metroMAGAZINE's MARCH 2010 Issue

The Spirit of Omaha

facing the future metro community college’s institute for culinary arts opens its dream facility

SpiritofOmaha.com • march 2010

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

features

departments

10 CATCHING THE SPIRIT metroMAGAZINE and friends celebrate 20 years of service and surviving “The Bagel Bin Fire”

12

features / DEPARTMENTS

12 MEETING AT THE SUMMIT greater omaha young professionals

13

READY 2 SERVE non-profit & YP profiles

14

YP Q&A • YOUNG PROFESSIONALS “what is omaha’s greatest hidden gem?”

59

SAVE THE DATE

16 TOYO omaha jaycees ten outstanding young omahans

metro

18

FOOD RULES FOR SPRING with mary e. vandenack

special edition

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THE SOUL’S JOURNEY with dixie clark

cover STORY • SPECIAL INSERT

25 FACING THE FUTURE metro community college’s institute for the culinary arts opens its dream facility

events

41

THE metroSCENE

articles | columns

25 10

22

PLANNING MATTERS with pvw law

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57

TODAYS SAVINGS with swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

24

bravo!

ADVENTURERS. girl scouts art venture

LOOK WHO’S SHELTERING with the nebraska humane society

62

MARCH HOROSCOPES with sue moon

on the

of Om aha

cover

COVER PHOTOGRAPH by ©Laurie and Charles 6

The Sp irit

metroMAGAZINE • MAR 2010

metro com institute munity colle ge’s for culin opens its drea ary arts m facili ty

from the PUBLISHER

rebirth

A TIME FOR

So far, 2010 has definitely felt like a time of rebirth and recreation (that’s pronounced “re-creation.” I’m not talking about a vacation or holiday retreat, but building things anew!)

This has been a time of new beginnings for myself and ALH Publications, which finds us looking ahead with excitement and renewed energy– not only working to recover from the fire which destroyed our offices in January, but actively developing and introducing new products and services intended to better serve our readership and our community.

Among these is “buyOMAHAnow!™ - Businesses Making a Difference!” We live in a community that gives back. For the past 20 years we have been heralding those individuals, organizations and businesses that do so much for our community. Now we’re offering you the opportunity to nominate businesses that you wish to see honored for making a difference in the lives of others. Once we receive your nominations, they will be organized into a very unique kind of business directory. To submit your nominations visit our website at www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Businesses-Making-a-Difference/.

Another exciting project we are introducing is “FACES - Omaha’s Model Search 2010.” In partnership with 89 Talent Management, we are in search of Omaha’s next “top model.” What makes this model search a bit more unique is that we are looking for someone who exudes outwardly, that which reflects an inner inspiration and beauty.

For guidelines or to register please visit our website at www.SpiritofOmaha.com/MetroMagazine/FACES-Omahas-Model-Search/.

Speaking of innovation, we are once again taking nominations for our 4th annual “The Big Event” Awards Celebration. Once again you can nominate your favorite charity events for Omaha’s star-studded evening of celebration (a la The Academy Awards.)

Nominations will be accepted through June 10th for events held from June 2009 through May 2010. The top 5 nominees in 13 categories will be announced in July… when voting will commence! To nominate your favorites visit our website at www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/TheBigEvent2010-Nominations/.

We’re not done yet… for nearly two decades we’ve pioneered connecting our followers with the charitable causes they care about, and we continue to forge ahead in introducing expanded products and services which improve this process. Updates about upcoming events can be found each month in our Save the Date section and each week in our weeklyINSIDER e-newsletter, while “The Event Book,” our annual guide to “Charity and Culture,” provides readers in depth and comprehensive information about charitable organizations, how to get involved, and event details up to 18 months in advance. For up-to-the-minute information about events, organizations, how to volunteer, and a rich supply of helpful information, visit our website at SpiritofOmaha.com for information updated instantly– 365/24/7! metroMAGAZINE has been an innovative trendsetter covering thousands of events over the last 20 years, reporting on millions of dollars being raised for charities in the metro area. We look forward to continuing this tradition of service for the next 20 years, and invite all of you to “Catch the Spirit” of the Greater Omaha Community with us!

ANDREA L. HOIG ahoig@SpiritofOmaha.com

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

LAURIE AND CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHS

businesses making a difference

SpiritofOmaha.com

metro The Spirit of Omaha

MARCH 2010 VOL. 22 NO. 3 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.O. BOX 241611, OMAHA, NE 68124 or e-mailed to: Editor@SpiritofOmaha.com Publisher Editor-in-Chief

Staff Photographers

Caroline Hurley Linda Shepard Dave Stock Caroline Thompson

Andrea L. Hoig Editor/ Creative Director

Robert P. Killmer

Staff Writers

Sales Associates

Deb Skinner Ashley Spingola Administration

Francesca Peterson Layout/Production

Krystal Bottcher

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

Loni Craft

Interns

Tammy Maguire Katie Reichert

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

OFFICE/SALES

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

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

Yes we know we're late and we do apologize!

Our March 2010 edition is the first issue that was completely dependent on information obtained and compiled after the fire which destroyed our offices in January. This edition was actually affected more by those events than our February issue, since most of those elements were already collected and in progress at the time of the fire, so prepping for March has been a “firey” process indeed. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we work our way back into form!

We are working overtime to get back to our normal publishing schedule in coming weeks!

Look for our the belated March issue online this weekend and in the mail next week!

Our April and May issues will not be far behind...

Sincerely, The Editors

catching the

spirit

t

Photos by Papparazz i by Appoin tment

metroMAGAZINE 20th Anniversary PARTY

the spirit

of the Omaha community was celebrated in a warm and intimate way on February 22nd at the Omaha Community Playhouse as friends and long time business and nonprofit associates of Andrea Hoig and metroMAGAZINE gathered to celebrate the publication’s 20th Anniversary and to offer support and encouragement in the wake of the fire which destroyed the offices of ALH Publication in January of this year.

The quiet and relaxed reception served as an opportunity for celebrating the ties which have developed between Ms. Hoig and the numerous organizations and enterprises which have themselves been celebrated in the publication during the past two decades.

Hosted through the generous efforts of Melissa Marvin, Ellen Wright, Greg Lindberg, Betsye Paragas and the friends of metroMAGAZINE, the evening featured warm camaraderie and fond remembrances of a longstanding bond which has evolved during twenty years of heralding charity events, fundraising efforts and profiling community heroes.

The event featured a delicious array of culinary delights provided through the efforts of a small army of local restaurateurs and caterers. Live music was provided by David Murphy. For more information about metroMAGAZINE call 402-333-7499 or visit SpiritofOmaha.com.

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metroMagazine • mar 2010

toasttoequality easter seals nebraska wine event

ThankYouAd_Layout 1 3/22/10 9:55 AM Page 1

AAA Rents • Absolutely Fresh Seafood • Anthony’s • Blue • Brandeis Catering • Catering Creations • Cupcake Island • David Murphy - Entertainment • Florals Etcetera! • Jams • John Benker Catering • Julio’s • Metro Community College Sage Bistro • Omaha Community Playhouse • Omaha Wine Company • One Drake Place • Paradise Bakery • Shucks Oyster Bar • Sterling Distributing • TASTE • Taxi’s • Wheatfield’s

Thanks to those who showed their support and celebrated our th Anniversary!

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Special thanks to our Hosts!

Betsye Paragas • Ellen Wright Greg Lindberg • Melissa Marvin Special thanks to Omaha Community Playhouse for hosting the celebration

t

givingin

style

fashion in salvation

Ernie Ross, Jason Cavanough, Karie Milford and Kevin McCormick.

Adam Krtek, Kristina Filippello, Jaimie Emanuel, Rachel Porter, and Emily Bartlett from ConAgra Foods.

seatatthe

t

your

Greater omaha chamber of commerce YOung professionals summit

Kris Nelson and James Leach of Leo A. Daly and 300 Square.

Dayo Kosoko, Joel Robles, Lamarr Womble and Karissa Johnson

Paige Yost and Stephanie Stephens.

TOM’s Shoes

Lisa Jarding, Tim Schut, Jennifer Terveen, Steffanie Liston, and Sara Weber.

table

On Thursday, March 4th, 2010, hundreds of young professionals, community and business leaders gathered at the Qwest Center Omaha for the 2010 Young Professionals Summit. The day-long event was mixed with networking events, breakout sessions and speakers.

Sponsored by Bellevue University, HDR, Inc. and TD AMERITRADE, this year’s theme was “Your Seat at the Table.” Ideas from “Your Omaha 2020,” a unified vision for Omaha’s growth and development, were incorporated into the event. More than 830 young professionals attended breakout session on topics such as engaging in politics, building your résumé through social media, and eliminating poverty and homelessness in Omaha. The summit’s opening speaker was Patricia Martin, CEO and founder, LitLamp Communications and author of “Renaissance Generation.”

A capacity crowd of 1,260 were inspired by luncheon speaker, Blake Mycoskie, who is founder and chief shoe giver at TOMS Shoes. Mycoskie told of how he established a for-profit company to give a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair of shoes sold.

The Closing speaker was William Taylor, entrepreneur and founding editor of “Fast Company.”The Omaha Public Power District received the annual Young Professionals Choice Award for their efforts to attract, retain and develop young professionals. The award was sponsored by Koley Jessen Attorneys. A growing number of young professionals from outside of Nebraska have started attending the Summit which is sure to grow in the coming years.

uller niel M

by Da s o t o Ph

Joe Olsen of Phenomblue with John Henry Muller, owner of What Cheer and Dustin Treinen, President of 1984 Creative.

Dusty Davidson, Andy Stoll, John Henry Muller, Jeff Sloboski and Steve Pedersen.

Olga Jackson, Xiaolu Wang and Maggie Kukula from TD Ameritrade.

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metroMagazine • mar 2010

Michael Kolakowskit, Matt Barcomb and Seth Graber from Union Pacific Railroad.

metroMAGAZINE

YPconnections

CONNECTING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS www.ready2serveomaha.org

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PROFILE

“YP” ORGANIZATION PROFILE

destinationmidtown

omahacommunityplayhouse

contact jamie grayson-berglund jgrayson@omahachamber.org MISSION: To create a premier urban environment where people want to live, work, shop, and play.

COMMUNITY SERVED: Those currently or wishing to live, work, shop, play, or invest in Midtown.

LEADERSHIP VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND HOW PEOPLE CAN GET INVOLVED: Destination Midtown is in need of volunteers willing to assist with staffing events, conducting grant research, conducting research on public policy initiatives and best practices that can be applied to the Destination Midtown strategic plan, assisting the Midtown Business Association with networking events and other projects supporting business in Midtown, assist Midtown neighborhood associations with neighborhood enhancement projects (neighborhood cleanup efforts, community gardens, health and wellness initiatives, etc.), and providing Spanish translations and interpretation services.

contact karli newman knewman@omahaplayhouse.com THE OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE is celebrating its 85th anniversary during the 2009-2010 Season. The Playhouse is the largest community theatre in the nation and is proud to be a cultural icon in the city of Omaha.

The Omaha Community Playhouse’s mission is to enrich the community through great theatre. We strive to achieve this mission by mounting nine regular season productions and two special events per season as well as community outreach through our educational programs for both youth and adults.

The Playhouse has an exclusive Rising Star subscription package for young adults between the ages of 21 and 35. These subscribers enroll for $25 per season and then enjoy up to two tickets for each regular season production for only $10 each. Rising Stars are invited to a preshow Curtain Club Party during each production. It is only $5 to attend and includes unlimited drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

The Rising Star subscription package is available throughout the entire season online and at the box office.

Visit the ticket page on our website at omahaplayhouse.org or call the box office phone at 402-553-0800.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

sherryehutcherson BOARD OF DIRECTORS URBAN LEAGUE OF NEBRASKA

BOARD MEMBER: INROADS

When I moved to Omaha, Nebraska, my service began on the Board of the Salem Community Development Corporation. That experience enriched my understanding of our church’s goal for community outreach as well as the needs of the North Omaha Community and the Omaha Community abroad.

Today, I am privileged to have the opportunity to continue to serve. Most recently, I have spent some time in the community speaking to groups about “how to interview well” or about “how to dress for the next job". I have enjoyed the discussion and come away enlightened and intrigued by the talent and ambition that surrounded me. My five-year-old-daughter attends the meetings with me and she has commented, “Mommy, I want to be like you all when I grow up.” Of course, that is the point!

Being an INROADS Board member has allowed me to work with talented interns who are eager to learn and grow. In 2009, OPPD employed 15 INROADS students as interns or coops in engineering and financial positions. I learned so much about their technical projects, and somewhere in there, I was able to share bits and pieces of the great wisdom that my mentors imparted on me.

