Mar/Ap 2010 Omaha Magazine by Omaha Magazine

FACES • STYLE • HOME • EVENTS • ART • DINING

Omaha's Best Lawyers®

PAGE 53

A Tale of Two Pizzerias

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Can’t be stopped by a tackle, linebacker or cystic fibrosis Some would think it unusual that a girl would play football. But Victoria Franklin is proof that with or without cystic fibrosis, a girl can hold her ground. Dr. John Colombo isn’t surprised. He and other pulmonary specialists at the Nebraska Regional CF Center work to give children with cystic fibrosis futures where no dream is out of bounds.* And, as we see it, Nebraska can always use another great quarterback.

*The Nebraska Regional Cystic Fibrosis Center operates in partnership with Children’s Hospital & Medical Center and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. It is accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and is rated among the top CF treatment centers in the country.

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for more information on how we can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.

Yo u P l ay. We C omp. E v e ry D ay i n M A RC H

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.速 Gambling Problem? For information on responsible gaming, call 1-800-BETS-OFF (Iowa) or 1-800-522-4700 (National).

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Whether you're staying at Harrah's for business or pleasure, we have what you're looking for. We offer luxurious accommodations with our exquisite suites and deluxe rooms, a convenient fitness facility and Internet access in every room. Plus, you'll enjoy more than 1,000 of the hottest slots and all the area's best table game action, fabulous dining and live entertainment by some of music's biggest names.

HarrahsCouncilBluffs.com Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.速 Gambling Problem? For information on responsible gaming, call 1-800-BETS-OFF (Iowa) or 1-800-522-4700 (National).

L U X U R Y

H O M E S

C O L L E C T I O N

Visit: npdodge.com/jimmarriott

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6733 Platteview Road $1,300,000 Executive Country Retreat! Heavily treed 10 acre lot. Sophisticated finishes of travertine & wood floors. Granite & stainless steel kitchen w/custom lighting system throughout. Finished lower level features fabulous wet bar, theater room, & game room with slate floors. Grand curved staircase, extensive landscaping & quiet setting. Jim & Marilyn Marriott • 681.1181

18212 Shadow Ridge Drive $1,195,000 Elegance on the Green! Stunning 1.5 story backs to the 4th fairway at The Ridges! Gorgeous designer finishes, stainless steel Subzero & JennAir appliances. Audio/media surround sound. Fabulous master suite, w/o bsmt, extensive landscaping, Henri Studio fountain, stamped concrete courtyards, aluminum pergola, steel tile roof. Approx. 6675 square foot. The Erb Group • 201.7653

6012 Northern Hills Drive $999,950 Incredible Custom Home on 8 Acres! Beautiful views of the pristine landscaping from every room. Indoor and outdoor sports courts paved roads and circular drive. Gorgeous open great room is equipped with fireplace, plantation shutters. Kitchen has a fireplace, island and new appliances. Peaceful country living…just minutes from everything. The Erb Group • 201.7653

Visit: npdodge.com/jeffrensch

Visit: npdodge.com/korikrause

Visit: npdodge.com/carriowens

5309 Nicholas Street $747,000 Spanish Style Dream! Surprises around every corner in this beautiful, newly updated 3 bedroom, 3 bath home. Huge master suite with spa bath, captivating wine cellar, tons of storage and picturesque landscaping make up this charming beauty. Jeff Rensch • 391.5333

1745 N Nye, Fremont $650,000 English Tudor! This unique English Tudor is located in the historic heart of Fremont. Arched windows and doorways on first floor. Original leaded glass is found in the master suite and great room. You will find beautiful library paneling in the foyer, 5 spacious bedrooms, 6 bathrooms and a 5 car garage. This is truly an exquisite home with lots of history. Kori Krause • 679.0007

5657 S 208 Street $650,000 French Country! Open floor plan with cathedral ceilings and high end appliances. Granite counter tops, custom cabinetry and walk in pantry. Great room, formal dining room and sun room. 5 bedroom, 5 bath complete with w/o LL featuring a large family area, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths plus wet bar. Carri Owens • 871.6753

Visit: npdodge.com/kristenwehnerjacobsen

Visit: npdodge.com/robcerveny

Visit: npdodge.com/gloriaruesch

19258 Woolworth Avenue $575,000 Loaded with Extras! Kitchen with double ovens, gas stove, granite counter tops and a walk in pantry. MBR features French doors, sitting room, double sinks and bonus room. All BR’s are complete with walk-in closets and separate baths. Rec room completes the walk-out LL with wet bar, game area and large media area. This home is life’s better half and it can be yours! Kristen Wehner Jacobsen • 672.7701

24376 Barrus Road, Glenwood, IA $435,000 Breathtaking views in all directions! Bring your go carts and dirt bikes, plenty of room for all your toys. Over 10 acres, 4 car garage, 3 bedroom, 3 bath and over 3800 square feet! The best home around for all your entertaining, the open floor plan and large windows open up to reveal your private oasis. Rob Cerveny • 598.3335

12626 Greystone, Council Bluffs, IA $415,000 Private acreage! 20 min. from downtown Omaha. Built for entertaining, open floor plan, granite countertops and new stainless steel appliances. 2.5 acre lot. Breath taking views. Private master suite with luxurious master bath. Finished basement with wet bar and mother-in-law quarters. Extra storage above the four car garage and home security system. Gloria Ruesch • 669.0886

V I R T U A L T O U R S A N D M O R E AT N P D O D G E . C O M

Stop in to See What we do With Glass. From Entryways to Cabinets. Use Your Imagination.

Rainbow Artistic Glass

• Bel Air Plaza St. 330-7676 330-7676 • 3709 S 138th (138th &Road, B St.) Suite 505 12100 West Center www.rainbowartisticglass.com www.rainbowartisticglass.com

D isc ov e r Y o u r o wn

CanCer

doesn’t stand a ChanCe.

secret GarDen This year celebrates the 100th anniversary of the classic novel “The Secret Garden,” and Lauritzen Gardens celebrates with an indoor floral display featuring mysterious meandering paths that lead to new discoveries around every turn. On display through May 9.

100 Bancroft Street • Omaha, NE 68108

Breast cancer expert Hamid Band, M.D., Ph.D., and his colleagues are zeroing in on cures that once were deemed impossible. And, with more than $100 million in annual research support at UNMC, scientists here can tackle the toughest challenges facing us as individuals and as a society. Breakthroughs for life.

unmc.edu

www.lauritzengardens.org

march/april | 2010

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MARCH/APRIL 2010 VOLUME 27 • I SSU E 1 publisher

Now: check out Omaha Magazine online. Using flipbook technology to give you a whole new magazine reading experience.

todd lemke editor

sandra lemke

FEATURES

events editor

corey ross

FEATURE ............................................ 17

assistant editor

OVER THE RAINBOW

linda persigehl

COVER STORY ................................ 20

art director/graphic design

GENERATION "O"

matt jensen

FEATURE .......................................... 34

assistant graphic design

CREIGHTON SCHOOL OF LAW

john gawley arts editor

PAGE 20

kim carpenter photography

image director: bill sitzmann head photographer: philip s. drickey technical advisor

tyler lemke

contributing writers

donald j. rashid • kristine gerber molly garriott • l e o a d a m b i g a vice president

greg bruns

account executives

g w e n l e m k e • gil cohen vick i voet

FEATURE .......................................... 41 OMAHA'S BEST LAWYERS®

DEPAR TMENTS FOR STARTERS ............................................................... 8 CALENDAR ..................................................................... 10 OMAHA ART ................................................................. 27 OMAHA STYLE ............................................................. 31 OMAHA STYLE ............................................................. 31 OMAHA FACES ............................................................. 32 Craig Moody

GALA ..................................................................................................... 53 Letter from the Editor: Corey Ross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

alicia smith hollins

Cover Story: Kicks for a Cure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

editorial advisors

Behind the Mic: Peg Tyre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Scoop: Joslyn Castle Classic Weekend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Galas, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Heart Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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AT HOME WITH

At Ease Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cathedral Flower Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ak-Sar-Ben Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Spirits of the Opera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Debutante Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Girls Nite Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kroc Center Opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Night of a Thousand Stars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

OMAHA FACES ....................................... 73 Mary Thompson

OMAHA HOME Transformations ............................................ At Home With: Anne and Mike McGuire ................ DINING OUT Restaurant Review: A Tale of Two Pizzerias ................ ................. Dining Guide .......................................... Chef Profile: Leo Fascianella .............................. YESTERDAY & TODAY .............................

GALA

CHEF PROFILE

75 78 84 86 97 98

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Omaha

This is

VISITA AL BARRIO

The Florist to the Stars, Mark Held, is Coming to Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha’s Botanical Center for a Spring luncheon and lecture April 21. Mark Held, of Mark’s Garden, is one of the top florists in the world, according to the London Financial Times. Mark’s Garden is designing the floral décor at the Academy Awards Governors Ball, for the 17th consecutive year. The festivities will begin with exclusive shopping in the gift shop at 10:45 and a silent auction. The lecture and floral demonstrations by Held will be followed by lunch at noon. Copies of Held’s book, Fabulous Parties, will be available for FLORIST AND AUTHOR MARK HELD purchase and signing. Tickets are $75/person, patron-level tickets $150/person. For reservations and more information, call Mary at 346-4002, extension 201.

Reserve Your Space in the Cultural and Historical Tour. The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) is leading the project “Cultural & Historical Tour Visita al Barrio” to promote South Omaha as a hard-working community working to develop itself while inviting the investment of Omaha’s traditional communities. All are welcome to join the tour and enjoy snacks and entertainment. Donation of $20 per person is requested. Space reservation deadline is March 5 for the tour on March 19 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The tour will also be held on the following dates: May 14, June 25 and September 3. Make checks payable to: MLCDC. 4923 S. 24 St., Suite 201, Omaha, NE 68107. Contact: 933-4466 or email ywilson@midlandslatinocdc.org. For more information see www.midlandslatinocdc.org.

march/april | 2010

Peel’s Salon Services is hosting the World’s Largest Hands-On Workshop at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs on April 10. The workshop is for cosmetologists, estheticians, massage therapists and salon owners/managers and begins promptly at 4:00 p.m. and goes until 6:00 p.m. in the Arena. The public is invited to attend to witness this record-breaking event. A Guinness Book of World Records official will be on hand to validate the event and answer questions from the press. For more information on this event, contact Beth DeGeorge at Peel’s Salon Services: bdegeorge@peels.com or call 800-777-7335 ext. 1164. Film Streams is hosting the Best of the NY International Children’s Film Festival through March 18. Founded in 1997, NYICFF is dedicated to promoting intelligent, passionate, provocative cinematic works for audiences ages 3-18 and helping to define a more compelling film experience for kids. This touring version of the critically acclaimed festival – the largest www.omahapublications.com

FILM STREAMS "KIDS FLIX"

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festival for children and teens in North America â&#x20AC;&#x201C; comes to the Ruth Sokolof Theater with five of the best programs from 2009. Films showing in March: NYICFF Kids Flix and NYICFF Party Mix. Kids Flix is recommended for ages 3 to 8 and is a kaleidoscopic collection of the best animated short films from around the world. Featuring musical and narrative works from Sweden, France, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Switzerland, the UK and the USA. A spectacular array of traditional, CGI, collage and stopmotion animation styles. Party Mix is an all-animated program of audience and jury favorites from the NYICFF. An eye-opening and highly entertaining collection includes hilarious, visually stunning and thought-provoking shorts, specifically intended for older audiences aged 9 to 16. The Ruth Sokolof Theater is at 1340 Mike Fahey Street in downtown Omaha. For tickets and more information call 933-0259 or see www.filmstreams.org.

Available Sunday -Thursday Open to Close Friday & Saturday until 5 PM

The corner of 132nd and Center

402.778.3915

march/april | 2010

CALENDAR of events

www.visitomaha.com

Compiled by Sandy Lemke farm tractors and equipment displays and seminars on both days. 5-Sep Free. 455 N. 10th St. 346-8003 http://www.showofficeonline.com. 3/4 - 3/4: Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana. Orpheum Theater. Expert footwork, swoops and swooshes, and sizzling attitude make for a lively, can’t-miss show. This premier flamenco troupe brings down the house in sellout shows around the world! 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $19. 409 S. 16 St. 345-0606 www.ticketomaha. com.

Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha’s Botanical Center, will hold its Spring Flower Show 3/1 – 5/9.

CHECK IT! Dates and times are current as of press time but please call ahead to confirm. MARCH EVENTS 3/4: First Thursday Art Talk for March. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. Current artists-in-residence give presentations of their work and discuss their creative processes. Always insightful, these discussions provide a rare opportunity to meet artists and learn first-hand about their inspirations, approaches and techniques. 7 p.m. Free. 3/1 - 3/6: Gross Indecency. UNOmaha Theater. Gross Indecency Moises Kaufman recreates the three trials of Oscar Wilde through a compilation of letters, trial transcripts, poetry, and novels. Kaufman’s dramatically fresh examination of art and society will be directed by Dr. Amy Lane. 7:30pm $15/general admission; $10/seniors; FREE/UNO students with valid UNO ID; $5/non-UNO student with valid school ID. Weber Fine Arts Building, 6001 Dodge. 554PLAY http://www. unotheatre.com. 3/1 - 3/13: CARNAVAL. El Museo Latino. The exhibition “CARNAVAL” presents the theme of carnival as celebrated around the world. Eight communities in Europe and the Americas will be highlighted through this exhibition where a carnival is a high point of the yearly cycle. Mon, Wed, Fri/10am-5pm; Tues & Thurs/1pm-5pm; Sat/10am-2pm Gen $5; Students K-12 & Senior Citizens $3.50; College Students w/ID $4; Members FREE. 4701 S. 25 St. 731-1137 www.elmuseolatino.org.

3/1 - 3/18: Family & Children Film Series: Best of the NY Int’l Children’s Film Festival. Film Streams. Various $9/general; $7/ seniors, students & teachers; $4.50/ Members. 1340 Mike Fahey St. 9330259 http://filmstreams.org. 3/1 - 3/21: Death of a Salesman. Omaha Community Playhouse. For Willy Loman, there is only one American Dream. After 36 years on the road in its pursuit, the traveling salesman, haunted by missed opportunities and an uncertain future must come to terms with a lifetime of selfdeception that has distorted his dream into an American tragedy. Thu-Sat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm $32/ adults, $21/students. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800 http://www.omahaplayhouse.com. 3/1 - 3/26: The Fred Simon Gallery: Mary Day. The Fred Simon Gallery. Displaying the artwork of contemporary Nebraska artists. The Fred Simon gallery is located in the Nebraska Arts Council offices. Every weekday Free. 1004 Farnam St., Lower Level. 595-2122 www.nebraskaartscouncil.org. 3/1 - 4/11: Defining Moments: Works by Bryan Collier. Joslyn Art Museum. See watercolor collage illustrations for the Caldecott Honor Award picture books Martin’s Big Words and Rosa, as well as Visiting Langston and others. Tues-Sat/10am-4pm; Sun/ noon-4pm; closed Mon $8/adults; $6/seniors and college students; $5/youth (ages 5-17); ages 4 and younger free. 2200 Dodge St. (402) 342-3300 http://www. joslyn.org.

march/april | 2010

3/1 - 4/18: The Human Touch: Selections from the RBC Wealth Management Art Collection. Joslyn Art Museum. An exhibition of contemporary artworks devoted to the human figure. The collection ranges from serious to whimsical, from realistic to abstract, and includes photography, painting, and sculpture by established and emerging artists. Tues-Sat/10am-4pm; Sun/noon4pm; closed Mon $8/adults; $6/ seniors and college students; $5/ youth (ages 5-17); ages 4 and younger free. 2200 Dodge St. 3423300 www.joslyn.org. 3/1 - 4/18: Construction Zone. Omaha Children’s Museum. Construction Zone is a kid-sized world of building where kids can explore with machines, tools, a super-sized dig pit and more! Tues-Sat/10am-4pm; Sun/15pm $2 in addition to regular museum admission ($7/Adults & Children 2 & Over; $6/Seniors 60+), Members pay just regular admission. 500 S. 20 St. 342-6164 www.ocm.org. 3/1 5/7: Borderland Abstraction. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. xhibition of new abstraction. Artists include Nils Folke Anderson, Tim Bavington, Nate Boyce, Michelle Grabner, Amy Granat, Mary Heilmann, Matthew Kluber, Takeshi Murata, Ara Peterson, Eli Ping, Eric Sall, Colin C. Smith and Wendy White. Opening Reception on Fri, Jan 22, 6-9pm. TuesSat/11am-5pm Free. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130 www.bemiscenter.org.

3/1 - 5/8: James Woodfill: Stations. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. Exhibition of installation and sculpture by artist James Woodfill. Opening Reception Friday, Jan 22, 6-9pm, Gallery talk with artist on Sat., Jan 23, 12pm. Exhibit is from Jan 22-May 8. James Woodfill makes sculptures, installations and public art works that often include light, sound, video or kinetic elements. Tues-Sat/11am-5pm Free. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130 www. bemiscenter.org. 3/1 - 5/9: Spring Flower Show. Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha’s Botanical Center. A gorgeous indoor floral show allows visitors to experience garden beauty inside during the winter and spring months. Daily/9am-5pm $7/adults ($6/Nov-May); $3/ages 6-12; free/members & age 6 & under. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002 http://www.lauritzengardens.org. 3/1 - 5/16: Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild. Joslyn Art Museum. Michael Forsberg, internationally known conservation photographer, presents 60 works that provide an unparalleled encounter with the wild creatures and breathtaking landscapes of one of the world’s greatest natural grasslands. TuesSat/10am-4pm; Sun/noon-4pm; closed Mon $8/adults; $6/seniors and college students; $5/youth (ages 5-17); ages 4 and younger free. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300 www.joslyn.org. 3/3 - 4/4: 44th Annual Triumph of Ag Expo. Qwest Center Omaha. One of the largest farm shows in the Midwest -- come see everything for the farm and ranch. More than 900 exhibits and over 600 companies. Antique

3/4 - 3/7: Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 Years!. MidAmerica Center. Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 Years! Join the celebration as 65 of Disney’s unforgettable characters from 18 beloved stories come to life in Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic! Featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio, Disney Princesses, The Lion King, Mulan, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, and Toy Story. Thu, Fri/7pm; Sat/11am, 3pm, 7pm; Sun/1pm Thurs Reserved Admission: $10-$55 plus applicable fees; Fri-Sun Reserved Admission: $15-$35 plus applicable fees. One Arena Way. (712) 326-2295 http://www.midamericacenter.com. 3/5: Council Bluffs Home Improvement Show. MidAmerica Center. Fri/3pm-9pm; Sat/10am-8pm; Sun/11am-4pm $6/adults; free/12 & under. 3/5: Randy Sabien and The Fiddlehead Band. Holland Performing Arts Center. Fivealarm fun – straight-ahead jazz fused with blues, calypso, and swing. These mischievous fiddle veterans dart from mellow to cookin’ – you’ll jump out of your seat! 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 13th & Douglas Sts. 345-0606 www.ticketomaha.com. 3/5 - 3/21: There’s an Alligator Under My Bed. The Rose Theater. Families will see first-hand how the children sneak past the alligator under the bed, the Big Nightmare in the closet and the Silly Scary thing that lives in the attic. For ages 4-12. Fri/7pm; Sat-Sun/2pm $16; Free with Membership. 2001 Farnam St. 345-4849 www.rosetheater.org. 3/5 - 4/3: All Shook Up. Omaha Community Playhouse. All Shook Up is a jukebox musical featuring the music of the classic rock star Elvis Presley. The story is based on the plot of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. The song list consists of every popular Elvis song plus more and more. Time: a 24 hour period, during the summer of 1955. Place: a small you-neverheard-of-it town somewhere in the Midwest. Wed-Sat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm & 6:30pm $38/adults, $24/students.

3/6: Omaha Symphony Rocks: Classical Mystery Tour. Omaha Symphony. Imagine the Beatles playing in concert with a live orchestra. What would they have sounded like? Experience “Penny Lane” with a live trumpet section and the beauty of “Yesterday” with a string quartet, as these marvelous mop-tops perform all your favorites exactly as they were written and orchestrated. 8 p.m. $15-$60. 1200 Douglas St. 3/6: Ruthie Foster. Holland Performing Arts Center. Ruthie Foster’s voice is drop-dead gorgeous, especially when tackling the ups and downs of life. Compared to Aretha Franklin, Foster’s energy on stage is dazzling. She’s an undeniable powerhouse – whether she’s belting out a little blues, funk, soul, or jazz. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 3/9: Bon Jovi. Qwest Center Omaha. The “Circle World Tour” - The release of Bon Jovi’s new album, “The Circle” and the bands subsequent world tour, provides a powerful reassertion of Bon Jovi’s commitment to the hardhitting rock & roll that has been the band’s indelible signature since it began more than 26 years ago. 8 p.m. $55-$99.50. 3/10: Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family. Qwest Center Omaha. Madea is back!!! For the first time in five years, Madea will bring creative energy to the live stage like never before. “Madea’s Big Happy Family” is the twelfth stage play written by Tyler Perry. Perry also stars in the performance. 7:30 p.m. $52-$67. 3/11-3/14: Nebraska Pride & Rainbow Celebrations host 2010 InterPride Regional Conference (16 states) at the Magnolia Hotel. Featuring workshops, presentations and the First Annual Grand Marshal’s Ball at Nomad. Info call 651-8467. 3/12 - 3/14: 55th Annual O’Reilly World of Wheels. Qwest Center Omaha. Nebraska’s largest annual indoor hot rod show featuring hot rods, custom cars, trucks, bikes and traditional rods. Fri/3-10pm; Sat/11am-10pm; Sun/11am-7pm Gen Admission/$15; Children/$5; Discount tickets at O’Reilly Auto Parts. 3/12 - 3/14: Arena Cross. MidAmerica Center. Staged in intimate arena settings, Arenacross tracks are among the tightest in the world, filled with difficult challenges, amazing airtime, intense speed, and all the close-contact racing you’d expect from these hungry superstars-in-waiting. Fri & Sat/7:30pm; Sun/10am Fri & Sat/Reserved Admission $20-$40; Sun/General Admission $10. 3/12 - 3/14: Omaha Symphony Pops Series: Cherish The Ladies. Omaha Symphony. The most sought-after Irish-American group in Celtic music offers audiences the whole package: virtuosic intrumentals, gorgeous

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MARCH & APRIL

2010

vocals, and stunning step dancing. Their music brings the best of the Emerald Isle to the concert hall. Fri&Sat/8pm; Sun/2pm $15-$80. 3/13: Callahan Promotions, Inc. Arts & Craft Show. MidAmerica Center. This show is one of Iowa’s largest, with over 200 talented exhibitors from 6 states presenting and selling the Midwest’s finest handcrafts. All patrons who attend the show on Saturday will receive a twoday re-entry stamp. Interested vendors please contact Tom Callahan at 563.652.4529. Sat/9am-5pm; Sun/9am-4pm $5; free/children 10 and under. 3/13: Nebraska Choral Arts Society’s Join in the Music. UNO Strauss Performing Arts Center. All the choirs of the Nebraska Children’s Chorus join together and individually to wow you with their talent. 7 p.m. $10/adults; $8/senior, youth, pre-ordered; $12/at the door. 342-6753 http://www. choirmusic.org. 3/14: John Mayer in Concert. Qwest Center Omaha. The Grammy winning soulful singer, songwriter and musician known for his two multi-platinum albums Room for Squares and Heavier Things, recently released his fourth studio album, Battle Studies. Thurs/8pm $66.00, $46.00. 3/16: The Color Purple. Orpheum Theater. The Color Purple is a soul-stirring musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the moving film by Steven Spielberg. It is the unforgettable and inspiring story of a woman named Celie, who finds her unique voice in the world. Tues-Thurs/7:30pm; Fri/8pm; Sat/2pm & 8pm; Sun/2pm & 7:30pm Tickets start at $28. 3/18 - 3/20: NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. Qwest Center Omaha. Don’t miss the wrestling action! The 2010 NCAA Division I Men’s Wrestling Championship comes to Qwest Center Omaha. The nation’s best collegiate wrestlers compete to win both team and individual titles. Times Vary $18-$28. 3/20: Omaha Symphony Chamber Series: The Haffner Symphony. Omaha Symphony. There was great pressure for Mozart to make his Symphony No. 35 truly great. After all, it was being commissioned by the Haffners, one of Salzberg’s most influential families. He wrote it quickly in a flurry of inspiration. What results is a work that can be fiery and frenetic one moment and tranquil the next. 7 p.m. $30 UNO Strauss Performing Arts. 342-3560 http://www.omahasymphony. org.

