November 2023 Momaha

VOLUME 14 · ISSUE 11

NOVEMBER

2023

Create festive, fall decor for your front door

HOLIDAY EVENTS Fill your calendar from our list of festive events

At Children’s Physicians, we give your child our very best. Help keep your child healthy this cold and flu season by scheduling a flu vaccine appointment today!

• Flu vaccines help keep your child, family and community safe.

• All Children’s Physicians offices offer scheduled, in-office flu vaccinations clinics.

• Parents and guardians are also able to receive their flu vaccine alongside their child.

• It is perfectly safe for children to receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same appointment.

• Flu clinics will be available through the first week of November.

Get ahead of the rush and schedule your child’s flu vaccine today!

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org/Flu to learn more.

CARE

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November 2023

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ADVO CACY

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RESEARCH

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E D U C AT I O N

BOOKSHELF THE BOOKWORM

NEBRASKA AUTHORS ‘BETTING ON YOU’

by Lynn Painter

Bailey and Charlie are coworkers at a hotel waterpark and polar opposites. But instead of everything about him rubbing Bailey the wrong way, she starts to look forward to hanging out and gossiping about the waterpark guests and their coworkers. Charlie insists that members of the opposite sex can’t just be friends, and Bailey is determined to prove him wrong. Soon, what Charlie was hoping to avoid becomes a reality as Bailey starts to see him as not only a friend she can rely on — but someone who makes her hands shake and heart race.

But Charlie has a secret — a secret that involves Bailey and another bet Charlie may have made. Can the two make a real go of things… or has Charlie’s secret doomed them before they could start? Available Nov. 28.

‘WAR BEGINS IN PARIS’

by Theodore Wheeler

Paris, 1938. Two women meet: Mielle, a shy pacifist and shunned Mennonite who struggles to fit in with the elite cohort of foreign correspondents stationed around the city; the other, Jane, a brash, legendary

American journalist, who is soon to become a fascist propagandist. When World War II makes landfall in the City of Lights, Mielle falls under Jane’s spell, growing ever more intoxicated by her glamour, self-possession and reckless confidence. But as this recklessness devolves into militarism and an utter lack of humanity, Mielle is seized by a series of visions that show her an inescapable truth: Jane Anderson must die, and Mielle must be the one to kill her.

Wheeler will be launching his book at The Bookworm on Nov. 14 at 6 p.m.

‘TED KOOSER: MORE THAN A LOCAL WONDER’

by Carla Ketner illustrated by Paula Wallace

Long before Ted Kooser won a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry, served as the U.S. poet laureate, and wrote award-winning books for children, he was an unathletic child growing up in Iowa, yearning to fit in.

Young Teddy found solace in stories, and one specific book, Robert McCloskey’s “Lentil,” inspired him to become a writer. As a child and later, while working in the insurance industry, Ted honed his craft and unique style as he wrote about the people and places of the rural Midwest. This book celebrates the power of stories and of finding oneself through words.

‘FANGIRL’ 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

by Rainbow Rowell

The anniversary edition includes exclusive bonus content.

Cath is a Simon Snow fan. OK, the whole world is a Simon Snow fan, but for Cath, being a fan is her life – and she’s really good at it. She and her twin sister, Wren, ensconced themselves in the Simon Snow series when they were just kids; it’s what got them through their mother leaving. Wren has mostly grown away from fandom, but Cath can’t let go. Now that they’re off to college, Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She’s got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend, a fiction-writing professor who thinks fan fiction is the end of the civilized world, a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words. For Cath, the question is: Can she do this? Can she make it without Wren holding her hand? Is she ready to start living her own life? And does she even want to move on if it means leaving Simon Snow behind? Available Nov. 7

‘PERFUME THIEF’

by Timothy Schaffert Clementine is a reformed con artist with a penchant for impeccably tailored suits. Her life of crime has led all over the world. She settles down in Paris in 1930 and opens a shop bottling her favorite extracts for the ladies of the cabarets. Now it’s 1941 and Clem’s favorite haunt is crawling with Nazis,

while Clem’s people are disappearing.

When the cabaret’s prize songbird, Zoe St. Angel, recruits Clem to steal the recipe book of a nowmissing famous Parisian perfumer, she can’t say no. Her mark is Oskar Voss, a Francophile Nazi bureaucrat, who wants the book and Clem’s expertise to himself.

