May/June 2010 Omaha Magazine by Omaha Magazine

FACES • STYLE • HOME • EVENTS • ART • DINING

PAGE 37

Peter Buﬀett’s New Book At Home With Amy Scott M AY / J U N E

Steve Rosenblatt’s

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OMAHA MAGAZINE • 5921 S. 118TH CIRCLE • OMAHA, NE 68137

L U X U R Y Visit: npdodge.com/jimmarriott

H O M E S

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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

$1,200,000 18212 Shadow Ridge Drive

where you will find true craftsmanship. 4BR, 4BA, end on end brick covers the home plus slate. Limestone and wood beams, fantastic great room to rival any National Park lodge. 5 sets of French doors reveal privacy that surrounds you on this beautiful 10 acre lot. Realtor Rob • 598.3335

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. Nancy Kehrli • 690.1099

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255 Big Sandy Lane, Ashland $875,000 Discover year round vacation living on the lake! Custom built Mediterranean 1 ½ Story home on Big Sandy Lake. Amazing windows throughout. Top notch amenities include Brazilian granite counters, travertine tile, steam shower in master suite. Tiered patio with sandy beach and deck. Ample storage for boat and water toys. Come and enjoy the best life has to offer! Lisa Jansen • 740.5050

22004 Giles Road, Gretna $799,500 Serene living with panoramic views. Located on 5 acres, stocked fishing pond, in ground pool w/solar cover, 40x60 htd. outbuilding w/concrete floor, horse shelter. 4 car htd garage. Dream kitchen w/double ovens. Travertine flooring w/radiant heating, laundry both levels and so much more! Angela May • 709.4908

105 So. 9th Street, #806 $667,000 Finished to perfection! 4 foot ceilings, limestone countertops, beautiful built-in bookcases and great view of the river and bridge. Meile appliances, including coffeemaker, subzero fridge and luxurious finishes. This 2 bedroom 1 bath is equipped with a huge walk-in pantry and master closet. Furnished model for sale. Carol Jones • 490.2065

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19258 Woolworth Avenue $565,000 Loaded with Extras! Kitchen with double ovens, gas stove, granite counter tops and walk in pantry. MBR features French doors, sitting room, double sinks, bonus room. All BR’s are complete w/walk-in closets and separate baths. Rec room completes the walk-out LL w/wet bar, game area, large media area. This home is life’s better half and it can be yours! Kristen Wehner Jacobsen • 672.7701

8874 County Road P33, Blair $420,000 Your Own Private Oasis Enjoy this Melvin Sudbeck walk out ranch on 10 acres. Entertain in this open concept floor plan and enjoy the kitchen of your dreams. Private master suite, lots of windows to let in light from all directions. Fantastic views!

12626 Greystone, Council Bluffs, IA $410,000 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

$1,145,000

European Elegance in Omaha! Hill Top Hollow in Ponca Hills is Elegance on the Green! Stunning 1.5 story backs to the 4th fairway

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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

This is where gambling truly comes alive This is action as it was meant to be. Over 100,000 square-feet of unparalleled gambling excitement. With over 1,800 slots featuring jackpots that are bigger-than-big. And 50 world-class tables where you’ll find the kind of odds and limits only Horseshoe dares to offer. So get ready to win big.

Legendary Gambling Off I-80 at exit 1B. 1-877-771-SHOE. www.horseshoe.com

May 21

E ON SAL NOW

JIMMY CLIFF

July 8 with Kris Allen

AL GREEN

August 29

JOAN JETT AND THE BLACKHEARTS August 13

August 8

DIERKS BENTLEY

BARENAKED LADIES

August 1

July 31

July 9

REO SPEEDWAGON & PAT BENATAR

August 6

ERIC CHURCH

SUPER DIAMOND

EARTH, WIND & FIRE

July 15

GREGG ALLMAN

July 4

May 22

May 30

GOO GOO DOLLS

PHOENIX

RAY LAMONTAGNE & DAVID GRAY

Tickets available by phone at 888.512.SHOW or online at www.stircove.com Must be 21 or older to enter the Outdoor Concert Cove. Schedule and artists subject to change. Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETSOFF (In Iowa) or 1-800-522-4700. ©2010, Harrah’s License Company, LLC.

Limited Engagement

10th & Dodge (One Block South of Qwest Center) BODIES...The Exhibition is a must-see during its limited engagement in Omaha. This striking Exhibition showcases real human bodies, dissected and preserved through a revolutionary process allowing visitors to see themselves in a fascinating way like never before. BODIES...The Exhibition will enlighten, empower, and inspire.

Tickets now on sale! An Exhibition of Real Human Bodies

BodiesOmaha.com

PRODUCED BY:

PREMIER EXHIBITIONS (NASDAQ:PRXI)

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

CanCer

doesn’t stand a ChanCe.

May 8 through SepteMber 5, 2010 Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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.

15 weekends of garden discovery using your five senses

100 Bancroft Street • Omaha, NE 68108

www.lauritzengardens.org

may/june | 2010

unmc.edu

www.omahapublications.com

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 0 VOLUME 27 • I SSU E

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 ............................................ 16

assistant editor

linda persigehl

PETER BUFFETT: LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT

art director/graphic design

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

matt jensen

STEVE ROSENBLATT’S STADIUM MEMORIES

assistant graphic design

john gawley arts editor

PAGE 20

kim carpenter photography

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

tyler lemke

contributing writers

judy horan • kristine gerber molly garriott • l e o a d a m b i g a tony endelman • james ar thur vice president

FEATURE .......................................... 30 OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS

DEPAR TMENTS FOR STARTERS ............................................................... 8 CALENDAR ..................................................................... 10 OMAHA ART: PAINTER MADS ANDERSON ............... 27 GENERATION O: NIK FACKLER ................................. 29 OMAHA FACES: ANNE MARIE KENNY ...................... 32 OMAHA STYLE: SARAH LORSUNG TVRDIK .............. 35

AT HOME WITH

greg bruns

account executives

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

GALA ......................................................................................................... 37 Letter from Corey Ross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Volunteers of the Year: Cindy Bay and Ellen Wright. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

alicia smith hollins

The Scoop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

editorial advisors

Galas, etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

rick carey • david scott

Irish Fest 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

FOR ADVERTISING SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION:

Food Bank’s Celebrity Chef Benefit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

402.884.2000

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GALA

Behind the mic: Kareem Abdul-Jabaar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Project Harmony Annual Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Heartland Heroes Luncheon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 JDRF Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Stephen Center Cruise’n to your Favorite College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Heartland Family Service Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Blue Jean Ball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Omaha Symphony Guild’s Table Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Voices for Children in Nebraska’s Spotlight Gala. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

OMAHA AUTO: TIRE SAFETY ................... 56

RESTAURANT REVIEW

OMAHA HOME

At Home With: Amy Scott ................ Transformations ............................................

59 65 YESTERDAY & TODAY ............................. 64 DINING OUT

Restaurant Review: Rivera’s Mexican Restaurant ..... Dining Guide ..........................................

68 70

Pages 26-58 are included for city readers and subscribers only but can be viewed at www.readonlinenow.com. Owned and managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD www.readonlinenow.com

www.omahapublications.com may/june | 2010

Omaha

This is

The Treated Body

may/june | 2010

BODIES … The Exhibition Did you know that every person has between 2,000 and 5,000 taste buds? Girls usually have more than boys. Learn fun facts like this and more at the international blockbuster, BODIES … The Exhibition opens on May 1 at 10th and Dodge, 1002 Dodge Street, in Omaha. Visited by more than 15 million people in cities around the world, BODIES…The Exhibition provides an amazing up-close look at the detailed structure and function of the human body using real three-dimensional human bodies that have been meticulously dissected and preserved. BODIES ... The Exhibition will enlighten, empower, fascinate. BODIES…The Exhibition uses carefully preserved real anatomical specimens to guide the public through a tour inside the skeletal, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, circulatory and other systems of the human body. Many of the whole body specimens are dissected in vivid athletic poses, allowing the visitor to relate to everyday activities. In addition, authentic human specimens illustrate the damage caused to organs by over-eating and lack of exercise. A healthy lung is featured next to a black lung ravaged by smoking in a dramatic comparison more powerful than any textbook image. “BODIES . . . The Exhibition is a rare and memorable glimpse at the inner workings of the human body,” said Dr. Roy Glover, chief medical director of BODIES...The Exhibition. “Having the opportunity to share this with the people of Omaha is a privilege and allows us to continue to pay tribute to the magnificent machine that we all possess.” The human body specimens in the exhibition are preserved through a revolutionary technique called polymer preservation. In this process, human tissue is permanently preserved using liquid silicone rubber that is treated and hardened. The end result is a rubberized specimen, preserved to the cellular level, showcasing the complexity of the body's bones, muscles, nerves, blood vessels and organs. The full-body specimens can take more than a year to prepare. For more information on the exhibition, go to the web site at www.bodiesomaha.com. www.omahapublications.com

Fire Truck Display

Firefighters and Police Appreciation Day Our public servants will be honored June 10 at FIREFIGHTERS AND POLICE APPRECIATION DAY, an event to recognize those protecting the public and saving those citizens in life threatening situations. Mayor Jim Suttle will issue an official proclamation at 8:00 a.m. Activities are scheduled throughout the day to commemorate the occasion, highlighted by a luncheon at Qwest Center Omaha at noon. During the luncheon, lunch will be delivered to 24 fire stations, four police precincts, Fire and Police headquarters as well as the Training Center. Approximately 600 meals will be delivered. Following lunch, police and fire personnel will stage active demonstrations in the Qwest Center parking lot. Static displays will include a police motorcycle, bike officer/Segway, Taser/Pepperball/Defensive Tactics, Air Soft Weapons, Bomb Truck, Mounted Patrol/K-9â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, CPR, Mobile Command Center, Fire Trucks, Hazmat Truck, Firefighter Gear, and more. That evening, a Concert and Fun Night for families of Firefighters and Police Officers will be held at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village. For luncheon tickets, more information and sponsorship opportunities see www.fireandpoliceappreciation.com. www.readonlinenow.com

may/june | 2010

CALENDAR of events

www.visitomaha.com

Compiled by Sandy Lemke 5/8: Celestial Message - Music for Healing and Meditation. Holland Performing Arts Center. Featuring Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji of Mysore, India, a great musician, singer and composer. Sri Swamiji has been performing in music concerts for Meditation and Healing in India and many countries all around the world. 7:3010pm $15, $50, $100. 13th and Douglas Sts. 522-6670. For more information:Prakash Raghavan http://www.yogasangeeta.org. 5/8: Omaha Symphony Chamber Series: Flute Showcase. Omaha Symphony. Carl Nielsen’s Flute Concerto busts the stereotype that the flute is a delicate instrument. After principal flutist Maria Harding proves its strength and versatility, you might just look at this woodwind instrument in a whole new way. Beethoven’s Second Symphony also anchors this program, written as the German genius spiraled into total deafness. 7pm $30. UNO Strauss Performing Arts Center, 6001 Dodge St. 342-3560. www.omahasymphony.org.

Clifford the Big Red Dog at the Omaha Children’s Museum. 6/1-9/10

CHECK IT! Dates and times are current as of press time but please call ahead to confirm. ONGOING EVENT South 24th St. Omaha Walking Tour. El Museo Latino. A 60-90 minute guided walking tour of approximately 6 blocks along South 24th Street between L and O Streets - the tour highlights history, architecture, local businesses, culture, and the arts. Recurring weekly on Thursday, Saturday. Thur/4:30pm; Sat/11am. 4701 S. 25 St. http://south24thomahatour.com. MAY EVENTS 5/1: Cinco de Mayo Parade. South 24th St (B to P). South 24th St. (B to P) Parade Sat/10am; Carnival/Sat & Sun/12pm Free. 734-3240 http://www.cincodemayoomaha.com. 5/1: Arbor Day. Lauritzen Gardens. A family celebration will include tree walks during the event and tree activity stations throughout the garden. 10am1pm; garden hours are 9am-5pm. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002 www. lauritzengardens.org. 5/1 - 5/2: Hot Shops Annual Spring Open House/Open Studios. Hot Shops Art Center. Artist demonstrations, live music, refreshments! Eighty+ artists invite you to visit the studios, view the artwork, and see how it is created! Four “hot shops” featuring glassblowing, pottery, bronze casting, and blacksmithing, as well as over fifty individual studios and four art galleries. Sat/12-8pm; Sun/12-5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas St. 342-6452 www. hotshopsartcenter.com. 5/1 - 5/2: Naturally Green Expo. Omaha Civic Auditorium

- Mancuso Hall. The Naturally Green Expo is a two day event designed to inform, educate and inspire consumers about ways to make our environment, homes and lives greener, safer, healthier and happier places to live. GREEN MATTERS and our goal is to reach people who are passionate about the environment, their health, saving money and about America. 10a.m. - 6 p.m. Free. 1804 Capitol Ave. 888-740-6991 www.naturallygreenexpo.com. 5/1 - 5/2: Nebraska Renaissance Faire & Medieval Pageant. This is the featured event at the region’s newest theme park. See a full-scale pirate ship, faerie tree houses, the enchanted pond, horseback jousting, four stages of entertainment, a children’s realm, a beer garden, dozens of unique merchang shops, various historical displays and exhibits. 11am6pm $6-$11/tots free. www.nebfaire.com. 5/1 - 10/2: Village Pointe Farmers Market. Village Pointe. Be a “locavore”! Enjoy farm fresh, locally-grown produce and meats from the Village Pointe Farmers Market every Saturday, May-September. Farmers Market Special Events: Farmer Appreciation, July 31 and Harvest Fest, October 2. Sat/8am-1pm. 168th & W. Dodge Rd. 505-9773 www.villagepointeshopping.com. 5/1 - 10/9: Farmers Market. Old Market. Offers the best selection of fresh produce and meats, as well as a wide variety of unique specialty items: gourmet foods, organic fruits and vegetables, dairy products, cut flowers and

may/june | 2010

bedding plants, handmade jewelry and more. Sat/8am-12:30pm Free. 11th & Jackson. 345-5401 www.omahafarmersmarket.org. 5/1: Rockbrook Village Spring Fever Craft Show. Rockbrook Village Shopping Center. This juried craft show, now in its 22nd year, offers the finest in regional crafts. Crafters vie for the limited number of spaces and shoppers delight in the variety and quality of crafts. 10am-5pm Free. 108th & W. Center Rd. 390-0890 www. rockbrookvillage.com. 5/1 5/7: Borderland Abstraction. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. Exhibition 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 & Wendy White. Tues-Sat/11am5pm Free. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130 www.bemiscenter.org. 5/2: Mother Son Brunch. Common Ground Community Center. Every mother’s son will feel very special after this event. Enjoy brunch, crafts and games. Sons will receive a special goody bag! For sons ages 3-8 and mothers, stepmothers, and grandmothers of all ages. Seating is limited so sign up today! 11am-1pm $20/couple; $10/each additional son. 1701 Veterans Drive. www. cityofomaha.org/parks. 5/2: E Pluribus Omaha: A Musical Tribute to our Ethnic Roots. The Omaha Symphonic Chorus will present a retrospec-

tive of Omaha’s diverse ethnic history by highlighting the rich musical traditions of its many immigrant groups. The Chorus will be joined by Marachi Luna y Sol and by the Bellevue West Concert Choir. 3 p.m. $15/adults; $12/students and seniors 60 and over. 7020 Cass St. 398-1766 www. OmahaSymphonicChorus.org. 5/4: An Evening with Garrison Keillor. Holland Performing Arts Center. His famous soothing voice, Midwestern musings, and dry humor have earned Garrison Keillor a Peabody, a spot in the Radio Hall of Fame, and the hearts of millions of Prairie Home Companion listeners every week. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 13th & Douglas Sts. 345-0606 www. TicketOmaha.com. 5/6: First Thursday Art Talk for May: Andrew Demirjian and Michael Caine. 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. Artists are Andrew Demirjian and Michael Caine. Thurs/7pm. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130 www.bemiscenter.org. 5/7: Enter The Haggis. Holland Performing Arts Center. Rousing Celtic rock with frenetic hooks. 8pm Tickets start at $25. 13th and Douglas Sts. 5/7: Ryan Berrigan Solo Art Exhibition. Kaneko-UNO Library. A solo show of abstract work by UNO artist Ryan Berrigan MonFri/1-5pm; Sat/10am-2pm Free. 1111 Jones St. 932-3486 http:// library.unomaha.edu/kaneko/.

