Women's Edition Omaha - May 2022 by Women's Edition Magazine

May 2022 A l wa y s Free!

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Publisher’s Notes

Mothers and Daughters Happy Mother’s Day! I think it is a great match to celebrate Mother’s Day in May, when Mother Earth is being reborn. The flowers and trees are in full bloom, and most of us are in great moods due to the abundant sunshine. After all, Mom certainly deserves to get the best from us on her day, right? My mother passed in the early 1990s, so Manny and I celebrate Mother’s Day with my daughter Carissa, her husband Ken, and my grandkids, Savannah and McKenna. Last year, Carissa and I gave each other house plants and challenged each other to keep them alive at least until Mother’s Day this year. (Neither of us has a green thumb.) So far, so good on my end…thanks to my husband Manny’s care! On Mother’s Day, I find myself watching my daughter and being amazed at how great a mom she is. She has worked from home since the start of the pandemic and is now being told that it is a permanent thing in her company. She had to deal with being the girls’ teacher for a year when the schools went remote. The good news is how she gets to be there for her daughters because she is home. As a grandma watching my daughter be a mom, I am constantly impressed by her. I honestly don’t think I could have done it. I am so very proud of her. In a lot of ways, Carissa reminds me of my mother, Anne. When Carissa was six years old, her dad and I moved behind my parents’ house. Carissa was at the age where she could walk through the gate in the backyard and visit Grandma and Grandpa. She loved her grandparents…and it was her grandma that she would sit and talk with for hours. Grandma Anne was a collector. She would go out to garage sales early every day to see if she could find a treasure. I’ll never forget when Mom came home with a huge bushel basket of salt and pepper shakers. Hundreds and hundreds of them. Carissa and her grandma sat for days that stretched into months, matching and cleaning this treasure. My mom loved these times. I believe she’s the one who taught Carissa to be the fantastic mother that she is! I hope that all of you moms have a fantastic day. I also know many surrogate moms…aunts, other relatives, or friends of the family…who take on the role of mother in families’ lives. This is your day, too! I believe that motherhood has a whole lot less to do with birth and a whole lot more to do with motherly love. Happy Mother’s Day to all! Next month? Women’s Edition will celebrate our 36th anniversary!

Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher

Points of Interest Join Omaha author Mary Helen Stefaniak as she celebrates the publication of her new novel, The World of Pondside. Turn to page 21 for event details. Spring has arrived! It’s time to get those trees and bushes trimmed for the season. Check out Monster Tree Service, certified arborists, on page 61. Congratulations to Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine on opening a second location in Lincoln. See their ad on page 27 for details. Quest Forward Academy is offering exciting summer exploration with many courses for middle schoolers. Their ad on page 9 has details on courses and registration. Central Plains Ear Nose Throat & Audiology would like to remind everyone that May is Better Hearing & Speech Month (BHSM). This is an opportunity to raise awareness about communication disorders. See their ad on page 8. Annette Schneider of Shelter Insurance is offering a free insurance review for any business owner. She has just moved her office to 8790 F Street. See her ad on page 36. Interview Writers Wanted, for Fame not Fortune! Women’s Edition is looking for freelance writers to interview business owners. You would need to have a flexible schedule Monday - Friday 9 to 5, for conducting the interviews. If you have a passion for writing and you enjoy meeting creative entrepreneurs, this is a exciting part-time position for you! If interested, e-mail a brief letter of interest to Roxy at roxy@wew3.com.

On the Cover Elan More information at www.shopelan.com

Positive Thought of the Month “A mother’s and daughter’s love is never separated.” —Viola Shipman

Please go to womensedition.com and click on Contact Us to find a location to pick up the latest copy of Women’s Edition.

May 2022

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Inside This Edition 2 Publisher’s Notes

6 Weekend Gourmet

Focus on Finance Today, over 70 million Americans manage their own investment portfolios for free, without a licensed broker.

10 Fashion Worthy 12 Business Style 15 Zodiac Forecast

Enterprising Ideas

16 A Woman’s Work

The Green Thumb

Seasons of Life

Business Connection

Income Outcome

Kids Comments

18 Vantage Point

Auto Wise

20 Fresh Concept

Cuddly Critters

22 The Market Place

Peak Performance

24 Inside Look

Good Life

Take time to honor the woman who set you on the path to adulthood.

26 Good Looks It’s time to ditch the sweats and don the shorts! Before we do, we want our skin ready for exposure.

Hosting a party to celebrate a special occasion for someone you love is a gift from the heart.

Home Works

30 Interiors by Design

Out and About

36 To Your Good Health

Positive Perspective

38 View From the Top 41 Healthy Living

National Publisher/Editor Janet Van deWalle

Operations Manager Roxy Orr

53 Copy Editor Liz Huett

Women’s Edition 11570 West Do dg e R o ad • Omah a, NE 68154 • 402-397-0732 or 888-892-407 6 Women’s Edition is published by and is the property of Women’s Edition, Inc. Women’s Edition® The Magazine For Metropolitan Women is a registered trademark of Women’s Edition, Inc. (Reg. No. 2,501,858). All rights reserved. Women’s Edition has no affiliation with any other publication. Women’s Edition makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claim as to the accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information. Women’s Edition is not responsible for the accuracy of the QR codes appearing in our magazine. © Copyright 2021, Women’s Edition, Inc. All rights reserved. This material is for personal use only. Republication and redissemination in whole or in part is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Women’s Edition, Inc.

May 2022

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Weekend Gourmet

Gathering and Celebrating—Let’s Eat!

By Kate Beiting

Crème Brulee French Toast Put 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 Tablespoons of corn syrup in a pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the sugar dissolves. Pour into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cube half of a loaf of French bread and place the cubes into the baking dish. In a bowl, mix 6 eggs, 1 Tablespoon of orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) or fresh orange juice, 1 and 1/2 cups of Half and Half, and a dash of salt. Mix well and pour over the bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Serve with warm berry compote. Fresh Asparagus Stir Fry Wash and trim a pound of fresh asparagus; slice, if desired. Put 2 Tablespoons of butter into a skillet. Add the asparagus and 2 Tablespoons of water. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, until the asparagus is crisp-tender. Salt and pepper as desired. Add 2 Tablespoons of sliced almonds, stir thoroughly, and serve. Southwest Chicken Slightly flatten 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cook in 2 Tablespoons of oil for 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the skillet, sauté 1 sliced onion for 3–4 minutes. Add 2 chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of fire-roasted tomatoes), 2 chopped celery stalks, and 1/4 cup of water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Add 1/4 cup of sliced, pimiento-stuffed olives, 1/2 pound of sliced mushrooms, and the chicken. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve with rice or pasta.

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Perfectly Grilled Steak (courtesy of Ina Garten, Barefoot Contessa) Rub 1 and 1/2–inch New York strip steaks with a bit of olive oil and a seasoning rub that you like (purchased or homemade). Refrigerate for several hours, then let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. Grill over high heat for 2 minutes on each side. Move to the cool side of the grill, close the lid, and grill (untouched) for 10 minutes. Remove to a platter and cover with aluminum foil to rest for 15 minutes. Test with a meat thermometer. Steamed Fresh Vegetables Wash and prepare 5 cups of whatever chopped vegetables you choose: broccoli, cabbage, asparagus, carrots, celery, cauliflower. Put the veggies in a large (10-inch) skillet with 1 cup of water and 3 Tablespoons of butter. Cover and cook on medium-high heat until liquid is gone. Salt and pepper as desired.

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NOW HIRING

Freelance Writers!

Women’s Edition is currently looking for a few passionate freelance writers with flexible schedules to interview business owners in the Omaha area. Please email a brief letter describing yourself and why you would like to write to: Roxy Orr roxy@wew3.com (please indicate “Writer for Omaha” in the subject line)

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Blender Hollandaise Combine 3 room-temperature egg yolks with 1 and 1/2 Tablespoons of lemon juice in a blender. Melt 3/4 cup of butter. Add 1 Tablespoon of hot water to the egg yolks, then turn the blender on high and pour in the melted butter in a steady stream. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, a dash of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard. Pulse for another 30 seconds. Serve over steamed spring asparagus or other vegetables, or as Eggs Benedict (on top of an English muffin with Canadian bacon and a poached egg). Mother’s One-Pan Berry Tarts Cream 1 stick of butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 egg and 1 Tablespoon of grated orange peel. In another bowl, blend together 1 cup of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Add this to the butter mixture. Place parchment paper on a 9x12-inch baking pan and butter the paper. Pat the dough evenly onto the paper and bake at 375 degrees for 15–20 minutes. Cool. In a bowl, dissolve 1/2 package (4 Tablespoons) of berry-flavored gelatin in 3/4 cup of boiling water. Mix well and refrigerate until syrupy. Spread 1/3 of the gelatin over the cooled crust and place the cooled fruit all over. Brush on the remaining gelatin. Cut into 3-inch squares. Top with freshly whipped cream (whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 Tablespoon of sugar). Crustless Cheesecake Beat 3 eight-ounce packages of room-temperature cream cheese with 6 egg yolks, 1 cup of sugar, 2 Tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon each of lemon juice and vanilla extract. Whip the egg whites separately until you get light peaks. Fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Pour into a lightly greased springform pan and bake at 325 degrees for 70 minutes. Let cool.

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Fashion Worthy

Go Big, Go Bold Go Summer of 2022!

By Holly Bell

In the Midwest, we appreciate the changing of the seasons! Every year, we look for the first hint of green popping up in our gardens, we listen for the cardinals singing, we close our eyes and breathe deeply the warm, fresh air of spring and summer. This year’s warm-weather fashion is particularly inspiring, with several looks to love. 1. Big & Bold: Saturated bright solids are the rage for summer. Enjoy wild shades like Kermit green, royal blue, sunshine yellow, hot pink, bright turquoise, and saffron, to name a few. Go all-in with an oversized top or matching jacket and pant set for maximum impact, or dip your toes in this trend with a bold handbag or shoes. 2. Bridal Vibes: The little white dress will take the place of your little black dress for all-occasion wear this summer. Lace and crochet, along with pearl-embellished sleeves and necklines, add romantic touches to your summer dressing. 3. Black & White: We’ve always loved this classic combo, but this year it is really an important style vibe. Get creative and pull together various black and white pieces from your closet. Then, add a boldly colored handbag to touch on two big trends in a big way. 4. Vacay Ready: You don’t have to wait to go on vacation to enjoy this year’s vacation prints. Beautiful florals and tropical leaves bring a vacation vibe to your everyday life. Treat yourself to an airy maxi skirt or dress for the ultimate cool summer refresher. 5. Loose-Fitting Jeans: Designers have outdone themselves with denim creativity this year. There is definitely a jean style for everybody. The skinny jean is over, and the baggy look is in! This style, often called the “girlfriend jean” or “boyfriend jean,” is modern and super comfy, usually done in super soft-washed looks that work well rolled up with flat sandals or tennis shoes. To go a bit further, there is the wide leg jean. Worn a bit longer, almost to the floor, this style

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Business Style

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“How can you throw a party and not invite us?”