SHERRYE HUTCHERSON 33

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One of my most enjoyable affiliations is with the Omaha Network. It is a group of women professionals who come together to network; to mentor; to support one another; and learn about local, state, and national topics that are important to our community. At OPPD, our women’s network is just as profound. The Steering Committee that I serve on worked with various women across the company to host OPPD’s first enterprise-wide Women’s Conference in October of 2009. The theme was “Women and Leadership” and we enjoyed local executives as our guest speakers. The feedback was phenomenal and we plan to make it an annual event.

My work on the Board of Directors for the Urban League of Nebraska is rewarding. The dedicated president and staff work diligently to bring programs to our community that are improving the numbers of minority students entering college. Starting a second term on the board is exciting for me. I have attended two national conventions, and each time I have brought back a little nugget that has helped me be a better contributor to the League and the community.

As a professional,wife, and mother of two, it is sometimes hard to balance it all. But, my wonderful husband Westly and our five-year-old twins, Miles and Maya, support me and are quick to join in to help. That makes all the difference.

metroMAGAZINE • MAR 2010

metroMAGAZINE

whatisomaha’s

YPconnections

CONNECTING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

katrinastoffel

robertwiebusch

INTERIOR DESIGNER ALLEY POYNER MACCHIETTO ARTICTECTURE, P.C.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR NP DODGE REAL ESTATE

RIGHT SOUTH OF DOWNTOWN IN A QUAINT NEIGHBORHOOD IS A LITTLE PLACE KNOWN AS JOSEPHINE’S COZY CORNER LOUNGE. This local watering hole holds a very dear place in my heart. When my now husband and I came back from New York City for our nuptials, we ended the evening with our closest friends, still in full wedding attire, at this little gem. You feel transformed from the first moment you step into the front door. As you navigate your way through a hallway you descend a couple of steps to KATRINA discover a place frozen in time.

STOFFEL The atmosphere consists of low ceilings, low lighting, and a jukebox that will not accept the “new” 5 dollar bill. If you are looking for an adventure or an "attitude adjustment" to quote my grandmother, you should stop in and say hello to Frank at Josephine’s Cozy Corner Lounge on 2201 Pierce Street. While you are in the neighborhood check out Malara’s home cooked Italian, it is quite tasty and close by at 2123 Pierce Street.

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SIMPLY PUT, THE GREATEST GEM HERE IN OMAHA IS HOUSING AFFORDABILITY. This city offers an affordability index that makes it very attractive to those who come to visit, and those who travel away from Omaha quickly realize how good we have it here. Comparable housing in other urban settings is often much more expensive which tends to shock visitors when they find out how much home they can afford here relative to their current ROBERT home cities. This has proved to WIEBUSCH be a gem in disguise over the past few years as other cities have had widespread home price corrections (i.e. depreciation!) due to the boom years prior. Omaha has had a very modest ‘price correction’ which has actually helped to earn us some national recognition as the fastest recovering city.

Omaha will continue to grow, and I am very proud to be a resident of this great city!

jacobhouser

DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS

meaganpleak

CPA & MANAGER DANA F. COLE & COMPANY, LLP

I THINK ONE OF OMAHA’S GREATEST “HIDDEN GEMS” IS THE 1200 CLUB INSIDE THE HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER. The 1200 CLUB has a swanky nightclub kind of feel and features up-andcoming jazz, blues, world music artists, and even comedians. It’s sophisticated and classy, and you get to see acts that you really don’t get anywhere else in town. I have seen so many shows there by energetic and fun artists who are incredibly talented and on the verge of their big break.

And because it’s a nightclub, it’s casual enough that you can wear jeans and just relax. Everyone JACOB gets to sit at a table and you can order HOUSER 32 drinks and appetizers during the show.

Or, you can get up and dance if that’s what you want to do. It’s a great place to enjoy great entertainment at a spot that’s a bit upscale without breaking the bank. Tickets are around $25. More information on 1200 CLUB artists can be found at OmahaPerformingArts.org/1200Club.

“PAYING IT FORWARD” IS A TERM WE ARE BEGINNING TO HEAR MORE OFTEN. It means that a person helps someone else without receiving anything in return. The people of Omaha live by this motto. We have been inspired by people like Father Flanagan who founded Boys Town, which now helps more than 400,000 children a year in over a dozen states. Warren Buffett is another person who “pays it forward”.

While he is one of the world’s richest men, he has also managed to donate over $32 billion dollars to charities, drives his own car, and lives in the home he purchased over 50 years ago.

Omaha is filled with people who volunteer their time and money to help others. It is filled with people who scoop their neighbors’ driveways, bake cookies for bake sales, and return misplaced purses to the customer service department. With leaders like these it is no wonder that Omaha’s greatest hidden gem is its people.

MEAGAN PLEAK 28

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metroMAGAZINE • MAR 2010

30

greatest

hiddengem? tonytyrrell

REALTOR CBSHOME REAL ESTATE TUCKED INTO A NON-DESCRIPT LOCATION IN A STORE FRONT off West Center Road (12355 West Center Rd., #247, to be exact) is one of Omaha’s newest and hippest and healthiest restaurants, The Green Belly. The Green Belly describes itself as an “Eco-friendly establishment that serves environmentally responsible fine food”. My friends and I describe it as simply TONY TYRRELL 28 delicious. The Green Belly serves salads – lots and lots of them – but with a huge list of super fresh and fun ingredients like fresh mozzarella, dried cranberries, and Greek peppers. You can mix and match your own, but they also have some amazing pre-designed selections, like artichoke chicken. The portions are bountiful, and inexpensive – the Baby Belly salad goes for under six bucks, and can easily feed two. Green Belly is a find for more than salads, however, because they also serve food like the Nuevo Cubano Panini or a peanut butter and jam with bananas Panini! The Green Belly is great for the environment, not just for you. They serve all of their food in containers and disposables made from 100% compostable corn. Omaha deserves a fresh new concept like The Green Belly. It’s a real gem.

nicolepalof

GRANTS MANAGER NEBRASKA ARTS COUNCIL

NICOLE PALOF

AT FIRST I WAS GOING TO WRITE ABOUT HOW I THINK THAT OMAHA’S HIDDEN GEMS ARE ALL OF THE RICH CULTURAL OFFERINGS that are available throughout the city all year long. And I definitely think that’s true - galleries, theaters, museums, music, filmOmaha has it all in that regard. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that the appeal of Omaha, at least for me, is the fact that we have such a rich cultural landscape, yet most people here are still down-to-earth and full of Midwestern charm and friendliness. The city is a very big small town, which makes all of the great arts and culture offerings, recreation activities, restaurants, etc. all the more accessible.

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metroMAGAZINE catch the

spirit

of the Omaha community!

OMAHA JAYCEE’S 76TH ANNUAL TEN OUTSTANDING YOUNG OMAHANS THE OMAHA JAYCEES SINCE 1933 HAVE BEEN HONORING TEN MEN AND WOMEN BETWEEN THE AGES OF

DEVELOPMENT. THE 77TH ANNUAL TOYO (TEN OUTSTANDING YOUNG OMAHANS) AWARDS WAS PRESENTED

Kristine Hull

21 AND 40 EACH YEAR WHO STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE AND HAVE A

STRONG COMMITMENT TO BOTH COMMUNITY SERVICE AND PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2010 AT QWEST CENTER OMAHA. A COCKTAIL

RECEPTION WAS HELD FOLLOWED BY THE DINNER AND A PRESENTATION. WOWT ANCHOR

MALORIE MADDOX WAS THE EVENING’S EMCEE. THE RECIPIENTS WERE SELECTED BY A PANEL OF NINE JUDGES INCLUDING: KATIE RISCH BAKHIT, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT FOR DUCHESNE ACADEMY.; KIRSTEN CASE-PENROD, MANAGER AND FOUNDING MEMBER OF THE GREATER OMAHA YOUNG PROFESSIONALS AT THE GREATER OMAHA CHAMBER; WILLIAM E. CONLEY, VICE CHANCELLOR FOR BUSINESS & FINANCE FOR UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA; SHERRYE HUTCHERSON, DIVISION MANAGER OF HUMAN RESOURCES FOR OMAHA PUBLIC POWER DISTRICT; REBECCA KAUP, CUSTOMER ACCOUNT MANAGER, FOR UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD AND 2009 TOYO DIRECTOR; MALORIE MADDOX, ANCHOR FOR WOWT; SHONDA MOLACEK, TAX AND BUSINESS CONSULTANT FOR STEIER & ASSOCIATES, LTD; JOEL RUSSELL, VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER FOR MILLARD LUMBER INC; MARK SPOTANSKI, MARKETING OFFICER FOR FIRST NATIONAL BANK.

Elaine Buescher Elaine Buescher is the full-time domestic arts administrator/CEO for the Buescher family. Prior to making this recent career move, Elaine was the Grants Manager at the Nebraska Arts Council.

She coordinated grant programs for arts projects and arts organization support across the state of Nebraska. Elaine has Bachelor of Arts Degrees in both Art History and Russian from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and has a Master of Public Administration degree with an emphasis in Nonprofit Management from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Elaine is currently serving as the Vice President of Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) Nebraska. She is the President of Leadership Circle, a political organization for young Republican women. Elaine is a founding board member and current treasurer for Emerging Terrain and a founding committee member of the Joslyn Art Museum’s Young Art. She is involved with the Douglas County Republican Party Central Committee, Arts’ Advocacy Committee, Field Club Homeowners League Board and Our Lady of Lourdes church and school.

Kristine Hull is the Controller at Omaha Performing Arts, a nonprofit organization that operates the Orpheum Theater and the Holland Performing Arts Center. She is primarily responsible for coordinating financial planning and forecasting, strategic planning, and budgeting.

Kristine received a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Creighton University and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Kristine is a board member of the Greater Omaha Young Professionals Council and a member of Leadership Omaha Class 32. She is an active member of Junior League of Omaha, a tax preparer volunteer for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and serves on the Not-For-Profit Committee of the Nebraska Society of CPA’s.

Stephanie Hansen Stephanie Hansen is a Senior Attorney in the Sarpy County Attorney’s Office. As a prosecutor, Stephanie represents the State of Nebraska in felony-level criminal prosecutions in Sarpy County. In addition to her courtroom responsibilities, Stephanie is in charge of training new prosecutors and providing on-going training and development for other attorneys in their office. Stephanie has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology from Hastings College and a Juris doctor from University of Nebraska College of Law. She has completed the year long Nebraska Bar Association Leadership Academy, and served as a judge for the Creighton Law School mock trials and the Nebraska High School Mock Trial Competition. This year, Stephanie was honored by MADD with the Outstanding Law Enforcement Award for successfully prosecuting a double fatality caused by an intoxicated boater. Stephanie is a member of Junior League of Omaha, Rose Theater Guild, Kappa Alpha Theta Omaha Alumnae and active in the Westside Community Schools. She has also been a Big Sister in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program and a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), serving as a voice for abused and neglected children in the Nebraska court system.

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Jeffrey Jorth Jeffrey Jorth is a Principal in the Group Benefits Division of SilverStone Group. He is responsible for developing new client relationships, maintaining existing client relationships and marketing the firm’s capabilities. Jeff’s area of expertise is employee benefits, including dental, health, life and disability insurance, health saving accounts, alternative funding arrangements, and strategic planning. He has Bachelor of Arts Degrees in both Finance/Banking and Management from Waldorf College. Jeff is the 2010 President-Elect for the Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. He is a board member for the Nothing But Net Foundation and Floor Committee Member for Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben. Jeff is an active member of St. Thomas Lutheran Church and the National Association of Health Underwriters, and a graduate of Leadership Omaha Class 28.

metroMagazine • MaR 2010

Craig Moody Craig Moody is a Principal and co-owner of Verdis Group, Omaha’s premier sustainability consulting firm that helps organizations make truly green decisions. His daily responsibilities can range from client delivery to filing receipts and all things in between. Craig received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management with an emphasis in Finance and Master’s in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota. Craig is an active member of the Young Professional Council – having served as the Chairman of the Board for 2009. He is currently a Core Committee and Natural Environment Subcommittee member for Environment Omaha. Craig is also active in the following organizations: Earth Day Omaha Coalition, the Green Omaha Coalition and recently, VOICE Omaha.

Shawntal Smith is an attorney with Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek and Cavanagh, P.C., L.L.O. She concentrates her practice in the area of domestic relations.

Shawntal received her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctorate from Creighton University. Prior to joining Lieben, Whitted, Houghton, Slowiaczek and Cavanagh, P.C., L.L.O, she represented the legal interests of abused and neglected children in the Separate Juvenile Court of Douglas County and an Attorney Guardian ad Litem.

