metroMAGAZINE's August 2013 Issue

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Celebrating Commitment to the Community

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SpiritofOmaha.com

• aug 2013

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features / departMents

metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

features

events

37

cover story & featUres

8

8

the metroSCENE

departments

PRIMEVAL fontenelle forest centennial

14

metrospirit

SUITE SUCCESS embassy suite-la vista/Project SEARCH

18

24

OH JACKI!

DEB BROCKMANN evolving purpose

jacki ochoa wows omaha

25

MARY E. VANDENACK breaking the sugar habit

13

pet & animal enthUsiast

27 23 27 40 58

the art of living

PLANNING PRETTY IN MATTERS PINK

with PVW hnospital Law children’s & medical center wine, women & shoes

“back to basics”

TODAYS SAVINGS with swartzbaugh farber & associates CANINE CUISINE nebraska humane society

FUNDAMENTALS dining with dogs

22

the salvation army blackhawks

14

28

MULBERRY LANE

TRENDING... beauty • fashion • wellness tips from our local panel of experts

Q&A: TOO MANY COOKS omaha restaurant association

59

featured non profits

38

PACK YOUR BAGS! boys and girls clubs on the road

40

SAVE THE DATE

APPLAUSE

outtakes:

omaha community playhouse awards night

55

62

KEYSTROKES omaha creative institute play me i’m yours

56

BACK ON TRACK nebraska children’s home society sand in the city®/people’s choice: walmart

FEVER DANCE SHO OTING TH

46

MAGIC!

omaha gala opera

51 18

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E COVER URIE AND C HARLES

dancing with the omaha stars W ITH ©LA

metroMagazine • aUg 2013

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aUgUst 2013 • voL. 25 no. 8 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

Contributors

andrea L. hoig

Leo adam biga daniel flanigan roger humphries allison Janda cheril n. Lewis Kara schweiss Mike Watkins

Editor/Creative Director

robert p. Killmer

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

402.932.3522 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 1990 – 2013 aLh publications, inc. all rights reserved.

• ramada Plaza omaha • Johnny's • Adam Michael Jewelry italian steakhouse • regency Court • The Blue Barn Theater • K*9 lives rescue • The Bookworm • rock Bottom Boutique & Gifts Brewery & restaurant • BorsheiMs andrea L. hoig • la Casa Pizzaria Fine Jewelry & Gifts • roots and wings ahoig@spiritofomaha.com • lewis Art Gallery • Bright spirit Center • sAC Federal Credit union • liberty Tavern • Brix • sCulPT: Contemporary Cosmetic surgery • BunGAlow/8 • The linen Gallery • she•la • Candy wrappers • Malashock's • Christian nobel Furs • shucks Fish house • The Market Basket & oyster Bar • CrAVe • nebraska humane society • spirit world • Creative hair Design • nothing Bundt Cakes salon & spa • springfield Artworks • omaha pBallroom U b L i c a t i o n s • Dante • statement • omaha • The Durham Museum • studioviews Children's Museum • Dundee Gallery • Taste restaurant omahafeelCommunity There is a sense of excitement that •I always as we transition from Winter to Spring, • elisa ilana Jewelry a “knowingness” that the process of rebirth and rejuvenation is about to begin.

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alh

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~ BRAD A. WATKINS FONTENELLE FOREST MARKETING DIRECTOR

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FONTENELLE NATURE ASSOCIATION

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centennial celebration On Thursday, September 13, 2012 Fontenelle Forest held a press conference at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center to announce their two year Centennial Celebration.

general information 402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org facebook.com/fontenelleforest twitter.com/fontenelle4est pinterest.com/fontenelle4est Fontenelle Forest Nature Center 1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005

Executive Director Laura Shiffermiller stated, “As we prepare to launch the Fontenelle Forest Centennial celebration, I am reminded that we are newcomers to this land, just a small part of a continuum that dates back millenniums.“ “As the present-day caretakers of Fontenelle Forest, it is a daunting responsibility that we hold in our hands.

We must sustain this ancient land and inspire people to care for the natural world. In this way, our work links the past with the future and assures the continued existence of this remarkable place.”

A new micro internet site debuted on October 1, 2012 named fontenelle100.org. Stories, videos, and written reflections are being collected to share just how special and unique Fontenelle is.

Fontenelle Forest also outlined plans taking place over the course of the two-year Centennial Celebration.

A Platinum Jubilee will be held at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center in January of 2014. The Fontenelle Forest Guild will host their annual Feather Our Nest galas in April of 2014.

The two nature centers owned by Fontenelle Forest will also be seeing change as Fontenelle seeks to improve the physical quality of each.

Shiffermiller said, “Fontenelle Forest has always been known for its expert conservation, exceptional environmental education, and as amazing natural place to visit. This ongoing work is now enhanced by our re-focused mission statement, our new vision statement, our new look, and the support of our community. For our Centennial, we will celebrate the past, take pleasure in the present, and prepare for the future.”

More information about all the Centennial plans is available on fontenelleforest.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FONTENELLE NATURE ASSOCIATION

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STORY BY MIKE WATKINS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMBASSY SUITES

businesses making a difference

project search is a national program that provides work opportunities for youth with learning disabilities, as schools and business offer mentoring with important life and work skills, and the program has found a home at the embassy suites-la vista.

PHOTO BY DAN FLANIGAN FOR METROMAGAZINE

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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

project search EMBASSY SUITES LA VISTA

~ DAVID SCOTT director of sales embassy suites-la vista

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businesses making a difference

project search EMBASSY SUITES LA VISTA

Project SEARCH originated at hospital in Cincinnati but continues to grow, arriving in Nebraska last year. The national program partnered with school districts in La Vista and Lincoln, which then connected with Embassy Suites in both cities to provide life-changing and affirming work opportunities for youth with learning disabilities and their families.

It didn’t take long after learning about the important work being done by Project SEARCH that David Scott realized what a life-changing impact it had on the young people involved.

Department of Education, restaurants, zoo, hospitals, and in the case of Embassy Suites, hotels.

The program administrators and creators identified collaboration with businesses and organizations that would be long-term community partners, drawing individuals from vocational rehabilitation centers and high schools to give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to learn work skills, earn a living and realize their potential and impact as a contributing member of society.

growing roots in nebraska

What he didn’t expect – at least not until he and his Embassy Suites-LaVista staff became immersed in the day-to-day operations of and interacted with the youth involved with Project SEARCH – was how much the program and its participants would change their lives.

It was the joint effort by the Papillion-LaVista School District and Lincoln Public Schools and VR Nebraska that reached out to Embassy Suites and the La Vista Conference Center (as well as with Embassy Suites Lincoln) late last year that led to the first Project SEARCH partnership in Nebraska.

It’s a realization he and his staff as well as the many hotel guests impacted by the students ages 18 to 21 – all involved as a way to gain valuable work experience and not allow having a learning disability prevent them from living a full, productive life – have come to appreciate and embrace.

Project SEARCH’s High School Transition Program is a one-year internship for students with disabilities who are in their last year of high school and targets students whose goal is to gain competitive employment. The program involves total immersion in the workplace and facilitates the teaching and learning process as well as acquisition of employability and marketable work sills.

Suffice it to say, they are excited for the program to resume once school starts back in the fall.

“To assist the students in gaining employment after they graduate, we set up a Business Advisory Council (BAC), tasked with creating a network of business “Project SEARCH is really making a difference in the lives of young people, and liaisons to assist in finding suitable jobs for the graduating students and Embassy Suites-LaVista is proud to be a partner with them,” said Scott, the director potentially creating additional Project SEARCH worksites for the future,” Scott said. of sales at the hotel, voted No. 1 among Embassy Suites throughout the world for three straight years.

Students participate in three internships to explore a variety of career paths, and they work with a team that includes their families, a special education teacher and “What I learned is that people with special needs are really not that different from rehabilitation services administration to create an employment goal and support others. We definitely saw them grow in confidence and abilities over the course of the student during the important transition from school life to work life. their time with us, and they, in turn, gave us a completely new perspective.”

They worked an average of five hours per day for three 10-week rotations, origins in learning enabling the students to participate in different departments to gain valuable, The idea for Project SEARCH originated in 1996 by Erin Riehle, who was frustrated hands-on experience. Participating departments included housekeeping, with the high turnover rate in entry level jobs at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital engineering, breakfast service, banquet kitchen, banquet setup and restaurants.

Medical Center.

“The amount of confidence and independence these young people gain is The Director of the Emergency Department, she looked to a major diversity remarkable and really inspirational to watch,” Scott said. “They leave the program initiative recently adopted by Cincinnati Children’s as guidance. The initiative said, with not only marketable skills that can help them find meaningful work but also “Healthcare organizations must lead their communities in increasing employment an improved sense of self-esteem. They grow so much over the school year, and opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities and advocate on behalf of their they are treated and rewarded as equals the entire time they are here.” employment to other organizations.”

Once the agreement was in place, Embassy Suites and the La Vista Conference Riehle wondered if people with disabilities could fill the entry level jobs in her Center held orientations in September and October, followed by a skills training Emergency Department, and not knowing anyone with a disability, she turned to day in November.

Great Oaks Career Campuses and the Hamilton County Board of Developmental Disability Services to ask if her idea was possible.

Parents of the young people involved with Project SEARCH went through their own introduction to the program in February – something Scott said he feels is integral Together, with the other organizations, the idea of filling a handful of jobs in the to the success of the program and the partnership between business and hospital’s ER evolved into a comprehensive program model named Project SEARCH. education, in particular.

Today, Project SEARCH has grown from that original program to over 200 in 40 states and four countries. Business partners include banks, universities, the Federal

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“The first sense that we were doing something right for the community was at the information night for the parents of the special needs kids,” Scott said. “At the end

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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

this is the first time i have sensed a future for my son. i don’t want my son to live off social security. i want him to be a productive member of the community.