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Are you planning a party, wedding, or special event? Are you wondering how you’re going to seat everyone? Serve everyone? Entertain everyone? Stop wondering and call Honeyman Rent-All, your partner in creating memorable events. There’s no need to scramble, asking friends and neighbors for extra tables, chairs, and supplies. Honeyman Rent-All has what you need to make any event a success. Pat and Dennis Honeyman started Honeyman Rent-All in 1968. The business started with equipment rentals and expanded in 1970 to include party rentals. After 51 years, the Party Rentals Division (known as “The Party Place” ) moved a year ago to their new location at 8202 F Street. The Equipment Rentals Division remains conveniently located at 4423 South 84th Street. The new Party Place has easy front door parking, just like their previous location. Their showroom has several staged areas to help give their customers ideas that will add to the beauty or convenience of the event being planned. Bill Reynolds is the manager of the Party Rentals Division. He has been with the company since 1975. “Our business is always evolving,” he says. “We stay on top of trends and can help customers with any type of event.” He notes that intimate weddings have become more popular, but Honeyman Rent-All can handle weddings of any size. Other popular events include parties for birthdays, graduations, gender reveals, quinceañeras, and the Oscars. The company also carries items for business events such as meetings, presentations, and conferences. Honeyman Rent-All can handle your rental needs for any type of event. In addition to the customary tables, chairs, linens, and serving pieces, Honeyman Rent-All carries many other items to create unique and memorable events. Planning a wedding or special event? You will find arches, exquisite crystal accent lighting, and candelabras. Planning an outdoor party? You’ll find canopies, grills, rotisseries, chill tables, and ice chests to rent. Want to spice up a party or wedding? Chocolate fountains, slushie machines, and popcorn machines are just a few of the available concession items. Inflatables and children’s games are always a hit at children’s birthday parties. Planning a fundraiser? Casino games like blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker create a fun atmosphere. Arranging a business event? The company offers audio-visual equipment such as projectors, screens, and speakers. You’ll also find podiums, coat racks, and raffle cages. Risers are great for group photos to ensure that everyone will be visible. Inflatable air dancers are an attention-grabbing way to advertise a special event. Bill shares his thoughts about what customers should consider when choosing a rental company. “You can tell a lot 12

May 2022

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about a company by how they care for their facility and products,” he points out. “Are you acknowledged when you enter the store? Are the staff members friendly and attentive without being pushy? Is the store clean and organized? What are the rental terms? What fees are charged?” Bill notes that Honeyman Rent-All employees spend a lot of time with customers to help create a memorable experience. For party rentals, Honeyman Rent-All charges daily fees. Items may be picked up or delivered the day before an event and returned on the day after an event for a one-day rental fee. This means you’ll be able to set up for your event the day before and focus on enjoying your event while it happens. Customers may make arrangements to pick up and return rental items, or Honeyman Rent-All can provide these services. If you’re interested in a full-service rental, the company offers delivery, set-up, tear-down, pick-up, or any combination of these services, for an additional fee. Honeyman Rent-All’s Equipment Rental Division can help you with projects such as home improvement, automotive care, and lawn care. If you don’t want to purchase items that you may not use very often, why not rent? You’ll find heavy-duty equipment such as backhoes, forklifts, tractors, trailers, trenchers, and skid-steers. They have tools for prepping drywall, painting, plumbing, and floor care. Need help with your garden or lawn? Aerators, lawnmowers, lawn edgers, hedge trimmers, post drivers, and blowers are just a few of the tools you’ll find to make your job easier. Whether you’re planning a special event or working on a project, Honeyman Rent-All is your ideal rental needs partner. Give them a call, and they will help you create an event to remember or help you get your project done. Stop in and visit the new showroom at 8202 F Street. Call 402-333-2882 for party rentals and 402-331-6013 for equipment rentals or find them both online at honeymanrentall.com.

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Women’s Edition + Consistency + Your Business =

SUCCESS 402.397.0732

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1/11/21 1:23 PM

Zodiac Forecast

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20)

Happy birthday, Taurus! Take initiative and go after what you want. Imagine that you have the key to your destiny and that it is guiding you in the right direction. This is the best way to seize the opportunities that come into your life. No matter what challenges you encounter along the way, remember to stay true to yourself. This improves all aspects of your life! Gemini (May 21–June 20) A truly positive change is about to take place in your life! You may have felt adrift, but you are now heading in the right direction. Embrace it! Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22) This will be a month filled with blessings and good luck! You will travel more than usual, which will rejuvenate the mind and body. Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22) May will be filled with happiness and positive affirmation. You have loved ones who care for you and support you. Focus on the light and bliss in your life. Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) Love is in the air, and things are working out well in the romance division. Focus on what brings you pleasure, and make every moment count! Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) You have the courage to overcome any hurdles. Your loved ones will guide you, support you, and advise you along the way! Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) Fill your mind with positive energy and thoughts. Focus on the things that truly matter the most to you—the rest will fall into place!

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Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 21) May will be the month of travel. Devoted couples traveling together will find that this strengthens their relationship. Single Sagittarians may find that their charisma attracts new love during travel! Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19) May is exceptional for your health. You have been working devotedly, and it shows! It is amazing what a few adjustments to your lifestyle can do. Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) Focus on what you are after in life and make it happen! May is the month of transformation. Be willing to make the sacrifices you need to lift your spirits and achieve success. Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20) It is a prosperous month for Pisces. Your travel prospects are bright! Be devoted to the things you want in life and go after them. Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19) Positive energy and opportunities will engulf all aspects of your life in May. Nurture all your personal and professional relationships. Welcome your newfound financial freedom and take some time to travel!

May 2022

3/30/22 8:4615 AM

A Woman’s Work

A Day for All Mothers Every Day is Mother’s Day

By Sharon Knierim

Mother’s Day has arrived, and it is once again time to stop what we’re doing and celebrate our mothers. Whether or not your mother is still living, it’s a very good exercise to reflect on what she has been and still remains and how she has shaped your own life. We all have a mother, and there are probably as many different kinds of relationships between mother and child as there are mothers in this world. Our mother is the first human we know. Even before our own birth, we have learned to recognize her voice. After nine or 10 months of feeding us and protecting us as best she can in her own body, she knows us better than anyone else probably will in our lifetimes. There’s no denying that fatigue and discomfort set in as the baby inside grows and takes up more space toward the end of pregnancy. Finally, the big day arrives, and the baby is born! Pregnancy can be difficult, uncomfortable, and stressful (and labor is no picnic, either), but if you think the hard part of being a mother is over, you might be getting a little bit ahead of yourself. From this point on, life becomes really interesting. From this point on, you will never be alone again. Although this may seem distressing to those of us who enjoy solitary time,

it really is one of life’s wonderful blessings. The companionship and love that grows between mother and child is enduring. With good luck and hard work, it can (and should) last an entire lifetime. If you are a brand-new mother, don’t be discouraged by all the yucky diapers and the spitting up. Feeding time seems to take forever, and your little angel has what feels like a string of constant demands. Remember, you’ll eventually grow accustomed to this new routine...at which time, your baby will change the routine entirely. Learn to be flexible. Motherhood is something like a club. All mothers gossip about and compare their own children to all the other kids in the family and the neighborhood. Sometimes, the competition can be quite remarkable. You wonder why your baby hasn’t started crawling when your sister’s baby has already

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crawled over half the county. Unless your baby’s development is drastically different from everyone else’s, worrying about it is probably not worth your time. In the end, babies do everything at their own pace. By the time a child becomes a toddler, we have become so engrossed in their little lives that they are always our first thought and remain number one in our plans, both large and small. Technically, it’s our children who make us into mothers. On the flip side, however, we have to consider our own mothers, who greatly influence the kind of mothers we turn out to be. It can be hard to admit that we listened to what our mothers told us. After all, how could they know anything about being teenagers? A teenaged girl thinks her mother knows nothing about teen guys because Mom has been married to good old Dad for at least a century. Fashion has probably been a hot topic between mothers and daughters since the beginning of time. Teenage boys view their mothers a little differently. Instead of angst, they seem to be split in their opinion of Mom. Maybe that balances things out. Although it is really startling, many of us seem to eventually turn into our mothers. We plagiarize their reasoning, their remarks, and their words of wisdom. How does this happen? When we are very young, we want desperately to be ourselves and to be special. Well, even though we might turn into our own mothers, we are still special. Even more startling is the realization that our mothers were almost always right. I do not know if anyone has ever kept the score on this, but, over the years, mothers prove to be right a great percentage of the time. How do they do that? Their intentions are good. They care for us and want us to be able to make good, strong decisions. This can be truly annoying. Perhaps someday in the future, a generation will understand this early enough in life to benefit from it before they become parents themselves. I wish you a happy Mother’s Day and hope that you will take some time to honor the woman who set you on the road to adulthood. If you are a mother, take time to honor each of your children, and let them know how very special they are to you. Happy Mother’s Day to all!

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May 2022

11/6/20 2:0517 PM

Vantage Point

The Rock Place

Hardscape Landscaping Products

By Toni Arndt

Spring brings warmer weather, green lawns, new blooms, and more time spent outdoors. Are you happy with your outdoor space or do you feel like something is lacking? Do you need more space to entertain and relax? If so, The Rock Place can help you create an outdoor living space you can enjoy with your friends and family. The Rock Place has been helping homeowners and contractors with their natural stone and hardscape products for over 30 years. Co-owners Andrew Gangestad and Alex Dye purchased the business from the original owner, who retired earlier this year. Andrew and Alex had previously owned and operated the lawn care business CLC Landscapes. When they bought The Rock Place, they closed CLC to focus exclusively on their new venture. They look forward to continuing the tradition of offering a wide selection of natural stone and hardscape products along with excellent customer service. In their previous work as landscapers, Alex and Andrew had been customers of The Rock Place for 15 years. “I believe there is value in the fact that our business was a longtime customer,” Andrew asserts. “Being in the business, we understand how the process works.” Many staff members have remained under the new ownership, including sales assistants and the general manager, who has been with The Rock Place for 30 years. What can you find at The Rock Place? It’s more than just rocks. Landscaping includes two components, known as softscape and hardscape. Softscape pertains to botanical items like grass, shrubs, flowers, and trees. Hardscape refers to manufactured features like paths, retaining walls, and patios. Combining both components creates a yard that is functional and beautiful. The Rock Place specializes in hardscape elements. The company carries a wide selection of natural stone products to enhance gardens and yards and expand outdoor living space. River rocks and ground cover come in various sizes and are used for planting beds, pathways, and other projects. Flagstones can be used for walkways, patios, garden steppers, and water features. Natural wall and edging stones can be used as lawn edgings, low walls, and planter boxes. Boulders are available in various colors, sizes, and shapes to accent landscaping and build walls. Boulders can also be drilled and used to accessorize ponds and waterfalls. For those who want a softer ground cover, the company carries shredded hardwood mulch that comes in its natural color or a dyed chocolate brown. Topsoil for planting and gardening needs is also available. Hardscape concrete products help create inviting outdoor entertaining and relaxation areas. The company carries Rochester Concrete Products, including pavers and tiles, walls, edgers, accessories, and fire pit kits. Pavers and tiles come in many colors and styles, such as American brick, slate, flag18

May 2022

stone, and cobblestone. Wall bricks, edgers, and accessories also come in L-R: Alex Dye and several colors and styles. Firepit kits with Andrew Gangestad, inserts and optional cooking grates can Co-owners add warmth to an outdoor space. When installing hardscaping, thoughtful planning will help you achieve your goals. Review the entire area and think about how everything will fit together. Think about whether you want a relaxed or more formal atmosphere. Maintain a balance of hardscaping and softscaping for an inviting environment. Select elements appropriate for the type, size, and scope of the project. Use various textures judiciously to maintain a cohesive look. These are just a few tips to consider for a successful project. Andrew and Alex believe that flexibility and accessibility are essential in their business. Their wide inventory, convenient location, and ability to help everyone—from individual homeowners to very large companies—allow them to serve a vast population. Customer service and satisfaction are important priorities. They regularly speak with customers to make sure they’re meeting product needs, and they strive to stay on top of emerging product trends. “Our goals are to carry products that customers want, secure quick turnaround times when ordering items, and provide quick delivery,” Alex shares. Andrew agrees, adding, “We provide a welcoming, helpful environment with a personal touch. We are here to assist customers and can provide suggestions if they are not sure about what they want.” Andrew and Alex enjoy interacting with homeowners and contractors. They appreciate receiving photos from customers showing finished projects using products they purchased at The Rock Place. “Products can be used in many ways, and it’s fun to see different applications of the same product. It’s rewarding to be a part of enhancing the beauty of a home or business.” The Rock Place is located at 3405 South 204th Street, in Elkhorn. Business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call 402-289-2862 for more information or find them online at therockplacellc.com.

