metroMAGAZINE August 2009

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august 2009

spiritedliving

inform • educate • inspire published by alh publications • proudly serving our community since 1990

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metroMAGAZINE catch the

features / DEPARTMENTS

spirit

of the Omaha community!

features

7

special sections

2009

14

“YP” connections

19 20

WHO WILL WIN! awards celebration official 2009 ballot living

living

12

YP Q&A how do you recharge spiritually?

“AND FORGIVE THOSE...” von maur survivor fred wilson

14

metroWELLNESS

JOURNEYS

cover STORY

the road less traveled

living

23

living

16

OUT OF THE BLUE

wellness 32

PUTTING YOUR SOUL INTO IT mental and spiritual practices that can improve your health

blue summit free trade store

metro

READY 2 SERVE non-profit & YP profiles

GRAND RECREATION

grand resort properties

events

35

bravo!

departments living

28

metroSPIRIT with mary e. vandenack

23 12

living

30

THE metroSCENE

THE SOUL’S JOURNEY with dixie clark

49 54 60

FULL “STREAM” AHEAD film streams marches on

SUMMER ARTS CALENDAR arts, music and cultural events in july

HOROSCOPES with sue moon

34

THE BIG EVENT 2008 WINNERS CIRCLE habitat for humanity

56

SAVE THE DATE

on the

cover

COVER PHOTOGRAPH

by Laurie and Charles Photographs MODELS Bethany Tatum and David Spence TREK TANDEM BIKE courtesy of Jed Parry 6

metroMAGAZINE • AUG 2009

WARDROBE provided by the Rose Costume Shop, Erin Bragg.

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Thank you for being a part of our voting academy.

Ballots must be received by mail no later than August 31st.

Each ballot must be signed. Emailed or faxed ballots cannot be accepted.

Fill out our ONLINE BALLOT at metmago.com!

Please mail ballots to: THE BIG EVENT • c/o ALH Publications • 1229 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144 Please vote for “the BEST” event in each category. (You are not required to vote in every category)

Winners will be announced on September 22nd during The Big Event Awards Celebration at NOMAD

BEST EVENT – 1ST OR 2ND ANNUAL

BEST EVENT – SPECIAL GUEST/SPEAKER

BEST EVENT – ART (CONT’D.)

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands

Girl’s Inc.

Stock Market Challenge

Lunch for the Girls with Hillary Clinton

Omaha Symphony

Children’s Respite Care Center

Film Streams

Smokey Joe’s Café

Feature 2008 with Alexander Payne and Laura Dern

Music & Masterpieces

Literacy Center for the Midlands

Open Door Mission

BEST EVENT – AUTHOR

First Annual Adult Spelling Bee

Rebuilding Lives Banquet with Orel Hershiser

Campfire USA

The Nebraska Medical Center

The Neighborhood Center

Youth Art Auction

Project Harmony

Author Luncheon with Jean Kilbourne

POLO! for Patients

Speaking of Children with Antwone Fisher

Children’s Hospital Medical Center Foundation

YWCA Partners Guild

UNMC Eppley Cancer Center

Sweet Potato Queen Luncheon withJillConnorBrowne

Paint the Town Orange

Ambassador of Hope Gala with Robin Roberts

Family Housing Advisory Services

BEST EVENT – THEME

BEST EVENT – EDUCATION

Adoption Links Worldwide

Brownell Talbot

Nebraska Humane Society Friends Forever

Fandango 2009: ForeEver Families!

2009 Golden Gala B-T in Paradise

Heartland Family Service Friends

Creighton Prep

Gala 2009 The Carnival of Love

BASH 2009 Under Construction

Omaha Children’s Museum

Marian High School

Manifest Your Destiny with Hill Harper Lunch with Katz and Dogs Omaha Hearing School

Titanic Discoverer with Dr. Robert Ballard

For the Kids Benefit Be a Kid Again

MarianFEST Marian Rocks

BEST EVENT – UNDER 500 IN ATTENDANCE

The Rose Performing Arts

Mercy High School

All About Omaha

Fiesta a la Mercy Jazz It Up

Torchlight Ball benefiting CASA for Douglas County

Roncalli Catholic High School

Fontenelle Forest

Rockin’ Rosie: Rosie Rocks the Disco Stephen Center

Cruise Away to the 50’s BEST EVENT – FOOD & WINE Arthritis Foundation, Nebraska Chapter

Wine ‘til Nine Easter Seals Nebraska

Wine Event!

March of Dimes

Spice of Life Signature Chefs Auction Ronald McDonald House Charities

vinNebraska Ted E. Bear Hollow

Comfort Food Classic BEST EVENT – MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT Catholic Charities IrishFEST

Motown Magic featuring the FourTops Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Gala

“Movin’ Out” Miracles with Michael Cavanaugh Horatio Alger Association

An evening with Mario Frangoulis National Safety Council Soiree

Two Tickets to Paradise featuring Eddie Money Omaha Symphony Gala

Featuring Roberta Flack BALLOT MUST BE SIGNED: Name: ____________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: ____________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________ Signature: ________________________________________________

20th Annual Festa del Leone BEST EVENT – HEALTH American Heart Association

Omaha Heart Ball Heart of the Orient Bergan Mercy Medical Center Auxiliary

The 49th Annual Candelight Ball Dobleman Head and Neck Cancer Institute

Hubert Green Celebrity Dinner JDRF

Feather Our Nest Lutheran Family Services

Wicker & Wine Boutique Basket Auction Merrymakers

Annual Roast honoring Mogens Bay Omaha Community Playhouse

Destination World’s Fare BEST EVENT – OVER 500 IN ATTENDANCE

An Arabian Night Journey to a Cure

Child Saving Institute

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Cabaret 2009

Diamonds and Champions BEST EVENT – FASHION American Heart Association

Omaha Fashion Week Finale Durham Museum On Track Guild

The Food Bank

Celebrity Chef Fundraiser with Chef Cat Cora Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Friends

Micro Brew HaHa Joslyn Art Museum Association

Gowns and Glitter:

Diego Rivera Gala

Celebrating Ak-Sar-Ben through Fashion

Omaha Performing Arts The Presenters

Hope Center for Kids

Broadway Ball

Fashion Loud Junior League of Omaha

American Girl Fashion Show Susan G. Komen for the Cure Nebraska

CoutURE in the Market

BEST EVENT – OVER 1,000 IN ATTENDANCE Methodist Health Systems

Spirit Girls Night Out: An Evening in Paris Omaha Chamber Young Professional Council

BEST EVENT – ART

YP Summit w/ Malcome Gladwell

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

Salvation Army

Art Auction 2008

DJ’s Heros with Chris Gardner

Girls Scouts Spirit of Nebraska

TeamMates Mentoring Program

artVenture

Magic of Mentoring

Nebraska Children’s Home Society

Visiting Nurses Association

Sand in the City

Art and Soup

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from the PUBLISHER

“We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey.”

IN

memory

This has been such an exceptional issue to work on. In selecting the theme of “Spirited Living” we wanted to focus on how spirituality plays a part in the journey we all share. By spirituality we are not implying adherence to a particular philosophy of life, but we are acknowledging that all of us aspire to be more than what we are, and we are inspired by something greater than ourselves, regardless of how each individual experiences or defines it.

On my journey, I have encountered so many people and experiences that have inspired me, whether by knowing them personally, reading about them, or hearing them speak.

One such inspirational figure is Fred Wilson, who is featured this month in the first of our new “Spirited Living” profiles. I heard Fred speak at Rotary a few months ago and was brought to tears by his story. These were not tears of sadness but tears of joy, love and inspiration. I am eager to share his gift of inspiration with you. I feel that we all are given daily opportunities to walk in the spirit which Fred exemplifies– one of unconditional love, compassion, forgiveness and non-judgment– and that when we do, magic happens. I believe the choice is ours.

So many wonderful people contributed their talents and spirit to this issue. Sue Moon and Dixie Clark, two of our regular columnists, participated, along with others, in our Cover Story/metroWellness feature. This segment focuses on how providing for optimal health includes attention to our mental and spiritual capacities. I am confident that readers will find this article well worth the read. We also asked those participating in our monthly Young Professionals section to share how they recharge spiritually.

Speaking of inspiration, I wish to dedicate this issue to the memory of Murphy.

Murphy was my beloved companion for nearly 20 years, coming into my life in January of 1990 (the same time this magazine came into being.) So… who was Murphy?

A beautiful white haired, blue eyed cat– and a soulmate. Among many cherished memories of her are those in the early years of the magazine, when I worked alone (sometimes 36 or 48 hours straight) to get issues to press. She would stay at my feet or by my side “working with me,” and I definitely sensed she was “aware” of the demands I was dealing with and trying to assist.

She passed away on July 14th, gracefully and beautifully concluding a long and very significant shared journey. All animal lovers appreciate the special companionship we share with our pets, yet perhaps we too often overlook the impact our pets also have on our spiritual life. Murphy taught me a great deal about unconditional love, trust, loyalty, stewardship, and ultimately had a profound impact on my life and my spiritual journey.

Thank you, Murphy. “Namaste.”

–Stephen R. Covey

OF

“In the end it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.

–Abraham Lincoln

ANDREA L. HOIG ahoig@mmomaha.com

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

LAURIE AND CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHS

in memoriam “Murphy” January 1990 – July 14, 2009

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metro

MAGAZINE

lifestyle • culture • philanthropy

AUG 2009 VOL. 21 NO. 8 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.O. BOX 241611, OMAHA, NE 68124 or e-mailed to: editor@mmomaha.com Publisher Editor-in-Chief

Staff Photographers

Caroline Hurley Jennifer Parent Linda Shepard Caroline Thompson

Andrea L. Hoig Editor/ Creative Director

Robert P. Killmer

Featured Writers

Senior Sales Associates

Teresa Milner Deb Skinner Administration

Francesca Peterson Layout/Production

John Dechant Molly Garriott Susan Kuhlmann Dave Link Distribution

Loni Craft

Joe Szczepaniak Interns

Kaleigh Lawson Chris Massara

Lisa Mergen Sarah Vonk

www.metmago.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 publication.

OFFICE/SALES

402-333-7499 ________________ sales@mmomaha.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 2009 alh Publications fka Metro Monthly, Inc. All rights reserved.

the future is

now! metroMAGAZINE is seeking highly motivated, goal oriented, positive people to fill the following full & part time positions: • sales • photography • writing • graphic design •

internships available

metro MAGAZINE

lifestyle • culture • philanthropy

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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Dogs!

Frustrated with Fido?

The Nebraska Humane Society offers quality obedience classes for all ages and levels of dogs (and people!)t Our instructors can help you work with your dog using positive reinforcement and humane training methods that help you bond with your pet.

Been through one of our beginner classes? Try a specialty class. And remember as you take classes, the proceeds stay at the shelter and help save lives. Details and schedules at www.nehumanesociety.org.

Need quick advice?

The NHS free behavior helpline offers tips and advice on behavior issues that you and your pet face.

From dog barking and jumping to kitty litterbox problems –we can help. Call 444-7800 extension 221.

Sue Conine with Muggins

Save the Date: Walk for the Animals September 27, 2009 8:30 A.M. - Noon Join us for our biggest annual fundraiser. Fuel up with

Sue Conine feels blessed to have Muggins. “She is the sweetest, most gentle dog in the world.”

Pancake man, enjoy vendor village, our silent auc-

When Sue first saw the Lhasa Poo she felt awful for the dog. Muggins (then called Peggy Sue) was

tion, shelter dog parades and then stroll the Keystone

in the back of her kennel with her eyes downcast. She wouldn’t approach the front or make eye con-

Trail with your best four legged friend. All this, while

tact with anyone. The sensitive dog was overwhelmed with the sounds and smells at the shelter. Staff

making a difference in the lives of homeless animals.

recognized that she needed a little extra TLC away from the kennels so Sue took her home for a foster care visit. After two hours with Muggins, Sue knew the dog was staying put. “She was like my shadow, and she still is. She always has me in sight when I’m home, and if I go out, I get most wonderful greeting when I return. She levitates with all four feet off the ground!” Sue named Muggins after a character in a favorite childhood book and comments that she is the perfect dog—mellow but still playful with other neighborhood dogs. “She has such a wonderful temperament that didn’t show at all in the kennels. It just goes to show you how important a home is to a dog!” We agree Sue, thanks for giving a shelter dog a second chance.

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

What could be more fulfilling? Details at www.nehumanesociety.org.

For more information go to “Programs and Events” on the NHS Website at www.nehumanesociety.org, or call 444-7800 ext 214.

What would you do if a child tells you of abuse?

If a child confides in you about abuse, you need to know how to respond. There are many ways a child can tell you about abuse and not all of them are direct. Oftentimes, the child will drop hints, ask spontaneous questions about abuse or allude to abuse in some manner. Be on the lookout for these signs so that you can be sure to spot the clues the child is offering in hopes of finding help.

There are many things you can do to make the child comfortable and confident enough to confide in you.

• Listen carefully • Remain calm. If you show signs of shock, horror or disbelief, the child may stop short and refuse to talk about it any more.

• Tell the child that you believe him and that you are glad he told you.

• Comfort the child, reassure him that it is not his fault and make him feel safe. Explain that you are not angry and he has not been bad.

• Do not promise not to tell or make any other promises that you cannot keep.

• Do not discuss the issue with anyone but those helping the child.

• Seek help. Contact your local Police, Child Abuse Hotline or Project Harmony Child Protection Center.

• The Nebraska Child Abuse Hotline is 1.800.652.1999 • The Iowa Child Abuse Hotline is 1.800.362.2178 • Project Harmony Child Protection Center may be reached at 402.595.1326 Information provided in part by www.childwellbeing.org

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Would you like to learn more?

Each of us is mandated to report abuse. Project Harmony is pleased to invite you to a FREE training titled, Child Abuse and Neglect 101: Reporting and Responding to Child Abuse and Neglect; trainings are scheduled on a regular basis at Project Harmony, 7110 F Street, Omaha, Nebraska. This course is designed for educational professionals, family support workers, youth care workers, child care providers, CASA volunteers, church members, and others who work with children.

To register, please enter the following link on your internet browser: http://www.nebraskacacs.com/TrainingAndEvents.aspx?s=0. Clicking the CALENDAR on one of the class dates below will take you to Child Abuse and Neglect 101 course description; scroll to the bottom of the page, click REGISTER and follow the directions.

Child Abuse and Neglect 101 is offered on August 19, September 16, October 21, November 18 and December 16, 2009. Space is limited, so register early!

