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designing omaha EVOLVING INTO THE 21ST•CENTURY & BEYOND
CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY
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in this ISSUE
features
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ECOSYSTEM omaha fashion week • sac federal credit union
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JOURNEYS leo adam biga’s “pipeline” journal
RHAPSODY omaha performing arts
A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING nebraska humane society • part two of two
connecting our visions
MAKING HISTORY:
connecting our creativity
omaha women’s fund
SPOTLIGHT ON: aksarben foundation women’s ball committee
departments/columns
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CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY
22 connecting our cultures
GAME CHANGERS • SUE KORTH presented by planitOmaha
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HE SAID/SHE SAID mike & mary from KMTV’s morning blend
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OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION building intentional teams for charitable planning
GO RED FOR WOMEN american heart association
metroSPIRIT with mary vandenack
connecting our caring
PLANNING MATTERS WITH HVW LAW
ALYSSA FOX, THE BROADWAY TOURING PRODUCTION OF WICKED PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS
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TOP GIFT IDEAS FOR SUMMER’S END
impactful giving • team approach
TODAYS SAVINGS SWARTZBAUGH, FARBER & ASSOC. a whole new world
IMPACT! VONDRAK DENTAL therapeutic botox
94 WHAT’S NEW • WHAT’S NOW 112 WAKING WORDS FROM ROB KILLMER
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growing pains
events
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SCENE highlights from recent charity & cultural events
102 SAVE THE DATE
upcoming events for fall 2015
bravo! CELEBRATING THE ARTS
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NEW BLUE bluebarn theatre puts down new roots
100 BRAVO! TOP PICKS
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connecting our imagination connecting our friends
our picks for your cultural calendar
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AUG/SEP/OCT 2015 • VOL. 27 NO. 3 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.O. BOX 241611, OMAHA, NE 68124 or e-mailed to: Editor@SpiritofOmaha.com Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Creative Collaboration
Andrea L. “Andee” Hoig
Leo Adam Biga Matt Darling Mary Drueke-Collins Michelle Cleary Daniel Flanigan Roger Humphries Elissa Joy Wendy Moore MORNING BLEND’s “Mike & Mary” Jim Scholz Kara Schweiss Mary Vandenack Michael J. Weaver JD, CAP Stephanie Vondrak D.D.S.
Editor/Creative Director
Robert P. “ROB” Killmer Community Engagement
Dana Carlton-Flint Tracy Fisher Special Thanks
Counterparts Printco Graphics
metroMAGAZINE /
QUARTERLY is wholly owned and operated by the publisher and is not affiliated with any other publication, operating solely on subscription and advertising revenues and the good will of the agencies and charities we support; all of which are very important to the continuing growth and quality of this publication. Thank you to all who support this endeavor. OFFICE/SALES
402.932.3522 | sales@SpiritofOmaha.com MISSION STATEMENT ALH Publications exists to inform, inspire and connect those who give back to the community through volunteerism and philanthropy, recognizing the ongoing efforts of area businesses, organizations and individuals who better our community. Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by ALH Publications, Inc. in their entirety. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior written consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 1990 – 2015 ALH Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.
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words FROM MY HEART
mQUARTERLY • LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
I celebrated my 49th birthday in July. I had started doing a lot of reflecting on my life
all in!
early this year leading up to the big day. I knew when I turned 49 the next “big birthday” would be Fifty, the Big 5-0h! I am actually looking forward to turning 50. I feel as if life is just beginning for me (or perhaps I should say a new phase in my life is just beginning.) A wiser, more compassionate, more loving woman is emerging and she is ready to set the world on fire! A lot of change has taken place over the past several years and as painful as some of it has been…in the end it was nothing less than perfection. The decision last year to change from a monthly publication to a quarterly publication came from a place of wanting to do a better job of serving our charitable culture with a byproduct of creating more space in my life for JOY. I asked…and I received. Space opened up and I was able to breathe in and out more effectively. Still…something has been missing. I have been blessed with so much over the years but I have not always shown up in a way that brings out the best in me. I haven’t always shown up in a way that allows JOY to be present in my life on a consistent basis. So, as I begin the year that leads up to my 50th birthday I am making it the “YEAR of ANDEE!” (remember on Seinfeld, the “year of George”?) I want to discover what would happen if I committed to showing up each day being ALL IN!! Not HALF IN, not IN every once in a while, not IN when it is convenient, but being ALL IN!
ANDREA L. HOIG ahoig@SpiritofOmaha.com
What does being ALL IN look like? What does being ALL IN mean to me? 1. Practicing gratitude. I wake up early each morning (weekends included) and I don’t immediately jump out of bed rushing to get ready for the day. I instead curl up underneath the covers (surrounded by kitties) and give thanks for everything! From the most seemingly insignificant things – like how soft my sheets are – to BIG PICTURE items like all of the opportunities coming my way for me to speak, write, inspire and connect with the world. This includes giving thanks for of all of the beautiful people in my life – past, present and future – who have touched me in positive ways (and at times not so positive). They all have had a reason for showing up.
There are many others things that are going to make the days leading up to my 50th birthday absolutely awesome and life changing. I know that Life can be Magical and IS Magical when you show up and are fully present for it. I also know that the JOY is in the Journey…And what a JOYFUL JOURNEY this is. I AM ALL IN! ~ Andee
2. Practicing Self Love. I choose thoughts and actions that empower me! No more negative self talk, no more self judgement…loving myself exactly where I am…and if I find myself doing the opposite, I quickly forgive and move on. Whenever I have a bad moment or day or feel frustrated I will relax, breathe and find a better feeling or thought…knowing that the discomfort will pass.
“You are only one decision away from a totally different life!” ~DAVID ‘AVOCADO’ WOLFE
3. Practicing Self Care. Moving my body each day in ways that I love! Yoga, biking, walking, hiking…no forcing myself to do things that I hate or that don’t feel good. 4. Engaging in Meditation. Mediation is so powerful – I have experienced its power. I know that spending time alone, connecting with my higher self, with God, with the Source energy that creates worlds – each and every day – will dramatically change my world! I also know that taking time out to just be while requiring myself to do nothing is also important to my emotional, mental and spiritual well being. celebrating 25 years in 2016!
5. I allow & embrace healthy, positive, nurturing relationships in my life. It has been really easy for me to keep myself so busy that I have no room for fulfilling relationships. Healthy relationships are also important to my personal overall well being and can also bring about great JOY!
Time to Vote!
6. Having FUN. Experiencing JOY every day! Somewhere on my path I got it in my head that work and fun did not go hand and hand. I now am a believer that work and fun (and JOY) must go hand and hand. If it’s not fun and it doesn’t bring me joy I am not going to do it. I don’t want to put energy into a product, publication or message that I am not putting out into the world.
See this year’s FINALISTS on page 111
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community CONNECTIONS
THIS IS NOT JUST GIVING BACK TO THE INDIVIDUAL designers BUT IT’S GIVING BACK TO THE WHOLE community BECAUSE IF WE CAN FOSTER THAT ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT THEN IT’S AN ECONOMIC benefit TO [US ALL]. ~ GAIL DEBOER SACFCU PRESIDENT-CEO
omaha fashion week is partnering with sac federal credit union for a financial support program intended to help maintain a fashion “eco-system” that will pair designers with bankers, knitting the financial side and business focus of fashion entrepreneurship to the creative side. 10
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STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOOTON IMAGES
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MODEL: KILEY • DESIGNER: WHITNEY RORAH
GROWING OMAHA’S FASHION INDUSTRY
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when NICK & BROOK HUDSON AREN’T CARING FOR THEIR NEW-BORN GIRL THEY NURTURE THEIR OTHER BABY, OMAHA FASHION WEEK (OFW). Omaha’s fashion power-couple cultivate an expanding local fashion eco-system through a multitude of showcase events, educational experiences like Omaha Fashion Camp and fashion sales organizations such as Design Parliament LLC. They were the inspiration and catalyst for the developmental organizations Fashion Institute Midwest and Omaha Fashion Guild. This infrastructure gives area designers venues to show their work, experts to advise them on aesthetic and market matters and a support system for resources and professional development opportunities.
“They’re small and so there’s not a lot of profit at the beginning for a financial institution and that’s probably the difference between a credit union and another financial. I don’t have shareholders to satisfy, so I don’t have to show necessarily a return on every deal we make. The return on the relationship isn’t our motivation. “Our mission is people helping people, so we have a passion for helping them reach their goals and hopefully someday they will grow. But that’s not our ultimate goal. Our ultimate goal is just to help our members. This is not just giving back to the individual designers but it’s giving back to the whole community because if we can foster that entrepreneurial spirit then it’s an economic benefit to our community.” The Hudsons see close alignment between OFW’s goals and SAC’s.
Nick says OFW and SAC are committed to “help people turn their passions into businesses or to help their existing businesses go further to make them selfsustaining. We’ve got wonderfully talented people having to fund their passion by working in a coffee shop during the day and then spending all night doing their passion. “We’re trying to help them get to the next stage.” He says with the skills development that goes on now informally through OFW and formally through Fashion Institute Midwest “more and more are now making a living – some are even employing people.” Brook Hudson says it’s all about giving designers the tools required to reach more customers and find financial stability.
Now, with SAC Federal Credit Union as a partner, the “In this day and age it’s a lot easier for an artist to turn Hudsons are bringing designers together with bankers to “One of the things the team at SAC is very passionate their passion into dollars because of the Internet. They maximize commercial potential. Thus, the new financial about is helping people get started. They’ve got that have a worldwide community they could potentially be mission,” Nick says. “And we have that, too,” Brook says. support program gives designers the financial acumen selling to. So part of our challenge is helping them and services to put their creative pursuits on a business “We’re a social enterprise.” unlock that opportunity,” she says. basis. As SACFCU members, designers have access to Nick says, “I’ve never come across another financial credit lines for purchasing materials or equipment, for It’s important designers have the right mindset by being, expanding into new spaces or for doing anything else to institution willing to put the time and effort into all what Nick calls, “more commercially-minded and these small businesses, because we’re talking about tiny enhance and grow their business. thinking what customers want.” loans – a thousand dollars or two thousand dollars.”
banking on potential
“It’’s a totally different ballgame to go from custom pieces to something designed from the beginning to be massA typical designer who shows at OFW requires assistance produced,” Brook says. with everything from establishing a business checking account to devising a business plan. But there’s much tailoring financials with designs more they need to learn, including understanding SACFCU PRESIDENT-CEO GAIL DEBOER opted to work with fashion designers to initiate the program since her finance, buying, pricing, sales tax and various legalities. The Hudsons introduce those designers to SAC that they consider are ready to take the next step. institution already had a sponsor relationship with OFW. She shares the Hudsons’ vision for building a sustainable “There’s a whole set of skills around doing those things,” Hudson says. “You might have it all worked out but then “Not every designer is ready for that,” notes Brook, who fashion community. adds that some are intimidated by the prospect of you need access to money – you need some money to working with a lender. make some money. Designers might have an “We really saw the potential of the designers and what opportunity to sell $10,000 worth of clothing but they the development of that industry could do for our Bryan Frost and Erica Cardenas, owners of vintagedon’t have the money to buy the $1,000 or $2,000 of region,” she says. “We wanted to be part of an event inspired boutique Wallflower Artisan Collective and that’s not just entertainment but also adds to the quality fabric they need. designers of their own Wallflower apparel line, are of life here by nurturing these young entrepreneurs. We excited to see how SAC can help them expand their felt this was a niche nobody else was addressing from a “We still have a lot of designers we deal with who don’t apparel production capabilities. They say money’s critical have bank accounts or credit cards.” business perspective.” if they’re to grow their business and if Omaha’s to grow a DeBoer says the credit union is well-positioned to work The Hudsons regard the financial literacy entrepreneurs fashion hub. They’re encouraged that designers and with the micro-size businesses local designers operate. have to gain as empowering and critical to their success. lenders are finding alignment. The test program may eventually work with other kinds of designers as well as visual artists, filmmakers, photographers, playwrights, et cetera.
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eco OMAHA FASHION WEEK Samone Davis, owner-designer of the luxury streetwear brand Legalized Rebellion says she’s worked “diligently” with the SAC team to establish a line of credit for her label. She adds, “I definitely feel financial help is key to growth as long as there’s a solid plan and execution behind it. As designers we tend to get lost in our own minds. Sometimes we have to make sure we are focused and know exactly who we want to market to, otherwise there won’t be any progression.”
sac federal credit union
For designers like these, Gail DeBoer says, “we’re offering a kind of a concierge service,” adding, “We’re walking them through this journey. That begins by really developing a relationship with them to know what each one needs because they all have different needs depending on their business stage. We do look them in the eye to gauge how serious they are, how committed they are. We do talk with them in order to understand the uniqueness of their business and their challenges.” SACFCU VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS KELI WRAGGE is that concierge figure working with designers. “Some are ready to take their designs to the marketplace and others are just getting started and wondering what they need to do in order to be ready for financing down the road,” Wragge says. “One client needs to expand and is looking at buying a commercial building. Another is about to open their first business checking account. Prior to this they transacted in all cash. There is a big gap between what the first member needs and what the second member needs.” There are also many common issues designers face. “Supplies and the cost of production are large expenses, especially if the designer isn’t a seamstress and has to hire outside talent,” Wragge says. “One of the big issues faced by designers is irregular cash flow and finding a way to live a comfortable life while trying to perfect their craft, innovate new designs and get a collection ready. Many designers have to have another income or job in order to support themselves.” MODEL: ELISA • DESIGNER: KATE WALZ
DeBoer says, “Just getting started and getting them to think about things they’re not even thinking about – often you don’t know what you don’t know – is huge. omaha fashion week • sacfcu
GROWING OMAHA’S FASHION INDUSTRY
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OMAHA FASHION WEEK
sac federal credit union DeBoer adds, “We bring in the right person at the right time from the credit union to help them through that next decision or that next product they might need. We want to make sure they have a business partner holding their hand, walking them through the process.” There’s no guarantee any designers will make it. “Whether they will all be successful, that’s up to them,” DeBoer says. “But we can certainly help them by taking away the challenge of writing a business plan or getting some early money to realize their dreams.”
growing an industry Nick Hudson is heartened by the way the metro’s fashion eco-system has evolved in less than a decade. “There’s just so many more people and organizations involved and that’s what makes it grow,” he says. The Hudsons have been planting seeds to see what takes root. DeBoer says if a true fashion industry is to emerge here it must take the same intentional, step-by-step path that OFW has followed. “You don’t start out with everything all at once. It has a life cycle and I think this is an exciting next step for Omaha Fashion Week and for us. I think everybody’s excited about taking it to that next level.” Nick says, “The next stage is going to be helping with marketing and bringing the customers and sellers together.” Increasingly, he says, designers sell their wares before and after OFW events. He and Brook envision a brick and mortar base to anchor a dedicated design district. Having a critical mass of designers in close proximity to each other would provide access to shared spaces, facilities and services for sample making or material production and to economies of scale, efficiencies of operation and synergies of creativity. “We’ve got to have everybody together working in one place and all that collaboration going on in order to reap some of those other benefits,” Brook says. Ultimately, the Hudsons say if enough capacity is built a factory would be needed to manufacture the garments and accessories of not just local designers but of some select national and international designers.
MODEL: RACHEL • DESIGNER: DAN RICHTERS
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eco I’VE NEVER COME ACROSS ANOTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTION willing TO PUT THE TIME AND EFFORT INTO ALL THESE SMALL BUSINESSES, BECAUSE WE’RE TALKING ABOUT tiny LOANS. ~ NICK HUDSON OMAHA FASHION WEEK
make the connection! See the extended, enhanced and expanded version of this article online in our Digital Edition, featuring additional photos & content
MODEL: ELISA • DESIGNER: BUF REYNOLDS omaha fashion week • sacfcu
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OMAHA FASHION WEEK
sac federal credit union
MODEL: LARAMY • DESIGNER: KATE WALZ
MODEL: KILEY • DESIGNER: ADRIENNE ANDERSEN
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eco WE REALLY SAW THE potential OF THE DESIGNERS AND WHAT THE development OF THAT INDUSTRY COULD DO FOR OUR REGION…. WE FELT THIS WAS A niche NOBODY ELSE WAS ADDRESSING FROM A BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE. ~ GAIL DEBOER SACFCU PRESIDENT-CEO
Brook Hudson notes several major designers already have or are looking to move manufacturing from overseas to America, but many U.S. cities make that cost prohibitive. She says Omaha offers certain advantages, such as “great work ethic” and “low cost of doing business and living.” Should fashion manufacturing ever happen here at scale, she says, “it would be powerful because that positions Omaha on a whole different level as a national player on the fashion scene, plus it’s creating jobs.” Meanwhile, the creatives behind Wallflower and Legalized Rebellion say they appreciate the financial support system SAC offers as it propels their dreams and strengthens the design community. The next OFW designer showcase is August 17-22. For details, visit omahafashionweek.com.
omaha fashion week • sacfcu
GROWING OMAHA’S FASHION INDUSTRY
community CONNECTIONS
OMAHA FASHION WEEK
sac federal credit union
MODEL: LYNLEE • DESIGNERS: (HAT) JUDY BALES (TOP) MOLLY O'BRIEN • (DRESS) WHITNEY RORAH
MODEL: KILEY • (SKIRT) KATE WALZ DESIGNERS: (TOP) LEGALIZED REBELLION
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OMAHA FASHION WEEK
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MODEL: RACHEL • DESIGNER: LEGALIZED REBELLION
omaha fashion week • sacfcu
GROWING OMAHA’S FASHION INDUSTRY
CONNECTIONS MODEL: LARAMY • DESIGNER: KATE WALZ
OMAHA FASHION WEEK
sac federal credit union
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OMAHA FASHION WEEK
sac federal credit union HOOTON IMAGES
MODEL: KILEY • DESIGNER: WHITNEY RORAH PAGE 11
MODEL: ELISA • DESIGNER: KATE WALZ PAGE 13
MODEL: RACHEL • DESIGNER: DAN RICHTERS PAGE 14
MODEL: ELISA • DESIGNER: BUF REYNOLDS PAGE 15
MODEL: LYNLEE • DESIGNER: WALLFLOWER PAGE 15
MODEL: LARAMY • DESIGNER: KATE WALZ PAGE 16
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DEVELOP MODEL MANAGEMENT
MODEL: KILEY • DESIGNER: ADRIENNE ANDERSEN PAGE 17
MODEL: RACHEL • DESIGNER: LEGALIZED REBELLION
MODEL: LYNLEE • DESIGNERS: (HAT) JUDY BALES (TOP) MOLLY O'BRIEN • (DRESS) WHITNEY RORAH
MODEL: LARAMY • DESIGNER: KATE WALZ
PHOTOGRAPHY: HOOTON IMAGES MODELS: DEVELOP MODEL MANAGEMENT HAIR & MAKEUP: KAT SONG WHITNEY GRUBB AT VICTOR VICTORIA SALON
MODEL: KILEY • (SKIRT) KATE WALZ DESIGNERS: (TOP) LEGALIZED REBELLION omaha fashion week • sacfcu
GROWING OMAHA’S FASHION INDUSTRY
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game CHANGERS
• PRESENTED BY
I THINK IT’S important TO UNDERSTAND AND BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN BE anything YOU WANT TO BE. ~ SUE KORTH COO, METHODIST WOMEN’S HOSPITAL
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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM SCHOLZ
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SUE KORTH COO, METHODIST WOMEN’S HOSPITAL
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game CHANGERS
• PRESENTED BY
sue korth has built a reputation as an outstanding leader in her field; ask her and she’ll quickly explain that all of that flows from the fact that her heart is and has always been in patient care.
SUE KORTH HAS earned
“The care that we provide speaks for itself.” MULTIPLE ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS – PH.D., M.P.H., B.S.N. – AND HAS SERVED SINCE 2007 AS THE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Korth said she’s proud of the fact that an incredible FOR METHODIST WOMEN’S HOSPITAL, A FULL-SERVICE amount of planning went into the facility and actively involved staff as well as community members. MEDICAL FACILITY LICENSED FOR 114 BEDS THAT OPENED FIVE YEARS AGO AS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN “When we designed the Women’s Hospital, our staff was THE COMMUNITY. HER REPUTATION AS AN totally involved not only in the design, but the OUTSTANDING LEADER IN HER FIELD orientation process. We also put together a women’s NOTWITHSTANDING, KORTH SAYS HER HEART IS AND group that was an advisory council of leadership from HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN PATIENT CARE. the Omaha metropolitan area. We talked to them about what we should offer as a hospital, amenities we should “I’m still a nurse; I’m just contributing to the health of have, even down to the decor,” she said. patients in different ways,” she said. “I absolutely loved being a bedside nurse. I loved working in labor and Korth cultivated an atmosphere of valuing staff input that delivery. I loved working with patients, caring for them.” continues to thrive five years after the hospital first opened.
During her youth in Humphrey, Nebraska (a small town approximately 100 miles northwest of Omaha, between Columbus and Norfolk), Korth realized an early interest in medicine. “When I was growing up, I was torn between being a teacher and being a nurse. I believed that nursing gave me both options; I could be both a healthcare giver and a teacher because nursing is part teacher, anyway; I just melded the two together,” she said. She also discovered she had a knack for taking care of people. “I had aging grandparents who lived very close to us in our small community, and I did a lot of caregiving for them. It just felt very natural to become a nurse.”
Korth served as a nurse for almost two decades and never “We’re also a Magnet hospital (a Magnet designation forgot her roots as she transitioned from clinical care and is the ‘gold standard’ of nursing awarded to only six Korth said she credits her husband and two sons for medical management into administration, and that percent of the nation's hospitals by the AMERICAN helping her make it possible to advance to a level still means she not only retains her compassion for patients, NURSES CREDENTIALING CENTER), and our nursing not shared by a large number of women in her field. but high regard for the contributions of her staff. staff is in involved in the day-to-day care decisions of all of the patients.” “I have an extremely supportive husband and family; “I have an amazing team right now that challenges me, they’ve definitely supported my goals and all of those and I hope I challenge them as well. I work with some of She also said she emphasizes that everyone has a stake efforts,” she said. “My father was also an important role in every patient experience. model for me. He told me I could do anything I put my the best providers in the city, we have the largest OB mind to.” practice in the city and the largest perinatology practice group, and we have a neonatology practice out here that “A patient’s first impression is that first person they see time to give back when they walk through the door and their last is absolutely second to none,” she said. “I have a great impression is that last person they see when they leave,” One of those efforts supported by Korth’s family is deal of respect for my staff and the input they provide to she explained. “Throughout their stay, they’re going to making time in her demanding schedule to give back me, and I would tell you that each and every one of touch almost every department in the hospital, and if through nonprofit activities. them is an asset to the success of this organization.” one of those experiences is a bad experience, that’s what they’re going to remember – not everything else great “It’s important to stay involved in the community,” she dedicated to women's health that happened to them. I think everybody here said, adding that she feels there’s always more to do. Methodist Women’s Hospital may be most commonly understands that.” When most people are dreaming of leisure time associated with labor and delivery, but its health care activities for their golden years, Korth is eager to services focus on females in all stages of life. Korth said the meaning of care someday add to her nonprofit work even when she had confidence in the concept despite early doubts Hiring top-notch staff ensures the best care for patients, she retires. expressed by some community leaders whether a city of Korth said. this size could support a women’s hospital. Korth still makes substantial contributions to nonprofits “Health care is a 24/7 business, it’s not a 9-to-5 job. So I in what little spare time she has at the height of her “I think that the women of the city of Omaha deserve a think people who go into nursing really have to love career. She has served on the board of Ronald hospital that’s dedicated to serving the women of the what they do. We hire people who truly want to take McDonald House Charities in Omaha since 2013 (she’s community. We care for women; it’s what we do. And we’re care of patients; that’s their career, their passion, that’s now the president-elect). She’s also been on the board of the best at doing that. I believe if you have a specialty what they’re meant to do and want to do with the rest of the Women’s Fund of Omaha since 2009 and chairs the hospital, that’s where you would want to go to get care,” their lives. It’s important that we’re not just filling Adolescent Health Project focusing on teen pregnancy she said, adding that the hospital has been in demand from positions; we’re filling them with someone who really and STD prevention, a major endeavor where her the beginning, thanks to word-of-mouth endorsement. cares about what they’re doing.” medical expertise is invaluable.
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nurse SUE KORTH I THINK THAT THE women OF THE CITY OF OMAHA DESERVE A HOSPITAL THAT’S dedicated TO SERVING THE WOMEN OF THE COMMUNITY. ~ SUE KORTH COO, METHODIST WOMEN’S HOSPITAL
This special feature is sponsored by planitomaha. planitomaha is dedicated to honoring women whose influence not only impacts the boardroom but the community.
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I NEVER imagined Julia Brown, a recent Phoenix-area high school grad, MY FIRST VENTURE OUTSIDE THE UNITED He and Nollette, who lives in Phoenix, Arizona, didn’t say much but her heart for children shined STATES WOULD BE IN AFRICA. BUT IN JUNE I reconnected in 2014. She’d followed his prizefight FOUND MYSELF IN THE NEIGHBORING EAST success from afar and reached out to congratulate him. through. AFRICAN NATIONS OF UGANDA AND RWANDA That left me capturing Africa’s contrasting tableaux. AS THE 2015 WINNER OF THE ANDY AWARD “I told him how proud I was of him,” Nollette said. Traveling by mini-bus and land cruiser, we bounced FOR INTERNATIONAL JOURNALISM FROM THE from urban to rural areas and back again, often via UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA. When he discovered she did work in Africa he asked heavily rutted dirt roads. her to take him to the “motherland” he feels an I accompanied a small group under the auspices of ancestral draw to. Busy, jam-packed cities gave way to sleepy rural spots. Pipeline Worldwide, a charitable organization with Hours of open plains followed by winding hilly terrain. Traveling there also feeds Crawford’s heart for people strong Omaha ties. The nonprofit supports sustainable I’ll never forget the beauty and power of hiking less well off than himself, especially children. Terence’s Murchison Falls or the wonder of being on safari and clean water projects as well as self-sufficiency programs generosity is well-known. Crawford supports Pipeline’s coming up on two lion prides. Roadside shanties for vulnerable youth and women. work by bringing attention to it – he’s headlined sometimes sprawled only a stone’s throw from gated fundraisers in Omaha and Phoenix – and she supports communities and luxury hotels. Pipeline co-founder and executive director Jamie Fox his B & B Boxing Academy. She’s leading a capital drive Nollette, an Omaha native, goes three times a year to to expand the facility so it can serve more youth. Nollette said there’s no substitute for going to remote check progress, assess needs and meet partners. regions and urban slums “if you really want to see how She also raises awareness by bringing folks over and Loyalty is important to him. The coaches and trainers in people live.” documenting the visits for prospective donors. his Team Crawford camp have been with him for years. She’s among scores of Americans, including we’re not in nebraska anymore Nebraskans, serving Third World countries. His “trust” in Nollette as someone who’s got his best interests at heart is reciprocated by him having her back. As fellow travelers we shared something potent Though secular, Pipeline partners with faith-based together we won’t soon forget. Our June 1-12 journey groups. Her passion for serving Africa began with a After learning their shared history, their having gone was an odyssey for all, even those with extensive 2007 church mission trip there. to Africa and their planning to return, I applied for the international experience. For this virgin globe-trotter grant to fund my Africa travel. That’s how I ended up it constituted an outside-the-box leap of faith. She was Mother Hen for the trip I made. half way around the world with a boxing star and a humanitarian. Nollete described what the trip demanded and gave. Our ranks included a star – two-time world boxing champion Terence “Bud” Crawford of Omaha – merry band in distant lands who’s perhaps the most accomplished Neb. athlete in However, those two weren’t the whole story. We were a “These trips are hard, We are all away from home, out of our comfort zones – some way more than others. my lifetime. diverse seven-member group all affected by the places Not in control, thrown in a group with people we do we went, the people we met and the stories we heard. not really know and usually would not try to get to The experience stretched us in new directions and Despite being a newsmaker, his visits to Uganda and know. We eat different, sleep less and see some really offered new perspectives. Rwanda last August with Nollette went under the impactful things we’re not sure what to do with. radar. It’s the way he wanted it. He’s low-key, even Nollette, our laidback leader, encouraged us to That creates some dynamic situations. My hope is nonchalant about what he does to broaden his mind, appreciate the human dimensions of what we people come and see some things that are new, feel see the world and help his community. witnessed as active participants. something different and learn not only about the countries and people but about themselves. He doesn’t want to be thought of as just a fighter. Crawford, our by turns stoic and silly star, traveled with his girlfriend and the mother of his children, “Being out of control, uncomfortable and in new “I’m a human being just like anyone else,” he said, Alindra “Esha” Person. surroundings can foster growth. That’s not what people sign up for but most people will probably admit You may wonder what compelled this 27 year-old at Person, who’s a match for her man, expressed fears about the trip but proved a real trouper. Like her mate, they experience some sort of transformation.” the top of his game to go, not once but twice, to she has a soft spot for kids and loved on them every developing nations beset by poverty, infrastructure I don’t know yet how I’ve grown from this, gaps and violent legacies when he has the means to go chance she got. except perhaps I’m more patient and tolerant. anywhere. Well, it turns out Nollette was his fourth Scott Katskee, an international apparel entrepreneur grade teacher at Skinner Magnet School in North originally from Omaha and now living in L.A.,, is a Omaha, where they bonded, and they still click today. big, gregarious, inquisitive man with a blend of street It’s important to note I went as an innocent abroad. Going in, I knew little about Uganda and Rwanda and smarts and sophistication. after being there only 10 days I don’t pretend to be an He was a hard-headed kid from the streets carrying expert. Our itinerary revealed different sides of those “a chip on my shoulder.” She was a calming influence Joseph Sutter, a 2015 Millard West graduate, loved at school, where he often acted out, albeit not in her being in the company of his idol, Crawford, whom he nations, but they were just snapshots of complex played sidekick to. societies and cultures. classroom.
