Sept/Oct 08 - Omaha Magazine

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Faces • style • Home • events • art • Dining

Omaha Style: Carol Fosse

Ak-Sar-Ben Ball Boy and Girl Page Photos

Chef Profile:

Teresa Kramer Ruback

Dream The

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He came through open heart surgery without missing a beat. When Ian was born, a severe defect restricted his heart’s ability to pump oxygenated blood to his body, a potentially fatal condition. His parents had to choose between a heart transplant and an innovative new series of open-heart surgeries that would build Ian a new heart. They put their trust in the expertise of cardiac surgeon Dr. Kim Duncan, leading a team of specialists in three open-heart surgeries performed at Children’s Hospital in Omaha. Ian not only survived, he’s thrived. And as for his heart,

the beat goes on.

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for information on how Children’s Hospital can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.

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I N T H IS I S S U E features FEATURE ........................................... 33

Ak-Sar-Ben Coronation Ball Ak-Sar-Ben Girl Page Photos ............................. 34 Ak-Sar-Ben Boy Page Photos ............................. 35

Feature ............................................ 37 Focused Priorities for Ak-Sar-Ben Knights

cover story ................................. 39 OPD Pride

feature ......................................... RG1 UNO’s 100th Anniversary

ON THE COVER

depar tments for starters ............................................................... 8 This is Omaha

You’ll instantly see NP Dodge’s latest technology to search for any homes listed in our area. Using your web-enabled mobile phone or handheld WiFi device, access your internet browser and type in:

Calendar ..................................................................... 10 Omaha Faces .............................................................. 17 A Different Kind of Judge Advocate

omaha home

At Home With: One Drake Place Stylists’ Stylish Home .................. ASID: 2008 Nebraska-Iowa ASID Project Awards ........................ Transformations ...................................................................

19 25 28

omaha art ................................................................ 30

mobile.npdodge.com Omaha Art

The Heart of James Scholz, Photographer

style ........................................................ 32 Omaha faces ....................................... 45

• Check out New Listings as they enter the market.

Captain of the Comedy Ship Colleen Quinn

Mystery Reviewer: Sage Student Bistro, Metro CC ....... Restaurant Guide .............................................. Chef Profile: Teresa Kramer Ruback ...................

Transformations

47 51 61

• View dates and times for all upcoming NP Dodge Open Houses. • Search for properties by address, state, city, zip code, schools, price, and more.

various and sundry ........................... 62 Pumpkinpalooza

• Schedule a showing instantly when you nd a house you like.

at home with

Pages 17-48 are included for city readers and subscribers only. Pages RG1-RG16 are included for visitors and relocation readers.

www.omahapublications.com www.omahapublications.com

Scroll through the links to: • See all photos and details for any house listed by any company in the metro area. • Find your NP Dodge Agent with one click and view all of their listings.

Carol Fosse

Dining out

Leading the way for quick, easy mobile access to the most current real estate information – whenever and wherever you choose!

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september/october | 2008

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september/october 2008 VOLUME 25 • I SSU E 4 publisher

todd lemke editor

sandra lemke assistant editor

linda persigehl art director/graphic design

matt jensen photography

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

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contributing writers

mike watkins • kris patton, ASID donald rashid • leo adam biga maureen o’halloran clark • tina king vice president

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account executives

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Omaha Opera Omaha

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september/october | 2008

Opera Omaha “an opera begins long before the curtain goes up and ends long after it has come down. it starts in my imagination, it becomes my life, and it stays part of my life long after i’ve left the opera house.” – Maria Callas With that, we are pleased to help announce opera omaha’s two initial offerings in its 2008-09 season, the world premiere of The Blizzard voices by Moravec Kooser and Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance. “There is something special about going to the opera,” mused John Wehrle, General director of opera omaha. With a world premiere and a Gilbert & Sullivan classic, we’re in for an extra-special treat. The Blizzard voices, Sept. 12, 7:30, Peter Kiewit Concert Hall, Holland Performing arts Center. Sept. 13, iowa Western, The arts Center. The Pirates of Penzance, october 15 and 17, 7:30; october 19, 2:00 p.m. Slosburg Hall, orpheum Theater. www.operaomaha.org. Disney On Ice Catch the next ride to laugh-out-loud fun with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in disney on ice presents a disneyland® adventure at the Qwest Center, Thursday, September 18 through Sunday, September 21. Join your favorite characters on a trip through the park and thrill to “incredible” excitement when everyone’s favorite superhero family shows up to save the day! Tickets available at Ticketmaster, 402-422-1212 or www. ticketmaster.com

AppleJack Festival a family event for all ages, nebraska City’s appleJack festival celebrates the apple harvest with city-wide weekend

AppleJack Festival

Photo by R. niebel

illustration by Watie White

This is

activities. visit the Lied Lodge’s arbor day farm Tree adventure to climb trees with expert arborists, meet Smokey Bear and Carly Cardinal, find your way out of the corn maze, have your face painted, buy a fruit tree, and much, much, more! September 20 & 21, 9 aM - 7 PM. for more information about the appleJack festival, see www.liedlodge.org. River City Roundup ak-Sar-Ben’s River City Roundup is showcasing a diverse entertainment line-up at the Qwest Center in omaha. Comedians Rodney atkins and Larry the Cable Guy and singing sensation Jessica Simpson will perform following the three performances of the Wrangler ProRodeo Tour – omaha Round of the ariat Playoffs. Rodney atkins will perform Thursday, September 25th. atkins’ latest album, if You’re Going Through Hell, captures every

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aspect of his life, from his humble, multiple-adoption beginning, to his rural east Tennessee upbringing, to his presentday, stick to your roots convictions. Making his debut performance at the Qwest Center arena, nebraska-born Larry the Cable Guy will appear on friday, September 26th. With his signature catchphrase, “Git-R-done”, Larry the Cable Guy is selling out theatres and arenas across the united States. He is best known for highly successful concert “Blue Collar Comedy Tour”, which grossed more than 15 million dollars. as her highly anticipated debut country album is released early this fall, Jessica Simpson will take the stage Saturday, September 27th. Jessica Simpson has taken the music, fashion, beauty and

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Jessica Simpson performing at River City Roundup

entertainment industries by storm. Simpson recently made country music chart history when her first country single “Come on over” debuted at the no. 41 spot- the highest chart debut among a solo artist with no prior history on the country chart. Tickets are available at www.tickemaster.com, and Ticketmaster outlet, or at www.rivercityroundup.org.

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september/october | 2008

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calendar of events

www.visitomaha.com

Compiled by Linda Persigehl event gets underway at 6 p.m. with cocktails and dinner. This year’s honorees will be Shon Barenklau, Suburban newspaper, inc. and Jeffry Strohmyer, M.d., with Papillion family Medicine. The event will benefit alegent Health Midlands Hospital emergency department. for more information, call Catherine Tevis at 343-4575. 9/4: Art Unlocked: Music & Masterpieces’ Razzmatazz. art unlocked is an annual event, which joins together artists, a local community charity and local merchants to raise money for a local artistic group. This year, omaha Symphony Guild volunteers will work with artists to make this year’s event an even greater success! art unlocked events are held at Rockbrook village Shopping Center, 108th and W. Center Rd. Razzmatazz, a night of live music, open houses and opportunities to meet with artists, will be held from 5 – 8 p.m. visit www.rockbrookvillage. com or call 402-390-0890 for more information.

Confetti 2008 at the rose.

CHECK IT! Dates and times are current as of press time but please call ahead to confirm. OngOing eventS through 9/1: Septemberfest – Salute to Labor. 32nd annual event, including a midway, kiddie kingdom, three car shows, naSCaR 7-7 tour attraction, 3rd annual Karaoke contest Thurs. night, concert fri. and Sat., international food Garden, Labor day Parade, petting zoo, fireworks and more. $25 Mega Ride tickets sold at Hyvee stores (all rides for five days) Qwest Center omaha, 455 n. 10th Street. visit www. septemberfestomaha.com or call 402-346-4800 for more information. On Sale now: HSM Tickets at The Rose Theater. June 2009, The Rose Theater will debut disney’s High School Musical. Tickets for this very popular show are on sale now for Rose Theater members only, and going fast! Single ticket sales for HSM to non-members will begin in november. visit www.rosetheater.org for more information. through 9/14: The Little Engine That Could at The Rose. Powered by its well-known refrain “i think i can, i think i can, i think i can,” Watty Piper’s The Little engine That Could is one of the greatest tales of motivation ever told. in this well-loved classic featuring songs, dance and dazzling costumes, the Little engine overcomes seemingly impossible odds to carry a train full of toys over an imposing mountain. The Little engine That Could is an entertaining, inspirational and interactive show that offers a valuable lesson for children and adults alike about the power of positive thinking. Recommended for ages 4-9. Times: fridays at

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7 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. The Rose Theater, 2001 farnam Street. Tickets are $16 each or free with membership. www.rosetheater.org through 9/14: Doubt at the Shelterbelt. Snap! Productions at the Shelterbelt Theatre, 3225 California Street. Cost is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, students and military. visit www. snapproductions.com or call 402341-2757 for more information. through 9/15: The Sea Beneath Our Feet at The Durham. Learn the story of the ogallala aquifer, formed millions of years ago beneath the Midwest. The durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. visit www.durhammuseum.org for more information. through 10/5: Uncreated Light: Steve Joy Paintings, 1980-2008. The richly constructed, abstract but accessible paintings of British contemporary artist Steve Joy are the focus of uncreated Light. inspired by spiritual journeys through several cultures and a personal existential searching, his paintings are carefully crafted and loaded with associations from the broad canon of the history of art. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, $4 for ages 5-17 and free for kids 4 and under. Joslyn art Museum, 2200 dodge St. visit www.joslyn.org or call 342-3300 for more information. through 10/5: Kidstructure Exhibit. Lauritzen Gardens, omaha’s Botanical Center, will host an outdoor exhibit of playscapes custom-designed by area architects and contractors.

september/october | 2008

KidStructure stretches the definition of traditional “playhouse” design. These unique and adventurous structures will encourage interactive learning, excitement and, most importantly, PLaY! 100 Bancroft Street. visit www.omahabotanicalgardens.org for more information. through 10/25: Village Pointe Farmers Market. village Pointe Shopping Center. enjoy farm fresh, locally grown produce and meats. 173rd & davenport streets. www.villagepointeshopping.com through 1/4/09: Omaha Children’s Museum DinO!saurs: A Prehistoric Expedition. dino!saurs brings a whole new herd of creatures sure to entertain and educate young and old alike. This exhibit features 13 spectacular robotic dinosaurs, including a massive, 22-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex - plus other favorites including Triceratops and Stegosaurus. There’s even a dinosaur nest with eggs and hatchlings. Little paleontologists will love the dinosaur dig where they can uncover fossils and Paleo Camp, where a number of educational activities will be available. Kids can produce images of their favorite dinosaurs at the rub station and control the movements of a robotic duckbill dinosaur with a hands-on model. daily dino activities with the museum’s education staff will teach kids all they ever wanted to know about these fascinating reptiles. omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th Street, Call 402-930-2352 or visit www.ocm.org for more information.

SEpTEmbER EVENTS 9/2: Magic City Tour at The Durham Museum. South omaha was founded in 1884 with the creation of the union Stockyards. By 1890, South omaha was the fastest growing community in the united States, thus earning the nickname “The Magic City.” immigrants poured in to the area to work in the packinghouses, breweries, smelting plants and other businesses. This created a melting pot of diverse cultures that are still evident today. Come learn more about this exciting time in omaha! Take the Magic City Tour, open at 6 p.m. The durham Museum, 801 South 10th Street. visit www. durhammuseum.org for more information. 9/3 - 9/7: Independent Music Festival. RiverCity Productions, LLC, will produce the first-ever independent music festival to be held in omaha. The Midamerican Music festival will strengthen the regional image of omaha’s independent music industry by recruiting musicians from a five-state region around nebraska to come to omaha and perform. The MaMf, as musicians have nicknamed it, will take place in multiple live music venues in Benson. Similar in design to the upcoming SXSW music festival in austin Texas, the MaMf will include educational seminars, guest speakers, networking oppor tunities, industr y panelists and more. visit www. MidamericanMusicfestival.com for more information. 9/4: Alegent’s Evening With Friends. The alegent Health foundation is hosting the inaugural “evening With friends” Community RoaST at alegent Health Midlands Hospital. The

9/5: Live Music by Magic Slim and the Toons. Soaring Wings vineyard. friday night Concert Series from 7-9:30 p.m. $5 cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 9/6-9/7: Zoolympics at Omaha’s Zoo. Test your physical skills against the residents at the Zoo! Can you hop like a frog or run as fast as a cheetah? This year, see a special guest…flumpa! Kids will learn about science during a high-energy musical science stage show – complete with upbeat music and non-stop audience action. Zoolympics is free with admission. visit www. omahazoo.com or call 733-8401 for more information. 9/6-9/7: Rockbrook Village 37th Annual Art Fair. Rockbrook village will host this annual event, omaha’s oldest art fair. over 170 fine artists from 10 states will display their wares. 108th and West Center Rd. Call 390-0890 or visit www.rockbrookvillage.com for more information. 9/6: Monarch Tagging at Hitchcock Nature Center. attend Hitchcock’s monarch tagging program and learn more about these fascinating creatures. Participants will learn how to tag monarchs and have the opportunity to catch and tag them in the wild. nets, tags and refreshments provided. Pre-registration is required. Cost: $3.00 per person for preregistered individuals and $5.00 per person the day of the event, if space is available. Children 5 and under admitted free. Hitchcock nature Center, Honey Creek, ia. Please call 712-5453283 to register for either the 9:30 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. session.

9/7-11/17: Classical Kids Nominations. Classical 90.7 Kvno recognizes outstanding young musicians by designating them Classical Kids. There have been 112 Classical Kids since the program’s inception in 1999. Winners have come from throughout the Kvno listening area and have included students from Lincoln, Columbus, elkhorn, Blair, Gretna, omaha, and Council Bluff and Crescent, ia. nomination forms are available at www.kvno.org and will be taken through 11/17, 2008. for more information, call anne Hellbusch at 559-5866, 9/7: Live Music by Chris Saub. Soaring Wings vineyard. acoustic Sundays Series from 2-5 p.m. no cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 9/7: Dance Revolution! An Organ Vesper Series Concert. omaha Symphony Clarinetist John Klinghammer joins Baltimore’s Monument Piano Trio for this program of classical music inspired by dance forms. featuring music by composers like Bright Sheng and Paquito d’Rivera, the program includes everything from tango to Tibetan folk dances. free admission. 3 p.m., Presbyterian Church of the Cross, 1517 S. 114th St., omaha. Contact info@artsaha.org for more information. 9/8 through 9/27: Artists Show. an art show showcasing the works of four female artists - Tricia Hollins, Jaime Hackbart, Luann Matthies, and Peggy Reinecke – will be held at Jackson artworks. a reception for the artists and special guests is planned for Sept. 13th. Jackson artworks, 1108 Jackson St. Contact Tricia Hollins at PHollins@mccneb. edu or call 402-341-1832 for more information. 9/9: Hitch Hike at Hitchcock Nature Center. Join us for the conclusion of this summer series at Hitchcock nature Center, Honey Creek, ia. This hike is a challenging one that includes exploring parts of more remote areas of the preserve and Loess Hills up close. We will walk through Hidden valley out west to reach our destination- a scenic overlook of the Missouri River valley. Cost: $2.00 per person and includes on-trail refreshments. 6:00 p.m. Call 712545-3283 for more information. 9/12-9/13: Opera Omaha’s The Blizzard Voices. opera omahaís season begins with an important new work. during his tenure as artistic director, Stewart Robertson became intrigued by Ted Kooserís account of the Blizzard of 1888, the Children's Blizzard. Resulting in the kind of work that only Stewart could conceive, The Blizzard voices is a dramatic oratorio for orchestra, chorus and six vocal soloists. Ted Kooser's poetic retelling of this powerful story forms the basis for the libretto that composer

September & OctOber

2008

Paul Moravec crafted into a gripping and poignant evening of music theater. There are only two opportunities to see this moving mix of words and music. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on 9/12 at the Holland Center, Kiewit Concert Hall, 13th and douglas streets, and on 9/13 at iowa Western CC art Center, 2700 College Rd., Council Bluffs. for more information, visit www.operaomaha.org or www. omahaperformingarts.org. 9/12: Live Music by the Mitch Armstrong Band. Soaring Wings vineyard. friday night Concert Series from 7-9:30 p.m. $5 cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 9/13: Storytelling Festival. The 7th annual Moonshell Storytelling festival, sponsored by nebraska Storyarts. features four outstanding national and regional tellers, youth tellers and storytelling workshops for a wholesome family-oriented, multicultural event. free with admission to Mahoney State Park, exit 426 on i-80, between omaha and Lincoln. from 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Call 402-559-4691 for more information. 9/13: Playing With Fire Free Blues Concert Series. Bostons’s “Queen of Blues� Toni Lynn Washington will perform with special guest, guitarist Junior Watson. other artists include: italian-born electric guitarist Gaetano Pellio, performing Hendrix-like rock; the Blues Society of omaha all-stars; and Bluesed Kids Band, all else fails. Lewis & Clark Landing, Riverfront drive in downtown omaha. Park and ride for free at the Gallup Campus. for more information, visit www. playingwithfireomaha.com 9/13: “Rock, Stock, and Barrel� Food Bank Benefit. Soaring Wings vineyard. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine. com for more information. 9/13 -9/14: Art on the Pointe. now in its third year, the art on the Pointe fine art fair features two days of display and sale of skilled work by selected artists, complemented with music in the evening. fifty booths with 53 artists will be on display, including works of various mediums such as ceramics, drawing, fiber arts, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed-media, painting, photography, sculpture and wood. This fine art fair has an atmosphere for the fun-loving family and as well as selections for the discriminating collector. admission is free of charge. fair hours are Saturday 10a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. village Pointe Shopping Centre, 168th and W. dodge Rd. Call the village Pointe office at 505-9773 or visit www.villagepointeshopping. com for more information.

