yes, chef
clayton chapman america’s “greenest” chef
features / DEPARTMENTS
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
features
events
cover STORY
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CHEF, CHEF, CHEF... 8 CHEF, dishing with four of omaha’s top chefs 12 HOSPITALITY HONORS hospitality hall of fame dinner 2011
14 COOKS, COOKS, COOKS...
41 60
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FIGHT LIKE A GIRL breast cancer awareness month
21
SAVE THE DATE
knowing
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nonprofits
MILAGROS EVERYWHERE serving at oneworld
too many cooks in the kitchen 2011
special AWARENESS SECTION
the metroSCENE
metroWEDDING
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COMFORT FOOD WITH CLASS the jermains and catering creations
PERMISSION TO FEEL PRETTY bravadas wig design
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE one drake place’s ribbon foundation
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metro
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spirit
TAPAS: ENERGY OF CHANGE with mary e. vandenack
articles | columns
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MY ROAD TO DIVINITY with dixie clark
PLANNING MATTERS with pvw law
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HOROSCOPES
working
with sue moon
38
departments
24
HELP WANTED! with roger fransecky
LOOK WHO’S SHELTERING
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CREATIVITY & INGENUITY with aristotle group
nebraska humane society
30
wisdom
GALLERY SPOTLIGHT bemis center art auction
smart specials!
bravo!
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honoring our local
METRO ARTS PASS membership has its privileges
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
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jams grill and bar 7814 dodge st., omaha, ne 68114 www.jamseats.com | 402.399.8300 5
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101things to love
Touch it! This beautiful & informative annual publication spotlights restaurants, boutiques, specialty shops, attractions, nightlife and everything in between that makes living in the greater Omaha area fun, delicious and unique! Includes two directories & a map in the back, one categorized by industry and the other by area of town.
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from the PUBLISHER
BIG
buzz
The fall social season is in full swing and that means it’s perfect timing to wrap up the 2012 Event Book & Giving Guide as we prepare to recognize the best in charitable and community functions at the The Big Event. Aksarben Cinema will be the November 29th scene of the red carpet gala. We are pleased to announce that Attitude on Food will be the official event caterer. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at SpiritofOmaha.com. This year’s celebration represents a milestone for us as The Big Event turns five, so we’re asking for your help in making this one extra special. You are invited to submit a video that honors your favorite Big Event nominee. In two minutes or less, tell us how the organization, their work or their event made an impact on you, family, friends or the community as a whole. Don’t worry too much about production values for this one. We’ll be judging entries on message conveyed, not on quality. Speaking of quality video, the winner will receive a video package from Big Event partner Amoura Productions. Visit SpiritofOmaha.com to learn more about how you might win. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our cover personality, Clayton Chapman, co-owner and chef of the Grey Plume in Midtown Crossing. Clayton was a joy to work with and has a great story, as do all of the chefs profiled in our cover story. We are also delighted to feature in this issue (page 12) the honorees of this year's Metropolitan Community College Hospitality Hall of Fame Dinner. Look for more foodie buzz in Q&A’s from the chefs (page 14) who participated in the Omaha Restaurant Association's Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen.
ANDREA L. HOIG ahoig@SpiritofOmaha.com
alh P U B L I C A T I O N S
October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we’re proud to feature on these pages stories of triumph and tears. I would like to thank the women who shared their stories with us and we hope that you are more than merely better educated and informed after reading these profiles and the stories on the important work of Bravadas Wig Design and One Drake Place’s Ribbon Foundation. We hope that you are inspired to act in giving your time, talent and treasure in battling the disease that changes the lives of so many around us. One final note… the clock is ticking on voting for The Big Event. Be sure to support the best in our community before polls close on October 19th. Visit SpiritofOmaha.com to cast your vote!
52 Fabulous Events • 10 Categories • One BIG Night!
Reserve Your Seats Today! 2011
November 29th Aksarben Cinema
to purchase tickets visit
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metro The Spirit of Omaha
OCTOBER 2011 • VOL. 23 NO. 10 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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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
cover STORY metroMAGAZINE
PERHAPS THE
thegrey plume
most important gauge in measuring success in the “farm to table” movement is a literal one, the odometer of the vehicle that delivers the raw materials that end up on your plate. At chef CLAYTON CHAPMAN’S GREY PLUME, “fresh” is measured in a mere three ticks of the gauge when produce makes its way from the nearest supplier, an urban farm smack dab in the middle of densely populated Benson. Correction. Read 30 feet versus three miles.
CLAYTON CHAPMAN
A mezzanine-level growing operation for micro-greens is technically the most local of the chef’s locally sourced products. A passionate commitment to hyper-local growers, ranchers and producers coupled with an Earth-friendly design and sustainable operations led to TIME MAGAZINE coverage when Grey Plume was dubbed “the greenest restaurant in America”by the GREEN RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION in naming the establishment as the first ever to attain its 4 Star SustainaBuild Certified Restaurant recognition. But those aren’t even the most compelling aspects of this food story that isn’t really a food story at all. All of this happened before Chapman turned 25. Hyperbole can be a dangerous thing, but there’s no denying that Clayton Chapman is the reigning wunderkind of Omaha’s culinary world. He may hate the label, but numbers don’t lie. Add a decade to his driver’s license and he’d still vie for the title. “Sometimes I can’t believe it’s real,” the chef said. “I’m in awe of the simple fact that we’re almost 11 months in to this thing. The first four months were a sleep-deprived blur, but now I think we’ve found our rhythm.” Chapman is quick to point out that the “we” above is a big, almost transcendent “we.” He credits his partner and mentor, Chicago restaurateur MICHAEL HOWE. He sings the praises of his staff, family and his network of providers and partners, all of whom contribute to “sustainable economies where dollars are literally grown here and later spent here.” All this from one who has yet to reach 26.
STORY BY DAVID WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ©LAURIE & CHARLES 8
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
TO EXECUTIVE
chef PAUL KULIK, success at one of Omaha’s most prestigious restaurants is often measured in loss.
“Graduating people from the BOILER ROOM system, losing them to other places or to new projects of their own, is among the most satisfying things we do. They leave here with a commitment to quality and a pride in what they do. The community– both the food community and the broader community– is better for it.” But it hasn’t always been that way, Kulik explained. “I grew up in an Omaha where your goal was to get out because it was a cultural wasteland. Flash forward 15 years and I was still having the same conversations in restaurants,” Kulik remarked on one of the few careers where one can log 20 years before 38 candles illuminate a cake. “The city itself seemed to have a lot of skepticism towards youth and its raw, creative energy. So people left.” RAW. CREATIVE. ENERGY. That trio serves as apt descriptors of both the Boiler Room and the city itself, one that has become something of a mini-Mecca for young professionals.
dishing about dishes has perhaps never been more exhilarating than in today’s eclectic dining terrain. metroMAGAZINE checked in with three of omaha’s most prominent foodie voices– and with one who is an emerging culinary artist– to take the pulse of an increasingly compelling restaurant landscape. enjoy these profiles and then be sure to check out related stories in this issue on the Tyler Owen carries on his family’s hospitality of fame and also too many cooks. legacy ofhall giving back. He’s staked out his own territory as a volunteer with various creative and community endeavors close to his heart. BREAKING THE MOLD He doesn’t fit the mold of a steel executive. For starters, he’s a one-time actor and a lifelong rocker. Growing up, the Westside High graduate spent far more time practicing the piano and playing the guitar than he did grooming to be a titan of industry. He fronted his own garage band, THE BOTTOM LINE. After graduating from the University of Colorado he pursued acting and music careers on the west coast. He parlayed his good looks, easy charm and modest talent into screen extra gigs– his credits include a minor speaking part in a MURDER SHE WROTE– and
Kulik believes that the culinary landscape changed only after other, foundational transformations emerged. He points to Dario Schicke (see accompanying story) as being on a vanguard that has been more revolutionary than evolutionary in terms of creativity, but even that was predicated on something wholly “other.” “The very ethos of Omaha has turned,” said the only man from a several state area who has ever been invited to cook at one of the vaunted fundraisers at the legendary BEARD HOUSE in New York City. Why does (indie recording star) CONNOR OBERST love Omaha? How about (Oscar-winning movie-maker) ALEXANDER PAYNE? It’s because Omaha produces great human capital.” Capital that Paul Kulik intends to “lose” every chance he gets.
PAUL KULIK
theboilerroom
continued
cover STORY
continued
DARIO SCHICKE IN CHATS WITH
dario’s
the quartet of chefs featured on these pages, each cited some combination of the others as inspirations. Only one name arose to become a common thread for all.
brasserie
DARIO SCHICKE, his colleagues agree, was a catalyst in re-plotting Omaha’s culinary map. In five short years, his quaint spot in Dundee has attained near legendary status among foodies and the people who cook for them. More than just the home of a good plate and nice brew, the story of DARIO’S BRASSERIE is one that speaks to the rewards of risk-taking. Schicke risked it all to flee his homeland at the onset of the BOSNIAN WAR. And he risked it all again in launching a space that initially relied on one simple idea. Places that feature a flags-of-all-nations array of beers are common, but Schicke raised eyebrows when applying for a loan in outlining his plan to specifically showcase the beers of Belgium. “Bankers here apparently don’t understand the idea of a restaurant that doesn’t serve prime rib and artichoke dip,” the 2010 JAMES BEARD AWARD semifinalist explained, “ so I risked everything by mortgaging my home and leveraging everything else as collateral.” Dario’s gambit paid off. The little haunt that wouldn’t serve domestic beers has since grown to be one of the most talked-about eateries of recent memory. His beers were more than just a teaser; they were a launching point for introducing palates to a special brand of French-inspired cooking that is as casual as it is creative. All this talk about risk does not suggest that Schicke presents an overly serious persona. “We work hard, yes, but we also have fun here,” said the charmingly gregarious man who has been to known regale diners with what might be described as “colorful” language. “That’s what’s great about America. You can say just about anything and as long as it comes with an exotic foreign accent people will eat it up!”
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
HE’D SPENT HIS
entire adult life in a job where he was unable to talk about his work. In intelligence analysis assignments with the U.S. Air Force, especially in a post-9/11 era, one wasn’t in much of a position to repeat water cooler banter. Now that he is retired and making his mark in the unlikeliest of second careers, BRYCE COULTON has become downright chatty. Get him talking about finocchiona, bresaola, sopressata, ciauscolo or fegatelli and his velvety baritone trips off the tongue with ease. And that’s all without straying from the topic of different varieties of salami. Now Coulton, along with AMSTERDAM FALAFEL & KABOB owners PHIL ANANIA and ANNE CAVANAUGH, is set for the spring opening of the FRENCH BULLDOG DUNDEE CURED MEATS AND CHEESES. To be located at an address that is currently a Subway, the space will compliment such notable neighbors as DARIO’S BRASSERIE, PITCH COALFIRE PIZZERIA and others. He prefers the appellation of “cured meats” to the more formal “charcuterie” and he eschews any hint of an “international man of mystery” aura. Instead he points to extensive travels throughout Europe and the Middle East as having instilled in him a deep appreciation for diverse peoples and their ways.
“Intelligence work is about understanding cultures of the world,” Coulton said in the measured tone of a career military man, “and learning about the foods of a people, besides being something that I am passionate about, was just a natural extension of what we did.” His previous work at the BOILER ROOM and his current gig at PITCH, where he often interviewed opposite candidates young enough to be his kids, has allowed Coulton to establish an extensive network of local growers, producers and ranchers to support his business. Old World sensibilities will soon intersect with Dundee neighborliness when the French Bulldog becomes the newest imaginative entry in an ever-expanding foodie landscape. “Keeping alive the cultural traditions of cured meats,” Coulton said, “is an opportunity to do something that is rarely done, let alone rarely done well.” m
BRYCE COULTON
thefrench
bulldog
feature STORY
GREG LINDBERG PURVEYOR | ABSOLUTELY FRESH SEAFOOD Owner of Absolutely Fresh Seafood Company since 1979, Lindberg began bringing fresh seafood to Nebraska and Iowa, selling off the back of a refrigerated truck. He moved ‘inside,’ at the request of the Douglas County Health Department and never looked back. Self employed since 1973, he has owned a variety of businesses including card and gift shop, specialty advertising and commercial and residential painting. Lindberg was the founding president of the Omaha Blues Society with 11 members in 1998 and three years later the organization had more than 650 members.
PAUL & GARY EPSTEIN GREG LINDBERG
THE Hospitality Hall of Fame was created to recognize achievement and significant contributions in the hospitality industry. The Hall of Fame is a collaborative endeavor of the Omaha Restaurant Association, the Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College, the National Association of Catering Executives (Omaha Chapter) and the American Culinary Federation (Heartland Chapter). The 18th annual Omaha Hospitality Hall of Fame Annual Dinner and Induction Ceremony will be held Sunday, Oct. 16th, helping raise scholarship funds for culinary and hospitality students at the Institute of Culinary Arts (ICA) at Metropolitan Community College. The event begins at 5 p.m. at the ICA, Fort Omaha Campus, located at 32nd and Sorensen Parkway.
PURVEYORS | NEBRASKA WINE AND SPIRITS Paul Epstein began his career at Foley’s Department Stores in 1971. In 1976 he joined Nebraska Wine and Spirits, Inc. and worked his way through the warehouse, office and sales to become sales manager in 1978, and President in 1985. He increased the company's market share in wine and spirits along with developing an imported and craft beer division. He served as President of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America's Council of Executive Development as well as various committees and is a member on their Board of Directors. Gary Epstein also worked at Foley’s and began at Nebraska Wine and Spirits in 1981. As Senior Vice President he worked side by side with Paul Epstein and was instrumental in the company’s wine growth.