Shawntal is a member of the Omaha Bar Association, Nebraska State Bar Association and American Bar Association, and President of the Midlands Bar Association.

She serves on the Nebraska Minority Justice Committee and the Nebraska Minority Corporate Counsel Program Steering Committee. Shawntal is an active member of the Omaha Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., KETV’s Kaleidoscope program and a graduate of Leadership Omaha Class 31.

Quinn Vandenberg is an associate attorney with Baird Holm LLP. She represents and counsels both public and private employers in aspects of labor and employment law including discrimination, sexual harassment and unfair labor practices. She has appeared before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, National Labor Relations Board, and state anti-discrimination and wage/hour compliance agencies.

Quinn has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Governmental/International Studies and Spanish, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Notre Dame.

She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Ollie Webb Center, Inc. and is Vice President of the Notre Dame Club of Omaha. She is involved with Baird Holm’s Women’s Initiative Group as well as the Publicity Chair for the Nebraska Society of Human Relations Management.

Carol Wang

Kelli Sweet

Crystal Rhoades Crystal Rhoades is the Assistant Executive Director for the Neighborhood Center. Her responsibilities include oversight of the daily operations of all staff, program delivery and training programs. Crystal has her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Psychology from University of Nebraska at Omaha and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Political Science.

Crystal was elected to the Metropolitan Community College Board of Governors where she worked to improve state funding, ensures equitable distribution of state aid for education and created and implemented responsible contracting practices to protect taxpayer funds. She is involved in Morton Meadow’s Neighborhood Association the South Omaha Neighborhood Alliance, the Building Bright Futures Advisory Board, Tree of Life Committee, Clean Solutions Omaha Saddle Creek Basin advisory panel, Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance Housing and the Omaha Chamber’s South Omaha Redevelopment Project.

Quinn Vandenberg

Shawntal Smith

Kelli Sweet is the Senior Manager, Shortline Development at Union Pacific Railroad. Kelli graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Art and from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a Master of Arts in History. She is involved with the Latino Employee Network and LEAD (Lead, Educate, Achieve and Develop Women’s Initiative) at Union Pacific.

Kelli is a founding member and Secretary of Wear Yellow Nebraska, a member of Midwest Lampworkers Guild and at-large board member for the Omaha Running Club. She is involved with the Greater Omaha Colon Cancer Task Force, Big Brother Big Sisters of the Midlands, and Voices for Children.

Carol Wang anchors the evening news for Action 3 News. She reports the news of the day at 5PM, 6PM and 10PM and reports weekly on family issues. Carol received a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism at Boston University and Master’s Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern University.

As an active member of Junior League of Omaha, Carol is currently the Chair of the Publications Committee, a member of the Holiday Mart Committee and Finance Council. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Nebraska AIDS Project and the chair for their Night of A Thousand Silver Stars Gala. Carol is on the Communications Committee for The Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha, serves on the board for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, assists with the Alzheimer’s Association’s Memory Walk and hosts the Labor Day Telethon for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

IF YOU KNOW OF ANY Businesses Making a Difference! om c . a h a iritofOm p S t a Tell us

IN OUR COMMUNITY LET US KNOW…

beginning April 2nd!

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

e

spring

food rules for spring USE FOOD FOR TRANSFORMATION

“Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be food.”

by mary e. vandenack

–Hippocrates

At long last, March arrives. March is my favorite

The following is a list

Remember that as spring arrives,

month of the year because it contains the spring equinox. I have long celebrated the spring equinox as my personal New Year's.

of some “food rules” to consider for the spring: • Eat fresh and locally grown. Consider growing your own. Know your grower.

Spring is a great time to rethink food choices.

Farmers’ markets and more fresh vegetables are right around the corner.

• Avoid sugar.

consider a cleanse. I'm not a big advocate of some of the dramatic cleanses that I hear about. I simply advocate taking a few days now and then to take a break from proteins, fats, and sweets. Switch to soups, whole grains, and veggies for a few days.

I am so glad to see more and more literature on the benefits of eating healthy. Most of us KNOW how to eat healthy. Many of us don't necessarily do it.

• Eat whole foods. The temptation to eat “lowfat” is the belief that we can eat more. If we eat whole foods, we are more likely to feel satisfied.

It seems that everything I read on food lately makes it clear that the Western diet with a lot of processed foods, sugar, meats and added fats correlates to a high rate of Western diseases.

• Refuse to add fat.

There are some great books out there giving us great information about transforming our perspective on food. Some of my current favorites include Food Matters, The Food Mood Connection, and Food Rules: The Eater's Manual. I like this quote from a recent article by Jane Brody on food: “In addition to all the physical and emotional benefits of eating healthy, our economy simply cannot afford to continue to patch up the millions of people who each year develop a diet related ailment, and our planetary resources simply cannot sustain our eating style.”

Many years ago, I started to write myself a contract containing food rules. I used to update it annually.

More recently, I have learned the importance of reviewing food rules with each season.

• Cook for yourself. Cooking for yourself is the sure way to be in control of what you put in.

• Close the kitchen at seven p.m. daily. Turn off the lights. Close the door. Be done with eating for the day.

• Eat at a table and focus on eating. Turn off the television. Put down the paper and pay attention to what you are eating.

• Stop eating before you are full. Eat to the point of satiation, not fullness.

Try a food meditation this spring. Different foods have different effects on everyone. One summer, I took some real time off and did a food meditation. I would eat one food at a time and totally experienced the food.

I learned quickly what foods my body wanted. I was surprised to find that some foods that are considered healthy were not foods that were good for me.

As we move into spring, lighten up eating generally.

Use less oil and quicker cooking styles. Focus on fresh, green, upward growing vegetables and light grains. Get outdoors and connect with the universe at every opportunity.

Drink lots of water. Keep moving! And remember that you really are what you eat!

• Remember that every body is unique but consider trying some of the super foods identified in Food Matters: wakame, kombu, echinacea, bee pollen, ginger, raw cacao, coconut, wheatgrass, and goji.

• Use safe cleaning and cooking practices.

• Check out sustainabletable.org • Try new recipes.

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the soul’s journey • with dixie clark

metroMAgAzine

mirror

the world is your Most of us look in a mirror every day. Sometimes it’s consciously,

sometimes out of habit, and other times for a specific purpose. We look in the mirror, see our reflection and get a sense of how we look. There is a greater mirror available to us as well, and that one holds the reflection of ourselves that we see in other people.

Our relationships can be one of the greatest teachers we have in life. They not only help us learn love, patience, boundaries, and effective communication, they are a mirror of our relationship to ourselves.

“All of your relationships are inside of you. There's no relationship out there. There is only the reflection of what you are doing inside yourself and how you're dealing with relationships inside of you, not out there. It may look as if a relationship is you with another person or with other people, but it is always you within you, and relationships are one of the greatest mirrors you can have for yourself-your patterns, your beliefs, your conditioned responses.”

– John-Roger

Instead of blaming others for not being who we want them to be or not loving us the way we want, we can begin to look at our relationships in a new way. Rather than trying to change the other person, we can begin to heal those parts of ourselves being reflected in other people that upset us.

For our own personal evolution and spiritual development, it is very helpful to become an observer. To look at the situations and people that trigger anger, guilt, loneliness, and helplessness. What are they saying about you? What part inside of you needs your attention? What is the belief about yourself or about life that you’re holding on to?

Every doubt and insecurity we have about ourselves and our own worthiness is brought forward in our relationships. Every need to prove ourselves, to seek approval, and our sense of safety and security is played out with the people in our lives.

What this means then is that every relationship can show us a reflection of our own Divinity, where we are limiting ourselves or stuck in old patterns. Every relationship holds a key to our own healing and expansion.

What do your relationships say to you or about you? If you were to look in to your relationship reflections, what does this mirror tell you about: • How safe you feel to open your heart • How worthy you believe yourself to be • How honest you are with yourself • Unhealed traumas or emotional wounds • Beliefs about being good enough • What you value in others that you are not seeing in yourself • What qualities you judge in others that you’re not owning in yourself • How you love and take care of yourself • How safe you feel to be yourself • The responsibility you take for yourself or for others • What your motivations are for your actions • How comfortable you are to let go • The “themes” your soul is bringing forward for you to look at in this lifetime

These responses and limiting beliefs are not who we are. They are what we have learned. We can release them and be free. We can begin to love ourselves in such a way that our sense of safety and worth comes from within. When we connect on a Soul level, that loving is what becomes most important.

We often don’t understand what our soul is seeking here. So, instead of looking inside, we continue to repeat the same patterns, hold on to old resentments, and keep attracting the same type or person into our lives. If we end up leaving the person or situation, without changing the pattern within ourselves, they will show up again and again, just bearing a different name. Our soul always seeks wholeness and will bring forward exactly the right situations and people to help us clear any patterns that no longer serve us or keep us trapped.

We can begin to be thankful that it got set up this way to bring forward these awarenesses that will lead to our growth.

When the quality of the relationship with our selves improves, the quality of our other relationships will shift as well. The actions of other people lose their power to affect us, or we get the courage to speak up. Sometimes we get the courage to leave a situation. And this time, they don’t show up again in another form, because we are not the same.

We have moved on and are creating new reflections that are part of our Soul’s purpose and for our Highest Good. We are here to learn to love our reflection on all levels.

If you are interested in exploring the reflection of your relationships or wanting help in releasing old patterns, please call me at 884-0621. m

Dixie Clark, MS, MSS, LPC is Director and co-founder of Morning Star Center, a holistic wellness center. A licensed counselor and ordained minister, she holds a masters’ degree in both counseling and spiritual science and is currently obtaining her doctorate in 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 to open to soul awareness.

dixie clark, ms, mss, lpc www.morningstarcenter.com 20

metroMAgAzine • feb 2010

planningMATTERS • with pvw law

22

after

insuring akeyasset: yourstreamof income

practicing law for many years, I have become a firm believer in the use of insurance. Having recently witnessed the ravages of fire to the Metro and other businesses impacted by fire or similar disasters this winter, I decided that this month's column would cover some insurance basics.

Often, we find that business owners buy a policy without really understanding what they purchased. The business owner should be an active participant in the insurance acquisition process.

Basic types of insurance that a business needs are as follows: • Property insurance covers the damage to the location of the business, the contents, and sometimes the property of others in your custody or control.

• Liability insurance protects you against injury claims.

• Business Interruption insurance protects your income in the event your business cannot operate for a period of time.

• Workers Compensation insurance protects you to the extent workers experience an on the job injury.

• Professional Liability insurance protects you from errors and omissions and is typically required for professionals such as physicians, lawyers, engineers, CPA's, technology consultants, fitness professionals, engineers, etc.

To determine the types of insurance coverage that you need, prepare a list of all of your property, your potential liabilities, and income categories. Give thought to risks that are particular to your business.

Do you have a machine that is hard to replace or one that has a special function that would seriously impact business income in the event of a breakdown? Do you have fine arts? Does your business create valuable papers? Does the business operate in the international arena?

Most property and casualty policies are designed to have a general coverage with certain limits. The general coverage will have exclusions and limits on various items of coverage. The exclusions and limits often come as a surprise to the business owner when the time comes to recover under the by mary e. vandenack policy. In policy design, the business owner should pay close attention to exclusions and optional coverages.

In the current business climate, many businesses are heavily reliant on technology; however, this is an area in which businesses are often underinsured. Technology is often excluded from the general coverage and must be covered with additional coverage. In determining the amount needed to cover technology, consider the likely replacement cost of all equipment defined in the technology category (read the definitions closely). Also, consider the software that is required, the data that might need to be recovered and the time consumption in rebuilding the entire network.

Another area where businesses are often under-insured is employee dishonesty coverage. In determining appropriate limits, consider the technological environment. Do you have sufficient double-checks to be certain that an employee can't transmit everyone's payroll to his own account or to pay the American Express bill “three times twice” to his account? Most businesses do not have the double-checks (which should be addressed by your accounting professional) nor the insurance to cover the risk.

Once you have devised an insurance plan appropriate for your business, calendar annual reviews. Business needs often change quickly.

todaysSAVNGS • swartzbaugh-farber & associates, inc.

REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE

23

relationship buying

almost

everyday we transact business, whether it is buying gas, stamps, lunch or more substantial and infrequent purchases such as a car, a wedding dress or a house. We also pay for services provided by others – haircuts, doctor and dentist appointments, exercise and fitness programs and interior decoration.

with jim farber

We live in a world where there is intense competition by providers of these items. There are three elements present in every purchase: 1) need or desire, 2) price and 3) value. Price is often the leading consideration in our search. Value, while important, may take a back seat when we’re in the process of looking for a ‘good deal’.

