metroMAGAZINE's January 2010 Issue

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2010

a year to soar

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metroMAGAZINE catch the

features / DEPARTMENTS

spirit

of the Omaha community!

15 features

departments

8 GUIDING LIGHTS

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5

morning star center

18

EXPERT ADVICE from our buyOmahaNOW!™ partners

JOURNEYS

2010: a year to soar

raul saldivar takes on china’s great wall

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10

ENRICHING LIVES nebraska humanities council

with mary e. vandenack

12 15

PLANNING MATTERS

READY 2 SERVE non-profit & YP profiles

with pvw law

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THE SOUL’S JOURNEY with dixie clark

articles | columns

26

META-COMMITMENTS

16

TODAYS SAVINGS

YP Q&A • YOUNG PROFESSIONALS “what I most want to accomplish in 2010”

with swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

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23

HENRY DOORLY ZOO

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VNA’S ANNUAL EVENT FILM STREAMS PRESENTS best of the new york international children’s film festival

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events

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“READY TO SERVE” registration under way

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GRAND OPENING celebrating the salvation army ray and joan kroc center

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EYE ON ART rick anderson gallery

providing support to local shelters

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metroCUISINE ryan’s bistro

welcomes a new françois langur

THE metroSCENE highlights and photo coverage of events in the metro area

bravo!

SAVE THE DATE

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OPEN SPACE. OPEN MIND. kaneko

upcoming events

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HOROSCOPES with sue moon PLANNING MATTER pvw law DAY’S SAVINGS

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swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

on the

cover

COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Snowboarder, Sun Valley, Idaho by ©Laurie and Charles

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metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2010

2010

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expertadvice

FROM LOCAL AREA BUSINESSES

Green Companies and Initiatives

Dentistry

WHAT SHOULD CONSUMERS LOOK FOR IN APPLIANCES? Consider energy efficient appliances and operating costs. Appliances come with an Energy guide sticker that details operating costs. Gas appliances are less expensive to operate and are lower in CO2 emissions so they are a better choice for the environment. Energy Star appliances can save you up to $75 a year in energy costs. If you have electric appliances converting to gas is easier than you think. Simply call your local utility company to schedule a visit from a service technician, and he can get you converted. Visit the M.U.D. Web site for rebate offers on converting to natural gas.

CAN I BE SEDATED DURING MY VISITS TO DR. STANOSHECK’S OFFICE? Patients who become anxious and worried about dental visits can opt for twilight sedation to calm their minds and bodies. New methods for removing decay, such as air abrasion and electric hand pieces, offer less sound, no vibration, and they are so gentle that patients rarely need anesthetic. At Dr. Stanosheck’s office you’ll find dependable dental professionals with advanced training, state-of-the-art technology, personal attention, and genuine compassion. Dr. Stanosheck is a strong member of our community and is passionate about good dentistry for Omaha. His prices are affordable and his office provides evening and weekend appointments.

Metropolitan Utilities District 402-504-7000 | www.livegreenthinkblue.com

Dr. Christopher Stanosheck 402-884-1607 | www.DrStano.com

Insurance / Health Care

Barter / Finance

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH HEALTH CARE PLAN IS BEST FOR ME? First, make sure you understand your health insurance needs. Ask yourself questions such as: How often do I go to the doctor? Am I taking any prescription medications that will continue? Second, estimate what you’re spending on healthcare today or what you may expect to spend in the future (Thinking about starting a family any time soon?) and third do some research and shop around. Talk to a local insurance agent or trusted advisor, or research online to determine what type of coverage is best for you (high or low deductible, office visit costs or copay, coverage of routine care, etc.).

WHY SHOULD WE CONSIDER BECOMING A MEMBER OF A BARTER COMPANY? WHAT MAKE'S ITEX UNIQUE? ITEX is an organization of hundreds of businesses in Nebraska and Iowa, along with thousands worldwide, trading goods and services among members. Using ITEX dollars instead of cash to pay for what you need, your local ITEX office estimates that you can find 80% of what your need.

In a slow economy, your ITEX membership lets you choose from among hundreds of unbillable hours or overstocked inventory to get the services or goods that you need. Your business can attract new clients through advertising without paying cash as well as receiving rebates on the trade dollars you spend.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska 877-613-2583 | www.bcbsne.com

Terri Smieja, Broker / ITEX 402-592-2918 | www.itex.com

Legal

Insurance / Business

WHAT SHOULD I ASK ABOUT LAW FIRM PRICING? A law firm with business savvy and experience can tell you what it will cost to provide you the services you need. Ask whether the firm provides flat rates and estimates. Ask whether the flat fee is all-inclusive or whether there are extras. Many firms charge for photocopies, faxes, local travel, long distance phone calls, etc. Many clients make the mistake of assuming that a low hourly rate will be less expensive than a high hourly rate. Most of the time, an hourly rate reflects experience. Often, that experience is specific to a particular practice area. An experienced attorney with a high hourly rate may well be less expensive than a less experienced attorney with a low hourly rate.

ARE THERE ANY TAX ADVANTAGES FOR ME AS THE EMPLOYER AND WHAT OTHER BENEFIT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE? Making Aflac available may save money through reduced employer tax

Mary Vandenack / Parsonage, Vandenack, Williams LLC 402-504-1300 | www.pvwlaw.com

Cathleen Bauer / Aflac 402-312-7241 | www.aflac.com

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metroMAGAZINE

contributions for employers with Section 125 Cafeteria plans because premiums are paid with pre-tax dollars. Because a cafeteria plan is a salary reduction plan, FICA savings may result for your company.

We work with a leading provider of HR administrative services to bring you programs designed to handle the tasks associated with adhering to COBRA/HIPAA laws. This alliance offers complete COBRA administration to help reduce your administrative duties and help avoid any legal liabilities.

For more advice from local experts go to www.buyOmahaNOW.com

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from the PUBLISHER

potential

UNLOCKING

2010… the year of Pure Potentiality.

One of my favorite authors is Deepak Chopra. In his book “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success” the first law mentioned is the law of Pure Potentiality. Chopra suggests that the source of all creation is pure consciousness, which represents pure potentiality seeking to express itself out of that which is not yet manifested into to that which it can manifest. He also states that when we realize that our True Self is also one of pure potentiality, we begin to align with the power that manifests everything in nature.

These words help me as we begin a new annual cycle, because as I plan for 2010 both personally and professionally, writing down my goals and creating a vision for this year, I know that anything is possible! Everything that I do in life starts within the an unmanifested space of pure potentiality, yet every thought I have, every action I take has the potential to be extraordinary.

What I have learned over the years and have witnessed first hand is that extraordinary things do happen, miracles happen every day… we just need to be open to notice them.

We’ve been taught that “seeing is believing,” yet we also need to learn that “believing is seeing.” This new cycle in 2010 is an open slate filled with, that’s right– pure potentiality.

I sit back and ask myself “What do I want to create this year, this month… in this moment.”

I believe I am coming to discover that there are no limitations other than those that exist in our mind.

A spiritual practice that Deepak Chopra encourages the reader to do in “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success” is to take time each day to commune with nature and to silently witness the intelligence within every living thing, such as sitting silently to savor a sunset, or listen to the sound of the ocean or a stream, or simply smell the scent of a flower. In doing so, I experience the satisfaction gained in my own silence, while I grant myself the opportunity to “enjoy the life throb of ages, the field of pure potentiality and unbounded creativity.” What a beautiful word picture that creates– one which I find compelling both in imagery and in practice.

I wish you all a 2010 of extraordinary experiences, optimized opportunities and creative works of living art… all beginning with the pure potentiality that exists in each one of us.

And I hope that you will find as much gratification as I do in being granted the privilege of sharing this coming year with the many special people who inspire each of us to…

ANDREA L. HOIG ahoig@SpiritofOmaha.com

alh P U B L I C A T I O N S

LAURIE AND CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHS

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metro The Spirit of Omaha

JAN 2010 VOL. 22 NO. 1 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.O. BOX 241611, OMAHA, NE 68124 or e-mailed to: editor@SpiritofOmaha.com Publisher Editor-in-Chief

Staff Photographers

Robert P. Killmer

Caroline Hurley Jennifer Parent Linda Shepard Dave Stock Caroline Thompson

Sales Associates

Featured Writers

Deb Skinner Ashley Spingola David Tarvin

Stephanie Bell John Dechant Molly Garriott Susan Kuhlmann Dave Link Holly McAtee Randy Taft

Andrea L. Hoig Editor/ Creative Director

Administration

Francesca Peterson Layout/Production

Krystal Bottcher

Distribution

Loni Craft Katie Reichert • Shannon Wanna

Interns

SpiritofOmaha.com metro MAGAZINE is wholly owned and operated by the publisher and is not affiliated with any other publication, operating solely on subscription and advertising revenues and the good will of the agencies and charities we support; all of which are very important to the continuing growth and quality of this publication. Thank you to all who support this endeavor.

OFFICE/SALES

402-333-7499 ________________ sales@SpiritofOmaha.com MISSION STATEMENT The mission of ALH Publications is to recognize the ongoing efforts of Omaha-area businesses, organizations and individuals to better the community through their support of charitable and civic causes. ALH Publications also encourages people’s desire to give something back to the community through volunteerism and philanthropy.

Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by ALH Publications, Inc. in their entirety. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 2010 ALH Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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metro The Spirit of Omaha

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2010

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guiding MORNING STAR

Lights

• A CENTER FOR COUNSELING AND CHANGE • by molly garriott

I

T’S THE THRESHOLD OF A NEW YEAR AND THE PERFECT TIME TO TAKE STOCK OF YOUR LIFE.

We’ve ushered out 2009 with a dizzying schedule of parties, shopping, baking, family gatherings and general merry making. Though joyful, it’s a pace we cannot (and perhaps, would not want to) maintain every month. Welcome, January, with your slower pace. We’ve tended to our families and friends; we’ve met year-end business goals. Now is the time to turn our energies inward and cultivate personal growth and healing.

January’s quiet offers us a chance to look inward. The cold weather draws us into our homes where we read and play games by the fire, enjoy rib-sticking family meals, and generally slow down.

We’re drawn metaphorically inwards as well. We look at our past year, give thanks for all the good that came our way and recognize what we need to let go so we have more “room” to welcome in the coming year. Change could be a commitment to healthier eating. Has yoga always intrigued you? Perhaps the time has come to invest your time in yoga practice. Maybe you recognize the need for calm in your harried life.

Meditation might be one way to access this calm. Whatever the particular need, a new year is ahead of you, full of potential and discovery.

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ETTING STARTED

If you are not certain how to begin this fresh start, the Morning Star Center can give you direction. Co-founders Sue Moon and Dixie Clark established the Center for Counseling and Change in 2003 with Kathy Safranek. Through holistic counseling, Dixie and Sue show their clients how they are sabotaging their goals because of old, limiting beliefs.

Sue and Dixie met in 1998 when Dixie took one of Sue’s meditation classes.

Both had worked in the health care

DIXIE CLARK AND SUE MOON CO-FOUNDERS OF THE MORNING STAR CENTER 8

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“It is a safe space where people wanting to change can feel supported and be given real help in a timely fashion.”

– Sue Moon on the Morning Star Center

fields for 25 years when they began conducting workshops together. Dixie recalls: “We felt as though we had a unique combination of spirituality, mind/body techniques, and energy work in the work that we did with clients. We believed it would be very powerful to combine what we did.”

Their initial workshop was called Woman of Substance, which “helped women explore where and to whom they were giving away their power, and to learn to honor themselves,” says Dixie. Its success led to a more spiritual oriented workshop, Sacred Women, which helped participants recognize and access their Divine natures. Wishing to continue the counseling and subsequent healing experienced at the workshops, the two women sought to open a center where their clients could delve deeper into the selfexploration begun in the workshops.

Thus, the Morning Star Center was conceived and born.

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ROWTH AND CHANGE

“The mission of Morning Star is to facilitate the growth of the human spirit,” Sue explains. “It is a safe space where people wanting to change can feel supported and be given real help in a timely fashion,” she continues.

How individuals achieve the change for which they are seeking is as varied as the human race. Therefore, it was important for Morning Star to offer “a variety of modalities to help people make changes on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual levels,” Dixie explains. Sue offers yoga and meditation classes; particularly popular are the Crystal Bowl Meditation classes. Sue, along with coinstructor Sue McCarthy, uses Tibetan crystal bowls as a musical conduit for meditation. The calming power of the Crystal Toning Bowls helps those mediating to relax and release trauma without the pain of reliving the trauma.

Doctors are beginning to discover a link between the soothing sounds of Crystal Toning Bowls and healing.

Another popular program is Reiki. Sue, a Reiki Master, helps her clients clear their “auras” and “chakras” to achieve personal and spiritual healing. Dixie practices Noetic Field Therapy (soul-centered therapy) which she says “brings in spiritual energy to clear out limiting beliefs and judgments to facilitate soul development and awareness.”

“We felt as though we had a unique combination of spirituality, mind/body techniques, and energy work in the work that we did with clients. We believed it would be very powerful to combine what we did.”

– Dixie Clark

Sue and Dixie also host afternoon and evening seminars which focus on a myriad of topics. Dixie conducts “Loving Your Heart Open,” which looks at how rejection and disappointment have curtailed our capacity for trust and how we can combat this emotional withdrawal by opening ourselves to the Spirit and to our true essence. In “Living Your Soul’s Intentions,” she shows participants how to integrate the Soul’s intentions, the highest good for us, into our daily living, and how to counteract all the negative forces that can diminish these intentions.

Every January, Dixie and Sue conduct a women’s weekend retreat at the Knowles Spirituality Center. This year’s topic is “The Art of Letting Go.” So often fear of

the unknown keeps us rooted in behavior patterns, belief systems and relationships that do not support our well-being. The retreat offers women the opportunity to explore ways to build trust and let go of what is holding us back from living fully and divinely.