9/13 through 1/11/09: Fantasy Uncoiled: Prints by CoBrA Artists at Joslyn Art Museum. This print gallery exhibition celebrates three important suites of lithographs acquired by Joslyn in 2007. CoBra, an acronym for the members’ cities of origin, Copenhagen, Brussels, and amsterdam, is one of the great abstract expressionistic movements of the 20th century. Though their formal relationship lasted a mere three years, artists such as eugene Brands, Mogens Balle, and anton Rooskens forged life-long commitments to the primal and fantastic. initially resistant to printmaking, an introduction to lithography allowed them to produce multiples while preserving their hallmark spontaneity. The resulting prints pulled from images painted by the artists directly on lithographic stones are vividly colored ad alive with childlike energy. Joslyn art Museum, 2200 dodge St. visit www.joslyn.org or call 342-3300 for more information. 9/14: All-European Show and Shine at Lauritzen Gardens. Lauritzen Gardens, omaha’s Botanical Center, welcomes the all-european Show and Shine from 12 - 4 p.m. See fine european cars and motorcycles on display. Models of Jaguar, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, ducati, BMW, ferrari, Pantera, alfa Romeo, austin Healey and others will be surrounded by the beauty of the garden. Guests may walk the 100 acres of gardens or may take a narrated tram tour for $2 per person, which includes a stop at Kenefick Park. The cafÊ will be open from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for lunch and snacks. admission to the car show is free with paid garden admission. adults are $7, Children 6-12 are $3. Garden members and children under six are admitted free. if you have a fine old or new european car you would like to exhibit in the garden, please contact Joe Chickenelli at 402-212-6038 for details. Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft Street. visit www. omahabotanicalgardens.org for more information.

A glimpse of artistry Saturday, September 13, 10am–9pm Sunday, September 14, 10am–5 pm Join us for an intimate fine art experience. Enjoy two days of open-air interaction with skilled visual artists. Gain a deeper appreciation for art amid booth displays, demonstrations, street painting and the ambiance of Village PointeŽ. CERAMICS s DRAWING s FIBER ARTS s GLASS s JEWELRY s METAL MIXED MEDIA s PAINTING s PHOTOGRAPHY s SCULPTURE s WOOD MORE THAN 60 EXCEPTIONAL STORES AND RESTAURANTS *534 -).54%3 &2/- -)$4/7. s 4( 342%%4 7 $/$'% 2/!$ Ž

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9/15: Gowns and Glitter Luncheon at The Durham. The durham Museum will host a luncheon celebrating ak-SarBen fashion history, showcasing ak-Sar-Ben Queen, Princess and Countess gowns dating from the early 1900s. a style show will feature models from agency 89. The theme “Gowns and Glitter: Celebrating ak-Sar-Ben through fashion� complements the durham’s first annual temporary exhibit featuring ak-Sar-Ben. This exhibit opened august 30th, and features memorabilia and artifacts highlighting ak-Sar-Ben’s early history. viewing of exhibit and gown display, 10:30 a.m.; Luncheon & style show, 12 p.m. The ak-Sar-Ben Queens, 18952007, will serve as Honorary Chairmen. Mary Mcdermott

www.omahapublications.com

september/october | 2008

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calendar of events 9/20: Fort Omaha 17th Annual Intertribal Powwow. Mediterranean Bistro, Metropolitan Community College, Historic fort omaha Campus, from 1-7:30 p.m. Call 457-2253 for more information. 9/20: Critter Ride at Omaha’s Zoo. Bring your bike and pedal through the Zoo in the 2008 friends of omaha Zoo (fooZ) Critter Ride. This family fun event is perfect for riders of all ages and skill level. Participants will receive goodies and breakfast. Reservations required. visit www. omahazoo.com or call 733-08401 for more information.

the many Faces of David Diaz at Joslyn art museum. Maxwell will be the featured speaker. Pricing: individual tickets: $65, Table of 8: $520; Table of 10: $650; Patron tickets: $100; Patron table of 8: $800; Patron table of 10: $1,000. The durham Museum, 801 South 10th Street, omaha. for more information, visit www. durhammuseum.org, or contact General Co-Chairmen Phyllis Choat, 330-6219, pdchoat@cox. net nancy Hanson, 331-4230, nancyhanson@aol.com. 9/16: Gritty City Tour at The Durham. Take a trip back in time and see why an 1869 issue of Harper’s magazine encouraged travelers not to visit omaha! Saloons, gambling dens and other establishments provided opportunity (and demise) for many early adventurers. Hear the story of the infamous anna Wilson and dan allen and their influence on the city’s reputation. Tour the old third ward and see how political boss Tom dennison ran omaha. visit past locations of illegal stills during prohibition and other shady enterprises. Learn about omaha’s not-so-squeaky-clean past on this 6 p.m. tour. The durham Museum, 801 South 10th Street, omaha. for more information, visit www.durhammuseum.org 9/18: Art Unlocked: Music & Masterpieces. Rockbrook village, 108th and West Center Road, will host this annual arts benefit, which will include a silent auction and enticing food and beverages provided by Rockbrook village merchants. event hours are 5 -8 p.m. Tickets will be sold for this Gala art auction. visit www. rockbrookvillage.com or call 402390-0890 for more information. 9/18: Go Red For Women Expo. a benefit for the american Heart association, the Go Red for Women expo celebrates the vitality and energy of women to

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beat their no. 1 and no. 3 killers – heart disease and stroke. The expo offers a fun and educational evening with a heart-healthy, delicious dinner, keynote speaker dr. Geil Browning, a health expo, and a “purse-inality” silent auction. funds benefit american Heart association research and educational programs. embassy Suites, La vista. for more information call 402346-0771. 9/18: Millionaires and Mansions Tour at The Durham. Hop on ollie the Trolley and visit the west omaha of the early 1900’s! See where many of omaha’s most influential early residents built beautiful homes in the Gold Coast and midtown neighborhoods. Hear stories about how these founding families lived and their contributions to the growth of the city. among the 20 homes, included on the tour are the Joslyn Castle, the Mercer mansion and the magnificent mansions built by Gottlieb Storz – one for himself and one for his daughter as a wedding present! Learn about omaha’s rich and famous of old on this 11 a.m. tour. The durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St., omaha visit www. durhammuseum.org for more information. 9/19: Live Music by the Swampboy Blues. Soaring Wings vineyard. friday night Concert Series from 7-9:30 p.m. $5 cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 9/20: Indigenous Jam. Live music at Soaring Wings vineyard. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www. soaringwingswine.com for more information.

september/october | 2008

9/20 through 1/11/09: The Mastercraftsmen of Palekh Miniatures at Joslyn Art Museum. The first american exhibition to examine the tradition of handpainted. lacquered, papier-mâché boxes from the Russian village of Palekh (pronounced poleck). The village about 125 miles northeast of Moscow, was known before the Russian Revolution as a center for icon painting, but after the advent of official atheism, the craftsman moved away from religious images to a rich and acceptable genre of tourist boxes decorated with Russian folk tales, among other subjects. The exhibition examines the entire range of Palekh artistic production, in sizes ranging from a 1 x1 ½ inch box for beads to a 23 x 17-inch jewelry box decorated to honor Stalin. The display also includes icons, other boxes, and decorative objects such as easter eggs. Joslyn art Museum, 2200 dodge St. visit www.joslyn.org or call 342-3300 for more information. 9/21: Harvest Festival. Soaring Wings vineyard. Come out and stomp some grapes, listen to some live music and enjoy a glass of wine from the Heartland to celebrate the end of the harvest season. from 12-9:30 p.m. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 2532479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 9/25-9/27: Rodney Atkins, Larry the Cable Guy and Jessica Simpson in Concert. ak-Sar-Ben’s River City Roundup is showcasing a diverse entertainment line-up at the Qwest Center in omaha. Comedians Rodney atkins and Larry the Cable Guy and singing sensation Jessica Simpson will perform following the three performances of the Wrangler ProRodeo Tour – omaha Round of the ariat Playoffs. Rodney atkins will perform Thursday, September 25th. atkins’ latest album, if You’re Going Through Hell, captures every aspect of his life, from his humble, multipleadoption beginning, to his rural east Tennessee upbringing, to his present-day, stick to your roots convictions. Making his debut performance at the Qwest Center arena, nebraska born Larry the Cable Guy will appear on friday, September 26th. With his signature catchphrase, “Git-R-done”, Larry the Cable Guy is selling out

www.visitomaha.com September & OctOber

2008

theatres and arenas across the united States. He is best known for highly successful concert “Blue Collar Comedy Tour”, which grossed more than 15 million dollars. as her highly anticipated debut country album is released early this fall, Jessica Simpson will take the stage Saturday, September 27th. Jessica Simpson has taken the music, fashion, beauty and entertainment industries by storm. Simpson recently made country music chart history when her first country single “Come on over” debuted at the no. 41 spot- the highest chart debut among a solo artist with no prior history on the country chart. Tickets are available at www.tickemaster.com, and Ticketmaster outlet, or at www. rivercityroundup.org. 9/25: Make a Difference Day Activities. “Make a difference day” is Saturday, october 25, 2008. area Woodmen of the World lodges are planning a variety of projects designed to assist individuals, families and neighborhoods. Make a difference day is the largest national day of helping others -- a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. anyone can participate. for more information, visit www.usaweekend.com/diffday/. 9/25-9/27: River City Roundup, Douglas County Fair & ProRodeo Playoff Three. four-day western festival featuring fair, livestock show and rodeo with concerts. Heritage Parade, Trail Rides, Giddy-up Gulch and Cooking Stage provide hours of excitement and activities. fair and Roundup are free events; Rodeo tickets are $15-$52. Qwest Center omaha, 455 n. 10th St. visit www. rivercityroundup.org or call 5549610 for more information. 9/26-9/28: Antique and Garden Show at Lauritzen Gardens. Top dealers from around the country bring their finest pieces to sell in elegant display room vignettes. Lectures, antique appraisal clinics and show tours and thousands of antiques, including rare books, jewelry, rugs, tapestries, silver and furniture. Cost is $10 per person. Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Call 3464002 or visit www.lauritzengardens.org for more information. 9/27-9/28: Midlands Pirate Festival. Lead-in event for the great Halloween fun that takes place at this theme park ranch. Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, 11001 S. 48th St. from 11a.m. – 6 p.m. for more information, call 331-5500. 9/27: Fall HawkWatch Festival at Hitchcock Nature Center. Join Hawkwatchers and keep your eyes on the skies for migrating raptors. The fall hawkwatch festival will include live hawk demonstrations by Raptor Recovery nebraska, hikes in the Loess Hills, children’s bird activities, and refreshments. Come out and view magnificent raptors on their jour-

ney south! Cost: $3.00 per person, children 5 and under admitted free. Hitchcock nature Center, Honey Creek, ia. from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Please call 712.545.3283 for more information. 9/28: Live Music by Mitch Armstrong. Soaring Wings vineyard. acoustic Sundays Series from 2-5 p.m. no cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www. soaringwingswine.com for more information. 9/29-10/1: The National Archives Teacher Workshops. Led by the education staff from the national archives, this sixhour workshop will focus on the traveling exhibition, eyewitness: american originals from the national archives. Lunch provided. 9/29 – omaha Public Schools Curriculum day; Tuesday, 9/30– 8:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. 10/1 – 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. To register, call 402-444-5027. 9/30: Millionaires and Mansions Tour at The Durham. Hop on ollie the Trolley and visit the west omaha of the early 1900’s! See where many of omaha’s most influential early residents built beautiful homes in the Gold Coast and midtown neighborhoods. Hear stories about how these founding families lived and their contributions to the growth of the city. among the 20 homes, included on the tour are the Joslyn Castle, the Mercer mansion and the magnificent mansions built by Gottlieb Storz – one for himself and one for his daughter as a wedding present! Learn about omaha’s rich and famous of old on this 6 p.m. tour. The durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St., omaha visit www.durhammuseum.org for more information. 10/2: Presidents and Their First Ladies. Skyline Retirement Community will host the Presidents and Their first Ladies - abraham and Mary Lincoln presentation at 1:30 p.m. This is a husband and wife duo that travels the country impersonating various presidents and their first ladies. for more information, visit www.presladies.com. 10/3: Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band at the Holland. The most popular Latin jazz group in the world today, this seasoned ensemble pays homage to the glories of a half-century tradition that was born when afro-Cuban rhythms merged with bebop. 8 p.m., Holland Performing arts Center, 13th & douglas streets, omaha. visit w w w.omahaper formingar ts. org for more information. 10/3 through 11/23: Fall Chrysanthemum Show. The indoor floral display hall is festooned in autumn colors during this Japanese-inspired show, featuring unique chrysanthemums, Japanese maples and water features, bamboo, Zen garden influences and multi-dimen-

sional tiered displays. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children 6-12. Lauritzen Gardens – omaha’s Botanical Center, 100 Bancroft Street. visit www.lauritzengardens.org, or call 346-4002 for more information. 10/4 through 1/4/09: Eyewitness: American Originals from the National Archives. Chronicles some of the most dramatic moments in history: the storming of Bastille in Paris, the explosion of the Hindenburg, and assassination of President Kennedy. Cost is $7 adults, $6 age 62+, $5 ages 3-12, free 2 and under. durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St., omaha. visit www.durhammuseum.org or call 444-5071 for more information. 10/4-10/5: Japanese Ambience Festival. Held in conjunction with autumn ambience, this event includes origami, calligraphy, a martial arts demonstration, sake tasting and taiko drumming. The event also celebrates the anniversary of the Japanese Sunpu Castle Gate. open daily 9 a.m. -5 p.m. Cost is $7 adults, $3 children 6-12. Lauritzen Gardens – omaha’s Botanical Center, 100 Bancroft Street. visit www.lauritzengardens.org or call 346-4002 for more information. 10/4-10/5: Autumn Ambience Festival. enjoy antique tractors on display, hearty food, handson children’s activities including scarecrow making, jack-o-lantern painting, live music, cozy garden strolls and other comforting autumn activities. a hayrack ride in the garden tops off this harvest festival! open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cost is $7 for adults; $3 for children 6-12. Lauritzen Gardens – omaha’s Botanical Center, 100 Bancroft Street. visit www.lauritzengardens.org or call 346-4002 for more information. 10/4: Fiddling Workshop. The old avoca (nebraska) Schoolhouse will be hosting a Twin fiddling Workshop for fiddlers (or violinists or violists) who want to learn to play nicely together with their fellow fiddlers (or violinists or violists). fiddlers (or violinists or violists) of any age and experience level are encouraged to enroll. Championship fiddler and fiddle book author, deborah Greenblatt will share some tunes, hints about arranging for two fiddles, playing back-up, etc. The Workshop takes place on Saturday from 1 P.M.- 3 P.M. in the old avoca Schoolhouse, in avoca, nebraska. Pre-registration is required, and enrollment is limited. The fee is $20.00 per fiddler, and the deadline to sign up is September 4. for more information, call 402275-3221, or send an e-mail to g-s@alltel.net. 10/4 through 12/28: The Many Faces of David Diaz at Joslyn Art Museum. Caldecott awardwinning illustrator david diaz uses bold, dynamic styles to create rich and striking illustrations for expressive children’s books.

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calendar of events

September & OctOber

2008

10/17-10/26: Confetti 2008 at The Rose. Join us in the intimate Hitchcock Theater at The Rose as we present this year’s edition of a perennial audience favorite: a new collection of sparkling choreography in contrasting styles, created by our own dancers and artistic staff. This festive mix of dances will give you a fresh take on the sheer variety of ballet and the infinite talents of our performers. Come prepared to cheer your favorites! Best for ages 6-adult. 100 minutes. Members save $6 per ticket. The Rose Theater, 2001 farnam Street. for performance times and information, visit www.rosetheater.org.

halloween hike at hitchcock nature Center. inspired by the innovation of viennese Secessionists such as Gustave Klimt and egon Schiele, diaz aims to break away from any constriction and develop his own way of telling stories through art. The exhibition includes 54 original artworks from 15 children’s and young adult books including Smoky night, Wilma unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s fastest Woman, Going Home, december and The Pot That Juan Built. This exhibition was organized by the The national Center for Children’s illustrated Literature (abilene, TX). Joslyn art Museum, 2200 dodge St. visit www.joslyn.org or call 342-3300 for more information. 10/5: Live Music by Chris Saub. Soaring Wings vineyard. acoustic Sundays Series from 2-5 p.m. no cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 10/8 through 10/11: UNO Centennial Celebration Opening Week. The university of nebraska at omaha will celebrate its 100th anniversary beginning october 8, 2008, exactly 100 years after the university was chartered. The centennial theme is “uno: Central To our City Since 1908”. Several signature events are planned, including a four-day campuswide Centennial opening Week that coincides with Homecoming 2008. Wednesday, oct. 8 events: Convocation 10 a.m., CPaCS Building dedication, 11 a.m., and Campus Reception, 12 p.m. Thursday, oct. 9 events: HPeR Groundbreaking Ceremony, TBa. friday, oct. 10 events: Campus Bus Tours, 1:00-3:30 p.m. and all-university Homecoming Celebration, 6 p.m. Saturday, oct. 11 events: university open House, 9 a.m., Pre-game Tailgate Party, 11 a.m., and Homecoming football Game, 1 p.m. for more details, visit www.uno100.org/ calendar.

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10/10 through 10/26: The Giver at The Rose. imagine a perfect world with no poverty, no crime, no sickness, no unemployment and no unhappiness. What would you be willing to give up to live in this idyllic society? Lois Lowry’s newberry Medal-winning book, The Giver, examines the idea that people might freely choose to give up their humanity in order to create a more stable civilization. in this compelling drama, 12-year-old Jonas learns just how costly this ordered and pain-free society can be and boldly decides he cannot pay the price. Best for ages 9-12. 60 minutes. Tickets are $16 each or free with membership. The Rose Theater, 2001 farnam Street. for performance times and information, visit www.rosetheater.org

The durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St., omaha. visit www.durhammuseum.org for more information. Register by calling 402-444-5027.

10/10: Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby at The Holland. omaha Performing arts will host Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby at The Holland Center as part of the first national Bank Popular entertainers Series. Holland Performing arts Center, 13th and douglas streets, omaha. visit www.omahaperformingarts.org for more information.

