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We turned a boy who couldn’t eat broccoli into one who wouldn’t eat broccoli. When Caleb Parker turned seven, his body refused to process many foods. His pain, weight loss and complications led the family to Dr. Thomas Attard and a team of gastroenterology specialists at Children’s Hospital in Omaha. The diagnosis was Crohn’s Disease, a condition in which the immune system attacks the digestive tract. Diet consultation, medications and bone health assessments allowed Caleb to return to school and eat normally. You might say we made even broccoli
a little easier to digest.
Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for information on how Children’s Hospital can help your child. For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.
in this issue
December/January 2009, Volume 7 / Issue 6
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letter frOm the editOr health Cervical Cancer Vaccine
Celebrating, Empowering, Inspiring... the Women of Omaha.
her apprOved! First Annual Results Are In!
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a letter frOm the girl SCOutS Spirit Of neBraSka a letter frOm yWCa Omaha
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(402) 884-2000 Send $9.95 for a one-year subscription (six issues) to P.O. Box 461208, Papillion, NE 68046-1208. www.heromaha.com Comments? Story Ideas? Send your letter to the editor: letters@heromaha.com Her Magazine is a community magazine. A special community of women. Please enjoy and share your issue of Her. Our advertisers make Her possible. So make sure to thank and support them as often as you can. Do you know a woman role model, mentor, activist, leader, artist, business owner, model, adventurer, survivor, or volunteer? Let us know and we may share her story with the Her community of women. Her is your magazine; for the women of Metropolitan Omaha.
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editor’sletter Dear Readers,
I
t’s an exciting issue – the results of our first-ever HER APPROVED! results are unveiled on page 14. What a fun way to round out 2008 and start the New Year. Many thanks to all who voted and congratulations to the winners. This issue we celebrate Dr. Viv Ewing, an incredible Omaha woman whose amazing energy is overflowing. Her life is devoted to encouraging others to be more. Dr. Ewing’s feature is on page 17. Speaking of incredible women – I just got back from lunch with two of my girlfriends. Who doesn’t love a little girl time? It’s just so refreshing. Let’s all make it a regular point to support and touch base with our girlfriends. For fresh ideas, see Linda Persigehl’s article, “Girls’ Night Out – Or In!” on page 12. A quick calendar item: The Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha is hosting a workshop: “Build Your Network, While Serving Your Community: Ready To Serve Board Training.” The Ready To Serve workshop takes place over two afternoons and features speakers and panel presentations with community leaders. Participants will learn about the role and functions of boards, become aware of the legal and ethical responsibilities of board members, learn the key components of a strong organization and find out about the challenges and opportunities for boards and organizations. The workshop, which will provide
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basic board training, is designed for women interested in serving on nonprofit community boards, new board members and experienced board members who haven’t had the opportunity to take part in formal board training. Dates: February 3 and February 10, 2009. 1-5 p.m. each day. Registration fee (includes both sessions): Individual rate - $125. Corporate rate -- $500 for five participants. Register online at www. omahawomensfund.org or call 827-9280. I would like to take just a moment to welcome all new subscribers. We have an enthusiastic group of readers and to them I say “thank you!” Please support our advertisers, they bring HER to your home. Beauty bonus this month: big treat! Dr. Joel Schlessinger hosted a Colorescience event and brought in the line’s founder, the “Mother of Mineral Makeup,” Diane Ranger. I had the fabulous experience of meeting her and getting some insider tips just for YOU! Ranger is a remarkable businesswoman and her line literally has some gems. See and read on page 16.
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Preventing Cervical Cancer New Vaccine Provides Significant Protection
december/january 2009
D 6
uring the early part of the 19th century, cervical cancer was the number one cause of death among women. Now it’s not even in the top 10. Thanks to the introduction of the Pap test in the 1930s, the incidence of deaths due to cervical cancer has been reduced by 75 percent in the United States. The Pap test was a lifesaver for 23-year-old Melissa of Omaha. This past spring, Melissa was startled when her Pap test results came back positive. A colposcopy (a procedure that allows your doctor to view your cervix and biopsy the abnormal cells) revealed she had advanced stage dysplasia – just two stages below cervical cancer. “I was very surprised,” says Melissa, who had been getting regular Pap tests since high school. “I have good health habits and I use condoms. I just never thought it would happen to me.” Because the cells were still precancerous, Melissa was able to undergo a procedure called LEEP – loop electrosurgical excision, which uses electro cauterization to cut out the dysplasia. A radical hysterectomy is the standard of care for invasive cervical cancer. Her most recent Pap
test showed no signs of dysplasia. “I feel so lucky they could take care of it at an early stage,” says Melissa. “If I hadn’t gotten tested, it could have developed into cervical cancer. There’s still so much I want to do in my life. I want to get married and I want to have children.” As an added protection against future brushes with cervical cancer, Melissa recently received the new HPV vaccine Gardasil. Introduced in 2006, the vaccine is expected to reduce the number of cases of cervical cancer by another 70 percent, says Archana Chatterjee, MD, PhD, pediatric infectious disease specialist at Creighton University School of Medicine, who has been involved in clinical research with the vaccine since 2000. Sexually transmitted HPVs are the only known cause of cervical cancer, says Chatterjee. HPV is the most prevalent STD in this country. It is estimated that by age 50, approximately 80 percent of sexually active women will be infected with the HPV virus. While we have made significant progress in reducing the incidence of cervical cancer in this country, the cancer can be quite aggressive continued on page 9
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Healing is more tHan skin deep. While cancer treatment outcomes are improving, hair loss and weight and skin changes leave you feeling like a shadow of your former self. at alegent Health, we won’t let you face those challenges alone. the image recovery Center ® is an appearance-enhancement program designed to help you cope with some of the physical side effects of cancer treatment. a clinical cosmetologist can help you feel more like yourself. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, simply call 402-398-6464 or visit alegent.com/cancer.