3/20: The Rock and Worship Road Show. Mid-America Center. The Rock and Worship Road Show features David Crowder Band, Family Force 5, Francesca Battistelli, Fee, Remedy Drive and Sidewalk Prophets 6 p.m. $10 3/20: Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott. Holland Performing Arts Center. Yo-Yo Ma’s unfailingly beautiful sound is always elegant, understated, and out of this world. On this astonishing March evening, Ma will be accompanied by the incredible Kathryn Stott on piano in a repertoire that includes Schubert, Shostakovich, Piazzolla, Gismonti/Carneiro, and Franck 8 p.m. Tickets start at $60. 3/20 - 3/21: Omaha’s 23rd Annual Orchid and Sale. Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha’s Botanical Center. The Greater Omaha Orchid Society will host Omaha’s 23rd annual orchid show and sale. Learn about these special flowers from local and national orchid vendors. Prize-winning orchids are juried by experienced orchid judges sanctioned by the American Orchid Society. 10am-4pm $6/ adults; $3/children 6-12; free/ members & children under 6.

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3/21: Intergeneration Orchestra of Omaha concert. Rose Blumkin Home. Presented by About Him Ministries Featuring: Iron Lightning, From Dust, Ben Fisher, Nick Hall of Livin it. 2-3 p.m. Free. 333 S. 132 St. 444-6536 ext. 221 www.igoomaha.org. 3/21: The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra. Holland Performing Arts Center. Nobody does big band better. Last time the Orchestra joined us at the Holland, the show sold out quickly! Don’t miss the mellow brass and swinging sound you love. 2 p.m. Tickets start at $19. 3/24: Cirque Du Soleil’s Alegria. Qwest Center Omaha. Alegría features an international cast of 55 performers and musicians from 17 countries and showcases breathtaking acrobatics. The vibrancy of youth is alive in Power Track, a brilliant display of synchronized choreography and tumbling on a trampoline system hidden under the stage floor. Times vary $40-$95.

Book by Joe DiPietro

By Thomas Heggen and Joshua Logan

3/25 - 3/28: Omaha Home and Builders Show. Qwest Center Omaha. The 2010 Omaha Home Show continues to be the place for you to experience what’s new in Home, Gardening, Remodeling and Decorating Ideas! This is one-stop shopping for home products. Thurs/59pm; Fri/12-9pm; Sat/10am9pm; Sun/10am-5pm Adults/$9; Students/$5; Kids 5 and under/ free.

All Shook Up is a jukebox musical featuring the music of the classic rock ‘n roll star Elvis Presley. The song list consists of every popular Elvis song plus more and more. Time: a 24 hour period, during the summer of 1955. Place: a small, you-never-heard-ofit town somewhere in the Midwest.

One of the outstanding successes of the modern theatre. This rowdy, realistic saga of a group of American sailors aboard a Navy cargo vessel in the Pacific finds the crew suffering from that deadly boredom that is part of the routine of war. One of the finest service comedies ever performed.

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march/april | 2010

CALENDAR of events

www.visitomaha.com MARCH & APRIL

2010

will be held in the Music Room. Light hors d’oeuvres will also be served. Questions can be directed to 402-203-9931. 7 p.m. $60/person. 3902 Davenport St. 208-9931 www.joslyncastle.com. 4/2 - 4/18: The Bridge to Terabithia. The Rose Theater. This powerful production supported by a lyrical musical score brings the humor, warmth, and emotion of Katherine Paterson’s Newbery Award-winning novel to the stage. Best for ages 8 Adult Fri/7pm; Sat-Sun/2pm $16; Free with Membership. 2001 Farnam St.

The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will play the Holland Performing Arts Center 3/21. 3/26: Harlem Globetrotters. Mid-America Center. Harlem Globetrotters are primed to showcase their eye-popping 2010 “Magical Memories” World Tour at the MAC with the wholesome family entertainment known worldwide for thrilling fans young and old and making cherished family memories. 7 p.m. Reserved Admission: $17$80 plus applicable fees.

(Dougherty Flute Concerto). Just imagine-your ears and eyes will be the first to ever encounter this music! This exceptional debut is coupled with another classic first: Brahm’s First Symphony. 8 p.m. $15-$75. 1200 Douglas St. APRIL EVENTS 4/1: First Thursday Art Talk for April. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts.

4/3: Easter Extravaganza. Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha’s Botanical Center. Children’s “carrot craft” activities and photos with the Easter Bunny precede a unique egg hunt in the garden. An additional $3 per child is charged for photos and activities. Sat/9am-12pm; garden remains open until 5pm $7/ adults ($6 Nov-Mar); $3/children ages 6-12; Free/members & children under 6.

3/26 - 3/27: Omaha Symphony Masterworks: A Night of Firsts. Omaha Symphony. Experience the unique excitement and privilege of a world premiere

4/1: Scotch and the Castle. Joslyn Castle. Visit the Castle for a Single Malt Tasting hosted by Monique Huston and the Dundee Dell. The presentation

4/4: Easter Brunch. Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha’s Botanical Center. A buffet-style brunch is served in the visitor and education center. Review the menu

on our Web site. Sun/10am-2pm; garden hours are 9am-5pm Please call for pricing and reservations. 346-4002. 4/6: An Evening With Deepak Chopra. Qwest Center Omaha. A world-renowned physician and philosopher, Deepak Chopra is changing the way we view physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Deepak will discuss how health is a state of balance of body, mind, and spirit, and explain how the greatest spiritual secrets are tied up in a simple answer. 7:30 p.m. $29-$149. 4/7 - 4/24: The Fantasticks! UNOmaha Theater. The Fantasticks! the allegorical show that set the record for the world’s longest running musical will be directed by Dr. Doug Paterson. April 7-10/7:30pm; April 21-24/7:30 pm $15/general admission; $10/ seniors; FREE/UNO students with valid UNO ID; $5/non-UNO student with valid school ID. 4/9: Ryan Montbleau Band. Holland Performing Arts Center. Catchy, sophisticated folk tinged with soul and R&B. Sweet, clever, and uplifting – led by an openhearted storyteller. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25.

4/9 - 4/11: Spring Festival, An Arts & Crafts Affair. Qwest Center Omaha. Hundreds of the nation’s finest artists and crafters from around the country display and sell their handcrafted wares. Voted one of the top 100 shows in the country according to Sunshine Artist Magazine. Hourly gift certificate winners, stage entertainment, plenty of food & drink, and great family fun. Fri/11am-9pm; Sat 9am-6pm; Sun/10am-5pm adults/$7; seniors/$6; children under 10/free. http://www.hpifestivals.com. 4/10: Omaha Symphony Sights and Sounds Series: A Space Odyssey. Holland Performing Arts Center. Join the Omaha Symphony on a musical journey through space. Incredible footage from NASA and narration complement the space-themed work The Planets. As you hear the “Saturn” movement, watch video that flies you through its massive rings. 8pm $10-$55.

4/11: Nebraska Choral Arts Society’s Music of the Classics. St. Michael’s Lutheran Church. Masterworks and the Choral Arts Society Teens(CAST) will sing from Bach to Bernstein. All your favorites through the ages of music. 4 p.m. $10/adults; $8/ senior, youth, pre-ordered; $12/ at the door. 13232 Blondo St. 342-6753 http://www.choirmusic.org. 4/11: Omaha Symphony Family Series: Peter and the Wolf. Holland Performing Arts Center. Adventure awaits you as the Omaha Symphony presents Peter and the Wolf. A brave little boy and his animal friends from the forest face off against a hungry wolf in Prokofiev’s beloved musical tale. For children of all ages! 2 p.m. $7-$9.75. 4/12 - 5/21: The Fred Simon Gallery: Sharon Ohmberger and Randy Waln. The Fred Simon Gallery.

4/11: Crescendo Concert Series: Vocal Spectrum Barbershop Quartet. Dundee Presbyterian Church. 7 p.m. Free tickets issued. 5312 Underwood Ave. 558-2330

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her mother, the underwriter of this expensive education. The no-nonsense daughter is soon to learn that Mrs. Warren is also a business woman, with a profession of her own. Fri & Sat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm $22/ adults; $18/62+, Student & Military; Group rates available. 614 S. 11 St. 502-4910 http:// www.bsbtheatre.com.

4/16 - 5/9: Mister Roberts. Omaha Community Playhouse. This rowdy, realistic saga of a group of American sailors aboard a Navy cargo vessel in the Pacific finds the crew suffering from that deadly boredom that is part of the routine of war. This Broadway hit is what brought the Playhouse’s own Henry Fonda back to acting after an eight-year absence. One of the finest service comedies ever performed. WedSat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm & 6:30pm $38/adults, $24/students.

4/23 - 4/24: Omaha Symphony Masterworks: All-American Fanfare. Omaha Symphony. Hearts will soar and tears may fall at this patriotic concert celebrating what makes America great. Let optimism wash over you as all-American music evokes our country’s can-do character. Relive history with vivid videography that captures just how far we’ve come together. 8 p.m. $15-$75.

4/17: Kathy Mattea. Holland Performing Arts Center. Mattea returns to the Holland for another smash performance! Known for her captivating soprano, Mattea takes on real mountain music – gritty, brash, and timeless – with heft and soul. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $19. 4/17 - 4/18: Teddy Bear Clinic. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Bring your favorite stuffed animal to Omaha’s Zoo for some TLC. Zoo docents will have your favorite friend stitched up and nursed back to health. 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free to Omaha’s Zoo Members or with regular paid admission. 3701 S. 10 St. 7382038 www.omahazoo.com. 4/18: Intergeneration Orchestra of Omaha concert. German American Club. Intergeneration Orchestra of Omaha’s annual spring POPS & PIE concert celebrating the culmination of our 25th season. doors open at 1pm, concert 2pm $7 in advance, $8 at the door. 3717 S 120th Street. 444-6536 ext. 221 http://www. igo-omaha.org. 4/20: Shen Yun. Orpheum Theater. Shen Yun Performing Arts brings together the world’s foremost classically trained dancers, choreographers, and musicians. It brings new life to traditional Chinese culture by providing an experience of sublime beauty. Discover firsthand why Shen Yun’s performances-critically acclaimed as “breathtaking,” “brilliant,” and “glorious”-have delighted audiences of all ages and backgrounds. 7:30 p.m. $35-$95. http://www.shenyunperformingarts.org/Omaha. 4/22: Mrs. Warren’s Profession. Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre Company. Vivie Warren, a product of exclusive 19thcentury boarding schools, is ready to earn a living as one of the “new women.” She isn’t, however, ready to encounter

march/april | 2010

2010

4/14: International Fair 2010. Metropolitan Community College South Omaha Campus Connector Commons. The International Fair 2010 offers stage entertainment, educational & cultural displays, and food from around the world. 10am-7:30pm Free. 2707 Babe Gomez Avenue. 457-2253 http://www.mccneb.edu.

4/24 - 4/25: 2nd Annual Omaha Health Expo. Omaha Civic Auditorium. Everything to do with health, wellness, and fitness and the mind, body, & spirit! The premiere event in the greater Omaha area. Last year over 275 exhibitors and over 50 seminars for the 2 day event. A walk to benefit the MS Society is on Sat 4/24 and a bike ride is on Sun 4/25. Sat/11am6pm; Sun/11am-4pm Free. 1804 Capitol Ave. 346-8003 www. omahahealthandwellness.com. 4/25: Nebraska Wind Symphony. UNO Strauss Performing Arts Center. Nebraska Wind Symphpny concert featuring guest Composer & Conducter James Barnes. $10/ adults; $5/seniors & students; free/children under 12 3 p.m. 60th & Dodge. 216-0325 www. nebraskawindsymphony.com. 4/27 - 5/2: Legally Blonde The Musical. Orpheum Theater. An Elle of a Show! (TIME magazine). Sorority sister Elle Woods, an underestimated blonde, puts down her credit cards, hits the books, and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. Tickets start at $28 Tues-Thurs/7:30pm; Fri/8pm; Sat/2pm & 8pm; Sun/2pm & 7:30pm. 4/30 - 5/2: Omaha Symphony Pops Series: Motown Tribute. Omaha Symphony. Take a musical stroll down memory lane, as the group Spectrum sings the soulful classics you love by the Temptations, the Platters, the Four Tops, and more. Their tight harmonies and polished choreography, combined with the smooth sounds of the symphony, are bound to impress and entertain. $15-$80 Fri&Sat/8pm; Sun/2pm. 4/30 - 5/16: If You Give a Cat a Cupcake. The Rose Theater. Those who enjoyed If You Give a Mouse a Cookie will love this world-premiere production based on one of the latest stories by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond. For ages 4-12. $16; Free with Membership Fri/7pm; Sat-Sun/2pm.

www.omahapublications.com

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Story by Wendy Weiner Photo by Mona K Photography

feature

Over the Rainbow

One of the

most often quoted movie lines comes at the very end of The Wizard of Oz, and is uttered by the newly enlightened Dorothy played by Judy Garland. ''There's no place like home.'' My earliest memories involve nodding my head in agreement with her words, and I'd like to think that as an enlightened child I recognized the importance of Dorothy's life lesson. Deep down, however, I know that I believed Dorothy because she had sparkly shoes. When I graduated from Central High School (Class of '83), preppy was cool, mastering the English language was an essential tool for success, and the only wrinkles we had were in our clothes. Time flew. I graduated from Touro College in New York City, got married, popped out four beautiful, energetic and mildly saucy children, and have managed to stay married to Peter. My career? Marketing and development projects of all shapes, sizes and flavors were my stock in trade. I've always been a professional Jewish mother where I brought people and projects together for the maximum impact. Seeking bigger challenges, I accepted a short-term consulting job where I met Zach LeBeau, and it was just like the striking of a match. We were "partners at first sight." During our first (and last) project for the client, I recognized that he would write and direct commercially successful films that uplift, inspire and entertain, and he knew that I would tirelessly gather the necessary components to finance and manage our film projects. Three years ago I gathered all of my experience, contacts and a wheelbarrow of chutzpah only to find myself in Oz. On February 14th, 2007, Zach and I sneaked off the Court House and went into business together. I know that I probably should have told my husband first, out of common courtesy, but when it's right, it's right. Whoops. More than 25 years after I last tortured Doc Moeller as the Student Council President from Hell, in the long shadow of that glorious high school on the hill, I am the Executive Producer of a full-length feature film, THE SCIENTIST, primarily filmed in Council Bluffs. Our production company, Polynation Pictures LLC, is producing THE SCIENTIST for domestic and international

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march/april | 2010

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February 20 – May 2, 2010

or decades, the classic “American Vacation” has brought families together to witness the wonder and beauty of countless natural and historical sites, experience a taste of life in another part of the country, or visit the nation’s top attractions. The Durham Museum will pay homage to the great “American Vacation” in truly unique fashion when it presents Are We There Yet? in February 2010. Iconic travel sites and approximately 25 pedal cars will capture the imagination of visitors as they experience this collaborative exhibition from The Durham Museum and the Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska. Incorporated into this exhibition will be select items from the Bill Smith Collection. Classic cruisers, trucks, and other vehicles will enliven each scene while giving visitors the chance to view these extraordinary pedal cars in Omaha. Sponsored by the Douglas County Commissioners, AAA and the Cornhusker Motor Club Foundation.

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march/april | 2010

distribution, DVD and cable television sales. Happily, we found partners for THE SCIENTIST in Chase Brandau and Matthias Saunders, who have brought us to new heights in visual and audio excellence heretofore unthinkable in a low-budget independent film. THE SCIENTIST is a film for anyone who has ever loved someone, lost them, and wanted to have them back. The plot: A physicist mourns the sudden loss of his wife and daughter so intensely that he locks himself in his basement to build a machine that enables him to reach the only thing he has left...their energy. The effect of THE MACHINE is so powerful it could change the world, if Marcus has the courage to let go. We hope that you will enjoy our film, as we intended to make a beautiful piece that serves as a tribute to the Omaha/ Council Bluffs community. As great as it has been for me to come back here, the amazing thing is that our entire cast and crew were welcomed with open arms. For New York- and Londonbased talent, Council Bluffs might as well be over the rainbow. Actors Bill Sage, Adam LeFevre, Jamie Elman, Brittany Benjamin and Daniela Lavender found a supremely hospitable atmosphere. For example, our crew benefited greatly when the neighbor next door to our main location ran his projector TV (with three extension cords) across the lawn and projected the 2008 Cornhusker/Sooner game on the side of the rigging truck. This would be an even better story if only this game had a happy ending for the Huskers. This kindness has opened the door for us to join some of the actors in their homes as well. Zach and I spent a few days in London with Daniela and her husband, Sir Ben Kingsley. Who would say "No" to that invite? Oh, and our entire cast and crew has a standing reservation at the best kosher bed and breakfast in the world, Dik and Ina Weiner's house. Thank you for everything you have done for all of US, Mom and Dad. You were absolutely right, Dorothy... There is no place like home. We are hosting a free sneak peek preview of our film on Tuesday, March 2nd, at Marcus Cinema to benefit a wonderful local organization, Ted E. Bear Hollow, www. tedebearhollow.org. If you would like to join us, please register to win free tickets at www.thescientistmovie.com.

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NP Dodge Relocation proudly supports our military personnel and their families with our Military Alliance Bonus program. Not only are we committed to providing quality trusted service from our experienced relocation counselors, we are offering cash back whenever you buy or sell a home in the metro area!

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Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

cover story

Omaha Magazine’s

Generation “O” Generation “O” embodies Omaha’s new energy. Generation “O” is Omaha’s young creatives, professionals, mediasavvy and tech types who are helping to drive Omaha’s future. Generation “O” is about making their mark while staying true to Midwestern values. In every future issue of Omaha Magazine, we will present a member of Generation “O”. For our inaugural installment, we are pleased to feature not just one but three leaders who are brimming with

ideas and hope.

march/april | 2010

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cover story

meGan hunt

Megan Hunt, 23, better known as Princess Lasertron, describes herself as a bridal designer, blogger, and best friend, “Because with my job, it can be hard to boil it down!” Hunt started her business, Princess Lasertron, in 2005 to create custom bridal accessories and project ideas, which she shares online with readers through a blog. “I am so excited for this year because I am fulfilling a longtime dream of designing a truly custom, couture line of party dresses,” Hunt said. “Besides sewing and writing about my projects, I am also a passionate party planner, dance clubber, world traveler, and consumer of Omaha’s creative culture. I love living in Midtown and I share a roof with my husband of two years, Dave, our cat Turbo, and we are expecting our first child, Alice, this spring,” she added. This globe trotter and lifelong Omahan feels there’s no place like home. Hunt said, “Everyone says Omaha is a “big small town,” and they are right. I really feel like we have it all in this area—awesome restaurants, a fun nightlife, a vibrant arts community, as well as tightly knit groups of people who all seem to be connected by much fewer than six degrees! Most people I connect with are so helpful and supportive, and I think that’s because in this kind of community, your good deeds really come back to you tenfold.”

“Everyone says Omaha is a “big small town,” and they are right." 22

march/april | 2010

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cover story

Jeff slobotski

Jeff Slobotski, 32, is used to being surrounded by boundless energy. He and his wife, Molly, have three boys all under 6! He brings that same boyish enthusiasm and energy to his position as Director of Innovation & New Media for the AIM Institute. This techie is also co-founder of Silicon Prairie News, a website launched in July 2008. The site features reports from startups, announcements of local technology events, and interviews with entrepreneurs and creatives like himself. Slobotski said he’s always enjoyed meeting new people, learning about their background, and finding out “what makes them tick.” His more than 1,300 Facebook friends are evidence of that. Said the selfdescribed “connector”: “I’m a firm believer that there’s a strong value in sharing ideas and experiences between the different communities of people within our city.” Omaha’s middle-of-the-road size makes it an ideal place to give back, Slobotski said. “If you have a good idea and are a genuinely passionate person, you truly have the ability to make an impact on what’s important to you."

“You truly have the ability to make an impact on what's important to you." 24

march/april | 2010

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cover story

steve minino

Gen O’s Steve Minino, 29, isn’t a big believer in dumb luck. “My grandfather used to say ‘the harder you work, the luckier you get.’ I figure if I keep working hard and stay focused, good things will come my way.” It took Minino a few years to figure out just exactly what his focus should be. The Omaha native earned his associate’s degree from culinary school, then a bachelor’s in hospitality management in Las Vegas before deciding to move back home to raise a family in 2006. He found his niche in residential home sales, and now works as a realtor with NP Dodge Real Estate. Both personally and professionally, moving back was the right decision, Minino said. “There’s such a great feeling in this city for young professionals. [Omaha] has a good pulse.”

“[Omaha] has a good pulse."

