Nov Dec 2010 - Omaha Magazine by Omaha Magazine

Faces • style • Home • events • art • Dining

PAGE 49

Deane and Joe:

Survivors, Soulmates

and Symbols of a New Day for AIDS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

2010

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features FEATURE .......................................... 20

A NIGHT OF FRIVOLITY AND FEAST

COVER STORY ................................ 30 FEATURE ............................................ 45 SPECIAL SECTION ............................. 80

PREMIER WEALTH ADVISORS

depar tments

omaha homE Transformations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 At Home With: Mary Jane and James Ingram . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

omaha styLE Nadia Singh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

omaha auto Holiday Travel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

DINING OUT

corey ross

sandra lemke assistant editor

art director/graphic design

matt jensen

assistant graphic design

john gawley arts editor

kim carpenter photography

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

tyler lemke

contributing writers

ART

GALA ......................................................................................................... 49 Cover Story ..........................................................................................................................................54 Behind the mic: Kenny Rogers................................................................................................58 The Scoop: Olympic "Hero" ......................................................................................................60 Galas, etc. ..............................................................................................................................................62 Antique & Garden Extravaganza ..........................................................................................64 Broadway Ball ...................................................................................................................................65 Family and Football ......................................................................................................................66 An Evening at the Fair .................................................................................................................66 Big Red Tailgate ...............................................................................................................................67 Expressions of Hope .....................................................................................................................67 Friends of OCM ................................................................................................................................68 Over the Edge ..................................................................................................................................68 Little Hearts, Big Miracles ..........................................................................................................69 Irish Assist .............................................................................................................................................69 Brew Crew ..........................................................................................................................................70 Race for the Cure ...........................................................................................................................70 Burgers and Bordeaux .................................................................................................................71 An Evening in Paris .......................................................................................................................71 Education Honors ..........................................................................................................................72 Caring Carmen .................................................................................................................................72

managing editor

linda persigehl

2010 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Editor's LEttEr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 For startErs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 CaLEndar oF EvEnts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 omaha art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 7 GEnEration o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 9 omaha FaCEs: sarah WhitE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 omaha FaCEs: marty doWds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

publisher

todd lemke

city editor

AIDS: A LOVE STORY

PAGE 30

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010 VO LU ME 2 7 • I SSUE 5

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Restaurant Review: Twisted Cork Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Dining Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Chef Profile: Nick Strawhecker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Wine & Food: Wine Scores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

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november/december | 2010

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Rainbow Artistic Glass

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

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Corey Ross Omaha Publications' Managing Editor

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

The Story of

Joe and Deane

Omaha’s best deals

delivered FREE and only ON DEMAND to your mobile phone via text message

text omaha deals to 63638 Let Omaha Publishing take your business mobile today!

One of the great things about the pub-

ing anniversary and story at hand, we

lishing business is the element of sur-

decided this was too good an opportu-

prise. By that I mean that you never know

nity to pass up to share with our readers

what amazing story might be lurking

a story about a subject – AIDS – that has

around the corner or how you might

lingered from conscience for most of us,

discover it.

largely due to the success of science.

In the case of this month’s cover story, it

However the disease hasn’t left us, as

was born out of a conversation with our

the story of Joe and Deane’s hard road

publisher, Todd Lemke, and a transcript

reminds us, and now exists in a complex

of a Facebook conversation.

state of perception and misconception.

Todd attended college at UNL with Joe

But beyond being the story of a disease,

Conrad and has occasionally kept tabs

this is a story of two men who returned

on Joe and his ordeal with AIDS. The

to their home state to seek “dignified

subject arose again amidst a Facebook

deaths” and now enjoy improved health

conversation between the two during

and happiness since finding each other

which Joe mentioned to the upcoming

in a most unexpected twist. Out of near-

30th anniversary of AIDS in 2011.

death and despair comes a story of per-

After Todd suggested to me that “there

severance, fate and triumph.

A service of in partnership with

News.VuOmaha.Com DiningOut.VuOmaha.com

www.VuOmaha.com

Dear Visitors:

might be a story here,” I followed up with

The story takes many twists and turns

Joe and found about his history with the

over the 10 pages we’ve devoted to it.

disease - and a whole lot more. Joe and

And beyond the print version, there’s a

his partner, Deane Lind, have, between

video link at the bottom of an approxi-

them, been battling AIDS for more than

mately 8-minute clip that introduces you

45 years. Their story is the story of the

to the two men and gives a little more

disease – the science, the stigma, the

background to the story.

For those visitors interested in reading the

Here’s hoping you learn something for

to www.readonlinenow.com and read the

Our regular readers and subscribers will

Joe and Deane’s journey and that you

entire magazine as well as past issues of all

recognize this as a weightier, and much

appreciate a story that isn’t afraid to take

longer, story than you normally find in

a few chances to give you a memorable

Omaha Magazine. Between the upcom-

readership experience.

abandonment, the isolation, etc.

november/december | 2010

Pages 27-90

are included for subscribers only but can be viewed at

www.readonlinenow.com

rest of this issue of Omaha Magazine go

of our publications. For those interested in subscribing to Omaha Magazine please visit www.omahapublications.com.

www.omahapublications.com

Omaha

This is

THE SECRET LIFE OF HOWARD HUGHES AT SASM The Strategic Air & Space Museum will host The Secret Life of Howard Hughes Nov. 1 through Jan. 2, 2011. The exhibit helps to unravel the mystery of Howard Hughes, the richest man in the country during his time, and will make the visitor wonder if Hughes died in 1976, as published, or if he only died in 2002 at the age of 96? This exhibit offers never-before-seen personal artifacts said to be those of Hughes, as claimed by his widow. The exhibit and museum hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10 adults; $5 children (ages 4-12); military and senior discounts. I-80, Exit 426, Ashland. For more information, call 402-944-3100 or visit www.SASMuseum.com.

The Strategic Air & Space Museum

Holiday Lights Festival Downtown Omaha The Holiday Lights Festival will brighten downtown Omaha’s skyline again this year, bringing in even more lights, more music and more family-friendly holiday activities. Downtown Omaha, Inc. Foundation and The open for skaters who bring a $5 entrance fee to benefit City of Omaha is inviting vocal and instrumental groups the Food Bank for the Heartland. For more details on to perform at this year’s festival celebration, including First National Bank’s Fireworks Show the Old Market the Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony, Thursday, Nov. Holiday Home Tour, and other Holiday Lights Festival 25th from 5:30-7 p.m. in The Gene Leahy Mall. The events offered through Jan. 9, 2011, go to www.holiorganizers/producers are also inviting groups to pardaylightsfestival.org take in a special series of concerts held each weekend through New Years Eve. New this year, on Sat., Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dickens in the Market will make a triumphant return. A variety of traditional and contemporary Christmas and holiday classics will be performed by those in beautiful “Dickens-style” costuming. As in years past, Wells Fargo will host a Family Festival Day, on Sun., Dec. 5 from 12-5 p.m., allowing free admission to various arts and cultural venues in downtown. Ak-Sar-Ben's River City ConAgra Foods Ice Rink will again Rodeo & Stock Show

www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

CALENDAR of events

www.visitomaha.com

Compiled by Sandy Lemke 11/1 - 4/1: Take Time for Tea 1820-1950. General Crook House. Tea pots! Tea cups! Tea accoutrements and memorabilia throughout the years. Come and enjoy this walk through the past. Tues-Fri/10am-4pm; SatSun/1pm-4pm $5 adults($6 NovDec); $4 students; $3 ages 6 to 11; Free for children under 6. 5730 N. 30 St. 455-9990. www.omahahistory.org. 11/1 - 1/23: Seasons of Joy: Currier & Ives Holiday Prints from the ConAgra Collection. Joslyn Art Museum. Over 50 prints by Currier & Ives from the corporate collection of ConAgra Foods, Inc., present a unique and joyous view of 19th-century autumn and winter holidays, rural and urban landscapes, and American life. Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat/10am-4pm; Thurs/10 am-8 pm; Sun/noon-4pm; closed Mon $8 adults; $6 seniors and college students; $5 youth (ages 5-17); ages 4 and younger free. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300. www.joslyn. org. 11/1 - 1/16: Beyond Realism: The Works of Kent Bellows 1970-2005. Joslyn Art Museum. This retrospective exhibition of Bellows’ work presents some 70 drawings and paintings. His exquisitely detailed images provide a perceptive insight into the character of his subjects. Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat/10am-4pm; Thurs/10am-8 pm; Sun/noon4pm; closed Mon $8 adults; $6 seniors and college students; $5 youth (ages 5-17); ages 4 and younger free. 2200 Dodge St. 3423300. www.joslyn.org.

Sachal Vasandani, 1200 Club at the Holland.

CHECK IT! Dates and times are current as of press time but please call ahead to confirm. NOVEMBER EVENTS 11/1 - 1/2: Anakin Skywalker’s Podracer. Strategic Air & Space Museum. Star Wars Fans! Exclusive engagement of the infamous Podracer – See the highly detailed 46-foot long replica, donated by Nintendo of America, Inc.® This exhibition is on loan from the Museum of Flight. in Seattle,Washington. Daily 10am5pm; Closed Wed during school year $10 Adults; $5 Children (ages 4-12); Senior & Military Discounts. I-80, Exit 426, Ashland. 402-9443100. www.SASMuseum.com. 11/1 - 12/31: Christmas Stamps. Boys Town. View Christmasthemed stamps and covers from around the world on display at the Leon Myers Stamp Center, located in the Boys Town Visitors Center. Mon-Fri/8am-5pm; Sat/9am-4pm; Sun/11am-4pm Free. 13628 Flanagan Blvd. 4981141. www.boystown.org. 11/1 - 12/26: Dig It! The Secrets of Soil. The Durham Museum. With public concern about the environment more pressing than ever, Dig it! The Secrets of Soil explores a vital, but largely unexplored natural resource and ecosystem. This Created by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Dig It! allows visitors to unearth the many ways we benefit from soils and how we

affect their health and productivity. Daily/5p.m. $7 Adults; $6 Seniors 62+; $5 Ages 3-12; Free 2 & Under. 801 S. 10 St. 444-5071. www.durhammuseum.org. 11/1 - 11/30: Agustin Victor Casasola. El Museo Latino. A selection of 30 black & white photographs that capture the portraits of the people, soldiers, political figures, and heroes of the Revolution. A gallery of portraits of the personalities, heroes and historical figures that fought to gain Independence are also on view. Mon, Wed, Fri/10am-5pm; Tues&Thurs/1-5pm; Sat/10am2pm $5 General; $4 College students w/ID; $3.50 Seniors & K-12. 4701 S. 25 St. 731-1137. www. elmuseolatino.org. 11/1 - 11/30: Public Art at Boys Town. Boys Town Hall of History. Throughout the Village of Boys Town, a wide variety of public art is on display - from the iconic bronze Two Brother statue to a terra cotta frieze depicting the spirit of Boys Town by the artist Lee Lawrie - who also executed sculptures at the Nebraska State Capitol and Rockefeller Center. 10am-4pm Free. 14057 Flanagan Blvd. 498-1186. For more information:Tom Lynch www. boystown.org.

november/december | 2010

11/1 - 11/30: Carol DeBuse and Family. Hot Shops Art Center. Group show by members of the DeBuse family in the Nicholas Street Gallery at the Hot Shops Art Center. Mon-Fri/9am-5pm; Sat-Sun/11am-5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas. 342-6452. www.hotshopsartcenter.com. 11/1 - 11/30: Caroline Schmitz and Family. Hot Shops Art Center. Group show featuring family members of the Schmitz family. Mon-Fri/9am-5pm; SatSun/11am-5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas. 342-6452. www.hotshopsartcenter.com. 11/1 11/21: Fall Chrysanthemum Show. Lauritzen Gardens. The show articulates the beauty of autumn with thousands of brightly colored, unique chrysanthemums, water features, Japanese garden influences, and the textures and rich colors of trees and shrubs. 9am-5pm $7/adults ($6 Nov-Mar); $3/ages 6-12, free/members and children under 6. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002. www.lauritzengardens.org. 11/1 - 11/21: A Thousand Clowns. Omaha Community Playhouse. A humorous nonconformist bachelor is left to raise his precious nephew. He has tired of writing cheap comedy for a

children’s television program and decides to do everything he has always wanted to do. Eventually he must return to work or lose his nephew. This is an extraordinary funny play with some brilliantly offbeat lines and situations. Thurs-Sat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm $35 Adults, $21 Students. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800. http://omahaplayhouse.org.

11/1: Featured artists Barnes, Fetter, Gaines, Golden. Artists’ Cooperative Gallery Ltd. Susan Sutherland Barnes, ceramics, Joan Fetter, paintings, Agneta Gaines, fiber arts, Dona Golden, paintings, show recent works. Wed/11am-5pm; Thur, Fri & Sat/11am-10pm; Sun/12-6pm Free. 405 S. 11 St. 342-9617. www. artistsco-opgallery.com.

11/1 - 11/19: Fletcher Benton Exhibit. KANEKO. Fletcher Benton’s fascination with letters and numbers became the inspiration for a major series of work that began in the 1970’s. Benton’s stunning variations on familiar themes present a wealth of possibilities, invention worthy of a great composer! Fri. General: $10; Seniors: $8; Students: $5. 1111 Jones St.

11/1 - 4/15: Fast Bikes, Fast Cars, Fast Planes. Strategic Air & Space Museum. This exhibit consisting of motorcycles and race cars, will find itself strategically placed among the aircraft in the museum..a fun way to spend a few hours! 10am-5pm Closed Wednesdays until Memorial Day $10 adults; $5 children (ages 4-12); military and senior discounts. I-80, Exit 426, Ashland. 402-944-3100. www.SASMuseum. com.

11/1 - 11/6: 12th Annual Art Auction and Exhibitions. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. The 12th Annual Art Auction presents a significant expansion from previous years — spurred by the revitalized Bemis Underground and renovated gallery spaces — the auction exhibitions feature nearly 300 works spanning the first floor and Underground. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130. www.bemiscenter.org.

11/1 - 4/10: Big Backyard. Omaha Children’s Museum. Kids can climb, bike, camp and hike in the biggest backyard under one roof! Explore 10,000 square feet of outdoorsy fun including the newly restored Richman Gordman Zooland Animals. Members: Free. Non-members$2 with regular admission. 500 S. 20 St.

11/1 - 1/16: Golden Kite, Golden Dreams: The SCBWI Awards. Joslyn Art Museum. Illustrations by over 45 artists, all recipients of the Golden Kite Award, the highly coveted prize judged by a jury of peers and recognizing excellence in children’s literature. Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat/10am-4pm; Thurs/10 am-8 pm; Sun/noon-4pm; closed Mon $8 adults; $6 seniors and college students; $5 youth (ages 5-17); ages 4 and younger free. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300. www. joslyn.org. 11/1 - 1/2: 100 Yards of Glory: Omaha’s Football History. The Durham Museum. Offers a rare look at the celebrated and untold stories of Omaha’s football past, dating back to the University of Nebraska’s first football game, a 10-0 victory against the Omaha YMCA men’s team in 1890. Explore the games, players, coaches, and trophies that have defined football excellence in our community for 120 years, spanning the high school, collegiate and professional ranks. MonSun/10am Members ALWAYS FREE!, Adults $7.00, Seniors (62+) $6.00, Children (ages 3 - 12) $5.00, Children 2 years and under FREE. 801 S. 10 St. 444-5071. www.durhammuseum.org.

www.omahapublications.com

November & December

2010

Crowning Achievements, Durham Museum. 11/1 - 1/2: The Secret Life of Howard Hughes. Strategic Air & Space Museum. This exhibit helps unravel the mystery of Howard Hughes and will make the visitor wonder if Howard Hughes died in 1976, as published, or if he only died in 2002 at the age of 96? This exhibit offers never-before seen personal artifacts said to be those of Hughes, as claimed by his widow. 10am-5pm $10 adults; $5 children (ages 4-12); military and senior discounts. I-80, Exit 426, Ashland. 402-944-3100. www.SASMuseum.com. 11/1 1/2: Crowning Achievements. The Durham Museum. The exhibit will showcase the Ak-Sar-Ben collection, including over 20 dresses worn by Ak-Sar-Ben queens, princesses and countesses, and pieces from the 2010 Ak-Sar-Ben coronation will be on display such as the King’s costume and the crown and scepter of the kingdom of Quivira. Mon-Sun/10am $7 Adults; $6 Seniors 62+; $5 Ages 3-12; Free 2 & Under. 801 S. 10 St. 444-5071. www.durhammuseum.org. 11/3: Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Mid-America Center. Christmas may come once a year, but the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s record-breaking and critically acclaimed annual touring spectacular is prepared to deliver holiday cheer in their most elaborate production yet. 4&8 p.m. $59, $49, $28. One Arena Way, Council Bluffs. 712323-053.6 www.midamericacenter.com. 11/4 - 11/7: Autumn Festival, An Arts and Crafts Affair. Qwest Center Omaha. Hundreds

of the nation’s finest artists and craftspeople from all over the country display and sell their handcrafted wares. Voted one of the top 100 shows in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine! Hourly gift certificate winners, stage entertainment, plenty of food and drink, and great family fun! Thurs&Fri/11am-9pm; Sat/9am-7pm; Sun/10am-5pm $7/Adults; $6/Seniors, Children under 10 are free. 455 N. 10 St. 331-2889. www.hpifestivals. com. 11/4: A Reading by Writer Mary Helen Stefaniak. Room 104, V.J. and Angela Skutt Student Center, Creighton University. Writer Mary Helen Stefaniak will read from her newly published novel, The Cailiffs of Baghdad, Georgia. 7 p.m. Free. 280-2192. http://mockingbird.creighton. edu/ncw/. 11/4: Underground Auction. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. The Underground kicks up the excitement at this year’s auction with a high-energy event you won’t want to miss, featuring simultaneous silent and live bidding, delectable desserts, a live DJ and open bar. 7-9 p.m. $25 per member, $35 per nonmember. Includes admission to both SILENT auctions and the Underground Auction. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130. www.bemiscenter. org. 11/5 - 12/17: BFA Thesis and BASA Graduating Senior Exhibition. UNO Art Gallery. Works by Bachelor of Fine Arts Thesis Students and Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts Students. Reception, Friday, November 5, 5 - 7:30 p.m. Free. 6001 Dodge St., Weber Fine Arts Bldg. 554-

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Luxury Living Redefined The condominium residences at Midtown Crossing offer a no hassle, luxury lifestyle with spacious floor plans, sweeping views and a full range of amenities: granite countertops, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances ...and that;s only the beginning. Call today for details 200 South 31st Ave., Omaha, NE 68131 | 402.934.6450 |www.midtowncrossing.com This is not an offer to sell, or solicitation of an offer to buy, real property. Purchasers should review the Federal Property Report prior to signing a contract. No federal or state agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Prices, plans, products, and availability are subject to change without notice. Artists’ renderings are shown for illustrative purposes only. Designated Broker: Sandra S. Lent, Shoreline Marketing, Inc., 360 N. Michigan Ave. Ste. 910, Chicago, IL 60601, (312) 750-1610. ©2009 Midtown Crossing, a Mutual of Omaha Mixed-Use Development. All Rights Reserved. All contents herein are copyrighted and may not be used without permission.

november/december | 2010

CALENDAR of events

www.visitomaha.com November & December

2010

2796. http://www.unomaha. edu/fineart/art/unoartgallery/ exhibitions.htm. 11/6: 1200 Club at the Holland - Chicago Blues Reunion. Holland Performing Arts Center. Don’t miss this all-star line-up of trail-blazing blues legends: Barry Goldberg (organ), Nick “The Greek” Gravenites (vocals/guitar), Harvey “The Snake” Mandel (guitar), Sam Lay (drums/vocals), and Corky Siegel (harmonica/vocals). Sat/8pm. 1200 Douglas St. 3450606. www.ticketomaha.com. 11/6: 12th Annual Art Auction and Exhibitions. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. The event is a kaleidoscopic survey of contemporary art, drawing over 600 people to the auction event and is truly the most anticipated art event of the season. Sat/5:30 - 10pm. 724 S. 12 St. 341-7130 http://bcartsales.org/ auction.cfm.

Take Time for Tea, General Crook House.

november/december | 2010

11/6: Omaha Symphony: Old School. UNO Strauss Performing Arts Center. The music of Haydn, Vivaldi, and Boccherini is far from new—but it’s just as fresh, crisp, and stylish as ever! Go “old school” at this program featuring the best of the baroque and classical masters and talented

violin soloists Ann Beebe and Keith Plenert. 7:00 PM $30. 6001 Dodge St. 342-3560. www.omahasymphony.org. 11/7 - 12/31: 19th Century Holiday at the General Crook House. General Crook House. Ten Chrismas trees and decorations beginning on the front porch continuing through “every nook and cranny” in this frontier general’s home, now an award-winning restoration listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Decorations are as they would have been in 1879 when the Crook House was built. Exhibits include costumes appropriate for Victorian holiday parties and “Take time for Tea: 1820 - 1950”. 5730 N. 30 St. 4559990. www.omahahistory.org. 11/9: Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. Orpheum Theater. Dr. Seuss’ magical tale comes to life on stage, featuring hit songs like “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” Max the Dog narrates as the Grinch – with a heart “two sizes too small” – schemes to steal Christmas away from Whoville. Share this heartwarming holiday classic with the ones you love! 409 S. 16 St. 345-0606. www. ticketomaha.com.

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As the home to Omaha’s largest indoor Christmas tree, The Durham Museum’s Christmas at Union Station is one of the region’s most cherished traditions. Join us for many exceptional events and exhibits, during this season-long celebration. Tree Lighting Ceremony

Friday, Nov. 26, 4-7PM Renowned vocalist, Michael Lyon will give a live performance in front of The Durham’s beautiful Christmas tree. Take part in cookie decorating, create holiday crafts in Mangelsen’s craft corner and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus!

Ethnic Holiday Festival

Friday, Dec. 3, 5-9PM Local cultural organizations proudly display their crafts and traditional dress while musicians and dancers perform throughout the evening. Sponsored in part by The Durham Museum’s On Track Guild.

Family Night with Santa

Tuesday, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21, 5-8PM Children will be able to share their wish lists with Santa and meet his reindeer, who will be making a special stop at the museum! During your stay, be sure to warm up with a free cup of Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa topped with Reddi Wip, compliments of ConAgra Foods.

The Durham Museum’s Holiday Concert Series Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 4 & 5; Dec. 11 & 12; and Dec. 18 & 19 Talented local entertainers, school musicians, and choirs perform on weekends as part of The Durham Museum’s Holiday Concert Series.

Ethnic Holiday Trees Exhibit Nov. 26, 2010 – Jan. 2, 2011 p the exhibit showcases beautifully Created byy local ethnic communityy g groups, decorated trees rep representing their special holiday customs. Sponsored in part bby Pinnacle Bank.

The Durham’s Durha Noon Year’s Eve Celebration Friday, Dec. 31, 10AM-1PM Bring your children to the fun-packed party where ex they can explore New Year traditions from around the world. The day ends with a celebratory bubble wrap stomp and ball drop at noon in the Suzanne and Sco Great Hall. Walter Scott Sponsored bby ConAgra Foods.

Christmas at Union Station is presented by ConAgra Christm Foods. Foo Media support provided by KPTM, Fox 42.

november/december | 2010

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Dee Dee Bridgewater, Holland Performing Arts Center. 11/11: Yonder Mountain String Band. Sokol Auditorium. 8:30 p.m. $20-$25. 2234 S. 13 St. www.yondermountain.com. 11/12 - 11/13: Omaha Symphony: Pictures at an Exhibition. Omaha Symphony. Listening to Mussorgsky’s popular masterpiece is like strolling through one of the world’s finest art galleries. Each movement is a work of art, uniquely beautiful and intriguing. Varying in texture and character, these parts unite to create an uplifting, unmistakable whole. 8:00 PM $15-$75. 1200 Douglas St. 342-3560. www. omahasymphony.org. 11/15: Shaolin Warriors. Orpheum Theater. With sharp spears and elegant ferocity, you’ll love this spectacular glimpse into the meditative and dangerous arts of the monks who invented kung fu. 7:00 PM Tickets start at $19. 409 S. 16 St. 345-0606. www. ticketomaha.com. 11/18: Spanish Guitar Concert with Javier Castellote. Bancroft Street Market. Born in Bogota, Colombia, guitarist Javier Castellote discovered his interest in the musical arts at an early age. Influenced originally by American and British rock and roll, Javier ultimately found refuge in the intimate sounds of acoustic classical guitar; an instrument which is present in various folkloric genres in Spain and Latin America. 6-8pm $5. 2702 S. 10 St. 651-2327 www. bancroftstreetmarket.com. 11/19 - 12/23: A Christmas Carol. Omaha Community Playhouse. A perfect “glistening confection” for the entire family - complete with fabulous sets, gorgeous costumes and a stocking full of beautiful music. WedSat/7:30pm; Sun/2&6:30pm $35

Adults, $24 Students. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800. www.omahaplayhouse.org. 11/19 - 11/21: Antique Spectacular. Mid-America Center. . One Arena Way, Council Bluffs. 712-323-0536. www.midamericacenter.com. 11/19: Dee Dee Bridgewater To Billie with Love - A Celebration of Lady Day. Holland Performing Arts Center. She is a Grammy® and Tony® Award winner, a U.N. ambassador, and the host of NPR’s “JazzSet,” but Dee Dee Bridgewater is most loved for her soulful, magnetic voice. Her theatrical portrayal of Lady Day earned international accolades. Now Dee Dee shines a joyful light on the divine music of a jazz icon. Fri/8pm. 1200 Douglas St. 345-0606. www. ticketomaha.com. 11/20: Last Comic Standing. Omaha Civic Auditorium/Music Hall. 8:00 PM. 1804 Capitol Ave. 444-3353. www.omahacivic. com. 11/20: Omaha Symphony: Tomas Kubinek. Holland Performing Arts Center. “Certified Lunatic and Master of the Impossible” Professor Kubínek takes the stage with absurd hilarity and outrageous theatrics that will leave you aching with laughter. Equal parts comic brilliance and virtuosic vaudeville, The New York Times praises his work as “Absolutely expert and consistently charming!” 8pm $15-$65. 1200 Douglas St. 342-3560. www. omahasymphony.org.