Alegent Health is a faith-based health ministry sponsored by Catholic Health Initiatives and Immanuel Health Systems. continued on page 9
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once diagnosed. The American Cancer Society projects 9,710 new cases of cervical cancer in 2006 and 3,700 deaths. “There is really no reason why a woman who is eligible for it, should not get the vaccine,” says Chatterjee. There are many strains of the HPV virus. About a handful of these are known to cause cervical cancer. The vaccine protects against the two strains (16 and 18) that are responsible for causing 70 percent of all cervical cancers. It also protects against two HPV strains that cause genital warts. “The vaccine has been shown in studies to be 100 percent effective in preventing cervical cancer by these two strains if it is received before a woman becomes sexually active,” says Chatterjee. The vaccine, which is administered in three doses over a six-month period, is approved for girls ages 9 to 26 years old and ideally should be given before a girl becomes sexually active. “The ideal recommended age to receive the vaccine is 11 to 12 years old,” says Chatterjee. “A young girl or adult should get the vaccine even if they’ve already been sexually active or are infected with one of the strains as the vaccine will still provide protection against other HPV strains.” Because the vaccine does not protect against every HPV strain, receiving the vaccine does not excuse women from scheduling their annual exam and Pap test. It is estimated that about 50 percent of women who present with cervical cancer have never had a Pap smear. Routine Pap tests are the most effective way to detect cervical cancer in the precancerous and early invasive stages. Worldwide, cervical continued on next page
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health
archana Catterjee, md, ph.d., pediatric infectious disease specialist at Creighton university School of medicine
Expert women’s healthcare In our neighborhood
The obstetrics and gynecology specialists at Creighton Medical Associates are dedicated to meeting women’s unique healthcare needs at all stages of life. From early teen years to pregnancy to midlife and aging health needs, our physicians and professional staff are here to provide you with excellent care. We provide full obstetric care including ultrasounds and fetal monitoring, annual physicals and treatment of urinary incontinence, menopause, chronic pelvic pain, and a full complement of gynecologic procedures including minimally invasive surgery and endometrial ablations. Creighton Medical Associates provides individual care for all women’s health needs. Tricare and most insurance plans accepted.
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Lisa Rice, M.D.
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noelle Cloven, md, gynecologic oncologist at nebraska methodist hospital
cancer is one of the most common cancers that affect a woman’s reproductive organs, primarily because the Pap screening test is not widely administered in many countries. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women begin yearly Pap tests three years after they become sexually active or by age 21. Once a woman reaches the age of 30 and has had three negative Pap tests in a row, newer guidelines have extended the recommendation for a Pap test to every two to three years. When a woman reaches age 30, many doctors are now administering an HPV DNA test at the same time as the Pap test. HPV can now be detected using the newer liquid-based cytology test for Pap smears. “This is more accurate at determining a woman’s risk for cervical cancer than a Pap test alone,” says Noelle Cloven, MD, gynecologic oncologist at Nebraska Methodist Hospital. Other preventive techniques women can take to prevent cervical cancer include delaying sexual activity (it doesn’t need to be penetrative sexual intercourse to spread the HPV virus), reducing the number of sexual partners and not smoking, says Chatterjee. “A woman stands a three to five times greater chance of developing cervical cancer if she smokes and has HPV,” says Sami Zeineddine, MD, obstetrician/gynecologist at Alegent Health Clinic. It appears that nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes make the cervix more vulnerable to the HPV virus and causes it to act more aggressively, he says. In most cases, the body’s own immune system will clear the body of the HPV virus on its own, although it may take several years. In some cases, the HPV virus may lie dormant for several years. During this
Focusing on women’s health. Methodist Health System is the leader in women’s health services—from Methodist Hospital, the place that delivers more babies than any other in the region, to the comprehensive breast health care at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center and Jennie Edmundson Hospital, to Methodist Physicians Clinic Women’s Center, the largest and most experienced OB/GYN practice in the area. Building has already begun Methodist Health on the new Methodist Women’s Hospital, an entire facility and medical System is proud to be a member of campus devoted expressly to care for women. Methodist Health System Spirit of Women, offers a wide-ranging list of women’s health services. But in each corner of devoted to helping women lead the system, you’ll find that the focus is one important aspect of treating healthier lives. patients—The meaning of care. SM
december/january 2009
The meaning of care. Methodist hospital
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Dr. Linda Sing Radiology Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center
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Jennie edMundson hospital
Meet our Women’s Services providers at www.bestcare.org/womens. ©2008 Methodist Health System
time, even though the virus may not show up in screening tests, an individual can still pass the virus onto others. Because the HPV virus is asymptomatic, most people don’t know they have it until they have been tested, says Cloven. Like HPV, cervical cancer may have no symptoms, however, it may cause vaginal bleeding or bleeding after intercourse. Because of its insidious nature, cervical cancer can often go unnoticed until it has reached more advanced stages if a woman fails to get screened. The chances of finding a pre-invasive cancer before it progresses to an invasive cancer are fairly high for women who get an annual physical exam and Pap test. “It can take up to 10 years for high-grade lesions (pre-invasive cancer) to progress,” says Dr. Zeineddine. “However, once they become invasive, they become very fast-growing cancers.” Cervical cancer found in its early stages is treated by performing a radical hysterectomy, which involves removal of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. This may be followed by radiation therapy depending on the stage of the cancer when it is diagnosed, says Dr. Cloven. Minimally invasive surgery techniques that reduce pain and recovery are also available today. Dr. Cloven performs radical hysterectomy using robotics and minimally invasive techniques. “Minimally invasive surgery has improved treatment dramatically,” says Dr. Cloven. “Patients are in the hospital one day versus three days and recovery time has been reduced to two weeks versus six weeks.” “Cervical cancer is the only cancer we can prevent by taking a vaccine and getting an annual exam,” says Dr. Zeineddine. “I can’t stress enough the importance of an annual pelvic exam and Pap test.” H
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Does this look unfamiliar? Time for Girls Night Out!
Girls' Night Out — or In!