Balancing price and value is critical if we are to get the best result. Price is easy to compare, but knowledge is needed to assess value. That is why, in making some purchases, understanding the difference between a transaction and a relationship purchase is important. A transaction is often the purchase of a product or service without the necessity of any personal interaction; and a relationship purchase is one in which a product or service is bought with the advice and input of another, preferably an expert in that particular area.

We don’t usually need someone to help us buy a gallon of gas or a tube of toothpaste, so we use little or no help determining the value for the price we are paying. Some things cannot be done without a specialist – try taking out your own appendix.

There are many examples of services that have reduced costs and attract customers by introducing transaction based practices to replace the traditional ‘Buyer-Seller’ system of commerce. Some of them work quite well.

The financial services industry is a good example. Technology has made it possible for some insurance, investment, banking and legal services to be purchased without the buyer explaining their need to a seller who can provide a value based solution. A sort of ‘one-price-fits-all’ approach often supplies a cost effective answer for the buyer who is strictly price comparing.

On the other hand, the buyer may be able to take advantage of an expert’s knowledge to get a customized solution that will be of specific value at a price that fits. This relationship purchase offers the buyer the right formula: Price + Value = Desired Result.

When you are looking to make buying decisions about family, security, investments, survivorship issues, retirement planning, and the best ways to care for aging parents, among other lifecycle decisions we all face, take advantage of the experts around you. They can guide you through the process of dealing with these issues. Then if you want to go ‘shopping’ on your own, you will have a track to run on, but you also will have had good, knowledgeable advice and who knows, maybe a new valuable relationship!

For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber – Client Centered – Client Advocates™

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holding Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Swartzbaugh-Farber & Associates, Inc. is independently owned and operated.

has given “Creighton me the knowledge to succeed

make a difference in the world.”

and

Gordon Pang | Finance major

OUR BUSINESS STUDENTS RANK IN THE TOP 10% NATIONALLY What makes Creighton University College of Business so extraordinary? Values.

Leadership. Real World Experience. And a student body geared for success, just like you. Visit business.creighton.edu.

Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets!

Mark Your Calenar: April 17, 2010 Black Tie and Tails at the Holiday Inn Convention Center Black Tie and Tails is a not-to-miss fundraiser for the pet passionate who want to help homeless animals. The Nebraska Humane Society’s Friends Forever Guild puts this gala on and it’s truly the most heartwarming in town! This year’s theme is Waiting for Someone Like You. In addition to the social hour, silent auction, oral auction and musical entertainment, we do what NHS does best--showcase pets in a VIP (Very Important Pet) runway show. Of course you get dinner and chance to bid on great items. Best of all, proceeds stay right here to give local homeless animals at NHS a second chance. Tickets and information at www.nehumanesociety.org/blacktieandtails or call Gordon at 905-3483.

Camp Kindness for Kids If your child or grandchild loves animals, Camp KindDr. Maryanne Stevens with Grace and Josie

ness is the place to be this summer. Children get a behind the scenes look at shelter life including surgeries, dog training, cat alley and so much more. They pick

Dr. Maryanne Stevens Dr. Maryanne Stevens has had dogs throughout her life, but Josie is a first. Before she was placed for adoption at the Nebraska Humane Society, Josie was part of a program at the Omaha Correctional Center in which inmates socialize and train shelter dogs. “I’ve had puppies before, so adopting a housetrained dog who knew a few commands was wonderful.” Although an adult, Josie is about a year old so she is still full of energy. That’s something Grace, her 9 year old cocker spaniel sister, had to get used to. “Grace will

kennel buddies, bathe puppies and watch special presentations on wildlife too. Kids rave about this camp and many come year after year! Camps run June and July in week long, half day sessions. For more information and easy on line signup go to www.nehumanesociety.org/campkindness.

stand and watch Josie do laps in the yard,” explains Dr Stevens, “occasionally, she needs to get out of the way. But, all in all the two get along really well.” Dr. Stevens named Josie for St. Joseph Cafasso of Italy-patron saint of prisoners. “She is the only dog I’ve had who ‘talks’ to people. She’s very expressive and will sit and provide her own little vocal commentary (not barking but a range of sounds) on the day’s events.”

As with all good dog owners, Dr. Stevens listens intently, agrees with Josie, and offers her a treat from her own canister on the counter.

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

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

metro

F

ACING THE FUTURE

CUTTING EDGE • CHANGING SCOPE • CHARGING FORWARD Online now! at SpiritofOmaha.com

cover STORY metroMAGAZINE

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FACING THE FUTURE

L “We can permeate the city with good nutrition, good cooking, good food.”

RANDY SCHMAILZL METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE PRESIDENT

UTTING EDGE

ike the comforting smell of fresh bread baking in the oven or the mouth-watering aroma of tomato sauce simmering on the stove, “We can permeate the city with good nutrition, good cooking, good food.” Metropolitan Community College President, Randy Schmailzl had this to say of the college’s newest and most impressive addition to the Fort Omaha Campus, the Institute for the Culinary Arts and Swanson Conference Center.

Construction of the 16.3 million dollar facility, of which 2.6 million was generated from private funding with substantial gifting from Lincoln’s Pegler family, began in October of 2007. But earnest discussion regarding an institute actually began 16 years earlier in 1991, says Jim Trebbien, Dean of MCC’s Culinary, Hospitality and Horticulture program and Executive Director of the Institute for the Culinary Arts, when college officials could foresee a future need for a topnotch culinary program. In 2005 the talk was formalized into action when architectural plans were drawn.

The wishful thinking had become reality.

The Institute for the Culinary Arts and Swanson Conference Center opened in November 2009.

It encompasses 35,000 square feet of usable space, 17,000 square dedicated to instruction and service space for MCC’s culinary program. The first floor contains five kitchens for student training. Those enrolled in the bakery and pastry component of the program have their own bakery. An entire laboratory is dedicated to chocolate.

SPECIAL EDITION •

Four classrooms round out the instruction area.

Also on the first level is Sage Student Bistro, where customers dine in JoJo’s Dining Room. Food for the Bistro is prepared by students in the second year of their education. “Restaurants are hesitant about hiring students,” comments Schmailzl. The Bistro is a classroom where students can learn. The second floor of the ICA building houses the Swanson Conference Center which fulfills needs for the education of hospitality students in event planning and management, as well as the college’s need for additional meeting space. The space can be converted to a banquet room accommodating 400-600 guests for a sit-down dinner.

Interest in food industry careers has steadily gained momentum, especially in the last ten years. Trebbien, who came to Omaha in 1971 and joined MCC’s faculty in 1985, said his colleagues in the industry were already talking about the need for a culinary school in the 1970s, as Omaha has always been know as a “food town.”

In 1991, when discussion of creating the ICA initially began, the culinary program had 125 students. Last year, the program enrolled nearly 600 students- four times the enrollment in 1991. About 22 percent of today’s students are minorities.

The ICA’s Culinary Arts and Management Program offers five different degree options for students seeking careers in the food industry. The Culinary and Cooking Preparation Option includes 52 credit hours in Culinary

metroMAGAZINE

• SPECIAL EDITION: INSTITUTE FOR CULINARY PAGEART 4

STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS

UCATION IN

HISTORIC NORTH OMAHA

Arts. This program prepares students for careers as chefs, sous chefs and culinarians. The second option is a Chef’s Apprenticeship program. Students practice with a chef for eight quarters in both the class room and structured kitchen. Apprentice students usually have prior experience in a professional kitchen. The Chef’s Apprenticeship option is 67.5 credit hours.

The Culinary Management program is 51 credit hours and prepares students for kitchen management or supervisor careers. The Bakery and Pastry option trains tomorrow’s professional bakers and pastry chefs and entails 46 credit hours of class work. For those possessing a keen interest in the science of food is the Culinology Transfer program. Students interested in research are a perfect match for this course study as it prepares them to work in a research lab as part of a food development team. The degree (49 credit hours) is fully transferable to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. All of the degree options require an additional 59 credits in general culinary and general education classes. Other options are available in event planning and food and beverage management.

The rise in the number of culinary arts students mirrors the growth of MCC’s general student population.

Enrollment at Metropolitan Community College has witnessed a 50% growth in the last 12 years. Like a sweater splitting after steady weight gain, the college was similarly bursting at its seams.

New construction was not first on official’s minds when looking for ways to expand. “MCC scans the horizon and looks for buildings in Omaha to accommodate programs and coursework,” explains Schmailzl. MCC looked into Ralston, west Omaha and down town locations before settling on the Fort Omaha campus site.

“Renovating an existing building to retro-fit a building like this was more expensive than building fresh,” Schmailzl says. From a cost-effective point of view, building on the Fort Omaha campus was economically prudent from maintenance and public safety perspectives.

Fort Omaha campus was also an ideal site because of its proximity to down town. Sorenson Parkway provides easy access, and the green space surrounding S•

metroMAGAZINE

the institute is a welcome aesthetic bonus. MCC officials also liked the idea of investing in North Omaha’s development. Says Trebbien: “The ICA is a building not typically being built is North Omaha.” MCC believes it will attract other businesses and industries to the area, that development will follow in its wake.

Trebbien says the modern design of the ICA “puts a different face on MCC,” “It’s a cutting edge building, a precursor to other things happening at the college.”

Schmailzl calls it a “futuristic building” that is “state-ofthe-art inside and state-of-the-energy outside.” The gardens are hydrated with a recycled water system, and the building was constructed according to LEED certification requirements. An underground tank stores rain water which drains from the roof to irrigate the gardens and landscaping. It’s glass exterior allows visitors to see inside the culinary class rooms. “It’s education on display,” comments Schmailzl.

MCC has a long history in offering the greater Omaha population educational opportunities, through continuing education classes and seminars and noncredit courses. Soon a new series of professional development courses will allow current chefs and workers in the local food industry to update their resumes without the expense of traveling out of the state to do so. And home chefs will be able to hone their amateur skills with non-credit classes on technique or various cuisines. “MCC helps the community to find ways to be educated. So many people are finding ways to use the Institute for the Culinary Arts,” asserts Schmailzl.

Trebbien traveled extensively to research culinary schools and programs when MCC was formulating its plan for the ICA. His travels taught him just how unique Omaha’s institute is: “There’s nothing like it from here to California.” Culinary schools are generally very expensive, but the Institute for the Culinary Arts is a cost-effective way to earn a top-notch degree within the food industry.

Omaha has always been a food town, populated by numerous excellent restaurants and avid eaters who patron them. This latest addition to the food landscape will secure Omaha’s reputation nationally as a city that not only loves to eat but supports the culinary arts like it does the performing and visual arts.

CONTINUED

• METRO COMMUNITY COLLEGE INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS

“It’s a cutting edge building, a precursor to other things happening at the college.” m

JIM TREBBIEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • THE INSTITUTE FOR CULINARY ARTS

Celebrating 20 years in 2010

metroMAGAZINE

“[This puts] a worldly experience on foods in general. I had never tried or prepared sweetbreads or fois gras before.”

– TYLER RATIGAN, ICA STUDENT

G

reat ideas often have humble beginnings.

The casual chat over coffee with a friend that leads to the opening of a new business. The gathering of green thumbs that develops into a community garden.

Wishful thinking made vocal among classmates that turns into a wildly successful student bistro.

This last example is the unlikely origin of Sage Student Bistro at Metropolitan Community College’s Institute for the Culinary Arts. According to Brian O’Malley, chef-instructor at the Institute for the Culinary Arts, Sage Student Bistro is actually a composite of classes culinary students are required to take to obtain their degree. “Sage… started with students trying to come up with a way to rename the class they were in so that the next quarter’s students would have a better concept of what they were walking into,” he explains.

SPECIAL EDITION •

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STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS

EARNING DELICIOUS

Sage affords students the opportunity to learn in a guest-centered environment. O’Malley describes it as a “free-wheelin’, collaborative, studio environment.”

Chemistry majors have their laboratory, art majors have their studios, and culinary students have Sage.

Sage opened in 2005. Since then over 200 students in the culinary arts, baking, and pastry programs have tested their knowledge in the pressure cooker environment of a restaurant. Five different classes provide 30 students with a customer-based experienceFine Dining, Table Service, Plated Desserts, Garde Manger, and Student Manager. Students do not sign up for these classes until they are close to graduation, in the last two quarters of the program. Often, it is the only course work left in their studies.

The entire kitchen is populated by students. “It is decidedly not an internship,” O’Malley specifies. “It is a class meant to prepare [students] for one.” Students are engaged in every aspect of the bistro’s service, from menu writing to checking reservations, from the prep line to the pastries.