“ DARIEN IN THE BANQUET KITCHEN

”

~ PARTICIPANT’S PARENT

KYLE AND BECCA WITH THE BREAKFAST TEAM

of the presentation at question time, one of the parents very frankly said, “this is the first time I have sensed a future for my son. I don’t want my son to live off social security. I want him to be a productive member of the community. This program will give my son hope, and I thank Embassy Suites for stepping up and being an example to the community.’

“We’re (Embassy Suites) always looking for an opportunity to make a difference in the community, and our work with Project SEARCH has earned us the hotel chain’s ‘Make a Difference’ Award. We will accept the award this summer at a banquet, but we won last year when we became involved with Project SEARCH and helped change through this amazing program.”

BRUCE IN THE BANQUETS DEPARTMENT

To learn more about opportunities to impact the lives and futures of Nebraska youth as a member of the Project SEARCH Business Advisory Council, contact JACKI OCHOA, WOWT ON-AIR PERSONALITY David at 402-408-5463 or david.scott@jqh.com.

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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN FLANIGAN FOR METROMAGAZINE

faces in the crowd two years into her omaha stint, with her public recognition and popularity increasing, wowt’s jacki ochoa is still adjusting to life as a local television personality.

jacki ochoa has reached a double-edged career milestone: she can no longer go about her business anonymously.

“I thought it was these fake people with these fake personalities, and thought the real integrity was in papers,” she recalled. It took a Gillette MLB Rookie Reporter contest, which required her to submit a video entry, to change her opinion.

“Pretty much everywhere I go, I’m recognized,” the WOWT-Channel 6 News reporter “I fell in love with the idea of using video and my personality to tell the whole story,” and weekend anchor said. “Most of the time I’m not wearing any makeup at all she explained. and I run errands after I work out. So people are like, ‘Hey!’ and I’m like, ‘Oh, no!

I look horrible!’” sporting chance Ochoa sought and landed a sports internship at the NBC affiliate in Denver; her Two years into her Omaha stint and with her public recognition and popularity first interview was with world-class gymnast Nastia Liukin and she later increasing–in February, she was voted metroMAGAZINE Public Favorite out of a interviewed the Philadelphia Phillies’ Brad Lidge. After a second internship in field of 16 celebrity Dancing with the Omaha Stars competitors–Ochoa said she’s Colorado Springs and graduation, Ochoa came back to California as a full-time still adjusting to life as a local television personality. Even if that means she now reporter for an ABC station. In 2011, the WOWT position in Omaha opened up. has to start wearing a little makeup in public.

“Now I’m trying to make a conscious effort,” she said. “This might be the first time, the only time they’re meeting me; I need to give a good impression. I can’t look like I just rolled out of bed.”

inside the lines Ochoa said she’s also still trying to find a happy medium between approachability and being taken seriously as a news professional. When she posts about breaking news issues on her public Facebook page, she gets maybe a handful of “likes” and an occasional comment. She gets more response for her everyday-life humorous bits, like a photo of her and meteorologist Jill Gilardi inadvertently dressed alike, generating 180-plus likes and more than 50 comments, or posts about the antics of her pet dog and cat, Butters and Ezra.

And for every viewer comment like, “Another great report on this tragedy...I hope your empathy and professionalism result in an Emmy nomination”, she gets a host of comments (especially from male viewers) on her distinctive good looks (she’s of Mexican/Armenian/Syrian descent). Ochoa said she’s learning to manage this aspect of being in the public eye, too, and that she tries to take it in stride.

“Image and branding is something that is very new to me, and I’m still learning,” she said. “You’re not necessarily trained for it.”

outside the bubble Ochoa never planned to be a television personality in the first place.

She started out in life in a northern California hometown so picture-perfect that locals refer to it as “The Bubble”.

For college, Ochoa felt the need to move away from the “competitive, everyone in everyone’s business, keeping up with the Joneses” environment, so she relocated to the east coast to study business at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

“Ever since I got here I told my boss, ‘I’ll do whatever you need me to do.’ I started as a reporter. I asked, I pushed and pushed and pushed and pushed for a year,” she said. “I had to wake up really early and fill in for our morning show, but [it] got me to where I am now, which I am so thankful for. And it means a lot to me that I got a promotion here after only a year.”

Ochoa said she has also grown to love her new community.

“People were like, ‘Did you think it was a bunch of corn?’ but I really had no preconception about what I was getting myself into. Except when I googled Omaha, I saw some city buildings, so I said ‘okay’,” she said. “People are just so warm and welcoming.”

comfort zones Well, not everyone. Ochoa said she gets occasional viewer critiques about frivolous issues such as wardrobe and hairstyles, and sometimes harsher criticism. “All our mistakes are public, for everyone out there to criticize. Like ‘go back to second grade, you stumble too much’,” she said. She said she agrees that she must strive to further polish her delivery, but added that she usually shoots back–albeit tactfully–at her critics. “Nobody’s going to send me an email and I’m just going to take it, no way. I’m not a punching bag.”

Ochoa’s fans far outweigh her detractors, as her Dancing with the Omaha Stars experience illustrated. Not only did the event raise more than $45,000 for the Sunshine Kids Foundation, which benefits pediatric cancer patients, it also introduced Ochoa to some new friends with similar interests.

“When I started my career, I lost all my hobbies...but now that I’m here I feel like I have time for them,” she said. “I feel a little bit more settled into my position and I feel that I know a little bit more about what I’m doing.”

Ochoa’s confidence is boosted by her conviction that she can be true to herself, but still professional, on camera.

It was at a Knicks game two years later where Ochoa had the rather sudden revelation, as she watched the courtside sports reporters, that she needed to get out of business school and into journalism. Soon after, she transferred to the University of Denver. There, lifelong sports follower Ochoa, whose Dodgers fan dad “People tell me that they find me very genuine and very down to earth and that they just think of me as a friend. And I love hearing that!” she said. “That is exactly named her “Jacki” in honor of baseball great Jackie Robinson, started out as a what I always thought I was capable of doing, and I’m so glad people feel like sports intern (she counts sportswriter Woody Paige as a mentor)...but her initial they’re genuinely making a connection with me.” foray into the broadcast industry was not in television, but in print journalism.

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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

JACKI OCHOA, WOWT ON-AIR PERSONALITY

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faces in the crowd

CONTINUED

GETTING TO KNOW JACKI O. Jacki-Facts: • Health Nut…Mostly-Vegan • Makes spirulina smoothies and drinks lots of raw juice • However, loves steak and cheeseburgers, too (see “Mostly-Vegan” above) • Also practices hot yoga and vinyasa yoga, kickboxing, and krav maga.

• Spent a couple years belly dancing • Huge Shakira fan. Also loves rock and indie music • Doesn’t follow sports, but is a Phillies fan

Q&A: • Who would you like to trade places with for one month?

Shakira – Growing up, I was always singing and dancing. I’ve always said that I was a rock star in my previous life. So, as long as the trade came with acquiring her singing abilities, I would take her place on tour in a heart beat!

For those who saw my Dancing with the Omaha Stars performance, you know, and I can admit, I really like being on stage.

• If money were no object what kind of party would you throw and where?

I’m a fairly low-key kind of a person.

So, I’d throw a family reunion in Hawaii and fly my whole family out for the party!

• Who has inspired you as a mentor and why?

My forever-mentor is Drew Soicher.

He is a sports anchor at KUSA-TV in Denver.

I interned for him years ago, and ever since he has always been incredibly honest with me, and has helped me make major decisions in my career.

JACKI WITH CANINE COMPANION BUTTERS

• What makes you laugh the hardest?

My co-workers! I’m very fortunate to work with the people that I do, because they are some of the funniest people I know.

• Where would you most like to travel and why? Chicago – I have booked two trips to the Windy City and both have been cancelled.

One of these days...

FELINE COMPANION (AND PHOTO SHOOT CO-PRODUCER) EZRA

• What do you wish you were better at saying “no” to?

Free food – My mentor once told me, “free food doesn’t have calories.”

I wish .. because I can often be seen sneaking candy from my boss’ desk or a piece of pizza from the conference room.

• What’s your dream job?

I’m not sure what my dream job is at this point in my career. I believe in the importance of setting goals, but I prefer not to fanaticize about things. I think it sets people up for disappointment, by making them feel like what they do have, isn’t that great. I love where I am in my career now, and won’t leave until I think I’ll love the next opportunity even more.

m

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trendingnOW metroMagazine

trending...

“back to basics”

guilt free maintenance gerard stanley, m.d. • sculpt: contemporary cosmetic surgery

• I was waiting at the car dealershipthe other day and was taken aback by the comfortable lounge I was sitting in •

and the nice relaxing environment the dealership created. I felt very comfortable maintaining my vehicle while the dealer made certain it was a great experience for me. As a physician, I began to wonder why people feel so guilty maintaining themselves. People shy away from annual physicals, question the need for skincare regimens, feel that getting massages and facials is opulent, or feel guilty about seeking the opinion of a cosmetic physician.

Yet I can think of nothing more basic than self-preservation and maintenance. This year, set aside some time for a massage or a facial each month…it is great for the skin and cathartic for the soul. If you dream of looking or feeling younger…it is okay to care for yourself and find harmony. Getting “Back to the Basics”includes caring for ourselves! My car dealer gave my vehicle a 20+ point inspection. Permit me to challenge you to take the time to consider 20 different facets of your life that could use balance and maintenance. Be Well!

healthy hair essentials jackie makarov • salon fusion omaha

• Approaching the end of summer we get back into our routine and reevaluate necessities for hair care.

•

•

Preparing for fall has you thinking about new looks, but after spending hours at the poolside you notice hair takes a beating from the sun and other elements. Before taking on a new hair color or braving a new cut, revitalize your hair.

There are two important and easy steps to take. First, clarify your hair. Preparing the hair before a deep treatment is essential for maximum effectiveness. Our favorite clarifying shampoo is Cleansing Cream. It will remove build up of chlorine, hard water and other minerals. It doesn’t strip your hair’s natural moisture, leaving your locks soft and manageable. Next, apply a deep conditioner made of protein and moisture. Our stylist's favorite is Crema. After 10 minutes, hair is beautiful again. It’s effective on coarse and unruly hair, but won’t weigh down a finer hair texture.