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11/26 - 12/19: Peter Pan - The Musical. The Rose Theater. “Think lovely thoughts,” says Peter Pan, as he gives Wendy, Michael and John Darling the

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Santa at the Durham. power to fly and leads them all the way to Neverland. Join us for this non-stop adventure filled with show-stopping songs. Best for ages 6 and older. Fri/7pm; Sat-Sun/2pm; $16; Members save $6 per ticket. 2001 Farnam St. 345-4849. www.rosetheater.org. 11/26: Village Pointe Holiday Lighting Ceremony. Village Pointe Shopping Center. A family-friendly concert starting at 6pm at the Alegent Health Amphitheatre in center court with complimentary hot cider and cookies for all. At 7 pm, a whimsical parade led by a local marching band, will include favorite holiday and storybook characters, Victorian carolers, elves and Mrs. Claus. Santa will arrive by “Cinderella” carriage. After the lighting ceremony, visit Santa inside the Village Pointe Cinema and enjoy free horse and carriage rides. Fri/6pm Free. 168th & W. Dodge Rd. www.villagepointeshopping.com. 11/26 - 1/9: Holiday Poinsettia Show. Lauritzen Gardens. More than 5,600 poinsettia plants are grown in Lauritzen Gardens’ greenhouses starting as early as July for this annual holiday show. This spectacular exhibit includes a 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree, beautifully decorated holiday trees, antique sleighs and model trains that travel through the display. 9am-5pm $6/adults; $3/ages 6-12, free/ members and children under 6. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002. www.lauritzengardens.org.

november/december | 2010

11/28 - 12/18: Holiday Harmony. Lauritzen Gardens. Stroll the holiday poinsettia show with added ambience from performers filling the visitor and education center with holiday music. Visitors may enjoy a warm meal or snack from the café while listening to the entertainment or cozying up in front of the crackling fireplace. Recurring Weekly on Sunday $6/adults; $3/children ages 6-12, free/ members & children under 6. 100 Bancroft St. DECEMBER EVENTS 12/1 - 12/31: Dr. Kelley’s Cabinet of Curiosities: Paintings and Objects of the Season. Hot Shops Art Center. Paintings and more by Norman Kelley and Paula Wallace in the 1301 Gallery of the Hot Shops Art Center. Opening reception: Friday October 1st from 6pm to 9pm in the Alley Gallery. MonFri/9am-5pm; Sat-Sun/11am5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas St. 342-6452. www.hotshopsartcenter.com. 12/1 - 12/31: Nebraska Women’s Caucus for Art. Hot Shops Art Center. Group show featuring artwork by members of the Nebraska Women’s Caucus for Art in the Hallway Gallery at the Hot Shops Art Center. Mon-Fri/9am-5pm; Sat-Sun/11am-5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas St. 342-6452. www. hotshopsartcenter.com. 12/1 - 12/31: Troy Muller. Hot Shops Art Center. Paintings by Troy Muller in the Nicholas Street Gallery of the Hot Shops

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Art Center. Mon-Fri/9am-5pm; Sat-Sun/11am-5pm Free. 1301 Nicholas St. 342-6452. www. hotshopsartcenter.com. 12/1: Holiday Under Glass: University of Nebraska at Omaha Chamber Choir and Concert Choir. Joslyn Art Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the season during this holiday luncheon concert series featuring area high school and university choirs and youth orchestras. 12-12:45pm $8 Adults; $6 Seniors & College Students; $5 ages 5-17; free ages 4 and younger and Joslyn members. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300. www. joslyn.org. 12/2: Scotch and the Castle. Joslyn Castle. Visit the Castle for a Single Malt Tasting hosted by Monique Huston and the Dundee Dell. The presentation will be held in the Music Room. Light hors d’oeuvres will also be served. Questions can be directed to 402-203-9931. Advance reservations can be made online at www.joslyncastle.com or calling 402-208-9931. Walk-ins are also welcome. 7pm $60pp. 3902 Davenport St. 2089931. www.joslyncastle.com. 12/3 - 12/31: Yesterday and Today. Omaha Community Playhouse. Billy McGuigan of Rave On! fame returns with his amazing musical tribute to music of The Beatles. Rekindle the spirit of yesterday through the music of the world’s most popular band. Yesterday and Today will have you twisting and shouting in the aisles while singing every word to

the songs you know and love. Thurs-Sat/7:30pm; Sun/2pm $38 Adults, $38 Students. 6915 Cass St. 553-0800. www.omahaplayhouse.org. 12/3: Aspen Santa Fe Ballet The Nutcracker. Orpheum Theater. Aspen Santa Fe Ballet returns to the Orpheum with a transcendent take on a cherished holiday institution. This once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between many Omaha-area dancers and a world-renowned professional company combines traditional elements with astounding creativity. 409 S. 16 St. 345-0606. www.ticketomaha.com. 12/3: ConAgra Foods Rockn-Racquets presented by CoSentry. Qwest Center Omaha. America’s best and most famous tennis superstars come to Omaha, including Nebraska’s own and former World #1, Andy Roddick, Hall of Famer Pete Sampras, and the World’s #1 doubles team and 2010 US Open Doubles Champions, Bob and Mike Bryan. It’s an annual tennis exhibition like no other. Doors Open: 6pm; Event Start Time: 7pm $28-$88. 455 N 10th St. 202-721-9527. www.rocknracquets.com. 12/3: Holiday Under Glass: Creighton University Chamber Choir. Joslyn Art Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the season during this holiday luncheon concert series featuring area high school and university choirs and youth orchestras. 12-12:45pm $8 Adults; $6 Seniors

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This Listing represents a small cross section off local bands who have had video's produced, they are as follows: JR Hoss Desire 2 Destroy Monsters In The Basement Grand Theft Girls Friend Finest Hour Conspiracy Theory Maverick Shoot To Thrill Danny Garcia Echophonic Drunken Intentions Hot Buttered Mojo Sur Thing Quartus Midtown Method If you would like to be featured on this list please, e-mail your request to VuOmaha@Yahoo.com they will schedule you and once filmed, edited and uploaded in HD your video will be posted at no charge at htt://www. VuOmaha.com this site is designed to promote local music in the Metro Omaha area. Once your video is posted, as a courtesy please request your friends to join www.facebook.com/ VuOmaha so they become familar with them as a source for local music videos.

november/december | 2010

www.visitomaha.com & College Students; $5 ages 5-17; free ages 4 and younger and Joslyn members. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300. www.joslyn.org. 12/3: Quartetto Gelato. Holland Performing Arts Center. For over a decade, this extraordinary ensemble has enchanted fans and critics worldwide with virtuosic technique, artistic passion, and charismatic anecdotes. Classically trained - eclectic by design - Quartetto Gelato thrills audiences with masterful playing and a brilliant operatic tenor. Fri/8pm. 1200 Douglas St. 3450606. www.ticketomaha.com. 12/4 - 12/18: Holiday Happenings at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Santa is coming to town… and he will be making a special stop at Omaha’s Zoo to dive in the Scott Aquarium shark tunnel. Watch Santa have a great time swimming among sharks, stingrays and sea turtles. The 70 foot-long tunnel in the Scott Aquarium gives visitors a great view of Santa swimming as well as a glimpse from the bottom of the ocean floor. Saturdays 9:30 a.m. - 5pm. 3701 S. 10 St. 733-8401. www.omahazoo.com. 12/4 12/5: Holiday Happening. Lauritzen Gardens. Festive music, holiday crafts and a visit with Santa Claus make this a perfect holiday outing for the entire family while visiting the hoiday poinsettia show. Children’s activities and photos with Santa cost $3 per child in addition to admission. 12-4pm $6/adults; $3/ages 6-12; free/ members and children under 6. 100 Bancroft St. 346-4002. www. lauritzengardens.org. 12/4: Holiday Air Affair! Strategic Air & Space Museum. Join us for our annual HOLIDAY AIR AFFAIR! Take your picture sitting with Santa in our FB-111 Fighter Jet! Get up close and personal with the 501st Legion (Star Wars)! Don’t miss their grand entrance on the escalator! 10 am (Doors open at 9:30am) $10 Adults; $5 Children; Members Free; Military & Senior Discounts. I-80, Exit 426, Ashland. 402-9443100. www.SASMuseum.com. 12/4: Rockbrook Village’s Santa in the Village. Rockbrook Village Shopping Center. Families can ride around Rockbrook Village in a horsedrawn carriage and chat with Santa Claus. Hot chocolate while you wait and candy canes from Santa. Carolers from area schools will entertain holiday shoppers. All this family fun is free. 11am-3pm Free. 108th & W. Center Rd. 390-0890. www. rockbrookvillage.com. 12/5: Christmas at Boys Town. Boys Town Heroes Blvd. Official beginning of the Christmas season at the Village of Boys Town. A tree lighting ceremony and community celebration. 7pm Free. 122 Heroes Blvd. 498-1202. For more information: Katina Gordon www.boystown.org.

12/5: Christmas at Boys Town - Tree Lighting. Boys Town. Carolers will welcome Santa Claus when he stops by to visit our Boys Town children and families. Everyone joins in singing jolly holiday favorites as the Village Christmas tree is lighted to start the Christmas season. 7:45 p.m. Village Circle, near Heroes Blvd. 498-1141. www. boystown.org/Discover. 12/5: The Judds: The Last Encore. Mid-America Center. 7:30 p.m. Reserved Admission: $68, $53, $38 and $100 4-Pack (Four $25 tickets - $25 tickets available only in packs of Four), plus applicable fees. One Arena Way, Council Bluffs. 712-3230536. www.midamericacenter. com. 12/5 - 1/14: Christmas at Boys Town - Historic Creche Displays. Boys Town. In honor of the holiday season, Boys Town will display three Nativity scenes through January 6. The main crèche adorns the historic Music Hall on Flanagan Boulevard, near the main entrance off West Dodge Road and can be seen for miles. This large Nativity scene was created by the late Donia Temple, a Holocaust survivor and former Boys Town employee. Other Nativities are located at Dowd Memorial Catholic Chapel on Dowd Drive,and on Heroes Boulevard, in front of the Village Christmas tree across from the Skip Palrang Field House. Village Circle, near Heroes Blvd. 498-1141. www.boystown.org/ Discover. 12/6 - 12/31: Father Flanagan’s Irish Christmas. Boys Town. The Father Flanagan House comes alive each holiday season with the sights and sounds of a traditional Irish Christmas celebration. From candles in the windows to Christmas quilts on the beds, the house captures the sprit of an Irish Christmas based upon faith and family. Cookies and cocoa can also be added for tour groups of 20 or more. 10am-4pm Free. 14153 Grodinsky Cir. www.boystown. org/Discover. 12/7 - 12/10: Madrigal Christmasse Feaste. Regency Marriott Ballroom. Now in its 20th year, this unique form of dinner theatre invites you to return to the Renaissance years for a festive holiday evening in an old English Castle. Four course feaste complete with a jester, wench and cast of 30 who entertain with familiar music, madrigals, and mirth. From the rousing Wassail Toasts to the last spoonful of plum pudding and the final fading memory of the Madrigal Syngers performance, you will be enchanted and filled with the spirit of Christmas. 6pm/cocktails; 7pm/feaste $50/ single; $48 groups of 10 or more. 10220 Regency Circle. 556-1400. www.ibsencostumes.com.

12/8: Holiday Under Glass: Omaha Conservatory of Music Piano Students. Joslyn Art Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the season during this holiday luncheon concert series featuring area high school and university choirs and youth orchestras. 12-12:45pm $8 Adults; $6 Seniors & College Students; $5 ages 5-17; free ages 4 and younger and Joslyn members. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300. www. joslyn.org.

12/17: Holiday Under Glass: Central High School Singers and Bel Canto. Joslyn Art Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the season during this holiday luncheon concert series featuring area high school and university choirs and youth orchestras. 12-12:45 pm $8 Adults; $6 Seniors & College Students; $5 ages 5-17; free ages 4 and younger and Joslyn members. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300. www. joslyn.org.

12/10: Holiday Under Glass: River City Ringers Ensemble. Joslyn Art Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the season during this holiday luncheon concert series featuring area high school and university choirs and youth orchestras. 12-12:45pm $8 Adults; $6 Seniors & College Students; $5 ages 5-17; free ages 4 and younger and Joslyn members. 2200 Dodge St. 3423300. www.joslyn.org.

12/22: Mannheim Steamroller. Orpheum Theater. This holiday season, Mannheim Steamroller will celebrate a quarter-century of being America’s favorite Christmas music artist with a 25th Christmas Anniversary Tour of their spectacular and beloved holiday show $34-$74. 409 S. 16 St. www.newspaceentertainment.com/oma.

12/11: 1200 Club at the Holland - Sachal Vasandani. Holland Performing Arts Center. Remarkable new talent Sachal Vasandani delves deep into heartache with a captivating, rich voice. His adventurous performance will surf the vivid nuances of jazz while flirting with pop and blues. Sat/8pm. 1200 Douglas St. 345-0606. www.ticketomaha.com. 12/15: Holiday Under Glass: Omaha Conservatory of Music Piano Students. Joslyn Art Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the season during this holiday luncheon concert series featuring area high school and university choirs and youth orchestras. 12-12:45 pm $8 Adults; $6 Seniors & College Students; $5 ages 5-17; free ages 4 and younger and Joslyn members. 2200 Dodge St. 342-3300 www. joslyn.org. 12/17 - 12/20: Supper with Santa at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Join Santa and Mrs. Claus at Omaha’s Zoo for a night of fun-filled holiday spirit! Enjoy supper, crafts, pictures with Santa and more! All children must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations are required 6-8pm. 3701 S. 10 St. 733-2092. www.omahazoo.com. 12/17 - 12/19: Omaha Symphony: Christmas With the Symphony. Holland Performing Arts Center. Omaha’s favorite holiday tradition is the perfect gift for everyone on your wish list! Our most popular show of the year sparkles with beloved holiday hits, singing stars from Broadway, local choirs, and even a kick line of dancing Santas! Celebrate the beauty and fun of the season with this heartwarming Christmas treat. Fri/8pm; Sat/2&8pm; Sun/2&7pm $15$80. 1200 Douglas St. 342-3560. www.ticketomaha.com.

12/26 - 12/30: Santa Claus is Coming To Town. The Rose Theater. Kris Kringle and his animal friends are determined to save Christmas for the boys and girls of Sombertown, where toys have been outlawed! Join them on their dangerous journey into the realm of Burgermeister Meisterburger. Best for ages 4 and older. Sun/2pm & 4:30pm; Mon-Tue/2pm & 7pm WedThurs/2pm,4:30pm & 7pm; $16; Free with Membership. 2001 Farnam St. 345-4849. www.rosetheater.org. 12/31: First Night of Play. Omaha Children’s Museum. Enjoy this family-friendly New Year’s Eve party with plenty of fun for children and a bubble-wrap stomp countdown. Families can ring in the New Year together and there’s still plenty of time for parents to celebrate afterward. 6-8:30 p.m. 500 S. 20 St. 342-6164. www.ocm.org. 12/31: Noon Year’s Eve at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Party with the animals and celebrate New Year’s Eve at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Have a wild time with activities, entertainment and an early countdown to 2011. Enjoy this fun family event without having to stay up until midnight! 10am-1pm. 3701 S. 10 St. 738-2038. www.omahazoo.com.

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November & December

2010

Chicago Blues Reunion, 1200 Club at the Holland.

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november/december | 2010

feature

A Night of Frivolity Story by Leo Adam Biga

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

november/december | 2010

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For four nights in December, the Omaha Marriott ballroom in Regency is transformed into an old English castle hosting a seasonal holiday celebration, circa 1600. Royals, attendants, escorts, a court jester, a kitchen wench and carolers are among the costumed characters greeting guests at the annual Madrigal Christmasse Feaste, Dec. 7-10 at the Marriott, 10220 Regency Circle.

and Feasting

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an evening of music and merriment interspersed with authentic period fare: spiced wassail; carved sirloin in Bordelaise sauce; vegetables; Yorkshire pudding; rum bread pudding. Now in its 20th year, this recreation of Christmas past qualifies as one of the metroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest-running holiday events. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the brainchild of Omaha theater and choral veterans who liked the idea www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

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of combining history, pageantry, live a cappella music and great food. But as co-founder and director Dwayne Ibsen said, the first madrigal they put on was never intended to be more than a one-off affair. Then a funny thing happened. Ibsen, owner of Ibsen Costume Gallery and designer of the elaborate costumes worn by actors, singers, even wait staff, said, “So many calls came after the first year from people who wanted to see it that didn’t [get to] see it that we thought we’d try it another year, and then it just kind of snowballed. Now the Convention and Visitors Bureau does a lot with us, which really helps. We’ve become one of the entertainment venues for the holiday bus tours that come into Omaha.” After years moving around to different sites, the event’s found a home at the Marriott. Madrigal singer Jan Sandoz goes back to the beginning. She happened to mention to Ibsen her desire to do a madrigal (she performed in one at Wayne State (Neb.) College. It turned out Ibsen, a theater director, had always wanted to stage one himself. “The idea of it was really intriguing to me,” he said. The two formed a production company. “We did a lot of research before we started it,” said Ibsen. “I looked at a lot of available commercial scripts for a madrigal piece, and none of the them really worked for where we wanted to go with this. They had a story, and our show doesn’t really have a story… it’s just a celebration, and it’s funny. It’s just a fun evening.” He said his script has changed over the years. “We’ve added and we’ve subtracted and created new characters. The Queen (Elizabeth) appears now, and originally there wasn’t a queen. This year I’m trying to bring in Elizabeth’s cousin -- Mary, Queen of Scots.” The spectacle is a major attraction. “It’s all about the costume,” said Ibsen. “Everybody loves when the Queen comes in because it’s a spectacular white Elizabethan costume that we entered in the National Costumers Association competition about 11 years ago and won a huge award with it.” That costume makes its lone annual appearance at the madrigal event. The authentic pieces Ibsen makes for the madrigal get worn just for the show. Local actor-singer-artistic director continued on page 24

november/december | 2010

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Howard Swain is another madrigal singer who’s been doing the show since the start. He loves the “high theater,” but especially looks forward to the singing. “Even though it’s very light-hearted and very entertaining for the audience, this is probably some of the most difficult music you could ask a singer to sing,” he said. “Obviously there’s going to be a few holiday tunes of the Old English variety that are simple hymn tunes, but quite frankly those old madrigals are extremely difficult. The challenge of interpretation of that kind of music has been a great joy to me. “Our music director, Jerry Gray, has refined it to the point now that it’s being sung and interpreted probably as close to the way it was originally written and originally intended to be performed as anything you’re going to hear.” For Sandoz, who plays the Countess of Essex, performing a cappella is the thrill. “I love that it’s a traditional Christmas performance without a lot of fancy lighting or a sound system. This is all done without any amplification, so it’s true madrigal music.” She and the others look forward to the show for other reasons, too; among them, it offers “a great way to get in the Christmas spirit,” said Sandoz. Then there’s “the feeling of family and esprit de corps” that Swain said runs through the company. “So many of the cast are returnees who have been doing it for many years. It’s a great time with some wonderful old friends that you don’t really get to see as often as you would like, but for that week, we’re all back together again.” Bruce Quaile is so devoted, he drives from his home in Blue Springs, Mo., to perform. Ibsen said the closeness extends to the audience, many of whom are regulars: “It’s really fun because it’s like family getting together for a holiday. That’s really what it is.” Occasionally, guests arrive in costume...an entire law firm once did. He said some businesses make the event their Christmas party. A warming hour starts at 6 p.m. Guests are escorted to their seats beginning at 6:45. The dinner and show commence at 7. The revelry concludes at 9:20. Tickets are $50 and include dinner, show and gratuity. Purchase tickets at Ibsen Costume Gallery, 4981 Hamilton Street, or call 556-1400. Group reservations at 346-4398, ext. 109. www.omahapublications.com

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Story by Kim Carpenter

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

OMAHAART

A Sense of Abundance Painter Matthew Jones

PaiNter

Matthew Jones has a philosophical attitude toward the creative process: mistakes don’t matter – it’s what you learn from them that counts. Indeed, he maintains that success isn’t possible without failure and the insightful lessons that follow. “Mistakes won’t cost you very much,” he observes. “Give yourself an abundance of material, and keep experimenting. Any artistic endeavor needs a sense of abundance.” That sense of abundance is readily evident throughout Jones’ work. His abstract and figurative paintings are intensely rich in color and have a textural quality that effortlessly invites viewers to contemplation and reflection. This is because in addition to art, Jones creates decorative work for private clients and interior designers, and the techniques he uses — such as gilding, crackling, tromp l’oeil and marbleizing — date back centuries, if not a millennia. Years spent studying and developing such age-old techniques mean that the painter’s influences are impressively diverse. They range from the likes of the Renaissance Old Masters, Pre-Raphaelites, and Austrian Symbolist Gustav Klimt on one hand, to continued on next page

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november/december | 2010

OMAHAART

continued from previous page

works dating back to ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome on the other. “I’ve taken a lot of decorative techniques into a new direction,” says the painter. “It goes from craft to art. That’s what I’ve always loved to do.” For example, Jones uses plaster mixed with acrylic paints to create paintings that glow with the softness of watercolors while demonstrating greater depth through almost imperceptible gradations of shading. “Painting in plaster is challenging and rewarding,” says. “I layer and layer, and the colors aren’t apparent until you see the finished results.” Other approaches, like using painted sections of cut-up muslin and several applications of glaze, also add subtle dimensionality to his work and enable Jones to engage viewers with the transparency of colors and subtle transitions from light to dark. Figurative portraits of his wife, Maggie, the painter’s primary muse, demonstrate how fluidly and effectively Jones can move between traditional and more contemporary styles. Some renderings look like they would be at home on patrician walls in ancient Pompeii or in a wealthy patron’s home during the Renaissance. Others are utterly 21st century. Jones, however, doesn’t just confine himself to sharing his work with collectors and art aficionados. He serves as a mentor for high-

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school students through The Kent Bellows Studio and Center for Visual Arts and shares his knowledge and experience – as well as encouragement and support – with teens from varying backgrounds. It’s been an especially rewarding experience, and Jones has been touched by the difference a caring adult can make for these high school students. He remembers getting through to one teen who had an especially large chip on his shoulder and was having problems in school. Jones’ mentoring gave him a new outlook and made a difference by providing a creative outlet. “He was there every day early and on free days,” says Jones. “We got a letter from his guidance counselor that essentially asked ‘What did you do to this kid?’” Jones has also benefited from working with the organization. Time with students has broadened his creative outlook and influenced the way he approaches his painting practice. “I’ve loved it,” he observes. “It’s helped me so much with my art.” This winter, viewers can see Matthew Jones’ art first-hand. Nomad Lounge in the Old Market is hosting an exhibition of the painter’s work from December 3rd through January 18th. It’s an ideal way to experience his diverse body of work and feel that “sense of abundance” that he so beautifully brings to each work. www.omahapublications.com

Story by Tessa Wedberg Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

GENO

If you

tune your FM dial to Twister 93.3 from 3 to 8 p.m., between tunes by Carrie Underwood and Sugarland, you will hear brothers Matt and Ben Tompkins discussing the history of sintars or similar random topics. Their quirky brand of humor, riddled with sardonic and often tawdry wit, keeps the audience laughing and curious what avenue their banter will travel next. This is not your average Country music radio show. “We want to offer something they’ve never heard before,” said Matt. “We love coming in every day to do something new and different and be allowed to create and entertain.” Matt and Ben have played in multiple rock bands (including an AC/DC cover band) and currently front a musical comedy act. They released their latest album, “Songs for Giants,” in July, 2010, after a year of writing, recording and refining their craft. In support of the album, Matt and Ben performed at The Funny Bone Comedy Club in September. Their show doubled as a canned food drive for the Salvation Army, an organization they work with frequently: “This was a big deal for us since [it was] the first actual comedy club we’ve performed at," said Matt. “We typically get stuck in scary dive bars with hairy women and angry men.” In addition to The Salvation Army, they also champion the American Cancer Society and Omaha Food Bank, to name a few. According to Matt, they only have two rules when hosting a philanthropic event. “It has to be fun, and it has to help someone who needs it.” Matt and Ben are inspired by anyone who pushes the bounds of creativity, sticks to what they love, and works hard to do it exceptionally. They cite influences including Flight of the Conchords, Mel Brooks and Monty Python, but credit their family with helping their passions take root and appreciating their comedic chemistry. “We get along pretty well. I don’t think we’d be able to find anyone else with the same sense of humor,” said Ben.

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Matt & Ben Tompkins november/december | 2010

cover story

Story by Corey Ross

Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

A love stor y

When the 30th anniversary of AIDS arrives in 2011, two men whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve fought the disease mostly alone for almost half their lives will salute their survival together, remarkably having found each other through their efforts to educate and advocate about HIV. 30

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“You don’t hear much about AIDS anymore,” Joe Conrad notes, beginning a 90-minute conversation during which he’s about to talk about nothing but while sipping from a glass of tea at a back table at a coffee shop in Dundee. Seated across from him is his partner, Deane Lind, who nods in agreement as he stirs a beverage of his own. Around his right wrist, Lind wears two bracelets: One is rainbow-colored and made of metal links; the other of copper and contains the inscription, “Until There’s A Cure.” Joe Conrad is, of course, talking about the media and how AIDS isn’t the front-page news it used to be in its infancy in the '80s. The lack of coverage is a good thing in that an AIDS diagnosis isn’t the immediate medical death sentence it used to be. But it’s also a bad thing in that now there’s a misconception AIDS is curable or cured. AIDS is like that. The good news about AIDS is that though medical advances haven’t cured the disease, they have made it more manageable and greatly increased life expectancy. The bad news is that while those drugs guard against the progression of the disease, they also exacerbate and even create other medical conditions, such as cardiac disease, that can be just as deadly. AIDS is like that. The good news is that when Joe speaks to large groups of kids about HIV/AIDS, they listen to him, touch him and even hug him. www.readonlinenow.com

The stigma about AIDS, and whose disease it is, isn’t what it once was, and kids don’t know the history anyway and are open-minded to being educated. The bad news is that those same kids know Magic Johnson – the famed basketball player who contracted AIDS in the 1990s – is still alive, and seemingly healthy, and conclude AIDS is no longer a threat. AIDS is like that. Joe Conrad, 51, and Emmert Deane Lind, 50, combined have had HIV/AIDS for nearly 45 years now. They’ve each lived the life of the disease – the science, the stigma, the abandonment, the death – lots of death – and survived their own near-death experiences. The good news is it seems likely they’ll both live to see the 30th anniversary of AIDS in 2011. The better news is that they’ll witness the milestone together, a grim badge of honor for two men who were given no chance to make it this long and have now lived nearly as long with the disease as without it. The disease brought together two men who otherwise likely never would’ve met and become each other’s “greatest gift.” Yes, AIDS is like that, too.