PAUL AND GARY EPSTEIN
hospitality HONORS 12
DONALD L. AND MARIE LOSOLE
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
2011 INDUCTEES
MICHAEL J. FLANAGAN CHEF | METHODIST HOSPITAL CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY The great nephew of Boys Town founder Father Flanagan, Michael is a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and holds a BS from UNL. Involved in the Omaha food community for over 40 years, Flanagan credits a variety of local influences for his expertise. He was a founding member of the Southeastern Nebraska Chef de Cuisine Association, the first ACF chapter in Nebraska. He also founded the American Culinary Chefs and Apprentices of Omaha and Lincoln, the first ACF chapter in Omaha.
PIERRE BOSSANT PIERRE BOSSANT
CHEF | BOYS TOWN Born in Paris, France, Bossant began as an apprentice baker at age 13. He joined the Navy and French Marines and served in Algeria as a Sous Chef in the Officer Mess Hall and on a destroyer. In 1960 he moved to Omaha and worked in the Brandeis Cafeteria. He served 27 years as the Chef Manager at the Boys Town Employees Café and 13 years as the personal chef for the director. As Chef Emeriti, he still enjoys creating French and American pastries, cooking meals for special events, and most of all, cooking for Father Peter.
MICHAEL J. FLANAGAN
(FAR LEFT, FACING PAGE) (IMMEDIATE LEFT)
ANTHONY J. PICCOLO (TONY)
THE LATE ANTHONY J. (TONY) PICCOLO
DECEASED OWNER | PICCOLO PETE’S RESTAURANT 68 years ago, Piccolo founded Piccolo Pete’s Restaurant at 20th and Dorcas streets. Known for his integrity and respect for his customers, Piccolo honored customers that served the public such as police, firefighters and utility workers. Piccolo’s business strategy was to provide a place to bring the family and enjoy a Nebraska steak at one of the best prices in town in one of the cleanest, warmest and most enjoyable restaurants in Omaha.
DONALD L. LOSOLE & MARIE LOSOLE OWNERS | LOSOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO Don has been an Executive Chef for more than 40 years, and together Don and Marie have worked side by side, owning and operating two successful restaurants, a banquet hall and deli market. During his tenure as Executive Chef at the Field Club of Omaha, Losole oversaw the design and remodel of the kitchen facilities. Throughout their career, the Losoles have entertained celebrities Arnold Palmer, Bob Hope, Tony Bennett, Kevin Costner, Edie Falco and Bo Pelini. m
feature STORY BY metroMAGAZINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE STOCK earlier this year the omaha restaurant association held their annual “too many cooks in the kitchen” at the hilton hotel. over 100 people attended to enjoy a gourmet meal from area chefs. highlighted on these pages are participating chefs and their answers to questions posed by metromagazine
too many cooks I N
T H E
K I T C H E N
ROCKY BOBBY ROCHA MEKINEY
magnolia hotel vivace WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? When I was 3 I would run around kitchens with my dad doing anything I could do to help. Once I turned 15 I applied at a restaurant where my dad was the kitchen manager. My dad didn’t want to hire me because he said once you get into the business it’s hard to get out. I talked the owner into hiring me.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? Ever since I set foot into my first kitchen at 14 years old that this buisiness and being a chef is what I was meant to do. I started as a grunt dishwasher and moved my way up to the line and when I would start to get bored with where I was working I would move on to the next restaurant so that I could keep learning.
HOW HAS THE ART OF COOKING CHANGED OVER THE PAST DECADE? Food has become this worldwide phenomenon. You see it all over T.V. and it’s really put chefs in a light that they have never really been in before. Chefs used to be looked at as peasants who stayed in the kitchen. Now chefs are looked at as rock stars, scientist and innovators in a way that Escoffier would have never imaged.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT THAT YOU HAVE EVERY USED? As far as challenging goes, it’s black chicken. It is so greasy. I don't think I would ever use it again.
HOW HAVE RESTAURANT PATRON’S EXPECTATIONS CHANGED? I think over all guests are coming to the restaurant willing to try something different, new and exciting. As chefs we need to continue to push the envelope and make Omaha known for our food just as much as it is known for the College World Series.
HOW HAS THE ART OF COOKING CHANGED OVER THE PAST DECADE? The most impactful thing that has happened to cooking is the combination of food and science. New gastronomic techniques have brought food to a new place. Artistry is becoming as important as flavor.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? I realized this after being in the military and law enforcement for a few years. I missed the kitchen atmosphere. I returned to the kitchen full time in 2002. Now, I have no plans of exiting the kitchen (Foodservice) anytime soon, with high hopes of opening my own restaurant. WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT YOU’VE EVERY USED? The ingredients were sodium alginate seaweed, calcium chloride; I made sauce “caviar”, and many different “caviars.” I would use this again. HOW HAVE RESTAURANT PATRON’S EXPECTATIONS CHANGED? I believe they have changed tremendously. I feel the patrons are seeking not just good food but great food along with great customer service. HOW HAS THE ART OF COOKING CHANGED OVER THE PAST DECADE? In the past decade I feel that the art of cooking has added a lot of Culinology resulting in the advent of many new fun food applications.
VICTOR CABRIALES
BELLEVUE MEDICAL CENTER
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
CEDRIC FICHEPAIN
metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha
le voltaire
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? I cooked my first New Year Dinner for 20 friends in France at the age of 16. It was a huge success and this event gave me the thrill of cooking. I had the chance to have my mother and my two grandmothers as gourmet cooks. When you grow up in the middle of food, it is impossible to get out of it. WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT YOU’VE EVERY USED? Bottarga, it’s cured roe fish eggs. I had it the first time when I lived in Italy. I did prepare shaved over freshly made tagliatelle. It was heaven. I would definitely use it again but for a special event or wine tasting. HOW HAS THE ART OF COOKING CHANGED OVER THE PAST DECADE? Food has become more mainstream and almost like a circus in some ways. I do miss seeing simple dishes made with simple ingredients. HOW HAVE RESTAURANT PATRON’S EXPECTATIONS CHANGED? Working in a restaurant, front and back of the house, should be mandatory for everybody during their education years even for a short amount of time. I am sure patrons will appreciate more the industry and its demand.
BETH ANDERSON ica
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? It wasn’t until I got into the college world and I noticed that I did not fit into the 250 person classroom (and I’d rather be home cooking for my family just so I could see their reactions) that I realized this was a path I wanted to choose. Once I joined the Culinary Competition Team it pushed me to go out and rock the culinary world.
GLENN WHEELER spencer’s for steak & chops
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? I started helping my mother cook in the kitchen at the age of seven. I would watch French Chef (Julia Child) and want to try some of the recipes. My dad ran a floor care buisness and I used to go with him to restaurants and always found it interesting to talk to the chefs and cooks. At the age of fifteen I realized I wanted to become a chef and began my first kitchen job. WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT YOU’VE EVERY USED? Durian a stinky fruit from malaysia is my unique ingredient,I used it to make a custard,if you can get past the smell it, it was pretty good,I would make it again for the right audience. HOW HAS THE ART OF COOKING CHANGED OVER THE PAST DECADE? With more modern techniques being used and the use of elevated cooking vessels lots of different tastes and textures are being achieved and used for enhanced creativity.
ENZO ZURLO
zurlo’s bistro italiano WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? I grew up in the restaurant business since I was 10 years old, I always loved being around food, it was natural to me so I just stuck with what I love to do... cook & eat! WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT YOU’VE EVERY USED? My mom loves persimmons, I never really was into them until I got older. I made a mascarpone & vanilla gelato stuffed pear with a persimmon creme anglais, Ah! I forgot about that one, and yes I am definitely going to use it again (if anyone in Nebraska can find me any.) HOW HAS THE ART OF COOKING CHANGED OVER THE PAST DECADE? The art of cooking is very unique, because anyone can add their own twist and make it their special dish. I dont think it has changed that much; I think people are just more aware of what goes on behind the scenes because of all the new TV shows, and some of the more exotic ingredients are more accessible today compared to years ago.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT YOU’VE EVERY USED? Quail egg. So delicate and still so awesome. Once I needed just the raw yolk to put on top of a tartar. Trying to get the whites off the yolk alone was a crazy delicate task. I went through a lot of quail eggs.
HOW HAVE RESTAURANT PATRON’S EXPECTATIONS CHANGED? I think people in this indusrty are more willing to try more adventurous things these days.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO BECOME A CHEF? I was a bus boy, age 14, and was intrigued while watching the kitchen.
KELLY SCHWARZ
WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE INGREDIENT YOU’VE EVERY USED? Black garlic gastrique, compound butter.
m’s pub
m
breast cancer AWARENESS MONTH
fight like a girl taking the gloves off in the battle of their lives STORY BY DAVID WILLIAMS
OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH, BUT THE FIGHT AGAINST THE DISEASE IS A YEAR-ROUND CALL TO ACTION. SHARED COMMITMENT, PASSION, STRENGTH AND FEARLESSNESS IN ACTIONS LARGE AND SMALL HAVE TRANSFORMATIONAL POWERS FOR CANCER PATIENTS, SURVIVORS AND CAREGIVERS. The following pages contain stories of courage, laughter and tears, but it is what you do after you put down this magazine that really matters. Give of your time, talent and treasure to promote education, early screening and aggressive treatment so that more of our friends, family and neighbors triumph in the battle of their lives.
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
victory garden karen kruse
IF GARDEN SHOPS
were set up like paint stores, there’d be a vast, wall-wide display of crisp little cards from which to select a mix-andmatch color palette. From ‘a’ (azaleas) to ‘z’ (zinnias), gardeners would be presented with a mind-numbing rainbow of creative possibilities. Karen Kruse kept things simpler in designing a garden. In her little corner of the Metcalfe Park/Country Club neighborhood, it’s all about pink.
“I call it my cancer survivor’s garden,” Kruse said of the cacophony of pink that, through a thoughtful blend of plantings and accent pieces that vary in scale and form, presents a variegated tableau that is anything but monochromatic. KRUSE WAS DIAGNOSED with breast cancer in June 2009. Her mother’s support included tending to the greenery on a property that had always been handsome but is now drop dead gorgeous. Work on the cancer survivor’s garden began in earnest in 2010 and getting her hands dirty again, Kruse said, paralleled her path to recovery. She hung up her trowel (again, pink) and christened the garden exactly one year to the day after her first chemotherapy treatment.
If there’s any doubt that Kruse’s pinkpinker-pinkest yard is a tribute to the work of the Nebraska affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the familiar ribbon logo on a decorative yard flag removes any guesswork. “Almost everything that is in or has to do with this garden, including my set of pink garden tools, was purchased through stores and organizations that were supporting foundation fundraisers,” she said. ONE OF THE MOST STRIKING elements of the space is, oddly enough, the sole casualty of the garden’s inaugural winter. But even in death a dwarf pussy willow tree is a thing of beauty. Now sporting a coat of pink paint applied by Kruse, its spindly, umbrella-like tendrils assume the organic role of edgy contemporary sculpture. “Planting the garden was a wholly selfish act,” Kruse added. “I did it for myself and was surprised when I realized that my neighbors appreciate it too. I’ve even had complete strangers come to my door to ask about my garden.”
“calendar girl” for next year’s Project Pink’d effort. Kruse is in talks with the people behind the Susan G. Komen fundraiser whose calendar features classic pin-up photography of topless breast cancer survivors in tasteful poses that obscure their… well, you get the idea. “I want it to be like this,” Kruse said in positioning a duo of ripe props as men honked their car horns in buzzing past the produce stand. “I want to be shot holding a pair of strategically placed melons!” cont.
Kruse’s connection with the soil extends far beyond her cancer survivor’s garden. She operates Cream of the Crop, the fresh produce “Gardening for me became therapeutic,” business that has been a familiar sight Kruse said. “I’ve always loved it, but all summer long at 77th and Cass this experience has reminded me streets. It was there that she found how important it is to me, how inspiration for one of her newest powerful it has been in my recovery.” dreams, that of becoming a
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
breast cancer AWARENESS MONTH (CONT’D.)
staying power cindy leiferman
And so it was that Leiferman was spun around in a stylist’s chair to confront in the mirror a reflection of a strange and alien vision, one without any hair. But the shears, it turned out, weren’t yet done with their work that day. That’s when a cancer-free Kim Jones elbowed aside her sister in solidarity (and her sister in real life) to go under the clippers in an act that emptied every box of tissues in the place. “She had joked about doing it,” Leiferman continued, “but it didn’t really hit me that she was serious until I saw her climb into that chair!”
EXPRESSIONS of solidarity come in many forms. They can be as simple as a kind word, a hug, or a perfectly-timed, smile-inducing phone call.
OTHER ACTS of sisterhood take on far weightier overtones. When it was time for breast cancer survivor Cindy Leiferman to have her locks shorn, a courageous companion doubled down on what became the most poignant of selfless acts. “I had scheduled a salon party at BUNGALOW/8 to have my head shaved where about 30 of my girlfriends joined me for appetizers, wine and a few tears,” Leiferman said.
THE THEME OF SOLIDARITY still resonates with Leiferman. Already a committed community volunteer for such organizations as Completely KIDS (formerly Camp Fire USA) and many others, she is now co-chair of the April 2012 Kicks for a Cure fundraiser, the weekend-long event that is a benefit for the Liz’s Legacy Cancer Fund. “Kicks for a Cure was started to honor an amazing woman, Dr. Liz Karnes,” said Leiferman. “Liz ultimately lost her battle with cancer, but fought it for a very long time and beat the odds all along the way. Her then-husband, Senator Dave Karnes, and their four daughters are still very involved with the event.”