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STORYBY BYLEO LEOADAM ADAMBIGA BIGA | | PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHYCOURTESY COURTESYOF OFPIPELINE HOWARDWORLDWIDE G. BUFFETT STORY
LEO BIGA’S journal:
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pipeline
leo adam biga has written many compelling human interest pieces for metromagazine during our quarter-century of covering the giving journeys of members of our community, but none are more compelling than his own personal chronicle of the june 1-12 humanitarian visit he made accompanying local and global celebrity, terence crawford, as the wbo world champion and his ex-teacher visited uganda and rwanda, with pipeline worldwide’s jamie fox nollette.
OUTSIDE THE ADONAI GUESTHOUSE IN KAMPALA. UGANDA, FRONT ROW: TERENCE CRAWFORD AND SCOTT KATSKEE BACK ROW: ALINDRA PERSON, DRIVER GEORGE LINDO, JULIA BROWN, LEO ADAM BIGA, GUIDE APOLLO KARAGUBA AND JOSEPH SUTTER NOT PICTURED: TRIP COORDINATOR JAMIE FOX NOLLETTE CONTINUED
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My greatest takeaway from Africa is its immense resources and challenges, which equates to vast unmet potential. As Nollette pointed out, the people want the same things we do but the barriers to entry for Western-standard living are steep. These are developing nations in every sense. Folks trying to improve things there measure progress in small steps that might seem insignificant to us but make a big difference in people’s lives. On the flight from Amsterdam to Uganda I sat next to medical anthropologist and linguist Anna Eisenstein, a University of Virginia doctoral student doing field work in southwest Uganda. She lives with a village family and as she builds relationships with locals she conducts interviews. Her explanation of her work lent insight into the world I was entering. “I’m studying the way people think about their bodies, how they think about health care and how they make decisions about when to go to the healer or the herbalist or when to go to the public health system. If they’re going to see a healer their family knows, it looks very different than going to the public hospital. If people are coming out of an encounter with biomedicine rooted in colonialism then they have a lot of reason not to trust doctors or to take pills or want to be proactive. Also the public health system functions in English, which can be a barrier as well.”
“They’re all great leaders. The cool part is these guys are organizations staff eagerly showed us classrooms, nurseries, clinics, guest houses and residential units. now collaborating.” In many areas, access to clean water is an ever-present issue. The presence of a working community well or Networking helps Pipeline track projects and tank or pipe is cause for celebration. All too often rural programs. Pipeline is a conduit feeding the change folk must travel distances by foot or bike or boda boda agents it supports with what they need. lugging plastic yellow Jerry cans to fetch or return Sometimes that means connecting partners. water. Without any or reliable home refrigeration, people shop at outdoor markets to supplement daily Nollette said, “For example, Richard with Chicken food needs subsistence farming doesn’t provide. City Farms has figured out brick making using a brick Wooden stalls overladen with fruit, vegetables, oils, making machine with interlocking bricks. It can cut spices, grains, meat and fish do a brisk business as do the cost of construction by 30 percent because it their equivalent piled high with clothes, bags, tools, doesn’t require as much cement. We introduced him electronics. In slums, where there’s no sanitation to Sister Rosemary and Ben Kibumba. Richard’s team system, human refuse runs free when the rains come. is training Sister Rosemary’s and Ben’s teams on this process by building guesthouses for them. Not only I left feeling humbled by the scale of need and grateful will they learn this new skill that cuts costs, but they for my own good fortune. can continue to make bricks and sell them as an additional revenue stream.” What follows is an impressionistic account that dispenses with chronology in favor of moments and Leveraging expertise and resources, Pipeline strives to individuals that impressed me. Our hope is you’ll find create synergies for sustainable change. something that sparks your own journey or quest.
getting to know you
Nollette said it takes time to fully discern needs and challenges and get people thinking longterm.
I barely knew Nollette before the trip. I soon saw her dedication is sincere. She’s learned lessons in eight “I’ve learned many Africans want to withhold years serving Africa, none more vital than finding the information for fear the support may go away. right people on the ground to work with. She They also tend to think about immediate fixes rather introduced us to several Pipeline partners in Uganda than long-term solutions. When most people wake up she’s close to. Ben Kibumba with Come Let’s Dance, Her comments stuck with me during my stay in each day and have to walk for water and get food for Richard Kirabira with Chicken City Farms and Sister Uganda, where vestiges of colonial rule persist. the day, it is difficult to think beyond that. We talk a Rosemary Nyirumbe at Saint Monica’s. They lead lot about solutions that are sustainable.” She also told me what I could expect from the people. efforts to educate, train and employ locals, no small feat in places where poverty and unemployment are Two of her most trusted liaisons are Apollo Karaguba “Everyone I’ve met has been so welcoming and friendly widespread and opportunity limited. Adding to the in Uganda and Christophe Mbonyyingabo in Rwanda. and kind and I hope you’ll find the same. There’s a lot challenge are transportation issues, resource shortages, Besides serving as our tour guides, they took us to misappropriated aid monies and emotional scars from of emphasis on hospitality and on making others feel programs serving residents of urban slums and civil war (Uganda) and genocide (Rwanda). welcome.” isolated rural villages. Pipeline partners with Apollo’s employer, Watoto Child Care Ministries, and with “Partnerships and relationships are crucial,” Nollette Indeed, we came face to face with warm hospitality Christophe’s own CARSA. said. “It is very difficult to manage projects overseas. wherever we went. In Kampala, cancer-stricken Since there is a great deal of corruption, you have to children and their mothers at Bless a Child welcomed develop trust. Once we’ve identified potential partners Nollette sings the praises of Apollo and Christophe, us with sweet formality. Sports ministry officials two affable men with burning intensity. with strong leadership, we start slow with small treated us like VIPs owing to the presence of The projects. We see how they do with communication, Champ, whom they greeted like a returning prince. In Atiak. a region of northern Uganda, young women execution and accountability. We don’t expect them to “I’m mostly impressed with their passion and commitment to make a difference in the lives of others. be perfect. Many organizations we work with are recovering from trauma honored us with a rousing I can count on them for anything and truly think of grassroots just like us, but we believe in their vision tribal dance and a hearty meal in appreciation for our them as brothers. It’s an honor to work with them. and leadership. We emphasize collaboration and group outfitting their newly dedicated dorm with They are also eager to listen and learn and help with problem solving. bedding. Their sweet sisterhood enchanted us. In other projects even when it doesn’t benefit their own Luwero trainees at the African Hospitality Institute organizations.” “It’s so hard here to try and do things on your own.” prepared a gourmet feast for us. In the Rwanda highlands, pygmy village residents performed a traditional dance we reciprocated in kind. We were welcomed into homes with mud walls, a thatched roof and bare possessions. When we visited
Nollette cultivates leaders and facilitates their networking together. At one stop she presented partners with Samsung Galaxy tablets so they can better communicate-coordinate with each other and do better project management.
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She and her family are especially close to Apollo, who in turn is close to Terence Crawford. “I feel like I’ve adopted both of them,” she says of the guide and the boxer.
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Nollette’s brother is financially helping Apollo and his two siblings finish their university studies. When Crawford hit it off with Apollo on his first Africa visit, he flew him to America to watch his Nov. lightweight title fight defense in Omaha. Apollo enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner with Nollette’s extended family. A friend and associate of Apollo’s, George Lingo, was our driver in Uganda. Pipeline is helping pay for one of his son’s studies.
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Apollo’s employer, Watoto, houses and educates orphaned children in Uganda, where soaring teen pregnancy and poverty create a crisis of abandoned youth. We met boys living in a Watoto family-style home. Each home has a maternal caregiver and her own children. The caregiver is mother to them all. Three of the boys we met stayed with Nollette and her family in Phoenix when traveling to perform in a Watoto choir last year. She’s attached to one of them, Peter. He and his buddies joined us for dinner one night and Peter, who spent part of a bus ride next to Nollette, didn’t want to return to Watoto that night. “It was particularly painful when Peter asked me if they could stay the night and if he could have more time with me,” she recalled. “It reminded me again that everything matters. Even If it doesn’t seem like much, it has huge impact. All Peter wants is my time and love – something so easily given.” The attention he craved reminded her of The Champ at that age. Crawford was a handful in school but never gave Nollette grief as he found in her a caring, compassionate teacher. “I remember Terence saying the same thing to me on our last trip back in August. I asked him why he didn’t get into trouble in my class and he said it’s because he knew that I cared about him. Some things we do, it’s hard to measure the impact.”
people helping people Ben Kibumba, like many Pipeline partners, escaped the same dire straits of poverty and homelessness as the children that his Come Let’s Dance (CLD) serves through its school, clinic, farm and housing. He’s learned you can only move people forward when their basic needs are met. ATOP MURCHISON FALLS, UP FROM THE SHORES OF THE NILE RIVER IN UGANDA:: JULIA BROWN
TRIP COORDINATOR JAMIE FOX NOLLETTE
“You can’t dream when you’re hungry,” he said. “When you’re fed, you can dream of things bigger.” CONTINUED
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CLD’s Thread of Life program targets single mothers in the slums, some of whom who turn to prostitution to get by. Others can’t afford sending their kids to school. Thread of Life gives women a safe place to live and the opportunity to learn sewing-beading skills they use to make jewelry and apparel whose sales earn them a living wage. Program directors Mercy and Florence say some participants have left behind exploitation and dependence to move out of the slums and live healthy lives with their kids. Pipeline supports this and similar programs that train and employ African women to sew. Nollette’s also launched a business, CME Stories, where U.S. designers create patterns for apparel-accessory products women in Uganda produce. See more at http://cmestories.com/. “We pay women for each piece they make. The idea is to have a recurring business model and pay women a good wage for the work they do. They learn to save as well,” Nollette said. JULIA BROWN AND JOSEPH SUTTER WITH GULU VILLAGE CHILDREN
At her Saint Monica facilities in Gulu and Atiak, Uganda world renown humanitarian Sister Rosemary and staff empower exploited females, who are trained and employed in sewing and beading. Many were abducted as girls by rebels and forced into sex slavery, marriage and childbirth. Through education, community and work, they build self-esteem and self-reliance. “She’s my type of person,” Nollette said of the charismatic nun. “She’s a problem-solver and knows how to get things done. One of the things she said to me was, ‘You know Jamie, we understand how to do all the little things that turn into big things.’ She loves those women and it shows. Her work is incredibly difficult and yet she is always fun to be around. Contagious is the best word to describe her.” About the women at Saint Monica’s. Sister said, “They’ve seen a lot of bad stuff. That’s why it’s good to get a lot of people who can come and show them a different face of the world. If they remain by themselves they will not know anything else.”
MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREK AT VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK IN RWANDA
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A shy resident she introduced us to, Evelyn Amony, was abducted by Lord’s Resistance Army rebels at age 12 on her way to school and like other taken girls forced to do and witness awful things. She became one of LRA leader Joseph Kony’s many wives and bore him three children. She lived in hiding with him until the Uganda army intervened.
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LEO BIGA’S journal: Since regaining her freedom, she said, “I find a lot of improvements and changes in my life.” Amony said she enjoys the work she does and the pleasure it gives others. As if to prove it she modeled a blouse she makes and designs, too. She smiled as we admired her handiwork.
IN THE
Hutus against the minority Tutsis. Wholesale slaughter ensued. We met survivors who lost their family and home. Pipeline’s building a home for a widow survivor named Catherine. We met a young man who’s forgiven the person who killed his siblings. Christophe translated for us.
Nollette said, “When you empower women to be able to actually support themselves and to be able to pay for their kids’ schooling it’s really important. When a mom is able to afford to send her own child to school it teaches the value of education.” Giving people the means to break cycles of misery and achieve self-sufficiency is a big focus of Pipeline and its partners. In his own way, Crawford tries doing the same thing at his gym. Charles Mugabi and Richard Kirabira’s passion for helping others led to them getting full-ride college scholarships in the States. Now these entrepreneurs are applying what they learned by giving back to their homeland. “We came back with a very single purpose – to create startups that help youth get the opportunity to work. That’s the biggest need – jobs,” Mugabi said. His telecom service business Connect offers employment and internship opportunities and conducts tech training at colleges. Kirabira, whose Chicken City Farms ministry trains young men to raise chickens to market and to operate their own small farms, said, “We want to lead people in all areas but focusing on economic empowerment because we believe when someone is economically stable you can talk to them about Christ. But if I’m not stable, if I am not sure what I’m going to eat tomorrow, your message may not even make sense to me. So we try to tackle the gospel by bringing some hope for people to take care of their families and their needs.” Bottom-line, Kirabira said, “Young people here need an opportunity to work. That’s what will turn around the country.”
healing In places haunted by terror and violence, healing’s in order, too. Gacaca courts attempted to foster healing in Rwanda, where CARSA walks directly related genocide perpetrators and survivors through reconciliation workshops. After years of mounting tensions, a contrived ethnic war pitted the majority
A man and woman bound by pain shared their testimonies. He’s Hutu and she’s Tutsi. They were neighbors. He was friends and drinking mates with her husband, He admitted getting caught up in the blood lust of atrocities. He participated in her husband’s murder and stole her home and possessions. He served 11 years in prison for his crimes. She had trouble moving on after losing so much, including two children. After the perpetrator’s release from prison he returned to their village and she couldn’t bear to see him. With support from CARSA she found the strength and grace to forgive him. The pair now share a cow they tend, enjoying the milk and calves it produces. Of the man who caused such heartache she’s neighbors with again, she said, “He was able to open up and open the secret of his heart to us and I did the same towards him and I’ll tell you since then things have changed. Now we not only greet one another but we are friends.” We were all struck by what we heard. Scott Katskee said it was the most moving thing he experienced in Africa. Crawford found it “crazy” i.e. amazing one could find peace amidst such angst. Julia Brown doubted reunification could happen here.
pipeline
A few years ago Canadian Randy Sohnchen and his wife moved to Uganda, where he now runs Omer Farming Co., one of several agricultural concerns looking to turn millions of untouched acres of rich soil into producing croplands. “It’s got all the makings of a classic land rush,” he said, adding productivity gains should improve Ugandans’ quality of life. His decision to live there, he said, is based on his experience that “nothing lasting happens unless somebody dwells.” Apollo agrees that “being on the ground” is indispensable and “totally different” than managing things long-distance. Sohnchen’s done development work elsewhere and he said, “In 15 years this country will be transformed. It’s gonna happen, I’ve seen it happen in other places. It will happen here.” Americans Todd and Andria Ellingson caught the vision, too. but soon after moving to Rwanda to start a school they thought they’d made the biggest mistake of their lives. “Everything fell apart. It was nothing like what we thought it would be. Finally, after much reevaluation and just staying the course,” Todd said, “we’re seeing the impact, we’re seeing the fruit of what we planted and watered.” Their City of Joy consists of a school, a kitchen, a well, a water tower. A church is being built. They brought electricity to the community. They’re looking to help farmers reap more yield. That doesn’t mean it’s gotten any easier,
“Still lots of doubt, even today,” he said. “Am I really Nollette said, “The stories in Rwanda are deeply personal and I always feel honored these people share making a difference or am I just enabling and spoonfeeding?” them with us. Catherine, the widow who lost her husband and child and is currently living with her He said living and working in an isolated area so far sister, seemed especially sad. I could sense she feels hopeless. Christophe told her we wanted to build her a from home “there’s that constant stress of being in a different culture,” adding, “If you don’t focus on keeping house, but I don’t think she believes it will happen.” yourself healthy, you can crash and burn here. It’s probably the best thing I’ve ever done, but the hardest.” ex-pats We met other Westerners whose Africa commitment has changed their lives. Former CNN reporter Patricia autonomy and aspirations Smith does marketing for Saint Monica’s. During our Nollette said many Westerners who come make the visit she documented the blessing of a new dorm in mistake of wanting “to fix everything,” adding, “If you Atiak and our supplying bedding for the female try to do everything for everyone then it’s unlikely residents, who worked merrily alongside us. you’ll do anything of much substance. It’s easy to come Maggie Josiah sought radical change and found it at in and act like Santa Claus. It will make you feel better, the African Hospitality Institute she carved out of the but the reality is when you leave you haven’t done bush in Luwero, a district in central Uganda. anything to help. I want our help and support to be AHI trains women to work in Uganda’s booming meaningful and sustainable. I want to have real impact that outlives our visits. hospitality industry. CONTINUED
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“The key is collaboration. It requires us to be true partners – ready to listen and learn. We need to be the supporters and empower the local leaders. It’s not as glamorous but it is what allows for meaningful change.”
Sights that stick in my mind: • VENDORS HAWKING WARES • WORKERS TENDING FIELDS • FARM ANIMALS FORAGING IN FRONT OF HOMES • BODA BODA (MOTORBIKE) DRIVERS DARTING THROUGH TRAFFIC
Sounds too: • ROOSTERS WAKING US IN THE MORNING • CAWING BIRDS • CHILDREN SINGING, DRUMMING, LAUGHING • CATHOLIC MASS CELEBRATED IN LATIN, ENGLISH AND SWAHILI ~ LEO ADAM BIGA
She used as an example the Rwandan pygmy village Christophe took us to. Residents depend on an unreliable water supply and they can’t make a living from the pots they fire and sell. “It’s obvious they need help but what to do will take some time,” Nollette said. “Is there a way to capture and store the water? Do we train them on a new skill so they have a better way to earn income? Christophe and I both agree we don’t know the best solution at this time. We’re going to have to learn more and discuss various options.” Apollo said there’s no shortage of resources flowing in from governments, NGOs and other sources. Corruption siphons off much of it, but even what’s left he said is controlled by outside, often non-African forces. It’s an old story in these former colonial lands where British rule persisted. “They brought civilization, they brought education, clothing, but they also promoted slavery. They gave us guns to kill ourselves, they divided us, they diluted us.” Africa’s come to rely on and rue white influence. In the poorest spots we visited children excitedly waved and shouted “mzungo” (rich whites). Apollo did, too, as a child.. I asked what he was thinking when he saw whites then. “Opportunity. Every time you saw a white person you thought of opportunity, financially, because when you’re growing up you watch movies and everything you see about Europe or America is nice roads, nice cars, nice houses. Even the poor live in very decent homes. So maybe a white person might throw some money at you. Yeah, growing up that’s what I felt. Sometimes just being able to have a white person notice me was big. I remember standing by the roadside when a car or a bus went by with white people. I would run screaming and waving, and it just took one person to wave back and that was just heaven to me. I can say the same for most of my friends.” “Is it the same with today’s kids, too?” I asked. “Absolutely.” “Is there ever any negative connotation to this?”
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LEO BIGA’S journal: “Not with the children. The adults, if they’ve had education, they know what the British did, they came and looted our continent, so there’s a bit of bias.”
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pipeline
Just like our visit to the genocide memorial in Kigali, Rwanda couldn’t possibly help us understand the scope of carnage and despair that resulted when madness befell the nation.
Joseph Sutter articulated the conflict many of us felt as privileged Americans just passing through. “You have “I think it’s really sad,” Julia Brown said. “It makes me a guilty conscious the way they look at you when we’re feel every one here must have been affected but it driving by.” Referring to the gifts we handed out here doesn’t seem like it, everyone’s going about their day and there, Nollette said, “Are we doing anything good normally. It’s hard to picture anything that happened by giving suckers and jerseys? No.” even though I just saw pictures.”
Therefore, I fully expect to make new crossings that further open my eyes and stretch my boundaries. As I discovered, making connections with people in places as distant as Africa is only limited by our means and imagination. Not everyone can go there for themselves, but they can support projects and programs such as Pipeline Worldwide that make a difference. To learn more about the work of Nollette’s nonprofit, visit http://pipelineworldwide.org/.
“Well, it makes them happy for a second,” Julia Brown noted.
“Sobering. I can’t imagine what those people went through when there were just dead bodies everywhere,” Visit http://pipelineworldwide.org/partners/ for links said Scott Katskee, who had a friend die in his arms on to its partner organizations. Nollette said feel-good, bandaid fixes won’t solve a a Nepal mountain trek. “It was hard for me to person’s or a nation’s systemic problems. Change must reconcile one dead body. But this…” begin with a better educated populace and committed new leadership, It’s a grim recent past but Nollette’s focused on helping Rwandans and Ugandans move forward. “When people have access to good education they learn what’s possible,” she said. “That’s why it’s important to “Every time I go on a trip it reminds me of how partner with developing leaders.” important the work we’re doing is and to keep faithful and dedicated. It can be draining and frustrating at Given the instability of the Ugandan civil war and times but when I see our partners and projects, it Rwandan genocide of only a decade and a generation makes me forget everything else. Their sacrifice and ago, respectively, she said people who lived through dedication inspires me.” those times are apt to have lower expectations. Nollette said her husband supports her work and the “Knowing there may be some corruption and there’s no travel it entails. It’s become a family affair, too. He innovation and infrastructure, they’re okay because went in February. Their son Sam in 2012. “Sam raised they don’t want the alternative.” money for three wells hosting a baseball tournament. It was a huge personal highlight for me. He wants to go Younger people are more demanding. back,” she said. “I’m bringing my youngest, Shea, with me in November. I plan on taking my oldest, Morgan, “They’re looking for leadership, they want education, next June when she graduates from high school. They they want to develop the country.” have to raise their own money to go.” Apollo said, “The biggest challenge we have is leadership and stewardship. We must raise a generation that grows up with integrity, that is corrupt free and that will be true stewards of the resources of this nation and this continent.”
coming and going Nollette doesn’t ever want to assume she has things figured out. It’s a sensitive point brought home by none other than Terence Crawford, a product of a ghetto she only has glancing knowledge of, much like Africa’s slums. “It’s the same thing I talk to Bud about all the time. He’ll say, ‘You don’t know what it’s like,’ and I’m like, ‘You’re right, I don’t know, you have to tell me… what can I do.’”
Several in our party expressed a desire to return. As for myself, I recall what someone we met said about his first coming to Africa: “What an eye-opener. The biggest life lesson I’ve learned. America is not like the rest of the world.” Or as someone in our travel group put it: “There’s so much more to the world than just Nebraska.” Ah, there you have it. Now that I’ve expanded my horizons I want to see more because I know I’ve barely scratched the surface. There’s so much more to see and do. I’m reminded, too, of what a priest friend of mine who’s done missionary work in far-flung places refers to as crossing bridges. He says every time we venture into a new culture we cross a bridge of insight and understanding. Having finally taken such a big leap of my own, my appetite has been whetted for more.
TERENCE CRAWFORD AND SISTER ROSEMARY NYIRUMBE
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mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
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mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
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SETTING THE stage: I HAVE FOLLOWED HOMETOWN HERO PRIZEFIGHTER TERENCE “BUD” CRAWFORD FOR TWO YEARS. IN THAT SHORT SPAN HE’S BECOME A TRANSCENDENT FIGURE WHOSE PERSONAL STORY OF RISING TO THE TOP TRANSFIXES ANYONE WHO HEARS IT, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THEY FOLLOW BOXING OR NOT. Terence Crawford’s notoriety cuts across race and class and rivals if not surpasses that of Neb.’s most decorated homegrown athletes. Among in-state natives, he just may be the most dominant in his sport since Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Gibson was in his prime with the St. Louis Cardinals nearly a halfcentury ago. It never occurred to me I would go to Africa to cover Crawford. I mean, I could see myself going to another state to report on one of his fights or visiting his training camp in Colorado Springs. But Africa? Not a chance.
Lots of honors have come his way: • Named WBO Fighter of the Year • Named Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Year • Inducted into the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame • Inducted into the Nebraska Black Sports Hall of Fame • Likeness added to Omaha Press Club’s Face on the Barroom Floor • Made the cover of Ring Magazine • Immortalized in a mobile mural by artist Aaryon Lau Rance Williams
all by age 27 He also his own gym, B & B Boxing Academy, where his Team Crawford works with promising amateur and pro fighters. It’s right in the neighborhood he came up in. He’s a family man, too, who shares a home with his girlfriend and their four children.
in country After witnessing the want, the hope, the beauty, the despair of Uganda and Rwanda, I found there’s much more to Crawford than meets the eye. I found a man of contradiction and conflict, whose language and behavior can be inappropriate one minute and sensitive the next. He’s a big kid with a lot of growing up to do in some ways and wise beyond his years in other ways. His nonchalance masks a reservoir of deep feelings he doesn’t like showing. No matter where he is, even Africa, The Hood is never far from him. But he’s not too tough or cool to admit Africa touched him. “It’s life-changing when you get to go over there and help people,” he told me. “It just made me appreciate things more. It kind of humbled me in a way to where I don’t want to take anything for granted. I haven’t in my life experienced anything of the nature they’re experiencing over there. For one thing, I have clean water – they don’t have clean water. That’s one of their biggest issues and I want to help them with it.
So much of Crawford’s tale reads like a novel or screenplay. During his hard-knock growing up in the inner city, street fights and pickup games were a riteof-passage and proving ground. His formal training began at the CW Boxing Club, where right from the start he showed great promise and dreamed of winning titles. An outstanding if frustrating amateur career saw him lose a controversial bout in the National Golden Gloves finals in Omaha.
Then there’s the whole story behind why he went to Africa and who he went with. It involves his fourth grade teacher at Skinner Magnet School in North “They appreciate everything, even if it’s just a hug or a Omaha, Jamie Fox Nollette, whose Pipeline handshake.” Worldwide supports sustainability and self-sufficiency projects and programs in those nations. Pipeline also On his first visit he gave away all his clothes except for works in Ghana, Africa and in India. those on his back and on this last trip he gave away many T-shirts and other items. Last fall he paid for Pipeline’s Ugandan guide, Apollo Karaguba, to fly to The trip to Africa I joined Crawford and Nollette on America to see him fight and to celebrate was actually their second together there. When I Thanksgiving with Nollette’s family. learned that first trip had nothing to do with boxing, it peaked my interest, as it suggested a depth to the man I hadn’t considered before. His relationship with On the trip I made I saw Crawford interact with locals every chance he got. In Uganda he kidded with Apollo Nollette added a whole new dimension to his story. and our driver George, he haggled with vendors, he traded quips with noted Catholic nun Sister Rosemary, Tellingly, another elementary school teacher who made an impression upon him, Sheila Tapscott, is also he played with children and he coaxed young women to dance to music he played. It was much the same in still in his life. Rwanda, where he joked with our guide Christophe, danced with pygmies and entertained kids by throwing Upon finding out The Champ was going again with frisbees, doing backflips and handing out gifts. Nollette, I found the opportunity and means to tag along.
He nearly lost his professional fight career and life when he suffered a gunshot wound to the head. His rise up the pro ladder happened in relative obscurity and outside the view of his homes until his amazing 2014 run. He won the WBO lightweight title in Scotland and defended it twice before huge crowds in his hometown. He began 2015 by winning a second world title in Texas. Now he’s in line to fight the sport’s biggest names for mega bucks.
I flew out of Omaha with Crawford and his girlfriend Alindra “Esha” Person, who’s the mother of his children. Jospeh Sutter joined us as well. In Detroit we caught up with Julia Brown of Phoenix. Next onto Amsterdam, The Netherlands, where we met Scott Katskee, an Omaha native now living in L.A. From there we flew to our final destination, Entebbe, Uganda, where Nollette. who’d left the States a day earlier, met us.
Only I did go – to Uganda and Rwanda, Africa of all places. My printed JOURNEYS chronicle in mQUARTERLY is a compendium of that June 1-12 trip. The fighter is not particularly featured in that piece because the trip wasn’t about him. But as I would never have gone there were it not for him, I find it necessary to share here more about the young man who has so captivated us. I also share why making that journey at this juncture of his career is such a compelling part of his story.
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He also enjoyed the hike, the safari and the gorilla trek that put our group on intimate terms with the wild. Though clearly a public figure, Crawford rarely made himself the center of attention or acted the celebrity. He was just another member of our group. The few times he was recognized he obliged people with autographs or photo ops. The one special event set aside for him, a Uganda press conference, found sports ministry officials rolling out the red carpet for him.