Minino describes himself as a fun-loving guy and “extreme extrovert” (He’s been known to strike up conversations at checkout lines), who loves giving back. He’s involved with Rebuilding Omaha, TeamMates Mentoring Program, and the Business Advisory Council through Goodwill. “I get a rush from making people smile or say ‘thank you,’” he said. “That really makes my day.” He’s also a family man. He and wife, Jenny, have two young children. Minino loves Omaha, and all it has to offer his family. “Omaha is a great city to live, work and play. The residents are great…I know they wouldn’t hesitate to help one of their own, and that’s special.”

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

Story by Kim Carpenter Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

OMAHAART

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Dana

Damewood notices details most people miss: a scuffed shoe, a curling flower petal, the gleam off a glass of wine. And that’s what makes her such an innovative photographer. Whether documenting the special moments of a long-anticipated wedding day, or capturing the simple pleasures of a sunny Sunday brunch, Damewood has a unique ability to take photos that are as visually arresting as they are interesting storytelling. Originally from Omaha, Damewood always felt she wanted to do something creative, but admits, “I could never paint or draw.” Fortunately, while at Central High School, she took a photography class. Damewood was immediately smitten. “When I processed my first roll of film,” she remembers, “I knew that this is what I would be doing for the rest of my life.” The artist earned her BFA in 2003 from the Savannah College of Art and Design, whose www.readonlinenow.com

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OMAHAART

continued from previous page

alumni often work at places like National Geographic and the New York Times. But while Damewood knew what she wanted to do, she didn’t know where. “I didn’t have a plan,” she says, “so I moved home to be close to my family and friends.” Soon those friends – and their friends– were asking her to photograph their weddings. “I got good results and good response, and the referrals kept coming,” Damewood says. “Word of mouth has been my best advertising.” Damewood’s success is easy to understand. She has a keen eye for teasing out extraordinary details from ordinary situations, and perhaps even more importantly, for capturing personalities. Take weddings: they are unique for the couples, but most photographers document them in the same way: bride and groom pre-ceremony, poses of the newly married couple, and groupings of the wedding party. Damewood chronicles a wedding differently. You see the groom, dressed and ready to go, calmly relaxing with his hands in his pockets before the ceremony, as well as the bride nervously sipping from a glass of wine while getting her hair done. It’s these small moments when they’re not looking at the camera that tell the couple’s story — and make you feel as if you know them. Her portrait photography is much the same way. Damewood works closely with her clients and sees sessions as a cooperative effort, noting, “Working with a client is really a collaboration. Each client is unique.” She elaborates, “At a shoot, it is important to build a connection with a subject from the start, so I try to establish an atmosphere that I hope will put people at ease, allowing them to be themselves. It’s a lot easier to get a good shot when a subject feels comfortable.” Her photograph of Wanda Ewing is a fitting example. Her portrait shows the artist posing with one of her well-known dress prints, and the image completely singular to Ewing. Says Damewood, “I had the idea to incorporate her work into the portraits… we thought it would be an interesting idea to cut a dress out of a print and have her wear it. It’s that kind of spontaneous colwww.omahapublications.com

OMAHAART

laboration that adds an extra dimension to a portrait.” Ewing loved the experience. “I loved my session,” she enthuses. “We were both really spontaneous.” And even more important were the results. “I thought the pictures were really goofy – and really fun. I love the way the photos came out. When I look back, they’re a marker in time of what was going on in my studio.” Damewood also stands out for her fine art photography — and she does so by again focusing on details to get at the bigger picture. Her photographs capture random patterns and reveal the beauty of unexpected symmetry. Rows of shopping carts at night seem somehow dignified, and dog-eared file folders become elegant statements of everyday work lives. These images of inanimate objects are witty, wistful, and surprisingly intimate. When it comes to equipment, Damewood again eschews tradition. “I love using old cameras, cameras that don’t have any controls, like shutter speed or aperture and expired film,” she says. “It makes you see the world differently, and it allows me to get more involved in the process.” Her favorite camera at the moment, a Rolleiflex 2.8 twin lens, cost only $5.00 at a thrift store. “It produces beautiful images that have a vintage quality,” Damewood explains. The artist also keeps a camera, such as her $25 Holgas, with her at all times. Although inexpensive, they are unpredictable, resulting in images that are as much photojournalism as they are fine art. Dana Damewood continues to feel the same way about photography as she did when she developed her first roll of film. “I’m glad I found it and that I still feel that way,” she reflects. “There is an element of anticipation and magic with film. It is so technical yet there is a lot of serendipity in the process.” Whether that serendipity might be unexpected raindrops on a wedding day or sun glinting off a rooftop, Damewood loves capturing the moment. “No matter what the subject,” she says, “I am always happy to have a camera in my hands.” www.readonlinenow.com

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OMAHASTYLE

Story by: Sandy Lemke Photo by: minorwhitestudios.com

Brush with Fame Omahan Linda Shrier Launches National Product

LInDa

Shrier, Omaha inTHE BUSINESS OF BEAUTY ventor, has a beautiLinda Shrier has a beauty-full business ful idea. After seeing history. In 1978, Shrier opened a beauty store, how conventional makeup brushes can collect “Making Faces.” It was located in southwest dirt and impurities, Shrier came up with a Omaha and featured an array of European perfect solution and invented Klix cosmetic beauty and skin care lines such as Mary Quant brushes. It’s a simple idea. They are cosmetic and Payot in addition to fragrances and facials. brushes with replaceable brush heads. When Clients of Making Faces fondly remember the brush heads show dirt, you “click” on a the boutique, and liken it to a Sephora. Says fresh, clean new one. Mary Jo Pane, former client: “Making Faces Shrier’s Klix replaceable, recyclable brushes certainly was way ahead of its time, not only and heads are available nationwide. In Omaha, for the great scents and cosmetics that Linda boutique She.La carries the line as does online brought to Omaha but the level of service, it beauty superstore LovelySkin.com. was really exceptional. The only thing I can Three things led Shrier to the development compare it to at the time is Cosbar in Aspen. of Klix brushes: It is no surprise to me that the evolution of all that is Klix Brushes.” “1) My daughter had just returned from our dermatoloArmed with an idea and business sense, gist. She was having problems with her skin. It was a Shrier looked into production. “I designed the contact bacterial infection. I could not imagine what it Klix Brushes. I took my design to numerous would be and checked her makeup brushes. They were manufacturing companies to build my proextremely dirty. I tried unsuccessfully to clean them totypes. So I sought out a forward-thinking and subsequently threw them away. owner of a manufacturing company and 2) I was using my Swiffer Mop. When the Swiffer Mop located one in Plattsmouth, Nebraska. Dave came out, I threw my conventional mop away. It Wood of New Age Prototypes thought it was a occurred to me that even after you rinsed them, they great idea and built my prototypes. The entire were probably still dirty. process -- design, prototype, to production 3) I was watching the Tyra Banks Show and she did an took over four years. We have launched Klix entire segment on dirty makeup brushes and dirty Brushes nationally and it is currently Patentmakeup. Pending.”

That is where I came up with the idea to invent a makeup brush that you do not have to clean. A full-size, professional style, quality makeup brush with a disposable head without giving up the quality of a conventional makeup brush. I ran the idea past my husband, Howard, and he encouraged me to pursue it.” Nationally recognized Dr. Joel Schlessinger, board certified dermatologist, has endorsed the brushes and has this to say about them. “THIS IDEA IS SIMPLY BRILLIANT! Whenever something seems so simple and obvious, it’s a sure thing that consumers will love it and this is just one of those things that has the potential to be a game changer.”

march/april | 2010

Said Shrier, “I used white hair so that you can see just how dirty your brushes get and a reminder that it is time to have a clean brush ready to use by replacing your brush head. I also used cruelty-free hair so no animals are harmed in the name of beauty. The other item that is important to me is that the brush heads are recyclable so you can just throw them in your recycle bin.”

CLEAN… AND GREEN While Shrier was developing the Klix Brushes, she consulted with Dr. Joel Schlessinger, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and the Past President of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery. Shrier said he was definitely supportive because of the bacteria, germs, acne, and even staph infections that occur as a result of dirty makeup brushes. “If your brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria it transfers to your makeup. It would be extremely expensive to replace your makeup once it has become compromised by bacteria and irritants,” said Shrier. www.omahapublications.com

Story by: Sandy Lemke Photo by: minorwhitestudios.com

Natalia Peart, Ph.D., CEO of the YWCA Omaha, could pass for a model. Although she has a stylishly tailored grace, Peart’s heroes are not in the fashion world. Peart is “inspired by the everyday heroes,” she sees through her work. “The stories of courage, the stories of determination, and the stories of triumph over life challenges.”

OMAHASTYLE Natalia Peart 43

“There is no material possession more valuable than the gift of believing in your own worth.”

www.readonlinenow.com

march/april | 2010

OMAHAFACES

Story by Donald J. Rashid

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Craig Moody:

Passionate About Protecting the Earth

Thinking green

is trendy. Board room conversations in 2010 focus on marketing to customers involved with environmental concerns and social causes. But for Craig Moody, thinking green is more than a marketing ploy. Advocates like Moody live and breathe the lifestyle of strategic sustainability. “My vision is to transition my lifestyle to where my car is home most days or ideally, I will not own a car.” His preferred mode of transportation is walking, biking or using public transportation. Growing the majority of his food for family and neighbors is one of his life goals, with the firm belief that community gardens strengthen the neighborhood. On the day we met, his next stop was a two-hour tour of the “Big Gardens” operated by United Methodists for Mission and Justice. “My grandmother’s generation were true conservationists,” says Moody, who is a prin-

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

ing. “When I see beautiful places, something Lawse adds, “He has a fun- loving attitude cipal of the Verdis Group, a sustainability and is serious about his passions.” Both men inside me says ‘We have to protect this.’” consulting firm. His community leadership A chronic over-achiever and lover of are committed to helping Omaha become involvement includes serving as chair of fiction and non-fiction books, Moody a community with even more sustainable Earth Day for 2009 and 2010. is proof that one person can accomplish quality of life. This year’s event will be to be held on so much more if you just April 17 at Elmwood Park, Craig Moody’s Simple Sustainable Tips: set your mind to it. In one of his favorite Omaha 1. Drive the speed limit – one the easiest actions anyone over the age of 16 can take. 2009, he was named one destinations. He invites 2. Eat locally – grow produce in your back yard or participate in a community garden. of ten Outstanding Young everyone to bring their 3. Use CFL lightbulbs - save energy and utility costs. Omahans by the Omaha families and friends to enjoy 4. Recycle – educate yourself on materials that can be reused. Jaycees. music from participating 5. Keep in mind five sustainability categories – food, water, energy, transportation and materials. His track record, which bands and learn from the includes earning an MBA day’s speakers. in Finance from the University of South Sustainability can be defined as adding to While he is not able to pinpoint a definDakota, blends a business background life the fourth dimension of time, by meeting moment leading to his passion for green with the fruits of his grandmother’s examing today’s needs without compromising the thinking, he says, “I think it is genetic. ple. Working at the Federal Reserve Bank, The habits (learned from) my grandmother quality of life for future generations. he was charged with logistics and facility Moody’s lifestyle illustrates that living manifested (my lifestyle and vocation) for green is a choice. “To protect plants and ani- management, and is now moving fast forover 20 years.” A self-described perpetually ward as a sustainability consultant to local mals is an altruistic way of life,” he explains. optimistic person, Moody thrives on having organizations. In his infrequent spare time, traveling is many irons in the fire. Moody leads by example, reminding Moody’s business partner, Daniel Lawse, shared as a hobby with Emily, his bride of citizens of Omaha that having a personal 10 years. The Canadian Rockies is one of who Moody refers to in good humor as the mission, balanced with business acumen, their favored destinations. When he shakes “Green Cape”, says “Craig is a man of great is a great way to leave a legacy for future the dirt from his hiking boots and reflects integrity, doing what he says, going beyond generations. for a moment on nature, he knows his callexpectations, and is a solid individual.”

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Story by Leo Adam Biga Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

feature

Marianne Culhane, newly appointed dean of the law school.

Creighton’s School of Law Now in its Second Century of Service For 106 years

Creighton University Law School has prepared students from around the country for legal careers. Nationally recognized programs such as the Werner Institute for Negotiation and Dispute Resolution, top-notch faculty, distinguished alums and dynamic visiting lecturers help attract students. Sixty-six percent of the school’s 2009 incoming class arrived from 24 states other than Nebraska. Those numbers are typical for entering classes and reflect the school’s total enrollment, which stands at 480, according to CU law professor Ed Birmingham. After decades of unchecked growth, the school’s taken measures to limit enrollment in order to continue delivering the highest quality educational experience. “Twenty years ago our full-time equivalent number was about 535, and then in the mid-‘90s there was tremendous demand and we actually peaked at over 600,” said Birmingham. “That really put a stress on the building and the faculty. The student-teacher ratios were not desirable.

march/april | 2010

One thing we’ve always been noted for here is an opendoor policy where students can spend extra time outside class with the faculty, and that really got strained, so we made a decision to cut back.” To reduce the student body size the school now tries capping each incoming class at 135, again to ensure students get more individual attention and to better reflect market demand. “We don’t want to be graduating more people than what the market can absorb,” he said. Creighton law graduates practice all over the nation and the world. Enough students from out-of-state remain in Nebraska that on average 45 percent of CU grads choose to practice here. But there are only so many opportunities. “I suspect probably a few more would stay but this is not a huge legal community, you know there’s only X number of good jobs,” said Marianne Culhane, newly appointed dean of the law school. Birmingham, the school’s associate dean for administration and finance, said job prospects have “been really tough the last year or so with the national economy being www.omahapublications.com

what it is,” adding that “lots of factors” are making for slim pickings. He said a trickledown effect’s been seen in this financial crisis. As reeling Wall Street firms instituted hiring freezes, law students from elite Eastern schools who normally joined those firms were forced to take jobs in the nation’s capitol, in turn limiting opportunities for students from schools like Creighton. “There has been a general constriction,” he said. “There’s other things, too. For example, a lot of document work and research is being outsourced to other countries. That’s a real problem.” On a positive note, he said, “People in law firms think the economy’s going to rebound. If the government gets more stringent on the banking regulations they’ll need more lawyers for that, and with all the potential changes in health care, that already big area of law should continue to grow.” Some areas of law, like litigation, he said, always remain strong. “We send people out to be prosecutors and public defenders all over the country and I don’t think there’ll be any change in that.”

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He said besides a tight job market students must contend with “very high debt loads. We’ve been concerned about that for a number of years and we’re trying to keep tuition increases to an absolute minimum in order to keep tuition affordable.” Despite the steep cost and the uncertain employment landscape, Culhane said yearly applications remain in the 1,300 range. Only one in eight or nine applicants is enrolled, making for a highly competitive, selective process that admits only the best of the best. Creighton’s trying to address lower than desired female and minority enrollment. “We’ve been working on getting those numbers up,” said Culhane. The 2009 entering class did see an increase in female students, going from 35-36 percent a few years ago to 44 percent, a mark slightly above the school’s overall female population. Minority student numbers are on the rise. As few as 6 percent of incoming students were minorities a few years ago but that figure reached 12 percent in 2009 due to intentional outreach work by Creighton and law firms through the Call to Action program.

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Foreign students comprise the smallest segment of enrollees. There are just three currently. The school also participates in an exchange program with a Jesuit law school in Spain. Consistent with Jesuit philosophies, the school aspires to instill in students a moral, ethical, value-centered foundation and a duty to improve society. A group of CU law students and professionals go to the Dominican Republic each year. A contingent was there when the earthquake struck neighboring Haiti in January. Back in Omaha, students represent (under professional supervision) low income and rural clients through CU’s Civil Law and Community Economic Development Clinics, respectively. Internships also provide service-learning experiences. Culhane said beyond working for private law firms or corporations, many CU grads end up in public service positions at all levels of government. Many have risen far in the military’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps. The school’s proud tradition continues strong in a second century of service.

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march/april | 2010

OMAHAAUTO

Charlie Graham

Body & Service

Clean and Green Commercial Washes Use Less Water

Whether

you’re a car enthusiast who keeps his vehicle in pristine condition year-round, or a total car slob with fast food wrappers strewn about the backseat, I think it is safe to say we all enjoy the satisfaction we feel after getting a much-needed car wash. But like many, I’ve often wondered how often should I wash my car? What’s type of car wash is best? Or should I wait until it’s warmer and do it myself? And are those extras worth it? Here’s some advice from some local experts.

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Using a commercial car wash is environmentally friendly. Commercial washers direct 100 percent of the wastewater into a sanitary sewer, which sends it to a treatment plant before releasing it back into the environment,; whereas dirty, chemical-laden water from washing at home finds its way immediately into the nearby grass and streams and aquifers, untreated. In addition, commercial washers typically use 30 to 60 percent less water per car than home washing, which uses 100 gallons on average. Washing your car weekly year-round is a good rule of thumb, although weather may dictate frequency. In the winter, it’s important to get the road salt and de-icing chemicals off your car; in the summer, washing bugs and road grime off is beneficial. Waiting too long between washes can lead to chemicals and dirt bonding to your car’s paint and tires, eroding fuel lines and the car’s underbody, and result in paint damage. Getting the undercarriage rinse in winter is well worth the extra couple bucks you’ll spend. So, too, are the wax and wheel cleaning add-ons, which remove damaging brake dust from tires and add a protective shine to your car’s appearance. Opinions vary about which type of car wash is best: soft-brush, cloth or touchless? Each method of cleaning has advantages and possible risks, depending on your paint finish and other factors. It’s best to consult your car’s manual for the preferred method. Most importantly, use a facility that is well-maintained. Outdated or malfunctioning equipment can lead to car damage, and repairs may not be reimbursed.

Check out current and past results of Best of Omaha®. See who the readers of Omaha Magazine chose as their local favorites for Dining, Entertainment, Shopping and much more.

Information for this article was contributed by: Ed Krause, V.P. of Operations for Fantasy’s Car Wash; Jim Champion from Charlie Graham Auto Body & Service; and Peter Zekauskas, owner of Russell Speeder Car Washes.

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feature

Producer/Director Mary Beth Pinckney

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

Story by Molly Garriott Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

feature

O! Fashion: Spring Stage at the Holland

FLIP

thRouGh

the pages of a fashion magazine, and you’ll see elaborate layouts featuring waif-like models sporting couture clothing in unexpected (a polite way of saying “odd”) combinations. Price tag for a single article aside, walk down Omaha’s streets in half the get-ups presented on the glossy pages and you’d meet a raised eyebrow or quizzical stare. Left of center it may be, but the Old Market is still worlds away from Greenwich Village. Fashion does not belong merely to the well off. It is not the sole property of the skeletal. It is one of the few art forms in which all members of society can participate. We may not have the talent to mold a sculpture or pluck a song from a guitar. Our budgets might not allow for season tickets to the playhouse, and our Saturdays might be spent at children’s sporting events rather than the art museum. But every time we sift through our closets, we have the opportunity to engage in art. What we wear and how we wear it is a form of expression. It is this self-expression that O! Fashion celebrates with its spring runway show, held May 22 at the Holland Performing Arts Center. The brainchild of Nebraska native Mary Beth Pinckney and Omahan John Gawley, the event’s mission is to “promote the inner beauty of individuals through the artistic self-expression known as fashion.” Pinckney is in marketing and communications but has always maintained an interest in fashion. She met Gawley through mutual friends and a shared interest in photography. Gawley is a graphic designer who worked as a fashion photographer in Phoenix before returning home to Omaha. Both Pinckney and Gawley attended Omaha Fashion Week this past fall. Buoyed by the talent and enthusiasm for the event, they decided to direct and produce a spring counterpart to the autumn show. “We felt a spring show would round out the fashion year,” says Pinckney, “and really meet the standards of other cities in having fall and spring shows.” The two wanted to create a show for all people, irrespective of size. Most runway shows cater to sizes 0-4, maybe 6. O! Fashion celebrates the beauty of all shapes. The designers involved will be presenting designs to fit the audience, says Pinckney. “We want them to be able to sell their designs at the show.” Some of the designers involved with the event previously participated in Omaha Fashion Week. Others are new to local runway shows. Jane Round is one of the designers showing her collection in O! Fashion. At 16, she is the youngest designer involved with the project. Round creates feminine dresses and jackets reminiscent of the 1950s. www.readonlinenow.com

It is a reaction to the overly casual way her contemporaries dress today. The full skirts, high waists and classic lines of the 1950s appeal to her: “Dressing up is fun.” She uses both vintage and modern fabrics for her creations. Round began designing the eight pieces for the show in mid-February. All will be for summer or early fall wear. The chance to present her fashions in public appeals to the Millard North sophomore. But so did the chance of raising money for charity. The launch party, to be held May 21, will benefit the Green Coalition. Each participating designer or boutique owner is asked to create one eco-friendly outfit, a challenge about which Round is especially excited. Jessica Latham, owner of Bellwether Boutique in the Old Market’s Passageway, is another participant. She will be showcasing vintage collections for summer and early fall in the runway show. Latham sees Omaha’s growing interest in and support of local fashion as another way for the city to explore the arts. Omaha has a thriving music and visual art community; she believes fashion is another artistic medium that needs to be encouraged. “The beauty of working in fashion in Omaha is so much more organic [than in larger cities].” Latham previously lived in New York City, working in the fashion world as a buyer and stylist. Omaha designers are not motivated by self-promotion, she has found. “There is so much talent, without the ego.” Pinckney says the event will be “more than a runway show.” A preshow cocktail hour, red-carpet entry with photographers, live entertainment and DJs will “make it an experience.” It is the first time the Holland Center for Performing Arts has hosted a runway show. Ed Hurd, the director of performance rentals for the center, says the Holland became engaged as “another way to become involved in the community.” A 50-foot runway will extend from the stage into orchestra seating. Says Hurd: “The Holland is a modern venue perfectly suited for high fashion presentation.” From the very beginning, Pinckney and Gawley wanted O! Fashion to do more than showcase local talent. They wanted to support a charity in the process. The local chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is the recipient of the runway show. Pinckney and Gawley have set a goal of $15,000. The goal for the launch party, benefiting the Green Coalition, is $5,000. Fashion may be fun, but it does not have to be frivolous. General admission tickets are $25. A $100 VIP ticket includes frontrow seating and a swag bag. Purchase tickets at www.ticketomaha. com. For more information, visitwww.bigofashionshow.com. march/april | 2010

Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh, P.C., L.L.O. is a firm of 14 lawyers with offices at 100 Scoular Building in Omaha. The firm concentrates its practice in the areas of business litigation and commercial transactions, employment and employee benefits, estate and financial planning, family law, securities and investments and taxation. Lieben Whitted congratulates Jeff Lieben, David Houghton, John Slowiaczek and Jim Cavanagh for being named to the Best Lawyers in America. Jeff is listed in the areas of employee benefits law, tax law and trusts and estates, David is listed in commercial litigation, John is listed in the field of family law, and Jim is listed in bankruptcy and creditor rights and commercial litigation.