18
The soccer workshops for at-risk youth and exhibition games featuring high school and college programs do more than just support cancer research initiatives at UNMC Eppley Cancer Center and Creighton University Hereditary Cancer Center, they endow scholarships aimed at promoting women’s collegiate athletics. A COMMON THREAD in any cancer survivor story is that of the unknown. What will tomorrow bring? Does one ever feel safe and “out of the woods?” “I cannot tell you how much the love and support of family and friends can help you pull through the tough times,” said Leiferman. “I am a strong person and, even though I may not have shown it, I was afraid. I was afraid of not seeing my children grow up, getting married, not meeting my grandchildren.” Prefering to put a positive spin on her experience, she refuses to live a life of never-ending fear. Hers is instead a never-ending story turned upside down. “I have been so very blessed,” she said, “with the unconditional love of my husband and family and the support of so many all around me… well, I could go on and on and on forever.”
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
PICKING UP
the phone can be, in more ways than one, an exercise in pain for Dr. Robin Clemmer.
“I had probably six patients last month alone who were diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Clemmer, “and I’m the one who has to make all those calls.” The other twinge of pain is just as real. A breast cancer survivor herself, Clemmer suffers from neuropathy, a side effect of her cancer treatments. Nerve damage in her hands– and the chronic pain, numbness and loss of tactile sensation that goes with it– ultimately forced the surgeon to give up the “OB” half of her OB/GYN practice. DETERMINED TO TURN a void into something meaningful, she opened Sage Aesthetics, what she calls “a medical spa with a higher purpose.” Sage’s skin rejuvenation, laser hair removal, weight loss, dermal filler and other services form a foundation of offerings that speak to health, wellness and beauty, but Clemmer and her staff recognize the importance of dwelling equally in the realm of mental and spiritual recovery. “Many women with cancer come here with a heavy burden of sadness,” Clemmer said. “You see it in their faces and you see it (now dropping her chin and collapsing her shoulders) even in the way they move. These women battle self-esteem, emotional and fear-based issues along with their cancer. They come here for any number of our services, but our more rewarding role is to give them tools for happy living.” Those tools, Clemmer added, may take many forms. One recent client represented a trifecta of success stories. “Besides making her feel beautiful again,” she said in brandishing some absolutely stunning “before” and “after” photographs, “our relationship became one where we were able to help her find a new oncologist because, well, women simply must be comfortable in that setting. And I was also able to refer her to a good cancer
higher purpose dr. robin clemmer psychiatrist. We had great supportive chats here, but those can only go so far. Sometimes professional help is needed to get to the next level of recovery. She’s since told us that it’s made a huge difference in her life. I never promise that I can make people happy, but it’s so wonderful when I find that we can.”
that sports an eye-popping array of vibrant touches.
THERAPY AT SAGE AESTHETICS begins at the threshold. The space in the Shops of Legacy is an explosion of hues punctuated with whimsical accents. Suspended from the ceiling along the main corridor is a row of inverted Japanese paper umbrellas. The lobby features a trio of bird cages whose silken occupants are the only things muted in the spa
In her medical practice and as owner of the med-spa, Dr. Robin Clemmer has found that “higher purpose” that is part of Sage’s tagline.
Not surprisingly, the design was at the hand of the doctor whose personal style in togs is a funkybut-chic montage of multilayered personality.
“I was a good doctor before I was diagnosed with breast cancer,” Clemmer said, “but now I feel I can be a great doctor.” cont.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
breast cancer AWARENESS MONTH (CONT’D.)
bravadas wig design NOBODY
permission to feel pretty
brings small problems through these doors.
“Women have a special relationship with their hair,” explained Sharon O’Donnell, an assistant manager at Bravadas Wig Design. “It’s the frame that surrounds a portrait and losing your hair to breast cancer treatments is devastating to many women.” DARLENE GEIGER was diagnosed with breast cancer 14 months ago. No stranger to O’Donnell and the team at Bravadas, she had been a customer for most of the last decade at the place that specializes in a wide selection of quality wigs, scarves, hats, accessories and, most recently, a new line of prosthetics that is accounting for an increasing share of the store’s success. “I’ve just never liked my hair,” Geiger shrugged. “I never had that lush, Farrah Fawcett mane of hair I wanted. Plus we get skinny hair when we get older and I just wanted something fun and easy.”
SUCH AS? “Oh, I don’t know if we should,” O’Donnell demurred in crinkling her nose. “We might make you blush.” “Oh, c’mon” Geiger interjected, “you mean my boobie party?”
WHEN IT CAME TIME for her to take a dramatically different and more somber approach to wig wrangling, Geiger did it with courage… sans the “somber” part.
“But mostly laughter for me,” Geiger added as the sparkle returned to her eyes. “Like anyone in life, I have my good days and my bad, but this is a place where there is so much hope; so many smiles. Bravadas helps women feel okay about feeling okay. They give us permission to feel pretty; to feel good about ourselves.”
Well known for her themed parties before she was diagnosed, the woman with the dancing eyes is now famous WHILE MUCH OF Bravadas (infamous?) for a party where, say, a business is in purchases that are pair of cupcakes offered limitless “I decided that if I’m going to do this I’m possibilities when it comes to non-medical, it is with cancer going to make it fun,” she explained. “celebrating femininity” edible artistry. survivors like Darlene “Fun” Geiger “That all led to my adopting a new that O’Donnell’s deepest, most nickname of Darlene ‘Fun’ Geiger.” noble calling is served. In an interview whose decibel level ranged from “chuckle” to “guffaw” O’Donnell has been slow to catch “People walk through that door on the laugh-o-meter, Geiger also on to the new moniker, but only and hug us,” O’Donnell said. found more reflective moments, because her client, friend and ones that brought into focus for the “And then we hug them when they confidant will forever simply be leave. You probably don’t see a lot first time the strategically placed “Dar” in her book. of that at Walgreens.” boxes of tissues sprinkled throughout the store. “Dar loves to laugh and is very And so it was that the needle on the much a character,” O’Donnell said laugh-o-meter sprang back to life. “Yes, this is a place of both laughter as Geiger feigned a look of faux and tears,” said O’Donnell in indignation. “If there’s a way to opening a fresh box. have fun, Dar will find it.” cont.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 21
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
breast cancer AWARENESS MONTH (CONT’D.)
OMAHA’S
JAN MOREDICK
THE EARLY YEARS of the group found them making natural non-profit landscape is full of “origin” connections that Crawford described stories, chronicles of the who, what, as a perfect fit for a salon. Outfitting when and where that often go on to cancer survivors with wigs soon gave later define a legacy. Some of the way to a broadening, connect-themost poignant tales are the ones dots list of initiatives that now span kindled by what were seemingly the across town to the Methodist smallest of sparks. Hospital oncology unit. That’s where THE GENESIS OF the Ribbon you’ll find the Ribbon Foundation Foundation is such a story, one that is Room, an effort sponsored by the a touching reminder of what can team that began with one simple story. happen when the overwhelming The non-profit is as also known collides with the underwhelming. for such crowd-pleasing fundraisers “That’s what friends do,” One as its parking lot pancake feeds Drake Place owner Troy Crawford before Nebraska football games and said with an underwhelming, matterTinis and Tunes, the shaken-notof-fact shrug in describing the stirred soirees that feature food, non-profit launched by the popular music and dancing. salon and spa. “This was something Moredick’s favorite? “That’s easy,” borne of necessity. Our friend needed she beamed. “I love our spa nights help and that’s just what friends do.” where stylists, cosmetologists, nails, JAN MOREDICK, who had massage people, just everybody here, known Crawford since he took his gives of their time. We feel women first chair after beauty school, was a deserve to have fun and there’s prized recruit when the stylist opened nothing better than being pampered his own business 10 years ago. But while surrounded by supportive things became overwhelming when friends, especially when you are she was diagnosed with breast cancer going through tough times. It gives a mere four months after joining her them – and all of us here at the salon friend and colleague in the space that – something to look forward to. It’s is as soothing as it is sleek and as also great therapy for me because I’ve earthy as it is eclectic. been there. I know what they’re going “The foundation saved my life,” through. I am them.” Moredick said above the clip-clip-here, TEN YEARS AFTER the snip-snip-there soundtrack that plays overwhelming met the underwhelming in any salon. “It saved my home. It amid a clippings-strewn salon, the saved my family. Now it has gone on Ribbon Foundation has gone on to to help so many others just like me.” raise hundreds of thousands of dollars The quote above is perhaps a bit to support women battling cancer. off kilter. There was, of course, no Crawford is proud of the number, “foundation” at the time of her but he doesn’t measure success in greatest need. There was only a dollars. “Women can feel so alone generous outpouring of loving when they go through this,” he said, support and other assistance from a “but you’re ever alone when you are circle of friends whose actions were here at One Drake Place.” later formalized into what became known as the Ribbon Foundation. m
under overwhelming one drake place’s ribbon foundation STORY BY DAVID WILLIAMS | PHOTO BY RACHEL BRODEUR
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 22
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
Schedule Your
Mammogram
Scan the code with your smart device or visit
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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets!
Bone Jour is Now Open Saturdays! You can now enjoy your Saturdays without the guilt of leaving Fido behind. Whether you’ve got a day of errands, a game, or other activity to attend, your pooch will enjoy his own good day at Bone Jour Dog Daycare. Call 571-CARE or log on to www.Bonejour.org for reservation information. And remember, all proceeds benefit animals at the Nebraska Humane Society. As you care for your dog, you’re also caring for homeless pets.
Save the Date! Purse 4 Paws November 7, 2011 • 5:30-7:30 pm Market Basket at Countryside Village This girls’ night out includes yummy appetizers and wine as ladies peruse the silent auction of purses, scarves and accessories. Your $30 reservation will offer a night of fun, fellowship and guilt-free shopping. What could be better than shopping for purses and helping the animals? Information at: www.nehumanesociety.org/purses4paws.
John Sibley and Daisy
John Sibley The stars aligned for Daisy Sibley. She was born in April 2007 into terrible conditions at a puppy mill in central Nebraska, but just a few weeks later was rescued by the Nebraska Humane Society and brought to the shelter. There she met John, who just happened to be on a tour of the facility. “She picked us,” says John. “She saw us and that was it. She was ours.” Daisy has come a long way from her beginnings in an overcrowded, filthy barn. She now lives with John at his lake home and her schedule includes snoozing in shallow water on hot days, hanging out with John on rafts and, her ultimate favorite, riding in the boat. “You really can’t take the boat out without her. Her feelings get very hurt and she paces the dock until you return.” Who would’ve thought a basenji-terrier mix would be such a water dog?
www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!
For more information go to “Programs and Events” on the NHS Website at www.nehumanesociety.org, or call 444-7800 ext. 273.
iridescent.
birthstone of the month SPONSORED BY BORSHEIMS
REVERED AS A SYMBOL OF HOPE, fidelity and purity, opal was dubbed the Queen of Gems by the ancient Romans because it encompassed the colors of all other gems. Opal is prized for its unique play of color in diffracting light into flashes of rainbow hues. While the most common opal is white, the gemstone occurs in many different varieties. The most valued is the black opal, which has a dark blue, gray or black body color. Bright yellow, orange or red fire opals are also quite distinctive variations. Their day-glo tones are beautiful, with or without play of color. Opal, along with tourmaline, is the birthstone for October and the suggested gift for the fourteenth anniversary.
BIRTHSTONE OF THE MONTH
This classic opal diamond pendant is perfect for any October birthday, or for those who appreciate the unique qualities of this gemstone!
Retail $550, Borsheims price $435
opal Meeting the big needs of our smallest patients
Ivette, RN
Sometimes our smallest patients have very big needs. From a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit designed with features to help babies get stronger, to experts with more than two decades of experience caring for babies born prematurely. We deliver what babies need during their most delicate times. And what parents need to feel most assured. Methodist Women’s Hospital. That’s the meaning of care. bestcare.org ©2011 Methodist Women’s Hospital, an affiliate of Methodist Health System
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
COMFORT FOODWITH
metro WEDDING
LASS
the jermains & CATERING CREATIONS
U
NDER THE TUTELAGE OF executive chef/owner Jeff Snow, banquet chef Miranda Heth and her female colleagues at Catering Creations are accustomed to walking a perilous tightrope. After all, they are in the most precarious of wedding day positions, that of having the power to upstage the bride. A September wedding at the Durham Museum found business brisk at the station where Catering Creations’ signature Salad Martini was served in it’s port wine vinaigrette goodness. And action at the roast beef table was a nonstop syncopation of carve-serve-carve. But it was at Heth’s macaroni and cheese station that the excitement was like that at a midnight premiere of a Harry Potter flick.
“Working this station is a lot of fun,” explained Catering Creations senior event coordinator Jackie Brown. “Miranda gets to talk to everyone two, three times because they always come back for more.”
fluttered half-closed in foodie ecstasy. The resplendent bride, an attorney, admits to changing her menu “a million times” in the run-up to her nuptials to the luckiest man on the planet, Gallup consultant Adam Jermain. One constant remained throughout all of that entrée editing. Catering Creations’ famous mac and cheese, Kara explained, had always held its A-list status as the star of this show. Make that the only star not wearing something borrowed and something blue. “Don’t tell anyone this,” Jermain said in elbowing Brown, “but we kind of cheated throughout the whole process.” Her subterfuge was that she and Adam returned multiple times to Catering Creations’ tasting parties even after their catering choice had been made. “I noticed that they just happened to show up whenever we featured our mac and cheese,” Brown said in returning a friendly nudge.