5/8 - 5/9: The Four Bitchin’ Babes. Holland Performing Arts Center. Sharp social commentary, a pinch of PMS, and outrageously fun harmonies from four gifted singer-songwriters. A perfect Mother’s Day gift! Sat/8pm; Sun/2pm. 13th and Douglas Sts. 5/9: Mother’s Day Brunch. Lauritzen Gardens. 10am-2pm; garden hours are 9am-5pm Call for pricing and reservations. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002. www.lauritzengardens.org. 5/9: Spring Flower Show. Lauritzen Gardens. 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. www.lauritzengardens.org. 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. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800. www.omahaplayhouse.com. 5/11: River City History Tour: Gritty City. The Durham Museum. The tour of “The Gritty City” through downtown Omaha will point out several historic locations, including the former site of Madame Anna Wilson’s home, The Brandeis Building, and the Paxton Hotel. The tour also includes highlights of the

impact of noted individuals and events in our city’s sometimes turbulent history. Tues/6pm $10/members; $15/non-members. 802 S. 10th St. 444-5071. For more information:Brittany http:durhammuseum.org. 5/14 - 5/15: Omaha Symphony Masterworks: Beethoven’s Fifth. Omaha Symphony. Hold on tight as the thunderous power of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony grabs you and refuses to let go. This is music that shatters boredom and convention, breaking through with intensity that is as fierce and edgy as ever. Hear with fresh clarity the most influential classical piece ever written 8pm $15-$75. Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. www. omahasymphony.org. 5/15: Bengali New Year: Chandalika (The Untouchable Girl). Hindu Temple of Nebraska Social Hall. Featuring beautiful dances, choreography, and live music from members of the Omaha community, and includes an Indian dinner. Join us in celebrating Bengali New Year and Rabindra Jayanti (the birth anniversary of Tagore). Program: 6-8 PM, Dinner: 8-9 PM $10-$100. 13010 Arbor St. http://baneonline.org. 5/15 - 5/16: Spring into Spring Festival. Lauritzen Gardens. Lauritzen Garden’s annual plant sale and spring festival. 9am-5pm $7/adults; $3/children ages 6 to 12; Free/members and chidren under 6. 100 Bancroft St. 3464002. www.lauritzengardens.org. 5/15: Mrs. Warren’s Profession. Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre Company. Vivie Warren, a product of exclusive 19th-century boarding schools, is ready to earn a living as one of the “new women.” She isn’t, however, ready to encounter 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. www.bsbtheatre.com. 5/16: CycleFest. Chalco Hills Recreation Area. CycleFest teaches safe bike riding skills in a fun and interactive environment. Boy and Girl Scouts can earn a Safety Council patch by participating in this event. Free prizes, refreshments, face painting, helmet fittings and bike checks. Register and participate at the event to be eligible for prizes. 12-3pm Free. 8901 S. 154th Street. 896-0454. For more information:Tim Tichy www.SafeNebraska.org. 5/16: If You Give a Cat a Cupcake. The Rose Theatre. 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. Fri/7pm;

www.omahapublications.com

MAY & JUNE

2010

Sat-Sun/2pm $16; Free with Membership. 2001 Farnam St. 345-4849. www.rosetheater.org. 5/18: River City History Tour: Millionaires & Mansions. The Durham Museum. The tour of “Millionaires & Mansions” will explore Omaha’s Gold Coast and Cathedral neighborhoods, where the entrepreneurs of early Omaha built their opulent homes. Includes the former homes of influential Omahans such as Arthur Metz, Louis Nash, Sam Mercer, George Joslyn, and Arthur & Zerlina Brandeis. Tues/6pm $10/members; $15/ non-members. 803 S. 10th St. 444-5071. For more information: call Brittany 444-5071. http:durhammuseum.org. 5/22: Omaha National Martial Arts Championship. Millard South High School. The Omaha National Martial Arts Championship is one of the fastest growing events of its type in the midwest. ONMAC offers over 117 separate martial arts divisions, unique seminars, and a chance to meet with amazing special guests. $5/children, $8/ Adults $5/children, $8/Adults. 14905 Q St. For more information: Jeff or Michele Helaney http://omahanationalmartialartschampionship.com. 5/22: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Orpheum Theater. One of the top modern-dance repertory companies in the world, Hubbard has a sleek and spicy energy that’s just plain fun for dance buffs and newbies alike. 8:00 PM Tickets start at $19. 5/22 - 10/16: Bancroft Bayliss Loop Bicycle Rides. Bancroft Street Market. A 12 mile ride exploring the Omaha riverfront, historic downtown Council Bluffs and areas on both sides of the river. Includes a stop at Bayliss Park in downtown Council Bluffs to picnic or eat lunch at a local restaurant. 10am-1pm Free. 10th & Bancroft. 651-2327. 5/25: River City History Tour: Magic City. The Durham Museum. A tour of “The Magic City” will focus on the growth olf South Omaha, which was founded in 1884 along with the creation of the Union Stockyards. By 1890, South Omaha was the fastest growing city in the country, earning the nickname, “The Magic City.” Tues/6pm $10/members; $15/non-members. 804 S. 10th St. 444-5071. http:durhammuseum.org. 5/28 - 6/27: Fiddler on the Roof. Omaha Community Playhouse. Fiddler on the Roof is a timeless classic filled with a rousing heartwarming score which includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Sunrise Sunset.” It is the story of Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and religious traditions while outside influences

encroach upon their lives. WedSat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm & 6:30pm $38/adults, $24/students. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800. www.omahaplayhouse.com. 5/29: Omaha Symphony Chamber Series: Divertimento. UNO Strauss Performing Arts. Enjoy this musical smorgasbord that has something for everyone! The beginning overture proves that modern music can, indeed, be melodic. The violin sings in the popular, poetic The Lark Ascending, featuring concertmaster Amy Sims. With Bartok’s Divertimento, we kick it up a notch. 7pm $30. 6001 Dodge St. www.omahasymphony.org. 5/29: Vibes at Village Pointe D’Funk. Village Pointe. Join us for warm summer evenings and hot live music where friends can join you for a cold drink and where the kids can have their face painted and dance down by the stage. Bring your chairs or spread a blanket each Saturday and be entertained by the best lineup of local bands in West Omaha! Sat/6:30-8:30pm Free. 168th & W. Dodge Rd. 505-9773. www.villagepointeshopping. com. 5/30: The Awesome ‘80’s Prom. Omaha Community Playhouse. The Awesome 80’s Prom is a brand new blast-from-the-past party in the style of Tony ‘n Tina’s Wedding. Set at a High School Senior Prom in 1989. All of the favorite characters from favorite 80’s movies are at the Prom. Everyone is competing for Prom King and Queen. Interactive fun for all audience members. Thu-Sat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm $32/ adults, $21/students. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800. www.omahaplayhouse.com. JUNE EVENTS 6/1: River City History Tour: Gritty City. The Durham Museum. The tour of “The Gritty City” through downtown Omaha will point out several historic locations, including the former site of Madame Anna Wilson’s home, The Brandeis Building, and the Paxton Hotel. The tour also includes highlights of the impact of noted individuals and events in our city’s sometimes turbulent history. Tues/6pm $10/members; $15/non-members. 802 S. 10th St. 444-5071. http:durhammuseum.org. 6/1 - 6/30: Hot Shops 10th Anniversary Show. Hot Shops Art Center. Work by Hot Shops artists will be shown in all galleries. Mon-Fri/9am-5pm; SatSun/11am-5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas St. 342-6452 www. hotshopsartcenter.com. 6/1 - 9/10: Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog. Omaha Children’s Museum. Pilot the ferry to Birdwell Island, serve up fish and chips, make music on Clifford’s Xylobone, search for buried treasure in T-Bone’s sand-

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CALENDAR of events with this cosmopolitan treat! Fri&Sat/8pm; Sun/2pm $15-$80. 13th and Douglas Sts. www. omahasymphony.org. 6/4 - 6/20: Disney’s High School Musical 2. The Rose Theater. The Wildcats’ dramafilled escapades at Lava Springs Country Club will be the perfect way for Omaha to kick off the summer. For ages 6-adult. ThursFri/7pm; Sat-Sun/2pm $20-25; Members Save $5/ticket. www. rosetheater.org.

Sand in the City. 6/5-6/6 box, and slide down Clifford’s giant tail! Tues-Sat/10am-5pm; Thurs/10am-8pm; Sun/1-5pm (Closed Mon) $2/in addition to Regular Museum Admission ($8/ Adults and Children, $7/Seniors 60+). 500 S. 20 St. www.ocm.org. 6/2 - 6/27: Featured artists Dewaele, Elliott-Bartle, Markoff, Ocken. Artists’ Cooperative Gallery Ltd. Solo exhibits by sculptor Robert Dewaele; painter and printmaker Lori Elliott-Bartle; and painters Richard Markoff and Virginia Ocken. Opening celebration 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday June 5.

Artist demonstrations 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday June 6. Wed/11am5pm; Thur-Sat/11am-10pm; Sun/12-6pm Free. 405 S. 11th St. 342-9617 http://www.artistscoopgallery.com. 6/4 - 6/6: Omaha Symphony Pops Series: Pink Martini. Holland Performing Arts Center. Get ready to swing, samba, and grove with pop sensation Pink Martini! Known for their unique blend of multicultural music, this “little orchestra” captivates with golden melodies and global rhythms. Add some sultry sophistication to your weekend

may/june | 2010

6/4 - 8/27: Rockbrook Village Friday Night Concerts. Rockbrook Village Shopping Center. Venue for the talent of local musicians co-sponsored by Rockbrook Village Merchants’ Assn, Music Performance Trust Fund and US Recording Companies. Bring Granny, the kids, and a lawn chair for a delightful evening. Fri/7-8pm Free. 108th & W. Center Road. www.rockbrookvillage.com. 6/5: Vibes at Village Pointe Soul Dawg. Village Pointe. 168th & W. Dodge Rd. 505-9773. www. villagepointeshopping.com. 6/5 - 6/6: Sand in the City. Qwest Center Omaha. The fun starts with 350 TONS OF

www.visitomaha.com MAY & JUNE

2010

SAND dumped into the middle of downtown Omaha! From there, corporate teams compete to build the best 15-ton sand sculpture. The public is invited down for a FREE weekend of fun --- see the sculptures, vote for your favorite, and enjoy great food and an interactive Kid Zone including 2 GIGANTIC sand boxes --- all to benefit the Nebraska Children’s Home Society. Sat/10am-8pm; Sun/11am-5pm Free. Parking lot at North 10th Street and Capitol Ave. 898-7783. http://www.nchs. org/. 6/5 - 6/8: Omaha Royals vs. Oklahoma RedHawks. Omaha Royals Baseball. Omaha’s Baseball Team, a AAA division of the Kansas City Royals. Fireworks on Saturday night, Sunday is Family FUNday. Box Seat/$10; Reserved/$8; General Adm/$7 $1 off Children, Seniors & Military Box Seat/$10; Reserved/$8; General Adm/$7 $1 off Children, Seniors & Military. Rosenblatt Stadium. 738-5100 www.oroyals.com. 6/5 - 9/12: Landscapes from the Age of Impressionism. Joslyn Art Museum. This exhibition of 40 paintings from the renowned collection of the

Brooklyn Museum represents some of the finest examples of late 19th- and early 20th-century landscapes by celebrated French Impressionist artists and many of their American peers. 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. 342-3300. www.joslyn.org. 6/10: River City History Tour: North Omaha - lunch. The Durham Museum. From Expositions to Jazz musicians: Exploring North Omaha’s Heritage. Take a tour through North Omaha, a diverse and vibrant community in Omaha’s early years. Businesses flourished along 24th Street well into the 1950s, and stately homes, parks, and jazz halls made this area a cultural center of Omaha. Thurs/10:30 am-lunch Tour and lunch $20/members; $25/nonmembers. 805 S. 10th St. 4445071 http:durhammuseum.org. 6/11 - 6/13: 13th Annual Taste of Omaha. Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing. Along Omaha’s riverfront, the event showcases area restaurants with exciting live entertainment and activities.

Watch cooking demonstrations, browse displays, enjoy music, amusement rides, face painting and much more! Fri & Sat/11am11pm; Sun/11am-8pm. 8th & Farnam Sts. 346-8003 www. tasteofomaha.info. 6/12: Bird Watch at Wildlife Safari. Wildlife Safari. Celebrate flight with feathered friends on June 12, 2010 at Wildlife Safari! Learn about birds, design bird crafts or explore on your own to catch a glimpse of various ducks, geese and cranes. 11am3pm $5/adults; $3/children; $4/seniors. 16406 292nd St, Nebraska’s I-80 Exit 426, Ashland. 944-9453 www.omahazoo.com. 6/12: Vibes at Village Pointe High Heel. Village Pointe. Join us for warm summer evenings and hot live music where friends can join you for a cold drink and where the kids can have their face painted and dance down by the stage. Bring your chairs or spread a blanket each Saturday and be entertained by the best lineup of local bands in West Omaha! Sat/6:30-8:30pm Free. 168th & W. Dodge Rd. 505-9773. www.villagepointeshopping. com.

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www.visitomaha.com MAY & JUNE Remember Mother’s Day May 9th

6/15: River City History Tour: Millionaires & Mansions. The Durham Museum. The tour of “Millionaires & Mansions” will explore Omaha’s Gold Coast and Cathedral neighborhoods, where the entrepreneurs of early Omaha built their opulent homes. Includes the former homes of influential Omahans such as Arthur Metz, Louis Nash, Sam Mercer, George Joslyn, and Arthur & Zerlina Brandeis. Tues/6pm. 806 S. 10th St. 4445071 http:durhammuseum.org.