10/13: Market to Market Relay. designed for runners of all abilities, the 86-mile Market-To-Market relay race is now accepting applications. The endurance race will take up to 150 teams of six to eight persons from the old Market in omaha to the Haymarket in Lincoln and through small towns, rural farms, downtown brick roads, state parks, over rivers and streams and across the plains. The race will be followed by a celebration in the Haymarket from 3:30 to 11:30 p.m. with live music, radio remotes, food and drinks. The race will be limited to 150 teams. Team registration is available at www. markettomarketrelay.com

10/10: Teachers’ Night at The Durham. Being a teacher is hard work! do something easy! Join us for the area’s largest free resource expo for educators. Meet with more than 80 community exhibitors, performers and presenters who provide resources and tools to help you in the classroom. Participate in teaching demonstrations with scholars from the Smithsonian Center for education and Museum Studies. enjoy a complimentary appetizer and cocktail reception. Sit back and relax to some live music. enter to win door prizes from the area’s best restaurants and entertainment venues. Take a guided tour of the museum’s permanent collections and the traveling exhibition eyewitness: american originals from the national archives. from 5-9 p.m.

september/october | 2008

10/12: Zoo Run at Omaha’s Zoo. Lace up your shoes for the 28th annual fooZ Zoo Run! Whether you’re an avid racer or if you prefer to stroll, Zoo Run will feature something for everyone with your choice of a one or five-mile course. omaha’s Henry doorly Zoo, 3701 S. 10th St., visit www. omahazoo.com or call 733-8401 for more information. 10/12: Live Music by Mark Irvin. Soaring Wings vineyard. acoustic Sundays Series from 2-5 p.m. no cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information.

10/15-10/19: Opera Omaha’s Pirates of Penzance. not all the pirates are from the Caribbean! When a Pirate King and his band of noble men gone wrong match wits with a fast-talking Major General, it takes an army of dancing Bobbies and the determination of young lovers to set all to right. Gilbert and Sullivan at their hilarious best! Performances on 10/15, 10/17 and 10/19 at the orpheum Theatre, Slosburg Hall, 409 S. 16th St. for more information, visit www.operaomaha.org.

10/17-10/19: 20th Annual Fall Home & Garden Expo. The best place to find innovative ideas and the latest improvements for your home. The annual expo has become the Midwest’s Largest fall showcase of the latest products and services for the home inside and out! fri. 5-10 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost is $7 adults, $3.50 children 5-12. Quest Center omaha, 455 n. 10th St. for more information, visit www.Showofficeonline. com/fallHGeStart.html, or call 346-8003. 10/18: Alegent Health’s Jewels of Autumn. now in its 3rd year, this alegent Health foundation event will include food, drink, entertainment and a silent auction, with proceeds going to benefit in-patient cancer care at alegent Health Lakeside Hospital. 6 p.m. for more information, contact Catherine Tevis at 343-4575. 10/18: Hearts of Hope Event. Midwest Heart Connection’s fifth annual fund-raiser, Hearts of Hope, will be held at the Holiday inn Convention Center, 3321 S. 72nd St., omaha. all proceeds go to improve awareness, detection and treatment of congenital heart disease, as well as support those -- young and old – as they navigate the medical maze of the no. 1 occurring birth defect. The “night for Little Hearts and Big Miracles” will include a social hour, dinner, live entertainment and silent and oral auctions. This year’s honorary chairs are dr. Carl and Teri Gumbiner of omaha. Benefit chairs are Peter and Kim Castellano of Bellevue and Charlie and Jenny Medinger of Lincoln. nationally, about 40,000 infants – 250 in nebraska -- are born each year with congenital heart disease, which is the most common cause of death among all birth defects. defects range from a simple hole to complex defects where half the heart is missing. for more information on congenital heart defects, visit the Midwest Heart Connection Web site at www.midwestheartconnection.com.

10/19: Live Music by Matt Whipkey. Soaring Wings vineyard. acoustic Sundays Series from 2-5 p.m. no cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 10/19: Pealman, Schmidt, Bailey Trio Perform. This talented trio on piano, violin, and cello will perform at 3 p.m. an arts across nebraska event with the Lied Center. admission is free. visit www.liedcenter.org for more information. 10/19: Spooky Storytelling at Fontenelle Forest. SPooKY SToRieS will be shared in the cool, crisp autumn air at fontenelle forest nature Center, 1111 Bellevue Boulevard north Bellevue, 7 p.m. Sponsored by nebraska Storyarts. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for members of nSa, seniors and children. (recommended for children over 10). visit www.fontenelleforest. org for more information. 10/21: k.d. lang at The Holland. This GRaMMY® award-winning singer and songwriter presents works from her new album “Watershed.” 7: 30 p.m., Holland Performing arts Center, 13th and douglas streets, omaha. visit www.omahaperformingarts.org for more information. 10/23: Capitol Steps Productions at The Holland Center. an nPR favorite, this talented troupe transforms familiar tunes into hilarious political parodies. omaha Performing arts presents Capital Steps Productions at The Holland Center. 7:30 p.m. at the orpheum Theater, 4096 S. 16th St., omaha. visit www. omahaperformingarts.org or call 345-0202 for more information. 10/23: Women’s Fund Fall Luncheon. Meet. Connect. Build a network. attend the Women’s fund of Greater omaha annual fall Luncheon. Holiday inn Central, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. featuring networking expert Susan Roane. Register at www. omahawomensfund.org or call 402-827-9280. 10/25 through 1/18/09: Diego Rivera Exhibit at Joslyn Art Museum. drawn from the collection of the Museum of art of the State of veracruz in orizaba, Mexico, the approximately 35 works in this exhibition survey the entire career of diego Rivera, including his earliest work in Mexico and his period of study in Paris, where his paintings took on the influence of impressionism, and later, as a colleague of Picasso, Cubism. The exhibition culminates with examples of Rivera’s monumental paintings of Mexican rural subjects, for which he is most well known. a student of the academy of San Carlos in Mexico City, Rivera was nurtured in the classical tradition but soon became part of the international

avant garde movement that gathered in Paris in the first two decades of the 1900s. Joslyn art Museum, 2200 dodge St. visit www.joslyn.org or call 342-3300 for more information. 10/25: Chili Fest at Arrowhead Park. Come out and enjoy a warm bowl of chili in the crisp fall air. The chili fest will include children’s games, chili tasting and people’s choice voting. all ages are welcome to attend. Please meet at Breezee Lodge. arrowhead Park, neola, ia. from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Please call 712.485.2295 for more information. 10/26: Halloween Hike at Hitchcock Nature Center. Wear your costumes and bring little ones for a special Halloween Trail at Hitchcock. event will also include pumpkin painting and carving, modern-day apple bobbing, and refreshments. Please meet at the Trailhead. Cost: $5.00 per family. 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Hitchcock nature Center, Honey Creek, ia. Please call 712.485.2295 for more information. 10/26: Live Music by Tim Koehn Soaring Wings Vineyard. acoustic Sundays Series from 2-5 p.m. no cover charge. 17111 S. 138th St., Springfield. Call 253-2479 or visit www.soaringwingswine.com for more information. 10/26: Halloween Fun Day at Village Pointe. Ghouls and goblins, pirates and princesses are invited for games, treats and free Polaroid photos (while supplies last) during an afternoon of drawing for a $50 village Pointe gift card. free to public. Sun. 3-6 p.m., village Pointe Shopping Center, 168th & West dodge Road. visit www.villagepointeshopping.com or call 505-9773 for more information. 10/26: Spooktacular at Omaha’s Zoo. Put on your best costume and head to omaha’s Zoo for its terrorific Halloween celebration. This event is a funfilled, yummy time for characters of all ages. visit more than 15 sponsored treat stations with candy and goodies, or take a chilling ride on the terror train (children in costume are free with a paying adult). Cost is free with zoo admission. from 10a.m. – 3 p.m. omaha’s Henry doorly Zoo, 3701 S. 10th St. visit www. omahazoo.com or call 733-8401 for more information.

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Story by Maureen O'Halloran Clark Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Retired Judge Jane Prochaska Advocate for Individuals with Dementia

Sandwich generation: she’s looking out for you.

etired Douglas County Judge Jane Prochaska is working 60- to 80-hour weeks, and loving it! She is founder and president of Silver Memories, Inc., which provides assisted living within family-style homes for elderly individuals with various forms of dementia. The seeds for her career switch were sown on September 11, 2001, when her mother suffered a stroke. After her hospitalization, she remained confused and in need of constant care. Every day after work, Prochaska would check out placements for her mother. “Many

facilities put dementia patients in a locked hallway. They park them in a wheelchair to sit and drool all day. Those places seemed sterile and cold; they were not a home… Here I was the senior probate judge, but when it came to my own mother, I was depressed and overwhelmed.” Prochaska lost her mother in November 2004, but she had found a new passion. In April 2006, she took a class to become a licensed assisted living administrator. That fall, she bought a house not far from 126th and Pacific streets. She also became aware that another residential home for individuals with Alzheimer’s was closing. Prochaska retired as a judge December 31, 2006. January 2, she took title to the property formerly known as Betty’s House. Since it continued on next page

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continued from previous page

already had residents, she was back to work immediately. In addition, she remodeled her home off of Pacific Street. It opened August 1 that same year. Her husband is president and owner of the architectural firm Prochaska & Associates. “I tell people I’m sleeping with my architect for architectural services,� she laughed, referring to their 33-year marriage. The homes are staffed 24 hours a day. Several medical professionals, including physicians and a psychiatrist, also make house calls. Numerous precautions have been taken to ensure the residents’ safety, including monitoring by hidden video cameras. Meals at the homes are cooked in the kitchen and served family-style at the dining room table. Prochaska says, “I tell families, ‘When you come to visit your mom or dad at Silver Memories, it is like visiting in their own home. The difference is that when you leave, you don’t have to worry.’� Though she didn’t realize it at the time, her preparation for this work began long before her experience with her mother. As a young lawyer, she was the guardian for several dozen elderly individuals. Then, in 1985, she was appointed as a judge and specialized in probate law, which included handling wills, conservatorships, guardianships, and end of life directives. “My work as a judge specializing in probate law dovetailed very nicely with what I am doing now.� Mary Egler appreciates Prochaska’s work at Silver Memories. Her mother had Alzheimer’s and lived there for 11 months. “My mother received excellent care. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Pricewise, it was comparable to the nursing homes we checked, but it was more personal—like being at home.� She was able to involve hospice at Silver Memories. Egler remembers, “When she died, she was able to stay in her own bed, and she was not scared. That meant the world to me.�

Photos by minorwhitestudios.com Story by Tina King

At Home With Troy Crawford and Andy Gill

he stand of giant maple trees were a big draw when Troy Crawford and Andy Gill chose the lot for their new home.

It’s not often to find such natural old growth in Omaha’s newer northwest neighborhoods. Although several of those old trees came crashing down during the high-wind summer storm that felled so many area trees, the yard is still a botanical haven. The back deck now just gets a little extra sunlight. Crawford chose this home six years ago for its proximity to his salon One Drake Place in the Bel Air Plaza. He opened the salon in 2000, where he and Gill both work as stylists.

Crawford enjoys interacting with guests while cooking. Red walls, maple cabinets, granite counters.

continued on page 21

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It is Gill who takes the lead on gardening and decorating. “He makes a house a home,” Crawford says. “It’s nice.” The home is welcoming from the start, with planting beds extending far beyond the typical front porch beds all the way to the sidewalk. Hot pink Knockout roses frame yellow moonbeam coreopsis. The arching lines of ornamental grasses compliment the three trunks of the river birch tree. Large limestone slabs provide steps to the backyard, where the garden’s multiple layers provide a great backdrop for entertaining. Professional landscapers hauled in the dirt and created curved berms, but Gill did all the planting. The garden is eye-catching at many levels, as Gill varied the heights of potted annuals,

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planted perennials and striking statuary. Birds have plenty of homes to nest in and can stop by for a drink at the fountain, which adds a calming effect to the outdoor dining area. Animals, most likely traveling from nearby Standing Bear Lake, like to dine in the yard, too. One morning, Crawford came out to see a deer – one he initially thought was a lifelike statue – nibbling on the perennials. “All kinds of stuff comes crawling out of there,” he says of the forest-like surroundings. Inside the house, earth tones on the walls create a sense of richness and comfort. The warm gray in the living room provides a backdrop for the sparkle and jewel tones of a textile made from old Indian saris. Mexican facemasks are souvenirs from former trips. Tibetan bowls are indicative of a hoped-for trip to come. “I’m kind of into the Buddhist theme,” Gill

This silver piece has been in Gill's family since the 1970s and comes in handy for entertaining.

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The backyard is a welcome respite at the end of the day. Gill has spent three years working on the garden.

continued from page 21

says of some of his choices. Throughout his home, Gill specifically places metallic pieces to add a striking contrast to the earth tones. The rich shale blue on the master bedroom walls contrasts with the dark wood of the four poster bed. Silver metallics - a Z Gallerie find framed above the bed and a giant framed mirror add finishing touch finesse. Gill admits a fondness for Z Gallerie, and applauds the store’s introduction to the Omaha market a few years ago. “It’s so nice not to have to drive to Kansas City anymore,” Crawford agrees.

The men call the home a “work in progress,” although it’s fully decorated and furnished throughout. In the six years they’ve lived there, they’ve repainted some rooms three times to keep things updated. The powder room is on its third light fixture, but this one really works. The walls are the deepest chocolate brown, and a small but elegant chandelier drips glass in front of the mirror. In the kitchen, “Rockies Red” paint, maple cabinetry and granite countertops create a pleasing atmosphere for Crawford’s cooking. The space opens up to the living room so the cook is a part of continued on page 24

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every party. Guests can also retreat to play pool in the ranch-style home’s finished basement. A cylinder light was a Pottery Barn find, and the 1970s silver bar and display case is a family piece that looks as contemporary as if it were just purchased. A trip out to Fremont resulted in the bedding finds for the guest bedroom, as

well as a referral to have the custommade leather headboard completed. Again, a four-foot mirror propped against the wall adds sparkle and appears to enlarge the space. “You can’t ever have too many mirrors, right?” Crawford asks. Throughout their home, Crawford says they stick to one design philosophy. “If you like it, it goes.”

2008 Nebraska — Iowa

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Nebraska-Iowa chapter will announce the recipients of the chapter project awards September 12, 2008, at their awards banquet at the Omaha Country Club. The 52 entrants competed in 15 categories in both residential and contract divisions. Following is a sampling of projects entered from local interior designers.

Residential Model Home/Showhouse Gwen Ahrens, ASID, & Becki Wiechman, ASID The Interior Design Firm 17110 Lakeside Hills Plaza, Omaha, NE 68130 (photo: Craig Fulkerson Photography) The floor plan created for this project was designed for family – a frontfacing kitchen allows a full view of both the front and back yards. In the kitchen, the large island features two tiers, perfect for preparation and presentation. The custom stair rail pattern highlights the openness of all three floors of this home.

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Contract Healthcare Mary Carter, ASID, Becky Jackson, ASID, & Jordan Edick, Allied Member ASID The Interior Design Firm 17110 Lakeside Hills Plaza, Omaha, NE 68130 The signature clubhouse is the hub of a west Omaha senior living campus. A dramatic two-sided fireplace with a 10’ water feature addresses the volume of the space. Lounge areas surround the fireplace and provide comfortable seating for those waiting to dine.

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Residential 7000 sq. ft. + Julie Odermatt, ASID D3 Interiors 3919 S 147 St. Ste. 124, Omaha, NE 68144 (photo: Kessler Photography) The designer helped create a casual, contemporary home that reflects Ron & Stacey Andersen’s lifestyle of business and personal entertaining. The circular pattern on the entry doors inspired many features throughout the home. The color palette includes punches of brown, copper, paprika, camel and black.

Residential 3500-7000 sq. ft. Marilyn S. Hansen, FASID The Designers Furniture Gallery 12123 Emmet Street Omaha, NE 68164 Architect: Brian Stokes, AIA (photo: Tom Kessler) This retired couple chose to build on an Iowa golf course for summertime fun entertaining family and friends. They requested a huge kitchen conducive to casual entertaining for large groups. Using durable Australian Cypress wood floors and Persian Brown granite countertops, a more rustic yet formal approach was achieved.

Residential Model Home/Showhouse Marian Holden, Allied Member ASID Designer’s Touch 2085 N 120 St., Ste. D9, Omaha, NE 68164 This 2007 Street of Dreams house was designed to include all the charm of an oOld World European villa with all the modern conveniences desired in today’s home. Some of the features include a curved mahogany staircase, classic travertine and tumbled marble, French doors, mahogany stained floors, and soaring windows.

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Contract-Corporate Mindy Zauha-Filipi, Allied ASID, LEED AP Avant Architects 3337 N 107 St, Omaha, NE 68134 Project Architects: Larry Smith, AIA, Matt Kvapil, AIA, Stephen Weber, AIA (photo: Kessler Photography) The concept, both interior and exterior, mimics the classic “prairie” style design with hints of simplistic, personalized modern trends. The relatively simple color palette allows for unique architectural forms and textures to stand alone.

Residential 3500-7000 sq. ft. Charlotte Dann, ASID, & Angela Bruno, Allied Member ASID D3 Interiors 3919 S 147 St. Ste. 124, Omaha, NE 68144 (photo: Kessler Photography) Our challenge as a design team was to create in the home of Jason & Jasmine Pittack a rich, old world feel with the warmth of a French country estate that reflects the client’s interests in antiques. The color palette was updated with deeper tones of burgundy, olive green, tobacco, domino and federal gold.

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402 • 502 • 7309 3919 S. 147th St. Suite 124 Omaha, NE 68144 www.D3interiors.net

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Photos by Tom Kessler Kris Patton, ASID

Lake Living At Its Finest

The architectural trusses, custom window treatments and unique lighting application combine to create a dramatic great room, perfect for both lounging and entertaining. Layering textures, leathers and fabrics gives the furnishings a warm, sophisticated look. Beautiful draperies complete the look in this posh master suite.