Apply these simple steps to your hair routine. Now you are ready for that great new look!

keep it simple lori stevens, personal stylist • oolala! l.a. boutique

• You shouldn’t have to dig deep to find basics that are considered the staple to every women’s closet. A • •

smart shopper can keep the same simple pieces forever and then use trends that come and go to change up her wardrobe without going through the expense of couture iconic pieces every season.

The thought process is quite simple; purchase good quality, neutral or plain pieces that can be layered and worn with just about everything. The trend that is filtering into the Midwest is very simple, quite literally.

Purchase a pair of flat pocket-plain jeans, some basic color tanks (beige & navy) and a pair of respectable shoes in a neutral color.

These 3 or 4 pieces can be worn a couple of times a week combined with trendy pieces that give an entirely different look to each outfit. Transition pieces, like the star drape cardigan pictured and sold at Oolala Boutique is another great way to kick basics up a notch.

SCULPT • 402.884.6700 • www.sculptomaha.com | Salon FUSION • 402.934-4747 • www.salonfusionomaha.com | OoLaLa! • 402.614.7779 • www.myoolala.com 22

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metroMAGAZINE • AUG 2013

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evolving life purpose

by deb brockmann

FOR THE LAST TWELVE YEARS I’VE IMMERSED MYSELF IN LIFE PURPOSE. I’VE TAUGHT, COACHED AND INTUITED ABOUT PURPOSE TO OTHERS. The Universe’s cruel joke for me is that my life purpose is to chase dream after dream only to find out there’s yet a different dream waiting for me…or so it has seemed.

As I move from one “this is it!” to the next, I’ve felt like I failed each and every time one of my dreams didn’t stick. My self-esteem has certainly taken a beating, not to mention my pocket book. How could it be that I was put here to help others but I cannot aid myself?

An Open Mind Many people around me seemed to know what they wanted even if they didn’t feel they could get it. I could tell someone about their purpose within about fifteen minutes of speaking to them. Why was mine so elusive? It was because my purpose didn’t fit my idea of what it should be.

My purpose should have been shown to me when I was in high school. I then would have found the appropriate schooling and the most transparent and permeable way to achieve this purpose. Sound familiar? I wanted my life purpose to fit into a nut shell that also fit into societal norms. This was never going to happen but that didn’t stop me from trying to stuff my rhombus shaped purpose into society’s proverbial round hole.

Deb Brockmann

Your Answers Are Within The answer was as plain as day, but I didn’t see it. Or maybe I didn’t want to see it. My father worked for thirty-two years for the same company. I admired him for that and many other things. I was trying to find the one thing that I loved (or at least didn’t hate) so that I could show stick-to-itiveness like my dad. But, that’s just not how I’m built.

My journey has brought many twists and turns. I’ve supervised at call centers in the Midwest and performed on the Travel Channel as a medium. There’s nothing normal about me and I’m finally in a place where I’m starting to accept this.

Inuitive, Writer, Professional Goof

Evolve With Your Life Purpose The simple truth is that I’ve not failed, I’ve evolved. I now allow myself to see that each time the “this is it!” turned out to be “not it” I received more information about who I really am. The more I get to know “me” the more my life purpose evolves.

D

eb Helps You Get Your Happy On

That Deb chick has many tools to help open YOUR intuition, and help you laugh and live a happier life!

My wish for us all is to follow our bliss without judgment of how it should “look”.

You may be growing into your purpose right now. Or you may be out growing it and moving into the next. The best possible gift you can give yourself with regards to your life purpose is to see all perceived failure as an evolution of your spirit and allow your most recent life purpose to emerge gracefully.

Deb is a psychic who bares it all in her candid blogs and books! ___________________________ Visit debbrockmann.com for events, books and Deb’s open and honest blog.

The Happiness Chick Deb Brockmann - Intuitive debbrockmann.com 24

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metroMagazIne • The Spirit of Omaha

breaking the sugar habit • • •

by mary e. vandenack

“May you always be pleased with freedom, both inside and outside of yourself!”

IN RECENT EFFORTS TO FIND DIETARY CHANGES THAT WILL SUPPORT MY HEALTH IN “We should dayI lost which we have not at least once.”

RELATION TOconsider THYROIDevery DISEASE, HAVEonBECOME A STUDENT OFdanced RESEARCH ON FOOD “When you PARTICULARLY fall in love withSUGAR. yourself, you begin to feel the positive ADDICTION, self-esteem that comes when we don’t deflate ourselves.”

In reading many articles on the topic, I note that despite mounting evidence that BARBARA BECKER GATEWAYS TO HAPPINESS” sugar is an~addictive substance andHOLSTEIN a significantFROM factor“FOUR in obesity and diabetes, there is disagreement on the issue. However, I have found absolutely no research that indicates sugar is good for us. Rather, most researchers are indicating there are significant negatives to sugar intake as well as an excessive consumption of the substance in the USA. My conclusion is whether sugar is addictive (which I think it is) or just bad for us, we would all be better off with a lot less of it.

Sugar is the core ingredient used by the food industry to make unpleasant tasting processed substances and chemicals taste good. The food industry conditions us to crave sugar. In response to attacks on the food industry, producers have said such things as:

by “mulberry lane”

the art of living from it all...

THE RUSH OF MORNING TRAFFIC GREETS YOUR EARS, THE HONKS, THE SMELL OF GASOLINE, THE UNFORGIVING MERGING LANE, THE RED LIGHT THAT STOPS YOUR FLOW. THE RUSH OF CAFFEINE GREETS YOUR LIPS, THE WARM LIQUID COFFEE WITH CARAMEL AND WHIPPED TOPPING THAT GIVES A LIFT TO YOUR MORNING AND A BUZZ OF NEW IDEAS. The rush of hopes and dreams and life and duties wrestle for space in your head and for a place on your to-do list. Answer the ad that could lead to your dream job. Clean out your closet. Organize the toy room. Warm Beige or Radiant Sunlight for the kitchen? Make the casserole for the neighbor in chemo. Pick up the birthday gift for your son’s friend. And so it goes day after day - you drive, you sip, you dream, you get through the day.

But you can’t help but wonder if there’s a simpler way. Can you get back to the basics and erase the insaneness of the rush, the incessantness of the drive, the elusiveness of the dream without losing the rush, the drive and the dream that makes life worth living?

• “Consumers want sugar. They are choosing it.”

On our music, arts and lifestyle radio show, you have heard us talk with artists of all kinds singers, songwriters, playwrights, musicians, authors, and even a sand artist. And we have found, as Oscar Wilde once said, that life should imitate art. It’s much better that way.

It’s “back to the basics” with an artistic twist.

• “The problem is the amount of sugar being consumed.

Consumers just need to reduce the amount they are taking in.”

• “ Consumers just need to move more to burn it off.”

As long as consumers keep buying sugar laden products, the shelves will continue to be stocked with them. That only changes when we make different choices. Consider deconditioning yourself from sugar so that your desire for it goes away.

Quitting sugar is challenging. There are different ways to approach it. One option recommended by experts is to gradually reduce the amount of sugar in your diet.

This approach works for some but many may find it necessary to eliminate sugar entirely to detoxify the body and reduce cravings.

Consider sand artist Joe Mangrum: as he creates his vision, he “has a dialogue with the day.” He lets the day move him - not his “to-do” list, not his schedule, but that specific day that only comes once in a lifetime. At the end of the day - figuratively and literally - he has a beautiful organic creation that flowed out of letting each moment guide him.

What a beautiful thought to bring into your day. Let it unfold moment to moment, and Joe Mangrum is not the only artist who approaches it this way. Jewel approaches life in florals.

She says you don’t want to raise just one kind of flower - you want your life to be like a garden.

An important factor in eliminating sugar is knowing when you are eating it. Sugar goes by many names including sugar, sucrose, date sugar, dextran, brown sugar, high fructose corn syrup, cane juice crystals, corn syrup, and turbinado sugar to provide just the short list. If you read labels carefully, you will be surprised to find just how much and in how many products sugar exists.

Other artists have shared how writing a song is more about creating a feeling or creating a moment rather than words and notes put together from an experience.

How transforming would it be if we approached life, parenthood, or even organizing a closet from the standpoint of creating a feeling or creating a moment rather than a list that needs to be checked off?

Eliminate artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners perpetuate sweet cravings. A successful sugar detox will eliminate all sugars and artificial sweeteners.

A common theme for artists we’ve encountered is “letting go” - not dictating, not forcing things - letting them come to you and trusting in that inner muse that lives deep within all of us. The sun rises and sets, we breathe in and out, the flower unfolds without our consent or our conscious effort.

To support you on your mission to eliminating sugar, consider starting meals with salads. Eat vegetables at every meal, including breakfast. Move as much and in as many ways as you can each day. Consider possible causes of food cravings including food allergies and underlying health issues. Eat some protein at every meal. Use vitamins to support your diet. Finding the right combination for you requires a willingness to try different things and notice the results.

Perhaps we can live life more like the artist and believe our lives will unfold just as they should without the insane rush, the incessant drive we think we need, and the constant chase of the seemingly elusive dream.

Sugar is a burden on the body. If you aren’t willing to eliminate sugar, consider establishing limits such as never buying anything with more than 9 grams of it. If you find yourself unable to set limits, consider using approaches to treating addiction.

Perhaps it’s time that we trust, relax, and–with arms wide open–let it come.

In the long run, less sugar will have positive results for your health.

Mary Vandenack, while a lawyer by profession, has studied extensively in mind/body areas of fitness and wellness. She is Yoga Alliance RYT-200, Power Pilates certified and ACE certified.

You can hear “The Mulberry Lane Show,” a music, arts, and lifestyle talk show every Saturday morning on The Mighty 1290 KOIL from 10am – noon, brought to you by Elisa Ilana Jewelry. Visit www.facebook.com/mulberrylane.

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pet&animal enthusiast

paemagazine.com

nebraska humane society • star rehab program

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3.

2.

1.