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6/15 - 8/24: Tempo of Twilight Concert Series. Lauritzen Gardens. From all-time favorite cover songs to artistic originals, talented local bands will create a memorable musical experience for visitors of all ages. Purchase delicious and affordable meals from the café or bring your own snacks and beverages. Bring blankets or chairs to relax in the garden. 6-8pm; garden hours 9am-8pm on Tues (mid-May thru mid-Sept) $7/adults; $3/ages 6-12, free/ members and children under 6. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002. www.lauritzengardens.org. 6/16 - 7/1: Triple Crown Slumpbuster. Various baseball fields. Triple Crown Baseball offers local series tournaments all over the US and specializes in professionally-produced destination Championships and national “convergence” events featuring teams (ages 8-18) from across the country. The Omaha SlumpBuster is the World’s largest youth baseball tournament during the NCAA College World Series. Recurring daily. www.triplecrownsports. com. 6/18: Omaha Quilters Guild 2010 Show. LaVista Conference Center. 32nd Annual Quilt Show..Spoken without a Word, the message within the quilt. Features 250+ quilts from local artists, 2009 Hoffman Challenge quilts, Traveling Exhibit from International Quilt Study Center, plus more. Vendor mall and opportunity quilt. 10am5pm $6. 12520 Westport Parkway. 305-6595. For more information:Susie Jarosz www. omahaquiltersguild.org. 6/19: Playing with Fire Concert. Lewis & Clark Landing. The first date of the Playing with Fire Concert Series, featuring Hadden Sayers, Carolyn Wonderland and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave. Family event Gates open at 4 pm Free; donations accepted. 515 N. Riverfront Drive. For more information:Laura Luger www. playingwithfireomaha.net. 6/19: Vibes at Village Pointe - CowboyUp! Band. Village Pointe. Join us for warm summer evenings and hot live music where friends can join you for a cold drink and where the kids can have their face painted and dance down by the stage. Bring your chairs or spread a

may/june | 2010

2010

blanket each Saturday and be entertained by the best lineup of local bands in West Omaha! Sat/6:30-8:30pm Free. 168th & W. Dodge Rd. 505-9773. www. villagepointeshopping.com. 6/19 - 7/1: NCAA College World Series. Rosenblatt Stadium. Team autograph sessions, Fan Fest activities and Opening Ceremonies and fireworks will be Fri 6/18. For information on ticket purchases, including dates they go on sale, please refer to www.cwsomaha. com or call 402-554-4404. Various times $19-$24. 1202 Bert Murphy Drive, I-80, Exit. 554-4404. www.cwsomaha. com. 6/22 - 6/27: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Orpheum Theater. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle features dazzling production numbers, sets and costumes - and has won the hearts of over 35 million worldwide. Tues-Thurs/7:30pm; Fri/8pm; Sat/2pm & 8pm; Sun/2pm & 7:30pm Tickets start at $25. 6/25 - 6/27: Summer Arts Festival. 10th to 15th on Farnam St. 135 of the nation’s finest visual artists, three stages of continuous entertainment including national performers and a large hands-on Children’s Fair. Food, Nebraska craft brews, special events and artist demonstrations. One of the city’s premier destinations for exceptional art, atmosphere and entertainment. Fri & Sat/11am8pm; Sun/11am-5pm Free. Farnam Street 10th to 15th Street. 345-5401. www.summerarts.org. 6/26: Jazz on the Pointe - Joseph Vincelli. Join us for warm summer evenings and hot live music at a place where friends can join you for a glass of wine or a cold beer and where the kids can have their face painted and dance down by the stage. Bring your chairs or spread a blanket each week and be entertained by the best lineup of local bands in West Omaha all summer long. Sat/6:30-8:30pm Free. www.villagepointeshopping.com. 6/29: River City History Tour: Millionaires & Mansions. The Durham Museum. The tour of “Millionaires & Mansions” will explore Omaha’s Gold Coast and Cathedral neighborhoods, where the entrepreneurs of early Omaha built their opulent homes. Includes the former homes of influential Omahans such as Arthur Metz, Louis Nash, Sam Mercer, George Joslyn, and Arthur & Zerlina Brandeis. Tues/6pm. 808 S. 10th St. 4445071. http:durhammuseum.org.

www.omahapublications.com

Story by Corey Ross

feature

Peter's Path

In his book “Life Is What You Make It,” Peter Buffett reflects on his family life and the virtue of choosing your own direction

In the opening

pages of his book “Life Is What You Make It,” Peter Buffett, youngest son of Warren Buffett, succinctly sums up his life as “making the best of a good situation.” Rather than being a stock line for cocktail parties, Buffett says the words emerged spontaneously during the writing of his book. The line is both an appreciation for his family and an acknowledgement of the unique challenges of being the son of one of the world’s richest men, which sums up “Life Is What You Make It” quite well. In the book, Buffett sprinkles insights and anecdotes about his family amongst musings about life and the choices that led him to

may/june | 2010

"To stand an old cliché on its head, I've had to learn to make the best of a good situation." - Peter Buffett in the introduction of "Life Is What You Make It" www.omahapublications.com

A taste of spring

become a successful composer, producer and philanthropist in New York City, as opposed to a Wall St. clone of his father, which Peter says he considered “for about 15 minutes.” Buffett’s book is being released in advance of the Berkshire Hathaway annual shareholders’ meeting on May 1. Peter will perform a benefit concert the night before at Joslyn Art Museum. It’ll be the latest in his “Concert and Conversations” series, which is how the book got started.

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Q. What made you decide to write the book? A. I actually never thought of myself as an author or dreamed I’d write a book. What happened is a woman came up to me after one of my “Concert and Conversations” performances and said, “That’s a book. Let me introduce you to an agent.” In my shows, I perform about six or seven songs and speak kind of extemporaneously in between. The show lasts about 90 minutes. The book is an extension of that experience. Q. What do you hope readers get out of the book? A. I guess first and foremost, I’d like readers to look at themselves and ask “Am I living an authentic life?” What am I doing for somebody other than myself? Are you self-centered or are you centered in yourself and able to help others? You have to be in a position of loving your life, and that means being as authentic as possible. The challenge is what the world is telling us is important and rejecting as much of that as possible. Consumerism and materialism are driving us toward things that don’t mean anything. We need to try to shut that down and focus on what really drives us.

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May 22 – September 12, 2010 The Earth sustains us, protects us, and makes life possible; but it also humbles us with its dramatic power. This summer, The Durham Museum is pleased to host Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters from Chicago’s Field Museum. This dynamic exhibition, focuses on four types of disasters – earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, and tornados. Witness what it’s like to stand inside a roaring tornado; trigger an underwater earthquake and simulate a tsunami; create a virtual volcano; touch and examine rock and lava specimens that tell of past geologic events; discover how people adapt to living at risk; and be inspired by the resiliency of disaster survivors. This exhibition and its national tour were developed by The Field Museum, Chicago. National Tour Sponsor:AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA Nature Unleashed is sponsored by the Durham Foundation, Douglas County Commissioners, First National Bank, Peter Kiewit Sons’, Inc. and the Durham Society. Media support provided by WOWT Channel 6. Pantone® 7412 C

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Q. You write with great admiration and almost fascination about your father. Did writing the book help deepen your understanding of him at all? A. There’s no question that in retrospect it really kind of put him in perspective for me. I think I’ve been curious about him ever since I was a child because he’s so unique, but he’s unique is a way that shouldn’t be unique. He lives a very simple, dedicated existence. He’s maybe more focused than most, but most of all, he’s not driven by outside motivations. And by being himself, he just happened to make a lot of money. I wanted to amplify the simplicity of that because it bears repeating. It might not be normal elsewhere, but it was normal in our house. We grew up with a good set of values. Q. Has Warren read the book? What was his review? A. He loves it. He gave it a big thumbs up. I think the book made him realize what an effect he had on myself and my siblings. He was always so dedicated to his work that I think he felt like an absentee father at times, when that wasn’t it at all. I think this made him appreciate what the experience of us growing up in our family really was. Q. You’re the first family member to write about the family. Did you relish that opportunity to provide a firstperson window into the Buffetts? A. It’s funny, because it wasn’t until I saw the first draft that I realized I had done that, and I was really happy it. I was able to codify our family experience in a way that made my dad feel good, my siblings feel good, and I know my mom would’ve felt good about it. It’s a very accurate, loving portrayal. I wasn’t just trying to make us as all look good (laughing). Q. What does being born Buffett really stand for to you? A. I identify it with my grandfather’s grocery story. It’s sort of a simplicity, a focus and a work ethic that is very Midwestern yet unique, but really not as different from anybody else as you’d think. For more on Peter Buffett and the book, go to www.peterbuffett.com. www.omahapublications.com

Trees • Shrubs • Perennials

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cover story

Story by Judy Horan

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Steve Rosenblatt's Stadium Memories 20

may/june | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

Top: Steve Rosenblatt sits with his parents, John and Freeda, in box seats behind the dugout, circa 1956. Right: Steve, about 17, rounding the bases during a night game at Rosenblatt Stadium.

Steve Rosenblatt remembers the first game on Oct. 17, 1948, at the stadium later named for his father. “Opening day, I was the third base dugout batboy,” says Steve, who was 10 at the time. “It was colder than hell.” An amateur team — the Storz — played a team of major league All-Stars, headed by Richie Ashburn from Tilden, Neb. Tom Kelley, who later became a prominent Omaha attorney, threw the first pitch ever thrown at Rosenblatt. History will repeat itself on Sept. 2 when Kelley’s grandson, Tommy Kelley, throws the last ceremonial pitch at the stadium as the Omaha Royals close their season. The Royals will move to a new stadium in Sarpy County, and Rosenblatt Stadium will later be razed. Steve Rosenblatt plans to be at bat that night representing his father, former semipro baseball player and Omaha Mayor Johnny Rosenblatt, who died in 1979. “If I’m able to swing a bat that is,” he jokes. “I’ll be 71.” Through his connections with Rosenblatt Stadium, Steve Rosenblatt met great legends of baseball such as Stan Musial and Sandy Koufax. “I sat between Dizzy Dean and Joe DiMaggio in the dugout when I was about 12. I was in awe. In 1948, I was with my dad, who had played with Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig when they were in town.

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cover story

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When I met Babe Ruth, I was 10 or 11 years old and not smart enough to bring a baseball to get autographed. It’d be worth $5,000 today.” Steve was again a batboy for games when the city’s first College World Series game took place in 1950. His father led a group that convinced the NCAA that Omaha was the place to relocate the College World Series from Wichita, Kan. Starting next year, the College World Series will be held at TD Ameritrade Park Omaha, now under construction. Johnny Rosenblatt’s Story Born in 1907, Johnny Rosenblatt went to the University of Iowa on a baseball scholarship, but soon returned to Omaha to help out his financially struggling family. Ten games with the Omaha Buffaloes in about 1929 made up his brief career in the minor leagues, before Johnny found he could make more money playing semiprofessional ball in Omaha. Roberts Dairy wanted him as a player on its semipro baseball team. He agreed only if they hired him at the dairy as well. Within eight years, he was the dairy’s general manager. But Johnny never lost the thrill of the game. “He led a group of city leaders in the 1940s that felt a new baseball park would be good for Omaha,” says his son, Steve, who now lives in Scottsdale, Ariz. “Dad had to get into politics to make sure it got built.” His political career began as a member of the Omaha City Council in 1948. The Class-A Omaha Cardinals played at the new stadium from 1949 to 1954. When he was elected mayor in 1954, he began a campaign to bring Triple-A baseball to Omaha. The Cardinals moved their Triple-A baseball franchise to Omaha in 1956 to play at what was then Omaha Municipal Stadium. The Omaha Dodgers, a minor league affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, played there in 1961 and 1962. After six years without a professional team, the Omaha Royals Triple-A team came to Omaha in 1969. The stadium was named for Johnny Rosenblatt in 1964, three years after his term as mayor ended. He had tirelessly worked to get the stadium built, find teams to play there and lure the College World Series to Omaha. continued on page 24 www.omahapublications.com

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cover story Keeping Memories Alive Steve is philosophical about the stadium’s planned demolition. “Even if we put $70 million or so into remodeling Rosenblatt, a reinvented stadium would not have been a good fit for the Omaha Royals. “Imagine that you go to Memorial Stadium for a Husker game. It seats 85,000, but there were only 18,000 fans there. We’re going to say, ‘This isn’t fun.’ That’s what the Royals face every time they go out to play.” He says the life of most ballparks is about 40 to 50 years. Rosenblatt Stadium has lasted 62 years. Steve has formed a Remembrance Committee that includes Omaha leaders, principals from the NCAA, the College World Series and the Omaha Royals. They’re planning a historical marker at 16th and Vinton streets where the city’s first stadium sat before it burned down in 1935. Steve calls it “The stadium that nobody remembers.” Baseball legends Satchel Paige, Dizzy Dean, Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig played there. The committee is working on keeping home plate and the batter’s box where they are as a permanent memorial to Rosenblatt Stadium when the grounds are taken over for expansion of the neighboring Henry Doorly Zoo later this year. If Steve could take a piece of Rosenblatt Stadium as a souvenir, what would he take? “Unfortunately several years ago they replaced all the original seats. Otherwise, I would want the seat above the Omaha dugout where I sat with my mom and dad.” Instead, he will be satisfied to take dirt from Rosenblatt’s field as a memento. The final Royals game at Rosenblatt stadium on Sept. 2 will see a lot of Rosenblatts in the crowd. Along with Steve and his wife, Ann, will be their son, Richard, of Omaha and daughter, Wendi, of New York City – and cousins from around the country. A former Omaha city councilman and Douglas County Board commissioner, Steve still has many friends in the city who will attend. He feels sad for the fans that have great memories of Rosenblatt Stadium. And he feels sad for his 6-year-old twin grandchildren, Joshua and Elena, who won’t grow up knowing the stadium named for their great-grandfather. www.omahapublications.com

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Story by Kim Carpenter

Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

OMAHAART

Ornamental Chaos: Painter Mads Anderson

Mads

Anderson has been an artist his entire life. As a child, he sat on his great uncle’s lap and painted on canvases, and he still has the first drawing he made at age 4. Today the 36-year-old continues to bring that early exuberance to abstract paintings that are as vigorously colorful as they are intensely rhythmic. Says the Hastings native, “I’ve always painted. I’ve always done abstracts.” Early influences include minimalist artist Donald Judd as well as abstract expressionists Robert Motherwell and Jackson Pollock. For Anderson, the genre offers particular challenges. “I’m drawn to it because it has less boundaries but more rules,” he explains. “It deals more with the basics of art in terms of composition, color and mathematics. It creates order among chaos.” A more recent influence includes painter Keith Jacobshagen, known for his minimalist landscapes, under whom Anderson studied at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The former instructor remembers, “Mads was a bright, energetic guy. He looked at abstraction from the ‘50s and ‘60s and dealt with it in his mark making and brush strokes.” Jacobshagen continues, “He was a risk taker. He experimented a great deal.” Anderson starts with several focal points and then composes around them, assiduously layering one upon the other. Usually he works on six or seven paintings simultaneously – sometimes as many as 20. He is drawn to the compositional conversations that take place continued on next page www.readonlinenow.com

may/june | 2010

OMAHAART

continued from previous page

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among them. “Different paintings speak to one another,” he says. “They bounce back and forth between each other.” The artist takes his cues from the work in front of him. “I let the painting create itself and build off the surface,” he says. Building is an apt analogy. Anderson uses brushes, trowels and sponges among other tools and drags, blends and blurs his paint. As a result, edges can be hazily soft or meticulously crisp. Anderson’s circular brushwork adds another dimension. “I like a soft organic flow as opposed to harsh angles,” he explains. Angela Graham, who has represented the artist at the Graham Gallery in Hastings for over a decade, says, “He always keeps a loose and energetic flow. That’s what I love about Mads’ style. It’s his personality, and it translates into his work.” Jacobshagen agrees. “They have a cheerful, emotional content,” he says. Color is an additionally critical element in Anderson’s approach. “It’s a life-long quest to find the perfect harmonious combination of colors,” he says. His polychromatic paintings speak to this quest, with colors that are alternatively bright and brilliant or subdued and muted. Anderson notes that wherever he lives, he paints the walls white so he can constantly change colors. “I just switch out the paintings,” he says. Although Anderson creates many of his works on cotton rag paper, he also uses less conventional surfaces. Since he paints in series, he tries to find objects that lend themselves to multiples, like 10-inch-round aluminum irrigation end caps. “Aluminum’s like your best friend,” he explains. “It’s a great surface to work on. It never rusts, and I use raw aluminum as part of the composition.” For that reason, much of Anderson’s work is equal parts painting and sculpture. Says Graham, “He’s not cornering himself into just canvases. Mads is always switching it up. He’ll pick a different vehicle to paint on and bring a different focus.” Jacobshagen concurs, “Mads’ work is very strong right now. He’s obviously still taking risks.” As for Mads Anderson, he continues to achieve balance through abstraction, creating work that brings order to life’s perpetual disarray. “I create patterns,” he says simply. “It’s ornamental chaos.” www.omahapublications.com

Story by Linda Persigehl

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

feature

Filmmaker

and musician Nik Fackler, 25, truly feels at home in Omaha. Born and raised in the Big O, Fackler feels most comfortable fulfilling his creative exploits here, which in recent years include performing at Slowdown, recording an album, and directing music videos and short films. His debut feature, Lovely, Still, was released in 2009 and stars legendary actors Martin Landau and Ellen Burstyn. The film, shot here in Omaha, brought Fackler acclaim and could have prompted him to follow the bright lights to Hollywood. But that’s just not Fackler’s scene. “Throughout my life, Omaha has always been the backdrop for all I’ve created. And (Omaha) is a creative place. It offers a lot of freedom. It’s cheap to live here, and there’s not a lot of stress in living. You can immerse yourself in something else, besides paying the rent or driving in traffic.” It’s the reason a lot of artists have been drawn to, or have returned to Omaha, he said. “There’s a core group of artists here that’s incredibly talented. Especially in the music world.” His parents, long-time owners of Shirley’s Diner in West Omaha (where he still works, hence the apron), are musicians and creative types. “Mom was always writing, and Dad playing guitar.” Though he admits he once had ambitions of fame and fortune, Fackler said today, his pursuits are more spiritual in nature. “My goals are to always create and live a life that makes me feel more connected. I’m interested in following my passions, which right now include philosophy, mythology, puppeteering, cooking and business.”