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ig Sandy Lake near Ashland, Nebraska, provides a scenic backdrop for the custom-built home that graces one of its generously proportioned lots. Kris Patton, ASID, professional interior designer with Interiors Joan and Associates, worked with Zegers Construction to design and build the home. Being situated on a lake, several special considerations were taken when designing the floor plan and making the selections for the home. Patton strived to create a comfortable retreat for her client that could stand up to the wear and tear that lake living naturally weighs on a home. To create this casual elegance while still maintaining an upscale feel, the designer chose an array of textures to layer within the home, a range of

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wood tones to complement the textures, and a distressed finish on the wood floors to provide durability. The home had to be comfortable, livable and unique; designing her client’s second home getaway was like choosing a fun red purse instead of a functional brown purse, Patton said metaphorically. Upon entering this lake retreat, the great room envelopes you with warm colors of chocolate, copper, persimmons and muted greens. Dramatic trusses are suspended from the ceiling and add to the drama of this main gathering space. Large windows invite the beautiful outdoors in, and custom window treatments are complemented by the unexpected placement of architectural sconces installed on the columns between the windowpanes. A variety of leathers, fabrics and textures layer the room, completing the inviting space. Every detail is attended to… even the flat screen TV is thoughtfully concealed by custom-designed sliding wooden doors against the stone fireplace. The floor plan includes an open kitchen, a four-seasons room that can easily open or close to the rest of the home

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using large sliding glass doors, a large master suite, guest rooms, and an open loft that can effortlessly accommodate additional guests or serve as a media suite. Natural materials such as granites, hand-blown amber glass, quartz, travertine and knotty alder wood combine to create a sophisticated rustic look throughout the home. Hand-forged metalwork is also introduced in the hood of the kitchen, the glass of the sliding doors and the apron of the powder bath vanity to compliment the rustic ambience in an understated way. Farmhouse hammered copper sinks with deckmounted faucets add to the quaint appeal of the home. When every last detail came to fruition, it was difficult for Patton to name one favorite aspect of the project. “How the warmth of the home greets you immediately, how the spaces so flawlessly play off of each other, the impeccable detailing in the furnishings… these are the true triumphs of this project,” Patton said. And who could disagree? The home is a perfect place for sun, sand and fun with friends and family.

The four-seasons room easily opens up to the kitchen and becomes an extension of space for entertaining. Glass, metal and stone combine to create a designer look. Notice the hand-blown glass fixture above the kitchen island. Custom metalwork was also integrated into the copper hood. Natural grass cloth wall covering gives a textural interest to the powder room. The master suite seating area boasts natural grass shades, architectural furniture and layered leathers.

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Story by Donald Rashid Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Large-Scale Vision A Wide-Angle Lens into the Heart of James Scholz

Scholz shot 5,000 images over 20 days in Paris for one in a series of books on the world’s great cities and regions.

love the interplay of three dimensions and shadows. Through photography, I see in new and better ways. I don’t consciously sit down and think about the perfect shot. I don’t always have an agenda,” says Omaha-based photographer James Scholz. Stepping inside his downtown Omaha studio offers a glimpse into his heart and soul. Large-scale images of nature scenes and beautiful people adorn the light-filled walls. His creative vision and personal philosophy embody a deep reverence for God’s gift of nature. Scholz says, “I like being a photographer because it involves solving problems. The challenge is to come up with beautiful pictures that are favorable for the client. Photography offers a sense of beauty and design.” His work has taken him on trips to the West for nature scenes and client shoots in Omaha, Kansas City, Mo., and Dallas, Texas. “I like shooting buildings because architects understand the time it takes to produce good photos. Architects work on some projects for

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three or four years; they give me artistic rewards and freedom.” Scholz’s lifestyle embraces a sense of faith and self-worth. His first career as a Roman Catholic priest culminated after 17 years as the Pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He describes the transition period after 27 years as a priest and eight years of seminary training as “retiring” from his ministry. “I always had a passion for photography. On my days off,

I would be working in the darkroom.” “In 2000, I started my business and had the courage (or faith) to start without any promise of economic security.” Scholz says, tongue-in-cheek, that “starting the business was a lesson in abject stupidity. I never thought about failing in this endeavor.” He didn’t imagine that seven years later he would be shooting 5,000 images over 20 days in the “City of Lights,” Paris, France. “I was originally hired to shoot photographs for Paris: Icons, and it became obvious that it would be mutually beneficial for me to be a business partner in this project.” According to their website www.iconimages.us, Leslie Little and Scholz formed their company Icon Images to create a series of books, each designed to capture the beauty and

essence of the world’s great cities and regions. Scholz explains his passion for his life succinctly. ”Inside myself is a desire to create beauty and capture the essence of time. Photography is one way to do that.” He demonstrated this philosophy by hiking up mountains and sand dunes with 60 pounds of camera equipment. He has invested three days to capture one intense and vibrant image of God’s handiwork. He adds, “I smile at myself knowing that I need to be the lowest private or the boss. I know myself well enough to know that being in middle management with a lot of constraints did not fit me well.” “I feel the innate goodness of people and the importance of the environment and the beauty of nature. I was raised in life with outrageous optimism. I like to make a positive influence wherever I do, whatever I am about. I like seeing people happier and being able to contribute to their lives.”

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31

Story by: Sandy Lemke Photo by: minorwhitestudios.com

Fosse owns Carol Fosse Contemporary Clothing, an established women’s specialty store in rockbrook village. Fosse says her store is the best part of her life. “i love my work!” good genes and a positive attitude are how this stylish lady stays looking fabulous. Fosse’s style reflects the fashion in her boutique. “Casual, but sophisticated – at least i try for that.” here’s a woman after our own heart: Fosse has a soft spot for black pants – only this shop owner has way more than most! “my extravagance is i own at least 40 pair of black pants, always searching for the perfect pair. however, i think that would involve dieting.” Fosse does have two fave flattering brands: Cambio and Panticular. We all need to relax once in a while. how does she do it working retail hours? “i really enjoy do-it-yourself projects. i’m pretty proud of the wall i built and the pocket door i installed in my bathroom.”

Carol Fosse 61

32

september/october | 2008

B. J. Reed, CPACS Dean

UNO’s 100 Anniversary th

By Elizabeth A. Elliott Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

It was the year the National Corn Exposition was held in Omaha. It was the year Carter Lake was named. But most importantly, it was the year of the founding of the University of Nebraska at Omaha 1908. This October marks the 100th anniversary of the University and starts a year of activities dedicated to celebrating that milestone. The theme of the centennial year is “UNO: Central To Our City Since 1908.” According to the website set up for this occasion, www.uno100.org, “The theme acknowledges past contributions of UNO to the community, and sets the stage for great things to come.” UNO will host numerous activities during that kick-off week to celebrate the anniversary. On Oct. 8 there will be a convocation, including a presentation of the state of the university. The week also coincides with UNO’s Homecoming, celebrated on Oct. 11. The Mavs will host Missouri Western. Also planned are the dedication of the new College of Public Affairs and Community Service building and a campus reception. The CPACS building, housed in the extensively renovated and expanded former Engineering building, is an important addition to the UNO campus for many reasons— www.omahapublications.com

including it being one home to more than a half dozen UNO programs. “To my knowledge, we are the last college in the University of Nebraska system to not have our own building,” said B.J. Reed, CPACS Dean. “For the first time we will have all our academic and nonacademic units in the same place.” UNO’s college of public affairs program in CPACS has received national acclaim, having been ranked 27th in the nation by U.S. News America’s Best Graduate Schools in 2009. Various specializations within the program have also been recognized. These include sixth place for information and technology management, ninth place for public finance and budgeting, and 13th place for city management and urban policy. According to Joe Kaminski, director of Campus Recreation, a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Health, Physical Education and Recreation, or HPER, building addition and renovation project is planned for October 9. The proposed features of the HPER Building include: 110 additional parking spaces; 15,000 sq. ft. of weight and fitness space; 11,000 sq. ft. multi-activity court; and a large therapy pool/hot tub. Campus Rec will help to keep the celebratory spirit of the september | october | 2008

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anniversary alive throughout the year, Kaminski said. “All of our published materials for the 2008-2009 year will include the centennial logo, and Campus Recreation student and professional staff shirts will include the logo,” he said. “The annual UNO Health Fair that attracts approximately 1,000 students, faculty and staff will commemorate the centennial of the university, as well.” The College of Business Administration is celebrating with a focus on alumni as part of the MBA Leadership Series, according to Louis G. Pol, dean of the College of Business Administration. “We want to focus on successful alumni,” he said. “Normally, the series includes speakers irrespective of their connection to UNO.” Dr. Pol said the College of Business Administration will also host a reception for scholarship donors and recipients in September, as well as an honors and awards ceremony recognizing major contributors in April 2009. The University began in 1908 as Omaha University. It started as a private Presbyterian-sponsored theological school. The first classes began in 1909. Its name was changed in 1931 to Municipal University of Omaha, and yet again in 1968 to the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The University was originally located at 24th and Pratt streets at the Redick Mansion, and began with 26 students. UNO is now home to approximately 15,000 full- and part-time students. The growth of UNO over the years can be seen in the increase in numbers of students, but also in the number of buildings—both additions and renovations. Along with the changes on the 60th and Dodge streets campus, work continues on the Pacific Street campus, which includes Aksarben Village and the College of Business Administration. Construction on the CBA is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2010. Other UNO campus projects in recent years have included the Durham Science Center: Math & Science Learning Center,

Criss Library Lower Level Renovation and the Milo Bail Student Center Dining Room Renovation. Additional campus living area known as Maverick Village will open this fall, and will add 400 beds for on-campus living. Del Weber, former UNO chancellor, who served from 1977 through 1997, saw UNO evolve in many ways in the time he was there. “As far as students are concerned, I think it went really from a university which too many people referred to as West Dodge High to a university you can be proud to attend,” said Weber. Weber attributed that growth to “the quality of faculty continued to increase, the campus became more aesthetically pleasing and accessible, and it had an increasing number of outstanding programs.” When asked what he thought drew students to UNO, Weber thought the diversity of the programs and student housing were two of the draws. “Omaha itself presents a great opportunity for students,” he said. The UNO Centennial Project Fund is contributing to the celebration through its Gateway newspaper archive project. All of the Gateway editions, from October 3, 1922, through February 2008, are now available digitally through a link on the centennial website, www.uno100.org. University Archivist Les Valentine was involved in getting the Gateway digitized. “This was supposed to be the signature project of the centennial,” he said. “We wanted to make it available to all people, preserve history and make UNO known.” A second project sponsored by the fund will be a presentation at UNO’s Centennial Gala Celebration on February 21, 2009, at the Qwest Center. The UNO Moving Company and the Department of Theater will perform a piece at the event, which is currently titled “Living Tableaus.” The project will demonstrate life throughout the years of UNO with actors and dancers dressed in period costumes. The “black tie optional” event will also feature a guest speaker. Check back to uno100.org for future details.

Day Trips Fall days – it’s Indian summer time. It’s a time we want to hang on to those few days of temperate weather before the bitter cold sets in. Time to do a day trip with the family, perhaps some friends! The Omaha area has no shortage of opportunities: here are a few choice ideas to get you off the mark!

Boys Town Boys Town, forever immortalized in the 1938 classic movie of the same name, is one of Nebraskaís top tourist attractions. Just off of West Dodge Road near 132nd Street, Boys Town has several sites of interest on its campus. Youíre invited to drive through on Village Drive and visit the Hall of History. In it is the Oscar presented to Spencer Tracy for his role in ìBoys Townî and other artifacts. Father Flanagan House, Dowd Memorial Chapel, the Leon Myers Stamp Center, and Gift Shop round out a memorable visit. A peaceful walk and photo opportunities await in the Garden of the Bible and the Rose Garden. Group tours are available. For more information and hours of operation, visit the Boys Town website at www.boystown.org.

www.omahapublications.com

Pioneer Village Nebraska has a hidden gem in Minden’s Pioneer Village. Pioneer Village isn’t a roadside stopover. It’s the perfect day trip! If you drive west on Interstate 80, surely you’ve seen the billboards. They’re as repetitive as the old Burma Shave signs. “See How America Grew” they say. It’s a 28-building complex with authentic historic buildings including a real Pony Express station and a sod house. Wait! There’s more. A three-hour drive will take you to the most amazing treasure collection of old cars and just about everything else. Pioneer Village is like going into your grandpa’s garage; only your grandpa’s garage has 350 vintage cars and 50,000 items, most of which are irreplaceable. One car is the second oldest Buick in the world; one is the founder’s son’s 1974 Pinto. The memorabilia will take you back to your childhood. The technology progression display will amaze your children. Pioneer Village is a slice of Americana; a singular experience. In addition to the museum buildings, Pioneer Village has an RV and campground, motel and restaurant. Pioneer Village is open every day of the year, including all major holidays, except Christmas Day. Summer hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend).

 Admission rates:
 Adult $9.50 + tax.
 Children (6-12 yrs. old) $5.00 + tax
5 yrs. old & under free. 

Every admission includes a free pass for the following day. For more information, see www.pioneervillage.org.

september | october | 2008

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Another first in heart care.

For the first time, J.D. Power and Associates, one of the world’s leading independent marketing information firms, has designated a Nebraska hospital as a Distinguished Hospital for Cardiovascular Excellence. It’s the opinion of cardiology patients at The Nebraska Medical Center which has resulted in this prestigious award and that’s why we feel so honored to receive it. And, for the third consecutive year, The Nebraska Medical Center joins a select group of hospitals nationwide that have demonstrated the ability to consistently deliver “An Outstanding Patient Experience for Inpatient Services.” In fact, only the top 20 percent of acute care hospitals in the United States are able to qualify for the J.D. Power and Associates Distinguished Hospital program. We are very grateful to our patients for these extraordinary honors.

Call 800.922.0000, or visit NebraskaMed.com

Omaha’s Distinctively Delightful Neighborhoods Omaha isn’t a hodgepodge, bland, nor is it homogenous. Each area of town reflects the individuality of its residents. More established parts of town reflect and nurture the community’s proud history while building for future generations.

Just Outside Omaha

Attractions in Ashland, Gretna, Waterloo, Blair, Bennington, Elkhorn Valley • Strategic Air and Space Museum • Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium and Nature Center • Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari and Conservation Park

Northwest Omaha

Northwest Omaha is an expanding area for new development and homes. Kids of all ages flock to Tranquility Park for hockey practice and recreational ice skating. Its rolling hills are a rest from the built-up sectors further east. Attractions in Northwest Omaha • Standing Bear Lake • Lake Cunningham • Tranquility Park and Ice Rink • Champions Club

The Cox Classic at Champions Club

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A copy of Omaha Magazine is in hotel rooms throughout the Metro area. It’s a handy reference for visitors looking for something to do, a place to dine, or just get a feel for the city during their stay. For Bob Gunderson, a casual glance at the hotel magazine surprised him beyond belief. The hotel version’s cover of Omaha Magazine’s July/August 2007 issue featured two WWII pilots with embedded reporter Walter Cronkite. The photo illustrated an exhibit at Strategic Air & Space Museum to display the efforts of the USO. One of the pilots in the photo was Gunderson’s brother, now deceased. He was shot down in his plane. “I had been looking for a photo of my brother all these years,” wrote Gunderson in a long, heartfelt letter. It’s an amazing story, and one we are pleased to share with our readers.

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september | october | 2008

Southwest Omaha

Southwest Omaha is the address of choice for residents choosing the Millard School District. This, combined with many newer housing choices and recreational options make it particularly appealing. Attractions in Southwest Omaha • Lake Zorinsky • Wehrspann Lake • Walnut Grove Park • Chalco Hills Recreation Area

West Central Omaha

Proximity to Westroads and Von Maur are just two of the benefits to West Central Omaha. The West Dodge Express Lanes have made traffic oh-so-much easier. Attractions in West Central Omaha • Jewish Community Center • Boys Town • Numerous golf courses

Father Flanagan Statue at Boys Town

www.omahapublications.com

september | october | 2008

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Celebrities born in Omaha Jaime King (1979) actress, fashion model Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 4/23/1979 Jorge Garcia (1973) comedian Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 4/28/1973 Bryan Greenberg (1978) actor Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 5/24/1978 Yolonda Ross (1974) actress Born: Omaha, Nebraska 8/1974 Gabrielle Union (1973) actress Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 10/29/1973 Jay Karnes (1963) actor Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 6/27/1963 Alexander Payne (1961) director Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 2/10/1961 Paula Zahn (1956) newscaster Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 2/24/1956 David Forbes (1945) film industry executive Born: Omaha, Nebraska on 11/9/1945

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Bellevue and Sarpy County

Bellevue and Sarpy County are well known as the home of Offutt Air Force Base. The population is growing and so are the services, such as shopping with the new Shadow Lake Towne Center on Highway 370 and 72nd Street. Attractions in Bellevue/Sarpy County • Olde Town Bellevue • Offutt Air Force Base • Sarpy County Museum • Bellevue University • Bellevue Little Theater

Ralston, LaVista and Papillion

Ralston/LaVista and Papillion are moving from bedroom communities to business centers in their own right, particularly LaVista. A large PayPal center is located in LaVista as well as Oriental Trading Company. Attractions in Ralston/LaVista/Papillion • Papio Bay Aquatic Center • Walnut Creek Lake • LaVista Sports Complex • Seymour Smith Park • Cabela’s

North Omaha

North Omaha has many homes built in important architectural styles. Its African-American heritage is rich; it is the birthsite of an important figure in our nation’s history: Malcolm X. Attractions in North Omaha • The historic Florence neighborhood • Historical Society of Douglas County • Great Plains Black History Museum • Malcolm X Birthsite • Urban League Family Resource Center • Mormon Trail Center • Omaha Home for Boys • Metropolitan Community College’s Fort Omaha Campus

South Omaha

South Omaha is where you’ll find several pockets of immigrant communities. You have the Little Italy neighborhood, with a group of newly built townhomes reflecting this history. Then there is the Eastern European flavor remaining on some of the business names near the Livestock Exchange Building. In more recent generations, a Latino flavor is ours to enjoy in the authentic restaurants and Mexican grocery store. Attractions in South Omaha • Sokol Hall • Grace University • Mount Vernon Gardens • Henry Doorly Zoo • Chicano Awareness Center • El Museo Latino • Lauritzen Gardens – Omaha’s Botanical Center • Metropolitan Community College’s South Omaha Campus www.omahapublications.com

september | october | 2008

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Become Part of the Great Tradition of Catholic Education Creighton Preparatory School 7400 Western Avenue, Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 393-1190 www.creightonprep.creighton.edu

Gross Catholic High School 7700 South 43rd Street, Bellevue, NE 68147 (402) 734-2000 www.grosscatholic.org

Duchesne Academy 3601 Burt Street, Omaha, NE 68131 (402) 558-3800 www.DuchesneAcademy.org

Marian High School 7400 Military Avenue, Omaha, NE 68134 (402) 571-2618 www.marianhighschool.net

Mount Michael Benedictine High School 22520 Mount Michael Road, Elkhorn, NE 68022 (402) 289-2541 www.mountmichael.org

Mercy High School 1501 S. 48th Street, Omaha, NE 68106 (402) 553-9424 www.mercyhigh.org

St. Peter Claver Cristo Rey Catholic High School Roncalli Catholic High School 5301 S. 36th Street, Omaha, NE 68107 6401 Sorensen Parkway, Omaha, NE 68152 (402) 734-1802 (402) 571-7670 www.spccristorey.org www.roncallicatholic.org V.J. and Angela Skutt Catholic High School 3131 S. 156th Street, Omaha, NE 68130 (402) 333-0818 www.skuttcatholic.com

Good News Bad News

Others

are realizing what we have known for years – we have a solid metropolitan community to raise families and locate a business. We have no shortage of cultural opportunities due to the stable economy and generous support of the arts. As with other cities, our metro can’t be all utopia. Good news first. And it is very, very good. Worldwide ERC® and Primacy Relocation named Omaha/Council Bluffs number one on their “Best Cities for Relocating Families™” list. The Greater Omaha area is in the mid-sized metro-area category, which includes cities with a population of 600,000 - 1.3 million. Kiplinger’s Personal Finance online edition posted their “10 Best Cities of 2008” and Omaha ranked number three.