100 Scoular Building • 2027 dodge Street • omaha, ne 68102 • telephone: 402-344-4000 • Fax: 402-344-4006

BEST LAWYERS from

The Best Lawyers in America® 2010 Omaha Magazine is proud to bring you the Omaha results of The Best Lawyers in America®, widely regarded as the preeminent referral guide to the legal profession in the United States. What makes this list the “go-to” guide? Two reasons: one, lawyers are not required to pay a fee for a basic listing in the guide. Two, inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® is based entirely on confidential peer review. This list is excerpted from the 2010 edition of The Best Lawyers in America, the preeminent referral guide to the legal profession in the United States. Published since 1983, Best Lawyers lists attorneys in 80 specialties, representing all 50 states, who have been chosen through an exhaustive survey in which thousands of the nation's top lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The 2010 edition of Best Lawyers is based on more than 2.2 million evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers. The method used to compile Best Lawyers remains unchanged since the first edition was compiled more than 25 years ago. Lawyers are chosen for inclusion based solely on the vote of their peers. Listings cannot be bought, and no purchase is required to be included. In this regard, Best Lawyers remains the gold standard of reliability and integrity in lawyer ratings. The nomination pool for the 2010 edition consisted of all lawyers whose names appeared in the previous edition of Best Lawyers, lawyers who were nominated since the previous survey, and new nominees solicited from listed attorneys. In general, lawyers were asked to vote only on nominees in their own specialty in their own jurisdiction. Lawyers in closely related specialties were asked to vote across specialties, as were lawyers in smaller jurisdictions. Where specialties are national or international in nature,

lawyers were asked to vote nationally as well as locally. Voting lawyers were also given an opportunity to offer more detailed comments on nominees. Each year, half of the voting pool receives fax or email ballots; the other half is polled by phone. Voting lawyers were provided this general guideline for determining if a nominee should be listed among “the best”: “If you had a close friend or relative who needed a real estate lawyer (for example), and you could not handle the case yourself, to whom would you refer them?” All votes and comments were solicited with a guarantee of confidentiality – a critical factor in the viability and validity of Best Lawyers® surveys. To ensure the rigor of the selection process, lawyers were urged to use only their highest standards when voting, and to evaluate each nominee based only on his or her individual merits. The additional comments were used to make more accurate comparisons between voting patterns and weight votes accordingly. Best Lawyers uses various methodological tools to identify and correct for anomalies in both the nomination and voting process. Ultimately, of course, a lawyer’s inclusion is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow attorneys. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, the breadth of the survey, the candor of the respondents, and the sophistication of the polling methodology largely correct for any biases. For all these reasons, Best Lawyers lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate and useful guide to the best lawyers in the United States available anywhere. Best Lawyers lists are available at www.bestlawyers.com. “Best Lawyers” and “The Best Lawyers in America” are registered trademarks of Woodward/White, Inc.

photo by Patrick Drickey, Stonehouse Publishing Co. www.readonlinenow.com

march/april | 2010

insight. trusted legal insight. Recognized as trusted cOunsel best l lawyers in 18 Law PRactice R Ractice aReas

top left (left to right): Dave Roe, Banking; Lee Hamann, Real estate; Mark Enenbach, Commercial litigation; John Thomas, personal Injury litigation; litigation; Bob Mullin Jr., Insurance, personal personal Injury litigation; litigation; Guy Lawson, Securities

Omahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business partner top RI RIght ght ((left left to right): Denise Mazour, Intellectual pproperty; roperty; Roger Wells, Corporate, Mergers and Acquisitions; Dean Kratz, llabor, abor, eemployment; mployment; Terry Macnamara, Alternative Dispute Resolution; Steve Bogue, Immigration, labor, labor, employment employment

fOr f fO Or the future Or BottoM left (left to right): Roger Miller, labor, employment; Steve Case, environmental; Dave Hefflinger, Corporate, Mergers and Acquisitions, Securities, trusts, trusts, estates; estates; Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare, Insurance; Jeff Pirruccello, tax tax

BottoM BottoM RIght RIght (left (left to right): Jim Fitzgerald, Bet-the-Company litigation, litigation, Commercial litigation; litigation; Bob Bothe, Bankruptcy, Creditor-Debtor Rights; Tom McGowan, eenvironmental; nvironmental; John Andreasen, environmental; environmental; Bill Hargens, Commercial llitigation itigation

f ower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street maha, Ne Ne 68102 p www.mcgrathnorth.com

BEST LAWYERS ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION James m. bausch Cline, Williams, Wright, Johnson & Oldfather One Pacific Place, Suite 320 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-397-1700 John c. broWnriGG Erickson & Sederstrom Regency Westpointe, Suite 100 10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114-3761 402-397-2200 D. nick caPorale Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 J. terry macnamara McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 mattheW G. miller Matthew G. Miller 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha 68106 402-558-4900 michael G. mullin Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

John s. zeilinGer Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

t. ranDall WriGht Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

John P. Passarelli Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

BANKRUPTCY AND CREDITORDEBTOR RIGHTS LAW robert J. bothe McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

Bet-the-Company Litigation thomas J. culhane Erickson & Sederstrom Regency Westpointe, Suite 100 10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114-3761 402-397-2200

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION steven e. achelPohl Steven E. Achelpohl 1010 Historic Library Plaza 1823 Harney Street Omaha 68102 402-346-1900

John r. DouGlas Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

James m. bausch Cline, Williams, Wright, Johnson & Oldfather One Pacific Place, Suite 320 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-397-1700

James b. cavanaGh Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000 robert v. Ginn Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 richarD D. myers McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp First National Plaza, Suite 500 11404 West Dodge Road Omaha 68154 402-492-9200 JerrolD l. strasheim Jerrold L. Strasheim 3610 Dodge Street Omaha 68131 402-346-9330

BANKING LAW Joyce a. DiXon Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000

DonalD l. sWanson Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500

DaviD h. roe McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

mary l. sWick Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

steven c. turner Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

www.readonlinenow.com

James P. fitzGeralD McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 charles f. Gotch Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 thomas e. Johnson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 michael f. kinney Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 William m. lamson, Jr. Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 Wayne J. mark Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 JosePh k. meusey Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

kirk s. blecha Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 James b. cavanaGh Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000 thomas J. culhane Erickson & Sederstrom Regency Westpointe, Suite 100 10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114-3761 402-397-2200 kelly r. Dahl Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 thomas h. Dahlk Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 steven D. DaviDson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

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William G. Dittrick Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 John r. DouGlas Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

Daniel J. Duffy Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 mark f. enenbach McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

James P. fitzGeralD McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 GeralD l. frieDrichsen Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000

charles f. Gotch Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 William f. harGens McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

Back row from left to right are Joseph E. Jones, Patrick J. Barrett, Robert L. Freeman, Robert W. Rieke, Michael F. Coyle, and Wayne J. Mark. Front row from left to right are Stephen M. Bruckner, Daniel J. Wintz, and Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. (Not Pictured: Joseph K. Meusey)

For more than a century, Fraser Stryker has served the evolving needs of our clients by building a community of professionals of outstanding caliber to provide clients with the highest quality of service. We congratulate our lawyers recognized in Best Lawyers in America, 2010 edition: Patrick J Barrett (Labor and Employment Law); Stephen M. Bruckner (Environmental Law); Michael F. Coyle (Personal Injury Litigation); Robert L. Freeman (Corporate Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Law); Joseph E. Jones (Commercial Litigation); Wayne J. Mark (Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, and Construction Law); Joseph K. Meusey (Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Legal Malpractice Law, and Personal Injury Litigation); Robert W. Rieke (Real Estate Law); Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. (Labor and Employment Law); and Daniel J. Wintz (Employee Benefits Law). Additionally, we congratulate those selected as Lawyer of the Year: Joseph K. Meusey (Best Lawyers’ 2009 Omaha Bet-the-Company Litigator of the Year), Robert W. Rieke (Best Lawyers’ 2009 Omaha Real Estate Lawyer of the Year), Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. (Best Lawyers’ 2010 Omaha Labor and Employment Lawyer of the Year).

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409 South 17th Street • 500 Energy Plaza • Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 341-6000 • www.FraserStryker.com

www.omahapublications.com

BEST LAWYERS DaviD s. houGhton Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000 thomas e. Johnson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 JosePh e. Jones Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 michael f. kinney Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 William m. lamson, Jr. Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 GeralD P. lauGhlin Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 Wayne J. mark Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 bartholomeW l. mcleay Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 JosePh k. meusey Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

www.readonlinenow.com

John P. Passarelli Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 robert m. slovek Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 Patrick G. viPonD Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 eDWarD G. Warin Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 CONSTRUCTION LAW P. scott Dye Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 laWrence e. kritenbrink Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 Wayne J. mark Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND COMPLIANCE LAW Dennis J. foGlanD Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 Paul c. Jessen Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500

CORPORATE LAW Joe e. armstronG Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 JosePh J. barmettler Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000 thomas r. burke Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 Joyce a. DiXon Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 DonalD l. erftmier, Jr. Erftmier Law LLC 11808 West Center Road, Suite 100 Omaha, NE 68144 402-504-1600 Dennis J. foGlanD Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 robert l. freeman Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 DaviD e. GarDels Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 stePhen e. GehrinG Cline, Williams, Wright, Johnson & Oldfather One Pacific Place, Suite 320 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-397-1700 Gary m. GotsDiner McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp First National Plaza, Suite 500 11404 West Dodge Road Omaha 68154 402-492-9200

Deryl f. hamann Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 DaviD l. hefflinGer McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 John W. herDzina Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha 68114-3419 402-392-1250 michael m. huPP Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500 thomas e. Johnson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 hoWarD J. kasloW Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha 68114-3419 402-392-1250 John s. katelman Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 marlon m. lofGren Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500 robert J. murray Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 DouGlas D. murray Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

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Partners William M. Lamson, Jr. Robert J. Murray Jon S. Reid Daniel P. Chesire William R. Johnson Frank M. Schepers Patrick G. Vipond Mark E. Novotny David J. Schmitt William R. Settles Lawrence F. Harr Matthew J. Bock Kyle Wallor Craig F. Martin Anne Marie O’Brien Brian J. Brislen Sean Minahan

We take this opportunity to highlight the attorneys and paralegals in our litigation department. Their dedicated contributions make these recognitions possible. Lamson, Dugan and Murray LLP is a firm of 30 lawyers with its offices located in Regency. The Firm’s litigation practice encompasses a wide range of commercial litigation, tort and products liability litigation, professional liability and employment litigation. Our business practice covers the broad spectrum of commercial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, taxation, estate and business succession planning, employment and employee benefits matters and insurance regulation. The Firm would like to congratulate its partners that are listed among The Best Lawyers in America 2010. William M. Lamson, Jr. earned recognition in the areas of bet-the-company litigation, commercial litigation, medical malpractice law and personal injury litigation. Patrick G. Vipond earned recognition in the areas of commercial litigation and medical malpractice law. Robert J. Murray was honored in the corporate law area.

L A M S O N , D U G A N A N D M U R R AY , L L P

AT T O R N E Y S AT L AW 10306 REGENCY PARKWAY DRIVE • O M A H A , N E B R A S K A , U S A 6 8 1 1 4 - 3 7 4 3 402-397-7300 • FAX 402-397-7824 • W W W. L D M L AW. C O M

Associates Stacy L. Morris Denise M. Destache Andrew T. Chapeau Anastasia Wagner John M. Walker Cathy Trent-Vilim Daniel J. Waters Angela J. Miller Maria T. Lighthall Elizabeth A. Simpson Sarah M. Macdissi Of Counsel C.E. Heaney, Jr. Frank J. Barrett

BEST LAWYERS richarD e. Putnam Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 toDD a. richarDson Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 t. Parker schenken Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 bruce D. vosburG Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000 roGer W. Wells McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 r. thomas Workman McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp First National Plaza, Suite 500 11404 West Dodge Road Omaha 68154 402-492-9200 John s. zeilinGer Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 CRIMINAL DEFENSE: NON-WHITE-COLLAR steven e. achelPohl Steven E. Achelpohl 1010 Historic Library Plaza 1823 Harney Street Omaha 68102 402-346-1900 J. William GalluP The Douglas Building 209 S. 19th Street, Stuite 400 Omaha 68102 402-341-3400

www.readonlinenow.com

alan G. stoler Alan G. Stoler 1823 Harney Street, Suite 1004 Omaha 68102 402-346-1733

Gary W. raDil Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

thomas c. mcGoWan McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

John e. schembari Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

michael s. mostek Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500

J. William GalluP The Douglas Building 209 S. 19th Street, Stuite 400 Omaha 68102 402-341-3400

Daniel J. Wintz Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

FAMILY LAW steven J. lustGarten Lustgarten and Roberts 1625 Farnam Street, Suite 900 Omaha 68102 402-346-1920

eDWarD G. Warin Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

ENERGY LAW ranDall c. hanson Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha 68114-3419 402-392-1250

michael b. lustGarten Lustgarten and Roberts 1625 Farnam Street, Suite 900 Omaha 68102 402-346-1920

EDUCATION LAW elizabeth eynon-kokrDa Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW John a. anDreasen McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS LAW Gary n. clatterbuck Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

stePhen m. bruckner Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE-COLLAR steven e. achelPohl Steven E. Achelpohl 1010 Historic Library Plaza 1823 Harney Street Omaha 68102 402-346-1900

Peter c. lanGDon Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 t. Geoffrey lieben Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000 ranDal m. limbeck Jackson Lewis 10050 Regency Circle, Suite 400 Omaha 68114 402-391-1991

steven P. case McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 kelly r. Dahl Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 John P. heil Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

DonalD a. roberts Lustgarten and Roberts 1625 Farnam Street, Suite 900 Omaha 68102 402-346-1920 John s. sloWiaczek Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000 FIRST AMENDMENT LAW michael c. coX Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500 FRANCHISE LAW Gary r. batenhorst Stinson Morrison Hecker 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1501 Omaha 68102 402-342-1700 John W. herDzina Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha 68114-3419 402-392-1250

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BEST LAWYERS John P. Passarelli Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 michael l. sullivan Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 GOVERNMENT RELATIONS LAW DaviD J. kramer Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 HEALTH CARE LAW vickie braDy ahlers Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 aleX m. clarke Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 anDreW e. Grimm Andrew E. Grimm 4242 Farnam Street, Suite 267 Omaha 68131 402-552-3483 Wayne b. henry Stinson Morrison Hecker 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1501 Omaha 68102 402-342-1700 John r. holDenrieD Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 Julie a. knutson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

march/april | 2010

amy l. lonGo Ellick, Jones, Buelt, Blazek & Longo 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 280 Omaha 68114 402-390-0390 thomas r. PansinG, Jr. Pansing Hogan Ernst & Bachman 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-397-5500 barbara e. Person Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 charles v. seDerstrom Erickson & Sederstrom Regency Westpointe, Suite 100 10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114-3761 402-397-2200 karen m. shuler Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500 Patricia a. zieG Stinson Morrison Hecker 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1501 Omaha 68102 402-342-1700 IMMIGRATION LAW a. stevenson boGue McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 amy l. erlbacher-anDerson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 stanley a. krieGer Krieger & Krieger 9290 West Dodge Road, Suite 302 Omaha 68114 402-392-1280 m. anGela krieGer Krieger & Krieger 9290 West Dodge Road, Suite 302 Omaha 68114 402-392-1280

GreGory b. minter Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000

terrence D. o'hare McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

scott s. moore Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW Jill robb ackerman Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

amy l. Peck Peck Law Firm 1812 North 169th Plaza Omaha 68118-2809 402-333-4884 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LAW terrence P. maher Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

Denise c. mazour McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 James e. o'connor Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

James e. o'connor Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

John P. Passarelli Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

INSURANCE LAW thomas a. Grennan Gross & Welch 1500 Omaha Tower 2120 South 72nd Street Omaha 68124-2342 402-392-1500

Dennis l. thomte Thomte Patent Law Office 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1111 Omaha 68124 402-392-2280

eDWarD hotz Hotz, Weaver, Flood, Breitkreutz & Grant 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 310 Omaha 68114 402-397-1140 robert D. mullin, Jr. McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 michael G. mullin Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

bruce D. vosburG Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000 INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND FINANCE LAW DaviD e. GarDels Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW Patrick J. barrett Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 www.omahapublications.com

a. stevenson boGue McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

scott s. moore Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW John r. DouGlas Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

DaviD l. hefflinGer McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

robert t. cannella Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000

robert f. rossiter, Jr. Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

charles f. Gotch Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

m. shaun mcGauGhey Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500

christoPher r. heDican Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

r. J. stevenson Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

thomas f. hoarty, Jr. Byam & Hoarty 317 American National Building 8990 West Dodge Road Omaha 68114 402-397-0303

LAND USE & ZONING LAW steven D. Johnson Steven D. Johnson 1864 South 155th Circle Omaha 68144 402-334-7729

Dean G. kratz McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

LEGAL MALPRACTICE LAW John r. DouGlas Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

timothy D. louDon Jackson Lewis 10050 Regency Circle, Suite 400 Omaha 68114 402-391-1991

JosePh k. meusey Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

roGer J. miller McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

michael f. kinney Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 William m. lamson, Jr. Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW Dennis J. foGlanD Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

toDD a. richarDson Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 roGer W. Wells McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 John s. zeilinGer Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

robert l. freeman Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000

MUNICIPAL LAW timothy m. kenny Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha 68114-3419 402-392-1250

keith a. Green McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp First National Plaza, Suite 500 11404 West Dodge Road Omaha 68154 402-492-9200

NON-PROFIT/CHARITIES LAW hoWarD freDrick hahn Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000

The Douglas Building 209 South 19th Street, Suite 400 Omaha, NE 68102 Phone: 402-341-3400 Fax: 402-341-2188

native of Alberta, Canada, J. William Gallup graduated from the University of Nebraska with bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He earned his J.D. degree from Creighton University in 1964. After serving as a city, state and federal prosecutor, he has been in private practice since 1971. He is a Fellow of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, an organization open by invitation only to the best criminal lawyers in the United States. In 1982, he was elected president of the organization. He is also a past president of the Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. Respected by his peers, Mr. Gallup has been named one of America’s six top “Murder” lawyers, along with Richard “Racehorse” Haynes and Bobby Lee Cook. An editor for the Criminal Law Advocacy, as well as an author, he has had numerous articles published in legal journals and has lectured at seminars in 38 states and Canada. He practices in state and federal courts and has been admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court. He is a veteran of both the US Army and US Marine Corps.

PERSONAL INJURY LITIGATION michael f. coyle Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 charles f. Gotch Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 thomas a. Grennan Gross & Welch 1500 Omaha Tower 2120 South 72nd Street Omaha 68124-2342 402-392-1500 michael f. kinney Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 William m. lamson, Jr. Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 JosePh k. meusey Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 michael J. mooney Gross & Welch 1500 Omaha Tower 2120 South 72nd Street Omaha 68124-2342 402-392-1500 robert D. mullin, Jr. McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 michael G. mullin Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000 robert e. o'connor, Jr. O'Connor Law Firm 2433 South 130th Circle Omaha 68144 402-330-5906

march/april | 2010

e. terry sibbernsen Sibbernsen & Strigenz Westroads Office Park, Suite 330 1111 North 102nd Court Omaha 68114 402-493-7221

REAL ESTATE LAW John Q. bachman Pansing Hogan Ernst & Bachman 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-397-5500

John f. thomas McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

Jon e. blumenthal Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

PRODUCT LIABILITY LITIGATION charles f. Gotch Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

James D. buser Pansing Hogan Ernst & Bachman 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-397-5500

michael f. kinney Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300 PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE LAW Patrick G. viPonD Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300 PROJECT FINANCE LAW t. Parker schenken Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 PUBLIC FINANCE LAW charles J. aDDy Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 richarD J. PeDersen Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 Patricia s. Peterson Kutak Rock The Omaha Building 1650 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2186 402-346-6000

P. scott Dye Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 John h. fullenkamP Fullenkamp, Doyle & Jobeun 11440 West Center Road, Suite C Omaha 68144 402-334-0700 lee h. hamann McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 Dennis P. hoGan iii Pansing Hogan Ernst & Bachman 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-397-5500 robert J. huck Croker, Huck, Kasher, Dewitt, Anderson & Gondringer 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha 68124 402-391-6777 larry a. Jobeun Fullenkamp, Doyle & Jobeun 11440 West Center Road, Suite C Omaha 68144 402-334-0700 steven D. Johnson Steven D. Johnson 1864 South 155th Circle Omaha 68144 402-334-7729

John s. katelman Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000 michael f. kivett Walentine O'Toole McQuillan & Gordon 11240 Davenport Street Omaha 68154-0125 402-330-6300 laWrence e. kritenbrink Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 michael D. mateJka Woods & Aitken 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 525 Omaha 68114 402-898-7400 frank J. mihulka Woods & Aitken 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 525 Omaha 68114 402-898-7400 robert W. rieke Fraser Stryker Energy Plaza, Suite 500 409 South 17th Street Omaha 68102-2663 402-341-6000 SECURITIES LAW Dennis J. foGlanD Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500 DaviD l. hefflinGer McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070 Guy laWson McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

www.omahapublications.com

BEST LAWYERS TAX LAW hoWarD freDrick hahn Husch Blackwell Sanders 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 2100 Omaha 68102 402-964-5000

TRUSTS AND ESTATES thomas r. burke Lamson, Dugan and Murray 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha 68114 402-397-7300

Deryl f. hamann Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

Daniel J. Duffy Cassem, Tierney, Adams, Gotch & Douglas 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-390-0300

DaviD l. hefflinGer McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

Deryl f. hamann Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

susan J. sPahn Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000

Paul c. Jessen Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500

DaviD l. hefflinGer McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

michael l. sullivan Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

hoWarD n. kaPlan Law Office of Howard N. Kaplan 9290 West Dodge Road, Suite 205 Omaha 68114 402-397-8988

ronalD c. Jensen Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

nick r. taylor Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan Regency One, Suite 200 10050 Regency Circle Omaha 68114-3794 402-342-1000

t. Geoffrey lieben Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000

Paul c. Jessen Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500

thomas r. PansinG, Jr. Pansing Hogan Ernst & Bachman 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha 68114 402-397-5500

michael D. Jones Ellick, Jones, Buelt, Blazek & Longo 8805 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 280 Omaha 68114 402-390-0390

Jeffrey J. Pirruccello McGrath North First National Tower, Suite 3700 1601 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-341-3070

sharon r. kresha Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

Gary W. raDil Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

t. Geoffrey lieben Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek & Cavanagh 100 Scoular Building 2027 Dodge Street Omaha 68102 402-344-4000

www.readonlinenow.com

thomas J. malicki Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha 68114-3419 402-392-1250 Gary W. raDil Baird Holm Woodmen Tower, Suite 1500 1700 Farnam Street Omaha 68102-2068 402-344-0500

kurt f. tJaDen Koley Jessen One Pacific Place, Suite 800 1125 South 103rd Street Omaha 68124 402-390-9500 Jeffrey D. toberer Stinson Morrison Hecker 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1501 Omaha 68102 402-342-1700 WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAW John iliff Gross & Welch 1500 Omaha Tower 2120 South 72nd Street Omaha 68124-2342 402-392-1500

These lists are excerpted from The Best Lawyers in America® 2010, which includes listings for more than 40,000 lawyers in 80 specialties, in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The Best Lawyers in America® is published by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, South Carolina and can be ordered directly from the publisher. For information call 803-648-0300; write 129 First Avenue, SW, Aiken, SC 29801; email info@bestlawyers.com; or visit www. bestlawyers.com. Online subscriptions to Best Lawyers® databases are available at www. bestlawyers.com Woodward/White Inc., has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All listed attorneys have been verified as being members in good standing with their respective state bar associations as of July 1, 2009, where that information is publicly available. Consumers should contact their state bar for verification and additional information prior to securing legal services of any attorney. Copyright 2010 by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, SC. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of this list may be made without permission of Woodward/White, Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of this list without permission. “The Best Lawyers in America” and “Best Lawyers” are registered trademarks of Woodward/White, Inc. For more information on The Best Lawyers in America®, see their website, www. bestlawyers.com.

march/april | 2010

First National Bank is proud to be the presenting sponsor of Kicks for a Cure. We salute the student athletes and volunteers who are so generously giving of their time.