The mission of Project Harmony is to protect and support children, collaborate with professionals and engage the community to end child abuse and neglect. www.projectharmony.com

7/23/09 11:30:59 AM

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living

“and YOU MAY NOT KNOW HIM. HIS NAME MAY NOT BE FAMILIAR, but Fred Wilson’s story is a remarkable one. Fred Wilson is the survivor who was severely injured in the Von Maur shooting of December 2007. His story is miraculous in and of itself; however, his reaction and attitude towards the situation is legendary. Forever changed was Wilson’s life in a single brief moment by a single act of a troubled young man. But instead of responding with anger and bitterness, Fred Wilson expressed a prevailing forgiveness.

Wilson vividly recalls the details of that day– how he’d made calls to his church; planned to pick up books at Borders the next day; leaving the house and saying to his cat, “I love you Bailey, be a good kitty”; and thanking and asking God to take care of him.

About an hour into his shift as a Von Maur customer service supervisor, Wilson stepped out of his department to visit with the floor manager when they suddenly heard the sound of gunfire.

Wilson remembers, “If I had it to do over, I’d have dropped to the floor and flipped a light switch.” However, he returned to his department and concealed himself behind a counter. When he looked up, Wilson saw a young man walking in his direction.

“For a moment I wondered why he wasn’t hiding. Then I realized he was the shooter.”

With that realization, he decided to move hiding positions, and stood for a brief second. In that moment, Wilson was shot in the upper arm, and immediately slumped to the floor where he remained until the shooting stopped.

Once the paramedics arrived, he said, “it was in God’s hands.” He remembers being put on a cart, noticing the sunny day as he was being rushed to the ambulance, and the subsequent 60block trip to UNMC. By the time they reached the hospital, Fred Wilson had lost so much of his blood that there was almost none left.

those who…”

His family in the Ames/Newton Iowa area had heard the news happening in Omaha, and learned a man in the Von Maur customer service department had been shot. To which Wilson adds, “They made their way to Omaha, not knowing if I was dead or alive.”

“We’re all on this journey together and we need to take care of one another.”

He credits his parents, grandparents and Methodist upbringing for nurturing that spirit. He spends time each morning doing some religious reading, saying, “that sets the tone for the day.”

Wilson was surrounded by family when he awoke in the ICU two days later.

He was told that eight people, six of whom were colleagues, had been killed.

Four days later, he was moved to a regular room, but hospital personnel kept him “hidden away”. On December 19th, Wilson and his doctor held a press conference. Wilson recalls, “I went with no notes. I wanted to speak from my heart, hopefully with my brain engaged.”

Wilson’s faith has always been an integral part of his life, and remarks, “You don’t have to be in church every Sunday morning but it helps,” and describes church, “like a calm in the storm.” He notes that there is a lot of turmoil in the day-to-day, but “for one hour you can be surrounded by solace.

That helps me get through the week.”

Rather than harboring bad thoughts, Wilson’s heart was filled with an abounding forgiveness. When asked if he held any anger or hostility toward the shooter, Wilson answered: “Absolutely not. I think when anyone resorts to something like that– carrying a gun into a store and lashing out at people--it is a sign of a trouble life; a troubled soul.”

Wilson was pleased that his answer was so well received, and had a positive, soothing impact on the community.

“So often people get angry when they are victims,” he said.

After two weeks at UNMC, Wilson spent two more weeks at Immanuel Medical Center. He received outpatient occupational and physical therapy. Now, he goes for two hours each week, and is currently awaiting another surgery on his wrist- to hopefully result in some use of his right arm.

Wilson’s reaction is central to his character. His innate feelings of compassion and forgiveness have only intensified. During his years as a teacher, he thought it was important to make everyone feel validated and acknowledged. Wilson believes,

12

As a child, Wilson suffered with severe asthma. In third grade, Wilson was admitted to the hospital, and had to stay there for much of the year. He was confined to an oxygen tent in his room, which was difficult for him. However despite his frailties, Wilson worked hard to be accepted. “Maybe I have that compassion for others, having needed it myself.”

He indicates, “We are all very much alike and we need to be helping one another.”

His brush with death made Wilson acutely aware of life’s value. “We need to make sure everything is right with our relationships. Family was important to me before, but it is even more so now.” Since the shooting, Wilson has had three grand nieces and nephews born. “They will always know me as Uncle Fred with a bad right arm, but that’s okay.”

“I’m so very blessed to still be able to have the opportunity to live my days and see the seasons and holidays. Not one day goes by without my saying ‘Thank you God, thank you Jesus’; Eight people died and I was blessed to live.”

He similarly understands that life is fragile.

“We are all mortals and each and everyone will die someday. We don’t know how long

metroMAGAZINE • AUG 2009

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metroMAGAZINE catch the

spirit

of the Omaha community!

refusing to be made a victim, fred wilson, von maur shooting survivor, has become an inspirational model of grace and forgiveness

FRED WILSON WITH HIS VON MAUR FAMILY

in others, and expresses, “We need to be caring and forgiving.”

today so we’ve got our work cut out for us if we’re going to take care of business.”

While Wilson’s experience has made him more appreciative and careful, it has not made him fearful. He returned to his job at Von Maur where he walks over same spot where he once lay bleeding. He mentions, “I just don’t think much about it. I focus on what needs to be done.”

Since February 2008, Wilson has been giving speeches about his experience.

“I never expected to do that, but it just developed,” he observes. “I try to be present to the media when asked because there was a lot of coverage of the shooting. I felt personal responsibility because I lived. I could have been shot in the head.”

He also pays homage to those who died.

“I have great respect for the eight families who lost loved ones. I end by speaking of those eight because they were lovely human beings. We miss them and will never forget them.”

When asked what advice he would give to those seeking a similarly positive attitude, Wilson said it is important to see ourselves

In sharing his story, Wilson focuses on forgiveness and importance of time. “We don’t have a guarantee of tomorrow. We do have

we’re given. We just need to cherish our moments. We assume as we step into our days thinking that we’ll be fine, but people have heart attacks, falls or traffic accidents.”

As a member of First United Methodist Church, Wilson said many Sundays are emotional for him since he realizes that the setting could have been his funeral. With this thought he responds, “I am so glad God saw more time for me.” m

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personal TRAVELS

the road less traveled “two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

journeys – Robert Frost (1874–1963)

by susan kuhlmann with grant ferguson and sarah vonk

HEN UNO STUDENT SAMARA MARIE TRAVELED TO INDIA LAST

DECEMBER WITH FACELESS INTERNATIONAL, SHE EXPECTED TO WORK IN CALCUTTA, BRINGING AID AND ASSISTANCE TO THE POOR. INSTEAD, SHE FOUND HERSELF “BANISHED” TO A MORE SECLUDED AREA OF INDIA. THOUGH INITIALLY DISAPPOINTED BY THIS DEVELOPMENT, SAMARA WOULD SOON DISCOVER THAT HERE, IN INDIA’S REMOTE COUNTRYSIDE, SHE WAS TO EMBARK ON A LIFE-CHANGING JOURNEY WHERE SHE WAS DESTINED TO RECEIVE MUCH MORE THAN SHE GAVE.

In London, Marie joined twentyfour other volunteers from the United States, Canada and Australia for the two-week trip. When they met, Marie and the other volunteers bonded quickly with a shared sense of nervousness and excitement.

In India, they were introduced to a man named Vijay. “I don’t know how to explain how incredible he was,” Marie recalled. Having been born into a poor family, Vijay was raised as an untouchable- those who are treated more like an animals than human beings. Rather than being embittered, he has dedicated his life to helping others who are suffering. He has created an organization and community that helps rescue women and children at risk for human trafficking.

On the first day, the volunteer group spent time with many of the “untouchables” who were infected with HIV or AIDS. They had planned to hand out food and clothing as a service gesture, but instead found the women and children eager to show hospitality. The villagers performed dances and skits as a way of welcoming the first “white people” they’d ever seen. “We signed so many autographs; we were treated like celebrities,” Marie remarked.

Learning about the trafficking trade before the trip had been a heartbreaking experience for Samara. However once in India, she discovered that despite their circumstances, the women exuded beauty and joy. “They are so grateful for everything,” Marie remembers, “It was humbling. We went there thinking that we would serve them, but they were just happy to get a hug.”

Vijay also welcomed the group with the hope that their experience would help raise awareness of the trafficking problem.“We spent 10 days in the field where families often shared straw huts along with their cows.”

Marie expressed. “It was nothing like what I expected since I thought we’d be in Calcutta.” Her earlier frustration quickly dissipated as the group built 14

relationships with the people, despite their language barrier.

The group spent time visiting a school that Vijay had established for boys at risk of being drafted into the labor trade. There, the volunteers distributed food and clothing that Vijay had collected. “Vijay just gives and gives,” she declared. “I have no idea how many he has rescued.” – And with that only Heaven may ever know. Additionally, Vijay has founded an “emancipation school” where women learn to make a living through crafts, including sewing and embroidery.

Marie, herself a victim of rape, discovered another issue that sparked sincere interest. She learned that women and girls, some as young as five years old, had been forced into brothels.

“Knowing that was heartbreaking but seeing how their lives have been changed through this ‘emancipation school’ was healing for me.”

In 2006, Faceless International was founded by current director Sarah Freeman and two others. They were motivated by an interest in other cultures, and their prayers together led to travels to other countries, beginning with Haiti- the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. “It raised our awareness,” Freeman explained. Early trips prompted e-mail responses and

metroMAGAZINE • AUG 2009

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metroMAGAZINE catch the

spirit

of the Omaha community!

increased high school and college students’ involvement. A major goal for Faceless International is raising awareness about the horrors of human trafficking, which amounts to modern day slavery. Knowledge about such issues has increased with the release of the 2007 film “Amazing Grace”, and is sustained through projects such as the ones Samara Marie was involved in where young people visit other countries, and spread the word when they return.

“We have huge power,” Freeman states, “Our generation has the ability to make a difference.”

Marie’s motivation for the trip stems from what she describes as “a passionate heart for the developing world and the people- people who don’t have nearly as much as we do.” This belief comes from her Christian faith. As a child, Marie was raised in a Christian home, but they were not very active members. Later, Marie got involved in drugs, and soon after reached a low point. She had difficulty knowing where to turn for help until she joined a college group at Trinity Interdenominational Church. “It was a hard process,” Marie said. “At first, I felt alone and heartbroken. I knew I needed to change. I kept going and reading the Bible; I saw people feeling joyful.” She experienced personal conversion and has been sober since 2006.

“My life from that day has been incredibly different.”

While growing up, Marie had always wanted to travel, but wasn’t sure it would ever be possible. “Traveling became my passion,” she said after her initial, eye-opening trip to Costa Rica.

“People there love each other, not possessions.” When she heard about an upcoming mission to India, by Faceless International, she quickly sent an e-mail and was invited to join them.

mission trip. Marie currently works at Crane Coffee, and plans to make additional trips to other countries. “I believe the Lord goes before me and this is what I am supposed to be doing,” she said.

Reflecting on the impact of her trip, Marie remarked that India is one of the world’s poorest countries and spending time there made her aware of how much those of us here take for granted. She has learned to place a higher priority on people rather than on things.

Marie is determined to continue working in less developed countries.

“Leaving India was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” she said. “I cannot only do two weeks ever again. That’s not enough time for me.”

Indeed Samara felt a sense of loss for several days after her return, but eventually came up with an idea of how to express herself. As an art/painting major, she envisioned a project, based on her feelings and reactions to the India trip. “I wanted to get the images out of my head. So when school started I was feeling very grouchy.” The instructor of her four studio classes agreed to let her produce one major project. “It ended up being my creative outlet, my mustard seed,” she said.

Using that theme, she infused some of the lessons from her journey into an exhibit “mustering your faith.” It included a number of oil on wood paintings, which she incorporated into an 11 x 7 foot image of a mustard plant, with the Biblical message, “It only takes faith the size of a mustard seed to move mountains.” She also incorporated jars of mustard seeds, a biology book and numerous other materials.

The exhibit’s opening was an event of firsts. It was the first time anyone saw the work and the first time she talked in depth about her experience with the

An especially lasting memory is of the Indian women wanting to touch her hands and telling her how soft they were in comparison to theirs, which had become coarse from hard work. These are the images that stay with Samara Marie.

Not only the comparisons of her hands to their hands, but of her heart to their hearts. Samara now reflects on growing up in a “land of prosperity,” yet encountering the poverty of spirit that left her heart hardened and hurting. By comparison her experiences in the “poorest of lands” left her heart softened by Vijay and the beautiful friends she discovered in these remote villages far, far away from Calcutta. “When I came home, I felt like they’d made an impact on me, and my life started taking a different direction.”

journe m

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metroMAGAZINE

living

out of the

Blue

• SUSAN KUHLMANN WITH SARAH VONK blue summitfairtradestore 4101 s 120th street, omaha

is a store unlike most others.

It eclipses the mundane and creates a unique shopping experience by enhancing the global community, protecting the environment, and providing a wide range of products from around the globe. So where could this international boutique be located- New York? Chicago? San Francisco? Try right here in Omaha.

In 2005, Patti Boyle, a former COO of global services for First Data, opened the “global experience” store with her late husband. They were inspired after journeying to Africa where they were touched after visiting villages and encountering victims of HIV/AIDS. “Before going to Africa, most people imagine sights of elephants, rhinoceroses and other exotic animals,” Boyle recalls, “But when you come back home, you think of the people and their wide smiles.” The Boyles were changed by what they experienced in Africa and began looking for ways to impact the lives of the people they’d met.

With that resolution, Boyle became involved with the Fair Trade store in Lincoln, Ten Thousand Villages, which led to the opening of Blue Summit- one of 140 Fair Trade stores across the nation. The merchandise available travels from over sixty countries around the world to Blue Summit in Omaha. Nearly everything is created by people in developing countries who are looking for a way to support themselves and their families. About 75 percent of the artisans are women; many of whom have been widowed and left to provide for themselves and their children. They are eager to earn a living, and through their association with the Fair Trade Federation, they can get their items into stores here.

Inside Blue Summit, there is a map of the world that features pushpins, which identify the sites from where the products originate.

It also has informational pieces next to the displays with stories and photographs of the artisans at work.

Purchasing merchandise helps bring dignity and progress to the people and their villages. In many cases, women have gone from one meal a day, poor housing and no health care- to better homes, three meals a day and health services for themselves and their children. The villagers often pool their resources together for the well being of everyone. Installing a village well or other conveniences provide a great advantage, and is pivotal for the women allocated with gathering wood or water (which is often dirty) from miles away. Some of the artisans work at home while others work in co-op settings.

After the products are created, they are taken to a collection point and reviewed for quality; the artisans are then paid before anything leaves the community.

While buying these products not only helps those in other countries, it also benefits importers, dockworkers, UPS delivery persons and others here in the United States.

Additionally purchasing Fair Trade items assists the environment. Because they do not have access to a lot of goods, artisans will use whatever is at hand or available.