Generation O: Nik Fackler www.readonlinenow.com

may/june | 2010

feature

Story by James Arthur Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Omaha Home for Boys Branches Out This year,

the Omaha Home for Boys is celebrating its 90th anniversary. For nearly a century, the Omaha Home for Boys has been supporting and strengthening underprivileged youth and families in Omaha, but you might not know much about them. You might even say that what they do is a well-kept secret. That’s because the organization has always had a modest approach when it comes to publicizing the good works that they do on a day-to-day basis. But with newly appointed President Scott Hazelrigg setting out to raise awareness of the Home’s mission and form significant partnerships to enhance their current model, that’s all going to change. The Omaha Home for Boys was founded on October 12, 1920, after Father Flanagan’s Boys Town moved from downtown Omaha to a new location west of the city. It was created to fill the need for a support system for orphaned and neglected children within the city limits. The Boys’ Home now resides at 52nd street and Ames within the Inspiration Hill Campus. If you’ve ever driven by it, it truly does resemble a small college campus. Their facilities rest on 66 acres of land, housing on-campus living, a dining hall, education center, recreation center, woodworking shop, administration building and Youth and Family Services building. What differentiates the Omaha Home for Boys from similar

may/june | 2010

non-profit organizations are the unique programs they offer. The Residential Care Program and the Independent Living Program are the best examples. The Residential Care Program provides young men in need with an on-campus home where designated House Parents (a married couple) act as primary counselors, take care of their daily needs, provide educational support and a stable living environment. The goal for the program is to eventually reunite families after a period of at least 12 months. The Independent Living Program is the only one of its kind in the country. Most programs end their services to kids once they reach the age of 17, which forces them to make the transition from institutional care to real-world living without additional help. The Omaha Home for Boys has developed a program specifically designed to help young men and women make this transition successfully. They reside in an apartment complex close to home called Jacob’s Place, and are required to attain a G.E.D. or high school diploma while demonstrating basic independent living skills and sound judgment. Scott Hazelrigg was brought on board to take this base and expand on it in order to further involve the community and reach more youths. Previously, Scott had success running the Strategic Air & Space Museum and currently presides over the start-up NorthStar Foundation. The NorthStar Foundation has similar goals to the www.omahapublications.com

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Omaha Home for Boys, so it was fitting that Scott take the lead of both organizations in a close partnership. “What I’m looking to do is build on the capacity of the Omaha Home for Boys in order to have a bigger impact and extend our reach to those who need it,” says Scott. Scott was instrumental in convincing Outward Bound to commit to building a new high ropes course on the southeast corner of the Home’s campus. Outward Bound is a non-profit educational organization that provides active learning expeditions in order to develop character, leadership skills, self-discovery, and the importance of service. Active learning expeditions entail sending groups of all ages and all walks of life on outdoor adventures to challenge them. These challenges serve as a metaphor that can be translated to challenges in the classroom, workplace and personal life. The goal is learning through experience. “Experiential learning is one of our unique program goals,” says Scott. He believes that the ropes course will serve to not only attract at-risk youth who need better before- and after-school programs, but also corporations and schools, which will help their endeavor to be sustainable over the long run. In fact Benson High School, the Omaha Chamber of Commerce and the Midwest Trailblazers are set to be pilot partners for the Omaha Outward Bound program in 2010. There’s a lot going on between the Omaha Home for Boys, the NorthStar Foundation and Outward Bound, and this is for good reason. Rudy Reyes is an Omaha Home for Boys’ alum. At the age of 13, with no one to look after him, he arrived at the Home. “The Omaha Home for Boys really did save my life. They gave me food. They gave me shelter. They gave me medical attention. And taught me about discipline, team work and setting goals,” said Reyes in a video interview. After living at the Boys’ Home he went on to have a successful career in martial arts, joined the military and has now been cast to play himself in a television series based on the book, Generation Kill. “The goal of these programs is to reach more youths like Rudy and to share their success stories with others,” says Scott Hazelrigg. It’s quite likely you’ll soon be hearing a lot about what’s going at 52nd and Ames. www.readonlinenow.com

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OMAHAFACES

Story by Leo Adam Biga Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

From Omaha

to Paris to Omaha, With Love

Before

becoming a world citizen, Anne Marie Kenny made a coming of age trip to Paris, alone, at 21. “I just knew I needed to spread my wings,” said Kenny, a native Omahan who eventually made her second homes in Paris and Prague, where she forged careers as a cabaret singer and entrepreneur. After years away, this once expatriate returned to Omaha in 2001. Her hometown’s now the base of her performing, vocal instruction and corporate consulting work. She became a Francophile studying French at Mercy High. The City of Lights symbolized romantic possibilities. She recalled, “I was on the train from Marseilles to Paris when an elderly woman asked, ‘What will you do in Paris?’ and for some reason I said, ‘I’m a singer, I’m going to sing.’ That’s the first time I admitted that to myself.” She and her three older sisters had performed locally as a four-part harmony group. They studied piano. Not all was idyllic…Their attorney father drowned when they were young,

may/june | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

leaving their mother to raise and support them. To help make ends meet the girls took jobs. Anne Marie worked at St. James Orphanage. “I think life might have been a little bit harder had we not had music,” said Kenny. “Music was our outlet.” Once in Paris she found work as an au pair. Her pluck led her to an Argentine guitarist and the two became street performers on the Champs Elysees. “I was determined,” she said. The duo was quickly discovered, landing a gig on a popular radio variety show. Returning to Omaha, she studied voice and honed her chops at M’s Pub and V. Mertz. She then met her late husband, Bozell & Jacobs ad man John Bull. All the while she pined for Paris. Bull did, too, and the couple moved there. She studied voice with Janine Reiss and at the Juilliard and Peabody conservatories and Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris. Kenny soon made a name for herself as a cabaret artist at posh spots in Paris and the South of France. Her repertoire includes American, French

and Italian tunes. She’s done some recording. She’s also worked in musical theater and has appeared in three feature films shot on the Riviera. She and John shared an apartment on the Seine’s Ile Saint-Louis. She appreciates France’s “very high regard for artists.” Life took a turn when a poem-song she wrote for newly elected Czech President Vaclav Havel earned her an invitation to perform it at Praugue’s famed Reduta Jazz Club. Caught up in the new free market opportunities there, she put her music career aside to form an employment agency serving international companies. The same engaging presence that works a room wins over clients as well. Just as business boomed, John fell ill and died in 1998. She’s since sold the business and made Omaha home again. She operates her vocal performance studio at her brick ranch dwelling, aka, cultural salon. She said, “I am as passionate about teaching as I am about performing now. It’s so much fun seeing people go from having a good natural voice to being able to technically do things they never thought they could do.” She teaches the Bel Canto method.

Her community work includes leading the Siena/Francis House Singers, whose ranks are composed of the homeless and in-treatment residents. Europe is still her playground. She was back last October. Recent U.S. performing gigs included the Sarasota Yacht Club in Florida and the Omaha Community Playhouse. This summer she’s doing a concert for Alliance Francaise d’Omaha. On the entrepreneurial side, she’s an intercultural relations consultant. “To put kind of a credential on my experience,” she earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership, with a concentration on cultural studies, from the College of St. Mary. She led the start-up of the college’s Center for Transcultural Leaning. Whether doing art or business, she said, “I’m being creative in both. They’re both very risk taking and they’re not marching to the conventional beat.” For her, home is where the heart is. “I am so glad now to be back in Omaha. I’m here because I want to be here. I think Omaha has so much going for it. I feel I can flourish here.”

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OMAHASTYLE

Story by: Sandy Lemke Photo by: minorwhitestudios.com

Sarah Lorsung Tvrdik 25

Singularly stunning Sarah Lorsung Tvrdik, has a dramatic, glam style. SECRET TO HER STRIKING EYES: Lancome Art Liner in Noir. “It is the bee’s knees of liners.” FAVORITE FASHION LABELS: Miu Miu, Comme des Garçons, Safe by Rebecca Turbow, Lindsey Thornburg, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, Katie Gallagher and Ann Demeulemeester. TVRDIK’S HEROES: “Constance McMillen, an 18-year-old girl from Mississippi who was recently denied attendance to her high school prom due to her sexual orientation. She’s a brave soul; I wish I would have had such amazing guts to stand for what I believed in at her age.” “My husband Jonathan Tvrdik, because he is the hardest working and most inspirational person I know in real life.”

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may/june | 2010

Honoring the women who help others follow their dreams.

StructureS | utility | irrigation | coatingS Valmont is proud to join the yWca in honoring eleven outstanding women for selflessly giving of their time, their talents, and their hearts to help transform the future for women in our community.

valmont.com

Congratulations Creighton University joins the YWCA in paying tribute to the outstanding women who lead in our community, including our own Joan Marie Ortmeier Lappe, Ph.D., R.N., known nationally for breakthrough research in vitamin D, and Creighton student and community volunteer Monica Ibarra from Omaha.

Joan Lappe

Monica Ibarra

Thank you for your talent and the example you set. www.creighton.edu

may/june | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

COVER: COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Volunteers Cindy Bay and Ellen Wright will be among the honorees at the YWCA's Tribute to Women luncheon

LAKER LEGEND

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar seeks a legacy beyond the basketball court

YOUR INVITATION TO OMAHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHARITY AND SOCIETY SCENE

GOING GREEN

Catholic Charities celebrates another successful Irish Fest

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M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 0 VOLUME 2 • I SSU E

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Corey Ross

Tribute to a Survivor

Wild cites her “cancer role models,” including Liz Karnes, for showing her how to gracefully deal with the disease and treatment. She claims she only shed a tear once: When she had her head shaved. She now pulls back her brown wig to reveal white strands and gives a what-are-you-gonna-do kind of shrug. “Hey, I was afraid it wasn’t going to come back at all,” she said. Her wig is now a prop when she mentors women at the Douglas County Correctional facility. She pulls it off at the start of class and says, “I’m committed to you and I want you to be committed to this class.” “That gets their attention,” she says. “They act like straight-A students.” Typical Cheryl, she talks of using her experience to benefit the community and pledges to help anyone battling breast cancer. She didn’t go through her treatment alone and won’t let anyone else. But Wild also pledges to choose her causes carefully and take up one she’s neglected over the years: Herself. “I have a long bucket list,” she said. The list includes sky-diving when she’s 70. She just turned 60. I wouldn’t bet against her getting on that plane.

fter she accepted her honor a year ago as the YWCA’s volunteer of the year at its Tribute to Women luncheon, a long receiving line formed to congratulate Cheryl Wild. A hugger by nature, Wild warmly accepted each hug and handshake, but did so just a little longer than usual. Only those who were close friends or noticed the pink ribbon pin on her lapel knew why. A month earlier, Wild had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She wasn’t just accepting hugs; she was storing them in her emotional reserve for the long fight that lay ahead. “I lived on those hugs,” Wild said this past April, having only months earlier completed six months filled with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and, finally, recovery. Wild is reluctant to declare herself cancer-free – “You learn not to get cocky with cancer,” she said. “You just hope it’s not hiding somewhere.” – but is hopeful she’s cured. Wild is slowly returning to the lifestyle that gained her the reputation of a selfless community servant, but doing so as a changed woman – and a woman even more grateful and appreciative of her friends and her community. A longtime supporter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation,

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cover story

Story by Niz Proskocil

Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Community Spirit Longtime community volunteers Cindy Bay and Ellen Wright will be among 11 women honored by the YWCA in June at its Tribute to Women luncheon

Cindy Bay and Ellen Wright at Lauritzen Gardens.

ne’s a former farm girl from rural northeast Nebraska. The other’s a New Jersey native who traded the big city for the Big O. While their backgrounds are worlds apart, their passion for helping others and bettering their community has brought them together. For their longtime volunteer work, Cindy Bay and Ellen Wright will be among the 11 women, including one young leader, honored at the YWCA’s 23rd annual Tribute to Women luncheon on June 8. The event recognizes women who make signiﬁcant achievements and contributions to the community across a range of categories, such as arts, business and education. Wright and Bay will be honored as the YWCA’s Community Volunteers of the Year during a ceremony at the Holiday Inn Central. (Turn to page 45 for a look at the rest of the honorees.) Over the years, Bay (pronounced “buy”) and Wright have held numerous leadership positions in support of

may/june | 2010

nonproﬁt organizations and charitable causes. Their range of participation spans everything from chairing boards to raising money to hands-on service. “Cindy and Ellen are exemplary models of how individuals can impact the quality of life in our community,” says Nancy Edick, Dean of the College of Education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, who served as the selection committee’s chairwoman. “Children’s issues, community development, health and safety, poverty, the environment. It was clear to the selection committee that the many contributions of these ladies deserved special recognition.” Both women say they’re honored and humbled to be recognized by the YWCA. They enjoy giving their time and talent and feel rewarded by knowing they’re helping make a difference in their community. Years before she became active in local volunteer circles, Bay helped shape young lives as an elementaryschool teacher in Lincoln. Raised on a farm in Dodge, www.omahapublications.com

Neb., Bay received bachelor and master’s degrees from the University of NebraskaLincoln. She moved to Omaha in 1986 with her husband, Mogens Bay, chairman and CEO of Valmont Industries. New to the city, Bay joined the Ballet Omaha Guild and has been hooked on volunteering ever since. “It kind of branched out from there,” she says. “I’ve always enjoyed helping others and feel like I’m making a difference. If you have an opportunity to volunteer in some capacity, always say yes. You will be rewarded many times over. Whenever I say yes to something, I have to do a great job.” Bay says “yes” quite a bit. Her involvement ranges from the United Way of the Midlands and Camp Fire USA to Child Saving Institute and the TeamMates mentoring program. By volunteering, Bay combines her love of helping others with broadening her knowledge. “I’m constantly learning,” she says. And she’s constantly coming up with new ways to reach out. Each year, Bay and her husband host a dinner around Christmas time for the Valmont staff and their spouses. Inspired by that holiday tradition, Bay decided to create a Christmas party for a school that has a partnership with Camp Fire. In December, Valmont executives and their spouses hosted an evening of food, fun, and gifts for nearly 100 Bancroft Elementary kids and their families. “Camp Fire is an organization that has been near and dear to my heart,” says Bay, who hopes to make the holiday event an annual one and adopt a different school each year. Bay currently serves on the United Way of the Midlands executive committee, Camp Fire Advisory Board, Methodist Hospital Foundation, and Joslyn Board of Governors, among others. Bay is past president of the Nebraska chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, which is how she came to meet Wright in the early ‘90s. Wright joined the Arthritis Foundation as a program director in the late ‘70s. She became the agency’s director of development before serving as its executive director and president from 1982 to 1999. Over the years, Bay and Wright have worked together on a number of

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2010 Honorees Cindy Bay Oledia Bell, Chaplain USAF Betty Davis Kathy Fitzgerald Grandsaert Joan Lappe, PhD Melissa Marvin Mary Maxwell Sue Morris Joan Squires Ellen Wright Monica Ibarra, Young Leader

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volunteer projects, including the annual Antiques and Garden show at Lauritzen Gardens. Held each September, the event is Lauritzen Gardens’ main fundraiser and takes months of planning and organization. Bay, who recruited Wright to help with the garden show, says all the hard work is worth it because the gardens are among the things that “keep Omaha vital and exciting.” Volunteers are another component that helps keep Omaha vital, Wright says. The Jersey girl credits her parents for instilling in her the importance of giving back. “Regardless of how much or how little you have, giving back is always important,” she says. “We were raised with that.” After earning her art degree in 1977 from New York’s Ladycliff College, Wright applied her artistic skills to graphic design for packaging and other products. In the late 1970s, she moved to Omaha and later married her husband, Stavely, a Nebraska native. Her new life in Omaha proved challenging at times, especially since she hardly knew anyone. Her mother gave her some advice that she’s never forgotten. “It’s time to get involved in the community,” Wright recalls her mom telling her. “Until you do that, you won’t belong.” She took mom’s advice and hasn’t looked back. Three decades later, Wright credits volunteering with giving her “some of the dearest relationships I have.” Her community involvement includes Children’s Hospital, American Red Cross, and the Institute for Holocaust Education, among many others. In 2005, Wright was named Volunteer of the Year by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. “I’ve never worked on anything that I didn’t believe in. Each one is very special, and I always learn a lot,” she says. “When you continue to be involved in volunteering, it gives you an opportunity to think out of the box. Opportunities are there all the time. You trip over all these agencies doing great work.” The YWCA is among those great agencies, Wright says. “The Y deals with issues that many times people don’t want to look at — very unfortunate and ugly things like domestic abuse. They provide a huge service to women. They give you options. It is truly a place to empower women.” www.omahapublications.com

paying tribute The following is a look at the nine other women, besides Cindy Bay and Ellen Wright, who will be honored at the YWCA’s Tribute to Women luncheon on June 8th at the Holiday Inn.