W december/january 2009
hile your guy is incessantly watching college bowl games and NFL playoffs this winter, why pout about his obsession with the pigskin? Instead, plan a girls’ night out! Or book an afternoon with your galpals. Or even invite friends over for some female bonding. Studies have shown that women who maintain strong female friendships live longer, suffer less illness and stress, and feel more satisfied with life. So why not schedule some fun-filled girl time? Here are some ideas to get you planning…
Schedule a Shopping Spree What’s more fun than shopping? Shopping in packs, of course! Whether it be antiquing, hitting garage sales or flat footing it at the mall, girlfriends like to bond while on the hunt for the perfect “whatever.” Erin Leahy, senior manager at Ann Taylor Loft, said her store has 12 several girlfriends teams, ages 35 to 50, who stop in regularly on Friday www.heromaha.com
or Saturday nights to look for bargains, try on clothes and get opinions from each other, often for an hour or more at a stretch. And, she said, they laugh…a lot. “I think because they don’t get a lot of time to shop, with kids and work, they make an excursion of it when they do,” Leahy said. “They like coming to an open-air mall like Village Pointe and walking around. They hit their favorite stores, then grab dinner and drinks or head to a movie after. They make a whole night of it.” Join a Bunko League If you’re like me and enjoy games that don’t involve exercise or brain strain, consider forming a Bunko league. Annell Naccarato describes Bunko as a dice game of chance easier than Yahtzee -little skill or strategy is required. Twelve players, grouped into three tables of four, battle it out for points, all in the name of pure fun. Naccarato began playing Bunko 25 years ago, when a group of
photo by minorwhitestudios.com
New semester acting classes begin in January! Fun themes from High School Musical to Putting on a Play! Variety of days and times to meet your busy schedule! Register online today!
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her co-workers at Run a ScrapAlbertson's formed book Maratheir own league thon Bunko Babes. The Chronicling group - ages 40 to the life of your 60 - meets monthly, kids or your each member hostlatest travels in ing one game night albums filled a year. The hostess with cropped provides appetizphotos and ers, and drinks are memorabilia BYO – often the wine is a passion for or beer variety. One many. If you and must-follow rule: No your girlfriends husbands allowed. are “croppers”, For Naccarato, attending a Bunko has never scrapbooking been about winning marathon may the door prize or first be the kind of place moneybag, but fun you’re lookrather about quality ing for. time with the girls. Andrea “We play Bunko, Gregerson, a Crebut it’s a social outative Memories ing really,” she said consultant for Beth Ehlers, Super Suppers owner. “After 25 years, we’ve nine years, hosts talked about work, family, friends, children scrapbooking marathons at her home annugrowing up, our parents… everything. It’s ally. Guests bring with them months’ worth of time for female bonding, and venting, at memories, then spend hours swapping tools, times.” trading supplies, and sharing creative ideas with fellow “croppers.” A $30 daily fee covers a meal and an overnight stay. Take a Group Cooking Class “The sessions are dedicated, extended Finding the time to prepare home-cooked work times for those serious about scrapmeals and try new recipes is a challenge, booking,” Gregerson said. “Some come especially if you work outside the home. Why and stay Friday at 7 p.m. through Saturday not combine fellowship with food prep by at noon, staying up all night. A few make a registering for a group cooking class? whole weekend thing of it.” Beth Ehlers, owner of Super Suppers, said While some croppers come in with big goals her meal preparation business has many for catching up on albums, all enjoy the fun girlfriend groups of 7 to 10 that come in atmosphere of the event. “It’s a social opportumonthly for a cooking session. Each customer nity…a chance for women to visit, share their is set up in her own prep station, equipped lives and ideas. I view these sessions as more of with the ingredients, utensils and appliances a women’s retreat than a workshop.” they’ll need for the recipes they’ve selected Some cropper groups meet for marathons in advance. Most spend about an hour doing at area hotels or bed and breakfasts. “I’ve prep, then go home with six full entrees or 12 heard of some even being held on cruises,” half-size entrees. The fee is $126 per person Gregerson said. “Of course, those get really for the session; with six paid customers, the pricey.” If that’s what you’re into and you’ve 7th cooks for free. And best of all, no cleanup! got the funds, why not sail while you scrap? “There’s no hurry,” Ehler says. “We encourSo, don’t fret about your football fanatic age (the women) to socialize while they cook, couch potato! Schedule that girlfriend outing and set out appetizers and wine. The group classes have really spread in popularity simply or home party you’ve been thinking about, and give the gals a call. You’ll feel better, and from word of mouth.” the sisterhood will thank you, too! H
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Our AnnuAl It’s the first-ever HER APPROVED! Results – two winners in every category. These selections were pure popular online vote by the readers of HER Magazine!
december/january 2009
Thank you to all who voted and congratulations to the fine businesses below!
Beauty Counter Clinique Sephora
Gift Shop Hallmark The Afternoon
Interior Decorator Jill Bates — The Designers Avant Architects
Children’s Clothing Gap Kids Children’s Place
Girls Night Out Melting Pot Stumble Inn
Jewelry Store Borsheim’s Zales
Dance Studio Mary Lorraine’s Acapriccio
Gym 24-Hour Fitness Prairie Life Fitness
Karaoke Mic’s DJ’s Dugout
Day Care La Petite Montessori Educational Centers, Inc.
Hair Retailer Beauty First Beauty Brands
Lunch Spot Panera Taste
Dermatologist Robert Fonda Joyce Sumner
Hair Salon One Drake Place Garbo’s
Medical Spa Te Bella Omaha Med Spa
Family Restaurant Summer Kitchen Café Dave and Buster’s
Housewares Bed Bath & Beyond Williams-Sonoma
Men’s Clothing Von Maur Kohl’s
14 www.heromaha.com
Mojito Roja Kona Grill
Toy Store Toys R Us Wishing Well
Museum Joslyn Art Museum The Durham
Vegetarian McFoster’s Natural Kind Café Sushi Ichiban
Nail Salon Top Q Beauty Brands
Video Game Store Game Stop Gamers
Neighborhood Grocery Hy-Vee Super Saver
Wedding Cakes Cake Gallery Wheatfields
Pilates Class 24-Hour Fitness Prairie Life Fitness
Wedding Planner Angela Brandt - In The Details Events Amanda Moulton
Preschool Gingerbread House Montessori Educational Centers, Inc.