Tyler Ratigan is a Culinary Arts student who participated in the Sage Student Bistro experience during the winter quarter. He says his time at Sage exposed him to foods he never otherwise would have encountered: “It put a worldly experience on foods in general. I had never tried or prepared sweetbreads [the thymus gland of a cow] or fois gras before.”

“I learned simpler, more efficient ways of preparing meat,” he continues, like de-veining shrimp with a bamboo skewer so as to leave the body fully intact or frenching a rack of lamb. Ratigan says he takes more pride in his work due to his time at Sage Student Bistro.

The dinner menu has three basic components: a “static menu,” a prix fixe menu, and a dessert menu.

Students write the prix fixe and dessert menus which change weekly so all students involved have the opportunity to develop a menu. Course instructors develop the “static menu,” though its execution is left entirely in the hands of the students. The “static menu” changes with each quarter.

Sage Student Bistro operates in JoJo’s dining room in the Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College’s Fort Omaha Campus. Up to 65 people can be seated in the dining space, with parties up to 14. Floor to ceiling windows offer plenty of natural light during lunch service. Exposed brick walls add warmth. In the evening, the pressed sorghum tables are draped with linen and candlelight creates an elegant, urban atmosphere.

The menu creation bears in mind what each season has to offer in the way of fresh ingredients. The winter quarter is about comfort food, perfect for keeping the cold at bay. Starters include French onion soup laced with sherry for $6, and a dish called Trois Frites featuring a colorful array of Yukon Gold, Russet and bright orange sweet potato fries served with a malt vinegar reduction is priced at $7. Entrees include braised short ribs with whipped potatoes and glazed carrots ($19), grilled lamb shops with ratatouille and mint puree, also at $19, and roasted chicken with mushroom bread pudding and carrot and parsnip ribbon for $17.

Sage Student Bistro is in the process of acquiring its liquor license. O’Malley hopes to offer a curriculum driven wine list by spring. Until then, guests can bring their favorite bottle of Burgundy or Bordeaux which Sage will cork for a nominal fee.

Sage Student Bistro is meaty education you can sink your teeth into. Literally.

CONTINUED

AL EDITION: m METRO INSTITUTE COMMUNITY FOR CULINARY COLLEGE ARTSINSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS

Sage Student Bistro is open Monday through Thursday, 6:00 to 8:30 pm.

Reservations are encouraged.

S THE

AGE BISTRO

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HANGING THE SCOPE

FACING THE FUTURE

W

hen Metropolitan Community College first

studied the feasibility of building a new facility for the Institute for the Culinary Arts, it was in response to sky rocketing enrollment in its culinary arts courses. The Master Planning committee had the foresight to do more than merely adding classes, hiring a few additional instructors, and finding space somewhere in the city. It studied the Omaha restaurant market and the food industry at large, not just the increase in the number of Culinary Arts students, to anticipate future needs of the Institute. Once Metro officials recognized the need for well educated Culinary and Hospitality professionals was going to remain strong, they committed resources for the building of a 14 million-dollar, state-of-the-art culinary facility to educate future chefs, managers, and industry professionals.

“Being a chef never goes out of style,” says Lisa K. Tooker, Director of the Institute for the Culinary Arts, Hospitality, and Horticulture at Metropolitan Community College. The restaurant industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of the country’s economy, expecting “to grow nearly 30% over the next few years.” One of the primary challenges facing the industry is a shortage of skilled professionals to meet the everincreasing consumer and industry demands.

And, it is not just restaurant owners seeking qualified chefs and management professionals. “There is also a need for chefs and cooks to meet the needs of the growing educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and assisted living communities to feed their populations,” observes Tooker.

“Being a chef never goes out of style.”

More and more corporations provide in-house cafeterias for their employees. The healthcare sector continues to grow, even in a slower economy.

Its professionals need to be fed on site in between long shifts. As human life expectancy continues to rise, so does the need for assisted living, nursing and rehabilitation facilities, with dining rooms and upscale restaurants. Many employ highly skilled chefs and culinary professionals.

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HARGING FORWARD

AN INTERVIEW WITH

“Our goal is to have all of our program paths help those in our industry obtain success.”

“There is also consumer demand for healthier, made from scratch meals, both in restaurants and as meals made to go,” says Tooker. In the past, harried parents rushed from work to pick up young children at day care or cart older ones to soccer fields and baseball diamonds. The evening often meant a quick run through the nearest fast food drive through. The result: less than nutritious meals loaded with sugar, and/or fried foods.

Recent studies regarding the American diet have given parents pause. Childhood obesity rates have risen to alarming heights. Obesity rates have more than tripled since 1980. One in three, or 25 million, children and teens are considered overweight. Furthermore, children deemed overweight often carry the propensity into adulthood, leading to such health problems as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and Type II diabetes. Consumers are demanding alternatives to fast food. “They still want options that are quick and for their busy lives but are also healthy, more nutritious and appealing to children.

Dieticians are clamoring for training on how to cook healthy meals that look and taste good,” says Tooker.

Omaha is a food town. The number of exceptional restaurants testifies to this fact. “It is expected that jobs for well educated restaurant chefs will increase by 12% with the next year,” Tooker states. The city’s population growth will precipitate more restaurant and hotel expansion as well as medical institutions and corporate office openings. With the growth of the restaurant and hospitality industry also comes the demand for more educated chefs and management staff.

The Institute for the Culinary Arts is perfectly poised to meet these needs and establish its reputation as the regional leader in Culinary and Hospitality education. It offers hands-on programming to train tomorrow’s chefs, managers, and other food industry professionals.

LISA TOOKER It also provides continuing education for current chefs looking to enhance their skills. In the past, local chefs would have to travel out of state for continuing education opportunities. With a nationally-recognized Culinary Arts facility at their immediate disposal, professional enrichment becomes an economically advantageous way to remain a player in an increasingly competitive market.

The Institute of Culinary Arts appeals to yet a third, and growing, demographic-the home chef.

Chefs like Ina Garten, Emeril Lagasse, Paula Deen, and Rachel Ray have reached celebrity status previously reserved for rock stars, NBA players, and Hollywood’s glitterati. The Hamburger Helper and Shake ‘n Bake of yesterday have given way to fresh herbs, often grown fresh in the back yard, imported sea salt, and aged Balsamic vinegar. Today, people are following what marinade Bobby Flay steeps his steak in before grilling and what type of olive oil Giada De Laurentis uses to sauté her vegetables.

The home chef may not have time to pursue a full culinary degree but still wants to hone her skills.

The Institute offers non-credit courses that allow her to do just that, whether it is a class on basic knife skills, professional cooking techniques, or specific cuisine.

“Our goal is to have all of our program paths help those in our industry obtain success, whether it is a chef following his passion to great food, a manager looking to enhance her leadership skills, or home cooks striving to prepare healthier meals for their families,” Tooker states.

It is said you need to study the past to understand the future. In the last ten years, interest in food-related careers has boomed as the needs of the industry continue to grow. There is a desire for education focusing on sustainability in foods and ways to prepare healthier meals, as well as a growing demand for those who can deliver excellent food and service. The Institute for the Culinary Arts is prepared to meet these demands as it changes the scope of Culinary and Hospitality education in the Midwest and put Omaha on the map as a Culinary Arts center.

CONTINUED

INARY • metro ARTS MAGAZINE • METRO COMMUNITY COLLEGE INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS

“It is expected that jobs for well educated restaurant chefs will increase by 12% with the next year.” m

LISA K. TOOKER DIRECTOR OF THE INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS, HOSPITALITY, AND HORTICULTURE

C

ONGRATULATING

FOR THE INNOVATIVE WAYS YOU ARE

The ORA would like to toast the

Institute for the

Culinary Arts the créme de la créme! www.dineoutomaha.com

Dine out often!

FACING THE FUTURE

metroMAGAZINE

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FACING THE FUTURE

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t 16.3 million dollars, the Institute for the Culinary Arts (ICA) is Metropolitan Community College’s largest building project on the Fort Omaha Campus since the 1980s. While most of the money for the project came from the College’s capital fund, private donors contributed 2.6 million dollars toward the building and maintaining of the ICA through the Metropolitan Community College Foundation.

The Culinary Arts Program was previously housed in Building 10 on the Fort Omaha Campus. The popularity of the program grew along with MCC’s total enrollment, which has seen an increase of more than 50 percent in the last 12 years. In the Fall quarter of 1998, the student population hovered around 11,000. Today, it is topping out at more than 17,000, and the Culinary Arts Program is one of the College’s growing programs. The faculty and students simply outgrew their space in Building 10. MCC officials recognized the need for expansion and developed a master plan in 2002 to expand the Culinary Arts Program in addition to other College priorities. One shining result of that Collegewide master plan is the Institute for the Culinary Arts on the Fort Omaha Campus.

ROWING OUR FUTURE MCC FOUNDATION

The impressive numbers of students enrolled in the Culinary Arts Program does not surprise Pat Crisler, Associate Vice President of Development and Executive Director of the MCC Foundation. “It’s probably one of the most publicly connected areas of study,” she maintains. “Everybody eats.” And given the natural connection between the College and the community it serves, the ICA is what she calls “a natural convening place for College and community.”

The MCC Foundation was established in 1977 as a separate, nonprofit organization. Its purpose: “to provide financial support for students, faculty and staff, programs and facilities” at Metropolitan Community College, says Crisler. College officials recognized a need for enduring financial support and created the foundation to help meet these fiscal needs.

Much of the foundation’s support is earmarked for direct student assistance, chiefly in the form of scholarships. Scholarships at Metropolitan Community College are awarded primarily according to three criteria.

First is financial need. Second is the student’s academic merit. Previous academic success is a reliable benchmark for continued success, and scholarships are granted to further aid this success. Last, degree completion is taken into consideration. Money is awarded to help students reach their goal of earning a degree or award.

In addition to scholarships, the MCC Foundation assists students with financial burdens other than meeting tuition. “Limited funding is available for books, transportation and instructional materials—essentially anything necessary to staying in school and completing a degree,” says Crisler.

New to Metropolitan Community College is an online scholarship application process. The program educates students about the scholarships and assistance for which they are eligible. It reviews student profiles and matches them electronically to available funding sources.

The MCC Foundation Board recently set a goal to raise an additional $250,000 in scholarships to meet the rise in student applications for financial assistance.

When the paper and pencil application process was in place, 150 students out of the total student population applied for scholarship dollars. Once the College implemented the online program, that number rose to 1200 applicants last fall, demonstrating a serious gap in funding.

“Historically, funding for community colleges in Nebraska has stemmed from three sources: state aid, local tax dollars and student tuition,” explains Jim Trebbien, Dean of Metropolitan Community College’s Culinary, Hospitality and Horticulture Department and Executive Director of the Institute for the Culinary Arts.

Shortages in state funding have forced many community colleges like MCC to divert money originally slotted for student scholarships to the college’s general budget. “We just can’t live off state funding anymore,” acknowledges Trebbien. Procuring private funding is an economic reality, especially, says Trebbien, if MCC is to continue offering innovative programming like the Institute for the Culinary Arts.

SPECIAL EDITION •

metroMAGAZINE

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STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS

AYS TO SUPPORT Students at Metropolitan Community College • Scholarships – your gift of $50 per month

Crisler describes the foundation as “an ambassador to the community.” Donors give based on their values and how those values connect with Metropolitan Community College’s mission, says Crisler. For example, sometimes private gifts are specified for work place internship programs. Other donations may be earmarked for English-as-a-Second Language (ESL) programs. Connecting donors with opportunities to give is at the heart of the foundation’s work.

Though student aid is the MCC Foundation’s main focus, private support is also directed toward program and department funds, construction and maintenance, equipment and technology for both students and faculty and capital funds.

The Culinary Arts Program is just one of several degree areas that have expanded in recent years.

Horticulture is another area of study seeing renewed interest.. Sustainable gardening is one contributing factor. The inherent link between gardening and cooking—growing the food you cook—is another.

Information Technology is another field of study that has experienced a significant rise in student enrollment.

Students seeking their degrees or foundational education in Information Technology are often joined by established IT professionals looking for continuing education courses as a way to stay current on the latest technology. “MCC is truly a leader in the Midwest in the area of Information Technology,” Crisler states.

When Metropolitan Community College officials established the MCC Foundation more than 30 years ago, they could not have predicted how vital it would one day become to the operation of College. Today, the thought of operating without it is unthinkable. It makes an advanced degree possible for thousands of students while ensuring those same students have at their disposal innovative programming like the Institute for the Culinary Arts.

supports one full-time MCC student for an entire quarter!

