Midtown Crossing News Volume 8, November 2013
Finishing Touches Underway for Midtown Crossing’s Miracle on Farnam
Turner BARK
Omaha’s most respected arts and cultural organizations are finalizing their designs, preparing to turn vision into holiday reality for the November 23 debut of Midtown Crossing’s Miracle on Farnam. The season-long celebration will feature 21 dazzling window displays this year, an increase of seven over its 2012 inaugural year. Once again, each storefront masterpiece will be a showcase of artistry and imagination. New participants this year are: • Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts • El Museo Latino • Fontenelle Forest • The Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben • Love’s Jazz and Arts Center • Nebraska Shakespeare • University of Nebraska at Omaha
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“As we were planning for this year, we knew we wanted to be part of this very festive community event,” said Nellie MacCallum, marketing director, Nebraska Shakespeare. “The idea of ‘window dressings’ harkens back to the days when shopping was done in department stores by foot. Miracle on Farnam has that old world charm about it. So, Shakespeare, old world charm, and rosey red cheeks looking into a festive Christmas window, yes, we want to be part of that.” Love’s Jazz & Arts Center is also excited to make its Miracle on Farnam debut this year.
I’ve Made My List & Checked It Twice “5 Finds” at The Afternoon
“This is a great opportunity to share the Jazz legacy of North 24th St., as well as African American arts and culture, with a jazzy holiday message!” said Janet Ashley, program director/operations, Love’s Jazz & Arts Center.
When holiday shopping means pleasing family as diverse as Grandma Sandy and Uncle Fritz, you’ve got to have a plan. Thankfully, mine’s The Afternoon and it’s right by my home at Midtown Crossing.
Read More on Page 3
Read More on Page 5
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CONCIERGE
NOTES FROM 2013 EVENT CALENDAR NOVEMBER 23 Miracle on Farnam TO JANUARY 1 NOVEMBER 23 Family Fun Day NOVEMBER 28 Turkey Trot Want more information on these and other events at Midtown Crossing? Visit www. midtowncrossing.com.
The holidays are here, and shopping on line has never been more popular. One of the services we offer is package assistance for all Midtown Crossing Residents. We are always updating residents email, cell number and notification preferences. Please let us know if you prefer to receive a text, email or both when your packages arrive. If you are new to the neighborhood, please stop by our desk in building #4 for more information. With the number of packages received growing by the day, it is helpful if you could make arrangements to pick up your packages as soon as possible to help free up space in our small holding closets. We will hold your packages until it is convenient for you to pick up. If you would like to verify or revise your package notification information, please email us at midtown@mycounterparts.com. Happy Holidays! Change in Hours: Please note that our desk hours have changed: Bldg. 200 – 9 am - 8 pm Sunday – Saturday Bldg. 220 – 1 pm - 6 pm Monday – Friday 10 am - 3 pm Saturday – Sunday
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT We loved seeing all our Furry Friends at our Doggie DNA Day! Congratulations to all our newest members of the Urban Paw Club! If you missed our party, don’t fret you can still join! You may stop by the leasing office or give us call for details. All new members will be awarded an official DNA World Pet Registry, Gourmet Personalized Doggie Treat, Lease Bag Dispensers, Plush Toy, and Bragging Rights for your exclusive club!
SECURITY With the Holiday Season approaching, Midtown Crossing will be a very busy place full of shoppers and visitors. To ensure your safety and the safety of your belongings, here are a few helpful hints:
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Security ..........................................402.934.7999 Concierge Bldg. 4 ................... 402.934.7641 Concierge Bldg. 3 ................... 402.934.9574 Property Mgmt. ........................402.934.9275
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Park in well lit areas, frequently used by pedestrians.
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Park in the public garages whenever possible.
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Roll up windows and lock all your doors.
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Secure belongings in the trunk of your vehicle. Do not leave items in plain view inside your vehicle.
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If your vehicle has an anti-theft alarm, activate it.