Reception Site DC Centre Paxton Ballroom
Private School Marian Brownell-Talbot
Weight Loss Center Weight Watchers Curves
Senior Photographer Arnold Clark Paula Moser
Wine Bar Corkscrew Urban Wine Company
Shoe Store DSW Von Maur
Women’s Clothing Von Maur Kohl’s
Sushi Blue Hiro
Work at Home Company ConAgra BeautiControl
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Mark Your Calendar
A Celebration of Holiday Magic
Be a part of this early New Year’s Eve celebration for the whole family!
First Night of Play December 31, 2008 6-8:30 p.m.
december/january 2009
The Schoolchildren's Blizzard January 10-March 22, 2009 Headed to the White House January 17-April 11, 2009 SPEED January 31-April 19, 2009
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An indoor holiday light and music show your family will want to see again and again. Go to www.ocm.org for show times
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feature
story by james barnes Photography by minorwhitestudios.com
F
Dr. Viv Ewing In Line for Leadership
or Omaha native Viv L. Ewing, Ph.D., helping others achieve their full potential in life is a passion. A graduate of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a doctorate in Community and Human Resources, Dr. Ewing has held leadership positions in Fortune 500 organizations such as ConAgra and local government organizations such as the Omaha Housing Authority. To top it off, she is an ordained minister.
A FAMILY THAT VALUES LEADERSHIP A priority for the Ewings is to raise their daughters, Christina and Alexandria, to be happy, healthy, and successful leaders. According to Dr. Ewing, the key is proper alignment.
VIV’S VICTORIES One of the programs Ewing coordinated was teaching others how to become referees for high school basketball games. She explained that it’s the type of program that people can do fairly easily in the sense that it does not require a college degree or years of study to become certified. For Dr. Ewing, this was one of several examples of how leadership and alignment enabled her to make a difference in the community. “It’s important to volunteer for the programs you really feel passionate about versus just helping with every single thing that comes along; but really being mission-focused. That way, you will be a lot more satisfied in what you are involved in, and you’ll be able to do a much better job.” H www.heromaha.com
december/january 2009
COMMUNITY LEADER Through her work with The Salvation Army as the operations director for the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Omaha, a new $60 million facility under construction at 27th and Y Streets, Dr. Ewing will support the effort to help others discover their talent by providing them with opportunities in the performing and fine arts, athletics, recreation, fitness and sports. The funds designated for Omaha is a portion of the $1.5 billion-plus gift to The Salvation Army from Joan Kroc, widow of McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc. Said Ewing of her Salvation Army work: “It’s an opportunity to really develop people and that aligns with a lot of the values I have about helping individuals develop into all that they can be.” Building on these values, Dr. Ewing and her husband of 24 years, Douglas County Treasurer John Ewing, co-founded Life Development International. This company teaches individuals how to “release the winner within”. Together, the Ewings are striving to leverage their mutual commitment to leadership development and community involvement to teach individuals how to examine their goals and desires, think creatively, and provide strategies for achieving more in life.
“Once you align yourself, you are in alignment with values, you’re in alignment with your activities, you’re in alignment with your occupation, you’re in alignment with your career then things work well. When you get out of alignment, then you’ll have internal angst, internal ulcers, and all those things that happen when you are not aligned. If you can instill that in your children, then they grow up to be strong leaders as well.” One of the activities the Ewings have done consistently is to have what they call, “mandatory family time.” “Everybody is busy but we have mandatory family time where no matter what you’re doing, no matter what’s on your calendar we all commit to mandatory family time. No cell phone, no telephone, it’s just us together doing something whether it’s (seeing) a movie or just watching TV or talking about the day or talking about a scripture from the Bible. Everybody knows that when we say it’s mandatory family time that means set everything aside so that we can make sure we stay united as a family and talk about what’s been going on. I think our children appreciate that. They may not always feel good when we say its mandatory family time but once we’re really into the discussions they enjoy that.”
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B
Accessory Check! makeup and Styling: Dee Harrell
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december/january 2009
ON THIS PAGE: Anissa bag, de Palma belt, Renee’s nyc scarf, gloves, hat, Android watch, Catégorie 2 sunglasses, Sara Downs design necklace, reedevins boot, all from Deniz Shoe and Accessory Salon in Omaha.
ag. Belt. Shoes. Scarf. Dog. How many ancillary pieces can an outfit handle? Unless you’re headed to a costume party, less is more. An oft-cited line: “get fully dressed, then take off one piece of jewelry.” Celeb Jessica Simpson has accessories she can’t take off: “I have amazing boobs. They’re perfect,” she says. “I feel they make my outfits look better. They’re like an accessory!” Makeup artist and stylist Dee Harrell counts makeup as an accessory as well. Harrell offers a reminder to “keep it balanced.” Some have an innate sense of what’s appropriate and effortlessly adorn themselves, perhaps with just a classic strand of pearls or vintage bag. Take a tip from them to be chic. According to Linda at Deniz Shoe and Accessory Salon in Omaha, “It’s very distracting to over-accessorize a look- as with most trends this fall-winter, don’t over-accessorize and keep things simple, a crisp white fitted tee or shirt, black pants and thin black patent belt, heels or boots will take you a long way in the style ranks. Choose clothes and accessories that you know you will feel at ease wearing, and do not exceed. Be yourself -- and that is stylish.”