Oledia Bell Deputy Wing Chaplain Offutt AFB United States Air Force Chaplaincy Bell is the first woman to serve in the position of Deputy Wing Chaplain at Offutt AFB. She leads a staff of 23 Chaplain Corps Personnel, 27 contractors and 125 volunteers as she coordinates the needs of many different faith groups. Chaplain Bell has received numerous awards and honors for her military service and service to the community, including Federal Woman of the Year in 2003,

Betty Davis The Harold W. Andersen Chair/Executive Director Douglas County Historical Society “You think history whenever she walks into a room,” one colleague says of Davis. Davis’ leadership and story-telling style of presentation have continued to inspire audiences of all ages throughout high school, college and her professional life, including her cherished roll as a mother. She has served the Douglas County Historical Society since 1997.

Joan Marie Ortmeier Lappe, PhD Professor, Creighton University School of Nursing and Creighton University School of Medicine, CC. Criss and Beirne Endowed Chair of Nursing Lappe, an investigator with Creighton’s Osteoporosis Research Center, has devoted her career to understanding the effects of nutrition and physical activity on promotion of health and prevention of disease across the lifespan. She was among the first to study bone health in children. Lappe’s scholarship in health promotion and disease prevention is exemplary of patient advocacy. She makes an impact on the health of populations through research and provides leadership of inter-professional teams.

Melissa Marvin Performance Results Network Director Cohen Brown Management Group Marvin has been a successful leader and trailblazer for women in the business world for 25 years, exceeding goals and targets set annually with every company. Throughout her career she has achieved success as an executive in the traditionally male-dominated world of banking. She has also made it part of her life-long mission to mentor other women, helping them learn the necessary skills to advance in their business careers.

Mary Maxwell Community Volunteer and Ret. Vice President of Eide & Eide A descendent of Omaha’s Creighton family, Maxwell, completed her professional career with financial transaction firm, Eide & Eide, from which she retired as Vice President in 2000. It is her less serious side, quick wit and dry humor that have made her a popular public speaker for over 45 years and has taken her throughout Nebraska and to 13 other states. Maxwell has served on numerous boards and is a member of the Junior League of Omaha of Fame and the Ak-Sar-Ben Court of Honor.

Sue Morris President, Heritage Services As president of Heritage Services, Morris has been involved with numerous capital campaigns, totaling nearly $400 million, including the $75 million capital and endowment campaign supporting Joslyn Art Museum and the Durham Western Heritage Museum and the development of the Holland Performing Arts Center. Morris has stood toe to toe with those who hold the highest positions in the corporate community and earned their respect and friendship.

Joan Squires President, Omaha Performing Arts Society Under her leadership, Omaha Performing Arts has won several awards including the Non-Profit of the Year Award from the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce in 2008. Squires’ impact includes bringing to Omaha a wide variety of performing arts events, as well as outreach and educational efforts to support, enhance and expand appreciation of the arts. She has successfully helped grow Omaha Performing Arts to a presenter of nearly 500 events each year, reaching more than 330,000 people annually, supported by over 80 employees and more than 700 volunteers.

Monica Ibarra Young Leader Community Volunteer and Student, Creighton University A Gates Millennium Scholar, Ibarra is a Creighton University nursing student and hopes to be the first in her family to earn a college degree. Born into a migrant farm worker family, Ibarra’s serious condition of Lupus brought her family to Omaha, where she could be treated without medical insurance. Recognized by others as a “change agent” Ibarra helps people grow in awareness of misconceptions or biases. Ibarra has worked to create awareness in groups that she is a member of such as Creighton’s highly selective, Freshman Leadership Program (FLP) and Campus Ministry.

www.readonlinenow.com

Kathy Fitzgerald Grandsaert Senior Director of Development, Catholic Charities Grandsaert has served Catholic Charities for 13 years. As the first Senior Director of Development, she has raised millions of dollars and created an extensive and active donor list where none existed before. She has made the public aware of the need in our city for the assistance to those who are marginalized by society. She has also grown Irish Fest into one of the largest fundraisers in the state.

may/june | 2010

behind the mic... kareem abdul-jabbar by Corey Ross photo courtesy of www.kareemabduljabaar.com

Laker Legend Though still involved with the game, basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabaar seeks to build a legacy beyond the court as he battles leukemia

uring his playing days, not much stopped basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. That’s largely remained the case in retirement, even when the opponent is cancer. Abdul-Jabbar announced last November that he’d been diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. More than a year since the original diagnosis, Abdul-Jabbar reports that he’s followed doctor’s orders and feels fine. The Hall of Fame center remains active as an author, filmmaker, public speaker and assistant coach with his former NBA team, the Los Angeles Lakers. On May 12th, Abdul-Jabbar will appear at the 56th annual B’nai B’rith Charity Sports Banquet at the Qwest Center.

Q. How are you coping with leukemia? Why did you decide to go public with your diagnosis? A. My health has been pretty good. I have a very rare form of leukemia that you can treat, so there are some things I’ve got to do. I’ve got to go see my doctor on a regular basis and have my blood checked and take my medications. As long as I do those things, I’m a position to manage this disease. I wanted to raise public awareness of being proactive about your health, especially in the black community, because black men in general don’t deal with this issue very well in terms of getting regular check-ups. Most of them don’t go see a doctor until they’re so ill they can’t work, so it’s an important issue amongst black men and men in general. A proactive approach is the best approach, and the way to stay on top of things is with early detection. That way you can utilize everything we have going for us now in terms of what modern medicine can offer.

may/june | 2010

Q. What’s your involvement with the Lakers now? A. I’m a special assistant coach, so I’m not there full time, but my job is to work with our young center, Andrew Bynum. He just turned 22 and has been hurt a number of times, but as long as he stays healthy he’ll be a firstrate center. Q. Fans still remember you for your skyhook shot, which made you the leading scorer in the history of the NBA. Why has no one else successfully replicated that shot? Are you still as effective with it as in your playing days? A. Well, I would doubt that, because rust has its way with people. I haven’t played in a long time now. The jump shot pretty much has taken over the game and nobody knows how to teach (the skyhook). I was in grade school when I learned it, but someone taught me. It’s not a difficult shot to learn, but you’d have to get someone interested in it and then find someone to teach it.

Q. (Lakers star) Kobe Bryant is starting to be mentioned amongst the all-time Laker greats. What’s your take him on right now and where he can still take the franchise? Does he have 2-3 more titles left in him? A. Kobe has accomplished everything a basketball player can hope to accomplish. He’s been a world champion, an MVP, led the league in scoring. He’s done it all. He might have a few titles left, but that’s not a Kobe issue, that’s a team issue. That’s more than one individual can determine. Q. John Wooden, your coach at UCLA, is about to turn 100. Do you still keep in touch with him? How often do you speak? Are you still learning from him? A. I talk to him pretty regularly. He’s in a wheelchair, but he’s doing as well as can be expected. He’s very sharp. It’s funny, because a lot of the stuff I learned from him (during my playing days), I didn’t become aware of for www.omahapublications.com

         quite some time. He taught me great life lessons. I was very fortunate that I had the opportunity to come under his tutelage. Q. Tell me about the Skyhook Foundation and the role it plays in connecting youth to sports. A. I just started the foundation in the past 18 months. I’m running it through one of the Girls & Boys Clubs here. It’s an effort to improve the lives of kids by connecting sports and education. We’re really trying to use athletics to get through to kids and teach them to use athletics to learn conflict resolution and things like that. Q. You’ve had a very eclectic postathletic life – author, actor, filmmaker, public speaker. You had a lot of accomplishments away from the game. What are you most proud of? What do you want to do that you haven’t done? A. I’m trying to get the documentary done based on the book I wrote about the Harlem Rens basketball team. It’s the first film to be based off of a book that I’ve written. We’re hoping to get it in the can in the next month or two. Q. Your reputation as one of the alltime greats in basketball is secure, but what do you want your legacy to be beyond basketball? A. I hope people see that for me life was about a lot more than just basketball. I have no problems at all with my basketball career, but I’ve had things to offer outside the game. Your life is supposed to take on more meaning and depth as you get older, and I hope I’ve been up to that challenge. You can find out more about Kareem AbdulJabbar at www.kareemabduljabbar.com. www.readonlinenow.com

     

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the scoop By Corey Ross

Dynamic Design Duo

Leading designers Alexa Hampton and Barry Dixon will headline the Antique & Garden Show at Lauritzen Gardens

wo dynamic designers will appear as guest lecturers at the 2010 Lauritzen Gardens Antique & Garden Show in September. Alexa Hampton, President and featured designer for Mark Hampton, Inc., and Barry Dixon of Barry Dixon Inc. will headline this year’s show. Dixon will speak at the luncheon on Sept. 24th, and Hampton will speak at the brunch on Sept. 25th. Antique and Garden Show co-chairman Cathy Perry said the show will feature two fine designers who will share their design aesthetics and offer decorating insight to those in attendance. Hampton was recently selected to be the guest designer for Trowbridge House, the new official guest house for former Presidents of the United States in Washington, D.C. Architectural Digest named Hampton one of the ‘AD 100,’ the magazine’s directory of the world’s 100 best designers and architects. Dixon was recently identified as one of America’s top designers by House Beautiful for the sixth consecutive year and designed the first carbon-neutral home in Virginia. He specializes in high-end

may/june | 2010

residential and commercial real estate and is known for his international perspective on design. Dixon’s lecture topic will be incorporating antiques into a modern interior. Hampton will discuss design through the decades at Mark Hampton, Inc. Both designers will have newly released books to sign. In addition to Hampton and Dixon, Kansas City designer Mary Carol Garrity and Borsheims President and CEO Susan Jacques will also make lecture appearances during the weekend. “Whether you have a contemporary or a classic home, there will be something for everyone,” says Perry, who’s joined as co-chair by Betsy Baker. For more information on the Antique & Garden Show, go to www. omahabotanicalgardens.org or call 346.4002. Kenny Rogers to Headline Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Gala Country music legend Kenny Rogers will perform at the Children’s Hospital & Medical Center’s 62nd annual gala on Nov. 20 www.omahapublications.com

at the Qwest Center. Rogers’ 1981 “Through the Years” will be providing the theme for the evening. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, Rogers is the eighth best-selling male artist of all time. Proceeds from the 2010 Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Gala will benefit a newly renovated Rehabilitation Services Outpatient Unit to be located in the Children’s Specialty Pediatric Center currently under construction at 84th Street and West Dodge Road in Omaha. The center is expected to open to patients in September. Honorary chairpersons for the 2010 Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Gala are Bill and Sally Hanley. Gala co-chairpersons are Cindy Hanley and Kim Shehan. The Gala is an annual event sponsored by the Friends Board of Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. For more information, contact the Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation at 402.955.6851.

Chamber Honors At its annual Omaha 25 Awards luncheon on May 11th, the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce will honor the Omaha Children’s Museum and Together, Inc., as its Nonprofit Organizations of the Year. The luncheon, which will be held at the Holiday Inn, annually recognizes businesses for “their contributions to the positive growth of our business community.” In the case of nonprofit organizations that means “excellent stewardship of resources and exceptional outcomes.” Since its inception in 1976, Omaha Children’s Museum has been a special place where children can challenge themselves, discover how the world works and learn through play. It is Omaha’s primary participatory museum and provides a variety of hands-on exhibits, workshops, programs, presentations and special events that put children in touch with their everchanging world. Together, Inc. of Metropolitan Omaha

is celebrating its 35th anniversary. Initially conceived in response to the disastrous tornado of 1975, the organization assists families struggling with the basic necessities of life: food, clothing, and shelter. Last year, Together, Inc. provided food to 15,890 people through our USDA Food Pantry, and clothing and household items to 11,359 people through its store at 1616 Cass St. Tiki Time Former NFL great and now broadcaster Tiki Barber will be the special guest at the 2010 Nebraska Golf Classic to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Barber will speak at the banquet at Embassy Suites LaVista on July 22nd and partake in the golf tournament the following day at Quarry Oaks. More information on the event can be found at www.nebraskagolfclassic.com or by calling 330.6164.

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Ollie’s Dream 2010

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Saturday, June 5, 2010 6:30 p.m. • Mutual of Omaha Dome Reservations $75 • Table for 10 $750 For more information, contact Valerie at 346-5220 x16 or vstoj@olliewebbinc.org www.readonlinenow.com

See the inSide front cover npdodge.com may/june | 2010

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

May 1 Third Annual Autism Puzzle Walk. Chalco Hills Recreation Area, 154th & Giles Rd., 9 a.m., www.autismnebraska. org.

May 6 The sixth annual Kids Can Luncheon for Kids Can Community Center. Downtown DoubleTree Hotel, 11:30 a.m., www.kidscanomaha.org.

May 15 Start! Heart Walk. ConAgra Foods Campus, 10th and Harney, 10 a.m., 346.0771 or www.omahaheartwalk. com.

What it is: An inspirational onemile walk around the lake to benefit the Autism Society of Nebraska.

What it is: This ‘corporate working lunch’ will focus on employee engagement and retention, particularly in these economic times. The keynote speaker will be Rodd Wagner, New York Times bestselling author and a principal of Gallup. He is the co-author of 12: The Elements of Great Managing and the forthcoming Power of 2: How to Make the Most of Your Partnerships at Work.

What it is: A walk to fight heart disease and stroke.

Where the money goes: Proceeds will assist ASN in its mission to support and advocate for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families. The Omaha Children’s Museum’s “For the Kids” Benefit. Omaha Children’s Museum, 5:30 p.m., 9302352, www.ocm.org. What it is: A magical event to support the Children’s Museum. This year’s theme is “Once Upon a Time,” and will celebrate the power of imagination. Where the money goes: Proceeds help sustain the museum’s permanent exhibits and its traveling exhibits, workshops and special events. Mosaic’s Third Annual Heartland Hoedown. Carol Joy Holling Center, 27416 Ranch Rd., Ashland, Neb., 6 p.m., 896.9988 or www.mosaicinomaha.org. What it is: A western-themed event to benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities served by Mosaic in Omaha. Where the money goes: Proceeds will fund Mosaic services, which include residential services, vocational programs, spiritual growth, community involvement and recreation. May 3 The Salvation Army’s D.J.’s Heroes luncheon, featuring Kurt Warner. Qwest Center, 11:45 a.m., 898.5906 or www.givesalvationarmy.org. What it is: A luncheon that honors youths and adults who’ve overcome obstacles to make a difference in the community. They are awarded scholarships in memory of D.J. Sokol, the son of David and Peggy Sokol, who died from cancer at age 18. Where the money goes: The luncheon supports the programs of The Salvation Army. May 4 Boys Town Booster Banquet featuring Gale Sayers. Embassy Suites LaVista, 5:30 p.m., 498-3229 or www. girlsandboystown.org. What it is: An evening to celebrate the accomplishments of Girls and Boys Town student athletes. Chicago Bear legend Gale Sayers will serve as keynote speaker. Where the money goes: Proceeds support athletic programs at Girls and Boys Town.