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13448 old “L” St. • 402-895-5455 Open: Mon.-Sat. 10 am-5 pm

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May 2022

2/8/22 2:0819 PM

Fresh Concept

Outdoor Kitchen Trends

Cook, Entertain, and Relax Outdoors!

By Janette Calabro

In 2022, outdoor kitchens are more than just a place to put the grill. Homeowners want a space where emotional connection unites family and friends—where entertaining creates fond memories for guests and hosts alike. When designed with outdoor living in mind, an outdoor kitchen can be a true extension of a home’s living space. Let’s look at what steps will get your kitchen out into the light, including what to look for when hiring the pros, what specialized features you might enjoy, and which smokers and grillers might suit you best. Having a second kitchen that you only use during part of the year may seem superfluous, but it’s more than just a convenience at barbecues. Why pit your oven against your air-conditioning all summer? Outdoor kitchens keep the heat from summer cooking out of your house, bringing down your energy bills. If you’re a fan of foods with strong and lingering odors, having an outdoor kitchen also keeps you from having to relive your dinner the following morning. Between the energy savings, the convenience, and the fact that it will add to your home’s curb appeal and resale value, what have you got to lose? First things first: Where is this kitchen going to be? It doesn’t have to be a particularly large space. If you have a large lot with some extra space on the side of the house or garage, you can build there. You can also use an existing patio or deck and customize the space into an outdoor kitchen. Select your location to maximize both the view and your privacy. Consider the usual wind direction, so grill smoke blows away from the living space. If possible, choose (or create) a shady location—a pergola, patio cover, sun shades, umbrellas, or trees are all great shade options. Once you’ve decided on the location, what elements will you include? Outdoor kitchens can range from simple to extravagant, depending on available space, desired functionality, and budget constraints. Essential components of an outdoor kitchen include an accessible cooking set-up, comfortable seating, and atmosphere, but you can include so much more! Consider how you will use the kitchen and plan accordingly. Establishing a budget will help you distinguish between wants and needs during the planning process. Don’t forget that there are some things you can’t get by without, like electricity, water supply, and ventilation. You’ll need a building permit and inspection from your local municipality. You may also need to check with your homeowners association (if you have one) to make sure that your plans are in compliance with any building restrictions for your neighborhood. Eliminate the guesswork and gain peace of mind by hiring a reputable contractor to plan the project and build it. Your pro will know what’s possible within your space and within your budget. Contractors also have working relationships with landscapers, designers, electricians, plumbers, and any other professionals you might need to hire. Ask friends and neighbors who have outdoor kitchens for referrals, and have some questions prepared for each contractor you consider. How long has the company been in 20

May 2022

business? How much experience does the contractor have with your type of project? Make sure the contractor is well established in constructing outdoor kitchens. Ask to visit past projects and speak with past clients about their experiences. How long will the process take? Ensure that the contractor and all sub-contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured. These types of questions will help you choose the right outdoor kitchen contractor. A design consultation brings together all the moving pieces, from desired style and color schemes to installing features and appliances. Before you sign a contract, visit a showroom. Ask for photos and testimonials from happy customers. The best designers will tailor to your tastes, cooking habits, and favorite ways to entertain. They will transform your dreams into your own vision, with a dose of reality. Don’t just go for the cheapest kitchen you can buy! Pay for a kitchen that will still function and maintain its beauty years from now. Since an outdoor kitchen is more exposed to the elements than an indoor kitchen, the materials selection process is a little different. For the framing of your fixtures, the most common materials are metal, wood, and concrete, which all have their pros and cons. Metal is sturdy but vulnerable to moisture and rust. For a longer-lasting build, you’ll definitely want to invest in corrosion-resistant metal frames. Wood is the most cost-effective option, but it will degrade the fastest and runs the risk of being destroyed by termites or fire. Concrete will hold up against the elements, but it is the most expensive to buy and install. If do you choose metal or wood framing, you’ll also need to install cladding around your fixtures. Stucco, tile, stone, and brick are popular options that are resistant to all kinds of weather. Last, but not least, common outdoor countertops options include tile, blue stone/limestone, concrete, granite, soapstone, quartz, and stainless steel. The centerpiece of the outdoor kitchen is the grill. Top-rated grills these days come in a lot of options. Some of the most popular and expert-recommended options currently on the market are liquid petroleum gas grills, wood pellet smokers, kamado-style charcoal grills, natural gas/propane, and, of course, the tried-and-true charcoal kettle grill. Each type of grill has its pros and cons. Charcoal is best for giving meats a smoky flavor, but it takes time to heat up. Liquid propane/gas grills are quick to heat and easy to adjust but lack that classic grilled flavor. Wood pellets have the smoky flavor like charcoal with ease of use like gas, but they

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require electricity to run. When you’re choosing your grill, We’re all thinking of warm summer nights right now, but consider what you’re most likely to cook, how often you plan an alluring outdoor room can be just where you’ll want to to use the outdoor kitchen, and how much time and attention gather around a fire pit on cool nights this fall, when a glass you want to spend on the food while you’re cooking. of wine or a cup of cocoa fits the mood. Don’t forget about All outdoor kitchens start with a grill setup, but to make it roasting marshmallows! Outdoor fireplaces build a cozy ata real kitchen, you’ll want to add a sink, cabinets or storage, mosphere for gathering guests or to bask solo under the stars. and extra lighting and electrical For more atmosphere (and fresh outlets at the very least. You might herbs for cooking!), scatter natural appreciate an outdoor refrigerator so pots and planters throughout your We’re all thinking of warm summer you don’t have to drag food out from kitchen space. nights right now, but an alluring indoors all evening. Other features Don’t forget the lighting! Solar you can add to the space include amlights offer the highest energy outdoor room can be just where you’ll ple countertops, a wet bar (with beer efficiency, but LED bulbs aren’t want to gather around a fire pit on taps!), a chest freezer, a dishwashfar behind. Upgrade your space by er, warming drawers, a pizza oven, adding LED lights to a waterwall. cool nights this fall, when a glass of a meat smoker, and a hood above Water slowly cascades down the wine or a cup of cocoa fits the mood. the grill. The list doesn’t even end face of a masonry wall, adding there! If you want to entertain your elegance to ramp up the night’s alguests while you cook, you can add lure. Ask your landscaper to install a mounted TV and a sound system or an outdoor fireplace for a filter to keep the water clean and prevent the masonry wall ambience. The sky really is the limit. from gathering mineral buildup. While the core focus of your outdoor kitchen is where you Grilling season is almost upon us! An outdoor kitchen cook, you’ll also need seating. Look for a table big enough to provides a place to relax with family and friends, all while enaccommodate your guests, along with comfortable chairs. If joying a great meal. Plan your outdoor kitchen and get ready you have younger kids (or plan to invite them over), consider to heap up the food, wine, and camaraderie for unforgettable a pint-sized seating area just for them. Outdoor café vibes dinner parties and social events! are all the rage in 2022, and this emerging trend is something Sources for this article included: goodhousekeeping.com, hgtv. your designer can help you create. com, landscapingnetwork.com, and homeadvisor.com.

Join Mary Helen Stefaniak for a reading & book signing to celebrate her new novel

THE WORLD OF PONDSIDE

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“[An] Agatha Christie–esque cyber caper.” —Booklist

Wednesday, May 18th

Saturday, May 7th

at 1:00 p.m. at THE BOOKWORM Hosted by Suzanne Kehm 90th and Center St., Omaha

at 6:30 p.m. at Dundee Book Company With musical guest Steve Lovett 4915 Underwood Ave., Omaha

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May 2022

4/5/2221 11:10 AM

The Market Place

Dunning Acupuncture and Massage Choose your practitioner wisely. Best of Omaha Winner! Lymphatic and Myofascial Massage available.

Peterson Inspections & Home Repair Get Help Caring for Your Property! Do you have a growing list of home repairs and renovations that need to get done? To stay ahead of home maintenance projects, get assistance from a local handyman. Turn to Peterson Inspections & Home Repair when you need home repairs in Omaha, Lincoln, or Fremont, NE. We’re equipped to take on a wide range of repair services. Instead of reaching out to multiple contractors, get efficient customer service from our company. Call us today at 402-720-9010 to get professional assistance.

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Dunning Acupuncture and Massage We strive to provide individualized, whole-person treatments in a comfortable, professional setting. Classic Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) diagnosis and treatment gives the best treatment available for each person. This month, we are featuring the Covid Kit, which includes the high-quality Chinese herbal formula “Jade Wind Screen.” This formula has been used for centuries to strengthen the protective capacity of the immune system against cold and flu. Also included is the “Cold Killer” formula, which is used for the early onset (days 1-3) of cold/flu symptoms. Detailed instructions included. Kit cost is $100. Call today: 402-650-7715.

Joel E. Dunning, M.Ac., L.Ac., Dipl.Herb. Master Degree of Acupuncture and Teresa Dunning Licensed Massage Therapist

Call today 402-650-7715

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Specializing in Home

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VENUS VEIN CLINIC Vein disease isn’t about appearance as much as it is about your health. Do you suffer from leg pain, swelling, restlessness, and skin discoloration? These are very common symptoms of vein disease. Left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. At VENUS, you may be surprised at how easily and comfortably you can improve your daily life. There is no downtime to recover, there’s no sedation or heavy medicines needed, and treatments are covered by medical insurance. You can go right back to work or exercise, and you will feel better and look better, too. VENUS Vein Clinic—Your Go-To Vein Clinic. Don’t wait a day longer, call today at 402-979-VEIN (8346) or visit VenusVeinClinic.com.

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Unity Chiropractic At Unity Chiropractic, we focus specifically on the upper neck of the spine by using the chiropractic technique NUCCA. The technique is very precise; Dr. Danielle takes detailed x-rays to determine the specific adjusting angle for your misalignment as well as follow-up x-rays to ensure optimal correction was achieved. Using a spinal adjustment that feels like having your pulse taken, the NUCCA procedure rebalances posture quickly and effectively. Posture is vital to your health, and we’re committed to helping make your body a better place to live!

Chronic Pain?

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Specializing in Back Pain, Migraines, Allergies, and Asthma!

Stark Media Films Everybody has a story just waiting to be told. What’s your story? Stark Media was born out of a six-year stint as IT/desktop support for a large credit card processing company. I then stumbled onto an opportunity to make “videos” for that same company. I said yes. My role was to produce in-house corporate marketing videos. Having no real experience as a videographer, I had to adopt the “fake it ‘til you make it” mentality...and it worked. Fast forward three years. The excitement was missing, I was yearning for more meaningful projects. I became complacent and uninspired. Although it did put food on the table, I yearned to produce something with more impact and meaning. Then along came another opportunity to help produce a short film about Alzheimers. That changed the game for me. This is what I was reaching for. Real stories, real people who inspire and provoke viewers. It was the most challenging endeavor I had done at the time. Understanding how to tell a strong story in the least amount of time, and how to engage the viewer for the duration of the piece, is not easy. Our purpose is to make something powerful, moving, and memorable. Recently, we produced a “Memory” video for a retired couple. Their story was captivating and powerful.

“I have turned my passion into my profession and that is helping people live longer lives without pain and suffering.” NUCCA is a gentle, specific correction in the upper neck that takes the pressure off of the brainstem so that it and the entire nervous system can function properly.

Schedule your complimentary exam today. 402-577-0124 1315 N 205TH ST. #2 • Elkhorn (inside Restore Chiropractic)

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Creating Video Life Stories

EVERY STORY MATTERS. We treat our relationships with our customers as partnerships more than anything since the greatest value is created through their collective input. Without their success, we are without success.

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR EXAMPLES OF OUR VIDEOS.