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OING BEYOND

Morning Star’s services will continue to expand in 2010. Sue, who has studied astrology since 1972, will continue to build on her newly established astrology series in which she not only counsels others in astrology but also teaches it. Dixie will introduce Saturday morning programs called Holistic Healing and The Soul’s Journey. Though most of their programs take place on site at Morning Star Center, Sue and Dixie are hoping to record some of their classes for remote learning via compact disc and the internet.

We all feel “stuck” at some point in our lives.

But it is vital that we not roll over and play dead, accepting this limited state. “When people change the relationship they have with themselves, when they learn to love and accept all parts of themselves, they open up to a tremendous amount of healing energy, and both their inner and outer world change,” Dixie has observed in her years at Morning Star.

Sue describes the center she began with Dixie six and a half years ago as a “peaceful and heart-centered space.” Their years of extensive training and compassionate natures ensure success for their clients. “If you have any area of your life that you feel blocked in, we can help with quick methods for change,” she counsels. It will be change for the better. What a prefect way to begin a new year. m

For more information, visit the Morning Star Center website at www.morningstarcenter.com. Initial consultations with prospective clients are offered free of charge.

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2010

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commitments • COMMITMENTS AT THE SOUL LEVEL January again! Another New Year! Last year at this time, I wrote about making resolutions into reality. I am extremely happy to report that I have witnessed several success stories this past year. Those success stories, and the belief that we can all have one, are among the reasons that I show up at the gym, write these articles, and practice yoga. If your resolutions did not become reality this past year, continue the journey in 2010. “It does not matter how many times we fall. It only matters how many times we get up again.” That saying used to make me angry. Now I am grateful for having heard it so many times. One of my spiritual mentors constantly makes statements of that nature. She is right. We must get up as many times as it takes.

Shortly, after last year’s January issue was published, I read an article by Sally Kempton in Yoga Journal on the topic of “meta-commitments”. The concept of metacommitments comports totally with how to make New Year’s Resolutions a reality.

• WHAT IS A “META-COMMITMENT”?

Sally Kempton states, “There is a nearly magical connection between commitment and breakthrough. Once you have definitely decided, the universe moves too. Your hidden powers, your underground streams of creativity, and your previously untapped capacities for love get activated when you decide that something or someone is important enough to inspire you to hang in there.”

“The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you commit yourself to it.”

by mary e. vandenack

to live with integrity no matter what. One of my personal meta-commitments is to take total and absolute care of and responsibility for my physical, emotional, and spiritual health no matter what.

• HOW DO I DETERMINE WHICH META-COMMITMENTS ARE RIGHT FOR ME? Remember that a meta-commitment is a soul level concept. It does not mean staying at a job that makes you miserable. It does mean making a commitment to the values that will lead you to a job or career path that feeds the soul and it does mean making changes in a way that honors your meta-commitment.

To determine what meta-commitments are right for you, take an inventory. Take this inventory over a period of time. I’ve been doing it since I read Kempton’s article a year ago. I regularly meditate. At first, I had a long list of jumbled possible metacommitments. At this juncture, appropriate meta-commitments have clearly revealed themselves to me. They are few in number and represent desired life themes for whatever time I have left on this earth. m

Make a list of the friends that you value most. What are their qualities? Why do you value them? Make a list of what you love to do. Identify the places you’ve been to that touch your heart. What type of music do you love to listen to? When you are at peace, what thoughts cross your mind? What makes your heart sing?

Make no immediate judgments about what the list reveals to you. Instead, continue your current journey, but become more observant. Over the next few months, really notice your reactions to people, places, and things. Continue to journal.

Your meta-commitments will reveal themselves to you.

– Mack R. Douglas We live in a society of short-term gratification. Being committed to health in the longrun is often compromised by the extra glass of wine, the second helping of a rich dessert, or the television show that interferes with the trip to the gym. The excitement of a new friend or a new relationship may seem more interesting than the challenges of achieving continued satisfaction in a long-term relationship. The latest electronic gadget may seem more interesting than increasing the savings account, but it might keep us stuck in a job that does not make sense anymore on our life’s journey.

• LIVING META-COMMITMENTS Once you have begun to identify meta-commitments, the universe will support your commitment. This does not mean that you sit down and it magically happens.

It is a “cause and effect” proposition. Perhaps you have determined that a metacommitment for you is kindness. You note that your particular job is a cut-throat position that rewards backstabbing and punishes kindness. If that is the case, write a resume. Network. Take the steps that will help you find the job that allows you to have an income and honor your meta-commitment.

A meta commitment is a commitment at the soul level. It is a wholehearted life defining commitment. It is a commitment to show up for a person, for yourself, for a long-desired goal (such as writing a book), or for a personal wellness plan, even when you are not in the mood and regardless of how things are going. When you make a meta commitment, you just show up.

If your meta-commitment is to personal health, join a gym. Go to a class.

Find yourself a work out partner. Take classes on eating healthy. Find healing friends who enjoy brown rice, vegetables, and tea.

A meta commitment is a fundamental life theme that reflects itself in all of your relationships, in your career, in your spiritual life, and in your hobbies. Some examples are: to live a life of service, to be kind in all circumstances, to give to the community, and

Do whatever it takes to honor your meta-commitment. Be aware. Re-evaluate.

Forgive yourself for any mis-steps on the path. If you fall down, get up again and again and again. Re-commit. m

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the soul’s journey • with dixie clark

your path in 2010 What a ride it was in 2009! For some, it’s a relief that it’s over.

For others, there can be regrets of good times passed or loved ones leaving.

For all of us, this is an opportunity to look at the past year to understand the Soul’s purpose during this time.

As we move forward into the New Year, our thoughts are often filled with the hope that making our annual resolutions bring. We make statements such as, “This is the year when I am going to ___________,” “This year my goal is ___________,” or, “This year I plan to stop (fill in your own addiction here).”

For many of us, we continue to make variations of the same resolution and sabotage them with the same patterns over and over. We attempt to move away from the old situations, the year past, without collecting the learnings that these situations brought to us, changing the patterns that no longer work, or opening up to the gifts that are present for our growth. We continue to do what we swear we’re never going to do again, and then beat ourselves up for it.

Shame is never a good motivator for lasting change.

On our soul’s journey, we move through many situations that seem difficult, even traumatic in this physical form. However, every situation and person that we have encountered thus far, no matter how difficult, was part of our soul’s purpose to help us grow and evolve. So, we can begin to open up to a new way of looking at our lives.

To begin to understand your soul’s purpose, it is helpful to ask yourself some questions to bring this information to your awareness. Think back over the past year to some of the significant events or patterns that occurred.

From a place of inner stillness and non-judgment, ask yourself the following questions: What were the times and places I gave my power away and stopped being responsible to myself? What internal resources or beliefs would have been helpful to me in those situations? How have I grown because of this?

What themes kept reoccurring? What was the gift or blessing that came forward as a result of my experiences in 2009?

Now stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and look through the eyes of your Soul, knowing that it holds no fear or judgment but experiences only the purest Love. As you are looking through these loving eyes, open up to your Soul’s purpose in all of this. What was Life asking of you here? Was it to open your heart? To trust yourself? To move forward with courage? The soul’s purpose is often beyond our physical senses, but is always working for our highest good, guiding us toward our destiny. When the soul’s purpose can be seen in the patterns of our lives, life becomes a celebration. Begin to trust that we are all part of something much larger than our physical being, and that everything that happens is for our highest good. Our job is to cooperate with our soul’s expression.

dixie clark, ms, mss, lpc www.morningstarcenter.com

If you sailed through 2009 with abundance and joy, and handled all challenges with grace and ease, that’s awesome. Continue doing so in 2010. If, on the other hand, you are holding on to regrets, anger, or longing for days passed, then you might find some of the following suggestions helpful. Some of these may take some time, but when you set your intention to do what’s for your highest good, these changes begin to take place.

First of all, sit quietly and slow down your breathing. Think of a time when you really felt loving for something or someone, and open up to that feeling now. Hold that experience as you check through the following items: 1. Imagine the you of 2009 out in front of you. Send that loving energy to him or her. Express appreciation for all that you did. Send that energy through your whole timeline of 2009 to change the vibration.

2. Take responsibility for the choices you made. Forgive yourself for any judgments you’re carrying about what you did or didn’t do.

3. Love those parts of you that continued to repeat old patterns.

Know that you’ll change when it’s time, and that you’re learning and being strengthened during it all.

4. Change the questions you ask yourself, as that’s where the wisdom lies.

For example: • Instead of why did this happen to me? Ask, what was my soul’s purpose?

• Instead of whose fault was this? Ask, what am I to be learning here?

• Instead of why do I keep screwing up? Ask, what qualities do I need to handle this differently?

5. Visualize yourself having the qualities that you need. Re-experience a situation you’re holding on to in a new way to help you transform it.

6. Set your intention to let go of what no longer serves your Highest Good.

7. Live in the moment; that is the only place change occurs.

8. Trust that everything happened for your learning and growth and that you were supported throughout the year.

Think of who you are now compared to the you of a year ago. Chances are, you’re not the same. You’ve lived, loved, experienced disappointment, maybe even heartache. And you’ve grown on levels you’re not even aware of. Often, you’ve been “sandpapered” into a better you, and your soul has been leading you on this journey. It has been your biggest fan and cheerleader. Always present and loving it all.

Happy New Year to us all.

May this year be filled with love, joy and laughter! m

Dixie Clark, MS, MSS, LPC is Director and co-founder of Morning Star Center, a holistic wellness center.

A licensed counselor and ordained minister, she holds a masters degree in both counseling and spiritual science. With over 26 years experience in mind/body therapies, she combines psychology and spirituality to help people release emotional blocks, heal past trauma and change limiting beliefs.

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“The mission of the Hope Center for Kids is to break the cycle of hopelessness by providing tangible hope for Omaha’s inner-city youth through faith, education, employment and collaboration.”

THE HOPE CENTER...

• Has an employment training program for youth ages 14-19 years old • Provided over 1,000 hours of employment skills training • Provided almost 8,000 hours of employment for inner-city youth through 21 part-time jobs • Provides a safe, wholesome environment for 400 youth every weekend at Hope Skate Employment Spotlight: Hope is Learned

The Hope Center is helping raise up a generation of Purity, Passion, and Purpose!

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF HOPELESSNESS for Omaha’s inner-city youth since 1998 through:

• • • •

Faith Education Employment Collaboration HOPE CENTER FOR KIDS 2200 N. 20th Street • Omaha, NE 68110 Phone (402) 341-4673 www.hopecenterforkids.com

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YPconnections

metroMAGAZINE

CONNECTING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS www.ready2serveomaha.org

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PROFILE

“YP” ORGANIZATION PROFILE

togetherinc.

greateromahaGLBTprofessionals

contact michelle moyes-dill mmoyesdill@togetheromaha.org TOGETHER, INC. is a local independent non-profit that was organized as the “Together” cooperative effort after the tornado disaster in 1975.

Religious leaders from several denominations quickly realized that thousands of families in Omaha need relief every day and opened the FREE services of Together Inc. to provide for the basic necessities: food, clothing, and shelter.

LAST YEAR WE SERVED OVER 27,000 people in need by providing food to over 15,847 people through our Food Pantry and clothing and household items to 11,359 people through our FREE store.

We assisted 803 people with rent, state documentation, and vital medical prescriptions. Our Holiday Programs provided 827 children with new toys and a Holiday Dinner at Home for over 250 families.

TO ASSIST OUR MISSION of bringing Together our community to assist those in need with Hope, Dignity and Compassion, contact Michelle Moyes-Dill or Erin Stoll to find out about leadership opportunites that range from a posistion on our Board of Directors to a fun day of volunteering with friends and family.

Together, Inc. will be the leader in providing Service to those in need, Education to inspire change and Collaboration to sustain that change.

HOW WILL YOU HELP OMAHA?

WHAT IS GOGLBT? The mission of GOglbt (Greater Omaha GLBT Professionals) is to advance growth and equality for its members, businesses, and allies by providing educational, networking, and community-building opportunities. We offer member networking and social events as well as speakers on a variety of topics to enhance our professional and person interests including projects to increase community awareness and promote positive GLBT images.

DO I HAVE TO BE A “PROFESSIONAL” TO JOIN? Professional is a term we use to describe anyone, newly employed or retired, working or not working, who practices setting a good example for the community through career and personal actions. With over 300 members, our group represents a wide range of individuals including educators, accountants, waiters, social workers, artists, business entrepreneurs, and more!

WHEN AND WHERE DO YOU MEET? GOglbt meets the first Thursday of each month at various locations which offer community visibility and support for GLBT-friendly venues.

Meetings typically run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE GOGLBT? Newcomers and allies are always welcome and encouraged to attend!

Visit our website at www.GOglbt.org, our Facebook page, or email GOglbt@cfep-ne.org for more information.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

juliedewitt

DIRECTOR OF CLIENT DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O.

contact robert patterson rpatterson@kidscanomaha.org

BOARD MEMBER: INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES (formerly NCCJ of the Midlands)

I first became involved with Inclusive Communities as a volunteer. I served as a counselor for Inclusive Communities’ (then NCCJ’s) UniTown residential camp program, which brings together a diverse group of area high school students to explore and address the prejudice, discrimination, and bigotry occurring in their homes, schools, and communities. The opportunity was especially appealing to me because the camps in which I participated included students from my high school, Omaha Central. While the objective of this program is to open the minds of students and inspire them to become leaders, my experience as a staff member was powerful, and I knew I would always be attached to Inclusive Communities in some way.