Raw materials range from tea bags, grass leaves, elephant “pooh,” oil drums, used magazine and newspaper pages. One native group transforms plastic bags into multicolored handbags. “They use whatever they have available,” Boyle adds.

From those raw materials come purses, house décor, woven baskets, jewelry, journals, books and more. One of the many of the products at Blue Summit is a line of canvas bags that are made by women and children who have escaped forced prostitution and human trafficking. The store also sells Fair Trade coffee, chocolate, tea and dried cranberries, along with soups, dips and cookie mixes- made by a group of women in Indiana trying to get back on their feet.

“Blue Summit has something for everyone,” Boyle expresses, noting that prices range from $2 to $1,000 and are comparable

to those in other stores. While explaining her passion for the venture, Boyle said she cares because it resonates with her connection to womanhood, motherhood, children and humanity. “I am very fortunate,” Boyle conveys, “They have so little. They struggle so hard yet they are so positive. It’s important to reach out and help. Rather than a hand out, this is a way to ‘bring people up’. If you ever see them, you can’t say no.”

Another feature that Boyle is connected with is the “green” aspect. “Our society has become increasingly cognizant about taking care of the planet and part of the Fair Trade Federation, by law, is to be as kind to the earth as possible,” Boyle mentions, “We do not want to be just another store. We feel our mission is much more. We want to provide education and art to the community and help the world. The motto is ‘shop locally- help globally’.”

Blue Summit reaches out in other ways, including educational programs ranging from instruction in journaling to African Dance and other movement classes. Boyle brought the United Nation’s art ambassador from Nigeria for a discussion, and her daughter, a kindergarten teacher, offers children’s summer classes that highlight the geography and culture of the artisan’s communities. “We educate on global and spiritual things,” Boyle said.

Building a steady business has been slow.

“I haven’t figured out how to let people know we’re here,” Boyle reflects, “The majority of shoppers come in unaware of the store’s uniqueness. We try to greet everyone and talk about Fair Trade.” Once Blue Summit grows big enough, Boyle plans to fulfill the original goal of creating a scholarship fund to send volunteers into developing countries.

Book by book, basket by basket, Blue Summit shows there are purchasing alternatives available to impact mankind in a positive manner while fulfilling customers’ own purchasing needs. A store like Blue Summit is not found on your average street corner, and your average storeowner is certainly nothing like Patti Boyle. With lofty ideals and a positive mentality Boyle can confidently say, “We’re more than a store, we’re a global community center.” m

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metroMAGAZINE catch the

spirit

of the Omaha community!

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metroMAGAZINE

YPconnections

CONNECTING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PROFILE

“YP” ORGANIZATION PROFILE

theomahajaycees

voicesforchildreninnebraska

contact sarah davidson: saralizdavidson@yahoo.com

contact diane k. moore: dmoore@voicesforchildren.com Voices for Children in Nebraska is an independent, nonprofit child advocacy organization committed to serving Nebraska's children. Established in 1987 by Kathy Bigsby Moore, Executive Director, the mission of the organization includes: advocating for the best interests of children; equipping parents, professionals and volunteers to effectively meet the deepest needs of Nebraska’s children; and inspiring all Nebraskans to put the needs of children first.

Voices for Children is recognized as the vital resource, trusted advisor, and influential leader advocating for Nebraska's children. The organization’s annual publication, Kids Count in Nebraska, tracks the status of Nebraska’s children by utilizing the best available data with key indicators measuring the education, social, economic and physical well-being of children.

The organization is currently seeking volunteers interested in serving on the 2010 gala committee, an event scheduled for Saturday, March 20, 2010. The goal of the event, in addition to raising overall awareness of children’s issues, is to raise $85,000 to support the organization. All one needs to volunteer is a passion to support children causes. Committee members assist with the event through service on the following committees: raffle, silent auction, live auction, awards, decorations, public relations & marketing, and food & beverage.

If interested please contact Diane K. Moore, Director of Program & Resource Development, (402) 597-3100, ext. 106, dmoore@voicesforchildren.com.

The committee will begin organizing the 2010 gala in August 2009. More information will soon be available about the August planning meeting.

For more information or to learn more about Voices for Children in Nebraska visit www.voicesforchildren.com.

Mike Battershell moved to Omaha from Helena, Montana in 2001 to join Bergman Incentives as an Account Executive. At his ‘day job,’ he coordinates the branding and maintains the image for many Omaha companies. The move from Montana was easy because Omaha was, and remains, like a small town with many great big city features.

Over the past 9 years, he has lived in many areas of Omaha including: West Omaha, Millard, and Dundee, but has found his grounding in Omaha's Hanscom Park Neighborhood. He was recently elected President of Hanscom Park Neighborhood Association (HPNA) and is realizing the challenges of maintaining neighborhoods and communities in an environment of declining funds and increasing demands for funds.

Mike has worked with Omaha Public Works and the City Council to help slow traffic on 32nd Avenue in addition to other neighborhood improvements. He is collaborating on a neighborhood master plan for Hanscom Park with other Neighborhood Associations to ensure smart urban growth in the area. He is looking to strengthen his community by being a catalyst for positive change. He is always seeking ways to connect people to resources and to each other.

MISSION: “To give young people between the ages of 21 and 40 the tools they need to build the bridges of success for themselves in the areas of business development, management skills, individual training, community service and international connections.”

HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Come to the General Membership Meetings (GMM.) At each GMM– held the third Wednesday of every month– discussions are held on current and upcoming projects and how any member can participate in them. Feel free to talk with a board member to learn more!

Visit the Omaha Jaycees Web site (www.omahajaycees.org.) You’ll find descriptions of jaycees projects, a monthly calendar of upcoming events, member bios and pictures of past events. As a member, you can even use the Web site to sign up for projects.

“Friend” us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter!

Just search for “Omaha Jaycees” and add us as a friend. If you’re new or interested in joining, we’ll contact you to let you know how to officially join.

Once you’re a friend of the Omaha Jaycees, you’ll also get reminders for upcoming events and can sign up for them.

QUALIFICATIONS for membership: Young adults, ages 21-40, who are looking to meet new people, to give back to our community, and to continue their own personal and professional growth by networking with, and learning from, some of Omaha’s best and brightest.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

mikebattershell ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE , BERGMAN INCENTIVES In addition to being active in HPNA, Mike is a founding member of Democratic Professional Network (DPN) which facilitates dialogue on progressive issues among and between like-minded members of the Omaha community. DPN holds events that bring professionals together to talk about issues. DPN provides direct contact with elected officials and discussion of topics related to Omaha.

Mike supports furthering medical research to improve quality of life.

One way he accomplishes that is by serving on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Board and its Corporate Development Committee. Additionally, he is a past President of the I-80 Cosmopolitan Club which is a service organization aimed at fundraising for diabetes-related causes. He is active in the North Omaha parish of Sacred Heart Church and supports the Heart Ministry Center and the Christian Urban Education Service. In addition to his community service, Mike and a couple of friends created Bald Bearded Cow Productions in 2007, just as a hobby. Bald Bearded Cow is a small, live music productions company that focuses on attracting nationally-recognized touring musicians, musicians who might not otherwise play in the Omaha/Lincoln area. He enjoys giving Omaha even more of a big city feel by introducing these artists to the area.

As a recent graduate of the Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Omaha Class 31, Mike realizes the impact one individual can have on change and the well being of our City. He believes that civic responsibility and action will move Omaha forward in a positive direction.

MIKE BATTERSHELL 33 19

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metroMAGAZINE

howdoyou

recharge YPconnections in

CONNECTING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

williamholland

hannas.wanzenried

ARTIST - SELF EMPLOYED RT/CNA - QUALITY LIVING

COMMUNITY OUTREACH COORDINATOR NEBRASKA METHODIST COLLEGE: CTR. FOR HEALTH PARTNERSHIPS, AMERICORPS VISTA BECAUSE OF ALL THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE of a MY BEING AGNOSTIC MAKES THIS a busy young professional’s life and work, I find it very question that initially appears to have limited important to create a work life balance. answers. Spiritually indicates a separation I recharge spiritually by being active and between the body and the soul. Howvolunteering in my faith community and ever, spirituality has grown to envelope church family. They understand my our ideas of being in tune with our doubts and encourage my questions. surroundings and finding a Chatting with family, close friends and peace with one self. I am often mentors frequently recharges me too; asked questions similar to this, in that their support and kindness pushes the interviewer is seeking to know me forward. I also take the time to read where my passion comes from and up on issues facing young professionals and how I keep the madness out. To this I our spiritual development; it helps me to know HANNA S. can only reply, I'm an artist. I must what I’m thinking and feeling are what WANZENRIED endure it, the chaos, the drama, the other young professionals are thinking WILLIAM emotional swings of depression and too. Finally, I make an effort to be active outside and surround HOLLAND 32 delight. Would I not simply stifle my creativity if I myself with nature. I find that simply sitting alone on a park bench listening had inner peace? If it were not for the hardships in my to music, or going for a run, helps me remember life’s blessings and the bigger life would I still have created the things I have? I am inviting and picture. Taking the time to recharge spiritually can be a challenge as a young peaceful, but at peace? I do await that day, like many of us. For now, I have a professional, but in order to be a better professional, friend, partner, and comjob that gives me purpose, a job that gives me passion, I eat well, I munity member, it is essential for self-care and a must on my personal do to list. exercise, I keep good company, and I sleep like a baby. So, I suppose I do not recharge, it’s a constant thing if you will. As in this quote I heard recently, “character is easier kept than recovered.”

So then, should spirituality be any different?

SR. MANAGER - ELECTRONIC DATA ACQUISITIONS CONTINUUM WORLDWIDE

kevinj.vanourney

petercales

ARTIST PROGRAM SPECIALIST, SERVENEBRASKA WHEN I WORK WITH MY HANDS AND CREATE SOMETHING NEW I know I’ve contributed something to the world and feel a strong sense of something larger than myself. So, I mostly recharge spiritually by working through simple rituals related to creating new things. I don’t think people consciously participate – or at least reflect on – simple rituals enough. There is something rejuvenating about delving in to the dust and noise of my workspace that energizes me. Likewise, honing the cutting edges of a bunch of chisels; or cutting practice dovetails everyday can be very energizing to me spiritually. I haven’t been in a classroom for a long time, so the necessity to learn and practice new skills is invigorating. In doing so, I feel empowered to challenge myself to move in new directions or use materials I hadn’t thought of trying before. This may not sound much like spirituality to some, but I think spirituality is intangible. And the feeling I get from challenging myself and adding something new to the world is the only way I know how to feel a sense of spirituality beyond what I can see and physically experience.

I RECHARGE SPIRITUALLY BY ABSORBING FINE ART in art museums and galleries. I prefer post 19th century "contemporary art," but it's refreshing to go back to the Old Masters sometimes, too. I've been looking at art since I was in my early teens. It took several years before I appreciated abstract/contemporary work, but once I started to comprehend creative "artistic license" and individual artists' visions more, I was able to deeply appreciate some 20th century artists and art movements. Pre and Post World War periods produced some phenomenal artists and art. Great fine artists provide the opportunity for me to see differently. Whenever I need to go into deep thought or figure something out, looking at art always provides the answer and some guidance abstractly somehow. It’s hard to describe how it occurs.

It just does. I don’t comprehend how KEVIN J. 35 a lot of others claim spirituality in things that they VANOURNEY do, so I don’t expect others to understand how fine art provides spirituality for me.

PETER CALES 28

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spiritually? metroMAGAZINE catch the

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of the Omaha community!

andyhouser

BUSINESS DEVELOPER GLOBAL ECO SERVICES

4

IT IS COMMONLY THOUGHT THAT REJUVENATION is primarily what one does for oneself. I believe rejuvenation that is spiritual is initiated by God bringing a person to a right understanding and renewed relationship with Him. It is also initiated by a child of God in renewing the mind to believe rightly about God and to live out biblical truth. Jesus made a way to set us free, free indeed (John 8:36) from every sinful encumbrance. Rejuvenation starts with believing and living divinely inspired truth rather than meeting the insatiable demands of the soul for happiness. When God strengthens me, I sense rejuvenation that always results in a favorable strengthening of my soul by the familiar Holy Spirit of God. This occurs by the active comforting, teaching and leading of the Holy Spirit. Rejuvenation also occurs by the obedient seeking of God the Father in spirit and biblical truth, acting on His righteousness and laying down of my righteous stanANDY dards. I must alter my actions, meditating on who 39 HOUSER God is in His Word, believing He is who He says He is with passionate fondness of heart, accepting edification/correction from my church family, serving others, singing of songs to Him, prayer and rest, that my trust in Him is setting me free to Love Him again with all my heart, soul and strength!

michellezych

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT CAMP FIRE USA – MIDLANDS COUNCIL

I AM REALLY LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO HAVE A JOB THAT HELPS ME understand the true struggles that people are facing. It’s difficult to let a bad day take down your spirit when I know that many of the kids that Camp Fire serves will only have the food that we gave them to get them through the weekend. However, after days when I feel as though my spirit is on particularly shaky ground, I find myself flocking to my family and friends. Being with my favorite people helps me keep perspective on what is actually important in life. The time that we spend laughing and solving the world’s problems over drinks is what keeps me excited about all of the possibilities there are to make this world a better place which absolutely recharges my spirit. Going on adMICHELLE ventures always provides ZYCH 27 me with the ability to recharge as well. There is something about being able to explore something new and taking time for myself that gives me the ability to see more clearly and realize that my spirit is actually in pretty good condition.

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livingmental and spiritual practices for improving your health

putting your

.into it

The Healing Power of Your MIND Many scientists, scholars, medical professionals and health practitioners believe that we are on the threshold of another stage of medical advancement, initiating at least a partial realignment of our understanding of human design and function. In the 1500s, Michelangelo’s research with cadavers radically altered commonly held understanding of human physiology.

In the 1800s, Louis Pasteur and Joseph Lister pioneered the germ theory of disease and introduced the world to antiseptic surgery. Now, an ever increasing number of professionals and researchers are advancing theories suggesting that energetic healing is the next medical frontier.

This “new” awareness focuses on a renewed understanding of how our mental and spiritual practices contribute to our health, not just in lifting our overall attitudes and intentions, but impacting specific physical and biological symptoms as well. We’re discovering that “mind power” is not restricted to “brain power” and there is more to our mind than merely the electrochemical machinations of our physiological computer. Research is beginning to validate (or perhaps to be validated by) beliefs in human resources that go beyond the physiological and biological.

Science is rediscovering Spirit.

We interviewed several local practitioners who all agree with one another that this “new” awareness isn’t really new at all.