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STORYBY BYLEO LEOADAM ADAMBIGA BIGA | | PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHYCOURTESY COURTESYOF OFPIPELINE HOWARDWORLDWIDE G. BUFFETT STORY
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EXPANDED EDITION
FOLLOWING
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two-time world champion terence crawford follows his ex-teacher to africa to visit uganda and rwanda twice in a year because of what drives him and drives his heart for people.
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You see, boxing is big in Uganda and his visit constituted a big moment for Ugandans. As usual, he took it all in stride. Nothing seems to rattle him.
boxing as change agent He touts his sport as a vehicle for steering inner city kids away from the mess many face. He even shared that message with sports ministry folks, boxers and reporters at the press conference. “Boxing took me to another place in my life where I could get away from all the negativity,” he said. “I got shot in my head in 2008 hanging out with the wrong crowd. At that time I knew I just wanted to do more with my life, so I started really pursuing my boxing career.” He emphasized the “hard work” it took to get where he is. The boxers hung on his every word. “Every day, any boxing I could watch, I would watch. I would take time out to study, like it was school. I would tell you to just work hard, stay dedicated, give your all every time you go in there and who knows maybe you can be the next champion of the world.” He emphasized how much motivation and work it takes to be great. “There’s going to be days you want to quit. Those are the days you’ve got to work the hardest. I never was given anything. I was one of those kids they said was never going to make it – I used that as an opportunity to prove them wrong.” Crawford handled himself well in that setting, He answered all their questions, posed for pictures, signed things and made everyone feel special. In an interview with me, he spoke about his gym and his wanting to make it a sanctuary to get kids off the streets..
show me that you care “It’s not just all about boxing. We’re trying to teach the kids how to be young women and young men. We’re teaching them to have respect and dignity. We’re teaching life skills. You’ve got to be able to control yourself in the ring as well as outside the ring and boxing is a great way for kids to learn discipline. “If they feel like nobody cares than they’re not gong to care, but if they feel one person cares than they tend to listen to that person.” Crawford knows from personal experience what a difference one person can make. Nollette was among those who connected with him when he was a hardheaded kid who bristled at authority.
“She was one of the only teachers that really cared. She would talk to me,” he said. He needed someone to listen, he said, because “I got kicked out of school so much – a fight here, a fight there, I just always had that chip on my shoulder.” Nollette took the time to find out why he acted out. He knows, too, the difference a gym can make for a young person working out anger issues. “It’s a good place to come and get away, release some stress, release some steam if you’re having problems at home or school and you just need to let it out. What better way to let it out than on a bag, rather than going somewhere else and letting it out the wrong way. I look at it as an outlet for the kids that are just hardcore and mad at the world because of their circumstances. They come to this gym and they feel loved and they feel a part of something. For some kids, feeling a part of something changes them around.” “This is my community, B & B is my gym, so I am in it for the long haul. I’m not in it for the fame or anything like that. I could be anywhere but my heart is with Omaha. We just want to help as many kids as we can. Everything is for the kids.” Carl Washington got him started in the sport at the CW, where Midge Minor became his coach. Minor’s still in his camp 20 years later. Crawford hopes that some young people training at the B & B will one day take it over. Then they, too, will pay forward what they received to help a new generation of young people.
each one, to teach one...
Amidst all the fame and hoopla, he’s remained rooted in his community. Yet he’s also found time to expand his world view by twice going to Third World countries when he could have chosen some resort. He considers Africa his second home. “It IS home. I’m AFRICAN-American. It’s where a lot of my people come from historically down the line of my ancestors. Damn, I love this place.” Just like his first visit there, he said, “I was very touched by the people and how gracious and humble and thankful they were about everything that came towards them. I had a great time with great people. I experienced some great things.” As someone who prides himself in being a man of his word, he was pleased when Africans expressed appreciation for his not only saying he’d be back after his last trip, but actually returning. The fact that he’s retained the same coaches and trainers who have been with him for years and that he supports his ex-teacher’s work in Africa speaks to his loyalty. What he gives, he gets back, too, thus making him a beloved star athlete and role model to the people and community he calls his own. He hasn’t forgotten where he comes from and I doubt he’ll ever forget Africa. We don’t have much in common other than the same North Omaha roots, but the shared experience of seeing Uganda and Rwanda is something we’ll always have between us. That, and having the privilege of writing about the experience, is enough for me. I never expected to be in Africa, let alone with him, but I’m glad it worked out that way.
The gym is in a neighborhood plagued by violence. His own childhood mirrored that of kids living there today. It’s survival of the fittest. He got suspended and expelled from school. The lure and threat of gangs loomed large. Boxing became his way out. Staying true to his roots His is a classic American success story of someone coming from the bottom up and making it to the top. He’s fast become an icon and inspiration. He’s singlehandedly put Omaha on the boxing map and revived what was a dead sport here. HBO and TopRank are grooming him as pro boxing’s hot new face. Warren Buffett’s sported a Team Crawford Tshirt at one of his Omaha bouts. The fighter shows his hometown love by wearing trunks and caps with Husker and Omaha insignias. He’s thrown out the first pitch at an Omaha Storm Chasers’ game. He makes personal appearances delivering positive messages to students and athletes.
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mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
you’re connected! with the extended, enhanced and expanded version of our article in the print edition of mQUARTERLY, featuring additional photos & content
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FOLLOWING
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IT’S life-changing WHEN YOU GET TO GO OVER THERE AND HELP PEOPLE, IT JUST MADE ME appreciate THINGS MORE. IT KIND OF humbled ME IN A WAY TO WHERE I DON’T WANT TO TAKE ANYTHING FOR granted. ~ TERENCE CRAWFORD
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IT’S NOT JUST ALL ABOUT boxing. WE’RE TRYING TO TEACH THE KIDS HOW TO BE young women and young men. WE’RE TEACHING THEM TO HAVE respect and dignity. WE’RE TEACHING LIFE SKILLS. YOU’VE GOT TO BE ABLE TO control yourself IN THE RING AS WELL AS OUTSIDE THE RING AND BOXING IS A GREAT WAY FOR KIDS TO LEARN discipline. ~ TERENCE CRAWFORD
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cultural BENCHMARKS STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS
as a presenting organization that serves as steward of omaha’s major performance venues and as keeper of omaha’s cultural flame, omaha performing arts brings broadway productions and other world-class shows to town, while raising eyebrows for out-of-towners unaware of omaha’s rich and robust cultural class.
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A decade MAKES. IN THAT RELATIVELY SHORT PERIOD THE OMAHA ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT SCENE HAS BLOWN UP THANKS TO A CRITICAL MASS OF NEW ORGANIZATIONS, VENUES AND EVENTS. TOGETHER WITH THE TREASURES ALREADY HERE, THIS CULTURAL SYNERGY’S TRANSFORMED OMAHA FROM SLEEPY FLYOVER SPOT INTO DYNAMIC DESTINATION. Leading the new arrivals is Omaha Performing Arts. The organization books world-class artists at the venerable Orpheum Theater and its state-of-the-art companion, the Holland Performing Arts Center. As the steward of these spaces, OPA’s charged with caring for them and filling their halls with high quality events that appeal to all demographics.
growing the performing arts scene Great halls are only truly alive when people inhabit them. OPA schedules year-round offerings that keep its spaces hopping to the tune of 3 million-plus patrons since 2005. All those folks, many from out of town, pump $40 million into the local economy each year. By bringing the best of performing arts to town, OPA adds to and enhances the rich stew of the Blue Barn Theatre, the Rose, the Omaha Community Playhouse, the Great Plains Theatre Conference, the Omaha Symphony, Opera Omaha – all of which are thriving. OPA president Joan Squires says, “Across the board the arts community has elevated attention and we’re seeing a lot of our colleagues doing well at the same time. So there’s been renewed energy downtown and in our community for people wanting to come to performances and there’s more options to select from than ever before.”
celebrating 10 • looking ahead OPA board chairman John Gottschalk says the public’s reception to the programming has “vastly” exceeded expectations and quelled any doubts Omaha could sustain two major performing arts centers.
entire board have been tremendously committed, generous and great stewards. Their leadership has been everything.” The public’s done its share, too.
“The response by the Omaha community buying tickets This organization that never rests is pausing long and showing up at performances has been incredible. enough this fall to commemorate its boffo first decade We can continue to get better and better shows because run. The October 16 Celebrate 10 Gala will feature producers look at our ticket sales and results. Broadway Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth in a Holland spectacular. The October 17 Holland Stages will be a free shows come in here and report this is one of the best opening night audiences they have.” daylong festival highlighted by diverse performing artists at the Holland. She says the fall anniversary events are “our way to say “We’ve had a lot of milestones in a short period of time,” thank you to everybody who’s a part of this,” adding, Squires says, “and we really want to use our anniversary “The folks that started this institution made an extraordinary investment and you just have to stand to celebrate what everybody has done for the back for a moment and say, ‘Bravo.’” institution and to start looking forward to the next decade. I think it’s something Omaha as a community Getting to this point required a remarkable growth spurt should really celebrate. It’s an extraordinary story and for an organization that began with Squires, an assistant opportunity for us.” production manager, and a desk and computer in 2002. “For a very young center we’re really advanced in terms of The Orpheum renovation was underway. The Holland was audience, finances, facilities and other ways,” Gottschalk still in the planning stages. Heritage Services raised more than $100 million in private giving to complete the says. “We’re a very healthy arts organization.” two projects and to help get OPA up and running. OPA grew out of an initiative Gottschalk, Dick Holland, That level of community buy-in is what attracted Walter Scott and others led to renovate the Orpheum Squires to take the job and she continues to be and build the Holland. Gottschalk says much effort was made recruiting Squires from the Phoenix Symphony to impressed by the ongoing support that feeds her organization and enables OPA to make enhancements oversee the Omaha facilities and “she’s done a at its venues. wonderful job,” Holland says, “I don’t think we’d have the same success without her. Joan is a perpetual motion machine looking after every single detail you can think “Omaha is known for the deep roots of its philanthropic community. The leadership behind this project was of. She’s just plain marvelous.” extraordinary. They were invested in its success.”
investing in community
Squires deflects accolades to others.
Dick Holland, who with his late wife Mary made the “The generosity of the donors here has made this possible. lead gift for the Holland, has no doubt of OPA’s impact. We can have all the vision and passion we want but “It’s added enormously to the luster that this is a great without that support none of this would have happened. city through new events, new opportunities, new shows Their continued commitment and philanthropy behind that bring in a pile of people from out of town.” all this has been absolutely key.
It’s a fact that OPA filled a void left by arts impresarios and presenting organizations no longer around.
“There were no other major presenters in town, so I felt there was an opportunity to bring to the community some of these great art forms and artists that didn’t have a place to perform or anybody to take charge of that. It felt like the puzzle pieces were all here to really That’s on top of popular attractions such as the make this organization a success. Everybody wanted “The people involved in this organization are highly Old Market, College World Series, Omaha Storm Chasers, committed and passionate and that starts with our this to succeed and I felt if we could put this together Joslyn Art Museum, Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens board of directors. John Gottschalk, who’s been our the right way we really could give Omaha something and Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. chairman since inception, certainly Dick Holland, and the pretty special.”
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IF IT’S GOOD FOR OUR COMMUNITY, LET’S do IT. ~ JOHN GOTTSCHALK OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS BOARD CHAIRMAN
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at 10 She says the support that coalesced around all this “is really about a commitment to quality of life and making Omaha better for current and future generations.” She adds, “We couldn’t have done this without the partnership of Heritage Services raising the money to get the Holland up and open at the same time we were getting things started here. It’s another key why we were successful from the beginning. That partnership gave us an advantage coming out of the chute.” Gottschalk says donors made substantial gifts “because they thought it would be good for Omaha and it was, and that’s really been the legacy of the community – we’ve been able to sustain that view – if it’s good for our community, let’s do it.”
scaling up The Orpheum renovations have allowed the theater to host the biggest Broadway touring shows (Disney’s The Lion King, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera) whose wildly popular runs make the venue one of America’s best draws. The Holland is home to the Omaha Symphony Orchestra and to a diverse slate of jazz, comics and specials that range from the Omaha Louder Than a Bomb poetry slam to the Hear Nebraska indie music showcase and the Salem Baptist Church holiday concert. The buildings are rich in patron and guest amenities, the latest being the renovation and relocation of Zinc restaurant just off the Holland courtyard. Squires spent her first three years putting in place OPA’s infrastructure and branding, including the Ticket Omaha service it operates. She now has a full-time staff of 50 with another 50 part-time staff, plus a volunteer corps of more than 500. “I’m really delighted with the administrative team here. They are passionate, committed, and talented. They drive so much of this business. We’re lucky to have our volunteer Ambassadors and Presenters. There are hundreds of people involved who are passionate and committed about Omaha Performing Arts.” With its $18 million operating budget Omaha Performing Arts is the state’s largest arts organization. Its growth, even programmatically, has been gradual.
JELANI REMY & ENSEMBLE, DISNEY'S THE LION KING. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS
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“You can’t be everything to everybody the day you open the doors, so you phase it in, in stages,” Squires says. “Also by the nature of presenting we’re continuously experimenting in what works or what doesn’t. One of the challenges our very first year was that the Orpheum schedule didn’t allow for many touring
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Broadway productions. When the symphony moved to the Holland the schedule opened up to allow us to build that Broadway market. That took time and now we’re having tremendous success. This next year is probably going to be our most successful yet. We’re having a wonderful response with subscriptions.” The mixing and matching OPA does to serve different tastes is always a work in progress but Squires says, “We really have hit our stride in the series we offer. Broadway is one of the biggest draws but we get great responses to our jazz, dance, family and showcase series. New two years ago was the National Geographic Live Series. The 1200 Club has a following. “Our mission is to bring in breadth, so we want to really provide a good cross-section to reach lots of segments and to grow audiences.” The search for new headliners never ends. “We always have opportunities to bring new shows in but sometimes when they’re touring we may not have availability, so we’re always juggling the schedule. It’s a complex and complicated process to book every year. It’s one of the biggest jigsaw puzzles you can imagine. It takes a lot of coordination to get it all put together.”
more than numbers She says while OPA depends on earned revenue for 75 percent of its budget, ticket sales are not the only barometer for success. “For some types of performances, a thousand people is just great because that’s what we expected and budgeted.” The experience people have is more important than anything other consideration. “My favorite thing is to stand in the back of the theater and to watch a performance both for the quality of what’s happening on the stage and for the response of the audience,” she says. “You do all this work behind the scenes, booking the shows, selling the tickets and raising the money to make that happen and then you get the satisfaction of seeing those performances touch people. “The arts have that capacity to move people in ways I think nothing else does.” In addition to the performances it books OPA has a growing education and community engagement mission piece that brings school-age students together with visiting artists and encourages youth participation. omaha performing arts
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RICHARD D. HOLLAND JOAN H. SQUIRES CARL BECK RIGHT) VICE(FAR CHAIRMAN PRESIDENT WITH CAROLYN RUTHERFORD, CHARLES JONES BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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“It’s a real important initiative for us,” Squires says. “It’s a chance to reach the community in new ways and have them connect to the arts in ways they may not have a chance to otherwise.” OPA’s implemented anti-bullying and social justice programs around certain shows and organized master classes with top artists. Its Nebraska High School Theatre Awards program is going statewide. She appreciates how Omaha Performing Arts is increasingly seen as an arts leader. “We’re becoming more and more respected nationally because of the success we’ve had, the quality of the programs and the quality of the buildings. Omaha’s on the map for the kind of work we’re doing. Artist management companies recognize this is an important tour stop. We’ve been asked to be on some national symposiums and organizations, where we didn’t have that seat at the table in the past.” Mario Garcia Durham, president and CEO of the Association of Performing Arts Presenters (APAP), says, “Running a large arts program and arts center is extremely challenging. The best nationally recognized arts organizations have the equally daunting tasks of presenting the very best artists available and truly engaging with their respective communities. These endeavors take years of dedicated commitment and experience. Kudos to Omaha Performing Arts and the Holland Performing Arts Center for their welldeserved success.”
solid foundation • bright future Squires says OPA will continue building on what it’s done. “There’s always more to do and more money to raise. That never stops. We never rest on our laurels. There’s always new opportunities for people to make a difference by giving to our institution. The philanthropic side, we’re always working. Nothing is ever a given. “For the future we have set up the planned giving Marquee Society. Those gifts will go into a permanent endowment.” She feels OPA’s proven itself a worthy recipient of planned gifts.
OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS’ BOARD OF DIRECTORS JOAN H. SQUIRES, WALTER SCOTT, JR., MEG LAURITZEN DODGE, D. DAVID SLOSBURG, CARL G. MAMMEL, JOHN K. BOYER, RICHARD R. BELL, JOHN GOTTSCHALK AND TODD L. JOHNSON NOT PICTURED: RICHARD D. HOLLAND AND MICHAEL S. CASSLING
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at 10 omaha performing arts milestones 2000 OPA forms as a non-profit 2002 OPA assumes management of the Orpheum Theater and makes a multi-million dollar investment in its renovation 2004 Skyline completed connecting the Orpheum with the Omaha Public Power District parking garage 2005 Grand opening of the Holland Performing Arts Center 2007 Disney’s The Lion King breaks Orpheum box office records 2009 Broadway’s Wicked plays to sold-out audiences at the Orpheum Anne Thorne Weaver Lounge opens at the Orpheum Cassling Education Center opens at the Holland Center 2010 OPA assumes production and presentation of Jazz on the Green at Midtown Crossing 2012 Grand opening of NRG Energy Ovations bar and lounge at the Holland 2013 Record-breaking run of Disney’s The Lion King at the Orpheum
THE BROADWAY MUSICAL WICKED PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS
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2015 Grand opening of Zinc restaurant at the Holland Center
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“We had to attract people in large numbers and financially we had to show we’re responsible by meeting our budget numbers every year, which we have done. If people have confidence in the organization then you can start to talk about the future so they can leave legacies that will continue to sustain these programs and facilities. These legacy gifts will ensure the longer term future of this institution.” “We’ve started down that road and I think it’s going to be well-supported,” Gottschalk says of the endowment. With a decade under its belt, Squires says OPA is squarely focused now on “where do we go from here, how do we build on our success and how do we continue to evolve and grow to continue to touch the community.”
THE generosity OF THE DONORS HERE HAS MADE THIS POSSIBLE. WE CAN HAVE ALL THE VISION AND PASSION WE WANT BUT WITHOUT THAT support NONE OF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED. ~ JOAN H. SQUIRES OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS PRESIDENT
Gottschalk says, “I think there’s more growth ahead for us in terms of amenities and facilities and programming.” For event or ticket info, visit www.omahaperformingarts.org or www.ticketomaha.com.
omaha performing arts
TEN YEARS AND COUNTING
CONTINUED
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the BIG connection PART TWO
in terms of understanding how unique nebraska humane society and its support network is, people are often surprised that nhs had no guild until 1992; but most surprising of all? friends forever is the only guild of its kind in the nation!
WHEN nhs (NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY) WAS FOUNDED IN 1875, IT ORIGINALLY PROVIDED SERVICES FOR ANIMALS AND CHILDREN UNTIL CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES CAME ABOUT IN THE 1950S. THAT’S A HISTORICAL FACT THAT TENDS TO SURPRISE PEOPLE, SAID JUDIE OLSON, FOUNDER OF NHS’S FRIENDS FOREVER GUILD. BUT AS FAR AS HISTORY IS CONCERNED, PEOPLE SEEM TO HAVE AN EVEN HARDER TIME BELIEVING THAT NHS HAD NO GUILD UNTIL 1992. AND MOST SURPRISING OF ALL? “It’s the only guild in the nation that we know of for a humane society,” Olson said. “We have never, ever learned of another one anywhere.” She’s fielded call after call from well-meaning individuals across the country asking for advice as they explore the possibility of organizing a humane society guild in their community, but so far Olson is the first and only to get one up and running. She first proposed a guild soon after late community leader BETTY ABBOTT recruited her to the NHS board in the 1980s. “I immediately saw how outdated the building was – built in the early 1960s – and I saw that the animals were existing in substandard conditions… I felt Omaha and the surrounding environ deserved to have better for their abused and abandoned animals,” she recalled. “I knew I couldn’t make change by myself. I had to somehow force people to look at this somewhat uncomfortable situation and I thought by doing the guild and raising money, it would force them…I had no agenda; I simply cared.” Once she secured permission from the NHS director and board to move forward with the formation of a guild, Olson and friends and fellow guild founders BARBARA THOMPSON AND SANDY CRAWFORD – who like her were also active in the community and experienced in fundraising – were able to bring in around 60 women strategically selected because they loved animals, had proven fundraising skills, or had valuable connections. “I had been on lots of women’s guilds throughout the years and could see so clearly what women’s guilds could do and do; they are an army of volunteers like no other,” she said. “I said, ‘This can happen.’”
JUDY VARNER, PRESIDENT AND CEO NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY (FACING PAGE)
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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY
PRESENTED BY
• mQUARTERLY
The $10K BIG CONNECTION
PART TWO OF A TWO PART SERIES NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY FRIENDS FOREVER GUILD
more than you know
IT’S THE ONLY guild IN THE NATION THAT WE KNOW OF FOR A
humane society. ~ JUDIE OLSON FOUNDER, FRIENDS FOREVER
... a deeper understanding the big connection
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY • PART TWO OF TWO
CONTINUED
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• mQUARTERLY
the BIG connection PART TWO
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY friends forever PART TWO OF A TWO PART SERIES friends forever But Olson realized it couldn’t happen with only parttime leadership, and she soon made the decision to end her highly successful real estate career. “I decided I could not take care of my clients as well as start a guild for the Humane Society. My love was truly for the animals,” she said. Her husband, Steve, an attorney with the Fraser Stryker law firm, gave his full support (he even came up with the name “Friends Forever,” a nod to the unconditional friendship given by pets), and Olson remembered telling her employer, “I don’t know of anyone else in the community that will care as much I do or put in as much time. I’m going to take it like a full-time job.”
keep driving toward the change,” Varner said. “She is responsible for what NHS has become. NHS today is respected in the community and beyond, not just for the enormous scope of services it offers to animals, but for the passion and commitment of its humans: staff, leadership, board, volunteers and Friends Forever – everybody.”
“The cats will multiply and multiply and multiply, and pretty soon you have a situation getting out of control pretty quickly.” Sometimes a large increase in feline intake requires special measures from adoption sales (reduced or waived fees) to an extra push through social media.
“We do everything we can to save every life we can… “When we get a lot of cats, we’ll look at our population We will explore every possible option.” Varner added. base – and we have a pretty good sense of how many That tenacity extends beyond the basic and medical care cats we can care for and when we get to a scary point – provided at the shelter. For instance, arrangements will and our response is to reach out the community. be made to transport animals to adoptive owners The community has been extremely supportive of that,” outside the Omaha metro area, sometimes across the Varner said. “We have to save lives.” country. Animals raised together will be adopted out in pairs. And shelter workers will provide or arrange for Most – but not all – lives can be saved, Varner said. Even rehabilitation care or behavior modification services for when animals have a terminal illness or catastrophic animals who aren’t quite ready for life in a human injuries, the staff makes sure they experience comfort, household. compassion and kindness in their last hours.
Olson is still active with the guild more than two decades later, serving as advisor and historian. “I’m always open to help wherever it’s needed,” she said. The guild has raised several million dollars since its start “Behavior modification is extremely expensive but it’s and members have contributed countless hours, vital and saves hundreds of dogs a year,” Varner said. organizing fundraising events from major galas like “Our first concern is always public safety, and right behind Black Tie and Tails to a Friends for Life calendar and pet photo contest. Friends Forever originated the mobile that is the care of the animals.” pet adoption vehicle and program, provided the funds Public safety has been part of NHS services since that brought NHS into the computer age, sponsors the the beginning, or as Varner put it, “animal control is gift shop at NHS’s Lied Humane Center, and even runs the docent tour program...among many other activities. public safety.” “I feel they are ambassadors in the community and they “What makes us rare is that we are a private nonprofit are fundraisers, and we do whatever it takes to make life with a contract to provide animal control services,” Varner said. “In most cities, animal control is either run better for the animals,” Olson said. “My entire mission was not only to save the animals that we could save and by the municipality in total – the municipality is in charge of picking up the animals off the street and get them into wonderful homes, but to make it the community agency I always felt it could be. I think we’re housing them – or as in the case of Council Bluffs and in Lincoln, animal control officers work for the city but there today… I used to cry tears of sadness but now I there is a nonprofit that provides the care for them. cry tears of happiness. When I first started out, I didn’t So we’ve sort of got it all.” think NHS was on anyone’s radar screen. Today, it is.”
passion and commitment
here kitty kitty
PRESIDENT AND CEO JUDY VARNER commonly tells individuals and groups the idea that one person cannot make a difference is wrong and “Judie Olson is living proof.”
Cats may be less of a public safety issue than dogs, but their numbers far exceed that of dogs, who are more conspicuous when lost or abandoned and are also covered by leash laws.
“Every shelter in the country deals with the issue of “In the late 1980s, Olson saw the substandard level of care NHS provided to animals, decided it had to change, unwanted cats, and it’s a growing problem. People will and had the passion and drive to make it happen. There move away and leave their cat, just put them outside, are few people who would have been willing or able to which is unconscionable to most people,” Varner said.
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“We love animals enough that we recognize that sometimes the best thing to do for an animal is to let it go,” she said. “Our medical staff is amazing and I’m always in awe of the animals our medical staff can save. But sometimes we can’t, and sometimes the best thing to do is cry and let them go.” Besides nutritious food and comfortable shelter, every animal who comes through NHS’s doors receives medical attention, which may be as simple as an exam and basic well-animal care for healthy animals or as extensive as major surgery and rehabilitation for those who are sick or injured. Once confirmed healthy, the staff works on making sure the animal is ready for adoption.
people training Humans need to be made ready for the adoption, too, Varner said, and sometimes that takes a little education on energy levels and environment and other factors considered in making a good match. She’s full of stories of misguided potential owners: the woman who imagined the unlikely scenario of a Labrador retriever puppy lounging next to her on the sofa with its head on her knee while she read, the man who wanted a border collie despite his tiny apartment, the single mother with a new baby who didn’t contemplate the logistics of how she would manage a puppy’s middle-of-the night potty breaks.
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understanding “What we don’t want to do is tell them no without telling them the reason, because they’ll just go out and get a dog somewhere else. We want to help them sort through the process because our vision is ‘A good home for every pet’,” Varner explained. “We’re always honest with everyone…We do everything we can to make it the right fit. We even urge people to bring dogs back to us if it doesn’t work for them. If they do come back, we get useful information and we can work with that.” NHS also offers classes for owners to attend with their dogs, (“We keep saying ‘train, don’t complain’”), but it’s the owners who learn the biggest lessons about dog communication and behavior, Varner added. For instance, when a dog barks at the mail carrier or visitors, the dog’s perception is that its behavior has caused the intruder to leave and its behavior is thus rewarded. Or, if an owner sternly tells his or her dog to come, when the dog detects the aggressive tone, it tries to show submissiveness by giving the owner a wide berth, which the owner sees as avoidance and disobedience. Or, when an indoor dog is taken outside to relieve itself, it’s excited to be outside and feels it’s being punished when it’s hustled back inside seconds after taking care of business; the dog learns to delay urination to prolong its outdoor venture and perhaps even waits to relieve itself until it gets back indoors. All these behaviors can be addressed, but it takes some effort on the part of the human, Varner said. “Dogs communicate clearly but people don’t understand their language.” She added that a future goal is to expand post-adoption follow-up services even further.
forever homes The great majority of adoptions are successful, and NHS gets a steady stream of correspondence and photos from owners testifying to how happy life can be (for both owner and pet) with a new furry companion. And Varner knows firsthand how rewarding pet adoption can be. Although she had envisioned adopting a 6-pound Yorkshire terrier to join her two male border collies, Max and Rocky, Fate brought her 10 times that in the form of a 64-pound greyhound who was recently surrendered to NHS and caught Varner’s attention. “We love her dearly,” Varner said. “Lily is spoiled and enjoying every minute of it.”
JUDIE OLSON FOUNDER, FRIENDS FOREVER
the big connection
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY • PART TWO OF TWO
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• mQUARTERLY
the BIG connection PART TWO
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY friends forever PART TWO OF A TWO PART SERIES OUR first CONCERN IS ALWAYS PUBLIC SAFETY, AND RIGHT BEHIND THAT IS THE care OF THE ANIMALS. ~ JUDY VARNER, NHS PRESIDENT AND CEO
NHS ARE ambassadors IN THE COMMUNITY AND THEY ARE fundraisers, AND WE DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO MAKE LIFE better FOR THE ANIMALS. ~ JUDIE OLSON FOUNDER, FRIENDS FOREVER
Lily, Max and Rocky are joined by seven chickens, three goats and a handful of barn cats, and Varner said had even more pets in the past, including min-horses and horses. They’ve all enhanced her life in numerous ways, she added. “They give us a sense of balance, they give us a sense of empathy, they enhance our humanity and they teach us.” Olson, who often babysits her granddog and frequently provides foster care for NHS dogs, also promotes the joys of pet ownership beginning at home. Her Wheaten terrier named Chewy and a 3-pound Maltese named Shabby Chic both who came to her through NHS adoption. After all, she said, “Our goal is to have a good home for every pet.”