Now, as a board member, I can help further the work of the organization through education, outreach and fundraising. Few people know that Inclusive Communities provides programming for adults. Many businesses have implemented diversity programs or are considering them, and an organization such as Inclusive Communities can

help them start to “walk the talk” and show employees that an inclusive, welcoming work environment is a priority. There are eight types of prejudice, and many people do not even realize they carry some of these around with them every day and what forms they take. While adult prejudices are more deeply-rooted than children’s, simply increasing self-awareness at an individual level can change the feel of a work environment. I would like to help connect organizations interested in this type of programming to Inclusive Communities.

Because the Inclusive Communities board of directors is highly diverse, its members are exposed to many different perspectives. Board members challenge one another, explore new ideas and decide whether each board initiative supports the mission of Inclusive Communities. Like many non-profits, Inclusive Communities has faced challenges recently due to the economy, however, now is the time for board members to reflect on their strengths and re-dedicate themselves. I know I am fortunate to serve among a group of men and women who are doing just that to ensure Inclusive Communities will continue its work of making the Omaha community one that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

JULIE DEWITT 33 33

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metroMAGAZINE

whatwouldyoumostlike

YPconnections

CONNECTING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

karissajohnson

erinstoll

HR PERSONNEL CLERK IV OPPD

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT TOGETHER, INC.

YOU KNOW THAT FEELING YOU HAVE WHEN YOU’VE JUST SEEN AN INCREDIBLY AMAZING FILM? That’s the feeling that I want to have on December 31, 2010. I want to look back on the year and be amazed by what just took place.

In February, I look forward to attending a conference in Memphis with a young lady that I mentor through Kids Across America. Later this spring, I will be traveling to a wedding in Chicago to support two friends of mine KARISSA as they start a new life together.

JOHNSON 36 My adventures will also land me in North Carolina, where I look forward to sharing my gifts at an international church conference geared toward development, ministry, and empowerment. As a beginning etiquette instructor, I look forward to obtaining etiquette certification in order to effectively instruct and train people of all ages. With this certification, I will find great pleasure in providing etiquette training to young professionals, local organizations, and traveling to give presentations on the value of being a polished professional! This development piece, along with beginning graduate school in the fall, will hopefully aid in new opportunities for career advancement! I am thrilled about 2010!

EVERY YEAR I MAKE THE SAME NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS: “Give up chocolate and work out 7 days a week.” Or, I tackle something huge like “Run a Marathon” as I did this year. But, for 2010 I decided that instead of torturing myself with no chocolate and 20 mile runs that I would take on a fun project instead. So with the ERIN encouragement of my husband STOLL 31 and many close friends, I have decided to start a fashion and style blog. I’ve only just begun to put the pieces in place, but my goal is to help women find their own unique style in an affordable way by utilizing the clothing they already have in their closets. My motto is: “Women run out of ideas, not clothes,” so I will show how easy it is to update your wardrobe with what’s already in your closet, plus a few key pieces that are chic and affordable.

Hopefully with the ideas and tips on my blog, women will get inspired to “shop” their closets for a new outfit without spending tons of money! And if I have time left over, maybe I’ll do a few halfmarathons too!

gerardwellman

lisatonjes

INSTRUCTOR/PH.D. STUDENT UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA

BUSINESS MANAGER TICKETS IN TIME

IN 2010, I WOULD MOST LIKE TO ENCOURAGE POLICYMAKERS TO PURSUE A MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIP between the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the city’s Metropolitan Area Transit. Free transit passes for UNO students on the MAT bus system is a necessity, not only to alleviate parking congestion on campus, but to help the university achieve its environmentallyfriendly initiatives. As a UNO student, employee, Student Senator, and member of the Young Professionals Transportation Committee, this will require a significant, collaborative effort with policymakers, research on UNO’s peer universities’ approach to transit, consensus GERARD building with UNO and MAT, and WELLMAN 28 networking with all interested parties in the metropolitan area. Omaha has remarkable potential to become a progressive, sustainable, and cosmopolitan city that is attractive to young professionals. Without a robust public transit system and investment from local universities and employers, however, Omaha’s potential will remain unreached.

IN 2010, I WOULD LIKE TO EXPAND MY VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES to include one non-profit organization that I have a passion for helping. For years, my focus has been on being involved with several Young Professional organizations that do a lot of activities. I think it would be great to have an opportunity to help a charity on a consistent basis.

I also plan to grow my business as a Professional Organizer.

2010 will be my 4th year in business as Helping Organize People Everyday (H.O.P.E.), and I really want to either be working directly with a customer in their home or business or sharing a tip or giving advice through social media or a blog everyday in 2010.

My biggest goal for 2010 is to have a LISA really fun wedding in TONJES 35 April and a great start to our marriage.

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2010

a year to soar

?

toaccomplishin2010 jaypalu ARCHITECT/SENIOR ASSOCIATE DLR GROUP

IN 2010, I WILL FOCUS MY TIME WITH THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL on issues identified by our outreach events as priorities for Omaha young professionals. I hope to continue to refine and expand our existing programs and events and look for ways to advocate for increased awareness in the areas of arts and culture, community development, inclusive communities, public engagement, and public JAY PALU transportation. As the 2010 Board Chair I will work to gather input from our community to be able to continue to provide city leaders and the Greater Omaha Chamber Board and staff with the young professional perspective on issues that affect our City.

metroMAGAZINE catch the

spirit

of the Omaha community!

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personal TRAVELS

Raul Saldivar completed an arduous Great Wall Marathon, not for personal glory but for the love of disabled kids

journeys

by susan kuhlmann and sarah vonk

“People put value on your job title and how much money you make, but it all comes down to friendship and integrity.”

– Raul Saldivar

S

PIRITED by a love of athletics and adventure, Raul Saldivar’s life is committed to helping those in need.

Throughout the years, Saldivar has run five marathons and, in 2007, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro for the Climb for Kids Campaign, which raised $20,000 for Romanian children. While Raul’s dedication has taken him to many countries, his inspiration knows no bounds.

Saldivar is the vice president of human resources and the chief integrity officer for Mosaic. He has spent over twenty years working at Mosaic, which is an organization that provides support and partnership for disabled individuals.

When he was a child, Raul’s family, who were migrant workers in Texas, moved to Axtell, Nebraska. He spoke no English when he started kindergarten; however, he quickly learned the language. As he grew older, Saldivar found his groove in athletics, especially wresting. In fact, he was Axtell’s first state champion. “That built my confidence and self-esteem,” Saldivar recalls.

In 1975, he participated in the Olympic free style competition and joined the U.S. team’s trip to Communist

Romania. This eye-opening experience “My whole career has been dedicated gave him a greater understanding of the to supporting people with disabilities. It freedom given in the United States. came from my experience as a teenager,” During a two-day trip from Frankfort, Saldivar reflects. As a mentor, he had one Romania, Raul and the team came across particular client diagnosed with cerebral the Communist Romanian militia. They palsy, and they learned to communicate watched as the military men, who were through nonverbal signs. Saldivar was armed with machine guns and dogs, struck by the man’s upbeat attitude and inspected the rail cars. The inspection determination to do the best with what was also under the careful gaze of other he had. militia guards who were posted on street “I decided this was a life calling and corners. During their stay in Romania, the mission,” he reveals. Instead of just taking Americans could speak with other care of people, Saldivar saw the wrestlers; however, they were banned importance of treating others with respect. from communicating with anyone else.

“People put value on your job title and While excelling at wrestling, Saldivar how much money you make, but it all soon unearthed another passion: working comes down to friendship and integrity,” at Bethphage (one of Mosaic’s founding During a later trip to Romania (for organizations). He was impressed with human resource consulting work), the work done at Bethphage and the Saldivar saw how that government number of people they help. Inspired, treated people with disabilities. He was Saldivar resolved to make his life’s work horrified with the way children were helping those with disabilities and institutionalized. Raul knew he had to decided to pursue a degree in special help. After working with noneducation. He attended McCook government agencies and others, he was Community College, graduated from able to get homes built for the children in Kearney State College, and returned to need. “We saw the kids thrive,” he Bethphage, where he worked his way up expresses. After they were placed in through the organization. homes, the children began feeding and

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dressing themselves, tasks no one had previously believed they could accomplish.

He adds, “We brought happiness to them.”

His earlier experience laid the groundwork for Saldivar’s love of international relations. Additional work in a human resource leadership training program motivated him to try new challenges. In 2001, he joined the Omaha Running Club and was seeking new challenges when the option of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro became available.

Looking for someone to share the formidable task, he met a running partner, a lady in fact, who would later become his wife.

The six-day experience included climbing five to six hours for the first three days, followed by a more difficult climb. Decreased oxygen made climbers move more slowly, focusing on putting one foot in front of the other. “We had a great group,” Raul raves, and despite altitude sickness, all but one made it to the top. Because of his outstanding efforts more than $20,000 was raised for the children in Romania.

Two years later, his spirit of adventure again surfaced. Considering that Raul Saldivar’s life goal is to visit every continent, he was intrigued by the Great Wall Marathon. However, this particular marathon not only meant getting back into a training routine, but also required 50 percent more training time than a regular marathon.

The Great Wall Marathon is run in a single file line, with four miles on the actual wall (these areas are not generally visited by tourists). The final portion of the race is nearly straight up, according to Saldivar, and the course encompasses over 5,000 steps.

“It’s considered an adventure marathon,” he mentions, noting that the goal for most participants is to simply complete the race.

There were checkpoints that each runner had to reach by a certain time in order to continue, and some were not able to reach the finish line. Competitors finished anywhere between three hours, 45

minutes to eight hours. Raul completed the entire race in seven hours.

Saldivar began training in May, doing much of his work on an elliptical machine to protect his knees and back.

He also worked on a stair master, and did weight lifting for toning and strength. In January, he began running thirty miles a week, which then built up to fifty miles.

“My main goal was to survive,” Saldivar divulges. This marathon endeavor matched his sense of adventure with the ability to raise funds for Mosaic’s work in Romania and Africa. The organization solicited financial support for his effort from corporate sponsors, individuals, online appeals and letters.

Saldivar joined a team consisting of runners ranging from Des Moines to South Africa. They built a strong relationship and supported one another during the race. Saldivar relayed that 1,500 individuals participated, and about 400 ran the actual marathon. They were impressed and encouraged by the children in the countryside who greeted them with flowers and high fives.

Before the race, Raul and his wife spent time in China. They visited Beijing, the Forbidden City, and the Olympic site’s swimmers’ cube and “bird nest”.

Later, tours escorted them to jade and silk factories as well as Tiananmen Square.

After the race, they explored the Terracotta warriors’ site in Xian, floated down the water on a Yangtze river cruise, visited the panda research center at Chengdu and examined the rock sculptures, including several Buddha statues nestled within the caves.

Because China heavily depends on tourism from the United States and other countries, the Saldivars felt they could travel and interact freely with others. The guides they encountered at the locations shared their personal opinions on any subject without reservation. The Saldivars tasted delicious food, although, Raul mentioned the fact that, “Eastern restrooms are not the greatest.”

Two observations from the Saldivar’s Eastern adventure were the massive number of people in China and the poor air quality. Raul also notes that, “We were glad to be back home in Nebraska to see the sky, moon, sun and stars.”

In all his endeavors, Raul credits his wife Ellen as a major supporter.

Throughout his training, whether it was accompanying him on a bike or providing water to quench his thirst, she has been right by his side. During the race, she rang cowbells (signed by the Mosaic staff) to encourage him. In a couple years, Saldivar has plans for another endeavor; whether it be hiking in New Zealand, biking across Europe, or another equally adventurous challenge, the possibilities for Raul Saldivar are endless. m

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Enriching Lives for Over 20 Years

NEBRASKA HUMANITIES COUNCIL “CULTIVATING AN UNDERSTANDING OF OUR HISTORY AND CULTURE”

T

hough formed in 1965, the National Endowment for the Humanities has its roots two centuries previous. Thomas Jefferson was an avid proponent of what is now termed a Liberal Arts education. Centered on the Humanities- literature, history, philosophy and theology, to name a few disciplinesJefferson believed this intellectual training was the foundation of a thoughtful, reasoning and informed populace. Such a populace, furthermore, was the cornerstone of democracy. A republic simply could not stand if its citizenry could not think.

Congress formalized Jeffersonian thought when it established the National Endowment for the Humanities over three decades ago. Its purpose: “To bring the Humanities directly to the American people,” says Jane Hood, Executive Director of the Nebraska Humanities Council. Scientific discovery during the 60s was aided by National Science programs and the successes of the space program. Like their scientific counterparts, scholars in the Humanities advocated an educated public. Being well-versed in the Liberal Arts, they contended, fostered critical thinking skills that prepared people for life. Teaching people how to think, not just what to think, made them not only marketable but worthy protectors of the democratic tradition.

The question remained how to make the Humanities accessible to the wider public. Recognizing that not all people attend college and that not all college students pursue a Liberal Arts degree, Congress sought to make the Humanities available to the general public. It initially hoped local universities and colleges would offer programming for public consumption. It then looked to state governments to provide it. In the end, Congress determined that the non-profit route, with a board of directors to represent the state but not tied to any one political affiliation, would be the best vehicle to bring the Humanities to the general public. Thus, state councils, were formed.

The Nebraska Humanities Council was established in 1974. Its mission is to “cultivate a better understanding of our history and our culture,” says Hood. It offers programming that helps Nebraskans understand who we are as humans, to explore where we have been as a race so we can better grasp where we are going.

PROGRAMMING AND RESOURCES The Nebraska Humanities Council fulfills its mission through a myriad of programming statewide. Perhaps one of the most notable is Chautauqua, a traveling living history program. “Bright Dreams, Hard Times: America in the 1930s” was the theme of this past year’s program and will continue this summer in Columbus and North Platte. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Louisiana Governor Huey Long, novelist Zora Neale Hurston, humorist Will Rogers and other key players from this time transported 21st century Nebraskans back to the 1930s Depression with their portrayals. “Chautauqua is first person history that looks at Nebraska and Great Plains history and heritage,” explains Hood.