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community
STOry By MOLLy garriOTT PhOTOgraPhy By MiNOrwhiTESTUDiOS.cOM
Jennifer Huberty, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Beyond the Holiday Blues Lasting Hope Recovery Center
december/january 2009
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he holiday season can be truly magical, with the potential to bring great joy. But the pressure to have the perfect holiday - however unattainable it is - is real, and often results in emotions far from joyful. Feelings of inadequacy are natural when the Pillsbury sugar cookies you carefully cut from the pre-rolled log are burning in the oven, while Martha makes topiary out of pine cones and berries from her own acreage. Unfortunately for some, the feelings of sadness stem from more than being unable to replicate a scene from a glossy lifestyle magazine in your own home. For them, the holidays only magnify unrealized hopes, bring to the forefront underlying disappointments, and exacerbate loneliness, resulting in more than just holiday blues. Pam Feldman, a licensed independent mental health practitioner with Associated Counseling Professionals, sees an increase in her patient load toward year’s end. “The winter months are often difficult because of the lack of sunshine, reduced activity level, and stress from the holidays in terms of time, energy and money,” Feldman states. “Many families do not have a Norman Rockwell situation, and current or past dysfunctions often come to the forefront. There can be an increase in alcohol abuse, stress from social engagements, or simply not enough to celebrate. For the elderly or those in transition
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from divorce or death of a loved one, or those who are separated from family or at war, the holidays accentuate loneliness.” SymptOmS Of depreSSiOn Manifestations of depression range from mild to severe. A mild case results in feelings of general malaise. Other symptoms, which may vary in degree, include unrelenting unhappiness, feelings of hopelessness, and lack of enthusiasm for life. Depression often interrupts sleep patterns. The ensuing fatigue then magnifies coexisting symptoms and generates physical side effects like aches and pains. Those suffering from depression often withdraw from social interaction. “At more chronic or intense levels, depression leads to uncontrollable crying, inability to function normally, and thoughts of suicide,” states Feldman. StepS tO reCOvery Working your way out of depression is not just a matter of “bucking up.” “The biochemistry of the brain is affected by depression,” Feldman explains. Depression can dissipate over time, and there are steps you can take to facilitate your recovery. Feldman advises her clients who are suffering from depression to remain “connected.” Talking
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to family and trusted friends and scheduling activities with others so you are accountable helps. Exercising, getting outside to soak up some sun, doing something, anything, is essential. “Depression never improves by lying on the couch, and TV is not generally very helpful either,” Feldman cautions. The first step toward recovery is the hardest, so getting started is significant.
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december/january 2009
filling a vOid Counseling is an effective tool in treating depression. Therapists teach patients new ways of thinking and behaving, redirecting negative, destruction thoughts and actions into positive, healthy ones. This past April, Omaha gained another weapon in the fight against depression and other mental health problems. When Lasting Hope Recovery Center opened its doors at 24th and Harney streets, it offered additional hope to those suffering from mental illness and substance abuse, and filled an existing void in mental health care. According to Tom Hickey, Ph.D., executive director of Lasting Hope, one in four families in Nebraska is affected by some form of mental illness. The last 20 years has seen increasing closings of hospitals, institutions and programs that cater to behavioral health issues. From 1956 to 2000, the patient count in state institutions dropped from 5,000 to less than 600, not because the number of those afflicted with mental health problems declined but due to lack of resources to accommodate higher numbers. Lasting Hope is unique in its inception, being both a private and public partnership. Area business leaders Ken Stinson and Howard and Rhonda Hawks established the Behavioral Health Support Foundation, which raised $25.5 million for Lasting Hope. Additionally, Alegent Health and The Nebraska Medical Center provide financial support for continuing operations, and the State of Nebraska provides critical funding, says Hickey. It is also unique in its services; it’s dedicated solely to the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and substance abuse. So often, mental illness and substance abuse are concurrent afflictions. Those suffering from mental illness “self-medicate” with alcohol and drugs. Thus, to fully treat a patient’s mental health issue, his or her addiction must also be addressed. The hospital has 64 licensed inpatient beds: 32 immediate crisis beds for a week or less of treatment, and 32 beds reserved for patients staying longer - three to four weeks - who will eventually transition to outpatient programs. In order to adequately respond to those in high crisis mode, Lasting Hope offers a 24-hour psychiatric emergency department for crisis assessment and triage. In addition to professional counseling, Lasting Hope also provides its residents with peer counseling. Knowing that the person listening to you has been in your shoes is validating and instills hope that life can improve. Like Feldman, Hickey sees an increase in depression with the changing of the seasons and with the anxiety that the holiday season can precipitate. But he offers this hope: “Mental illness and substance abuse are treatable. Our experience is that recovery takes the commitment of a community coming together to develop and implement the plan for that person suffering from depression. Lasting Hope Recovery Center is a demonstration of the willingness of this community to get involved with the treatment of mental illness.” H
21 www.heromaha.com
beauty
STOry By SaNDy LEMkE
Colorescience founder diane ranger and dr. Joel Schlessinger during ranger's recent visit to Omaha
Mineral Supplement
december/january 2009
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olorescience founder and “The Mother of Mineral Makeup” Diane Ranger visited Omaha September 23. Ranger was the guest of Dr. Joel Schlessinger and Aesthetica Day Spa, which hosted an all-day event devoted to education about mineral makeup and makeovers. Said Dr. Schlessinger of Ranger’s visit: “We had a great time at this event and it was a fantastic opportunity to introduce the Omaha population to the newest and most innovative mineral makeup line. It was especially exciting to have Diane Ranger, the inventor of this makeup line and Bare Escentuals, in our office and have the ability for her to explain the benefits and show it on our patients and customers. We are looking forward to having her out in the future as well.” I had some time to sit down with Ranger to talk about her fascinating contributions to the beauty industry. Ranger founded Bare Escentuals in 1977 and launched Colorescience in 2000. Her mission