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mQUARTERLY •
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making HISTORY
women’s fund of omaha celebrates its milestone 25th anniversary.
MICHELLE ZYCH
“WOW. 25 years. I WONDER WHAT GAIL YANNEY (CREATOR AND FOUNDING MEMBER) WAS THINKING 25 YEARS AGO?” EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MICHELLE ZYCH initially responded with a long pause when asked to contemplate what the organization will look like after the next 25 years. 1990 may seem like a long time past, but the years have gone by fast for the Women’s Fund, which continues to carry forward its original, succinct mission. GAIL WALLING YANNEY, MARY HENG BRAUN, AND DIANE SEEMAN LOZIER
“We identify issues. We fund solutions. We lead change,” Zych said. “I think that our core mission has stayed exactly the same.”
leading the change at 44
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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WOMEN’S FUND OF OMAHA
• mQUARTERLY
WOMEN’S FUND OF omaha The organization came about when a group of visionary women leaders established a Women’s Fund within the Omaha Community Foundation through a grant from the Ford/MacArthur Foundation. In 2001, the Women’s Fund became an independent charitable organization. From the beginning, the organization was a unique hybrid of champion and funder for causes affecting women and girls.
to bring together partners who may not normally have sat down together to talk about issues of teen pregnancy and access to health and education. These partners include the UNMC College of Public Health, Methodist Health System, the Nebraska Department of Education, Building Healthy Futures and the Douglas County Health Department.”
“The first major issue we tackled was domestic violence. Early on, I think it was 1992, we had a task force that came together and said, ‘We keep hearing about all these women dying from intimate partner violence; what is happening in our community and how can we address this differently?’” Zych said. “They did research to identify where the cracks were: If you were a woman trying to get out of a relationship that was abusive, where could you fall through? And how could we make sure that all of the systems that needed to work together worked together? What came out of that was the Domestic Violence Council.”
It’s easy to associate the Women’s Fund with foundations or direct service providers, but while the organization provides funding and pursues projects, it primarily supports existing resources and doesn’t really fit in with either group, Zych said.
funding solutions
Council,” she said. “But a lot of these issues have to do with culture change, and there’s not an easy answer… These aren’t easy issues to solve and they didn’t just start yesterday.” Zych said she and the Women’s Fund remain optimistic that they can influence change, citing several examples of societal change that once seemed insurmountable like smoking laws and seat belt usage. “The ultimate goal is that there wouldn’t be issues, there wouldn’t be a Women’s Fund that exists to pay attention to the issues – because women aren’t getting abused, girls aren’t getting pregnant before they’re ready, women can attain leadership roles and they’re being paid equal amounts for equal work so they can support their families,” she said. “That’s pie in the sky, pipe dreams; so our goal is to get more engaged in policy solutions and really strengthen our efforts there. The board of directors began asking strategic decisions about how we use our research proactively to engage policymakers on public solutions that we can leverage with private dollars.”
“We’re not a service provider. We should never be a service provider, in my opinion. So while we have taken on programs like Ready to Run (preparing women for public office) and Ready to Serve (preparing women for leadership roles), the idea is to incubate them so they can go on their own. We’re doing it because it needs to happen,” she said. “It’s really great that our founders had the foresight to identifying issues be able to have an endowment and make sure there Solid research is behind every initiative, Zych said. The Women’s Fund began as an organization that would be funds focused toward women and girls, Some research is conducted internally and through because nothing like that existed or does exist, other relied on volunteers, but today has a staff of six – all volunteer efforts, but more complex research is than us. But really, our work and the reason why full-time – dedicated to addressing issues that affect tackled with research partners. reason people invest in us is because of the research women and girls. “Every two years we do a community survey, where we and the advocacy we do for women and girls. The grants are the icing on the cake.” “This is due to the commitment of our board of ask the community and specifically the nonprofit directors in ensuring our sustainability and efficiency organizations that serve women and girls: ‘What In 1998, the Women’s Fund began publishing a as an organization; we can be more effective with our issues are your clients facing?’” Zych explained. magazine, distributed free throughout the community, dollars,” Zych said. “When we do the community survey, those issues rise called Today’s Omaha Woman. Zych said the magazine to the top. Priority areas include domestic violence, not only highlights Women’s Fund research, it also Returning to the original query about what Zych economic self-sufficiency, leadership, and greater “brings faces to issues” affecting women and girls. envisions the Women’s Fund looking like after another sexual literacy. 25 years: “From our perspective, it would continue to “I’ve heard it said somewhere that nobody ever be based on what our community looks like in 25 Priority areas are fluid as society and community marched because of a pie graph,” Zych explained. years: What are the needs of women and girls in our changes, however, Zych said. “You need the stories.” community?” she said. “If we’re still around in 25 years – which I imagine we will be based on the “We have no agenda other than ‘How do we make our sustainability of our funds, the distance we need to go community better for women and girls?’ That can leading change in continuing to secure the rights of women, and the look very different from year to year, so it means we Progress related to issues affecting women and girls work that we do – we’ll continue down that research have to be flexible in what the research tells us and has been evident over 25 years, Zych said. On the line and invest our resources where they need to be.” what our community tells us,” she said. “We have to be other hand, many of the same problems that existed able to acknowledge that either more research needs 25 years ago still exist today. to be done or this policy action needs to take place or this nonprofit could really make a dent in this issue “I would use the example of domestic violence: but they don’t have (the funding).” 25 years ago it wasn’t something that was talked about and more women were dying from it. While, unfortunately, women still die from domestic violence, She added, “One of the most important things we’re working on right now and that we’ll be working on in it’s talked about differently in our community and I think a lot of that has to do with the work of the the next few years is the Adolescent Health Project. It’s a multi-year, multi-million dollar strategy looking Women’s Fund and later on the Domestic Violence women’s fund of omaha
LEADING THE CHANGE AT 25
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KMTV MORNING BLEND’S
SHE SAID
mike & mary A year into metroQUARTERLY, what stands out for you so far?
~ Mike DiGiacomo His ...
Hers ... ~ Mary Nelson For years, I worked in the news business. It wasn’t uncommon for viewers to point out that news can be sad. They’d ask, “Where’s the good news? Why don’t you tell those stories?”
We entered a new era of print publications in the Omaha area with last year’s debut of metroMAGAZINE’S mQUARTERLY. The magazine is bigger, better, and more in depth per issue. Not only is there more coverage in each issue, the expanded online edition allows readers to dive deeper into many of the stories that print space normally limits. The magazine’s new format has not only enhanced the experience and provided more information for readers, it expands on metroMAGAZINE’s tradition of fostering specific movements in our area. With mQUARTERLY that light shines brighter on specific organizations and individuals that help make Omaha a great place to live. At every page turn, you can find someone who is giving back or motivating others to do so: numerous individuals – too numerous in fact to attempt to mention them here – who are inspiring mQUARTERLY’s followers to get involved and to make a difference in the community. Here’s another example of how I see an impact being made: in the summer issue of mQUARTERLY eight pages were dedicated to our city’s annual “Omaha Gives” fundraising campaign. The story explained that it’s not just the financial impact to Omaha’s non-profit community that makes the campaign successful. Organizations also learn new skills when it comes to fundraising and marketing. They’re learning how to build their presence on social media, and to build a database of their supporters.
It was hard to explain. It’s just not the nature of the business. Inherently, viewers want and need to know about the stories that have the potential to impact them the most – which often include crimes, or accidents, or scams, or warnings. Andee Hoig’s entry into the world of community-based publications came about 25 years ago. Across the years, her magazines have taken a few different shapes (last August brought the introduction of mQUARTERLY) but no matter the name or the format or the frequency, the focus has always remained true: Tell the good stories. Andee believes in celebrating the organizations and the people who are making a real difference. Above all, I respect how she and her team are shining a light on the issues that need it. Take hunger. If you aren’t food insecure, you might imagine that hunger doesn’t affect many people in this day and age. The truth is: One in five children in the state of Nebraska don’t know where they’ll get their next meal. In a recent issue of metroQUARTERLY, Andee and her team dedicated several pages to the problem and those endeavoring to address it. That decision (like most for Andee) wasn’t rooted in revenue, but care and compassion.
This expanded concept for a publication that’s been making an impact now for a quarter of a century, is having what I see as an amazing impact on readers. Those flipping through the pages and following ALH Publications companion media resources and partners (including KMTV, Mary & Me!) can always find new substance for making Omaha an even better place to live. 46
In Omaha, we take pride in how we live our lives, and how we treat others. We take pride in expressing gratitude when times are good, and how we respond when the going gets tough. A year into this new format, for me…metroQUARTERLY is reflecting that pride. mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
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their day GIFT GUIDE
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“fall” in love at bliss Looking to spice up your Fall wardrobe? Or just need a few unique pieces to warm up your style? The experienced stylists at Bliss Boutique can help. Whether you are looking for a polished casual look, comfy loungewear, or sophisticated glam, Bliss has you covered. This hidden gem, will leave you feeling and looking your best when you walk out the door. Uniquely You. . . . Uniquely Omaha. Bliss Boutique, 2 blocks west of Nobbies in the Bel-Air Plaza. BLISS BOUTIQUE | Bel-Air Plaza • 12100 W. Center Rd. #607, Omaha 402.991.3595 | facebook.com/BlissBoutiqueOmaha
art is always in season Lewis Art Gallery was founded in 1971. The family owned and operated gallery is the oldest and largest in the region, boasting a tremendous inventory of art, from oil paintings to posters and from traditional to abstract. The selection also includes art glass and American Craft Guild pieces. Come in and enjoy Lewis Art Gallery Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 3pm LEWIS ART GALLERY 8600 Cass St. (86th & Dodge) Omaha • 402.391.7733 | www.lewisartgallery.com
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mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
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give a gift that makes a difference. Give the gift of metroMAGAZINE’S mQUARTERLY!
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omaha giving
• OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
BUILDING intentional TEAMS FOR YOUR charitable planning
According to the 2014 U.S. Trust Study of High Net Worth Philanthropy, virtually all high net worth households (98.4%) donated to charity in 2013. This growing level of generosity, coupled with the anticipated intergenerational wealth transfer, illustrates the opportunity that exists for individuals and their families to make a significant and lasting impact on their communities and the causes they hold close to their hearts. One of the most rewarding, yet challenging, aspects of the planning process is defining the philanthropic legacy you wish to leave. Fortunately, there are many professionals who can not only assist you in the development of your philanthropic vision, but also provide guidance on the technical aspects of your planning to ensure that your vision can become a reality. Many have found it helpful to utilize a team-based approach to their charitable planning, in an effort to avoid advisors working independently from one another without coordination. These teams most often include an attorney, accountant, insurance professional, investment advisor, wealth manager or charitable specialist.
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As with any team, it may be helpful to identify a member of your advisory team to serve as the “team captain.” This trusted advisor will be tasked with ensuring that all members of the team are working in concert with your best interests continuously being kept in mind. A growing number of professional advisors are recognizing the importance of this new approach and are seeking specialized training and certifications to specifically assist clients with their philanthropic planning. One such designation is the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®). The CAP® program provides professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to help clients reach their charitable giving objectives while also helping them meet their estate planning and wealth management goals. In Omaha the CAP® program integrates the professions of law, accounting, financial services and planned giving, while promoting an inter-disciplinary approach to most effectively achieve client’s goals. To date, thirty-nine professional advisors in the Omaha metro have completed the coursework to earn this designation, with over 1,000 individuals nationally having been awarded the CAP® designation since its inception in 2003. No matter how you choose to assemble your personal advisory team, remember that you are the most important member. The plans you put into place affect you and your loved ones and will define your lasting legacy. By thoughtfully building your team, you can feel confident that your professional advisors are collectively working toward your goals and that, ultimately, you can leave a lasting impact on what you hold dear. For more information, contact us at (402) 342-3458 or www.omahafoundation.org.
mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
Matt Darling, CAP®, Vice President of Donor Services at Omaha Community Foundation
In a world that grows more complex with each passing day, it is important to surround yourself with trusted advisors who can support you in reaching your goals. This is especially true as you begin to evaluate your financial planning. Today’s ® matt darling, CAP ever-changing regulatory landscape and product mix necessitates a coordinated planning effort across multiple disciplines. It is critical to not overlook the inclusion of your charitable intentions as part of this planning process.
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non profit spotlight •
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
• mQUARTERLY
go red for women • THIS FALL The American Heart Association wants you to Go Red For Women this fall.
Heart disease kills more women than all types of cancer combined. The Expo aims to raise awareness and change the startling statistics about the impact heart disease and stroke have on women. For more information on the Go Red For Women Expo, visit OmahaGoRedForWomen.org.
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One in three women die each year from heart disease, making it the No. 1 killer of women in the United States. But you can make a difference for women everywhere by attending the 2015 Go Red For Women Expo sponsored by Methodist Health System and Werner Enterprises on Nov. 3 at the Embassy Suites in La Vista. The Expo begins at 4:30 p.m. with a health fair and an electronic silent auction. The night continues with dinner, keynote address and an inspiring survivor story, highlighting a local woman who has been impacted by heart disease or stroke. Individual tickets and tables are available now at OmahaGoRedForWomen.org. Proceeds from the Go Red For Women Expo benefits the lifesaving mission of the American Heart Association. In 2014, the American Heart Association funded $2.68 million in research in Nebraska. The event is chaired by Ann Bruner, Director of Employee Relations & Development for The Burlington Capital Group, LLC, with honorary chair Anne Nelson. The Go Red For Women Expo is a part of the American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women. In 2015, the movement is celebrating its 10th anniversary in the Omaha-metro. New to the Go Red For Women movement in Omaha is the Men Go Red For Women group, which unites men throughout the metro who not only have the passion, but also the influence and resources to significantly impact the community by providing a personal gift to help find a cure for heart disease. The Omaha Men Go Red for Women Founding Chair is Derek Leathers, president and chief operating officer of Werner Enterprises. Approximately 90-percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease but many are unaware. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, physical inactivity, obesity and tobacco use.
mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
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MARY E. VANDENACK Mary Vandenack, while a lawyer by profession, has studied extensively in mind/body areas of fitness and wellness. She is Yoga Alliance RYT-200, Power Pilates certified and ACE certified.
self compassion: EMBRACING OUR humanity “MEDITATION IS THE ONLY INTENTIONAL, SYSTEMATIC HUMAN ACTIVITY WHICH AT BOTTOM IS ABOUT NOT TRYING TO IMPROVE YOURSELF OR GET ANYWHERE ELSE, BUT SIMPLY TO REALIZE WHERE YOU ALREADY ARE.”
~ Jon Kabat-Zinn I didn’t write for the last issue because I was struggling with illness. Unfortunately, my health challenges have continued through this writing. Rather than taking a pass on another issue, I thought it might be helpful to share one of the emotional challenges I have been trying to work through as I work to regain my health. Given I have had plenty of time to read, and caring friends have supplied materials in abundance, I have read numerous books by various authors. The ideas in this article primarily come from Kristin Neff, who writes a lot on self compassion and John Kabat Zinn, who writes on Mindfulness, particularly when struggling with medical issues. When I got ill, particularly when it evolved into a protracted and baffling illness, my response to the situation was to see myself as flawed and inadequate rather than as someone who was experiencing the very human experience of illness and suffering. With the help of friends, I am seeking to use my experience as a lesson in self compassion. Whether we are sick or simply living our daily lives, self bashing has negative health effects. There is research which indicates that those who have capacity for self compassion experience greater health. Self compassion means that you notice that you are suffering and that you let your heart respond to your pain with warmth, caring, assistance, and kindness. One element of self compassion is kindness to self. Rather than ignoring our pain and criticizing ourselves for our failings, we respond with warmth and understanding.
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Self compassion involves recognizing that we are imperfect, that we fail and that experiencing life difficulties is inevitable. Self compassion is acceptance of this reality rather than railing against it. Another element of self compassion is a recognition that suffering, pain, and illness is part of the human experience. If we are critical of ourselves for experiencing what is an essential part of the human experience, we lack self compassion and will struggle to find the emotional wherewithal to deal with the experience. A strategy for self compassion involves self comfort. For example, you might comfort yourself physically by placing a hand over your heart. You might ask someone else to massage a body part that is carrying pain. Mindfulness is a practice that involves open, active attention to the present moment in a manner that is receptive and non-judgmental. In mindfulness practice, you pay attention to your thoughts and feelings without judging and without believing them. You recognize they are simply thoughts and feelings – and that they are not you. A practice that can be used to achieve self compassion is that of meditation. Meditation has many forms. Those practicing a particular religion may find meditative practices within their religion. Yoga practice includes meditation. Meditation is being offered my medical centers to help support those with health issues. Meditation in its simplest form simply means spending time in quiet thought.
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planning matters
• WITH HVW LAW
impactful philanthropy TEAM APPROACH
Each of us is aware that philanthropy is a part of our everyday lives. Certainly, it varies by degree among us, but we all understand the importance of charitable organizations and the impact that charitable giving has on our society. Our reasons for giving are as varied as the charitable organizations that we support. But the important fact is that we give, be it of our time, our talent or our treasure. And this giving that we do is tremendous in scope. In 2009, the number of charitable organizations in the United States approached Two Million. Revenues from these organizations were nearly Two Trillion dollars. In 2007, the number of paid employees working in the nonprofit sector was 13.5 million, and volunteers numbered nearly 62 million people. To understand the scope of those numbers, that nearly Two Trillion dollars in revenue was almost 12.6% of the U.S. gross national product. It also exceeded the revenues of most of the countries in the world, including Australia, Brazil, Canada and India, to name a few.
With the huge scope of our nonprofit sector, the sheer number of charitable organizations that we can choose from, and the vital need for those charities in our society, how we allocate our charitable giving can be an important task. michael j. weaver, JD, CAP Philanthropy for many of us is what is often referred to as “checkbook philanthropy”. We write a check supporting the annual fund drive of our favorite local charity, we write a check for a program that our favorite national organization is sponsoring, and when the annual dinner and auction rolls around, we buy a table and generously spend for cute puppies that seem like a good idea at the time. But for some, whose hard work and good fortune allows for more substantial giving, planning those gifts is a more involved process. And who should be involved in that process? Your initial reaction might be that charitable giving is such a personal endeavor that the only person that needs to be involved is the one making the gift. But to truly make the most impact with our charitable giving, a team approach might be better. And who should be the members of that team? The most important may be the charity itself. Any substantial gift should be discussed with the charity to make sure that the donor’s intent for the gift can be honored by the charity. The donor’s financial advisor can advise on what assets may be available for gifting and what the scope of the gift might be given the donor’s current and future need for assets. Taxes are always implicated when making large gifts. The donor’s accountant can help plan for maximum tax deductibility and can provide valuable insight into the donor’s capital gain and income tax status. There are a myriad of ways that large gifts can be structured, and the donor’s attorney can assist in planning the structure that meets the objectives of the donor and the charity and coordinates with the donor’s estate plan. It is important that we make the most impact we can with our charitable giving. A team approach bringing together the donor, the charity, financial advisors, accountants and lawyers can help insure our philanthropy is impactful for the donor – and for the community.
For more information visit www.hvwlawyers.com
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todays savings
impact!
• SWARTZBAUGH-FARBER & ASSOCIATES, INC.
• YOUR DENTAL HEALTH
therapeutic botox: FOR
A WHOLE
new world
mary drueke-collins
HEALTH CARE REFORM (PPACA) dramatically changed the way the individual health insurance market works. As with anything, these changes impacted people in different ways –some positive, some adversely. One thing is for sure, these changes caused people to look at the individual insurance market in a whole new light. In fact, the individual insurance market is now a viable alternative for employers who historically offered a group health insurance plan to their employees. Before PPACA, the individual health insurance market was not even an option for everyone. Individuals had to be healthy to pass underwriting in order to qualify for coverage. The plans had a variety of differences in what services were covered, and might not have covered the care you needed. Even if you were healthy enough to qualify for coverage and found a policy meeting your needs, your policy could still have exclusions due to pre-existing conditions. Provision of PPACA made acquiring individual health insurance easier, at least during open enrollment, and brought a level of consistency to the coverages available. During the open enrollment period, everyone is eligible for individual health insurance. There are no health underwriting requirements, nor can your policy be limited due to pre-existing health conditions. Also, all health insurance policies must include certain basic benefits – coverage for preventive services, maternity benefits, emergency care and prescription coverage, just to name a few. So far, in this ‘new’ health insurance marketplace, the cost of plans available on the individual market is lower than the cost of similar plans in the small group market. We posed this question to many employers – “What is the value of offering a group plan, if you can offer employees a similar plan for a lower cost?”There are pros and cons to each situation. In many instances, it is advantageous for the employee to be offered an individual plan. Some employers took advantage of these cost savings by offering employees a monthly stipend and allowing them to pick a plan from the individual market or through the Health Insurance Marketplace (The Marketplace). In addition to the cost savings for both the employer and employee, purchasing individual plans can be a positive experience for the employees, allowing them more choice of insurance companies and plan designs than an employer can through a group plan. Another advantage is the employees may be eligible for premium subsidies and cost sharing assistance through The Marketplace. If an employer offers a group plan that is deemed affordable by PPACA (employee share less than 9.5% of employee income), employees and their family members are not eligible for the assistance through The Marketplace. (At the time this article was written, we were awaiting a ruling on King v. Burwell, a case focusing on the legality of said subsidies, and subsidies were available to Nebraska and Iowa residents.) The big disadvantage of individual plans in lieu of group plans is the taxability issue. PPACA removed the employer’s ability to pre-tax premiums for individual plans. Individual plans now must be purchased with after-tax dollars as opposed to pre-tax dollars, which is allowed in a group plan. As with any industry plagued by change, in order to survive, you must learn to think outside of the norm. Getting creative with the help of a trusted advisor can open up a whole new world of possibilities. For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber – ‘Client Centered – Client Advocates™. 53
TMJ & HEADACHES IF YOU SUFFER from daily headaches, TMJ or stephanie vondrak d.d.s.
facial pain, you likely have not considered Botox as a medical option, but there is a remedy for these maladies that specialized Botox treatments actually can provide. That begs the question of, “Really? How does it work? “ Perhaps right now you are rubbing your temples or stretching your neck side to side and may be wondering, “Could this be the answer I am looking for?” In 2008, the Journal of Craniomandibular Practice reported that the average TMJ/facial pain patient is in pain for 4 years before finding help. Unfortunately, in my experience this report has been proven all too true!
As a credentialed dentist with the American Academy of Craniofacial pain, I have seen first-hand how Botox/Xeomin treatments are effective for decreasing pain, minimizing muscle fatigue and helping patients feel better. How do these treatments work? Botox and Xeomin are medications, made of the same active ingredient, designed to relax muscles by preventing muscle contraction. If a muscle cannot contract, it won’t hurt. These injections are known as off-label Therapeutic Botox/Xeomin injections. First, a comprehensive exam and medical history are completed. Sore muscles and “knots” (trigger points) in muscles are then easily identified and diagnosed. The site of the injection and amount of medicine needed to treat the affected muscle is determined based on your specific symptoms. The injections are then given quickly and efficiently with minimal discomfort. As previously stated, the medication begins working to prevent contraction of the hyperactive sore muscle thus, symptom relief. As for esthetic benefit, decreased muscle contraction also prevents skin from collapsing in-between muscles (wrinkles). This creates the beautiful, smooth, youthful appearance Botox/Xeomin is known for. For example, injections across the forehead eliminate headaches and at the same time smooth the fine lines we see from raising our eyebrows. Treatable Symptoms with Xeomin/Botox: • Headaches • Fatigue or pain in facial muscles • Unable to open wide without facial pain • Previous diagnosis of TMJ problems • Pain from teeth clenching or grinding Remember, only qualified dentists with advanced training in the anatomy of the TMJ joints and treatment of head and neck pain can offer these services. If you are interested in more information or have questions concerning your headaches, TMJ and/or head and neck pain, contact Dr. Vondrak at 402-289-2313.
*Look for our ad in this issue of mQUARTERLY Dr. Stephanie Vondrak has been treating TMJ and head and neck pain in her private practice for over 10 years. She has completed Residency and earned Fellowship status with the American Academy of Crainofacial Pain. She is also Board Certified by the American Academy of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics
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event galleries
look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE EVENT BOOK 2015!
COMPLETELY KIDS PINOT, PIGS & POETS
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF THE MIDLANDS ON THE ROAD TO THE CLUB
OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM FOR THE KIDS BENEFIT
CREIGHTON PREP BASH
OMAHA SYMPHONY GALA FEATURING MARTIN SHORT
FONTENELLE FOREST GUILD FEATHER OUR NEST
CAROLYN SCOTT RAINBOW HOUSE WINE, WOMEN & SHOES
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY DINING WITH DOGS
• VIEW & PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF THESE EVENTS now! AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM
Purchase photos from these events online or from your smartphone, and metroMAGAZINE will donate 10% back to that organization. Join us in giving back! Enter the code “GIVE10” on the checkout page of your shopping cart. • please remember to trade with our advertisers, whose support helps make our promotion of these important events possible
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FEATURED EVENT
spotlight
carolyn scott rainbow house WINE WOMEN & SHOES
shoe-ins
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN FLANIGAN
ESSENTIALS: Wine Women & Shoes drew a sell-out crowd of nearly 350 women to Champions Run on April 17 to sip, savor and shop at this third annual event to support Children’s Hospital & Medical Center’s Carolyn Scott Rainbow House. Donors celebrated fashion and compassion, raising $178,000 in gross revenue. Guests tasted wonderful wines while they shopped a fabulous marketplace full of hot shoes, cool jewelry and stylish accessories. They also enjoyed live and silent auctions, a raffle drawing, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. More than 50 Shoe Guys— handsome and helpful volunteers who presented shoes and jewelry on silver trays—provided another unique element that made this fundraiser a huge hit.
HONORARY CHAIRS BRENDA CHRISTENSEN AND SUSIE ZINDEL WITH EVENT CHAIRS SHELLY GROTE AND SALLY KAHRE
“In just three years, Wine Women & Shoes has grown to become one of Omaha’s most anticipated and popular events for women,” said Roger Lewis, executive director of Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation. “We are grateful to our hard-working chairs and the Wine Women & Shoes committee for making the evening so memorable and successful – and to all who attended to support the children and families served at the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House.” About: Proceeds from Wine Women & Shoes benefit Children’s Hospital & Medical Center’s Carolyn Scott Rainbow House. A beautiful new Rainbow House opened in January 2015. Since the first Rainbow House opened in 1983, this community treasure has provided convenient lodging, compassionate support and a “home away from home” to thousands of parents and family members of children receiving services at Children’s who live 60 miles or more from Omaha. Families enjoy private rooms, gathering spaces to visit and unwind and a large common kitchen and dining room. There is no formal charge to stay at the Rainbow House and true to Children’s mission, no one is turned away if they are not able to pay. For more information: 402.955.6856 | winewomenandshoes.com/omaha
EMCEE MALORIE MADDOX 56
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mQUARTERLY
| wine women & shoes
ANN TJADEN AND SUSANNE SHORE
SHELLY GROTE AND SALLY KAHRE
TRACY FISHER, DEBBIE WOOD, MIKE SKRADIS, BETH PANTANO, FATIMA BASITH AND AMBIKA MITTAL
SHELLY GROTE, CHRIS LAFEVER AND SUSAN NEMER HADDIX
MELISSA MARVIN AND ANDEE HOIG
MARY JANE INGRAM AND JESSICA INGRAM
CAPTIONS
GUEST SPEAKER WENDY LARSON AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ROGER LEWIS
MARY LOU BRASEE AND JUDY PRITZA
SUSIE KAUP AND ERIN O’MARA
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FEATURED EVENT
spotlight
omaha children’s museum
FOR THE KIDS BENEFIT: COME BE OUR DERBY GUEST
and they’re off!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN FLANIGAN
ESSENTIALS: When: Saturday, May 2, 2015 Where: Omaha Children’s Museum, Omaha Sponsors: Kiewit Caterer: Catering Creations Attendance: 572 Amount Raised: 293,000 Mission: Engage the imagination and create excitement about learning
HONORARY HOSTS KACEY AND JOE LEMPKA
Special Thanks: Special thanks to Rainbow Connectors Guild President Samantha Wahl and Benefit Chairs Kelly Buscher, Traci Copple, Jill Dietrich and Ellie Grace for all their hard work in planning this special event. For more information 402.342.6164 | www.ocm.org
RAINBOW CONNECTORS GUILD BENEFIT CHAIRS SAMANTHA WAHL, JILL DIETRICH, TRACI COPPLE, ELLIE GRACE AND KELLY BUSCHER 58
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| for the kids benefit
MARTY AND JANE BEERMAN
CAROLYN SUTTON, SARAH RICHARDS, ANDREA MARSHALL, EMILY LAURITZEN AND GINA MCDEVIT
CHRISTI JANSSEN AND LINDY HOYER
SAMANTHA AND JEFF BARNHART
JILL DIETRICH, TRACI COPPLE, ELLIE GRACE AND KELLY BUSCHER
KRIS AND DAVID KARNES
EMILY AND CLARK LAURITZEN
BRAD AND ANDREA MAUSBACH, BRIAN AND TRACY YOUNG WITH AMY AND CRAIG MALLGRAVE
DAVID COTA AND LINDY HOYER
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
LAND ON THE
Green
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands On the Road to the Club When: Saturday, June 6
EVENT CHAIRS SARAH HINSLEY AND JEN JEPSON
TOM FELLMAN, HOWARD KOOPER AND IVAN GILREATH
Where: Champions Run Omaha Why: To celebrate the 20th Anniversary and event founders Howard Kooper & Tom Fellman. Caterer: Champions Run & Nothing Bundt Cakes Multi Media: Dog & Pony; United Rent-All; Midwest Sound & Lighting
MARK AND TIFFANY OLSON WITH DEE NADRCHAL AND LOWELL THRASHER
Attendance: 400
DAWN AND SID DINSDALE WITH MINDY AND WALLY DUFF Amount Raised: Over $500,000, funds raised will be used to support out-of-school programs during the summer and school year for youth in our communities. Mission: To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us the most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, healthy and caring members of society.