And as for those countless menu changes? Those among the uninitiated may here be reading with raised eyebrow at the mention of such comfort food as mac and cheese in “That’s exactly what we’re here for,” Brown a story about an award-winning caterer and added. “In fact we encourage it. Our clients are more than just clients. They their bravura performance before 200 become our partners and our newest guests at a wedding whose motif echoed friends. We want them to feel 115 percent the simple-but-sleek elegance of the comfortable with what’s going to happen Durham’s stunning art deco décor. on their wedding day.” And that would be a shame because it would mean that you’ve never savored the Jermain may now need to rethink her strategy when it comes to getting her fix of creamy richness of the dish served at an mac and cheese. After all, isn’t the “action station” where eager diners select presence of both a wedding band and a from such toppings as smoked bacon, wedding ring going to be a sure-fire scallions, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried giveaway that cheating is afoot the next tomatoes, a selection of additional cheeses time she tries to infiltrate one of those and a decidedly decadent truffle oil. Catering Creations tasting parties? “Isn’t it just to die for?” Kara Jermain (nee “I’ll take the fifth on that,” the attorney demurred. Schiermeyer) purred as her eyelids m STORY BY DAVID WILLIAMS PHOTOS BY SCARLETT BLAKE & SHELBY CRAW
KARA JERMAIN AND JACKIE BROWN 26
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
continued
KARA AND ADAM JERMAIN
CHEF MIRANDA HETH
THE JERMAINS
CATERING CREATIONS STAFF
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gallery spotlight BEMIS CENTER WARREN ROSSER’S RETURN.…TO DEFAULT
Boasting 400 works contributed by 250 artists from all over the world, the galleries of the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts will be the most interesting place in Omaha on two evenings in October. The Underground Auction on October 13th is a prelude to the big event on October 15th when the gavel drops on the organization’s 13th Annual Art Auction. More than just the area’s premier contemporary art event of the year, the elbow-to-elbow crowd at this one elevates peoplewatching to an art form in and of itself. Because the auction features work in all price ranges, beginning collectors will mingle
with savvy veterans during a frenzy of bidding in a silent auction before higher-priced pieces go on the block in a live auction. The 13th Annual Art Auction exhibition is hung and the galleries are now open, meaning that it’s time to wander the 12,000 square feet of gallery space, scope out your favorite pieces and devise a bidding strategy. Over 600 artists from all across the globe have participated in residency programs at the internationally acclaimed non-profit that is celebrating its 30th year of artists supporting artists.
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
13TH ANNUAL ART AUCTION October 15th Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 724 S. 12th St. Visit bemiscenter.org
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
celebrating the arts
omaha • lincoln • council bluffs
metro arts{ pass
OPERA OMAHA OPERA OMAHA OPERA OMAHA OPERA OM
MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS PRIVILEGES} by john ray
ONE ORGANIZATION IS A FLEDGING NEWCOMER, the other a seasoned veteran with an international influence that is celebrating its 30th season as one of the cultural anchors of a resurgent Omaha. But both Ballet Nebraska and the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts see the Metro Arts Pass as a vehicle that will be a valuable tool in their marketing strategies. is a “membership has its privileges” collaboration between 18 area arts and cultural organizations. Membership in one non-profit means special access to offers from all at no additional cost. Each month features new deals on tickets and other goodies. Just use your membership card from one non-profit to leverage savings with others.
BALLET NEBRASKA BALLET NEBRASKA BALLET NEBRASKA
Ballet Nebraska’s second season opens with the October 28 staging of Dracula at the Orpheum Theater, making it a perfect night out for some sophisticated Halloween fun. The horror classic comes on the heals of last season’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Momentum and Swing, Swing, Swing. Metro Arts Pass holders may buy Dracula tickets for the reduced price of $50 for a pair. “
, the Metro Arts Pass has a double meaning for us,” said Erika Overturff, founder and artistic director of Nebraska’s only professional dance company. “Besides linking us to the larger arts scene and helping raise awareness about dance, it has been an important partnership where we learn from all these great participating organizations, people who are passionate about the arts. Sharing ideas and success stories with them has been invaluable and that’s already acted as a springboard to launch a new collaboration with Opera Omaha where members of the North Wind Chorus will join Ballet Nebraska for December’s The Nutcracker.” continued 31
BEMIS CENTER BEMIS CENTER BEMIS CENTER BEMIS CEN
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
{METRo
omaha • lincoln • council bluffs
ARTS PASS} continued
At the Bemis Center in October, you can use any membership in a participating Metro Arts Pass group to get a free annual individual membership just in time for the 13th Annual Art Auction on October 15th and the warm-up event, the Underground Auction on October 13th.
JOSLYN ART MUSEUM JOSLYN ART MUSEUM JOSL
A $35 value in and of itself, a Bemis Center membership also provides reduced ticket prices for the auctions; $25 ($35 nonmembers) for general admission and $75 ($85 non-members) for special reservations. The higher ticket value includes a cocktail preview on October 12th, a reserved seat in the live auction and access to the VIP lounge. in the Metro Arts Pass lineup is 10% off tickets to Omaha Performing Arts’ November 9 and 10 performances of the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Nutcracker. And December brings 10% off all purchases in the Hitchcock Museum Shop at the Durham Museum. Visit www.metroartspass.com for more on these and other offers that run through August of next year.
Art Center at IWCC • Ballet Nebraska • Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts • Bluffs Art Council • The Durham Museum • El Museo Latino • Film Streams at the Ruth Sokolof Theater • Fontenelle Nature Association • Henry Doorly Zoo • Joslyn Art Museum • Lauritzen Gardens • Nebraska Shakespeare Festival • Omaha Children’s Museum • Omaha Community Playhouse • Opera Omaha • Omaha Performing Arts • The Rose Performing Arts • Strategic Air & Space Museum
OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE OMAHA COMMU
FONTENELLE NATURE ASSOC FONTENELLE NATURE
THE DURHAM MUSEUM THE DURHAM MUSEUM TH 32
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
KVNO’s award-winning Classical Kids program is made possible with support from the Soener Foundation, in honor of Mary Soener. Each month, KVNO honors the gift of the arts in our youth by recognizing an outstanding student musician, or “Classical Kid.” A panel of local music educators and KVNO staff members choose a youth whose musical efforts exemplify the value and richness of the arts in a young person’s life.
PETE FUCINARO OCTOBER 2011
October’s Classical Kid is 14-year-old Pete Fucinaro, who was 13 when selected and is a student at St. James/Seton School. He plays the alto saxophone, violin and the electric and acoustical guitar. Pete enjoyed playing at the Holland Performing Arts Center with the Omaha Area Youth Orchestra Conservatory Orchestra. His favorite piece at the concert was Beethoven’s Fifth. He also had the opportunity to play solos in a jazz concert. He listens to KVNO in the car with his mother and hopes to be able to play some of the music he hears. KVNO thanks the Soener Foundation, honoring Mary Belle Soener for their support of Classical Kids.
EMILY NIELSEN NOVEMBER 2011
Central Middle School student Emily Nielsen is the November Classical Kid. A 14-year-old who was 13 when selected, she plays the piano and remembers playing at the Nebraska Summer Music Olympics, where she won a trophy. “Being alone with the judge in the room was a little bit scary at the beginning but she appears to be very nice.” She loves listening to KVNO because you can feel the emotion without hearing any words. KVNO is grateful to the Soener Foundation, honoring Mary Soener for their ongoing support of Classical Kids.
CHRISTOPHER LIN DECEMBER 2011
Christopher Lin is December’s Classical Kid. He is 8 years old, attends Brownell-Talbot School and plays the piano. Christopher fondly recalls the 2010 Omaha Conservatory of Music Institute, where he thoroughly enjoyed the Music Composition class when he could write his own music and hear it on the piano. Asked why he likes KVNO, Christopher says, “…first of all, the songs are really cool.Secondly, it’s my town’s only classical music channel!” Classical Kids is made possible by the Soener Foundation in honor of Mary Soener. 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.
knowing NONPROFITS: ONEWORLD COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS
metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
yielded to newcomers from Spanishspeaking, Asian and African nations. Maria, part of a group of rotating lunch providers, brings her from-scratch Mexican cooking to the OneWorld cafeteria every Tuesday. MORE THAN JUST a semiinvisible “lunch lady,” Maria is the ever-smiling character who is included in office parties and holiday celebrations. It’s a good bet that the OneWorld employee handbook has a clause specifying that she is to be invited to any event where more than three staffers gather. The homey, everybody-knowseverybody atmosphere of OneWorld coupled with Alina’s equally outgoing personality meant that we were faced with several smile-inducing interruptions as her co-workers drifted in and out of the cafeteria that day. But the same scene is mirrored throughout the corridors of the clinic where staff and community come together in a spirit that embodies a friendly, neighbor-to-neighbor vibe. “That’s just who we are here,” Alina added, “This place means family. It’s home for so many of us just like it’s home for so many of our neighbors here in South Omaha.” STORY BY JOHN RAY UP NEXT for OneWorld is its November 10th Milagro dinner in the stately 10th floor ballroom of the Livestock Exchange Building. The fundraiser that borrows the Spanish word for “miracle” mom herself, the thought of staying in and my wardrobe needs… well, a boost. this year honors the contributions of These are the sort of things I hear at school, let alone later continuing her Bergan Mercy Medical Center, Building work all the time.” education, seemed but a distant dream. Bright Futures, Robert Fizgibbons, M.D., ALINA CEBALLOS, a supervisor at “Thanks to the nurses, providers Midwest GYN Oncology and the ONEWORLD COMMUNITY HEALTH and other staff here,” Alina explained, University of Nebraska Medical CenterCENTERS, takes such comments in “I was able to be strong and make Department of Family Medicine. Dr. Joann stride. Words that would be awkward good decisions. They pushed me to in most workplaces are easier to swallow follow my dreams. They pushed me to Schaefer will be the keynote speaker. when they come from your own mother. Mother-daughter combos who be somebody; a good mom, a ONEWORLD, the communityhappen to work together are not provider for my kids, a healthcare based effort whose mission revolves provider who now has a chance to uncommon, but Alina and Maria around overcoming “access, quality give back to the community.” Ceballos’ story and their commitment to and cost challenges in a healthcare THE NONPROFIT HOUSED IN the non-profit’s “big tent” mission is marketplace that too often leaves the the historic LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE something greater. It is a mircocosm that most vulnerable behind,” has played BUILDING provides a broad range of reflects a larger OneWorld legacy. an integral role in the lives of both both clinical and support services in “Alina is my milagro,” Maria beamed, Alina and her mother, Maria Ceballos. medical, dental, optical and behavioral “and OneWorld is a place where so many Maria was a new member of the arenas to compliment its robust education, milagros happen.” community 33 years ago and, as a prevention and outreach programs. pregnant teen, had few prospects when The federally qualified community it came to providing healthcare for her health center experiences double-digit Visit www.oneworldomaha.org for family. The affordable services and annual growth in numbers of people more on the Milagro dinner and caring, culturally sensitive staff of what served, even as its percentage of OneWorld programs. was then called the INDIAN CHICANO uninsured patients continues to soar. m HEALTH CENTER meant to Maria that Now ground is soon to be broken on a she could receive quality care in pair of expansion facilities at the site that preparing for the birth of Alina’s has for generations been synonymous younger sister and beyond. with successive waves of immigration Alina, at 16, was faced with a similar where a goulash of Czech, Polish and other Eastern Europeans has since challenge. Now about to become a teen
milagros everywhere SERVING AT ONEWORLD
“MYHAIR’S ALL WRONG...
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metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
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transform tapas: metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
energy of change
with mary e. vandenack
“SOME HAVE HEARD OF MILK; SOME HAVE SEEN IT; SOME HAVE TOUCHED IT; AND SOME HAVE DRUNK IT. THE LAST ALONE HAVE PROFITED FROM THE MILK.” ~ Sri Ramakrishna Tapas is the third niyama (observance) of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. The niyamas describe a path to personal freedom through awareness. Tapas is Sanskrit for “heat” and describes the focused, constant, intense commitment necessary to overcome impediments that keep us from living in a state of mental peacefulness.
AFFECTING CHANGE Tapas is a willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve transformation, whether it be to lose weight, make a career change or improve a relationship. Affecting change requires consistency. This might mean that you forgive your child for the 10,000th time or you rejoin a weight control program. If you give up on yourself, the outcome is clear. If you persist, transformation can occur.
YOU ARE NOT TOO OLD FOR TRANSFORMATION
FOCUS Cutting through distractions is a key to focus and there are all kinds of ready distractions in today’s society. A significant distraction for many comes in the form of e-mail, texting and social media. I recently worked with a woman who was trying to get to the next level in her career. She showed up every day and she worked the entire day. She wasn’t one of those dallying in the break room or hanging in the doorways of others. In reviewing the use of her time, we discovered that she started each day answering e-mail, a process that created a chain reaction that continued all day long. She never turned off her e-mail and was constantly distracted. She had no ability to focus attention on projects that would get her boss’s attention. When she changed her approach and started the day with blocks of time for focus and thinking, her efforts quickly got the attention of the boss.
I recently heard someone say he was “too old to change.” ATTENTION TO THE PRESENT MOMENT There is no such thing. If you cannot change, it is only Do you know anyone who is a constant frenzy of because you are unwilling to do so. Age is not a factor. emotional frittering? The frenzied mind lacks focus and is As a yoga teacher, I can attest to observing filled with such thoughts as “If only I had done this,” or transformation in people of all ages. I have a friend who “If only he or she would listen to me” and “If only I had turns 60 this fall and I’ve observed him overcome a gone to Harvard.” Use focus to shift from the frenzy. lifetime of behavior strewn with obstacles along the way. Find yourself in the present moment, no matter what I have observed a 63-year-old woman virtually remake exists in that moment. her body… and her perspective about it. The keys to transformation are awareness, willingness, persistence When we concentrate the tremendous psycho-physical and consistency. energies that are within us and direct them to a problem,
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clarity arises and a resolution comes easier. Through tapas comes every type of greatness and excellence.