Hoping to buy the time and trust she needs to pull off her scheme, Clem settles on a novel strategy: Telling Voss the truth about the life and loves she came to Paris to escape.

‘100 THINGS TO DO IN OMAHA BEFORE YOU DIE’ (2ND EDITION)

by Tim & Lisa Trudell

Discover the city’s unique coffee flights.

Learn about the history of the Reuben sandwich. Catch a unique view of the city while ziplining 55 feet above the ground. Immerse yourself in nature on a safari where you can see herds of bison or catch glimpses of grey wolves and black bears. Pretend you’re royalty while touring a mansion that resembles a Scottish castle. The Omaha authors take you on a tour of the city’s unique and interesting sites with fun facts and helpful tips. Whether you grew up in Omaha, are an Omaha transplant, or are just passing through, this book will make you appreciate the city like you never have before.

Find these titles and many more by shopping locally at The Bookworm. Located at 90th and Center Streets, The Bookworm is an independent, family-owned bookstore with over 6,000-square-feet of space.

The Bookworm offers an excellent selection of books, an outstanding children’s section and friendly, knowledgeable staff who know the books they sell. Learn more at www.bookwormomaha.com.

2501 S. 90th 402-392-2877 bookwormomaha.com 4

November 2023

Books for all ages and interests!

Registration Recommended for Story Time.

ON OUR RADAR MOMAHA STAFF

CURIOUS ELIXIRS‌

THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH

BLOWN-GLASS ORNAMENTS‌ These ornaments from Old World Christmas have the look and charm of antique blown-glass.

And better yet, you will be able to find the perfect ornament for everyone you know. The company has more than 1,400 designs ranging from traditional to whimsical. You can shop the website by interest. Some of the categories include: animals and pets; food and drink; education; fairy tales, music, nature, occupations, outdoors, sports and recreation, toys and games or travel. They also have ornaments for Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Valentines Day. Truly something for everyone here. oldworldchristmas.com, prices vary

Curious Elixirs are booze-free craft cocktails that are gluten-free, caffeine-free, and contain no refined sugar or preservatives. Each flavor — named No. 1 through No. 8 — is handcrafted by a team of bartenders, food scientists and herbalists using organic juices, herbs, spices, roots and botanicals with bodyboosting and mind-soothing effects. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy a flavorful beverage without the negative effects of alcohol. Our testers sampled five of the flavors. All the flavors were good but No. 6 was the group’s clear favorite. Their thoughts: “It tastes kind of chai-ish,” “It’s not like anything else I’ve ever had, but in a good way” and “I didn’t expect to like it but it was my favorite.” Others that rose to the top were No. 2 — “It reminds me of my favorite jalapeno margarita” and No. 7 — “This drink is sophisticated and very drinkable. It reminds me of something you’d serve at a wedding reception.” The website has a quiz and flavor profiles for each of the drinks. They can be purchased by the flavor or as monthly variety packs. curiouselixirs.com, starting at $36

ZIPNHANG‌ NIGHT LIGHT‌ This cute little egg-shaped night light is lightweight and portable.

With simple tap-on and tap-off technology, the light is dimmable and comes in eight colors to choose from. It has a rechargeable battery and an energy-saving one-hour timer. It was perfect in our tester’s nursery. She set it right next to the changing table.

“When you are stumbling around in the middle of the night, you don’t want to turn on a bright light to change diapers. This was exactly what we needed to have enough light to see by but not so bright everyone was wide awake. I’ll gift this to every new mom I know.” vava.com, $23.99

The ZipNHang is a game changer for door hooks. Our tester recently painted her front door and didn’t want it to get scratched by a traditional over-the-door hook. “This product is amazing. It’s made of a heavy-duty plastic string that won’t scratch my doors. And with the simple push of a button you can raise or lower the hangar to whatever height you want.” If you can wrap a string around your door’s upper corners, ZipNHang is your door-hanging solution.

It is designed to hold up to 10 pounds. The gnome on Page 8 was hung with the ZipNHang. amazon.com, $27.95

EASEL‌ Encourage your children to explore their inner artist with the Little Partners Artist EZ Easel. The assembly takes less than 15 minutes.