Before AIDS intervened,

Joe and Deane were ambitious 20-somethings living in major metropolitan cities and climbing corporate ladders. A native of western Nebraska, Deane was in Los Angeles worknovember/december | 2010

cover story

ing in retail management. Joe, originally from Omaha, was in San Antonio and had landed a dream job with the Marriott hotel chain. Working out of a hotel on the city’s scenic River Walk, Joe managed international and national conventions. After a couple professional stumbles, Joe had finally discovered career satisfaction and fulfillment. “I had finally found the job I wanted, and I was good at,” he says, “and then reality hit me in the face.” That reality was Joe’s AIDS diagnosis in 1991. His life would never be the same. Joe and Deane both became HIV-positive in 1986 and had fullblown AIDS in 1991. And in 1991, both men nearly met their end for the first time due to the disease. Joe was diagnosed with AIDS-related pneumonia and AIDS wasting syndrome, which whittled his body to 119 pounds. He was given his first terminal prognosis. Deane’s AIDS diagnosis led to him being prescribed AZT, the standard treatment at the time. In a foreshadowing of future AIDS treatments, AZT managed the disease but exacerbated or induced other conditions. In Deane’s case, it gave him leukemia. Deane was hospitalized for a month at a time and, because of his AIDS diagnosis, had a biohazard sign slapped on his hospital room door. Some nurses wouldn’t touch him, or handle his bodily fluids,

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and his meals were often left outside the door. “It was very frightening to be in that situation,” he says. Furthermore, Deane’s support group – largely his co-workers – vanished once they learned of the AIDS diagnosis. After one trip to his hospital room, he never saw them again, which made Deane face a second harsh reality. “Work was my life. It made me re-evaluate my life and consider what’s really important.” Joe experienced similar abandonment. “Back in those days,” he says, “when people found out you had AIDS, they didn’t walk away, they ran – as fast as they could. Even friends did, because it was guilt by association back then.” While each were battling their own AIDS-related crises in separate cities, Deane and Joe were given the same medical advice: Quit your job, go home and wait to die. They both did. And then a strange thing happened – the end never came.

While waiting out

their death diagnoses, Joe and Deane both began volunteering in HIV/AIDS assistance programs in their respective cities. It was by helping others that both claim they saved themselves. Some doctors and nurses were still loath to treat AIDS patients at that time, so Joe and Deane were among those who would provide www.omahapublications.com

the care the health professionals would not. The men washed patients’ hair, bathed them, provided emotional support and, in many cases, were with AIDS sufferers in their final hours. The clinic where Joe volunteered in San Antonio was half hospice and half AIDS-HIV treatment and support, or as Joe calls it, “the room for the walking dead.” Life spans for the infected back then were measured in weeks. Joe recalls AIDS patients living in fear of a room full of recliners. The room was where aerosol treatments were administered to prevent AIDS-related pneumonia. Patients whose T-cell count fell under 200 (normal is around 1,000) were sent there for a two-hour treatment once a week. “AIDS patients feared that if you go in that room, it spelled bad things for you,” he says, noting that treatments were later reduced by being coupled with preventive antibiotics. “You had to stay away from the recliner room because that was one step closer to the hospital and one step closer to death.” Joe fortunately stayed out of the recliner room and continued to assist patients. Doing so, he says, gave him the strength and willpower to fight the disease. “Once you gain some confidence and see all the people around you who have it much worse than you do, you realize you can deal with it,” he says. Deane’s experience provided a similar epiphany. “We called ourselves to a better place with less selfishness,” Deane says. The next place their newly acquired resolve would take them was home and back to Nebraska, where the disease brought the two men together, though what each man faced coming home was quite different.

When Deane was

diagnosed with AIDS in Los Angeles, his instincts told him to return home to the support and comfort of his family in Nebraska. However, it wasn’t that easy. Deane is originally from rural Nebraska, a town called Morrill (pop. 950), near Scottsbluff. Medical concerns alone in 2004 gave him pause when pondering the move home. “The biggest concern in coming back home was, well, am I going to be able find a doctor who will give me quality care? Will I be able to find support systems and support groups? Those are the networks people really need to get through,” Deane says. Those medical concerns proved to be valid when Deane did return. The first doctor who treated him wouldn’t touch him and told him he looked “fine.” Deane – and Joe, for that matter – had long ago learned to speak up about his treatment (or lack of ) and sought out another doctor.

"AIDS has gone from being something that was uniformly fatal to something that looks cautiously hopeful. I wish we’d had the kind of success with many other diseases.”

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- Dr. Mark Goodman, Joe's physician

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cover story Another cause for hesitation about moving back was how it would affect his mother, or as Deane puts it, “What will people say when they find out Rowena’s son has AIDS?” Indeed, rural Nebraska not long ago, Deane says, was equivalent to the rest of the country in the 1980s. It was a return to all the stigma and misconceptions about the disease. Deane’s health was at its nadir when he finally returned to the state in 2004. Rowena Lind remembers seeing her son in L.A. before the move back and thinking he was at death’s door. His weight had dropped from 170 to 120 pounds in a matter of weeks. He’d lost his hair from chemotherapy and couldn’t even walk to the bathroom without assistance. “He was so bad all I could do was cry,” she says. “I didn’t think he was going to make it.” She credits returning home with saving her son. That, and meeting Joe. “I can’t believe he’s so good now,” she says. “They’ve been great for each other.” Joe too returned to Nebraska at the depths of his illness, but his transition was easier. Besides superior medical care and unconditional family support from his mother and father, Joe benefited from resuming his community service work with Nebraska AIDS Project and even served 10 years on its board. Far from hiding his condition, Joe spoke out about it, including beginning a speaking gig at Cornhusker Boys’ State that has lasted 14 years now. In 2004, the management of Nebraska AIDS Project made it a priority to improve statewide communication about education and prevention issues. As part of this initiative, they wanted Joe to meet with the representative for the western part of the state. In fact, the representative was going to be coming to Omaha to tour the office. Joe agreed to meet with him, but admits he had no idea what to expect. What happened next would change two lives forever.

After Deane returned

to Nebraska, he began volunteering in the Nebraska AIDS Project’s satellite office in Scottsbluff. In 2004, he was summoned to Omaha to collaborate on ways to improve statewide communication efforts. That’s when he met Joe. After a day of meetings and tours, Joe was the last person Deane met. As they each began to share their stories, they were stunned by the similarities. They both attended UNL in the late 1970s/early 1980s. They both spent time in San Antonio. They tested positive for HIV and contracted AIDS at the same time. They both moved back to their home state to seek solace and family support. And they both now strived to spread the word about AIDS education and prevention. To Deane, it was like looking at his life in a mirror. They’d lived parallel lives that, amazingly, hadn’t intersected until now. “We could not believe the coincidence that we’d traveled many

"We could not believe the coincidence that we’d traveled many of the same roads in life but had never met.”

- Deane Lind

november/december | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

of the same roads in life but had never met,” Deane says. “We even laugh now and say had we met any earlier in life we’d probably not have liked each other because we were so similar.” As they each spoke about their struggles with AIDS, their bond grew with each smile, laugh and tear. For the first time since each contracted the virus, they weren’t alone. In their circumstance, they had found something even more rare than chemistry and friendship: understanding. “We had never met anyone who so fully understood every experience that we had gone through, and appreciated the fears and challenges that we face every day,” Joe says. “The greatest gift that anyone living with a chronic disease can receive, especially a disease with so much stigma and discrimination, is the understanding and acceptance from another individual who has walked the same path. The realization that ‘I’m not alone’ is as important as any medication we have ever received.” Two men who had returned to Nebraska to seek “dignified deaths” suddenly had never felt more alive. They each had found the relationship that had been so elusive and had seemed impossible since contracting AIDS. They would soon be joined by more than their mission to advocate for HIV-positive Nebraskans. In 2005, they exchanged commitment rings on a chilly Valentine’s Day at the Scottsbluff National Monument. The rings symbolized their life paths: One band with two circular parallel grooves. As Joe and Deane shared their moment, they paused to recall their friends who had never gotten the chance to have theirs. Such is the psychological saga of being a survivor when you are one of so few. Joe explains, “We decided we should rejoice in our survival, celebrate those we’ve lost, and never forget that in this moment in time, we finally found what we were looking for: each other.”

How many different

pill regimens have Joe and Deane been on? How many have there been? Joe lost count long ago. “I can’t tell you how many pill boxes I’ve burned through,” he says. “They wear out – and then you get to buy a bigger one because you have more medications to take.” "The greatest gift that anyone living with a chronic disease can There used to be a pill for everything. Now at least mulreceive, especially a disease with so much stigma and discrimination, tiple drugs can be packed into is the understanding and acceptance from another individual who one pill to cut down on consumption, Joe says. has walked the same path. The realization that ‘I’m not alone’ is as Yes, the science of treating AIDS is much improved, as important as any medication we have ever received.” Deane and Joe can attest from experiencing the sketchy science and treatments of drug trials when the 10-year waiting period was waived in an effort to stem the AIDS epidemic. Joe and Deane can swap medication war stories all afternoon. It used to be that you had to take 10 different pills at 10 different

- Joe Conrad

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november/december | 2010

cover story

dEanE: 1960 borN iN ScottSbluff, Neb., oN SePt. 8, 1960 1978

GraDuateD from morrill HiGH ScHool iN morrill, Neb.

1978

1981 atteNDeD uNl to StuDy aNtHroPoloGy/arcHaeoloGy

1981

moveD to SaN aNtoNio DuriNG Summer HiatuS

1981

returNeD to liNcolN to coNtiNue StuDieS at uNl

1982

GraDuateD from uNl

1982

1988 - retail buyer for miller & PaiNe DePartmeNt Store iN liNcolN

1986

became Hiv PoSitive

1988

moveD to loS aNGeleS workiNG for may corPoratioN aS a clotHiNG buyer

1991 2004

DiaGNoSeD witH full-blowN aiDS/acute myoblaStic leukemia moveD back to morrill, Neb., iN JaNuary & beGaN voluNteeriNG NebraSka aiDS ProJect

witH

2004

DeaNe aND Joe met iN auGuSt at tHe NebraSka aiDS ProJect office iN omaHa

2005

DeaNe aND Joe excHaNGeD riNGS at tHe toP of tHe ScottSbluff NatioNal moNumeNt oN valeNtiNe'S Day

november/december | 2010

times of the day. And Deane recalls that not that long ago fighting the disease literally amounted to a wake-up call. “In the early days with AZT, you would set your alarm for every four hours and take your pills,” Deane says. Now the separate regimens that Joe and Deane have been on for four years consist of three anti-HIV drugs contained in one pill. Deane takes Atripla once a day. Joe takes Trizivir twice a day and then a two-drug combo before bed. For some reason, the AIDS medications are mostly blue. “That can make it confusing,” Joe confides. Then there are secondary drugs to combat the AIDS-related conditions the drugs can cause or exacerbate. Their monthly medications are enough to stuff a Ziploc bag full. For all that, Joe and Deane’s medications cost each $1,500 a month. Besides the drug therapy, Joe and Deane each see a physician quarterly to have blood-work done, medication checked and an overall physical performed. Dr. Mark Goodman at Creighton University has been treating Joe since 1995. Joe has the distinction of being Dr. Goodman’s longestsurviving AIDS patient. Goodman started treating Joe right when the AIDS medications made the revolutionary leap that has radically changed the outlook for AIDS patients. Goodman saw the beginnings of that with Joe in 1995. “He was to the point where he’d basically given up, and then there were some medication advances and I told him, ‘Let’s give some of this new stuff a shot,’” Goodman says. “Fantastically and unexpectedly, we started restoring his immune system. And he was really skinny when I met him, and we’ve even been able to put some muscle back on him.” Joe’s recovery is a microcosm, Goodman says, of one of the great medical success stories of our time. “When you look at the arc of illness in human history, there are very few cases when medicine has been able to completely change the arc of an illness in a generation,” he says. “AIDS has gone from being something that was uniformly fatal to something that looks cautiously hopeful. I wish we’d had the kind of success with many other diseases.” The biggest difference for Joe and Deane for medical care is that for Joe, living in Omaha, quality care is more readily available. Living in rural Nebraska, Deane reports to a clinic in the Panhandle, where an HIV specialist from Denver drives in to administer care. Having each lived long enough to know a great deal about the disease, Joe and Deane both play active roles in their care and advocate for other AIDS patients to do so. Their quarterly check-ups are relatively simple procedures now compared to the early days of AIDS, Joe notes. Back then, exams took hours because physicians were basically learning on the job how to treat the disease. The cost of seeking quality care is partly offset by medication assistance programs and federal assistance programs that are especially supportive of individuals with advanced cases, but, still, part of the price of having AIDS is indeed the price. “Without those programs, it would be impossible for us to afford [treatment],” Deane says.

www.omahapublications.com

The financial cost of having AIDS is relatively easy to figure. The emotional toll is harder to tabulate. The emotional trial for Joe starts every morning with his walk to the bathroom. “Every time I look in the mirror, I see AIDS,” he says. “I see the sunken cheeks. I see the symptoms.” After 25 years, the walk hasn’t gotten any easier. And Joe knows it’s a trap when he starts to think it has. In 2006, Joe was enjoying life with Deane and feeling comfortable with his management of the disease. Too comfortable it turned out. “HIV/AIDS is a very humbling disease,” Joe says. “It can fool you into a false sense of security.” Joe was reminded of this when he was given the dreaded diagnosis of having AIDS-associated dementia. AIDS is a neurotropic virus, which means it invades the brain tissue. Twenty-five percent of AIDS patients suffer cognitive impairment, meaning a loss in motor skills, and can additionally develop a disorder that makes them more prone to depression, fear and anxiety. For Joe, it’s basically the AIDS equivalent of Alzheimer’s disease. He’ll search for a word, for instance, and Deane will often end up finding it for him. Despite the dementia, Joe maintains an active lifestyle, but he’s had to curtail his community service efforts and save his energy and stamina for select opportunities to educate and advocate. But Joe maintains he’ll continue to serve as long as the disease will allow. He and Deane feel obligated to advocate out of a sense of duty and gratitude for those who did so in the early days of the disease and thereby gave them the future they now share. “The early actions of AIDS advocates, many of whom did not survive, forced the changes to a system that was not equipped to deal with the disease. They paved the way for others to apply the same tactics and advance the cause,” Deane says. “They are the true heroes.” Goodman agrees. “Maverick doctors,” as Goodman puts it, helped change the fortunes of AIDS patients, but the change started with early AIDS patients who refused to quietly resign themselves to their fate. When the anniversary of AIDS comes, Goodman expects he’ll reflect on the early days of the disease and the sheer panic that enveloped the country. “It’s hard for people to realize the terror that accompanied AIDS in the early '80s,” he says. “I was in medical school in 1981-82, which is when we didn’t even know what caused it. My first patient was in 1985. He was a really good kid, but he was so scared. I’ve seen a lot of brave people lose this fight.” That Joe is still fighting, in Goodman’s eyes, makes him “one tough dude.” Joe credits Goodman’s care for “saving my life,” but Goodman says Joe’s survival is mostly Joe’s doing, although a certain amount of good luck has certainly played a role. And meeting Deane has been a blessing beyond anything Goodman could’ve prescribed. “That’s been huge,” Goodman says. “AIDS is such an isolating disease and to have someone who understands is pretty awesome. Since meeting Deane, Joe has enjoyed a life he never could’ve expected when I met him.”

www.readonlinenow.com

JoE: 1959

borN iN omaHa oN marcH 6, 1959

1977

GraDuateD from DaNiel J. GroSS HiGH ScHool

1977

1981 atteNDeD uNl to StuDy Petroleum GeoloGy

1981

moveD to SaN aNtoNio to eNter reliGiouS life

1986

became Hiv PoSitive

1988

beGaN work witH marriott HotelS aND reSortS

1989

beGaN voluNteeriNG witH SaN aNtoNio aiDS fouNDatioN

1991

DiaGNoSeD witH full-blowN aiDS/aiDS waStiNG SyNDrome/PcP aiDS-relateD PNeumoNia

1992

moveD back to omaHa iN february aND beGaN voluNteeriNG witH NebraSka aiDS ProJect

2004

DeaNe aND Joe met iN auGuSt at tHe NebraSka aiDS ProJect office iN omaHa

2005

DeaNe aND Joe excHaNGeD riNGS at tHe toP of tHe ScottSbluff NatioNal moNumeNt oN valeNtiNe'S Day

2006

DiaGNoSeD witH aiDS-aSSociateD DemeNtia

november/december | 2010

cover story

It was summer

in San Antonio when Joe received his terminal AIDS diagnosis in 1991. He remembers walking home, weighing a scant 119 pounds, and looking at this lawn, parched and burned in the Texas summer sun. Depressed, it was the only time he embraced the escape only death would provide. Then he noticed a bright, yellow source of life-saving inspiration. “I looked down in the dead, burnt grass and there was a dandelion standing straight up in the sun. Even as a kid, I’ve always been drawn to dandelions,” he says. “I looked at this yellow weed and thought, ‘If that little sucker can stand up and thumb its nose at the sun in that environment, then there has to be something else for me.’” That mental resolve, along with family support and the good fortune to be included in the right drug trials, are what Deane and Joe both credit for their survival. They speak out now, and play an active role in education, in part to maintain their mental reserve. They find strength in helping others cope and by helping them avoid the pitfalls of the disease that both know too well. “It helps us keep our spirits up,” Deane says. That motivation has led Joe and Deane to speak to thousands over the years about their condition, STDs and protection from HIV on their continuing mission of education and prevention. Of those many speaking engagements, one in particular stands out to Joe. Following a talk to a middle-school class in Plattsmouth, an eighth-grade girl asked Joe a question: “If you had one wish, what would it be?” The answer, it would seem, was obvious, yet Joe was briefly stumped. “I had no answer. I’d never taken the time to be that positive,” he said before finally answering, “Well, I guess it would be to wake up tomorrow and not be HIV-positive, because I don’t remember what that’s like.” The girl then handed Joe a coupon that read, “This coupon entitles you to one free hug from any human being,” and asked, “Can I hug you?” “The next thing you know, all the kids came out of the bleachers and were waiting in line to hug me,” Joe says. “That’s why we love to educate kids. You can plant the seeds.” Joe and Deane are looking to plant as many seeds as possible in the hope no one else will be sharing a story similar to theirs on the 50th anniversary of AIDS or any other. Their struggle with AIDS will one day end, but the fight will go on, and Joe and Deane want to be sure that the lessons learned from their survival aren’t lost on the next generation. “I’ve never known as much about a subject as I do this one,” Joe says. “You become your own study. You become your own subject. And it doesn’t do anybody any good if you don’t survive it and you have a voice to make a difference.”

To view a YouTube clip conTaining inTerviews wiTh Joe and deane and a liTTle background abouT Their lives and The sTorY, go To news.vuomaha.com.

november/december | 2010

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"It doesn't do anybody any good if you don't survive it and you have a voice to make a difference." - Joe Conrad

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november/december | 2010

OMAHAFACES

Story by Heather Heier Lane Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Jewelry Designer Sarah White Inspired by a bucket of beads, a wedding and a day job

SaraH

White knows how to make a statement without saying a word. As an up-and-coming jewelry designer, White knows her way around accessorizing the perfect outfit. A total girlie girl, White can usually be found wearing a flower in her hair, at least one piece of jewelry, and high heels. Yet even with all that flair, White understands that fashion is different for everyone, and not all are that daring. With that in mind, her pieces vary in punch as well as price. Whether the statement you’re hoping to make is bold, or perhaps something a bit more subtle, she has you covered. So what do a bucket of beads, a wedding, and a day job have to do with White’s jewelry? It’s quite simple actually. White grew up as a bit of an Army brat, living all over the United States and even abroad in Turkey and Spain, before her family moved to Omaha in 1996. While

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her travels surely help to inspire some of her funky designs, White credits her crafty mom as her main inspiration. “When I was 7, my mom gave me dental floss and a bucket of beads,” says White with a laugh. She made countless plastic necklaces and would often dress her brother up in her designs. Then, after going years without making jewelry, White eventually got the bug again at Oriental Trading Company, where she still works. White was immersed in beads during a project she was working on, and it didn’t take long for her to remember how much she loved making jewelry. And the wedding? Well, it was actually her own wedding that really got things rolling. When White got married four years ago, she made her bridesmaids jewelry, and almost immediately people started asking her where they could buy her designs. It’s safe to say her style has matured since those early rainbow-colored necklaces, or even the modest designs she came up with for her own wedding. Today, White’s pieces range from the traditional chain and a charm, all the way to huge statement pieces made with reclaimed materials—think wool batting, hand-made fabric flowers, and beads from vintage pieces. White’s very first sale on etsy.com, a crafter’s paradise where you can buy all kinds of unique hand-crafted and vintage items, was a bib necklace she sold to a customer in London. Not sure what a bib necklace is? Don’t fret, as soon you’ll see them everywhere. Vera Wang even wore a bib-type necklace on “Oprah” during the first week of Oprah’s final season. Basically, a bib is a large necklace that usually has a great deal of detail and/or layers of beads. It can be draped over a casual top or paired with something dressy, and can even look like it’s actually part of the clothing. Let’s just say, if Vera Wang is on board this trend, it’s definitely fashion forward. For now, White considers jewelry, “a hobby that I am passionate about,” and has no plans to make it her full-time career. But never say never. This designer has that extra something special that makes her work really shine. And with sales all over the world, you never know who is going to stumble upon her genius. To view Whites’s designs, visit her online boutique at www.etsy.com/shop/SarahWhiteJewelry www.readonlinenow.com

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A Dancing Irishman

Lands in Omaha

marty DowDS

traveled a long way from County Donegal in northwest Ireland to eventually circle the world as a Riverdance lead performer. Touring brought him to Omaha, where he now resides. It’s quite a leap for someone who only learned Irish step dancing at his grandmother’s urging to counter his childhood asthma. He took so well to it, though, he soon won major competitions. He described the regimen of competition dancing as “strict.” When he started, there was no real opportunity for an Irish step dancer beyond contests. One could gain recognition and earn trophies, but a career just wasn’t in the offering. That changed with Riverdance, the Irish dance show that became a sensation. “I never really thought there was going to be a future,” said

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Dowds. “When Riverdance came along, I kind of got excited thinking, ‘Oh, I’d really like to be a part of that.’” He was 16 when he first auditioned for the troupe, and only his youth kept him from securing a spot. No matter, because at 17 he made the cut, beginning a 13-year odyssey that propelled him across Europe, America and Asia. “It was an amazing opportunity. I’ve never regretted it for one second,” said Dowds. He attributes hard work and determination with earning him a place with the popular show. He spent 18 months in New York City during a Broadway run. He performed at Radio City Music Hall and other fabled venues. He cherished his Big Apple time. “It was amazing,” he said, “like the best 18 months ever.” His grandma vicariously enjoyed his success. “She was as happy as can be,” he said. His family saw him perform in Ireland and in the States. He went from being one of Riverdance’s

youngest performers to one of its oldest by the time he left in June, at the end of a ninemonth farewell tour. Last November, he was at the Orpheum with the Riverdance North American touring company, The Boyne. After meeting his love here, he’s made Omaha his second home. He’s filed for a green card and is studying for an Irish dance teaching certificate so he can open a studio. He has guest-taught master classes, but he’s eager to have his own students. “Teaching kids is great,” he said. He views dance instruction as “the next step” in his journey. If there was a downside to Riverdance, it’s that the rigors of travel, rehearsal and performance made him miss out on some touchstone activities. “I left home at such a young age. There’s so many things I haven’t really done in life,” he said, like drive a car. He just got his learner’s permit. “There’s still things I’m catching up on. It’s really weird. Your life’s like on hold.”

“But,” he added, “you’re doing so many other things, like seeing the world, meeting people, trying new food, and being paid to do it as well, which makes it even better.” Still, dancing’s wear and tear took its toll. He said, “It is hard on your body.” He sustained injuries. “You just carry on. It’s part of the job. You work with what you have, you change your style, you change the step, you do what you gotta do, because at the end of the day you gotta be on stage, the show still goes on.” He won’t miss the daily grind, though he’s anxious about what the future holds. “It’s kind of scary. I’ve been doing the same thing for so long. But it’s definitely time for me to take a step back and enjoy what I have and move on. It was just a good time to leave.” The Dancing Irishman’s new journey begins in Omaha, whose Irish Catholic profile and Old Market scene make him feel at home.

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Holiday 0 1 0 2 Gift Guide

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COVER STORY: SALUTE TO SERVICE

Meet the Fangmeyers, one of four families being honored by Heartland Family Service

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M A S T E R S O F C E R E M O N Y

Betty & Jerry Tagge Jerry is a former professional football player, a quarterback in the NFL, WFL, & CFL from 1972-79. He is best known as the quarterback of the Nebraska Cornhusker teams which won national championships in 1970 and 1971. Betty & Jerry Tagge

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november/december | 2010

cover story

Story by Niz Proskocil Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Salute to Service

An array of charitable acts, including founding a teddy bear program that provides support for military families, earns the Fangmeyer family recognition at Salute to Families for Heartland Family Service

The Fangmeyers: Megan and her husband, Joshua Higgins, Garrett, Brent and Diane, Hunter and Carter (seated).

aring. Busy. Together. Brent and Diane Fangmeyer say those three words best describe their family. Despite hectic schedules and juggling work, church, school and family activities, the Omaha couple and their four children seldom turn down an opportunity to share their time and talents with others. Their volunteerism ranges from organizing food drives and sharing their faith on mission trips abroad, to raising money for diabetes research, building houses in Mexico, and helping children of deployed service members.

november/december | 2010

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See our latest collection of luxury homes on the inside front cover or online at npdodge.com.