• Emergency support – the MCCF emergency student support fund assists students whose life situations threaten their ability to stay in school.

The Institute for the Culinary Arts (Your gift may be restricted to support students in the culinary arts)

• Scholarships to support tuition, books, and fees • Equipment and supplies • Faculty professional development – to ensure leading edge instruction

Innovation at MCC Your community college strives to encourage, practice, reinforce, and reward innovative instruction, like that at the Institute for the Culinary Arts. MCC’s Inspiring Innovation program offers competitive grants and training programs to MCC faculty and staff, to ensure community-responsive, effective education.

“MCC is truly a leader in the Midwest in the area of Information Technology.”

m PAT CRISLER ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE MCC FOUNDATION

m METRO COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOUNDATION

Jennifer and Shane Jacobsen with Tracy and Kurt Peterson The Watt Foundation table Photos b y metroM AGAZINE

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ty ge of chari ra e v o c to o and ph metro area e Highlights th in ts n eve and social

exciting • philanthropic • inspiring • fun

Senator Abbie Cornett, Brennen Miller, and Courtney Ruwe

Steve and Donnet Knapp, Stephen Zubrod, Wendy Wilson and Doc St. Clair

Sal Carta and Mike Ancona

Tom and Jacque Donovan with Cella Quinn 41

metroMagazine • mar 2010

Bret and Ingra Anderson with Buffi Union Laura and Greg Schnackle

Nannete Rybin and Vicki Christ

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easter seals nebraska wine event

February 27th, at the Embassy Suites La Vista, the Easter Seals Nebraska held their wine event which grossed over $237,600. The night included a Vintner’s Reception, dinner, silent and grand auctions. Over 500 participants enjoyed the various wine-related activities at this fundraiser to support Easter Seals Nebraska (ESN) programs.

Karen and Eric Carlson

“This event really demonstrates the high level of commitment and support the vintners, business owners and attendees have for this organization,” says Karen Carlson, CEO and President of Easter Seals Nebraska.

Eric and Dana Beckman

Scott and Barbara Byrd

41 sponsors and 15 vintners were involved in the event, according to Carlson, “Many attendees—including vintners—were brand new to the event, and with a new venue, a new celebrity presence in long-time local entertainer Jim Kalal, and a new format including Easter Seals Nebraska’s client testimonials, this was one of our best events ever!”

Proceeds benefit Easter Seals Nebraska, an organization dedicated to ensuring individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.

Carlsonsays the funds raised will be used to expand the camping and respite programs, in addition tohelping people improve mobility, return to work, or gain greater independence through EasterSeals Nebraska’s workforce development programs.

For more information, call 800-650-9880 or visit www.neeasterseals.com.

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Volunteers Reed Miller, Ashley Presler and Adam Horan

Stacie and Jennifer Hamann

JDRF Youth Ambassadors with Type 1 Diabetes

Fund-A-Cure Speakers with Type 1 Diabetes Olivia Robino, Claire Walz and Tyler Irvine

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Saturday, February 28th, 2010, over 560 guests enjoyed a night of fun and excitement at The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 13th Annual Gala, “A Mother’s Wish…A Cure.” The event was held at the Qwest Center Omaha with Honorary Chair Couple, Dawn and Sid Dinsdale and Event Chair Couples, Kyle and Mike Robino and Trish and Ted Walz.

This year’s event raised over $541,000 to cure juvenile diabetes with Omaha World Herald Columnist Mike Kelly as the Gala’s emcee,“The gala was a huge success, and we are so blessed our community responded with a tremendous outpouring of support,” said Cindy Irvine, JDRF Board President.

For more information, visit he Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation website at www.jdrf.org or call (402) 397-2873.

Honorary Chairs Sid & Dawn Dinsdale, Board President Cindy Irvine and Event Chairs Kyle Robino and Trish Walz

Mike & Kyle Robino, Jim & Cindy Irvine and Trish & Ted Walz

flashback

Juvenile diabetes research foundation a mother’s wish... a cure

Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle and Jim Irvine

Photos by Dan Flanigan

70’s Dancers Sean Anderson, Chloe Daly, Jay Sauer and Jenny Krzycki

Debra & Steven Ginn

Kathy Warren and Bob Osborne

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mercy high school Fiesta: cirque de mercy

Sr. Jeanne O’Rourke RSM (center) with 2005 Alumni Kristen Martin, Sara Ludaca, Kelly Veys, Samantha Becker

Ryan Stewart, George Achola

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February 13th, Mercy High School held it’s twenty-fifth annual FIESTA. FIESTA’s, an acronym for Friends In Earnest Supporting Tuition Assistance, theme this year was “Cirque de Mercy.” The four hundred and fifty guests in attendence enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and bid on many silent and super auction items that were available during the cocktail hour.

Student Council President, Abby Deats ’10, expressed gratitude from the entire student body to all the people that give of their time and money to help support Mercy and guarantee that all girls that desire a Mercy education can receive one.

Jerome Townsend, Janice Townsend, Steve Caskey, Ann Caskey

Amber Carlson, Kevin McCoy

After dinner Sr. Delores Hannon, RSM, president of Mercy High School, presented the Cor Misericordiae (Heart of Mercy) Award to Mr. Larry B. Good. Good has been involved at Mercy for the past 6 years as a member of the Development committee, a Board Member, general chair for “The Next Generation” capital campaign and for the past four years, as chair and sign sponsor of the “Driving for Excellence” Golf Classic.

Mercy Student Volunteers

Richard Anzalone, Heidi Anzalone, igan an FlanNeary, D y Deborah Joe Neary b s to o Ph Photos by Dan Flanigan

Sr. Delores Hannon, RSM, Larry Reding, Pat Reding

Kelly Conley, Meg Latka, Angela Reding

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Carl and Bartholomew with Shawn and Kristi Sanger

Diane Speck and Lisa Caniglia

make a wish foundation Blue Jean Ball

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The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska’s Blue Jean Ball drew more than 260 people and raised more than $125,000 to support granting wishes for Nebraska children with life threatening medical conditions at its 12th annual event, “Blue Jeans and Pearls.” Lisa Ketcham and Marcia Murray were event chairwomen and Pam and the Pearl’s, Jim Kalal, served as the event’s emcee.

Susan and Katie McGillick, Maddy Srb and Kris Brashear

Candi and Dave Kirkwood

The event featured a silent and oral auction, a raffle for a pair of diamond and pearl earrings, and an elegant but casual dinner. Past wish child, Samantha, shared her wish experience and how it still impacts her life today, ten years later. The highlight of the evening was when emcee Jim Kalal surprised 3 year old Collin, who suffers from small bowel syndrome, by granting his wish to go to Disney World.

For more information, visit www.nebraska.wish.org or call 333-8999.

Kristen Martin, Jennifer Shuman, an Lewis Carmen Clark, Deb yMunro and Karen lanig b Dan F Photos

Ted and JoAnn Kauf with Jo Lea and Chad Barthel

Marcia Murray, Lisa Ketcham and Brigette Young

Ammy and Trenton Magid

Nick Hermsen, Sheri and Daniel Shonka

Photos by metroMAGAZINE

The Make -A-Wish Foundation of Nebrask a and its Friends Council would like to thank the following sponsors for mak ing the 2010 Blue Jean Ball a huge success.

Title Sponsor: Panera Bread Jim & Diana O’Connor along with Baird Holm Lamp Rynearson & Associates, Inc. Mutual of Omaha • Valmont Industries Republic National Distributing Co. Children’s Hospital and Medical Center Tenaska • Wells Fargo

www.nebraska.wish.org

402-333-8999

rockinround Event Chair Leslie Mayo, Honorary Chairs Mike and Shelley Homa and Rose Theater Guild President Jennifer Peterson

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Christy & Tom Clement and Kate & Joel Schafer

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February 27th, 2010, the Rose Theater Guild hosted “Rosie Rocks at the Hop,” a 1950s- themed anniversary party to celebrate 60 years of entertaining families at the Rose’s Children’s Theater.

Leslie May served as the event chair for close to 270 guests, who came to support the extensive history of the theater and to help ensure a successful future.

Leslie Mayo, Jennifer Zatechka, Katie Schafer, Jessica Freedman and Kate Grabill

Christine Nikunen and Beth Riley

Fifties sock hop attire was recommended for Rockin’ Rosie 2010, and it featured dinner, dancing, silent and oral auctions and a raffle at the TIP TOP Ballroom. The event raised approximately $80,000. Proceeds raised will support the programs current offered at The Rose Theater.

The Rose Theater’s goal is to make the arts accessible to all children through school field trips, professional drama and dance workshops and much more.

For more information visit www.RoseTheater.org

Michelle Altilio, Kate Grabill and Jessica Covi

Jennifer Peterson, Chris Bumkin, Julie Walker, Ron Blumkin and Leslie Mayo Photos by Dan Flanigan

Tom & Heidi Macy

Rose Trustees Amy Ryan, Toby Schropp, Gary Grote, and Jennifer Peterson

Michele & John Sivilla

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Mary Kay Young, Sally Stalnaker, Doug and Michele Grewcock, Chris LaFever, and John Jeanetta

Tom and Barb Sabounin, Gini Collins, and Mike Johnson

gamesfrom theheart Heartland family service carnival of love

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February 20th, the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center in La Vista was transformed into a casual carnival atmosphere for the annual Heartland Family Service Gala.

The “Carnival of Love” theme was brought to life with a photo booth, wine toss, and a basketball toss.

Diane Herzog, Mary Jeanetta, John Herzog, John Jeanetta

Carol Gendler, Deb Suttle and Mayor Jim Suttle

The Gala is Heartland Family Service’s largest fundraising event, this year attended by nearly 500 guests, a record attendance for the Carnival. Early estimates indicate that about $263,000 was raised to help the clients of Heartland Family Service The Gala’s 2010 co-chairmen were Chris LaFever and Mary Kay Young, who together with Heartland Family Service Friends Guild volunteers—led by President Sally Stalnaker—helped plan and conduct the event. Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle and his wife Deb attended the event, as well as Congressman Lee Terry and his wife Robyn.

Irene and Aaron Burkland uhaak Photos by Chris R

Deb Suttle, Mary and Rodrigo Lopez

For more information about the Carnival, about Heartland Family Service, or to become a member of the Friends guild, call Caryn Ficco at 552-7424.

Chef Duff Goldman, Event Co-Chairs Michelle Scott and Michelle Mapes and Honorary Chair and President of ConAgra Foods Foundation Chris Kircher Chris & Susan Richardson and Jeanine & Travis Freeman

Photos by Dan Flanigan

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food for thought

Omaha food bank celebrity chef gala

Liz Olson and Scott Jochim

Denise Willers and Pam Galvin

Tara & Travis Stingley and Gary & Ellen Batenhorst

Brittany Walker, Kelly Stillmock and Paula Sweeney

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February 25th, the Food Bank for the Heartland’s 9th annual Celebrity Chef fundraiser, presented by ConAgra Foods and sponsored by The Hawks Foundation, turned out to be the Food Bank’s biggest and best in multiple ways.

The event featuring Duff Goldman, star of the Food Network’s hit TV series Ace of Cakes, not only drew a sellout crowd of 1,000 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center at 72nd and Grover in Omaha but it also raised in excess of $250,000 for the Food Bank. Last year’s event with Chef Cat Cora raised $200,000.

dreamyour planned parenthood california dreamin’

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future

On January 30th, the Omaha Friends of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland sponsored the gala event, which was held at KANEKO in Omaha’s Old Market. The theme this year celebrates the generations of mothers and daughters who have supported Planned Parenthood in Nebraska. The event was catered by John Benker Catering and included a silent and live auction featuring wine and art.

A Jun Kaneko Dango sculpture valued at $20,000 was raffled at the event. Jill June, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland, spoke briefly.

Amy Chittenden and Paul Novak

Co-Chairpersons Mary Palu and Emily Moody

Erin McArthur, Joyce McArthur-Johnson, and Delores McArthur-Miller

Katon Donovan, Katie McGillick, and Erica McGillick

The event raised over $45,000 for Planned Parenthood of the Heartland.

Omaha Friends of Planned Parenthood is a board made of up of professional women that actively fundraise for Planned Parenthood and support their mission: To be a leader in providing accessible reproductive health care, education and advocacy; responsive to the needs and rights of families and individuals.

Mellissa Collier and Micole Bormann

Nancy Novak and Lisa Meehan tock y Dave S Photos b

Aric Kulm and Jennifer Magilton

Bailey Corbet, Saleasha McClurge, Karissa Jobman, Sajna Kajtazovic, Taylor Wilson, Laura Olson, Hana Kendic, Shelly Bazer, and Alyssa Tevis

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it’sa mystery

Fred and Patty Jones and Linda and Keith Bushardt

Joslyn Castle Trust Murder Mystery Party

Set in the 1950s, many of the 180 guests were dressed appropriately with the women in poodle skirts and men in muscle shirts.

