Lifetime), and 10-year-old Bryan Botkin (Gift of Life). Seven junior high school students were also be honored for their winning entries to the Heroes in the Heartland Essay Contest. Rochelle Mullen served as the even chair, while Mike Fahey served as the honorary chair. The Red Cross is a charitable organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. Visit www.redcross.org.

CATHY BONNESEN, ELLEN WRIGHT, AMY MOGLIA AND SANDY PARKER

Photos by dan flanigan

BOARD CHAIR DIANE DUREN AND CEO TINA LABELLARTE

metroMagazine • May 2012

savethedate May 11

May 12

May 16-17

May 25

LITERACY ALIVE LUNCHEON Benefiting the Literacy Center Hilton Omaha 1001 Cass St. – 11:30 a.m. The Literacy Center of Omaha welcomes speaker Lesra Martin as keynote for this year’s event. Illiterate as a teen, Martin will speak on the impact of literacy and education, discussing his experiences as an inner city child. Visit www.midlandsliteracy.org.

50TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands CenturyLink Center 455 N. 10th St. – 6:00 p.m. Boys & Girls Clubs celebrates its 50th Birthday in fun, gala-style fashion. Beyond the cake and ice cream, we’ll be celebrating good times with music from Kool and the Gang. Visit www.bgcomaha.org.

SAFETY & HEALTH SUMMIT Sponsored by the National Safety Council Nebraska Embassy Suites La Vista Conference Center – 12520 Westport Pkwy. The Summit provides opportunities for learning new ideas and concepts, discovering innovative products and services, and making connections. Vsit www.SafetyandHealthSummit.com.

ACT II ANNUAL SPRING LUNCHEON Benefiting the Omaha Community Playhouse Omaha Community Playhouse 6915 Cass St. – 11:00 a.m. Celebrate a successful year of ACT II events and accomplishments, welcome in the 2012-2013 board, and enjoy a special presentation by noted guest, Broadway Producer and Tony Award Winner, Adam Epstein. Call 402-553-4890 x145.

May 11 GALA 2012 – UNDER THE BIG TOP A benefit for Brownell-Talbot School Brownell-Talbot School Omaha – 6:00 p.m. Step right up and join Brownell-Talbot School at their annual Gala event, this year themed “Under the Big Top.” Visit www.Brownell.edu.

May 12 CABARET 2012: AN EVENING WITH LUCIE ARNAZ Benefiting the Child Saving Institute Ramada Plaza Convention Center 3321 S. 72nd St. An elegant evening of glitz, glamour and classic cabaret, and sparkling entertainment with songstress Lucie Arnaz. The daughter of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Lucie has showbiz in her blood and will bring down the house with her warmth, humor and fiery pipes. Visit www.ChildSaving.org.

May 13

May 19

FILM STREAMS FEATURE IV Benefiting Film Streams’ Ruth Sokolof Theater Holland Performing Arts Center 1200 Douglas St. – 6:30 p.m. Academy Award-winning actress, best-selling author, humanitarian and lifelong icon Jane Fonda is the special guest for this event where she will take center stage for a conversation about her career on stage and screen. Vsit www.filmstreams.org.

OMAHA ADVENTURE FAMILY FESTIVAL Village Pointe 168th & W. Dodge Rd – 10:00 a.m. Start summer right at this family festival with free face painting, and balloon art. Puzzle your way through brainteasers from The Durham Museum, play like an Egyptian with Joslyn Art Museum, enjoy amazing Oz adventures with Omaha Children’s Museum, hang with special guests from Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, and much more. Vsit www.omahaadventure.com.

May 14

May 19

D.J.’S HERO AWARDS LUNCHEON Benefiting The Salvation Army CenturyLink Center – 455 N. 10th St. This luncheon awards scholarships to outstanding young Nebraskans, while raising funds for programs for children and families. Keynote speakers at this year’s event are ABC news reporter Bob Woodruff and his wife Lee, who will discuss their memoir, In An Instant. Call 402-898-5900.