What is new is the recent explosion of interest in mental and spiritual applications for healing, as people reevaluate their wellness agendas in an effort to find alternatives to costly conventional healthcare methods. Combine this with a “swinging back of the pendulum” as many in society are rediscovering the importance of the spiritual dynamic in their lives, and one can see why best-seller lists for the past decade have been erupting with materials extolling a return to incorporating mind and spirit into our overall wellness routines.

“Mind over matter.” “Just put your mind to it.” “It’s all in your mind.” It’s commonly accepted that our mind has the capacity to significantly shape our lives, yet science may be discovering what many practitioners of the healing arts have known for centuries– that an almost limitless supply of resources is available to us through the creative powerhouse that is the human mind and spirit.

The classic children’s tale, The Little Engine that Could, beautifully instructed young readers on the power of setting one’s mind to a task in order to succeed. There may have been more wisdom to “I think I can, I think I can” than we originally realized.

Telling ourselves we can run that extra mile often results in accomplishment.

Why? Because of the mind’s ability to impact what is achievable. If we think something is possible, it can, and often (perhaps always) does materialize as fact.

Many doctors agree. Researchers in Boston conducted a study in three area hospitals investigating the role patients play in their own recovery. Entitled “Patient-Centered Techniques to Enhance Surgical Outcomes,” the study, led by psychologist Peggy Huddleston, author of Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster, examined how a patient’s outlook and stress levels affect surgical results. Researchers determined that those entering surgery with a sense of calm and who felt confident about the outcome experienced shorter recovery periods and more successful surgical outcomes. Patients listened to relaxation tapes and journaled, getting more connected to their own “spiritual core.”

“This… creates the biochemistry of healing. It strengthens their immune system,” says Huddleston. Scientifically, a relaxed body has a greater number of T-cells, increasing the immune system’s effectiveness. The result: faster healing.

Huddleston’s research found that anesthesiologists using healing statements during surgery such as “You will wake up without pain;” “You will sleep comfortably;” “Physical therapy will be pain-free and productive,” or “You will have an appetite in the morning,” etc. enhanced the post-surgery healing process.

When patients were asleep, their unconscious minds were still very much open to suggestion. The attendants, using statements targeting the patient’s particular need, during the mind’s most receptive time, reinforced the mind’s focus on directing the body to heal.

The Healing Power of Your SPIRIT The concept of “putting your mind to it” is primarily focused on what Dixie Clark refers to as the “ego mind.” “There is also the spiritual mind,” asserts Clark, co-founder and Director of Morning Star Center here in Omaha. In contrast to the ego mind, the spiritual mind connects us more deeply with resources our ego mind cannot, including our emotions.

Clark elaborates: “We often equate emotional upset with ‘dispiritedness,’ or having ‘low spirits.’ If, for an extended period of time, we experience this dispiritedness, our physical bodies can suffer, and this can lead either to disease or a retarded ability to heal.”

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living mental and spiritual practices

putting your Clark emphasizes that “there can be a danger of putting too much emphasis on the ego mind, and getting stuck on the mental level, believing we can push ourselves past what our body is telling us or what our emotions are needing to express. When we ignore these other levels, it can lead to illness, depression, apathy. When we open up to the spiritual mind and are aligned and in balance on all these levels, that’s when we have optimum health and fulfillment.”

It’s important to clarify that the use of the term “spiritual” need not imply the necessity of belief in a “Higher Power” or a religious approach, only a willingness to embrace an expanded view of human architecture.

“The ‘mind-body-spirit connection’ term is a way of acknowledging that we are a spiritual, mental, emotional and physical being, and each of these aspects inherently affects the other,” says Sandy Aquila, founder of the Omaha Healing Arts Center, located in the Old Market.

“When our emotions are in conflict or our mind is overwhelmed with obsessive thoughts, our body expresses symptoms and our health is compromised,” Aquila explains. “We [so often] see body and mind as separate, but they work as one. The innate wisdom of our mind and spirit are always communicating with us through our body. Emotions are anchored in the body, and through the body we interface with life.” It’s not so much of a stretch then, to suggest that what the mind conjures up manifests itself in our physical reality.

The Healing Power of Meditation So, if balance between the mental, physical and spiritual planes is becoming more and more acknowledged as a fundamental key to overall wellness, how do we create and maintain this equilibrium in an increasingly frenzied world?

Meditation, it turns out, is good Medicine. Clark sees her daily meditative practice as a way of aligning her physical and emotional levels with the spiritual level. “Meditation can help access a different state of consciousness, one that’s not so busy. [It] can help us enter a state of relaxation, open up to intuition, [access] a place of healing, or deepen our connection to Spirit,” Clark explains.

Sue Moon, co-founder of Morning Star Center, sees meditation as “a cure for the mental clutter (what Buddhists call ‘The Monkey Mind,’) that is an impediment to tranquility, which is an essential ingredient for facilitating our overall wellness.” “Monkey Mind” thinking, causes us to be governed by our ego rather than assisted by it (while working in cooperation with our spirit rather than in ignorance or opposition of it.) These typical yet unproductive thinking patterns lead us to less evolved decision making and behavior.

For many, the practice of meditation can seem daunting at first, but making it a regular element in one’s health regimen can yield dramatic results.

Sue Moon is an accomplished meditation mentor. Her advice: be patient with yourself and start small. Start with what you enjoy doing, make it a daily priority, and your spiritual component will meet you where you are. With persistence and with time it will become a deeper part of your life, taking on the qualities that are natural and life enhancing for you.

“It’s not about stopping the mind,” asserts Aquila. “The nature of the mind is to think. What we want to do is to be the observer, the witness.”

Sue Moon adds, “when you are calm you can think and perceive more clearly and you have access to your own inner wisdom.” That access can lead to activating more effective spiritual and physical processes for healing that modern medicine is rediscovering as not only viable, but essential.

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for improving your health

into it

Whether or not your daily health regimen involves meditation (and these professionals urge that it should) the benefit is in being open to acknowledging that you have access to resources of a spiritual design which are completely natural to advancing your well being, rather than disregarding them in favor of those we regard as more commonly accepted.

What’s “New” is Old Of interest here is that the tendency to dismiss this spiritual aspect is a very recent development in history which has not enjoyed a very long lifespan, being primarily contained to Western thinking in the last half century. As previously mentioned, the pendulum would seem to be swinging rather swiftly back to a more holistic approach consistent with the overwhelming majority of human history and cultures, combining the advances of modern medicine with time-honored and demonstrated mental and spiritual techniques.

The connection between the mind, body and spirit is a long revered premise, dating back as far as 5,000 years ago, yet the development of Western medicine created, for many, a devaluing of this belief, but certainly not for all. Indigenous tribes such as Native Americans, have always maintained a firm recognition in the union between body and spirit.

Pete Peterson, a Cherokee Native and founder and president of Nebraska’s only metaphysical university, University 7 Stars, says that “over time, people got away from the mind-body connection. But they are coming back to it.

And our culture needs this.” Peterson, whose Cherokee name is Buchi Medicine Eagle, believes the modern disconnect between mind, body and spirit is why we have so many illnesses now.

Peterson distinguishes between the brain and the mind; the brain functions with the body, and the mind with the spirit. “The spirit is the key that operates your entire system,” says Peterson. “It gives information to the mind (the sub-conscious.) This information then goes into the conscious, the realm of the brain, which feeds into the physical function of the body.”

“The body and brain will run away with you if you allow them to.

The body is certainly going to pay [either] in a positive or negative way,” cautions Peterson.

In fact, Peterson sees daily activities as forms of meditation. “We meditate every day of our lives, when we are cooking or showering. As soon as you are thinking of something, you are in a meditative state. What’s cool about meditation is it doesn’t have to be rigid.” Nature is an effective conduit to meditation. Absorb its healing properties. When you go for a walk, put down the head phones. You don’t need them, Peterson admonishes.

Movement, like meditation, is an important route to a healthy mindbody-spirit connection. “Any time you are moving the body, the lymphatic and circulatory systems increase which moves toxins out of the body at a faster rate,” says Moon. Movement also increases the amount of oxygen in the body, providing for healthier cells. In particular, Yoga and Tai Chi provide excellent opportunities to make the mind-bodyspirit connection through physical exertion. Observes Clark, “Yoga and Tai Chi specifically can alter the brain waves to help bring you in to balance and enter a different level of consciousness and state of peace.”

They require the mind to focus, thus blocking out “nervous chatter.”

They also link breath to movement, again helping those practicing such disciplines to achieve a meditative, calming state.

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mental and spiritual practices for improving your health Sandy Aquila explains further, “Imagining yourself happy and healthy activates electrical and chemical responses, creating positive effects in your body.” But it’s a complete cycle, working both ways, as she points out. “The irony is, if we pay attention to the body’s messages we can hear the wisdom of the mind and emotions speaking to us through our bodies.”

Consider the benefits of making mental and spiritual practices elements of your life that are

.into it

CONTINUED

woven into your daily design for personal wellness. The specific disciplines you choose to embrace are up to you; there are a lot of options to explore and experiment with and there’s a lot of help out there to assist you in tailoring your spiritual life to contribute to your overall quality of life. If you want a more balanced, healthy life, you need to court that life, but like most worthwhile endeavors, it’s worth it. The overall benefits you reap can far exceed your investment. m

T ips

for starting

• A MEDITATION PRACTICE

You don’t have to be a contortionist, curling your body into impossible lotus positions, to meditate.

Finding a comfortable position is important.

Reclining is not advised, however; it is much too easy to nod off. And you certainly don’t have to chant “OM” if you are not inclined. Try honing your focus on a calming word. Repeat inwardly “peace,” “yes,” or “Jesus” or whomever or whatever is part of your belief system.

Attend to your breath. Inhale deeply and slowly, to the count of five, breath in through your nose, noting the breath filling your abdominal region, expanding your rib cage, and filling you chest. Then slowly exhale, again through your nose and to the count of five. “Focus on the breath as it comes into the body and flows out, just noticing it. After a few minutes you will be much calmer. When you are calm you can think and perceive more clearly and you have access to your own inner wisdom,” Sue Moon advises.

If your mind wanders back to your “to do” list during your practice? Gently draw it back to the breath.

Dixie Clark offers other practical tips for those just starting out: “start with just 5 minutes at a time and then gradually add to your practice. Let go of expectations and be open. Always say a prayer or call in the Light for protection before you start. There are many different ways to meditate. It’s important that each person finds which method works best for him or her.”

going

• RESOURCES

Further

Inside-Out Wellness.

The Wisdom of Mind/Body Healing.

– Dr. Wayne W. Dyer and Dr. Christiane Northrup

Why People Don’t Heal and How They Can – Dr. Caroline Myss www.jackkornfield.com

• LOCAL CONTACTS Morning Star Center - www.morningstarcenter.com Omaha Healing Arts – www.omahahealingarts.com University 7 Stars – www. university7stars.org

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spirit

metro

joy in daisoul ly living

connecting with your own

“The essential nature of the soul is pure joy. If I’m not experiencing joy, then I’m not experiencing my soul.”

–Shakti Parwha Kaur Khalsa

when

Andy Hoig mentioned to me that the topic for this month was about “spirited living” and connecting to one’s soul, I had to give a lot of thought to how to approach that. After all, that’s a deeply personal subject and it is easy to unintentionally invoke someone’s sensitivity.

In approaching the topic, I wanted to cut across any approach one might take to his or her personal spirituality. I spent a couple weeks thinking about, observing how I connected to my soul and asking others how they did so.

I reached the rather obvious conclusion that regardless of our particular religious or spiritual approach, connection to the soul is about finding joy and connection in our daily living.

Extraordinarily Kind DoASomething client of mine owns a house on 13th Street. I park there every year during the College World Series. Keith and Sharon are two of the kindest people I know.

Every year, there are all sorts of stories about events at the College World Series. My favorite this year is one about Keith and Sharon doing a good deed for another. They do many. An elder gentleman drove in from Western Nebraska to bring his grandchildren to a ballgame. He was driving an older car and had all of $20 in his pocket. As he drove up 13th Street, his car was practically on fire. He pulled in to Keith and Sharon’s house distressed about what to do. Keith and Sharon sent him to the game.

While the man and his grandchildren were at the game, Keith and Sharon went to great lengths to get the man’s car fixed. They also used credit with a nearby vendor to let each of the kids get an item of CWS memorabilia. The man came back from the game expecting to have to figure out what to do with his car and how to pay for it. Instead, he was able to get in his car and drive home.

Differently SeeMostThings of us have experienced one of those days in our lives where we can describe the intimate details of where we were and what we were doing when something big happened. Those days might be historical events such as 9/11 or they might be personal moments when we heard about the death of a loved one. For me, one of those moments that I will never forget was the phone call I received the day my dad died.

One of the things I did the day my dad died was to head to the mall to buy something to wear to his funeral. I pulled in to a parking spot. When I got out of my car, some lady had pulled up immediately behind me. She got out of her car and started screaming bloody murder at me about taking her parking spot.

I looked at her, started to bawl and said “I just lost my dad. You are more than welcome to this parking spot. I will move right now. I just want my dad back.”

I have no idea whether the lady was trying to pull into that spot before me.

I was focused on my loss. Since then, when someone does something that seems to be rude or inconsiderate, I ask myself to consider the possibility that the person just lost a parent, a friend, a child, or experienced some other personal tragedy. It is certainly true that sometimes the person is just being rude but I would rather let that pass than yell at someone who has just experienced the death of a loved one.

The Beauty In Simple Things Seeing Last spring, I had a robin show up at my doorstep each day in the wee hours of the morning knocking on my window waking me up from much needed sleep.

After failing in several attempts to convince the bird to knock elsewhere at such hour, I called a bird expert. He explained that the robin was seeing itself in the window and assuming the reflection was a competitor in his territory.

The next day, I put my nose up to the window on which the robin was knocking. It stopped but didn’t move. I opened the door and said “hello.” The robin stayed. I put in a birdfeeder for the robin. While the birdfeeder was in the back yard, the robin flew to the front of the house every morning and evening as if to see me off to work and greet me home. The robin eventually found a mate and they both hung around. One night when I drove up, there were both robins along with four little baby robins. They walked fearlessly up to my car door as if to greet me and introduce the babies.

When I drove in, my mind had been on the zillion tangible things that I needed to do that day. After meeting the baby robins, the path of my day changed.

Instead of pursuing the mission of my endless to do list, I decided to talk to a friend and share the story. He was out of town and told me his story about flying a seaplane over a breathtaking part of the world. We talked of the magic of those moments.

I have been asking others: “What has been the magic in your day?” “What was the kindest thing you saw today?” “Who were you kind too and what did you do?” The response you get is likely to be a lot different than the answer to “How are you?”

To Someone Who Is Dying GetIn Close my day job, I am blessed to be a part of a lot of lives at the end of the path on this earth. Being close to and open to the dying process is an amazing way to connect to your own soul and the soul of others.