The possibilities for creative play are endless with a chalkboard, whiteboard and paper roll for drawing or painting their next masterpiece. Two paint cups, paper clips and an eraser are included, as well as two storage shelves for organization and easy access to art supplies. The whiteboard is not magnetic. Our tester said both her one- and three-year-olds had fun with it. “Setting up the easel was really easy. Ava loved it! We played with it outside and it is sturdy and held up even with the wind.” It’s available in three colors. littlepartners.com, $119.99

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SPONSORED FEATURE EARLY DEVELOPMENT NETWORK

‘WE’VE GOT THIS’ At-home speech therapy services ‘changed our lives forever,’ say Omaha parents DESTINI NEWBURN SPECIAL FOR EARLY DEVELOPMENT NETWORK

O

ur journey with at-home speech services through the Early Development Network began with our son, Otto, and continued with our daughter, Payton.

We were referred to the program after our children were diagnosed with a speech delay during routine pediatrician appointments. This program has changed our lives forever. As first-time parents, we found ourselves questioning whether we were doing a good job.

From the first day, we welcomed an amazing and supportive team into our home. They listened to us, encouraged us and created a plan to help us achieve our speech goals. Although it’s difficult to hear that your child is behind, the team was always understanding and caring.

With Otto, we were navigating uncharted waters, and it often felt overwhelming. We moved to a new home, switched school districts and received a new autism diagnosis. In spite of it all, we were making progress.

When we began working with our new speech therapist in our new home district, we were apprehensive about potentially losing the progress we had made. Little did I know that she would become what we affectionately call our “fairy godmother.”

Our speech therapist and services coordinator were wonderful. They gave us reassurance, love and patience. The speech therapist even gave me a hug on the first day and said, “We’ve got this. You are not alone, and you’re doing such an amazing job.”

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Throughout everything, we were able to adjust our plan and be flexible.

I never felt alone and never felt like any question was too silly, or that I was being a bother. They taught us how to teach our children a valuable life skill – to use their voice, with or without speaking.

When we began with our daughter, Payton, we were ready to take on a new season with a new star player. Once again, we were fully supported, and they made us feel like we were the only family they were helping, even though they were serving multiple families.

They became part of our support system, and they still are. They poured so much support into our home that we cannot thank them enough. With their guidance, we were able to give our children the best start to our new normal.

Now, Otto is thriving at school, learning to read, and has a strong interest in SpongeBob. Payton is a sassy girl who knows what she wants and is

not afraid to speak her mind. We love reading books as a family and take turns bringing the pictures to life if we can’t read all the words.

As parents, we have the tools and knowledge to foster our children’s growth when it comes to education.

It takes a village to raise kids, and sometimes that support comes to you in different ways.

This program is our foundation, our guiding light, and they truly change lives. The team’s support has given us the courage and strength to face any challenge that comes our way. We could not be more grateful for the incredible impact they have had on our family.

It is never too early to ask questions about your child’s development. Take advantage of free early intervention services through your school district. For more information, call 402-5974936 or visit our website at omahaedn.esu3.org.

NATURE

at your

FINGERTIPS KILEY CRUSE | World-Herald Staff Writer‌

L

eaf print napkins are fun way to dress up your Thanksgiving table.

While this craft will require some adult help, there are definitely parts that are kid-friendly.

First, you’ll need to head out on a family nature walk through your yard or neighborhood looking for just-fallen leaves.

Kids can help paint the leaves, but may need help carefully transferring the painted leaves to the fabric.

Love the idea but not fabric napkins? Try making decorated placemats or create a seasonal apron instead!

LEAF PRINT NAPKINS‌ • • • •

100% cotton napkins Fabric paint Leaves Paper towels

• Rolling pin • Paintbrush • Plain paper

1. Wash, dry and iron napkins after purchase, before painting. We found 18-inch square napkins with the fall decor on sale at Hobby Lobby.

2. Walk your yard, neighborhood or park for fallen leaves.

You’ll want ones with distinct veins on the back and that are not enough to crumble when you pick them up.

3. In your crafting space, fold napkin in half with the fold pointing away from you and the open end toward you.

Place a piece of paper or cardstock between the layers.

4. On another piece of paper, turn the leaf vein side up.

Use a paintbrush to cover the entire leaf and stem with paint.