HAUTE CITY Midtown Crossing – 32nd & Farnam St. Produced by STEP Group, this interactive pop-up retail and entertainment event features local, regional and national brands. HAUTE CITY is composed of two events, HAUTE CITY Day featuring more than 45 interactive pop-up shops, and HAUTE CITY Night featuring a runway fashion production and after-party . Visit www.hautecity.com.

metroMAGAZINE • MAY 2012

May 26-June 2 GREAT PLAINS THEATRE CONFERENCE Presented by Metropolitan Community College Various locations – Omaha The GPTC serves as an avenue to introduce new theatrical work, premier the work of new and emerging playwrights, showcase Omaha’s theatre and cultural site, and is one of the top gatherings in the country for playwrights, actors, and new theatre enthusiasts. Visit www.mccneb.edu/gptc.

May 31 2012 HUMANITARIAN DINNER Benefiting Inclusive Communities Embassy Suites La Vista 12520 Westport Pkwy. – 5:45 p.m. Spend an evening with Marlee Matlin and Henry Winkler with an intimate dialogue revealing their profound connection and individual journeys. They explore themes of overcoming adversity, disability, and believing in oneself. Vsit www.inclusive-communities.org.

savethedate June 1-2

June 7

June 8

2012 CATTLEMEN’S BALL Benefiting cancer research McCool Junction, Nebraska Country music star Justin Moore will headline the entertainment at this year’s Cattlemen’s Ball, which will include other activities such as a prime rib dinner, art show, wine tasting, fashion show, silent auction and dance. Visit www.cattlemensball.com.

BACKSTAGE BASH Benefiting Nebraska Shakespeare The Harper Center at Creighton University. – 5:30 p.m. This event features members of the 2012 Shakespeare On The Green cast in an exclusive mash-up performance of the original, comedic production, {Orange Julius} Caesar’s Errors. With libations, a feast for the rabble, and prizes of chance, be entertained by shenanigans. Visit www.NebraskaShakespeare.com.

HOPE IN THE HEARTLAND Benefiting the American Cancer Society Stinson Park at Aksarben Village 67th & Center St. – 6:00 p.m. This event will offer guests a fun and festive way to support the society’s programs and services, while enjoying an evening of entertainment, food, socializing, midway games, beverages and more. Visit www.hopeintheheartlandomaha.org.

PINOT, PIGS & POETS 2012 Benefiting Completely KIDS Happy Hollow Club 1701 S. 105th St. – 7:00 p.m. One of the premier food and wine events in Omaha, this event includes approximately 30 exquisite pinot noir wine tastings, a vintner competition, slam poetry, and a delectable display of pork dishes prepared by some of the best chefs in Omaha. Visit www.completelykids.org.

June 2 OLLIE’S DREAM GALA Benefiting Ollie Webb Center, Inc. Mutual of Omaha Dome – 33rd & Dodge St. - 6:30 p.m. Enjoy an elegant evening of tasting a wide variety of wines, hors d’oeuvres, live jazz music, and silent and live auctions. Proceeds benefit children, adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities. Visit www.olliewebbinc.org.

June 4 SAFE HAVEN GOLF EVENT Benefiting Heartland Family Service Tiburon Golf Club – 10302 S. 168th St. Proceeds from this fun and slightly competitive four-person scramble support the Heartland Family Service domestic abuse program, including Safe Haven, a concealed shelter to protect women and children from domestic violence. Visit www.HeartlandFamilyService.org.

June 5 TRIBUTE TO WOMEN Benefiting the Women’s Center for Advancement Ramada Plaza Convention Center – 3321 S. 72nd St. – 12:00 p.m. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of Tribute to Women, and in honor of this occasion the WCA will be paying a retrospective tribute to the past women leaders in Omaha in addition to the six distinguished honorees of today. Visit www.wcaomaha.org.

June 7 C.H.A.N.C.E. LUNCHEON Benefiting the Children’s Scholarship Fund Hilton Omaha – 1001 Cass St. Join CSF as they welcome guest speaker legendary football coach and ESPN analyst, Lou Holtz, and honor some of their outstanding students for the examples they’ve shown in the classroom and the community. Visit www.CSFOmaha.org. 37

metroMAGAZINE • MAY 2012

savethedate June 14

July 22

August 11

September

FATHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS GALA Benefiting the American Diabetes Association Hilton Omaha – 5:00 p.m. This event recognizes men who stand tall in the state of Nebraska – our finest community leaders – successful, exemplifying community service, all while maintaining the role of “dad”. Visit www.diabetes.org/NebraskaFOTY.