SELF AWARENESS Achieving transformation through tapas requires selfawareness. Many of us avoid introspection. We might look in the mirror to make sure our hair is just so, but we avoid looking beyond… to who we really are. In yoga we teach awareness. Close your eyes. Take deep breaths. Instead of noticing everything about you, notice who is noticing. Then connect to the notice because the “noticer” is you.
GIVE UP BEING A SLAVE - DEFINE GREATNESS IN YOUR PERSONAL EXPERIENCE Recently I had the opportunity to spend some time visiting a home where mostly elder people were undergoing rehabilitation for knee and hip replacements and similar surgeries. For those individuals, putting a foot on the floor or climbing a stair again were significant achievements. Watching that reminded me that achievement is all a matter of where we are at a given moment in our journey. If we define and measure achievement in what we perceive to be the expectations others, we are slaves to the standards of others. If we instead define greatness in accordance with the terms of our life experience, we can attain a sense of personal freedom, gratitude and appreciation for our existence.
metroMagazine • oct 2011
the soul’s journey
journey
my road to divinity I know this journey is not really a road. It’s a place I already am, just not fully awakened to yet. But it feels like a road or a path to me. The road to my Divinity takes many forms. Sometimes it’s like a lane on a farm where the ruts are so deep that it’s difficult to change course. Other times it’s a very scenic highway that is so amazing it can take my breath away. Some days it’s like driving through the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans, where all I can do when I look at the deterioration, decay and broken lives is to let go of the helplessness and trust that God is there. My favorite road is the expressway, flying like the wind with the windows down and the music cranked, feeling like my body can’t contain the exhilaration. My Soul’s Journey has many roads. Many roads taking me Home. As I have continued on this journey, a new road has presented itself. A road less traveled. All the familiar reference points aren’t there. There are no places to pull over, no places of safety when the storms come. The road behind me is rolling up and disappearing and I can’t see the road in front of me. I just have to stay in the moment, breathing in and breathing out, trusting that the fog will lift and that I will eventually know where I am going. This road asks me to trust, to put aside all illusions about what I thought was true, to open up to the Truth of who I am. Because I can’t see any signs, I have to go inside for answers. And I am being guided in wonderful ways.
Along this road I had an awakening. I heard a voice softly whisper, “remember… remember.” All the times before, I thought this was the voice of loneliness telling me there was something wrong with me or that there was something lacking in my life. I hear now the voice of my Soul, that part of me which remembers the sacred communion saying, “Remember, you are more than this. You are never alone.”
On the road to my Divinity I discovered that even though I drive away, I never leave home. It’s always within me, never separate. There is no here or there, then and now, them and us. It’s all one. Right now. One thought. One breath. One cell of God. I see how I am getting exactly what I need along the way. It’s not always what I want. It’s often not very pretty. I see all the teachers that have been in my life. Some I recognized at the time. Others I recognize only now. Through their sandpapering, through their reflections of me in them I have grown, despite my best efforts to stay the same. I am in gratitude and loving for these people. Some are still with me; others are with me only in my heart. Many are still to come. I thank you all.
I am embracing my limitations, understanding my motivations and seeing when I’m not so pure of heart. I am letting go of the need to defend or justify and simply say, “Yes, this is me. I did that.” In doing this I find that I am doubting less and trusting more, all the while my Soul is saying “remember… remember… remember, you are safe to be who you are.” I see how often I have let doubt and discouragement be my guide and keep me small. I see the times that fear was in control and I stayed silent. I have become aware of the times when the victim in me would rob me of my power, or when I simply gave it away to another. And all the while my Soul is saying “remember… remember… remember, you’re a lion, not a lamb.” I am embracing all those lost and disenfranchised parts of me that had been left behind. Those orphans who have gone unclaimed due to my confusion and ignorance. One by one they are detaching themselves from the past, from those situations where they were stuck in shock or fear or rage, or simply because they thought that’s where they belonged.
with dixie clark
One by one they are returning to the Light, to the Loving, some running with arms out, others returning a bit grudgingly, asking “Where the hell have you been?” But one by one they are returning. I am becoming real and much loved, like the Velveteen Rabbit. I am opening my heart to myself and, in doing that, I am becoming more “of” me and less “about” me.
I see my life as my sacred creation. No more excuses; no more blaming or judgment. I am releasing it all so I can be free. Free to be who I Am, trusting that I am guided each step of the way. And all the while my Soul is saying “remember… remember… remember.”
I SHALL BE TELLING THIS WITH A SIGH SOMEWHERE AGES AND AGES HENCE: TWO ROADS DIVERGED IN A WOOD, AND I I TOOK THE ONE LESS TRAVELED BY, AND THAT HAS MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. ~ Robert Frost
Dixie Clark, MS, MSS, LPc is Director and co-founder of Morning Star center, a holistic wellness center. a licensed counselor and ordained minister, she holds a masters’ degree in both counseling and spiritual science and is currently obtaining her doctorate in spiritual science. With over 26 years experience in mind/body therapies, she combines spirituality and psychology to help people release emotional blocks, heal past trauma and change limiting beliefs to open to soul awareness.
dixie clark, ms, mss, lpc | www.morningstarcenter.com | www.dixieclark.com 37
metroMagazine • oct 2011
leading & LiVing • apogee group metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha
leadership help wanted!
with roger fransecky
With September passed and as you return to life’s classroom, prepare for the teacher’s question: “How was your summer?”
even better, a letter, expressing not anger but the hope that they will step out from the clouds of pessimism, an ideologue’s hiding place, and engage in courageous conversations about a “Better Next.” You can’t filibuster hope. We will believe again when we begin to really talk about passion, not poison, and get help to those who need it to find jobs, to share their talents, to be back into a real conversation that offers a horizon.
Those words were spoken by Cicero in 55 B.C. What have we learned in two millennia?
I wrote about this same theme in February 2009: “All of us are being tested as never before. Now, as we confront the toughest economy in a generation we are What was once a time of sun-splashed reverie, iced tea all being called upon to accept more uncertainty and, its unwelcome fellow traveler, fear. We are often so on a cool patio staring into the dusk of the day and distracted that we lack the attention for anything more planning for the Labor Day picnic has all changed. than a five-part miniseries, and now, in our collective “affluenza,” anger and uncertainty, we feel suddenly Roger Cohen of the New York Times framed summer vulnerable. And we hate the feeling. It makes it hard best for me: “The world speeded up. Stress levels to live and lead. In the months ahead it will be too soared. Idle moments evaporated. Egos expanded. easy to slip back to the solace of what appears to be Devices became hand-held. Money outpaced politics. order, certainty, planned days and nights. Instead, Rage surged.” leaders must confront one of their toughest tests of character and courage. Can they saddle up and ride August aborted this year in a time of ugly politics, the Four Horseman of the Reconstructed Economy: Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity? debt debates and a new time of outrage. It’s as if an Do we face a Darwinian winter of more downturns aging, sick elephant decide to amble onto our pristine and closings? The news makes us want to hunker beach and generously relieve itself. After what The down and hide. As Keats wrote, “There is nothing Economist called a “ludicrously irresponsible bout of fiscal brinksmanship,” the markets continued to churn stable in the world; uproar’s your only music.” and the angry young, facing unemployment as high as One of the wisest writers I know is Dominque 45.7 percent, left the beach for the barricades in Browning, whose wonderful book Slow Love was London and other cities in the UK. Several died. featured in some of my earlier newsletters. In a And the fragile European Union is caught in the gulf current blog from her site, www.slowlovelife.com, she between rich and poor nations and bankrupt reminds us that we all have a big stake in how all of economies begging for relief. “this” turns out, and that we can in large and small ways influence the future. A sour economy doesn’t just happen “out there” Don’t ask!
anymore. Gallup’s economic confidence is at the lowest level since the pessimistic recession of 20082009 and millions of us do not have jobs, perhaps for a long time. It’s hitting mighty close to home. And, in all of this, where were our leaders? They were behaving badly on CNN, Fox, MSNBC and BBC-1. My wise partner, David Klein, reminded me that this isn’t the first time. “The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed lest Rome become bankrupt. People must again learn to work, instead of living on public assistance.”
“We’re all caught in the mad, maddening, thrilling swirl of work and love,” she wrote. “We all want to learn how to dig deeper, ground ourselves. Total escapism doesn’t do anyone any good, including the person who has put herself into hiding. You can shut the doors and windows, lock the garden gate, and tuck yourself into an exquisitely appointed bed but, no matter what you do, you live in a big, booming, buzzing world that is going to touch you wherever you hide. It is a world that urgently, more than ever, needs intelligent attention and the generous care of our hearts and souls. Let’s keep talking.”
Let’s take leadership for the things we can change. I invite you to consider three personal initiatives: • Get a list of your representatives, congressmen and other leaders and send them an email or,
• Contribute to those agencies and charities that are providing help to the homeless and the unemployed. In my community, it’s the Red Cross and Salvation Army for starters. • And give more than money, any amount, to help one person find a job. Really help them. Revise their resume, reach into your network to get them an interview and prepare them by role-playing the conversation. Even help them with their wardrobe. Really. I’ve done it. It works. And it feels great when it works. Open that door.
In doing this, allow yourself to feel their vulnerability. And your own. “We try to construct a life in which we will be perfect,” David Whyte wrote in Crossing the Unknown Sea, ‘in which we will eliminate awkwardness, pass by vulnerability, ignore ineptness, only to pass through the gate of our lives and find, strangely, that the gateway is vulnerability itself. The very place we are open to the world whether we like it or not.” I persist in my optimism that we can pull ourselves up and into a place of reasonable expectations and hope in a new spirit of recovery. We have a history to trust. To me the misty dawns of late summer outside my window, curling and weaving about my riverfront patios, offer a sultry invitation to wash away the tired leaves that keep us green awhile longer. This is all a brief glimpse of the days to come and with them the first signs of a new season. Invite the leader in you to step forth. It begins with you. Learn more about Roger Fransecky and the services available for developing your resources at www.apogeeceo.com
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metroMagazine • oct 2011
nes: optimal LiVing • aristotle group
creativity&ingenuity
original
“IMAGINATION IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN KNOWLEDGE. KNOWLEDGE IS LIMITED. IMAGINATION ENCIRCLES THE WORLD.” ~ Albert Einstein In a move that grabbed media attention and caused many to question the company’s future, Steve Jobs recently announced his resignation as CEO of Apple Computers. Jobs is described as an enigmatic leader and, by definition, an enigma is something that is hard to understand, obscure, or mystifying. Not only credited with turning Apple Computer around, he is credited with changing the way we live. We can search for airline tickets with our iPhones, book hotels using our iPad, use our MacBook Air to finalize our presentation in flight and then recline our seats to listen to our customized play list on an iPod. His creativity is prolific with his name on more than 313 Apple patents.
with gordon h. parry
out for that person’s distinctive individuality. Creativity was a “gift of the gods or spirits, not a human act.” (Peterson, 2004). While creativity has been linked with the word genius; creative individuals are more readily known by their disposition.
behavior is governed by rules and routines, a series of mental shortcuts. When we are mindful we are sensitive to context and perspective. Mindfulness and creativity are two mutually supporting processes. We become more mindful and as we take time to slow down.
Is creativity a gift that only select few of us have?
As demonstrated by Jobs and the team at Apple, creativity, ingenuity and originality result in significant tangible value. This value is not limited to stockholders and employees. Apple’s products have a positive impact on the lives of consumers around the world.
While creativity exists along a continuum, it resides in each of us and can be enhanced or inhibited. One of the best ways to enhance creativity is to create an environment that is supportive, open, informal and reinforcing. It is also helpful to work on a number of projects simultaneously. Oscillating between projects is a Creativity is one of the 24 strengths of character identified way to stay creative, allowing one project to incubate while you work on another. Giving permission has also in Character Strengths and Virtues, A Handbook and Classification by Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman. been shown to positively affect creativity. Simply saying These attributes entail two essential components. The first “be creative” can enhance ingenuity. Creativity is inhibited by time pressures, close supervision, constant critical is the generation of ideas or behaviors that are original, examination and constraining potential solutions. novel, or unusual and the second is that the originality must be adaptive in making a positive contribution. Studies find that it is easier to inhibit creativity than to Creativity is both an end and a means to an end. facilitate it. An easy way to keep you open to originality and ingenuity is to simply explore the possible. Regularly Jobs was also the CEO of Pixar until its acquisition by asking yourself what else is possible helps to guard Disney. Still one of Disney’s largest shareholders, he is against closing in on a solution too quickly. considered to be a leading figure in both the computer and entertainment industries. The connection to Disney is Ellen Langer is an award-winning researcher and fascinating when you consider that Walt Disney was a professor at Harvard University who defines mindfulness similar paragon of creativity, ingenuity and originality, as an effortless, simple process that consists of drawing having a similar worldwide impact one generation ago. novel distinctions. In her words, mindfulness is “noticing new things.” The opposite of mindful is mindless. We Historically, creativity has been closely identified become mindless about things largely through repetition with genius. Roman mythology stated that each and limiting our exposure to information. Mindless individual was born with a guardian spirit who watched Gordon Parry is the President of Aristotle Group, a firm dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations achieve their full potential.