The Nebraska Humanities Council continually develops new programming to respond to the changing needs of its citizenry. To this end, it created the Prime Time Reading Time program, a family literacy program that pro-

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motes interest in reading while strengthening reading skills. The program works through the public library system. Families gather for story time featuring award-winning children’s literature followed by a book discussion. The program predominantly caters to native Spanish speaking families whose language barrier makes reading “particularly challenging,” says Hood.

Those of our nation’s population who live in or regularly travel to large metropolitan areas can take in a dizzying array of museum exhibits. But for those who live in small town America, the opportunity to see large, touring exhibits are scattered at best. The Nebraska Humanities Council has formed a partnership with the Smithsonian Institute called “MOMS,” Museum on Main Street, to accommodate this underserved sector of the greater population. Traveling exhibits come to small town and rural America. Currently, “New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music” is on tour as the 2009 MOMS exhibit, showing locally at the Preston Love Jazz Museum.

In 1984, the Nebraska Humanities Council established its Speakers Bureau. With over 400 speakers and topics from which to choose, it is the largest humanities council speaker bureau in the nation, says Hood.

Historical societies, museums, libraries, schools and universities can solicit talks on such varied topics as Swedish pioneers in Nebraska, and the Allied invasion of Japan.

Teachers have extensive classroom resources at their disposal thanks to the Council. An extensive video collection reinforces class lectures. Traveling Trunks and Encounter Kits, like the Nebraska History Trunk and the Swedish and Vietnamese Traveling Trunks, provide hands-on learning experiences. An Exhibit Collection, ranging from the poetry of William Wordsworth to The Dust Bowl of the 1930s, supplements text book entries with in-

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SpiritofOmaha.com

by molly garriott

depth exploration. Though ideal for the class room, these programs are not limited to Nebraska schools. Civic groups, book clubs, and continuing education groups can also access these resources.

NOVEMBER IN OMAHA This past November, Omaha hosted the 2009 National Humanities Conference for the Federation of State Humanities Councils. 324 cultural and education leaders from all over the United States attended the three-day conference. “Omaha has experienced such a cultural Renaissance in the last ten years,” Hood observes. “It was the perfect time to showcase the city.” Hood says she and her staff and host of volunteers wanted to introduce conference attendees to Omaha through the city’s numerous cultural institutions. It hosted a documentary film presentation at Filmstreams and sponsored a series of cultural tours within the city. Participants floated down the Missouri River from Omaha to Plattsmouth and listened to Lewis and Clark scholars talk about early mapping of the river front and visited the Henry Doorly Zoo to learn about species preservation. Opera Omaha, in conjunction with the Holocaust Education Project, performed “Brundibar,” the opera originally composed at the Terezin concentration camp in Czechoslovakia.

Reports from conference attendees were glowing. Pat Williamsen, Director of Development from the Ohio Humanities Council, had this to say about Omaha: “After all the years of believing that each Federation conference was a trip to the intellectual mountain, filled with peaks I will never be able to scale, I am so pleased to find the intellectual epicenter for the public humanities, not in the mountains, but on the plains.”

Hood said the feedback she received from those attending the conference merely confirmed what she has always known to be true: there is no place like Nebraska. m

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“ever since I was a little kid I wanted to be a chef…. we make our dishes from scratch.”

– ryan gish

RYAN GISH OWNER OF RYAN’S BISTRO

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cuisine

metro

STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT PHOTOS BY METROMAGAZINE

enduringquality

RYAN’S BISTRO Ryan Gish has spent his life around food.

Growing up on a Nebraska farm, he was surrounded by it, helping his mother in her garden, learning to cook by her side in their farmhouse kitchen. This exposure to food, how it is grown and how it is prepared, fostered in Gish a desire to make it his livelihood. “Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to be a chef,” he recalls.

R

Time spent with his mother was the first tender seedlings of what would become the established gastromic garden of his adulthood: his vocation of chef and restaurant owner.

Last month Ryan’s Bistro celebrated its first anniversary of business. Located at 17607 Gold Plaza, on the north side of 177th and West Center Road, Ryan’s Bistro has French neighborhood feel that is friendly and welcoming. “It’s like you’re walking into somebody’s home,” says Gish, “It’s cozy.”

The bistro seats around 70 diners and can accommodate more patrons at the small bar. Its walls are painted a soft, salmon color and decorated with large oil canvases.

The wood floors and tables topped with white tablecloths continue the restaurant’s warm, casual feel.

At night, candle light softens the atmosphere, and a fireplace invites guests to linger over an after diner cup of coffee or the last of the wine. Many of Gish’s customers tell him that the bistro reminds them of restaurants they have frequented on their travels.

Though atmosphere is an integral component of dining out, the most elemental is the food. “We make our dishes from scratch,” says Gish. This may sound like a no brainer.

After all, if you wanted reconstituted soup, you could stay home and pop open a can of Campbell’s. But many restaurants serve prepared soups, salad dressings and sauces. Ryan’s Bistro makes all its pasta sauces and pan sauces for its meat entrees to order. The dressing for its signature salad is also made to order. Desserts and breads are homemade off premises.

Gish has developed two menus for lunch and dinner.

Appetizers range from the innovative (bacon wrapped dates) to traditional fare (bruschetta with a balsamic glaze).

The bistro’s Signature Salad has a spinach base with brown sugar pears, blue cheese, peppadew peppers, and a warm bacon almond dressing.

Sandwiches run the gamut from BBQ to burgers.

A selection are served either as wraps or paninis and include such combinations as turkey, bacon and avocado with Havarti cheese and a chipotle aioli or steak and smoked Gouda with A-1 sauce and caramelized onions and peppers.

Entrees include ribs, pastas, chicken and beef dishes served with a choice of fries, garlic mashed potatoes, Gouda mac and cheese, onion strings, white truffle risotto and pesto corn. Land-locked though we are in Nebraska, Ryan’s Bistro nonetheless offers plenty to tempt the seafood lover.

Cioppino, a stew of mussels, clams, shrimp and scallops in a Miso sauce is a favorite of Gish. “You don’t have to spend a lot or you can,” says Gish, “The menu allows people to spend what they want.”

In the last year, Gish has changed the menu three times according to the season. He likes to adjust his offerings to fit the season. Braised short ribs, a perfect cold weather fare, have been recently reinstituted. Pork osso bucco is another winter staple that took the summer off but has found its place on the menu now that the air is crisp and the temperatures have dipped.

The wine list is extensive, offering labels from France, Germany, and Italy to Argentina and Australia and points in between. California wines are also featured heavily, along with bottles from vineyards in Oregon and Washington state. Much like the bistro’s menu, there are wines to fit every taste and price point. You can sip a $5.00 Australian Shiraz to accompany a casual weeknight dinner or commemorate a special occasion with a bottle of Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon. If your tastes run more to whites, there are several California Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs from which to choose as well as Pinot Grigios from Italy and sweeter German Rieslings.

Though primarily a restaurant, Ryan’s Bistro also is a full-service catering business. It can provide box lunches for corporate meetings or accommodate a 300-guest wedding. Of the 13 years Gish has been in the food business, ten of those years have been with catering operations.

Ryan’s Bistro is open seven days a week, from 11am “until the last customer leaves.” Business has been brusque. The restaurant fills up every night. But not to worry; Gish says he accepts reservations for both big and small parties.

To make reservations, call 614-2202, or check out the menu at www.ryansbistro.com. Whether you stop in to share a bottle of wine with a friend on $12 Tuesdays, channel your inner Rat Pack with a martini and Michael Walker’s music, or nestle in by the fireplace with a plate of tenderloin medallions, Ryan’s Bistro is a cozy spot to banish winter’s chill. m

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ryan’s bistro 17607 gold plaza (north side of 177th and west center)

(402) 614-2202 www.RyansBistro.com

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metroMAGAZINE

eye ON ART

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STORY BY DAVE LINK PHOTOS COURTESY OF RICK ANDERSON GALLERY

RICK ANDERSON GALLERY ick Anderson has all the makings of the quintessential American success story; starting with a passion for photography that first showed itself as a young child, a continued love and development of that passion through trial and error, and now the break out talent and results that have him poised on the start of a regionally and nationally recognizable career.

R

“As a kid I grew up near Candlewood Lake, and at the time that was pretty much the end of the city,” Anderson said with a chuckle. “Well, they used to launch hot air balloons from around there. So, I’d always jump on my bike, grab my camera and cruise up to where they were launching from to take pictures.”

From there, Anderson’s love of photography slowly developed over the years. Aside from the usual course in black and white photography that is available in numerous high schools throughout the Metro area, Anderson has simply fine tuned his natural abilities. As he grew older, he began shooting photos of his son through the first few years of his life and eventually moved his photographic interests along to sporting events and city skylines.

Whether most sports enthusiasts know it or not – especially Husker fans – they most likely already own one or two of Anderson’s photos taken during game days in cities like Lincoln. Since 1991, more than 150 posters have been printed featuring his work surrounding collegiate sporting events. Buckeyes, Huskers, Blue Jays, Long Horns and Vols all have had the privilege of being immortalized through Anderson’s aperture.

Every major American city and a few nearby countries have also been captured through the lens of Anderson’s camera. New York, Chicago, Omaha, and Havana show their true colors and personalities when seen through Anderson’s eagle eye.

Having firmly established himself in the world of sports and panoramic city skylines, in the last year or two Anderson has been able to turn his attention to his true passion when it comes to the art of clicking the shutter: scenery in America.“This country is one of the greatest places to live, so why not show it off,” Anderson said.

Opening his own gallery in September of 2009 in Regency Court next to Kobe Steakhouse, Anderson now has a chance to display high-end, limited and signed editions of his work.“When you’re photographing things like college and professional football or baseball games, there’s a lot of paperwork and red tape you have to go through with licensing and approvals,” Anderson said, “But with nature, it’s like the landscape or animal is in front of you for the expressed purpose of being captured on film.”

production format and location, location, location. Once Anderson had the right subjects and process locked down it become a matter of choosing the mounting material and any artistic filters before the photo is put into print.

Though Anderson does not alter any of his images from the time they are taken to the time they are produced, he does make creative choices as to which photos would be appropriate to treat with a process that results with the photo looking more like a hand-crafted painting than a scene captured on film.

“It’s something that I’ve only done with the select few photos that I’ve put on display here. The process just wouldn’t be appropriate for most images, but the ones that it works for turn out amazingly well,” Anderson said.

Once all is said and done, owners of Anderson’s work have a unique piece of art that stands the test of time. His careful selection in subject matter and attention to quality yields final pieces that have a lifespan of more than 100 years.

Over the last 19 years, Anderson’s passion for photography has taken him to widespread destinations – from the cramped city life of New York to crystal clear nights camped in Denali National Park. But one thing is for sure, he feels that his best days are yet to come.

With results on par with other well-known nature photographers like Thomas D. Mangelsen, Anderson’s limited edition prints and canvas works are true pieces of art that immediately capture the attention of anyone that “I’m here to stay,” Anderson said with a smile. “Photography happens by his gallery’s floor-to-ceiling windows. is kind of like fishing. If you’re good, you’ll consistently But before opening his gallery, Anderson searched high catch the average sized fish that most people will like. But and low to find the processes and subjects that would every once and while you’ll catch that huge one that create breathtaking images. Part of that search included catches the attention of everyone. That’s the stuff that keeps selecting the proper framing materials, glass clarity, you coming back.” m

RICK ANDERSON OF RICK ANDERSON GALLERY

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“WITH NATURE, IT’S LIKE THE LANDSCAPE OR ANIMAL IS IN FRONT OF YOU FOR THE EXPRESSED PURPOSE OF BEING CAPTURED ON FILM.” – RICK ANDERSON

metro

MAGAZINE

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• Go to

SpiritofOmaha.com

•Click on the “Who Inspires You?” button!

•Then let us know Who Inspires You and Why!

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planning forthe

planningMATTERS • with pvw law

disabledbeneficiary:

the special needs estateplan Do you have a disabled beneficiary? A disabled beneficiary raises special issues in designing an estate plan. In addition to financial dependency, the disabled beneficiary is often dependent on parents or other family in other ways that should be considered in estate planning.

In developing an estate plan that includes a disabled beneficiary, give special consideration to the human resources available to your beneficiary. Consider immediate and extended family, friends, advisors, doctors, ministers, counselors, and support agencies. As part of the planning process, consider what the beneficiary will need and how it can be obtained.

From a legal perspective, if the disabled beneficiary is on SSI or Medicaid, an inheritance will interrupt the beneficiary’s receipt of such benefits. An inheriting beneficiary will be required to spend all of his or her inheritance before being eligible for benefits again. The dilemma created by this is that the beneficiary may be able to maintain a reasonable standard of living while inherited funds are available. The beneficiary will thereafter be required to live only on the government benefits, which could force the beneficiary to live at poverty level.

There is legal tool that allows for middle ground. Special needs trusts are trusts that are established pursuant to government guidelines as to the amount and type of benefits that may be provided to a disabled beneficiary without disqualifying his or her receipt of benefits. The trust is considered a “supplemental” trust whereby supplementary benefits may be provided to the disabled beneficiary.

There are different types of special needs trusts. Regardless of the specific type of trust and the timing, the trustee of the special needs trust will be able to provide the beneficiary things that might not be available via government benefits alone. The trust can by mary e. vandenack pay for an advocate to ensure the beneficiary gets services he or she needs. The trust can pay for social events, sporting goods and vacations. The trust can pay for medical care or treatments that are not covered by Medicaid. The trust can pay for a good legal defense in the event that is required. A supplemental trust may also buy a home for your beneficiary to live in.