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Read my story at nebraskacancer.com/LEE For their commitment to family and dedication to others, the Fangmeyers are among eight area families that will be honored in November at Heartland Family Service’s two Salute to Families celebrations. Four Omaha families and four from southwest Iowa will be recognized as part of the 28th annual awards program that recognizes families for their strong family life and community service. The Omaha ceremony will be held Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Happy Hollow Club. The Omaha honorees and their

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november/december | 2010

cover story categories are: the Scott and Gail Robertson family for leadership; the Fred and Mary Stovall family for commitment to family; the Paw Tha and Ner Clay family for challenged and successful family; and the Fangmeyer family for community service. Brent and Diane, both 46, are devoted to giving back to the community and serving as role models for their children – daughter Megan, 23, and sons Garrett, 21, Hunter, 15, and Carter, 10. All four children have been heavily involved in their schools, church and community. Shortly before her husband, an Air Force lieutenant colonel, left for a yearlong deployment in 2006, Diane put together a teddy bear with a recorded message from him so that their kids could hear his voice while he was away. Carter and Hunter loved the idea so much that they wanted to share it with other military kids. “The reality hit that dad was going to be gone,” Diane recalls, “but we can’t spend the whole year crying. If we’re down, we try to find a way to make it better. We’re able to look beyond ourselves, look beyond our troubles. You feel better when you help somebody else.” The family formed the nonprofit organization Operation Voices and Love (OVAL) and began raising money to distribute teddy bears imbedded with a recorded message from a deployed parent. They’ve distributed about 2,500 bears through OVAL since the program started. Though the service is ongoing, the family has struggled to meet the demand for teddy bears since donations have dwindled due to the economic downturn. “It’s very humbling,” Diane says of the project. “It’s such a simple thing for these children that are suffering – just to have a voice. I think every military kid should have a bear like this.” A co-director at Covenant Kids Preschool, Diane grew up in Lincoln and earned her education degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University. She and Brent met through a mutual friend and married in 1986. Brent was raised in Geneva, Neb. He studied architecture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and was a member of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). At graduation he entered active duty as a second lieutenant in the Air Force. The family lived in California, North Dakota, Texas, South Dakota and

november/december | 2010

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Thank You Omaha! Florida before moving to Omaha about 10 years ago. Diane, whose generous spirit and sense of community was instilled in her by her mom and grandparents, says helping others is a big part of the family’s faith. The family is heavily involved in their church, Covenant Presbyterian. Dan Gruber, director of children’s ministry at Covenant Presbyterian Church, nominated the Fangmeyers for the Salute to Families award. Whether it’s food drives or fundraisers, the couple and their children are constantly coming up with ways to reach out and help. “Their family’s always thinking of those in need. That’s their passion,” Gruber says. “That’s their sacrificial labor of love.” Even distance couldn’t keep them from volunteering together as a family. In May, while Brent was on his second deployment, the Fangmeyers took part in the nationwide Tour de Cure biking event to raise awareness of juvenile diabetes. Carter was diagnosed with the disease in 2009. From a stationary bike at a fitness center thousands of miles away, Brent pedaled 20 miles while Diane and the kids rode their bikes in Omaha. As part of the event, Hunter raised more than $1,600 in a week for the American Diabetes Association. Brent returned home in September. He’s now retired from the Air Force and enjoying spending time with family while considering new job opportunities and new challenges. Established in 1982, the Heartland Family Service Salute to Families award program is a prelude to a nationwide initiative in which governors across the country proclaim Family Week in their states. This year’s Family Week will be observed Nov. 21-27. The idea behind the effort is to encourage families to identify and reflect on the various aspects that make their families strong and unique. “The Salute to Families event is a wonderful way for our community to celebrate the strength of its families,” says John Jeanetta, president and CEO of Heartland Family Service. “Most of us don’t take enough time to regularly appreciate how precious our families are to us.” For ticket information, call 553-3000 in Omaha, (712) 322-1407 in Council Bluffs, or visit www.heartlandfamilyservice.org. www.readonlinenow.com

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behind the mic... Kenny Rogers Story by Corey Ross. Photo by Jay Fletcher.

Country Icon

In advance of his appearance in Omaha for the Children’s Hospital and Medical Center Gala, entertainer Kenny Rogers shares his insights and memories from 50 years in the music business.

he remarkable career of country legend Kenny Rogers reached 50 years this year. The milestone has spawned a year-long celebration for Rogers that, of course, included an anniversary concert. Omaha will be one of the stops on Rogers’ 50-year tour when he headlines the 62nd annual Children’s Hospital and Medical Center Gala at the Qwest Center on Nov. 20th. In advance of his Omaha appearance, Rogers took a few minutes to talk to Omaha Magazine about his career, his legacy and the significance of 50 years of success in the music business.

Q. You’ve been celebrating 50 years in the music business this year. How professionally gratifying and satisfying is that type of milestone? How unlikely would that have seemed to you starting out? A. Anytime you can do something you love for that length of time and be successful, it’s incredibly rewarding. Would I have ever thought I was going to be here? Honestly, I’ve never, ever done this for the money. I’ve always done it because I thoroughly love making music. So just to have a career that lasts this long is in itself rewarding.

november/december | 2010

Q. As you’ve toured this year, what comments, acknowledgements or tributes from fans about your milestone have meant the most to you? A. You know what has seemed to touch me this year more than it has before, is that in some cases, my audience is actually getting younger. I find it interesting that people say, “My mom played your music for me as a kid,” and then they are coming to the concerts now. One reason I think that is important is that it creates longevity in a career, but also that young people add an energy to the audience that wouldn’t be there if the audience was made up of people who

are all my age. I think you get respect from older people. You get energy from younger people. Q. At what point in your career did you really realize you had developed a following? Was there a show or record that made it real to you who your audience was and that they responded to you? What’s been the key to maintaining and building those relationships? A. I think the record would have to probably be “Lucille” because that was one of the first major, major records I had. I think I realized very quickly that the key www.omahapublications.com

to a successful country record is that it tells you where you start, takes you on a trip and drops you off with an emotion at the end. If you look at “Lucille”…in a bar in Toledo…that’s where you start, and at the end you realized that you experienced something. “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town”…you painted up your lips…and you know you’re in that room where this is all taking place, and “The Gambler”…on a train bound for nowhere. I think what I’ve learned is that those songs, by far, last longer and usually are bigger, but they’re also harder to come by. Q. You’ve had a hit song in six decades. Did you eventually know songs were going to be hits before they were released, or was it always a little bit of a surprise? Any songs that didn’t make it to No. 1 that you thought for sure would? A. What happens is you develop an instinct and you start picking your songs based on a few things: 1) Does it sound like something I would do?; 2) Do I think I can add something to it? – it’s called “beat the demo” and 3) Does it have the components of what I think it takes to touch the mass market? A lot of songs that I’ve had lasted and lasted and lasted, but they didn’t make it to No. 1, and I couldn’t actually tell you which ones were. Q. Can you talk a little about how the music business is changing and what challenges the Internet and social media will present to musicians in the future to have similar longevity? How much harder is it going to be to capture a mass audience? What are some of the keys to success you’d pass along to a young musician?

A. There’s no question it’s changing. What’s happened is people would hear a song they love and they would buy an album that included 10 or 12 songs in order to get the song that they loved. These days that doesn’t exist anymore. People download the specific song they love. If you’re young enough and smart enough to get into that thing and be able to anticipate the songs that people will like, I think there’s a chance to sell more single songs, but I think the days of big albums are over other than concept albums. Q. Earlier this year, you met with the top Kenny Rogers impersonator in Britain. Did you ever imagine you’d get to the point in your career where people would impersonate you? What is it like meeting/watching someone who makes a living being you? A. It’s pretty weird to look at some of those guys who really do in fact look like me, and that’s when it’s scary. The real criteria for “Men who look like Kenny Rogers” is “Do you have a gray beard?,” so there’s a lot of people that look nothing like me, but I’m still very flattered. The guy who set up the web site I think really does look like me – he did it because he was just curious to know if there was anyone else out there who thought they looked like me. It has just received tremendous response. He asked me if it was OK to do the site before he did it, and I told him that he was welcome to do it as long as he did it in good taste, and I think he’s done that. Q. The event you’re playing in Omaha is a charitable function for the local children’s hospital. What sort of charitable causes are closest to you? Have you made it a point in the past to align yourself with children’s events? Do you have a foundation?

A. I have a hospital in Sikeston, Mo., called the Kenny Rogers Children’s Center, and I do a lot of things overseas with thirdworld countries. I have a little girl in the Dominican Republic named Erime that my family adopted. We keep in touch with her, and we try to support her. I will tell you that children’s charities are closest to my heart. Q. Most people associate you with music, but you’re also a photographer and author. How are you splitting your time between those mediums these days? What projects are you working on now? A. I’ve got a lot going on. I’m doing a thing for Cracker Barrel called For the Love of God. It includes an 18-month calendar of churches I’ve shot all over the world, and an album of inspirational music. It features a bunch of old hymns that I grew up with and some really wonderful new music that I love to sing. Today was the last day in the studio. I finished it today and I’m very excited about it. My photography went from being a hobby to a passion, and I’m in the process of doing a book right now for a fine arts publishing company. It will be out the first part or middle part of next year. I’m very excited. I’ve shot scenes from all over the world, including China; Africa; Gstaad, Switzerland; and Prague, Czechoslovakia. I believe there are some beautiful pictures from those places. The company wants to do a series of books, and they want to start off with America, so I’m out shooting right now, and I will shoot when I get to your town. Q. What do you still hope to achieve in your career? Any dreams still left to be fulfilled? A. I’d love to keep working. I work over 100 days a year, so I work as much as I want to. Right now I’m probably singing as well as I ever have.

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november/december | 2010

the scoop By Corey Ross. Photos courtesy of The Salvation Army and Film Streams.

Left: Olympic champion Apolo Anton Ohno. Right: Director Steven Soderbergh.

Olympic "Hero" Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno to headline The Salvation Army’s D.J.’s Heroes luncheon

he Salvation Army’s D.J.’s Heroes Luncheon has hosted heroes from an array of arenas – business, space, professional sports, etc. – but never an Olympic champion. In 2011, they’re not just getting a champion, they’re getting the most decorated American winter Olympian of

november/december | 2010

all time. Eight-time Olympic medalist Apolo Anton Ohno will serve as keynote speaker for the luncheon on May 9 at the Qwest Center. Among his eight medals, Ohno has two golds to show for his performances as a short- track speed skater in the Winter Olympics in 2002, 2006 and 2010. Ohno was raised by his father. With his dad’s encouragement, Ohno began training full time for the Olympics in 1996. Salvation Army Executive Director Joanne Bemis said Ohno’s strong relationship with his father is one of the reasons he’s an ideal speaker for the luncheon, which seeks to inspire. “His father was his closest friend and advocate,” Bemis says. “Apolo describes himself as sort of a rambunctious teen, and his father got him into skating and told him to set his goals high. And

look what he did. “He sends a strong message about using the philosophy instilled in him by his father to always give 100 percent in whatever you do.” The luncheon annually honors seven teens and one adult from across the state who have overcome obstacles. Ohno overcame obstacles and long odds to become a champion chiefly through hard work, but also by having an optimistic outlook. “He’s mastered the art of positive thinking,” Bemis says. “He talks a lot about finding a path, committing to it, and reaping the benefits of hard work. That’s what his father instilled in him.” Ohno shares the details of his relationship with his father, among other things, in his new book titled “Zero Regrets” to be released this fall. After his latest Olympic triumph, Ohno appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Bemis says The Salvation Army has acquired a collection of those issues that Ohno will sign at the patron reception prior to the luncheon. The luncheon annually draws sell-out crowds of 1,400. Bemis www.omahapublications.com

expects another packed house for Ohno. “We thought it might be a long shot to get him, but he accepted readily when he found out what the luncheon was about,” Bemis says. “We’re honored to have him.” For more information, contact Patti at 898.5906. Ultimate Cake-Off Chef to Appear for Food Bank In a world of chefs increasingly becoming television celebrities, George Duran has proven as prolific at whipping up TV shows as he has delectable dishes. “The Ultimate Cake-Off” on TLC is Duran’s third successful television venture to complement his equally eclectic cooking career. On Feb. 24, 2011, Duran’s combination of cooking skills and entertainment talents will help Food Bank for the Heartland celebrate dual anniversaries at its annual Celebrity Chef fundraiser.

The 2011 event, sponsored by ConAgra Foods and held at the Embassy Suites LaVista, will be the 10th anniversary for the benefit and mark the 30h anniversary for the Food Bank. Event organizer Brian Barks of the Food Bank says Duran embodies all the qualities of great chefs from past benefits. “George is an extremely dynamic individual,” Barks says. “Along with being a great chef, George is an entertainer. Besides being a TV host, he’s an author and even has talk radio in his background. People will find him incredibly engaging.” For more information, call (402) 331-1213 ext. 104 or go to www.FoodBankHeartland.org. Film Streams to Host Soderbergh Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh will be the special guest for Feature III, the third fundraiser celebration for Film Streams in support of the nonprofit’s Ruth Sokolof Theater.

On Feb., 20, 2011, at 6:30 p.m., Soderbergh will take center stage at the Holland Performing Arts Center for a conversation about his extraordinary career-in-progress. Introducing him to the stage will be fellow Academy Awardwinning filmmaker and Film Streams Board Member Alexander Payne, and interviewing Soderbergh will be Studio 360host, author and Film Streams Advisory Board Member Kurt Andersen. Soderbergh’s films, which include “Erin Brockovich” and “Traffic,” have been nominated for 14 Academy Awards, with five Oscar wins. His company of collaborators includes some of today’s biggest stars, including George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, Benicio Del Toro, Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas. For questions about Feature III, contact 402.933.0259 or casey@filmstreams.org.

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

November 2 Santa’s Preview The Nebraska Medical Center, Clarkson Tower Storz Pavillion, 42nd & Dewey Sts., Through Nov. 3, 559.4197. What it is: An annual Holiday boutique featuring unique gift items and holiday merchandise sponsored by the Clarkson Service League. A holiday brunch and style show will also be held on Nov. 3 at 10:30 a.m. Shopping hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Nov. 2, and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 3. Where the money goes: Proceeds benefit programs at The Nebraska Medical Center and Clarkson College. November 4 Christmas Caravan holiday home tour for the Omaha Assistance League Four local homes, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., www.omaha.assistanceleague.org. What it is: A tour of four homes decorated for the holidays by local florists. The tour includes a variety of opportunities to buy holiday decorations. Where the money goes: Proceeds support the Assistance League’s Operation School Bell, which provides clothing and supplies for needy children. OneWorld Community Health Center’s 11th annual Milagro Dinner Livestock Exchange Building, 4920 S. 30th St., 5:30 p.m., 502.8850 or www.oneworldomaha.org. What it is: The Milagro Dinner recognizes the many contributions made by volunteers and supporters of OneWorld Community Health Centers. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend will serve as guest speaker. Where the money goes: Proceeds will support OneWorld’s mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care to the underserved in Omaha. November 5 Omaha Christian Academy’s Creating Futures Scholarship Dinner Embassy Suites – La Vista, 12520 Westport Parkway, 6:30 PM, 614-5716 or www. OmahaChristianAcademy.org

What it is: Join us for an inspiring evening with Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, the real-life couple who inspired The Blind Side movie as they share the power of love and ways we can solve the failure epidemic facing today’s youth on the brink of falling through society’s cracks. Sean and Leigh Anne are known for adopting homeless teen, Michael Oher, a young man in crisis. Not knowing anything about the young African American, Sean and Leigh Anne took a risk bringing him into their home where they clothed, fed and lovingly nurtured him through highschool graduation. Michael’s life was dramatically changed as was that of the entire Tuohy family. What began as one night of goodwill eventually led to the family’s legal adoption of Oher. Upon graduating from the University of Mississippi, Michael became an NFL star currently playing as an offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens. A limited number of copies of the Tuohy book will be available for purchase and personalized autographs at the end of the program. Where the money goes: Proceeds from this event will provide need-based scholarships to deserving students at OCA. An Evening Among Angels Tiburon Golf Club, 934.0999 or www.myangelsamongus.org. What it is: A benefit for Angels Among Us that includes dinner, auctions and entertainment. Where the money goes: Proceeds support Angels Among Us, which supports families with children battling cancer. November 6 The Midlands Community Foundation’s Reflection Ball Embassy Suites LaVista, 991.8027 or www.midlandscommunity.org. What it is: A benefit dinner to honor individuals who’ve contributed significantly to Sarpy and Cass counties and the mission of the foundation. The Reflection Award will be presented to Larry and Janice Roloff, founders of Roloff Construction Co., Inc.

Where the money goes: Project Harmony is this year’s recipient. The mission of the Midlands Community Foundation is to benefit the diverse needs of the Sarpy and Cass county communities by providing financial support, involvement and service. The 12th annual Bemis Art Auction Bemis Center for Contemporary Art, 5:30 p.m., 724 S. 12th St., 341.7130 or www.bemiscenter. org. What it is: An auction featuring the works of more than 200 international, national and local artists. The event is the Bemis’ biggest fundraiser. An opening reception will be held on Oct. 8. Where the money goes: This event feeds the core of the Bemis Center’s mission to support artists. The auction is designed as a cyclical gift exchange. 2010 Caregiver of the Year Joslyn Castle, 5 p.m., or 341-6559, x 100 or www.helpadultservices. org. What it is: A gathering for HELP Adult Services honoring the Omaha-Council Bluffs area Caregiver of the Year. Event recognizes the unpaid contributions of family members, friends, volunteers and neighbors in assisting those with chronic illness. Where the money goes: HELP Adult Services was founded in 1982 to support chronically ill and older adults. Keeping caregivers healthy is a growing concern for HELP Adult Services. HELP strives to distinguish itself as a leader in the ill and elderly community and to offer resources and support to those in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. November 11 Stock Market Challenge to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands Scoular Building, 2027 Dodge St., 5:30 p.m. registration, 6:30 p.m. opening bell, 342.1000 or www. bgcomaha.org. What it is: Four-person teams from Omaha’s business community battle it out in this fast-paced fundraising event.

Where the money goes: All proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands (Omaha, Carter Lake, Council Bluffs). Merrymakers 20th annual Roast Qwest Center Ballroom, 697.0205 or www.merrymakers.org. What it is: Creighton University Director of Athletic Bruce Rasmussen will be the subject of this year’s host, emceed by Mary Maxwell. Where the money goes: Merrymakers improves the quality of life for seniors by encouraging active participation, increasing social interaction, and sparking memories through professional entertainment. November 12 tgif YW Partners Guild Dinner and Auction Holiday Inn Convention Center, 6 p.m., 345-6555,www.ywcaomaha. org What it is: A YW Partners Guild fundraising event benefiting the YWCA and its programs and services. The event, chaired by Allyson Slobotski and Erin Pogge, includes cocktails, dinner, games, and silent and oral auctions. Honorary chairs are Mary Jo and Bob Langdon, and Sandy and Dave Parker. Where the money goes: All proceeds from the event go to the YWCA and its programs and services in support of its mission: Helping women and their families build lives of strength, growth and stability. November 14 Fourth annual Hoops for Hope Old Mattress Factory, 501 N. 13th St., 3 p.m., 829-9205 What it is: A benefit gathering following the CreightonNorthern Arizona basketball game to support Catholic Charities’ Journeys Adolescent Addiction Recovery service. The event will feature food, cash bar, raffles and activities for kids. Where the money goes: Donation proceeds benefit Catholic Charities programs, which provided services to more than 75,000 people last year.

November 18 Salute to Families for Heartland Family Service Happy Hollow Club, 6 p.m., www. heartlandfamilyservice.org or 553-3000. What it is: A program sponsored by Heartland Family Service to honor for Omaha families who project a positive message about family life. Where the money goes: Proceeds support Heartland Family Service in its mission to strengthen individuals and families in the community through education, counseling and support services. November 19 The Durham Museum’s Sentimental Journey The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St., 6 p.m., 444.5071 What it is: This year’s theme is “Have Yourself a ‘Mary’ Little Christmas,” featuring Mary Maxwell, and will pay homage to the holidays and the upcoming display, “With Malice Toward None: The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Exhibition.” Where the money goes: Proceeds support education programming and exhibitions at The Durham Museum. November 20 The Bergan Mercy Medical Center Auxiliary’s 51 st Anniversary Candlelight Ball Embassy Suites LaVista, 398-6199. What it is: An annual tribute to Bergan Mercy physicians. This year’s Candlelight Award recipients will be Drs. Ernest Chupp and Thomas Dunbar. Where the money goes: The proceeds will help fund the Bergan Mercy Auxiliary Education/Research Center. The 18th annual Night of a Thousand Stars Joslyn Art Museum, www.nap.org or 552.9260 What it is: An evening of dancing and entertainment to support Nebraska AIDS Project. Main gala follows more than 50 host parties throughout Nebraska and Southwest Iowa. Where the money goes: Proceeds support the services of Nebraska AIDS Project to promote AIDS awareness and education.

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

november/december | 2010

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The 62nd annual Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Gala Qwest Center, 955-6851. What it is: Country legend Kenny Rogers will perform, with his 1981 classic “Through the Years” providing the theme for the evening. Where the money goes: Proceeds will benefit the newly renovated Rehabilitation Services Outpatient Unit located in the Children’s Specialty Pediatric Center.

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The MS Society’s Cabernet Competition Champions Run, 13800 Eagle Run Drive, 800-344-4867 or nen@nen.nmss.org What it is: A third annual gathering of winemakers and supporters of the MS Society. Auction will include exclusive tours of Napa Valley wineries. Where the money goes: Proceeds benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society- Nebraska Chapter. December 3 Rock-n-Racquets featuring Andy Roddick Qwest Center, 7 p.m., www.rocknracquets.com. What it is: A charity tennis exhibition featuring Omaha native Andy Roddick and Hall-of-Famer Pete Sampras. Three matches will be played, including a mixed doubles match featuring local celebrities.

Do you have a story that you’d like to share? Let us know at: editor@omahapublications.com

Where the money goes: For each ticket sold, $2 will be donated to ConAgra Foods’“Shine a Light on Hunger” program. December 10 Girls Inc. luncheon featuring Madeline Albright Qwest Center, 11:30 a.m., www.girlsincomaha.org or 457-4676 What it is: A ninth annual luncheon to support the girls of Girls Inc. featuring former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. Albright recently published a book titled “Read My Pins: Stories from a Diplomat’s Jewelry Box.” Where the money goes: All proceeds support educational, cultural and recreational opportunities for girls ages 5 to 18 at Girls, Inc. December 27 The 45th annual Debutante Ball for the Omaha Symphony Holiday Inn, 72nd and Grover Sts., 6 p.m. What it is: An elegant evening to honor supporters of the Omaha Symphony and their families.

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Where the money goes: The ball is the main fundraiser for the Omaha Symphony and helps support its programs.

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Antique & Garden Extravaganza Lauritzen Gardens' annual Antique & Garden Show entertains and educates Story courtesy of Lauritzen Gardens. Photos by John Gawley.

he Lauritzen Gardens’ annual array of distinguished speakers and antiques again entertained and educated the masses in September at the Antique & Garden Show. The seventh annual event, which serves as the gardens’ annual fundraiser, boasted a crowd of 400 for the patron party, 300 for the Saturday lunch, and a sellout for the Friday luncheon. Designer Barry Dixon was the featured luncheon speaker on Friday. Interior designer Alexa Hampton was the Saturday lun-

cheon speaker. Other educational talks were given by Borsheims President and CEO Susan Jacques and Krissa Rossbund, Senior Editor of Traditional Home. Sunday’s events included appraisal clinics and “Mimosas with Mary Carol Garrity,” owner of Nell Hill’s in Atchison, Kan. The weekend featured stunning display vignettes with nearly 30 antiques dealers selling merchandise including furniture, art, jewelry, rugs and more. Hap Abraham Catering provided food throughout the weekend.

Top: Emily Lauritzen, Clark Lauritzen, Margaret Lauritzen Dodge, Libby Lauritzen, Nathan Dodge, Gerry Morrow and Bruce Lauritzen. Right: Betsy Baker (General Co-Chair) and Cindy Bay (Honorary Chair). Above: Cathy Perry and Barry Dixon.

november/december | 2010

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Broadway Ball Presenters’ fundraiser inspired by Young Frankenstein draws 300 to support Omaha Performing Arts Story and photos courtesy of Omaha Performing Arts.

seven-foot Frankenstein dressed in a top hat and tails greeted guests in September at the Holland Performing Arts Center for the biennial Broadway Ball to support Omaha Performing Arts. The event theme was based on the upcoming Broadway touring production of “The New Mel Brooks Musical Young Frankenstein.” Part of the fun included The Scott Recital Hall being turned into a lab where a mad scientist overlooked the party while guests enjoyed hors d’oeurves and green-colored cocktails served from test tubes. More than 300 guests helped raise $380,000. The event was hosted by Omaha Performing Arts and The Presenters, the volunteer organization that supports Omaha Performing Arts. Honorary chairs were Martha and David Slosburg. Event chairs were Ann and Jerry Crouse, Kate and Brad Grabill, and Karen and Larry Nelsen.

Following dinner, guests bid on entertainment-related items including: a walk-on role in the upcoming production of Disney’s Mary Poppins; a chance to have holiday card photos taken on stage with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s The Nutcracker; and dinner on the Kiewit Concert Hall stage at the Holland Center. Following dinner, a “Best of Broadway” performance was held in the Kiewit Concert Hall. Professionals and local students from “Broadway Dreams,” a partnership of Omaha Performing Arts and the Broadway Dreams Foundation, performed. The local students were from the Broadway Dreams Intensive program held this past summer at the Holland. They performed: “She Loves to Hear the Music,” from The Boy from Oz; “What I Did for Love”, from A Chorus Line; “Electricity,” from Billy Elliot the Musical; “New York State of Mind,” from Movin’ Out; and “Putting On The Ritz,” from The New Mel Brooks Musical Young Frankenstein. A special encore of “Hallelujah” concluded the program. Presenters President Jeanie Jones served as emcee.