A few years ago, my cousin died of pancreatic cancer. When I heard that she was dying, I packed up and went to visit her. We took a trip along the southern shore of Lake Superior. The scenery was spectacular. We drove to waterfall after waterfall. We sat on the edge of the lake and watched the sun go down. We toured the shipwrecks. Monica did not have the strength to get out of the car so I did.

She sat in the car and crocheted potholders. The potholders she gave to me have been on my dining room table ever since and serve as a constant reminder of my cousin and the fabulous experience we had together just before she left this life.

Have you ever started avoiding someone who is dying? Many people do. It is difficult to be around someone who has Lou Gehrig’s disease or dementia or leukemia. The next time you have the opportunity to be close to someone who is dying, experience it. There is no greater service to human life than to be part of helping a life to finish its journey here. You will never be the same.

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metroMAGAZINE

by mary e. vandenack

ake Someone’s Day MOne day, I was sitting in a long line at Starbucks. When I finally got to the window, the attendant handed me my drink and said “This is on the person that was in front of you. The driver is engaging in a day of random acts of kindness.”

That day was many years ago. I have never forgotten the shift that made in my day mentally. Ever since then, I have sought to make random acts of anonymous kindness a part of my lifestyle.

Someone Different From You GetOnTomyKnow sabbaticals to NYC, I often invite friends to come out for part of the trip to share the experience. Last summer, I decided to invite someone who I would describe as “walking to the beat of a very different drummer than I.” Leslie’s arrival was like a breath of fresh air.

We walked every inch of the city. I had done that many times before but Leslie saw things differently than I did. We were walking up Madison Avenue one day. Leslie stopped suddenly and said “I have to take a picture of that artwork on that building.” Leslie’s “artwork” was graffiti that I had not even noticed.

When we walked past the homeless in Central Park, Leslie would ascribe wonderful attributes to the unique individuals and their lives. Leslie would consistently notice that which I had not and see things differently. To Leslie, everything was artwork and it all had a story. Her perspective on everything was positive, uplifting, kind and absolutely fascinating, and ever since that weekend with Leslie, I have noticed things I would not have noticed before.

The Guru Within Finding I recently attended a training session with one of the “gurus” of kundalini yoga. The session I attended was titled “Strong as Steel.” I expected the session to be physically challenging and it was. What I wasn’t expecting was that the “strength” referred to in the session’s title was about the strength that is required to be connected to our own soul.

The leader of the session, Gurmukh, began by asking all participants to introduce themselves and to explain why they had come. Almost every participant included “I came for the opportunity to be in your class.”

After the introductions, Gurmukh said “I appreciate the kindness from those of you who say they came to be in my class. Realize however that you are your own guru. Your soul is within. If you are constantly seeking the right yoga teacher, the right leader, the right person, then you will spend your life looking on the outside for what you need to seek within. You will constantly be susceptible to the next trend or the next “great” instructor.”

At the end of the session, we did a meditation. We sat in a circle and interlaced our fingers. As we placed our hands over our heart, our eyes, our head, and our navel, we were asked to say “I love my heart, I love my eyes, I love my head, I love you, I love you.”

The meditation might seem like an easy task but I found it extremely difficult. Self love isn’t that easy but it is totally necessary to be open to receive love. Giving and receiving love is fundamental to connecting to our soul. Loving oneself is not self serving but rather m serves the universe.

“Love is between you and you.

It is an experience of oneself in oneself.

Your ‘soulmate’ is your own soul.”

–Yogi Bhajan

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the soul’s journey • with dixie clark

self-forgiveness

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

“The basic thing we need to do is forgive ourselves for forgetting that we are divine.

That is the real message to open up the channel for our return to Spirit.”

– John-Roger

we

are born into this world carrying a light called soul that holds our purpose and our mission in this lifetime. It is a beacon that directs us each step of the way in our evolution and on our way Home. This is the spark of the Divine. Our true nature. We can disconnect from this essence through our misinterpretation of situations which creates limiting beliefs and fears that we hold on a cellular level. Each of us is on a journey to return to this essence and enfold into who we truly are.

limiting beliefs and the illusions that perpetuate them From the moment we’re born, we begin to form limiting beliefs and judgments about ourselves, about life and our safety. We hear messages that cause us to think we’re not enough, that we need the approval of others in order to be okay, that there are certain criteria to be met in order to be “worthy.” We have forgotten that we already are all of that. And by our judgments, we create a separation from Spirit and our true nature.

We create these illusions that separate us and then believe they’re real. We believe the suffering, the scarcity, the loneliness is real. We forget who we are and whose arms embrace us each moment. We look outside of ourselves for our fulfillment and sense of worth, instead of turning inward. Think about the conversations you have with yourself during the day. Are they respectful and loving? Or are they filled with judgment of yourself and others? For many of us, our thoughts, language and beliefs are filled with negativity. “I never get anything right.” “What will people think?” “I can’t believe I did that.” “I can’t stand the way I look.” “I hate myself.” All variations of “I’m not enough as I am.” All illusions.

self-forgiveness exercises Think of a judgment that you made against yourself this week. And, simply start with “I forgive myself for judging myself.” Take a deep breath and let it go. Then, check inside. You may notice lightness, or simply feel a little better.

Or, you may feel nothing at all, but making this into a habitual exercise may change your ability to experience the sensations related to it.

This process is most effective if you are in a state of prayer or ask to be surrounded by the Light of the Holy Spirit before you begin. Hold the intention of being ready to release this judgment, and do it with a loving energy. You may need to be more specific, and go to a deeper level. Here are some examples: • I forgive myself for believing that I’m not enough just as I am.

• I forgive myself for abandoning myself in order to please others.

• I forgive myself for believing that I’m responsible for others.

• I forgive myself for believing that it’s not okay for me to get what I want.

• I forgive myself for forgetting that I am Divine.

letting go of self judgments When we look at why we hold onto these judgments from the lower level that created them, it makes perfect sense. That’s the level that doubts we are worthy of forgiveness. That’s the level that fears we’ll repeat the same mistakes if we don’t constantly berate ourselves for how we “screwed up. ” We use judgment and shame as a motivator to be better. In a strange way, we use the judgments against ourselves as a way of bringing us into balance. And, even though that doesn’t bring about lasting change, we continue to do it anyway, because that’s all we know on that level of consciousness.

These judgments do not help us grow or evolve. They simply keep us stuck in the lower levels. And, as uncomfortable as it is, we can become comfortable being in this negativity. Until our soul begins to awaken. And we begin to remember or dare to believe the truth of who we are.

This is a very powerful process to do at the end of the day before you go to sleep. Go back over your day and notice what judgments came up. Do self forgiveness statements to begin to release this negativity. After a while, you begin to notice all the judgments that govern your life and you can begin to free yourself of them.

simplicity itself Is this simple? Yes. Is it easy? Yes and no. We are so conditioned in our negativity, that it is an ongoing process to recognize our judgments and limiting beliefs in order to forgive ourselves. This is a process of lifting all the ways we oppress our Spirit and keep ourselves “small” while also healing the wounds that have kept us stuck and in the dark.

May we all become aware as our Soul is aware.

exercising self-forgiveness Because we are already part of the Divine, there’s nothing we have to learn to do to be “Spiritual.” We already are. We just need to release the judgments that have created this separation. One of the most powerful tools to assist with this is self-forgiveness. By forgiving ourselves for the judgments we have, we open the pathway to our Soul. Self-forgiveness gives instructions to our unconscious of our intention, and gives permission to our High Self and Spirit to bring in the higher vibrations of Light to transform the old belief. This simple, loving process unlocks the heart, and allows us to begin to walk in grace and be at peace.

resource materials SELF-FORGIVENESS, AN ACT OF LIFE Robert Waterman www.noetic-field-therapy.com FORGIVENESS: THE KEY TO THE KINGDOM John-Roger www.msia.org

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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metroMAGAZINE catch the

spirit

of the Omaha community!

“grand”

Recreation • ANDY HOIG WITH DAVE LINK

It is such a rare occasion that any of us take the chance to completely relax anymore. To just shut out the world, lay back and truly give our metaphorical batteries an opportunity to recharge.

Finding somewhere that allows you to reset from the ground up – mind, body and spirit – is a rare thing. This past September, thanks to some superb coordination and planning on the part of Grand Resort Properties, my travelling companion Missy Zadina and I were able to do just that in a grand yet gracious rejuvenating space.

Cabo San Lucas is a destination long known as one of the shining gems of Mexico’s Pacific coastline. For the rich and famous, Cabo may be just another weekend getaway, but this seaside town nestled into the Baja Peninsula plays host to some of the most luxurious golf courses and health spas in the world.

But before our excursion had even begun, our personal trip concierge took care of every conceivable planning detail – right down to the food in the refrigerator.

Aside from the amazing location and amenities that came included with our trip, the attentive, personalized attention from each employee was unparalleled. As we arrived at the airport, we were met by Alberto Sanchez, who would be our personal concierge for the duration of our stay. Alberto was a godsend. In addition to meeting us at the airport, he arranged for and scheduled our spa treatments, rental car, in-home meal and anything else we could imagine. From the moment we stepped off the plane, our entire vacation was laid out at our feet with minimal, if any, effort on the part of ourselves.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRAND RESORT PROPERTIES

Once we walked through the doors of our condo, both of us were utterly impressed.

With four bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen and a private pool and hot tub that opened onto the Jack Nicklaus Palmilla Ocean Golf Course, the villa had more than enough space for the two of us.

The highlight of our trip started with a full day at the Las Ventanas spa. As we had hoped, our time spent there was reinvigorating in every sense of the word.

Taking a nod from the way we experience our surroundings, the treatments we chose had elements for all five senses: flavored teas and other drinks, gorgeously manicured scenery, soothing music, hands-on Mayan healing techniques and aromatic oils made each session a whole body experience. Before leaving the spa, we participated in a Holistic Twilight Ceremony that brought all five senses into play at once. For a half hour, we were immersed in an energy cleansing ritual called Limpia which is meant to encourage thoughtful meditation and spiritual empowerment.

Feeling renewed and invigorated, we trekked back to our villa for another treat that Alberto had arranged – dinner prepared by a private chef in our own condo.

While there was a bit of a language barrier between ourselves and the chef, it seemed to add to the fun and family atmosphere as we relaxed and conversed while dinner was readied. Once our chef had sculpted his culinary masterpiece, we sat down to an amazing five-course meal with fresh lobster as the main course.

As I mentioned before, it is truly a rare thing to go on a vacation that allows you to completely recharge yourself. Between the planning before the trip and the scheduling when you arrive, vacationing can be almost as demanding as a week in the office. But thanks to Alberto and Grand Resort Properties, both Missy and I were able to experience an unbelievable eight days in Cabo San Lucas that allowed us to completely rejuvenate ourselves – mind, body and spirit.

For more information on grand resort properties visit www.grandresortproperties.com or call 1-800-561-8490

metro

2008

BEST EVENT:1st or 2nd Annual CELEBRATING THE WINNERS!

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Micro Brew HaHa

September 27, 2007 marked the first annual “Micro Brew HaHa”- a beer and food tasting event for Habitat for Humanity. The event featured eight breweries and over 20 of Omaha’s favorite restaurants. Five hundred people attended “Micro Brew HaHa” and helped to raise more than $25,000 for the organization. The event was hosted at the Lewis and Clark Landing on the Riverfront and honored Pat and Jim Manion, MD, and Sherri and Tom Samek. Habitat for Humanity’s mission is building homes and building lives through the partnership of our community’s spiritual and material resources.

SPONSORED BY

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7/27/09 9:32:15 AM

Paul Tomoser and Fred Hanna with Fr. John Schlegel and Kevin Hanna

Joe McManis with Denise Dettman and Scott Jacob

callingall

citizens

scene

the

metro

Scott Seibert and Arnell Petrzilka with John Rickert e on next page

continued coverag

EXCITING • PHILANTHROPIC • INSPIRING • FUN

rity coverage of cha to o h p d n a ts h a Highlig in the metro are ts n ve e l ia c o s and

Dan Hunt and Kristen Gohr with David Blau and Katie Kassebaum

Steve McCollister and Chuck Sigerson with Rex Fisher

Executive Director Lloyd Roistein , Stephanie Rall and Debbie Rostein with Council Chairman Gary Gates

Linda Pearson and Mac Larock with Delores Terway 35 35

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metro metroMAGAZINE MAGAZINE •• AUG JUNE MAY MAY 2009 2009 2009

7/24/09 4:11:44 PM

Terry McClain and Phyllis Conner with Rick Collings and Ed Burchfield

Thomas Auen and Cody Jones with Garrett Ross and Eddie McGonigal

callingallcitizens Executive Director Lloyd Roistein and Robert Heaney with Rissa Conner and John Pierce

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA CITIZEN OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON

the

39th Annual Citizen of the Year Luncheon took place on June 23, and raised $55,000 for the Boys Scouts of America MidAmerica Council. Over 320 people attended this time-honored event where respected indivuduals in our community are recognized for their contributions to Scouting.

The luncheon was chaired by Steve Erwin, President of US Bank, Nebraska. Citizen of the Year went to Rev. John Schlegel S.J., President at Creighton University. Cox was named the Corporate Partner of the Year.

Keith Nordbrock and Ron Hoag with Bob Poppen and Scott Verbracken Photos by Jennifer Paren t

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08036 36

The Boys Scouts of America Mid-America Council develop values in our yourth that will aid them in making ethical choices throughout their life time. The MidAmerica Council serves 58 counties in Northeast Nebraska, Western Iowa and Union county in South Dakota. In 2008 the Scouting program served over 30,000 boys and girls through the leadership of 9,000 volunteers.

For more information about the Boys Scouts of America Mid-America Council visit www.mac-bsa.org or call Melinda Auch at 702.514.3036.

7/24/09 4:11:47 PM

Penny Parker and Judy Weill with Penny Bainbridge and Nancy Thompson

Gale Sayers-Proby with Idrian Proby and Rosemary Lomax Jennifer Bartelt, Tonda Kizer, Erin Murnan, with Kristin Lewis and Theresa Thibodeau

legacycare of BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE MIDLANDS 50TH ANIVERSARY CELEBRATION

big

Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands held their 50th anniversary celebration on June 27th at the Hilton, Omaha. "Yesterday and Today" was the theme for the evening based on Billy McGuigan’s interactive Beatles live performance.

Over 300 guests were able to enjoy Beatles themed specialty drinks and bid on over 200 fun and unique items in a silent auction.

A diamond pendent necklace, donated by Borsheims, was then raffled off to one lucky guest. In all over $70,000 was raised for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands.

Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle presented the Corporate Partner of the Year award to Omaha Steaks, and the Big Couple of the Year award to Matt and Jesse Wymore. The first Executive Director of the original Big Sisters organization, Judy Weill presented the Big Sister of the Year award to Makayla Schenkelberg. Jim Rosenquist, one of the original founders of the Big Brothers program, presented the Big Brother of the Year award to Don Bend. KGOR 99.9 FM Morning Radio Host Dave Wingert was the official Master of Ceremonies for the evening.

Kristin Peck, BBBSM Board of Directors, was the Event Chair, and former Nebraska Senator Chuch Hael was the Honorary Chair. Auction Chairs were Dr. Joseph and Theresa Thibodeau. Ralston Mayor Don Groesser was the official auctioneer for the raise the paddle auction.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands provides one-to-one mentoring services to girls and boys, ages 7-17, within the seven counties of the Omaha/Council Bluffs area. In 2008, BBBSM served 1,200 Little Brothers and Little Sisters with to help ensure children benefit from the guidance, support, and friendship of caring adults and positive role models.

Deb and Mayor Jim Suttle

Jim Rosenquist with Bob Hasebroock and Phil Patterson

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands 50th Anniversary Celebration Committee Photos by Linda Shepard

For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands visit www.bigomaha.org or call 402.330.2449.

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7/24/09 4:11:53 PM

leading theway ▼

Co-chair Mike Simmonds, Paul Bryant, Mike Fahey, Daniel Houghton, Gale Sayers, Mogens Bay

WESLEY HOUSE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY GALE SAYERS BENEFIT AUCTION

about

200 supporters gathered at the Champions Club in Omaha for the Night of the Comet Dinner & Auction that benefits the Wesley house Leadership Academy.

The event raised more than $130,000 from the dinner and the silent auction that included items like Borsheims jewelry and a Vegas getaway.

S. Scott Moore, Brent Gilbert, Mike Fahey, Gale Sayers

Gale Sayers with Michelle and Gary Gates

Paul Bryant, Karin Waggoner, Dr. Christopher Stanosheck

NFL Hall of Fame member Gale Sayers has been involved with the Omaha Wesley Academy House for the last four years and hosted the event. Sayers’ wife is a native of Omaha and both have taken an interest in the Academy. Dick Bell, presedent and CEO of HDR Inc,, and Mike Simmonds, president and CEO of Simmonds Restaurants served as events cochairs, while Dick Holland acted as honorary chair.

The Wesley House Leadership Academy- now in its 137th year of service to Omaha youth- provides a lasting foundation for the on going mission of nurturing and developing the next generation of leaders. The Academy inspires students 7-14 years of age to strive of excellence and strong leadership roles.

Deb and Rex Fisher with Pat and co-chair Dick Bell epard Photos by Linda Sh

For more information about Wesley House Leadership Academy call 402-451-2228 or visit www.wesleyacademy.org.

Thompson Photos by Caroline

wishing CHRIST CHILD SOCIETY SUMMER SOIREE

▼

wagon

Event Co-chairs Deb Bogard, Karen German and Molly Witt

P.J and Annie Morgan with Dale and Debbie Hallock

the

Christ Child Society of Omaha held it’s “Summer Soiree, A Wagon Full of Wishes” held at the Omaha Country Club June 11th. 180 people attended the summer event that raised $20,000 and recognized 55 members of the Ses Enfants Auxiliary as the Honorary Chairs.

In attendance were CCSO board of directors president Frances Addy, CCSO Auxiliary President Julie Huerter. The Summer Soiree chairpersons were Deb Bogard, Karen German and Molly Witt. The night included an invocation by Rev. John Pietramale Christ Child Spiritual Director, words from Rev. Carl Salinitro Pastor Holy Cross Church. Musical entertainment was provided by The Bill Ritchie Trio.

For more information about Christ Child Society call 402.392.0827 or visit www.christchildomaha.org.

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Becca Goebel with Kevin and Sharon O’Malley

Julie and John Huerter with Lori Woodruff

Ann Longo, Pat Finnegan, Kevin Kiser, Laurel Zielinski and Marge DiLorenzo

7/24/09 4:12:00 PM

thebest offriends

METHODIST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION FRIENDS OF THE FOUNDATION CELEBRATION

the

▼

Methodist Hospital Foundation bestowed its highest honors for service to Methodist Hospital, Methodist Health System and the community on Tuesday, April 28th, during its annual Friends of the Foundation Celebration at the Holiday Inn Central Convention Center. More than 550 guests honored Michael Simmonds, John P. O’Gara, M.D., Mary Lue Hicks, The Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation, The Don Martineau family and the family of Heather Roberts. The event also recognized scholarship recipients from Nebraska Methodist College – The Josie Harper Campus, as well as Methodist Health System nurses seeking graduate education.

Methodist Hospital Foundation’s mission is “to improve the quality of life by providing excellence in health care and health care education.” In 2008, over $6 million was distributed for capital needs, education, cancer care, community services and charitable care for patients in need, directly affecting the lives of more than 27,000 individuals.

For more information on the Methodist Hospital Foundation call 402.354.6813 or visit online at www.methodisthospitalfoundation.org.

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Bobbie Obermeyer with Award Honoree Mary Lue Hicks

Award Honoree John P. O’Gara, M.D., with his granddaughter

Dennis Walker with Award honoree Michael Simmonds and Mogens Bay Photos courtesy of Friedel Jewish Academy

7/24/09 4:12:05 PM

shiningstart ▼

Katharine Ott and Amber Keller

Maggie Ott and Kathi Ferguson

Kate Placzek and Jenny Hansen

Brian Miller Conrad Hinz

Carly Johns, Britt Roeder

David and Tabitha Thrasher

Photos by Linda Shepard

Event organizers Kathie Ferguson and Maggie Ott were pleased to have fifteen area artists exhibit their work. Brian Miller (a.k.a. Flyin’ Brian) created live spray paint art for thrilled guests.

Utilizing skills learned in Mexico, Miller can complete a work of art in less than 30 minutes.

Project Nightlights is a local nonprofit organization with a mission to create life enhancing bedroom environments for children living with or recovering from serious medical conditions. Project Nightlights’s bedrooms provide a unique space that incorporate medical necessities, structural improvement and aesthetic enhancements to help children feel safe, happy, and hopeful.

ska Children's Home Photos courtesy of Nebra

▼

blast

nebraska

Canvases of Light benefit sparkled at Nomad Lounge on June 26th. Over 200 guests enjoyed music by D.J.’s Tres Johnson and Brent Crampton, sushi by Blue and dessert by La Charlotte. Local artists provided original artwork for sale, and also donated pieces for a silent auction which raised $6,000 for Project Nightlights.

For more information about Project Nightlights, call 402.496.2230 or visit www.projectnightlights.org.

sand

NEBRASKA CHILDREN'S HOME SAND IN THE CITY

Rozanne and Duncan Murphy

the

CANVASSES OF LIGHT PROJECT NIGHTLIGHTS

Children’s Home held its sixth annual Sand in the City at Qwest Center on June 5th- 7th. There were 17 teams that participated in the sand sculpture contest. The overall event raised more than $90,000 for Nebraska Children’s Home Society Foundation.

Local celebrity judges and artists chose four overall winners for the sculpting competition giving Kiewit Construction the first place trophy with their “Watch Out for That…” Mario Cart sculpture. Second place went to first-year team Mutual of Omaha for their sculpture “Wild About Omaha,” which carried out their company’s centennial theme.

Master sand sculptor carving part of the grand display

Hundreds of children take advantage of the Kid Zone and giant sand box

The public also voted online and at the event for their favorite sand sculpture which went to Millard Drywall Services with their “Monsters vs. Aliens Invade Omaha” sculpture. The money raised will help fund programs of the Nebraska Children’s Home Society.

The Millard Drywall Team

For more information about Nebraska Children’s Home call 402.451.0787.

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metroMAGAZINE • AUG 2009

Omaha Fire and Rescue fire truck

7/24/09 4:12:16 PM

around children's

▼

caringcomes

cHildreN's Hospital & Medical ceNter circle oF cariNG celebratioN

Gary A. Perkins, Cathi Arnold, and Roger Lewis

Hospital & Medical Center paid tribute to two outstanding individuals at its 2009 Circle of Caring Celebration. Cathi Arnold received the Margre Henningson Durham Leadership Award in honor of her passion for and exemplary leadership in volunteer service to Children’s Hospital & Medical Center.

Arnold is a past president of the Friends Board of Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, and has served in a variety of leadership and support roles.

Cathi Arnold and Sally Kahre

“Cathi’s dedication to the children and families served by Children’s is truly an inspiration to all who have the honor of working with her,” said Roger Lewis, executive director, Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation.

Jenny Strawn recieved the Robert E. Murphy, M.D., Spirit of Caring Nursing Award to honor outstanding pediatric nurses who provide unparalleled comfort, care and support to children and their families during a hospital or clinic experience.

Fort more information on Children's Hospital & Medical Center visit www.chsomaha.org.

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08041 41

Cathi Arnold and Gary Perkins photos co urtesy

of children 's

Hospital

Cynthia Foster, Jenny Strawn, and Cindy Scott

7/24/09 4:15:22 PM

real

it

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keepin'

Keep oMaHa beautiFul GreeN tie Gala

keep

Omaha Beautiful celebrated its 50th anniversary by holding a Green Tie Gala at the Lauritzen Gardens on June 11th. Roughly 228 people attended the event with cocktails and a jazz performance by Robert Glazer. After cocktails and dinner Larry Gomez, who served as the emcee took the guests through 50 years of people and programs which had made made the Omaha community beautiful and stronger.

Matt McKenna CEO and president of Keep America Beautiful gave an inspiring talk as well. Shawntell Kroese and Stacia Palser from the Kob board served as the events Co-Chairs. Keep Omaha Beautiful, Inc. is an environmental non-profit organization with the missions of litter reduction, beautification and environmental education. The organization works with over 7,000 volunteers every year in order to make Omaha a better place to live.

Jane Polson, Pam Avery, Steve Panahy and Tony Smiley, with Shannon Smiley, Cindy Smilley and Matt McKenna

Wayne Grahan, Becky Rasmussen and Nadine Blair with David Stern, Ginny Tete and Cindy Smilley

Matt McKenna

For more information call 402-444-7774 or visit www.keepomahabeautiful.org.

aha photos courtesy of Keep om

photos courte sy of

beautiful

now! metmago.com

viewonline

Friedel Jewis h academy

from blessingsabove Friedel JeWisH acadeMy aNNual tribute diNNer

Jeff Taxman

▼

Yaffa Podbilewicz-Schuller and Dan Schuller

The Shrago Family/Bag and Save

the

Friedel Jewish Academy celebrated its annual Tribute Dinner at Beth Israel Synagogue on May 31st. More than 180 guests gathered for Sangria and appetizers, followed by dinner and entertainment.

Honorees of the evening were teacher Denise Bennett, school board member Yaffa Podbilewicz-Schuller, Marty and Iris Ricks, and the Shrago Family/Bag and Save. During the evening each honoree was introduced and presented with an award for their support of the school. During the Shrago family’s presentation, Jeff Taxman of the Omaha Community Playhouse came in the guise of the “Fairy Godmother” of the school to extend “her” gratitude to the Shrago family.

For more information on the Friedel Jewish Academy call 402.334.0517 or visit online at www.friedeljewishacademy.com.

Sam Bennet with Bob and Denise Bennett

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08042 42

Marty and Iris Ricks

7/24/09 4:15:27 PM

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rebelswith

cause

a

boys & Girls club oF tHe MidlaNds oN tHe road beNeFit

Jerry Slusky and Sharon McDermott with Janice Slusky and co-honorary chair Howard Kooper

Ann and Curt Tjaden

the

on the Road “Rebels with a Cause” benefit was attended by 485 guests that helped raise 160,000 dollars to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands. The event now in its 14th year is the longest fundraising event held by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands. The event had everything from live music from the Finest Hour to tasty food from Fleming’s and Hy-Vee. Tom Fellman and Howard Kooper served as honorary chairs while Gina Greder and Linda Zimmerman served as event chairs.

Aileen, Thomas, and Jessica Warren photos by linda shepard

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08043 43

Chairs Cindy Magid and Gina Greder with Linda Zimmerman

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands is driven by its mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, healthy and caring citizens. It is that mission that serves as the foundation for the life-changing programs we make available to children and teens.

For more information call 402.342.1600 or visit online at www.bgcomaha.org.

7/24/09 4:15:32 PM

cuttingwith creatiVe Hair desiGN cuttiNG For a cause

▼

care creative

Hair Design Salon and Spa held its 2nd annual Locks of Love Cutathon where 64 people, ages 5 to 86 donated their hair, June 7th. The event was held in June for Cancer Awareness Month and coincidentally was on the same day as the Walk in One Pacific Place. The Cutathon received a special donation from a family that donated their great grandmother’s 1st haircut braid from the early 1900s that was at least 15 inches. The event even had a DJ this year which kept spirits strong.

John Mangiameli, Lisa Jensen, and Suzy Shrier with Angie Schroder and Blayr Mallory

Gracie Guthmiller and Hope Jensen

Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that provides donated hair to create high quality hair pieces for children under age 18 in the United States and Canada with medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure.

The mission of Locks of Love is to return a sense of self, confidence and normalcy to children suffering from hair loss by utilizing donated ponytails to provide the highest quality hair prosthetics to financially disadvantaged children. The children receive hair prostheses free of charge or on a sliding scale, based on financial need.

Ann Tretter and Amy Heller with a Locks of Love participant Creative Hair Design team members and LoL participants

For more information on Creative Hair Design call 402.330.5660 or visit www.creativehairdesign.com.

MaGaZiNe photos by metro

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fundraising

dobleMaN Head & NecK caNcer iNstitute cHarity eVeNt

Dr. Robert Langdon, Fr. Tom Merkel, Hubert Green, Dr. John Shayner, Paul Swirzinski, Dr. Thomas Dobleman, and Robert Cimino

the

Event Hosts Dan and Lisa Koch with Mike and Ann Fischer

Mr. & Mrs. Keith Basham, Hubert Green, and Mr. & Mrs. Tim Holland

Dr. Jeff Sugimoto, Dr. Thomas Dobleman, Dr. Michael Morrison, Hubert Green, Dr. Gamini Soori, and Dr. John Shaner photos courtesy of the dobleman institute

Dr. & Mrs. Michael McDermott with Dr. & Mrs. Michael Shnayder, and Dr. and Mrs. Jerome Wees

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08044 44

fiesta

charity event for the Dobleman Head & Neck Cancer Institute on June 9th had over 130 people in attendance. Following a golf outing at the Omaha Country Club, a fiesta event was hosted at the home of Dan and Lisa Koch, and co-hosted by Mike and Ann Fischer. Margaritas, music, Fernando’s catering, bright colors and traditional southwestern decor enhanced the theme of the event.