Even if you do not presently have a disabled beneficiary, the possibility of a beneficiary becoming disabled should be considered in your estate planning. If you have an estate plan that holds assets in trust for your beneficiaries over a period of years, it is always possible that a beneficiary could become disabled prior to full distribution to such beneficiary. In such event, the trustee should have the discretion to establish a special needs trust with such beneficiary’s inheritance.

Providing for the special needs beneficiary requires careful consideration and specialized expertise on the part of the planners. An incorrectly drafted supplemental needs trust can easily be invaded by governmental benefit sources and be invalidated if the correct requirements are not met by the trust. Use advisors with the specialized experience that the area requires to ensure the long-term protection of your disabled beneficiary.

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todaysSAVNGS • swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

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international

benefits with mary drueke

the

world is becoming a smaller place.

People are traveling for business and pleasure.

Companies are selling products overseas, even establishing offices on other continents. It is estimated that 65% of U.S. based companies trade internationally and in 2005 there were 152 million international business trips. In 2008, international tourist arrivals reached 924 million worldwide. While you may not always have a legal obligation, as a business owner, is it your responsibility to make sure your employees are aware of the issues associated with traveling abroad?

It’s estimated that 80% of U.S. business travelers believe their company has a legal obligation to ensure their safety while traveling internationally. In fact, 52% of all employees would consider legal action if not supported properly while traveling.

How do you know if you have adequate insurance coverage while traveling overseas, whether for pleasure or company business? Many U.S. domestic carriers do not offer coverage abroad. Even if they do offer coverage in other countries, often times you must pay the providers directly and be reimbursed later by your insurance company. If you are out of the country for more than six months of the year, your U.S. domestic coverage is actually void, even for services in the U.S. If you do have a claim overseas that is covered, you could still face many concerns including: • Translating claim forms into English.

• Calculating exchange rates.

• Making payments in foreign currencies.

• Communicating with a U.S. based insurance company that is up to twelve time zones away.

Reasonably priced international coverage is available for short personal trips or extended business stays. That coverage typically includes an international network of PPO providers, 24-hour customer service lines, emergency evacuation coverage if adequate care is not available in the country you are visiting or residing, and protection for evacuation from war risk. If you are living abroad for an extended period and plan to return to the U.S., you also want to consider if your international plan has coverage for services in the U.S. If you or your employees are going to be overseas for a period of more than six months, you will also want to consider the following: • Does the international plan limit pre-existing or chronic conditions?

• Will you get credit for prior U.S. based creditable coverage?

• Will the coverage meet HIPAA and COBRA requirements?

• Will it allow you to transition back into U.S. domestic coverage without pre-existing condition limitations?

If you are planning to travel abroad for pleasure or for business, reviewing your options only takes a few minutes of your time and in the end could save you hours of headaches.

For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber – Client Centered – Client Advocates™ Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holding Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Swartzbaugh-Farber & Associates, Inc. is independently owned and operated.

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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets!

New Classes for the New Year Does Fido need a little manners tune up? Maybe your new puppy is making life hectic. We can help. The Nebraska Humane Society has a whole new schedule of classes to get 2010 off on the right paw. Too busy to commit to six weeks of classes? Our Drop-In Classes let you drop in when you can. Puppy classes are Monday nights from 5:30 to 6:30pm. Adolescent and adult dogs can come Tuesdays at the same time. Or, talk to our trainers about private lessons in the comfort of your own home. Call 4447800 ext 702. All class information and schedules are available at www.nehumanesociety.org.

When it’s Time to Say Goodbye…

At the Nebraska Humane Society we know how Kathy Gross and a few of her NHS Alumni

difficult it is to say goodbye to four legged family members. But, unfortunately, it’s a fact of life that

Kathy Gross

pet owners will have to go through. When the time comes, we want you to know that NHS offers pri-

Talk to Kathy Gross about her pets and you’ll find her commitment goes much deeper than simply providing them

vate cremation services for beloved pets. The serv-

a home. She researches animal habitats so she can offer her pets the healthiest and happiest living conditions.

ice is called Rainbow Bridge. Ask your veterinarian

That’s no small task. Kathy has been a volunteer and patron of the Nebraska Humane Society for years. She has

for details or find information on our website under

all sorts of alumni, and they’re not just your typical dogs and cats (although she has those too!) There is her chinchilla, adopted 12 years ago, who appreciates a colder environment due to her thick fur. Sam, Kathy’s newest arrival, is a Flemish rabbit. Sam enjoyed a garden retreat this past summer, but has denned up inside for the winter. Sam actually got out of his pen a few weeks after Kathy adopted him and ended up in a neighbor’s yard up the street.

“He was so good,” says Kathy, “I approached and just kind of called to him and he came right over to me”.

It’s obvious that Kathy is a true animal lover. “I just love all these guys,” she says of her menagerie, which also includes a 25 year old tortoise, a cockatoo, and a group of diamond doves among others. “It’s fun having different pets with unique traits and personalities.” We agree, especially after we were serenaded by Buster, the Amazon Parrot, who does an amazing rendition of Danny Boy.

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

“services.” All proceeds from Rainbow Bridge help animals still waiting to find homes. We can think of no better tribute for your beloved pet.

For more information go to “Programs and Events” on the NHS Website at www.nehumanesociety.org, or call 444-7800 ext 273.

Kathleen Vinton Macy Riley, Ryan Skie, Paco Perez, and Kelly Jones

star ofthenight

Photos b y metroM AGAZ and Dave INE Stock

the

scene

the

Mayor Jim Suttle and Andy Hoig

metro

ge on next page

continued covera

EXCITING • PHILANTHROPIC • INSPIRING • FUN

e of charity g ra e v o c a and photo e metro are Highlights th in ts n e v e and social

Margo Forsythe, Susan Koenig, Joyce Gardner, and Brenda Nielsen

Mark Nelson and Cleveland James

Greg Creswell, Matt Younker, Doug Dyvig, Mike Parke, and Murray Hayes 29

metroMAG-29-43-EventSection-01-129 29

Chairperson Carol Wang and Honorary Chair Mike Fahey metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2010

1/4/10 2:45:56 PM

Steve Jackson and Margie Dumas

Tonya Criswell and Bernard Williams

ave Stock Photos by D

night

thestarofthe

NEBRASKA AIDS PROJECT NIGHT OF A THOUSAND SILVER STARS

night

Scott Sasser and Christina Allred

Cora Delmundo and Anita Gonzaga

of A Thousand Silver Stars was held on Saturday, December 5th, at the Holland Center for the Performing Arts. More than 800 attended the gala which raised $130,000 to support the Nebraska AIDS Project.

Jason Holling, Sergio Montanez, Katie Jaapar, Nancy Montanez, and Jill Kuzo

As part of this year’s gala, there was a silent auction featuring works by notable and emerging Omaha artists. About two dozen works were available for purchase from such recognized names as Thomas D. Mangelsen, John Prouty, and Kim David Cooper. The band Session 7 was a huge hit with the guests playing fun dance music and keeping the guests entertained. Appetizers and a cash bar flowed throughout the evening.

Making the evening one to remember was honorary chair Mike Fahey, former Omaha Mayor, event chair Carol Wang, Action 3 News Anchor, Mayor Jim Suttle and event emcee, Malorie Maddox from WOWT-TV. “Night of A Thousand Silver Stars is a great fundraising event for the Nebraska AIDS Project. It is the 25th year anniversary of the organization and having the event at the Holland brought new energy and excitement.” said JJ Replogle, Administrative Director of the Nebraska AIDS Project.

John Truesdell, Iain Sammug, and Sashae Samoore

Sara Bate and Abby Steiner

Nebraska AIDS Project is the only organization providing comprehensive services to people in Nebraska and Southwest Iowa living with HIV and AIDS. The organization also provides confidential testing of sexually transmitted diseases in response to an alarming rate of infection in our area.

For more information visit www.nap.org.

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1/4/10 10:28:53 AM

▼

‘tistheseason THE DURHAM MUSEUM SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY: MIRACLE ON 10TH STREET

on

November 20th, 2009 honorary chairs Hal and Beverly Maurer welcomed nearly 300 supporters of the Durham Museum. Participants enjoyed an evening of humorous entertainment and beautiful music. The celebration began with cocktails and appetizers followed by a presentation. Mary Maxwell’s stand-up performance and special rendition of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” included a a special appearance by Hal Daub. The Durham’s Executive Director, Christi Janssen gave an update on museum programming and thanked participates for their continued support of the museum. The presentation was followed by a meal in the Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall catered by Hap Abraham Catering and a special performance by the Voices of Boy’s Town directed

by Jennifer Fitzke. The evening concluded with dancing in the Swanson Gallery to the music of Omaha Big Band Ltd.

Dr. Harold and Beverly Maurer with Jialin (Charlie) Zheng and Kangmu (Ben) Ma

Tony and Jeanne Raimondo with Jeff and Heidi Wilke

The Durham Museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and has strong ties with the Library of Congress, National Archives and the Field Museum. Admission is free for members and children age 2 and under, $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $5 for children 3-12. For more information about the Durham Museum, visit www.durhammuseum.org.

AZINE metroMAG Photos by

Dr. Lee Simmons, Bob Bell, Mike Yanney and Mike Klug

Marietta and Rob Luellen, Amy and Brad Knuth, Katie and John McClellan

Jan Strauss, Doty Truhlsen, Donna Schatz and Marie Stitt

INE etroMAGAZ Photos by m

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1/4/10 10:29:03 AM

Shelly Siemers, Amy Chisholm with Dave Johnson and Jane Pohlman

Dave Hornstein and Peter Zwart Singer and songwriter, Nathan Wade

pson aroline Thom Photos by C

fun

ahealthydoseof ▼

on

ANGELS AMONG US LAUGH WITH THE ANGELS

November 20th, 2009 at The Georgetowne Club, Angels Among Us hosted “Laugh With the Angels,” an annual gala to raise money for families who have children with cancer. Entertainment for the evening was provided by Nathan Wade, a local singer and songwriter and a comedy act performed by The Weisenheimers.

Melanie and Kelly Krings

Congressman Lee Terry, Dave Hornstein and Dean Wysocki

This years gala was prepared by Debbi Bell, Marketing Director. The gala event chair was Dave Hornstein accompanied by volunteer chairs, Debbie Bell and Christine Behlen, Guild President. Auction chairs were Chip Duden and Kelly Krings. Sue Bennett handled the programs, cashiering, and co-chaired the event along with 62 guild members and other volenteers.

Dean Wysocki, Channel 3 News Reporter emceed the event which was attended by Congressman Lee Terry and his family. Dave Johnson attended the event as the Cat in the Hat for our children and cancer survivors (he put himself up for silent auction for a child’s birthday party).

Camden and Carson Johnson with Dave and Tracy Johnson

For more information visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

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metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2010

1/4/10 10:29:13 AM

someholiday ▼

sparkle

NEBRASKA CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY HOLIDAZZLE

this

first-annual event, put on by the Nebraska Children’s Home Society Family Guild, invited women down to the Happy Hollow Country Club on December 1st, 2009 to enjoy various exhibitors and live demonstrations teaching women how to add some “dazzle” to themselves and their homes for the holidays. Attendees enjoyed hot and cold hors d’oeuvres catered by Happy Hollow, a lively silent auction, and a chance to win Tickets for 2 to anywhere Southwest Airlines Flies. The event was attended by approximately 175 people including NCHS Family Guild President Susan Hertzler and NCHS Executive Director Karen Authier and raised more than $12,000 for the Nebraska Children’s Home Society Foundation.

Kim Culp, Julie D’Agata, Ann Huddleston, Allison Goff, and Executive Director Karen Authier Justine Reilly and Katy Cornell

Nebraska Children’s Home Society (NCHS) is a non-profit, non-sectarian agency, accredited through Council on Accreditation for Children and Family Services (COA) to provide children and family programs. NCHS is licensed by the state of Nebraska as a Child Placing Agency and a Child Care Agency.

For more information about HoliDazzle, contact Kim Singletary, NCHSF Special Events & Annual Giving Manager at (402) 898-7783 or ksingletary@nchsfoundation.org. For more information about NCHS, visit www.nchs.org.

Julie Hertzler, Susan Hertzler, Kim Singletary, and Katie Van Boskirk

Deb Trowbridge, Keven Kiser, Mary Thommi, and Diane Oster

Brenda Edwards and Heather Harkin

Kelly Knudson and Melanie Breault Photos by Dave Stock

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1/4/10 10:29:37 AM

Beth Wooster, Anne Kelly, and LaDona Rowings

Dr. Britt and Kelly Thedinger and Jeffrey Zaslow

on

OMAHA HEARING SCHOOL ANNUAL BOOK LUNCHEON

▼

readallaboutit December 10th, 2009, The Omaha Hearing School Guild’s 6th Annual Book Luncheon, benefiting The Omaha Hearing School For Children, featured bestselling author Jeffrey Zaslow and The Girls From Ames. The luncheon was held at Hilton Omaha and was attended by approximately 250 guests

Honorary Patrons Dr. Britt and Kelly Thedinger hosted a patron party the evening of December 9th.

“We are so honored to have so many guests brave the weather and snow to welcome us to Omaha” Zaslow commented. The event raised $20,000 to benifit The Omaha Hearing School for Children.

The Honorary Chairman was Beth Wooster and Co Chairmen were Anne Carter and LaDona Rowings. Holly Meyer is Guild President.

For additional information, please call Amber Miller at The Omaha Hearing School at 402-5581546 or visit www.hearingschool.org.