1. Alligator Biscuits: These scrumptious, crunchy biscuits are harvested in Louisiana with the freshest, most preferred ingredients. They are natural dog treats made with real nutritious alligator, barley oats, pea starch, rice bran, potato flour and canola oil.

No wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors or flavors.

Made in the USA.

2. Dog Gone Smart: The Dog Gone Smart Dirty Dog Doormat Magically Soaks up water, mud and dirt. What's the trick?

The advanced Microfiber Technology traps water, mud and dirt instantly. Millions of microfiber strands create an extra large super sponge.

3. Pork and Pea:

5.

NEW Fromm Grain-Free Pork & Pea Slow-cooked pork, peas and an assortment of handpicked Polynesian fruits and vegetables including mango, pineapple and melon.

4. Freezy Pups: Freezy Pups are now available in a larger size!

Stop out and get these droolicious organic frozen treats are paw-some hot summer days.

5. Beggin’ for S’mores:

4.

28 | pet & ANIMAL enthusiast

These amazing yummy Mini-Wafers create the Beggin’ for S’mores Trio. The Trio includes square Graham Crackers, Mini Marshmallows and Mini Carob Rounds. Nothing says Fall like sitting around the camp fire and Beggin’ for S’mores! These paw-some treats will be available at the end of August.

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STORY BY ALLISON JANDA • PHOTOS BY DAN FLANIGAN FOR PET & ANIMAL ENTHUSIAST

cover story

••• STAR power EVERYONE DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE. AS FAR AS THE NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY IS CONCERNED, THIS RULE DOESN’T JUST APPLY TO PEOPLE.

HORSES ARE REHABILITATED THROUGH NHS PROGRAM

While foster homes provided shelter and a human connection for horses, they were unable to provide training or assessments necessary to prep the horses for adoption.

POSITIVE GROWTH WHEN LARGER ANIMALS ARE IN NEED, NHS DOESN’T SHY AWAY FROM THE CHALLENGES OF GETTING THEM JUST AS ADOPTION- READY AS THEIR SMALLER HOUSEHOLD-SIZED FRIENDS. There is something majestic about being in the presence of a horse.

And that’s definitely the sense that you get while listening to Nebraska Humane Society staff members Judy Varner, President and CEO, and Kristie Biodrowski, Field Director, as they share regarding the Nebraska Humane Society’s STAR program.

Aimed at helping both neglected and abused horses, the program is named after Star, one of the first mares taken in by the Humane Society.

“As our intake of horses has remained steady it became clear that there is definitely a need for a horse program in this area,” Biodrowski said.

When Biodrowski speaks about those first few years, when the program was unofficially in existence, it’s clear she’d do it all over again. In spite of the long hours of unpaid time and endless back and forth transits on the road, she’d likely still be going the distance if it remained the only option available.

Luckily, as the STAR program has solidified, so too other things have fallen into place.

Now only ten minutes from the Nebraska Humane Society, a donor generously provides seven acres for several group pens and shelters where horses are offloaded, vaccinated and housed. The adjacent land owner provides an indoor training arena. Additionally, numerous foster homes have been solidified to just three locations in Blair, NE, Elkhorn, NE and Missouri Valley, IA. CONTINUED

AUG/SEPT 2013 VOL. 4 NO. 8/9 www.PAEMagazine.com CONTACT PET & ANIMAL ENTHUSIAST P.O. BOX 241611 • OMAHA, NE 68124 402-932-3522 ADVERTISING/SALES INQUIRIES sales@SpiritofOmaha.com PRESS RELEASES/GENERAL INQUIRES information@SpiritofOmaha.com Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Pet & Animal Enthusiast Magazine 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 2013 Pet & Animal Enthusiast Magazine.

All rights reserved.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andrea L. Hoig EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Robert P. Killmer CONTRIBUTIONS Wendy Moore COVER MODELS Wendy Moore

NEVER GIVE UP While the STAR program was born of necessity, it exists purely because of determination and hard work.

“Kristie is really the birth mother. The only reason we have a program today is because of her grit and unwillingness to fail,” said Varner.

From an outsider’s perspective, one would never guess that failure had ever been a concern. Yet nearly eight years ago when the program unofficially began, Biodrowski was driving from western Nebraska to eastern Iowa delivering supplies to various foster families.

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AUG/SEPT REMEMBER TO LOVE

nhs star rehab program

cover story••• STAR power CONTINUED

horses can be wonderful, great horses.

“Rescue We hope people will consider getting a horse from us through our rescue programs.” ~ Judy Varner PRESIDENT AND CEO, NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY

Hugely successful, the program has adopted out about 70 horses since it began unofficially in 2006. Varner is dedicated to taking in no more than 20 horses at a time. By limiting their numbers, individual horses receive the maximum resources that the program can offer them.

INDIVIDUAL SPACES Separate from the main shelter at the Nebraska Humane Society, the STAR program warrants its own budget. It has been a daunting challenge given the cost of housing a single healthy horse let alone a dozen abused and neglected ones, but that hasn’t stopped the team from trying.

“We really have to save space for horses that While Friends of Horses invests in getting are in critical need like those that are in word out to the community, Varner neglected or cruelty situations. We receive searches for other avenues of income. a lot of calls from people who just want to surrender their horse but I try to give them “We don’t want to take current donors other options,” Biodrowski insists. from the main shelter and transfer them to the horse program. We really need to Once admitted, horses have needs such look to the horse lovers of this community as food and veterinary care available to who are not current donors to the them through the program before they Humane Society to help us out.” are given a broad panel of assessments.

“Once we have their health needs addressed, we begin assessing their mental needs which is where the trainers come in. It’s so important to work with them on socialization,” Biodrowski shares.

STAYING ALIVE Programs like STAR could not exist without generous donations beyond land and basic shelter. Interestingly, as the program began to gain traction, Varner happened into a conversation with a woman she’d never met at a Friends Forever guild meeting. As it turned out, both women had a fondness for horses. A new group blossomed as a result of that discussion–Friends of Horses–which consists of about fifteen members in the general community. These individuals not only love horses, but they understand the need for a program like STAR. Together they hope to raise the funds necessary to keep the program in practice as they search for new members sharing the same dedication to horses.

30 | pet & ANIMAL enthusiast

NEVER SAY NEVER Demonstrating the same passion and determination they put into laying the foundation for STAR, both Varner and Biodrowski have adopted horses themselves through STAR. While they can’t save every single horse, they are determined to spare as many as possible.

“Rescue horses can be wonderful, great horses. We hope people will consider getting a horse from us through our rescue programs. A lot of our horses have really had a lot of good training and have the potential to be valuable horse partners,” Varner concluded.

Anyone interested in donating funds to the STAR program or providing a foster home for horses admitted to the program can contact Jill Moss at (402) 905-3427.

Individuals interested in adopting horses through the STAR program may contact Kristie Biodrowski at (402) 905-3425.

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SPONSORED BY HEARTS UNITED FOR ANIMALS WWW.HUA.ORG

REX

rex ••• a true hero

IN MID-MAY, NINE-MONTH-OLD REX, AN AKITA/HUSKY MIX, SAVED HIS FAMILY WHEN INTRUDERS BROKE INTO THEIR HOME, THREW THE WOMAN OF THE HOUSE TO THE GROUND AND HELD HER BY THE THROAT.

Rex charged one of the intruders and was shot by the second one. They fled when they realized that Rex was not going to back down, even after he had been shot with a .38 caliber hollow-point bullet. He fully intended to save his family, no matter what. Rex sustained severe injury to his left front leg where the bullet entered. He also had a broken toe on his right rear foot where the bullet exited.

Rex was transported to the Animal Emergency Clinic in Omaha in severe distress and pain from the bullet wounds.

Understandably proud of Rex, his family was devastated because they did not have the funds needed in order to save his life.

The clinic called a Hearts United for Animals director

at 2:00 a.m. asking if HUA would help to save Rex’s life and hopefully his leg. There was no hesitation. Rex was truly a hero and deserved every chance to recover and go home to his beloved family. Efforts began immediately to stabilize him and get him comfortable with pain medication. The next morning he was transferred to Mobile Animal Clinic, HUA’s preferred veterinary clinic in Omaha, where he was given the largest recovery suite with a big bed. The finest orthopedic specialist in Omaha were called in to review Rex’s case, and it was determined that although the operation would be intricate, there was a good chance of saving Rex’s leg. The biggest risk was infection. Because of the bullet wound and bone fragments, Rex needed to be on intravenous antibiotics for four days to get the infection to subside enough to safely perform an operation involving many pins and plates. Rex was kept very comfortable while he awaited surgery, not even minding all of the media attention that his story garnered. When his family came to visit him, he smiled from ear to ear. They assured him that he had done a

wonderful job. Rex was so happy to see that they were all safe and there for him in his time of need.

Rex’s operation went even better than the specialist had anticipated, and a few days later he was on his way home with his family where he continued the process of several weeks of rest and recovery. After eight weeks the external pins and rods were removed, and Rex has regained full use of his leg. The family is beyond grateful for HUA’s help in saving Rex, whom they call their hero and their big fluff ball.

Many thanks go out to the Hearts United for Animals supporters who make heartwarming stories of survival and recovery like Rex’s possible. To learn more about Hearts United for Animals emergency medical program, puppy mill rescue operations, dogs and cats for adoption, and spay/neuter services visit us at www.hua.org or facebook.com/heartsunitedforanimals. Hearts United for Animals is a no-kill shelter, sanctuary and animal welfare organization dedicated to the relief of suffering. The shelter is located one hour south of Omaha.

Protecting your animal companion.

Pet owners have several options available to them to ensure the care of their animals in the event of death or hospitalization. PVW can customize a trust that provides for the continued care for one’s pets in the event the owner is no longer able to care for his or her pets.

5332 South 138th Street, Suite 100 | Omaha, Nebraska 68137

(402) 504-1300

www.pvwlaw.com pet & ANIMAL enthusiast | 31

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FROM THE PAGES OF THREE DOG BAKERY COOKBOOK • THREE

BY DANBOG DYEBAKERY & MARKCOOKBOOK BECKLOFF REPUBLISHED FROM THE

AUG/SEPT

••• hungry mongrel turkey burgers

recipe: ingredients

instructions

• • • • • • •

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly • Leave to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour • Shape into patties and broil in oven (or on the grill) for about 15-20 minutes until burger is no longer pink in the middle. Turn after one side is well browned.