 Kiplinger’s selects locales that offer strong econocontinued on page 12

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september | october | 2008

photo by Patrick Drickey, Stonehouse Publishing Co.

Council Bluffs, Iowa

Our neighbor to the east is an attractive option for many with its proximity to downtown Omaha and lower taxes. Attractions in Council Bluffs: • Wabash Trace Nature Trail • Lake Manawa State Park • Ameristar and Harrah’s Casino Hotels • Bluffs Run Casino and Greyhound Park • Mid-America Center • Bass Pro Shops

Great Places to Live

Omaha has no shortage of brand-new McMansions with enough square footage for a reality show. These homes are simply breathtaking with equally spectacular landscaping. Seasoned sub-neighborhoods are in demand for many Omahans looking for established character and location not so far west or northwest. Some of these neighborhoods are: Dundee was once its own municipality. The heart of Dundee is 50th & Underwood – it’s a charming neighborhood of brick exterior homes and a business district of small shops, restaurants and an art movie theater. Fontenelle Hills in Bellevue is a tucked-away treasure in Sarpy County for many USSTRATCOM officers stationed at Offutt Air Force Base. It has its own golf course. Mature trees add to its appeal. Happy Hollow is just west of Dundee. With large yards and curving boulevards lined with old-fashioned streetlights with hanging planters, Happy Hollow is one of the most desirable zip codes in Omaha. Regency, a now-established neighborhood, contains some of Omaha’s most famous homes – the Witherspoon Mansion, the Watanabe mansion (soon to be demolished) and the Willy Theisen mansion. Theisen, of Godfather’s Pizza fame, no longer lives in the home, but the moniker remains. infoUSA founder Vin Gupta lives in Regency. Regency is part of a larger planned community that includes an office park and upscale shopping center. It is right in the middle of town and convenient to the interstate. Other great established neighborhoods: Gold Coast, Rockbrook, Keystone, Saddle Creek/Leavenworth, Westgate, Miracle Hills and Eagle Run. We don’t have space to mention the many more fabulous neighborhoods to discover.

www.omahapublications.com

september | october | 2008

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Every story written by women, for women, from a woman’s point of view.

continued from page 10

mies, abundant jobs, reasonable cost of living and fun things to do.

 To create their list, Kiplinger’s teamed with Kevin Stolarick, research director at the Martin Prosperity institute, a think tank that studies economic prosperity. In the news release, Stolarick stated, “One key to a bright future is a healthy shot of people in the creative class. People in creative fields -- scientists, engineers, architects, educators, writers, artists and entertainers -- are catalysts of vitality and livability in a city.”

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issue. Let’s hope for a better ranking next time.

Downtown Omaha

Downtown Omaha is the cultural and arts center of the Metro. Those who want to live and play close to the action look at the loft condominiums in the Old Market. Attractions in Downtown Omaha: • Joslyn Art Museum • Omaha Children’s Museum • Creighton University • Orpheum Theater • Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts • KANEKO • The Durham Museum • The Rose • The Old Market

Gene Leahy Mall in Downtown Omaha

To Eppley Airfield

11TH

Downtown Omaha

River City Star

HAMILTON

Miller's Landing Park

AB

BO

TT

DR IV

E

PAUL

NICHOLAS

In Play

Hampton Inn

Homewood Suites

Holiday Inn

RIVERFRONT

Fairfield Inn

10TH

12TH

13TH

14TH

15TH

16TH

17TH

18TH

19TH

21ST

20TH

CUMING 23RD

Gallup University Campus

DRIVE

24TH

Hot Shops

IZARD

Metro Area Transit

Riverfront Trail

Riverfront Place

BURT Slowdown / Film Streams

Creighton University Baseball Complex

WEBSTER

Levee Trail

Creighton University

Missouri River Pedestrian Bridge

National Park Service

Creighton University Medical Center

Creighton University Morrison Soccer Stadium

CALIFORNIA

CALIFORNIA

CASS

Qwest Center Omaha

CASS

480

Omaha Marina

Hilton Omaha Hotel

CHICAGO

Music Hall

Zorinsky Federal Bldg.

Mancuso Hall

Central High School

First National Bank Technology Center First Nat'l Bank "Pioneer Courage" Park

Hruska Courthouse

DOUGLAS

First Nat'l Tower

10TH

902 Dodge

W. Dale Clark Library

Central Park Plaza

Gene Leahy Mall

FARNAM

Heartland of America Park and Fountain

1600 Farnam

Omaha / Douglas Civic Center Hall of Justice

The Paxton

Omaha Convention and Visitors Bureau

Landmark Center

Nebraska State Bldg.

Redick Hotel

Regis Condos

HARNEY M.U.D.

DEWEY

YMCA

O.P.P.D. Energy Plaza

Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce

Orpheum Theatre

21ST

Omaha Police Headquarters

Omaha Fire Department

The Old Market

Embassy Suites

jLofts

18TH

20TH

22ND

1101 Jackson Blue Barn Theatre

10TH

Residence Inn

11TH

12TH

13TH

15TH

14TH

ST. MARYS

16TH

Greyhound Bus Depot

Liberty School

CO NA

GR

A

JACKSON

JACKSON

a Iow ka s bra

24TH

ConAgra Campus

HOWARD Magnolia Hotel

Omaha Childrens Museum

Ne

HOWARD

27TH

Heartland Pedestrian Bridge

Burlington Bldg. / Nebr. Arts Council

FARNAM The Rose Theater

Federal Reserve

HARNEY

28TH

480

Beebe and Runyan Lofts Courtyard by Marriot

Hilton Garden Inn

Holland Performing Arts Center

Federal Bldg.

Enclave at the Brandeis Woodmen Tower

29TH

1024 Dodge

DODGE Omaha WorldHerald

Union Pacific

DOUGLAS

Scottish Rite

PARK AVE

11TH

Wall Street Tower

"Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness" Park

First Nat'l Tower Plaza

8TH

St. Mary Magdalene

12TH

DoubleTree Hotel First Nat'l Bank

13TH

17TH

18TH

20TH

Trinity Cathedral

DODGE

480

Rick's Cafe Boatyard

Omaha World-Herald Freedom Center

CAPITOL

19TH

Joslyn Art Museum

DAVENPORT

River

Omaha Civic Auditorium

DAVENPORT

15TH

22ND

Lewis and Clark Landing Martin Luther King Pedestrian Bridge

Seemann Stadium

Missouri

Boys Town National Research Hospital

DR

IVE

UP Harriman Center

JONES

Corrections Center

The KANECKO Bemis Center for Contemp. Arts

LEAVENWORTH

LEAVENWORTH

Durham Museum

MARCY

7TH

Rows at SoMa

Map prepared by: Metropolitan Area Planning Agency 2222 Cuming St., Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 444-6866

To Lauritzen Botannical Gardens Rosenblatt Stadium Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo

Map Date: 7/08

www.omahapublications.com

september | october | 2008

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Mercy High School 1501 S. 48 St. Omaha, NE 68106 553-9424 www.mercyhigh.org

Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart

CAThOLIC hIGh SChOOLS

This site lists all Catholic schools in the Omaha Archdiocese: http://schools.archomaha.org FOLLOWING ARE THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOLS:

Bishop Neumann High School 202 South Linden Wahoo, NE 68066 443-4151 www.bishopneumann.com

Coed Junior/Senior High School in Saunders County.

Creighton Preparatory School 7400 Western Ave. Omaha, NE 68114 402-393-1190 www.creightonprep.creighton.com

Omaha’s Jesuit All-Boys High School Since 1878.

St. Peter Claver Cristo Rey Catholic High School 5301 S. 36 St. Omaha, NE 68107 734-1802 http://spccristorey.org www.cristoreynetwork.org

District Office 715-8200 www.mpsomaha.org

Papillion/LaVista Public Schools

All-girls educational community sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy.

Office of Student Services 537-6214 www.paplv.esu3.org

Mount Michael Benedictine High School

Ralston Public Schools

Friedel Jewish Academy

Wahoo Public Schools

PRIVATe, ReLIGIOUS SChOOLS Abundant Life Lutheran School

22520 Mount Michael Road Elkhorn, NE 68022 289-2541 www.mountmichaelhs.com

A five-day boarding and day school for boys grades 9-12.

Roncalli Catholic High School 6401 Sorensen Parkway Omaha, NE 68152 571-7670 www.roncallicatholic.org

Administrative Office: 331-4700 www.ralstonschools.org

District Office: 443-3051 www.wahooschools.org

Westside District 66 Enrollment Office 390-2107 www.westside66.org

V.J. and Angela Skutt Catholic High School

Montessori Children’s Room

Coed high school founded in 1993.

400 N. Happy Hollow Blvd. Omaha, NE 68132 556-3772 www.brownell.edu

PRIVATe, NON-ReLIGIOUS SChOOLS Brownell-Talbot School

Private, independent, coed college prep day school. Founded in 1863, serves students preschool through 12th grade.

MONTESSORI SCHOOLS:

Montessori Children’s Room 7302 Burt St. Omaha, NE 68114 551-1440 www.childrensroom.net

7700 S 43rd St Bellevue, NE 68147 734-2007 www.grosscatholic.org

PUBLIC SChOOLS: Omaha Public Schools Student Placement Office 557-2710 www.ops.org

Founded in 1985, MCR is licensed as a preschool and a certified elementary school.

A coed, college-prep high school educating students in Marianist tradition.

Bellevue Public Schools

Montessori Educational Centers, Inc.

Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart

3601 Burt St. Omaha, NE 68131 558-3800 www.duchesneacademy.org All-girls school established in 1881, one of 21 network of Sacred Heart Schools in the U.S.

Marian High School

7400 Military Ave. Omaha, NE 68134 571-2618 www.marianhighschool.net Nebraska’s only Class A, Catholic, North Central Accredited college prep school for girls, founded in 1955.

Welcome Center: 293-4000 www.bellevuepublicschools.org

Bennington Public Schools District Office 238-3044 www.benningtonschools.org

Blair Public Schools District Office: 426-2610 www.blairschools.org

Elkhorn Public Schools District Information: 289-2579 www.elkhorn.esu3.org

Fort Calhoun Public Schools District Office 468-5596 www.fortcalhounschools.org

Gretna Public Schools

Administrative Office: 332-3265 www.gretnadragons.org

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A WOLSA School. WOLSA (the Wider Omaha Lutheran School Association) is a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LC-MS).

1400 Harvell Drive Bellevue, NE 68005 291-0616 www.bellevuechristian.com

3131 S. 156 St. Omaha, NE 68130 333-0818 www.skuttcatholic.com

Omaha Public Schools

3504 S. 108th Street Omaha, NE 68114 592-8005 www.wolsa.org

Bellevue Christian Academy

A coed high school founded in traditions of the DeLaSalle Christian Brothers & Notre Dame Sisters.

College prep for low-income students of all faiths. As part of the Cristo Rey Network, students at Omaha’s St. Peter Claver Cristo Rey Catholic High School will participate in work-study internships that finance their education and give them real-world job experience.

Gross Catholic High School

Millard Public Schools

http://www.montessorilovetolearn.com/Omaha

Seven Omaha locations serving various age groups ranging from Infant House (6 weeks and up) to Kopecky Elementary serving preschool up to 6th Grade.

Montessori Parents’ Co-op for Children, Inc. 2616 S. 30th Street Omaha, NE 68105 345-2001 www.mpcc1.org

Serving children in age from 18 months to 12 years.

Montessori Learning Center of Dundee

K-8 Christ-centered education.

Bread of Life Lutheran School 1821 N 90th St Omaha, NE 68134 391-3505 www.wolsa.org

A WOLSA School. WOLSA (the Wider Omaha Lutheran School Association) is a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LC-MS).

Concordia Junior/Senior High School 15656 Fort St. Omaha, NE 68116 445-4000 www.wolsa.org

A WOLSA School. WOLSA (the Wider Omaha Lutheran School Association) is a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LC-MS).

Cornerstone Christian

3704 370 Plz. Bellevue, NE 68123 292-1030 http://cornerstonechristianschool.org Founded in 1984, Christian school for K-8.

Friedel Jewish Academy 335 S 132nd St Omaha, NE 68154 334-0517 www.friedeljewishacademy.com

Independent, coeducational Jewish day school for children K to 6. Hot Kosher lunch and/or milk programs are available daily. Welcoming Reformed, Conservative and Orthodox families.

Gethsemane Lutheran

5103 Capitol Ave. Omaha, NE 68132 558-6018 www.montessoriofdundee.com

4040 N. 108 St. Omaha, NE 68164 493-2549 www.gethsemanelutheran.com

Full day or kindergarten program for children ages 2 1⁄2 - 6.

Christ-centered education grades pre-K through 8.

Mt. Calvary Lutheran School

Omaha Hearing School for Children

5529 Leavenworth St. Omaha, NE 68106 551-7020 www.lutheransonline.com Lutheran school serving grades K-8.

1110 N. 66 St. Omaha, NE 68132 558-1546 www.oraldeafed.org

Omaha Christian Academy 5612 L St. Omaha, NE 68117 399-9565 http://omahachristianacademy.com

Parent-run, interdenominational, K-12 plus preschool.

Omaha Memorial School of Seventh-Day Adventists

Girls and Boys Town

SPeCIAL eDUCATION SChOOLS Girls and Boys Town

13603 Flanagan Blvd. Boys Town, NE 68010 Admissions Office: 498-1900 or (800) 989-0000. www.girlsandboystown.org

K-8 coed school.

Youth admitted to Girls and Boys Town have experienced severe individual and/or family difficulties. Some have been involved in the juvenile justice system or the social service system. Family-style treatment setting.

St Paul Lutheran School

Cooper Village

840 N. 72 St. Omaha, NE 68114 397-4642

5020 Grand Ave. Omaha, NE 68104 451-2865 www.stpaullutheranchurch-school.com

8502 Mormon Bridge Blvd. Omaha, NE 68152 457-1373 http://utahalee-cooper.org

K-8 school.

Psychiatric residential and day programs for boys 12-18 with acute mental health, behavioral or substance abuse needs. Located on a working farm in the rolling hills of Omaha. Optional spiritual programs.

Trinity Christian School 15555 W. Dodge Rd. Omaha, NE 68154 330-5724 www.tcsomaha.com

Madonna School

K-8 interdenominational school founded in 1989.

for $avings

6402 N. 71 Plz. Omaha, NE 68104 457-7857 www.madonnaschool.org

Founded in 1952, the Omaha Hearing School for Children is an educational alternative for deaf and hard-of-hearing children in learning oral communication skills.

Phoenix Academy Day School Rockbrook Village Shopping Center 11060 Oak St. Omaha, NE 68144 390-0556 www.phoenixacademydayschool.com

The Phoenix Academy Day School is for students who have experienced difficulties in reading, spelling, writing and math at their previous schools. Students typically spend one to two years at this remediation school. Its goal is to get children out of special-ed classes and back to their regular school.

Uta Halee Girls Village 10625 Calhoun Omaha, NE 68112 457-1308 http://utahalee-cooper.org

Psychiatric residential and day programs for girls 12-18 with acute mental health, behavioral or substance abuse needs. Includes equineassisted psychotherapy and optional spiritual programs.

Private Christian school for students with cognitive and other developmental disabilities.

Omaha Metro Public School Districts The school district map to the right is simply a graphical representation and subject to change. Please check with the individual school districts for complete up-to-date information.

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Ball

Omaha's

Having a

Ak-Sar-Ben Coronation Ball October 11

Omaha is a generous community. Not only in terms of deep pockets, but also with gifts of priceless time and leadership. Once a year, those who donate and participate get together to celebrate. The benevolent are so prevalent that it takes a ball to hold them all. This grand evening is the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Coronation Ball. The Coronation Ball and associated activities combine scholarship fundraising with recognition of families and individuals’ contributions. This is what makes it the annual highlight of Omaha’s social calendar! This year’s Coronation Ball theme is “Jewels of the Heartland.” For one evening on Saturday, October 11, 2008, the Qwest Center Omaha is transformed into the Kingdom of Quivira, an imaginary mystical realm. A stunning spectacle of

pomp and pageantry fills the stage. Amid the gowns, gallantry, flowers and fine food, the conversation will turn to the royal buzz: who will replace last year’s royalty — Thomas W. Osborne and Halley Acklie Ostergard — and be named king and queen. It is an exciting evening, to be sure. In addition to the coronation, the time the Pages take the stage is another crowd favorite. The children’s names are announced as they take their royal walk (some skip, hop) wearing their regal costumes. It’s a don’t-miss moment! Each year, the Royal Court is chosen comprising Princesses, Countesses Escorts, Heartland Escorts, Standard Bearers and Pages from the region. Activities spanning several months build excitement, forge new friendships and add to the suspense of the coronation!

ak-Sar-Ben lingo Councilor Member of His Majesty’s Council. Supporters and active Knights of Ak-SarBen members Countess A young woman between the ages of 21 and 24 whose family has actively contributed to their community in Nebraska (excluding Omaha) or western Iowa

Floor Committee Grown men chosen based on their leadership and community service. They assist the WBC in seating the expected 2400 guests at the Coronation Ball and facilitating the monarch’s reception Governor Member of Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Board of Governors, major supporters and board members

Escort A young man between the ages of 21 and 26 whose family has actively contributed to the Omaha community

Heartland Escort A young man between the ages of 21 and 26 whose family resides in Nebraska (excluding Omaha) and western Iowa

Friends Public supporters of Ak-Sarben’s mission in the amount ranging from $15-$100

Page A child in elementary school whose family has actively contributed to their community in Nebraska or western Iowa

Princess A young woman between ages of 21 and 24 whose family has actively contributed to the Omaha community Quivira Mythical kingdom over which Ak-Sar-Ben’s King and Queen reign Standard Bearers Selected from the Pages to lead the pages and carry the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben standard on stage WBC Short for Women’s Ball Committee Women’s Ball Committee The committee overseeing all the fabulous details of the Coronation Ball. This year’s WBC chairman is Ann Hergenrader.

The Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben has a rich 112-year history. For more information see aksarben.org

www.omahapublications.com

september/october | 2008

33

2008 Girl Pages

Katherine Roe Andersen daughter of Leslie and David Andersen

Halle McCartney Brannon

Madigan Sandra Brodsky

Madison Renee Bryant

daughter of Patti and Curt Brannon

daughter of Heather Smith

daughter of Robin and Paul Bryant

Camryn Leigh Burkhalter

Rachel Edith Doll

Sarah Elizabeth Doll

Emelia Ann English

daughter of Kim and Kurt Burkhalter

daughter of Laura and Jay Doll of West Des Moines IA

daughter of Laura and Jay Doll of West Des Moines IA

Isabel Mariko Gerdes

Samantha Monaco Hasebroock

Courtney Claire Heider

Hannah Elaine Jepson

daughter of Ms. Pamela WatanabeGerdes and Mr. Kyle Gerdes

daughter of Jane and Mark Hasebroock

daughter of Cindy and Scott Heider

daughter of Jennifer and Dr. Brett Jepson

Corinne Claire Johnson

Katherine Elizabeth Jones

Evelyn Margaret Kay

Kelly Elizabeth Mahoney

daughter of Lisa and Robert Johnson

daughter of Jeanie and Lance Jones

daughter of Laurie and Charles Kay, Jr.

daughter of Catherine and Dr. Jeffrey Mahoney

Hope Marvin

Beverly Guadalupe Maxwell

Margaret Theresa McGowan

Olivia Katherine Murphy

daughter of Pamela and Charles Maxwell III

daughter of Ms. Kimberly McGowan

daughter of Stephanie and James Murphy

Erin Elizabeth Pritza

Abigail Warner Reed

Josephine Claire Reed

Charlotte Rose Simon

daughter of Judy and Dr. Randy Pritza

daughter of Mindy and Timothy Reed

daughter of Stacia and Robert Reed, Jr.

daughter of Kim and James Simon

Mallory Marie Stamm

Amelia Mae Stokes

Megan Campbell Sunderland

Brennan Kayle Zatechka

daughter of Janel and John Sunderland

daughter of Jennifer and Dr. Robert Zatechka

Ava Brooke Bettger daughter of Jennifer and Richard Bettger

daughter of Michelle and Samuel Marvin

daughter of Marjean and Dr. David Stamm

34

september/october | 2008

daughter of Mrs. K. Paige Stokes and Dr. Jonathan Henning and Christopher Stokes of Lincoln

daughter of Sally and Rick English

2008 Boy Pages

John Harrison Boggust son of Paula and John Boggust

Aden Michael Boyle son of Dana and Michael Boyle, Jr.

Daniel Patrick Brokke

Nolan Robert Carpenter

Saunders Kenneth Cohen

Samuel James Delperdang

son of Kimberly and Gregory Brokke

son of Kimberly and John Carpenter

son of Elizabeth Cohen and Martin Cohen

son of Leslie and Kirk Delperdang

Nathan Allyn Dillon

John Paul Doran

William Miskell Draper

Zachary Fitzgerald Draper

son of Tanya and Blake Dillon of Fremont

son of Sharon and Dr. Stephen Doran

sons of Kelli and J. Scott Draper

sons of Kelli and J. Scott Draper

Colin Patrick Duffy

Joseph Davis Geary

William Kent Grisham, Jr.

Joshua James Gromowsky

son of Melissa and Patrick Duffy

son of Carol and Michael Geary

son of Mr. W. Kent Grisham, Sr. and the late Suzanne Grisham

son of Amy and Jeffrey Gromowsky

Thomas Raymond Halgren

Mitchell Thomas Kahre

Chad Raymond Lemke

Parker Durham Lundgren

son of Drs. Victoria and John Halgren

son of Sally and Michael Kahre

son of Sandra and Todd Lemke of Papillion

son of Kristin and Drew Lundgren

Cole Andrew Lyons

Elijah Levi Marburg

Henry Matthew Medlock

Parker William Mentzer

son of Julie and Mark Lyons

son of Debra and Daniel Marburg

son of Anne and Matthew Medlock

son of Karine and Philip Mentzer

Izak Robert Nikunen

Aaron Louis Norton

Leo Thomas Norton

Ross Anthony Pantano

son of Susan and Michael Norton

son of Susan and Michael Norton

Aidan Gerard Ryan

Jack William Terry

Joel Christopher Tinley

William Jacob Wilson

son of Karen and Daniel Ryan

son of Robyn and The Honorable Lee Terry

son of Cynthia and Christopher Tinley of Council Bluffs, IA

son of Mary and Jeffrey Wilson

son of Christine and David Nikunen

www.omahapublications.com

son of Stephanie and Anthony Pantano

september/october | 2008

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Everything Old is New Again at Ak-Sar-Ben by Leo Adam Biga Photo by minorwhitestudios.com all part of the organization’s goal to serve what Bell calls “the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation Chairman Richard Bell greater good.” heads an organization with a 113-year history of philanthropic As Omaha’s attention has turned to greater support for public giving to individuals and organizations, all part of a civic-minded education in a time of declining student achievement and tighter aim to improve people’s lives and to better the community. budgets, so has Ak-Sar-Ben’s. Bell, chairman/CEO/president of HDR Inc., recently spearheaded a refinement of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation’s best "Ak-Sar-Ben doesn’t deserve the elitist reputation it’s been brandpractices and mission statement. Its restated mission, “to build a more prosperous Heartland where comed with in the past. Ak-Sar-Ben celebrates a lot of things, and it munities can flourish and every child can succeed,” is anchored in guiding principles that focus on youth, brings a lot of people together.” community, citizenship and neighborliness. — Richard Bell Ak-Sar-Ben’s executive ranks are drawn from business leaders in the community who contribute time, talent and “We came up with a new mission statement to reflect where treasure to the organization’s many programs. HDR’s own exwe are today in terms of values and activities. You always have ecutives have a long history with Ak-Sar-Ben, as Bell’s involveto be relevant to the times you’re in,” Bell said. “Education is something we wanted to do right. There’s a lot of work to be ment follows the lead of past company titans such as Charles done. We want to give more kids the opportunity to go off to Durham. school.” Ak-Sar-Ben’s philanthropic dollars are derived from its annual To sustain its mission-based programs, Bell’s executive comCoronation Ball fundraiser and from donation/fees collected from its Board of Governors, Majesty’s Council and Ak-Sar-Ben Friends. mittee streamlined operations and raised dues. “I think we’ve brought some discipline to the organization. Education and economic development are two priorities. It’s www.omahapublications.com

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We have reorganized and made it more functional. I always believe if you’ve got a solid foundation you can build for the future, and that’s what Ak-Sar-Ben is doing,” he said. “Ak-Sar-Ben is different from what it was in the past. When we had the horse track and had lots of revenue there were a lot of giveaways. Ak-Sar-Ben now is more of a pay-asyou-go type organization. “The best thing about the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben is it brings together the broad spectrum of business leaders within the community to talk about what’s best for the community. I really enjoy that part about it. When we want to do something, we act in a unified way, and we kind of tax ourselves and go forward.” Under Bell, Ak-Sar-Ben’s honed its education focus to award more needbased scholarships and to provide mentoring for students pursuing college or trade school. A new partnership with the Teammates Mentoring Program is in progress. “While the old scholarship program was good,” he said, “it didn’t touch enough people. The new Horatio Alger scholarship program is reaching out and touching kids that really need it. It can help them move forward in their education process.” The organization’s historic support of youth in agriculture continues with the Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Livestock Exposition, which along with the Douglas County Fair and the Wrangler ProRodeo Tour comprise River City Roundup. This annual celebration of the region’s heritage is one way Ak-Sar-Ben recognizes Nebraska’s rural character. Another is the Pioneer Farm Awards. Similarly, the organization recognizes civic betterment efforts through Ak-Sar-Ben Community and Ak-SarBen Foundation grants; it salutes good citizenship with Good Neighbor Awards; and it honors youths and adults “making a difference” with stipend-based Ike Friedman Student and Teacher Leadership Awards. Bell said Ak-Sar-Ben doesn’t deserve the elitist reputation it’s been branded with in the past. “Ak-Sar-Ben celebrates a lot of things, and it brings a lot of people together,” he said.

Dream The

Police by Leo Adam Biga Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

devotion. desire. duty. The men and women in uniform with the omaha Police department share these qualities in performing their public service mission. each has an individual story of what led them into law enforcement and what keeps them there. Some followed family legacies; others became the first in their family to carry the shield. Some worked different careers before coming to oPd, and some joined right out of high school or college. However they arrived at taking the oath to protect and to serve, they all regard their work in blue as a calling they can’t imagine their lives without. five oPd officers who’ve distinguished themselves on the job recently shared their stories. at a time when the department is still responding to last year’s sudden, massive wave of retired veterans, these five represent the current and future leadership of oPd. They are omaha’s dream Police. Sgt. AnnA Sewell Dayton, Ohio, native Sgt. Anna Sewell grew up an only child to a single mother who served as a volunteer neighborhood assistant officer with the Dayton police. Sewell cherished the close bonds of her small, cohesive family, whose ties she found the equivalent of in law enforcement. “It was just something I was raised around and always knew,” she said. “Were there other options? I’m sure there were. Did I ever consider them? No.” After high school she signed up for the law enforcement end of the Air Force. “I figured I would join the military and go see the world, and boy did I ever,” said Sewell, whose service career continues as a reservist. The globetrotter finally settled at Offutt Air Force Base. After giving the business world a whirl, she applied with OPD, she said, “as a challenge to myself.” She passed with flying colors and joined the force in 1999. Being a cop felt right. “We are in so many ways just like the military,” she said. “We have that brotherhood, that sense of family -- territory I’m familiar with.” About the time she entered the Omaha Police Training Academy, she began accelerated studies at Bellevue University, where she made the Dean’s List and Who’s Who Among College Students. She graduated in 2000 with a bachelor’s in human

www.omahapublications.com

resource management. Already the first in her family with a high school diploma, she became the first with a college degree. She’s since earned a master’s in management and is now working on a second master’s in business. The single Sewell is also an entrepreneur with her own security company. “I’m basically breaking a whole lot of new ground in my family. In my mom’s eyes, I am the example for my cousins to follow, which is fine.” The Internal Affairs investigator reached the rank of sergeant in only six years. She learned of her promotion while in Iraq as a volunteer reserve medic. The biracial Sewell said while her ethnicity has never been a barrier, she feels she must work harder to stay competitive. “As a minority I have to put my ethnicity and gender aside so that when you line me up, I’m standing toe-to-toe right alongside everyone else,” she said. “You always have to prove yourself as a female in a predominantly male work field. It’s up to me to make sure I’m at the top of my game, that I’m not perceived as weak.” She’s sampled many aspects of the department to prepare for her dream job. “Somewhere in my future there’s an office up on this floor that has lots of windows,” she said from the administrative suite. “It may not be top dog but it might not be too far. I’m thinking deputy chief.”

september/october | 2008

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Officer Dawn Chizek It’s easy for 24-year veteran Dawn Chizek to relate to the troubled kids she encounters as Millard South High School’s School Resource Officer (SRO). She grew up in a “pretty dysfunctional family.” “I think the best police officers are people who’ve been a little on both sides. Empathy is probably one of the necessary requirements as a police officer. You’ve got to be able to put yourself in that situation and help effectively deal with that person and their need at that moment,” she said. “I tell kids all the time, whatever that situation is they’re in, no matter how sh***y it is, they can use it as an excuse to fail or as a reason to succeed. That’s my mantra, it truly

Officer Jonathan Gorden Following in the footsteps of a father (Michael Gorden) who logged 30 years with OPD, Jonathan Gorden felt the pull of police duty. “Needless to say I grew up around the badge,” he said. “It was in my blood and it never left me.” The 24-year-old just passed his first anniversary on the job. “If you’re signing up for the gunfights, chases and wild and crazy things, this isn’t that,” he said. “I found out real quick you’re going to make a reputation for yourself more with a pen and paper than you are with anything else. No investigation, no arrest is

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is. It’s definitely about personal choice.” Chizek’s hard times influenced her interest in being a cop. Why? “I think I saw a lot of injustice and unfairness in what I was dealt,” she said. Being a cop meant she could “go out and kick butt, take names and save the world.” The Bellevue East High School grad attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha and applied with OPD. She made the grade and joined the force at 19. “All the studies say I should been a high school dropout, but I wanted more. I wanted better than the surroundings and the situation I was thrust into,” she said. Proving herself was another thing. “It was not easy,” she said. “You talk about three strikes against you, try being a blond, female 19-year-old recruit in 1984. But they didn’t know my story. I was much older than my years. I had a lot of real life experience.” She jumped at the chance to be Millard South’s SRO, a job she calls “the most rewarding and fulfilling” of her career. “This is where I live, this is where my kids go to school. I want to work in my community, where I have a stake in what happens. I want to have an impact where it means the most,” said Chizek, who’s married with two children. Officially on the force to dismantle barriers between youth and police, she said she can be kids’ best buddy, but “if they cross the line they know dang well I’m going to hold them accountable. I do make arrests. Just like in the real world, we spend 90 percent of our time dealing with 10 percent of the population.” “I take very seriously my role here. I am very much in tune with what’s going on out in the community because the kids talk to me and tell me what goes on on the weekends, and what happens on the weekends carries over to school.”

worth anything unless you know how to write a good report. It’s absolutely crucial to every part of the judicial system.” The Creighton Prep-Creighton University grad draws on his education every day. He tested the waters in the business world, but a cop’s life called him. “I just knew in my heart it was something I had to try. Until I did try it, I would never be satisfied.” His dad’s experiences told him “it’s not a normal 9-to-5. It’s a lifestyle. You’re a cop 24 hours a day and you’re held to a higher standard by your employer, by your city, and because of that you have to hold yourself to a higher standard. It takes a complete commitment from your family” he said. Every day on the job he learns something. “The biggest thing as a young officer is learning to be patient,” he said. “I’ve picked up from the veteran officers you have to let people vent a little bit. Emotions are usually pretty high and by just listening it does wonders.” He can attest that rookies are scrutinized. “You’re not immediately accepted into your crew and the job,” he said. “You’re definitely watched. Little by little, day by day, your skin gets a little bit thicker, you get a little more comfortable. It is a powerful bond being with ordinary men and women doing an extraordinary job. We’re trusting each other with our lives, and that’s something you hold very dearly.” Commendations are nice, he said, but the real rewards come from proving oneself in the line of duty. “Having your crew believe you’re capable really builds confidence,” he said. Gorden has designs on one day teaching at the academy like his dad. He’s also “intrigued by” the detective bureau.

Capt. Mark Martinez Police work is a family inheritance for Mark Martinez. His father, Al Martinez, retired after 33 years with OPD. An uncle was a cop. His brothers Al and John are cops. Four cousins as well. Yet he said it was not a foregone conclusion he would be, too. “I really didn’t know until I went to UNO and decided to study criminal justice,” he said. He acknowledges this lineage in blue gave him a valuable perspective. “My father was always community-oriented, civic-minded, always a contributor. So

I think I had an idea I wanted to be a public servant, which is much more than arresting bad guys,” he said. “That attracted me.” The South High grad only entered law enforcement after getting his degree at UNO. He was a Douglas County Sheriff’s Office crime lab technician before joining OPD in 1984. That same year he and wife Cindy got married. They have four children. “She’s the rock,” he said. He terms his present duty as Southeast Precinct Captain “a dream job. I grew up in this precinct. I have family and friends here.” He said his “passion and ownership for the area” allow him to “get more done. I know the importance of building a relationship between the police and the community. It’s critical.” Being a Latino in a predominantly Latino district helps. “I think it goes a long way when the captain has a Spanish surname. I think it’s good for the people of our community. It’s good for our youth. I think I have the advantage of being able to reach out and do some things to build that bridge. I think we’re doing that.” Martinez is proud of being a trailblazer. “When I first came on I think the highest ranking Latino was a sergeant. I really felt the need to set some goals and to try to achieve those goals, and one of them was to get promoted,” he said. As the department’s first Latino captain, consider that mission accomplished. Along the way he earned a master’s degree. The Omaha Public School board member emphasizes school-police cooperation. Retirement was an option last year, but he stayed on for a reason. “There’s at least one other goal I want to achieve here,” he said. “I applied to be chief and I didn’t make the final cut, but I’m still in line for promotion to deputy chief. We’ll see what happens.”

COPS Beat Stories – TRUE! This Perp Took A Bite Out Of The Crimestopper!

Chad Schroeder must have looked mighty tasty to this strong-jawed perpetrator on a cold night four days before Christmas, 2007. “ I (Schroeder) took a male suspect to my cruiser and realized that my partner and I had locked the doors. As I was unlocking the door and attempting to hold the suspect at a safe distance, he tried to head butt me. I used the suspect’s momentum to swing him around and held him around his shoulder area while I unlocked and opened the door. As I was opening the door with my right hand and holding him with my left arm, he clamped down on my left bicep with his teeth and WOULDN’T LET GO! I was eventually able to get him to release his bite and was left with a huge wound to my bicep. Of course I went to the hospital and went through all the tests, shots, and blood draws. The suspect was charged with felony assault on a police officer and sentenced to 18-24 months for biting me. To this day it still looks like I have a dark bruise about the size of a golf ball on my bicep.”

Benevolent Thief

20-year OPD veteran (now retired) officer Mike Smith has a more than a few stories. He once arrested a naked man who proceeded to urinate in the back seat of his cruiser.

The following story is as equally astonishing.