Room décor was created by Bob Benzel and Monte Thompson, which included polka dot table cloths, 45 records and original Coke bottles.

For more information about the Joslyn Castle Trust, contact Executive Director, Nano Little at (402) 595-2199.

Anita Eckley and Cleone Sebek

Chad Westphal and Michele Rigel

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Joslyn Castle Players presented “Off the Air,” the sixth annual Murder Mystery on February 19th and 20th.

The Joslyn Castle Trust, a nonprofit organization that manages the Joslyn Castle, funded this two-night event. This event, chaired by Board members Beth Kramer and Stephanie Mattoon, raised $12,000, which will be used to continue with the restoration and preservation of the Joslyn Castle property.

Grace University Mathia Sanders, Gloria Creighton, GOLF4GRACE and Emily Miller Photos by Dan Flanigan

Paul Troupe and Wally Armstrong, with Tom, Rob, and Doug Troupe Stephanie Mattoon and Justin Hankins

Mikki and Jim Frost, Congressman Lee Terry and Robyn Terry Tom and Kim Christensen

Mary Margaret and Jim Wiles, Bunnie Kizer an Flanigan Photos by D

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rootforthehometeam stephen center cruise’n to your favorite college

Josh and Dana Bartee

Rob and Kelli Schmitt

Linda and Patrick Morgan

Honorary Chairs Gene and Teri Klein

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February 20th, the Stephen Center’s Cruise’n to your Favorite College was at the Marriott Regency.

The College themed evening featured a silent and live auction, dinner, and dancing to Finest Hour.

The annual event is sponsored by the Stephen Center Guild.

Teri and Gene Klein were the event’s honorary chairpersons.

Ann and Pat Gredys and Theresa and Troy Wilhelm were the event co-chairpersons. Over 300 people attended the event which raised over $70,000 for the Stephen Center. The funds will be used for the Emergency Shelter, the HERO Program which is a state-licensed substance abuse treatment center and the Transitional Living Program. Stephen Center partners with the community, families and individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction, and poverty.

For more information about Stephen Center call 402.731.0238 or visit www.stephencenter.org.

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Chanecia Martin, Jaleaha Dismuke, and Hunter Washington

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girls inc. of omaha girls nite out

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Viv and John Ewing Amy Scott, Tim Clark, Karen Dixon, and Sandy Parker

Chairpersons Cindy Leiferman, Kaitlin Stenum, Kim Jones, Christine Sankey, and Kelley Tate

Corey Adler, Laura Clark, Charlene Tarsney, Kelly Moore, Linda Broghammer, Barb Dinslage, Sarah Cavanagh, Maureen H, Cheri Cavanagh, and Tara Bilek Photos by Dave Stock

Anne Stubblefield, Ashley Burt, and Jodi Mandolfo

Thursday, January 28, 2010 girlFRIENDS presented it’s annual Girls Night Out at the Mutual of Omaha Dome benefiting Girls Inc. The theme for the evening was “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” Over 525 guests were treated to girls’ favorite things—chocolate martinis, shopping, dinning and laughter. The girlFRIENDS is a volunteer guild dedicated to supporting Girls Inc. of Omaha in their efforts to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold through fundraising, friend-raising, and advocacy. The event raised over $65,000 for Girls Inc. The committee of over 60 strong was largely comprised of family members including mothers and daughters, sisters, aunts and nieces. Leading the committee were the Jones family members— Kim Jones, Cindy Leiferman, Christine Sankey, Kaitlin Stemm and Kelley Tate. The honorary co-chairs were the Scott sisters—Karen Dixon, Sandy Parker and Amy Scott. Chad Daniels was the headliner at the event.

For information on how you can be a mentor in the Girls Inc. program, please go to www. girlsincomaha.org or call (402) 731-2108.

Amy Schmid, Andrea Hoig, and Carla Patton

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second annual Fashion in Salvation was held on January 30th, 2010 promoting local designers and businesses while raising awareness and funds for local charities. This year’s event benefitted Mohm’s Place, a shelter located in Council Bluffs, Iowa that serves approximately 4000 meals each year, and the North Omaha Good News Bears, a faith-based organization which provides mentoring and afterschool activities. With help from the community, the event raised more than $2000.

Highlights of the evening included, Transit, a local dance crew that performs break dancing and free-style moves. Models were provided by Agency Eighty Nine, and music was provided by DJ Chris Massara. The event was free to the public, however, quests who purchased VIP tickets in advance enjoyed the show and complimentary hor d’ oeuvres from stage side tables. VIP food was donated by Spezia, Grisanti’s, Rotella’s Bakery and 1892. Orsi’s Italian Bakery provided pizza for the models, and wine from the Winery was donated privately by Omaha philanthropist David Fichter and an anonymous donor.

Photos courtesy of F ashion in Salvation

Co-chair Blake Rave and DJ Chris Massara

Jordan Horner models designer Angela Poor

Transit Dancer

Guests await the runway show in Scoular Ballroom

Christie Kruger

J&A Clothing model

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visiting nurse association art and soup

Steve and Sharon Haack

Justin Beller, Peggy Novotny, andChristopher Swartz

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Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) held its 13th Annual Art & Soup event benefiting the Shelter Nursing Program on Sunday, February 21, 2010 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, located at 72nd and Grover Streets in Omaha, NE. A Patron Party was held featuring hors d’oeuvre soups prepared by Sage Student Bistro at the Institute for the Culinary Arts, Metro Community College and Marjorie Nabity at the keyboard, artists with “creation stations” that guests created their own original art. Paula Steenson was event planner and George Kleine was Co-Chairman.

Jill Stone, Larry and Lisa Murray, Kristen and Mike Fulton

Pat and Adrienne Fay

Over 1000 attendees sampled the different soups, viewed original art from area artists and listened to smooth jazz performed by Higher Pursuit.

The event raised more than $140,000 through art sales (a minimum of 50 percent of the proceeds from artwork must go directly to the VNA), ticket sales, silent auction items and donations.

Proceeds from the event will allow the VNA to continue providing public health services for those living in area homeless shelters of which forty-four percent have children age 18 or younger.

Nancy and Dan Davis Photos by Dan Flanigan

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rimington trophy presentation

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January 16th, Maurkice Pouncey, Florida State junior, was awarded the Rimington Trophy in Lincoln at the Rococo Theatre. The Boomer Esiason Foundation and Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation worked cooperatively to raise over $200,000 for cystic fibrosis research this year from the event.

The program began with emcee Aaron Davis announcing the winner of the Gerald R. Ford Legends Award, which recognizes a notable NCAA Center who has made significant contributions to their community through philanthropic ventures and a dedication to civic duty. This year’s recipient was Jim Ritcher, a former center at North Carolina State University.

Photos courtesy of Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Julie Stavneak, Melissa Thompson, Sara Gray, Sheri Kanne

Marc and Sue Jimerson

Diane and Rich Mendenhall

Alexandra Law, Eric Hagg, Prince Amukamara, Paige Zoz

Barry Alvarez (keynote speaker), Maurkice Pouncey (Rimington Trophy winner), Bill Ritcher (Gerald R Ford Legend Award winner), and Dave Rimington

Call for

Nominations!

Tell us your nominees for the Best Event in the following categories!

For events presented between June 1, 2009 and May 1, 2010. Deadline to receive nominations is May 31, 2010.

We will announce the Top 5 Nominees in the following categories in our July issue!

Best 1st or 2nd Annual • Best Theme • Best Food & Wine • Best Musical Entertainment Best Special Guest Speaker • Best Education • Best Health • Best Fashion • Best Art Best Author • Best Under 500 in Attendance • Best Over 500 in Attendance Best Over 1000 in Attendance

Fill out the Nominations Form at Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/TheBigEvent2010-Nominations

Details coming soon for the 4th Annual Presentation of “ The Big Event.”

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

bravo! celebrating the arts

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

artVenture

adventurers.

by holly mcatee

Looking for an art show that fully encompasses all mediums or for new art to purchase?

If so, check out Girl Scouts’ artVenture.

The seventh annual artVenture is back with added momentum. This year, artVenture will spread across Nebraska with events in Grand Island, Kearney, and Lincoln. The largest event will be in Omaha, but this year Girl Scouts in farther communities were invited to get involved.

The fundraiser for Girl Scouts of Nebraska is an opportunity for Girl Scouts to work with professional artists to create pieces of art. Already, there are 31 artists involved in this program in Omaha, but it is expected that eight more artists will be added this year. The mediums vary from beading, mixed media, concrete and metal sculpture, glass fusion, lampworking, painting, photography, printmaking, pottery, hammered copper, and layered color pencil. Not only will the collaborative pieces be auctioned off but the individual artists will also have pieces of their own work for sale.

“The experience promotes team building and teaches girls to compromise.”

- Erika Lucoff The final pieces are auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska. One hundred percent of the sale of the collaborative art is donated back to the fund and up to 50% of the sale of the individual art goes back to the artist. The goal for this year is to net $55 thousand from the sponsorships and the pieces auctioned at the event.

Last year artVenture raised $44 thousand net profit. The money raised will be used in many ways including providing financial assistance to girls that want to be part of the Girl Scouts but can’t afford to. It will also be used to maintain 6 campsites across the state, support activities and events, and train volunteers.

The artVenture program allows the girls to learn different mediums from working artists while discovering what it is like to be an artist. Erika Lucoff, who heads up the fundraising aspect of the event, says the goal of the event is to provide girls with opportunities that they wouldn’t normally have. So often the art classes in school have limited budgets, so the result is the projects are done with limited supplies and with large class sizes. continued

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bravo! continued

adventurers.

omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

artVenture is a unique way to learn art in more of an apprenticeship method.

artVenture

Lucoff says “the experience promotes team building and teaches girls to compromise.” The girls all work together to find a theme. There are many decisions that need to be made together to create the piece of art. Girls also gain confidence with having their artwork displayed. Lucoff adds that there is a great sense of pride from both the girls and the parents at the open house.

Margie Shanahan is one of the collaborating artists who has been a part of artVenture since the beginning. She’s a glass artist who makes glass beads with a technique called lampworking. Shanahan says the project has “allowed me to give back to the community in a unique way. I was a Girl Scout, and it is a wonderful program that nurtures girls into young women.”

“Everybody has talent and creativity in their own way. If you give guidance they can turn out something great.”

- Carol Greenberg Local art teacher, Carol Greenberg worked with 7 girls to create individual 16 X 20 paintings. The girls imitated the styles of Kandinsky, Keith Haring, and Mark Rothko, but each created their own design. Greenberg really enjoyed seeing the pride on the girls’ faces when they finished their pieces. “Everybody has talent and creativity in their own way. If you give guidance they can turn out something great,” says Greenberg.

Tiffany Converse, a Girl Scout, worked with Greenberg and said the event was really fun. Her experience was “different than art at school because we got to actually paint on canvas, and we are having our art in a show.” Not only that, the girls also got to make a Jackson Pollack style painting to take home. Greenberg said the only rules with the Pollack piece were that they kept the paint on the canvas.

John Dennison is a clay artist that is working with artVenture again this year. The girls in his group will be creating a mask project where they will take several masks of different sizes and shapes and assemble them together to make a couple of large pieces. The clay is fired at a low temperature with ink and stains applied to it to create a variegated look. Dennison says “last year most of the girls hadn’t had any clay experience before, so the project allows the girls to gain a new experience and develop a sense of their own abilities.”

Since each of the girls pick mediums for the projects, and are matched accordingly, many end up in groups with girls that they don’t know. The girls are often shy at first, but then they open up and lasting friendships are formed.

When all of the work is done, the Girl Scouts and their families will attend an open house to see their artwork on display. “It is a really fun event for the girls and their families. The girls are so excited to see the final product. The parents are also thrilled to see their girls excited about their work,” says Lucoff.

If you would like to attend artVenture auction contact Erika Lucoff at 779-8218.

The auction will be held Friday, April 16th at The Scoular Ballroom on 2027 Dodge Street. Tickets are $50/person which includes appetizers and drinks. Or go to www.girlscoutsnebraska.org for more information.

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savethedate inform

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educate • inspire

April 1

April 10

April 15

April 17

YOUTH ART SHOWCASE & AUCTION A benefit for The Neighborhood Center Works of art created by metro area children ages 8 to 18 will be up for sale at the fifth annual Neighborhood Center Youth Art Showcase & Auction.