QUESTIONS? midtown@mycounterparts.com
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Finishing Touches Underway for Midtown Crossing’s Miracle on Farnam (CONT’D FROM PAGE 1)
The seven new participants join returning organizations: • The Durham Museum (Winner of the 2012 vote for favorite display) • Joslyn Art Museum • Joslyn Castle Trust • The Kent Bellows Studio • Lauritzen Gardens • Omaha Children’s Museum • Omaha Community Playhouse • Omaha Performing Arts • Omaha Symphony Guild • Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium • Opera Omaha • The Rose Theater • Strategic Air & Space Museum • KETV (event sponsor)
The Durham Museum 2012 Window Display
“We were blown away by the creativity on display last year. We can’t wait to see how our returning participants are going to top themselves and how our new participants are going to make their mark on this fabulous holiday tradition,” said Molly Skold, vice president of marketing and communications for East Campus Realty, LLC, the Mutual of Omaha subsidiary that owns Midtown Crossing. Here is the Miracle on Farnam game plan: • Participating organizations will begin setting up their storefront displays on Tuesday, November 19. • Miracle on Farnam will officially debut at dusk on Saturday, November 23, with the formal unveiling of the windows and the perennial debut of Midtown Crossing’s holiday lights. Prior to the dusk premiere, families are invited to Midtown Crossing on Nov. 23, for Family Fun Day presented by Omaha Children’s Museum in conjunction with Miracle on Farnam. Family Fun Day will run from 2 – 6 p.m. and will feature a trove of fun, kid-focused activities, including: • • • • • •
A window-to-window scavenger hunt Story time with the Snow Queen Holiday Science Show Hot cocoa samples and coloring Cooking decorating Photos with Santa
“Omaha Children’s Museum is excited to partner with Midtown Crossing for the upcoming Family Fun Day on Nov. 23. At Omaha Children’s Museum, we believe the holidays are a magical time for young kids and their families, full of fun traditions like attending the Miracle on Farnam street event,” said Michelle Chartrand, director of advancement, Omaha Children’s Museum. Miracle on Farnam, including Family Fun Day, is free to the public, three hours of garage parking included. The displays will be available for viewing all day, every day through New Year’s Day. The most miraculous display, determined by a public vote, will earn a $3,000 donation courtesy of the Baer Foundation, a philanthropic endeavor that generously supports various charities, including Nebraska arts and educational agencies. The Baer connection to Miracle on Farnam takes on added significance upon tracing a bit of holiday history. The late Alan Baer’s great grandfather, Jonas L. Brandeis, founded Omaha’s J.L. Brandeis & Sons Department Store. Back in the day, a holiday trip to the Brandeis Building was a must so the crowds could gaze at the building’s intricate window displays, especially the animated scenes. “With Miracle on Farnam, a cherished holiday – and family – tradition has returned to Omaha. We are thrilled to be a part of the celebration and the warm memories to come,” said Ted Baer, Alan Baer’s son and Foundation president.
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Two New Boutiques Opening in Midtown Crossing Midtown Crossing is set to welcome two exciting, new boutiques: Me & Me and The Ugly Sister Boutique – to its vibrant retail mix. The Ugly Sister Boutique: Now Open The Ugly Sister Boutique specializes in quirky gifts, one of a kind “wow factor” jewelry, trendy fashions and handbags. “I designed The Ugly Sister Boutique to satisfy my obsession,” said owner Judy Martin-Alioth. “I love bling, fashions and purses. I created The Ugly Sister to be different than other boutiques. We are colorful, a little loud and packed full of fun. We are that place you will want to grab your mother, your sister or your friends and plan a shopping adventure.” The Ugly Sister Boutique, located at 3157 Farnam St. between The Corky Canvas and NT Nails, opened on November 5, 2013. “We are a fun-packed boutique that beautiful Midtown Crossing has been waiting for,” Martin-Alioth said. “Come on in, we promise to make you smile!” Martin-Alioth opened her first Ugly Sister in Sioux City, IA, in 2010. A second store opened in Hudson, WI, two years later. “I love what these operators are saying and feeling about Midtown Crossing,” said Molly Skold, vice president of marketing and communications for East Campus Realty, LLC, the Mutual of Omaha subsidiary that owns Midtown Crossing. “We are alive and on fire and Omahans and visitors alike are embracing this hip, urban midtown destination. Me & Me: Opening Next Week Boasting “cutting-edge styles from New York and Los Angeles,” Me & Me will shift into its Midtown Crossing location later this month. Owner Lisa Smith said she is thrilled to be making the move from her current spot in west Omaha. “I needed a more hip location,” she said. “It’s alive there at Midtown Crossing; it’s on fire. I’m looking forward to being part of that good momentum and embracing that sense of community.”
The Ugly Sister Boutique in Midtown Crossing
Smith said Me & Me features a “trendy yet sophisticated” selection of fashion & accessories, including outerwear, scarves, handbags, shoes and jewelry – all from leading designers. She is looking forward to debuting a line of men’s wear at the new address, 3157 Farnam St. next to Chef2. “I’m going to amp it up a bit,” she said. Smith launched Me & Me with her cousin in 2008, “a way for people in Omaha to shop outside the box.”
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I’ve Made My List & Checked It Twice
“5 Finds” at The Afternoon at Midtown Crossing I’m normally not this organized, but I popped in yesterday and boy did I uncover some gems. Some are practical, others are playful. What I like most about them is they remind me of my wonderful ‘cast-of-characters” family and I found a surprise for myself, too! Hope you like my “5 Finds” at The Afternoon. Happy Shopping! Charles Viancin Silicone Products - $7.99 – $19.99 Do all husbands carry the “spill gene”? Mine doesn’t seem to notice when anything drips, spills or splatters, but our (lucky) dog does. No more mess with these babies Charles Viancin silicone lids. They seal everything from stainless steel to melamine from air & water and you can pop them in the microwave or dishwasher. Even more excited about the Violet Overboil Silicone Ring. No more food or liquid spattering outside of the pot. And, while it prevents “boil overs” onto your stovetop, there’s an opening so you can stir your food without worrying about spills. Yes! Santa is Coming to Nebraska Book - $9.99 I’m giving this to my niece and nephew so that they can get to know more about our town. With the help of a certain red-nosed reindeer, Santa flies over, (among others): Memorial Stadium (Go Big Red!) in Lincoln; Joslyn Castle and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium in Omaha; and the Great Platte River Road Archway.