TOM FELLMAN, SCOTT HEIDER, HOWARD KOOPER AND JEFFREY SCHRAGER
JOEL AND ERIN RUSSELL
About: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands (BGCM) is the largest youth service agency in the Omaha metro area. With six Club locations in North and South Omaha, Mount View Elementary, Westbrook Elementary (Westside), and Carter Lake and Council Bluffs, IA, and five school sites at Druid Hill Elementary, King Science & Technology Magnet, Morton Middle School, Skinner Magnet Center and Spring Lake Elementary in Omaha, BGCM helps over 6,700 kids receive the direction and educational support that is vital to their success. Through the work of trained and educated youth development professionals and program specialists, as well as dedicated volunteers and support staff. For more information: 402.342.1600 | www.bgcomaha.org
OPD HELICOPTER PILOT & CLUB KIDS
KIM & KAREN HAWKINS
CAPTIONS
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THE THREE P’s Completely KIDS Pinot, Pigs & Poets Proceeds from the sixth annual Pinot, Pigs & Poets supporting Omaha nonprofit Completely KIDS reached $275,000, event organizers announced today.
DOUG GLASS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PENNY PARKER
MIKE SKRADIS, FATIMA BASITH WITH MELANIE AND DAVID HECKER AND DEBBIE WOOD
CHAIRMEN JACK AND TERRI MCDONNELL WITH JODY AND GAYLE CARSTENS
MICHELE GREWCOCK, LORI PIRNIE AND MARIAN ANDERSON
SHELLEY HOMA, AMY KNUTH, JANE STONE, MARY JO LANGDON, MIKE ROBINO, KYLE ROBINO, GAYLE CARSTENS, JODY CARSTENS, JACK MCDONNELL, TERRI MCDONNELL, BRIAN LEIFERMAN, JANE POHLMAN, SCOT BONNESEN, CATHY BONNESEN, NANCY EDICK, BOB EDICK, AMY DEARDORFF, JOHN DEARDORFF, STEVE TURNER, DREW ANTONIO AND KRISTYN ANTONIO PHOTO BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
More than 400 people attended what has become one of Omaha’s premier wine and food events for an evening of wine lover’s paradise and hog heaven cuisine at Happy Hollow Club on June 4. “Every year, Pinot, Pigs & Poets amazes with the caliber of wine and pork cuisine,” said Jodie Mackintosh, Pinot, Pigs & Poets co-chair. “Support of this event by our sponsors, dedicated volunteers and the community continues to grow, which in turn, allows the Weekend Food Program to continue to provide nutritious food through the weekend to children right here in Omaha.” Pinot, Pigs & Poets is a collaboration with the Nebraska Pork Producers Association. Due to its success, Completely KIDS has been able to increase the number of children enrolled in the Weekend Food Program, which provides backpacks filled with healthy, child-friendly food to take home every Friday. The weekend and after-school food programs fit within the organization’s mission to educate and empower kids and families to create a safe, healthy, successful and connected community. “We are truly grateful to the Pinot, Pigs & Poets committee and all of those who support the event,” said Completely KIDS Executive Director Penny Parker. “Our organization serves hundreds of children through the backpack food program— every dollar earned by this event goes to feed a child.” For more information: 402.397.5809 | www.completelykids.org
BOB EDICK, BRIAN LEIFERMAN AND GAYLE CARSTENS PHOTO BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
CHEF KYLE LAMB PHOTO BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
CAPTIONS
CAP61
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
BASH FOR THE Boys!
Creighton Prep
BASH 2015 GAMEDAY When: Saturday, April 25
SCOTT LEIGHTON, DAN HOUGHTON, MARGARET LEIGHTON AND CLARK HORGAN
KATHY AND JEFF NEARY WITH STACIE REED
Where: Heider Center at Creighton Prep Amount raised: Over $800,000 raised. BASH plays a very important role in Prep’s ongoing commitment to deliver educational excellence to over 1,020 young men. The monies raised during BASH are a key component in our ability to keep tuition affordable for everyone, as well as to provide more than $1.9 million in financial assistance annually to approximately 45 percent of our students. Attendance: 710
CREIGHTON PREP STUDENTS
LYNNE AND DAVE POTTER WITH MIKE HUPP About: Creighton Prep senior David Brown spoke to our guests before the live auction began. David told his story of how his father died his freshman year and his mother died his sophomore year, just 16 months later, after a battle with cancer. There was a time after his mom’s death that he didn’t think he would be able to continue at Prep but because of generous donors, he has been able to and will be heading off to the college of his choice in the fall.
SCOTT HEIDER WITH KATIE AND SEAN MULLEN
SUSAN AND JEFF BLUMEL WITH KAREN AND DAVE THIELE
Event Chairs: Mike Homa, Mary Johnson, Marty McCaslin, Jane McLeay, Rob Reed, Mari Rensch, Karen Van Dyke and Molly Witt Mission: The mission of Creighton Prep is to form men of faith, scholarship, leadership and service in the Catholic and Jesuit tradition.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIRS WITH PREP STAFF: MARY JOHNSON, MIKE HOMA, MARI RENSCH, MARTY MCCASLIN, JANE MCLEAY, CREIGHTON PREP PRESIDENT FR. TOM NEITZKE, SJ, AMY KNIGHT, ROB REED AND KAREN VAN DYKE NOT PICTURED: MOLLY WITT BASH plays a very important role in Prep’s ongoing commitment to deliver educational excellence to over 1,020 young men. The monies raised during BASH are a key component in our ability to keep tuition affordable for everyone, as well as to provide more than $1.9 million in financial assistance annually to approximately 45 percent of our students.
CAPTIONS
Creighton Prep would like to thank everyone who supported BASH 2015 GAMEDAY with their time, talent and treasure.
Your support is greatly appreciated and we are blessed to have it! 62
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BRINGING THE Bling! Brownell-Talbot School 2015 Gala - BLING: The Brilliance of Brownell-Talbot When: Friday, May 8
FATIMA AND FARHAN KHAN WITH STACY AND BRUCE SIMON, PIRZADA SATTAR AND FATIMA BASITH
Where: Brownell-Talbot Campus at 400 N Happy Hollow Blvd Special Guests: Honorary Chairs Stacy and Bruce Simon Caterer: Hap Abraham catering with Omaha Steaks Event Planner: Co-Chairs Fatima Khan and Fatima Basith Attendance: 375 Amount Raised: $513,000
JUN AND REE KANEKO
DOUG AND ROBIN CLARK WITH MELANIE AND JIM SMITH Mission: Brownell-Talbot School is the only private, independent, college preparatory school in Nebraska. Through experiences in academics, activities, and the arts, students learn passionately, think critically, act responsibly and lead with integrity. For over 150 years, the school has established a safe and caring community, dedicated to the academic excellence and preparation of students for success in college and in life. For more information: brownell.edu
JEREMY AND GWENN ASPEN WITH MARK AND JEN CADE
CHRISTINA RAMON AND ANNA LEE WELCH
STACY AND BRUCE SIMON
PIRATE RADIO STUDENT A CAPELLA GROUP
STUDENT ART WORK
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A LITTLE Short
Omaha Symphony
Omaha Symphony 2015 Gala featuring Martin Short When: April 18 Where: Holland Center
JANET AND STEVE CHAMBERS, JERRY AND ANN CROUSE WITH PAULA AND JIM LODGE
BEVERLY AND DR. HAL MAURER
HOWARD AND RHONDA HAWKS
JAMES JOHNSON AND JENNIFER KATZ
Why: The Omaha Symphony Gala is one of Omaha’s most anticipated social events, celebrating the symphony’s role as a vital contributor to our community’s cultural and educational landscape. Gala honorees Rhonda and Howard Hawks will receive the Dick and Mary Holland Leadership Award. Funds raised support the symphony’s education programs, which serve nearly 30,000 children annually. The Gala concert featured comedy legend Martin Short, who joins the Omaha Symphony for an evening of music and hilarity! Special Guests: Gala Chairs: Ann & Jerry Crouse, Dick and Mary Holland Leadership Award Recipients: Rhonda & Howard Hawks, Mayor Jean Stothert Sponsors: HDR, Lexus of Omaha, and Holland Foundation Caterer: Guckenheimer Event Planner: Mike Klug Multi Media: AAA, Atmospheres
BABE COHN
Attendance: 271
BEN AND DIANE NELSON
Amount Raised: $204,200 Mission: To enrich lives through the exhilarating experience of live orchestral music.
WENDY WILSON WITH ELIZABETH AND DR. NEIL HAMILL
CHRIS AND AMY JENSON WITH THOMAS WILKINS
About: The Omaha Symphony strives to make orchestral music accessible to everyone through our mainstage concert series, comprehensive education programs and community engagement. Each year the symphony provides more than 50 culturally enriching and entertaining opportunities for live orchestral performances. Through collaborations with the Salvation Army Kroc Center, Omaha Conservatory of Music’s Violin Sprouts, and Omaha Public Schools, the Omaha Symphony provides free community concerts that feature young people in performances with the orchestra. Additional organizations we work with include Boy and Girl Scouts, Completely Kids, El Museo Latino, Heartland Family Services, and Omaha Area Youth Orchestras. For more information: 402.342.3836 | omahasymphony.org
DANA MEYER AND SUZIE LAWLER
SCOTT AND AIMEE MELTON WITH DANI AND DANA BRADFORD 64
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Photography by Dan Flanigan | Courtesy of Fonetnelle Forest
INTO THE
Woods
Fontenelle Forest Guild Feather Our Nest
CHARLES GIFFORD AND MICHELE DEVENTER
SHANNON DOMBROWSKI, JAMI HEIDEMANN, CHRISTINE SCHULTE AND ALEXIS BOULOS
HONORED INDIVIDUALS GEORGE HADDIX AND GERRY LAURITZEN
LAURA SHIFFERMILLER AND JIM HAWKINS
Fontenelle Forest (FF) Guild exceeded their support goals with their annual fundraiser held at the Omar Baking Building on Friday, April 24. Feather Our Nest 2015 celebrated “Farm to Table” with unique, locally-sourced dishes prepared by four of the area’s finest chefs. This event supports the youth environmental education programs which bring over 40,000 children to the Forest each year. The evening’s festivities began with a silent auction and cocktails created by Brickway Brewery & Distillery. An innovative five-course meal was created for Feather Our Nest by the following chefs: Clayton Chapman, The Grey Plume; Jared Clarke, Railcar Modern American Kitchen; Paul Kulik, Le Bouillon; and Nick Strawhecker, Dante Ristorante Pizzeria. Laura Shiffermiller, FF Executive Director, praised George Haddix and Gerry Lauritzen, the evening’s honored individuals, and the Gifford Foundation, the evening’s honored organization, in her opening remarks for their contribution and connection to the mission of Fontenelle Forest.
PAUL HALBUR, NEAL RATZLAFF AND DEB RATZLAFF
The Feather Our Nest 2015 leadership committee was Alexis Boulos, Shannon Dombrowski, and Jami Heidemann, event chairs; Christine Schulte, Guild President; Laura Shiffermiller, FF Executive Director; Brad A. Watkins, FF Director of Communications and Development; and Kareen Hickman, FF Development and Volunteer Associate.
JEANINE LACKEY WITH AERO
For more information: 402.731.3140 | fontenelleforest.org
look for the CINDY AND MOGENS BAY
SUSAN, TODD AND SHEYENNE RIVERS
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Photos courtesy of Child Saving Institute
ALL FOR THE
Children
Child Saving Institute Cabaret 2015
PEGGY AND JOEL VASLOW
GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS AND SUSANNE SHORE
DICK AND LAURA WORICK WITH LUCY AND SCOTT NEWBERRY
BERT HANCOCK AND SUZIE JOHNSON
On Saturday, May 9, nearly 600 guests enjoyed the fun and philanthropy at Child Saving Institute’s 23rd annual Cabaret fundraiser for abused and neglected kids. The ballroom at Embassy Suites La Vista was decorated to support the event’s theme “It’s a Mad, Mad Madigan World” in honor of the evening’s entertainment, fabulously funny comedian Kathleen Madigan. Amount Raised: Cabaret 2015 raised nearly $300,000 for the children, youth and families served by Child Saving Institute programs. Money raised from the evening will support CSI’s critical programs such as foster care, adoption, early childhood education, pregnancy counseling, parenting classes, and therapy. Mission: Child Saving Institute is dedicated to the prevention, intervention and healing of child abuse, neglect and abandonment. CSI has met the changing needs of metro area children for more than 120 years based on the belief that ALL children should have homes where hope is kindled and dreams can be achieved.
GEORGE HADDIX & SUE NEMER-HADDIX
MARK AND AMY GROHE WITH ADDIE AND ROBERT HOLLINGSWORTH
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For more information: www.childsaving.org | 402.553.6000
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Photography by Dan Flanigan
DOGGONE
Diners
Nebraska Humane Society Dining with Dogs When: April 25 Where: Miracle Hill Tennis Center, Omaha, NE
ANNE WEAVER WITH HONEY
MARK AND MARY LOU BRASEE WITH JUDY VARNER Why: To offer an event pet lovers can enjoy with their dogs, while raising funds for the Nebraska Humane Society to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome homeless animals Special Guests: CEO Judy Varner, NHS Board President Richard Bertino, Friends Forever President Lori Ecklebe CoChairs: Marguerite McLeay and Diane Gartner
BERNADETTE PARYS WITH LINDA AND MARY JO PARYS WITH NICKY
DEBHORA HAMLER AND MAUREEN GLENNON WITH BRIGID
Sponsors: Kiewit, Gentle Doctor Animal Hospital, Renze Display, Kutak Rock, Centris Federal Credit Union, Valmont, HDR, Bridges Investment Management, Three Dog Bakery, Woodmen of the World, First National Bank, Omaha Rental Service, Wells Fargo, Caterer: Fresh Catering Event Planner: Friends Forever the NHS Guild Multi Media: Jay Garrison/Stellar Entertainment
KRYSTAL AND TALHA WITH MAURICE
Attendance: More than 460 people and 100+ dogs
PATSI DINAN WITH HANNELI
Amount Raised: We met and exceeded our goal of $90,000 Mission: The Nebraska Humane Society protects, saves and enriches the lives of animals in the communities we serve About: We will use 100% of the proceeds right here in the metro to care for animals needing a second chance.
MARSHA AND OLIVIA GRAESSER WITH ANNIE AND LILLY
TINA NELSON, TOM SHOMAKER AND MANDI CHAPLIN WITH BAILEY
JOAN OLSON WITH VENUS DE MILO
JIM PHILLIPS AND CAROL WANG WITH BAILEY AND TUCKER 68
For more information: www.nehumanesociety.org | 402.444.7800
JULIE HORGAN WITH SOPHIE
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Photos courtesy of AKSARBEN Foundation
Jockeying FOR POSITION AKSARBEN Foundation AK Derby When: May 2 Where: Frank’s Warehouse, Omaha Why: To raise funds for the AKSARBEN Friends Scholarship and Community Grant programs
AK DERBY MODELS (PHOTO BY SCOTT PAPEK)
Caterer: Catering Creations Event Planner: Tyler Owen Multi Media: Dog and Pony Attendance: 150 Amount Raised: $19,000 About: We fund and guide best practice, needs-based scholarship programs for Heartland youth, awarding over 350 scholarships annually.
TYLER AND LISA OWEN
ANN MARIE ABBOUD, CHRIS ABBOUD, JON BURT, JEANIE JONES AND LANCE JONES
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For more information: aksarben.org | 402.554.9600
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Photography courtesy of Avenue Scholars Foundation
SCHOLARLY
Achievers Avenue Scholars Foundation 2015 Celebration Luncheon When: April 30 Where: Scott Conference Center in Omaha, Nebraska Why: To celebrate the incoming class of Avenue Scholars and thank those who have made special contributions to our program. Special Guests: Lt. Governor Mike Foley; Commissioner of Education Dr. Matt Blomstedt; Avenue Scholars Foundation Board Members Walter Scott, Jr. (chair), Barbara Weitz, and Wally Weitz. Event Planner: Beverly Hass and Jennifer Bisignano Attendance: 300 Mission: The mission of Avenue Scholars Foundation is to ensure careers for students of hope and need through education and supportive relationships. About: We support young men and women from across the Omaha area to help them finish high school, enroll in and complete college, and ultimately succeed in a career that they love. We are anticipating our largest enrollment ever this fall, projected at 757 students across nine high schools (Millard South, Omaha Benson, Omaha Bryan, Omaha North, Omaha Northwest, Omaha South, Papillion-LaVista, Papillion-LaVista South, and Ralston), Metropolitan Community College, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and the workforce. For more information: 402.916.9777 | www.avenuescholarsfoundation.org
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Photography by Omaha Public Library Foundation
LIBRARY
Cards
Omaha Public Library Foundation A Novel Affaire When: Saturday, April 18 Where: Millard Branch, Omaha
JACK AND JESSE SULLIVAN AND EMILY GONDERINGER
WALLY LAMB AND WENDY TOWNLEY
Why: A fundraiser to benefit the 2015 Omaha Public Library Summer Reading Program Special Guests: New York Times bestselling author Wally Lamb Attendance: 150 Mission: To raise funds and advocate for Omaha Public Library About: Since 1985, the Omaha Public Library Foundation has raised more than $10 million in private support for Omaha Public Library programs and services.
CAROL WANG AND CAITLIN DAVIS
ADAM STAHLECKER & REBECCA STAVICK WITH SCOTT & JULIE COBB
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For more information: 402.444.4589 | www.omahalibraryfoundation.org
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Photos courtesy of Omaha Symphony
COMING OUT
Party
Omaha Symphony Guild Debutante Ball Committee Spring Brunch ROW 1: ANNA VASKO, SUSIE DINEEN, LIZZY SCHUMACHER, SHANNON JERRAM, FIONA RAYNOR, AUDREY BURT, EMMA HELDT, BAILEY NIHSEN ANNIE BRADFORD ROW 2: ANNA PETERSON, ALEX REGAN, ABBY JOHNSON, LEXIE RYAN, GIBBY RYAN, MADISON BRIGGS, LANEY COFFELT, MICHAELA NIELSEN, ANNIE DAY, ALEX BURDYNY, MARC SISSON, GUS DEMAYO ROW 3: CHAD WITECY, REECE WATANABE, IAN CARSTENS, JOHNNY MARCOTTE, TOM ASHFORD, MAX PETERSON, TYLER SCHNEIDERMAN, TOM KUTILEK AND ROBERT WISEMAN
When: Saturday, April 25 Where: Happy Hollow Club, Omaha NE Why: Formal announcement of the 2015 Debutantes and Stags
ROW 1: EMILY FOJE, EMMA RUSSELL, JILLIAN KRESKI, JEN HESTER, ANNA QUINT, JOANNA FERRIS, TAYLOR KAHRE, KELLI SCHILKEN, KRISTEN GONZALES ROW 2: REID ZUERLEIN, JON DOYLE, CAROLINE JETTER, ELLIE CARMODY, BRYNN ROBERTSON, CHARLOTTE WORTMANN, CHARLOTTE HEDICAN, BRYN LOHRBERG, MEGAN BROOKHOUSER, SARA GREISCH, STEPHAN FLUCKEY ROW 3: ALEX OTTERBERG, JAKE HEDRICK, TOM HUERTER, MATT BELFORD, BRENDAN EGLSEDER, ERIC SULLIVAN, JACK SHOEMAKER, MARK NICHTING, ISAAC GREENE AND MACK GREDER
About: The Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball marks a milestone this December as it reaches it's 50th anniversary. Over the last 50 years, the event has raised funds to support the educational and outreach programs of the Omaha Symphony Guild. On Saturday, April 25th, the names of the 60 Debutantes and 53 Stags were revealed at the Spring Brunch held at Happy Hollow Club. These high school seniors were selected in recognition of their families' community service within Omaha and the Council Bluffs area, as well as their support of the Omaha Symphony. Special Guests: DBC Chairwoman Laura Doll, DBC Associate Chairwomen Danielle Bunz and Omaha Symphony Guild President Courtney Hellman Event Planner: Floral Arrangements by Aaron Carlson Design
ROW 1: HALLIE MCNAMARA, SIENA GLEASON, ALEXA HORD, LIZZY VAN DYKE, HANNA SHEEHAN, SARAH MULLEN ROW 2: LIBBY KOUKOL, JOHN BRANDL, DYLAN BURKLEY, MIKE WALSH, DANNY GLAZER, DANNY COYLE AND KYLIE KORFF
Attendance: 60 new Debutantes and 53 new Stags were announced. They were present with their mothers and fathers. Amount Raised: Money raised at the Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball to be held in December 2015 supports the educational and outreach programs of the Omaha Symphony.
For more information: 402.342.3836 | omahasymphony.org
ELLE ENGLISH, MADDIE JOHNS, EMILY DOLL AND VICTORIA LIAKOS
DANIELLE BUNZ, KRISTEN GONZALES AND DAWN GONZALES
MARK NICHTING JANET NICHING
REID ZUERLIN AND CHRISTINE LAFEVER 72
ANNE JETTER AND CAROLINE JETTER
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Photos courtesy of Junior League of Omaha
WELL Heeled Junior League of Omaha High Heel Dash When: May 7 Where: Midtown Crossing
AMY BENEDICT, ASHLEE YOUNG, SHELLY RUWE, KATE JOHNSON, LIZ CULHANE, LEIGH SHEA, KIMBERLY NOLAN, JULIE OLSON, LISA TRONCHETTI, SHELLEY HOURIGAN AND SHAWN NANTZ
Why: To benefit the League’s projects including Project Hope Pack, A Book of My Own, Done-in-a-Day and the Career Development Series. Sponsors: Fraser Stryker Law Firm, RDG Planning and Design, Montclair Dental, Brickway, Brix, Midtown Crossing and Ideal Images Amount Raised: $8,164 Mission: The Junior League of Omaha is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. For more information 402.493.8818 | www.jlomaha.org
DASH ALONG TURNER PARK IN 2” OR GREATER HEELS.
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Photography by Debra S. Kaplan
TIME FOR Cokie
Susan G. Komen® Nebraska Pink Ribbon Gala When: May 6 Where: Scoular Ballroom
LINDA LOVGREN, ROXANN ROGERS-MEYER AND COKIE ROBERTS
LORAS KLOSTERMANN, DR. HAMID BAND AND JACK KORALESKI
Attendees: 200 Amount raised: More than $100,000 Pink Ribbon Gala proceeds will benefit Susan G. Komen® Nebraska which funds breast health education, breast cancer screening and treatment support grants across the state.
CRISTINA CASTRO-MATUKEWICZ, TERESA & KIRK KELLNER
About: Since 1994, Susan G. Komen Nebraska has invested more than $8 million statewide. Seventy-five percent of its net proceeds fund grants to nonprofits that provide breast health education, breast cancer screening and treatment support services in Nebraska. Remaining net proceeds fund groundbreaking national research to find a cure for breast cancer. Speaker: Cokie Roberts is a political commentator, best-selling author and breast cancer survivor. Through her own experience and her work in support of breast cancer research funding, she hopes young women are at least going to a gynecologist once a year and discussing if they are high risk.
KATE SOMMER AND MARY WILSON
LANCE AND JULIE FRITZ
“You have to pay attention to who you are. You need to know your family history as well as you can. It is important for young women to have preventive care. If you catch any women’s cancers early it’s the difference between life and death. Do you really want to leave your kids without a mother?” she asks. For more information: 402.502.2979 | komennebraska.org
we make a difference: we EXPAND online! RON & BARB SCHAEFER
JASON AND JOSIE ABBOUD
Enjoy pages & pages of additional content not available in print, in our online Digital Edition!
VISIT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM. CLICK ON DIGITAL EDITION!
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we make a difference.
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Photos courtesy of Ollie Webb Center, Inc.
DREAMING Big Ollie Webb Center, Inc. Ollie’s Dream Gala When: June 6 Where: Ramada Inn Plaza, Omaha
FRANK AND CINDY WARD
BRENDA KOSTAL, LINDA IVORY AND DAWN NAUMANN
Why: The event raises money to help provide programming for people with developmental disabilities and their families Special Guests: Emcee was Deb Ward, keynote speaker was Jenny Koley Attendance: 275 Amount Raised: nearly $60,000 Mission: To enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through support, programs and advocacy For more information 402.346-5220 | www.olliewebbinc.org
MARK AND DAWN CHRONISTER
JOE JORDAN AND DEB WARD
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Photos courtesy of NCHS
SANDY & Stylin’ Nebraska Children’s Home Society Sand in the City® 2015 Nebraska Children’s Home Society’s Sand in the City event, held the weekend of June 5th in CenturyLink Center Lot B, brought together 18 corporate teams who worked with 11 coaches, local architects and engineers to build 15-ton sand sculptures. More than 200 volunteers ensured the estimated 24,000 visitors enjoyed a weekend filled with fun, child-friendly activities. Spectators watched as master sand sculptors carved a 45-ton grand display out of sand and chalk artists delighted the crowd with temporary works of art. Local acts performed on the main stage, while guests cast their vote for the favorite sculpture in the “People’s Choice” award.
2015 COACHES
1ST PLACE, OLSSON ASSOCIATES
STRATEGIC HEALTH SOLUTIONS
Local teams competing include- ConAgra, Creighton University, First National Bank, Gallup, HDR/UNO, Hilton, Kiewit Building Group, Kiewit Engineering, Kiewit Underground, Leo A. Daly/SAC, Millard Rotary, Olsson and Associates, QLI, Sheppard’s Business Interiors, Strategic Health Solutions, TD Ameritrade, Travel and Transport and TSYS Local designers include- Holland Basham Architects, Solid Orange Architecture, RDG, DLR Group, HDR Bruce Frazier Architects, Kiewit, Leo A Daly, TAC, Olsson, QLI, Prochaska & Associates, US Corps of Engineers, Offutt and BCDM
CREIGHTON/SOLID ORANGE ARCHITECTURE
The 12th annual event raised awareness for children and families served through Nebraska Children’s Home Society. NCHS has 11 offices throughout the state and provides pregnancy, parenting and adoption services, foster care, early childhood education, one-on-one support to teens and young parents and neighborhood-based outreach. NCHS’s mission is to provide safe and loving care to children of all ages, and has every day since 1893.
QLI, KONG’S BIG BREAK
For more information: 402.451.0787 | www.nchs.org
SHEPPARD’S BUSINESS INTERIORS
QUIVEY FUNDRAISING AWARD, KIEWIT
CAPTIONS
CAP76
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Photos courtesy of Kids Can Community Center
CAN-DO Kids Kids Can Community Center Can Do Luncheon When: May 12 Where: CenturyLink Center, Omaha
DONNA MCDANIEL AND NADIA GARCIA
WOODMEN OF THE WORLD CEO, LARRY KING
Why: The Can Do Luncheon provides critical funding to support Kids Can programming, including early childhood education; before-, after-, and out-of-school programming; tutoring; mentoring, and scholarships Special Guests: Master of Ceremonies John Knicely; Councilmen Pete Festersen and Garry Gernandt Caterer: Levy Restaurants Attendance: 300 Amount Raised: $55,000 Mission: The mission of Kids Can is to empower children and parents to reach their full potential. For more information: 402.731.6988 | kidscanomaha.org
DEBORAH NEARY
WHITNEY MASTIN, DEBORAH NEARY, JAMIE HUNT AND CARLA HAGAN
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Photography courtesy of Omaha Community Playhouse
Curtain CALLS Omaha Community Playhouse Awards Night 2015 • Special Guests: OCP’s 2014-2015 volunteers • When It Happened: Monday, June 29, 2015, 6:30 p.m.