Girls from Ames and Anne Carter

School Hearing a h a m y of O courtes Photos

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commitment

the

tothe

community

Shireen Deeds, Paul Beller,and Peg Harriott

Shireen Deeds, Mark Brasee,and Peg Harriott

CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE ANNUAL LUNCHEON

Child Saving Institute Board of Directors hosted the Annual Board meeting on November 5th, 2009 at Happy Hollow Country Club for 100 honorees and guests. Those honored for their service to Omaha’s children and youth included: Countryside Community Church, The William T. Gibble Award; Kim Locatis, Volunteer of the Year; Lisa Blunt, Guardian Angel Award; Ambassador Awards, Mark Brasee and Dr. Tom Huerter and his staff; Corporate Award, Meyers Carlisle Leapley; A.W. Clark Founder’s Award, Building Bright Futures. A special award was presented to the award artist, Becki Shetterly.

Wanda Nesbitt and Bo Oschner were recognized for completing six years of board service. Shireen Deeds, Board Chair and Peg Harriott, President and CEO presided over the meeting.

Photos courtesy of Nebraska Kidney Foundation

Shireen Deeds, Kim Locatis, Emile Wippier, and Peg Harriott Institute Photos courtesy of Child Saving

raiseaglass ▼

health

to

NEBRASKA KIDNEY FOUNDATION WINE, WISDOM, AND WHIMSY

wine, Kirk Madsen and Chairman Kerry Heinrich Nebraska Kidney Association CEO Tim Neal and mother, Bev

Geri, Paul and LaVonne Piotrowski

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Wisdom and Whimsy, the First Annual Wine Event for the Nebraska Kidney Association was held on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at the beautiful former “Street of Dreams” Waterford home of Linda Jacobsen and Butch Atherton. The event raised $3,500 for the organization.

The Nebraska Kidney Association has been serving Nebraska for over 40 years with programs and services for kidney and transplant patients and their families, as well as offering free early disease detection screenings throughout the state.

For more information visit www.kidneyne.org. metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2010

1/4/10 11:39:57 AM

Photos courtesy of Heartland Fam ily Services

Sally Stalnaker, president of HFS Friends; John Jeanetta, HFS president and CEO; Patti Ohrt and Marty Van Ekeren, Salute co-chairmen

strongfamilyties

John Knicely, the Ehite Allison family, and Virginia Collins

▼

Stephanie Knight and Wendell Birdhead

HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICES “SALUTE TO FAMILIES” AWARDS

on

November 19th at Happy Hollow Club, four families were recently honored for strong family life in Omaha at the 27th annual Heartland Family Service Salute to Families awards, presented by Cox Communications. John Knicely, WOWT news anchor, served as master of ceremonies.

The 2009 Salute to Families committee included Marty Van Ekeren and Patti Ohrt, general chairmen; Jeanie Owen, vice-chairman; Dianne Scott; Glenisha Nelson-Peniska; Janey Dann; Dorothy Tuma; Kim Lubeck; Patti Pryor; Debbie Fraser; Suzan Rohrig and Sally Stalnaker, president of the Heartland Family Service Friends volunteer guild. Jeanie Owen is also chairman of the selections committee.

In attendance at the Omaha event were Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle and his wife Deb, Chief Executive Officer Kerry Winterer of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and his wife Norma Hasen. Mr. Winterer has served two terms as chairman of the board of directors of Heartland Family Service.

For more information, call Dawn Bashara, Communications Director, at 552-7447 or info@ HeartlandFamilyService.org

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John Knicely, the Jeff and Angie Busch Family, and Sally Stalnaker

Janey Dann, Debbie Fraser, Sally Stalnaker, Jeanie Owen, Alexcia Taylor, Suzan Rohrig , Glenisha Nelson-Peniska, Patti Ohrt, Marty Van Ekeren, Patti Pryor, Dorothy Tuma and Kim Lubeck

1/4/10 11:40:05 AM

Ed Burchfield of Valmont Industries

celebrating ▼

Girl Scout representatives and AFT President Jenny Cardwell

selflessness

ASSOCIATION OF FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONALS NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY LUNCHEON

the

Lin & Mike Simmons

Chapter Scholar Suzanne Sughroue, center, with AFT Nebraska Chapter President Jenny Cardwell and President-Elect Chris Sommerich

Nebraska Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) celebrated National Philanthropy Day on Tuesday, November 17th with a luncheon and award ceremony at the Omaha Doubletree Hotel.

The event, attended by 300 honorees and guests, was led by emcee Keith Allerton with presentation assistance from Jenny Cardwell, AFT Nebraska Chapter President and Chris Sommerich, AFP Nebraska Chapter President-Elect.

Laura Reznicek was named the 2009 Chamberlain Scholar, and Suzanne Sughroue received the Chapter Scholarship. The National Philanthropy Day Committee was chaired by Scott Larson.

For more information visit www.afpnet.org.

Meg Johnson and Mary Colacurci of the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation

Kiwanis President, Bob Kenney and Gary Perkins The Nebraska Children and Families Foundation table Photos courtesy of Association of Fundraising Profe ssionals

oline Hurley Photos by Car

acolorfulview YW PARTNERS PAINT THE TOWN ORANGE

▼

ofthefuture Wendy Fitch, Caitlin Roth, Liz Funk, Shannon Hite, and Natalia Peart (CEO)

Clair Selby, Sydney Wilson, and Sarah Straley

paint

the Town Orange was held the evening of November 12th at the Scott Conference Center. More than 225 guests enjoyed the event, which featured a boutique and speaker Liz Funk, author of “Supergirls Speak Out: Inside the Secret Crisis of Overachieving Girls,” and her keynote addressed the Supergirl phenomenon and Generation Y females’ unrelenting need for perfection. In attendance were more than 40 young girls; some attending with their moms, aunts, sisters or mentors, others a part of YWCA Omaha’s collaborative organizations such as Girls, Inc. and the Girl Scouts. Paint the Town Orange raised nearly $15,000 for YWCA Omaha.

Kanesha Ramsey, Jessica Bollinger, Marissa Bollinger, Bianca Taylor, Unek Langford, Deja Gregory, Sienna Garner, and Briana Bailey

Kathy Peterson and Kathy Langdon

Co chairs for the event were Wendy Fitch and Shannon Hite, and Caitlin Roth emceed the event.

For more information contact Mary Beth Steele, Development & Communications Director at msteele@ywcaomaha.org or visit www. ywcaomaha.org.

Erin Stoll and Brenda George 36

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metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2010

Janet Kroeger, Amie Kroeger, and Colleen Kroeger

1/4/10 11:40:30 AM

on

reachingnewheights â–ź

December 11th, 2009 at Champions Run, Todd Menard of Todd Menard Construction was sworn in as the President of the Metro Omaha Builders Association by Walt Slobotski of NP Dodge Builder Services.

METRO OMAHA BUILDERS ASSOCIATION HOLIDAY INAUGURAL

Menard succeeds Glenn Vieselmeyer of Charter Homes. Also sworn in on the Executive Committee were First Vice President Jeff Brau, Brau Builders, Second Vice President Ted Ramm, Ramm Construction, Associate Vice President Paul Frazier, The Frazier Co., Secretary Dan Wellendorf, Builders Supply Co, Inc. and Treasurer Dennis Blackman, Blackman & Associates.

Jorge Nila and the Jazz Ninjas entertained the 100 guests with delightful holiday tunes

Photos by Caroline Thompson

Sue and Randy Burns

Dawn and Todd Menard

Glen Vieselmeyer, Dan Wellendorf, Barbra Bird with Todd and Dawn Menard

Bruce and Rosanne Kevil

Monica and Jay Albers

Don Burrow with Amy and J.J Morris

metroMAG-29-43-EventSection-01-137 37

1/4/10 11:40:46 AM

▼

tell

astoryto WHOLE WOMEN’S DAY INSPIRING

whole

Women’s Day was held Friday, November 6th at the Omaha Country Club. Chairmen for the event were Mary Dobleman and Beth Wooster. Whole Women’s Day is an event that was started 10 years ago by community leader, Cheryl Wild, and is held every other year.

The featured speaker was Immaculee Ilibagiza who opened her presentation with an 11 minute video of genocide and letting the world know it was time for her to tell her story. “Left to Tell,” “Led by Faith,” and “Our Lady of Kebeho” have all been written by Immaculee and tell her story.

Nebraska Foun dation

Photos courte sy of the for the Visually Impaired Child ren

Photos courtesy of Whole Women’s Day

Immaculee Ilibagiza

▼

shoptilyoudrop

The

NEBRASKA FOUNDATION FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN RUTH SOKOLOF CHRISTMAS SHOPPING PARTY

49th annual Ruth Sokolof Christmas Shopping Party sponsored by Nebraska Foundation for Visually Impaired Children (NFVIC) was held at Westroads Mall Sunday, December 13th. This shopping party gave 135 visually impaired children ages 5 to 18 the opportunity to make a new friend while Christmas shopping for members of their family and friends. Shopping money, pizza, and 240 high school volunteers from over 15 different schools around Omaha helped the children to pick out the prefect gift.

Phil Sokolof began the shopping party 49 years ago in his wife’s memory until his death and now their daughter, Karen Sokolof Javitch continues the tradition. Along with numerous volunteers, the party was attended by Norma Johnson who was the chairman for the ninth time.

NFVIC was incorporated in 1960 to better provide additional services and funding to assist children with visual impairments. For more information about NFVIC, go to www.nebraskafoundation.org or call 218-7022 For more information about Ruth Sokolof Christmas Shopping Party, contact Norma Johnson at 393-3893.

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1/4/10 12:46:28 PM

▼

Stephanie Baird, Aktion Club President and Bob Kenny, President of Kiwanis Club of Omaha

firstinaktion MOSAIC AKTION CLUB CHARTER CELEBRATION

Stephanie Baird, Aktion Club President and Ron Lassek, member of Kiwanis Omaha, Inc.

mosaic

recognized the charter of its first Aktion Club in Omaha with Aktion club members, families, Mosaic staff, and members of Kiwanis Club of Omaha on Tuesday, November 17th at Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church. The mission of Aktion Club is to provide adults with disabilities an opportunity to develop initiative and leadership, to serve their community, to be integrated into society, and to demonstrate the dignity and value of citizens living with disabilities. The evening included remarks from Steve Oltmans, the Mayor’s Chief of Staff; Floyd Hutzell, Aktion Club Administrator of the Nebraska-Iowa Kiwanis District; and Ron Petsch, Governor of the Nebraska-Iowa Kiwanis District. A presentation of the Aktion Club bell and gavel and $500 donation from Kiwanis Club was given by Bob Kenny, Kiwanis Club of Omaha President. A reception with pizza and refreshments and a dance with music by disc jockey Steve Rock concluded the celebration.

Aktion Club members and Kiwanis dignitaries

For more information visit www.mosaicinfo.org.

b c Aktion Clu tesy of Mosai Photos cour

future

thewayofthe

the

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HEARTLAND LATINO LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE “CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF INSPIRING DIVERSITY AND DEVELOPING LEADERS”

Cristina Castro-Matukewicz, 2009 HLLC President, Juan Gomez Carbajal, Linda Garcia, Richard Ariza, Jose Garcia and Andres Gamboa

2009 Heartland Latino Leadership Conference was held on Thursday, November 12th and Friday, November 13th. The theme of this year’s conference was “Celebrating 10 Years of Inspiring Diversity and Developing Leaders.”

Nearly 600 attendees enjoyed the day of leadership workshops, keynote speakers and exhibits. Scholarships in the amount of $1,000 were presented to 15 deserving high school and college Latino students from several schools throughout Nebraska.

That evening at The Latino Leadership Awards Gala, awards were presented to 10 outstanding Latinos and supporters of the Latino. The Gala keynote speaker was Janet Murguia, President and CEO of the National Council of La Raza (NCLR). The day’s activities ended with a dance and music provided by the band, Las Estrellas from Kansas City.

For more information visit www.latinoleadership.info

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Hector Santiago, Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen, Diana Gonzalez, Kathryn Wittman, Mariela Francois, Julissa Lara, Bob Herrara, Maria Valentin, Cristina Castro-Matukewicz, Alejandro Castro, Daniel Padilla, Ronaldo Loyo, Maria Vasquez, Aura Whitney-Jackson and Jose Lemus.

Community Health Centers, Inc. Photos courtesy of OneWorld

1/4/10 11:45:47 AM

sounds of the ▼

Sunny and Denny Lundgren

season

DURHAM MUSEUM SOMMELIER WITH STRINGS

the

Durham Museum’s second annual Sommelier with Strings was hosted on December 3rd. Almost 200 Durham society members and friends of the museum attended the event which included music performed by the Midlands String Quartet, cars from Lexus, and wine tasting.

Bill and Nancy Holloran with Joanne and Robert Berkshire

The event was attended by Sommelier Jessie Becker, who discussed and shared wine from all over Europe and by Chris Hake, Marcia Hinkle, Molly Moriart, and Margaret Lim who performed the night’s music.

The event was sponcered by Lexus of Omaha.

The Durham Museum, located in downtown Omaha, includes many different exhibits of every subject including history, culture, and science. The museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian.

Melodie Thompson, Amy Ruck, and Tommie Thompson rtesy Photos cou

metroMAG-29-43-EventSection-01-140 40

For more information, visit www.durhammuseum.org or call 444-5071.

Patty and Chris Kircher

Museum of Durham

1/4/10 2:57:57 PM

Kim Lesinski, Tom Golden, Kathy Wood, and Steve Thiesfeld

Marcy Webber, David Webber, Dave and Terri Webber, with Viola Helbert

aroastto

OMAHA PRESS CLUB FACE ON THE BARROOM FLOOR

on

▼

success

December 1st, 2009 Dave Webber, sports director for WOWT-TV (Channel 6) since 1978, was honored as the most recent “Face on the Barroom Floor” at the Omaha Press Club. Webber “retired” in September. However, he continues to work part-time covering Husker football home games and other major sporting events.