Smith was working in the auto theft detective bureau. During a blizzard ten years ago, he was home watching the news. The news crew was reporting on a Good Samaritan with a 4-wheel-drive truck who had just pulled a car out of a ditch at 72nd & Grover streets. Smith recognized the truck as stolen. He called the station and told them the truck was a stolen vehicle. The station thought he was making up the story. Smith obtained the tape, wrote a warrant for the suspect, who was staying at the notorious now-demolished Travelodge at 40th & Dodge. The judge said, “I’ve seen it all now.”

www.omahapublications.com

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Lt. Tim Carmody Going from a broken home to successful husband, father and commander of OPD’s Emergency Response Unit, Tim Carmody is proof one can overcome challenges. “Even those negative environments can have a positive effect if you focus in the right direction,” he said. He feels his background gives him insights into people and their issues. Said Carmody, “It helps me understand things.” His path to law enforcement came via retail loss prevention work, which saw him identify and apprehend shoplifters for discount chain stores. “I’ve always felt like serving people. I don’t like people being victimized.” He studied criminal justice at UNO and Bellevue University. He first wore the badge

at 22 as a deputy sheriff with the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office. He joined OPD in 1988. It’s where he feels he’s meant to serve. “I know the city, I’m a home-grown kid. I love serving this community. I believe in this place. It’s a passion for me.” His OPD career has been everything and more he thought it could be. “I’ve been blessed with some of the best jobs this department has to offer.” Today, as Emergency Response Unit commander, he oversees the SWAT, bomb response, canine explosives detection and Homeland Security teams. Much of his work involves collaborating with other agencies and disciplines. Cooperation is key. That goes for police-community relations as well. “We can’t do this alone as a department,” he said. “Neighborhood associations, precinct committees ( they are the key role players that help us understand what’ going on and what needs to be done.” In the wake of so many OPD senior officers retiring, he’s preparing young officers for future leadership roles. “I’m trying to mentor and lead people more,” he said, “and to share that knowledge to help them grow faster.” He enjoys teaching, which he’s also done away from work as a Boy Scouts Master and lay leader at his church. Faith and family are the anchors of his life. “Spending time with my family and friends has tremendous value in reenergizing my batteries,” he said, “and in just staying grounded. It makes a huge difference.” He needed that support after the Von Maur shooting last year. His command post was called to the scene and in the melee, he said, “everything’s on auto-pilot ( you’re just functioning. Then, when I finally took a breath, it all hit me... the reality of it all, and the people that died that day.” “Those are the things that you’ll never forget.” He calls the special fraternity he’s a part of “very fulfilling and rewarding. There’s nothing that compares to it.”

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Story by Donald J. Rashid Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Free Spirited and Fun Loving Colleen Quinn attracts Top Talent to omaha

"I love it when people of all ages, races and creeds laugh at the same joke. Comedy clubs are the last bastion of free speech.”

olleen Quinn, manager and talent agent of Omaha’s Funnybone Comedy Club and Restaurant, loves her job. “I am Captain of the Comedy Ship. Years ago, I was appointed as the Goddess of Jokesters, and my godchildren refer to me as Auntie Fun-Fun.” Now playing in her 18th year, Quinn wears many hats as part-owner, including the self-proclaimed titles Chief Busboy and the tounge-in-cheek Illegitimate Ambassador of Omaha. As an ambassador of goodwill, Quinn gives comedians a taste of Omaha from the food they enjoy to their pickup at Eppley Airfield. “Omaha is a jewel and the comedians see that. Coming from Los Angeles, New York and Dallas, they enjoy Omaha’s friendliness, cleanliness and comedy scene. It has become a cool city. I get to discover Omaha through the eyes of the comedians.” With a smile, she recalls that the receptionist position was the most fun of the first three jobs she held at the Club. “I became manager within a few years because I was the most mature (read oldest) employee.”

www.omahapublications.com

september/october | 2008

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OCTOBER 4, 2008 ‒ JANUARY 4, 2009 Ever wonder what it was like to witness some of the most important moments in American history? Visit The Durham Museum to see Eyewitness: American Originals from the National Archives. Hear stories of some of our nation s watershed moments, told by those who experienced them. This exhibit features some of the most dramatic times in history including the storming of the Bastille, the explosion of the Hindenburg, and the assassination of President Kennedy. The Durham Museum is one of only six locations in the country to host this exhibition; so don t miss your chance to see the incredible artifacts from our nation s heritage. This exhibition was created by the National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, DC, and the Foundation for the National Archives. The national tour of Eyewitness is sponsored by The Boeing Company. Sponsored locally by HDR, the Peter Kiewit Foundation, the Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation, the Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation, the Carmen and John Gottschalk Foundation, The Hawks Foundation, CBSHOME Real Estate, Northern Natural Gas, the Dillon Foundation, the Lincoln Financial Foundation, the Douglas County Commissioners, and The Durham Society. Supporting sponsorship provided by Deloitte, Great Western Bank, Kinghorn Gardens, and Terry McGill, Inc.

801 SOUTH 10TH STREET

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OMAHA, NE 68108

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“I liken the Funnybone to stringing beads without a knot at the end. We pick up the pieces every few weeks” as comedians move on. In January 1990, Jerry Seinfeld learned that NBC picked up “Seinfeld” while appearing at their former location on 114th and Dodge. Pawnee, NE native Dan Whitney, better known as Larry the Cable Guy, had one of his first sets at the Funnybone. We are the only chain comedian Lewis Black, a top-notch comedian now in demand on Comedy Central, will play. Her sons still refer to friend and funnyman Mark Gross as their “naughty uncle,” she says. “My children would do their homework at the club. Daniel screened VHS tapes of comedians as I did not have time to rate all of them. He once wrote ‘regular white guy with no comedy hook’ on a Post It note. It’s hard to tell a comedian that they have been rejected by a 12-year-old” she says. “If I were to leave the Funnybone, I would take my Golden Rain Globe (a snow globe she uses to time difficult phone calls) and a picture of my sons Daniel and Martin. I would definitely take my magic wand,” which her team knows makes all their problems disappear, at least for a moment. When interviewing candidates for staff positions, she tells them that the job is not for everyone. “They have to be misfit clowns, a little off kilter and be able to joke with the customer.” She relishes that three of her prodigies now manage sister clubs in Denver,Colo., Kansas City, Mo., and Virginia Beach, Va.. Her favorite moments of the career she has embraced are spent watching sets at the back of the 300 seat showroom. “The Funnybone is a melting pot of Omaha humanity. I love it when people of all ages, races and creeds laugh at the same joke. Comedy clubs are the last bastion of free speech.” Take her sage advice the next time you visit her Village Pointe location. If you don’t heckle the comedian, they generally won’t single you out.

Story by: Mystery Reviewer Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Sage Student Bistro

ne of the best-kept secrets of the Omaha dining scene is the Sage Student Bistro at

the Institute for Culinary Arts, part of Metropolitan Community College. I learned a long time ago that in most major cities, the local culinary arts program is usually the best fine dining value and the most on-trend restaurant around. Omaha is no exception to that rule. The ambiance at the Sage Bistro leaves a lot to be desired. I guess that’s what happens when you convert a school conference room into a dining room four nights a week. They do the best they can with what they have to work with. The chairs are covered with slips, and the tables have nice pressed tablecloths, but at the end of the day it still does not make the mark. I am told that will change when the construction is finished on their new, state-of-the-art culinary center in 2009. Let’s hope so! When compared to other fine dining restaurants, the service also comes up a bit short. All of the servers are culinary arts students that are working through their rotation of serving duty, and it would seem that most of them would rather be in the kitchen. I would describe the service as unrefined and a little nervous, but adequate. I have found the best way to get the servers to loosen up is to get them talking about the food. What they lack in serving polish, they more than make up for in food knowledge. They are so passionate about the food it is contagious. As you might have expected, the food is the star of the show at the Sage Student Bistro. The main menu changes every quarter, and the “Prix Fixe” menu changes ever week. The Prix Fixe menu is usually five or six courses, and to top it off, you get your choice of an excellent dessert made daily by the pastry chef students. All for only $23! The food on the menu is best described as creative interpretations of classic dishes and techniques presented in an upscale manner. The Prix Fixe menu is created by a different student each week, and can run

www.omahapublications.com

Sage Student Bistro Building Ten Fort Omaha Campus Metropolitan Community College 30th and Fort Street Omaha Nebraska 402-457-2EAT http://www.mccneb.edu/bistro Mon. – Thur. 6pm – 8:30pm

Ratings: (out of 5*) Food

****

Service

**

Ambiance ** Price:

Great Value

Overall

***

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the whole gamut of different cuisines and influences. The philosophy of the school is to use local food products, cooked from scratch using classic techniques, which is a modern approach to a menu. On a recent visit, the Prix Fixe menu featured a Chilled Blueberry Soup, Seared Ahi Tuna, a Local Green Salad in a Parmesan Crisp, Coq Au Vin and a Flourless Chocolate Cake ($23). It was an incredible meal with lots of bold flavors, textures and aromas. I also tried some selections from the main menu, such as the Seared Scallops with Confit Leeks, Brioche, Arugula, and Corn Supreme ($5). This combination worked very well. I sampled the Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop with Choucroute, Broccoli Raab Dumpling, and Dijon-Mustard Sauce ($14). The high quality Kurobuta pork chop melted in my mouth, and combined with the sauce, it was close to culinary perfection! The expertly prepared Duck Confit ($14) as well as the Petit Tender Duet ($16) are also great choices and very enjoyable. One of my favorite things about going to the Sage Student Bistro is I can bring my own wine and not suffer a corkage fee or any dirty looks from the servers or manager. In fact that is the only way to enjoy wine there, due to their understandable lack of a liquor license. I would much rather drink something out of my own cellar that I know is going to be good than pay too much for wine and take a chance on how good it will be. The fantastic food is probably reason enough to make a regular habit of visiting the Sage Student Bistro. If that’s not enough for you, then you can take comfort in the fact that you are supporting the local food producers as well as helping the chefs of the future learn their craft. It’s a good idea to call ahead for reservations, and don’t forget to bring your favorite wine!

Dining Out L e g e n d (average price per entrée)

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

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BURGeR STAR 333-STAR Located at the southeast corner of 72nd & Pacific, Burger Star features gourmet burgers with your choice of 18 fRee toppings. enjoy fresh cut fries and fresh baked buns, plus Cheeseburger Tacos, fish Tacos and Chicken Club Tacos. Beer and Margaritas are also available – all served up in a Rock Star atmosphere. open daily at 11am for lunch and dinner.

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

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DUNDee Dell 553-4010 (OmAhA) 5007 underwood. 11 aM until 1 aM every day, Monday-Sunday. 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. $ FUDDRUCKeRS WORlD’S GReATeST hAmBURGeRS TWO lOCATiONS (OmAhA) 7059 dodge St.: 556-0504; 16920 Wright Plaza: 932-7790; enjoy the TRue Gourmet Hamburger. others make the claim, we’ve got the fame. voted #1 Burger in Best of omaha 2005, 2006, 2007, and again in 2008. Bring the family and enjoy our fresh ground chuck, fresh produce and condiment bar, and our freshly baked buns (baked fresh daily). We have outrageous Salads, boneless/skinless chicken sandwiches, and are one of the only restaurants to carry both ostrich and Buffalo in omaha. our malts and shakes are the best. There’s something for everyone at fuddruckers. on-site catering available for parties of 100 or more. Hours: Sun.-Thu. 11a.m.-9p.m., fri.-Sat. 11a.m.-10p.m. ae-dC-MC-v. $ Jimmy JOhN'S (OmAhA) We are a Gourmet Sub shop with a fun upbeat atmosphere and classic rock music. We will deliver down to one sandwich within the delivery area set by Jimmy John's Corporate and we make "freaky fast Sandwiches". The 300 S. 72nd location is open from 10:30 am to 2:00 am, the 107 n. 40th St. location is open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, the 10720 Q Street location is open from 10:30 am to 11:00 pm except on Th/fri/ Sat open until 2:00 am. PePPeRJAx FOUR OmAhA lOCATiONS Serving four locations: 2429 S. 132nd Street, 2579 S. 171st Court, 2085 n. 120th Street, 1040 S. 74th Plaza & 84th and Park drive coming soon. Just you, the cook, and the wide open range – grill range, that is. That’s what makes PepperJax so great. With the help of our folks and the finest ingredients available, you can create your masterpiece, grilled to order and topped any way you like it, right before your eyes. Choose from our famous philly, giant wrap, gourmet salad bowl or fresh salad. 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 Monnday night football specials. Tuesdays are all you can eat wings for $12.99 all day. Quaker Steak and Lube is your Husker game headquarters. fridays and Saturdays football special; bucket of wings and a lube tube for $21.99. Live Music starting again this fall on friday nights.www.quakersteakandlube.com.

bbQ FAmOUS DAve’S BARBeQUe 614-9333 (OmAhA) old Market, 71st & ames, 171st & Center, Council Bluffs and Bellevue locations. famous dave’s has been voted omaha’s favorite barbeque by omaha Magazine’s readers and the Reader’s Choice. Real hickory smoked ribs, brisket, pork and a great selection made-from-scratch recipes. open lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Take out and catering available. $$$$

CAJUN & CREOLE JAzz: A lOUiSiANA KiTCheN OmAhA Jazz is your authentic french Quarter Cafe, featuring fine Cajun and Creole cuisine and fun and comfortable new orleans atmosphere. Step off farnam Street onto Bourbon Street and experience the taste, sights, and sounds of new orleans right here in omaha. With a kid's menu and a large selection including Gumbo, Creole, steaks, sandwiches, pastas, and more, Jazz has a little bit of something for everyone! So as we say here at Jazz: Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler“Let the Good Times Roll!” outdoor patio seating area. Sun-Thurs 11am-Midnight and fri-Sat 11am- 1am... Happy hour 3 pm-6 pm and a reverse Happy Hour after 10pm Sun-Thurs and after 11pm fri-Sat. Live music plays Wed-Sat nights 7pm. ae-dC-MC-v.

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CALL FOR RESERVATIONS • 402-391-2950 CENTRAL LOCATION • 3125 SOUTH 72ND STREET • EASY ACCESS OFF I-80 • 72ND STREET EXIT

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ITALIAN Bianco Ristorante Italiano Omaha Located at 13110 Birch Drive (SE Corner of 132nd Street and Maple in Eagle Plaza Shopping Strip). Specializing in Traditional Italian foods with optional five-course menu consisting of Imported meats and cheeses, homemade bread, pastas, soup & sauces, fresh salads, brick oven style pizzas, veal, steak, seafood & chix entrees and finally all our homemade desserts from tiramisu to gelatos. We offer 170 bottle (most of them Italian) wine list with 20 by the glass & our specialty Italian cordials!! Best outdoor patio in Omaha. Casual attire, but neat. Amex, MC, Visa accepted. Mon & Tues-4 to 9:30; Wed & Thurs-4 to 10; Fri & Sat-4 to 11; Sun-4 to 9. Bar stays open until closing time. Happy hour Mon thru Sat-4 to 6:30.

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

Twice!

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 house-made 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 Lo Sole Mio Ristorante Italiano 345-5656 (Omaha) 3001 So. 32nd, Ave. This quaint authentic restaurant is located in the middle of a neighborhood surrounded by charming homes. Inside you will find a friendly staff, simple elegance with art & statues of Italy, the aromas of home cooked food & the sound of Italian music welcomes you. At the table everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes & basil, a bowl of oven roasted garlic cloves, special seasoned olive oil, & at night, a jug of Chianti, to set the stage for a wonderful experience! You will always find a family member around in this family owned & operated restaurant. Large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, & even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, & eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offers all of the above, along with panini, salads & one of the best pizza in town. Patio seating, full bar, & a great wine list complete this "Simply Elegant, Simply the Best" restaurant. No reservations, except for private rooms. 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. $$

LIGHT & EASY 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. 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. $

www.omahapublications.com

BEST OF OMAHA 2008

Zio’s Pizzeria Several Omaha Locations Three locations: 7834 Dodge Rd. (391-1881), 12997 W. Center Rd. (3301444), and 1213 Howard St. (344-2222). DELIVERY, DINE-IN, and CARRYOUT. 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. $

BEST OF OMAHA 2008

Pasta Amore Thank you for voting us your #1 Italian Restaurant.

• Private Party Rooms • Business Luncheons • Outdoor Dining • Catering Proprietors Chef Leo & Pat Fascianella

LUNCH: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

DINNER: Monday-Saturday: 4:30 p.m-Close Rockbrook Village (108th & Center) (402) 391-2585 Fax: 391-0910 www.pastaamore.net

Tastefully old world, exquisitely modern, elegantly Italian.

BEST OF OMAHA 2008

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.

1201 S 157th St Omaha, NE 68130 (402) 884-2272

BEST OF OMAHA 2008

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.

33007 S 83rd Plz Omaha, O NE 68124 (402) 391-2923

september/october | 2008

51

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Johnn s the original

Serving Steaks, Seafood, Chicken, and more.

c

Lunch & Dinner

h

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

a f é 402-731-4774

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 Paradise Bakery & Café Three Omaha Locations 168th & Dodge in Village Point, 120 Regency Parkway in Regency Court & 103rd & Pacific in One Pacific Place. Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Sandwiches, Paninis, Soups and Salads are prepared fresh right in front of you to perfection. Cookies, muffins & breads are made from scratch and baked fresh throughout the day. We look forward to sharing “Paradise” with you. Call us for catering information. Hours of operation: MonSat 6am-8pm Sun 6am-6pm. We accept Visa, MC & AX $-$$

MEXICAN

27th & L Sts. Five minutes from downtown

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

The Original Whiskey Steak www.DroverRestaurant.com

Serving Lunch & Dinner

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. $ Hector's Two Omaha Locations 3007 S. 83rd Plz. 391-2923, 1201 S. 157th St. 884-2272; Come to Hector's and enjoy authentic, traditional Mexican food including delicious seafood dinners and tender, juicy steak. Hector's West location features a salsa bar and tortilla machine; both locations have off-the-menu specials on week ends and an extensive kids' menus sure to please your young ones. Michael's At the market 346-1205 1102 Harney in the Old Market. Michael's features authentic Mexican food and drink in a casual atmosphere. Michael's "Free Pours" their Margaritas, one at a time, with a tradtional recipe used for over 31 years, Michael's truly is the "Home of The Real Margarita". Michael's is also known for having one of the largest selections of 100% Blue Agave Tequilas in the state of Nebraska.

Mon-Sat

‘

Where good steaks 2121 S. 73 St. and good service Just 1/2 block South of Doubletree 3001 S. 32nd Ave • Omaha, never NE go out of style. (402) 391-7440 402-345-5656

Johnn s

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

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the original

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402-731-4774

27th & L Sts.