• Cool and serve. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

1 1/2 pounds ground turkey 2 egg yolks 2 tablespoons parsley flakes 1 tablespoons minced garlic 1/4 teaspoon thyme 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs 1/2 cup cooked rice

WATCH WITH EAGLE-EYED PRECISION WHILE COOKING. YOUR DOG WON'T WAIT TO GET HIS PAWS ON THESE!

32 | pet & ANIMAL enthusiast

MAKES 8 TO 10 JUICY BURGERS. GRILLED OR FRIED, YOU DECIDE.

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BY JAKE THACKER • EXECUTIVE MANAGER & PASTRY CHEF

••• from the chef to school

CHEF’S COLUMN AUG/SEPT

bark

WITH AUGUST NOW HERE, BACK TO SCHOOL THOUGHTS AND PLANS FOR WE HUMANS ARE PUT INTO MOTION. HOWEVER, MAYBE OUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS NEED SOME HELP TRANSITIONING BACK TO “SCHOOL,” AS WELL. Have the kids been home all summer and spoiled the dog rotten to the point that all the obedience training you’ve done has gone out the window? Or will your pooch be stressed once schedules change and school recommences?

One of my favorite products for training (or retraining!) your dog is the Pet Corrector. This product comes in a small red, air horn-like tube. Have no fear, though! It doesn’t make that horrible air horn noise.

The Pet Corrector uses a dog’s instinctive fear of hissing (often emitted by snakes, insects and birds) to correct undesired behaviors such as excessive barking, jumping, stealing, chewing, and place/location avoidance.

Each Pet Corrector comes with 50 uses per can and a free training guide so that you know how to most effectively use the product. Not only the employees at Three Dog Bakery & Spaw, but our customers, swear by this training tool. Also, after one or two purchases of the Pet Corrector ($9.99 per can), certain dogs start to remember the shape and look of the tool and just need to be shown the can without it even emitting a noise to stop the unwanted behavior.

A product that trains dogs to let you know when they have to go potty is Poochie Bells. Poochie Bells is not a new product or idea by any means, but it is just such a good one that is worth repeating.

The training with Poochie Bells is just so simple: hang the bells on or near an interior door; when it’s time to go out to potty, you must ring the bells and give a command of “Ring your bells,” or “Outside” and then let your dog out; each time they potty, continue to be consistent with your command and praise the dog once he or she comes back in; and soon enough, they’ll starting ringing the bells on their own to let you know when nature is calling.

Poochie Bells come in a variety of colors and patterns to match your home’s interior (from $15.95). Several of our employees at Three Dog Bakery and Spaw have these bells hanging from multiple doors in their homes so that the dog(s) can let them know when they have to go potty no matter where they are in the house.

The last product that I’d like to highlight that can be super helpful during the Back-to-School season is Thundershirt. I cannot say enough good things about this amazing stress reliever and general training tool. I’m sure many dogs in Omaha will have had Thundershirts on for the Fourth of July and its noisy firework booms.

Thundershirt doesn’t work just for loud, thundering noises, though. If your pooch becomes anxious with the start of school due to separation or crate anxiety, pop the Thundershirt on to help with his or her stress (from $39.95 and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee).

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AUG/SEPT

STORY BY CHERIL N. LEWIS • PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF REDROVER RESPONDERS

catastrophic care ••• rescuers assist in moore, okla.

“IT WAS EXTREMELY EMOTIONAL . IT WAS A MONTH AFTER THE TORNADO AND IT STILL LOOKED LIKE A WAR ZONE,” SAID JULIE SIEBLER, PRESIDENT OF NEBRASKA DACHSHUND RESCUE AND RED ROVER RESPONDERS VOLUNTEER, OF THE SCENE WHEN SHE TRAVELED TO MOORE, OKLAHOMA IN LATE JUNE.

Individuals who live in storm-prone areas should have a disaster plan ready that includes their pets. Animals may be injured or lost in storms as easily as their owners so it’s important to plan ahead for their safety. Sometimes a plan is not enough. Storms can occur quickly and wreak havoc in a short amount of time. When that happens, it’s good to know that pets have people looking out for their well being too.

The American Humane Association spearheaded rescue and relief efforts along with the city of Moore. The two requested Red Rover Responders to assist as well. The Red Rover Responders share a common goal of helping animals in need.

AN EASY DECISION Siebler completed a training workshop the Red Rover Responders held in Omaha a couple years ago, learning the skills she needed to know in order to deploy when needed.

For Siebler, the choice to join took about three seconds.

“Animals depend on us to help them in times of crisis and provide them a loving and safe home and a chance in the world,” she said. Calling it one of the most rewarding

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experiences she’s ever had, her trip to Moore was the first time Siebler was able to help out through Red Rover Responders. She was in Moore for nearly a week, arriving Tuesday, June 18th and leaving Friday, June 21st.

Though she had seen news reports on television, Siebler said those images didn’t come close to capturing the reality of the devastation. “I just wasn’t prepared for what I saw. It was too emotional. You saw it on TV but when you’re two feet from it, it’s overwhelming,” explained a tearful Siebler.

She said homes were wiped off their foundations with piles of rubble in the driveway. Siebler saw kids’ toys, furniture, clothing, appliances and more just strewn all over the place. Thankfully the animals in the shelter were in pretty good health and good spirits overall. Siebler said some were still scared though because they didn’t know what was going on.

DOG DAYS She worked about 14 hours a day with the dogs.

“We would provide their daily needs. We’d start in the morning around 7:30 for our daily briefing; and then start feeding and watering the dogs and cats. Then we’d take them out for walks and while the dogs were out for walks and socializing, somebody else would stay behind and clean their kennels, giving them clean bedding and fresh water,” explained Siebler.

She said the volunteers would then take breaks so the animals could rest. During breaks, they cleaned the animals living area; assembled crates for transport; and

assisted visitors. Then around 2:30 in the afternoon, they would do it all over again until the volunteers’ dinner at 5:30. Finally, around 6:30 or 7:00, the dogs would be taken out for their last walk of the day, to get them outside again and give them more socialization.

The 55 dogs and 33 cats were sheltered at the Cleveland County Fairground. Volunteers worked hard to keep the shedding and hair blowing around to a minimum.

Additionally, since several of the animals were getting spayed and neutered while at the shelter, volunteers would also transport them to special medical areas after surgery to monitor them and make sure they were healing properly.

Since Siebler’s return to Omaha, all of the dogs she worked with have been reunited with their owners, adopted out or placed with foster families. For more information on the Red Rover Responders, the website is www.redrover.org.

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EVENT SCRAPBOOK

This Event Scrapbook page lovingly provided by:

Pet & Animal Enthusiast Leap-for-a-Cure 2nd Annual Bark and Walk for Brain Cancer Radio personality Lucy Chapman agreed to walk “NAKED” at this year’s “K9 Bark and Walk for Brain Cancer,” which took place May 18th at Chalco Hills.

COdy and darbi wardEn, hEaThEr rObErTs, suE rObErTs, liz rayl and MEgan rayl

awwCK!! faiThful vOlunTEErs rObyn siTzMan, PaT hasTings, hOlly CarlsOn, ryannE hasTings, jEan KOErTEn and bETh CarlsOn

awCKK!! angiE grahaM and MiChElE rObErTs wiTh rOyCE

PETCO’s sandy PurCEll and Mary sOThan wiTh raja

Participants were encouraged to bring their dogs and walk the two, four, or six-mile course. Donations totaled $13,500 and every dollar will support the $300,000 StealthMerge upgrade at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center.

Dogs of all shapes, sizes, and ages participated in the ‘K9 Bark and Walk for Brain Cancer’ event and everyone was invited to help make Leap-for-aCure’s “Harlem Shake” video.

Since Leap-for-a-Cure’s inception in July 2008, it has raised close to $500,000 — benefitting brain tumor patients and families seeking care at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center.

Jon and Sue Roberts launched LeapFor-A-Cure when their daughter Heather was diagnosed with the disease in 2008.

The event was family and, of course, dog friendly. Five local canine rescue groups were also on site with adoptable dogs seeking “Forever Homes.” Plans for the 3rd Annual “K9 Bark and Walk for Brain Cancer” are already in the works! For more information visit LeapForACure.org.

Photos by Dan Flanigan

janEllE dEPuydT wiTh jaCK, MElisa rEbariCh wiTh bOOda, MaCKEnziE lEahy wiTh ruCa and jOsh CurTis wiTh bOsCO

ThErEsa MurPhy wiTh saManTha, MaggiE MurPhy wiTh Carli jOinEd by angiE ChuEMan

awCCK!! CurTis lOCKharT wiTh nEvaEh, sarah hEnningsEn wiTh PaTTy and aliCia sari wiTh jEssa

CaThy buTlEr wiTh MaggiE

gETTing ThEir “shaKE” On fOr ThE harlEM shaKE vidEO

ThaT’s luCy ChaPMan walKing naKEd, ThE dOg! awCCKK!! gOTCha!!

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Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets

Be Be a Hero!

Walk for the Animals Sept 29, 2013 8:30 to Noon in the NHS Meadow Don’t just talk the talk, walk the walk. Walk for the Animals is our biggest annual “fun”draiser because anyone can participate. Gather pledges, grab your best friend and enjoy a great morning on our NHS meadow. Fuel up with Pancake Man, peruse Vendor Village and if you raise $500 for the animals you also gain membership into Club 500, with mimosas and special VIP status. Then walk the Keystone Trail on a beautiful fall morning. It is fun and it’s rewarding because every dollar you raise stays right at the shelter to help care for homeless animals. So be a hero to the animals, support Walk for the Animals and make a difference! www.nehumanesociety.org/walk

New Puppy or Kitten?