WHY CHOOSE US? CREATIVITY We are bursting with creativity! We will work with you to ensure that your story is beautifully told in a way that suits your objective. EXPERTISE Our team is constantly exploring and learning about the most compelling and impactful ways of producing and sharing video content. VALUE FOR MONEY From online training videos to large-scale documentaries, we will ensure your films fit your budget. FLEXIBILITY Last minute shoot? Our processes accommodate for all eventualities to ensure a smooth experience. SERVICE Our producers and videographers will guide you through the filmmaking process and work tirelessly to make it easy for you from start to end.

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Jon Stark, owner May 2022

3/9/21 11:2023 AM

Inside Look

Debra Joy Groesser

Inspired Paintings, Inspired Artist

By Kate Beiting

Nestled among historic buildings in downtown Ralston is the Debra Joy Groesser Fine Art Gallery. Come on in! The gallery houses the collection of local artist Debra Joy Groesser, who specializes in landscapes, seascapes, and portraits. The intimate gallery packs a lot of punch for the visitor. In addition to Debra’s paintings, you’ll find note cards, calendars, and children’s books that Debra has illustrated, as well as examples of one-of-a-kind Debra Joy Groesser, woodwork created by her husband, Don. “When we got Monet stood, looking at the lily pond, I knew Owner/Artist married, he told me that he dabbled,” Debra recalls. “I had no I was where I needed to be artistically. Paintidea how talented he was!” Don’s work consists of handmade ing outdoors connects me and feeds my soul.” wood pieces like cutting boards, cheese boards, dishes, vases, Debra was diagnosed with breast cancer in December; and rolling pins. she had discovered a small lump just weeks after her annual Debra’s first public art display was when she was 3 years mammogram. “I felt fine and thought the mammogram would old. She was a fan of the TV show Romper Room, and one of spot any issues,” she says. “I want my story to be told to maythe segments showcased children’s art. Debra’s mother sent be help another woman.” She is optimistic now, while awaitin one of Debra’s drawings, and it was selected for the show— ing radiation therapy. “My prognosis is excellent, and I have one of her early masterpieces, right there on the TV screen. connected with amazing women all over who are fighting this Debra was in fifth grade when her family moved to Omadisease.” The diagnosis has pulled in many emotions, she conha. She was already consumed tinues, and it has brought her both inspiration with drawing, art, and illusand perspective. “I am so lucky and blessed, trating. “Even as a young girl, I and it has started to inspire me in many ways. I paid attention to the accuracy want to encourage others.” I wanted people to of whatever I was drawing,” This is not the first time that Debra has she says. “I would see where been artistically inspired by difficult circumfeel what I saw. That shading was important, or stances. She relied on her deep faith during her various colors. I tried to mimic father’s cancer struggle years ago. The result expression was important. the light on whatever I was was one of her best-known pieces, a seascape painting. I wanted people to entitled Faith, Strength, Perseverance. The feel what I saw. That exprespainting captures ocean waves relentlessly hitsion was important.” She ting the cliffs and shore. “As horrible as those received her first set of acrylic paints when she was 12 and experiences were, I walked through it and was inspired,” she advanced to oils at age 14. “That medium spoke to me and I says. “Now, I am visiting those emotions again. Just like those was hooked!” Her artist’s eye and talent is on display at her cliffs, I am still standing.” gallery—glimpses into everyday life interpreted by an artist During the pandemic, Debra created several online drawwho has spent a lifetime honing her craft. ing lessons for her grandchildren, and people started asking As a student of Impressionist art, Debra is especially fond her to make them public. “People were looking for things to of the plein air style of painting, which is the Impressionist do,” she points out. You can find them at debrajoygroesserfintechnique of painting outside, capturing the look and feel of eart.com. outdoor daylight. “My husband encouraged me to follow my You can see Debra’s work at several locations around dream,” Debra shares, by sending her to a workshop in OreOmaha, including a portrait of Dick and Mary Holland at the gon in the 1990s. “I found a mentor in the workshop teacher Holland Center downtown and paintings at Methodist Womand began to really see what I could do,” Debra says. “I jouren’s Hospital, Midlands Hospital Mammogram Center, and neyed up the Oregon coast and began honing this technique. a mural at the Jaipur Dundee. Art is also displayed at a local I had found my calling!” favorite Ralston eatery owned by her son Brad. At the Debra is President and CEO of the American ImpressionSojourn Café in Ralston, you get great food and a brief tour ist Society (AIS), a national nonprofit art organization whose of Debra’s work. purpose is to promote Impressionism and continue to teach Debra Joy Groesser Fine Art Gallery is located at 5615 and exhibit artists’ works. Debra had the opportunity to visit South 77th Street, in downtown Ralston. Call 402-592-6552 or Monet’s garden in Giverny several years ago. “Standing where visit the gallery website at debrajoygroesserfineart.com.

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Summer is coming. This means beaches, backyards, and bare skin. Many of us have been living in sweatpants for months because we’re working from home, trying to stay warm during a frigid winter, or both. It’s time to ditch the sweats and don the shorts, but before we do, we want our skin ready for exposure. Eliminating unwanted hair can help us achieve that goal. Electrolysis, laser treatments, and waxing are proven hair removal methods. Electrolysis is not a new concept, having been around since the late 1800s. It’s the only FDA-approved method of permanent hair removal. It’s commonly used on the face, bikini line, underarms, chin and upper lip area, eyebrows, and—of course—the legs. However, it’s not just for ladies. Men often choose electrolysis to treat the back, underarm, and groin areas. Electrolysis works by destroying the growth center of the hair with either chemical or heat energy. It involves inserting a fine needle into the hair follicle. This needle delivers a small amount of electric current or heat into the follicle, destroying the root and preventing regrowth. It’s effective on all skin tones. Destroyed hair follicles will not grow hair again. Discomfort is minimal—most people experience a hot or pinching sensation. The level of discomfort generally depends on the area being treated. For example, the bikini area is likely to be more sensitive than the calf or thighs. The skin may be slightly red or irritated for several hours following

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One of the biggest lifestyle changes to emerge from the pandemic has been the growing desire for our own outdoor space. When the pandemic required everyone to shelter in place, our patios and backyards became the go-to places to gather with family, entertain friends, cook, dine, even work and exercise. What began as a temporary measure has led people to rethink the way they live. The American Institute of Architects’ recent Home Design Trends Survey showed a sharp uptick in demand for outdoor living spaces. The backyard lifestyle is here to stay, and homeowners everywhere are investing in upgrades. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a tiny balcony, there are endless ways to take your outdoor space from basic to extraordinary! The reimagined outdoor lifestyle is all about blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Make the outdoors feel like an extension of your indoor living space by harmonizing with your interior style. Coordinating the flooring materials, furnishing style, and color palette creates a seamless flow between the two spaces. When materials and style flow together, your patio or courtyard becomes your outdoor living room. When selecting outdoor furniture, it’s important to consider style, but don’t forget about the frame material, as it largely determines how long the furniture will last. Naturally beautiful wood furniture lends a comfortable feeling to any outdoor space, though it does require maintenance every couple of years to maintain the color and protect the finish. Stainless steel offers a modern look and is resistant to rust and oxidization. Classic wrought iron weighs in as the heaviest of all frames,

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Ahh-Choo, Springtime!

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The birds are chirping, the fruit trees are blooming, and the grass is growing. It is spring, and that’s the perfect time for one of two things: outdoor fun or the misery of seasonal allergies. Thousands of people across the Midwest dread the beginning of allergy season. Springtime can bring itchy eyes, runny noses, breathing trouble, and even asthma triggers. That’s what makes May a great time for National Allergy and Asthma Awareness month. Having allergies is not the same as having asthma, though many people have both conditions. Either one can start at any age. A family history of allergies or asthma increases the chance that a child will develop allergies or asthma, so parents should watch for symptoms early. An allergy is when the immune system overreacts to a foreign substance. Common triggers for the allergic rhinitis that spikes in the spring are flowering trees, grass pollen, and mold spores. In the United States, allergies affect more than 5 million children and close to 20 million adults. Common symptoms include a combination of coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, or a scratchy throat. In severe cases, allergic reactions can lead to asthma symptoms or even death. Testing for allergies involves a review of symptoms and family history, as well as a physical examination of the ears, nose, throat, chest, and skin. Skin testing and blood work can also help identify

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In the past eight years of writing articles about Sunridge Village Retirement Community, I’ve had the opportunity to interview a variety of residents, including couples and singles, men and women, and even some of the residents’ families. A review of all their comments has led me to the conclusion that the heart of Sunridge Village is the staff! Sunridge Village, opened in 1998, it is a family-owned and -operated retirement community nestled in a west Omaha neighborhood. One of the major assets of Sunridge is the continuity of its staff, which has a combined total of nearly 100 years of service. This includes Michale Kavan (Marketing Director), Gene McKenna (Chef), Tricia Metz (Life Enrichment Coordinator), and Debbie McMahon (Office), who each have over 17 years of service, and many other staff members. For this interview, owner Richard Anzalone, Michale, Gene, and Patrick visit about why you should consider Sunridge Village Community as your next move. Richard Anzalone and his wife, Heidi, are truly at the heart of Sunridge Village. Richard first learned about senior housing from his grandmother, Emelie Jonusas. In 1968, she opened the Omaha Nursing Home. In 1988, she opened Southview Heights

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Independent and Assisted Living, and, L-R: Michale Kavan, Patrick Buckley, Richard and in 1998, she Heidi Anzalone, Gene McKenna, Tricia Metz opened Sunridge Village Independent Living Retirement Community with Richard. Richard learned the value of developing relationships with local vendors, many of which are also family-owned businesses. Those established relationships have really helped out when there has been an urgent need when Richard was out of town. “They know the Sunridge staff and are quick to respond,” Patrick comments. Richard is a hands-on business owner. According to residents interviewed in the past, he is on site almost every day and

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comes to their special events. “My grandmother considered family important,” Richard says. “Our residents are like family. We now have second generations from former residents that live here. That means a lot!” Gene has spent most of his life in food service and is well aware of what makes a restaurant successful. When cooking and baking, he uses only fresh ingredients. Perishables are rotated so there’s little or no waste. Gene thinks of the Sunridge dining room as “my little restaurant” when making up his menus. Each day, he prepares for a home-style dinner. “Every apartment also has a full kitchen,” he explains. “If the residents have special diets or a food allergy, they have the option of preparing their own meal.” Sunridge Village offers a flexible dining option for those residents. Lunch is an optional program. Sunridge Village has weekly lunch outings to different restaurants in the greater Omaha area. Weekend meals are served “family style” and usually include roast beef, baked ham, fried chicken, and many other resident favorites as the main entrée. Pastries or light snacks are often prepared for group gatherings such as socials and special events. The wait staff is made up of high school students. Gene works with the kids, encouraging them to communicate with the residents. He expects his wait staff to be “competent, attentive, and ready to serve.” Gene is passionate about what he does, and he believes that the simple things count. Patrick worked at Sunridge Village for about a year when it first opened. “I started here as a security guard at night when I was 23,” he recalls. As he got his career started, he wanted to try different employment opportunities, so he left Sunridge Village

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and worked for several years with different corporate-owned establishments. At those workplaces, he says, “I experienced an attitude of ‘That’s not my job!’ That didn’t suit me or my personality.” When he applied at Sunridge Village about a year ago, Richard remembered him and welcomed him back to the family. “The attitude here,” Patrick says, “is ‘How can I help?’ I think that’s important. I’m glad I came back!” The Ambassador Program allows residents to customize handyman services as needed, including such tasks as hanging curtain rods and artwork, installing ceiling fans, and much more, in addition to changing light bulbs and furnace filters. Patrick works diligently to keep the building and apartments in tip-top shape. Tricia Metz is the Life Enrichment Coordinator. Her job is to organize daily events such as exercise, socials, and outings. She schedules a variety of games, including bridge, poker, Mahjong, Pokeno, and many other board games that are of interest to the residents. Group outings as well as large-scale parties and celebrations on site are also under her direction. She stages local entertainment groups, outdoor gatherings, anniversary and birthday parties, and a variety of other activities and celebrations that are also open to families. Tricia is also a tremendous help to residents with online shopping. It’s obvious why residents praise the Sunridge Village staff. They can all feel the importance of being part of the Sunridge Village family! Sunridge Village Retirement Community is located at 13410 Blondo Street, in Omaha. To learn more, call 402-496-0116 or visit Sunridge Village online at sunridgeomaha.com.