Top: Joan Squires, president of Omaha Performing Arts, with Broadway Ball Honorary Chairs David Slosburg and Martha Slosburg and Chairs Larry Nelsen, Karen Nelsen, Brad Grabill, Kate Grabill, Ann Crouse and Jerry Crouse. Right: Honorary chairs Martha and David Slosburg meet “Frankenstein’s monster” - , Chris Murrell, a 7 ft. 6 inch actor dressed in green face and tux who greeted guests in the Holland Performing Arts Center lobby as they arrived for The Broadway Ball – “Puttin’ on the Ritz.” Above: Tom Fey and Joan Squires with Dorothy and Dr. Stanley Truhlsen. www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

Family and Football

An Evening at the Fair

Bernadette Suh addresses Durham Guild luncheon crowd about the importance of family and education

QLI anniversary event treats patrons to fair-themed fun Story and photo courtesy of Quality Living, Inc. (QLI)

Story and photo courtesy of The Durham Museum

ernadette Suh, mother of Nebraska football great Ndamukong Suh, spoke to a crowd of 360 at The Durham Museum in September about the importance of family and education in raising her superstar son. The luncheon, sponsored by the museum’s On Track Guild, was held in conjunction with the opening of the footballthemed exhibit 100 Yards of Glory. Suh’s talk was titled, “The Road to Glory Begins at Home” and emphasized the importance of spending time with your children. As a single mother and teacher, she stressed the need for children to stay focused on their education, to be involved in activities, and to set goals for themselves. Ms. Suh surprised the guests when she invited her daughter Ngum Suh to the podium. The younger Suh credited her mother with being too modest and stated, “My brother and I are a reflection of what she believes and what she taught.” Ngum called her mother “a true superstar.” A Detroit Lions jersey and a Nebraska football, both signed by Ndamukong Suh, generated fierce bidding in the silent auction. Dr. Jack and Kathy Lewis were honorary chairs, and event chairs were Dr. Rob and Jennifer Zatechka. The Durham’s Executive Director, Christi Janssen, thanked the On Track Guild for their continuing support. The proceeds from this year’s event will be used to fulfill the Guild’s commitment to fund the new hands-on educational components that demonstrate steam-engine technology in the Trish and Dick Davidson Gallery.

seemingly endless array of booths and games, such as a cake walk, human bowling, duck pond, mechanical bull and ring toss, greeted guests at the Qwest Center in September for Quality Living, Inc.’s “An Evening at the Fair.” More than 600 patrons enjoyed a fair buffet of deep-fried Twinkies, pork sandwiches, corn on the cob, and ‘grown-up’ cotton candy snow cones. The event was co-chaired by Terri McDonnell and Laura Luther. “Our goal is not only to raise money, but also to raise awareness of the incredible work QLI does for the nation,” Luther said. In beloved honor for her dedication to the development and growth of QLI, the late Danny Colladay was named Grand Marshal of the event. Over the past 20 years, Quality Living, Inc. (QLI) has become one of the nation’s largest providers of post-hospital rehabilitation for young adults who have suffered a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury. Families and individuals from coast-to-coast come to Omaha to participate in QLI’s one-of-a-kind program. For more information, visit www.qliomaha.com

To learn more about the museum, visit www.durhammuseum.org.

Above: Lynn Boyer, Bernadette Suh and Sunny Lundgren.

november/december | 2010

Above: A patron participates in the ring toss, one of several fair-theme events at QLI's biennial benefit.

www.omahapublications.com

Big Red Tailgate

Expressions of Hope

Fourth annual football-themed gathering draws 400 for Camp Fire USA

Some 700 Hope Center supporters help raise $300,000 to assist youth

Story and photos courtesy of Camp Fire USA

Story and photo courtesy of Hope Center.

amp Fire’s fourth annual Big Red Tailgate, held in September at the Holiday Inn Central, drew around 400 guests dressed in their favorite Husker apparel and jeans to enjoy an evening to support Camp Fire USA. New SUV’s provided by Gregg Young and Sammy Reagan added to the tailgate experience. The casual tailgate buffet featured three varieties of sliders and were enjoyed by the guests as the were entertained by 15 Camp Fire kids who performed cheer and dance routines to various Husker melodies. Former Huskers, Rik Bonneson, Scott Porter, Matt Connealy and Matt Hoskinson were in attendance. Long-time Camp Fire supporters Ellen and Stavely Wright served as honorary chairs. Brenda Christensen and Candace Daly were event chairs and Master of Ceremonies. John Deardorff hosted the evening, and Andy Liakos served as auctioneer. Proceeds of the event raised over $160,000 for the Camp Fire organization. Monies raised will be used for various programs including: Feed a Child; Art Program; Target Reading Program; Field Trips; College Tours; Family Nights and Learning Labs. Camp Fire USA celebrated its 90th Anniversary in 2010 serving area youth in after school programming and homeless shelters. Currently, the organization serves approximately 15,000 boys and girls in after-school and prevention education programs in Omaha and Council Bluffs.

he Hope Center’s goal for its 2010 Expressions of Hope Gala in October at the Hilton Omaha was to encourage community members to engage in positive change for Omaha’s inner-city youth. More than 700 supporters of the Hope Center responded by helping raise more than $300,000. “The Gala allows us to share many of the positive things happening in the lives of the kids who participate in the Hope Center for Kids programs,” said Ty Schenzel, Hope Center executive director. “Thanks to the support of the Omaha community, Hope Center is making a difference.” Hope Center youth opened the evening with a flash mob dance, which was representative of those in attendance passionately uniting for the betterment of our community through support of the Hope Center for Kids. This, along with Hope Center videos and youth’s personal stories gave the audience an opportunity to see first-hand the powerful impact the Hope Center has on the lives of hundreds of kids each year. Prominent Community members in attendance included Gov. Dave Heineman and First Lady Sally Ganem, Congressman Lee Terry , Former Senator and Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, Kermit Brashear, Mayor Jim Suttle, and Douglas County Treasurer John Ewing. Sponsors of the event included: event sponsor, the Hamann Family Fund; Hospitality Sponsor, Bruce A. and Stacy S. Simon Charitable Fund; Pacesetter sponsor, American National Bank; and Marquee Sponsors, Cambium Data, Inc., Greg and Debbie Lavitt, Mutual of Omaha Bank, and Soli Deo Gloria Foundation. For more information about the Hope Center for Kids, visit www.hopecenterforkids.com.

Top: Honorary Chairs Ellen and Stavely Wright with Camp Fire Director Penny Parker (middle). Above: Event chairs Brenda Christensen and Candace Daly.

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Above: Hope Center Executive Director Ty Schenzel addresses the crowd.

november/december | 2010

Friends of OCM

Over the Edge

Omaha Children’s Museum honors supporters at Great Friends to Kids Luncheon

Boy Scouts fundraiser sends 73 people rappelling down the Woodmen Tower

Story and photo courtesy of Omaha Children’s Museum.

Story courtesy of the Boys Scouts. Photos by Tom Kessler.

maha Children’s Museum recognized Mike and Susan Lebens and Janet Strauss along with Peter Kiewit Sons’, Inc. at the Great Friends to Kids Luncheon in August. The event brought together over 200 community members to celebrate those who have worked passionately to enhance the lives of metro-area children. The Lebens and Janet Strauss received the Great Friend to Omaha Children’s Museum Award. Long-time advocates for children in the community, the Lebens have supported Omaha Children’s Museum for over 20 years. Susan served as president during her first board tenure in 1986-87, while working as vice president at Mutual of Omaha. She was part of the group of people who influenced the decision to occupy and renovate the museum’s current home at 20th and St. Mary, and during a second term on the board many years later helped establish the Great Friends to Kids Luncheon. Susan’s mother, Janet Strauss, and her late husband, Willis, supported the museum through critical times of growth. The Strauss’ commitment to the community is evident through their support of children, performing arts and education. Peter Kiewit Sons’, Inc. received the Great Friend to Kids Award. Kiewit has been represented on the Omaha Children’s Museum board of directors for more than two decades, and the museum has benefited from both generous corporate support and gifts from families associated with the company. Most recently, Kiewit employees took a lead role in soliciting donations of materials and recruiting volunteers from industry and labor to create the highly popular Construction Zone exhibit that was featured on the second floor of the museum from January to April of this year.

ayor Jim Suttle donned a harness and helmet in September and stepped off the top of Woodman Tower to become the first of 73 people to rappel down the side of one of Omaha’s tallest buildings during the Boys Scouts of America’s Over the

Edge benefit. Other participants included KFAB radio’s Tom Becka. To quality for participation, all participants had to be at least 14 years old and weigh between 110 and 300 pounds. Each participant made at least a $1,000 donation to the Boy Scouts of America, Mid-America Council. Over the Edge raised $43,000 to help fund Scouting programs in North and South Omaha. Hundreds of spectators cheered the rappellers on. The event also featured a vendor fair at the base of the tower. For more information, call 402.431.9BSA (9272) or visit www.mac-bsa. org/OverTheEdge.

For more information visit http://www.ocm.org.

Above: Mike Lebens, Janet Strauss, Omaha Children's Museum Executive Director Lindy Hoyer and Susan Lebens.

november/december | 2010

Top: Tom Becka, Tom Kessler, Mayor Jim Suttle and Mark Thiesen of Woodman of the World. Above: Mayor Suttle goes over the edge.

www.omahapublications.com

Little Hearts, Big Miracles Hearts of Hope raises $93,000 to benefit congenital heart disease Story and photo courtesy of Midwest Heart Connection.

pproximately $93,000 was raised to support families with congenital heart disease during Midwest Heart Connection’s Hearts of Hope fundraiser in September. More than 350 people attended the seventh annual benefit, held at the CoCo Key Water Resort – Hotel – Convention Center. Proceeds go toward improving 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. This year’s honorary chair was State Sen. Kent Rogert of Tekamah. Benefit co-chairs were Jennifer Morris and Kristin Herrera. The “Night for Little Hearts and Big Miracles” featured a social hour, cocktails, dinner, video presentation and silent and live auction. Midwest Heart Connection has raised more than $300,000 to support programs and families with congenital heart disease. Funds raised at Hearts of Hope – the group’s only fundraiser – help: • Subsidize Camp Braveheart attendance, a summer camp exclusively for children with congenital heart disease; • Create and distribute care kits for pediatric heart patients prior to surgery; • Provide family connection events for members of Midwest Heart Connection; and • Support the National Pediatric Cardiology Quality Improvement Collaborative as Midwest Heart Connection sponsors families chosen to participate in this national innovative research.

Irish Assist Project Harmony’s seventh annual Halfway to St. Pat’s Celebration raises $60,000 to assist victims of child abuse Story and photos courtesy of Project Harmony.

he Project Harmony Service League’s seventh annual Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in September at the Omaha Firefighters’ Union Hall drew 550 supporters to partake in Irish music and dancing to Lemon Fresh Day. Attendees dined on corned beef and brats provided by Omaha Steaks and prepared by Anthony’s Catering along with the traditional cabbage and potatoes. More than $60,000 was raised to help victims of child abuse. The celebration’s Pot O’Gold Sponsors included the Baer Foundation and Creighton University Medical Center. The Rainbow Sponsors were Abe’s Trash Service, AmeriCal, Creative Print and Design, Creighton Newborn Medicine / Department of Pediatrics. Lucky Leprechaun sponsors include Bland & Associates, P.C., The Chantiam Family, DMSi Software, FVB Foundation, Al and Pat Hutchings, Julio’s, Pinnacle Bank, and Rory and Becca Sudbeck. The event was chaired by Sherry and Jeremy Falke, Dan Preusser and Katie and Andy Witt with the assistance of the Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Committee. Project Harmony exists to protect and support children, collaborate with professionals and engage the community to end child abuse and neglect.

For more information on congenital heart defects, visit www. MidwestHeartConnection.com.

Above: Darlene Kersey of Millard (right) with Nicole Panneton of Omaha, Mrs. Nebraska 2010.

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Top: Bill and Jean O'Connor and Scott and Marge Di Lorenzo. Above: Chairs Jeremy and Sherry Falke, Dan Preusser, and Katie and Andy Witt.

november/december | 2010

Brew Crew

Race for the Cure

Habitat’s fourth annual Brew HaHa draws 700, sets fundraising record

Susan G. Komen benefit draws 19,500 runners/walkers to fight breast cancer

Story and photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity.

Story courtesy of Susan G. Komen Nebraska. Photos courtesy of Hassel & Funk Photography.

record-breaking $45,000 was raised for Omaha Habitat for Humanity at the fourth annual Brew HaHa in September on the Lewis & Clark Landing. More than 700 people attended the lively yet relaxed evening where 11 brewers and beer distributors and 23 restaurants and food vendors served up the best the area has to offer in micro brew beer and delicious food. The event also included a raffle, beer toss and silent auction featuring unique artwork created by local artists, some using materials from the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, which uses and sells new and used building-related materials to raise money for Habitat for Humanity. Brew HaHa is led by the Friends of Habitat Board and Young Professionals. General Chairman of Brew HaHa was Sarah Kahler. Honorary chairs were Susan and Buck Heim and Teresa and Rollie Johns. Committee chairs were Shannon Bartling, Becca Cartwright, Crystal Crowley, Linda Daughtery, Ashley and Clark Horgan, Todd Jacobson, Rob Kahler, Teri Krohn, Josh Livingston, Mike Mackintosh, Pat Manion, Colleen McQuillan, Jenni Mitten, Linda O’Hare, Shannon Perry, Mark Russell and Shari Samek. Founded in 1984, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha builds or renovates homes in an effort to eliminate poverty housing and make suitable housing a matter of conscience and action in the community. In November, they will have constructed or rehabilitated more than 300 homes in Omaha. The Habitat for Humanity ReStore accepts new and used building-related materials from contractors, suppliers and individuals. Some materials are used in the construction of Habitat homes, but most are offered to the general public to purchase at significantly reduced prices.

sea of pink streamed past the Civic Auditorium in October as 19,500 runners and walkers took the streets for the 17th annual Susan G. Komen Nebraska’s Race for the Cure. The field included 510 teams sponsored by more than 50 local companies and included 1,350 breast cancer survivors. The race raised more than $800,000 to assist Susan G. Komen’s find to end breast cancer. After the race, a raffle drawing was to be held on Oct. 18 to award one lucky winner a new Baxter Ford Fiesta.

For more information about Brew HaHa or Habitat for Humanity Omaha, visit www.habitatomaha.org.

Above: Brew HaHa volunteers Ashley Horgan, Todd Jacobson, Lora Wells, Tim Bogatz and Eric Wells

november/december | 2010

Above: Some of the 19,500 participants in this year's Race for the Cure.

www.omahapublications.com

Burgers and Bordeaux

An Evening in Paris

Second annual burger competition generates $5,000 for Opera Omaha

Methodist Health System pampers women at event to support YWCA

Story courtesy of Opera Omaha. Photos by Dawn Sumrell.

Story and photos courtesy of Methodist Health System

he Happy Hollow Club defended its best burger crown in August at the second annual Burgers and Bordeaux burger competition at Happy Hollow. Competing chefs were: Marc Oswald of Happy Hollow Club; Glenn Wheeler of Spencer’s; Carmel Wendell of The Dundee Dell; Nick Hunt and Ryan Jorgensen of Rick’s Café Boatyard; and Aaron Smeall of Capital City Grill. Glenn Wheeler’s burger, “The Big Wee” was voted Fan Favorite. The “La Dolce Vita” burger, crafted by Marc Oswald of Happy Hollow Club, was crowned Best Grilled Burger in Omaha by the judges. This was the second win for Oswald after being awarded the judges’ award last year at the premier Burgers and Bordeaux. KFAB radio announcer Tom Becka served as emcee of the event. He was joined by special guest judges; Louis Marcuzzo, Owner of Louie M’s Burger Lust Café; Bruce Rasmussen, Creighton University Athletic Director; Kevin Simmonds, Owner of Jimmy Johns; Mike Simmonds, Simmonds Restaurant Management; and Donna Callender, Opera Omaha Guild Member. Over 150 people attended the event, sampling the burgers while Opera Omaha presented highlights from last summer’s smash production of Das Barbecü. J. Gawf, Opera Omaha Resident Music Director, accompanied Todd Brooks, Leann Carlson-Hill, Brian-Mark Conover, and Jodi Vaccaro. Children attending the event enjoyed face painting and bouncy houses. The event raised $5,000. Jennifer Locke and Deana Walocha served as chairs for the event. The Opera Omaha Guild is a group of men and women dedicated to supporting Opera Omaha with fundraising and opera education efforts. Members plan and promote events such as the Cotillion, an annual Gala and a Spirits tasting event, while providing opportunities to have fun and learn more about the art form of opera.

magine strolling down tree-lined avenues of park benches, lamp posts, sidewalk artists and shops … a scene played out daily, a half a world away. In October, around 800 area women did just that without leaving the Metro. Methodist Health System again sponsored “Spirit Girls’ Night Out - an evening in Paris,” at the Embassy Suites LaVista Conference Center. The event brings together good friends for an evening of good food, good entertainment and a measure of good healthy learning. Proceeds from the event support the YWCA Career Closet, a service dedicated to helping prepare less advantaged women for entrance into the workforce. Donated items included new pantyhose or gently used shoes and purses, but any professional item of clothing is accepted. Spirit Girls’ Night Out is one of many exciting events being sponsored by Methodist Health System in cooperation with Spirit of Women, a national coalition of health care providers working together to raise the standards of wellness for women and motivate them to make positive, healthy changes in their lives.

For more information on Opera Omaha or the Opera Omaha guild, visit www.operaomaha.org.

Above: Happy Hollow Club chef Marc Oswald, a repeat winner of the best burger crown.

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Top: One of the auction items. Above: A guest receives a hand massage.

november/december | 2010

Education Honors

Caring Carmen

Archdiocese of Omaha salutes nine educators at scholarship dinner

Carmen Gottschalk is honored as the Arthritis Foundation’s Woman of the Year

Story and photos courtesy of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Story and photos courtesy of the Arthritis Foundation

he Archdiocese of Omaha honored nine educators in September at the 33rd Annual Archbishop’s Dinner for Education. A record-breaking crowd of almost 900 packed the Embassy Suites LaVista ballroom to “celebrate the success of Catholic education and pay tribute to the archdiocese’s finest educators,” according to Superintendent of Catholic Schools Monsignor James E. Gilg. The nine honorees were nominated and selected by a committee for their commitment and service to archdiocesan schools. They have a combined education experience of 279 years. Each honoree received a $5,000 award. This year’s honorees were: Administrators of the Year - Peggy Grennan, St. Margaret Mary, Omaha - Carolyn Jaworski, Mercy High School, Omaha - Scott Olson, St. Leonard, Madison Teachers of the Year - Rev. John Hagemann, OSB, Mount Michael Benedictine, Elkhorn - Laurie Majerus, St. Michael, Albion - Sr. Anita Rolenc, ND, St. Mary, O’Neill - Tina Schofield, St. Vincent de Paul, Omaha

armen Gottschalk, child advocate and Omaha community volunteer, was honored as the 2010 Woman of the Year by the Arthritis Foundation of Nebraska in September at the Downtown Embassy Suites. “A Bridge of Love” was the theme of this year’s gala, the group’s 37th annual event to honor an outstanding community volunteer. Over 250 guests attended the gala that raised over $127,000. The money will be used to fund research and provide services for the over 340,000 adults and 1,800 children in Nebraska that have arthritis. The Omaha World-Herald hosted the patron cocktail reception on the 15th Floor of the Freedom Center downtown preceding the event. Over 100 benefactors and patrons enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and the hospitality. Mike and Gail Yanney served as Gala Corporate Chairmen with Cathy Bonnesen and Teri Teutsch as advisors. The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948. For more about the Arthritis Foundation, call 1-800-283-7800 or go to www.arthritis.org.

Teachers of the Year – Inner City - Sara Jorgensen, Assumption-Guadalupe, Omaha - Patty Rezek, Sts. Peter and Paul, Omaha Chairpersons for the 2010 Archbishop’s Dinner for Education were Carolina and Mike Mapes. Proceeds from the event provide scholarships for families in need. Scholarship dollars raised are matched by the Children’s Scholarship Fund of New York at 50 cents for every $1 raised.

Above: Peggy Grennan, Laurie Majerus, Tina Schofield, Fr. John Hagemann, OSB, Archbishop George J. Lucas, Scott Olson, Sara Jorgensen, Carolyn Jaworski, Sr. Anita Rolenc, ND, and Patty Rezek.

november/december | 2010

Top: Tina Gottschalk-Festner, Jodi Taylor, Carmen Gottschalk (honoree), John Gottschalk. Above: Senator Ben Nelson and wife Diane Nelson.

www.omahapublications.com

OMAHAHOME

Story by Lindi Janulewicz Photos courtesy of Jeffrey Bebee

This home’s great room makes a stunning statement. Original artwork, custom furnishings, luxurious fabrics and organic stone designs are just a few of the meticulously chosen design elements that combine to create this dramatic space.

Nebraska... the Good Life

Nancy Pesavento, ASID, Partner

Lisa Cooper, Allied Member, ASID www.readonlinenow.com

HiS

career may dictate that he and his family live hundreds of miles away for most of the year, but Nebraska will always be their home. It is, after all, the good life. This very sentiment served as the core inspiration for our client’s new home construction project on a scenic piece of land near Omaha. Designed by Nancy Pesavento, ASID, and Lisa Cooper, Allied Member, ASID, of Interiors Joan and Associates and built by Curt Hofer and Associates, this home epitomizes high style with a strong reference to our client’s Nebraskan roots. As a young, growing family, they wanted plenty of room to entertain and live in their home… it had to be both beautiful and functional. When our client told Architectural Designer Marshall Wallman that they wanted their home to reflect a typical Nebraskan architectural style, Wallman struggled to pinpoint a look that is indicative of our fair state. Unlike the Southwest with their adobe, or the Northeast with their shingled siding and picket fencnovember/december | 2010

OMAHAHOME Simplicity in design translates into a superbly sophisticated dining space. A smart combination of textures and materials work cohesively to create a gorgeous space for entertaining family and friends.

Textural fabrics and clean-lined furnishings complete this cozy hearth room. A contemporary light fixture serves as the focal point of the functional dinette area.

november/december | 2010

This gorgeous pool and patio area serves as an extension of the home’s interior living space.

All the elements of a restful suite come together stylishly in this master bedroom. Notice the stunning light fixture, unique headboard and custom ottomans.

es, Nebraska lacks a definitive architectural flavor. He turned to typical railroad depots for his inspiration. With charming cupolas and thoughtful architectural details, the home’s exterior reflects Nebraska’s rich railroad history in a subtle way. This home’s interior is a fantastic example of melding various materials together to achieve a fresh look. Guests are greeted by a notably spacious entryway and great room upon entering the front doors. The combination of casual stone, metal, woods, beautiful fabrics and unexpected detail elements in the custom furnishings create a cohesive statement that really defines the home. A natural color palette and the use of natural stones and granites echo the Nebraskan design theme. Careful consideration was taken by Pesavento and Cooper as each facet was selected for the home’s design. The kitchen is truly one of the home’s most spectacular spaces. The integration of stone, granite, exotic wood finishes and a custom stainless hood give this space a stunning look. Adjacent to the kitchen is a hearth room and dinette area. The hearth room serves as a cozy gathering place for family and friends, not far removed from the heart of the home. A generous stone fireplace and media center guarantee this spot a vote for “most popular,” while textural fabrics and unique contemporary furnishings keep the style sophisticated. www.omahapublications.com

OMAHAHOME This spectacular kitchen is a well-thought combination of design elements…walnut floors, deep wood finishes, organic stone designs and dynamic granites artfully come together in its inviting construction.

Rustic accents blend with contemporary furnishings to provide an interesting design without compromising sophistication. An unexpected color palette of slate, camel and spice work together beautifully to keep the look fresh. Our clients wished for a master suite that would provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Opulent fabrics comprise the custom bedding, complete with an over-scaled ottoman upholstered with brindle hair hides at the foot of the bed. The room’s color palette of chocolate, slate, gold and caramel is the perfect backdrop for the exquisite furnishings. Wood beams and a soothing water feature are amongst the unexpected design details that were integrated into the master bathroom. Beautiful tile work and a walk-through shower finish the space. The lower level and outdoor pool patios provide perfect venues for entertaining. A theater room, billiards area, bar and media center (all separate spaces in the lower level) meld perfectly to create a posh recreational area in the home. Stone, richly finished woods and a custom designed see-through fireplace give the lower level an interesting, architectural look. Custom outdoor furnishings punctuate the patio and pool area with splashes of color. The crystal clear pool, complete with po pots, is reminiscent of a grand vacation spot… but the whispering grasses and striking surroundings engage you in a classic Nebraska setting – just how our clients envisioned. www.readonlinenow.com

Wood beams and a tranquil water feature set this master bathroom apart. Exquisite tile work and a smart layout give this space a luxurious spa ambience.

november/december | 2010

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OMAHAHOME

Story by Molly Garriott Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Ornate cream cabinetry, white marbled countertops and casual French country decor combine to create a warm, yet definitely high-end antique feel in the Ingram's kitchen.

At Home With Mary Jane and James Ingram

tHe

“classics” appeal to Mary Jane and James Ingram. Not Shakespeare, Dante, or Dickens, though the couple is decidedly well-traveled and read. But just a few moments in their spacious French-style home reveals their love of things that have withstood the test of time. From an earlier era — French country décor, Louis XIV elegance, marble and crystal, A Christmas Carole — to the modern times — the Beatles, classic Coke, and Notre Dame football — the Ingram’s Bennington Lake home is both classic and classy. The Ingram’s built their 9,000-square-foot house five years ago when they returned to Omaha after a 20-year absence. James settled first to begin work, but Mary Jane remained in Florida while their youngest finished her senior year in high school. Flying back to Omaha once a month for a week to consult with the builder, Mary Jane oversaw every

www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

OMAHAHOME

A grand piano, James' cello and antique armchairs and sofas fill the Ingram's former dining room, now delegated the music room.

detail of the home’s construction, from the over-sized white brick of the exterior, to the mixed-marble countertops in the kitchen, to the wine cellar’s brass door handle that Mary Jane likens to Ebenezer Scrooge’s front door knocker. Mary Jane’s favorite space is the kitchen and family room area. The kitchen’s warm feel is achieved in large part by the antiqued cream cupboards, marble countertops, and the framed cook top. Designed to look like an old hearth, the mantel displays china pieces hand painted by her mother. Large windows and high ceilings give the home an airy feel. “We wanted the feeling of being outside while in,” Mary Jane explains. The openness of their Newport Landing home suits them. They unwind with a glass of wine on the deck that spans the back of the house and look out over the lake when weather allows. When it doesn’t, they retire to one of the home’s four fireplaces to enjoy their drinks and catch up at the end of the day. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room lighten the entire main floor. Originally, the home’s center space was the living room. But last year Mary Jane switched the rooms. Now, the former dining room is the music room, housing their grand piano, James’s cello, and antique furniture collected over the years.

november/december | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

OMAHAHOME

Beatles memorabilia and vintage Coke bottles adorn the walls and shelves of the Bennington couple's game room, where guests can enjoy some pool or foosball or play a tune on their Jukebox.