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Kicks for a Cure celebrates five years of soccer success

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Corey Ross

News You Can Use

tunities associated with these events and, uniquely, in the case of the classic car show, there’s also a chance to get involved as an exhibitor. Event organizers are seeking owners of classic cars – and motorcycles – to participate in the show and give it a memorable debut on Father’s Day Weekend. Based on the response from our charitable partners, I know many of you have taken advantage of the charitable opportunities the information in Gala has provided, and that’s gratifying to hear. One of the great things about Gala, and Omaha Magazine’s event calendar, is that we publish information at a time when it can be planned for and really provide one of the only broad views of this information in the city. With so much going on, a day’s or week’s notice are hardly enough to get it all on your calendar. Anyway, I want to thank the organizations who have partnered with us to spread the word about their good charitable works, and want to encourage nonprofit and charitable organizations to consider us a resource for such information. For all the great work that has been done in the city, there’s always another great event just around the corner. And I want you to be able to turn here to read about it first.

urn to page 60 of this issue and you’ll find a story about a new fundraising event coming to Joslyn Castle next summer. Joslyn Castle Classic Weekend combines a classic car show with a fashion show and a gala in what’s sure to be a memorable weekend at the castle. Since its inception last year, the Gala section of Omaha Magazine has prided itself on bringing you such information first and has repeatedly been the first to publish news about events, speakers and other related information pertaining to Omaha’s charity/nonprofit community. The Joslyn Castle Classic Car Show is just the latest in a string of events to be publicized here exclusively. Others have included the gala for the new Methodist Women’s Hospital, the benefit for the opening of the sculpture garden at the Joslyn Art Museum and last issue’s story about now-retired Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner speaking at the D.J.’s Heroes Luncheon for The Salvation Army in May. Whether the information is actionable to you or not, we hope you still find it insightful and valuable to find out about the many great causes to support in the city and ways to be involved. The events are just one way to get involved and attending is just one of those ways. There are, obviously, also volunteer oppor-

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Kicking Cancer Now in its fifth year, Kicks for a Cure has raised more than $500,000 for cancer research in celebration of a sport and in memory of a life taken too soon.

Above: Dave Karnes. Top right: The 2009 check presentation. Right: Tournament action. Cover: Terry, Mary and Claire Zach with Dave Karnes.

ive years ago, Dave Karnes and his four daughters rolled out a soccer ball and a new idea for a fundraiser to honor a life taken too soon by cancer. Liz Karnes died in 2003 at age 53 after a 13-year struggle with the disease. Her family wanted to honor her passion for life, sports and helping others with a charity event. What they and others came up with was Kicks for a Cure, an annual soccer tournament that celebrates female athletes and provides funds for cancer research.

march/april | 2010

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Coming Spring 2010 – Reserve your space today! The fifth annual Kicks will take place at Creighton University’s Morrison Field on April 16th and 17th and host competition amongst high school and college soccer teams. The event has featured exclusively female athletes in the past, but this year the Creighton men’s team will participate for the first time and take on defending collegiate national champion Virginia. To date, the event, which includes a charity banquet the evening before, has raised $556,000 for cancer research. That money has been split evenly between the cancer centers at Creighton University and UNMC, both of whom treated Liz Karnes during her illness. Dave Karnes says he’s certain his late wife is smiling down on the event and the impact it has made in the community. “This event is very consistent with the things Liz believed important,” he says. “It’s a unique event that focuses not only on young women in an athletic environment, but also an academic environment. It’s all about healthy lifestyles and having good role models.” Karnes interprets his wife’s blessing by the impeccable execution of her one “job.” “I always joke that Liz would be running this show if she was here,” he says. “ Now, she has one key annual responsibility: the weather. She’s closer to the decision maker than am I. Every year, we’ve had rain and snow storms up until the event and then suddenly the sun comes out on that day.” Karnes, a former U.S. Senator, and his daughters – Korey, Kalen, Kara and Laurel – have been the honorary chairs each of the past four years. This year’s co-chairs are Mary and Terry Zach, who have a unique tie to the event. Their daughter, Claire, was the first recipient of the Liz Karnes Memorial Scholarship, which the Karnes family established four years ago. The scholarship is awarded to a Creighton women soccer www.readonlinenow.com

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Honoree Claire Zach.

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player “who exemplifies a passion for athletics, high moral standards, impressive leadership skills and the ability to work through adversity in all aspects of life.” Being bestowed with that honor, and the nature of the event, makes the Kicks for a Cure competition Claire Zach’s most eagerly anticipated game of the year. “It’s something where you can share your passion for soccer and do it for such an incredible cause,” she says. “I have been so grateful to be involved.” Claire has been involved since the inception of the event. Her first year, she played in it while a senior at Marian High School. She recalls being inspired by the interaction with collegiate athletes and the exposure to Creighton’s first-class soccer stadium. Dave Karnes says Zach epitomizes the experience the event seeks to give everyone who participates. “Claire is a by-product of some of the success we’ve had,” Karnes says. Another positive outcome has been the boost the cancer research coffers at Creighton and UNMC, specifically Creighton’s Hereditary Cancer Center and UNMC’s Eppley Cancer Center. Karnes says it was important to the family that both institutions benefit from the event. “(When Liz was sick) we could’ve gone anywhere for treatment, but we decided to work with UNMC and Creighton,” he www.omahapublications.com

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says. “It was very important to her to have outstanding cancer doctors and nurses as well as medical resources here in the Omaha community.” Karnes notes that statistics show that one Lee of every two people will be directly or indiAndersen We at Millard Family Eyecare rectly impacted by cancer in their family. pride ourselves on our thorough, “So awareness of the disease is really up-to-date eyecare, quality Cheyenne products, and friendly service. important,” he says. 12660 Q Street • 402-896-3300 Besides sending a message about canAlex www.MillardFamilyEyecare.com cer, the event also seeks to spread the Evening word about soccer. The day before the competition, competing players host a clinic for around 150 underprivileged kids in the Omaha area. • Grooming Local groups such as Girls, Inc., the Boys • Dog Daycare and Girls Clubs and Boys Town provide • Accessories many of the clinic participants. Karnes says for many of those kids, the clinic is like attending a soccer Super Bowl. “These are kids who don’t have the The Woman Thank You Omaha for voting us advantage of the high-class, well-organized #1 for the third year in a row! programs we have in west Omaha,” he SIZES 12 & UP 3731 N. 153rd Street says. “They are very excited to interact with (153rd & W. Maple Road) these wonderful college athletes and being 16950 Wright Plaza, Ste 101 496-4005 in Morrison Stadium on the big field.” 884-8848 • In Shops of Legacy www.barkavenueomaha.com After five years, Karnes says he’s pleased with how the event has grown and sees 2/12/10 11:58 AM potential for an even brighter future. First other woman OM0410.indd 1 National Bank has been a strong sponsor and Karnes is seeking others who see the value in promoting sports, healthy lifestyles and combating a dreadful disease. w www .OmahaFriendlyServices.com “(Kicks for a Cure) takes a lot of time and effort, but it’s a win-win for everybody.”

Other

Friday, April 16, 2010 • Morrison Stadium 4:30 p.m. - Free skills clinic for young soccer players from Girls, Inc., Boys' and Girls' Clubs of Omaha, Boys Town conducted by participating coaches and players. Doubletree Hotel (Downtown) 6:00 p.m. - Social Hour • 7:00 p.m.- Dinner and Program Saturday, April, 17, 2010 11:00 a.m. Varsity High School Match, Class A: Marian vs. Millard West 1:30 p.m. University of Nebraska-Omaha vs. Northwest Missouri State University. Autograph session to follow 4:30 p.m. Creighton University vs. University of Nebraska (women's teams) Creighton/NU autograph session 7:00 p.m. Creighton University vs. University of Virginia (men's team) Creighton/UVA autograph session website is www.kicksforacure.org Soccer game tickets may be purchased by calling the Creighton ticket oﬃce at 402-280-JAYS (5297) www.readonlinenow.com

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behind the mic... peg tyre by Corey Ross photos courtesy of Peg Tyre

Boy Trouble Camp Fire USA luncheon speaker to discuss the plight of boys in the modern educational system.

ormer Newsweek education reporter and author Peg Tyre’s reporting about the struggles of boys in the classroom the last four years has drawn attention from a multitude of parents and educators alike. For instance, one of her stories on the subject generated 1 million hits in 48 hours on Newsweek’s web site. Tyre has followed up her reporting with a speaking tour, often appearing before audiences of frustrated parents who in Tyre have found a voice of empathy and hope. Tyre, author of “The Trouble With Boys: A Surprising Report Card on Our Sons, Their Problems at School, and What Parents and Educators Must Do,” will be the featured speaker at Camp Fire USA’s annual author luncheon on March 31 at the Holiday Inn. What follows is a glimpse into a complex topic that has generated much discussion and debate, Tyre says, and few solutions.

Q. Aside from your overall reporting, was there a moment or particular response to your reporting that made you decide this topic needed to be a book? A. I grew up a feminist and thought a lot about how schools short-changed girls. Then I started to turn my attention to a pool of African-American boys and how much they were struggling. My reporting led me to talk to a headmaster at an expensive private school and he told me the kids in the bottom quartile were overwhelmingly male. Talking to him got me wondering what really was happening. Then I got thinking about my own experience and realized that the parents who are really gnashing their teeth when they drop their kids off at school are the parents of boys. Q. How bad is it for boys? A. When I started to pull up the data, I was shocked. Boys are expelled at

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five times the rate of girls, held back at twice the rate, drop out more, do less homework and go to college less. Q. What response or two to the book has resonated with you or surprised you the most? A. I get scores of letters every week, 20 or more, from people describing their family situations and asking, “What should I do?” This is a big, big issue. I’m in schools all the time and teachers continue to come up to me and say, “We need to fix this.” If we continue to have this split in educational achievement for boys and girls, it’s going to make a huge impact on future generations and, for example, my grandchildren. Q. How often do you speak? How are your received? What’s the dialogue like with your audiences? A. I do three or four a month. I try to do it because I really believe I can engage

people in deep dialogue and give them a blueprint for making an argument for change in the problem of gender and education. For instance, the reading gap between boys and girls is massive. We have well-meaning adults and teachers who know this is happening to their kids in their classrooms, but don’t know what to do about it. When we start talking, it makes for lively discussion and gives people some context for change. Q. In general, how hard is it to be a parent right now? Tougher than ever? A. It’s pretty challenging, especially to be the parent of a boy. I am jealous of those who have girls. I have daughter envy. But at least it’s no longer taboo to talk about your kid struggling in school. I think we’ve moving forward in our ability to talk about it.

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Q. You wrote about Columbine’s impact on boys in an editorial for Newsweek. How much did that event change the teaching and parenting landscape? A. It has made people confuse play violence and real violence. I find myself defending kids’ ability to play with plastic guns, for instance. What they’re really doing is role playing and trying to be the hero and defeat the bad guy. That doesn’t make them pre-serial killers as the incidents at Columbine and Virginia Tech have made us believe. What you’re seeing (in those cases) is a severe breakdown in the mental health services for young people. Q. Why did education reporting become a passion for you? What made you get into the field? A. I used to cover crime, then Newsweek asked me to cover social trends and education. I’ve always been a data person and pretty skeptical. I think providing good education for our kids is the civil rights issue of our time. I’m concerned about the education gap between boys and girls, and black and white. Solving it will determine whether our democracy will thrive. It’s exciting to write stories that can have an effect in Washington, D.C., people’s living rooms and classrooms. Q. How much are teachers struggling with the gender issue right now? What’s your view of teaching right now? A. I like teachers and, in general, have met very few teachers who don’t want the best for boys. I think teaching is a very difficult profession right now. Teachers are poorly served by their training and underpaid at a time when our expectations of them are through the roof. The teaching profession is really in flux right now. A lot of well-meaning people are under a lot of pressure and trying to do their best. www.readonlinenow.com

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the scoop By Corey Ross Images courtesy of Joslyn Castle

Cars and the Castle

Debuting this summer, Joslyn Castle Classic Weekend combines a car show, fashion show and gala

n June, the lush grounds of the Joslyn Castle at 39th and Davenport Streets in midtown Omaha will be temporarily turned into a showcase for nearly 100 classic cars. Vintage cars from the 1920s to the '60s will be on display for guests at the Castle Classic Car Show, a new castle event planned for Father’s Day weekend. The car show will provide the culmination for a weekend’s worth of activities, including a Friday fashion show and luncheon, a Saturday night gala and old-time kids games and a food arcade on the castle’s grounds Sunday. This weekend is meant to provide something for all ages and genders from June 18 to the 20th. Susan McMannama will chair the Castle Classic weekend with local antique car owner Jerry Vincentini coordinating the car show. Joslyn Castle board member Mark Maser says the event is intended to alternate with the Designer Showhouse, which was a spectacular success last fall, with the Joslyn Castle Trust being the beneficiary. Maser says it has been decided the showhouse will be staged every 18 months. In the alternate year, the intent of the

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weekend is to give the Castle a fundraising assist and help it reach new audiences. “The showhouse took the Joslyn Castle Trust to a new level of visibility and fundraising,” Maser says. “We wanted an event to complement it that would maintain interest in the Castle.” The idea for the car show actually came from Maser’s father, Al, a participant in many classic car shows. Mark Maser says the vintage car and motorcycles displayed will be very high quality. “Many are custom made and crazy expensive,” Maser says. “These cars hardly ever leave the garage. You generally don’t get to see them.” The idea to combine a car show, fashion show and gala actually harkens back to a concept that was briefly popular is Paris, Maser says. Classic cars were used to bring the fashion models to the show. Eventually the cars assumed the starring role and the fashions become secondary. The Castle’s fashion show will present a combination of vintage clothing and modern fashion. The show will begin at 11 a.m. on the opening Friday in a tent on the castle grounds followed with a luncheon in the castle. A VIP www.omahapublications.com

cocktail reception will be held that evening. The next evening, the Jazz and Gin Gala will take patrons back to the spirit of the roaring 20s. “Guests are encouraged to dress in costumes that evoke the period, flappers and such,” Maser says. “Charleston lessons and dancing will take place after dinner in the tent.” Ticket packages are available to all of the weekend’s events, but individual event tickets are also available. For tickets or more information, call 595.2199 or go to www. joslyncastle.com. After the car show, the weekend will culminate with an awards dinner, with the winners being chosen by the guests. But ultimately, Maser says, anyone who discovers the Castle through the event is the big winner. “It’ll be a wonderful weekend with something for everyone in the family,” he says.

Salute to the Simons On March 27th, Opera Omaha will pay tribute to Fred and Eve Simon with an evening dedicated to the couple on the heels of them being recently nationally recognized for their support of opera. Opera America named the Simons one of four recipients for its 2010 National Opera Trustee Recognition Awards. Now in its third year, the award honors trustees of U.S. opera companies for “exemplary leadership, generosity and audience-building efforts on behalf of their respective opera companies.” The Simons have supported Opera Omaha for nearly 40 years. “Their individual gifts have allowed Opera Omaha to provide productions of the highest artistic quality for the people of this community, while at the same time ensuring the company’s longevity,” read a

portion of the announcement. “Celebrate Opera – Celebrate Eve and Fred Simon” will take place at the Hilton Omaha, starting at 6:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy dinner and live entertainment. Hal France will serve as master of ceremonies. SNL Star to Appear for CSI Former “Saturday Night Live” cast member Norm MacDonald will be the featured comedian for Cabaret, the Child Saving Institute’s annual comedy fundraiser. Perhaps best known for reading “the fake news” for five seasons on SNL, MacDonald has appeared in several feature films and has done stand-up work since getting his start in Canada. Cabaret will be take place on May 8th at the Holiday Inn. For tickets or more information, call 553.6000.

The Salvation Army D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon Featured speaker: Kurt Warner May 3, 2010, 11:45 a.m. Qwest Center Omaha, 455 N 10 Street $85 per person Table of 10 $850 Please RSVP by 4/28 to 402.898.5906 D.J.’s Hero Award nominations accepted through 3/8 Applications can be downloaded at www.givesalvationarmy.org

Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner gives God credit for his ability on the football field. The acclaimed athlete and father of seven talks about the struggles he has faced in life and about leadership, motivation and inspiration. Author of: “All Things Possible: My Story of Faith, Football, and the First Miracle Season” and “Keep Your Head Up” www.readonlinenow.com

march/april | 2010

galas, etc. A two-month look at upcoming fundraisers and other charitable events

March 3 Project Harmony’s Speaking of Children luncheon. Qwest Center, www. projectharmony.com or 595.1326 What it is: Marilyn Van Derbur, former Miss America, child abuse survivor and author of the award-winning book “Miss America by Day,” will be the featured luncheon speaker. This annual luncheon for Project Harmony seeks to inspire and inform the community in the fight against child abuse. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support Project Harmony programs and services. March 5 The 16th Annual Junior League of Omaha’s American Girl Fashion Show. The Happy Hollow Club, 1701 S. 105th St., Through March 7, 493.8818 or www. juniorleagueomaha.org. What it is: A fun-filled event for girls, their families, friends and favorite dolls. Historically inspired clothing and matching dolls from the American Girl collections will be featured in seven fashion shows over three days. Where the money goes: Proceeds will benefit JLO’s Children’s Projects, including HIP (Healthy, Inspired & Proactive) Kids, Go! Play Adventure and Done in a Day. March 6 The 12th Annual Blue Jean Ball for Make-A-Wish: Blue Jeans & Pearls. Georgetowne Club, 2440 S. 141st Circle, 6:30 p.m., 333.8999. What it is: Omaha’s most casual fundraiser. Dressed in denim, Make-A-Wish Foundation supporters will partake in dinner and an auction before dancing the music of Pam and the Pearls. Where the money goes: Proceeds from this event support The Make-AWish Foundation of Nebraska, which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. March 7 Oscar Night America party for the Alzheimer’s Association. Harrah’s Casino, 4:30 p.m., 502.4301 or www.alz. org/midlands. What it is: One of 50 officially sanctioned parties held across the country in conjunction with the Academy Awards. The academy makes available to local party guests the same official program distributed to guests seated in the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. Where the money goes: The proceeds from the event will benefit the Midlands Chapter Alzheimer’s Association. The Midlands Chapter serves Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa by providing education, information, and support to individuals afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease; and supports the National Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Association in its research for the prevention, cure and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Where the money goes: Up to 15 percent of sales proceeds will be donated to Career Solutions, Inc. at the Ollie Webb Center, a local nonprofit agency providing employment, education and independent living services for adults with developmental disabilities. March 13 Irish Fest 2010 for Catholic Charities. Qwest Center Omaha, 5:30 p.m., 829.9261 or kathyg@ccomaha.org What it is: Irish Fest is Omaha longest-running benefit to feature live entertainment. This year’s act is the local band Finest Hour, featuring the BroadBand Horns. Where the money goes: Proceeds support the mission of Catholic Charities to “serve, empower and advocate for people in need.” Hunt for Sight Wild Game Feast. Council Bluffs Country Club, 6:30 p.m. dinner, 505.6119 What it is: A wild game dinner to support Prevent Blindness Nebraska. Guests will be treated to a menu of exotic fare. Where the money goes: To provide needed vision screening and education, training and Vision Care Outreach, which helps people in need receive free routine eye examinations and glasses. March 19 Table Art. Regency Marriott Hotel, noon, www.omahasymphonyguild.com What it is: This event features beautiful, unique and elaborate table art creations. Annie Morhauser of Annieglass will be the featured luncheon speaker. Where the money goes: Table Art supports programming for the Omaha Symphony. March 20 Spotlight Gala for Voices for Children. Embassy Suites LaVista, 6 p.m., www. voicesforchildren.com. What it is: With the theme, “Today’s Children, Tomorrow’s Future,” Voices for Children launches a new fundraiser. The theme represents the organization’s intent to illuminate the needs of children throughout the state. Dr. John and Kay Lynn Goldner will be honored and serve as hosts. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support the efforts of Voices for Children to advocate for children through research and public education. Holt International Children’s Services Benefit Dinner. Embassy Suites LaVista, 5:30 p.m., 991-4006 What it is: A gala and auction to benefit the homeless children supported by Holt’s services. Where the money goes: All proceeds will go toward supporting children with special needs.

March 27 The 2010 Omaha Press Club Show. Mid-America Center, Council Bluffs, 5:30 p.m., www.opcshow.org What it is: This version of the Omaha’s Press Club’s annual comedic review of the news is themed, “Bye, Bye Budget, Buske, ‘Blatt and Bailouts.” The evening includes dinner and a live show. Where the money goes: Omaha Press Club Show proceeds support scholarships for journalism students at UNL, UNO and Creighton. Celebrate Opera - Celebrate Eve & Fred Simon. Hilton Omaha, 6:30 p.m., 402-34-OPERA (346-7372) What it is: An evening of cocktails, dinner and live entertainment to celebrate long-time opera supporters Fred and Eve Simon. The evening will focus on the Simons’ amazing contributions to all of the arts in the Omaha community. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support the opera’s educational programs. March 31 Camp Fire USA Guild Author Luncheon. Holiday Inn Central, 11:45 a.m., 397.5908 What it is: Newsweek reporter Peg Tyre, author “The Trouble with Boys,” will talk about why boys as a whole are struggling in school and what can be done about it. Where the money goes: Proceeds support Camp Fire programs. April 10 Destination: World’s Fare for the Omaha Community Playhouse, Sponsored by ACT II. Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St., 7 p.m., 553.4890, ext. 145. What it is: An evening of fun and frolic, as the Playhouse is transformed into the following destinations: Ireland, Mexico, New Orleans, Thailand and Paris. Sample cuisine and entertainment from each area while supporting the number one community theatre in the nation. The evening will culminate with a show by some of Omaha’s most talented performers.