5. Carefully put the leaf, paint side down, on the center of the cloth napkin.

6. Put a paper towel over the napkin and gently roll a rolling pin over the leaf a few times.

7. Carefully pull up the paper towel and leaf.

8. Set napkin aside to dry. Repeat with remaining napkins.

KILEY CRUSE, THE WORLD-HERALD‌

9. After drying for at least 24 hours, heat set the paint for permanency and washability. By using 100% cotton napkins, you can heat-set them using an iron on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes. Put a scrap piece of fabric between the napkin and your iron to ensure no paint is transferred to your hot iron. Continuously move the iron so you don’t burn the fabric.

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FALL LEAVES GNOME • • • • • •

½ yard of burlap fabric Silk fall-colored leaf stems 2- to 2½-inch round foam ball Nude pantyhose Hot glue gun 6 inch piece of ribbon

• Triangle piece of sturdy cardboard or the plastic frame from an old dollar store Halloween or Christmas hat decoration • Fall f lowers, straw or other embellishments (for the hat)

1. Cut out a triangle from sturdy cardboard (about 8 inches wide by 15 inches tall).

Alternately, I removed the tinsel from an old Dollar Tree witch hat decoration. Santa hats may be in the stores now.

2. Lay stems of silk leaves so they hang off of the 8-inch side of the triangle. How many stems this takes will depend on how full they are.

Ours only took two stems from Hobby Lobby, but they were very full. Attach with hot glue.

3. Cut a leg off of a pair of pantyhose. Insert the foam ball in the leg and tie a knot. This will be the nose of the gnome. If you are using a piece of cardboard, trim excess hose. You will glue this to the board. If you have a hat from an old decoration, you can tie the nose to the frame or glue it, whichever is easier.

4. Lay your half yard of burlap with the folded edge toward you on your crafting space with something under it to protect the surface. Fold the burlap up about 1 inch and glue the outer edges to hold. Be very careful here. The glue is HOT and with the loose weave of the burlap it’s easy to burn yourself. Consider using a bench scraper from your kitchen to press and hold the burlap until the glue cools.

gnomies KILEY CRUSE PHOTOS, THE WORLD-HERALD

For the base of the gnome, you can use the frame from a dollar store witch or Santa hat decoration. Remove the tinsel decor. If your repurposed frame has a brim, use wire cutters to remove it. Alternately, you can use a piece of sturdy cardboard in a triangle shape.

HANGING WITH MY

Y

KILEY CRUSE | World-Herald Staff Writer

ou don’t have to look far to see that gnome decorations have spiked in popularity the last couple years.

Maybe “Santa’s Lazy Gnome” — an alternative to Elf on a Shelf — was the cause. Or possibly it was the social media post from Carole Middleton, grandma to Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, about hiding cute Christmas gnomes around her house for the grandkids to find.

Or maybe it’s just because they are so cute and adaptable to every holiday decor.

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November 2023

5. Flip the burlap over so the fold, which will be the lip of the hat, is facing down. Lay the hat frame and leaves face down over the burlap. Make sure the burlap overlaps the bottom slightly.

6. Fold the left side of the burlap over the frame. It should reach about the middle of the back of the gnome. Hot glue the base of the hat in place.

7. Once the bottom left side of the hat is secure, continue hot gluing the burlap on the left side to the triangle frame.

You’ll need a triangle frame, branches of fall colored leaves, a half yard of burlap, a 2.5-inch foam ball and a pair of nude pantyhose along with a hot glue gun to put it all together.

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Above: Use hot glue to attach 2-3 branches of leaves to the hat frame. Right: Cut off one leg of the pantyhose. Put the foam ball inside and tie a knot. Below: If you have a plastic or wire frame, tie the nose to the bottom middle. If you are using a cardboard frame. Trim extra hose and hot glue to the hat.

Ages 6 Mos. & older.

Morning, Morning, Afternoon, evening Afternoon, evening & & sAt. sAt. Morning Morning

8. Since you are turning a rectangle piece of burlap into a triangle hat, there will be excess fabric at the top that can be trimmed to make it glue together better. This extra fabric will be put to use at the end.

9. Once the left side is glued to a point the height you’d like for the gnome hat, begin gluing the right side. You can tuck the fabric under to give it a more finished look.

10. Once hat is all glued together, cut a small slit in the burlap on the back to string the ribbon through as your hangar.