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

ORIENTAL Grand Fortune 697-9888 (Omaha) Featuring traditional Chinese Dim Sum and authentic Cantonese dishes, as well as a conventional Chinese menu, dine upon a variety of items from Cantonese Style Duck to Hong Kong Chow Mein. Also featuring a menu for the diet-conscious and chefs cooking to order for your need with a full bar serving specialty drinks such as Mai Tai and Volcano, and other services like delivery and catering. Located in the Lakeside Hills Plaza at 173rd and West Center open from 11am-9:30pm SundayThursday, 11am-10:30pm Friday-Saturday. Phone: (402)697-9888 Fax: (402)697-4855 Website:www.grandfortunecuisine.com $

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

SEAFOOD

WE DELIVER! 300 S. 72ND ST. ~ 402.255.0040 107 N. 40TH ST. ~ 402.614.4545 10720 Q STREET ~ 402.614.3600 ©2007 JIMMY JOHN’S FRANCHISE, LLC

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september/october | 2008

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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. $ Islamorada Fish Company 712-325-5300 (Council Bluffs) Located just across the river in Council Bluffs Iowa on I-80 & I-29 next to Bass Pro Shops, Islamorada Fish Co. offers a relaxing escape to the Florida Keys. Start off with a drink at our full bar backed by a 13,000 gallon aquarium filled with exotic salt water fish. We offer Grouper, Mahi Mahi, Sushi-grade Tuna, Alligator and Shrimp. But we also feature such Midwest favorites as Steaks, Ribs, Rotisserie Chicken, Burgers and Pastas, as well as a full kids menu. We have a covered patio that overlooks our stocked pond, and our Lodge room can seat over 100 for special gatherings. Each weekday we feature a $5.99 lunch special, and each weeknight offers a different feature (scallops, fresh water fish, oyster bar, rotisserie meat). Check out fishcompany.com for our full menu and directions. AE-DC-MC-V $

From your

morning pick-me-up to your favorite nightcap…

te va om Pri y Ro 0 6 rt Pa p To U

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

330-0440 fax:330-5433 Catering & Delivery Available

SERVING BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY 120th & Pacific 932-5577

www.grisantis.net

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

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

THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD IN TOWN! Open for Lunch & Dinner Monday-Saturday 1218 So. 119th St. • 827-4376

397-5049

Omaha

MAI TAI LOUNGE OPEN

York New xe Delu

Pepp

4:30 P.M.

eron

i

SM

PIZZERIA

Freshest Pizza Best Flavor West Omaha 12997 W. Center Road 330-1444

OFFERING FRESH SEAFOOD DAILY AND WEEKLY SPECIALS 1727 Leavenworth • 345-5057 1218 So. 119th St. • 827-4376

We’re creating something fresh. www.absolutelyfresh.com www.omahapublications.com

Midtown 7834 W. Dodge Road 391-1881

*Dine In

Downtown 1213 Howard (Old Market) 344-2222

*Carry Out

*We deliver Downtown Veggie Supremo

Chicken Pesto Combo

Most Beautiful Toppings at Zio’s!!! september/october | 2008

53

SPECIAL DINING

When you are ready to relax...

Party room available for business or family gatherings Enjoy dining or a drink on our patio overlooking our pond Check out our 13,000 gallon salt water aquarium

Minutes from Downtown Omaha • Next to Bass Pro Shops 2901 Bass Pro Drive • Council Bluffs, IA • 712-325-5300 See our menu at www.fishcompany.com

Kids under 10 always eat for $3.99

“You would be hard-pressed to find a more impressive restaurant.” – JOHN KEENAN

Omaha World-Herald

Greek Islands 346-1528 (Omaha) 3821 Center St. Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. Well known for our Gyro sandwiches and salads. We do catering and can accommodate a party for 65 guests. Carryout and delivery available. Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. AE-DC-MC-V. $ Horsemen's Park 402-731-2900 (Omaha) Horsemen’s Park located at 6303 Q Street. Happy Hour Mon-Wed 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. 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. Tin Star 333-STAR (Omaha) Located at 168th and Dodge St in the Village Pointe Shopping Center. Born out of a trend toward freshly prepared, higher-quality food in a warm and casual environment, Tin Star is a quick-casual restaurant that truly offers something for everyone. Tin Star incorporates variety, unusual and flavorful combinations and twists on tried-and-true favorites. Original entrees include Cheeseburger Tacos, Barbeque Chicken Quesadillas, Sweet and Sour Salmon, Chipotle Chicken and Margaritas.

STEAKHOUSES Austin’s Steak and Saloon 829-1616 (Omaha) 120th and L streets in Southwest Omaha. Austin’s has been a long time favorite for steak lovers. Featuring steaks form Omaha Steaks and a fabulous salad bar, also serves prime rib, barbeque ribs, along with several fish and chicken selections. Open seven days a week. Reservations accepted. $$$ Charleston’s 431-0023( O ma h a ) 13851 First National Bank Parkway. Casual, upbeat restaurant with modestly priced menu featuring American items prepared from $$ scratch daily. AE-DC-MC-VS 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 36pm 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 custom-aged 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.-Sat. 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. $-$$ The Paxton Chop House Omaha 402-341-1222; www.paxtonchop.com; The Paxton Chop House is located just outside the Old Market at the corner of 14th and Farnam, convenient to all the downtown hotels. We only serve USDA prime grade aged steaks. In addition we offer a variety of jet fresh fish, live Maine lobster and four fresh oyster selections. Hours: MondaySaturday 5:00-10:00; Sunday 4:00-9:00

415 South 11th St. / Old Market (402) 341-7040 Reservations Recommended Open 5pm Monday-Saturday Party Room available www.omaha-prime.com

54

september/october | 2008

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. Sullivan’s 342-0077 (Omaha) Sullivan’s is a 1940s style steakhouse featuring the finest Nebraska grown steaks, fresh seafood, and unparalleled martinis. Live Jazz Music is performed seven nights a week in the lounge and patio seating is available. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday starting at 11:00am, dinner is served seven days a week starting at 5:00 pm and the lounge is open until $-$$$$ 1:00am! AE-DC-MC-VS

Always a Large Selection of Fresh Fish “The Best in Casual Dining” 13851 First National Bank Parkway (West Dodge across from Girls and Boys Town)

402.431.0023

www.charlestons.com

4150 SOUTH 144TH STREET • OMAHA • 8949411

Monday:

Kids Eat Free 5-9PM • Monday night football specials

Tuesday:

All you can eat wings $12.99 all day

Husker game headquarters 7425 Dodge St. • 391-5047 www.sushiomaha.com

Fridays and Saturdays football special, bucket of wings and a lube tube for $21.99

Live Music starting again this fall on friday nights.

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

Steak... Martinis... & Jazz...

OMAHA

222 S ou th 15th St

402.342.0077

september/october | 2008

55

The Greek Islands Full Bar • Carry Out • Dine In

2202 South 20th Street – Omaha

Catering For All Occasions

Family Restaurant • Fine Steaks Chicken • Seafood Party Rooms Available

Open Seven Days A Week

“Our cake stands alone.”

We thank you for voting us #1

342-9038 • 346-2865

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

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

O’Connor’s Irish Pub 1217 Howard St. • Omaha, NE 68102 402-934-9790

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

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september/october | 2008

3821 Center 346-1528

Visa, MC, Diners & AMEX Accepted

Thanks for Voting us

1314 S. 119th St. • Omaha, NE 68144 402-334-6800 • www.cupcakeisland.com

Buy One, Get One

Buy any delicious Dell entrée or beverage item at regular price and get a second item of equal or lesser value absolutely FREE. Double your pleasure today! (maximum value of $10)

Largest selection of Single Malts in America 500 Kinds of Liquor • 230 Kinds of Beer

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

Fine

MEXICAN REAL MARGARITA FOOD HOME OF THE

(402) 346-1205

OLD MARKET

11TH & HARNEY

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 • www.omahapublications.com

september/october | 2008

57

REALLY GREAT FOOD TAKES REALLY BIG THINKING

2429 S. 132ND ST. 402-758-9222

1040 S. 74TH PLZ. 402-884-6003

2579 S. 171ST CRT. 402-884-0430

4303 N. 72ND ST. 402-991-6675

2085 N. 120TH ST. 402-964-2760

84TH & Park Drive Coming Soon

Old Market 11th & Harney 614-9333

Benson 71st & Ames 333-6391

Bellevue 15th & Cornhusker 934-2300

Lakeside 173rd & West Center 333-8001

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

Millard 120th & L 829-1616

PRIME STEAKS. . . FRESHEST SEAFOOD. . . ELEGANT SERVICE

1101 Jackson Street / Old Market / 344-3200 Reservations appreciated

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september/october | 2008

www.passport-restaurant.com

ChefProfile Su-Su-Sushi

Sushi! If you don’t already love these healthy bites, stop at one of the many Omaha authentic sushi bars for a taste of the Far East. Wash them down with a Sapporo (Japanese beer) or sake and you’ll be satisfied stomach and soul. First-timers: don’t let your first sushi experience go down the tubes… and turn you off to this tasty world of treats. Stick with the cooked rolls and vegetables and ease into it. Options to try: California rolls, avocado rolls and tempura rolls. It’s the raw fish rolls that scare off hard-core carnivores. Matsu Sushi in the Old Market even has a Nebraska Roll with beef, scallions and spicy sauce. If you are in a group, order a la carte, it’s cheaper and everybody gets what they want. Plan on 6-8 pieces of sushi per person. It’s fun for a group sit in a “tearoom,” private rooms divided with shoji screens with sunken tables. Keeping with Japanese custom, guests remove their shoes before entering a tearoom. Call ahead for a tearoom at Sakura Bana, 74th & Dodge, or Mt. Fuji Inn, 74th & Blondo. If you are dining alone, it’s fun to sit at the actual sushi bar and watch the chef assemble and cut the rolls with their ultra-sharp knives. You can get a close-up view of the action at Sakura Bana and Matsu Sushi.

Sushi Nightlife

Mt. Fuji Inn at 72nd & Blondo, a Japanese restaurant featuring sushi, has a legendary cocktail lounge on its lower level: the Mai Tai Lounge. The draw: massive drinks (for sharing) with names like: the Mai Tai Zombie, the Navy Grog and the Scorpion. The Mai Tai Lounge is a lovely retro experience, a must on any pub crawl. Baby Blue Sushi Sake & Grill just off of 168th & Center occasionally features Tres Johnson in the DJ booth in its lounge, Sake Bombers. Johnson is known for his deep house, which Johnson describes as “deep & jazzy & funky & dubby...with tastes of recognizable classics” At one recent gig, patrons were rapping their chopsticks on the tables to Johnson’s grinding beat – with Prince tracks dropped in. Irresistible…

www.omahapublications.com

Teresa Kramer Ruback by Maureen O'Halloran Clark

Teresa

Kramer Ruback says, “I grew up with cooking in my genes.” Her mother, Hilda Kramer, was an Omaha caterer. Ruback has been a private chef

for special events all over the country. While she relates that some clients in the Omaha area have had her sign confidentiality agreements, she is free to disclose her work elsewhere. In 2000, she was the chef for the Israeli-Syrian peace talks in West Virginia. Two years later, she was the chef for the U.S. Ski and Snowboard teams at the Winter Olympics. Since then, Ruback has been a private chef at five Masters Golf Tournaments in Augusta, Georgia.

In the mid-1990s, Ruback opened a restaurant in the Los Angeles area which was the first in the country to do entirely fat-free cooking.

In addition, she reports that she has developed new recipes for companies including: Disney; Hyatt; Häagen-Dazs; ConAgra Foods; Brinker International restaurant group, which includes Chili’s Grill & Bar; Darden Restaurants, which includes Red Lobster and Olive Garden; Tyson Foods; The Cheesecake Factory; and The Food Channel. Besides writing new recipes, Ruback translates them into Spanish upon request. In fact, she has founded a national bilingual culinary consulting firm. september/october | 2008

59

The

home of Arbor Day, experience the excitement and charm of Nebraska City.

Whether you are in search of a fun-filled vacation for the whole family, a romantic getaway for two, a long weekend with just the girls or anything in between, Nebraska city is a great destination. With so many things to see and do, you can have whatever kind of vacation you’re looking for right here in Nebraska City. Visit us on the web at: www.NebraskaCity.com 

   

The Mayhew Cabin is the only recognized Underground Railroad site in Nebraska. Visitors can see the 1855 cabin and the re-created “John Brown’s Cave.” The site also includes a village with an A.M.E. Church, train depot, and other buildings. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11-5, Sun. 12-5 Admission: $3 Adults, $1 Children

 

 

 

 

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2012 4th Corso (Bus. Highway 2) Nebraska City, NE 68410 Phone: 402-873-3115 www.mayhewcabin.org

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Say who you are without uttering a word! 

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802 Central Ave, - Nebraska City, NE Hours: Mon – Sat. 9 – 5:00

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Ne b r a s ka ’ s L a r g e s t We s t e r n O u t f i t t e r

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Lincoln 56th & HWY 2 60

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Nebraska City 9 0 3 C e n t r a l Av e .

Online

Fo r t We s t e r n . c o m

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Catalog 866•THE-FORT

Day Trips Fall days – it’s Indian summer time. It’s a time we want to hang on to those few days of temperate weather before the bitter cold sets in. Time to do a day trip with the family, perhaps some friends! The Omaha area has no shortage of opportunities: here are a few choice ideas to get you off the mark!

Mormon Trail Center History buffs have a rare opportunity to see a fascinating story in our city and nation’s past. Visiting the Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters gives a perspective into many facets of a vastly different time in times gone by and how much our country has changed since then. The Mormons, as they were called then, now members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints, traveled on an amazing journey called the “Mormon Migration” from Nauvoo, Ill. in 1846. They experienced religious persecution and had to leave their homes. Thousands of Mormons crossed Iowa and set up a temporary camp at this site. For many, it was to be their final resting place. The group built log cabins on the site. It was a rough Nebraska winter at the camp, with poor living conditions, illness and hunger. The Mormons lost one in three babies, and one in 12 total. At Winter Quarters, there are 364 known burial sites. As the last of the group moved on west of the Mississippi, the cemetery was abandoned. It was then unlawful to make permanent settlement on Indian ground: Congress had not signed the Kansas-Nebraska Act. The Mormons made their way to Salt Lake City. Some went just east to Kanesville, Iowa. In 1854, James Mitchell founded the City of Florence, what is now part of Omaha. Mitchell chose the area near where Interstate 680 crosses the Missouri River, which is now called the Mormon Bridge. Within Florence’s city limits was the area containing the Mormon Winter Quarters and burial site. In 1936, the Church received permission from the City of Omaha to erect a monument at the site. The Church leased the property until 1999, and then the City of Omaha deeded the property to the Church. The modern visitors’ center has been on the site since 1997. In it is a representation of the log cabins that once housed the weary travelers. Old-time Florence residents recall the visitors’ center previously being housed in a log cabin, and prior to that, a small house. The Mormon Trail Trail Center at Winter Quarters is at 3215 State Street. Visiting hours are: Sunday through Saturday 9:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Call 1-402-453-9372 for more information. Admission is free.

www.omahapublications.com

Lied Lodge & Conference Center A trip to The Lied Lodge & Conference Center in Nebraska City will put you in touch with your Nebraska roots – tree roots, that is! Most of us know Nebraska City is the home of Arbor Day. So many more activities are available, especially at the Lied Lodge & Conference Center. The new Discovery Ride at the Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure is great fun. You can ride under the canopy of a giant red oak leaf. Embark on a one-hour journey through the woodland trails across the historic 260-acre Arbor Day Farm. The Discovery Ride will operate daily at the Tree Adventure (weather permitting). Call 402-873-8717 for details and ride schedule. The Tree Adventure is also the site of U-Pick Apples! Fresh is best when it comes to produce. Take your “pick” and bring them home. Also, according to season, an onsite garden has U-Pick cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, pumpkins, apples and more. In September, it’s good old-fashioned fall fun with hayrack rides, campfires, applecider and make-your-own s’mores. This activity runs September 6, 13, 20 and 27, 7:30 - 9:00 pm. $10 per participant (children 4 & under free). RSVP to Lied Lodge Front Desk. More activities include: a larger-than-ever corn maze, wine tastings and a wine tasting room, birding trails, horse-drawn carriage rides and homemade apple pie.

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Story by Linda Persigehl Illustration by Nathanial Johnston

Pumpkin Palooza Crisp autumn days. Colorful, crunchy leaves underfoot. The stores filled with candy galore and costumes to frighten and fawn at. That’s right, it’s about that time again...time for what I like to call Pumpkin Palooza. My, how things have changed! When I was a young girl, living in the Chicago suburbs, buying pumpkins was simple. My mom would load up us kids in the ’74 Buick, and we’d head out to whatever discount store advertised the best pumpkin-per-pound deal in the paper. We’d dig through the mountain-high pile of pumpkins curbside, and each pick out a $2, 10-pound pumpkin (maybe a mini pumpkin or a gourd for our rooms, if we were lucky!). It wasn’t exactly a Norman Rockwell picture, but it was good, cheap fun for a threesome of scruffy kids who didn’t get out much. And we we’re happy for it. Nowadays, when I take my kids, 7 and 9, out for our annual trip to the pumpkin patch, my first stop is the ATM. I know the day is going to cost me, big time. I also remind everyone to put on their good walking shoes. The trek from the parking lot, filled with

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aisles and aisles of buses and cars from the tri-state area, always evokes a whole lot of complaining from the troops. Once we’re through the mile-long admission line at the gate and I spend a week’s worth of grocery money to get in, the kids scatter like ants, running from the pig races to the haunted graveyard, to the animal barn to the corn maze. My children suddenly become street beggars, hands outstretched for cash for kettle corn, a shot at the pumpkin launchers, a horseback ride…A full four hours have passed and we still haven’t yet gotten on a hayrack ride out to the pumpkin patch. Finally, after the sun has set and the pumpkin festival is nearing shutdown for the night, I broach the subject of pumpkins. Per usual, I’m met with tired faces and whiny voices, stating, “I’m too tired. Can we just go home and get the pumpkins later?” To which I’m happy to oblige, saying, “Sure, we’ll go to Target.” Then comes “Can you carry me to the car?” and I reply, “I don’t think so!” Maybe times haven’t changed so much after all.

BOARD BOARD CCERTIFIED DERM ERTIFIED GENERAATLOLOGIST COSMETIC

SURGEON

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Joel Schlessinger, M.D. BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST BOARD CERTIFIED GENERAL COSMETIC SURGEON

2802 Oak View Mall Drive, Omaha |

402-334-SKIN (7546)

| www.LovelySkin.com

Skin Specialists and Aesthetica Day Spa are under the direction of Joel Schlessinger, M.D., Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified General Cosmetic Surgeon. He is nationally and internationally recognized for his work in general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. © 2008, Skin Specialists, P.C.

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