The presentation included speakers: Thomas Dobleman, M.D., founder of the institute, John Shaner, D.D.S., Creighton University Associate Professor and Head Oral Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Division Specialist, Jeff Sugimoto, M.D., Creighton University Chief of Surgery, Gamini Soori, M.D., Nebraska Cancer Specialist and Director of Research and Member of the National Cancer Institute, and Hubert Green, PGA Championship and U.S. Open Winner and Head and Neck Cancer Survivor. The collaboration of Creighton University and the Dobleman Head & Neck Cancer Institute was announced, and the first head and neck cancer fellowship program in the region was premiered.

For more information on the Dobleman Head & Neck Cancer Institute call 402.393.7050 or visit www.thedoblemaninstitute.org.

7/24/09 4:15:41 PM

unmc,mmi to sponsor big splash

by Nicole Lindquist, UNMC public relations

the

University of Nebraska Foundation hopes to make a “Big Splash” for UNMC’s Munroe-Meyer Institute on Aug. 28 and 29 with its first-ever recreational and competitive swimming fundraiser in Omaha and Lincoln.

Proceeds will enhance and expand specialized services and programs MMI provides to more than 10,000 individuals and their families each year. Organizers of the family-friendly event also hope the Big Splash will champion advocacy and inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Swimmers of all abilities are encouraged to sign up for the event. There are also plenty of opportunities to volunteer.

Events include: Friday, Aug. 28, 6 to 9 p.m.

Swim and Safety Water Carnival at Brownell Talbot • Swimming lessons; • Family swim; • Water safety activities, exhibits and tests; • Underwater photos; and • A “dive-in” movie.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 8 to 11 a.m.

Competitive Youth Meet at Westside H.S., Millard South H.S., and the Devaney Center in Lincoln • 25-yard of each stroke for 10-year-olds and younger; • 50-yard of each stroke for 11 to 18-year-olds.

• Corporate/Adult Swim Challenge at the University of Nebraska at Omaha • 200-yard medley and/or 200-yard freestyle relays for four person teams • 100 and 200-yard freestyle individual events • Non-Traditional Swimmer Challenge at the College of St. Mary -- An event for swimmers of all abilities with appropriate supervision and assistance Individual events: 50-yard freestyle, 25-yard freestyle and 25-yard backstroke Buddy relays Saturday, Aug. 29, noon - 2 p.m.

Swim & Splash Events Omaha area pools will devote lanes for two hours of relays and swimming events. Swimmers of all ages and abilities will keep the water turning for and with the children and adults who have benefited from MMI’s services. In addition to the competitive and recreational events, participants will have an opportunity to meet three-time Olympic gold medalist, Josh Davis. The Big Splash is sponsored by the Omaha World Herald, Mutual of Omaha, Cassling, UNMC, MMI, Farmers Mutual Insurance of Nebraska, Continuum Worldwide, Inc. and Metro Credit Union.

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7/24/09 4:15:43 PM

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Megan Bratetic and Event Chairs Cindy and Mike Stodden, with pianist Leah Stodden and Lindsay Stodden

dreamingbig Joe Holm and Mary McHale with Denise and Jeff Gehringer

Chris Gilbert and Lyn Gilbert

Lou and Jill Rotella with Lisa and Jeff Kortan

Vincenta and Bob Cole with Mark and Connie Chickinelli

Taylor Keen and Quinn Vandenberg

thompson photos by caroline

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08046 46

ollie Webb ceNter ollie's dreaM WiNe-tastiNG Gala

the

The Mutual of Omaha Dome co Mutual of Onn “Ollie’s Dream” wine-tasting gala on June 6th. To the smooth live jazz of Novak and Harr, more than 200 guests sipped an extensive selection of wine (provided by Republic National Distributing Company); the guests, also armed with hors d’oeuvres and desserts by Eurest Dining Services, participated in the evening’s silent and oral auction. The event raised over $48,000 to benefit individuals with developmental disabilities participating in services of Ollie Webb Center, Inc. Event chairs Cindy and Mike Stodden, with a committee of dedicated volunteers and staff, planned the event. Taylor Wilson of KPTM served as master of ceremonies; Byron Menke was the auctioneer for the auction and Cindy Stodden provided a heartfelt keynote address about her 26 year old daughter Leah, who has Down syndrome (additionally, Leah preformed a piano duet and several solo pieces for the evening).

Ollie Webb Center, Inc. is a local non-profit organization which serves children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families through support, programs and advocacy. Services are offered by The Arc of Omaha and Career Solutions, Inc. for residents of Cass, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties in Nebraska and Pottawattamie County, Iowa.

For more info visit www.olliewebbinc.org or call 402.346.5220.

7/24/09 4:15:51 PM

building aNNual WiNe tastiNG asid NebrasKa cHapter

the

▼

upstrength

Event Chair Kevin Johnson, IP; Jo Anderson, IP; Special Guest Becca Swanson; and Becky Jackson, ASID

American Society of Interior Design (ASID Nebraska Chapter) hosted its annual fundraiser for The Friendship Program at Corkscrew Wine & Cheese on May 21st. The cost of a ticket included food, wine, and two auctions. The benefit raised over $2,400 and was attended by over 60 people.

Partial proceeds will benefit The Friendship Program, a nonprofit adult daycare and rehabilitation center. Kevin Johnson, an IP member served as Chairman of the event.

This years theme was “Building a Stronger Community through the Friendship Program”. In spirit of the theme, Becca Swanson, the “World’s Strongest Woman”, was the special guest for the event.

The silent auction featured items donated by local designers and ASID Industry Partners (Oriental Rug Palace and Concrete Countertop Innovations). A second live auction was also held. Local designer, Richard White, ASID was the auctioneer for items such as paint, rollers & brushes, labor, office chairs etc. that would go directly to The Friendship Programs immediate renovations.

For more information on the Nebraska/Iowa ASID call 402.326.0562 or visit www.asid-neia.org.

metroMAG-35-42-EventsSpreads-08047 47

Rachel Bogers, Allied Member ASID; Erin Svoboda, Allied Member ASID; Wyatt Tuell, Allied Member ASID; Ellen Pandorf, Allied Member ASID

Lance Hiatt, Allied Member ASID Kristi Burnett, Allied Member ASID

Gail Williams, ASID; Annette Mundy, ASID Richard White, ASID; Nikki Diamantis, ASID ZiNe photos by metroMaGa

7/24/09 4:15:56 PM

metroMAGAZINE

cuisine

metro

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catch the

spirit of the Omaha community!

metroMAGAZINE • AUG 2009

7/27/09 10:50:30 AM

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bravo! celebrating the arts

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

filmstreams full stream ahead. by john dechant

FORTY-TWO THOUSAND That’s the number of people who passed through Film Streams’ turnstiles at the Ruth Sokolof Theater in 2008.

O

kay, the theater doesn’t really have turnstiles. That sort of conventionalism would be out of character for Omaha’s non-profit film acme. It also wouldn’t quite suit Rachel Jacobson, founder/director. These days, Omaha’s reigning first woman of cinema is still focused on building (and broadening) the theater’s audience.

Her efforts in the first two years of operation have been remarkable. In late July, the theater will celebrate its second anniversary. To date, Film Streams has just less than 1,800 members. Consider that Jacobson budgeted for just 500, and her progress seems even more impressive.

The community support side of our operation has been way above and beyond what I’ve expected,” she said, thrilled. “The philanthropic arts community here is incredible and has been tremendously supportive. We feel lucky to have that.

Faithful members aren’t the only ones turning out to support Film Streams. Other nonprofits – many in situations similar to Jacobson’s – have reached out to Film Streams, looking to drum up some synergy. Take Project Harmony and its March 10 collaboration.

In conjunction with its March 11 “Speaking of Children” event, the organization whose mission is to protect children and end child abuse co-sponsored a screening of “Antwone Fisher,” a 2002 film directed by Denzel Washington. The evening’s special guest was Fisher himself, the film’s inspiration, producer and co-writer. “That one was a nobrainer,” Jacobson jokes. “It was an exciting event for us. We’ve had filmmakers and actors here in the past, but to have someone whose life is the film is really special.”

The Project Harmony event isn’t the only such cooperation at Film Streams.

Non-profit requests have come in at such a rate that Jacobson and her staff have been forced to formalize the process for determining what meshes well with Film Streams’ mission. For this, Jacobson turned to Film Streams’ Community Development Committee, a diverse wing of the organization she’s quick to lean on for advice. Upcoming community development continued

PHOTOS BY JOHN DECHANT

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celebrating the arts

film streams • FULL STREAM AHEAD

continued

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

Omaha is really at a great point, a turning point you might say, as far as the potential development of the artistic community.

-Rachel Jacobson partnership events at Ruth Sokolof Theater include an August 25 screening of “The Miracle Worker” (1962), presented in collaboration with the Nebraska Foundation for Visually Impaired Children, with a post-show panel discussion on education services for visually impaired students.

Film Streams’ ongoing repertory series has also helped fill seats. In February and March, as part of the ongoing Great Directors Series, Film Streams honored legendary filmmaker John Cassavetes.

The Cassavetes films – “Opening Night,” “Minnie and Moskowitz” and “The Killing of a Chinese Bookie,” to name a few – were particularly meaningful for Jacobson, who adores Cassavetes’ work.

Highlighting the Cassavetes series was “An Evening with Seymour Cassel,” featuring an appearance by Cassel after a Friday night screening of “Minnie and Moskowitz,” where he plays a starring role. Not even five inches of freshly fallen snow could keep crowds from seeing Cassel, whose film career has taken off again in recent years through his work as barber “Bert Fisher” in “Rushmore” (1998), hotel bellboy “Dusty” in “The Royal Tennenbaums” (2001) and shark bait sea explorer “Esteban du Plantier” in “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” (2004) – all Wes Anderson films. Cassel answered questions from the crowd about his relationship with Cassavetes and his career highlights working in the film industry.

Repertory programming resumed in May with the Henry Fonda series, showcasing the Omaha actor’s incredible filmography, including stage

and screen classic “Twelve Angry Men.” Upcoming repertory series include a Westerns series (July 3 – August 27) and a series featuring the films of Debra Winger.

Speaking of Winger, Feature 2009 – Film Streams’ annual fundraising celebration – will feature Alexander Payne in conversation with special guest Winger, Sunday, September 13, 2009 at the Holland Performing Arts Center. Film Streams’ pull-out-all-the-stops night of film revelry and fundraising brought 1,000 people to the Holland Performing Arts Center and featured board member Payne and his guest of honor, Laura Dern, in 2008. The event raised an eye-popping $188,000 for the Ruth Sokolof Theater. Feature 2009 will hope to do much the same And, of course, there’s Film Streams’ first-run films, its main dietary staple. 2008 gave us “Slumdog Millionaire,” and the Sokolof had an exclusive on this Oscar-winner for a few weeks before its popularity brought it to other Omaha cinemas. But there were others that came with less fanfare too: “The Savages,” “Tell No One” and “Man on Wire.”

Jacobson is excited about what’s in store for 2009.

Also new in 2009 is Student Night. Thanks to a grant from the Peter Kiewit Foundation, the first Monday of every month is now free to all full-time students with a valid student ID. Also new are Thursday Matinees – early afternoon showtimes every Thursday. Both promotions will help serve Jacobson’s goal of building a diverse audience. “We’re really focusing on getting as many young people down here as we can, and that’s really for the future of our organization,” she said. “It’s important, through our partnerships, we reach out to audiences that don’t automatically have an interest in our theater. The hope is that film history and the directors we’re interested in will become more important to the community as a whole.”

In the meantime, Jacobson and the Film Streams staff will continue building a core audience – a task which she says will pose the biggest challenge facing the young theater. She’s excited about the progress Film Streams has made and the artistic direction Omaha’s heading in – a city she’s putting her own stamp on.

“Omaha is really at a great point, a turning point you might say, as far as the potential development of the artistic community,” she said.

“Living in New York, you really get a lot back from the city, but to be here and have an actual impact, or at least feel that way, is pretty exciting for me.”

The hope is that film history and the directors we’re interested in will become more important to the community as a whole.”

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Carolyn Owen Anderson and Betsye Paragas with Edward F Owen Award winner Jim Mancuso

Mary McQuin and Gary Planck with Christina McCrary and Rob Baker

Photos by Jennifer Paren t

night toremember

a

OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE AWARDS NIGHT 2009

the

Omaha Community Playhouse honored its top volunteers at the annual “Awards Night”. The event held June 30th, paid tribute to the thousands of volunteers who contribute their time and their talents to the Playhouse every year.

Among the awards given were outstanding service in “out-front” areas such as membership sales and box office service; in “backstage” areas involving costuming, scenery and technical assistance, and for excellence in performing. The President’s Award was given to Vernie Jones. Theresa Sindelar and Rob Baker won the Barbara For Award for memorable performances of feature roles in musicals, while Denise Chapman and Thomas Becker won for memorable performances in plays.

Pam Schmitz and Carolyn Sliva with Shirley Colson

Jim Boggess with Elaine Jabenis

Julie Adams, Clarence Teal Cameo Award winner

Kent Hanon and Dawn Buller Kirke with Gordon Krentz

The event concluded with the presentation of the Fonda-McGuire Awards to the Judy Radcliff for her performance in “Gypsy” and Tim Abu-Nasr for his performance in “Bat Boy”. They were judged to have given the best performance of the season. The award is named for Henry Fonda and Dorothy McGuire, the Playhouse’s most eminent alumni.

For more information call 402.553.4890 ext.129 tor visit www.omahaplayhouse.com.

Betty Golmanavich with Terese and Tom Kudrna

Ron Widman and Julie Crowell with Mary Nagel and Melissa Linn

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Paula Clowers and Kathy McKain with Stacie Lamb

Kent Hanon, Clarence Teal Cameo Award winner

7/24/09 4:19:29 PM

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bravo!