11. Turn the gnome over. Glue the nose to the middle of the gnome. Tuck it under the hat so about ½ to ¾ is showing.

12. Take extra burlap you cut off when making the hat and gently tuck it up on either side of the nose to give the hat some added shape.

13. Take two extra leaves and hot glue them in the gap left on either side of the nose so you can’t see up the hat.

14. Use extra leaves, straw, fall flowers or berries to add embellishment to the rim of the hat.

15. Hang your cute gnome for everyone to admire.

402-932-2030 LittleWavesFamilySwimSchool.com 9

POPS OF

COLOR

If you’re searching for some gorgeous fall scenery, check out these nine state parks MARJIE DUCEY | World-Herald Staff Writer‌

I

t’s “leaf peeping time” at Nebraska’s state parks.

If you’re ready to do some exploring to see the best fall scenery, you can try a leisurely drive, a scenic hike or an overnight stay.

“Obviously the fall colors is a great opportunity to see our parks in their autumn splendor,” said Jeff Fields, parks division administrator for the Nebraska Game and Parks.

Indian Cave State Park ranks at the top of his list. The variety of trees found there makes it special, he said.

In the area, Mahoney, Ponca and Platte River Stat Parks are also good places to stop, he said, as well as the Schramm Park State Recreation Area.

A lot of activities are planned in the fall, he said, so park visitors will find plenty to do when they arrive.

Here’s some ideas from Renae Blum of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

TO DRIVE THROUGH‌ There’s nothing more relaxing on a fall day than taking a drive through splashes of autumn color, and several Nebraska state parks provide that opportunity.

Indian Cave State Park, 10 miles south of Brownville, boasts views of a mature hardwood forest known for putting on a fall show. Many tree species can be found here, such as red oak, ash, black walnut, bur oak and maple, potentially creating panoramas of yellow, orange, red and purple. You may be enticed to park, enjoy a picnic lunch, and hike the 22 miles of scenic trails for a closer look.

Other sites perfect for a fall drive are Fort Robinson State Park in western Nebraska and Medicine Creek State Recreation Area in the southwestern part of the state. There you may find bursts of yellow in the parks’ groves of green ash and cottonwood trees.

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JENNY NGUYEN, NEBRASKALAND MAGAZINE/NGPC

Fall color at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Mansion includes 270 varieties of trees and shrubs.

TO HIKE‌ Seeing fall color up close on a hiking trail is one of the best ways to experience the season. One state park with lots of opportunities is Smith Falls in north-central Nebraska.

Several trails wind through this wooded park, where you may find bright red sumac and the yellows of quaking aspens, black walnut and paper birch. Make sure to bring your camera, as Smith Falls is also home to the state’s highest waterfall.

For a touch of history along with fall scenery, visit Rock Creek Station State Historical Park, about 9 miles east of Fairbury.

The park has 6 miles of hiking and nature trails winding through beautiful grasses and wooded areas, from which you can view the park’s reconstructed buildings and wagon ruts left by travelers on the Oregon-California Trail.

At its peak, fall color here can include the bright reds of smooth sumac and the shades of yellow found in green ash, American elm and cottonwood trees.

Niobrara State Park in northeastern Nebraska offers a variety of trees on its 14 miles of hiking trails. Enjoy taking in the yellows of cottonwood, green ash, black walnut and basswood, as well as bright red sumac.

TO STAY OVERNIGHT‌ After a hike through an autumn wonderland, make a weekend of it and stay overnight to fully soak in your surroundings. Several Nebraska state parks offer great lodging accommodations as well as fall foliage.

Campers at Chadron State Park in western Nebraska may be surrounded by the vivid colors of maple trees at the campground. The park also has 22 cabins for rent, which have heating and air conditioning and are furnished with blankets, towels, stoves, refrigerators, silverware and cooking utensils.

During your stay, make sure to spend some time enjoying more than 100 miles of beautiful trails, from which you may be able to view green ash and cottonwood trees displaying their yellow fall leaves.

If you’ve got a group, Ponca State Park is a great location, offering 15 mini-lodges with plenty of space and amenities.

Other lodging options include cottages, rustic cabins and green cabins constructed from straw bales.

Hike the park’s 22 miles of trails to discover the yellows and reds of smooth sumac, cottonwood, elms, black walnut and other species.

Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, located in Nebraska City, offers another fun option for history lovers.