Jim Farrell and Ed Trandahl Dave WEbber

His roasters included Amy Adams, WOWT news director; Ross Jernstrom, Merlyn Klaus and John Chapman, all WOWT sportscasters; John Prescott, U.S. Strategic Command; Ann Pedersen, Lovgren Marketing; and Greg Wagner, Nebraska Games and Parks Commission.

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One of the most familiar personalities in the Omaha community, Webber has emceed many charity events such as telethons for the March of Dimes, the Arthritis Foundation and Children’s Hospital. Many people know him as the “voice” for Physicians Mutual commercials.

GRACE UNIVERSITY GOLF4GRACE Katherine and Hugh Cowdin

with Carol Francke

Paul Troupe and Wally Armstrong, with Tom, Rob, and Doug Troupe Nadia Singh and Brett Thomsen

Photos by Dave Stock

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Operation Others Students

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100years Bob Langdon, Sarah David, Joe Townley, Mary Jo Langdon

ofdreams

ST. AUGUSTINE INDIAN MISSION SCHOOL CIRCLE OF DREAMS

the

Committee Chairs: Debbie Heeney, Colleen Johnson, Mary Jo Langdon, Annette Townley

St. Augustine Indian Mission School “Circle of Dreams” fundraiser was held October 17th, 2009 at the Josie and Mike Harper Center. The school, located in Winnebago, NE, is celebrating its 100 year anniversary. It serves students from kindergarten to 8th grade from the Omaha and Winnebago Tribes.

St. Augustine Indian Mission School students

n Mission School Photos courtesy of the St. Augustine India

Special Centennial Dream Catchers were available for sale during the evening. Centerpieces were designed by Conrad and Kurtis of the “Stem Gallery” and were available for purchase as well.

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celebrating

theseason

UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER CHANCELLOR’S CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY

Beverly Maurer and Dick Holland

guests

of the UniverUNMC Chancellor Harold M. sity of NeMaurer, M.D., Scott Roberston, braska Medical and Beverly Maurer Center gathered at Happy Hollow Country Club on December 7th to celebrate the holidays. Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., and his wife, Beverly, along with University of Nebraska Foundation President Clarence Castner hosted the party for UNMC Chancellor’s Club members. The event is held in appreciation of those donors to UNMC who are members of the Chancellor’s Club. Guests were treated to a lavish buffet of hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Guests look forward to this annual event and many travel from across Nebraska to attend.

UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., Dorothy Truhlsen, Stan Truhlsen, M.D., and Beverly Maurer enter ska Medical C versity of Nebra ni U of sy te ur Photos co

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finewine fora finecause on

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NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY CABERNET COMPETITION

Lisa Brink, John Draney and Deb Hermann

November 21st, 2009 twelve great cabernetbased wines were tasted and participants scored them – voting for their favorites. The wine at each station was “blindfolded” and unknown until the end of the evening when the results were announced. Participants casually visited each wine station and ate from several buffet stations throughout the evening while visiting with winemakers from Napa Valley. Wine tasting was followed by an auction.

Nearly 100 supporters came out.

Roger and Kathy Wells

John Draney and Vita Coffey from Omaha Wine Company chaired this event. Ten winemakers from the Napa Valley region of California also attended to participant and to mingle with Omaha guests. The proceeds benefitted the National MS Society - Nebraska Chapter and it’s aim to find a cure for multiple sclerosis.

For more information contact Deb Hermann at deb.hermann@ nmss.org or visit www.nationalMSsociety.org/nen.

Gina and John Engel with Tammy and Ed DeLashmutt Photos by metroMAGAZINE

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MAGAZINE

celebrating the the arts arts

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

“Creativity begins with an idea… seeing things differently.

Our purpose is exploring the creative process… how a new idea is born in the arts, sciences, and philosophy.”

open space. open mind. by holly mcatee

That statement may seem like a lot to achieve for KANEKO, but stepping inside and looking at the plans and the vision, one begins to believe that it can be done.

The large, open spaces of the KANEKO have plenty of room for it to grow into anything possible. You can imagine the lives that had been there before, and where the space will be in the future.

FAIRMONT DAIRY 12TH AND JONES

The buildings that the KANEKO calls home were formerly a dairy processing plant and a truck repair garage. In 1923 it was the Fairmont Creamery Company. Flashforward to 2009 and many of the original elements of the buildings have remained in tact by architect Mark Mack. He took careful measures to blend the old and the new.

The visionaries behind KANEKO are artist Jun Kankeo and his wife Ree. The two of them were the founders of the Bemis Center for Arts. Ten years ago, Jun and Ree Kaneko purchased the vacant buildings on the corners of Jones Street between 11th and 12th. They were looking for a place to store Jun’s large sculptures. As Jun looked closer at the buildings’ architecture he saw greater potential, and the concept for KANEKO took shape.

Creativity is often hatched in unexpected ways. Soon after the vision, the fundraising began. Jun met conductor, Hal France while working together on Opera Omaha’s Madame Butterfly. France was fascinated by the concept of KANEKO, and joined the Creative Board of Advisors. In May of 2008, France joined officially as the Executive Director along with two part-timers. Today, they have an ever-increasing full-time staff.

VISITORS USING TECHNOLOGY KANEKO-UNO LIBRARY

France describes creativity as an ongoing and evolving journey. It is interesting that this has been the approach to the development of KANEKO. It has been built in stages. New ideas and programs are still being discovered. There is no set schedule and hard concept at KANEKO. It’s all about the “sparking of ideas,”says France. He says that life should be not about “floating above everything, but having real experiences.” continued 45

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omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

But what is KANEKO? Is it a museum? A Gallery? Truly it’s an anomaly--- refusing to be defined. KANEKO would like to join artists and scientists together. The concept is very Renaissance. Think Divinci. According to France, “artists and scientists coming together illuminate how universal creativity is, and also how varied it is.”

There is no black and white. It is all shades of grey. KANEKO is about seeing things differently. It is a gathering place where ideas can be exchanged. “Lines are blurring between all fields, why not embrace that?” adds France.

There is also the KANEKO-UNO Library. The library is a contemporary designed room with bold orange, purple, lime green and red furniture. The floors are a shiny, polished concrete. Above the couches hang three big screen monitors, with wireless keyboards and wireless headphones. Sliding ladders line the shelves. There are drafting tables and work stations where students, artists and locals who have a membership can be inspired by other artists work, and use it as a place to create on their own. It is a new age library, which is in essence a “think tank.”

The Bow Truss is a large open space, with interwoven boat-like metal piping on the ceiling. There is a raw, wooden box office tucked in a corner. An opaque partition hangs from the ceiling, which makes the sculptures in the room appear to multiply. In the Bow Tress, there are 4 large heads that anchor the four corners of the room. They are part of the Jun Kaneko’s Mission Clay Project series. For this project, Jun and his group went to a sewer pipe factory in Pittsburg, Kansas to use their bee hive kilns. The group stayed in Kansas for two years creating four 9.5’ Heads, four 13’ Dangos (which is Japanese for “rounded form”), and twenty-four 9’ Dangos. continued

PULITZER PRIZE-WINNING JOURNALISTS SONIA NAZARIO AND NICHOLAS KRISTOF KANEKO GREAT MINDS SERIES

AN AUDIENCE AWAITS GREAT MINDS SERIES BOW TRUSS AT KANEKO 46

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These heads, which are temporarily housed at KANEKO, create the space for the lectures and events that are often held in this room. In 2009, the Kaneko had a wide mix of events. The Big Omaha Conference hosted over 500 people in the Bow Truss space. The Fall Great Minds Lecture Series had three different nights with three different authors including: the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Sheryl WuDunn, twice Pulitzer Prize-winning author Nicholas Kristof, and Pulitzer Prize winner Sonia Nazario. You can only imagine the effect of these four heads as you listen to the speakers.

What is in store for 2010 and beyond? The Big Omaha Conference is planning on returning to KANEKO in 2010. In the summer, they are thinking of an event that is full of more whimsy than some of the past events. There is a possibility of a Fall Program that would focus on creativity and how it relates to the human brain. As the buildings progress, there will be the addition of a sculpture garden. “Creativity isn’t always obvious, so much of what it is happens under the surface,” says France. There is a lot of creativity bubbling in KANEKO. You can feel it and sense it when you step inside. There are still blank walls that leave the mind to wonder what would happen if they did this…or did that with that section of the building. Your mind is unable to stop mentally calculating what you would do if it was your place to run. According to France, part of the magic of KANEKO is that the space and the mission will always be a work in progress.

That is the way that creativity works.

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omaha’s henry doorly zoo welcomes a new françois langur

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maha’s Zoo welcomed a new female François langur born on September 19, 2009. She is on display in the Lied Jungle® on the Malayan Tapir island with her mother, father and “aunt.” A press conference with Christie Eddie, Curator of Small Mammals, will be today, December 30, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. Please enter through Guest Services.

Female offspring are an important addition to the North American Associations of Zoos and Aquariums population of 68 animals.

The infant, named GinLu, was found on September 19 on the ground not being cared for by its mother, Cuoi. Lied Jungle keepers worked for several weeks to teach the mother to feed and care for her properly.

It was important to have a special holding area for mother and infant for safety, ensuring the family was within sight and smell at all times. Mother and infant needed to be strongly bonded before placing the group together. By October 13, 2009, the entire group was reunited into one holding area.

The aunt, Lynn, will exhibit “allomothering” or “Aunting” behaviors by holding the infant when it is not nursing.

13th annual art & soup event to provide support for local shelters

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François langur’s are leaf-eating monkeys found in tropical Asia and live most often in multi-female groups. They are born with orange pelage which changes to black as they age. They are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2009.2 as “Endangered with a decreasing population trend.”

he Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) will host its 13th Annual Art & Soup event to benefit the Shelter Nursing Program on Sunday, February 21, 2010 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, located at 72nd and Grover Streets in Omaha, NE.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is located at Nebraska’s I-80, Exit 454 and is open yearround from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Admission prices are $11.50 for adults, $7.75 for children (ages 3 – 11) and $10 for seniors. Household memberships are available for $83. Additional information can be found on the website, www.omahazoo.com.

A Patron Party featuring hors d’oeuvres soups prepared by Sage Student Bistro at the Institute for the Culinary Arts, Marjorie Nabity at the keyboard, artists with “creation stations” that guests can create and take their own original art and the opportunity for early entrance to Art & Soup, buy-it-now on the silent auction, meet artists one-on-one and purchase original artwork.

Proceeds from the event will allow the VNA to continue providing public health services for children and adults living in area homeless shelters. In 2008 VNA shelter nurses provided public health nursing services to 1,138 children, 1,245 women and 2,150 men totaling 4,533 individuals and families served. Children living in homeless shelters continues to increase. VNA provides care to these youth and teens in the six Omaha children’s shelters. Forty-four percent of the area homeless have children age 18 or younger.

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This year, Art & Soup will feature original artwork from 55 area artists and soups uniquely created for this event by 25 of the metro areas finest restaurants. The event raised more than $140,000 in 2009 through art sales (a minimum of 50 percent of the proceeds from artwork must go directly to the VNA), ticket sales and donations. This accounts for more than 17 percent of the program’s funding for the year.

Attendees can sample the different soups and vote for their favorite, in addition to viewing and purchasing original art from area artists.

Artwork will include both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional art along with wearable art and live artist demonstrations.Wonderful smooth jazz performed by Higher Pursuit, desserts and coffee will also be on hand for guests to enjoy.

Tickets are $45 online and $50 at the door; $100 for Patron Party tickets, which include entry into Art & Soup.

Purchase tickets online at www.thevnacares.org or call (402) 930-4021.

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film streams presents: best of the new york international

C H I L DR E N ’ s film festival • coming to omaha The country’s largest film festival for children and teens will be making a tour stop in Omaha beginning in January when Film Streams presents the Best of New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF).

From January 9th to March 18th (Thursday, Saturdays, Sundays), Film Streams’ Ruth Sokolof Theater, Omaha’s nonprofit cinema, will screen five of the best programs from the 2009 NYICFF. The series continues Film Streams’ Forever Young family and children’s program, which is made possible in part with support from Lincoln Financial Group.

Founded in 1997, NYICFF is dedicated to promoting intelligent, passionate, provocative cinematic works for audiences ages 3-18 and helping to define a more compelling film experience for kids. Juried by such well-known filmmakers as John Turturro, Susan Sarandon, James Schamus, Matthew Modine and Gus Van Sant, the festival has been described by the New York Times as being “devoted to the kind of fare that may be found at the Academy Awards but not at the local multiplex.”

RazzLE DazzLE january 9-10, 14, 16-17, 21 Directed by Darren Ashton • A mockumentary skewering the absurdities of competition between kids on the dance circuit – and the hyper-involved parents who live through them.

Live Action | In English | Australia | 95 min. | Recommended ages: 9 to adult

HELp! I’m a FIsH january 23-24, 28, 30-31, february 4 Directed by Stefan Fjedmark & Michael Hegner • A lushly animated undersea adventure about three children who stumble upon a mad professor’s cave and drink a potion transforming them into sea creatures.

Animation | In English | Denmark; 72 min. | Recommended ages: 4 to 10

azuR & asmaR february 6-7, 11, 13-14, 18 Directed by Michel Ocelot • A dazzlinlg animated feature about two boys raised as brothers, who set off on a dangerous quest through faraway lands to find and free the Fairy of the Djinns.

Animation | In English | France; 99 min. | Recommended ages: 6 to adult

NYICFF KIDs FLIx february 20-21, 25, 27-28, march 4 A kaleidoscopic collection of the best animated short films from around the world featuring traditional animation, CGI, collage, and stop-motion.

In English | 65 min. | Recommended ages: 3 to 8

NYICFF paRtY mIx march 6-7, 11, 13-14, 18 An all animated program featuring hilarious, visually stunning, and thought-provoking shorts, specifically intended for older audiences.