Check out the NHS Spay & Neuter Center

Becky Noble and Keith Allerton with Stephen Sondheim aka "Steve"

Becky Noble and Keith Allerton If you walk into Becky Noble and Keith Allerton's home, don't expect Steve to get up to greet you. He'll be far too comfortable on the couch to move. He will, however, politely sniff your hand if you proffer it, and then offer a little love bite if it's left in his space too long. "He's come such a long way from the sick little kitten we adopted in 2007," says Becky, "he's become quite robust." Indeed, Steve oozes contentment and clearly knows he's a big part of the family. "Becky grew up with cats," explains Keith, "but I was a dog guy so the cat thing was all new to me." Not for long. Now, all Keith has to do is sit down and Steve will companionably stretch out full length, alongside him. (He saves his love bites for Becky's vocal students.)

Steve's full name is Stephen Sondheim, a fitting name for a pet of this musical/theatrical duo. "The composer means a lot to us," Becky says, "A Little Night Music was the first show Keith and I did together." She adds, "So of course, such an important family member needs a VIP name."

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

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Did you know that NHS has a spay and neuter center to provide pet owners with superior spaying and neutering services? Our goal is to offer our community easily accessible, affordable surgeries. Research shows that spayed and neutered pets are healthier, have fewer behavioral problems and don’t surprise you with unwanted litters. Plus the younger you alter your pet, the more quickly he or she will recover. So put your pup or kitten in our capable hands--our veterinarians have years of experience in pediatric surgeries!

Call 402-905-3490 or online at www.nhsspayneuter.org

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event galleries

scene JUNIOR LEAGUE OF OMAHA HIGH HEEL DASH

OMAHA BEERFEST

NEBRASKA CANCER SUPPORT CATTLEMEN’S BALL

NEBRASKA SHAKESPEARE BACKSTAGE BASH

PARENT PROJECT

OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE AWARDS MNIGHT 2013

OMAHA PRESS CLUB JOAN SQUIRES ROAST

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS ON THE ROAD TO ASPEN

BOY SCOUTS CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Purchase photos from these events online or from your smartphone, and metroMAGAZINE will donate 10% back to that organization.

Join us in giving back! Enter the code “GIVE10” on the checkout page of your shopping cart.

• please remember to trade with our advertisers, whose support helps make our promotion of these important events possible

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eVenT

spotlight

boys and girls club

metroMagazine

HOSTED BY JET LINX

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN FLANIGAN

pack your bags!

ESSENTIALS: Special Guests: Jamie Walker and Denny Walker of JetLinx When It Happened: June 14th Where: JetLinx Aviation Why/How It Happened: After the 50th Birthday Celebration of the Clubs featuring Kool & The Gang in 2012, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands decided to up the ante with their annual spring event ‘On The Road.’ After some creative brainstorming and research, the Clubs created Omaha’s first ever suitcase party where auction winners could be wisked away to a magical destination… while at the event.

Catered by: Catering Creations

WINNERS OF THE ASPEN TRIP AUCTION ON BOARD, READY FOR TAKE-OFF PHOTO COURTESY OF BGCM

Mission: To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, healthy and caring citizens.

Honorary Chairs: Diana & Denny Walker and Haley & Jamie Walker Sponsors/Hosts: JetLinx Aviation (Host), Broadmoor Apartment Communities (New Horizons Sponsor), Annette & Paul Smith (Blue Skies Sponsor), First National Bank (Blue Skies Sponsor) Attendance: 290 Registered Attendees Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands (BGCM) is one of the largest youth service agencies in the Omaha metro area. BGCM helps over 6,216 kids receive the direction and educational support that is vital to their success.

For more information visit www.bgcomaha.org.

YOUTH PERFORMERS FROM THE MT. VIEW BOYS & GIRLS CLUB PHOTO COURTESY OF BGCM

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| on the road to aspen

MARY KENNEY AND KATIE VAP

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

JETLINX AIR HANGAR

WE ARE VERY APPRECIATIVE OF THOSE WHO CAME OUT AND ENCOURAGED OUR YOUTH PERFORMERS AND SUPPORTED OUR EVENT....HELPING CHANGE AND SAVE LIVES IN THIS COMMUNITY...WE CAN NEVER SAY THANKYOU ENOUGH. IT WAS A TREMENDOUS EVENING. ~ IVAN GILREATH President & CeO – BOys & Girls CluBs Of the Midlands

JAMIE AND HALEY WALKER, IVAN GILREATH, DIANA AND DENNY WALKER

THE PRIVATE JET LEFT TWO HOURS INTO THE EVENT

MARY KERR, KIRK SWARTZBAUGH AND TOM KERR

‘THE WIGGLES’ FROM THE WESTSIDE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

HEATHER RUSSELL, SAMANTHA WAHL, L AURA DIMAIO AND SHERRY BOOT-RANKIN

JOHN AND AMY THOMAS WITH LAURIE AND TY FANGMAN

ANDREW AND SAMANTHA WAHL AND IVAN AND RITA GILREATH WITH CHERYL ALEXANDER

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eVenT

spotlight metroMagazine

omaha community playhouse

PLAYHOUSE AWARDS NIGHT 2013

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN FLANIGAN

applause ESSENTIALS:

The Omaha Community Playhouse honored its top volunteers at the annual Awards Night ceremony held Monday evening. Awards Night is a tribute to the thousands of volunteers who contribute their time and talents to OCP. Awards are given for outstanding service in front-of-house areas; in backstage areas involving costuming and technical assistance; and for excellence in performing.

The evening culminated with the presentation of the Fonda/McGuire Award to the male and female actors judged to have given the best performance of the season. The award is named for Henry Fonda and Dorothy McGuire, OCP’s most eminent alumni. The recipients of this award were Susan Baer Collins for her performance as Violet Weston in August: Osage County and Brian Zealand for his performance as Ash in Evil Dead: The Musical.

YOUNG OCP ACTRESSES: LAUREN, BROOKE, EMMA, CLARA, HANNAH-KATE AND GIGI*

The Omaha Community Playhouse is a performing arts organization that enhances quality of life through live theatre, professional touring and arts education. We are dedicated to enriching the lives of audiences and participants through entertainment, thoughtprovoking stores and first-hand involvement.

AWARDS: Fonda/McGuire Award for the most outstanding performance of the season Female: Susan Baer Collins for her performance as Violet Weston in August: Osage County Male: Brian Zealand for his performance as Ash in Evil Dead: The Musical

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Mary Peckham Award for a memorable performance in a feature role Female Musical: Charlotte Hedican for her performance as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz Male Musical: Steve Krambeck for his performance as Emmett Forrest in Legally Blonde Female Play: Moira Mangiameli for her performance as Barbara Fordham in August: Osage County Male Play: Ben Beck for his performance as Jules in boom

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| playhouse awards night

ANNE RISMILLER, CHARLOTTE HEDICAN AND DAVE RISMILLER

MIKA CAPLAN

Barbara Ford Award for outstanding performance in a supporting role Female Musical: Sally Neumann Scamfer for her performance as Miss Almira Gulch/Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz Male Musical: Noah Diaz for his performance as The Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz Female Play: Laura Leininger for her performance as Karen Weston in August: Osage County Male Play: Jim McKain for his performance as Bill Fordham in August: Osage County

LAURA LEININGER

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

JODI VACCARO

Elaine Jabenis Cameo Award for a memorable performance in a small role Female Musical: Jodi Vacarro for her performance as Vivienne Kensington in Legally Blonde Male Musical: Anthony Clark-Kaczmarek for his performance as Coda, the Narrator in All Night Strut!

Female Play: Mika Caplan for her performance as Heidi in Recommended Reading for Girls Male Play: Bill Hutson for his performance as Beverly Weston in August: Osage County Bill Bailey Debut Award for outstanding performance in a first appearance on an OCP Stage Female Winner: Olivia Sather for her performance as Jean Fordham in August: Osage County Male Winner: Jared Dailey for his performance as Padamadan/Carlos in Legally Blonde

NOAH DIAZ

Browse & Buy from over 300 photos from this event!

Trustees’ Award to recognize special distinguished service to the Omaha Community Playhouse Winner: Jim Eisenhardt, OCP Board of Trustees member President’s Award for extraordinary leadership and work for OCP in areas of activities excluding performance or production Winners: Courtney Vacanti Birnstihl, Act II’s 2012-13 president, and Karen Casterline, longtime Box Office volunteer

MOIRA MANGIAMELI

Edward F. Owen Award for corporations, foundations and individuals whose partnership and contribution have nurtured and sustained ongoing development of OCP Winner: The Mammel Foundation Backstage Valuable Service, Out Front Valuable Service and Stage Manager Awards were also presented.

*EDITOR’S NOTE: IT IS OUR POLICY TO RESPECTFULLY WITHHOLD PUBLISHING FULL NAMES OF MINORS

JIM MCKAIN

STEVE KRAMBECK

Our Photo Store has hosted almost 20,000 visitors purchasing from nearly 30,000 event photos! http://metroscene.zenfolio.com/recent.html

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event Galleries

Photography by Dan Flanigan

“Cheers”NORM! parent project muscular dystrophy OMaha Beer fest

Over 3,000 beer lovers attended the third annual Omaha Beer Fest on Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8 at Stinson Park. Attendance supported Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.

The beer fest featured over 200 American craft beers from over 50 different breweries.

MIKE PETRY, KARI RUTHERFORD, WADE RIDOUT WITH TIM AND KAITLIN RADMACHER

JEN AND NEWELL KOCHER WITH ACTOR GEORGE WENDT (NORM FROM “CHEERS”)

Actor/comedian George Wendt, who played the beloved Norm Peterson on the hit television show "Cheers" was at the festival meeting guests and signing his book, "Drinking with George."

The festival was presented by JM Web Designs.

The festival featured a Beer Academy with hourly beer-related sessions, such as a Beer and Bacon pairing and a Nebraska craft beer and local artisan cheese pairing. The big stage featured several local bands, including eNVy on Friday, and The Bishops and Marcos & Sabor on Saturday.

Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy also ran a raffle, giving away pretzel necklaces with raffle ticket purchases.