METROMAGAZINE

celebrating the arts

summerarts

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

Continuing:

3 1, • “Omaha on Ice,” through2November 1 Durham Museum

CALENDAR june | july | august

4

6

5 August 14 (continued):

August 20:

• Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival opens,

• Millionaires & Mansions tour and lunch;

3 12through1August 15; Elk Ridge Village on the Lake 1 1 • “Architectural Wonders of the World,” • Music & Movies; Holland Performing Arts 9 10 8 through October, Lauritzen Gardens 0 courtyard Center’s 7 9 2outdoor 1 8 1 • Sean Ward: A Pre-Conscious Space;” 6 17 1 through July 2010; Bemis Center 5 August 7 15: 14 1 26 2 5 2 • Best of the Met: Live in HD-Puccini’s August 11: 23 24 “Madama Butterfly;” Ruth Sokolof Theater 2 2 1 • Tempo of2 Twilight: On the Fritz; • Vibes at Village Pointe: Chris Saub; Alegent Lauritzen Gardens 0 Health Amphitheatre; Village Pointe 3 9 Shopping Center 28 2

August 13:

• Jazz on the Green: 25th Anniversary All-Stars;

Joslyn Art Museum • Prairie Evening Hike; Neale Woods

August 14: • Sounds of Summer Concert Series:

No Better Cause; Alegent Health Amphitheatre; Shadow Lake Towne Center

August 16: • Collectors Walk with Pat & Judd Wagner-

Arte Popular; Joslyn Art Museum

August 19: • Best of the Met: Live in HD- Puccini’s

August 21: • Sounds of Summer Concert Series:

Chris Saub; Alegent Health Amphitheatre; Shadow Lake Towne Center • Greek Festival opens, through August 23;

Lewis and Clark Landing • “Humpday” (Dir: Lynn Shelton) opens,

through August 27; Ruth Sokolof Theater • John Legend; Orpheum Theater

August 22: • Vibes at Village Pointe: Pink Kadillac;

Alegent Health Amphitheatre, Village Pointe Shopping Center • Discussion with Dr. Charles M. Carrillo on

“Madama Butterfly;” Ruth Sokolof Theater

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Durham Museum

retablos from “A Century of Retablos;” Joslyn Art Museum

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7/27/09 7:46:38 AM

bravo! celebrating the arts

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

August 23:

2

3

4

• Illustrated lecture1with Dr. Charles M. Carrillo

on retablos from “A Century of Retablos;” Joslyn Art Museum 9 10

7

11

8

August 25:

6 17 1 5 1 Durham Museum • The Magic 14City Tour; • Tempo of Twilight: Rhythm Collective;24 23 Lauritzen Gardens 22 21 • “The Miracle Worker” (Dir: Arthur Penn); 30 Ruth Sokolof Theater 29 28

18 25

5

6

12

13

19 26

20 27

August 28:

• Disney Train; “A Christmas Carol” opens,

through August 30; Durham Museum • Stir Summer Concert Series: Bontaj Roulet:

Bonnie Raitt and Taj Mahal: Alone and Together; Stir Concert Cove; Harrah’s Casino • Sounds of Summer Concert Series:

Lemon Fresh Day; Alegent Health Amphitheatre; Shadow Lake Towne Center • Film Streams Repertory Series: Debra Winger

opens, through October 1; Ruth Sokolof Theater

August 29: • From Exposition to Jazz Musicians:

Exploring North Omaha’s Heritage; Durham Museum • Vibes at Village Pointe: The Personics;

Alegent Health Amphitheatre; Village Pointe Shopping Center • Defenders of Freedom Air Show opens,

through August 30; Offutt Air Force Base • Maha Music Festival; Lewis and Clark Landing • Best of the Met: Live in HD- Donizetti’s

“La Fille du Regiment;” Ruth Sokolof Theater • Jackson Browne; Orpheum Theater

August 30: • Family Fun Day celebrating Three Latino

Exhibitions; Joslyn Art Museum

August 31: • Blues Cruise; River City Star

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savethedate

inform • educate • inspire

August 10

August 15

August 21

STEPHEN CENTER GOLF OUTING A benefit for the Stephen Center This is the Stephen Center’s second annual golf outing, and includes a lunch buffet before the 12:00 noon shotgun start, and dinner after golfing along with a raffle.

Champions Run – Omaha – 10:45 A.M. For more information call 715-5476.

BUCKAROO BASH A benefit for the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Fdtn.

Come support the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund, Ak-SarBen 4-H Livestock Exposition, and River City Roundup.

Omaha Mounted Patrol Facility – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information visit www.rivercityroundup.org or call 554-9600.

SECOND ANNUAL ADULT SPELLING BEE A benefit for the Literacy Center of the Midlands Mary Maxwell will serve as emcee at this fun event, with Robyn Terry, Congressman Terry’s wife, OWH columnist Robert Nelson, and radio personality Jim Rose serving as judges.

Scott Conference Center – Omaha For more information call 884-7727.

AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’ PATRON GALA A benefit for Children’s Respite Care Centers Enjoy a patron cocktail party followed by The Fats Waller Musical Show, Ain’t Misbehavin’.

Scoular Ballroom – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 895-4000.

August 22 VINNEBRASKA SUMMER WINE FESTIVAL Benefitting All Our Kids, Inc. & Winners Circle Enjoy a casual summer night outdoors tasting extraordinary wines, indulging in delectable food, and listing to local acoustic bluegrass music by Heidi Joy’s band, Riverside Anthology. The event also features beautiful crafts and fine art from local artisans in a silent auction, and fabulous prizes in a raffle giveaway.

Rockbrook Village – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 930-3000 or visit www.allourkids.org.

BOX OFFICE BASH A benefit for The PRESENTERS in support of Omaha Performing Arts This year’s theme is a Greek-inspired tribute to Legally Blonde the Musical, so find a little pink dress, dig up your favorite Harvard sweatshirt, or dust off that old toga and join THE PRESENTERS for a good old-fashioned evening of Delta-Nu mayhem!

Orpheum Theater – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 661-8454.

August 24 ORA GOLF SCRAMBLE Omaha Restaurant Association For this fun event you do not need to be a serious golfer to play! Get a foursome together or get paired up. Enjoy a Poker Hole, Flag Prizes, Raffle, or challenge former Husker Matt Davidson. Registration includes lunch, golf with cart and dinner.

Field Club – Omaha – 11:00 A.M. For more information call 493-4739.

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August 26 CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE GUILD SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON A benefit for Child Saving Institute This year’s event is themed Women with PurseOnality, and includes keynote speaker Sondra Shaw-Hardy, scholarship presentation, and a silent auction.

Champions Club – Omaha – 11:00 A.M. For more information call 504-3664.

BOYER YOUNG GOLF TOURNAMENT A benefit for Mosaic Mosaic in Omaha is this year’s recipient of Boyer Young’s annual golf tournament. Registration includes golf, cart, lunch and dinner.

For more information call 679-6752.

August 28 METRO STARS DANCE FOR A CHANCE 2009 A benefit for Youth Emergency Services Join the fun as Metro stars entertain the audience and three Metro Star judges while competing for a trophy. The night includes light hors d’oeuvres, raffles, contests, voting for your favorite dancers and fun!

DC Centre – Omaha – 7:30 P.M. For more information visit www.yesomaha.org.

August 28-29 BIG SPLASH A benefit for UNMC’s Munroe-Meyer Institute On August 28 and 29, 24 hours of recreational and competitive swimming events will take place as Omaha and Lincoln dive into the Big Splash! The Big Splash will include families, area athletes, Omaha businesses and even an Olympian to celebrate the courage and abilities of those with developmental and physical disabilities.

Various locations throughout Omaha and Lincoln For more information visit www.mmibigsplash.org or call 502-0300.

August 29 ANNIVERSARY GALA Benefitting Nebraska Children’s Home Society This promises to be a spectacular evening featuring cocktails, dinner, entertainment and awards celebrating the culmination of the 115th anniversary celebration. Special guest is actress and author Sarah Culberson, who will share her adoption story and a message of inspiration, responsibility and action.

Marriott Regency – Omaha – 6:30 P.M. For more information call 451-0787.

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savethedate

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August 29 (continued)

August 29 (continued)

August 30

5K / 10K RUN AND REMEMBRANCE WALK A benefit for Ted E. Bear Hollow This unique event includes a run along the Keystone Trail or a walk to nearby Roberts Park for family remembrance activities. All return to the Outback for food, drinks, music, massages and more. Coach Dana Altman and the Creighton Bluejays men’s basketball team will be there to run and to autograph posters.

Outback Steakhouse – Omaha – 8:00 A.M. For more information visit www.tedebearhollow.org or call 502-2773.

COMEDY NIGHT A benefit for New Friends of Omaha and CASA of Douglas County The title of this fall fundraiser is “Live Laugh Love” and is a dinner, auction, and comedy night featuring nationally recognized comedians Bob Zany and Keith West.

Proceeds benefit New Friends of Omaha and CASA of Douglas County.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. For more info visit www.newfriendsofomaha.com or call 312-7146.

BURGERS AND BORDEAUX A benefit for the Opera Omaha Guild Plan to attend this fun event in which five area top chefs compete in a burger throw down. Samples of each creation will be served along with amazing wines. Votes from celebrity judges will determine the “Best Grilled Burger in Omaha”. The event also includes fun kid’s activities, and all proceeds benefit the Opera Omaha Guild’s Educational Outreach Program for schools.

Sunset Valley Country Club – Omaha – 1:00 P.M. For more information call 346-7372.

September 2 SWING FOR LITERACY A benefit for Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Nebraska, Inc. Proceeds from this golf tournament will be used to defray the costs of CCCS of Nebraska community education programs. Since 1976, CCCSN has provided education, counseling and debt management alternatives to thousands of families each year.

The Players Club at Deer Creek – Omaha – 12:00 P.M. For more info visit www.cccsn.org or call 333-8609.

September 11 ZOOFARI 2009 ~ CALL OF THE WILD A benefit for Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo In honor of the animals, wear your favorite animal print or safari outfit to Zoofari 2009, featuring a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, a fabulous dinner and wine, and stellar education and entertainment through the evening. Make plans to join Omaha’s premier biennial fundraising event as we continue to cultivate Doc’s vision for the future!

Henry Doorly Zoo – Omaha For more information visit www.omahazoo.com.

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SEPTEMBER 22ND

NOMAD

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vibrations • with sue moon

all together now...

Breathe. We’ve come through two rather large eclipses in July and now face the third on the 5th of August. Hopefully you have taken advantage of this swell of energy and are now embarking on a new path of fulfilling your desires. This Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse at 1 degree of Aquarius will be tidying up what you started working on with last year’s eclipses in Aquarius/Leo. More opportunity to discard old behaviors not benefitting your life in a positive way. Work hard to be the best you can be in every area of your life. This is the time of disciplining yourself in the areas of compassion, tolerance, love, acceptance, humanitarian efforts and equality for all. Find your particular gifts in these areas and develop them to share with the world. We need your contribution.

rememberto

breathe

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ leo aries sagittarius

www.morningstarcenter.com www.suemoon.com

Jul 23 - AuG 22

MAr 21 - Apr 19

Uranus (eccentricity/genius) is calling you to accept your brilliance and rightful place in the world as a true leader.

The eclipse on the 5th is a sign to step up your ability to manifest your dreams. You may be seeking new friends or appreciating a few old ones. Seeing all in a new light will help you see yourself in a newer way also. Mars will give you the added energy this month to look honestly at yourself and make some deeper psychological changes.

taurus

Apr 20 - MAY 20

The end of this month into the first of September you will experience a deep struggle with your ideals clashing with the world. Mars (power) opposes Pluto (transformation) in a dance or fight– your choice. So, heads up, work diligently to transform your life and just know there will be opposition to make sure you understand where you are going.

Power struggles ahead– stay focused on what this means as far as your own ego development rather than others’.

gemini

MAY 21 - Jun 20

Are you needing to travel (either physically or perhaps some “daydream travel” of the mind?) This eclipse is tweaking you to develop a more lofty approach to your life.

Pluto, the Great Transformer is just beginning to plumb your depths bringing deep transformation for the next 24 years of your life in the area of death/rebirth. Looks like you get to be a Phoenix! This month be sure to take a trip (even if only a little one) as you will gain much from it.

Jun 21 - Jul 22

cancer

You survived the strong energies of those Cancer/Capricorn eclipses and now what? You will have a lot of energy this month. Express that in the area of creative change and positive reform. Any suppression at this time can erupt in violence or accidents.

If you have strong feelings you don’t know what to do with, ask for help, don’t push them down; they want to be healed, you want to be healed. Your nature is to nurture. Start with yourself.

Who are you anymore? So much light shining on your personality– what do you want to do with it? Your relationships are changing so fast and unexpectedly you may be feeling confused. Confusion can be a great tool to stop, look and listen– and see that many answers lie before you once you pause to look. Don’t neglect your health! Pluto and Mars are opposing at the end of the month and are looking into your health along with those close to you.

virgo

AuG 23 - sep 22

Work may be highlighted by this eclipse if you’ve been health-conscious, otherwise you may find your body calling for your attention, especially your nervous or digestive system. Children? Be as loving, understanding and wise as only you can be, because there are some hard energies at work towards the end of this month and they’ll need you.

No kids? The accent will be on creativity. It’s time to let the deep and meaningful power of your unique center to be expressed. Don’t get an ulcer over it!.

libra

sep 23 - ocT 22

Charming, gracious and ever easy to be around, this month continues to call you to have fun in newer ways. Relax, you’ve been working so hard to figure it all out it might be time to take a little trip. Your career could start to take off now as Mars moves through this area of your chart, but Pluto is watching from the other side and can bring power struggles with others. Important elements in your life are moving away, sweeping clean what was, so that newer life can be yours. How nice, just don’t get in your own way.

scorpio

nov 22 - dec 21

You’ve been on a roller coaster of emotions/actions/ideas.

Soon, hidden talents & resources will come to your attention. Always the optimistic communicator, (unless depressed) brilliant new forms of it flow from you benefitting your career greatly. Your mind is off the charts and originality drips from your fingers: do something with that! The summer eclipses are laying gifts at your feet, but it is your responsibility to bring them into the physical world. Don’t leave them on that mental plane, they will disappear like smoke in the wind! dec 22 - JAn 19

capricorn

Don’t be abrasive, because it would be really easy to fall into that trap when Mars looks over at Pluto who is sitting on your personality. The best way to use this energy is to choose to be a powerful force for good in the world. Show others how a strong person with solid foundations can move into the world and share their gifts for all. There is a strong possibility that money will come to you in unexpected ways– be open to receive.

aquarius

JAn 20 - feb 18

The Sign of the Hour: The Star of the Show! You are happening now and come off as a little “quirky” at times.

The eclipse highlights your gifted self and brings great joy to your family and friends– that is, if you can stay positive.

It’s summer, have more fun (but be careful of arguments and accidents when Mars shoots an arrow at Pluto the end of the month.) feb 19 - MAr 20

ocT 23 - nov 21

Always Idealistic and very intense you may have gone underground with so many planets highlighting your most private section of the chart. The eclipse will probably bring you some fairly emotional displays in the area of home and possibly your mother. It’s erratic energy at times with the triple Aquarian play creating a newer internal and external home. Let loose of the genius creativity it brings and transform that part of your life.

pisces

Don’t fight with your kids this month, they are probably crabby about going back to school and not wanting summer to be over. And you have been undergoing such radical change (plus some karmic paybacks that are neither good nor bad, just paybacks.) It would be very easy for you to hide away this month and not want to communicate, but you need to show your deep feelings to those close to you, they are feeling a little “shut out.”

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 60

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