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statement: “To keep minerals pure and true to her original philosophy.” I asked her about how mineral makeup and more specifically, Colorescience can be a good option for Omaha women. Omaha women deal with (some would say endure) all four seasons. I asked, should we change our routine throughout the year? Ranger said: “With mineral makeup, you don’t have to, it adapts for you. It adapts to heat and humidity. You apply it first thing and it stays on all day. You may want to change colors with the seasons, and absolutely have a wardrobe of color year round. Some are more likely to wear warmer colors in fall and clear colors in the spring. My foundation is your sun protection. That keeps your skin shielded so you don’t have to change your foundation color.” Omaha women travel a lot. When asked about Colorescience’s portability, Ranger quickly replied that her product leaves no worries about airport security, as the products are minerals, not liquids. Some
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december/january 2009
of the products have built-in brushes that make them even more convenient for travel. Even though Ranger is petite in stature, she commands the room with her engaging enthusiasm. Dozens of women gathered for the event and listened to her presentation, rapt and anxious for their personal makeovers by Ranger and her attendant assistants. Ranger opened the presentation up for questions, and one woman asked about what products would be good for a 50-something woman who “runs around every day and doesn’t have time for a long routine.” Ranger described Colorescience as a line that can be simple in that it combines several elements. They call it the Core 4: improvement, protection, color, and correction. Finally, I asked Ranger how she became acquainted with Dr. Schlessinger and LovelySkin.com. Ranger explained, “We don’t sell direct. We distribute through a doctor or doctor’s website. I met Dr. Schlessinger at a meeting of the American Institute of Dermatology in San Francisco, of which he was president. Dr. Schlessinger has a great reputation in the industry.” Celebrity fans of Colorescience include Cameron Diaz, Daryl Hannah, Heather Locklear, Ashton Kutcher and Goldie Hawn. My personal favorite? The gem facial spritzers! This is not a new idea, however Colorescience’s have lovely scents. They don’t disturb your makeup and, in fact, are intended to refresh your color. Aesthetica Day Spa staff is trained in Colorescience products and can answer any questions about the products, available either in the spa or at LovelySkin.com. H
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art
Susan McGilvrey An Artist with an Attitude
december/january 2009
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usan McGilvrey’s Benson bungalow was easy to find, thanks to the pots on the porch. They’re tall, handled, semi-classically Greek storage vessels—amphorae…and they’re endowed with attitude. Their shape has shifted a bit, having gone through the fire; they have a silhouette of hands on hips; their wry physique matches McGilvrey’s sense of humor. When I ask what led to her Master of Fine Arts in ceramics, she says with a shrug, “It was the Age of Aquarius.” She cites Betty Woodman and Robert Arneson as her muses. And she says, “Firing an electric kiln is about as exciting as running a dishwasher.” Despite the talk, there’s the resume: undergrad degree, summa cum laude; U of Minnesota design program; full scholarship to Penn www.heromaha.com
State. Teaching at Creighton, Metro, and UNO. Honors, including two Individual Artist Fellowship Awards from the Nebraska Arts Council. Three decades of consistent exhibitions. Her home studio is filling up with work for coming shows. Pride of place goes to a powerful Thomas Stuart electric wheel, purchased with her 2007 IAF award. Walls are brightened with exhibition cards and ceramics posters. There are buckets of rehydrating clay, a sturdy sink, an electric drill fitted with a whisk, pots of brushes and bottles of underglaze colors. Long wooden shelves are laden with platters, bowls, and vessels of every type in every phase of production. McGilvrey says she always wanted to be an artist. “My father’s family is full of makers.” Sometimes the fun comes in shaping the
object. McGilvrey loves to play with words as much as clay. One amphora evolves from an academic discussion of positive and negative space. From the still-damp clay, she has picked out plus-shaped openings, so that the positive (+) sign is the negative (open) space. Sometimes the fun comes after a piece’s initial firing in the kiln (1940°). She “paints” her work with bright underglaze liquids, chalks, and pencils, and finishes with a clear glaze. The work is fired a second, final time at 1868°. Because heat produces chemical change, color seems a mystery to an onlooker. What goes on as a light pinkish-purple will transform into dark navy blue. McGilvrey compares it to printmaking. “What you see when you’re doing it is not what it’ll be when it grows up.”
cOLUMN By SUzaNNE SMiTh arNEy PhOTOgraPhy By MiNOrwhiTESTUDiOS.cOM
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www.turningheadsomaha.com Another room is a treasury of finished pieces—those sassy amphorae, tall-forms with carved lilies, cups with and without handles, tea pots and coffee carafes, some yellow triangular platters that look like butterfly wings. Although she is a master at the wheel, she was inspired to make slab pieces by the discovery of Dharma Bread. “I made the first long trays in honor of the perfect baguette.” Slab (hand-built) work presented a new set of problems, such as edges, pedestals, and storage — challenges that a skilled artist revels in. Sometimes ideas and answers come to her during “long, non-romantic walks through Country Club and Dundee.” She also unwinds by tending perennials, growing tomatoes, beans, and collards, and preparing stir-fry or hearty salads. The space between technical ability and artistic expression is uncharted. McGilvrey is a long-time and active member of Omaha’s art community; a receiver and giver of direction and encouragement. Teaching has also benefited her artwork in terms of articulating concepts and processes, and learning new techniques such as watercolor. However, it always comes back to ceramics. “You’re allowed to care about cups and bowls as well as complicated show pieces,” she says. The most satisfying aspect of her work? “Opening the kiln is always good,” she says. “It’s like Christmas.” H
UNO Studio Art Faculty Exhibition (in UNO’s Weber Fine Arts Building) Jan 16-Feb 18 Currently represented by Adam Whitney Gallery and Dundee Gallery
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Where to see her work— Solo exhibition at the Nebraska Arts Council’s Fred Simon Gallery, Nov 24-Jan 2
Do you suffer from
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how-to
STOry By LiNDa PErSigEhL
hazardous Conditions ahead
T december/january 2009
ake a cue from the Boy Scouts: Be prepared. We Omahans know snow and ice will soon be an unavoidable part of our daily commute, so best be ready! Here are some car prep tips and a refresher on winter driving techniques to help improve your car’s performance and keep you safe on wintry roads this season.