Stay overnight at Arbor Day Farm’s Lied Lodge, then head up the street to this stately park, once the home of J. Sterling

ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND MAGAZINE/NGPC

A view from the scenic overlook on loop road at Indian Cave State Park.

Morton, the founder of Arbor Day. Tour the 52-room mansion, then stroll the surrounding grounds, which are filled with 270 varieties of trees and shrubs, including at least 10 state champion trees.

As you visit various Nebraska state parks, be aware that you may be sharing the park with hunters, as limited

managed hunting is offered at some locations.

Pay attention to signage, wear bright clothing, and stick to trails, which hunters typically avoid. It’s also a good idea to call the park ahead of your visit and ask about color conditions.

To learn more about the parks listed here, and to purchase your required park entry permit, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov.

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Winterfest at Bayless Park

Start the

holiday season

JOE SHEARER, THE DAILY NONPAREIL

with a full

calendar RACHEL GEORGE | Council Bluffs Nonpareil

‘S

leigh” the holidays this year and get in the spirit. Check out these local events and make sure to mark your calendars and check them twice: HOLIDAY HEROES CHILI COOK OFF

The Bellevue Police and Fire Departments will host a chili cook off and silent auction Nov. 10, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Beardmore Event Center, 3750 Raynor Parkway, Bellevue.

The event will raise funds for the Holiday Heroes program, a partnership with the Bellevue Public Schools to provide holiday gifts and clothing to families in need. Sample some award-winning chili for $10 per person, ages 9 and up, while funding a good cause.

SEASON OF LIGHTS Thousands of white LED lights will be on display in Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, from 31st to 33rd and Farnam to Dodge Streets starting Nov. 13. The display will be up through Feb. 14.

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November 2023

TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA AT THE MAC Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform Nov. 15 at the Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way in Council Bluffs. The show — The Ghosts of Christmas Eve — begins at 7 p.m. Or, catch the show Nov. 16 at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Find tickets and more information at trans-siberian.com.

WINTERFEST AT BAYLISS PARK The City of Council Bluffs is partnering with a host of community organizations for its annual holiday tradition Nov. 17.

Winterfest activities begin at 6 p.m. with the Bayliss Park holiday lighting ceremony, 100 Pearl St. Other activities include Santa’s Workshop, featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus; reindeer; festive photo ops; face painting, balloons and art activities; free hot cocoa; ice sculpting; an outdoor movie; story time and craft inside the Union Pacific Museum; live music, food trucks and giveaways. New this year, Pottawattamie County Conservation is bringing one of Mt. Crescent’s snow-making machines to Bayliss Park.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ The Omaha Community Playhouse’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol” has become a holiday tradition for many Omaha-area residents. The show runs from Nov. 17 through Dec. 23, at 7 p.m.

Wednesdays; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays. The Omaha Community Playhouse is located at 6915 Cass St. Tickets range from $45 to $50. For more information, go to omahaplayhouse.com.

AMERICAN MIDWEST BALLET PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ The American Midwest Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is a family tradition. The performance is set for the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, 1001 S. Sixth St. in Council Bluffs, on Nov. 18, or at Omaha’s Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St., on Dec. 9-10. A special sensory-friendly show designed to increase accessibility for people on the autism spectrum is set for Nov. 19 at the Hoff Center. Find more information and tickets at amballet.org/tickets.

HOLIDAY POINSETTIA SHOW AND BRIGHT NIGHTS AT LAURITZEN GARDENS Lauritzen Gardens’ popular holiday display returns with thousands of colorful poinsettias in the floral display hall. In the center of it all is a 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree. The display includes festive foliage, ornaments, and the model garden trains. In the evening, explore illuminated indoor gardens on select nights during the Holiday Poinsettia Show. Check out the holiday light installations amid flowers and nature. Located at 100 Bancroft St., the Poinsettia Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Standard garden admission rates apply; members are free.

Bright Nights events will be held Nov. 18-19, Nov. 22, Nov. 24-26, Dec. 1-3, Dec. 8-23 and Dec. 26-30. The floral hall and conservatory will be adorned with lights from 5 to 8 p.m. Advance tickets are required and are only available online for Bright Nights. Tickets are $15 for adults; $9 for children ages 3 to 12; and $7.50 for garden members or $4.50 for members ages 3 to 17; ages 2 and under are free, lauritzengardens.org.