FEATURE IV Benefiting Film Streams’ Ruth Sokolof Theater Holland Performing Arts Center – 1200 Douglas St. – 6:30 p.m. Academy Award-winning actress, best-selling author, humanitarian and lifelong icon Jane Fonda is the special guest for Feature IV. Fonda will take center stage for a conversation about her career, with a post-party celebration following the program. Visit www.filmstreams.org.

JDRF WALK TO CURE DIABETES Benefiting JDRF Lewis & Clark Landing – 9:00 a.m. Visit www.walk.jdrf.org.

WALKRITE FOR RITECARE Benefiting RiteCare Clinic at UNMC Monroe-Meyer Institute Zorinsky Lake – 9:30 a.m. This family-fun event features clowns, raffles and lunch. Participants who raise $100 receive a WalkRite t-shirt and other incentives. Visit www.walk-rite.org.

August 3

August 18

STRIKE A CHORD 8 Benefiting Heartland Family Service Harrah’s Convention Center – Council Bluffs – 6:00 p.m. Guests at this event enjoy several different stations of themed food and drink while they peruse silent auction items and buy votes for their favorite celebrity artwork. The theme for this year’s event is “Escape to Cooks Island”. Dueling pianists crown the evening with lively song and the crowd takes the dance floor! Visit www.HeartlandFamilyService.org.

DANCE FOR A CHANCE Benefiting Youth Emergency Services This event is a dance competition that pairs local celebrities with professional dance instructors to perform a dance routine in front of celebrity judges and event attendees, all for a good cause. Visit www.yesomaha.org.

June 29 SHELTERING TREE ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefiting Sheltering Tree Dodge Park Golf Course – Council Bluffs The third annual Four-Person Scramble Golf Tournament. Prizes galore and special shots to get your day for free. Dinner in the clubhouse is included. Visit www.ShelteringTreeCommunity.org.

July 12-13 LINKS TO A CURE NEBRASKA Benefiting Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Hilton Omaha and Quarry Oaks Golf Course This dinner gala and golf event features a VIP reception, during which NY Giants linebacker Mark Herzlich will speak. Visit www.linkstoacure.com.

vibrations • with sue moon

may horoscopes

August 16-25 5TH ANNUAL MUSICAL REVUE GALA AND EVENT Benefiting Children’s Respite Care Center Children’s Respite Care Center brings Broadway to Omaha again with this year’s Musical Revue presentation.

BROADWAY BALL 2012: TOGETHER WE SHINE Benefiting the Omaha Performing Arts Holland Performing Arts Center – 6:00 p.m. Join THE PRESENTERS in celebrating Omaha Performing Arts during an evening that pays tribute to the upcoming Tony Award-winning Broadway production, BILLY ELLIOT the Musical. Call 402-661-8454.

September 13

OMAHA FASHION WEEK KANEKO Visit www.omahafashionweek.com.

BREW HAHA Benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Stinson Park at Aksarben Village – 67th & Center St.

August 27

September 14

GREAT FRIENDS TO KIDS LUNCHEON Benefiting the Omaha Children’s Museum Omaha Children’s Museum – 12:00 p.m. In its sixth year, this event recognizes those who have worked passionately to make the Omaha metro area a wonderful place for children to grow up. Visit www.ocm.org.

BIG RED TAILGATE Benefiting Completely KIDS Omaha – 6:00 p.m. Put on your Husker gear and join Completely KIDS for this annual event to kick off the football season. The casual evening features a tailgate dinner, silent and live auctions, a raffle, and appearances by former Husker football players. Visit www.completelykids.org.

August 20-25

taurus

apr 21 - may 20

It would be wiser to create more happiness and fun in your life. READ MORE NOW ONLINE!

gemini

may 21 - jun 21

You are undergoing enormous transformation – get REAL! READ MORE NOW ONLINE! Read your full horoscope from Sue online NOW at SpiritofOmaha.com! 38

September 7

metroMAGAZINE • MAY 2012

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