HILARY ADAMS
SARAH QUERY
• Where It Happened: Omaha Community Playhouse • Why/How It Happened: Awards Night is a tribute to the thousands of volunteers who contribute their time and talents to OCP. Awards are given for excellence in performing, for outstanding service in front-of-house and backstage areas and for community support.
LLOYD MEYER AND BOB FISCHBACH
The evening culminated with the presentation of the Fonda/McGuire Award to the male and female actors judged to have given the best performance of the season. The award is named for Henry Fonda and Dorothy McGuire, OCP’s most eminent alumni. • Catered by: Desserts provided by Catering Creations, Beer provided by Tall Grass Brewery • Mission: The Omaha Community Playhouse is a performing arts organization that enhances quality of life through live theatre, professional touring and arts education. We are dedicated to enriching the lives of audiences and participants through entertainment, thought-provoking stories and first-hand involvement.
BRIAN PRIESMAN AND CORK RAMER
LLOYD MEYER AND MARY DEW
• Chair: OCP board member Norma Riley • Sponsors/Hosts: Dessert reception sponsored by Bruce and Pam Friedlander • Attendance: About 200 About the organization: The Omaha Community Playhouse provides services to a variety of the public through three primary components: • Howard and Rhonda Hawks Mainstage Theatre and Howard Drew Theatre productions • Education & Outreach • Nebraska Theatre Caravan
OCP offers opportunities in performing, technical work, and support categories to more than 2,000 community volunteers. For more information: www.omahaplayhouse.com
look for the BRENNAN THOMAS
MELANIE WALTERS 78
LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!
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Photography courtesy of Omaha Community Playhouse
LAWN Party Omaha Community Playhouse 90th Birthday Bash On Saturday, June 27th the Omaha Community Playhouse celebrated its 90th birthday with a free, open-tothe-public, carnival style event on their front lawn. The event featured food trucks, musical and theatrical entertainment, Playhouse Bingo, carnival games and more. Performances alternated between a tent stage and platform stage in front of OCP’s Owen Lobby. Acts included the UNO Percussion Group, the Brownell-Talbot Jazz Band, Pirate Radio Vocal a Capella, Slam Poetry, Broadway Karaoke, previews of OCP’s 2015-16 season productions, and headliners Billy, Ryan, and Matthew McGuigan. Attendees received a free cupcake upon arrival, donated by Catering Creations and Jones Bros. Cupcakes. Participating food trucks included Hawks Pizza, Maria Bonita, and Mosaic Pickle. eCreamery was also onsite selling scoops of OCP’s 90th Season Signature Flavor, Sea Salt Curtain Call. In addition to a duck pond, face painting, lawn jenga, and high striker, hundreds of attendees enjoyed taking photographs with iconic props from OCP’s past productions. Additional support was provided by Hockenberg’s Equipment and Supply and an anonymous supporter. The event was organized by ACT II, OCP’s Guild. Trish Liakos and Stephanie Gould, both members of ACT II, OCP’s Guild, chaired the event.
PROPS PHOTO BOOTH
CAPTIONS
NORA HANTULA
THE MCGUIGAN BROTHERS
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Photos courtesy of Omaha Home for Boys
‘Tanks’ FOR THE MEMORIES! Omaha Home for Boys Dunk Tank
CHESSA HALL AND BEVERLY HALL
SARAH WEEKS
Some of Omaha’s leaders in business, entertainment, media and sports braved cold temperatures and rainy conditions Wednesday, May 20, to help the Omaha Home for Boys raise almost $20,000 during Omaha Gives! at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village.
ANDREA “ANDEE” HOIG
Alyssa Howell, Miss Douglas County 2015 (and the newly crowned Miss Nebraska), started things off with a cool dip at the 9:30 a.m. mark, followed by Kim Cappellano of Wells Fargo Bank, Kim Rowell of Cox Business, Tim Burke of OPPD, Chessa Hall of Cornerstone Print & Marketing, Jeff Moran of the Omaha Home for Boys, Andrea “Andee” Hoig of metroMagazine/MetroQuarterly, Dan O’Neill of First National Bank of Omaha and Bob Giddings of Kaplan University. Former Husker and inspirational speaker Aaron Davis finished the evening with the final dunk at the 7 p.m. hour, capping a fantastic, albeit wet and cold, day of giving.
TIM BURKE
Thank you to Shawn M. Ilg of Nebraska Realty for signing on as the Official OHB Dunk Tank sponsor.
KIM ROWELL
Local bands The 402, Two of a Kind, 5-Man Trio, Naked Sunday and Thrift Shop Radio played live at the Pavilion all day, and Boomer 1490AM radio broadcast live from the park all day.
DAN O’NEILL
Thanks to all of our participants, sponsors and friends who supported the Home May 20.
For more information: www.omahahomeforboys.org | 402.457.7000
BOOMER 1490AM PROVIDED A LIVE RADIO BROADCAST
AIDAN BLAKELY AND JEFF MORAN
JEFF MORAN AND TOM COOPER 80
ALYSSA HOWELL
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Photos courtesy of Youth Frontiers
NEW Vistas
Youth Frontiers Annual Event When: May 21
Where: Hilton Omaha, 1001 Cass Street
ROBYN KORTAN, NANCY MITCHELL, JESSICA PATE AND MARY LOPEZ
FORMER STATE SENATOR GREG ADAMS AND CURRENT STATE SENATOR BRETT LINDSTROM
Why: Friends, corporate sponsors and donors gathered together for this event to raise support for Youth Frontiers retreats in Nebraska – helping YF challenge kids to stand up for what’s right, treat each other with respect and act with moral courage. Attendance: 191 Amount Raised: $62,000 Mission: Youth Frontiers’ mission is to build positive school communities where students thrive socially, emotionally and academically. Our vision is to change the way kids treat each other in every hallway, lunch line and classroom of every school in America. For more information 402.431.2751 | youthfrontiers.org
HONORARY CHAIRS ANNIE AND KEN BIRD
JUDY AND BOB BATES WITH FRAN ROOT
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Photos courtesy of HETRA
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Horsing AROUND
HETRA Blue Jeans and Dreams When: May 2
JAMIE AND TED FRIEDLAND
CHARLIE AND ELLEN JANSSEN, CARL AND KIM FALK WITH SCOTT AND SHERYL BROWN
Why: Funds raised will support HETRA’s Student Sponsorship Program. Without caring individuals and businesses in the community, HETRA would not be able to supplement the costs of each session and provide quality services to our exceptional students. regardless of their ability to pay for sessions. Where: HETRA’s Facility 10130 S 222nd Street, Gretna, NE 68028 About: HETRA has been serving the community since 1989, with a mission to improve the quality of life both physically and emotionally of adults and children with disabilities through equine assisted activities. Attendees: 475 For more information: 402.359.8830 | www.HETRA.org
TERESA KONDA AND LISA STILLAHN
GAIL GRAEVE, KRIS COVI AND JODI TEAL
LOOKING
Forward Outlook Nebraska, Inc 12th Annual Golf Tournament When: June 4 Where: Indian Creek Golf Course Number of golfers: 46 teams of 4
MIKE TEWHILL, AL CRAMER, RON PETTIT AND DAVE HERRMANN About: Tournament was a four-person scramble, best ball tournament, with a shotgun start. Proceeds: Proceeds go to Camp Abilities Nebraska, a week-long sports camp for blind and visually impaired youth between the ages of 9 and 19 who are blind. It is co-sponsored by ONI and Boys Town National Research Hospital. For more information: www.outlooknebraska.org | 402.614.3331
MIKE EARL AND JACK SONG
MARK PLUTSCHAK, ERIC NELSON AND PHILIP SHAFER 82
Photos courtesy of Outlook Nebraska, Inc.
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Photos courtesy of Restoration Exchange Omaha
LEGACIES
Preserved
Restoration Exchange Omaha Saving Places, A Preservation Celebration When: May 14
KATE GRABILL, KRISTINE GERBER, KAREN SUNDELL AND MARK MASER
Where: Scottish Rite Cathedral; a patron party was held earlier at the Omaha Building and hosted by Kutak Rock Why: Saving Places, A Preservation Celebration observed the 50th anniversary of the formation of Landmarks, Inc., one of the earliest preservation organizations in the country. Awards were bestowed to those who are continuing to uphold the region’s architectural heritage. Attendees: 150 Amount Raised: $35,000 was raised the proceeds will be used to carry on REO’s mission of educating and motivating the public to restore and preserve older homes, buildings and neighborhoods.
MATT DEBOER, ERIN TROFHOLZ, KATRINA STOFFELL AND JENNY ZIMMER HUGHES
FRITZ CASSMAN, A FOUNDING MEMBER OF LANDMARKS INC.
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For more information: 402.679.5854 | info@restorationexchangeomaha.org
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Photography by Roger Humphries | Courtesy of CHI Health
SWINGING Easy CHI Alegent Health Foundation Gala & Golf
DR. ADRIAN AND PAULA DREESSEN
ESPN’S LEE CORSO
The second annual Alegent Creighton Health Foundation Gala and Golf raised $400,000 for medical projects in the metro, including a new mental health center at CHI Health Immanuel and an interventional radiation suite at CHI Health Lakeside. A total of 560 attended the gala, which was held on June 4 at the Embassy Suites in LaVista. Lee Corso entertained the crowd with tales from his days as a college football coach to his stint with ESPN’s College GameDay. Also speaking to the crowd was Traci Wickham, a grateful patient who talked about her care at CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center and CHI Health Immanuel Rehabilitation Institute after a traumatic car accident nearly claimed her life.
DELIGHT AND DALE BYRD
LEE CORSO AND MIKE MASKER
Silent and live auctions, including sports memorabilia and trips to Mexico, Napa Valley and the Football Hall of Fame, were followed by dinner and dessert. The golf portion of the event was held on June 15 at the Players Club at Deer Creek. Nearly 30 foursomes hit the links. Last year’s gala speaker - Larry the Cable Guy (aka Dan Whitney) came back again this year to golf in the tournament. For more information on Foundation projects in the metro, go to www.CHIhealth.com/foundation.
ADRIAN BREEN, CHRIS GARINGER, ED FINAN AND DAN BOLER
TRACI AND SEAN WICKHAM WITH THEIR CHILDREN: ANNA, GRACE AND WILL
DWAYNE HARRIS, AARON TAYLOR, DAN WHITNEY AND TOMMIE FRAZIER
RYAN SAWALL, JOSH OLSON, TODD DEFREECE AND DAREN PETERSEN
NICOLE PANNETON AND VIV EWING
The Alegent Creighton Health Foundation wishes to thank IMMANUEL for sponsoring our Gala and LEO A DALY for sponsoring our golf outing.
Gala
For more information on the Alegent Creighton Health Foundation CAPTIONS go to CHIhealth.com/foundation.
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Photo courtesy of LLS - Nebraska Chapter
HONORED
Personas The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society - Nebraska Chapter Man and Woman of the Year Campaign When/Where: April 23, Ramada Plaza Hotel Why: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Man & Woman of the Year candidates raise funds for LLS blood cancer research. Attendance: 305 Amount Raised: $236,000 Mission: The mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services. Our Key Priorities will ensure that: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society helps blood cancer patients live better, longer lives.
make the connection! Register your upcoming events at SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM
For more information: 402.401.7471
http://www.spiritofomaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/
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event galleries
Photos courtesy of Omaha Home for Boys
GOING THE
Distance
Omaha Home for Boys Golf Classic More than 180 golfers participated in the 2015 Omaha Home for Boys Golf Classic Wednesday, June 3, at Indian Creek Golf Club. Wells Fargo Bank served as the event’s Double Eagle Sponsor.
DEAN CUMMINGS, JOE SEQUENZIA, MITCH TUNINK AND JON DEINES
The foursome from Omaha Print came out on top in the overall team standings at -19 under par for the day, and positive reviews from everyone who played confirmed the change in venue and later event date this year paid off!
AARON DAVIS AND TODD MORAN
Former Husker and inspirational speaker Aaron Davis, served as the post-golf banquet’s emcee, and Christian Stokes, a youth in the Home’s Jacobs’ Place Transitional Living program, spoke about his life and how his life has changed and improved since coming to the Omaha Home for Boys. Thanks to everyone who played in and supported the Home’s annual Golf Classic this year. More than $40,000 was raised from foursome entries, sponsorships, mulligans and raffle tickets.
CHRISTIAN STOKES
EKOM UDOFIA, TONY VELAND, AARON DAVIS AND JAY FOREMAN
For more information: www.omahahomeforboys.org | 402.457.7000
CINCO
Celebración! OneWorld Cinco de Mayo When: May 5th, 2015 Where: OneWorld LSX Campus, Omaha
KIM AND JEREMY HOWE
Caterer: Abelardo’s, Maria Bonita and Vodoo Taco
DEIDRE AND ANDREW OCHSNER WITH MEREDITH AND DREW WEITZ
Attendance: 240 Amount Raised: $19,900 raised for OneWorld’s Baby Boutique. Mission: OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc., in partnership with the community, provide culturally respectful, quality healthcare with special attention to the underserved. For more information: 402.734.4110 | oneworldomaha.org
PAT O’HANLON
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Photos courtesy of OneWorld
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Photos courtesy of Marian High School
GETTING IN A
Round
Marian High School 20th Annual Lexus Champions for Marian Golf Tournament When: June 8 Where: Indian Creek Golf Course Why: Since 1996, Marian has maintained a consecutive partnership with Lexus of Omaha, the official sponsor of the Champions for Marian Golf Tournament, which has grossed more than $800,000 to provide tuition assistance to Marian students who are in need. The late Tal Anderson, who sponsored the event for 14 years, started the tournament and Anderson’s son Mickey and daughter Angie are carrying on his legacy.
JOHN KUEHL, ANGIE QUINN, JOHNNY MILLER, MARY HIGGINS AND MICKEY ANDERSON
Special Guests: Johnny Miller, professional golfer and NBC commentator Attendance: 208 Amount Raised: $90,000 For more information: 402.571.2618 | www.marianhighschool.org
TREV ALBERTS, GREG BOULAY, ALISON O’NEILL AND MICKEY ANDERSON
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event galleries
PhotoPhotography courtesy of by Kicks DanforFlanigan a Cure
GETTING THEIR
Kicks In Kicks for a Cure Soccer Exhibition When: April 17-18
Where: Embassy Suites Omaha-La Vista
VOLUNTEERS FOR THE EVENING
About: Proceeds benefit the Fred and Pamela Buffett Center and the Hereditary Cancer Center at Creighton University. In addition, the Liz Karnes Memorial Scholarship for women’s soccer has been endowed at Creighton University. Mission: The primary purpose of the weekend is to raise awareness for cancer education and prevention. It is also an opportunity to showcase Omaha as a compassionate, vibrant community where health care, education, commerce and recreation intertwine. Attendance: Around 550 guests Amount raised: $329,000 bringing our grand total to about $2.1 million over the 10 years. For more information: Visit kicksforacure.org or like our ‘Kicks for a Cure’ page on Facebook and follow @kicks4acure on twitter.
BIKERS WITH
Foresight
Global Blindness Prevention Bike for Sight Whether avid cyclist, recreational riders or novices, all 466 riders at this year’s Bike For Sight weathered less than friendly skies to see that an Ethiopian man, woman or child living needlessly blind would have their sight restored. For each of them represented one patient who would receive the Gift of Sight from the hands of Michael Feilmeier, M.D., and the team of surgeons that would join him in March 2016. Dr. Feilmeier is a cornea specialist at Midwest Eye Care who volunteers his time serving as the Medical Director of the Global Blindness Prevention Division at the Truhlsen Eye Institute. With a family-friendly format, Bike for Sight pledges 100% of its $20 registration fee to covering the consumables of a cataract surgery. Riders then get to enjoy a 5, 10, 20 or 40 mile ride. To date, Bike For Sight riders have sponsored over 1,644 surgeries. For more information: www.bikeforsight.org 88
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IF YOU CAN
Dream It... D.R.E.A.M.
Big D.R.E.A.M. Weekend When: April 9 - 11 Where: Champions Run Golf Course (9th), The Mark Bowling Alley (10th), Blur Parties Tailgate (11th)
STEVE (FOUNDER/CEO D.R.E.A.M.) AND HEIDI WARREN
MARTIE AND SARA CORDARO WITH GAIL AND JOHN DEBOER
Why: Big D.R.E.A.M. Weekend is our annual fundraising event, which helps to fund our after-school and mentoring programs. Attendance: Approximately 1,000 throughout the 3 day event Amount Raised: Approximately $80,000 Mission: Our mission is to expand opportunities for youth and families by providing positive role models, invaluable life experiences and ongoing support and assistance. For more information 402.206.4733 | joindream.org
TONY ORTIZ, DONALD NEAL JR. AND DANIEL BOYD
STEVE AND VERLYNE GRASZ WITH STEVE WARREN AND SCOTT MINER
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Photo Photography courtesy ofbyvinNEBRASKA Dan Flanigan
ALL ABOUT VIN
vinNEBRASKA Wine Event
The 26th annual vinNEBRASKA Wine Event took place this year to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha. Twenty-two internationally renowned winemakers come to Omaha to share their love of wine with the Omaha community. Festivities kicked off on Thursday, April 30th with the Winemakers’ Reception and Gourmet Dinner, and took place at Happy Hollow Country Club. Day two of this amazing celebration consist of a Public Wine Tasting & Grand Auction, open to the general public on Saturday, May 2nd at the Ramada Plaza Omaha. Attendees sampled wines and hors d’oeuvres; and bid on a vast selection of gift-items and wine collectable in a silent auction. Guests were able to purchase a bottle (or two!) in our Mystery Wine Pull. For more information: vinnebraska.com
DAVID PHILLIPS Photo courtesy of Midlands Humane Society
CAPTIONS
DOGGONE Derby Midlands Humane Society Let’s Talk Derby Run For The Wet Noses When: May 1 Where: Mid America Center Council Bluffs, Iowa Why: Major fundraiser of the year, 7th Annual Special Guests: John Knicely- EMCEE Attendance: 500 plus Mission: To protect and nurture companion animals and enrich the lives of people who love them. About: MHS is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit. Our humane society is the 1st in our community and opened it’s doors on January 2, 2015 after 6 years of fundraising! For more information: Contact Terri Gach-Mils 712.366.2551 from 7am – 3pm daily Photos courtesy of The Hope Center for Kids
LINKED TO Hope
The Hope Center for Kids Golf Classic The Hope Center for Kids hosted their 13th Annual Golf Classic at Champions Run golf course on Monday, June 8. Over $65,000 in sponsorships and donations was raised to support the daily programming at the Omaha and Fremont locations. It was a beautiful day on the green followed by dinner and a program where Ladayshianae, Andrew, R’Mani, Curtis, Christian and Madison, Omaha and Fremont youth, shared how their experience at The Hope is impacting their lives. The youth shared how The Hope has helped them be more successful in school, prepared them for college and encouraged them in their relationship with God. The Hope Center for Kids faithfully inspires hope in youth and children through education, employability, collaboration and faith. For more information hopecenterforkids.com | getmoreinfo@hopecenterforkids.com
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• AKSARBEN FOUNDATION
women’s ball committee ANNOUNCES key partners The Women’s Ball Committee is ready to raise even more tuition dollars for two signature AKSARBEN Foundation college scholarship programs by celebrating leadership in volunteerism at the 2015 Coronation and Scholarship Ball on October 17, 2015, at the UNO/Community arena. Members of the Women’s Ball Committee announced the Royal Court appointments who will serve as critical partners in support of the Ball fundraising efforts at a presentation meeting at Happy Hollow on May 7th. The gathering was hosted by Kim Simon, the advisor to the Women’s Ball Committee. Princess Chair Kate Grabill and Heartland Princess Chair Kimberly Hord announced the Royal Court Couturier is Tilly and unveiled the gown for both the Princesses and the Heartland Princesses. Presenting details of the Ball event were: • Production Chair Kim Banat • Court of Honor Chair Suzanne Kotula • Standard Bearer Chair Kim Falk • Royal Court Supper Chair Karen Sundell • Royal Court Supper Assistant Karen Nelson • Regale Co-Chairs Jennifer Bettger and Suzanne Kotula • Invitation Chair Lisa Gravelle; and • Page Luncheon Chair Jennifer Zatechka. The following Royal Court appointments were also announced: • Royal Court Couturier – Tilly • Royal Court Designer – Theia • Royal Court Florist – Old Market Habitat, Kyle Robino • Royal Court Coiffeur – Creative Hair Design • Royal Court Photographer – Dwyer Photography • Royal Court Caterer – Savor • Royal Court Table Top Designer – AAA Rents and Event Services • Page and Standard Bearer Clothiers – Merrily Boler and Judy Glesne • Script Writer – M. Michele Phillips • Production Director – Stephanie Anderson • Set and Lighting Designer – Jim Othuse • Musical Director – Chuck Penington • Choreographer – Patrick Roddy • Sound Designer and Technical Coordinator – Tom Ware • Stage Manager – Lara Marsh • Lighting – Theatrical Media Service • Audio – Audio Visions Pro Sound • Video – Dog and Pony Inc. • Royal Court Invitations – Diane Ames • Royal Court Formal Wear – Mr. Tuxedo • Entertainment – Finest Hour • Live TV broadcast – Kent Grisham and former Women’s Ball Committee chairman Kelly Thedinger • Jeanie Jones, chairman of the Women’s Ball Committee, announced the theme for the Ball. “A sky full of stars” has been selected as the theme for the 119th AKSARBEN Coronation and Scholarship Ball. Jones said the committee wants the Ball to focus on the shining lights of the Royal Court: the membership, the community honorees, scholarship winners, governors, and councillors, each one a stellar individual in his or her own right contributing to strengthening the Heartland. “AKSARBEN is proud to lay claim to current stars and future stars; growing stars and powerful stars as we celebrate the 119th AKSARBEN Coronation and Scholarship ball,” Jones said. “The purpose of the event is to honor current leadership in volunteerism while raising funds to help educate the next generations of leaders to continue the important work of building the Heartland.” The AKSARBEN Coronation and Scholarship Ball, which now funds two key Heartland scholarship programs, has a mission of promoting, recognizing and celebrating volunteerism, philanthropy and community pride. The Ball is a fundraising vehicle for two AKSARBEN scholarship programs, operated in partnership with the Horatio Alger Association for Distinguished Americans and dedicated to talented Heartland youth with financial need: the longstanding 4-year scholarship, AKSARBEN Scholars/Horatio Alger State Scholarship Program, and the new 2-year scholarship, AKSARBEN Scholars/Horatio Alger Career Connectors Scholarship Program, with a vision of annually funding 1,000 scholarships for students seeking careers in high-skill, high-demand occupations. 92
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT JENNIFER ZATECHKA PRODUCTION CHAIR KIM BANAT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT LISA GRAVELLE
HEARTLAND PRINCESS CHAIR KIMBERLY HORD, PRINCESS CHAIR KATE GRABILL HEARTLAND ESCORT CHAIR JENNIFER BETTGER ESCORT CHAIR BUFFY RICCERI
AKSARBEN Foundation scholarship programs have generated $10 million in philanthropy in the past decade and the foundation events have generated $200 million in direct economic impact. For more information on the AKSARBEN Scholars programs, or to donate, please log on to www.aksarben.org. The 119th AKSARBEN Coronation and Scholarship Ball will be Saturday, Oct. 17, at the UNO/Community Arena. The even is open to the public and tickets are available by calling the Knights of AKSARBEN Foundation Office at (402) 554-9600, ext.106. mQUARTERLY • AUG/SEP/OCT 2015
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connecting OUR COMMUNITY
what’s new fitness connection
now open:
AN INTEGRATED PERSPECTIVE
ONE FIT & SPA 3516 N. 163rd Plaza | Omaha ONE Fit & Spa is a gym, a yoga studio, a spa and more—all under one roof and with a mission set forth by owners MK Sossi, Natalie Guy and Andy Arkfeld to offer an integrated perspective on fitness and wellness programs in ONE intelligent facility. Located in the Maple Creek Office Park at 162nd and Maple, ONE Fit wellness services include massage, yoga and reiki. Personal training, private group training and classes including TRX, Pilates, barre, endurance intervals, power circuits, kickboxing and cycling are available. Among the facility’s state-of-the-art equipment are Lifecycle GX Indoor Cycling Bikes, Life Fitness treadmills, modern rowing machines, stair climbers and kettle bells. Drop in, get a class pass, or become a Fit or Spa member and enjoy unlimited classes on a monthly or yearly basis. (402) 933-1484 | OneFitOmaha.com
community connection
new name: COMMAND OF THE SKIES STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND & AEROSPACE MUSEUM (formerly Strategic Air & Space Museum) OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK | 9 AM - 5 PM | 28210 W. Park Hwy | Ashland In response to feedback from the community, the Strategic Air & Space Museum’s board of directors unanimously voted to change the facility’s name to Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. The new name pays tribute to the history of SAC, which until 1992 was headquartered at Offutt Air Force Base. The name also nods to the museum’s programs and exhibits featuring the science of air and space flight. The new logo will be revealed in early 2016 and facility signage, the website and marketing materials will gradually reflect the new name and logo. (402) 944-3100 | sasmuseum.com
natural connection
new addition: OPENING FALL 2015 FONTENELLE FOREST RAPTOR WOODLAND REFUGE 1111 Bellevue Boulevard North | Bellevue Fontenelle Forest has begun construction on a new addition to the Nature Center, the $2 million Raptor Woodland Refuge. The refuge will house nearly two dozen birds of prey including bald and golden eagles, six species of owls and five species of hawks. The birds will live in a variety of distinctive treehouse-like mews, including several among treetops on a suspended walkway high above the forest floor. Fontenelle Forest Executive Director Laura Shiffermiller said the refuge will enable the organization “to increase mission service in regard to community access, conservation of native animal species, public education, and school programming.” Visitors will be able to enjoy Raptor Woodland Refuge year-round. (402) 731-3140 | fontenelleforest.org
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what’s now! KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH our community
now appearing: INTERNATIONAL FLAIR cultural connection
OPERA OMAHA: OPERA OUTDOORS
September 12 • 7:30 p.m. | Turner Park (Midtown Crossing) | 31st-33rd and Farnam-Dodge Streets | Omaha Opera Omaha kicks off the 2015-2016 season with its third annual Opera Outdoors, a fun, family-friendly opera concert. This multimedia performance features four internationally known opera singers with the Opera Omaha Chorus and Ballet Nebraska. Many of opera’s greatest works are brought to life under the stars for a free, all-ages show. Featuring Leah Partridge, soprano (returning to Omaha following her performance in Opera Omaha’s 2013 production of Carmen); and three stars of Opera Omaha’s upcoming production of The Barber of Seville: Sandra Piques Eddy, mezzo-soprano; Andrew Bidlack, tenor; and John Moore, baritone. With J. Gawf conducting and Henry MacCarthy directing. (402) 346-7372 | operaomaha.org/operas/opera-outdoors
convention connection
now registering: SHUTTER SAVVY OMAHA CAMERA CLUB’S FOCUS ON OMAHA September 18-19 | Ramada Plaza Hotel & Convention Center | 3321 S. 72nd Street | Omaha Focus On Omaha is a convention for photo enthusiasts at all experience levels and features nationally recognized speakers and talented local photographers leading 20 educational lectures and workshops. The Saturday banquet keynote speaker will be Roman Kurywczak, a professional nature photographer, Sigma Pro team member, author and lecturer who specializes in wildlife and landscapes. Roman’s presentation, “Nature Inspired”, will guide listeners though the exhilarating world of nature photography. The Omaha Camera Club, a 90-year tenured club, is a Nebraska non-profit corporation and charitable organization. facebook.com/FocusOmaha | FocusOnOmaha.weebly.com
athletic connection
new arena: OPENING OCTOBER 2015 UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA OMAHA’S BAXTER ARENA 2425 S. 67th Street | Omaha The University of Nebraska Omaha has entered into an agreement with Baxter Auto to name the new arena opening in October “Baxter Arena.” It will serve as the new home for the hockey, basketball and volleyball teams, as well as host community events. Baxter Auto is one of Nebraska’s largest employers, with 1,700 employees across 21 dealerships in Omaha, Lincoln and Kansas City. Baxter Auto offers new and used automobiles from 19 different manufacturers. Baxter Arena will seat 7,500 and officially open with the first UNO hockey home game on Friday, Oct. 23, as the defending NCAA Midwest Regional Champions take on Air Force. (402) 554-2129 | unomaha.edu/athletics/arena
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STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN TRUE-COTTON
new blue. blue barn theatre
PUTTING DOWN NEW ROOTS EDGY MATERIAL AND INTIMATE WORK HAVE ALWAYS DEFINED “THE BLUE BARN WAY”. NOW THIS ONCE NOMADIC THEATER FINALLY GETS A HOME OF ITS OWN BUT REMAINS COMMITTED TO STAYING TRUE TO ITS REBEL IMAGE. WHEN THE BLUE BARN THEATRE celebrated 25 years in 2014, it joined the select ranks of Omaha’s longest-lived playmaking companies.