April 17 Black Tie and Tails for the Nebraska Humane Society. Holiday Inn, 72nd and Grover, 444-7800 Ext. 270 or www.nehumanesociety.org What it is: This year’s theme is “Waiting for Someone Like You” and will feature pets who are still waiting for someone to adopt them as well as NHS Alumni who have already found their forever homes. The evening includes a VIP runway show which “red carpets” the aforementioned Very Important Pets, plus musical entertainment and lots of chances to make the difference in the life of abandoned, neglected and abused animals. Where the money goes: The Humane Society’s biennial gala raises funds and awareness for homeless animals. Kaleidoscope 2010. Embassy Suites LaVista, 6 p.m., 559.5390 What it is: CSI star and Omaha native Marg Helgenberger will serve as special guest at the University Hospital Auxiliary’s annual benefit. Where the money goes: Proceeds from the event will fund the Life Renewal Center, which will be located at The Nebraska Medical Center’s Cancer Center at Village Pointe. The Life Renewal Center will offer a variety of services – wigs, skin and nail care, massage therapy and educational classes – to help cancer patients renew themselves after treatment, improve their self-confidence and manage their recovery. April 20 Salvation Army Around the World. Kroc Community Center, 2825 Y St., 11 a.m., 758.2772 What it is: The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary presents its ninth annual tasting buffet and silent auction. The luncheon will feature favorite recipes with an ethnically inspired focus and a recipe book will be provided. Where the money goes: All proceeds benefit the local programs of The Salvation Army.

Where the money goes: Proceeds support the Omaha Community Playhouse.

April 21 Lauritzen Gardens Guild luncheon. Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St., 346.4002

Sushi at Sunset for the Omaha Hearing School. Blue Sushi Sake Grill Old Market, 7 p.m., 558-1546

What it is: The annual luncheon for the Lauritzen Gardens Guild, which this year will feature Mark Held, a “florist to the stars” in Los Angeles. Held, owner of Mark’s Garden, has provided floral décor for such prestigious events as the Emmy Awards, the Golden Globes and numerous celebrity weddings.

What it is: A casual evening of sushi and other culinary delights to support the Omaha Hearing School. Where the money goes: Proceeds help fund the Hearing School’s efforts to assist deaf and hard-of-hearing children in learning oral communication skills. April 16 The Fifth Annual Kicks for a Cure. Creighton University, Through April 17, www.kicksforacure.org

Ollie’s Night Out. Mainstream Boutique, 1826 N. 144th St., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., vstoj@ olliewebbinc.org

What it is: A slate of high school and college soccer games on Saturday preceded by a banquet and soccer clinic the day before.

What it is: A night of shopping for out-of-the-ordinary women’s clothing and accessories to benefit Ollie Webb.

Where the money goes: Funds support cancer research at Creighton and UNMC.

Where the money goes: Proceeds will support exhibits and programs at the gardens. April 22 The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Diamonds and Champions. Embassy Suites LaVista, 6:30 p.m., 344.2242 or www. lls.org. What it is: An evening celebrating the advances being made in blood cancer research and the diagnosis and treatment of individuals who

have Leukemia Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s Disease and Myeloma. Where the money goes: Proceeds fund research and innovative patient programs and services. April 24 MS Walk. Civic Auditorium, 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., walknen.nationalmssociety.org or 800.344.4867 What it is: A charity walk to support the MS Society. Where the money goes: All proceeds benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society. The Sixth Annual Spring Bark in the Park. Hefflinger Dog Park, 111th and Maple Sts., noon, www.omahadogpark. org What it is: Omaha Dog Park advocates invites guests to bring their dogs to enjoy the park and learn about canine toys, tools, rescue groups and adoptions. The first 500 dogs will receive goody bags. Where the money goes: Funds raised will support the addition of amenities to the park, including shelters and landscaping. April 26 Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures luncheon honoring Michael Yanney and Gail Walling Yanney, M.D. Happy Hollow Club, 11:30 a.m., 390.2461 What it is: A luncheon to honor Nebraskans who have made a difference in the world through their passionate support of medical research. Where the money goes: Funds support the Nebraska Coalition for Livesaving Cures in its mission to promote, support and advocate for research to advance our quality of life and economy. April 29 Habitat for Humanity’s Women’s Power Lunch. Holiday Inn Central, 457.5657, ext. 106 or kwells@habitatomaha.org What it is: An annual luncheon to celebrate supporters of the 13th annual Women Build. Mary Jo Langdon and her daughters are honorary chairs. Where the money goes: Proceeds will help fund future home building initiatives for families in need. April 30 The Uta Halee Girls Village Guild’s Second Annual Lunch and Learn. Scott Conference Center, 11 a.m., 457.1333. What it is: An event designed to educate and motivate people to feel and perform their best. Theme is “How to Balance a Healthy Lifestyle.” The program will be presented be Amy and Marty Wolff with Reality Wellness. The Wolffs were contestants on the reality show “The Biggest Loser.” They now have personal training certification, live in Omaha and speak at corporate wellness workshops. Where the money goes: Supports Uta Halee Girls Village, providing gender-specific residential and coeducational day services for young women 12-18 years of age.

Charitable events for Gala’s calendar of events can be submitted to Corey Ross at corey@omahapublications or 884.2039.

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Hearts on Fire American Heart Association's 22nd Annual Heart Ball raises more than $450,000 Story courtesy of the Bemis Center Photos by Corey Ross

ore than 600 members of the local medical and business community gathered in February to support the American Heart Association at its 22nd Annual Heart Ball held at Embassy Suites LaVista. Warmed by the theme “Hearts on Fire” theme, which was punctuated with hundreds of candles and eight-foottall red and orange decorations, guests helped raise more than $450,000 for life-saving research discoveries and educational programs related to our nation’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers, respectively, heart disease and stroke. Event-night donations came in at over $100,000 – a local record. The 2010 Heart Ball was chaired by John and Wende Kotouc and Dr. Pierre and Maya Fayad. Honorary chairs were Allan Lozier and Dianne Seeman Lozier. Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Heart Ambassador Jim McManus charmed the crowd during the program with a video and a live message. In January 2009, McManus, a healthy, active high school junior from Millard, suffered a stroke that affected a fist-size area of his brain. A test soon determined he had a small

opening in his heart that may have let a blood clot through to his brain. Last April, McManus underwent a catheter-based procedure to have the opening in his heart repaired. McManus told guests his experience has opened his eyes to the heroes in Omaha’s community – people who work every day to fight heart disease and stroke and people who give generously to make research and cures possible. “You’re giving more than money tonight. You’re restoring hope in people’s lives.” The funds raised by the Omaha Heart Ball provide critical resources for life-saving surgery techniques and discoveries like clot-busting drugs, CPR, heart valves and pacemakers. In the past five years, the American Heart Association has funded more than $4.77 million for research at Nebraska universities. Nationally, the association has funded more than $2.9 billion since 1949. To learn more about the 2011 American Heart Association Omaha Heart Ball, call 346.0771. To learn more about association programs and events, visit www.heart.org/Omaha.

Top left: Heart Ambassador Jim McManus and his mother, Annie Brewer-King. Top: The Sweethearts - Whitney Erwin, Emily Lanspa, Haley Mathews, Kalyn Dorheim, Abbey Parodi, Taylor Frolio and Talia Simon. Above: Linda and Curt Hofer. Right: Chairs John and Wende Kotouc, Dr. Pierre and Maya Fayad.

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For the Troops Chuck Hagel headlines benefit to provide care for active military and veterans Story and photos courtesy of Lutheran Family Services

ormer U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel addressed a crowd of 325 in January at the Qwest Center as the keynote speaker for the Lutheran Family Services’ At Ease fundraising and awareness luncheon. Senator Hagel, who served two terms in the U.S. Senate, is currently a Distinguished Professor at Georgetown University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. A Vietnam veteran and former Deputy Administrator of the Veterans Administration, Senator Hagel is the author of the recently published book “America: Our Next Chapter.” At Ease is a trauma treatment and therapeutic support program that serves active military, veterans and their loved ones affected by untreated trauma reactions and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The program places special emphasis on helping military personnel and their loved ones cope with the affects of deployment and the uncertainty of war. Hagel told the crowd, “Less than 1 percent of the U.S. population is in military service, and all are volunteers. These men and

women are the building blocks and foundation for the next generation. We must take care of them, as we need them back in society. When men and women go through horrific experiences, they manage it. They should be thanked and they should be helped. “The government structure and circuits are overloaded. We need to bring private and public partnerships together; we need to blend our resources. The world is completely interconnected. We are woven into one fabric, and our capacity to solve problems together has never been greater. These important partnerships connect with At Ease, and I’m privileged to be a part of it.” Estimates show up to 35 percent of armed forces deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan will suffer from PTSD. In addition, their families are suffering in equal amounts with a 20 percent increase in the number of children of active duty troops seeking mental health treatment each year. To learn more about LFS services, visit www.LFSneb.org.

Top: Chuck Hagel with Scott Anderson, Chairman of At Ease USA Board of Directors. Right: Honorary Chair Bob Bell, Chuck Hagel and Chaplain David Nordstrand. Bottom: Luther Family Services President and CEO Ruth Henrichs with Lilibet and Chuck Hagel.

march/april | 2010

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Bouquet Bonanza The 25th Annual Cathedral Flower Festival draws crowds to Saint Cecilia's Cathedral Story courtesy of Saint Cecilia Photos by Mark Dresl

rt and artifacts from around the region were on display along with thousands of flowers at the 25th Annual Cathedral Flower Festival in January. This showcase of floral fragrance, sight and sound celebrated the Cathedral Arts Project’s 25 years of offering the arts to the community by displaying works of art on loan from “Friends of CAP,” as patrons and supporters of Cathedral Arts Project (CAP). More than three dozen regional floral designers presented elaborate floral designs in response to the selected works of art or

artifacts. “We’ve never had this many floral designers or works of art,” said Co-Chair Bea Haney. The festival attracts over 10,000 visitors each year. The Flower Festival is a program of Cathedral Arts Project, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization devoted to presenting visual and performing arts to the Omaha community, within the confines of the historic St. Cecilia Cathedral, 701 N. 40th St. For more information, visit www.cathedralartsproject.org.

Above: A sampling of the exhibits at the 25th annual Cathedral Flower Festival.

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march/april | 2010

Crowning Achievements

Spirits of the Opera New guild event pairs operas and cocktails for charity Story and photos courtesy of Opera Omaha

Ak-Sar-Ben Women's Ball Committee welcomes new members, honorees retirees Story and photos courtesy of the Women's Ball Committee

he 2010 Ak-Sar-Ben Women’s Ball Committee welcomed six new members and saluted six retiring members at its kick-oﬀ luncheon at Happy Hollow Club in January. The luncheon marked the beginning of planning for the 114th Coronation and Scholarship Ball, which will be held on Oct. 9 at the Qwest Center Omaha. The six new members of the Women’s Ball Committee are: Dr. Viv Ewing, Julie Kenney, Kathy Neary, Heidi Schneiderman, Julie Taylor and Kelly Thedinger. Each new member received a gold crown pin and a red rose. Honored for their service were retiring members Ann Hergenrader, chairman of the 2008 Women’s Ball Committee, and Mimi Gleason, Shelley Homa, Stephanie Horeis, Lori Pirnie and Louri Sullivan. Bill Cutler, chairman of the Coronation Ball Committee, announced the members of his committee. They are Steve Martin, Coronation Ball Committee Assistant Chairman; Amy Schmid, chairman of the Women’s Ball Committee; and Mary Johnson, past chairman and advisor to the Women’s Ball Committee.

he Opera Omaha Guild in January debuted Spirits of the Opera, a benefit that paired operas with cocktails to raise more than $11,000 for Opera Omaha Guild’s Education and Outreach Programs which provides unique opportunities for area students. After nearly two decades of the Wine Seller event, the Opera Omaha Guild decided to put a twist on the “tastings” and do a cocktail tasting. For Spirits of the Opera, six operas representing six different countries were featured. A cocktail and an exclusively designed appetizer by Spirit World was paired with each opera. Cocktails featuring rum, vodka, sambuca, sake and champagne were sampled along with a special Scotch tasting led by Monique from the Dundee Dell. Nearly 150 people attending this one-of-a-kind event at Nomad Lounge in the Old Market. Sponsors of this event were Smith, Gardner, Slusky Law; Fraser Stryker; TG HealthCare; and Carter and Vernie Jones. Other contributors to the event were Agency 89, Seven Salon, Sabrina Jones Designs, Old Market Habitat, Opera Omaha Guild, Nomad Lounge, and Sterling Distribution. For more information on Opera Omaha Guild you may contact Lisa Hagstrom at 980-3653 or visit www.operaomaha.org.

Top: Coronation Ball Committee - Steve Martin, Assistant CBC Chairman; Mary Johnson, WBC Advisor; Amy Schmid. WBC Chair; and Bill Cutler, CBC Chairman. Bottom: WBC 2010 Freshman Class - Heidi Schneiderman, Kathy Neary, Dr. Viv Ewing, chair Amy Schmid, Kelly Thedinger, Julie Taylor and Julie Kenney.

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Above: Models will posters of two of the featured operas.

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Enchanted Evening

Girls Nite Out

The 44th Debutante Ball honors 51 Debs and 36 Stags for symphony support

Annual Girls Night Out comedy night raises $65,000 for Girls Inc.

Story and photos courtesy of the Debutante Ball Committee

Story courtesy of Girls Inc. Photos by Corey Ross

ifty-one Debutantes and 36 Stags took center stage at the Omaha Symphony’s 44th Debutante Ball in December at the Holiday Inn Central Ballroom. The college freshmen made their social debut to more than 800 family members, friends and supporters of the symphony. Families of the participants were honored for giving of their time and talent to the Omaha Symphony and other civic and community organizations. Debutante Ball Committee Chairwoman, Ann Tjaden, presented a check for $100,000 to Kathy Katt, Omaha Symphony Association Vice-President of Development, and Kim Banat, President of the Omaha Symphony Guild. The money is used to support the symphony’s educational programs.

Top: Sally Stalnaker and son, Stag Jason Martz with Deb Lauren Blunk and her mother, Ann. Bottom: Debutante Katie Landen and her father, C.L.

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ome 525 supporters of Girls Inc. packed the Mutual of Omaha Dome in January to partake in an evening of shopping, dining and laughter. Girls Inc.’s annual comedy benefit, Girls Nite Out, raised $65,000 to support the charity in its mission of inspiring girls to be strong, smart and bold. Comedian Chad Daniels headlined the evening. Among other appearances, he’s been seen on Comedy Central’s “Laugh Riots.” Honorary co-chairs were the Scott sisters—Karen Dixon, Sandy Parker and Amy Scott. For information on how you can be a mentor in the Girls Inc. program, go to www.girlsincomaha.org or call 731.2108.

Top: Amy Scott, Sandy Parker, John Ewing, Jr., board president of Girls. Inc. and Karen Dixon. Bottom: Chairs Kim Jones, Cindy Leiferman, Christine Sankey, Kaitlin Stemm and Kelley Tate.

march/april | 2010

Kroc Celebration

Silver "Stars"

The Kroc Center makes its public debut with January grand opening

Night of a Thousand Stars celebrates 25 years Story and photos country of Nebraska AIDS Project

Story and photos courtesy of The Salvation Army

ommunity leaders and area residents celebrated the completion of The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in January by gathering at the $30 million, 122,000 square-foot facility located in historic South Omaha. The Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center was made possible by a $60 million gift from Joan B. Kroc, widow of McDonald’s CEO Ray Kroc, and a $15 million local matching endowment campaign headed up by Heritage Services. Local donors and civic leaders were recognized during an early November 2009 Dedication Ceremony for their many contributions and generosity. The grand opening ceremony was open to the public and featured free activities throughout the day. Activities included: contests, refreshments, strolling magician, prizes and giveaways, fitness and aquatic activities and contests, fitness demos, facepainting, balloon artists, soccer shoot-out competition, and a performance byThe Salvation Army Rockford Temple Corps Band in the Assembly Hall. Omaha’s Kroc Center is the seventh to open across the United States and the first center to open in the central United States. “We, like many Omahans, have waited for this day for a long time,” said Major Herb Fuqua, Administrative Corps Officer. “Today is a day we celebrate a building project and vision that has been fantastically planned and executed from day one. We have no doubt this center will bring new life to those who enter our doors of opportunity.”

he Holland Performing Arts Center, awash in the glow from Christmas lights in Gene Leahy Mall, provided the spectacular setting for the Night of a Thousands Silver Stars in December. More than 800 attended the 25th annual benefit to support the work being done by the Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP). Twenty-nine pre-event host parties and the event itself helped raise approximately $120,000. As part of this year’s gala, there was a silent auction, featuring works by notable and emerging Omaha artists. Twenty-four works were available for purchase from such recognized names as Thomas D. Mangelsen, John Prouty, and Kim David Cooper. A graffiti painting by Jeff King was the high seller at $550. Helping to make the evening one to remember were honorary chair Mike Fahey, former Omaha Mayor; event chair Carol Wang, Action 3 News Anchor; Mayor Jim Suttle and event emcee, Malorie Maddox from WOWT-TV. Nebraska AIDS Project is the only organization providing comprehensive services to people in Nebraska and Southwest Iowa living with HIV and AIDS. The organization also provides confidential testing of sexually transmitted diseases in response to an alarming rate of infection in our area.

For more information about Omaha’s Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, visit www.omahakroc.org.

Clay and Pottery expert Tom Hamilton and other local artists share their time and talents with youth at Saturday's Grand Opening Celebration.

march/april | 2010

Top: Emcee Malorie Maddox, honorary chair Mike Fahey and event chair Carol Wang. Bottom: Carol Wang and Nebraska AIDS Project Executive Director JJ Replogle.

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Story by Leo Adam Biga Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

An Omaha Eccentric

OMAHAFACES

Mary Thompson

When

you combine obsessive-compulsive and attention deficit tendencies with a passion for community service, collecting things, travel, and adventure, you get the extremes of Mary Thompson’s life. There’s her Little Italy home: an early 20th century bungalow overrun by epic, eclectic clutter, including hundreds of hats and thousands of books, that choke and sprawl like unchecked weeds. There’s so much stuff it’s hard to appreciate the complete makeover she did to the place. After years of letting the hoard go, she’s finally tackling it with help from professionals, friends and family. “I’m going to get this done,” she said one winter afternoon, sifting through piles of things on her second-floor landing, a hired man beside her. “You can’t imagine the progress that’s been made and, you know what, I feel good about it.” She’s an eccentric, much like her late mother, Lucile Schaaf, aka The Lady in Orange and The Christmas Lady. Lucile earned the titles dressing in orange from head to toe and doing Christmas yearround at her home and at her Old Market shop, The Place. Mary helped run the shop. Lucile also collected architectural remnants that adorn the interior of her residential/commercial complex, The Old Market Venue. Mary’s acquired titles of her own, including The Hat Lady, for her endless supply of crowns, and Wicked Witch, a CB handle from her days on-the-road for a demolition company. Then there are the nicknames Tax Witch or Tax Lady, picked up from 20-plus years with the Internal Revenue Service as a VITA, and later AARP income tax preparation aide and site coordinator. Since retiring from the IRS in 2007, she’s continued her taxpayer assistance work with AARP. Thousands are served annually by AARP’s Omaha tax assistance volunteers. She’s opened many metro tax assistance sites, but her favorite remains her first, the Sons of Italy Hall just blocks from her home. “It’s in my neighborhood and the people have been wonderful to me,” she said. She also trains site volunteers. People skills she honed as a bartender served her well working the downtown IRS counter dealing “with frustrated, angry people that would come into the office cussing and swearing and everything

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else, slam their fist down on the counter and say, ‘You people are all wrong, I don’t owe this money.’ blah, blah, blah,” she said. Then and now, her sweet, sober demeanor almost always calms upset clients. It helps that she understands their angst. “Taxes are very, very personal. It’s your money, and so you are putting in my hands everything to make sure you do not pay more tax than you need to. You also expect me to do it correctly and accurately and timely, so you know there’s a lot of responsibility in that.” Mary offers volunteer tax assistance year-round. Why? “Because I can. For the majority of American citizens the tax season ends on April 15, but for various reasons other people may need my assistance.” And so she makes herself available. She even makes house calls. “During tax season I work anywhere from 8 to 16 hours a day. I have a site open every day of the week, seven days a week, and some days I’m at two sites in a day. The most returns I’ve ever done in one day is 56.” She doesn’t consider the long hours and number-crunching a burden. “It’s fun. I don’t do anything unless it’s fun. That’s why I also do catering, estate sales — I don’t charge people anything for that.” It’s why she was a lifeguard for years, and it’s why she’s a volunteer ambassador at the Holland and Orpheum. Her sense of service is learned. “I grew up watching my mother volunteer and helping other people, so it didn’t occur to me there was any other way to do things.” She also saw Lucile freely express herself, like the time she bought a double-decker bus in North Carolina, whereupon Mary drove it back, in the dead of winter. The mother and daughter used it to give tours around the city. An intrepid traveler, Mary’s ridden Amtrak across the country and toured Europe more than a dozen times. Her favorite places include San Francisco and London. Back home, she can always count on folks needing help with their taxes, including some, she said, who are “still coming to me after 20 years. I have a following.” march/april | 2010

TRANSFORMATIONSEXTRA

Story by Sallie Elliott

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First-time

homebuyer tax credit mania has reached the Omaha real estate market again! How do you romance perspective new homebuyers to your abode? It certainly won’t be by flaunting outdated brass cabinet hardware, or the “come hither” look of oak and brass ceiling fans. Let’s not forget the allure of swirly late ‘90s Formica countertops and the better-than-ever “contractor select” plumbing fixtures. When staging a property, I enter the project looking through buyers’ eyes. My job is to highlight the architectural features of the home and take out objections. I want the buyer to feel, “you had me at Just Listed!” What are first-time homebuyers looking for?