Successful goal attainment has two key components known as agency and pathways. Agency is the willpower and motivation to achieve a goal. Pathways are the “waypower” paths to goal attainment. Agency and pathways are critical as we face obstacles in achieving our goals. Expanding both agency and pathways has been shown to increase success in achieving goals. This is where creativity, originality and ingenuity come in. We can leverage ingenuity to identify additional potential paths to our goal. The more pathways, the greater our sense of possibility and the more likely we are to achieve our objective. Looking at the history of Apple, it is apparent that Steve Jobs leveraged creativity in expanding agency and pathways. In 15 years he led Apple from near bankruptcy to a market value of $300 billion, the second highest in the U.S. Described as someone who “failed forward” where setbacks were as visible as success, he persevered and fully leveraged and shared his creative genius. Take some time this month to slow down, be mindful, and practice your creativity. gordon.parry@aristotlegroup.net | www.aristotlegroup.net
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metroMagazine • oct 2011
52 Fabulous Events • 10 Categories • One BIG Night!
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YOUTH EMERGENCY SERVICES DANCE FOR A CHANCE
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metroMagazine • OCT 2011
KNIGHTS OF AK-SAR-BEN BUCKAROO BASH
OMAHA ZOO FOUNDATION ZOOFARI
event galleries
RAH KINSEY AND WILLIE GARRETT
LINDA LEUPOLD AND JENNIFER SHUMAN
CHRIS BARON, BRIAN DELEHANT AND STEVE KING
ohhh,baby! unitedhealthcare leadershiP lunCheOn
JOHN NAUJOKAITIS AND KATHY MALLATT
BRIGETTE YOUNG AND BLAKE HOOGEVEEN
Dick Vitale, well-known basketball sportscaster, energized Make-A-Wish supporters on September 8th at the United Healthcare Leadership Luncheon. Vitale’s walk over from his hotel featured a tunnel of “wish kids” welcoming him to the CenturyLink Center and the VIP reception included an autographed mini-basketball and photo with Vitale. The Davis, Stackhouse, and Frazell families were the featured wish families; along with VIP guests such as Mayor Jim Suttle, Make-AWish CEO Brigette Young and Travis Morgan from Channel 3. The Creighton Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams provided help throughout the luncheon and the audience enjoyed Vitale’s enthusiasm while celebrating a worthy cause. “This year has been a record-setting year for us in terms of the number of wishes granted,” said Kiley Thiele of the Make-AWish Foundation of Nebraska. “We are so thankful that Nebraskans continue to step up and support us so that we can grant wishes to the brave children we serve.” For more information, visit www.nebraska.wish.org.
JOE ROSCOE, CHRIS ROTH, BILL TRACY, JESSICA KOSTNER, JOE MCMAHON, LINDA BEAM, BARB OSTRONI, CINDY VALENTI, KATHY MALLATT, PATTY SAURO, MARY POUNDER AND KATHY MASON
Photos by ariel Fried
Thank yyou ou to U ni ick Vitale Vital UnitedHealthcare nitedH ealthcare and D Dick itale k the Le or making uuncheoon a gr eat success for Leadership L Luncheon great success!s!
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metroMagazine • OCT 2011
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AMY DEARDORF, DARLENE MUELLER AND JOHN DEARDORFF
BILL BEAVERS AND CHARLIE MORIARTY
CLINE WILLIAMS, WRIGHT JOHNSON & OLDFATHER, L.L.P.
oneforeall boy scouts mid-america council gOlF inviTaTiOnal
JEREMY FALKE AND SEAN OLSON
At the 2011 Omaha Boy Scouts Golf Invitational on September 6th, 128 golfers raised over $65,000 to benefit the Boy Scouts of America Mid-America Council. The money raised will go to scouting programs that focus on leadership, decision-making and self-sustaining life skills. The Mercedes-Benz of Omaha team took first place at the golf invitational, while the Edward Jones Team and ConAgra Foods team took second and third place. Cynthia Prestwood of Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management and Gail DeBoer of SAC Federal Credit Union co-chaired the event.
GLENN FOSDICK AND BUD TICE
The Boy Scouts Mid-America Council serves 31,236 youth in 58 counties in Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. The Council, supported by 7,870 volunteers, was recently recognized as the No. 1 council in the Boy Scouts of America for living out its mission to instill the values based on the Scout Oath and Law in young people. For more information, visit wwww.mac-bsa.org.
JEFF SCHMID, PHIL RUHLMAN AND ERIC MAGENDANTZ
Photos courtesy of Boy scouts Mid-america Council
SCOTT WRIGHT AND PHIL RUHLMAN
www.mac-bsa.org/donate 43
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
event galleries
thelastdance youth emergency services danCe FOr a ChanCe Ten local celebrities took the stage on August 27th at YES’ third annual Dance for a Chance. The competition, similar to the television show “Dancing with the Stars,” was held at Skutt Catholic High School. Participants worked with professional dance instructors and choreographed a 90-second routine that was performed in front of an audience of nearly 300 people. When the music stopped, nearly $25,000 was raised through voting, ticket sales and a silent auction. For more information, visit www.yesomaha.org.
Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos online at SpiritofOmaha.com. Photo by linda shepard
JESSICA MEWS, WENDY TOWNLEY AND TOM BECKA
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WINNER KAYLA THOMAS AND MARY NELSON FROM THE MORNING BLEND 44
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
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CHUCK AND MARY MAXWELL WITH DON STENBERG
LYNNE AND JOHN BOYER
SUE SCOTT AND PAT BELL WITH JESSICA AND DENNIS PATE
wildlife extravaganza omaha zoo foundation zOOFari
HOLLY PETERSON WITH MARY LOU AND MARK BRASEE
More than 1,300 guests dove “Into the Deep Blue” at Zoofari 2011–the biennial fundraiser for Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo–raising a record $2.35 million to support the renovation of the Scott Aquarium, the world’s largest zoo-based aquarium. The September 9th event featured cutting-edge electronic and mobile silent auction bidding; surprise entertainment by local volunteer performers; innovative underwriter recognition; and an online fundraising component that extends beyond the night’s event. The silent auction’s electronic bidding software allowed attendees to use a personally coded auction card to bid at kiosks, on digital tablets and on their smartphones. This digital bidding process–the first ever used in the Omaha market–enabled guests to shop the silent auction longer, bid on any auction package anywhere in the room and continue bidding and checking bids on their smartphones and at kiosks placed throughout the dining tent.
ERIC PEARSON, LORRAINE CHANG, MINDY AND JIM YOUNG
For more information, visit www.omahazoo.com.
NICKI PATTERSON AND LORETTA PATTERSON
Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos online at SpiritofOmaha.com. Photos by dan Flanigan
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SHERRI HINKEL AND JUSTIN TOWBRIDGE
Magazine••OCT OCT2011 2011 metro metroMagazine
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chicktalk junior league of omaha “Talk ChiCk liT wiTh eMily giFFin”
EMILY BLUNCK AND MALLORY RABER
Sponsors and attendees helped raise money for the Junior League of Omaha at the “Talk Chick Lit with Emily Giffin” event on September 8th at Aksarban Cinema. The evening included a silent auction, reception and private movie screening of Something Borrowed with guest speaker and best-selling author Emily Giffin. Prior to the movie screening, guests had time to take photos and have books signed by the author herself. “Ms. Giffin was unbelievably nice,” said Jami Heidemann, event co-chair. “She made you feel as though you were her best friend. Hearing about the process of converting her publication to a movie was quite interesting, and I especially enjoyed the tidbits of Hollywood gossip that she interjected.“
LESLIE MAYO, BECKI WIECHMAN AND JEN BARTLETT
By supporting the chick lit and flick event, sponsors and attendees helped fund efforts to bring books into the hands of at-risk children under the age of 14. Sponsors included local businesses such as Kutak Rock, Security National Bank, Susan & Bill Cutler, Aksarben Cinema and caterer Jones Brothers Cupcakes. For more information, visit www.juniorleagueomaha.org.
MICHELLE CHARTRAND AND EMILY SMITH
KATIE SQUIRE, KORTNEY CUDDIGAN AND LIZ LANGAN
Photos by ariel Fried
ample accessories child saving institute PurseOnaliTies 2011 With over 350 guests in attendance, the Child Saving Institute Guild's "PurseOnalities 2011" annual scholarship luncheon raised both money for and awareness of women in philanthropy. This year's event, called "Have Bag–Will Travel," was held on August 31st and raised more than $55,000 in support of the CSI Guild Scholarship Program. This year's recipients of the scholarship were Charles "Chaz" Erickson, Mary Leonard and DeVaughn Owsley. The much-anticipated travelthemed silent auction featured 70 designer purse packages. The event also featured keynote speaker Paula McLain, author of the best-selling novel The Paris Wife and a much-praised memoir, Like Family. The honorary chair of the event was "PurseOnality" Susan M. Jacques, president and CEO of Borsheims Fine Jewelry and Gifts.
CHRISTINE SCHULTE, MELANIE HECKER AND KRISTI HEINE
CAROL KNOBBE AND SUSAN STULTZ
For more information, visit www.childsaving.org.
Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos online at SpiritofOmaha.com. Photos by shelby Craw
PAULA MCLAIN AND SUSAN JACQUES 46
KAREN GORACKE, AMY DUDZIK, ADRIENNE FAY AND CHRIS BUCKINGHAM
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
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5,6,7,8... children’s respite care center MusiCal revue BeneFiT
CHOREOGRAPHER PATRICK RODDY AND DIRECTOR GORDON CANTIELLO
HONORARY CHAIRS SHIRLEY AND DAN NEARY
The crowd was singing and dancing in the aisles at the Children’s Respite Care Center’s fourth annual benefit production. This year’s show was the musical revue Smokey Joe’s Café–The Songs of Leiber and Stoller, a fundraising event held at Mutual of Omaha’s Auditorium. The crowd-pleasing late-August run featured familiar Leiber and Stoller chartbusters made famous by the likes of Elvis, the Drifters and the Coasters in beautifully choreographed numbers that included “Hound Dog,” "Yakety Yak,” “Poison Ivy” and “Kansas City.” A special gala evening held for 180 patrons featured a cocktail and appetizer reception followed by dinner. Proceeds raised from the event will help families provide medical services for special needs children. For more information, visit www.crccomaha.org.
Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos online at SpiritofOmaha.com.
DAVID AND MARGIE HELLER WITH JOHN AND TRACY COX
k,, M.D. Margaret Block M. Salman Haroon, M.D. Ralph J. Hauke, M.D. Robert M. Langdon, Jrr.,., M.D. Kirsten M. Leu, M.D.
John M. Longo, M.D. Patrick J. McKenna, M.D. Geetha Palaniappan, M.D. David A. Silverberg, M.D. Gamini S. Soori, M.D.
Yungpo B ernard Su , M.D. arantolo, M.D. Stefano R. Ta Stephan D. Thomé, M.D. Townley, M.D. Peter M. To
Alegent Health Cancer Center - Bergan (402) 393-3110 Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center (402) 354-8124
Midwest Cancer Center Papillion (402) 593-3141 Midwest Cancer Center Legacy (402) 334-4773
West Dodge Medical Plaza (402) 445-8010 Pluss, Fremont and West Point (402) 941-7030
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metroMagazine • OCT 2011
Photos by dan Flanigan
event galleries
fashionfun women’s fund of omaha ParTy wiTh a PurPOse
SETH WOITASZEWSKI WITH KALEIGH AND MICHAEL WIESE
The Women’s Fund of Omaha Party with a Purpose, sponsored by Coventry Health Care, was held in conjunction with Omaha Fashion Week to recognize Women's Fund Changemakers–donors who supported the nonprofit agency. The VIP party was held at Nomad Lounge on August 25th before the Omaha Fashion Week runway show. Dreams by DC provided food and cake pops to the attendees. One highlight of the event was the presentation of the second annual Women's Fund of Omaha Changemaker Grant, a $5,000-award determined by a vote of Women's Fund Changemakers. This year's recipient was Youth Emergency Services, a group that serves homeless and at-risk youth by providing critically needed resources which empower them to become self-sufficient.
SARA BROWN, ELIZABETH KOTHENBEUTEL AND HEATHER HAMEL
For more information, visit www.omahawomensfund.org.
Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos online at SpiritofOmaha.com.
PAM CARDENAS AND ELIZABETH FRIEND
BRANDY BRANDT AND CORA RASP
BRIAN AND ANNE BRANIGAN WITH KATE BRANIGAN AND SYLVIA COLEMAN
CRAIG WILLIAMSON WITH SLY AND KIM THOMAS
MARJORIE MAAS AND ERIN STOLL 48
Photos by dan Flanigan
DAVE ANDERSON AND VALERIE ANDERSON
TARA AND JUSTIN ANDREWS
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
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let’sgetrowdy knights of ak-sar-ben BuCkarOO Bash
GRAND MARSHALS LORETTA AND DOUG PATTERSON
MELANIE AND DAVID HECKER
The 12th annual Buckaroo Bash fundraising event kicked off an exciting evening at Ak-SarBen's River City Rodeo (ARCR) and Stock Show on August 13th. The Buckaroo Bash, held at the Omaha Mounted Patrol Facility in downtown Omaha, raised money to benefit three main causes–including the Omaha Mounted Patrol, by providing funds for tack and other supplies, purchasing tickets to send more than 500 disadvantaged youths from local organizations to experience the world's second largest rodeo, and the Justin Boots Championships of the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour during ARCR. Proceeds also benefit the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund, which assists rodeo contestants and their families in the event of a serious injury during competition. The Buckaroo Bash included a wide variety of highlights, including mechanical bullriding, a cow patty raffle, live music, rodeo demonstrations as well as live and silent auctions. For more information, contact the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation at 402.554.9600 x101.