May 2022

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Brighten YOUR Month

May 1 �� National Mother Goose Day May 1 �� National Scrapbooking Day May 2 �� National Lemonade Day May 3 �� National Raspberry Popover Day May 4 �� National Orange Juice Day May 5 �� National Astronaut Day May 8 �� Mother’s Day May 13 ��National Frog Jumping Day May 14 �� National Dance Like A Chicken Day May 16 ��National Barbecue Day May 18 ��National Visit Your Relatives Day May 22 ��National Buy A Musical Instrument Day May 23 �� National Lucky Penny Day May 25 �� National Tap Dance Day May 26 �� National Paper Airplane Day May 29 �� National Paper Clip Day May 30 �� National Creativity Day

May!

Healthy Living

Dunning Acupuncture and Massage Treat Your Body to Healthy Living

By Marge Shoemaker

You might not guess it from their name, but Dunning Acupuncture and Massage offers more than acupuncture treatments and therapeutic massages. They also have an herbal pharmacy and provide consultations in herbalism. Herbal pharmaceuticals are powdered herbs that are specially mixed in accordance with your individual diagnosis. Joel Dunning is a Classic Chinese Medicine practitioner. needs of each client Classic Chinese Medicine (CCM) differs from Traditional as per his diagnosis Chinese Medicine (TCM). CCM is concerned with the use of of their symptoms. A herbs as prescribed by a trained herbalist. In ancient times, formula may contain Joel Dunning, L.Ac., Dipl. Herb, knowledge of this art was passed from Master to Apprenseveral herbs, each Master Degree of Acupuncture tice. This linear transfer of knowledge was generally mainchosen for their specific use and how tained within a family and was specialized according to the they react or relate to the other herbs used. The prepared family’s needs. Joel follows the Tian Family Style of Herbal formula is given to the client in powdered form, complete Medicine (also known as the Sichuan from SZ Province) with a scoop and directions for how many scoops to mix and has received national licensure as a Diplomate with very hot water before drinking. of Herbalism. After a specified amount of time, the client comes in for Herbal pharmaceuticals differ from the herbal supa follow-up appointment so Joel can evaluate the evoluplements you might purchase over the counter, though tion of the patient’s vitality and specific symptom progress. both are plant-based. Herbal “That evaluation is the easiest way supplements come in varito determine if I need to increase or ous forms (dried, powdered, decrease the dosage or make changJoel advises his clients to discuss capsule, or liquid) and can be es within the formula,” Joel says. “I used in various ways. Herbal get to see what works, taking into changes and differences in their pharmaceuticals are powdered, consideration the whole health sysdried herbs that are mixed tem and all the organ systems of the health care plans with or individually prepared and body.” These re-evaluations are part their medical doctors as well packaged according to the of the Classic Chinese Medicine sysdiagnosed needs of an inditem of trial and error. Some herbal as their herbalists. vidual client. Generally, they combinations help each other more are mixed with boiling water than others. Herbs make an imprint and drunk in prescribed doses on the system. They help by giving designed to maintain health. the body guidance, supporting natural function, on how it We’re all familiar with herbs used for cooking, and we can best carry out physiological and metabolic processes. know that they must be used according to the desired taste Herbal pharmaceuticals generally don’t have side effects of the dish we are preparing. Garlic, for example, normally on their own, though it is best not to self-prescribe with a wouldn’t be used in a sugar-sweetened pastry. On the other complex medical condition. Health care is a complex field, hand, garlic is often combined with sugar to counteract the and all practitioners need years of training before they can tartness in something like a tomato-based pasta sauce. In practice safely. Joel advises his clients to discuss changes cooking, each herb has special usages. and differences in their health care plans with their medical Similarly, pharmaceutical herbs have specialized uses. doctors as well as their herbalists. “Be sure to see a qualified For example, a local health food vendor tells me that garlic practitioner,” he says. “Don’t play games with your health is often thought of as beneficial for cardiovascular concare or take it lightly.” ditions, while ginkgo biloba may be used to boost memIf you are interested in an herbal consultation, give ory. “My studies in CCM have prepared me to recognize Joel a call at 402-650-7715. Joel also provides acupuncture symptoms in my clients that relate to certain diseases or treatments on-site. His wife, Teresa Dunning, is a licensed imbalances,” Joel explains. “Each organ in the body governs massage therapist and provides the massage treatments. a specific process in our metabolic system. I prescribe herbs Dunning Acupuncture and Massage is located at 1020 according to the pattern of symptoms presented.” South 78th Street (the northwest corner of 78th and Pacific), When making preparations from his herbal pharmacy, in Omaha. For additional information, visit them online at Joel devises an herbal formula specialized for the individual pinpointmedicine.com. May 2022

Focus on Finance

Wall Street West Finance on Farnam

By George Morgan

Fifty years ago, less than 3 percent of the American public owned stocks. Today, that number is over 60 percent. Fifty years ago, individual investors had to have a relationship with a Wall Street broker and pay high commissions in order to purchase stocks. Today, over 70 million Americans manage their own investment portfolios for free, without a licensed broker. What facilitated these dramatic changes? The first factor missions significantly lower than anything Wall Street brokers was a change in the tax code that allowed workers to save would consider. a portion of their wages to build a nest egg to enjoy in their Ricketts’ company began in a back room across Farnam golden years. The second was the insight and perseverance Street from Buffett’s father’s office. His initial effort required of two men who taught Main Street how to invest and who investors to speak with a registered broker to place a trade. built the technology to make it possible. Those two men are Business was brisker than he expected, and they soon ran out Warren Buffett and Joe Ricketts, and they both built their of available brokers and desk space alike. They then moved to companies on Farnam Street, in Omaha. a larger space one block west, on 18th and Farnam. Buffett began his financial career in 1956, as a stockbroker Ricketts’ original business model had licensed brokers at his father’s firm in the Omaha National Bank building at respond to customer phone orders. The brokers then called 17th and Farnam. A year later, he started his own investment the New York Stock Exchange to complete each transaction. partnership in his home at 3555 Farnam. The partnership It soon became evident that this method was too labor-intenflourished and grew to the point where it was required to sive to handle the kind of volume he had in mind. His biggest register as a publicly traded company. This also caused him to obstacle was the regulators and their penchant for protecting outgrow his home office, and he moved to a rented space just the legacy Wall Street firms. down the block, in the Kiewit Plaza at 36th and Farnam. Last Despite its challenges, the business model was catching year, he signed a 100-year lease on the same space. on because the barriers to entry were quite low. Soon, many Buffett was enamored with the investment process. He more firms, most notably on the west coast, joined the diswas driven to share his knowledge with the public and began count fray. So, Ricketts took it one step further and developed teaching a non-credit class at Omaha University. The univertechnology that eliminated the human contact. His new sity was situated several blocks from his home—at that time, system allowed investors to go directly to the exchanges and Farnam Street ran through the center of campus. With the place trades on a touch-tone phone. This was a game-changtransformation to a publicly er, and a whole new industry was born. traded company came the Like Buffett’s business, Ricketts’ business requirement to hold an anBuffett was enamored with the grew to the point that it had to become a pubnual meeting to update the licly traded company. In 2013, he renamed the company’s shareholders. investment process. He was driven company TD Ameritrade and built a corporate This gave Buffett a captive headquarters befitting its size and stature at audience when he wanted to share his knowledge with the the western edge of Farnam Street. to expound upon the finer Literally, Wall Street is a few miles of public and began teaching a nonpoints of the stock market asphalt in lower Manhattan. The term “Wall and national economy. credit class at Omaha University. Street” is a metaphor for the financial services In his 2021 letter to industry that many associate with the powerful Berkshire shareholders, world of high finance. Farnam Street is a few Buffett wrote, “I taught my miles of asphalt in Omaha. It should come to stand for the first investing class 70 years ago. Since then, I have enjoyed financial services industry that Main Street investors can call working almost every year with students of all ages. Teaching, their own world of finance. like writing, helps me clarify my own thoughts.” The career of Joe Ricketts has many parallels to Buffett’s. Editor’s Note: George Morgan has five decades’ experience in all phases of the After graduating from Creighton University, Ricketts became investment process. He is currently the Founder and Principal of Morgan Investor a stockbroker with Paine Weber. Shortly after he earned his Education. His website is morganinvestoreducation.com. license, the SEC passed a regulation that eliminated fixed commissions. Ricketts immediately recognized that making The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are a comfortable living selling stocks had just gotten infinitely not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determore difficult, but that didn’t diminish his fascination with mine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor the stock market. He and a fellow broker started a company that would allow individual investors to buy stock with comprior to investing. 42

May 2022

Enterprising Ideas

Elder Law of Omaha Not Just for the Elderly

By Vicki Jo Walsh

It’s true that the caring professionals at Elder Law of Omaha focus on the legal issues that are most likely to affect people older than 50 years—issues like asset preservation, estate planning, end of life planning, and powers of attorney in the case of mental health issues or memory care. However, they would like us to know that their services are not reserved for the elderly. We can consult them for these types of issues at any age! One issue that can affect people of all ages is physical disability. Meet Tom, a client whose wife had a debilitating stroke and required long-term, full-time care. As their expenses accumulated, bankruptcy looked imminent. Tom had heard about Elder Law of Omaha and decided to take them up on their offer of a free 30-minute consultation. During their conference, public benefits specialist Susan Weeks listened to his issues and explained how their team could help. She explained what they would do and how much it would cost. He talked it over with his wife, and they decided to engage the services of the Elder Law of Omaha team—a decision they have never regretted. The pros at Elder Law of Omaha are caring and kind, Tom says, and they saved him from financial ruin. Susan’s guidance was extremely helpful, he continues, as was her help with all the tedious paperwork. Tom recommends the Elder Law team “hands down. It was so great to always speak to a friendly voice and not to telephone prompts.” They did what they said they would do and always treated his wife like a queen. Another client, “Linda,” was working full time while caring for her husband. As his congestive heart disease became critical, Linda was unable to continue caring for him at home. She sought help from Elder Law of Omaha. Since the staff at Elder Law group works so closely with local care centers, they were able to advise Linda of her options and the type of facility best suited for her husband’s needs. The Elder Law team walked her through each step so that she could afford care for him and still keep her home, even as the pandemic made his continuing care more complicated. Linda is very grateful for the Elder Law team’s advice and concerns. “Just knowing that the team was there to walk me through the extremely complicated process was an enormous relief,” she says. “It was comforting to know they were there for us. I could keep my attention on my husband!” Elder Law of Omaha is owned by attorney Catherine Swiniarski. She didn’t start her legal career in the area of elder law. She got interested in elder law when she was

L-R Nick Halbur, assisting her grandmother and her grandCatherine N. Swiniarski, mother’s friends with some legal issues. and Samantha D’Angelo She saw a need that she could address, using her legal training to help others. The firm also includes attorneys Samantha D’Angelo and Nick Halbur, as well as public benefits specialists, administrators, and paralegals. In addition to the financial issues that can stem from physical or mental health problems, Elder Law of Omaha also tackles other issues of concern as the population ages. Estate planning can be an emotional process, as the desires of a client and the client’s family members can be at odds. The free 30-minute consultation is an excellent opportunity to address these issues. Proper planning and drafting are essential to make the client’s wishes clear and to prevent lengthy and expensive litigation. Guardians may need to be appointed for minors or people with mental or medical issues that preclude their ability to make legal decisions. Many court proceedings can be avoided with proper planning and document drafting. Some of the legal issues involving the elderly continue to evolve or change. Medicaid eligibility is one of these areas; hospice care is another. The team at Elder Law of Omaha is happy to help with these and any related issues. Some of us may wonder when we should seek out the advice of Elder Law of Omaha. The answer is: before we need help! It is less costly to plan ahead than to try to solve a problem once it is created, and it’s smarter to avoid a mistake than to try to get out from under a mistake later. Without pre-planning, you might end up facing expensive court proceedings, tax issues, or family angst. You can use your free 30-minute consultation to consider guardianship issues, tax and estate issues, disability concerns—any issue that might be looming. To make an appointment with the attorneys at Elder Law of Omaha, call 402-614-6400. Their handicapped-accessible offices are located at 2813 South 88th Street. For more information, visit them online at elderlawomaha.com.