The event includes hors d’oeuvres and beverages, and students will conduct an art demonstration and musical entertainment. Noted auctioneer Scott Moore will conduct the sale.

Security National Bank Omaha – 5:00 P.M. For more information call 561-7582.

SENSORY SENSATIONS A benefit for Prevent Blindness Nebraska Engage all of your senses: LISTEN to the sounds of live music, enjoy TASTING hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, enjoy the AROMA of Dessert in the Dark, FEEL the grittiness of clay as you mold it into fun shapes, and WATCH artists create – from pottery to glass blowing and more.

Hot Shops Art Center – Omaha – 7:00 P.M. For more information call 505-6119 or visit www.preventblindness.org/Nebraska.

CELEBRATE: WOMEN OF WISDOM LUNCHEON Sponsored by UNO’s Lifelong Learning Initiative The 2010 Women of Wisdom Award recipients will be honored at this luncheon and community-wide program, “Celebrate: Women of Wisdom: Because Aging is a Lifetime Event”.

Holiday Inn Central – Omaha – 11:30 A.M. For more information call 554-2292.

BLACK TIE & TAILS 2010 Nebraska Humane Society This event will be an evening to remember, as the Friends Forever support guild presents Black Tie & Tails 2010 – Waiting for Someone Like You. The evening includes a silent auction, dinner, entertainment, live auction, and a runway show.

Holiday Inn Omaha Convention Center Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information visit www.nehumanesociety.org or call 444-7800 x273.

April 6 AN EVENING WITH DEEPAK CHOPRA Presented by ICAN & Methodist Health System Deepak Chopra is a physician, bestselling author, and renowned authority in physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Chopra’s presentation of his latest work will be followed by a book signing.

Qwest Center – Omaha – 7:30 P.M. For more information visit www.icanomaha.org.

April 9 COMEDY FOR A CURE A benefit for the American Diabetes Association This terrific event includes a social hour, silent and live auctions, dinner and a comedian.

Hilton Omaha – Omaha – 5:30 P.M. For more information call 571-1101.

CELEBRATION OF PRIESTHOOD A benefit for the Institute for Priestly Formations Join IPF as they celebrate priesthood during this “Year for Priests”. This year Msgr. Bill Whelan will be honored with the Pope John Paul II Award for Priestly Service. Keynote speaker is Bishop Samuel Aquila from the Diocese of Fargo.

St. Robert Bellarmine Church Omaha – 6:30 P.M. For more information call 280-3901.

KIDNEY CRUISE A benefit for the Nebraska Kidney Association The Kidney Love Boat will include social hour and dinner.

Champions Run – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 932-7200.

April 16 ARTVENTURE A benefit for Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska artVenture is a silent auction event that features an impressive display of art from regional artists, while providing girls a unique opportunity to partner with professional artists to create work that is also included in the auction. Hors d’oeuvres, pastries and beverages are served.

The Scoular Ballroom – Omaha – 7:00 P.M. For more information call 558-8189 x218 or visit www.girlscoutsnebraska.org.

ANNUAL AFRICAN-AMERICAN LEADERSHIP AWARDS Hosted by Urban League of Nebraska Celebrating 21 years of honoring and recognizing African-American leaders on their accomplishments and contributions to the city of Omaha, the event includes a reception/cocktail hour and awards ceremony.

Holiday Inn Central – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 453-9730 x14 or visit www.urbanleagueneb.org.

UNO WOMEN’S WALK A benefit for Women’s Athletics at UNO The Diet Pepsi/UNO Women’s Walk is the marquee fundraiser for women’s athletics at UNO. The dollars raised from the Women’s Walk provide scholarships for our female student athletes.

UNO – Omaha – 10:00 A.M. For more information visit www.omavs.com.

KALEIDOSCOPE 2010 A benefit for the University Hospital Auxiliary Nebraska native and star of the hit television series “CSI”, Marg Helgenberger returns to Omaha as a special guest for Kaleidoscope 2010.

The evening includes a dinner and silent auction, and this year is themed, “RE: MISSION POSSIBLE”. Proceeds from the event will help to fund the new Life Renewal Center.

Embassy Suites La Vista Conference Center – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 559-5390.

savethe April 17 (cont’d.)

BASH 2010 A benefit for Creighton Prep School This year’s theme is Red Carpet Ready – Setting the Scene for Success, and the evening includes a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by dinner, live auction and raffle. Prior to BASH, Prep’s online auction eBASH will run from March 23 through April 13.

Creighton Prep Heider Center Omaha – 5:00 P.M. For more information visit www.creightonprep.creighton.edu.

April 20 THE SALVATION ARMY AROUND THE WORLD A benefit for The Salvation Army The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary presents this ninth annual tasting buffet and silent auction, with proceeds supporting local Salvation Army programs and projects. This luncheon event will feature favorite recipes with an ethnically inspired focus, and registration includes a cookbook!

Salvation Army Kroc Community Center Omaha – 11:00 A.M. For more information call 758-2772.

April 21 SPRING LUNCHEON AND LECTURE A benefit for the Lauritzen Gardens Guild Celebrity florist Mark Held is this year’s speaker, presenting “Celebrity Style” during which he will share his exquisite designs and floral arrangements. During the luncheon, Held will create amazing floral arrangements that will be auctioned off, and a Q & A session and book signing will take place following the presentation and luncheon.

Lauritzen Gardens – Omaha – 10:00 A.M. For more information call 346-4002 x201.

April 22 DIAMONDS AND CHAMPIONS A benefit for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society This event celebrates the advances being made in blood cancer research and in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals who have leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:30 P.M. For more information call 344-2242

April 24 HAND IN HAND LINKING LIVES FOR PARKINSON’S A benefit for the Nebraska chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association This evening includes cocktails, dinner, a silent and live auction and, most importantly, raising significant funds for state-wide Parkinson’s educational programs.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. For more information call 392-2732.

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inform • educate • inspire

April 24 (cont’d.)

NEBRASKA LYMPHOMATHON A benefit for the Lymphoma Research Foundation The LYMPHOMAthon is a fun-filled, non-competitive 5K event that offers survivors, family, friends, community, and corporate teams an opportunity to walk in honor of those whose lives have been touched by lymphoma, while raising funds for lymphoma research and education.

Mahoney State Park – Omaha – 10:00 A.M. For more information visit www.lymphomathon.org or call 559-6268.

ARTHRITIS WALK A benefit for the Arthritis Foundation This signature fundraising event supports public awareness and raises funds to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. The walk includes a health expo, entertainment, food and awards.

Lewis & Clark Landing – Omaha – 8:30 A.M. For more information visit www.omahawalk.kintera.org.

April 26 NEBRASKA COALITION FOR LIFESAVING CURES TRIBUTE LUNCHEON A benefit for Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures This is Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures’ Eighth Annual Tribute Luncheon, this year honoring Mike and Gail Walling Yanney, M.D. Happy Hollow Club – Omaha – 11:30 A.M. For more information visit www.nebraskacures.com or call 390-2461.

April 27 HEART TO HEART A benefit for Nebraska Shakespeare Join Nebraska Shakespeare for pasta, music, fun, and amore. Guests will also get to preview the two plays for Shakespeare On The Green 2010, Two Gentlemen of Verona (The Musical) and Romeo and Juliet.

Creighton University Harper Center – Omaha – 5:30 P.M. For more information call 280-2391 or visit www.nebraskashakespeare.com.

April 29 2010 WOMEN’S POWER LUNCHEON A benefit for Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity of Omaha FRIENDS presents the Power Luncheon as a kick-off celebration for the 13th Annual Women Build, a Habitat for Humanity program that encourages women to make a difference by building homes and communities.

Holiday Inn Central – Omaha – 11:30 A.M. For more information call 457-5657 or visit www.habitatomaha.org. m

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vibrations • with sue moon

positive metroMagazine

positive reform

March may start off a little slow, but after the 10th there will be great forward movement in any area you have been planning for this past winter. It’s a weary world out there, and we could all use a little more fun. March will be the time to start incorporating that. The world continues to struggle with the positive reforms that are necessary for survival, and much of what has been hidden from humanity will come to the forefront in many areas. The square of Pluto/Sun on the 25th will have the world re-examining it’s motives and what is truly important. These are not easy times that we live in, and some hard choices are in the offing. The world will be letting go of much more in the years to come. Poverty, disease, and war are a few of the things being looked at by some pretty big planetary energies. Equality, integrity, patience, tolerance, compassion and the like will be rewarded globally and individually. Get real, let go of all that holds you from happiness and move into the emerging spirit of The Great Humanitarian that we all are.

aries

MAr 21 - Apr 19

This month nears your “time” of the year and the Full Moon on the 29th may bring a desired healing into your life. This is a month for you with strong energy for fun/children and creating more of the life you desire. Old habits come up for a clearing, let them go if they don’t serve you well. Friends can be a little domineering this month, and some old wounds may be reopened. Forgiveness is a good practice.

Apr 20 - MAY 20

taurus

The New Moon in Aquarius on the 15th has you wondering if you will ever find what you truly desire.

A good use of this Moon would be a ceremony to honor the depths of your spiritual and human sides. An especially good time to plant seeds for future career growth. Friends are of a spiritual nature all month and bringing you joy at times and frustration at others. Some shadow part of you is asking for healing all month long.

gemini

MAY 21 - Jun 20

Relax, you aren’t crazy and probably not bi-polar either, it’s just Mars in your mind. It’s making you stamp your foot and demand to be heard. When the New Moon opposes mid-month you will be wondering what all the fuss has been about. This will be a time for great strides in balancing erratic thought processes. The Full Moon on the 29th indicates some emotionally charged home energies, stay calm and make them happy ones.

cancer

Jun 21 - Jul 22

A sensitive soul, now that Jupiter has moved into dreamy/spiritual Pisces, you have an opportunity to be in tune with much higher philosophies. The Sun travels with Jupiter during the first part of the month adding a powerful boost of positive energy to your thinking process.

The Neptune/Chiron energy in your house of death/rebirth is still stirring up some strange thoughts and mid-month could be a mysterious adventure.

www.morningstarcenter.com www.suemoon.com

nov 22 - dec 21

leo

Jul 23 - AuG 22

Mars is moving again and so are you and all the plans you’ve been making this winter. Make money plans mid-month and reap the rewards by the end. A good month for healing some old relationship issues. Jupiter is adding to your good luck all year, there is possibly an inheritance coming or another person willing to fund your projects. Take advantage of any offer of resources this month.

virgo

You have always been able to pluck thoughts out of the air of a profound nature. Now, your mind has never been this creative and so full of unusual and interesting thoughts.

Be sure you write them down and let them work for you to bring in extra cash. Home has settled down a bit and is feeding a spiritual part of you that has needed this for a while. Should be a fun spring and long awaited.

dec 22 - JAn 19

AuG 23 - sep 22

What a great month for your partnerships! A lot of beneficial energy is available to smooth out marriages and business partnerships. With help from Saturn in your financial sector you could finalize a business deal with great ease and rewards. Breathe in the fresh air, lighten your load and head on into warmer climates and smoother waters!

libra

sagittarius

capricorn

The New Moon in your house of talents and resources may have you daydreaming about what new ways you can express yourself. Maybe even a new talent or two making an appearance. Home has never been lovelier and the warmer weather makes you anxious to dig in the flower garden. Career continues to have the support of prestigious Saturn, your ruler.

sep 23 - ocT 22

The world sees you as a responsible teacher at this time, thank you, Saturn, on your ascendant. The Sun is opposing that on the first of the month and making you re-think just how you present yourself to the world and if that is how you want to be seen. Work is abundant and even rewarding now as everything lightens up for spring. Your playful spirit is demanding more play time, start planning a vacation or just slip off for the weekend. It’s a great time to play with friends!

JAn 20 - feb 18

aquarius

Relationships may have had quite a few ego struggles this winter but that could change now that Mars is moving forward again. Just remember, you don’t always have to be right. Cut your lover/partner some slack. Emotional tides with the full moon at the end of the month may have you dreaming some pretty unusual dreams. Keep it spiritual. feb 19 - MAr 20

vocT 23 - nov 21

scorpio

Home/family/children/creativity are big this month and should be a lot of fun! Your health is good now and it may be time to set in place healthy habits that continue through your life.

You have always been a deep thinker and may want to turn that into a book of poetry or racy novel as you will get help from the planets with any writing.

pisces

You are and have been swimming in a sea of juicy spiritual/revolutionary energies-your favorite place to be.

This month a few mysteries of life after death may be revealed to you. An emotionally fulfilling time with your loved one is possible end of month. Great month for earning money but better keep a budget as it may go out as fast as it comes in.

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

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