"eNVy" FEATURING CHRIS SAUB AND NATALIE THOMAS

ROBIN TAYLOR WITH GEORGE WENDT

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For more information visit www.omahabeerfest.com.

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event GALLERIES

Photography by Dan Flanigan

WellHEELED junior league of omaha

HIGH HEEL DASH May 11, 2013

KYLE SMITH, CHALEY CHANDLER, TRACY BORDEN AND KELLY SMITH

KMTV MORNING BLEND MARY NELSON, MIKE DIGIACOMO, KAYLA THOMAS AND CHRIS GALLAGHER

JENNIFER BUDA, ANGELA KROS AND KEATIE TRIPLETT

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event GALLERIES

Photography courtesy of BSA-MAC

GoodSCOUTS boy scouts of america, mid-america council CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

MAURICE COTTON, JEAN EDMONSON AND BRIAN BROWNRIGG

JOHN AND LYNNE BOYER WITH BEVERLY AND HAROLD MAURER

The Boy Scouts of America, Mid-America Council honored Dr. Harold M. Maurer, Chancellor at University of Nebraska Medical Center as the 2012 Citizen of the Year and HDR, Inc. as Corporate Partner of the year on May 6th at the Scott Conference Center, where more than 250 people attended, and where $200,000 was raised.

John and Lynne Boyer were the honorary chairs. Joe and Kacey Lempka were the event chairs. Dr. Maurer is an internationally recognized, award-winning medical scientist who is leading the University of Nebraska Medical Center to new heights with his vision for UNMC to become a world-class academic health sciences center.

HDR is a global employee-owned firm providing architecture, engineering, consulting, construction and related services through various operating companies. HDR has a longstanding relationship with the Mid-America Council.

George Little, HDR Chairman and CEO accepted the award. Richard Bell, former CEO has been on the Council’s board for over 15 years.

MELISSA STRICHERZ, MIKE FAUST AND ERIC MAGENDANTZ

MEMBERS OF THE HDR TEAM WITH GEORGE LITTLE

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For more information visit www.mac-bsa.org

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Photography courtesy of Omaha Press Club

event GALLERIES

Shotsat SQUIRES

omaha press club FACE ON THE BARROOM FLOOR

By Don Summerside Joan Squires faced a formidable trio for the June 3rd roast preceding her installation as the Omaha Press Club’s 137th Face on the Barroom Floor. No, not The Three Tenors. In Joan’s case, they might be tabbed The Three Bosses.

No, not The Three Tenors. In Joan’s case, they might be tabbed The Three Bosses.

Squires, president of Omaha Performing Arts, likened her situation to confronting three Donald Trumps on “The Apprentice.” Throwing barbs and bouquets her way were John Gottschalk, David Slosburg and Dick Holland.

Gottschalk, who also served as master of ceremonies, is chairman of the Omaha Performing Arts board of directors and retired chairman of the Omaha World-Herald. Slosburg is a director of Omaha Performing Arts and vice president of Slosburg Companies. Holland is vice chairman of Omaha Performing Arts and president of the Holland Foundation and lead donor for the Holland Performing Arts Center.

Gottschalk got the roast off to a lively start, recalling how he recruited Squires in 2003 from Phoenix for the Omaha position. Seeking some indication of her financial expertise, Gottschalk said he

DAVID SLOSBURG, JOAN SQUIRES AND JOHN GOTTSCHALK AND DICK HOLLAND (SEATED) asked Squires: “If I were to give you $20,000 minus 14 percent, how much would you take off?” Her reply: “Everything but the earrings!”

Slosburg used visual aids to augment his comments, donning a blonde wig while impersonating the Squires laugh and placing a crown upon Joan’s head as “the Queen of the Scene.”

In response to her roasters, Squires said: “I hope I have a job when this is over.”

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Gottschalk noted that the Holland Performing Arts Center and Orpheum Theater constitute the top ticket-selling venues in the nation for their size and that Squires and Omaha Performing Arts have never missed a budget. “To her I will be eternally grateful for her leadership and professionalism,” he added.

For more information visit www.omahapressclub.org.

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Photography by Roger Humphries

event GALLERIES

Backstagewith theBARD nebraska shakespeare BACKSTAGE BASH

NELLIE SUDAVICUS, DALL ING, TINA SCHEER AND JEFF MICHAEL

AUCTION TABLE

Nebraska Shakespeare hosted its annual fundraiser on Thursday, June 6th, treating over 200 guests to a sneak peek behind the scenes.

The evening featured professional cast members performing Two Minute versions of five of Shakespeare’s plays. As preview of the 2013 Shakespeare On The Green seasons, Twelfth Night and Titus Andronicus were included in the fast-paced performances. This original, comedic production, entertained guests with its shenanigans and witticisms. The event sponsors were Omaha Steaks, SAC Frederal Credit Union and Big Muddy Workshop.

Proceeds raised through Backstage Bash make it possible for Nebraska Shakespeare to continue staging admission-free Shakespeare On The Green productions. The 2013 season features admission – free performances of Titus Andronicus and Twelfth Night and opens June 20 in Elmwood Park. Last June, Nebraska Shakespeare celebrated the 400,000th admission-free Shakespeare On the Green attendee. In addition, funds raised help support year-round educational programming such as Camp Shakespeare for youths 8-18.

KAY FRIESEN, MARK AND MARY LOU BRASEE AND ERIN OWEN

C.K. DURYEA, JENNIFER ARNOLD, ANNETTE GILNER AND JAN MCKENZIE

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For more information visit www.nebraskashakespeare.com.

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Photography courtesy of The Cattlemen’s Ball

event GALLERIES

HappyTRAILS the cattlemen’s ball NEBRASKA CANCER SUPPORT

While The Cattlemen’s Ball won’t know how much money was raised at this year’s event for a couple of months, what is known is that a sellout crowd of 3,000 attended, when the event took place June 7-8 on the Hanging H Ranch on U.S. Highway 30 east of Paxton, Neb. MIKE YANNEY

DUANE AND PHYLLIS ACKLIE

The event was co-hosted by the Ralph and Beverly Holzfaster family and the Neal Hansen family.

The Cattlemen's Ball is the state's premier fundraiser for the fight against cancer, with all the funds raised staying in Nebraska.

The organization is a longtime supporter of the UNMC Eppley Cancer Center. This year's theme was "On the Trail to a Cure."

For more information visit http://cattlemensball.com.

MIKE AND MANDI FLOOD

DR. KEN COWAN, JON HOLZFASTER AND DR. COWAN’S WIFE, DR. ALISON FREIFELD

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event GALLERIES

Photography courtesy of DVC

ACurefor VIOLENCE

domestic violence council

AnnUAl AwARDS BReAkfAST

JUDGE SHAUN FLOERKE, KEYNOTE

DAVE PANTOS, NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY RECIPIENTS AND TARA MUIR

More than 125 people attended the DVC’s Annual Awards breakfast on May 1st at the Thompson Alumni Center UNO. Each year the DVC recognizes up to three individuals, businesses, corporations or non-profit entities that have acted as a voice of compassion for victims of domestic violence with our Purple Ribbon Award. This year’s recipients are, ConAgra Foods, Julie Rannels, a 25-year volunteer with the Women’s Center for Advancement, and Nebraska Humane Society’s Project Safe Pet. Serese Cole of WOWT served as Mistress of Ceremonies. Over $14,000 was raised.

Keynote presenter was Judge Shaun Floerke, Chief Judge of the 6th Judicial District of Minnesota, chambered in Duluth. Judge Floerke trains judges on domestic violence issues nationally with the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges and Futures Without Violence and also with the Duluth Domestic Abuse Intervention Project. Judge Floerke also presented training to better identify and understand the complex reasons a victim might choose to remain in or return to an abusive relationship.

SERESE COLE WITH WOWT

DAVE PANTOS, CONAGRA FOODS RECIPIENTS AND TARA MUIR

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For more information visit www.dvcomaha.org

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event GALLERIES

Photography by Dan flanigan

SugarDADDIES american diabetes association FATHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS GALA

When It Happened: Thursday, June 13th Where: Hilton Omaha

DR. ALLEN AND PAULETTE THOMSEN

JEANINE HACHTEN AND IVEL AND JOHN REED WITH KAREN AND DOUG RILEY

Why: To identify and honor fathers who have demonstrated the ability to balance their personal lives, to serve as a role model for their children, and to help make a positive difference in their community and to raise funds from the Father of the Year Awards Dinners to benefit the American Diabetes Association.

Chairs: Drs. Scott and Amy Neumeister, Hal & Mary Daub Mission: Founded in 1940, the Association has been funding innovative diabetes research since 1955. Through our Nationwide Research Program, we are working to find the cure for diabetes and prevent its many health problems.

The Association fights on behalf of the diabetes community to increase federal funding for diabetes research and programs, improve comprehensive health care and insurance coverage, and end discrimination against people with diabetes.

NICK TOMEK WITH DEBBIE AND CHUCK TOMEK

BOB PASSMORE AND BRENDA DAUEL WITH MARCIA DEFREECE AND KAYE PASSMORE

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For more information visit www. diabetes.org.

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event GALLERIES

Photography courtesy of Oni

FORESight outlook nebraska, inc.

10TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

I want to thank all of the sponsors, volunteers and participants for making this year’s tournament possible.

Everything, including our first-ever blind golf academy, was a huge success.

“

”

~ ERIC STUECKRATH, ONI CEO

ONI’s golf tournament took place on Thursday, June 6th at Indian Creek Golf Course.

Proceeds from the tournament will help support the ongoing funding needs of Camp Abilities Nebraska, a week-long sports camp developed to help blind children grow their self-confidence and independence. The day's activities included a blind putting contest and a Blind Academy, which allowed blind and visually impaired youth and adults the opportunity to learn some putting, chipping and general golf rules. There were approximately 180 golfers and six individuals who participated in the blind golf academy.

JAMES HARVEY

Established in 2000, ONI provides employment and workplace training to the blind and visually impaired in a converting operation that supplies a full line of 100 percent recycled fiber content tissue and towel products to the U.S. Government and other customers. The largest employer of the blind and visually impaired in Nebraska and the only agency of its kind in a seven-state region, ONI (www.outlooknebraska.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/outlooknebraska), provides additional services for its associates, including social activities, education, training and health and wellness programs.