May 2022

The Green Thumb

A Blue Thumb?

The Joys of Hydroponic Gardening

By Linda Sutherland

I’ve been hearing a lot about hydroponic gardening lately, so I decided to look into it. My first question was: What the heck is hydroponic gardening, anyway? Simply put, hydroponic gardening is a method of growing plants without soil. As we all know, plants need water, light, and nutrients to grow. Most plants traditionally obtain nutrients from the soil. In hydroponic gardening, a mineral-rich water solution does the work of providing nutrients to the plants. Indoors, the light can be provided by LED grow lights. Of course, a hydroponic garden self-waters. Hydroponically grown vegetables can be just as nutritious as those grown in soil. You can grow just about anything, from fresh herbs to vegetables to fruit, in basically any room in your house. The fertilizers used in hydroponics are much purer even than those used in organic growing, and they leave no residue in cultivated produce. All this sounds nice, I thought, but it also sounds like a lot of work. Why would I want to try hydroponic gardening when I’m already successfully gardening in the soil? First of all, hydroponics save water, and I think we are all on board with water conservation. In agriculture, water is a critical issue. Traditional farming in the United States uses around 80 percent of the surface and groundwater. Hydroponic farming, on the other hand, uses only 10 percent of that water under controlled conditions. The water continually circulates within

this system. Plants absorb the necessary water for their metabolism; surplus water moves to the reservoir or storage tank to be cycled again and again. Consequently, there is no harmful runoff and very little evaporation. People in the know have found that the efficiency of hydroponics may save up to 90 percent of the water used in soil gardening. One of the options that I personally love about this system is that you can grow it vertically, which, of course, reduces the amount of space needed to grow crops. Another wonderful attribute of hydroponics is that you have total control over the growing climate. You have the ability to adjust humidity, temperature, light, and air for different plants’ needs. As an avid soil gardener, I face the challenges of weeds, pests, and disease every single growing season. These challenges are completely eliminated with hydroponics! For me,

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that is—hands down—the best thing about hydroponic gardening. I have spent so many hours fighting those things in a traditional garden, and their absence alone is enough to make me want to try a new method. The amount of work and stress that would be eliminated is outstanding. Researchers also say that plants grow faster and larger with hydroponics, and it is clearly less labor-intensive than traditional gardening. I mean, really, what is there not to like about this process? One caveat to hydroponic home gardening is that the initial set-up can be a bit pricey. A successful system requires light, air, water, nutrients, heat, and space. It will require five to six hours of light per day, access to electricity, and a level area to sit. There are a myriad of hydroponic systems out there for beginners. (The first time you try hydroponic gardening, you should consider yourself a beginner, even if you’ve spent many seasons gardening in the soil.) With that in mind, make sure to start with plants that are easy to grow and sustain. Some examples would include herbs, kale, Swiss chard, spinach, and lettuce. Imagine how much fun it would be to walk over to your system and pick out ingredients for a fresh and healthy salad! I think a hydroponic garden might encourage me to eat more fresh greens. I have always grown herbs and lettuces outside in the soil. If I’m completely honest, there have been times that I did not go out and harvest their bounty because I was too lazy to walk out to the garden (I know, I know). If produce is growing right there in my living room, den, or kitchen, I am pretty certain I would be using more of those wonderful plants in my cooking. Start small, and consider your first stab at hydroponic gardening something of an experiment. There are some excellent systems out there that do not cost an arm and a leg. A small system with everything included is a great way to get started. The Dr. Goodrow Mini Garden gets high marks in this regard, as does Vegebox Indoor Herb Garden. The information is out there. Let’s get growing! Sources for this article included: mygardyn.com, thespruce.com, and wired. com.

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May 2022

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Seasons of Life

Memory Loss

Symptoms and Hope

By Laura Sambol

The early signs were troubling. At age 70, Diana started saving and reusing dental floss. At night, she set her clothes by the window to“air out.”Diana even started stealing—she would sneak out of restaurants with the menu hidden underneath her shirt. She could no longer make recipes she once knew by heart. Perhaps most troubling, Diana could no longer be trusted to care for her husband, who was dying of cancer. These are some of the early signs of dementia—a term that is used to describe a group of symptoms that negatively affect memory. Dementia impairs a patient’s ability to think clearly, making them more forgetful over time. Patients have increasing difficulty completing simple life tasks. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. According to the National Institute on Aging, as many as 6 million people in the United States currently have Alzheimer’s disease. One of the early signs is short-term memory loss. Other symptoms include asking the same questions repeatedly, relying heavily on memory aids such as reminder notes, or forgetting important dates. People with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble following a conversation or finding the right words, which can lead them to withdraw from social activities. They may put things in unusual places or accuse others of stealing the items they can’t find. Their mood and personality may change erratically. They can become easily upset when they are out of their comfort zone. People with what is known as mild cognitive impairment

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may be mildly to severely impaired. This disease can lead to difficulty in memory association and coordination. Genetic predisposition plays a vital role in the development of such cognitive impairments. Another type of memory loss disease is encephalopathy (brain inflammation) that affects brain structure or function. It causes an altered mental state and confusion. Encephalopathy can be life-threatening if untreated. It can cause seizures and fits, along with delirium. Viruses or head trauma are the most common causes of encephalopathy. Neurological imaging and techniques can help identify the root cause of memory loss. Memory disorders are hard to evaluate clinically, but proper identification will benefit both the patient and the physician, as the proper treatment of memory loss disease depends on its cause. To prevent unnecessary suffering, treatments need to be individualized and strictly followed. In the case of most progressive dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease, there is no cure. However, there is a new treatment which shows that removing amyloid plaque (a hallmark

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of Alzheimer’s disease) from the brain is reasonably likely to lessen the cognitive and functional decline in people with early-stage Alzheimer’s. Other treatments can temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life for patients and their caregivers. Medications used to treat Alzheimer’s disease are sometimes prescribed to address the symptoms of other types of dementias. Non-drug therapies can also alleviate some symptoms of dementia. Ultimately, the path to effective new treatments for dementia is through increased research funding and participation in clinical studies. Right now, volunteers are urgently needed for these studies. If you have a loved one with memory loss, you likely have some difficult decisions to make. It is very important to get these patients the type of care they need. People with memory loss often need a level of care greater than what can be provided for them at home or in a traditional assisted living setting. Assisted living and memory care communities are becoming very popular. Aides help with the activities of daily living, like bathing, grooming, and toileting. Memory care communities also have specialists who are trained to help residents who have memory loss. This specialized care is vital for a resident’s safety. In the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease, patients may lose control of body movement. Many need 24-hour care and supervision. They may be unable to communicate, even to let you know they are in pain. They are more vulnerable to infection, especially pneumonia. Several holistic steps can help decrease the chances of developing significant memory loss. Take care of your diet and nutrition. If you suffer from thyroid issues, consult with your doctor about supplements. Get enough sleep, and be sure it’s good sleep! Good sleep patterns revive memory processes. Stay away from opioids, narcotics, and excessive alcohol. Exercise can improve blood flow to the brain. Spending more time with family and friends will improve your mood and help maintain your cognitive processes. Read, play games, and manage personal notebooks to remember important things and dates. Take care of yourself and your aging loved ones! This has been the key to good living for ages. Sources for this article included: human-memory.net, alzheimers.org, and nia. nih.gov.

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Try Again Tomorrow Life Takes Courage

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” —Mary Anne Radmacher

I ran across this quote the other day, and it got me thinking of all the courageous women and men in this world who get up…every day…and try. These unsung heroes try to take care of their family, their friends, their coworkers, their employees, and even complete strangers on the street. They don’t even think about it. They just do it, because in their gut, they know it is the right thing to do to remain an ethical and moral person. “The truth is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.” —Venugopal Acharya

It was my parents, Anne and Big Al, who taught me how to be courageous, to always do the right thing, and to keep doing it, every single day. One memory that is crystal clear in my mind is from when I was ten years old. My dad worked a lot of hours. After all, he was supporting a family of eight. When he came home from work, he was very tired. He’d go to his bedroom, toss his pocket change into a shoebox in his closet, change his

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clothes, and go sit down to dinner. Daddy didn’t really pay attention to how many quarters were in that shoebox…or so I thought. After a few nights of me sneaking into my parents’ bedroom and taking a few quarters, my dad called me into the bedroom. He asked me if I had taken quarters from his box. “No Daddy, I didn’t steal the quarters.” In a very calm voice, and with an incredible amount of patience, he proceeded to explain to me how hard it is to go through life lying. “The problem with lying, Jan, is that you have to remember who you told what lie to. Then you have to tell another lie to cover up that lie. Before you know what happened, you’re spending lots of energy to cover up all those lies. It’s a whole lot easier to simply tell the truth.” At that point, I teared up and confessed. Best lesson Big Al ever gave me! “Never lie to someone who trusts you. Never trust someone who lies to you.” —Deanna Wadsworth

Have we all been lied to in our lifetimes? Of course we have. Have we all lied in our lifetimes, as well? Of course we have. Ever since that conversation with Dad when I was ten years old, I dig down and try to find the courage to be honest and live my life with integrity…every single day.

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Kids Comments

A Mother’s Work

It’s Not Just for Women Anymore

When I think of the month of May, one of the first things that comes to mind is Mother’s Day. Where would we be without mothers? Think of all the things they do: cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, minding the budget…the list is endless, and that’s just if you’re thinking of mothers in the traditional role of staying home and keeping the household running smoothly. I was fortunate enough to be a “stay at home mom” when my children were small. As they got older, I started working part-time in a preschool. When they were all in school, I went back to school myself, renewed my teaching certificate, and worked as a substitute teacher for the same school district the kids were in. It was a privilege to have the same vacation days they did and even better to be able to turn down a subbing job when their schools had special activities during the day. Not all of my friends were that fortunate. Today, many mothers have full-time jobs aside from being mothers. Whether they’re working in an office, carrying their office with them as they travel, or working from home, they still have to balance work and child care. Dads often share the load, especially if their work schedule is flexible. Some women are single mothers and get it all done without a partner.

By Marge Shoemaker

These days, men often perform many of the tasks of the traditional mother. Remember the movie “Mr. Mom” from 1983? In the movie, the father loses his job, so his wife goes to work while he stays home. That’s not so unusual in today’s world! There are many kinds of families. Some families only have a single parent. Grandparents sometimes become the legal guardians of their minor grandchildren. In some cases, divorce separates the parents. Even with joint custody, time is spent as a single parent. In most cases, other family members and friends are able to step in when help is needed. If finances allow, nannies or other childcare specialists might be hired. Same-gender couples face the same problems as other couples when it comes to parental responsibilities. Those with whom I’m acquainted tend to split responsibility according to individual talents and work demands. Jobs within the family aren’t labelled by gender—no more “Mom jobs” or “Dad jobs.” This month, I salute all parents whose job it is to raise caring, confident, loving children. As always, the “child-caring parent” will wear many hats: doctor, teacher, cook, chauffeur, psychologist, and disciplinarian. We will continue to show our children that there are no boundaries on what they can do except the ones they raise for themselves…some things take more work than others. Happy Mother’s Day to everyone doing a mother’s work!