The dining room boasts a 20-foot frescoed ceiling from which hangs a crystal chandelier. Her dining table is made from mahogany, walnut and cherry woods. At one end of the room is an ornately carved fireplace with an intricate black-iron screen touched with gold leaf. At the opposite end sits a formal mahogany sideboard showcasing her crystal and silver collection. While her kitchen and family room are nods to the more casual French country, her dining room definitely leans to Louis XIV. “This is more drip in here,” admits Mary Jane with a laugh. Downstairs, the Ingram’s relax with a game of pool and classic Coke dispensed from an old-fashioned pop bottle machine (though Mary Jane admits the dispenser houses a few ice-cold beers, too). Vintage Coke bottles and an old Coke register keep company with Beatles memorabilia, including a guitar signed by John Lennon, an Abbey Road street sign, and a collection of old 45s the couple picked up on a “Magical Mystery Tour” in England 14 years ago. Surrounding themselves with things they love — family photographs, treasures from their travels, and pets — is what make a house a home, the Ingram’s say. But more important than the stuff in the house, Mary Jane asserts, are the friends and family who enrich it. www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

special section

Premier Wealth Advisors For the first time, Omaha Magazine presents a list of the top financial advisors in Omaha/Lincoln, according to NABCAP. What follows is a list of this year’s winners and a closer look at some of the region’s top financial specialists.

How They Do It The primary focus of the National Association of Board-Certified Advisory Practices (NABCAP) is to serve the investing public by helping identify top wealth managers. NABCAP, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and its board of directors created an unaffiliated evaluation process in which 20 categories of practice management are assessed. Advisors are invited (and/ or nominated) to participate, and then a multistep verification process uses independent resources to assess the accuracy and truthfulness of the information submitted by participating practices. NABCAP’s unbiased approach produced the final 2010 Omaha/Lincoln Premier Advisors list found on pages 80-81). Rather than merely winning a popularity contest, the financial professionals on this list have met an objective standard of excellence. For a detailed description of the process, visit nabcap.org.

How To Use It While NABCAP’s evaluation process is comprehensive, not every practice on the Premier Advisors list will fit you as an investor. To best use the list, NABCAP first recommends narrowing the list by average client size. Select practices whose average client’s assets are between a quarter and a half the size of where you estimate yourself to be — if you have approximately $2 million of investable assets, look for practices with an average client size of $500,000–$1 million — so you will fall within the top 20 percent of a practice’s clientele. Also look at each practice’s top five specialties and designations to be sure they align with your individual needs. Try to select at least three practices to interview so you can evaluate their different personalities, service models, and practice methodologies. NABCAP’s focus is to provide objective differentiation between financial advisory practices and, through its evaluation process, to help add transparency to the financial services industry. Even though the NABCAP Premier Advisors list is comprehensive, it should not be considered exhaustive, and the disclaimers on page 82 should be considered.

ALIR Group Merrill Lynch

$1,345,000

6:4

CFP FP,IM,PP,LM,CM

Omaha 402-496-5115

Beukelman Group UBS Financial Services Inc.

$1,760,000

3:2

CFP,CIMA FP,BP,EP,PM,CM

Lincoln 402-328-2084

Bob Bennie Wealth Management, Inc. LPL Financial

$640,000

125

1:3

CFP RP,FP,EP,PM,CM

Lincoln 402-421-2626

Bob Kenny RBC Wealth Management

$170,000

226

1:1

RP,IM,RS,PM,CM

Omaha 402-392-6100

Cambridge Advisors Inc. Schwab Institutional

$670,000

5:1

CHFC,CFA RP,FP,IM,PM,AM

Omaha 402-697-1166

Carson Wealth Management Group LPL Financial

$3,700,000

12:21

CFP,CPA,CHFC,CLU RP,HP,IM,BP,CM

Omaha 402-330-0808

november/december | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

Christopher Scott UBS Financial Services Inc

$1,000,000

1:1

RP,FP,RM,ES,CM

Omaha 402-963-2969

Dworak McEwen Winner Group UBS Financial Services Inc.

$1,160,000

4:3

CIMA FP,IM,EP,PM,CM

Lincoln 402-420-7799

Egermier Wealth Management Group LPL Financial

$200,000

5:2

CHFC,CFP RP,FP,WP,PM,AM

Omaha 402-861-9696

Ethen Bagley Group Merrill Lynch

$445,000

143

2:2

CFP RP,FP,IM,PM,CM

Omaha 402-496-5192

Feltz WealthPLAN LPL Financial

$580,000

141

6:4

CFP,CFA RP,FP,IM,CM,AM

Omaha 402-691-0200

Frank J. Ward Ameriprise Financial

$360,000

250

1:1

RP,FP,SP,IM,CM

Omaha 402-391-1962

Furstenau Financial Management LPL Financial

$165,000

290

1:2

RP,WP,IM,PM,CM

Neligh 402-887-4302

Hammes Seymour Adams Financial Group UBS Financial Services Inc.

$275,000

133

3:1

CIMA,CFP RP,FP,RS,RM,CM

Omaha 402-397-1600

Jeff Sharp SilverStone Group

$1,850,000

2:5

CHFC,CLU,CFP RP,WP,IM,EP,CM

Omaha 402-964-5440

Judge/Rose/Riggs Group Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

$270,000

165

3:1

CPA,CRPS,CFP RP,WP,EP,CM,SA

Omaha 402-397-0900

Kerlik, Sadler & Associates Ameriprise Financial

$115,000

166

3:0

CFP RP,FP,WP,EP,CM

Omaha 402-334-7265

The Korkow Group-- Craig D Korkow Merrill Lynch

$765,000

150

1:3

CFP RP,FP,WP,RS,RM

Omaha 402-496-5127

The Militti Group Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

$760,000

3:1

RP,FP,EP,CM,AM

Omaha 402-399-1513

The Mindock-Nelson Group Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

$700,000

2:2

CFP RP,WP,IM,EP,LM

Omaha 402-399-6337

Moylan Kropp Retirement Planning, LLC Securities America

$280,000

300

2:3

CHFC,CLU,CPA,CFP RP,FP,WP,EP,CM

Omaha 402-390-9066

Mundy & Associates NFP Securities

$645,000

2:4

CIMA,CPWA,CHFC,CLU

Omaha 402-398-1103

Revolution Group, LLC LPL Financial

$225,000

1:2

RP,WP,EP,PM,CM

Omaha 402-933-3371

Slatterys & Hruby Group Merrill Lynch

$1,000,000

121

3:2

CIMA,CFP RP,RM,EP,PM,CM

Omaha 402-496-5109

Windy City Wealth Management Schwab Institutional

$475,000

1:0

RP,FP,PM,CM,AM

Omaha 402-614-2023

www.readonlinenow.com

RP,IM,EP,PM,AM

november/december | 2010

Credentials Index: CEP- certified estate planner CFA- chartered financial analyst CFP- certified financial planner CIMA-certified investment management analyst CAIA- chartered alternative investment analyst CPWA- certified private wealth advisor

CHFC- chartered financial consultant CRPS- chartered retirement plans specialist CLU- chartered life underwriter MCEP- master certified estate planner CPA- certified public accountant AIF- Accredited Investment Fiduciary

Specialties Index: RP: Retirement Planning FP: Financial Planning EP: Estate Planning SP: Special Needs Planning PP: Philanthropic Planning BP: Business Planning

WP: Wealth Preservation/ Insurance CP: Capital Preservation CM: Comprehensive Wealth Management AM: Asset Allocation Management

PM: Portfolio Management IM: Investment Management RM: Risk Management LM: Liability Management RS: Retirement Services CS: Corporate Services

FS: Family Oﬃce Services ES: Executive Services PA: Professional Athletes HP: High Profiled Individuals LC: Low Cost Provider SA: Separately Managed Accounts

Disclaimers:

[a] To ensure the best interests of the investing public, NABCAP does not accept financial support from advisory practices, financial institutions, or the media in exchange for beneficial reviews, rankings, or industry insight. NABCAP is not affiliated with any advisor or financial institution participating in the survey. [b] Selecting a NABCAP Premier Advisor is no guarantee as to future investment success nor is there any guarantee that the selected financial advisory practice will be designated as a Premier Advisor by NABCAP in the future. [c] The inclusion of a financial advisory practice on the NABCAP Premier Advisors list should not be construed as an endorsement of the financial advisory practice by NABCAP or B2B Omaha Magazine. [d] Although NABCAP invites all advisors in a market to participate, the final decision lies with the advisor, and as such, there may be advisors who would qualify but do not appear on the list as they chose not to participate, and if they were included, some advisors on this list would not have been included. [e] NABCAP screens candidates for regulatory compliance issues: Checks and balances are imposed to limit the inclusion of an advisor with a negative regulatory history or multiple client complaints. These checks and balances include the following: [i] NABCAP requires financial advisors to be registered/licensed financial advisors in good standing with state and federal regulatory bodies. In addition, NABCAP requires financial advisors to be in compliance with their respective broker/dealer or affiliated representation. [ii] NABCAP reviews each financial advisor and support staff’s U-4 or ADV to verify

their employment and compliance record. [iii] If an advisory practice makes the list with a settlement on its record, we recommend investors inquire with the advisory practice and with its supervisor for the nature of the settlement. [f] The supervisor survey is structured to make it equally easy for a respondent to give negative or positive responses, and the method of calculating results incorporates both negative and positive survey responses. [g] The client-survey portion of the evaluation process is optional. Client input does not impact the overall score for participants nor is it a reflection of client satisfaction in any way. The aggregate of client surveys that are received are given back as feedback to the advisor. The information is not published or distributed. [h] NABCAP does not perform subjective analysis of the survey results but assigns numerical ratings based on questionnaire and survey responses as well as third-party verification. [i] 5,000+ direct contacts were made via email in Nebraska and 40,000+ indirect to the magazine subscribers for participation/nomination of participants. Premier Advisors list will not exceed 3.5% of each market’s financial advisory practices [j] NABCAP created the methodology and process. Rank Premier Advisors is contracted to administer the evaluation process. [k] All profiles in the special advertising section following this article were sold exclusively by B2B Omaha Magazine and not endorsed in any way by NABCAP. Omaha Magazine is exclusively responsible for all advertisements.

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

Feltz WealthPLAN

WINNERS

Define the added value of your services in relationship to your fees: Feltz Vision1 is a comprehensive wealth management tool that allows our clients to combine their entire financial information into one secure location to enhance the management of their wealth as a whole. In addition to Vision1, we maintain a Retirement Planning Department dedicated to establishing Qualified Retirement Plans, including 401(k) and Cash Balance, on both individual and corporate levels. Feltz WealthPLAN clients also benefit from our professional relationships in the areas of Mortgages, Insurance, Taxes, Estate Planning and Banking Services. These professionals work in conjunction with each other, our firm and our clients to offer an all-encompassing Wealth Planning Experience. In your own words, describe your practice’s financial planning process: Our Wealth Advisors take the time to understand each client’s investment goals, time horizon and risk tolerance. This information provides a solid foundation for the portfolio and serves as a guide for ongoing discussions and reviews. Once goals and objectives have been determined, we’ll apply tactical allocation strategies that include traditional equities, bonds and non-traditional alternative investments. At this point, we begin building a portfolio to address each client’s specific needs. As the needs of our clients change, we re-evaluate their investment strategy and recommend changes as required. Securities & Financial Planning offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor

november/december | 2010

Todd Feltz

101 South 108th Avenue Omaha, NE 68154 402-691-0200 www.feltzwp.com www.omahapublications.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

Revolution Group, LLC

WINNERS

Ryan Fleischer, RFC® President of Revolution Group, LLC Ryan received his bachelor of science in business administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Ryan has been a financial advisor for over 10 years and has received numerous industry achievement awards. He holds his Series 6, 7, 24, 63 and 65 licenses. Before starting his own consulting and investment firm, Ryan was a top producer and manager for a large national financial services firm. Ryan is a Registered Financial Consultant and currently is a registered principal of LPL Financial, the largest independent broker-dealer in the United States (based on total revenues as reported in Financial Planning Magazine, June 1996-2010.) He also has been part of the Oppenheimer Funds President’s Council since 2001 for his education, expertise, professionalism, and superior commitment to his clients. Ryan recently completed his qualifications at Metropolitan State College of Denver to sit for the final of the CFP® exam which he plans to do later this year. Areas of expertise and menu of services: Legacy Planning, Portfolio Optimization or Investment Issues, Retirement Planning and Income, Business Issues, Life Planning Issues, Charitable Gifting Issues, Family Support Issues, Insurance Issues, and Tax Issues.

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? I believe it’s an A-Z approach. From a planning perspective, one must gather facts, analyze, plan, and then implement based on the clients’ needs and future goals. This means you must really get to know your clients and understand what’s important to them. I think this also entails the financial advisor and their firm aligning their clients with unbiased and objective advice and products with no strings attached. To be a good advisory practice in this day and age, you must have unique planning tools and effective risk-management investment products that are going to reduce the volatility of the market and combat today’s economy. If we had a motto, it would be about putting clients’ needs first above all else, even if it means protecting the client from making mistakes or telling them something they don’t want to hear. Just as importantly, it’s our job to help clients remain patient and focused on their goals, and leave the worrying about their investments to us. What is the process you take each customer through? Initially with a new client, we take a relaxed, conversational approach. Most of my time is spent listening to the client and identifying their needs and what’s important to them. Every client’s goals are different, so what we do for each client is different throughout the process. Our approach is definitely not one size fits all. One thing we always do for each investment client is walk them through 12 questions to identify their comfort level, time horizon, and risk tolerance. We make sure new clients know how to read their investment statements and understand what they’ve invested in. For meetings with existing clients, we do thorough account performance reviews and go over any changes that have been made in their investment portfolios, making sure they understand why the changes were made. We also make sure each time we meet, we identify any life changes and update beneficiaries on clients’ accounts. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy: Our strategy has devoted itself to the belief that clients come first. We have designed our business model to serve the needs and goals of our clients. This stands for professionalism, devotion to excellence, and trust. Our clients receive investment products that are free from conflicts, including investment banking conflicts. Every client’s needs and goals are different, so each client’s investment portfolio is custom designed. We bring institutional and alternative opportunities (such as real estate offerings, long/short managers, oil and gas offerings, private equity, managed futures) to individual investors and mix traditional asset classes, such as stocks and bonds, in the development of our clients’ portfolios. It’s very important to have a well-thought-out allocation and to spread risk. I am a believer in active tactical management, so clients see ongoing changes in their portfolios based on current market and economic conditions. We are predominantly a fee- based firm, so we have aligned our interest with our clients. This way, our feet are continuously held to the fire to perform.

11725 Arbor St, Ste 115 Omaha, NE 68144 402-933-3371 www.revolutionadvisor.com

Securities, Advisory Services and Financial Planning Oﬀered Through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

WINNERS

Curtis J. Reed Wealth Advisor Curtis is a Registered Investment Advisor that brings over 15 years of experience to the clients he serves. While working as a consultant to some of the largest advisory firms in the country, he recognized that many high net worth families suffered from a lack of transparency and objectivity. Curtis founded Windy City Wealth Management to help Midwestern families navigate the financial markets, make sound decisions, and acheive their financial dreams. The firm’s approach and philosophy was formed while working alongside Nobel Prize winning economist Dr. Harry Markowitz & Behaviorial Finance expert Dr. Meir Statman. Curtis and his family moved to Omaha from Chicago in 2008 and feel very much at home here in the community. The Reed family lives in the midtown area, loves to entertain family & friends and are avid travelers. In addition to his passion for helping families plan their futures, Curtis is also passionate about ice hockey & youth development. Having played competitively from an early age, Curtis continues to stay involved and active by playing and coaching hockey in the Omaha MCHL.

november/december | 2010

Windy City Wealth Management

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? Having a financial advisory practice is one thing. The challenge that we eagerly engage on a daily basis is to maintain a successful financial advisory practice. The concept of success is different for every one of our clients and usually changes from year to year. Our philosophy and mission as a financial partner is to deliver objective advice with proven strategies that help our clients achieve clarity, well-being, and success in their financial lives. We consider ourselves successful when we can deliver on those 3 key objectives while providing our clients the freedom & confidence to spend their valuable time pursuing the things that matter to them most. What is your practice’s customer service model? Like our clients, we enter into new relationships very cautiously. We are committed to providing the highest level of service to our clients and will not compromise that commitment under any circumstance. We will only move forward with a new client if we feel that we can add significant value over the long-term without diminishing our service to existing clients. We work with a select number of families and provide a highly personalized service. We are not concerned with the question of how big we can grow, but rather believe that our true value is found in asking how small we can stay. We have a very personal service model that is high touch. We work with each client to determine their expectations and contact preferences and adapt our on-going service to their needs. In your own words describe your practice’s financial planning process: Having a plan that clearly defines objectives and constraints over a relevant time horizon is the most important step an investor can take to ensure success. As a trustee and fiduciary, creating and maintaining this plan is one of our key responsibilities. Every client we work with has gone through our planning process and as a result has a Personal Investment Policy Statement (PIPS). Our planning process consists of 5 steps. Set & Adjust Goals, Develop a Strategy, Create a PIPS, Implement the Strategy, and Monitor & Report on progress towards goals. The PIPS establishes a long-term plan, which will guide all investment decisions and help to balance the desire for returns with their unique risk tolerance. As a result, following the PIPS will increase the probability that our clients achieve their long-term investment objectives and avoid making ad hoc decisions about how to invest their money. Decisions that are often based on panic or overconfidence.

658 North 63rd Street Omaha, NE 68132 402-614-2023 www.windycitywm.com

www.omahapublications.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

The Militti Group at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

WINNERS

Edward J. Militti, Sr. Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor With 39 years experience with the firm, Ed has developed a sophisticated approach to estate planning and retirement strategies. Education: MBA and undergraduate degrees from Creighton University, along with an advanced certification from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. Carroll Militti-Hacker Financial Advisor Carroll reviews and implements plans for high-net wealth individuals and institutions. Particular areas of focus: customized equity and fixed-income portfolios; insurance needs; personal and commercial banking and lending needs; home mortgages and wealth transition planning. Education: MBA from Loyola University of Chicago with an undergraduate degree in Finance and International Business from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? The Militti Group’s philosophy is driven by our ethics and professionalism. Trust is paramount for a relationship to flourish. Trust is only built by demonstrating great character and integrity over an extended period of time. Professionally, we utilize our combined years of experience and wisdom to develop personalized investment and lending strategies for differing client needs. In sum, we feel that to be considered a premier wealth management team we must exhibit enduring trust; never utilize a “one-size-fits-all” approach; and be results-driven, solely dedicated to our clients’ success. In your own words describe your practice’s financial planning process: We make it easy and comfortable for our clients. First, through a private conversation, we gather key information, so to immerse ourselves in where the client stands and where the client wants to be. We then utilize industry leading and cutting-edge retirement and financial planning tools such as LifeView PlusSM (proprietary to Morgan Stanley Smith Barney) to help determine needs, wants and wishes. With input from our Global Investment Committee made up of 10 distinguished investment strategists - we incorporate all facts from our discovery process and planning tools. We then develop and present our client with a tailored and fundamentally sound plan, then verify that our client understands how the plan

works. Obviously, the plan must be measurable, so we consistently measure the plan’s progress as well as our own progress. We decide what tweaks are needed along the way. Life changes around us, so financial plans need to be revisited with clients on an often basis. Our process is designed to make it easier and comfortable for our clients so they have more time to enjoy life and family. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy: The Militti Group believes that investment philosophy and performance must take into account four key considerations: 1) set realistic goals and expectations; 2) have a clear understanding of the client’s risk tolerance; 3) have a reasonable time horizon so not to take on undue risk; and 4) help our clients stick to their personalized plan. For many investors, the hardest part is sticking to the plan. Peter Lynch – legendary investor and author - once said, “Far more money has been lost by investors preparing for corrections or trying to anticipate corrections than has been lost in the corrections themselves.” We concur. We ask our clients to be long-term greedy. Further, we understand our job: we do not come to work every day working with dollars and cents; rather we are Financial Planners working with real, successful clients who need our experience, knowledge, and wisdom to plan for future successes. We are up to the challenge. In fact, our job is rewarding even during these difficult and complex times, and we always feel privileged and honored to be of assistance.

E.J. Militti, Jr. Financial Advisor E.J. helps affluent individuals and institutional clients develop customizable investment strategies. Particular areas of focus: alternative investments; private equity; IPOs; strategic investments for trusts, estates, endowments, non-profits and charitable remainder trusts; advisory and educational services for ERISA pension plans, 401(k) and corporate executive defined benefit plans. Education: MBA from Creighton University and undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The investments listed may not be suitable for all investors. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a financial advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment will depend upon an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. www.readonlinenow.com

Carroll Militti-Hacker Financial Advisor

Edward J. Militti, Sr. Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor

E.J. Militti, Jr. Financial Advisor

1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 500 Omaha, NE 68124 402-399-1513 www.morganstanley.com/fa/milittigroup november/december | 2010 85

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

WINNERS

Craig D. Korkow, CFP®, CRPC® Korkow is principle of the Korkow Group and is a Senior Financial Advisor and Vice President with Merrill Lynch. After graduating Summa Cum Laude in Economics from South Dakota State University and leaving the U.S. Army as a Captain, he joined Merrill Lynch in 2000. Korkow is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. He also holds Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor ™, Certified Special Needs Advisor and Certified Financial Manager certificates. He is an active member of the Nebraska Financial Planning Association and the Financial Planning Association of America. Korkow is an active member of the community through various philanthropic organizations and currently is Chairman of the Rough N’ Ready Challenge Rodeo for Heartland Children with Special Needs. An event he has become involved with as a member of the Knights of Aksarben’s River City Rodeo and Stock Show Executive Council. The Korkow Group’s areas of practice include: portfolio optimization and risk management; tax management as it relates to investments; retirement and equity compensation plans for organizations and individuals; retirement income management; alternative investment strategies; closely held business succession planning and estate planning.*

Craig D. Korkow, CFP® CRPC® of Merrill Lynch

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice: Our guiding principle and mission is over 95 years old—“client first”—as stated by Charles E. Merrill himself. The foundation of which begins by listening. Only then can we garner the necessary understanding to help the individual or organizational client successfully identify the respective financial goal. We can then work to develop the potential solutions with our vast access to resources for goal accomplishment. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy: Flexible, customized, and focused on risk management. The cornerstone of our risk reduction methodology begins by utilizing time tested asset allocation strategies in combination with modern day investment correlation theorem. We must first work with our clients to accurately identify and differentiate between personal risk, market risk and aspirational risk buckets of money. We can then tailor the appropriate strategy for each bucket of money by utilizing our industry leading open architecture capabilities. Define the added value of your services in relationship to your fees: Our value-add is in providing a holistic approach to financial planning. Leaving nothing uncovered. To truly become a family or organizational adjunct chief financial officer, it requires the specialist resources of which our firm has access, and the knowledge of how to put those resources to work. It is exemplified in our industry leading and unwavering commitment to continuing education and training. In your own words describe your practice’s financial planning process or the process you take each customer through: As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, our financial planning practice starts by listening and asking the leading questions to efficiently and clearly identify the individual or organizational goal. Together we can then work to establish the final objective, set the strategy (and back test it for success by utilizing monte carlo probabilistic forecasting), implement solutions, and review progress.

*Merrill Lynch does not provide specific legal or tax advice.

1044 N. 115th Street, Suite 500 Omaha, NE 68154 402-496-5127 http://fa.ml.com/korkow_group

november/december | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

WINNERS

ALIR Group of Merrill Lynch

James Ambrose Jim has more than 40 years of providing ﬁnancial and wealth management advice. He joined Merrill Lynch in 1969 after a career with the FBI. His educational background includes a degree in Economics and a law degree. He specializes in portfolio management strategies, wealth preservation, and tax planning issues.

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? Our mission is to help our clients (both institutions and families) articulate their financial goals/dreams and customize solutions to help them achieve the same. We endeavor to keep our clients focused on their goals, while providing independent advice and counsel on how to achieve them.

What is your practice’s customer service model? We strive to be all things to few people. Therefore, we are easily accessible to our clients and can provide exceptional service in an effective and efficient manner that can be customized to each client’s needs and desires. Our performance-reporting services can be quarterly, semi-annually, and/or annually, and our financial plan review is typically provided on an annual basis.

James Ambrose, II, CFP® Jim joined Merrill Lynch in 1998. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a degree in Finance and a minor in Philosophy and also earned a law degree in 1993. He practiced law from 1993-1998. He is a member of Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit Honor Society and is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certificant, a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. He is an Adjunct Professor at Creighton University College of Business Administration. Primarily, Jim counsels families and institutional clients on asset allocation implications, investment manager search and selection criteria, and financial planning considerations.

What is the process you take each customer through? Our process begins with an interview to ensure that we have a complete understanding of the client’s balance sheet, income statement, distribution needs, tax considerations, financial goals and the client understands our philosophy, and the manner in which we work. Once engaged, we provide a sophisticated probabilitybased analysis to determine a range of outcomes and the likelihood of success. We then implement strategic solutions to help clients secure their retirement, fund college educations, implement tax reduction strategies, protect families and businesses, and fulfill philanthropic interests.

In your own words describe your practice’s financial planning process: The process includes: establishing the parameters of the client/ planner relationship, gathering the necessary personal and financial data, analyzing the client’s circumstances and objectives, developing a financial plan with a high probability of accomplishing goals and objectives, implementing the necessary strategies to execute the plan, and reviewing progress.

Mike Lighthart, CRPC® Mike is a graduate of Wayne State College where he received his BA in Business Administration. Mike joined Merrill Lynch in 1999, and has earned the designation Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC). His focus is ﬁnancial advising, developing asset allocation strategies, and creating lending solutions to help solve client liability issues.

Define the added value of your services in relationship to your fees: The cost for proper advice and long-term financial success is negligible compared to the exorbitant cost of not having a plan and running out of time or money. With more than 110 years of combined experience, with a variety of educational backgrounds that include finance, economics, and law, our team has the requisite knowledge and experience to create holistic solutions.

Kathleen Lighthart Kathleen has been at Merrill Lynch for over 17 years working with high net worth families. Her focus is on ﬁnancial advising, asset allocation strategies and investment manager search and selection. She is a graduate of Kansas University.

Describe your practice’s risk management philosophy: Part of our client service mission is to help our clients achieve their goals and objectives with the least amount of risk possible. During our first meetings, we carefully explain the relationship between risk and reward. We take the necessary time to show our clients the risk/reward characteristics of different asset allocation decisions, drawing special attention toward the large-loss scenarios associated with every decision. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy: We believe in Modern Portfolio Theory and use a combination of passive and active investment management strategies.