Holiday Poinsettia Show and Bright Nights at Laurizten Gardens KILEY CRUSE‌, THE WORLD-HERALD

ADOBE STOCK‌

AVOID

OVEREATING CHRISTMAS AT UNION STATION‌ Kick off Christmas at Union Station with a tree-lighting ceremony Nov. 24 at the Durham Museum. The program will feature Omaha’s official Christmas tree, holiday concerts and Santa visits through Jan. 7. Check the Durham’s website for more details.

2023 HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL‌ The Holiday Lights Festival celebrates its 23rd season this year. Festivities kick off on Nov. 25 in the Old Market and surrounding areas, with the display running from 10th to 13th Streets and Farnam to Jackson Streets. A lighting ceremony is set for that night at Gene Leahy Mall.

Lighting displays will also be set up in the Old Market from 10th to 13th Streets and Harney to Jackson Streets; in North Omaha along North 24th Street from Burdette to Ohio Streets; and in South Omaha along South 24th Street from L to Q Streets. Lighting displays will remain up through Jan. 8.

WINTER WONDERLAND‌ Papillion’s annual Winter Wonderland is set for Nov. 25 from 4 to 8 p.m. Proceeds from the event support the Papillion Community Foundation’s grant-giving and scholarship programs.

Join Mayor David Black as he flips the switch to light the city and enjoy hot chocolate, candy canes, pancakes, entertainment and

DURING THE HOLIDAYS

free carriage rides. Visit with Santa and his reindeer at the Historic Portal School House. A full schedule of events will soon be available at papillionfoundation.org.

SANTA’S SLEIGH RIDE AND TREE LIGHTING‌ When Santa comes to La Vista for his annual sleigh ride, he’ll be adding extra holiday cheer and a brand new stop to his route. This year, Santa will end his cruise through La Vista in Central Park where he’ll light the City’s Christmas tree, lead a holiday sing-along and pose for a giant group selfie. Oh what fun!

The fun is set for Nov. 26 from 3 to 7:30 p.m.

Santa will begin making his way through La Vista neighborhoods at 3 p.m. His workshop in Central Park will offer free cookies, hot cocoa, glow necklaces, caroling and reindeer beginning at 5:30 p.m. The sleigh ride ends in Central Park at 7 p.m. to light the city’s Christmas tree and holiday lights. There will be caroling and a community group photo.

KSO CHRISTMAS PRESENT‌ The Kanesville Symphony Orchestra will perform its Christmas Present concert on Nov. 26. The concert will feature a variety of classic Christmas tunes as well as some modern favorites. Find tickets and information at paceartsiowa.org/music.

T

DR. AMY LEE | Head of Nutrition for Nucific‌

he holiday season is here, and while it can be fun (and exhausting) to see family and friends during this busy time of year, it’s also a time when many of us over-indulge in delicious desserts, foods high in fat, and more.

The holiday season means, friends, families, parties and … FOOD. They almost go hand in hand, so people have to mentally prep themselves to make sure they don’t gain weight or regain any weight they have worked hard to lose throughout the year.

Here are a few easy things you can do to avoid overeating this holiday season, while still enjoying some of your favorites:  Eat before you go to a gathering. You cannot depend on others to make the “healthiest” foods just to accommodate any diet you may be on. Preparing your stomach prior by filling up on healthy foods ahead of a party will curb your urge to snack.  Keep a noncaloric beverage in your hands and focus on mingling with friends and family. Take sips of your beverage if you are the type that gets nervous in crowds.

This tactic is to keep yourself “occupied” which may help you not grab food off the buffet table.  Know how much proteins and net carbs you need to eat daily so when you are given the opportunity to eat, you know exactly what to focus on.  Don’t hang out in the kitchen as people often do at parties. This oftentimes can cause you to mindlessly eat.

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HOLIDAY MAGIC TAKES FL GHT Make memories happen with ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ at The Rose Theater

KORI RADLOFF

T

he world’s favorite holiday classic will give the gift of Christmas cheer to Omaha audiences when “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” flies to The Rose stage this December. Families won’t want to miss this Christmas classic brought to life on stage with familiar characters, unique puppetry and fun interactive moments that will get the entire audience into the holiday spirit. Don’t miss this wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the little misfit in all of us!