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Description of Project Nestled in the “Land of 2001” is this northwest Omaha home off of Maple. Charming on the outside but dated on the inside, this property boasts of mature landscaping unlike its competitors. We had to take this home from dated to modern in a short amount of time and on a tight budget to capture the hot market. With the hustle and bustle of a contractor, painter and plumber, we went right to work on this transformation and fortunately for the homeowner, it was not a serious offender. Here’s how we gave this charmer some new razzle-dazzle! • De-cluttered! No need to hang on to junk mail and refrigerator memorabilia • Resurfaced dated counter tops with Formica overlay • Rearranged furniture to define rooms and enhance square footage • Replaced dated brass light fixtures with hip brushed nickel • Replaced brass faucets with modern brushed nickel • Accessorized master bedroom to make it a modern Master Suite • Added a few new accessories • Clean! Clean! Clean!

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OMAHAHOME

Natural stone, a lighted coffered ceiling, travertine floors, and dark stained, knotty alder trim are some of the features of the great room.

Huntington Park Simply Stunning

Erin Svoboda, Allied Member ASID

BuD

and Carol Padon came to Designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Touch wanting something different for their new home. After years of collecting antiques, the Padons were ready to let go of some of the tradition and add comfort, warmth and a little whimsy to their home. The home, built by J. Scott Builders, sits on a lush, wooded lot in Huntington Park. As you first walk through the large wood plank front door you are welcomed with deep, rich espresso-stained wood and knotty alder woodwork contrasting the beautiful creamy travertine floors. The warmth continues with the natural stone fireplace and lighted coffered ceilings. Handcrafted wallpaper and faux wall treatments were used throughout the home. Unique lighting was used to accent walls and complement the rich color scheme, including two very large outdoor pendants hanging over the kitchen island. The inspiration for the kitchen was a tile scene the couple acquired on a trip to Mexico. The auburn colored walls Marian Holden, ASID are repeated in the crushed glass accent tile in the backsplash. The large kitchen hood and island were faux painted in Photos by Lisa Shull a distressed black finish, creating a stunning focal point in the kitchen. Story by Lindi Janulewicz The master suite includes a metallic faux painted, lighted ceiling. The custom drapery and bedding fabrics have a sumptuous, silky hand in a reflective copper hue that adds a touch of elegance and luxury to the master suite. The www.readonlinenow.com

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OMAHAHOME 1

1: The tile scene from Mexico was the inspiration for the deep, rich colors in this kitchen. 2: Substantial light fixtures were used to anchor various areas of the kitchen. 3: Bright orange and copper accents add whimsy to the bar area while natural stone and textured glass create an Old World entrance to the wine cellar. 4: A round whirlpool tub creates a dramatic focal point in the master bath.

march/april | 2010

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OMAHAHOME 1 3

1: Handcrafted wallpaper embellished with large nail heads creates a unique entryway. 2: The powder bath boasts travertine floors and walls, and slab travertine on the custom vanity. 3: Fun, contemporary, orange and rust fabrics create a relaxing atmosphere on the lower level. 4: Silky, luxurious, custom drapery and bedding in rich copper tones create an elegant master suite.

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metallic finish is repeated on the master bath walls surrounding the dramatic round whirlpool tub flanked by columns and a sparkling petite crystal chandelier overhead. A chiseled edge porcelain mosaic tile is featured on the face of the tub, creating a beautiful focal point in the master bathroom. The lower level of the home was designed to kick back and relax. The traditional arched stone entrance to the wine cellar is contrasted by the whimsical colorful orange and copper accents in fabrics and window treatments. Overall, the home is a comfortable retreat for the Padons; a private oasis that marries their love of tradition and a few unexpected surprises. Mission Accomplished. march/april | 2010

OMAHAHOME

Photos by minorwhitestudios.com Story by Molly Garriott

Gold Coast grandeur in the McGuire's formal living room.

At Home With Anne and Mike McGuire

Most

Omahans move west when changing residence. But Anne and Mike McGuire bucked the trend 15 years ago when they sold their Fairacres home and set their sights on a more eastern, historic neighborhood: the Gold Coast. Their relocation coincided with Gold Coast residents’ stepped-up efforts to remain a vital, established neighborhood in a city that was focusing more on expanding out than refurbishing within. Anne McGuire says her neighborhood has grown much more stable in the last 15 years. She attributes this stability to strong neighborhood associations, long-time anchors like St. Cecilia’s Cathedral, Joslyn Castle, the Salvation Army and Duchesne Academy. More young families are moving into the area as a result. The home she shares with her husband and children is also an anchor. Situated on the northwest corner of 38th and California, the Second Italian Renaissance Revival home exemplifies classic Gold Coast grandeur. Renaissance-inspired architectural design was popular from 1890 to 1920. Its hallmarks include symmetrical façade, widely overhanging eaves, arched doorways, porches and first-story windows, and curved ceilings. The McGuires’ home was

march/april | 2010

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OMAHAHOME

The solarium mixes different architectural styles, and acts as a four-season room.

built in 1908 by noted Omaha architect John Latenser, Sr. whose other notable works include Central High School, the former Omaha Tech High, the Douglas County Courthouse and the Brandeis Building in downtown Omaha. The 100-years-old home maintains much of its original craftsmanship and layout. One of the McGuires’ favorite rooms is the solarium. Surprisingly, it is decorated in the Prairie style, not Second Renaissance. The walls are the original verdi-toned concrete stucco covered with quarter-sewn oak lattice work. The floor’s original terra cotta tiles lend warmth to the room. The solarium’s French doors are now sealed, creating a four-season room, but once opened to the east and south patios.

march/april | 2010

Sliding glass doors lead into the living room, grand hall and dining room. The wainscoting in the dining room is Mission style. The ceiling is accentuated by cross beams. Previous owners added mirrors to the square inlays created by the beams. Original Quezal lighting adds to the Mission feel of the room. The grand hall is large and gracious, just what one would expect in a Renaissance Revival home. Like the solarium and dining room, it mixes different architectural styles as though experiencing an identity crisis. It is Renaissance Revival in its rich and ornately carved mahogany walls and staircase, curved ceilings and attention to symmetry. Yet it exemplifies Georgian Revival elements. Flanking

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OMAHAHOME

Mission-style wainscoting accents the formal dining room. Original Quezal lighting adds to the Arts and Crafts feeling of the home as well.

each side of the marble fireplace are courting seats. A “secret” door, hidden in the woodwork, leads to a powder room tucked under the stairs. Traces of Prairie style are detected in the stained glass that adorns either side of the front door. Where the grand hall takes snatches of this style and that, the living room is pure Italian Renaissance Revival. Large windows looking east let in steams of natural light. Built-in mahogany curios stand on each side of the windows. In these, McGuire displays a collection of statuary, vases and jewelry boxes given to her from friends and the 25 extended house guests and boarders the McGuires have hosted over the years. On the walls are samples of needlepoint her Korean-born daughter created. But the showcase of the room, the architectural element that epitomizes Renaissance Revival, is the spectacular ceiling. Curved at the edges, it boasts elaborate molding with

march/april | 2010

intricately carved leafing brightly painted in green. Rose trim and Jamaican mahogany provide contrast. But even without those accents, the ceiling of green faux marble is a standout. The McGuire residence is grand, but it is also a home — lived in, enjoyed, used. The Duchesne athletes walk across 38th Street for treats in the solarium. Their children and neighborhood friends kicked a soccer ball around in the wide, second-floor hallway, and played countless hours of hide-and-goseek throughout the house. More than a few prom photos were snapped in front of the grand hall fireplace. Foreign exchange, Creighton, and Duchesne Academy students have all called the Gold Coast house home while they lived with the McGuires. It may be a show-stopper, but it is not treated as a showcase. And Anne and Mike McGuire would not have it any other way.

Note the curved edges of this spectacular ceiling.

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OMAHAFOOD

Story by: Mystery Reviewer Photo by minorwhitestudios.com Dante Pizzeria Napoletana

Pitch Pizzeria

A Tale of Two Pizzerias Artisan Pizza in Omaha

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wood-fired ovens at 800+ degrees â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the way it's made in the Old World. I'm happy to report that in Omaha we now have two such restaurants where we're able to experience this culinary delight. Pitch Pizzeria opened first in the historic Dundee neighborhood last November. For that we can thank Omaha entrepreneur Willy Theisen, who was one of the two Omaha restaurateurs who recently saw the need for artisan pizza in Omaha. Theisen is not a stranger to the restaurant

Dante Pizzeria Napoletana 16901 Wright Plaza Omaha, NE 68130 402.932.3078 www.dantepizzeria.com

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***1/2

www.omahapublications.com

or pizza business. He helped create the wildly popular Omaha-based Godfather's Pizza chain in the '70s, and he's also brought Famous Dave's, Fuddruckers and other chains to Omaha through the years. When you enter Pitch Pizzeria, you are immediately enticed by the smell of fresh-baked pizza dough, garlic and tomato sauce. The fire from the giant coal-fired ovens is reflected everywhere you look. Busy cooks can be observed preparing pizzas the same way it has been done in Italy for centuries. The restaurant has a real neighborhood restaurant feel to it, and is simply beautiful. It's a modern design in a historic building featuring lots of brick, black wrought iron, rich woods and lustrous marble. Dining at Pitch requires a little planning ahead because this place is very busy, there isn't any takeout, and as of yet, they are only open for dinner. Seating is first come, first served and reservations are not accepted.Â Best to come a tad early and beat the rush. The second Naples-inspired Pizzeria to recently open in Omaha is also Omaha's only certified Neapolitan Pizzeria, making it one of less than 50 restaurants nationwide to receive this distinction from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VERA), whose stated mission is to safeguard and promote the culture of the real Neapolitan pizza worldwide. Located at 168th and West Center in the Shops of Legacy, Dante Pizzeria Napoletana is blessed with plenty of parking and an inviting facade. Even with the disadvantage of being in a strip mall, the designers of Dante's did a fantastic job with the space, incorporating a spacious split level, high ceilings, wood tabletops and colorful prints on the walls. The end result is a very inviting, warm-feeling restaurant. The kitchen is open and lively. It's very entertaining for guests to see just how these artisan pizzas are made and all the skill, care and love that goes into them. In addition to dinner, Dante's is open for lunch and offers takeout. Both restaurants feature Neapolitan-style pizza, which typically has a thin crisp crust with characteristic blister bubbles. The sauces are lightly applied but very flavorful and made from scratch. The fresh cheeses are of the perfect age for each variety, and the toppings are all of the highest quality. The exposed crust is brushed with extra virgin olive oil when it comes out of the oven, making this style of pizza gastronomic nirvana. At Pitch, Chef Jeff Everroad's menu is www.readonlinenow.com

fairly straightforward. It's composed of a handful of starters, a couple of sides, some specialty pizzas and a list of ingredients that allow you to ÂŤPitch your ownÂť pizza. On one visit I tried the Calebrese meatballs starter ($7). These are a pair of very large, perfectly seasoned meatballs with a fresh tomato sauce and Grana cheese. I also tried the salad of Arugula, Prosciutto, candied walnuts, pears, and Maytag blue cheese tossed in a Balsamic vinaigrette ($9). A fantastic combination. The Two Peps pizza ($14) has a wonderful combination of pepperoni, pepperoncini peppers, tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese that literally melts in your mouth. The Blanco pizza ($17), which includes Ricotta cream, Prosciutto, caramelized onions, Arugula and fresh mozzarella, is also exquisite. At Dante, the menu is quite similar to Pitch but also features authentic pasta dishes. On a recent visit to Dante my guest and I started by sampling the Bruschette ($7.50). It had a perfect crust with a delightful combination of fresh-roasted tomatoes, potatoes, olives and anchovies. Next we split a salad of Honey Creek Farm greens, locally produced prosciutto, and Dante's house vinaigrette ($6.50). The greens were so fresh and flavorful they tasted like they had just been picked. The light emulsified vinaigrette seasoned the greens pleasantly and the prosciutto was also excellent. For a pasta course we had the Spaghetti Puttanesca ($11.50). It was expertly cooked, and the sauce was an incredible mix of fresh tomato sauce, olives and capers. Of course we tried a couple of pizzas. The Blanco ($12.50) was to die for, with white sauce, olives, coppa, sausage, chili, garlic and handmade mozzarella. The Moterosso ($12.50) was equally outstanding and had prosciutto, potato, rosemary, garlic as well as the in-house produced mozzarella cheese. For dessert we had the Italian Chocolate Tart ($5.50) served with vanilla bean gelato, which was pure bliss. I have been to both restaurants several times and both are excellent, but if I had to pick a favorite the nod would go to Pitch, whom I feel has a slightly more consistent product, more experienced servers and a slightly better ambiance. But don't take my word for it, go see for yourself. I encourage you to make it a point of trying both Pitch and Dante, and enjoying pizza the way it was meant to be. march/april | 2010

OMAHAFOOD

Spezia-omaha.mag

5/21/08

3:55 PM

Page 1

L E G E N D (average price per entrée) $1 to 10 - $, $10 to 20 - $$, $20 to 30 - $$$, $30 and over - $$$$

MC, V, AE, DC

AMERICAN 94/95 SPORTS GRILLE 504-985317857 PIERCE PLAZA (180TH & PACIFIC) Omaha's only gourmet sports restaurant, chef inspired menu with classic sports fare, great wine list. Monday's $9.99 steak night. Wednesday wine down. Friday happy hour with live music from 6-10p.m. Faw Friday after work. BREWSKY'S FOOD & SPIRITS TWO OMAHA LOCATIONS 614-2739, 153rd & Q Sts.; 201-2739, 84th & Park Drive; Brewsky’s Food & Spirits opened it’s first restaurant/bar in Lincoln, NE in 1990. Brewsky’s now boasts six restaurants in Lincoln and Omaha. Our menu (created by Certified Executive Chef Ed Janousek) surprises people that are expecting the normal “bar food” found at most sports bars. The menu consists of steaks, burgers, chicken, wraps and about everything in between. We offer all the sports packages on our banks of TVs as well. The atmosphere created, the quality of the food served and the modest prices charged define Brewsky’s. We’ve been voted Best Sports Bar in Omaha in 2008 and 2009 (Omaha magazine). Come let us WOW you!

Get a Little Saucy.

DAVE AND BUSTER'S 778-3915 132ND & WEST CENTER Have a drink and then go play. Or play, and then grab a bite to eat. At Dave & Buster's, it's totally your call. You can start with a delicious meal in our Grand Dining Room. Then move on to some games in our Million Dollar Midway. Check out our drink specials with your friends-or meet new ones-in our lively bar areas. The options are many! How you do it is up to you.www.daveandbusters.com

SPEZIA SPECIALTIES FRESH SEAFOOD • ANGUS BEEF

DUNDEE DELL 553-4010 (OMAHA) 5007 Underwood. 11 AM until 1 AM every day, MondaySunday. Famous for Fish n’ Chips since 1934. Single malt & scotch tastings open to the public four times a month. Private tastings also available. We serve food from 11 AM to Midnight Sunday through Thursday, and from 11AM to 12:45 AM Friday and Saturday. We also serve a fantastic Sunday brunch from 11AM - 2 PM on Sundays. $

INNOVATIVE PASTA • RISOTTO GNOCCHI • FRESH SALMON DAILY

SATURDAY LUNCH [11am–4pm]

LADIES NIGHT ~STARTS AT 4:00 EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT ~ in the bar and dining room, all cocktails, beer or wine by the glass are half price from 4pm until close.

COCKTAIL HOUR MONDAY – SATURDAY 4:00 – 6:00PM ALL COCK TAILS, GL ASS WINE AND BEERS ~ HALF PRICE

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS • 402-391-2950

ICE HOUSE 934-2337 (OMAHA) 10920 Emmet St. The Icehouse was established in 1998 and has grown to become a landmark venue in the Omaha area. Our kitchen serves up restaurant quality food that you'll find second to none. Our food is just one of the reasons that we've been voted Omaha's Best Sports Bar for 8 years in a row. Icehouse - Omaha's Best Sports Bar...PERIOD! www.icehouseomaha.com JAMS 399-8300 (OMAHA) 7814 Dodge St. Welcome to the home of Independent food. Jams is a popular locally owned restaurant for a wonderful dinner or a glass of wine and appetizers. An American Grill, Jams menu takes on refined twists on old classics. From the Jumbo Crab Cake Burger to Midtown Meatloaf, Jams can please any palate. www.jamseats.com

CENTRAL LOCATION • 3125 SOUTH 72ND STREET • EASY ACCESS OFF I-80 • 72ND STREET EXIT

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

Serving Steaks, Seafood, Chicken, and more. Lunch & Dinner

a f é 402-731-4774

27th & L Sts. Five minutes from downtown

Bar s t r o #1 Sp ® Contest d e t o V maha Year! O f o t t in Bes ird Straigh for Th

Come for the food, stay for the fun large parties and families welcome

153rd & Q Streets, 614-2739 84th & Park Drive, 201-2739 www.brewskys.com

‘

Where good steaks and good service never go out of style.

Johnn s

Serving Steaks, Seafood, Chicken, and more. Lunch & Dinner

the original

402-731-4774

27th & L Sts. Five minutes from downtown

At The Paxton

Jet Fresh Seafood • Extensive Scotch Selection • Award Winning Wine List 402.341.1222 • 14th & Farnam • Downtown • www.801chophouse.com

Des Moines • Omaha • Kansas City www.readonlinenow.com

march/april | 2010

Omaha Prime Best Steakhouse

•

2 01 0 •

’S

R ’S

CIR

CLE

WINNE

* By an independent food analysis.

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

PETROW'S 552-0552 Omaha’s oldest family restaurant continuously serving Nebraska since 1903. Featuring homestyle cooking, homemade ice cream and cakes and pies made from scratch. Petrow’s has been a tradition in Omaha for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an original 50’s soda fountain. Dining is causal and kid friendly and you get plenty of food at a great value. Hours M-Sat 6-9:30 and closed on Sunday. QUAKER STEAK AND LUBE 712-322-0101 (COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA) 3320 Mid America Dr. Council Bluffs, IA."The Lube" serves over 70 million wings annually, has bottles sauces for retail sale and has won the title of "Best Wings USA" Mondays are kids eat free from 5 to 9pm and Tuesdays are all you can eat wings for $12.99 all day. The Metro's only, Quaker Steak and Lube also offers great steaks, ribs and burgers. Live Music again this fall on Friday nights.www.quakersteakandlube.com.

Experience the Flavor ...

Online.

Rotella’s Italian Bakery Inc. invites you to experience the flavor and variety on our all new website.

www.rotellasbakery.com

UPSTREAM BREWING COMPANY TWO OMAHA LOCATIONS 514 S 11th St. (402) 344-0200. Upstream features an extensive menu of new American pub fare including: appetizers and thincrust pizzas, superb steaks featuring “Omaha Steaks”, fresh fish, pasta, salads, sandwiches and a great children’s menu. Fresh, handcrafted beer and root beer on tap. Extensive wine list. Call ahead for group reservations or to be placed on our waiting list. Visit our classic, upscale poolroom located on the second level.

BBQ FAMOUS DAVE’S BARBEQUE 614-9333 (OMAHA) Old Market, 71st & Ames, 171st & Center, Council Bluffs and Bellevue locations. Famous Dave’s has been voted Omaha’s favorite barbeque by Omaha Magazine’s readers and the Reader’s Choice. Real hickory smoked ribs, brisket, pork and a great selection made-from-scratch recipes. Open lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Take out and catering available. $$$$

ITALIAN DON CARMELO'S 2 LOCATIONS (OMAHA) Tradition - Excellence - Value! Two locations: Rockbrook Village (933-3190) and 204th & Dodge (289-9800) Omaha's First and Finest NY Style Pizza, Stromboli, Calzone, OvenToasted Hoagies, Philly Cheese Steaks, Pasta, Salads, Beer & Wine. We also feature take-out and delivery and can cater your special event large or small. Stop in for daily lunch specials 11am -2 pm!

NEW FEATURES History / Interactive Timeline • Production Video Tour • New Product Listing & Photos • Taste and Texture Hi-lite • Wholesale Section • Family Favorite Recipes • Sales Rep Locator •

GRISANTIS 330-0440 (OMAHA) 10875 W. Dodge Rd. Grisanti's (serving Omaha & Lincoln for over 20 years) is a fun, casual classic Italian restaurant that offers an extensive menu featuring a full selection of housemade and imported pasta, homemade soups & salads, pizza, flatbreads, seafood, chicken, steaks and desserts. Large portions of affordably priced menu selections are prepared with the freshest ingredients available. www.grisantis.net JOHNNY SORTINO’S 339-5050 (OMAHA) 7880 L St. Hours: Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri & Sat 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sun 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Family owned and operated for more than 35 years, Johnny Sortino’s specializes in pizza, pasta and salads. Their pizza sauce is prepared daily with special spices and no imitation ingredients – nothing frozen. The spaghetti sauce and meatballs are prepared fresh daily with a special recipe. LO SOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 345-5656 (OMAHA) 3001 So. 32nd, Ave. This quaint authentic restaurant is located in the middle of a neighborhood surrounded by charming homes. Inside you will find a friendly staff, simple elegance with art & statues of Italy, the aromas of home cooked food & the sound of Italian music welcomes you. At the table everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes & basil, a bowl of oven roasted garlic cloves, special seasoned olive oil, & at night, a jug of Chianti, to set the stage for a wonderful experience! You will always find a family member around in this family owned & operated restaurant. Large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, & even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, & eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offers all of the above, along with panini, salads & one of the best pizza in town. Patio seating, full bar, & a great wine list complete this "Simply Elegant, Simply the Best" restaurant. No reservations, except for private rooms.

www.readonlinenow.com

march/april | 2010

HAPPY HOUR drinks $5 $3 $2 $3 $3

house martinis kirin sake bombs bud light draws house lime margaritas house wines

HAPPY HOURS

MON. - SAT. 4PM TO 6:30PM

TUES. & WED. HH EXTENDED TO 9PM

Ask about our sleek side room for private gatherings.