Howard Irish Howard has more than 20 years experience at Merrill Lynch. A graduate of Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana, he majored in English Literature and Economics. He attended graduate school at the University of Indiana earning an MBA in Finance and Accounting. Howard devotes a great deal of his efforts advising institutional clients on investment policy, asset allocation implications, and on the investment manager search, selection and monitoring process. Matt Rehberg, CFP® Matt joined Merrill Lynch in 1999 after gaining several years of practical business experience in the energy distribution industry. He is a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Finance and is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certificant, a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Matt primarily focuses his practice on helping high net worth clients and successful entrepreneurs match their strategic investment advisory and transitional wealth needs with their personal goals.

www.readonlinenow.com

Front L-R James Ambrose, Hilda Kreulen, Kathleen Lighthart, Melina Petersen, Shelley Welton, Howard Irish Back: Michael Lighthart, Matt Rehberg, CFP®, James Ambrose, II, CFP®

1044 N. 115th Street Omaha, NE 68154 402-496-5115 www.totalmerrill.com november/december | 2010

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

WINNERS

Timothy Slattery, Jr. Wealth Management Advsior Slattery has more than 20 years of experience with Merrill Lynch specializing in high net worth individuals and families. Tim joined Merrill Lynch in 1988 forming the Slattery Family Partnership with his father. Daniel Slattery Wealth Management Advisor Slattery joined Merrill Lynch and the Slattery Family Partnership in 1993. Dan specializes in Portfolio Analysis and Management. Stephen Hruby, CIMA® Wealth Management Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager Hruby joined Merrill Lynch in 1985. He holds the designation of Certified Investment Management Analyst, attained in conjunction with The Wharton School. Steve manages client portfolios within the Personal Investment Advisory Program for the Group. Kandis Schissel, CFP® Schissel has been in the financial services industry since 2001. She has attained the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Kandis provides financial and estate planning services for the group.

Slattery/ Hruby Group of Merrill Lynch

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? The Slatterys/ Hruby Group provides wealth management services to aﬄuent families and trusts. We help clients articulate their goals, then guide them with appropriate strategies for investments, lending, wealth transfer, and philanthropy with particular emphasis on tax minimization and wealth preservation. By formally reviewing and understanding a client’s total assets and liabilities, we are able to develop customized solutions to address their unique needs and challenges. For clients, we seek to have a profound impact on both their financial and personal lives. Our ultimate responsibility is to help clients achieve their aspirations for themselves, future generations, and their communities. Within that eﬀort, we provide the personal attention and high level of service that significant wealth warrants.

investment returns with a level of risk that is needed to accomplish a client’s life goals. We rely on a risk allocation framework for the entire relationship’s balance sheet, and the financial assets follow a tactical asset allocation per client objective. We use benchmark indexes for equity and fixed income components within a portfolio and a component’s weighting, risk assignment, expected return and correlations to build the tactical portfolio. Our investment committee determines all portfolio decisions.

What is the process you take each customer through? We use a comprehensive, values-based financial planning process. Our process starts with our initial discovery meeting, where we take the time to learn about the prospective client, their values, interests, past experience and goals. Extensive analysis is done by our staﬀ Certified Financial Planning practitioner to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the current situation. From there we develop investment and advanced planning strategies specific to their goals and needs. Once a client, we meet on a quarterly basis to not only review investment performance, but also to review advanced planning topics that are pertinent to their situation. The analysis that was done initially is updated on at least an annual basis or as life changes warrant.

Describe your sell discipline for individual investments: Within our asset allocation models, we have four rebalance rules that would trigger a review and possible sell: 1. If a larger allocation moved 5 points from its normal position; 2. A small allocation moved by 25% of its normal position; 3. Any strategic or tactical change by the Managed Solutions Group at Merrill Lynch; and 4. An annual rebalance.

In your own words describe your practice’s financial planning process: Our financial planning process is the process that is described above. This process is being implemented with all new clients. Our more established clients have been introduced to this process in the course of their regular portfolio reviews. Although we review advanced planning topics in our quarterly reviews, we generally update the financial plan annually. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy: Our investment philosophy is based on the desire to balance

Describe your practice’s risk management philosophy: Our primary risk management tool is our tactical asset allocation decisions. The portfolios are largely targeting a specific risk band for each specified portfolio. We use multiple asset classes with diﬀerent risk attributes and correlations to shape the portfolio’s risk exposure.

Define the added value of your services in relationship to your fees: Clients are paying for the advice, guidance and management that we provide. Our services include, but are not limited to: a thorough wealth analysis with emphasis on wealth accumulation, wealth preservation, estate transfer, and tax minimization; quarterly reviews, active discretionary management, execution of trades, market research, record keeping, monthly statements, client education, online access, and banking services. What is your practice’s customer service model? Clients are contacted once a quarter for a review, either in person and via phone. The financial plan is discussed annually during one of the quarterly reviews. Clients are invited to two client events per year. Mailings/emails on specific topics of interest are sent to those clients that have an interest in that topic. There is a monthly schedule of topics.

Peggy Fehncke Senior Client Associate Fehncke joined Merrill Lynch in 1978. She specializes in all client support for operations and administration.

L -R: Timothy Slattery, Jr., Peggy Fehncke, Stephen Hruby, CIMA®, Kandis Schissel, CFP®, Daniel Slattery

november/december | 2010

1044 N. 115th Street Omaha, NE 68154 402-496-5152 www.totalmerrill.com www.omahapublications.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

WINNERS

Stephen C. Ethen, CFP® Steve received his bachelor’s degree from the United States Military Academy in 1986. After serving in the Army, Steve joined Merrill Lynch in 1993. He is a Certified Financial Planner® certificant, a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. He also holds the CRPC (Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor) designation. This past year, Steve began to serve on his firm’s national Advisory Council to Management where he works with senior managers of the firm to provide feedback on issues faced by both clients and fellow financial advisors. Steve is married to Teresa Ethen. In addition to their two young daughters, Steve and Teresa are host parents to an exchange student from Germany. In his leisure, Steve enjoys waterskiing and wakeboarding. Michael J. Bagley, CFP® Michael has been in the Financial Services Industry since graduating from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 1998 with majors in both Finance and Marketing. He joined Merrill Lynch in 2003 as a Financial Advisor. Mike is a Certified Financial Planner® certificant, a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Along with Michael’s responsibilities to the team and our clients, he is also the sales manager for the complex which includes offices in Lincoln, Sioux Falls, Des Moines as well as Omaha. Michael is married to Kelly Bagley and has two young boys under 4 years of age. In his spare time he enjoys playing and coaching ice hockey, playing golf and traveling.

www.readonlinenow.com

Ethen Bagley Group of Merrill Lynch

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? Our team’s focus is to help simplify our clients’ lives in an increasingly complex world. We offer wisdom, as well as information, so that our clients can make informed decisions regarding their financial affairs. We consider it a privilege to serve as trusted advisors and to provide quality, unbiased information and assistance. What is the process you take each customer through? Each prospective client is taken through a series of meetings. The first is a discovery meeting where we gather information and gain an understanding of their goals, timeframes, and risk tolerance. This is followed up by an Investment Proposal/Financial Plan meeting. When the client indicates they are ready to proceed, we schedule a mutual commitment meeting where we complete all paperwork and agree to each party’s roles and responsibilities. Once accounts have transferred in, we follow-up with an on-boarding meeting where we explain how to read the statements, log in to the on-line account access, and help them organize all of their financial affairs. Finally, we then schedule the periodic face-to-face account/plan review which for most clients is semi-annually. In between meetings, clients can expect monthly calls, monthly newsletters, and periodic client educational events throughout the year. In your own words describe your practice’s financial planning process: Our financial planning process is designed to provide specific advice and investment strategies. Most clients have a detailed Net Worth and Retirement Analysis prepared. Other analyses, depending on need, include Asset Allocation, Education, Cash Management, Liability Management, and Stock Option analysis. For clients with more sophisted needs, we also offer a Risk Allocation Statement which allows us to categorize all assets and liabilities into specific risk and objective categories. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy: We require all portfolios to be well diversified in order to eliminate unnecessary risk. All portfolios are global in nature and should contain assets that are not highly correlated in price movements with each other. We begin with the determination of the allocation between stocks, bonds, cash and alternative investments. Our stock portfolios employ a combination of top-down sector weightings and bottom-up stock selection. Each of our portfolios contains stocks from at least 8 sectors of the economy. The sector weights vary amongst our different model portfolios and are dependent on each portfolio’s stated goal. Our fixed income strategy primarily uses Exchange Traded Funds which give us the ability carefully manage duration and to gain diversified exposure to several sub-asset classes including international bonds. We carefully manage cash for capital preservation with a preference towards FDIC insured products.

Michael J. Bagley, CFP®

Stephen C. Ethen, CFP®

1044 N. 115th Street Omaha, NE 68154 402-496-5193 www.fa.ml.com/ethen_bagley_group

november/december | 2010

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

WINNERS

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

What is the process you take each customer through? We use the financial planning process which begins with a personal interview to understand our clients’ goals and objectives. Several subsequent meetings are conducted as we educate our clients through all aspects of financial planning while we develop a customized financial plan tailored to our clients’ specific goals and objectives. Quarterly reviews follow this process to track progress towards these goals and to make changes as their lives evolve. Describe your practice’s investment policy. Our objective is to empower clients with solid financial plans tailored to their goal of an active and successful retirement. We put our knowledge to work for them by developing investment, tax management and estate planning strategies – all aimed at maintaining clients’ lifestyles and financial independence. Our clients have worked hard. Now, as retirement approaches, it’s their turn to redefine the next phase of their lives. Working with these rated/ranked financial advisors is not a guarantee of future financial success. Investors should conduct their own evaluation of a financial professional.

Joanie LeBaron, Financial Advisor, CRPC®

Gabriel Kerlik, Financial Advisor, CFP®, CRPC®, MBA

Steve Sadler, Financial Advisor, CFP®, CRPC®

Kerlik, Sadler & Associates

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. owns the certification mark CFP® and Certified Financial Planner in the US, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

1005 S. 107th Ave., Suite 201 Omaha, NE 68114 402-334-7265

Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients.

OMAHA MAGAZINE’S

wealthmanagement

RBC Wealth Management

WINNERS

What is your philosophy on what it means to be a financial advisory practice? The objective of a financial advisory Practice is to uncover your client’s goals, concerns, and risk tolerance and then develop a plan to fulfill their objectives. Regular reviews are essential to insure that changes in the client’s life as well as changes in needs are incorporated on an ongoing basis. Describe your practice’s investment philosophy. My Investment Philosophy is to develop a diversified portfolio that will meet the clients funding needs with the least amount of risk. I primarily used public and private investment managers to manage each segment of the portfolio. I review each manager’s performance against their peers on a quarterly basis using 3 and 5 year benchmarks. What is your practice’s customer service model? The client service model is client driven. Normally we review communication frequency, method of communication (email, phone, letter, in person), best time and best number to call (if by phone)design and layout of performance reports and other pertinent information. The standard is monthly communication, quarterly performance reviews and annual in person reviews. I also provide a Morning Market Report delivered by email each morning to all clients who wish to receive it.

november/december | 2010

Bob Kenny

1120 S 101st St # 300 Omaha, NE 68124-1088 (402) 392-6100 bob.kenny@rbc.com www.omahapublications.com

OMAHASTYLE

Story by: Jared Spence Photo by: minorwhitestudios.com Styling by: Anne Laird, She•la Hair by: Thomas Sena, T'eez Salon Makeup by: Christine Danderand, Blush Makeup Artistry

Singh’s job as reporter and anchor at WOWT creates the perfect opportunity for her to indulge her love of fashion and to meet new people. “I like the fact that I get to meet everyone from the dairy farmer to the local, state or federal leaders,” Singh said. “I get to be so involved in the community and give people a voice that otherwise might not have one.” The Washington, D.C., and Maryland area native said that her life and job can be hectic at times, but to her, it’s all worth it. “I’m on the air by 5:55 AM and sometimes earlier. I work in a very fluid environment, so I never know where I’m going to be on a daily basis,” Singh said. Her lifestyle creates need to be prepared at all times, which is why her love of failproof classic and contemporary style is fitting. With fashion icons like Jackie Onassis and a love of feminine and conservative designers like Nanette Lepore, Singh is always effortlessly dressed for any occasion. Even though Singh’s TV–ready look boasts pieces from high-end brands like Louis Vuitton and L.A.M.B., from boutiques like Trocadéro and She.la, she said she is also a big fan of shopping at stores like Marshalls and T .J. Maxx to find great bargains. “I really enjoy fashion and clothes,” Singh said. “Working in television, you always have to look put-together. But beyond my job, I think it’s important to love what you’re wearing because it makes you feel really good about yourself.”

Nadia Singh

While handbags and shoes are indulgences of Singh’s, she also loves getting involved in the community. This year Singh is on the executive leadership team for the American Heart Association, planning their annual Heart Ball. www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

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november/december | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

OMAHAAUTO

Charlie Graham

Story by Linda Persigehl

Body & Service

Holiday Travel Tips

if you're 42nd & leavenworth 551-6000

Staying healthy during the fall and winter months requires more than just Vitamin C and healthy choices. A properly functioning nervous system ensures you and your family enjoy this time of year to the fullest! Chiropractic… Let your true health shine through!

2085 North 120th St, Ste. D6, Omaha, NE 68164 402-496-4570 www.KocaChiropractic.com

www.readonlinenow.com

traveling to visit loved ones this holiday season, you’re in for a lot of company on the roads. AAA projects the number of auto travelers this Thanksgiving to exceed 33 million. That number drops off just a bit for the Christmas holiday. Seems “to grandmother’s house we go” is a popular idea! While an uneventful, speedy trip is the goal, that’s not always what drivers run into. Prepping your car properly and planning for whatever comes your way is your best bet to arriving safely and hopefully, in time for dinner. First off, be sure to winterize your car before you even leave the driveway. Have your tires (including your spare) checked for proper inflation and decent tread; if needed, switch to snow tires. Have all belts and hoses checked for cracks and replaced if necessary. Make sure your car battery has plenty of “juice” to avoid a no-start situation on cold mornings. Replace worn wiper blades and burned-out head and taillights and turn signals, and top off all the fluids, i.e. wiper, brake, antifreeze, transmission, oil, etc. to avoid breakdowns. And with newer cars, check your cabin air filter. If this becomes clogged, the defroster may fail to work properly. Once the car is winterized, fill the gas tank and keep it at least half-full the entire road trip. If you get stranded, you’ll be able to keep the car running and heat on. Then stock the car with necessary equipment, including an ice scraper/snowbrush, a shovel, flares, jumper cables, a bag of sand or kitty litter, and a tool kit. A survival kit, including snacks, water, blankets, a flashlight, and additional hats, gloves, socks and boots is recommended as well. Plan your route well ahead of time, and program a navigation system to direct you to your destination. Always bring a map as backup, however, as sometimes satellite systems fail. Check with the Department of Roads’ website for construction delays and road conditions, and listen to weather reports and traffic updates to anticipate trouble spots and avoid them when possible. Try to avoid arriving in a metro area during drive-time! Make sure your cell phone is fully charged and bring your car charger with you (but leave the calling for passengers and your eyes on the road!) And keep the kids busy with activities, travel games and videos so as not be a distraction while on the road. Stop for breaks regularly, as stretching your legs, moving about and giving your eyes a rest will break up the monotony of the trip and keep you alert. Eating while driving is also major distraction, so stop for lunch or dinner rather than eating a meal in your lap. Don’t binge-eat and drive, or drink alcohol before heading out. Eating a large meal can make one sleepy for the drive home, and drinking and driving is never safe. Instead, drink a caffeinated beverage, and bring seconds and thirds of the meal home with you to enjoy later. Lastly, allow a little extra time and patience to get to your destination, especially if traveling with little ones. Traveling can be stressful on everyone, and psyching yourself up for a long haul and whatever arises will put you a little more at ease and in a better mood once you arrive. Happy Holidays!

Information for this article was provided by Jim Champion of Charlie Graham Body & Service; National Safety Council, Greater Omaha Chapter; and www.insurance.com november/december | 2010

OMAHAFOOD

Story by: Mystery Reviewer

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Owners Darrell and Laura Auld hail from Washington state and have brought their Pacific Northwest-style cuisine to Omaha.

Twisted Cork Bistro Home of "Nebraska's Best Burger"

Not

long after opening their doors in March 2008, the Twisted Cork Bistro was featured on The Food Network special “50 States 50 Burgers,” for which they were picked to have the best burger in Nebraska. Shortly after that special aired, I paid a visit to the Twisted Cork Bistro to try the now-famous burger. On that visit I learned that not only were the burgers outstanding, but so was everything else on the menu. Located in Regency at 10730 Pacific St., the Twisted Cork Bistro welcomes guests to their intimate restaurant. The Hawaiian words “E Komo Mai” are printed on the door, which means “Come inside, the house is yours.” I cannot think of a warmer greeting. Once inside the doors, you find yourself in a very small restaurant that is tastefully decorated and has a very nice feel to it. The small courtyard patio is also a lovely place to dine, when the fickle Nebraska weather cooperates. Proprietors Darrell and Laura Auld moved to Omaha from Seattle, and have also spent considerable time in Hawaii. Those influences have resulted in a very unique menu that features Pacific Northwest-style cuisine prepared with quality, local Heartland ingredients and peppered with some Polynesian influence for good measure. Darrell and Laura believe

november/december | 2010

Twisted Cork Bistro 10730 Pacific Street Omaha NE 68114 402-932-1300 www.twistedcorkbistro.com

Lunch Tuesday through Saturday 11-3 Dinner Tuesday through Saturday 5-8:30 Ratings: (out of 5*) Food & Beverage **** Service

***

Ambiance

Price

Moderate

Overall

***1/2

www.omahapublications.com

strongly in knowing exactly where the food they serve comes from and in most cases, have personal relationships with the farmers and producers. On a recent visit, I had their “5-Menu Tasting” ($39.00), which features smaller portions of five of their most popular menu items. The menu is also available paired with five wines for $59.00, which in my book is a tremendous value. The first course is a Pacific Shrimp Cocktail paired with an Acrobat Pinot Gris. The shrimp were large, fresh and crisp and are mixed with avocado, grapefruit and Darrel’s “Whidbey Island sauce.” The combination is delightful and the wine makes it ever better. The salad course is a Northwest Apple-Pear Salad with a Foris Pinot Blanc. The salad was light, crisp, refreshing and loaded with flavor. The next course is a Wild Sockeye Salmon fillet with Sun-dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil paired with Penner-Ash Pinot Noir. The salmon was fresh and very high quality. It was cooked perfectly and to say that the combination worked well would be a understatement. The next course featured Rib Eye Steak with a Roasted Walnut and Maytag Blue Cheese Butter paired with a glass of NxNW Cabernet Sauvignon. This was my favorite course of the meal. The steak was well-marbled, tender and juicy. The Maytag Blue Cheese Butter really set it off. As if all that was not enough, there was still a Ghirdardelli 5-Chocolate Truffle Cookie with a glass of L’Ecole No. 41 Recess Red. The cookie is kind of a cross between a cookie and a brownie and it literally melts in your mouth. I suppose I should also tell you about that nationally famous burger. The burger itself is made from a mixture of locally raised ground flat iron beef and ground pork shoulder from Hollenbeck Farms. It is seasoned with paprika, fennel and aged White Cheddar Cheese from Tillamook Farms. It’s topped with some pickled red onions and Whidbey Island Slaw, all served on Toasted Brioche from Le Quarteir Bakery. On the side you have some Kettle Chips and a Apple-Bleu Slaw. My words really can’t do it justice. This is one burger that you must experience for yourself. Be sure to head over to the Twisted Cork Bistro and try their famous burger. If you’re like me, you’ll be going back over and over again to try everything else. Cheers! www.readonlinenow.com

Experience the fun & excitement of

It’s never too early to make your bowl game travel arrangements.

Contact us today! Reservations are being taken now! 402.399.4555 | 2120 S. 72nd St. www.tandtvacations.com | Look for us on Facebook.

november/december | 2010

OMAHAFOOD

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

MC, V, AE, DC

AMERICAN BUFFALO WINGS AND RINGS Wings done to perfection. We use only the freshest wings and top them off with our signature sauces that can be combined to create 45 different flavors! If you are a fan of Boneless Wings, then you are in for a treat! We use only fresh tenders that are hand cut, lightly breaded and served up hot and juicy. Our menu also features Gyro’s with homemade cucumber sauce, ½ lb burgers, Wraps, Salads, and Sandwiches. We have a full bar and party room for groups not to mention 39 Plasma TV’s. Located in the L Street Marketplace at 120th and L.

Get a Little Saucy. SPEZIA SPECIALTIES FRESH SEAFOOD • ANGUS BEEF INNOVATIVE PASTA • RISOTTO GNOCCHI • FRESH SALMON DAILY

SATURDAY LUNCH [11am–4pm]

$10

CRAVE 402-345-9999 (MIDTOWN CROSSING) 200 South 31st Avenue #4103. Omaha’s hottest new restaurant! CRAVE’s menu offers sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, pasta, burgers, certified angus steaks, seafood and salads, plus a grand sushi bar. Compliment your meal with a bottle of wine from the 150-plus bottle selection. Open daily for lunch and dinner. www.craveamerica.com.

the hottest n dining destination

COCKTAIL HOUR

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

DAVE AND BUSTER'S 778-3915 132ND & WEST CENTER OFF ANY TICKET OVER $25 Have a drink and then go play. Or play, and then grab a bite to eat. At Dave & Buster's, it's totally NO CASH VALUE. EXPIRES 12/31/2010 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 • Fresh, Contemporary American Fare • Music & Entertainment CALL FOR RESERVATIONS • 402-391-2950 lively bar areas. The options are many! How you do CENTRAL LOCATION • 3125 SOUTH 72ND STREET • EASY ACCESS OFF I-80 • 72ND STREET EXIT Bar • Grand Sushi • Daily Happy Hours | $3 it is up to you.www.daveandbusters.com

• Family Style Sunday Brunch

november/december | 2010

• Kids Eat Free Sundays

www.omahapublications.com

2202 South 20th Street – Omaha

Family Restaurant • Fine Steaks Chicken • Seafood Party Rooms Available

Wave Bistro Asian Asian Fusion Fusion Cuisine Cuisine

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

342-9038 • 346-2865

One Block N of Maple & W side of 144th

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.good steaks Where

Cantonese Appetizers

7215 BLONDO 397-5049 Serving Steaks, Seafood, Omaha Chicken, and more.

Lunch & Dinner

Johnn s

Plus 20 Exciting Polynesian the original Cocktails and Delicious

andSat.good service Open 5pm Mon.Closed Sun. never go out of style.

MAI TAI LOUNGE OPEN

4:30 P.M.

a f é 402-731-4774

27th & L Sts. Five minutes from downtown

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

Bellevue Benson 21st & Cornhusker 71st & Ames 934-2300 333-6391

Eagle Run 130th & Maple 779-8600

Voted Best BBQ Eight Consecutive Years Council Bluffs 50 Arena Way 256-1221 (by the MAC)

Lakeside 173rd & West Center 333-8001

Millard 120th & L 829-1616

‘

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

Johnn s

Lunch & Dinner

the original

Serving Steaks, Seafood, Chicken, and more.

402-731-4774

27th & L Sts. november/december | 2010

ICE HOUSE 934-2337 (OMAHA) 10920 Emmet St. The Icehouse was established in 1998 and has grown to become a landmark venue in the Omaha area. Our kitchen serves up restaurant quality food that you'll find second to none. Our food is just one of the reasons that we've been voted Omaha's Best Sports Bar for 8 years in a row. Icehouse - Omaha's Best Sports Bar...PERIOD! www. icehouseomaha.com PETROW'S 551-0552 Serving Nebraska since 1903. Featuring Nebraska’s great steaks and American classics. Petrow’s has been a tradition in Omaha for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an original 50’s soda fountain. Dining is casual. Hours M-Sat 6-9:30 and closed on Sunday. QUAKER STEAK AND LUBE 712-322-0101 (COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA) 3320 Mid America Dr. Council Bluffs, IA."The Lube" serves over 70 million wings annually, has bottles sauces for retail sale and has won the title of "Best Wings USA" Mondays are kids eat free from 5 to 9pm and Tuesdays are all you can eat wings for $12.99 all day. The Metro's only, Quaker Steak and Lube also offers great steaks, ribs and burgers. Live Music again this fall on Friday nights.www.quakersteakandlube.com. L E G E N D (average price per entrée) $1 to 10 - $, $10 to 20 - $$, $20 to 30 - $$$, $30 and over - $$$$

Five minutes from downtown

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

‘

Try Our Famous

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. $

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

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

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

www.grisantis.net

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

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

Always a Large Selection of Fresh Fish

BBQ FAMOUS DAVE’S BARBEQUE 829-1616 (OMAHA) Famous Dave’s has been voted Omaha’s favorite barbeque by Omaha Magazine’s readers and the Reader’s Choice. Real hickory smoked ribs, brisket, pork and a great selection made-from-scratch recipes. Open lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Six Omaha-Metro area locations: Bellevue - 21st & Cornhusker, Benson - 71st & Ames, Eagle Run - 130th & Maple, Lakeside - 173rd &Center, Millard - 120th & L, and Council Bluffs by the MAC. Take out and catering available.