In English or English subtitles | 75 min. | Recommended ages: 9 to 16

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registration is under way for “ready to serve” workshop

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articipation on nonprofit boards is one of the best ways to serve the community while also building a personal network. However, knowing what’s expected and how to get involved can be difficult. That’s why the Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha developed the Ready To Serve workshop, which provides participants with basic board training.

Registration is now under way for the second annual Ready To Serve workshop on Tuesday, February 2, 2010, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Anthony’s, 7220 F St. Organizers recommend that participants register early, as the 2009 event sold out.

“One hundred percent of participants responding to a follow-up survey said they would recommend the program to friends and co-workers, which is a wonderful endorsement for the workshop,” said Sara Masters, Ready To Serve chairperson. “Women’s Fund research showed there is a need for women to learn how to become leaders, and we’re providing opportunities through this program. Serving a nonprofit organization supports our local community, and it also translates to the workplace as it helps build confidence, develop good leadership skills and broaden one’s thinking.”

Respected community leaders will serve as workshop presenters. Participants will learn about the role and functions of boards, become aware of 10 basic responsibilities of board members, learn about the value of serving, and hear how to build a strong partnership from local nonprofit executive directors and board presidents. A detailed agenda and list of presenters is available on the Women’s Fund Web site at www.omahawomensfund.org.

CHRISTINE JOHNSON MUTUAL OF OMAHA

TESTIMONIAL: Our responsibility as a corporate citizen is something that we take very seriously at Mutual of Omaha. We continuously look for meaningful ways to give back to our community – whether it is through

grants from the Mutual of Omaha Foundation, corporate sponsorships, organized volunteer efforts or by sharing some of the knowledge and special skills of our highly-talented professionals through board placement.

We were thrilled to extend the opportunity to participate in the Ready 2 Serve board training to employees who are interested in board service. We have found that the training truly presents a mutually beneficial experience for our employees and for the organizations that they hope to serve by providing insight to the non-profit world and helping the participant identify how he or she can make the best use of their knowledge and skills in the boardroom. We have had board members of various levels of experience attend the training and the feedback we received was that no matter your board experience, everyone takes away valuable information that will ultimately help them be a better board representative.

Registration fees are: Individual – $125; Corporate – $500 for five participants. The Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha examines issues and conducts research to provide informed support for initiatives that improve the lives of metropolitan area women and girls.

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.OMAHAWOMENSFUND.ORG OR CALL 827-9280.

the salvation army kroc center grand opening GOVERNOR DAVE HEINEMAN TO ATTEND KICK-OFF CEREMONY

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n celebration of the opening of The Salvation Army Kroc Cener and recognition of community leaders, The Salvation Army is holding a Grand Opening Weekend.

The kick-off ceremony will be attended by Governor Dave Heineman and Nebraska’s First Lady, Sally Ganem, Mayor Jim Suttle, City of Omaha officials and representatives, community leaders, The Salvation Army Advisory Board, Kroc Center staff members, and South Corps Congressional representatives.

Entertainment will be provided by the South High School Marching Band, local artists and area youth choirs. The weekend festivities, beginning on Saturday, January 9th will include 50

metroMAGAZINE • JAN 2010

refreshments, a strolling magician, contests, prizes and giveaways, fitness and aquatic activities, face-painting, balloon artists, a soccer shoot out competition, and The Salvation Army Rockford Temple Corps Band at 7:00 p.m. in the Assembly Hall. On Saturday, the facility will be free and open to the public.

The festivities continue on Sunday the 10th with Sunday school for all ages at 9:45 a.m. and a community worship service celebration beginning at 10:45 a.m.

All activities will be held at The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center located at 28th and Y Streets in South Omaha (2825 Y Street Omaha, NE 68107).

For further information, visit www.omahakroc.org.

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savethedate January 15 FANDANGO 2010 A benefit for Adoption Links Worldwide This year’s theme is Three Cheers for Adoption Links Worldwide, and includes cocktails, dinner, live and silent auctions, and fun and games. Sport your favorite athletic gear and cheer on ALW! Proceeds will help Adoption Links Worldwide connect children in our community and around the world with their forever families.

Champions Run – Omaha – 6:30 P.M. For more information 556-2367.

inform • educate • inspire

January 25

January 28

Fundraising Luncheon A benefit for At Ease Please plan to join Chuck Hagel at this luncheon benefitting At Ease, a Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska program providing trauma treatment and therapeutic support for active military, veterans, and their loved ones.

Qwest Center – Omaha – 11:45 A.M. For more information visit www.lfsneb.org or call 978-5678.

GIRLS NITE OUT A benefit for Girls Inc. of Omaha Join Girls Inc. at Girls Nite Out, this year themed, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!” Enjoy cocktails, shopping, dinner and lots of laughs with comedian Chad Daniels.

Mutual of Omaha Dome – Omaha – 5:30 P.M. For more information visit www.girlsincomaha.org or call 457-4676.

January 16 RIMINGTON TROPHY A benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation A special evening for presentation of the national award honoring NCAA Division 1 Center of the Year. The award is sponsored by the Boomer Esiason Foundation in support of research and treatment of cystic fibrosis.

Rococo Theatre – Lincoln For more information visit www.rimingtontrophy.com

January 22 SPIRIT TASTING A benefit for the Opera Omaha Guild Come taste creative spirits and cuisine, and learn recipes for some scrumptious cocktails. The event also includes a silent auction. All proceeds benefit the Opera Omaha Guild’s Educational Outreach Program for local elementary and middle schools.

Nomad Lounge – Omaha – 5:30 P.M. For more information visit www.operaomaha.org or call 980-3653.

January 23 THE FRIENDS OF LIED GALA A benefit for The Lied Center This event, which takes place every two years, is one of the Lied Center’s largest fundraising projects, helping to enable the Lied Center to keep ticket prices reasonable and to provide an arts and education program for all Nebraskans. The theme of this year’s gala is “The Crystal Ball”, and will include an evening of fine food, fabulous entertainment and fantastic friends all supporting this important Nebraska institution.

The Lied Center – Lincoln – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 402-472-4704.

January 23 East Side Story A benefit for Catholic OutReach for Education Please join CORE for the fourth annual East Side Story, an inspiring evening to benefit seven Omaha inner-city Catholic schools and the nearly 1,100 inner-city youth they serve.

Lied Education Center for the Arts – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 827-3726.

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January 31

February 2

February 5

February 6

EPS BENEFIT DINNER A benefit for Essential Pregnancy Services Enjoy cocktails and dinner along with silent and live auctions, entertainment and an awards program while benefitting Essential Pregnancy Services, committed to helping expectant and parenting families build healthy, productive lives.

Downtown Hilton – Omaha – 5:00 P.M. For more information call 554-0121.

READY TO SERVE Presented by the Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha Learn about the role and functions of boards and the key components of a strong organization; find out about the challenges and opportunities facing boards, and increase your knowledge of Omaha-area boards, their needs, and how to get involved.

Anthony’s – Omaha – 8:30 A.M. For more information visit www.omahawomensfund.org or call 827-9280.

CORKS & COBBLESTONE A benefit for Children’s Square USA This event is an Old Market evening of great wine and fine dining, beginning with a quaffing reception at the Old Market Artists Gallery, then a five gourmet course dinner at The Indian Oven.

Old Market – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 322-3700.

HEART BALL OMAHA A benefit for the American Heart Association The 23rd annual Omaha Heart Ball is a black tie event that offers an evening of gourmet dining, dancing, live and silent auctions, and outstanding entertainment. This year’s theme is “Hearts on Fire”. The event helps the American Heart Association fund research and education to fight heart disease and stroke.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 346-0771.

February 13 FIESTA A LA MERCY A benefit for Mercy High School Come support Mercy Negotiated Tuition at this annual event. FIESTA (Friends In Earnest Supporting Tuition Assistance) includes both silent and live auctions, dinner, and a $10,000 raffle.

Mercy High School – Omaha For more information call 553-9424.

February 19 MEDICAL M*E*S*S CLUB A benefit for the Metro Omaha Medical Society Foundation This fun event includes a performance spoofing health care in Omaha.

Proceeds directly benefit the MOMS Foundation, committed to supporting programs which improve the health of the community.

Joslyn Art Museum, Witherspoon Hall – Omaha For more information call 393-1415.

February 20 THE CARNIVAL OF LOVE A benefit for Heartland Family Service The Carnival of Love Gala is a fun-filled evening featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, carnival games, dinner, and both silent and oral auctions. The proceeds will benefit families and individuals in the metropolitan area.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. For more information visit www.HeartlandFamilyService.org m

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e spirit

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vibrations • with sue moon

metroMAGAZINE

The countdown to The big news this year is the conjunction between Jupiter and Uranus in Aries next summer. You will need to check in to see how you are doing with these energies, see how you feel, 2010 isn’t for the faint of heart – it’s for warriors. Your body has to be open to receive this energy or it will crash and burn. Live by your intuition, don’t plan too heavily, go with what is manifesting.

Your chakras are funnels and as these new energies funnel in, if you don’t use it creatively it will start to clog up your energy system leaving you feeling frustrated, blocked and more. The Solar Plexus Chakra is the manifestation chakra, don’t clog that! Just tune in and see what you need to change, it can be as simple as brushing your teeth in a different way. For January, we start off a day after a big Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse in Cancer, and opposing that we have a triple dose of Capricorn sitting on the MidHeaven (the most prominent area of the chart) Pluto-VenusSun and Mercury all hail to the world saying do it right, plan it well, fill it with love and change all for the best now! Mercury continues to retrograde until the 16th, so keep cleaning those closets and re-working old plans, don’t buy electronics, sign contracts or start anything new until the 23rd. Jupiter’s move this month from Aquarius into Pisces will start a year of expanded spiritual consciousness for all.

aries

MAr 21 - Apr 19

Mars is amping up the demand that you BE YOURSELF above all else! You need to play more but don’t let that get out of control. If you have children they may be a little difficult this month. Some real opportunities are opening up for your career, and if you don’t have a career, one may just fall in your lap!

Relationships require great care and focus to obtain the harmony you need.

Apr 20 - MAY 20

taurus

This month you may appear a little compulsive as Mars moves through your subconscious or you may be redecorating your home; but something deep inside of you will be calling for attention. Your job/career may not flow smoothly at this time, so see if you can get a few days off and do a little soul searching and re-arrange the furniture.

Your higher mind is being re-made so just relax and let it happen.

MAY 21 - Jun 20

gemini

Jupiter’s move into your 10th House of career and fame couldn’t have come at a better time. Take advantage of the power to make your superiors notice you! It’s been a little unpredictable with Uranus in this house, but Jupiter will bring a nice big surge of energy in that area to help you gain the success you need. Great change is underway in your life this month.

cancer

leo

Jul 23 - AuG 22

You are such a force to be reckoned with at this time, try not to step on too many toes. Work should be going through some very creative and deep changes, although you may not notice it this month with Mercury retrograde. February will manifest those miracles. Jupiter moving into your house of change/ inheritance/enlightenment may bring a few surprises in the months to come. Be open and reconnect with your spirituality.

virgo

Jun 21 - Jul 22

nov 22 - dec 21

sagittarius

It’s time to re-work that budget and plan on a stronger monetary base. You might want to make your home a sacred space with new arrangements and colors that soothe the soul.

An intense month for you, but that could be intensely good, your choice. Your mind is on fire and you have never been more the philosopher.

dec 22 - JAn 19

AuG 23 - sep 22

Fun versus work, what’s a person to do? Restructure how you do both so that there is more of an equal balance of the two.

When Jupiter moves into your relationship sector you can certainly expect some action or commitment or decommitment from lovers or business partners. It’s been erratic for you for awhile in the relationship department and that won’t really change this year. Enjoy your friendships they are highlighted this month.

capricorn

People notice you right away; you have great magnetic, personal charm all month long. Your career has soared to new heights and that will continue all year. New talents continue to surface, try not to block that. Your ego mind is being re-made with a spiritual flavor. Relationships can be emotionally fulfilling at the start of the month.

JAn 20 - feb 18

libra

aquarius

sep 23 - ocT 22

With Saturn exerting force on your body/personality, keep all in shape and grounded. As Jupiter moves into your work house, you could be seeing a lot more development in how you do that but keep it spiritual because it’s Pisces. Your home/subconscious/mother, is calling for your attention.

Re-claim your space and clear the clutter, it’s time.

ocT 23 - nov 21

You are riding a wave of eclipse energy that will boost how others perceive you. Your talents have never been stronger and you should be able to turn that to profit. Great surprises in the relationship sector and something with a business partner or marriage may have the brakes on till the end of the month. Be patient it should work out nicely. Pay attention to your home and yourself instead of caring for everybody else.

www.morningstarcenter.com www.suemoon.com

scorpio

Your career is soaring and your home continues to be innovative and under re-structuring. New ways of communicating are being developed and if you write or speak publicly, you will be noticed with new ideas that relate to the masses. This year you might want to take a trip to Machu Picu or Egypt and expand your spiritual awareness.

Your electric personality just got a little quirkier but I think you will find some hidden treasures this year that light up your life many years into the future. Strong relationships can put out your fire so be the diplomat as there is just so much change it is difficult to handle it all.

feb 19 - MAr 20

pisces

People will naturally be drawn to you now as your beautiful personality is more charming than ever. There is a chance that you will over indulge in many areas and gaining weight is certainly one of them. Work is strong and never better. With Saturn just into your house of death and rebirth, someone may be leaving your life, remember the good times..

Sue Moon has been a student of astrology since 1972 and is an experienced journeyman and practitioner in a number of life enhancement disciplines. She is locally based at Morning Star Center, 7561 Main St. Ste. 420, Ralston, NE 68127 • 402.884.0621 • info@morningstarcenter.com 54

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