OTHA AND BRENDA COUNCIL
CRISTINA AND CHRIS TOTH WITH RITA AND STEVE BARTLETT
Photos by dan Flanigan
smokin’hearts heart ministry center hOly sMOkes
ARCHBISHOP GEORGE LUCAS, FR. TOM FANGMAN, BETH MOBERG, ADAM HERINK AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOHN LEVY
At Anthony’s Steakhouse, the 6th Annual Holy Smokes benefit was held to raise money for the Heart Ministry Center. With over 650 guests in attendance, the event raised over $140,000. The Heart Ministry Center, located in the heart of North Omaha, provides over 70,000 acts of assistance to individuals in need each year. The center also offers a food pantry, a clothing closet with a a play area for children, a medical clinic in partnership with Creighton University and self-sufficiency programs to help people break out of the cycle of poverty. The honorary chairs of the Holy Smokes fundraiser were Mike and Lin Simmonds, while the Heart of Gold Sponsors were Coventry Health, Dan and Shirley Neary–in honor of Chuck Nearly–and the Simmonds Family Foundation. Live entertainment was provided by Finest Hour at this event. Executive Board Member Nancy Neary chaired this year’s event. For more information, visit www.heartministrycenter.org.
ROSEMARY ZUKAITIS AND MARGE KALINA
MIKE AND LISA MERIDITH WITH MIKE AND BERNIE CULVER 50
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bigandsmall big brothers big sisters MenTOring MagiC lunCheOn Over 150 members of the Omaha/Council Bluffs community attended the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands Mentoring Magic Luncheon on August 11th. The annual fundraiser, held at the Thompson Alumni Center on the University of Nebraska at Omaha's campus, raised more than $30,000 to support the local non-profit. Luncheon guests were greeted by the Bigs and Littles of the organization as they entered the center. Presenters during the luncheon included Board President Jackie White and CEO Nichole Turgeon, who shared her vision for the future of the agency. Featured speaker Patricia Davis shared how Big Brothers Big Sisters has made an impact on her life. For more information, visit www.bbbsomaha.org.
BIG BROTHERS TOM MILLER AND MARK THOMSEN WITH LITTLE BROTHERS RYAN AND MACK
Photo courtesy of Big Brothers Big sisters of the Midlands
abuildingfoundation cystic fibrosis foundation arT in arChiTeCTure The Art in Architure benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was held on the 40th floor of the First National Tower on September 1st. The second annual event, hosted by the Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, raised nearly $50,000 for live-saving research, education and care programs for cystic fibrosis, a fatal genetic disease. The fundraiser featured live and silent auctions from local and national artists, abundant hors d'oeuvres and an open bar all amongst exquisite views of the Omaha skyline. Evening highlights included an art sketch done by 21-year-old CF patient, Chad, who chose to create a sketch of Memorial Park in Omaha. He cited his grandfather, a WWII veteran, as his inspiration for his art piece. Jim Cole of First National Bank, Julie Stavneak of J Development and Nora Zoob served as the chairs for this event. For more information, visit www.cff.org.
NICKY MCCARVILLE, LAURA SMIDT AND ASHLIE FRANZ
Photo courtesy of Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
rounditup HETRA “liTTle BriTChes” BeneFiT hOrse shOw For many children HETRA’S 10th annual “Little Britches” Benefit Horse Show was a special day. The heart-warming event was held on August 20th at the Elkhorn Equestrian Center and participants were disabled children ages 12-and-under. Contestants left behind wheel chairs, crutches and walking canes to mount horses and take strides they would not be able to take on their own. The children participated in classes such as showmanship, western and speed. “Riding for those few minutes at the horse show meant the world to her,” said a parent of one of the participants. “It was unfathomable for her that so many strangers were happy and proud of her.” For more information, visit www.hetra.org.
BLUE, GARRET SILA, BROC BARTENHAGEN AND CASSIDY BARTENHAGEN 52
Photo courtesy of heTra metroMagazine • OCT 2011
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fun[d]spirits nebraska kidney association wine, wisdOM & whiMsey Wine, Wisdom and Whimsey, the third annual Nebraska Kidney Association’s fundraising event, was held August 13th at the Bennington home of Linda Jacobsen and Butch Atherton. Over 50 guests enjoyed tasty appetizers, desserts and a silent auction. Dennis Hein, local wine expert, conducted the wine tasting. “Guests really enjoy the openness and freestyle [spirit] of the wine tasting,” Hein said, “and are very relaxed about asking questions. The funds help a worthy organization, so tasting wines can help save lives!” Kerry Heinrich chaired the flavorful event, which raised $5,000 for educational programs about kidney diseases and services available to patients. Nearly 300,000 Nebraskans have or are at risk for developing kidney ailments. For more information, visit www.kidneyne.org.
DAVID STARK
Photo courtesy of nebraska kidney association
toagreatstart united way CaMPaign kiCk-OFF United Way kicked off the 2011 fundraising campaign with a goal to raise $21.7 million to support local health and human services. The kickoff event took place on August 30th and featured R.J. Heeren Saldivar, a young Marine Corps veteran who earned a Purple Heart during the Iraq War. The United Way–funded “At Ease” program helped Saldivar adjust to life back here in the metro area after leaving Iraq. The audience also received a report by students from Westside High School who took part in the first “Youth Day of Caring.” After the inspirational kickoff event, employees from 15 different companies spread out across the community for their own “Day of Caring.” With only two months to reach the ambitious target, two local companies have already contributed more than $1.4 million dollars, which is a 17 percent increase from their gifts last year. For more information, visit www.uwmidlands.org.
CHAIRS DINY AND JIM LANDEN
Photo courtesy of united way
connectingchildren omaha children’s museum lunCheOn omaha children’s museum recognized the Rainbow Connectors Guild and Mutual of Omaha on August 29 at the Great Friends to Kids Luncheon. Over 200 community members celebrated those who have worked passionately to enhance the lives of metro-area children. The program was held in the museum’s Creative Arts center and included a welcome by the museum’s executive director, Lindy Hoyer, followed by a tasty lunch and comments from the founder Karen Levin. Twenty-five of the Rainbow Connectors Guild’s past presidents accepted the Great Friend to Omaha Children’s Museum award on behalf of the group. Since 1981 the guild has helped raise more than $4,800,000 to support the museum and has been responsible for planning the museum’s annual fundraiser. Mike Faust of Kiewit presented the Great Friend to Kids award to Mutual of Omaha. Over the years, Mutual of Omaha’s support has helped facilitate growth and has allowed many families to enjoy the museum. The 2010 honorees at the luncheon were Mike and Susan Lebens, Janet Strauss and Peter Kiewit Sons’ Inc. For more information, visit www.ocm.org.
LORI WILLIAMS AND ROBYN FREEMAN
Photo courtesy of Omaha Children’s Museum 54
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one
place
Simply Divine Simply Elegant Simply Perfection
Jane Iredale Bumble and bumble
One Drake Place Salon & Spa 12100 West Center Rd 402.933.7253 onedrakeplace.com
event galleries
struttingstyles omaha fashion week viP ParTy & Finale runway shOw Thousands of spectators watched as the dressed-to-impress models took the runway during Omaha Fashion Week, the Midwest’s largest fashion event. The event kicked off on August 22nd with a collection of dresses in shades of purple, a line of holiday-wear, a nautical-inspired collection and an exotic swimwear line. Throughout the week the event showcased a total of 40 never-before-seen collections. The Runway Finale on August 27th featured a variety of collections by 13 different designers such as an insect-inspired line by Jennie Mason and alien-looking pieces by Dan Richters. The lively audience of nearly 4,000 viewers included Mondo Guerra of “Project Runway Season 8” and the sought-after British bridal blogger, Kat Williams. Based on the amount of inquiries from aspiring designers across the country, it seems that Omaha Fashion Week is growing.
JODI AND BRAD HOLEN WITH JOANNE KAMPPINEN
DR. PRIYANKA BORAH AND MARY THOMMI
CARA KASPAR, LOGAN FINN AND DAN PIEPER
LYNETTE FARHART, BILL ALFORD AND ANDY HOIG
ZAC AND JONNIE ROBINSON
NICKI PATTERSON, ADRIENNE STELK AND AMANDA BUCHANAN
“It’s great because we provide this opportunity at no cost to our Omaha designers,” said Nick Hudson, OFW executive producer. “It’s only natural that designers from other markets would want to be part of something like this.” For more information, visit www.omahafashionweek.com. Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos from the Runway Show online at SpiritofOmaha.com.
Scan this QR code with your SmartPhone to view more photos from the VIP Party online at SpiritofOmaha.com. Photos by shelby Craw and dan Flanigan
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JENNIE MASON
TIFFANY HEADLEY
NICK AND BROOK HUDSON WITH SHEILA BRUMMER
YOLANDA DIAZ
DAN RICHTERS
MICHAELA CAWLEY
SABRINA JONES
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planningMATTERS • with pvw law
should i
52 Fabulous Events • 10 Categories • One BIG Night!
adopt a
retirement
2011
plan for my
November 29th
business?
Aksarben Cinema by joshua a. diveley
if you are the owner,
member of the board of directors or in a key management position in your business, you may be considering adopting a qualified retirement plan to benefit you and the other employees of your business. Adopting such a plan can create significant tax advantages, provide income security throughout your retirement and provide an excellent recruitment and retention tool for qualified employees. “Qualified retirement plan” is a general term used to describe retirement plans that meet special tax requirements for tax favored treatment. Types of qualified plans include 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, profit sharing plans, Simplified Employee Pension IRA Plans (SEP IRAs), Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees IRA (SIMPLE IRAs), defined benefit plans and such hybrids as a cash-balance plan. The type of plan that is available and best suited for you and your business will vary depending on numerous factors, including whether your business is a tax-exempt entity, the amount and type of benefit you would like to provide to you and your employees, and the demographics of your workforce, including the number of employees and their ages, years of service to the company and annual compensation.
to purchase tickets visit
TICKETS ON SALE NOW !
Reserve Your Seats Today!
By adopting a qualified retirement plan, your business will receive a tax deduction for any contributions made to the plan on behalf of your employees. In addition, and in contrast to salary paid to employees, contributions you make to the plan on behalf of your employees will not be subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes. Also, contributions made by you or your employee will not be included in taxable income for your employee for the year and contributions to the plan may be invested and are allowed to grow tax-free. It is often difficult to compensate hard work performed by you or your employees without incurring significant tax consequences. For example, you could pay yourself an additional $20,000 through a salary increase or bonus. However, in order to provide an additional $20,000, the company will incur a combined $1,530 in Social Security and Medicare tax (assuming your salary is under the $106,800 Social Security wage threshold). In addition, the payment would be subject to a combined $1,130 in Social Security and Medicare taxes to you and would also result in an additional $6,000 in federal and state income taxes (assuming a combined rate of 30 percent). As a result, from the $21,530 cost incurred by the company, you will receive just $12,870 in take-home pay. In contrast, you could contribute $20,000 to your qualified plan with no immediate tax consequences to your business or yourself. That same $20,000 contribution would also earn interest or gains from investments on a tax-free basis. In addition to the significant tax savings provided to retirement plans due to the effects of compounding small, regular contributions to a qualified retirement plan can provide you and your employees an opportunity for significant wealth accumulation that can provide peace of mind and income security for the entirety of your retirement. For more information visit www.pvwlaw.com 59
metroMAGAZINE • OCT 2011
savethedate October 12 POWER OF PREVENTION LUNCHEON A benefit for PRIDE-Omaha, Inc. This inaugural event will feature speaker Henry Lozano, who served under the administrations of both President George W. Bush and President Bill Clinton. PRIDE’s mission is preventing the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs by children through education, training and services. Embassy Suites–La Vista–11:30 A.M. Visit www.prideprevention.org.
October 12 PEOPLE OF VISION DINNER A benefit for Prevent Blindness Nebraska John and Lynne Boyer have been selected as the 2011 People of Vision honorees. This award was developed to honor people of vision, whose clear perspective and farsightedness in community service and devotion to their fellow man have earned them the respect of our community. Join Prevent Blindness Nebraska in recognizing the Boyers and their significant contribution to our community as People of Vision! Omaha Country Club–Omaha–6:30 P.M. Visit www.nebraska.preventblindness.org.
October 13 SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION A benefit for March of Dimes This event has all the right ingredients for a sumptuous evening–gourmet chef samplings, fine wines and libations, and outstanding live and silent auctions. Each chef will contribute a unique gift that will be sold at the live auction. Hilton Omaha–Omaha–5:30 P.M. Visit www.marchofdimes.com/nebraska.
October 14
October 14
October 15
ADULT SPELLING BEE A benefit for The Literacy Center This fun event consists of teams of adults competing for the trophy. Literacy Center empowers adults and families by helping them acquire the literacy skills and practices to be active and contributing members of their communities. Scott Conference Center–Omaha Call 402-342-7323.
OPERATION MASK-QUERADE A benefit for Methodist Hospital Methodist Volunteers In Partnership will host this evening of dinner, dancing and disguise benefitting the Methodist Hospital surgical renovation and expansion project. Happy Hollow Club–Omaha–7:00 P.M. Call 402-354-4522.
HEARTS OF HOPE A benefit for Midwest Heart Connection Retired Nebraska Cornhusker defensive coordinator Charlie McBride and his wife Debbie are the honorary chairs for this 8th annual fundraiser. Proceeds from the event are used to improve awareness, detection and treatment of congenital heart disease, as well as to support families affected by it. Mutual of Omaha Dome–Omaha–5:00 P.M. Visit www.midwestheartconnection.com.