4150 south 144th street • omaha • 894-9411

ITALIAN DEL MARE ITALIAN + SEAFOOD 614-7660 (OMAHA) 801 S. 169th St. (169th & Pacific) Del Mare fresh Italian menu features dishes from classic to contemporary that are full flavored and healthy. We invite you to come in and experience a meal that has been prepared from scratch with the freshest ingredients. Then you will see what we mean by fresh Italian at Del Mare. www.delmareomaha.com DON CARMELO'S 2 LOCATIONS (OMAHA) Tradition - Excellence - Value! Two locations: Rockbrook Village (933-3190) and 204th & Dodge (289-9800) Omaha's First and Finest NY Style Pizza, Stromboli, Calzone, Oven-Toasted Hoagies, Philly Cheese Steaks, Pasta, Salads, Beer & Wine. We also feature take-out and delivery and can cater your special event large or small. Stop in for daily lunch specials 11am -2 pm!

www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

S U S H I B A R & G R I L L

625 & Up Luncheon Specials $

M0n-Sun 11am-3pm

2 Maki Rolls 3 Maki Rolls Bento Box Chinese Lunch

ASIAN CUISINE Happy Hour: Monday - Sunday 3pm-6pm Late Night Happy Hour: Fri. & Sat. 9pm-Close Catering Available • Mon-Thur: 11am-10pm • Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm • Sun: 12pm-10pm

12240 l street | omaha, ne | 991.0022 | www.okinawa-omaha.com

GRISANTIS 330-0440 (OMAHA) 10875 W. Dodge Rd. Grisanti's (serving Omaha & Lincoln for over 20 years) is a fun, casual classic Italian restaurant that offers an extensive menu featuring a full selection of 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. Located in the middle of a neighborhood surrounded by charming homes. Inside you will find a friendly staff, simple elegance with art & statues of Italy, the aromas of home cooked food & the sound of Italian music welcomes you. At the table everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes & basil, a bowl of oven roasted garlic cloves, special seasoned olive oil, & at night, a jug of Chianti, to set the stage for a wonderful experience! Large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, & even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, & eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offers all of the above, along with panini, salads & one of the best pizza in town. Patio seating, full bar, & a great wine list complete this "Simply Elegant, Simply the Best" restaurant. No reservations, except for private rooms. NICOLA’S 345-8466 (OMAHA) 13th & Jackson. Nicola’s offers a distinctive, tempting menu of upscale Italian dishes, including Lobster Ravioli, Classic Carbonara & Mediterranean Lasagna in an alluring environment. Also enjoy an Extensive Wine List & Full Bar on our Outdoor Garden Patio while you dine. Nicola’s also offers Catering & Desserts To Go for your private party or business gathering.

Three Scoops of the Best!

Thanks for Voting Us

~ Authentic German Dining ~ ~ Pan-Fried Chicken - Wednesdays ~ ~ Holiday Dessert & Cookie Trays ~ ~ Pie, Stollen & Strudel ~

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

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

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

OSCAR'S PIZZA AND SPORTS GRILLE (OMAHA) Oscar's Pizza and Sports Grille is West "O"s number one family sports bar and grille. With over 30 HDTVs and four HUGE screens, you will never miss your favorite team. Got a large group? No problem! Oscars has a party room. Call for availability. Open 7 days a week. PASTA AMORE 391-2585 (OMAHA) 108th & West Center road (Rockbrook Village). Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine and capellini. Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as Linguini Amore and Calamari Steak, Penne Florentine, Gnocchi, Spaghetti Puttanesca and Osso Bucco. Filet mignon also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannolis. Lunch: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: 4:30 p.m. Reservations recommended. AE-MC-V. $$

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

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

402-590-COAL | www.pitchpizzeria.com | 5021 Underwood Avenue Happy Hour Monday-Friday november/december | 2010

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PITCH COAL-FIRE PIZZERIA 590-COAL (2625) 5021 Underwood Ave. Coal-fire flavor and fresh, hard-to-find-elsewhere ingredients. That's Pitch in historic Dundee. Unless you've been to the Northeast recently or Naples, Italy, you probably haven't experienced a pizza like it. Coal-fire is a part of an Italian pizza-making heritage. Coal-fire ovens generate 1,000 degrees of heat that produces a crisp, light crust with a distinct but slight charcoaled flavor. It's Naples, old-style cooking. Pitch your own ingredients on top or try one of our signature pizzas that blend the freshest meats and veggies with our traditional sauce. The result: an authentic pie that you won't mistake for any other. www.pitchpizzeria. com SAM AND LOUIE'S MULTIPLE LOCATIONS www.samandlouiesnyp.com. Sam and Louie's is a casual family dining restaurant, with an oldies feel. We specialize in New York style pizza, but have a wide variety of options for any taste bud. Serving hoagies, pastas, calzone, stromboli, salads and more. Offering ice cold beer, wine, and now Gluten Free Pizzas!

TasTe The GourmeT side of mexican cuisine

SPEZIA (OMAHA) 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.

now open Sip the finest margarita Taste guacamole made fresh at your table Savor fresh seafood and steaks with authentic sauces

Midtown Crossing

120 South 31st Avenue Omaha 402.345.6000 follow us on facebook and twitter cantinalaredo.com 102

november/december | 2010

VALENTINO’S Seven Neighborhood locations. (refer to our ad for address and phone numbers) Voted Omaha’s Best Pizza and Buffet by Omaha Magazine, Valentinos has been a Nebraska Tradition for almost 50 years. Convenient Delivery/ Carry out location throughout Omaha serving not only the Best Pizza but also Pastas, Salads, and Breads. The Grand Italian Buffets have something for everyone. Award-winning Buffets offer not only mouthwatering Italian Food but also various other cuisine as well. Open Daily at 11am for Lunch and Open every Sunday at 10am for a Special Sunday Brunch. ZIO’S PIZZERIA SEVERAL OMAHA LOCATIONS Three locations: 7834 Dodge St. (391-1881), 12997 W. Center Rd. (330-1444), and 1109 Howard St. in the Old Market (344-2222). DELIVERY, DINE-IN, and CARRY-OUT. Serving New York style pizza by slice or whole pies, calzones, hoagies, pastas, salads and garlic breads. Zio’s pies are hand-stretched and baked in old-world ovens. Zio’s offers 35 of the freshest toppings. Taste the freshest pizza at Zio’s. Family dining – open seven days a week. Lunch special and beer and wine available. $

www.omahapublications.com

ZURLO'S BISTRO ITALIANO 13110 BIRCH DR STE 100 (EAGLE RUN) Zurlo's is the choice for those who like a comfortable setting, and modern atmosphere...whether relaxing on the outdoor patio, or sharing a glass of wine in the bar, your experience will be enjoyable. Chef Enzo has created a classic and innovative menu with signature items such as Salmon crostinis, Chicken Gilda, and our own Brick Oven Pizzas that are sure to please. Made fresh every day, our bread, pastas, dressings, and sauces make "Zurlo's" your favorite Omaha spot for dining.

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

Stella’s Bar and Grill

“Serving World Famous Hamburgers since 1936” 106 Galvin Rd • Bellevue, NE • 402-291-6088 • Open Monday-Saturday, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Open for Lunch & Dinner Mon-Fri 11AM-11PM Sat Open 4-12PM

MEXICAN

NEW Sunday Brunch from 10am-2pm Also open Sunday 3-9pm

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. $

Great Happy Hour 3-6:30pm (Drink & appetizer specials)

JULIO’S MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 510 S 13th St. (402) 345-6921. 2820 S 123rd Ct. (402) 330-2110 Julio’s Restaurant is a locally owned Omaha original. Enchiladas, tacos, tostadas, taco salads and, of course, fajitas. You haven’t had nachos unless you’ve had Julio’s nachos. A number of meatless dishes including a garden fajitas with over nine different vegetables! Kids items from macaroni & cheese to kiddie tacos to chicken fingers. www. julios.com LA MESA MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 110th & Maple; 156th & Q; Ft. Crook RD & 370; 84th & Tara Plaza; Lake Manawa Exit (Council Bluffs). Come enjoy an authentic Mexican taste experience at La Mesa! From mouthwatering enchilada’s to fabulous fajitas, La Mesa has something for every connoisseur of Mexican fare to savor. Top it off with one of La Mesa’s famous margaritas. So, kick back in the funfriendly atmosphere and you’ll see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s # 1 Mexican Restaurant Seven Years in a Row!!!!!! MARIA BONITA MEXICAN CUISINE SOUTH OMAHA- 20 & L ST. Maria Bonita Mexican Cuisine is a unique restaurant located in South Omaha- 20 & L St. We offer authentic Mexican “casero style” cuisine with a heritage from Hidalgo, Mexico. Our natural flavored drinks are made from scratch daily and we also offer a wide vairety of flavorful snowcones. A fun, upbeat environment emphasized by our valued staff and convenience of take-out to serve time-concerned consumers. We host authentic fiesta theme parties! Talk to our catering coordinator. Follow us on Facebook! Visit our website-MariaBonitaOnline.com Call us at 402.731-0243 www.readonlinenow.com

Gift Cards available

Catering & “To Go” Menu

13110 Birch Dr Ste 100 402-884-9500 www.zurlos.com

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

Four Years in a Row!

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

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

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

Shadow Lake Towne Center Papillion, NE

Serving Lunch & Dinner

Mon-Sat

P: 402-504-9930

WE DELIVER! CALL NOW!

EAT HERE!

www.nebraska.fatburger.com

We’ve perfected the wing. No need for the prayer. Nine tasty sauces. Cold beers on tap. And more than 40 big-screens featuring NFL Sunday Ticket.

bwromaha.com 402.614.7300

(12240 L Street)

to medium [rare]

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WWW.ZEMOGS.COM ZEMOGS Locally owned and operated, Zemog's is not your traditional Mexican Restaurant. Fun and festive decór combined with a passionate love of flavorful food that fills you up without emptying your wallet. Our freshly made-to-order guacamole to legendary nachos, we strive to make the best food from the freshest ingredients available.

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. $

from [rare]

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Q STREET

ORIENTAL

L Street Marketplace

www.konagrill.com

402-933-2509

108TH

BAG N SAVE

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

village pointe 295 n. 170th st omaha, ne 68118 402-779-2900

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

www.omahapublications.com

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. $ HIRO SUSHI 2 LOCATIONS Hiro Sushi, 3655 N 129th St, 402-933-0091. Hiro 88, 1308 Jackson Street, 402-933-5168. Home to one of Omaha's largest Sake selections. Hiro offers the best in both bar selection and expertly rolled sushi. The menu draws on Asian Fusion cuisine and Asian inspired tapas. Join us for Lunch, Happy Hour or call to plan your private party.

Happy Holidays from all of us at

Best of omaha 2010

SEAFOOD

Pasta Amore

LUNCH: Mon.-Fri.: 11a.m.-2p.m. DINNER: Mon.-Sat.: 4:30p.m-Close Rockbrook Village • (108th & Center) (402) 391-2585 • Fax: 391-0910 www.pastaamore.net

Watch Your Favorite Football Team At Oscars!! ESPN Game plan and Sunday NFL ticket! Online at

OscarsPizzaAndSportsGrille.com Carry-Out

(402)758-1910

17330 Lakeside Hills Plaza Omaha, Nebraska

Come & experience what all of Omaha is talking about!

HIRO 88 URBAN CHIC IN OLD MARKET OKINAWA SUSHI 991-0022 (OMAHA) Located at 12240 L Street. Featuring the finest Chinese and Japanese cuisine with a variety of sushi. Enjoy the casual family friendly atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday 12 noon-10 p.m.

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

HIRO 88 o l d m a r k e t 1308 Jackson St. 933.5168 [outdoor dining]

Mon-Fri 3-6, 10-Close Sat 10-Close

HIRO WEST w e s t 3655 N 129th St . 933.0091

omaha

[south of 129th & maple]

Mon-Thur 4:30-6, In The Bar Only Fri-Sat 10-Midnight

{ Happy Hour Specialties } Select Sushi Rolls, Drink Specials & Appetizers

www.Hiro88.com www.readonlinenow.com

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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. $

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

Catering For All Occasions

L TP

ACE

FIRS C

•

2 01 0 • F

Open Seven Days A Week

Thank you for voting us Best of Omaha

3821 Center 346-1528

Visa, MC, Diners & AMEX Accepted

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

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. JAIPUR BREWING COMPANY 402-392-7331 (OMAHA) 10922 Elm St. Rockbrook Village. A casual restaurant in a ralaxed atmosphere. Lunch; Chicken Tikki Naan with Chutney; Tandoori Chicken & Muligatanny soup. Dinner entrees include fresh vegetables dishes, grilled colorado lamb sirloin, Sushi grade Ahi, Tandoori marinated grilled salmon, Tandoor grilled beef tenderloin, to name a few. Wide selection of wines & liquor, on site brewed beer. Lunch: Thurs. & Fr. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: Sun.-Thurs. 5:30 p.m.-9:45 p.m.; Fri & Sat. 5:30 p.m.-10:45 p.m.

10920 EMMET ST. OMAHA, NE 68164

934-BEER (2337) ICEHOUSEOMAHA.COM

m a.co h a fOm s o t s e u to B o vote ha®! Go a t Om f o t Bes

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

Daily Food & Drink Specials!

“ALL SPORTS... ALL OF THE TIME!”

Half Price

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

Offer Expires: 12/31/2010

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One coupon per customer. May not be used with any other offers.

november/december | 2010

KONA GRILL 779-2900 (OMAHA) 295 N 170th St., Village Pointe. Kona Grill is the winner of over 50 awards nationally, including Best New Restaurant and Best Sushi. The eclectic menu offers a variety of dishes from gourmet pizza to the award winning sushi. Kona Grill’s recipe for casual elegance includes mesmerizing aquariums, sushi bar, and an exhibition kitchen. Their lively patio is a great place to see and be seen. At Kona Grill there is something for everyone. MARRAKECH AT THE BRANDEIS BRANDEIS BUILDING (OMAHA) 210 South 16th Street, Suite 104, Omaha, Nebraska 68102 Marrakech at the Brandeis Food Court- Indulge your senses with the fresh, nutritious and aromatic ingredients found in our gourmet Moroccan spiced sandwiches and soups. We invite you to savor the uncompromising quality found in such offerings as our; Pepper Crusted Salmon Wrap, Tomato and Eggplant and our Tomato, Braised Short Rib Baguette and Vegetable soup. SCOOTER'S COFFEEHOUSE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Scooter's Coffeehouse is proud to be a 10 year running winner of BEST OF Omaha in the Coffee Category. We strive to be the best in everything we do; Best Specialty Coffee, Latte's, and Smoothies made with the best ingredients available. Coffee with Character, It's what we are all about!

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

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

YO EW R

Owners Jon Mumgaard, Brian Kitten and Jim Mumgaard

8 Metro Locations

SamAndLouiesNYP.com

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

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

20 e first 1 h t r o you f g us # Thank nd for votin ning. a run years, ar 3 years b sports

www.readonlinenow.com

Z Z E RIA

NY Style Pizza • Hoagies • Pastas Calzone • Stromboli Salads Ice Cold Beer • Wine Now Serving Gluten Free Pizzas!

$5.00 OFF Any 16” or 18” Pizza expires 12.31.2010 • no cash value

november/december | 2010

107

CHEFPROFILE

Story by Bailey Hemphill

Nick Strawhecker

Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

To view a YouTube clip of a pizza being made aT danTe's, go To hTTp://diningouT.vuomaha.com.

Dante Pizzeria Napoletana

wHo

could have guessed that a 16-year-old working at a Pizza Hut would one day grow up to study Italian cuisine in Italy, then open his own sophisticated, Naples-inspired restaurant? That proved to be the fate of Omahan Nick Strawhecker, chef and owner of Dante Pizzeria Napoletana. Strawhecker was born and raised for some time in Omaha before his family moved to England where they lived for three years during his early teens. While abroad, he traveled throughout Europe and was exposed to new dishes outside of American cuisine. After his family returned to Omaha and celebrated his high-school graduation, Strawhecker went on to culinary school in Providence, and later, to work in a small bistro in Flagstaff while attending Northern Arizona University. Eventually, he moved to Italy to attend the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners (ICIF), where he gained a strong respect for Italian cuisine and wine, and worked at the Michelin-rated Il Falconierie in southern Tuscany, which he says influenced him tremendously. When he returned to the U.S., Strawhecker

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worked as a sous chef in both Chicago and Philadelphia, gaining more experience as an all-around cook. He recalls, “A chef I used to work for always told me that a sous chef needs to be the best cook in the kitchen.” In 2008, Strawhecker returned to Omaha and pursued his dream of opening his own restaurant, Dante Pizzeria Napoletana. Dante, he says, references Dante’s Inferno, the mythical hell represented in the 14th-century epic poem Divine Comedy, which he believes fits his restaurant well since he cooks his pizzas in an 800-degree, wood-fire oven. Dante Pizzeria houses the only VERA-certified wood-fire oven in Omaha, which sets Strawhecker’s Neapolitan pizza apart from the other Italian cuisines in the metro. Some of the signature dishes on the Dante menu include Giuseppe Pizza (sausage, roasted pepper, and cipollini) and Oxtail and Gnocchi. While his customers relish in the constantly changing selections of Tuscan and Southern Italian entrees, Strawhecker says he has a go-to meal that he loves to cook in his off-time: roast chicken and potatoes, accompanied by several glasses of wine. www.omahapublications.com

PIZZERIA

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

STEAKHOUSES

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

*By the slice

West Omaha 12997 W. Center Road 330-1444

*Whole Pies

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

*Dine-In

*Lunch Specials *Carry-Out *We deliver Downtown

www.ziospizzeria.com

Most Bountiful Toppings at Zio’s!!! 801 CHOPOUSE AT THE PAXTON 402-341-1222 1403 Farnam St. Designed with a 1920's era New York Chophouse in mind, 801 is the epitome of elegance. You will not forget the crisp white tablecloth fine dining experience. From their USDA prime grade beef and jet-fresh seafood from all over the world, 801 Chophouse is truly the best Omaha has to offer. Open 7 nights a week.

CASCIO'S STEAK HOUSE 402-345-8313 Since 1946, Cascio’s Steak House has been Omaha’s #1 steakhouse. The Cascio family established high standards of top quality food which is carefully prepared and promptly served by the friendly staff. Minutes south of the old market. The perfect place to hold your entire banquet and party needs Cascio’s has 7 party rooms handling groups of 10-400 people. www.casciossteakhouse.com

www.readonlinenow.com

november/december | 2010

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WE CATER! 402.731.0243

NICOLA’S

IN THE OLD

MARKET

The Official Restaurant of the Holland Performing Arts Center’s Broadway Series

www.MariaBonitaOnline.com

1921 Missouri Ave., (20th and L St.) Omaha, NE 68107

Enjoy a distinctive & tempting menu of upscale Italian dishes, including Lobster Ravioli, Classic Carbonara & Mediterranean Lasagna. Offering an Extensive Wine List, Full Bar, Outdoor Garden Patio, Catering Follow us on... & Desserts To Go. NICOLASINTHEOLDMARKET.COM phone number

345.8466

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location

13TH & JACKSON

november/december | 2010

www.omahapublications.com

THE DROVER 391-7440 2121 S. 73 St. (just 1/2 block south of Doubletree). Famous for our Whiskey Steaks! Serving seafood, chicken and chops. Fine wine in an intimate atmosphere. Casual attire. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm. Cocktail Hour 3-6pm Dinner nightly at 5pm. Reservations accepted. AE-DC-MC-V. $$$

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. six days a week. $-$$

CHECK OUT readonlinenow.com FOR OMAHA PUBLICATIONS STABLE OF MAGAZINES ON THE WEB. NOW YOU CAN DOWNLOAD YOUR FAVORITE PAGES, EMAIL THEM TO ANYONE, EVEN PRINT THEM AND HANG THEM ON YOUR WALL.

USING FLIPBOOK TECHNOLOGY, readonlinenow.com GIVES YOU A WHOLE NEW MAGAZINE READING EXPERIENCE. 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.

FACES • STYLE • HOME • EVENTS • HAPPENINGS • DINING • LAST WORD

Background fabric provided by Textiles Inc.

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. $$

LEGENDS OF HAIR

Old Market • Downtown • Riverfront

David Scott, Rick Carey, Tom “Tino” Constantino, Heather Smalley, Claude Smith

www.oldmarket.com | September/October 2007

$3.95 US 0 5>

74470 63857

Old Market Gallery Crawl Take a Poke Break with Dr. Yoo

Results are in!

BALLOT ON PAGE 9

OMAHA! PAGE 38

Plus

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

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

SULLIVAN'S STEAKHOUSE 342-0077 (OMAHA) 222 South 15th St. (Old Market). A vibrant neighborhood American Steakhouse featuring steaks, seafood, handshaken martinis and live music. With 20 locations nationally, we offer comfortable fine dining in a lively atmosphere. Whether it's for business or pleasure we look forward to quickly becoming your favorite local steakhouse.

THE KNOW-IT-ALL PAGE 34

BUY OMAHA

Profiles

BEST OF B2B

2008 Ballot

MutualJeffofSchmid Omaha Bank’s and the Coffeehouse Banking Concept MAILED TO AND READ IN EVERY BUSINESS IN THE METRO!

WINTER 2008 0 1>

U.S. $3.25

OMAHA PRIME 341-7040 (OMAHA) 415 S. 11th St. (Old Market). Only restaurant featuring complete Prime beef. Open six days a week, Mon.-Sat. 5 p.m.-close. $$-$$$

SPENCER'S FOR STEAKS AND CHOPS 280-8888 OLD MARKET 102 South 10th Street. At Spencer’s we strive for only the finest dining experience. Our dinner menu includes prime grade beef and we also collaborate with local farmers and ranchers to bring in only the finest product. Check out our award winning wine list. Sun.-Thurs. 5 p.m.-1 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 5 p.m.-11 p.m. www.specersforsteaksandchops.com

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Celebrating, Empowering, Inspiring... the Women of Omaha.

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tech–Issue profiles: bringing–it–to–business omaha–view: gadget–chat digital–mammography how–to: text–message blog

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

Fresh Italian Experience the Difference Lunch.Dinner.Catering

The Reef Lounge Open til 2:00 am • Live music Fri and Sat starting at 10:00 pm

810 S. 169th Street

(169th & Pacific)

• 402.614.7660 • w w w.delmareomaha.com

Dundee Dell

Best Neighborhood Bar

Omaha, Nebraska

Owned & Operated by the Cascio Family

PL T

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Catering and Party Rooms Also Available. 7555 Pacific St. 399–8006 380 N.114 St. 330–5707

ACE

FIRS

Sonoran Style Cooking Made Fresh Daily.

I •F

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

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

Experience the Flavor ...

Online.

Rotella’s Italian Bakery Inc. invites you to experience the flavor and variety on our all new website. 64 Years of Selling Great Steaks!

1620 S. 10th 1 mile south of Qwest Center 345-8313 • www.casciossteakhouse.com

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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

Story by John Fischer

WINE &FOOD

Wine Scores Do you trust published wine scores? For a lot of people they are the sole indicator of quality. If the wine doesn’t score 90 points or better, they will not purchase them. In an attempt to boost sales, many wine shops publish a wine description and a score awarded it from information derived from one of the many wine publications. There are several; however, the two most popular are the Wine Advocate and the Wine Spectator, and we will limit our discussion to these two. Unfortunately, while an evaluation of a great many wines can be found in one or the other of these publications, there are several that are left out. Nevertheless, considering the great number wines made worldwide, a surprising number of wines can be found. Of these two publications, the Wine Spectator evaluates a greater number of wines. Of the several scoring systems, the Wine Spectator and the Wine Advocate are both based on 100 points—similar to the grading system used by many schools. Other systems are based on 7, 10, or 20 points. The advantage of the 100 point system is that it is familiar to everyone. Its disadvantage is that it is too sensitive. The difference in quality between a score of 92 and that of 89 points is difficult to appreciate by many tasters, including professionals. In actuality, the 20 point system is more realistic scoring system. Unfortunately, it is out of vogue. It is surprising how close the wine scores of the Wine Spectator and the Wine Advocate can be. Sometimes you wonder if they copied each other. Yet, in other cases, there are significant discrepancies, and in a few cases, these can be glaring. Nevertheless, finding close agreement between the two scores bolsters the accuracy of the score. In fact, if both publications give the wine a high score, it is likely to come close to living up to its lofty expectations. Less dependable is their guess as to when the wine will be ready to drink and when it will start to decline. I say guess, because that is exactly what it is. Although the criteria used in determining a timeline is based on well established characteristics of a young wine, often they do not mature the way they are expected. Not surprisingly, in this respect, opinions between these two publications are often quite varied. In some cases, a timeline is not even provided. www.readonlinenow.com

This is especially true with the Wine Spectator. To be sure, longevity and drinkability are very important aspects for the wine collector who purchases large amounts of wine to store. Let’s get down to the nucleus of this article. Are wine scores reliable, and are drinkability dates accurate? The answer: sometimes they are, other times they aren’t. So… why even bother with them. Simply put, someone’s opinion is better than blindly stumbling through a wine store and haphazardly selecting a wine based on criteria such as how artistically pleasing is the wine label. Asking the salesperson for opinions may likewise be fraught with uncertainty. Is he bluffing, or does he have ulterior motives for dumping his wine? If he is honest and knowledgeable, and you have dealt with him before, you may have good reason to trust him. But, why not bolster his opinion with scores from publications. If you cellar wines, it is best to follow your wines closely. Look up current scores and maturity information every year. For example, you may be surprised to find that a wine that you initially purchased with a 93 points score that will be ready to drink in the year 2020 and would not decline until the year 2030 had dramatically changed. Eight months later the same wine publication scores the wine 90 points with drinkable in 2014, and decline by 2020. Granted, wines change with time, but for most quality wines the timeline is in years, not months. There have been glaring inconsistencies evident in the past from popular wine publications where they kept a running tally of scores and wine descriptions. In blind tastings, professional tasters readily admit that their scores can vary by as much as 2-3 points. This is a significant discrepancy as many people hold 90 points as the lower threshold for purchasing a wine. With age, wines change. Professional tasters give you their opinion based on the sensory characteristics of the wine at the time that they tasted it. As the wine changes, so often does their opinion. You might say that wines are like some marriages. Everything may look very promising in the beginning, only to go bad a few years down the line. When judging the evolution of a wine, little is ever straightforward. Even the experts make mistakes, and frequently do. november/december | 2010

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OMAHACITYSEEN 1

OMAHA FASHION WEEK FINALE 09.18.2010 3

OMAHA NIGHT HAWKS OPENING NIGHT 09.24.2010 7

CRAVE OPENING WEEK HAPPY HOUR 10.12.2010 15

1: Models backstage wearing MYERS+WHITE 2: Jennifer Mauer, Kaleb Korver, Casey Harriman, Macy Mauer, Laine Korver 3: Mitch Novoting, Brittany Novoting, Mikala Jean Payne 4: Carly Cummings, Kim Isherwood, Steve Gordon 5: Paul Jarrett, Sara Terman, Jessica Schutt, Stephanie Jarrett 6: Designer Buf Reynolds w/ Models 7: Jessie Zeringue, Jose Santiago, Michelle Stephans, Bill Alford 8: Justin MacNair, Mark Cullinane 9: Angie & Jameson Yost 10: Nelly Half-Time Performance 11: Amber Rogers, Lindy Thompson 12: Eddie Flood, Joe Morrissui, Charlie Tracy, Aiden Hook, James Boeck 13: Fans Celebrating Game-Tieing Touchdown by Ferguson 14: Sushi Chefs: Mike, Dominic, Tony, Nalani 15: Chris & Stephanie 16: Melissa & Dan 17: Head Chef, James Davis

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