Where the money goes: Proceeds will support the programs and families served by the Kids Can Community Center at 4860 Q. St. May 8 CSI’s Cabaret 2010 featuring Norm Macdonald. Holiday Inn Central, 6 p.m., 504-3661 or www.childsaving. org. What it is: Macdonald, a former SNL cast member, will headline the Child Saving Institute’s annual comedy benefit. The top raffle prize is a group tour of Wrigley Field and Cub game spent in the owner’s suite. Where the money goes: Monies raised will support CSI’s emergency shelters for children and youth, substance abuse intervention, intensive family preservation, adoption, therapeutic foster care and developmental childcare. End Polio Now bike ride. Miller’s Landing Pavillion, north of Gallup University on the riverfront, 9 a.m., 402.203.0199 or www.millardrotary. org. What it is: A scenic ride along the Missouri River to promote polio vaccination in children, the continuation of a program started more than 20 years ago by Rotary International. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support Rotary International’s polio elimination program via the Millard Rotary. May 12 The 56th Annual B’nai B’rith Charity Sports Banquet. Qwest Center, 5:45 p.m., 334.6443 or www.jewishomahaorg. What it is: The banquet annually honors the top metro male and female athletes. This year’s keynote speaker will be basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Where the money goes: Monies raised go to BBYO youth activities as well as other Omaha organizations such as TeamMates Mentoring, Boystown, Omaha Youth Orchestra, Pacific Pals, Omaha Performing Arts Society and more.

Where the money goes: Proceeds will support American Heart Association programs to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke. June 4 Joslyn Art Museum Association Summer Gala. Joslyn Art Museum, 6 p.m., 661.3821. What it is: Join the Joslyn for French-inspired fare and fun as it celebrates the exhibition Landscapes from the Age of Impressionism (opening June 5). Honorary chairs are Carmen and John Gottschalk. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support education programs at Joslyn Art Museum. June 5 5th annual “Ollie’s Dream” winetasting gala. Mutual of Omaha Dome, 6:30 p.m., Valerie at 346-5220 x 16 or vstoj@olliewebbinc.org. What it is: Evening includes wine tasting, hors d’oeurves, live jazz music, large silent auction and oral auction to raise funds for Ollie Webb. Where the money goes: Proceeds benefit services provided by Ollie Webb Center, Inc. for children, adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities. Nebraska Children’s Home Society’s Sand in the City Qwest Center Omaha, 455 N 10th Street, Lot G, Through June 6, 451.0787 or www.sandinthecityomaha.com. What it is: A collection of 15-ton sand sculptures in downtown Omaha. Kids can enjoy food, games and two enormous sand boxes.

June 8 The 23rd Annual YWCA’s Tribute to Women. Holiday Inn Central, noon, 345-6555 or www.ywcaomaha.org What it is: A luncheon honoring 10 outstanding Omaha women and one young leader. Where the money goes: Proceeds support the programs of the YWCA, which aim to empower women and eliminate racism. The 15th Annual Prairie Life Fitness Project Harmony Golf Invitational Indian Creek Golf Course, 1 p.m. shotgun start, 595.1326 or www.projectharmony.com What it is: An afternoon of golf followed by dinner and an awards program. Where the money goes: Proceeds support Project Harmony in its mission to aid victims of child abuse. June 11 Camp Fire USA’s Pinot, Pigs and Poets. Happy Hollow Club, 6:30 p.m., 651-1071. What it is: A new event combining wine and poetry. The evening will feature a wine tasting, pork dishes by area chefs and live entertainment by Slam Poets. Where the money goes: Proceeds support Camp Fire USA programs. June 12 Boys Scouts Centennial Celebration Dinner. Holiday Inn Central, 6 p.m., www.mac-bsa.org. What it is: Courage, service, achievement and character through community leaders will be highlighted during this special celebration of 100 years of scouting. Among other things, the Mid-America Council will honor its Centennial Citizen of the Year (The Werner Family) and Centennial Corporate Partner (Union Pacific Railroad). Where the money goes: Any proceeds from the event will go to fund the Scouting program.

Where the money goes: Proceeds go to the Nebraska Children’s Home Society Foundation, which aids the Children’s Home in it mission to provide safe and loving care to children of all ages.

On The Road for Boys and Girls Clubs. Regency Court, 6 p.m., 342.1600 or www.bgcomaha.org

June 6 Nebraska Kidney Association Omaha Walk. Heartland of America Park, 800 Douglas St., 1 p.m., develop@ kidneyne.org

What it is: “On the Road ... Goes Back to College” is the theme for the 15th annual benefit held beneath a tent outside Regency Court.

What it is: Encompassing two laps around the Heartland of America Park, the Nebraska Kidney Association’s Omaha Walk will make a Sunday afternoon jaunt something to remember.

Where the money goes: Proceeds fund Boys and Girls Clubs programs.

Polo for Patients. Levi Carter Park, 552.2029 What it is: A charity polo match to support the Patient Assistance Fund at The Nebraska Medical Center. Where the money goes: The Patient Assistance Fund is a resource that helps patients and families in need of basics such as lodging, meals, clean clothing and other necessities. June 13 The 42nd annual MMI Garden Walk Held at various gardens through Omaha, 9 a.m., rain or shine, www. mmiguild.com. What it is: A tour of five local gardens to raise awareness for the Munroe-Meyer Institute. The event draws an average attendance of 2,000. Where the money goes: Proceeds support the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Munroe-Meyer Institute for genetics and rehabilitation. June 18 Joslyn Castle Classic Weekend. Joslyn Castle, 39th and Davenport, Though June 20th, 595.2199 or www. joslyncastle.com. What it is: A weekend of entertainment, including a fashion show and classic car show, on the lush grounds of Joslyn Castle. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support restoration projects at the Castle. June 21 Goodwill Golf Classic Shadow Ridge Country Club, 11 a.m., www.goodwillomaha.org or 231.1911. What it is: A golf scramble, dinner and auction to support Goodwill in its mission to assist those with disabilities and disadvantaging conditions. Where the money goes: Programs support a variety of Goodwill programs in the community. June 28 “Golf Fore Kids” Tagge-Rutherford Open. Players Club at Deer Creek, 8:30 a.m., www.childsaving.org What it is: This tournament offers two formats: A foursome scramble or a two-person, handicapped, best ball. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support the Child Saving Institute.

Where the money goes: Proceeds will support the Nebraska Kidney Association.

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

may/june | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

Irish Fest 2010

Recipe for Success

Annual Catholic Charities benefit raises funds to assist families

Appearance by Chef Duff Goldman leads to record return for the Food Bank's celebrity chef benefit

Story and photos courtesy of Catholic Charities

atholic Charities’ annual Irish Fest benefit raised more than $470,000 in March, enabling Catholic Charities to continue impacting the lives of thousands of individuals and families in Omaha and eastern Nebraska. This year’s theme was “Wearin’ of the Green” and local band Finest Hour featuring The Broad Band Horns performed for two hours at the Qwest Center before a crowd of 900. This year’s event chairs were Jim and Patty Buser, Pat and Betsy Flood, and Scott and Molly Searl. In addition to the Finest Hour and The Broad Band Horns performance, Omaha Pipes and Drums and The Craoi na Tire Irish Dancers performed for party goers. During the evening, attendees also bid on many silent and oral auction items. The top item sold was the “Fighting Irish Football Fantasy Trip” for $12,000. “Since its inception 19 years ago, Irish Fest continues to be well received by our community. In light of today’s economy, we are extremely pleased with this year’s attendance and financial results,” said Kathy Fitzgerald Grandsaert, senior director of development at Catholic Charities. Catholic Charities serves and advocates for more than 75,000 voiceless, hungry, addicted, abused and forgotten individuals and families annually throughout the Archdiocese of Omaha. For more information on Catholic Charities, visit www.ccomaha.org.

Top: Irish Fest Chairs from left, Pat and Betsy Flood, Molly and Scott Searl, and Patty and Jim Buser. Bottom: From left, Lou and Louise Cimino, Archbishop George Lucas, and Carol Ann and Dr. Allen Dvorak.

www.readonlinenow.com

Story courtesy of Food Bank for the Hearland. Photo by Rodney Green of Greenroom Studios.

ood Bank for the Heartland’s ninth annual celebrity chef fundraiser in February turned out to be the Food Bank’s biggest and best benefit yet. Featuring Duff Goldman, star of the Food Network’s hit TV series Ace of Cakes, the event drew a sellout crowd of 1,000 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center and raised in excess of $250,000 for the Food Bank. Last year’s event with Chef Cat Cora raised $200,000. “I am awed and inspired by the outpouring of support from this community to eliminate hunger in our area,” said Food Bank President and CEO Susan Ogborn. “It’s simply humbling.” The highlight of the evening came during the live auction in which two trips to tour Goldman’s Charm City Cakes in Baltimore garnered a staggering $80,000. Goldman signed autographs before and after the event. He also answered questions from the crowd during a one-hour program. “Having Chef Duff Goldman headline our event was a real treat. He was engaging, incredibly generous and stayed until the last of his fans and our loyal supporters received autographs,” said event co-chair Michelle Mapes. The event also provided an opportunity for students at the Institute for Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College to show off their skills. Teams of students constructed Duff-style cakes inspired by local celebrities including Jim Fowler of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom and WOWT News Anchor Tracy Madden. The fundraiser will assist the Food Bank in its mission to reduce hunger in Nebraska and Western Iowa.

Above: Chef Duff Goldman judges a cake.

may/june | 2010

Speaking of Children

Heartland Heroes

Acclaimed director shares story of abuse, advocates for support of Project Harmony at annual luncheon

Red Cross honors life-savers at 10th annual luncheon Story and photo courtesy of the Red Cross Heartland Chapter.

Story and photo courtesy of Project Harmony.

roject Harmony’s third annual Speaking of Children drew a sell-out crowd of 1,200 the Qwest Center Omaha in March to hear former Miss America Marilyn Van Derbur share her story of abuse and advocacy for protecting children. “Speaking of Children” is presented annually to inspire and inform the community in the fight against child abuse – sexual, physical and other forms – so that the “unthinkable” can be prevented and eliminated. Van Derbur is an author, advocate and child abuse survivor. During the luncheon, Jennifer Chrystal-Clark, Barbara Jessing, Gary A. Perkins, Jackie Rickert and Teresa Thorson were honored as 2010 recipients of Project Harmony’s Kids First awards. Prior to the luncheon, honorary chair Joe Moglia addressed the 500 professionals from throughout the Midwest who participated in morning and afternoon training sessions conducted by local and national experts Special Agent Al Danna, Christopher Kratochvil, MD, Libby Ralston, PhD and Victor Vieth, JD. Co-chairs for the luncheon were Joani Mullin and Shelley Siemers. Funds generated by this yearly event support services provided by Project Harmony to children from throughout eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa. In 2009, Project Harmony provided investigative, medical and referral services to nearly 2,200 children. Further information is available at Project Harmony, (402) 5951326 or www.projectharmony.com.

he American Red Cross Heartland Chapter kicked off Red Cross Month in March by hosting its 10th Annual Heroes in the Heartland event with an awards luncheon at the Embassy Suites LaVista Conference Center. The event honored individuals who have saved another person’s life or who have positively impacted the quality of life in the Heartland. This year’s luncheon had an extra honoree - Brent Fergus, 19, of Crystal Lake, Ill., who was flown into Omaha for the ceremony as a surprise for his hero. Fergus was the recipient of lifesaving stem cells that were donated by Omaha resident Jeff Wilke. Wilke was awarded the Lifetime Hero Award for donating blood, platelets, bone marrow and stem cells for over 20 years. The odds of a “perfect match” for bone marrow or stem cell donations is like winning the lottery, but Wilke has been in the extraordinary situation of being a match for six individuals. Recently, he donated stem cells to Brent Fergus, who had fought cancer his whole life. Fergus’ appearance at the event was a surprise for Wilke. LaDon Stennis received the Call to Action Award for assisting Omaha Police Officer Sgt. Paul Latschar who was injured in the line of duty. Stennis, a civilian, positioned his motorcycle between Latschar and gunfire and waved down approaching cruisers, helping to save Sgt. Latschar’s life while risking his own The Commitment to Community Award went to Bill and Evonne Williams for their fundraising and organization of seven Nebraska Heartland Honor Flights. Over 1,500 WWII Veterans had the life-changing opportunity to visit the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C., at no cost to them. For information on these heroes, contact 689.3683.

Above: Sandy Parker and Marilyn Van Derbur.

may/june | 2010

Above: Brent Fergus and Jeff Wilke.

www.omahapublications.com

A Dose of Support

College Crowd

JDRF gala raises more than $541,000 to fight juvenile diabetes

"Cruise'n to your Favorite College" draws more than 300 supporters of the Stephen Center

Story and photos courtesy of JDRF.

Story and photos courtesy of the Stephen Center.

he Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) raised over $541,000 for research to find a cure for juvenile diabetes at its 13th annual gala in February at the Qwest Center. Themed “A Mother’s Wish…A Cure,” more than 560 guests enjoyed a night of fun and excitement hosted by honorary chair couple Dawn and Sid Dinsdale and event chair couples Kyle and Mike Robino and Trish and Ted Walz. The live auction was highlighted by a Chicago Cubs package selling for $5,000 and a Creighton Blue Jays soccer party for $4,000. A Mother’s Wish package featuring a private brunch on Mother’s Day at The Flatiron, hosted by two-time James Beard Foundation nominee Chef Jenny Coco, sold for $3,000 twice. Following the live auction, Fund A Cure speakers Tyler Irvine, Olivia Robino and Claire Walz introduced a video produced by Malone & Co. featuring their stories of life with type 1 diabetes, as told by their mothers, Cindy Irvine, JDRF Board President; Kyle Robino, gala event chair; and Trish Walz, gala event chair. JDRF is the worldwide leader in funding research to cure type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly and lasts a lifetime. For more information, visit the JDRF web site at www.jdrf.org or call (402) 397-CURE (2873).

Top: Honorary Chair Couple Dawn & Sid Dinsdale. Bottom: (from left to right) Mike & Kyle Robino, Trish & Ted Walz .

www.readonlinenow.com

tephen Center’s Cruise’n to your Favorite College drew more than 300 supporters to the Regency Marriott in March for a college-themed evening of fun and fundraising. The event raised more than $70,000 for the Stephen Center and concluded with dancing to Finest Hour. The annual benefit is sponsored by the Stephen Center Guild. Teri and Gene Klein were the event’s honorary chairpersons. Ann and Pat Gredys and Theresa and Troy Wilhelm were the event cochairpersons. The funds will be used for the Emergency Shelter, the HERO Program which is a state-licensed substance abuse treatment center and the Transitional Living Program. Stephen Center partners with the community, families and individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction and poverty. Stephen Center, Inc. has served the homeless and low-income men, women and children in Omaha since 1984. Stephen Center is the only “dry” emergency shelter in Omaha, focusing on assisting those who have made a commitment to overcome the life destroying effects of drugs and alcohol. Stephen Center operates three distinct programs: Stephen Center Emergency Shelter, Stephen Center HERO Program and Stephen Center Transitional Living Program. For more information about Stephen Center call 402.731.0238 or visit www.stephencenter.org.

Top: Co-chairpersons Pat and Ann Gredys, Theresa and Troy Wilhelm. Bottom: Co-chairpersons Troy and Theresa Wilhelm, Honorary Chairpersons Teri and Gene Klein, Co-chairpersons Ann and Pat Gredys.

may/june | 2010

Carnival of Love

Blue Jean Benefit

Third Annual Heartland Family Service Gala raises $250,000

The 12th annual Blue Jean Ball a dream come true for Make-A-Wish

Story and photos courtesy of Heartland Family Services.

Story and photos courtesy of Make-A-Wish Foundation.

alliope music, tents and carnival games turned the ballroom at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center in La Vista into a casual carnival atmosphere at the annual Heartland Family Service Gala in February. For the third year, participants enjoyed the “Carnival of Love” theme, as long lines at the photo booth, wine toss and basketball toss attested. The gala, Heartland Family Service’s largest fundraising event, enjoyed a record attendance of nearly 500. Early estimates indicate that about $250,000 was raised to help the clients of Heartland Family Service. Gala co-chairs Chris LaFever and Mary Kay Young and Heartland Family Service Friends Guild volunteers, led by President Sally Stalnaker, helped plan and conduct the event. Funds raised for the gala will support the mission of Heartland Family Service, which is to strengthen individuals and families in our community. Programs that will receive financial support from gala proceeds include the children’s emergency shelter for abused children, the concealed Safe Haven emergency/transitional facility for abused women and children, Family Works residential treatment facility for women with infants, Solomon Girls Center and the Senior Center.

he Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska’s Blue Jean Ball drew more than 260 people and raised more than $125,000 to support granting wishes for Nebraska children with life-threatening medical conditions. Lisa Ketcham and Marcia Murray were event chairwomen for this 12th annual event held at the Georgetowne Club in March. Besides auctions, guests partook in a raffle for a pair of diamond and pearl earrings. Past wish child, Samantha, shared her wish experience and how it still impacts her life today, 10 years later. The highlight of the evening was when emcee Jim Kalal surprised 3-year-old Collin, who suffers from small bowel syndrome, by granting his wish to go to Disney World. Title sponsor for the event was Panera Bread. Other top sponsors included Jim & Diana O’Connor along with Baird Holm, Republic National Distributing Company, Lamp Rynearson & Assoc., Inc., Mutual of Omaha, Valmont Industries, Inc., Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, Tenaska, and Wells Fargo. For more information, visit www.nebraska.wish.org, or call 333.8999.