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Auto Wise

Recreational Vehicles Road-Tripping in Style

By Linda Sutherland

Yes, warm weather is finally here, and it brings along with it the desire to hit the road! If your family prefers a flexible itinerary, making unplanned stops and relaxing at the mercy of no one’s schedule but your own, this might be the year to try an RV. A recreational vehicle is defined as a motorized (drivable) tickets. or non-motorized (towable) vehicle that includes living quarYou don’t ters. You might be surprised to know that the first recreational even have vehicle dates back to 1915. (If you think about it, though, to eat weren’t the covered wagons of the pioneers really the first restaurant RVs?) RVs run the gamut from motorhomes, camper vans, meals— coaches, trailers, fifth wheel trailers, pop-up campers, and you can shop at the grocery store and enjoy meals in your own truck campers. They are commonly used for traveling, campkitchen! You have room for everything you need instead of ing, and other recreational activities, and they are separated trying to cram your belongings into a suitcase. You’ll suffer no into two main categories: motorcoaches and towable rigs. airport delays, which gives you control of your own journey. There are different classes of RVs for travelers with differYou can drive where you please and stop to explore whenever ent needs. Class As are the the mood strikes. You can see the counbig RVs—literally houses on tryside instead of flying over it. You have wheels. They have amazing total freedom to explore, and you are not amenities now, like home tied to the schedule of an airline and hotel You have total freedom to theater systems, central check-in time. vacuum systems, air condiRV parks are all over in the country. explore, and you are not tied tioners and furnaces, cable There are over 1,600 state parks in the satellite TV receivers, and United States that cater to RVs, plus to the schedule of an airline top-notch speaker systems. more than 13,000 privately owned RV They are wonderful because parks. Campgrounds are starting to offer and hotel check-in time. of their spacious interiors activities for campers to enjoy together, and comfortable sleeping like movie nights under the stars, stargazarrangements. They can ing tours, live music, fantastic swimming even tow another vehicle! pools, pancake breakfasts, yoga classes, Of course, they are more expensive to purchase and maintain ziplines, craft brewing, hayrides, and even food trucks. than smaller RVs. Like other vehicles, RVs can be rented or purchased. If Class B RVs often go by the moniker of sleeper van or recreational vehicles are new to you and your family, consider camper van. Naturally, they are not as spacious as Class A renting one for a week or two before you make a big investRVs, but they are easier to park and drive, and they use less ment. If you already know that you love this kind of vacation fuel. They still come with a kitchen, toilet, bed, and storage— travel, it might be time to purchase an RV of your own. all the basics for a traveling hotel suite. An estimated one million Americans have opted to retire Lastly, there are the Class C RVs. This type of camper is in an RV and spend part of the year on the road, but it’s not built onto a regular truck chassis and is much easier to drive. just seniors who are opting for this way of life! Younger couAs you might suspect, they are not as fancy and do not have ples and even families with kids are deciding to live life on the as many amenities as the larger Class As and Class Bs. road with a more minimalist lifestyle. Want to talk accessories for an RV? The options are incredWho can forget the vision of seeing an Airstream—the ible. We all love gadgets, and vacation is a fantastic time to Cadillac of RVs—going down the road? I remember seeing play! You can have a motorized awning on your RV, a propane them on the highway as a child and thinking how grand they fire pit, dishwasher, water filtration system—even an inflatlooked and how the people who owned them must be very able hot tub. It seems that anything you can enjoy at home, rich. My parents would talk about them in hushed tones, as if you can now enjoy in an RV. they were the royalty of RVs. These silver beauties are expeThere are so many benefits of RV travel. The first is cost. Of riencing a resurgence that is pretty remarkable. Let’s hit the course, you’ll have to pay to either buy or rent an RV, plus gas, road! Are you ready? insurance, and park fees. However, when you travel with your Sources for this article included: allianztravelinsurance.com, own living quarters, you don’t have to book hotels or airline gorving.com, and frvta.org. 52

May 2022

Cuddly Critters

Domesticated Cats

Human Companions Since Ancient Times

By Jackie Byers

Ancient hieroglyphs show Egyptians worshipping Sekhmet, a warrior goddess who was associated with healing. She is usually depicted as a lioness or as a woman with the head of a lion. Cats have been getting our attention and sharing our domesticated lives ever since. According to the Cat Fanciers Association, 25 percent of According U.S. households have at least one cat on the premises, and to WebMD, many households have more than one. Cats have many traits about 10 perthat make them ideal pets. Cats are generally independent, cent of Amerquiet, loyal, and easy to house-train. Cats regularly groom icans have pet themselves, but they often welcome assistance from their allergies, and owners, as cats tend to enjoy the grooming process. cat allergies Unlike dogs, cats do not require daily walks…or much are twice as human-assisted exercise at all, really. They are nocturnal common as dog allergies. Many people think that the hair is animals, so they may get most of their wiggles out while you the irritant, but it’s actually a protein in the cat’s saliva that sleep. If you have had a cat, you are likely familiar with how causes the allergic reaction. Because cats groom themselves, they dash from one room to another for no apparent reason. their hair is thick with this sticky protein. As cats shed hair, If this frenzy disturbs you, get your cat to release some energy the protein goes everywhere the hair goes. It is almost imposby playing with you! Cats naturally stalk and hunt, so they sible to get rid of it entirely. are generally fond of chasing a teaser-type toy that is essenThere is no such thing as a truly hypo-allergenic cat, tially a string on a stick. though cats that shed less will spread less allergen around Scratching is also an instinctive behavior for cats. A cat the house. Breeds like Javanese and Devon Rex have no who scratches furniture is not misbehaving—it is simply tryundercoat, which means they have less hair to shed. The ing to stretch, mark objects with its scent, or remove the dead Sphynx is almost hairless, so there is very little shedding. parts of its nails. Providing your cat with a tall scratching Balinese cats actually produce less of the protein that triggers post and climbing perch protects your furniture and draperies cat allergies. Scientists are looking for ways to eliminate the while allowing the cat to engage in this natural behavior. production of this protein in other breeds of cat. Bringing a cat into your family has many benefits. Petting Though cats do not need the same level of attention as doesn’t just feel good because Kitty is soft—it helps your body decrease stress hormone levels dogs, you’ll still need someone and release a relaxation hormone. Cats to take care of your cat while are good companions, thus reducing A cat who scratches furniture is you’re out of town. Options loneliness for their people. Infants also include in-home care and not misbehaving—it is simply benefit if the family has a cat. A study by boarding. In-home care can take the National Institutes of Health found the form of daily visits or having trying to stretch, mark objects that infants who are around cats are less a cat sitter stay at your home. likely to develop allergies later in life. Many cats are most comfortable with its scent, or remove the When you get a cat, you need a in their own homes. veterinarian right away. The AmeriFor more social cats, boarddead parts of its nails. can Association of Feline Practitioners ing can be a great option. When recommends four core vaccinations for boarded, cats still need to climb, all cats and kittens: feline viral rhinotrascratch, and feel secure in a cheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia (distemper) and, of course, private space. They need human contact, play time, and favorrabies. These vaccinations are usually required for licensing. ite reminders of home, like a blanket or favorite toy. Some Other vaccines may be recommended based on your cat’s risk facilities offer 24-hour video streaming so you can keep eyes of particular diseases. on your cat while you’re away. Cats hide illness well, so schedule regular check-ups with Cats make wonderful pets for many families. They offer your vet. One of the best things you can do to extend your a lower level of attention and daily care than dogs but are cat’s healthy lifetime is keep it indoors exclusively. Indoor still great companions! Visit a local shelter and see what new cats can live past 20 years. Outdoor cats, however, face danfriends might be waiting for you. gers like distracted drivers, aggressive animals, and things Sources for this article included: catcare.org, catster.com, and that are dangerous to ingest. They rarely live longer than a decade. webmd.com. May 2022

Peak Performance

Pampering Mom

Hiring Home Services

By Linda Barnes

Mother’s Day is almost here, and you might be thinking, “What can I do for Mom that she would actually appreciate?”Her jewelry drawer is likely overflowing, and her clothes closet, too. She may truly love the beautiful vase you gave her last year, but where will she put another one? What many mothers really want is a break from some of their more mundane responsibilities. Consider hiring a home service that would both lighten her load and brighten her surroundings. Whatever it is that your mom least enjoys doing, hire a professional to do it for her! Let’s start with some of the larger spring cleaning tasks, like window cleaning and carpet cleaning. Both of these tasks are best left to the pros, anyway, who have the tools and expertise to get the job done safely and quickly. Specialized services such as window washing or gutter cleaning would be especially valued by a senior mom like me. These are more difficult to accomplish in later years and would be an extra welcome gift. Professional carpet or upholstery cleaning is a great gift idea, as well. Mom will be happy, and the home fabrics will enjoy a longer life. Another out-of-the-box gift idea? Duct cleaning! It doesn’t need to be done that often… but how long has it been since she’s had it done? If your mom is planning to host any gatherings in the near future, she might appreciate a deep-clean of the house

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or a spring cleanup in the yard before guests arrive. A clean house is a double treat. There is something so satisfying about a spotlessly clean home that just smells clean. She can enjoy that good feeling while she indulges in the activity (or inactivity) of her choice instead of dusting, vacuuming, scrubbing, and so forth. Could you get your siblings on board to give Mom a package of two or three cleaning services? For example, a combo of house cleaning, window washing, and carpet cleaning. (I hope my kids are reading this!) Next, we come to some of the tasks that need to get done on a more frequent basis, like laundry and lawn care. Would your mom appreciate a gift card for a dry cleaning service that includes pickup, delivery, repairs, and alterations? Many ser-

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vices will wash and press according to the customer’s personal preference and will bring the items back the very next day. For that matter, if laundry is really her most-despised task, you could arrange for all of her dirty clothes to be picked up at her door and returned clean and folded the next day. Does your mom dread taking care of the yard? You can hire landscapers for everything from weekly lawn mowing to tree planting or removal. Looking forward to warm summer weather and more time outdoors, the gift of lawn care will suit some moms to a tee. Whether for a weekly service or a seasonal cleanup, she will surely enjoy extra free time to pursue other interests or just relax on the deck or patio and enjoy the view. Pet care can be a real boon for moms who work outside the home. She can enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends instead of dashing home to give Fido a potty break and a short walk during business hours. Work-at-home moms can benefit from dog walking services, as well. Ideally, a dog is walked several times a day, but other commitments may not allow it. Speaking of pet care, did you know that you can hire a

service to remove pet waste? That’s right—someone will come to her yard and clean up after her dog. Additionally, enterprising pet groomers offer in-home services or mobile grooming, saving time for busy moms who hate wrangling the dog to the groomer’s or giving baths at home. What about a handyman service for those odd jobs that never seem to get done or just need a little more expertise? Many offer options such as appliance installations, painting, drywall or plaster repair, or TLC to deck or fencing. When my husband had knee surgery, we hired a local handyman to install a second handrail on our stairs. Grab bars in the bathrooms were also recommended for added safety. By all means, if your mom (or her grandkids!) broke last year’s vase, feel free to get her another one this Mother’s Day. More than anything, though, most moms will appreciate the gift of a service that eases her workload, makes her life less stressful, and gives her more time to do whatever she pleases. Doesn’t she deserve that? Sources for this article included: moms.com, dogsnaturallymagazine.com, and findingourgreenlife.com.

What many mothers really want is a break from some of their more mundane responsibilities.