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Before the Storm hits Even before the weather takes a change for the worse, have your vehicle thoroughly checked out: battery, hoses, belts, fluids, brakes, etc. Some garages offer a full winter prep package. Making sure your tires are inflated correctly, balanced and checked for tread depth should be a top priority, said Jim Champion with Charlie Graham Body and Service. “Drivers will be kicking themselves if they are stuck in snow with worn-out tires.” Graham also recommends checking for a www.heromaha.com
leaky exhaust system, which can prove deadly for vehicle occupants, and make sure your windshield wiper system works properly. “Not being able to see out your windshield is obviously very dangerous.” Winter wiper blades with rubber boots are available and easy to install yourself. And don’t forget to protect your car from the elements. Wax the exterior to keep the road salt off the paint finish, and put down rubber floor mats to protect the carpet from snow, sand and grime. “In the spring, you’ll be glad you had,” he said. You’ll also want to make sure your car is stocked with all the emergency gear you’ll need in case you do get stuck. Must-haves for the trunk: jumper cables, a spare tire and jack; a tool kit; a bag of kitty litter or sand to lay down for tire traction; ice salt; a shovel; extra wiper fluid; roadside flares and matches; and snow boots and heavy gloves. In your car: a snowbrush and ice scraper, a flashlight with new batter-
ies, a blanket; bottled water and candy or nuts, in case you’ve got a long wait for help; and a fully-charged cell phone. And always make sure your car has a full or nearly full tank of gas. When the flakes fly When snow begins to pile up, act quickly! Go outside and clean off your car periodically. It’s best to dig out mid-morning, before the snow has a chance to be warmed by the sun and refreeze as ice. Also, new, dry snow is lighter than old, wet snow. Be certain to clear the tailpipe from snow, and if at home, shovel at least the end of the driveway so the snowplow won’t wall you in. If you don’t need to go out, don’t. If you do, take it slow. Even if you’re a fantastic driver in snow, many others on the road aren’t so great. Remember your defensive driving. Be especially careful driving at near-freezing temperatures when tire traction is poorest. Many a driver has been deceived by what they thought was clear pavement, only to find themselves skidding out of control on thin, slick “black ice.” Be especially careful on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first, and allow three times the usual space between you and the next car. Also, keep your feet at the ready on the gas and brakes, and don’t use cruise control. Be ready to react If you do find yourself spinning on ice, remember these rules: If your rear wheels skid, steer in the direction you want to go. Pump standard breaks gently. With anti-lock breaks, apply steady pressure and they will pulse automatically. If your front wheels skid, take your foot off the gas, shift the car into neutral and don’t steer. When tire traction returns and the car slows down, steer wheels in the direction you want to go. Then, shift back to drive and give it some gas. If you find yourself stuck in snow, don’t gun it! Spinning your tires will only dig you in deeper. Use a shovel to clear away snow and pour sand, litter or salt in the path of the tires. Then give it a bit of gas. If to no avail, shift from reverse to drive and back again, touching on the gas each time. If that doesn’t work, get help rocking the car out of the rut.
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Stranded Strategies If you do find yourself stranded, use your cell phone to call in your location to family or a car service for help. Don’t “flat foot it” in search of help unless you know exactly where you are and how far it is to help. Light your flares to help mark your car in the snow, and run the engine for just 10 minutes every hour to heat the car a bit. Open your car windows a few inches so snow and ice won’t seal the car shut airtight. You don’t want to get stuck inside! Put on that emergency clothing and blanket you tucked away, and snack on your stash of food/water. And lastly, keep your cell phone on and keep calm. Help will arrive soon…and hopefully spring as well! H
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27
message from
Theresa Cassaday, Chief Communication Officer Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska
Girl Scout Artists Create Magic
december/january 2009
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girls participated with 26 artists to create 80 works for this annual show - which is nothing short of brilliant. A special artVenture ‘Girl Night’ is held in honor of each Girl Scout who donated her
their head, and while we still want everyone thinking about cookies when that Girl Scout comes-a-calling, it is important to understand that the scope of the programming we provide is much broader than cookies. Girl
“Without art the world would be kind of plain…it just makes the world more ALIVE!” -emma, age 9, Girl Scout Artist
C & J photography
E
ach winter, when most of the heartland goes indoors to hibernate and long for warmer days, there is something going on with Girl Scouts that can only be described as extraordinary; it is the program that pairs Girl Scouts with professional artists to create paintings, sculptures, glass, jewelry, photos and every other artistic medium you can imagine, for a Girl Scout event known as artVenture. artVenture is an art auction benefit for Girl Scouts held annually in late March. For the past 3 years, the Hot Shops Art Center has hosted this gallery reception which attracts artists and patrons who support Girl Scouts by contributing and purchasing art, respectively. However, the crown jewel of this event is the art that is created and generously donated by up-and-coming artists – known as Girl Scouts. Through Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, girls register for individual collaborations with artists. Depending upon the media in which they work, the girls may spend as many as 12 hours on a project over the course of several weeks. Girls work in groups, sometimes in tandem with their entire troop, or side-by-side with girls they will meet for the first time. The artists act as mentors in the true sense, helping girls learn something about the creative process as well as the essentials of the materials they will use to make art. Last year, more than 200
masterpiece for the event and for the artists who, with benevolence in their hearts, gave their time to teach their craft. The idea that a picture paints a thousand words comes to life in the gallery that night when you see the sparkle of accomplishment on the face of every Girl Scout, her friends and family and the artist who stands proudly by her side. When people think of Girl Scouts, cookies is probably the first thing that pops into
Scouts is the best leadership development program for girls in the country and our Artist Collaboration Program is a powerful example of why. This year artVenture will be held on Friday, March 20, 2009 at the Hot Shops Art Center. For information about the event or to find out how your daughter can participate in the collaboration program, call Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, 402.558.8189 x239. H
EvEry iSSUE, hEr MagaziNE BriNgS yOU aN iMPOrTaNT MESSagE frOM ThE girL ScOUTS – SPiriT Of NEBraSka. yOU caN hELP, gET iNvOLvED! www.heromaha.com
message from
Natalia J. Peart, Chief Executive Officer
Recalling our "Mission Moments" yWCa Omaha mission: To create opportunities for growth, leadership and empowerment in the lives of women and their families in order to attain a common vision: peace, justice, dignity and freedom for all people.