October 14 FASHION VICTIM 2011 A benefit for the Open Door Mission’s Lydia House Fashion Victim is an injury prevention program combined with a fashion show and charity concert. The program includes a diverse panel of speakers with different perspectives on the impact of alcohol abuse. The event features a fashion show with local models, designers, and latest fashions. UNO Milo Bail Student Center Omaha–7:00 P.M. Visit www.fashionvictimshow.com.
October 14 NEBRASKA’S FINEST A benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation This annual celebration honors local individuals, couples and families who have made substantial contributions to cystic fibrosis research in our community. Guests at the event will enjoy an evening filled with live music, dinner, dancing, drinks and silent and live auctions, while helping to raise the funds necessary to fuel the science that will eventually lead to a cure. Tip Top Ballroom–Omaha Call 402-330-6164.
October 15 FRIENDS OF SCOTTISH RITE CHARITY GALA A benefit for the Munroe-Meyer Institute This fun evening includes cocktails, a gourmet dinner, extraordinary silent and live auctions, and wonderful entertainment. A local celebrity will be honorary host and will assist with presenting a prestigious Annual Achievement Award to someone that has made a significant contribution to children in need. The Scottish Rite–Omaha–6:00 P.M. Visit www.friendsofscottishrite.org.
October 15 BEMIS CENTER ART AUCTION Benefitting Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts Celebrate contemporary art and support the Bemis Center’s exceptional artists, innovative programs and public projects at this expansive auction featuring international, national and regional artists. Bemis Center–Omaha Visit www.bemiscenter.org.
October 15 MARIANFEST A benefit for Marian High School This is the 30th annual MarianFEST, Marian’s largest fundraising event of the year. This year’s theme is “We Can Do It!” Marian High School–Omaha Visit www.marianhighschool.net.
October 15 ART IN THE BAG A benefit for local non-profit cancer organization Join in for an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and live music featuring a silent auction of handcrafted bags, purses and totes with dazzling lampwork beaded key chains. Hot Shops Art Center–Omaha Visit www.artinthebag.com.
October 16 OMAHA HOSPITALITY HALL OF FAME DINNER A benefit for the MCC Institute for the Culinary Arts This event celebrates the achievements of the best in the Omaha-area food and restaurant industry, recognizing the inductees while providing the opportunity for students at the ICA to prepare and present the meal. Institute for the Culinary Arts–5:00 P.M. Call 402-457-2510.
October 18 A NIGHT OF PROMISE A benefit for Release Ministries Guests at this annual benefit dinner will enjoy a fabulous evening while supporting the work of Release Ministries. Featured speaker will be Dr. Jamie “JC” Chambers, one of the founders of Stronghold Counseling Services, Inc. Scott Conference Center–Omaha Call 402-926-1199.
October 20 WINE TASTING EVENT Benefitting the Boys Town National Hotline The Southwest Omaha Rotary is hosting this event to bring awareness and support to the Boys Town National Hotline, a 24hour crisis, resource and referral line. Champions Run–Omaha–6:30 P.M. Visit www.omaharotarynight.org. 60
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October 21
October 27
October 30
November 3
SOIREE A benefit for the National Safety Council, Greater Omaha Chapter This year it’s a British invasion at the National Safety Council’s Soiree, where guests will enjoy Yesterday … a Tribute to the Beatles. The event also includes cocktails, dinner, dancing, and silent auction. Embassy Suites–La Vista Visit www.SafeNebraska.org.
WINE ‘TIL NINE A benefit for the Arthritis Foundation This casual event features a selection of wine, microbrew and spirit tasting along with complimentary appetizers. Marriott Regency–Omaha–5:30 P.M. Visit www.OmahaWTN.com.
SWEET COUTURE – A FASHIONABLE DESSERT EVENT Benefitting the Omaha Restaurant Association At this inaugural event the talents of Omaha pastry chefs will be highlighted as they create edible fashion showpieces. Embassy Suites–La Vista–2:00 P.M. Visit www.facebook.com/ sweetcoutureomaha.
October 22
WOMEN’S FUND OF OMAHA’S FALL LUNCHEON Benefitting the Women’s Fund of Omaha This 11th annual event will feature keynote speaker Carla Harris, who will share knowledge she’s gathered during a two-decade-long career working in the intense and competitive Wall Street environment. Ramada Plaza Hotel–Omaha–11:30 A.M. Visit www.omahawomensfund.org.
RAISE THE ROOF GALA A benefit for Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Habitat for Humanity of Omaha honors the significant contributions by its community partners by presenting the Spirit of Humanity Awards during this special gala. The gala serves to honor the commitment and dedication of those organizations and individuals who have helped Habitat for Humanity fulfill its mission in the Omaha area for the past 25 years. Harper Ballroom at Creighton–5:30 P.M. Call 402-457-5657.
AK-SAR-BEN CORONATION AND SCHOLARSHIP BALL A benefit for the Ak-Sar-Ben Scholarship Fund In celebration of volunteerism and civic pride the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben host the Royal Court Supper and Coronation Ball. The annual Coronation Ball raises money for the Ak-Sar-Ben Youth Scholarship Fund. CenturyLink Center–Omaha–5:30 P.M. Visit www.aksarben.org or call 402-554-9600.
October 22 REFLECTION BALL A benefit for Midlands Community Foundation This annual event honors individuals who have contributed significantly to Sarpy and Cass counties, with proceeds from the event donated to non-profit organizations that provide service in those counties. Embassy Suites–La Vista–6:00 P.M. Visit www.MidlandsCommunity.org.
October 22 ART & EQUALITY 2011 A benefit for GLSEN Omaha The local chapter of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Educational Network is pleased to offer the opportunity to bring together local/regional artists and members of our community to enjoy an evening of socializing, music, and fun. The Gallery at Prouty Place–6:00 P.M. Call 402-980-6228.
October 27 WICKER & WINE 2011 A benefit for Lutheran Family Services This is a lovely evening of food, wine and opportunities to support the at-risk families in our community! The event features an incredible collection of auction items with the proceeds all going to support the Pottawattamie Center for Healthy Families. Mid-America Center–5:00 P.M. Visit www.lfsneb.org.
October 27
October 28 TEAMMATES TAILGATE GALA A benefit for TeamMates Mentoring Program This fantastic “tailgating” party includes an auction full of fun and unique items and guest appearances by Larry the Cable Guy, Warren Buffet and Mary Maxwell. Embassy Suites–La Vista–6:00 P.M. Visit www.teammates.org.
November 1 CREATING FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP DINNER A benefit for Omaha Christian Academy Join the Omaha Christian Academy for an inspiring evening with former Arkansas Governor and Fox News Commentator, Mike Huckabee. His message will focus on the important role that character plays as young people face life’s challenges. Embassy Suites–La Vista–6:00 P.M. Visit www.OmahaChristianAcademy.org.
October 28 MUSIC & MASTERPIECES A benefit for the Omaha Symphony The Omaha Symphony Guild hosts this annual event, this year themed “Monster Masquerade at the Mansion.” This year the event is an adult costume party, promising a frightfully fun evening. Joslyn Castle–Omaha Visit www.omahasymphonyguild.org.
October 29 OMAHA’S GREAT PUMPKIN FAMILY FESTIVAL Benefitting Adoption Links Worldwide The purpose of this free family festival is to shine a light on foster child adoption. The event includes pumpkin carving, fun kids’ activities, professional and celebrity carvers, and foster care and adoption information booths. Village Pointe Roundabout Omaha–10:00 A.M. Visit www.alww.org/pumpkins. 61
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November 3 LIFE CELEBRATION A benefit for Lifestyle Innovations For Epilepsy This inaugural event is hosted by Bill Randby and Julie Cornell and features cocktails, hors do’oeurves, live music and silent and live auctions. Nomad Lounge–Omaha–6:00 P.M. Call 402-850-7680.
choices
where your will lead you...
vibrations • with sue moon
metroMagazine
October promises to be a month unlike any other. According to Mayan scholar Carl Calleman, this is the month that the ancient Mayan calendar ends (Oct. 28). Two days before this event the New Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto, opposes Jupiter, quincunx Uranus, trine Chiron and squares Mars. In layman’s terms: doors are slamming shut and newer, more brilliant portals are opening for those with the wit to let go of their dysfunctional past and move into a brighter future. This is happening both individually and collectively. The theme here is to be your brightest and best self. Work on letting go of the stress of material shallowness. Get to know your neighbors; you may need them soon. We are moving into uncharted waters in all the ways that we as a human race have known. You can pretty much dream yourself a new life. All you have to do is let go of the past and open to the future; your future. Things will be intense, but “intense” could go either way, up or down. Your choice. The Full Moon on the 11th will conjunct the dark moon Lilith and will bring a few shadows out into the light. (It’s time to heal those shadows anyway!) The Moon is busy this month and on the 20th will conjunct Pluto. This is always a very profound experience and can enrich you emotionally, but you have to understand this or the power of Pluto can overwhelm you. A celebration of some sort is definitely in order and on October 28th many of us will gather to drum and welcome in the new and unknown potential of our expanding consciousness. If you would like to be a part of this gathering, contact me at suemoon@cox.net.
aries
mar 21 - apr 19
You are loaded for bear this month! Be careful around the 19th and don’t fight with your intimate friends! Saturn and Venus ride together early in the month and that brings about some fairly harsh realizations in love. Expect radical regeneration through dying to your past later in the month. It’s a good change for you, even if it doesn’t feel like it. With Mars in your play house you would do well to create a more carefree and laughter-filled life. Expect the unexpected.
taurus
apr 20 - may 20
Now that Jupiter (expansion) has gone retrograde in the body area, quit taking second helpings at the table! If you’ve been putting off getting a physical, now is the time. Home is full of action/energy. Are you using that to redecorate? Your business partners or marriage partners are going through major rejuvenation at this time, but only if you are paying attention. Career has to be spiritual or it will just be confusing. Many possibilities for inspiring insights through your dreams.
gemini
may 21 - jun 20
It’s time you started contributing more to society. Where can you best be of service? You could start making calls and offering to help or donate clothing or see how your neighbors are doing. It’s time for you to pitch in and help make a better world. Mars is making you a little aggressive in your daily living sector. Use it to be helpful. Others need your strength now. If you have children, they are a rich and fulfilling part of your life, but they may need a little assistance. Ask.
cancer
leo
sagittarius
nOV 22 - dEC 21
jul 23 - auG 22
You should join the gym because you have a great support from Mars now to increase your physical stamina and health. Everyday life is full of responsibilities, but a lot of fun too. Home is intense, but there is a lot of love there for you. You are searching for the meaning of life at this time, so it would be good to find a scholarly but not necessarily traditional teacher.
virgo
capricorn
dEC 22 - jan 19
auG 23 - SEp 22
There is a strong highlight on making money this month and that will be especially important for you. If you are in a situation that isn’t supplying the funds you need, you now have an opportunity to expand in a new direction. Your everyday encounters are fun, thought-provoking and a source of renewal. Write those dreams down. They might be a little prophetic this month.
libra
Withdraw from the noise of the world this month. You need it. It’s time to renew and you can’t do that in a place of noise/chaos. Retreat. Sit by a lake. Join a monastery for a month. You get the drift. You really need a break “far from the madding crowd.” Friends have been a source of both grief and support and you need to rely on the grounded ones more. The Full Moon falls in your house of children, so if you don’t want any yet please do be careful.
One of my favorite signs. You are just about as intense as a volcano, thanks to Pluto being in your sign. But you, of all the signs, can handle that with the strategy of a Warren Buffett. The home-front is under unusual (hailstorms) scrutiny by Uranus (chaos), Lilith (shadows) and the Full Moon on the 10th. Old or new friends will be a wonderful source of aid.
aquarius
jan 20 - fEb 18
SEp 23 - OCT 22
Body/Personality, Talents/Resources, Committed Relationships are all calling out to you. What are you going to do about it? Don’t procrastinate. Take action. What is it you really want? Decide this month and go for it. Your friends will be there for you. Just ask. You are under major transformation again. Work with that and your life will be a lot easier. Did I say let go of the past? Please do.
scorpio
You are just about jumping off the page of your reality! This is the time for you to really branch out and achieve much. Communications will be sporadic, emotional and unpredictable all month… oh well. Your home base is good and a source of great expansion for you. Try not to argue with the people you love. There is great energy for relationships, but you have to play nice.
OCT 23 - nOV 21
jun 21 - jul 22
There is a strong emphasis on asserting yourself with your known talents this month thanks to the force of Mars. Home needs your attention and you need a little rest. If you have children, they will surprise you with their love and support. Career or Life Achievement is open to unusual and unexpected activities this month. The Full Moon on the 10th brings a culmination of one of your dreams. May be big or small, but watch for it.
Revitalize, rejuvenate, regenerate are a few words that will help you grow through the rapid evolutionary energies that are at work. Living is intense and you have many choices to make. What is it you truly desire? Watch for unexpected health issues to surface if you aren’t paying attention. Relationships are a big issue and will remain so for some time to come. Again, what is it you really want?
pisces
fEb 19 - mar 20
Wounds around how you present yourself can be healed this month. Many hidden talents that you were unaware of can come to your rescue in the financial realm. Life is just so big for you now. Please do enjoy it. You are going through a lot of regeneration/change and it is going to be all right. Breathe. The New Moon on the 26th will help you in your search for meaning in life. Open and expand into that.
Sue Moon has been a student of astrology since 1972 and is an experienced journeyman and practitioner in a number of life enhancement disciplines. You can find her astrology materials and dailies at www.suemoon.com and on Facebook. She is locally based at Bright Spirit Center • www.brightspiritcenter.com. 62
metroMagazine • OCT 2011
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