For more information about the Carnival, about Heartland Family Service, or to become a member of the Friends guild, call Caryn Ficco at 552-7424.

Top: Guild President Sally Stalnaker, Gala Co-chairs Mary Kay Young and Chris LaFever, HFS President and CEO John Jeanetta. Bottom: Ellen and Todd Fishback with Kristin and Jeff Huber.

may/june | 2010

Top: Blue Jean Ball Chairs Lisa Ketcham and Marcia Murray With the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska Staff Angela Kros, Brigette Young, Jennifer Shuman and Kristen Martin. Bottom: Wish granter Michelle Havlovic, Brigette Young, Wish Child Collin, with parents Matt and Erin, and wish sponsors Jim O'Connor and Diane Fuller and wish granter Deb Fenton. www.omahapublications.com

Cub Comes Home

Table Toppers

Chicago Cubs GM Jim Hendry speaks at Children's Scholarship Fund of Omaha luncheon

Table Art showcases stylish table settings, raises funds for symphony

Story and photo courtesy of Children's Scholarship Fund.

Story and photo courtesy of the Omaha Symphony Guild.

hicago Cubs vice president and general manager Jim Hendry addressed guests at the Children’s Scholarship Fund (CSF) of Omaha’s annual CHANCE luncheon in March. Omahans remember Hendry as the coach who led the Creighton baseball team to its College World Series appearance in 1991. The CHANCE luncheon recognizes CSF of Omaha scholarship recipients for leadership, spirit and the ability to overcome challenges. The luncheon was held at the Harper Center on the Creighton University campus, 602 N. 20th St. “We were thrilled to have Jim Hendry be the keynote speaker at our luncheon,” said CSF of Omaha Chairman Pete Ricketts. “From his days as a coach at Creighton to the Cubs’ front office, he understands how educational opportunities can shape a child’s life for the better. He’s a great role model for our CSF students who succeed in spite of major obstacles.” On a crusade to provide needy children with diverse and competitive educational opportunities, the CHANCE luncheon honors Omaha’s outstanding students in participating schools. Since the fund was founded in 1998, more than $15 million in scholarships have been awarded, allowing families with lower incomes an opportunity to choose private or parochial schools. The CSF of Omaha provided 2,065 scholarships to children in 2009, making it the largest chapter in the Midwest. CSF has also been awarded the “Best in America” seal of excellence by the Independent Charities of America for meeting the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness and cost effectiveness. Fewer than 5 percent of U.S. charities meet or have been awarded the ICA’s seal.

laborate tablescapes designed by 10 area designers and businesses, as well as beautiful displays of heirloom china on loan from local families, drew a sold-out crowd of 250 to Table Art 2010 in March. The enthusiastic turnout helped the Omaha Symphony Guild raise more than $35,000 for its spring fundraiser. The Symphony Guild collaborated with Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts to present the featured speaker, Annie Morhauser, founder and designer of the world-renowned Annieglass. Table Art kicked off the previous evening of March 18th with a patron party in the Gift Gallery at Borsheims. Over 50 guests enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres while viewing numerous table displays of Annieglass and visiting with Ms. Morhauser. The event continued the next day at the Regency Marriott Hotel with the luncheon and table displays. Morhauser’s table design consisted of a seashell motif, a fitting tribute to her California seaside home. The money raised from Table Art 2010 will be used to support the award-winning music education programs of the Omaha Symphony. Every year, these engaging and interactive programs benefit over 36,000 school-aged children in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, and provide them with newfound knowledge and appreciation for orchestral music and the arts. Co-chairmen of this year’s fundraiser were Karen Burkley and Mary Dobleman. Anne Thorne Weaver served as honorary chair.

For more information, visit www.csfomaha.org or contact mejewell@archomaha.org.

Front Row: Jordan Sauer, Tai Woodard, Micheal Ebell, Zach Lee and Paula Zakrewski. Back Row: Marie Hain, Sonia Lado, Jim Hendry, Pete Ricketts and Xiomara Severin-Aviles.

www.readonlinenow.com

Above: Guest speaker Annie Morhauser with Table Art chairs Mary Dobleman and Karen Burkley.

may/june | 2010

OMAHAAUTO

Charlie Graham

Body & Service

Tire Safety June

is National Tire Safety Month, which reminds us to complete a tire maintenance checklist before heading out on any summer road trips. There are four components of proper tire maintenance: pressure, alignment, rotation and tread. An easy way to remember these is the slogan “Be Tire Smart – Play your PART. Jim Champion of Charlie Graham Auto Body & Service said tire pressure is probably one of the most neglected maintenance items on a car. Low tire pressure causes your car’s engine to have to work harder, reducing gas mileage. It also causes your tires to run hotter, increasing the likelihood of a blowout. He recommends checking your tire pressure once a month when the tires are cool for an accurate reading. “The maximum tire pressure listed on the sidewall of a tire is not what drivers should go by,” Champion said. Rather, go by the vehicle’s owner’s manual. The information may also be posted on the driver’s doorjamb or on the glove box door. “New vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems that make it easier to check your tire pressure…but you should still manually check your tires with a gauge from time to time,” he said. If your car wobbles or pulls to one side, the suspension system may be out of alignment. This will cause your tires to wear unevenly, and result in issues with handling that may prove dangerous. The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) recommends you have your tires balanced per your owner’s manual, or as soon as possible if handling issues arise. Front-wheel drive vehicles and those with independent rear suspension require alignment of all four wheels. Rotating tires is important to extend the life of your tires, said Dan Hill, a sales manager with Jensen Tire & Auto. “Rotating helps even out the wear, which tends to be greater on the tires that sit closest to the axel.” He recommends tire rotation approximately every 6,000-8,000 miles. “That works out to be about every other oil change, if you’re using standard oil,” he said. Jim Champion added, “Some tires are directional, which means they have to roll a certain direction, so it’s important that tires are rotated per the owner’s manual.” When it comes to tread, “Tires should be replaced when the tread depth gets near 1/8 of an inch deep,” said Champion. The penny check is a convenient method of testing tread. “Put a penny in the tread upside down, with Lincoln’s head facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tire tread is worn out and it needs to be replaced,” he said. Lastly, the RMA recommends doing a visual inspection of your tires for bulges in the sidewalls, uneven tread wear, steel belts showing and other signs of trouble, once a month. This is a must for Nebraskans this year, Champion said. “Damages to tires, wheels, or suspension may have occurred while driving through the minefields [of potholes] in Omaha this winter,” he warned. Trouble could be looming. Once you hit the open road on that summer trip, you’ll have greater piece of mind knowing you’re riding on safe tires. Be Tire Smart – Play Your PART.

may/june | 2010

42nd & leavenworth 551-6000 Service comes first at Otis. To us, that means developing new products that meet our customers’ needs and challenges; providing reliable maintenance; and modernizing systems to keep pace with a building’s changing face and function. In all areas of service, Otis is committed to inspiring total customer conﬁdence.

Our technicians are trained to service all makes of elevators. Give me a call, and let me give you a quote. Let me earn your trust and business. Tori Lemke

Sr. Account Representative tori.lemke@otis.com

(402) 733-4525, ext. 14 Otis Elevator Company 5366 ‘F’ Street, Omaha, NE 68117 www.otis.com

www.omahapublications.com

Story by Tony Endelman

feature

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Usha Sherman, circa 1985.

Easy as Pie: Zio's Pizzeria Celebrates 25 Years

Any restaurant

that stays around for a quarter of a century must be doing something right. Now in its 25th year of business, Zio’s has become synonymous with pizza in Omaha. And, one could argue that they don’t just do it right, they do it brilliantly. When Dan and Usha Sherman opened a 50-seat pizzeria in 1985, they likely didn’t consider that it might one day become an Omaha institution. “We just wanted to serve and eat better pizza,” explains Usha Sherman. “We couldn’t find that fresh, thin-crust, New Yorkstyle pizza in Omaha.” Today, Zio’s, which means “Uncle” in Italian, has three hugely popular locations, including the first store in Beverly Hills Plaza at 79th and West Dodge. In 1989, Dan and Usha opened a second location in Baker’s Square at 132nd and Center, which has since moved just down the road to 129th and Center. A Zio’s also sits in the heart of the bustling Old Market district, at 1109 Howard St. In an industry that sees establishments open and close so quickly, Zio’s seems to have endured thanks to a very simple formula — great food and great service. “Our pizza is less greasy, available by the slice, and has the freshest toppings,” affirms Sherman. “We’ve always been focused on quality, never changing the food, and taking care of our guests.” Every Zio’s pizza is served fresh, on hand-stretched dough. www.readonlinenow.com

“Nothing is pre-made,” describes Sherman. “We create the pies the old-fashioned way and bake them in Old World ovens. Our dough is always fresh, and we cook a variety of meats every morning.” It’s clear that Zio’s takes great pride in offering a superior product. “We also use all natural chicken, free of growth hormones and antibiotics,” notes Sherman. Zio’s commitment to consistent quality is surely what keeps people coming back day after day, Sherman said. “The guests love the freshness of the pie, and that they can order pizza by the slice all day long. “And we love to see our regulars,” she adds, “who we often call Zio’s Zealots.” Of course, Zio’s doesn’t only serve pizza. Pop in for a freshly made calzone, or choose from a variety of pastas, sandwiches, salads, beer and wine. Each location is open seven days a week, and offers dine-in or take-out options. Only the downtown location provides delivery. With its authentic menu, affordable prices, and friendly service, it’s no wonder that Zio’s has been voted Omaha’s best pizzeria over a dozen times. And, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t stay around for another 25 years. For more information and to view a menu, visit www.ziospizzeria.com may/june | 2010

OMAHAHOME

Photos by Jon Hustead Story by Molly Garriott

The headwaters of the waterfeature adjacent to the home provide soothing sounds that can be appreciated from the back Patio and through open windows.

At Home With Amy Scott

reaLTors

are always preaching the value of “curb appeal” to home sellers. A home’s exterior and surrounding landscape provide an indelible first impression. While Amy Scott’s home does not boast a curb, it certainly packs an undeniably formable first impression. Over the last eight years, Scott has carved out a 52-acre woodland oasis in the serene surroundings of her acreage in North Omaha’s Ponca Hills. When she purchased the land, its raw, natural beauty was marred by discarded tires, dumped refuse and a derelict farmhouse. Weeds and poison ivy choked out wildflowers and prairie grasses. But instead of seeing what the land was not, Scott envisioned what it could be: a place where her children could grow in harmony with nature. She built a 5000-square-foot home that looks like it was purloined from the pages of a Miss Marple mystery, and surrounded it with wooded paths, trickling streams that empty into ponds, and meadows brimming with indigenous wildflowers. It is English manor meets Little House on the Prairie. To bring her vision to fruition, she hired the husband and wife team of Michael Becker and continued on next page www.readonlinenow.com

may/june | 2010

OMAHAHOME

A tiered hill, with native grasses, wildflowers and boulder outcroppings sit just below the home's outdoor living space. Stone steps lead to the sandy beach below.

Pat Burleson of Estate Gardeners. Scott admired the way Estate Gardeners had honored existing native landscape with previous clients. “We wanted to take the land back to its natural habitat that doesn’t fight with its surroundings,” says Scott. The foundation of the landscape plan was the naturally occurring features of Scott’s property: stately Burr Oaks, a running creek, hills and meadows, woodlands, indigenous wildflowers and prairie grasses. Becker and Burleson enhanced the acreage’s natural beauty in such a way that guests to Scott’s home, aptly named Seven Oaks on the Ridge, are unable to tell what has been introduced from what was indigenous. This is what Scott loves most about the project’s outcome: “We took a lot of flat fields and created something wonderful that looks like it has always been there.” The existing, mature oak forest and the dramatic elevation changes were both an attraction and a challenge of the project, says Becker. The latter might seem an insurmountable barrier to creating a waterscape, but Becker used the elevation changes for dramatic effect. The result has been christened by Becker as “The centerpiece of the landscape.” Five hundred tons of stone were shipped in to create two ponds and a waterfall. Each pond is about one-quarter an acre. Water from a nearby creek, recirculated at a rate of 400 gallons per minute, is continued on page 62

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For over 63 years, Omaha has turned to Travel and Transport, Meeting Trends and Travel and Transport Vacations to meet all of your travel related needs. From our innovative corporate travel management and meeting/event planning to our expertise in creating unforgettable vacations, our employee-owners are dedicated to the businesses and travelers of Omaha. 402.399.4500 Headquarters: 72nd & Mercy www.tandt.com • www.tandtvacations.com

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OMAHAHOME

Skillful design and planting belies the fact that the pond below is manmade. A park beyond provides a buffer from the outside world.

pumped up a 60-foot elevation to create a waterfall, which cascades into the upper pond. This pond spills over into another waterfall to the lower pond, which in turn feeds back into the original water source, the creek. It is a perfect blend of water conservation and aesthetic enhancement. Equally important to Scott, the ponds provide ample opportunity for her sons to fish the catfish, bass, bluegill and striper that call the ponds home. Of course beauty was a consideration when Becker and Scott discussed what plants would be used in the landscape design. But Scott also wanted to create a wildlife habitat. Over 10 varieties of grasses were used. Tall prairie grasses were planted in the prairie landscaping, and a lawn of Kentucky bluegrass stretches around the house. Wildflowers like Rudbeckia and Liatris offer bold splashes of color and, along with native grasses, food for birds and coverage for pheasants, grouse and small mammals. Deer pose a problem for many gardeners and Scott has more than her fair share of deer. Notorious feeders of many spring bulbs, Scott accommodated her natural neighbors by planting over 10,000 daffodil bulbs. These harbingers of spring look naturalized on the property and deer shun them. Last year, PLANET (Professional Landcare Network) granted Estate Gardeners its 40 th Annual Environmental Improvement Grand Award. But Becker is quick to point out that the path to earning this award began with Scott’s vision and her desire to live compatibly with nature. With deer in her drive and wild turkey in the meadows, it’s easy for Scott to forget she lives just a short distance from the city. “When you drive up the driveway, you leave all your cares behind,” she says with pleasure.

may/june | 2010

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may/june | 2010

YESTERDAY & TODAY STORY BY: KRISTINE GERBER

Rosenblatt Stadium

The aerial

view at right shows Rosenblatt Stadium, then Municipal Stadium, in April 1950, two months before hosting the first College World Series in Omaha. The series has remained in Omaha ever since. The Stadium will host its last series in June. Above, the view of the present-day stadium shows Henry Doorly Zoo and its Desert Dome and Lied Jungle.

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, Omahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Architectural Landmarks and Toast to Omaha, A Cookbook by the Junior League of Omaha.

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OMAHAHOME

Photos by Lisa Louise Photography

The custom chandelier as seen from the “widow’s walk.” Here you can clearly see the polished concrete countertops.