Based on the 1964 Rankin/Bass Productions stop-motion television special, the on-stage production features favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. The adventure story set with an unforgettable holiday musical score by Johnny Marks (including the catchy “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” theme song), is certain to be a lasting memory of this holiday season.

The Rose’s production will bring these beloved characters to the stage through the art of puppetry and other fun elements. The characters from the Island of Misfit Toys and the Abominable Snowman Bumble, as well as other characters will be portrayed as lifesized puppets. The Rose has collaborated with the world-renowned puppet theater What If Puppets from Kansas City to create the characters, perfect replicas that look like they have leapt from the screen to the stage.

Other characters, including Rudolph and his reindeer friends, the elves and Santa will be played by local actors, highlighting the talents of artists from the Omaha community.

Families will enjoy the story, songs, words and characters of the beloved television special presented live on stage as they go on a journey to Santa’s Workshop, the North Pole, and the Island of Misfit Toys.

Rose Artistic Director Matt Gutschick (who

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will be directing the production) shares that audiences can also expect to be a part of the onstage action. “We are planning on having audience members join in the fun with Rudolph noses of their own to support our hero as they sing along to ‘Have a Holly Jolly Christmas’ with the cast,” he says. This is just one of the fun surprises designed to engage young imaginations during the show.

The on-stage production draws inspiration from the television special, which is the longest continuously-running Christmas TV special in the United States. The story follows the life of a young reindeer who is born with a glowing red nose. Despite his family’s efforts to hide Rudolph’s nose, it doesn’t take long for the other reindeer to discover that he isn’t like the rest of them. When Rudolph begins to feel he doesn’t belong in Christmas town, he decides to run away in the hope of finding a place that accepts him. Along his journey, discovers a variety of friends who all consider themselves misfits. The unlikely friends set off on a merry and heart-warming adventure of acceptance and self-discovery.

When Rudolph finally returns home, he discovers his family has been looking for him and now needs his help. Will the very things that make Rudolph and his friends feel like outcasts now be the tools they need to save the day? And when a storm threatens to keep Santa’s sleigh from taking flight, can Rudolph use his special gift to save Christmas?

Audiences will be left with a true holiday gift: the important message that what makes you different can make you special.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” runs Dec. 1 through 23, with performances Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The show is 90 minutes with an intermission. Tickets are available at www.rosetheater.org or by calling 402-345-4849. Discounted ticket vouchers are available at area Hy-Vee stores.

This is certainly a Rose Theater production that will go down in his-tor-y!

Charlie-in-the-Box, above, is one of many puppets created for the Rose Theater’s production of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” All of the puppets, made by What If Puppets of Kansas City, below, are perfect replicas of the television version of the show.

When Bones Break or Backs Don’t Bend Quite Right,

Talk to a Doc at Boys Town When you or your loved ones experience an acute injury or long-term pain of the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles or nerves, Boys Town Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine is here to help.

Our team has clinical and surgical experience caring for: • Sports injuries • Fractures • Scoliosis • Joint replacements • Carpel tunnel, cysts and trigger digits

• Arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, sprains and strains of the extremities and joints • Conditions requiring arthroscopy of knee, shoulder, ankle and elbow

NOT SURE IF YOU NEED AN ORTHOPAEDIST? Talk to your primary care doctor about concerns and care options or scan the QR code for a quick guide.

Call 531-355-6800 to schedule an appointment.

Patients can get a referral from a primary care provider or self-refer.

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DEC 1 -23, 2023 Fridays at 7 pm • Saturdays at 2 pm & 5:30 pm • Sundays at 2 pm

Based on the animated television special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” adapted from the story by Robert L. May and the song by Johnny Marks.

Music and Lyrics by Johnny Marks Script Adaptation by Robert Penola

Developed by Character Arts Creations, LLC Originally produced, directed and conceived by Jeff Frank and First Stage with scenic and puppet designs by Brandon Kirkham Arrangements by Timothy Splain

Orchestrations by William C. White

TICKETS

The beloved TV classic, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, soars off-screen and onto the stage! Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph in this puppet-filled musical spectacular that speaks to the misfit in all of us. Have a “Holly Jolly Christmas” at The Rose!

$37 Main Floor $32 Balcony Discounted Rate for Rose Members

(402) 345-4849 Show Sponsored By:

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com.

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Tickets & memberships available at www.rosetheater.org