$4 assorted maki half-priced appetizers FROM

BLUE SUSHI

redloungeomaha.com

14450 Eagle Run Drive, Suite 200 402.496.7733

BLUE

SUSHI SAKE GRILL 416 S. 12th Street

402.408.5566

14450 Eagle Run Drive, Suite 240

402.445.2583

march/april | 2010

baby blue sushi sake grill

16939 Wright Plaza, Suite 103

402.547.5959

RoJA mexican grill + margarita bar

17010 Wright Plaza

402.333.7652

bluesushisakegrill.com / rojagrill.com www.omahapublications.com

PASTA AMORE 391-2585 (OMAHA) 108th & West Center road (Rockbrook Village). Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine and capellini. Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as Linguini Amore and Calamari Steak, Penne Florentine, Gnocchi, Spaghetti Puttanesca and Osso Bucco. Filet mignon also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannolis. Lunch: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: 4:30 p.m. Reservations recommended. AE-MC-V. $$ SPEZIA 3125 South 72nd Street (3 blocks north of the I-80 interchange). Choose Spezia for lunch or dinner, where you’ll find a casual elegance that’s perfect for business, guests, get-togethers, or any special occasion. Exceptional food, wine and service, with a delectable menu: fresh seafood, Angus steaks, innovative pasta, risotto, gnocchi, cioppino, lamb, entrée salads. Mediterranean chicken, flatbreads, fresh salmon daily. Enjoy a full bar, Italian & California wines, Anniversary Lovers Booth (call to reserve), private dining rooms, and wood-fired grill. Open Mon-Sat. Cocktail hour: 4-5 pm-all cocktails, glass wine and beers half price. Evening reservations recommended. Call 391-2950. VALENTINO’S Eight Neighborhood locations. (refer to our ad for address and phone numbers) Voted Omaha’s Best Pizza and Buffet by Omaha Magazine, Valentinos has been a Nebraska Tradition for almost 50 years. Convenient Delivery/ Carry out location throughout Omaha serving not only the Best Pizza but also Pastas, Salads, and Breads. The Grand Italian Buffets have something for everyone. Award-winning Buffets offer not only mouthwatering Italian Food but also various other cuisine as well. Open Daily at 11am for Lunch and Open every Sunday at 10am for a Special Sunday Brunch. ZIO’S PIZZERIA SEVERAL OMAHA LOCATIONS Three locations: 7834 Dodge Rd. (391-1881), 12997 W. Center Rd. (330-1444), and 1213 Howard St. (344-2222). DELIVERY, DINE-IN, and CARRY-OUT. Serving New York style pizza by slice or whole pies, calzones, hoagies, pastas, salads and garlic breads. Zio’s pies are hand-stretched and baked in old-world ovens. Zio’s offers 35 of the freshest toppings. Taste the freshest pizza at Zio’s. Family dining – open seven days a week. Lunch special and beer and wine available. For delivery call 333FOOD. $

Private Rooms Catering & Delivery 330-0440 fax:330-5433

Sundays Brunch Buffet 10-2 Mon & Tues evenings Kids eat free Wednesdays: 1/2 off all bottles of wine

www.grisantis.net

10875 W Dodge Rd. (Old Mill & 108th)

NOW FEATURING SUSHI & SASHIMI DINNERS Sukiyaki • Shrimp Tempura Teriyaki Steak • Cantonese Dinners • Family Style for Two or More • Intimate Tea Rooms Available • Reservations Preferred in Tea Rooms.

Try Our Famous Plus 20 Exciting Polynesian Cocktails and Delicious Cantonese Appetizers

Open 5pm Mon.- Sat. Closed Sun.

7215 BLONDO

397-5049

Omaha

MAI TAI LOUNGE OPEN

4:30 P.M.

I should've used Omaha Carry Out!

LIGHT & EASY O’CONNOR’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE 934-9790 (OMAHA) 1217 Howard St. Comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. Great before and after games. O’Connor’s offers pub style food: burgers, reubens, daily specials and homemade soups. The pub offers all the traditional Irish favorite libations: Guinness, Harp and Irish whiskey. Grill hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $

MEXICAN FERNANDO’S TWO OMAHA LOCATIONS Two locations: 7555 Pacific St. (339-8006), 380 N. 114th St. (330-5707). Featuring Sonoran-style cooking made fresh daily. Catering and party rooms also available. Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 4 p.m.-9 p.m. AE-MC-V. $ JULIO’S MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 510 S 13th St. (402) 345-6921. Julio’s Restaurant is a locally owned Omaha original. Enchiladas, tacos, tostadas, taco salads and, of course, fajitas. You haven’t had nachos unless you’ve had Julio’s nachos. A number of meatless dishes including a garden fajitas with over nine different vegetables! Kids items from macaroni & cheese to kiddie tacos to chicken fingers. www.tconl.com/~julios/ LA MESA MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 110th & Maple; 156th & Q; Ft. Crook RD & 370; 84th & Tara Plaza; Lake Manawa Exit (Council Bluffs). Come enjoy an authentic Mexican taste experience at La Mesa! From mouthwatering enchilada’s to fabulous fajitas, La Mesa has something for every connoisseur of Mexican fare to savor. Top it off with one of La Mesa’s famous margaritas. So, kick back in the fun-friendly atmosphere and you’ll see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s # 1 Mexican Restaurant Seven Years in a Row!!!!!!

www.readonlinenow.com

Don’t let your office lunches get ugly. Order online from omahacarryout.com. Select from the best restaurants in the area and have the food delivered. Let Omaha Carry Out keep those munchie monsters at bay while you get your real job done.

(402) 504-1100

Office Lunches Made Easy

www.omahacarryout.com march/april | 2010

ROJA MEXICAN GRILL 333-7652 Located just off Center west of 168th at 17010 Wright Plaza. RoJA features Tex-Mex cuisine with several interior Mexican dishes as well as a coastal influenced grill. The best house margaritas in town made with real lime juice and over 80 tequilas to chose from for an unbelievable margarita experience. Late night Happy Hour Fri. & Sat. 10p.m.-12a.m. Open Mon.-Sun. 11:00 am - Close.

ORIENTAL MT. FUJI INN 397-5049 (OMAHA) 7215 Blondo St. For Japanese dining in the traditional atmosphere, take time to visit Mt. Fuji Inn. Specialties include fresh Sushi and Sashimi, Sukiyaki and Shrimp Tempura. Also featuring Cantonese Chinese dinners and appetizers. Dining in individual tea rooms is available by reservation. Enjoy one’s favorite beverages in the Mai Tai Lounge. Cocktail hour: Mon.-Thu. 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Dinner: Mon.-Thu. 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 5 p.m.-11 p.m. AE-DC-V. $

SEAFOOD

#1 Buffet seven years in a row!

BLUE SUSHI SAKE GRILL 445-2583 Located on SW Intersection of 144th & Maple at 14450 Eagle Run Drive. More than just Omaha’s freshest and most innovative sushi, Blue offers a creative mixture of Asian inspired grill dishes. The finest Omaha Steaks, chicken, and the freshest fish available are professionally prepared using traditional, as well as cutting-edge cooking techniques. Late night Happy Hour Fri. & Sat. 10p.m.-12a.m. Open Sun-5 to 9; M-11 to 10; T-11 to 10; W-11 to 10; F-11 to 11; Sat-11 to 11. CHARLIE’S ON THE LAKE (OMAHA) 144th and F streets (894-9411). Charlie’s is the only fresh-fish daily seafood restaurant in Omaha. Featuring a relaxed, yet contemporary atmosphere that is fun for all ages. Besides fresh seafood, Charlie’s is the home of the James Bond style martini, shaken not stirred, in over 20 varieties, in addition to over 60 wines. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dinner: Mon.-Thu. 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.Sat. 4:30 p.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. $

SPECIAL DINING FETA’S GYROS & CATERING TWO OMAHA LOCATIONS 743 N 114th St 504-4976. 14544 West Center Rd 504-9995. Locally owned, Feta's is Omaha's premier Greek Restaurant. Featuring fresh made Gyros, Souvlaki and Baklava, Feta’s will have you saying opa! Whether it is dining out with family, or entertaining a client to a quick business lunch Feta's Greek Restaurant should be your number one destination. Fresh, Greek, Fast.

Race cars and Motorcycles hanging from the ceiling! Corvettes in the dining room! Over 30 T.V.s to watch your favorite games. We have a full menu with Ribs, Salads, Burgers, Sandwiches and of course Steak! We feature Jumbo size Chicken Wings with 18 different types of Award-Winning sauces. Our Atomic hot sauce is so hot that you have to sign a waiver to eat them!

GERDA’S GERMAN RESTAURANT & BAKERY 402-553-6774 (OMAHA) 5188 Leavenworth St (402-553-6774) Omaha’s only Authentic German Restaurant. A little piece of Germany in Omaha. Gerda herself makes homemade spaetzle, schnitzels and rouladen. Fresh made soups, red cabbage, sauerkraut and dumplings are a few other treats. Stay for dessert of black forest cake or grab fresh bakery for breakfast on your way out. www.gerdasgermanrestaurant.com

3320 Mid America Drive • Council Bluffs, IA 51501 712.322.0101 • www.quakersteakandlube.com

Always a Large Selection of Fresh Fish

4150 south 144th street • omaha • 894-9411 92

march/april | 2010

GREEK ISLANDS 346-1528 (OMAHA) 3821 Center St. Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. Well known for our Gyro sandwiches and salads. We do catering and can accommodate a party for 65 guests. Carryout and delivery available. Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. AE-DC-MC-V. $ HORSEMEN'S PARK 402-731-2900 (OMAHA) Horsemen’s Park located at 6303 Q Street. Happy Hour MonWed from 5-9 p.m. - $1 pints, $1.75 domestic bottles and $2 well drinks. Tuesday - 25¢ wings from 3-8 p.m. Wednesday - $5.95 Steak Night after 5:00 p.m. Thursday - 75¢ tacos and $1.75 margaritas after 5:00 p.m. Friday – $7.95 Prime Rib Dinner after 5:00 p.m. Daily specials 7 days a week. Open daily at 10:00 a.m. Check out our website at www.horsemenspark.com. JAIPUR BREWING COMPANY 402-392-7331 (OMAHA) 10922 Elm St. Rockbrook Village. A casual restaurant in a ralaxed atmosphere. Lunch; Chicken Tikki Naan with Chutney; Tandoori Chicken & Muligatanny soup. Dinner entrees include fresh vegetables dishes, grilled colorado lamb sirloin, Sushi grade Ahi, Tandoori marinated grilled salmon, Tandoor grilled beef tenderloin, to name a few. Wide selection of wines & liquor, on site brewed beer. Lunch: Thurs. & Fr. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: Mon.-Sun. 5:30 p.m.-9:45 p.m.

www.omahapublications.com

The Original Whiskey Steak 2121 S. 73 St. (402) 391-7440

ue Bellev rd illa and M ave H Now oms! Ro Party

Old Market 11th & Harney 614-9333

Benson 71st & Ames 333-6391

Coming Soon to 132nd & Maple

Voted Best BBQ Eight Consecutive Years

Lakeside 173rd & West Center 333-8001

Council Bluffs 50 Arena Way 256-1221 (by the MAC)

Millard 120th & L 829-1616

Three Scoops of the Best!

10920 EMMET ST. OMAHA, NE 68164

934-BEER (2337) ICEHOUSEOMAHA.COM

Sonoran Style Cooking Made Fresh Daily. Catering and Party Rooms Also Available. 7555 Pacific St. 399–8006 380 N.114 St. 330–5707 Omaha, Nebraska

The One and Only Family owned and operated for over 40 years. Mon. - Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sun. 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

“ALL SPORTS... ALL OF THE TIME!”

Buy One Entree & 2 Drinks Get a Second Entree of Equal or Lesser Value

Serving Omaha’s Finest Families

Johnny Sortino’s Pizza 7880 ‘L’ Street • Omaha, NE 68127 (402) 339-5050

www.readonlinenow.com

Voted Omaha’s Best Sports Bar 9 Years in a Row!

Daily Food & Drink Specials!

Offer Expires: 4/30/2010

FREE

One coupon per customer. May not be used with any other offers. march/april | 2010

KONA GRILL 779-2900 (OMAHA) 295 N 170th St., Village Pointe. Kona Grill is the winner of over 50 awards nationally, including Best New Restaurant and Best Sushi. The eclectic menu offers a variety of dishes from gourmet pizza to the award winning sushi. Kona Grill’s recipe for casual elegance includes mesmerizing aquariums, sushi bar, and an exhibition kitchen. Their lively patio is a great place to see and be seen. At Kona Grill there is something for everyone.

Thank You Omaha For Voting Us Best Greek Food! O’Connor’s Irish Pub 1217 Howard St. • Omaha, NE 68102 402-934-9790

Thanks for Voting Us

~ Authentic German Dining ~ ~ Pan-Fried Chicken - Wednesdays ~ ~ Wedding Cakes, Strudel & Cookies ~

5180 Leavenworth • 402-553-6774 www.gerdasgermanrestaurant.com

Miracle Hills Square • 114th & Dodge Harvey Oaks Plaza • 144th & Center www.fetasgyros.com

Thank You Omaha For Voting Us Best Breakfast!

Serving Breakfast All Day and Friday Night Dinner from 4:30pm to 8:30pm

Lisa’s Radial Café

402.551.2176 • 817 N. 40th

Best Neighborhood Bar

LA TP

ACE

FIRS E

•

TED & WALLY’S ICE CREAM 341-5827 Come experience the true taste of homemade ice cream at 12th & Jackson in the Old Market. Since 1986, we've created gourmet ice cream flavors in small batches using rock salt & ice. We offer your favorites plus unique flavors like Margarita, Green Tea, Guinness, and French Toast. Special orders available.

STEAKHOUSES 801 CHOPOUSE AT THE PAXTON 402.342.1222 1403 Farnam St. Designed with a 1920's era New York Chophouse in mind, 801 is the epitome of elegance. You will not forget the crisp white tablecloth fine dining experience. From their USDA prime grade beef and jetfresh seafood from all over the world, 801 Chophouse is truly the best Omaha has to offer. Open 7 nights a week. THE DROVER 391-7440 2121 S. 73 St. (just 1/2 block south of Doubletree). Famous for our Whiskey Steaks! Serving seafood, chicken and chops. Fine wine in an intimate atmosphere. Casual attire. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm. Cocktail Hour 3-6pm Dinner nightly at 5pm. Reservations accepted. AE-DC-MC-V. $$$ JOHNNY’S CAFÉ – SINCE 1922 731-4774 (OMAHA) 27th and L streets. Years of quality dining and hospitality make Johnny’s Café a restaurant to remember. Serving only the finest corn-fed beef the Midwest has to offer. Aged steaks and prime rib are the specialties, with homemade bread and pies to complete one’s meal. An excellent wine list adds to the enjoyment at one of Omaha’s original restaurants. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. AE-MC-V. $$ OMAHA PRIME 341-7040 (OMAHA) 415 S. 11th St. (Old Market). Only restaurant featuring complete Prime beef. Open seven days a week, Mon.-Sat. 5 p.m.-close. $$-$$$

Dundee Dell

SCOOTER'S COFFEEHOUSE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Scooter's Coffeehouse is proud to be a 10 year running winner of BEST OF Omaha in the Coffee Category. We strive to be the best in everything we do; Best Specialty Coffee, Latte's, and Smoothies made with the best ingredients available. Coffee with Character, It's what we are all about!

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Over 750 Single Malts 500 Kinds of Liquor • 230 Kinds of Beer Omaha’s Best Fish & Chips

5007 Underwood • Omaha, NE 68132 • (402) 553-9501 • www.dundeedell.com

Where the Whole Family Has Fun!

PASSPORT RESTAURANT 344-3200 (OMAHA) 1101 Jackson St. An elegant, but simplistic ambience highlights this upscale Old Market eatery. Serving Prime grade beef. Open at 5 p.m. seven days a week. $-$$ PICCOLO’S RESTAURANT 342-9038 (OMAHA) 2202 S. 20th St. One of Omaha’s finest traditions, where quality steaks are served at low prices. Especially designed for a family outing or a business social. The specialty is tasty prime rib, served for the last 60 years under the crystal ball. Daily lunches: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Dinner: Mon.-Thu. 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 4:30 p.m.-110:30 p.m. Daily and night specials. SPENCER'S FOR STEAKS AND CHOPS OLD MARKET 102 South 10th Street. 402-280-8888. At Spencer’s we strive for only the finest dining experience. Our innovative dinner menu includes prime grade beef and we also collaborate with local farmers and ranchers to bring in only the finest product. If it is wine that you are interested in, check out our award winning wine list. Sun.-Thurs. 5 p.m.-1- p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 5 p.m.-11 p.m. www. specersforsteaksandchops.com STOKES GRILL & BAR MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 402-498-0804. 646 N 114th St. This popular hangout offers excellent food and personable service in a jazzy southwestern atmosphere. Try a smooth margarita or fabulous glass of wine. The eclectic menu includes Wood Fire Grilled Chicken, Dos Equis Fillet and Twisted Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Be sure to try a cup of black bean soup. www.restaurantsinc.net

L E G E N D (average price per entrée)

HOMEMADE ICE CREAM AND PIES • 5914 CENTER • 552-0552

march/april | 2010

$1 to 10 - $, $10 to 20 - $$, $20 to 30 - $$$, $30 and over - $$$$

MC, V, AE, DC www.omahapublications.com

Family Owned & Operated Authentic Italian Cuisine Party Rooms Available Carry Out Available

Serving Lunch & Dinner

Mon-Sat

PIZZERIA

3001 S. 32nd Ave • Omaha, NE 402-345-5656

Freshest Pizza Best Flavor Thank you for voting us Omaha’s #1 Pizza Midtown Hand Stretched 7834 Dodge St. New York Style Pizza! 391-1881

*By the slice

West Omaha 12997 W. Center Road 330-1444

*Whole Pies

Downtown (*New Store) 1109 Howard (Old Market) 344-2222

*Dine-In

*Lunch Specials *Carry-Out *We deliver Downtown

www.ziospizzeria.com

Most Bountiful Toppings at Zio’s!!!

2202 South 20th Street – Omaha

Family Restaurant • Fine Steaks Chicken • Seafood Party Rooms Available

Thanks Omaha, for voting us Best of Omaha...

Four Years in a Row!

342-9038 • 346-2865

The Greek Islands Full Bar • Carry Out • Dine In k Islands Restau Gree Best Greek rant

Catering For All Occasions

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Open Seven Days A Week

Thank you for voting us Best of Omaha

3821 Center 346-1528

Visa, MC, Diners & AMEX Accepted www.readonlinenow.com

3007 S 83rd Plz Omaha, NE 68124 (402) 391-2923

1201 S 157th St Omaha, NE 68130 (402) 884-2272 march/april | 2010

Oscar's Piz za WI

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Best H & Sp ot W o Ings

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Come on into West Omaha’s Best Family Sports Bar & Grille for the Best Hot Wings in town. And don’t forget to try our Big O Pizza.

Catch March Madness at Oscars! Online at

OscarsPizzaAndSportsGrille.com Carry-Out

Best of omaha 2010

(402)758-1910

17330 Lakeside Hills Plaza Omaha, Nebraska

Pasta Amore a classic spot

Stella’s Bar and Grill

“Serving World Famous Hamburgers since 1936” 106 Galvin Rd • Bellevue, NE • 402-291-6088 • Open Monday-Saturday, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

Fine Dining | Award Winning Wine List

LUNCH: Mon.-Fri.: 11a.m.-2p.m. DINNER: Mon.-Sat.: 4:30p.m-Close

Best Happy Hour • Best Appetizers • Best Sushi

Private Party Rooms Business Luncheons Catering Rockbrook Village • (108th & Center) (402) 391-2585 • Fax: 391-0910 www.pastaamore.net

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

CHEFPROFILE

Story by: Molly Garriott Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Leo Fascianella of Pasta Amore

Some

fathers teach their sons how to throw a football. Others, how to tune up an engine. For Leo Fascianella, it was how to flavor the perfect marinara sauce and construct the perfect ravioli. Fascianella describes himself as a self and family-taught chef. He first learned his craft standing at his father’s side in his family’s restaurant in San Cataldo, Italy. A third-generation restaurateur, Fascianella watched his grandfather and father tend to simmering pots of fresh Bolognese sauces. He helped them hand roll pasta for evening dinners. He learned that summer is the only time to serve a tomato, basil and mozzarella salad, when the dish’s stars are at their peak. He continued the training his father and grandfather began when he immigrated to the United States from his native Sicily in 1972. An uncle came to Omaha; Fascianella followed suit. He first worked as a cook for the Golden Apple restaurant for ten years. He then honed his craft at other area restaurants — The Omaha Club, Blue Fox, La Versailles — and in Vail, Colorado’s Red Lion. “I always wanted to own my own restaurant,” recalls Fascianella. In 1986 he realized his career dream when he established a culinary cornerstone, Pasta Amore e Fantasia, in Rockbrook Village. For the last 24 years, Pasta Amore has been known for its fresh pasta and welcoming environment. This past October, Fascianella was inducted into the Omaha Hospitality Hall of Fame. Not one to rest on his laurels, Fascianella says, “We constantly try to do better and better.” Fascianella describes Pasta Amore as a family-oriented atmosphere. While he is www.readonlinenow.com

behind the scenes stirring sauces and roasting meats, his wife Pat is up front greeting customers and tending to the dining room. He makes his own tortellini, cannelloni, ravioli, and lasagna daily. All sauces and soups are made from scratch as well. He makes the restaurant’s Italian sausages, grinding the meat and adding the herbs and spices. Authenticity is so important that Fascianella even makes his own balsamic vinegar. His main menu remains constant throughout the year, though he does add specials that make the most of seasonal ingredients. In the winter Fascianella turns to hearty bean soups, like pasta e fagioli. Come summer he showcases fresh produce from his own garden. Like most chefs, Fascianella has an extensive kitchen garden. He owns a farm along the Elkhorn River that provides both his home table and those at Pasta Amore with their fresh vegetables. “He laughs: “Most men dream of a Porsche. I have a dream tractor.” A meal at Pasta Amore is a relaxing affair, though Fascianella recalls an afternoon where a power outage forced him to cook by candlelight for a U.S. Senator and his party. Acts of nature aside, unwinding with a good glass of wine and satisfying plate of pasta is what Fascianella and his wife Pat provide for those who walk through their restaurant’s front door. We may not be able to jet off to Sicily any time soon, but an afternoon or evening at Pasta Amore will certainly give us a taste of the Mediterranean in the middle of America. Pasta Amore e Fantasia, 11027 Prairie Brook Rd. in Rockbrook Village. For more information, call 391-2585 or visit the web at www.pastaamore.net. march/april | 2010

YESTERDAY & TODAY STORY BY: KRISTINE GERBER

Photo by Tom Ke ssler

The Chief Theater at 24th & K

The Chief

Theater at 24th and K streets in April 1947. When Geraldine and Ralph Blank opened it in 1941, it boasted the “newest ultra-modern innovations,” including pushback seats, a crying room for babies, an ice cream bar, air conditioning and hearing aids. The marquee featured a profile of an Indian Chief in a headdress. Reports say the interior of the theater continued the Indian theme with murals of water falls, canoes and campfires. The Chief Theater closed in 1972 and was torn down in 1973. Today the site is a Wells Fargo Bank branch.

ided Photograph prov rldWo a ah Om e th by ge va Sa hn Jo Herald/ llection Co y ph ra og ot Ph seum at the Durham Mu

About the writer: Kristine Gerber is the author of Omaha & Council Bluffs Yesterday & Today and owner of Omaha Books, a subsidiary of Eventive Marketing LLC. To date, Gerber has helped produce 17 books including Building for the Ages, Omaha’s Architectural Landmarks and Toast to Omaha, A Cookbook by the Junior League of Omaha.

march/april | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

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