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Good Life

Party Planning

Hosting a Memorable Event

By Toni Arndt

Summer is fast approaching, bringing vacations and time spent outdoors. It is also a common time for celebrations like graduations, showers, and reunions, as well as summer birthdays and anniversaries. We’ve all been a little low on social events over the past couple of years. Make your event this summer one that was worth the wait! Graduation parties are often bittersweet, marking the end of one era and the beginning of another. For sentimentalists, a memory board provides a way for guests to share their favorite memories. Hanging a photo banner featuring pictures from each school year will produce smiles. Commemorate important school days with a photo wreath. Fun food ideas include a cookie spread, complete with milk and Oreos adorned with school colors. Are you celebrating the arrival of a new baby? Clever ideas for a baby shower include a clothesline for guests to hang written wishes and advice, a onesie decorating station with stencils, a diaper cake, and a baby sock bouquet. These options are more than just cute and fun—they provide expectant parents with helpful information and items to use when the baby arrives. Bridal showers can be predictable gatherings, filled with goofy games and finger foods. If that’s what your crowd enjoys, go for it! If not, a pool party, mimosa bar, make-yourown herbal tea bar, luau, or grilling party can provide a fresh perspective on a time-honored tradition. Family reunions are often held in the summer because the kids are out of school. Looking for fresh ideas? Try a new location. Have cooks in the family bring recipes that can be compiled into a family cookbook (printed or electronic). A fish fry can add a new twist to the menu. Arrange games like tug-of-war, a water balloon toss, or a sack race, or bring board games and cards for people to play. How about a theme like outdoor movie night or Family Bake-Off? Adding an unexpected element guarantees lasting memories. Birthday and anniversary parties commemorate important times throughout life. How do you plan a meaningful event? Think about the recipient’s interests and the celebrated milestone, and go from there. Once the date is set and you know what kind of party you want to throw, what’s next? If you want to host but the to-do list gives you pause, help is available! You don’t have to do it by yourself. Professional party planners, caterers, and rental companies can help you with the details so you can enjoy the results without all of the work. Professional party planners allow you to spend more time hosting and enjoying your event with less stress. These individuals handle time-consuming responsibilities, including budget management. They have working relationships with caterers, rental companies, and florists, which may end up 56

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saving you money. They will also have ideas and suggestions to create an event that suits your style. You can even hire them to take care of details during the event itself. A caterer may be the answer if you are serving food at your event but aren’t excited about cooking for a crowd. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a formal affair, a caterer will handle the food so you can enjoy your guests. There are several items to consider and questions to ask before you choose a caterer. Ask the caterer if they can handle your group size. Check to see if the caterer has the required business licenses, health department permits, and insurance. Cost is an important issue, and caterers are available for just about every budget. Will you have a buffet or a sit-down meal? What do you want to serve? Does the caterer have appropriate staff, like bartenders and servers, for your event? Will the food be prepared on site or off site? Can the caterer handle special dietary needs? Ask for references. Review the contract to understand what’s included, deadlines, and additional fees. Some caterers offer tastings so you can sample their food before deciding. Rental companies can help simplify the party planning process. In addition to tables, chairs, linens, dishes, and glassware, these companies offer a variety of other party accessories. Centerpieces, portable bars, games, audiovisual equipment, and lighting are just a few products available. Entertainment adds another dimension to any occasion. Fun ways to liven up a party include a live band or DJ, magician, karaoke system, giant outdoor games, or bounce houses. Be sure to cater your entertainment to your expected guests. Hosting a party to celebrate a special occasion for someone you love is a gift from the heart. Planning a party around particular interests or a unique theme will create a meaningful and cherished event. Sources for this article included: marthastewart.com, shutterfly.com, and socialtables.com.

Home Works

Outdoor Cooking

Take the Party Outside!

By Anne Yankus

It’s time to start thinking about outdoor entertaining! Whether you’re all about playing oversized yard games, organizing a corn hole tournament for friends and family, or having everyone over for an outdoor movie screening, there’s something for everyone when it comes to outdoor entertaining. Fun activities are only the half of it, though. No outdoor get-together is complete without grilled foodstuffs. Is it time to upgrade your grill? Smoked, grilled, and barbequed foods are often the focal point for outdoor entertaining—the reward for a long-awaited visit with friends or a sit-down family meal under the sun or moon. Top-rated grills these days come in a lot of options. Some of the most popular and expert-recommended options currently on the market are charcoal kettle grills, kamado-style charcoal grills, natural gas/propane, and wood pellet smokers. The best way to prepare food is different for everyone, so take your own style into account when you’re choosing your grill. Some people prefer old-fashioned charcoal grills, and for good reason. Charcoal provides higher heat than gas, which leads to juicier meat and a bigger pop of barbeque flavor. Enhance the briquettes or lump charcoal with wood chips like cherrywood or applewood for extra flavor. Charcoal grills are less expensive than gas grills, but don’t forget that the coals take time to heat before cooking can begin and to cool down

before cleanup. For some cooks, this feels like wasted time and attention. For others, it’s a vital part of the social experience of cooking and eating. One of the most popular charcoal grills is the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill. The steel-plated Weber is an iconic name in grilling and is a bestseller in the United States, where reviewers rave about the sturdiness of the grill and the removable ash tray underneath. When not in use, just wheel away for easy storage during off seasons. If you’re short on space, check out the cast iron Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler for a small, sturdy charcoal grill that doubles as a smoker. Kamado maintains a spot all its own on the grill/smoker hierarchy. Kamado grills also use charcoal for cooking heat, but they’re made from thick-walled ceramic to retain heat for slow smoking, much like a wood-fired pizza oven. They can be used for grilling, baking, and smoking. The original Big Green Egg clay cooker is a classic Kamado grill.

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Out & About

Lusterstone Pebble Paving Durable Beauty

By Linda Sutherland

It is spring, and things are happening! In the spring, my mind always turns to how I can make the exterior of my home look spectacular and improve its value without breaking the bank. I cannot think of anything more appropriate to accomplish that than Lusterstone Pebble Paving. This company can turn your garage floor, patio, porch, pool area, or driveway from something utilitarian into something that stops people in their tracks. This family-owned business has served the Omaha area The time it takes for over 35 years…and when I say “family,” I mean family! Four to install Lusterstone brothers are second-generation owners of this business, with depends, of course, Steve Myers, President companies also found in St. Louis and Kansas City. They are on the size of the job, experts in stone and epoxy, and they love improving people’s but it’s usually just one or two days. outdoor spaces. Bill Myers was the founder of the business, Their standard warranty is for three years. Lusterstone usually and he passed along much wisdom and industry know-how needs professional recoating after a couple of years, and they to his sons. Steve Myers is owner of their Omaha location. You will send out reminders to make sure you stay on schedule can tell, by the way this enthusiastic man presents himself, his with their regular maintenance. “It is pretty much like a car,” product, and his business, that he loves what he does. Steve points out. “If you take care of it with scheduled mainWhat is Lusterstone, and what can it do for your property? tenance, it stays in good shape. The more regularly you keep It is a pebble stone and epoxy paving system that fully covers Lusterstone cleaned and maintained, the better it will look and existing porches, sidewalks, patios, stairs, garages, and drivethe longer it will last.” ways with gorgeous finishes that give your existing outdoor When I asked Steve what his biggest challenge was, he areas a beautiful new life. For added quickly named the weather. “With a 24dimension, decorative borders or even 48–hour dry time, it can get a little tricky, company logos can be installed. It’s not but we always make it work.” Steve takes just for flat surfaces, either—they can great pride in his trained and skilled They are experts in stone even cover your front steps with this installers and feels much satisfaction and epoxy, and they durable, salt-proof pebble paving. in ensuring that all his customers are The excellent workmanship that pleased with the exceptional results love improving people’s comes with installation of Lusterstone that they receive. Steve does not ask for outdoor spaces. is a proven winner. Midwest weather payment on a contract until his customcan be rough on outdoor finishes, but ers are satisfied with the final look of Steve knows the stone/epoxy ratio that their Lusterstone. works most effectively in our area. “We As well as being an outstanding use 20 percent more epoxy than industry standards, and our businessman, Steve serves his community through volunteerinstallations are mixed and poured to last up to 20 years with ing and fundraising for Youth for Christ. He treasures making a proper maintenance,” Steve says. “My installers are skilled and difference in young people’s lives, and mentoring is something prepared to provide professional and long-lasting results that he takes very seriously. Steve’s dedication to his communiimpress our customers with quality and efficiency.” ty, his business, and his family is inspiring. This enthusiastic Many of us have concrete areas that are looking a little gentleman is very grateful for his business success and knows “ragged” and need some attention. There’s no getting around that this success depends on quality products and professional it—sometimes, old concrete needs to be replaced. In many workmanship. There is no substitute for quality craftmanship, cases, however, installing Lusterstone over your existing and Steve delivers every time. concrete can save you time and money while looking fantasIf your concrete spaces could use a little love, consider tic. This is such a beautiful way to improve your home’s curb Lusterstone Pebble Paving. This durable and beautiful system appeal, covering unsightly cracks and stains. can bring new life to old concrete on the driveway, patio, pool The transformation that occurs with the installation of deck, and more. Even indoor concrete floors in the basement Lusterstone is just short of miraculous. What a great way to or garage can get a refresh from this remarkable pebble and make a first impression at your home or business! Take a look epoxy combo. Give Steve Myers a call at 402-779-4000. Check at the gallery on lusterstone.com to see a wide variety of beauout photos and more at lusterstone.com or on Facebook at tiful projects, including photos taken before, during, and after Lusterstone paving pebbles to see 2,500 pictures of projects, installation. before and after. 62

May 2022

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Positive Perspective

Nobody Likes Change…

By Janet Van deWalle

But Everyone Should Try It!

Change…I used to hate the concept. Back in the day, if someone suggested it would be a good idea if I made changes, I would get a sinking feeling in my stomach. Fear would sweep down on me. I liked my life just the way it was. Why would I want things to be different? My inner thoughts were, “It’s going to be too hard, too much work. I’m scared. Let’s leave things just the way they are!” Then, almost ten years ago, I met Manny Chavez, who is now my husband. “If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living.” —Gail Sheehy

Manny is all about change, all about growth, all about learning. Perhaps this is because he’s been around the world 14 times and has lived in Italy, Japan, Hawaii, the Middle East, and multiple places in the United States. He is a 20-year retired Navy vet. Me? Born and raised right here in Omaha, Nebraska.

although change can be a challenge, the rewards can be well worth the effort. I remember one of our first trips to Sedona, Arizona. Now, I had been to this beautiful town dozens of times. I always followed the same routine: go to dinner, sit on the patio to look at the Red Rocks, visit a friend who lives there. That was pretty much it. Well, Manny would have none of that. We were going to see Sedona! We went to the museum. We took a hike down the Chavez Pass. We went to the Vortexes. We went to Tuzigoot National Monument. We finished up with a day trip to Winslow to see the town that inspired “Take It Easy” by the Eagles! Who would have known? I had the best time I ever had in Sedona on that trip. “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” —Wayne Dyer

“It’s these changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes, nothing remains quite the same.” —Jimmy Buffett

Now, I love change. I am a different person than I was a decade ago. I am happier, I am kinder, and I love new adventures. I want to see and do everything! I had no idea how stuck I had become. I had no idea what I was missing in my life. Thank you, Manny.

Slowly…very slowly…I started to take a few risks, to make a few changes. I began to step out of the self-imposed box I had been in for decades. Manny began to show me that

“‘It’s impossible,’ said Pride. ‘It’s risky,’ said Experience. ‘It’s pointless,’ said Reason. ‘Give it a try,’ whispered the Heart.” —Unknown

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CREATE YOUR OWN ENVIRONMENT In nature, evolution can require a process of thousands of years. At Curt Hofer & Associates, helping you to create your environment is second nature to us. Bring your designs, your inspiration, your preferences, pictures and even pins. Together we’ll move through a process that lets you ease into a flawless execution of your ideal surroundings. Contact us today to see why Curt Hofer & Associates has earned top awards for our iconic design and inspired living spaces for more than 26 years.

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