Art Imitates Life Outside Elements Come Inside

sITuaTed Rick White www.readonlinenow.com

in the picturesque countryside just outside of Omaha, a sprawling, equestrian farmstead graces the rolling hills. When interior designer Richard White sat down with its owners to discuss the project at hand, it was to replace the aging and outgrown farmhouse with a new, more suitable home for their family. Brainstorming with architects Robert Torson and Carey Zandt, the concept or “story,” as White describes it, began to take shape. They would design this home to appear as though they had found a long-forgotten ruin on the acreage and then built a modern home onto and featuring that ruin. Torson and Zandt designed the building around the “ruin,” a circular silo piece that would contain the kitchen and an upper area often referred to as the “widow’s walk” during construction. Enter brick sculptor Michael Morgan, a friend of the homeowners who had previously been commissioned to create a similar installation on the property. Morgan’s vision took the ruin to a new and exhilarating height. It was now art. Highly textured, undulating, organic art. continued on next page

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OMAHAHOME 1

1: Note the luxurious materials: green quartz floor throughout and the knotty alder cabinetry. The backsplash is a mosaic of glass and stone.

4: This “inside cabin” was designed for a typical boy who loves nature. Atop the chimney is a study space. The ceiling is painted to look like a blue sky.

2: The fireplace showpiece is a work of brick sculptor Michael Morgan. Each brick is handmade and salt glazed.

5: The master bedroom sizzles with black patent surfaces. Ultra plush mohair adds texture. A treasured family heirloom was brought up-to-date with a lacquered finish and chromed fixtures.

3: White designed the table for beauty and function. As shown here it is ready for intimate family meals, but it also can accommodate leaves to hold up to a party of 14.

may/june | 2010

6: A unique view of the chandelier. Steve Nollette, metal artist, executed White’s design. Fashioned of copper, it is over 14 feet in diameter and designed to resemble the root system of a sapling. www.omahapublications.com

OMAHAHOME 5

White’s design of the home’s interior reflects the family’s casual, active lifestyle, with a nod to the unique architectural cues. Style was an imperative; however durability and function played an equally important role, to accommodate energetic children and dogs. The homeowners desired nothing stuffy or ponderous, but they did wish to retain a particular nonurban sophistication. It needed to remain a life-canvas they could continue to paint for many years. White’s solution was to transition classicism with modernism and add punches of styles, including modern, traditional, Art Deco and Asian, all juxtaposed against a considerable share of imagination. Throughout the project, the homeowners remained open to White’s occasional flights of whimsy. In the kitchen, for instance, he designed a large custom light fixture to hand from the ceiling of the silo, two stories above. Made of copper and over 14 feet in diameter, it replicates the root system of a sapling.

www.readonlinenow.com

may/june | 2010

OMAHAFOOD

Story by: Mystery Reviewer

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Rivera's Authentic Mexican Food The secret's in the mole.

I have

always had a passion for Mexican food. It holds a special place in my heart and my senses. For me, it's comfort food and brings back fond memories of my childhood in Southern California. In my travels around this country I have noted that each region of the United States has its own interpretation of Mexican food. Tex-Mex is of course the most famous, but there are other regional interprations such as Southern, Southwestern, Northeastern, and Midwestern. Of all the different regional takes on Mexican food, I have to say that the Midwestern version is my least favorite, mainly for three reasons: the overuse of

may/june | 2010

flour tortillas in place of the more traditional corn tortillas, the lack of a good Mole, and the use of Rose's lime juice in Margaritas instead of fresh lime juice. I am happy to say that Rivera's does not follow the typical Midwestern variations and instead serves an authentic Mexican cuisine very similar to what you would find in Pueblo, Mexico, birthplace of the chef/owner. Rivera's is located in an older strip mall just off Blondo Street near 120th. It's not much to look at from the outside and coincidently, it's not much to look at from the inside either. It's what I would describe as a "bare bones" ambiance. It does, however, have a small, well-stocked bar and

Rivera's Mexican Restaurant 12047 Blondo St. Omaha, NE 68164 www.riverasmf.com (402) 932-1381

Ratings: (out of 5*) Food & Beverage *** Service

** 1/2

Ambiance

Price

Inexpensive

Overall

**1/2

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Thank You Omaha! We are honored to be voted Best of Omaha®

cozy seating for about 50. The tables are close together and it's not the kind of place where you can have a private conversation. That's okay because what Rivera's lacks in ambiance, it more than makes up for with excellent authentic Mexican food. The service at Rivera's is very friendly and casual. When you walk in, you're often greeted by owner and manager Tracey Rivera. The service is also quite fast, which can be a blessing at lunchtime or if you're trying to get to a movie or show. On a recent visit I started with the Azteca Appetizer Sampler ($9.99). This large platter contains a good sampling of the best of Rivera's appetizers, including four hand-rolled pork and beef taquitos which are crispy and perfectly seasoned. Also included are two of Rivera's famous Shrimp Alambres, which are delicous bacon-wrapped prawns stuffed with jack cheese, cotija cheese and chilies, and two excellent White Diablo Poppers, which are hand-made jalapeno poppers that are miles better than the frozen variety usually served in Omaha. For an entree I tried the House Combo ($12.49). This plate includes two very authentic grilled beef tacos with corn tortillas, and two of Rivera's Enchiladas Poblanos which have shredded chicken, red sauce, corn tortillas and cheese — a stellar combination if I do say so. I also tried the Enchiladas with Mole Sauce ($10.99). I found the sauce to be perfect, as well as the enchiladas, which I was pleased were made with corn tortillas. For dessert, I had the Sopapillas, which are delicious pillows of fried flour tortilla masa sprinkled with honey, sugar and cinnamon. These were also executed perfectly. The food at Rivera's is some of the most authentic to be found in Omaha. If you enjoy traditional dishes such as Al Pastor, A La Brasas, Pilbil, or a great Mole, then Rivera's is for you. In my opinion Mole sauce is the most difficult sauce to make properly in the Mexican cuisine. I use it as a yardstick to measure a Mexican cuisine chef and a Mexican restaurant. I'm pleased to tell to you that Chef/Owner Jesus Rivera's Mole sauce is by far the best I have had anywhere in the Midwest, and better than many of the Moles that I've had in Mexico. In fact, Chef Rivera's Mole is so good, it's reason enough to visit Rivera's the next time you are craving authentic Mexican food. www.readonlinenow.com

402-778-0650 • 12965 W. Center Road (Montclair Shopping Center)

Thank You for Voting us #1 Four Years in a Row!

1120 FORT CROOK ROAD BELLEVUE, NE 68005 800-756-7344 402-292-1455 WWW.APACHECAMPER.COM

HWY 77 SALTILLO RD LINCOLN, NE 68430 800-753-9158

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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 504-9853 17857 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.

Get a Little Saucy.

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 for three consecutive years (Omaha magazine). Come let us WOW you! 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 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

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. $ FATBURGER (PAPILLION, NE) In 1952 Lovie Yancy created the biggest, juiciest hamburgers anyone had ever seen. Half a century later we're still making them the way she did. Fresh, never frozen, 100% pure, lean beef. Onion rings made from scratch. Hand scooped, real ice cream, vanilla, chocolate or strawberry shakes. Fatburger is located at Shadow Lake Shopping Mall, Highway 370 and 72nd St, in Papillion, NE. Open seven days a week.

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

may/june | 2010

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Serving only USDA Prime Beef www.801chophouse.com

14th & Farnam • Downtown Omaha • 402.341.1222

Open Sundays During the CWS!

* By an independent food analysis.

Open Sundays During the CWS!

may/june | 2010

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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 PETROW'S 552-0552 Serving Nebraska since 1903. Featuring Nebraska’s great steaks and American classics. Petrow’s has been a tradition in Omaha for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an original 50’s soda fountain. Dining is casual. 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. 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 829-1616 (OMAHA) 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 madefrom-scratch recipes. Open lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Six Omaha-Metro area locations: Bellevue - 21st & Cornhusker, Benson - 71st & Ames, Eagle Run - 130th & Maple, Lakeside 173rd &Center, Millard - 120th & L, and Council Bluffs by the MAC. Take out and catering available. RED ZONE BBQ 431-9663 (OMAHA) 2056 North 117th Ave. Featuring hand-treated smoked meat wiith the best ingredients. "Sports-Bar-BQ" atmospherewith over 100 seats in the house. Carry-out and catering available. Open Mon-Sun 11am - 9pm.

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!

www.readonlinenow.com

may/june | 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

may/june | 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

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. 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! 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. MAMA'S PIZZA (OMAHA) Mama's Pizza...family-owned for over 25 years! Serving Omaha's favorite pizza and onion rings, plus great homemade dinners and appetizers. Bring the team, family, or group to watch the game or grab some great pizza. Open 11a to 10:30p Sunday through Thursday, and 11a to midnight Friday and Saturday. www.mamaspizzaomaha.com

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!

OSCAR'S PIZZA AND SPORTS GRILLE (OMAHA) Oscar's Pizza and Sports Grille is West "O"s number one family sports bar and grille. With over 30 HDTVs and four HUGE screens, you will never miss your favorite team. Got a large group? No problem! Oscars has a party room. Call for availability. Open 7 days a week. 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.

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.

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www.omahacarryout.com may/june | 2010

Shadow Lake Towne Center Papillion, NE P: 402-504-9930

Wave Bistro Asian Asian Fusion Fusion Cuisine Cuisine

402-496-8812 4002 N. 144th St.

One Block N of Maple & W side of 144th

www.nebraska.fatburger.com

#1 Buffet seven years in a row!

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 St. (391-1881), 12997 W. Center Rd. (330-1444), and 1109 Howard St. in the Old Market (3442222). 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 333-FOOD. $

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. $

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!

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/

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

Always a Large Selection of Fresh Fish

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!!!!!! 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 choose from for an unbelievable margarita experience. Late night Happy Hour Fri. & Sat. 10p.m.-12a.m. Open Mon.-Sun. 11:00 am - Close.

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

4150 south 144th street • omaha • 894-9411 76

may/june | 2010

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

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

‘

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

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Serving Steaks, Seafood, Chicken, and more.

Lunch & Dinner

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

ers ard-winning be aw & od fo at re G e Old Market! await you in th

a f é 402-731-4774

27th & L Sts. Five minutes from downtown

Dine-in • Carry-out • Catering Gold Medal Award-winning Beers on Tap

mouthwatering

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

27th & L Sts.

• Smoked turkey • Smoked Chicken • turkey Legs the original • & more...

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• Pulled Pork • Big Back ribs • Sausage & hot Links • BBQ Pork nachos

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Where good steaks and good service • Beef Brisket never go out of style.

402-731-4774

Creative Cuisine Party Booths equipped with your own private tap Happy Hour 3pm-6pm $3.00 Pints and Well Drinks

402.431.Zone (9663)

Five minutes from downtown

2056 n. 117th ave.

North Park Plaza Corner of 120th & Blondo

www.eatredZoneBBQ.com or follow us on www.readonlinenow.com

1101 Harney St. | 402.614.9333 www.rockbottom.com may/june | 2010

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. $

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

Miracle Hills Square • 114th & Dodge Harvey Oaks Plaza • 144th & Center www.fetasgyros.com Family Owned & Operated Authentic Italian Cuisine Party Rooms Available Carry Out Available

Thanks for Voting Us

Serving Lunch & Dinner

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

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

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

WAVE BISTRO ASIAN FUSION CUISINE 496-8812 (OMAHA) 4002 N 144th St (One Blk N. of Maple St&West Side of 144th St) Step into a world where green waves suspend in the air, an intimate interior as mouth watering aromas waft thru the air. White linen table cloths, show plates & flowers. Wave Bistro presents the best Asian Cuisine in Omaha with a European twist. One of a kind dishes from scratch such as Cashew Crusted Salmon to Tea Smoked Duck-a balance between contemporary & traditional food to create an exciting dining experience. Full service bar. Mon-Thurs 11:00AM-9:00PM,Fri-Sat 11:00AM-10:00PM. All Credit Cards Accepted.

SEAFOOD 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. $

Dundee Dell

Best Neighborhood Bar

SPECIAL DINING T E

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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

Serving Nebraska's Great Steaks and American Classics!

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. 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 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. $

Homemade Ice cream and PIes • 5914 center • 552-0552

may/june | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

PIZZERIA

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!!!

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

Four Years in a Row!

3007 S 83rd Plz Omaha, NE 68124 (402) 391-2923 www.readonlinenow.com

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

Oscar's Piz za WI

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Best H & Sp ot W o Ings

ER ’S CIRCL

2202 South 20th Street – Omaha

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WINNE

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Family Restaurant • Fine Steaks Chicken • Seafood Party Rooms Available

MLB package at Oscar’s!

342-9038 • 346-2865

Come watch your favorite teams all summer long. Reverse Happy Hour Sunday through Thursday. $1 off all drinks 9PM to Close. 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

LUNCH: Mon.-Fri.: 11a.m.-2p.m.

Thanks for Voting us

DINNER: Mon.-Sat.: 4:30p.m-Close Private Party Rooms Business Luncheons Outdoor Dining Catering Rockbrook Village • (108th & Center) (402) 391-2585 • Fax: 391-0910 www.pastaamore.net

may/june | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

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 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: Sun.-Thurs. 5:30 p.m.-9:45 p.m.; Fri & Sat. 5:30 p.m.-10:45 p.m. MARRAKECH AT THE BRANDEIS BRANDEIS BUILDING (OMAHA) 210 South 16th Street, Suite 104, Omaha, Nebraska 68102 Marrakech at the Brandeis Food Court- Indulge your senses with the fresh, nutritious and aromatic ingredients found in our gourmet Moroccan spiced sandwiches and soups. We invite you to savor the uncompromising quality found in such offerings as our; Pepper Crusted Salmon Wrap, Tomato and Eggplant and our Tomato, Braised Short Rib Baguette and Vegetable soup.

10920 EMMET ST. OMAHA, NE 68164

934-BEER (2337) ICEHOUSEOMAHA.COM

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! 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. THE TWISTED FORK GRILL & BAR 932-9600 1014 Howard Street. The Twisted Fork is an eclectic grill & bar in Omaha’s historic Old Market that serves American food with a cowboy twist. It blends southern hospitality with cowboy bravado and features a menu, which can be described as comfort food. The Twisted Fork boasts a top-notch signature drink and martini menu. www.restaurantsinc.net

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 www.readonlinenow.com

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

Daily Food & Drink Specials!

“ALL SPORTS... ALL OF THE TIME!”

Half Price

FOR ANY PIZZA For Dine-In Only (Not valid for take-out)

Offer Expires: 6/30/2010

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

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

The Original Whiskey Steak www.DroverRestaurant.com

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

2121 S. 73 St. Just 1/2 block South of Doubletree

(402) 391-7440

Omaha, Nebraska

Three Scoops of the Best!

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.

Serving Omaha’s Finest Families

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

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

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 •

may/june | 2010

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. $$$ JOHNNY’S CAFÉ – SINCE 1922 731-4774 (OMAHA) 27th and L streets. Years of quality dining and hospitality make Johnny’s Café a restaurant to remember. Serving only the finest corn-fed beef the Midwest has to offer. Aged steaks and prime rib are the specialties, with homemade bread and pies to complete one’s meal. An excellent wine list adds to the enjoyment at one of Omaha’s original restaurants. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. AE-MC-V. $$ MAHOGANY 445-4380 (OMAHA) 13665 California St. Mahogany's steaks are the finest customaged U.S. corn-fed Prime Midwestern Beef served on a sizzling hot plate. Selections from the ocean include Australian Rock lobster and the freshest fish daily. Outstanding fine-dining service in a casual less intimidating environment make Mahogany one of Omaha's best. Reservations are recommended. OMAHA PRIME 341-7040 (OMAHA) 415 S. 11th St. (Old Market). Only restaurant featuring complete Prime beef. Open seven days a week, Mon.-Sun. 5 p.m.-close. $$-$$$ 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

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 www.omahapublications.com

Board-Certified Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgeon

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “BEST IN COSMETIC SURGERY” FOR A DECADE! We continue to win awards — and more importantly — patient trust, because we never stop working to make your experience with us the best it can possibly be. We appreciate your vote again this year as we strive to uphold the high standards you have come to expect of us.

Board-Certified Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgeon

402-334-SKIN (7546)

2802 Oak View Mall Drive, Omaha

www.LovelySkin.com customercare @ LovelySkin.com

Skin Specialists and Aesthetica Day Spa are under the direction of Joel Schlessinger, M.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgeon. He is nationally and internationally recognized for his work in general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. Copyright © 2010, Skin Specialists, P.C.

Photography by Ophir Palmon, courtesy of Merge magazine, www.mergeonline.com