A
t a recent YWCA Omaha staff meeting, we asked our employees to recount a story from the previous week that reflected our mission. The exercise not only allowed each of us to share our personal celebrations, but it also made us realize that, collectively, though the challenges of our work are often great, the rewards are even greater. I’d like to share some of these “mission moments” with you.
“The most exciting thing for me this week was being asked to be part of the Nebraska Community of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Mental Health Advisory Board. I was invited because of the work I do here with our clients. To be able to come to my supervisor and say ‘I have this skill’ and then to be able to use it to help underserved populations means everything to me.” Sakura, advocate
“My story is actually about (YW Career Coordinator) Tiba. I was walking in from the parking lot and I saw a woman run up to Tiba and yell, ‘Tiba! I got the interview!’ and then she threw her arms around her and gave her the biggest hug. Of course, I was very curious and later Tiba explained that the woman was released from federal prison about a year ago, where she’d been since 1993. Since she’d gotten out, she hadn’t been able to get a single interview and couldn’t find work, but through the YW workshops on job skills and Tiba helping her with her résumé, she got an interview. In fact, we learned they hired her from that interview. Tiba is making a difference; we are making a difference.” micala, volunteer Coordinator “In the past, so many of my clients were highly suicidal, highly self-harming, and regularly went into the hospital. But as I looked at my client list recently, I realized that this is no longer the case. I fully attribute this to the DBT program.* For these clients, regular treatment wasn’t successful, but DBT is changing lives.” karen, therapist
As I read through my colleagues’ comments, I am reminded of the Kahlil Gibran quote: “Work is love made visible.” It perfectly describes what we do here at YWCA Omaha: the vital work of empowering our clients and ourselves—because when we work to help others develop their best selves, we inevitably discover our own core values. Best of all, these “mission moments” are available to everyone—no matter what your profession. Sometimes it’s only a matter of taking the time to recognize them. When you work hard to complete a project on deadline and it turns out well, take a moment to acknowledge that you are making a difference. As mothers, our hearts fill with joy the first time we witness our child spontaneously give a crying child a comforting hug. We are making a difference. Rearranging your “goggles” to look at your life and work as a series of “mission moments” inspires contentment and gratitude—and creates the perfect opportunity to turn an ordinary existence into an extraordinary life. H * Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a groundbreaking trauma treatment program. Clients who attend the phasebased skills class are survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault who are having difficulty coping with issues in their daily lives. december/january 2009
“I had a client who was a victim of domestic violence and marital rape who had been through our group therapy program, DBT, and intense private therapy. I saw her this week and I was so pleased to learn that she and her family are doing very well. In fact, she’s getting ready to go back to school.” Chris, therapist
“I have been at YWCA for 10 years. Last week, a lady came back in to the Latina Resource Center that I had helped about eight years ago. She was so embarrassed and apologetic as she explained that she was again in an abusive relationship and needed help. I told her, ‘There’s no need to apologize. I’m still here to listen.’ She said that she was so grateful that I was still here. I thought, ‘I am, too.’” Juana, Bilingual advocate
EvEry iSSUE, hEr MagaziNE BriNgS yOU aN iMPOrTaNT MESSagE frOM y wca OMaha. yOU caN hELP, gET iNvOLvED!
29 www.heromaha.com
cOLUMN By jUDy giLLiarD
Feel free to email any culinary questions to chefjudy@cox.net
It's a
g n i k a B Bash W
ith the holidays approaching, our thoughts go to baking… Making it a perfect time to invite a group of friends over for a holiday baking party! First, stock your kitchen with the basics: all-purpose flour, white and brown sugar, vanilla, almond extract, powdered sugar, food coloring, nuts, butter and eggs. Then invite over friends and family, telling each to bring their favorite holiday treat recipe. Tell them you have all the essentials, but if their recipe calls for anything special to bring it. Also, have each bring a basket for goodies they will be taking home! Everyone loves sugar cookies at the holidays! Go to your favorite kitchen or craft store and pick up some holiday cookie cutters -- some of the extra large ones. Then roll out the dough and get to cutting! You can even have a bunch of cookies done in advance, ready for decorating. Rum Pumpkin Pound Cakes are a great holiday treat! Bake the cakes in small disposable loaf pans, then wrap with colored plastic wrap or foil and tie with a big ribbon to give as gifts. To keep the party going, open up some wine and order in a few pizzas! Here are a few recipes worthy of any holiday baking party! H www.cookwithjudy.com
Rum PumPkin Pound Cake 1 cup butter, softened 2 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup canned pumpkin 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1/2 teaspoon salt 5 eggs 1 cup 1% low-fat milk 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon vanilla 1/2 cup rum Cream butter, sugar and salt in mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin and spice and mix completely. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add milk alternately with flour, mixing well after each addition; do not overbeat. Stir in vanilla. Pour into two greased and floured 8 × 4 inch loaf pans. Baked at 325° for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Test for doneness with a wooden skewer or toothpick. With toothpick, poke holes in cake and pour 1/4 cup rum over each cake. Cool for 15 minutes, then remove from pans. Cool completely on a wire rack.
nOrWegian ChriStmaS COOkieS 2 large eggs 1 cup sugar 4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 1/2 sticks salted butter, softened 1/2 cup sugar cubes, coarsely crushed, or pearl sugar
december/january 2009
Beat together 1 egg and sugar with an electric mixer until thick and pale. Sift in flour and baking powder and add butter. Beat on low speed until mixture forms a dough. Chill, wrapped in plastic wrap, until firm, at least 1 hour. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly beat remaining egg. Roll level teaspoons of dough into balls and arrange 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Press thumb into center of each ball to flatten, leaving a depression, and brush lightly with egg. Sprinkle crushed sugar in centers and bake in batches in middle of oven until golden, 12 to 18 minutes. Transfer to racks to cool completely.
30 www.heromaha.com
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