Now BB is putting down serious roots by moving into a new home at 10th and Pacific. A $7 million capital campaign is underwriting the newly constructed building ($5 million) with the imprint of a renowned theater consultant on it. Unusual for a theater this size, funding is to cover a $1 million operating endowment and a $1 million endowment.
Upon opening the 2015-2016 season there, BB will have in place what’s needed for another enduring run.
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celebrating THE ARTS “The voice of the Blue Barn was born through our training, individual talents, perspectives and passion for our art form,” Clement-Toberer says. “Our coming to Omaha really couldn’t be stopped whether we had one audience member or a hundred. We were kids and we were fired up, and still are, to tell stories.
CONTINUED
STRONGER THROUGH THE STRUGGLE
The cutting-edge theater’s founders never imagined this. They were fresh out of college, diehards from New York City when they launched BB with little more than enthusiasm. Its first two decades saw consistently high quality theater tinged by crisis. The low points included a fire gutting one space, losing the lease on another, a homeless period, serious debt issues and a revolving door of leaders. KEVIN LAWLER, now Great Plains Theatre Conference director, began the migration from the State University of New York in Purchase. He recalls building BB’s former Old Market space “on personal credit cards…then watching from across the street as it was destroyed by a giant fire before the first season there was completed.”
“I think the play choices in the beginning were very unique and those voices were not being heard in Omaha at the time.” “The whole endeavor was born of our deep longing to share exceptionally vibrant and surprising stories and to explore life together that way,” Lawler recalls. “When we began we had nothing more than that dream. That passion, free from any other agendas, is a big part of what makes the work at the Blue Barn so special.”
BB artistic director SUSAN CLEMENT-TOBERER, who’s led the theater longer than anyone else, feels it’s stronger for the struggles. “These times when we were in financial stress and maybe made not such smart business decisions really I think strengthened the drive to create Blue Barn-style theater in this town and became a catalyst for needed growth within us. We wouldn’t be where we are now if we hadn’t gone through those tough times.”
SHARED APPROACH, CONSISTENT MISSION BB’s found a niche doing provocative work. Its small but loyal following has stayed true through all the reversals of fortune. A theater doesn’t survive on passion alone. ClementToberer says the BB’s made it by sticking to principles and finally growing up. “Our mission statement from the beginning has been to produce theater that provokes thought, emotion, action and change. I think the reason we’re in the position we are now of putting down permanent roots is because we have always stayed true to our mission.” From the start, BB set itself apart as a tight-knit cohort sharing the same ethos. Soon after Lawler’s arrival, SUNY-Purchase classmates HUGHSTON WALKINSHAW and NILS HAALAND came. MARY THERESE GREEN of Nebraska joined this merry band of founders. Clement-Toberer followed.
Omaha theater stalwart Jill Anderson is among several local stage artists who found something new there worth following, first as a fan, then as an actress and jill-of-alltrades. She describes how the “singular magic” of the work and “the unfettered, unconventional creativity” transfixed her and still does. “The things that set the Blue Barn apart are the consistent interest in pushing limits, exploring challenging subject matter, aiming really high in terms of talent and production values but keeping things at an intimate level so the audience feels they are a part of the story.”
For most of its history BB thrived aesthetically but lagged when it came to management. “Artistically we’ve always been strong and we finally built our business side to kind of keep up with our artistic side,” Clement-Toberer says. “We’ve always run the Blue Barn on a shoestring budget. We’ve gone through a lot of different challenges. We’ve been through the ringer.
“But we’ve built from the very beginning the mentality of you don’t have to spend more to do great art and that’s still how the business is run.” Resources or not, she says, BB’s always been “artistically driven.” “It’s very unusual in its structure where the board does have say but the artistic director and the work we do is what drives our growth. It’s a very big gift that we’ve been able to retain the core values we began with 26 years ago.” Along the way, she says, “our voice has matured in a wonderful way,” adding, “It’s still speaking the same language and feeling, just a little more fluently. Sometimes now we do a show more ‘commercially’-based, like 33 Variations. But our process remains intimate and story-driven.” The same with BB’s Our Town production to close last season.
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new blue.
RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME
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There’s wide agreement, too, the theater should prosper at its new site, where it will neighbor with the Durham Museum, House of Loom, the restored Burlington Station, the booming Little Italy district and the coming Omaha Market. “It’ll be a destination place. I love the area. It’s the perfect place for our home. I couldn’t see it anywhere else,” Clement-Toberer says. Board member ARIELROBLIN, presidentgeneral manager of KETV, which occupies the Burlington PUTTING DOWN NEW ROOTS catty-corner from the new theater, says, “The Blue Barn is the perfect addition to the revitalization of South 10th Street.” She admires BB for “filling the space with great art born from a SEEING THINGS THROUGH process that starts and ends with integrity and heart. This Relatively few local theater companies have enjoyed its longevity. There were wonderful building is just a reflection of the art you will find periods when it wasn’t assured of making it another season, much less going on inside the building.” reaching the quarter-century mark. With the theater’s west wall opening onto green space, BB has “Hughston (Walkinshaw) and I took it over in 2001. Some programming an alfresco presence it’s never had before. choices that were big and bold ended up not getting underwritten. Then Hughston ended up leaving. I took over leadership fully.” “Our indoor-outdoor convertible space is just outrageous and rife for great parties and great theater,” Clement-Toberer says. “It’s a Looming debt threatened to dim the lights for good. unique set up that I believe will be limitless for opportunities to create our art.” She says the expanded new digs and deeper “I thought, what the hell, the worst thing I can do is close the doors. resources will help BB to “stretch our wings and go to Chicago and But I didn’t want the Blue Barn to close on my watch. New York to bring in professional actors,” adding, “Our goal from the I was like, ‘Uh-uh, not going to happen.’ It was a grow or go beginning has been to make the Blue Barn a regional theater.” BB also mentality,” Clement-Toberer says. “I think it was my time to has a residence to house out-of-town actors and other artists. run it. I surrounded myself with people i trusted and knew, like SHANNON WALENTA, my managing director. From She says the new theater space will retain the BB mystique. “We’ve realized 2008 on we started to build it. A fundraiser got us out of we are Blue Barn no matter where we are. Many people thought we should debt. From that point on with Shannon as my rightbuild a 250-seat black box and I said, ‘That’s not who we are, that’s not who hand woman and the business aesthetic I learned from we’ve ever been.’ We knew we wanted to keep the intimate quality between our my father we have steered the Blue Barn to a great audience and the stage.” artistic and business balance that is fairly equal for the first time. Noted project consultant Joshua Dachas suggested the new auditorium repeat the pillars that wrap around the old site’s seating area to create that same “nest-like feeling.” “I’ve learned to trust my instincts over what The pillars at the new site are fashioned from fallen trees. Area artists used reclaimed anybody else says. Not that I don’t take input but materials to fabricate various architectural features in the theater. I’ve learned having my own voice is crucial to succeeding and growing. The same with hiring REFLECTIONS AND APPRECIATIONS the right people.” Kevin Lawler, who admires the “beautiful” new space, says, “I feel immense gratitude for having been able to be a part of the Blue Barn.” Production manager AMY REINER and associate artistic director RANDALL STEVENS “When we started the Blue Barn we just wanted to do theater that thrilled us. No knowledge are other members of her team. Philanthropist of how to attract an audience. Just hoped they would show up,” Walkinshaw recalls. “In one NANCY MAMMEL says long before joining of the early years we did a performance for one person. Now Blue Barn is part of Omaha’s the BB board “I saw tremendous potential and cultural landscape and the new building totally seals that deal. To start a theater with only a ongoing growth for the company.” She dream and know it is set up now to thrive for years to come, well, being part of that legacy champions its “dynamic vision” and “track record is profoundly gratifying.” of excellence” and she feels its repaid “the generous community” support shown it. Jill Anderson speaks Clement-Toberer, too, is grateful to be there for its blooming. “It’s an amazing for many in saluting Clement-Toberer. “Susan has adventure and opportunity for us to actually be putting down permanent roots in our been a great steward of the theater. I think the power own space and to do it really the Blue Barn way. It still sometimes doesn’t feel like of her positive thinking has brought about great things it’s really real. But I do see an incredible stage light at the end of the tunnel as we for the Blue Barn. “She keeps a strong and steadfast ‘can create something that will be here long after we’re gone.” do’ attitude about the very difficult task of helming the For season details. visit www.bluebarn.org. theater. Her persistence is inspiring to me.”
blue barn theatre
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TOP PICKS! OUR TOP PICKS FOR GREAT upcoming attractions AUGUST 13 – 15 FLORENTINE PLAYERS: ENGAGED! FLORENCE CITY HALL
2864 State Street | Omaha Engaged! tells the story of a Scottish lad who wants so urgently to be married that he proposes to every woman he encounters. His best friend will receive a $1,000 annual stipend from the unhappy bachelor’s father if he can keep him single; his uncle will receive the stipend instead if his nephew does marry. Will being in love with love make way for true romance? Or will greed win out in the end? florentineplayers.com | (ticket office) 402 – 359 – 1203
AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 13 MAURITIUS HOWARD DREW THEATRE • OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE 6915 Cass St. | Omaha Propelled by a tight plot and quick dialogue, Mauritius is a fast – paced dark comedy about the surprisingly seedy underbelly of philately (stamp collecting). When two half – sisters inherit a potentially valuable stamp collection upon their mother’s death, differing views on what to do with the stamps lead them to risky situations with nefarious characters. (The title refers to the "Blue Mauritius," one of the world's rarest stamps.) 402 – 553 – 0800 (box office) | omahaplayhouse.com
AUGUST 15, 21 – 22, 28 – 29 • SEPTEMBER 4 – 5 WE LOVE THE 90S! THE APOLLON 1801 Vinton Street | Omaha Remember slap bracelets, You Can’t Do That on Television, Saved by the Bell, Pogs, and the heyday of boy bands? The Apollon tackled the 80s last year; now it’s the 90s turn to be dissected for this themed performance, food, and art event created for an adult audience. Presented by The Apollon, a multi – genre arts and entertainment hub where all are welcome to indulge their tastes in a place of welcome and warmth. 402 – 884 – 0135 | apollonomaha.com
SEPTEMBER 27 OMAHA SYMPHONY: PROKOFIEV'S VIOLIN CONCERTO JOSLYN ART MUSEUM’S WITHERSPOON CONCERT HALL 2200 Dodge St. | Omaha The intimate setting of Joslyn Art Museum’s Witherspoon Concert Hall ushers in a delightful afternoon of chamber orchestra music paired with pre – concert discussions of masterpieces from the Joslyn’s world – class art collection. Prokofiev’s lyrical concerto offers the concertmaster abundant opportunities to revel in the work’s melodic beauty. Effervescent works from Spanish composers, including Arriaga (the “Spanish Mozart”), bookend the program. Thomas Wilkins, conductor, and Susanna Perry Gilmore, violin. 402.345.0606 (ticket office) | omahasymphony.org
SEPTEMBER 30 – OCTOBER 3 & OCTOBER 7 – 10 DRACULA BY STEVEN DIETZ UNO THEATRE WEBER FINE ARTS BUILDING THEATRE 6001 Dodge St. | Omaha This new adaptation restores the suspense and seduction of Bram Stoker's classic novel to the stage. As the count begins to exert his will upon the residents of London, they try to piece together the clues of his appearances in a valiant attempt to save themselves from a hideous fate. Rich with both humor and horror, this play paints a wickedly theatrical picture of Stoker's famous vampire. 402 – 554 – 3857 | unomaha.edu/unotheatre
OCTOBER 15 VERBAL GUMBO HOUSE OF LOOM 31st – 1012 S 10th Street | Omaha Verbal Gumbo is a monthly hosted spoken word event (performance poetry) that promotes our community’s rich diversity of culture and style. Whether you step up to the open mike with a narrative of your own or sit back in the audience enjoying the show, Verbal Gumbo serves up some hot, spicy “flava” with a side of rhythm. 402-505-5494 | houseofloom.com |
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community CALENDAR
LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/
AUGUST 1
3:00: PM – 7:00: PM
OMAHA BEER & BACON FESTIVAL Omaha Jaycees The Old Mattress Factory | 501 North 13th Street | Omaha Third Annual Omaha Beer and Bacon Festival to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha. Included with your ticket is the opportunity to sample bacon-infused food from local restaurants and beers from your favorite breweries. $30 per ticket www.omahabeerandbacon.com
AUGUST 1
1:00: PM – 5:00: PM
OMAHA CRUSH Urban Events, Inc. | Tablets 4 Hope Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | 67th and Center Streets | Omaha Uncork the fun and sample wines from around the world, enjoy culinary delights from Omaha’s finest chefs, all while feasting your eyes on artwork from a handful of local artisans. All tickets are ALL INCLUSIVE. You must be 21+ with a valid ID to enter. Only a limited number of tickets (1500 total) will be available. Attendance supports Tablets 4 Hope. $35-$75 402-850-6776 | www.omahacrush.com
AUGUST 1
9:00: AM – 4:00: PM
95TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION Omaha Home for Boys Omaha Home for Boys | 4343 N 52nd | Omaha The Omaha Home for Boys will host a 95th Anniversary Reunion on Saturday, August 1, 2015. This fun filled day will bring together staff, alumni, friends and supporters of the Home to celebrate its’ 95 year contribution to the youth and families of Omaha and surrounding communities. FREE 402-457-701 | www.omahahomeforboys.org
AUGUST 1
12:00: AM – 9:00: PM
MVP4LIFE GOLF FUNDRAISER MVP4Llife Dodge Riverside Golf Course | 2 Harrah’s Blvd | Council Bluffs We need your help in our endeavor to help the youth of our community as MVP4Life hosts its annual Golf Fundraising event. $90/Golfer $160/Twosome $280/Foursome 402-598-4998 | www.MVP4Life.org
AUGUST 1
11:00: AM – 2:00: PM
save the date CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help! Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com.
AUGUST 3
11:30: AM – 1:00: PM
ANNUAL MENTORING AWARDS LUNCHEON Midlands Mentoring Partnership CenturyLink | Omaha Event proceeds will be used to pay for all background checks, for all mentors, at 11 MMP member mentoring agencies. Background checks increase the safety of youth by ensuring a standardized background check as a minimum requirement for prospective mentors. $50 per person 402-715-4176 | www.mmpomaha.org
AUGUST 7 – 8
5:00: PM – 11:00: PM
NEBRASKA BALLOON & WINE FESTIVAL Mid-America Expo Coventry Campus | 204 and Q St | Omaha The 9th Annual Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival is coming back to Coventry Campus on 204 and Q. Tremendous event and come out and enjoy wine, craft beers, music, hot air balloons, and so much more. 402-346-8003 | www.showofficeonline.com
AUGUST 7 – 9 SPIRIT OF COURAGE WEEKEND Jennie Edmundson Foundation MidAmerica Center | 1 Arena Way | Council Bluffs All proceeds raised for this fund provide financial assistance to Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital cancer patients. The weekend includes Shotgun Scramble Golf Tournament, Awards Gala and Auction, and Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament. All golf teams have the opportunity to play a round of golf with Celebrities! The weekend provides a variety of opportunities to support the Foundation. Cost varies 712-396-6086 | www.jehfoundation.org
AUGUST 9
1:00: PM
BACONFEST OMAHA The Salvation Army The Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center | 2825 Y Street | Omaha Your ticket purchase includes a Farmland Bacon Cook-off and an all-day pass to the Kroc Center. Spend time at the Kids’ Corral packed with carnival games, rides, art projects and more.$25/General Admission (ages 18+),$5/ Youth (ages 5-17) free to Children 4 and under (402) 898-6052 | www.OmahaKroc.org/BaconFest
HEALTHY KIDS CARNIVAL Boys Town National Research Hospital
AUGUST 15
Boys Town Medical Campus | 14080 Boys Town Hospital Road | (139th & Pacific Street Bring your kids to an afternoon of jumping, moving and grooving with fun games and hands-on activities about health and nutrition. Receive giveaways at every booth! Register to win the grand prize. Additional prizes every hour! FREE http://https://www.boystownhospital.org/AboutUs/Pages/FREE-Healthy-Kids-Carnival.aspx
JDRF ONE WALK JDRF Heartland Chapter
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Lewis and Clark Landing | 515 Riverfront Dr. | Omaha JDRF Walks bring together more than 900,000 people who raise over $68 million for life-changing T1D research. This success is only possible because of the support, commitment, and strength of our community. Please register today. 402-397-2873 | www.jdrf.org
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• VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM
AUGUST 16
• mQUARTERLY look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!
8:00: AM – 12:00: PM
CORPORATE CYCLING CHALLENGE Greater Omaha Sports Committee Heartland of America Park | 8th and Farnam | Omaha 25th Annual – Routes – something for everyone! Corporate (company), club (group, friends), and individual entry levels! Proceeds to benefit Eastern Nebraska Trails Network for trail development in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa! See web site for details and to register... www.corporatecycling.com. 402-346-8003 | www.corporatecycling.com
AUGUST 16
2:00: PM – 4:00: PM
CITY SPROUTS GROW WITH US GALA City Sprouts Lauritzen Gardens | 100 Bancroft St. | Omaha Join us as we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of City Sprouts Community Garden. Great food, music, silent auction and an opportunity to support Omaha’s oldest community garden. $50.00 402-216-9616 | www.omahasprouts.org
AUGUST 17
10:30: AM – 7:00: PM
6TH ANNUAL DVC GOLF OUTING Domestic Violence Council Champions Run Golf Course | 13800 Eagle Run Drive | Omaha The DVC will be hosting the 6th Annual DVC Golf Outing at Champions Run Golf Course. We are looking forward to a great day, a golf clinic and amazing golfers to help raise funds and awareness to end domestic violence in Omaha. $700/ foursome 402-210-2195 | www.dvcomaha.org
AUGUST 17
11:30: AM
QLI ANNUAL GOLF CHALLENGE QLI The Player Club at Deer Creek | 12101 Deer Creek Drive | Omaha Join QLI for a memorable day at the links! A golf event like no other, QLI’s Golf Challenge sells out quickly, so make plans now to attend Monday, August 17th, 2015 at Deer Creek. Try your swing with an old hickory stick, tee off while wearing distraction goggles, or hang out at the Arnold Palmer hole. All proceeds benefit QLI’s expansion efforts. 402-573-3700 | www.teamQLI.com
AUGUST 20
4:30: PM – 7:30: PM
CANVAS & CABERNET Community 360° Canvas & Cabernet | 6457 Francis Street # 180 | Aksarben Village | Omaha Canvas & Cabernet in Aksarben Village who will be hosting the annual canas painting and cabernet wine event for Community 360° from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. All who attend will have the opportunity to show off their artistic ability and leave with an original work of art, their own. The event includes your own canvas to take home, wine, cheese, fruit, hor d’oeuves, and some of Omaha’s finest deserts. Live music and door prizes as well. $45.00 402-556-8023 | www.community-360.org
AUGUST 20
6:00: PM – 9:00: PM
PROJECT PINK’D EXPOSED: ANNUAL BENEFIT Project Pink’d Hilton Omaha Downtown | 1001 Cass Street | Omaha Project Pink’d, Inc. is excited to host its annual benefit celebrating breast cancer survivors in Nebraska and Iowa. The cocktail benefit will be hosted at the Hilton Downtown Omaha Grand Ballroom on Thursday, August 20th. Evening activities include the beloved breast cancer survivor ceremony, Gift of Hope” auction and calendar unveiling.. Purchase tickets early and get front row seats to the EXPOSED 2015 Annual Benefit and calendar unveil. Make it a date night, or girls’ night, it will be a night to remember! Ticket prices vary. 402-905-0691 | www.projectpinkd.org
AUGUST 22
5:30: PM – 9:00: PM
SUMMER BASH FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER Metro Area Youth Foundation Ramada Inn Convention Center | 3321 S. 72nd Street | Omaha An evening of silent, dessert and live auctions to support families that have a child with cancer. We provide assistance for basic living expenses such as rent, utilities, phone, car while families are battling childhood cancer. We also support Camp CoHoLo and Camp Quality - camps for kids with cancer - so kids get a chance to just be kids. $75.00 402-871-6246 | www.summerbashforccc.org
AUGUST 27
10:30: AM – 1:00: PM
CSI GUILD’S PURSEONALITIES 2015 Child Saving Institute Guild Hilton Omaha | 1001 Cass St. | Omaha The Child Saving Institute Guild is delighted to host PurseOnalities 2015, their fun annual luncheon featuring a silent auction of purse packages and zany author and speaker Jen Lancaster. Individual Tickets start at $75 402.504.3664 | http://childsaving.org 103
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LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/
community CALENDAR
AUGUST 17-22
save the date SEPTEMBER 11
5:30: PM – 9:00: PM
OMAHA FASHION WEEK Fashion Institute Midwest
ZOOFARI 2015: ROCK AND ROAR Omaha Zoo Foundation
Fashion Tent at The Yard in Downtown Omaha Omaha Fashion Week is celebrating eight years in 2015! During that time, we've grown into the nation's fifth largest fashion event. Omaha Fashion Week is a glamorous red carpet event for a good cause. We nurture the youngest of fashion designers by providing mentoring, educational opportunities and a professional platform to showcase their work. See the advertisement in this issue on page 5 for more details
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium | 3701 South 10th St | Omaha $150 per person; underwriting and table sponsorships also available 402-738-2073 | www.omahazoofoundation.org
SEPTEMBER 11 – 20
RUNDEE Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance
OMAHA RESTAURANT WEEK Omaha Restaurant Association, Nebraska Beef Council, E. W. Scripps Co and many others participating restaurants all over the metro
Historic Dundee | 5006 Underwood Ave. | Omaha This 5K adventure run will take place prior to the annual Dundee Day Parade. Runners will finish in Dundee for an awards ceremony and further celebrations of Dundee Day. $30 402-934-9700 | www.omahahealthykids.org/events/rundee/
Omaha Restaurant Week is September 11-20, 2015. Time to try something new! During restaurant week, experience local cuisine, farm-to-table fresh ingredients and the latest in cooking techniques from the top chefs in Omaha. Mouthwatering 3 course dinners for a fixed price of $20, $30 or $40 per person. 402-850-6776 | www.omaharestauranteek.com
AUGUST 29
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
SEPTEMBER 3
5:30: AM – 9:30: PM
SEPTEMBER 11
HOLY SMOKES! Heart Ministry Center
FASHION IMPACT AWARDS Fashion Institute Midwest
Anthony’s Steakhouse, 7220 F Street | Omaha Celebrating TEN YEARS of the Heart Ministry Center help thousands of individuals and families in need. Search “Holy Smokes 10th Anniversary Celebration!” on Facebook
See the advertisement in this issue on page 96 for more details
SEPTEMBER 4
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
4TH ANNUAL JACK YOUNG MEMORIAL FOUNDATION ROUND TO REMEMBER Council Bluff Country Club | 4500 Piute St. | Council Bluffs To benefit the Alzheimer's Association, we’ll have a great day of golf, 18 holes of golf with a cart, goodie bag, flag prizes, raffle and lunch following tournament play. We expect a full crowd so you’ll want to reserve your spot early! Hope to see you there! $85/person 712-314-0705 | http://https://www.facebook.com/jackyounggolf
SEPTEMBER 8
11:30: AM – 1: PM
CHANGEMAKERS Nebraska Children and Families Foundation Embassy Suites | 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista The luncheon will feature Keynote Speaker Leigh Anne Tuohy, inspiration behind Sandra Bullock’s Oscar-winning performance in The Blind Side, who will speak about valuing the people who slip through the cracks of the society. The luncheon will also feature the exhibition of the Forever Families photography exhibit, and poetry by Project Everlast youth. Emcee: Jeremy Maskel, KETV Omaha Online registration is open now at NebraskaChildren.org/changemakers $75/ticket $750/table (10 to table). Get your tickets now at NCChangemakers.org. $75 per ticket/$750 per table of 10 (402) 965-1711 | www.nebraskachildren.org
SEPTEMBER 13
8:00: AM
AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION’S 35TH ANNUAL FIGHT FOR AIR CORPORATE CUP American Lung Association Aksarben Village | Omaha The Fight for Air Corporate Cup, entering its 35th year, is a one of the oldest running events in Omaha! This unique event is open to all fitness levels. Whether you are running or walking as a fun activity with your family, an athlete looking for a new challenge, or even as a virtual runner, your participation raises vital funds for the American Lung Association. There is a timed 10K and a 2 mile (untimed) event to choose from! Register today for the Fight for Air Corporate Cup at www.OmahaCorporateCup.org ! $35-45 402-502-4950 | www.OmahaCorporateCup.org
SEPTEMBER 14 11:00: AM – 1:00: PM
THE DURHAM MUSEUM’S ON TRACK GUILD FALL LUNCHEON The Durham Museum’s On Track Guild The Durham Museum | 801 South 10th Street | Omaha Join us in celebrating the upcoming exhibit, BBC Wildlife Photography at The Durham Museum’s On Track Guild Fall Luncheon. $75 per ticket; $100 per patron ticket 402-444-5071 | www.DurhamMuseum.org
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CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help! Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com. • VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM
SEPTEMBER 14
• mQUARTERLY look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!
12:00: PM – 1:00: PM
GREAT FRIENDS TO KIDS LUNCHEON Omaha Children’s Museum Omaha Children’s Museum | 500 South 20th Street | Omaha The Great Friends to Kids Luncheon recognizes individuals and organizations who have worked passionately to make Omaha a wonderful place for children to grow up. Tickets start at 60 402-930-2349 | www.ocm.org
SEPTEMBER 16
11:30: AM – 1:00: PM
LUNCH FOR THE GIRLS Girls Inc. Omaha CenturyLink Omaha | 455 N. 10th Street | Omaha Tennis great Billie Jean King will be the featured guest at Girl’s Inc.’s fifteenth annual Lunch for the Girls, held on Wednesday, September 16 at the CenturyLink Center. Reservations for Lunch for the Girls are available starting June 1 and all proceeds will support the educational, cultural and recreational opportunities for girls ages 5-18 at Girls Incorporated of Omaha, a non-profit organization that inspires girls to be Strong, Smart, and Bold. $100 regular ticket; $200 patron ticket; tables of 10 available 402-457-4676 | http://girlsincomaha.org/events/lunch-for-the-girls/
SEPTEMBER 17
6:00: PM – 8:00: PM
ARCHBISHOP’S DINNER FOR EDUCATION Archdiocese of Omaha Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Parkway | La Vista Each year, the Archdiocese of Omaha hosts a dinner recognizing outstanding teachers and administrators from across the Catholic school system. Funds raised provide scholarships for low income students to attend Catholic schools and are partially matched by the Children’s Scholarship Fund of New York. $125 per person 402.827.3757 | http://archomaha.org
SEPTEMBER 17
5:30: PM
FIRST RESPONDERS FOUNDATION 2ND ANNUAL 9/11 MEMORIAL BENEFIT First Responders Foundation Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn | 615 Leavenworth Street | Omaha The First Responders Foundation invites you to join us for a benefit for the Omaha Police and Fire Departments. This is a county casual affair at the Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn. Enjoy great BBQ, entertainment, live and silent auctions and a ceremony to honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and show appreciation for the first responders in Omaha. 402.672.6331 | http://firstrespondersomaha.org
SEPTEMBER 18
6:30: PM – 10:00: PM
NOTEWORTHY NIGHT Children’s Respite Care Center Harper Center Ballroom | 602 N 20th Street | Omaha 402-895-4000 | www.crccomaha.org
SEPTEMBER 18
6:30: PM – 9:00: PM
BASKETBALL GALA Bellevue University 1000 Galvin Road So. | Bellevue The Bellevue University Basketball Gala is all about basketball! A special guest will speak to student-athletes and guests, usually inspiring our athletes to strive for more in life and in the game. The evening also includes a full meal and a silent auction. Proceeds go to help the basketball players some of their travel expenses, as well as help fund scholarships, book grants, and more. $75
SEPTEMBER 19 – 20
8:00: AM – 5:00: PM
KIDS & CLAYS SHOOTING SPORTS TOURNAMENT Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, Inc. Oak Creek Sporting Club | 2890 W Road | Brainard 402-346-9377 | www.rmhcomaha.org
• VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM’S ZENFOLIO PHOTO STORE: METROSCENE.ZENFOLIO.COM
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LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/
community CALENDAR
SEPTEMBER 19
save the date SEPTEMBER 21
8:00: AM – 1:00: PM
STEP OUT: WALK TO STOP DIABETES & HEALTHY TAILGATE American Diabetes Association
Omaha Country Club | 6900 Country Club Plaza | Omaha 402-548-3858 | www.creightonprep.org
Miller’s Landing | 151 Freedom Park Rd, | Omaha 402-571-1101 | www.diabetes.org/stepoutomaha
SEPTEMBER 24 – 27
SEPTEMBER 19 5:30: PM – 9:30: PM Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista
Ak-Sar-Ben’s River City Rodeo & Stock Show (ARCR) serves as the Official Community Celebration of Omaha, hosting three core events including the Douglas County Fair, the nation’s largest 4-H Stock Show, and the Ak-Sar-Ben Rodeo, which is home to two championships rodeos, the Justin Boots Championships and the Wrangler Champions Challenge Finale. On Friday and Saturday evening, a country music artist concert will follow the rodeo performance. Rodeo and concert tickets start at $19. All other events are free. 402-554-9600 | www.rivercityrodeo.com
10:00: AM – 4:00: PM
GIFFORD FARM FALL FESTIVAL Gifford Farm Education Center 700 Camp Gifford Road | Bellevue402-597-4920 | www.esu3.org
SEPTEMBER 19
8:00: AM – 10:00: PM
AK-SAR-BEN’S RIVER CITY RODEO & STOCK SHOW Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation CenturyLink Center | 455 N. 10th St | Omaha
SPOTLIGHT GALA Voices for Children $100 per person
SEPTEMBER 19 – 20
12:30: PM – 6:00: PM
MEN FOR OTHERS GOLF CLASSIC Creighton Preparatory School
9:00: AM – 5:00: PM
OMAHA MINI MAKER FAIRE Omaha Children’s Museum
SEPTEMBER 24 – 27
Omaha Children’s Museum | 500 South 20th Street | Omaha Mini Maker Faire features innovation and experimentation across the spectrum of science, engineering, art, performance and craft and is a showcase for curious individuals who love sharing what they can create and interacting with others. FREE with paid admission 402-342-6164 | www.ocm.org
LAURITZEN GARDENS ANTIQUE & GARDEN SHOW Lauritzen Gardens
SEPTEMBER 19
11:00: AM – 3:00: PM
CSI TOUCH-A-TRUCK 2015 Child Saving Institute Guild First Data/UNO parking lots | Just south of 69th & Pacific | Omaha It’s fun for the whole family! The Child Saving Institute Guild’s exciting friend-raiser is a FREE event where children can see and climb on real life vehicles. Kids, accompanied by their families, can explore emergency and military vehicles, semi-trucks, construction vehicles, race cars and other commercial vehicles and talk to the people who operate them. Other activities will include face painting, prizes, bouncy tents, clowns and more. FREE 402.504.3664 | http://childsaving.org
SEPTEMBER 20
10:00: AM – 3:00: PM
SUPERHERO HEART RUN Heart Heroes, Inc. Aksarben Village | 67th & Center | Omaha 702.301.2930 | www.superheroheartrun.com
make the connection! Like us on FACEBOOK!