Nebraska Epicurean Cutting Board – $24.99 My brother-in-law will love this. He’s a Huskers fan (did you catch the State of NE shape) even though he lives in New York. Just re-did his kitchen and has gorgeous granite countertops. I love that the board is made with FSC certified wood fibers, compressed with a food-safe resin. The Afternoon folks told me it’s heat resistant to 350 degrees F so it’ll protect his kitchen surfaces. Looks like it cleans easily, too.
Village Cuckoo Clock - $279 I promise, I am not calling my mom a cuckoo. But, I do think she’ll get a kick out of this clock. The frame’s made out of white painted wood and it’s topped with an adorable stag head ornament, pine cone weights & swinging pendulum (they’re all made out of plastic). A hilarious cuckoo bird pops out on the hour to flap its wings & make its call. I could totally see mom hanging a few minature ornaments from the stag’s horns.
Gurgle Pots - $42.00 Is it OK to buy myself something? Well, I did (shhhh)! These Gurgle Pots are a riot. They’re pitchers that produce a soft “gurgle” sound as you pour your favorite beverage. They’re made from stoneware and I loved all of the colors but settled on the lime green. Might snatch a few more and group them as floral vases! Make your list, check it twice, then head to The Afternoon and all will be nice! The Afternoon at Midtown Crossing 3157 Farnam Street, Suite 7101 PH: 402-933-3809 www.theafternoon.com
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT ... 1 | Marcus Midtown Cinema Now Offering $5 and $7 Movies Enjoy a holiday blockbuster, complete with new pricing, including $5 matinee and $7 evening tickets. During the movie, be sure to order dinner from the new Cine Dine menu!
2 | Free Shuttle Now Available to Creighton Men’s Basketball Games The Three-Point Shuttle, courtesy of Saints Patio + Pub and Chicago Dawg House, whisks guests from Midtown Crossing to the CenturyLink Center Omaha for each men’s basketball home game. Grab dinner before the game, hop aboard the shuttle and return for a post-game celebration!
3 | Ingredient is Now Open Earlier for Breakfast Your favorite breakfast stop, Ingredient, is now open even earlier for weekday breakfast! Stop in as early as 6 a.m. MondayFriday to enjoy Ingredient’s signature breakfast menu.
4 | The Grey Plume Announces Second Business Clayton Chapman, nationally-renowed chef-owner of The Grey Plume, has announced his plans to open a second business right here at Midtown Crossing! “The Grey Plume Provisions”, set to debut next spring, will serve as the retail complement to The Grey Plume.
5 | Cantina Laredo Hosting December Tequila Dinner You won’t want to miss this exclusive four-course dinner with Patron Tequila on Friday, December 6th at Cantina Laredo. Reserve your spot by calling 402.345.6000.
FREE DELIVERY OR 10% OFF DINE-IN ORDERS
Midtown Crossing
Residents
*Show this ad or print to receive discount. One item minimum on delivery. Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.
Enjoy 20% off every day, all day when you show your resident card! PLUS join us for Half-Price Sushi Monday - Wednesay after 4 pm
3201 Farnam Street, Suite 6107 Omaha, NE 68131 PH: (402) 934-7262 www.pana88.com
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RETAIL / RESTAURANT DIRECTORY SHOPPING
ENTERTAINMENT
The Afternoon 402.933.3809
The Corky Canvas 402.637.4066
Chef 402.991.5656
The Glo Lounge 402.342.4505
Hutch 402.995.9842
Marcus Midtown Cinema 402.346.6900
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Me & Me
Coming Soon!
Three Dog Bakery 402.715.4500
SERVICES
The Ugly Sister Boutique 402.499.6677
Arlan’s Barber Shop 402.505.8767
Wohlner’s Neighborhood Grocery and Deli 402.551.6875
Callahan Financial Planning 402.341.2000 Defintive Vision 402.502.7323 Fashion Cleaners 402. 916.1987
DINING
Garbo’s Salon and Spa 402.933.9737
Black Oak Grill 402.341.0622 Brix 402.991.8466 Cantina Laredo 402.345.6000 Chicago Dawg House
402.504.1234
Cold Stone Creamery/ Rocky Mountain Chocolate 402.359.1719
Lotus House of Yoga 402.933.1822 NT Nails 402.991.7676 Prairie Life Fitness 402.916.5000 Element by Westin 402.614.8080 Z-Wireless 402.991.1180
CRAVE 402.345.9999 Délice European Bakery 402.505.9500 The Grey Plume 402.763.4447 Ingredient 402.715.4444
FOR THE MOST CURRENT LISTINGS AND INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.MIDTOWNCROSSING.COM
Lenny’s Sub Shop 402.218.1745 Pana 88 402.934.7262 Saints Pub + Patio 402.932.1911
FUNDRAISE YOUR PANTS OFF FOR THE
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Comments? Questions? Suggestions for upcoming newsletters? Send an email to midtown@mycounterparts.com 8