Lauritzen Gardens | 100 Bancroft Street | Omaha The Lauritzen Gardens Antique & Garden Show has become the annual event that draws attendees from all over the region to view spectacular gardens, hear extraordinary lectures, and see and purchase beautiful and affordable antiques. The show offers a one-of-a-kind collector’s experience not found elsewhere in the region. The show benefits Lauritzen Gardens. In the past decade the show has hosted more than 50,000 people and to date has raised more than $5 million to benefit the garden. Cost varies from $15 show ticket to paid luncheons and events 402-346-4002 | www.lauritzengardens.org
SEPTEMBER 24
6:00: PM – 8:00: PM
HALFWAY TO ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION Project Harmony Anthony’s Steakhouse Grand Ballroom & Patio | 72nd and F Street | Omaha Door Prizes, party favors, photo booth and pictures,and so much more! First 300 in the door will receive a T-shirt. Raffle tickets are $10 each or 6 for $50, with 6 packages to choose from! Grand Prize is a trip to New York to see the Yankees! All proceeds will benefit Project Harmony and their mission to protect and support children, collaborate with professionals and engage the community to end child abuse and neglect. $65 presale, $75 at the door 402-595-1326 | www.projectharmony.com
SEPTEMBER 24
5:00: PM – 9:30: PM
LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Werner Park | 12356 Ballpark Way | Papillion 402-401-7464 | www.lightthenight.org/ne
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HEALTH CENTERED DENTISTRY• 402.289.2313 Dr. Stephanie Vondrak • Dr. Ashley Rainbolt • DrVondrak.com
DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE. 106
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CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help! Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com. • VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM
SEPTEMBER 24
• mQUARTERLY look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!
5:30: PM – 9:00: PM
JFON-NE ENVISION 2015: FOOD TRUCK WORLD TOUR Justice For Our Neighbors-NE (JFON-NE) Old Mattress Factory | 501 N 13th St | Omaha This year, enVISION 2015 embarks on a Food Truck World Tour. Celebrity guests Florian Bellanger and “the Blecha Brothers,” the judge and carpenters from the television show Cupcake Wars on the Food Network and much more! 402-981-4144 | www.jfon-ne.org
SEPTEMBER 26
5:00: PM – 9:00: PM
A VINTAGE AFFAIRE VII Autism Action Partnership Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista A Vintage Affaire is a night of unique wine tasting, dinner, and silent and live auctions to benefit Autism Action Partnership. All proceeds raised will go towards programs in Nebraska that help individuals on the Autism spectrum. Your help is their hope! $200
SEPTEMBER 26 – 27 10:00: AM – 5:00: PM ARTSARBEN Omaha Summer Arts Festival Aksarben Village | 67th & Center | Omaha Omaha Summer Arts Festival presents 4th annual ARTsarben Art Fair at Aksarben Village! FREE 402-345-5401 ext 106 | http://artsarben.com
SEPTEMBER 27
12:00: PM
WALK TO END ALZHEIMERS Methodist Health System Turner Park at Midtown Crossing | 3102 Dodge St. | Omaha The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the worlds largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. FREE 402-502-4301
SEPTEMBER 27
8:00: AM – 11:30: PM
WALK FOR THE ANIMALS & 5K RUN Nebraska Humane Society Nebraska Humane Society | 8929 Fort Street | Omaha Join us on the NHS Campus for our biggest annual fundraiser, which lets you walk your dog (or run with him) as you help those still waiting for loving homes. Walk with your dog (or without!), form a dog pack and raise money as a team, or come solo and walk or run along the Keystone Trail. Our meadow is full of sponsors, rescue groups and plenty of four legged friends. Don’t miss the adoptable dog parade, alumni who lead off the walk...and all the animal lovers like you just enjoying a beautiful fall morning! $10 the day of or Free to fundraisers 402-905-3283 | www.nehumanesociety.org
OCTOBER 1 – OCTOBER 31 METHODIST JENNIE EDMUNDSON PINK OUT Methodist Jennie Edmundson Southwest Iowa 712-396-6086 | www.jehfoundation.org
OCTOBER 1
6:00: PM – 8:30: PM
ENVISION: SOWING THE SEEDS OF JUSTICE Justice For Our Neighbors-NE 2414 E Street | Omaha enVISION is the annual fundraiser for Justice For Our Neighbors, a nonprofit that offers free, high-quality immigration legal services to our most vulnerable neighbors. Silent auction, good food, great company – what a great way to spend an evening! $80 402-898-1349 x 14 | www.jfon-ne.org
OCTOBER 2 2015 BIG RED TAILGATE Completely KIDS Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Pkwy. | La Vista Score a big win for kids and families at the ninth annual Big Red Tailgate, a benefit supporting Completely KIDS. Join former Husker players, Completely KIDS guild, board and staff members, as well as members from our community for dinner and cocktails, a raffle prize drawing, entertainment, and silent and live auctions. The 2015 event chair is Kristin Lewis. 402-397-5809 | http://completelykids.org/
OCTOBER 2
6:00: PM – 9:00: PM
2015 HOPE CENTER FOR KIDS GALA CenturyLink Center | 455 N 10th St | Omaha Please join us for an inspiring evening of celebration at our 2015 Hope Center for Kids Gala. Funds raised benefits The Hope Center for Kids. Reception begins at 6:00 pm with dinner served at 7:00 pm. Please contact us for sponsorship levels. 107
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LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/
community CALENDAR
OCTOBER 3
6:00: PM – 11:45: PM
save the date OCTOBER 16
8:00: PM – 10:30: PM
BIG RED BLOCK PARTY Junior League of Omaha
CELEBRATE 10 GALA STARRING KRISTIN CHENOWETH Omaha Performing Arts
Scott Conference Center | Pine Street | Omaha 402-871-5251 | www.jlomaha.org/?nd=blockparty
Holland Performing Arts Center | 1200 Douglas Street | Omaha The event celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Holland Center and Omaha Performing Arts begins with a star-studded opening gala, featuring the wickedly popular Kristin Chenoweth! Remembered by Broadway lovers everywhere for her origination of the role of Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked, this Emmy- and Tony-winning actress and singer headlines the event. 402-345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com/productions/Kristin-Chenoweth
OCTOBER 3
9:00: AM – 1:00: PM
OMAHA BUDDY WALK Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands Stinson Park, Aksarben Village | 68th & Center Street | Omaha The 14th Annual Omaha Buddy Walk supports the mission of the Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands, which is to connect those touched by Down syndrome through education, advocacy and support. A crowd of over 3,000 supporters gather at Stinson Park for a carnival and awareness walk. $5 - $25 402-991-1800 | www.dsamidlands.org
OCTOBER 3
6:00: PM – 10:00: PM
VIVI 2015 - WESTSIDE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION GALA Westside Community Schools Foundation $125 Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Highway | La Vista
OCTOBER 17 HOLLAND STAGES FESTIVAL Omaha Performing Arts Holland Performing Arts Center | 1200 Douglas Street | Omaha The free all-day event presented by Omaha Performing Arts will be held on multiple stages inside and outside the Holland Performing Arts Center, including one of the exterior walls of the building. Several local performing arts groups will perform throughout the day, as well as regional and national acts, including BANDALOOP, the aerial dance troupe who will perform a vertical dance on the side of the Holland Center. FREE 402-345-0606 | www.omahaperformingarts.org/
OCTOBER 3
OCTOBER 18
3RD ANNUAL BETHLEHEM HOUSE FALL BALL Bethlehem House
AK-SAR-BEN CORONATION & SCHOLARSHIP BALL Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation
402-502-9224 | www.BethlehemHouseOmaha.org
OCTOBER 4
7:00: AM – 10:00: AM
2015 RACE FOR THE CURE® Susan G. Komen Nebraska CenturyLink Center | Omaha 402-502-2979 | www.komennebraska.org
OCTOBER 4
12:00: PM – 4:00: PM
5:30: PM – 11:30: PM
CenturyLink Center | 455 N. 10th St | Omaha The Ak-Sar-Ben Coronation and Scholarship Ball has a mission of promoting, recognizing and celebrating volunteerism, philanthropy and community pride. It is a fundraising vehicle for the Ak-Sar-Ben Scholars program operated in partnership with the Horatio Alger Foundation and TeamMates Mentoring Program. The Ak-Sar-Ben Scholars program assists over 200 students annually to open the doors of opportunity. $225 per person 402-554-9600 | www.aksarben.org
GREAT OMAHA CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL National Council of Jewish Women
OCTOBER 22
La Vista Conference Center | 12520 Westport Parkway | (I-80 & Giles Rd) | La Vista 402-707-2399 | http://omahachocolatefestival.com
PURE INSPIRATION ART EXHIBIT & FOOD-WINE PAIRING EVENT Boys Town National Research Hospital
OCTOBER 9
Lied Learning and Technology Center | 425 North 30th Street | Omaha Proceeds support the Center for Childhood Deafness at Boys Town National Research Hospital. Artwork is available for purchase. Reservations can be made by calling 402-452-5039. $75 per person or $125 per couple 402-498-6662 | http://boystownhospital.org
5:00: PM – 9:00: PM
HOMEGROWN Nebraska Children’s Home Society Regency Court | Omaha Enjoy complimentary beer and wine tastings, local cuisine and a new photography exhibit featuring children and families served by NCHS. $30.00
OCTOBER 24
5:30: PM – 8:00: PM
10:00: AM – 8:00: PM
OCTOBER 11
OMAHA’S GREAT PUMPKIN Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska
TED E. BEAR HOLLOW COMFORT FOOD CLASSIC Ted E. Bear Hollow
Village Pointe | 168th and West Dodge | Omaha A great pumpkin tree will “rise” over the Village Pointe Center Court in October! This month-long community event raises awareness for the children and teenagers in Nebraska’s foster care system. (Family-friendly costumes encouraged) FREE 402-661-3138 | www.lfsneb.org
Not your typical fundraising gala, this laid-back fundraiser is designed to be comfortable and fun! Six of the metro area’s best chefs compete to create the most creative and tasty comfort food dish. Attendees eat and judge! Silent & oral auctions, tasty appetizers and beverages round out the evening of entertainment. Proceeds benefit Ted E. Bear Hollow, the area’s only grief support agency providing FREE services for kids and families! 402-502-2773 | www.tedebearhollow.org
OCTOBER 11 FOCUS ON NATURE Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, Inc. P. O. Box 24122 | Omaha 402-234-2473
OCTOBER 13
11:30: AM – 1:00: PM
A TIME FOR HOPE & HEALING WITH KEVIN BRIGGS The Kim Foundation Embassy Suites LaVista | 12520 Westport Parkway | LaVista (402)891-6911 | www.thekimfoundation.org/
OCTOBER 15
11:30: AM – 1:00: PM
WOMEN’S FUND OF OMAHA LUNCHEON Women’s Fund of Omaha CenturyLink Center | Omaha The Women’s Fund of Omaha celebrates its 25th anniversary and its 15th annual fall luncheon in 2015. This year’s Lead the Change Luncheon continues the focus on leadership. Watch for details on the keynote speaker. 402-827-9280 | www.omahawomensfund.org
OCTOBER 29
6:00: PM
MONSTER BASH FOR BRAIN CANCER Leap-For-A-Cure Georgetown Club | 2440 South 141 Circle | Omaha 402-333-9370 | http://LeapForACure.org
OCTOBER 29
5:30: PM – 7:00: PM
PURSES 4 PAWS Nebraska Humane Society Regency Court | Regency Parkway | Omaha Join us at Regency court for an evening of shopping fun! Shop our silent auction of designer handbags and accessories as you munch gourmet appetizers and enjoy wine. This is a guilt free girl’s night because all proceeds benefit homeless animals at the Nebraska Humane Society. $30 per person 402-444-7800 | www.nehumanesociety.org
OCTOBER 31
9:00: AM – 10:00: AM
RED KETTLE RUN The Salvation Army Zorinsky Lake | 156th and F Street | Omaha 10 or 10 non-perishable food items | http://givesalvationarmy.org 108
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CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help! Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com. • VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM
NOVEMBER 3
• mQUARTERLY look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!
4:30: PM – 8:30: PM
GO RED FOR WOMEN American Heart Association Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Parkway | La Vista Make It Your Mission to fight heart disease in women. By sharing this commitment, together we can help save lives. Be a part of this extraordinary movement. $250
NOVEMBER 4
8:00: AM – 5:00: PM
NONPROFIT SUMMIT OF THE MIDLANDS Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | La Vista Convening nonprofit, corporate and philanthropic professionals to learn from outstanding leaders, network with peers, and gain insight on best practices for enriching the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. 402-557-5800 | www.nonprofitam.org
NOVEMBER 4
4:00: PM – 8:00: PM
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF OMAHA’S CHRISTMAS CARAVAN PREVIEW PARTY Assistance League of Omaha 402-896-5146 | www.ALOmaha.org
NOVEMBER 5
6:30: PM – 8:30: PM
CREATING FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP DINNER Omaha Christian Academy Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista 402-614-5716 | www.omahachristianacademy.org
NOVEMBER 6
6:00: PM – 7:00: PM
TREE OF LIGHTS KICK-OFF The Salvation Army American National Bank | 8990 W Dodge Rd | Omaha 402-898-5908 | http://givesalvationarmy.org
NOVEMBER 6
6:00: PM – 9:00: PM
8TH ANNUAL ADULT SPELLING BEE Literacy Center for the Midlands Scott Conference Center | 6450 Pine St | Omaha 402-342-7323 | www.giveliteracy.org
NOVEMBER 6
5:30: PM – 10:00: PM
AN EVENING AMONG ANGELS Angels Among Us 402-885-4840 | www.myangelsamongus.org
NOVEMBER 6
9:00: PM
TEAMMATES TAILGATE GALA TeamMates Mentoring Program La Vista Embassy Suites Conference Center | 11850 Nicholas Street, Suite 120 | Omaha 402-210-3546 | http://teammates.org
NOVEMBER 12
5:00: PM – 9:00: PM
2015 MILAGRO DINNER One World Community Centers Historic Livestock Exchange Building | 4920 S. 30th Street | Omaha The Milagro Dinner and Silent Auction will be held Thursday, November 12 in the ballroom of the Historic Livestock Exchange Building, 4920 S. 30th Street. The event will honor members of the medical community who have helped further OneWorld’s mission. $125 402-502-8850 | www.OneWorldOmaha.org
NOVEMBER 12
6:00: PM – 9:00: PM
MERRYMAKERS 25TH ANNUAL ROAST Merrymakers Association Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center | 12540 Westport Parkway | LaVista This year, Merrymakers is celebrating our 25th Annual Roast which promises to be a blowout event. Funds from this event go a long way to funding our professional musicians who travel throughout Nebraska and Iowa bring music, memories and joy to our senior population. $200 per ticket; $75 under 40 402.697.0205 | www.merrymakers.org 109
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celebrating 25 years in 2016!
Time to VOTE! • Go to www.spiritofomaha.com/TheBigEvent-VOTE/
Deadline to VOTE is September 30, 2015! For events presented between June 1, 2014 & May 31, 2015 Vote for your favorite event in these Categories: Best Event: 1st/2nd Annual • Best Event: Under 500 • Best Event: Over 500 Best Event: Over 1,000 • Best Event: Pet & Animal • Best Event: Heath & Wellness Best Event: Theme • Best Event: Education • Best Event: Food & Wine Best Event: Young Professional • Best Event: Walk/Run • Best Event: Speaker/Guest • Outstanding Guild Award
MAKE THE CONNECTION!
*
Winners in each category will be eligible to compete
QXP-TBE-NOMS-PROMO-815_- 7/16/15 12:36 PM Page 111
It’s Time to VOTE! Cast Your Ballot for your favorite event in 12 categories! For events presented between June 1, 2013 through May 31, 2014
BEST EVENT: 1st - 2nd Annual
BEST EVENT: BEST EDUCATION
BEST EVENT: PET/Animal
Fashion Institute Midwest: Fashion Impact Awards
Brownell-Talbot School: Bling Gala Creighton Prep: BASH 2015 GAMEDAY
Hearts United for Animals: Lakeside Buffet Pawty & Fundraiser
KANEKO: Open Space Soiree
Marian High School: MarianFEST: Under the Sea
HETRA: Blue Jeans & Dreams
Merrymakers Association: Songs & Suds
Mercy High School: FIESTA 2015 Hats Off To Mercy""
Midlands Humane Society: Let's Talk Derby
Mount Michael: Night of Knights
Puppy Up Foundation: Puppy Up! Walk to beat Cancer
BEST EVENT: FOOD & WINE
BEST EVENT: YP EVENT
BEST EVENT: Under 500
Autism Action Partnership: A Vintage Affaire VI - Wines of the World
All About Omaha: Torchlight Ball benefiting Memories for Kids
Children's Hospital & Medical Center: Wine, Women & Shoes
Completely KIDS: - Pinot, Pigs & Poets
Habitat for Humanity: Omaha Young Professionals - Brew Haha 2014
Fontenelle Forest: Feather Our Nest
Nebraska Medicine Guild: Fusion - A Blend of Fun & Philanthropy Susan G. Komen Nebraska: Pink Ribbon Gala
Food Bank for the Heartland: Celebrity Chef featuring Geoffrey Zakarian March of Dimes: Signature Chefs Auction
Joslyn Art Museum: Young Art Patrons Garden Party
vinNEBRASKA Foundation benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha
Nebraska Children's Home Society: BRANCH - HomeGrown
Nebraska Humane Society: Dining With Dogs
Omaha Performing Arts: Broadway Ball - Big Stars on the Big Stage Omaha Symphony Guild: Lizzy Post Luncheon Opera Omaha: A Flowering Tree Gala
Omaha Jaycees: Beer & Bacon Festival benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha
BEST EVENT: BEST THEME
BEST EVENT: WALK/RUN/RIDE
BEST EVENT: Over 500
Heartland Family Service: "Carnival of Love" Gala
Heart Hero's - Superhero Heart Run
Lutheran Family Services: Fandango All-Stars
Junior League of Omaha: High Heel Dash
Advocates Board of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center: Ambassador of Hope Gala
Omaha Children's Museum: For the Kids Benefit Come Be Our Derby Guest
Salvation Army: Red Kettle Run
Omaha Home for Boys: Restoring Hearts with Bike Parts
UNO Athletics: Claussen-Leahy Run/Walk
Ted E. Bear Hollow: Remembrance Walk
Catholic Charities: Irish Fest 2015 Child Saving Institute: Cabaret 2015 Heart Ministry Center: 9th Annual Holy Smokes QLI: An Evening at the Fair
The Rose Theater: Rockin' Rosie: "Rosie Rocks the Fiesta” BEST EVENT: Heath & Wellness
BEST EVENT: Speaker / Special Guest
BEST EVENT: Over 1,000
American Cancer Society: Hope in the Heartland Gala
Girls Inc. Lunch for the Girls featuring Barbara Bush and Jenna Bush Hager
American Heart Association: Omaha Heart Ball
JDRF: Promise Gala - Rockin' for a Cure
Lauritzen Gardens Antique & Garden Show with Lady Fiona Carnarvon & Mary McDonald
Omaha Fashion Week Finale
Omaha Symphony Gala featuring Martin Short
Omaha Women's Fund: 14th Annual Fall Luncheon
Metro Area Youth Foundation: Summer Bash for Childhood Cancer
Phoenix Academy Scholarship Luncheon featuring Laura Bush
Visiting Nurses Association: Art & Soup
Project Pink'd: Exposed
The Kim Foundation: A Time for Hope & Healing with Mariel Hemingway
Liz's Legacy Cancer Fund: Kicks for a Cure Dinner & Auction
Film Streams' Ruth Sokolof Theater: Feature VI
Voting deadline is September 30, 2015! Vote NOW!
• Go to www.SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM/TheBigEvent-VOTE/
1-9-LEAD SECTION-815_QUARTERLY 7/19/15 4:15 PM Page 112
waking WORDS
mQUARTERLY • LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
ROB KILLMER
growing pains. “IF WE WISH TO BETTER UNDERSTAND WHY WE HATE OR FEAR ANOTHER, WE NEED ONLY SEE MORE HONESTLY WHAT WE HATE OR FEAR WITHIN OURSELVES.” ~ Amek-San PROLOGUE: Let me explain more about waking words. A little over 4 years ago I had an “awakening” of sorts that was deeply significant and important. It isn’t essential (though not inappropriate) to label this a “spiritual” awakening, but without going into the events surrounding it, the result was that several components of my life shifted and deepened, including the depth & scope of insights that came rushing into my awareness.
“Bad things happen to good people every day, and my day is coming!” It’s inevitable. It’s unavoidable. Our next (and last) moment of terror is in the queue! The question is, when it comes, how will we face it? How are we preparing ourselves to deal One component of this deepened awareness I eventually came to call “waking words” due to the with the inexorable approach of adversity? fact that powerful insights were consistently being “delivered” during the transition time from What will your next (or last) moment reveal – ROBERT P. KILLMER sleeping to waking. I eventually made it a habit to keep some form of device handy at bedside to exposure of your underlying, undealt with fears, better record these recurring impressions. Eventually these impressions were being generated or the true Character of your Love? Editor@SpiritofOmaha.com many times a day in addition to waking – but the insights always seemed focused on deepening and broadening my “awakening” to the opportunities, privileges and responsibilities “The face of my enemy is, in fact, my own.” Perhaps one of our greatest underlying fears is thrust upon us all at this time in history. Thus I began carrying a recorder with me at all times to that those things and people we hate are actually reflecting back to us who and what we are. All our personal and collective denial systems are set up to help us avoid facing this be a better steward of all of these “waking words”. fundamental truth. We will scapegoat others, judge and condemn, and “put to the sword” anyone who in some way threatens to expose our underbelly of impure motives. Consider how all of these I had already prepared & completed a more typical article, but I feel inclined to replace it “waking words” apply to the driving factors behind unfolding current events, and the unfolding instead – in no particular order or structure, with a collection of some of the “waking words” I personal dramas in each of our individual lives. have compiled – all of which can be related to current events within the last three months. Points of contrast. Object lessons. Opportunities to see how much alike we are (in the qualities we label as good or evil) and to benefit massively from this understanding. “How we relate to Power speaks volumes about our true Character.” One of my most cherished mentors habitually made it a point to confront me with these When confronted by those exerting power over us, we learn much about who we are, truths whenever he found me reacting strongly to the attitudes or behaviors of others. yet when granted the opportunity to exert power over others, our true Nature is revealed even “What,” he would say. “You don’t like looking at yourself?” more clearly. We realize (make real) the benefits of this clarity only if we have the courage to So how do we like looking at exaggerated versions of ourselves as we collide with other face who and what we are, and to become greater stewards of our power. How do we exercise cultures, beliefs and behaviors in a world made rapidly more crowded and complex? power in our world? Is that power expressing our fear of others or our Love of others? “The true point of conflict in human events is the conflict between Fear and Love.” “Depravity is simply a matter of how far to the extreme one positions themselves.” Labeling something as Evil, or Depraved is absolutely an example of our denial systems When we are willing to cooperate with what Life is revealing to us and about us, we can at work. The more extreme the position we adopt in opposition to something (whether as examine the motives of others and ourselves more deeply layer upon layer – discovering the Republicans or Democrats, Conservatives or Liberals, Blacks or Whites, Muslims or Christians, deeper branches (and ultimately the roots) of all our personal and collective limiting beliefs. Hetero or Homo) the farther from center we move. Yet when we can only see our opponent as Nearly all beliefs are founded on one of two driving forces: Fear or Love. As we examine motives more carefully, more mindfully, more maturely, we can discern more clearly whether we “depraved”, chances are we ourselves have become similarly “depraved” from the opposing end of the spectrum, having lost a true sense of center, or of balance. Yet Balance is the ultimate goal of or others are driven more by one or the other. If we say we believe in the Power of Love, our all Natural and Universal Law. Balance is the ultimate position of wellbeing and “centeredness”. driving motives should then reflect those beliefs. If they do not, then we merely pay lip service to the Power of Love, and practice homage to the Power of Fear. If we are to move Human History forward we must learn how to embrace these growing pains of being thrown together in uncomfortable and challenging ways. Otherwise “All Hatred is rooted in Fear.” No elaboration required. we become the very agent of reinforcing that which we think we must oppose! If we are to evolve (or indeed, survive!) we must cultivate the practice of “centering ourselves”. “Ultimately, we fear most what we ourselves are.” All other fears are often based on this primal, core terror: if we are seen (or forced to see ourselves) for who and what we truly are, we will be (in some form or fashion that matters) put to Consider the Pendulum: the more we pull in opposition to the counterbalance, the more we feed energy back into it! Only by relaxing our opposition can we cause the pendulum to relax death. This need not mean physical death, but anything that threatens to “murder” something attached to us that we hold dear. All defensive mechanisms, both personal and collective, exist to back towards the fulcrum. This law of physics speaks volumes as an object lesson relative to our emerging personal and collective growing pains. The more we move in opposition to anything, protect us from this kind of exposure. The tactics of these mechanisms are simple: hide & attack. the more energy we are feeding into the opposing forces or dynamics. Yet the closer we move Hide to avoid exposure, and when threatened with imminent exposure…ATTACK! towards that which we oppose, the more we neutralize those dynamics…Balance! In so doing we perpetuate all the conflicts within and with others that are generated by Fear. “Perfect Love casts out all Fear.” Someone much, much greater than me established this principle. It was a disciple of Jesus Christ, the apostle John, who emphasized this. If we want to deal with the things and people that challenge us personally and collectively, we must be willing to discern what we fear about them, and devote ourselves to replacing that fear with Love. It is not excusable then, to either personally or collectively, embrace a philosophy that claims to be based on Love, while practicing a fear-based approached to problem-solving.
“Our primary stewardship as Human Beings is the cultivation of individual and collective Grace.” Modern unfolding events (and they will persist) are generating momentum for The Human Race to progress into a more expansive expression of Human Dignity, where we more deeply understand the origins of our hates and fears, and acknowledge the need to go deeper – personally and collectively – to discover how our capacity for Love can overcome our instincts rooted in Fear. In so doing we will grow up together, replacing self-destruction with harmony. Amen. 112
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