JOHN WICK

For more information, visit www.outlooknebraska.org.

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metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

nonprofit news

project presents an opportunity “this to bring together diverse things –

keystrokes

human body, plants, animals, patterns, colors, ad infinitum.”

play me, i’m yours

~ ARTIST BOB BOSCO

STREET PIANO PROJECT an international, interactive public art project soon will hit omaha’s streets, produced by omaha creative institute. play me, i’m yours seeks to empower, strengthen, and inspire community residents through the arts.

it started in the UNITED KINGDOM WITH LUKE JERRAM. BY NOW, PLAY ME, I’M YOURS HAS LEFT ITS MARK ON CITIES ACROSS THE GLOBE FROM BIRMINGHAM TO BARCELONA, NEW YORK CITY, PERTH, AUSTIN, AND MANY MORE. The project brings community members together and functions as an interesting social experiment, all while bringing the joys of visual and audible arts to the public.

“This idea was brought to us more than 18 months ago by Jim Boston of the Great Plains Ragtime Society,” said Susan Thomas, executive director of Omaha Creative Institute. “He knew about the piano project being done in a lot of cities, but he sought our collaborative efforts and thought maybe we could run with this. We started talking to people who had seen it in other cities, and we decided to explore the level of interest in Omaha – and here we are!”

From Saturday, Aug. 24 through Sunday, Sep. 8, local residents and visitors alike will have access to 10 pianos that were designed and decorated by area artists, as facilitated by Omaha Creative Institute.

Passersby will become integral parts of the project as they play whatever they like on the pianos – which will be placed throughout Omaha and Council Bluffs.

Area artists representing organizations such as Creighton University, University of Nebraska Omaha, Metropolitan Community College, and Bellevue University were hard at work this summer.

Collaboration between nonprofits and artists proved fruitful, as artist Paula Wallace described.

Wallace felt she had the perfect template for her partnership with Opera Omaha, which will feature “Cinderella” as part of its upcoming season, so she designed a piano to fit that theme.

“I had a small window to complete the project, which can turn art-making into a challenge,” said Wallace. “Because I have a studio in the collaborative environment of Hot Shops Art Center, there are

resources available – so I put together my art-making team, including Chris Kemp, Diane Mattern, Mel Smith, and others.”

Other partnering nonprofits in Omaha Creative Institute’s production include Joslyn Art Museum, Union for Contemporary Art, Nebraska Writers’ Collective, Council Bluffs Public Art Commission, and Hot Shops Art Center.

“The teens in our Alternative Art camp will be designing the Joslyn piano, and it really is the perfect project,” said Nancy Round, Joslyn’s director of education and outreach.

Talented artists like Eric Luchian, Lori Elliott-Bartle, Marcia Joffe-Bouska, and Bill Hoover put their personal spin on the pianos; each one uniquely features a particular creative approach. From bold, neon colors to trompe l’oeil to hot wax paint, the exceptional efforts resulted in beautiful pianos for everyone to celebrate.

“I always enjoy encountering and experiencing the arts in unexpected and atypical situations – especially when it involves public interaction,” said artist Joffe-Bouska.

Pianos will be available for the public to view and play during daylight hours in the following locations: • • • • • • • • • •

Council Bluffs Bayliss Park Omaha 24th and L Streets Lewis and Clark Landing 14th and Douglas Streets Florence Park Memorial Park Fontenelle Forest And more

IN TIMES SQUARE: PLAY ME, I’M YOURS CREATOR LUKE JERRAM

“This project presents an opportunity to bring together diverse things – human body, plants, animals, patterns, colors, ad infinitum – while relating the piano imagery with the immediate surroundings,” said artist Bob Bosco.

Play Me, I’m Yours Omaha is sponsored by: Carol Gendler, Tom and Mary Jetton Charitable Foundation, Robert B. Daugherty Charitable Foundation, Iowa West Foundation, Paul and Annette Smith, Alfred G. Thomsen Company Foundation, Nebraska Arts Council; and members of Omaha Creative Institute’s board.

For more information on Play Me, I’m Yours, see www.omahapianos.com or visit the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Play-Me-ImYours-Omaha/142140785952272.

STORY BY BECKY HAYWORTH | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OCI

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nonprofit news

back on track walmart’s STEAM TEAM

at this year’s nebraska children’s home society’s sand in the city® competition, the walmart team, led by tim malik, repeated history by once again taking home the coveted people’s choice award.

for a second straight year, AMONG THE MANY ELABORATE AND CREATIVE APPROACHES TO THE NEBRASKA CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY SAND IN THE CITY® FUNDRAISER, THE IRVINGTON WALMART TEAM WAS THE PUBLIC’S FAVORITE. Led by Tim Malik, the Walmart staff in Irvington, strongly believes in volunteering at NCHS as well as encouraging others to do the same.

“We work pretty closely with the Nebraska Children’s Home Society, they are located in the same community as we are” Malik shared.

“It’s a good way for associates to give back to the community” he said. His voice warms as he acknowledges that by helping others, his team has also come together in unexpected ways.

NCH STAFF TRACY FISHER, JEN BARTELT, BRIAN OSBORNE, KALI JOHNSON AND KATHLEEN AL-MARHOON

With twenty teams competing this year, Walmart’s team design had to hold special meaning to stand apart. Wildly different from last year’s design of a hand holding a smartphone while taking a photo, the Walmart team designed a sand sculpture of Thomas the Tank Engine complete with railroad tracks.

The idea was just the beginning. Malik’s voice grew excited as he explained the creation process.

Once a design was selected, his team worked with a designer. This year, UNO Architectural Engineering student, EJ Ejorling, assisted with making sure sculpture details fell within the competition guidelines. From there, the team of 25 was given one day as a practice run before it was on to competition. With 15 tons of sand and quite a bit of water, the Walmart team began building the moment the horn blew at 10 am on Friday, June 7, and continued building until 4 pm that day.

for the remainder of the weekend. Online voting continued through June 14. According to their Facebook page, Nebraska Children’s Home Society raised over $100,000 to support Nebraska’s children and families. This was their 10th Annual Sand in the City competition which took place at the CenturyLink Center Omaha in Lot G.

According to Malik, “we have a lot of associates throughout the team that have kids. A few of us just had the same idea of ‘Thomas’”.

Community Support After the competition and professional judging had wrapped up, the event area remained open as well as free to the public

“Absolutely. My associates were already talking at the end of the day of competition about designs for next year.”

“It helps build teamwork throughout the store.

It gives us a chance to work together other than the daily routine.”

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Focused on the Future With a title to defend, Malik doesn’t even hesitate when he’s asked if he plans on participating in next year’s competition.

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event GALLERIES

Photography by Dan Flanigan

metroMAGAZINE • The Spirit of Omaha

STORY BY ALLISON JANDA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN FLANIGAN FOR METROMAGAZINE

MAHA

it’s a good way for associates to give back to the community.… it helps build teamwork throughout the store.

otos h p 0 2 1 r e v o view nt at from this eve .com a SpiritofOmah MAHA

~ TIM MALIK SITC TEAM LEAD, WALMART

WALMART’S STEAM TEAM

sand castles NEBRASKA CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY SAND IN THE CITY® Nebraska Children's Home Society's Sand in the City event, held the weekend of June 8th in CenturyLink Center Lot G, brought together 20 corporate & community group teams who worked with 11 master sand sculptors, and local architects & engineers to build 15-ton sand sculptures. More than 200 volunteers ensured families enjoyed a weekend filled with fun, child-friendly activities. Spectators watched as 11 master sand sculptors carved a 60-ton "NCHS's 120th Anniversary" themed birthday cake sculpture complete with images representing the joys of a child. Local acts performed on the main stage, while guests cast their vote for the favorite sculpture in the “People’s Choice” award. .

1ST PLACE – KIEWIT ENGINEERING CO.

Local teams competing include Avenue Scholars, ConAgra Foods, Creighton University, First National Bank, Gallup, Gavilon/Opus Group, Grace University, HDR Inc./Nebraska Humane Society, Hilton Omaha/MECA, Kiewit Engineering Co., Kiewit Underground District, Leo A Daly/SAC Federal Credit Union, LinkedIn, Lund Company/Olsson Associates, Millard Rotary, Sheppard’s Business Interiors, Travel and Transport, TSYS Merchant Solutions, Walmart and West Corp./Big Brothers Big Sisters.

2ND PLACE – TSYS MERCHANT SOLUTIONS

The 10th annual event raised awareness and funds for children and families served through Nebraska Children’s Home Society's. NCHS serves through statewide pregnancy, parenting and adoption services, foster care, early childhood education, one-on-one support to teens and young parents, and neighborhood-based outreach. It's mission is to provide safe and loving care to children of all ages.

3RD PLACE – MILLARD ROTARY

ROOKIE TEAM – CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

thirteen years ago, i was blessed with the gift of my son through adoption services provided by NCHS. ~ PATRICIA KORALESKI

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save the date August 1

August 3

POOR SISTERS OF ST. CLARE GALA DINNER & AUCTION Monastery Fund for the Poor Sisters of St. Clare

RIVERFRONT WINE FESTIVAL Corkscrew Wine & Cheese and Gorges Volvo

Creighton Prep in the Sullivan Center - 7400 Western Avenue Join us for a lovely evening at the 2013 GALA (Giving A Legacy for All). Social Hour begins at 6:00pm and the Italian dinner begins at 7:00pm followed by the Oral Auction. Todd Andrews is the Master of Ceremonies and Archbishop George Lucas will be with us to give his blessings. Special guest artist, Mike Debus, will be present to do two performance paintings to be auctioned at the GALA. All the proceeds will go towards the completion of the new Franciscan Monastery of St. Clare by Mount Michael.

For reservations or more information please call 402-690-4363 or visit www.omahapoorclare.org.

Stinson Park at Aksarben Village 67th and Center Streets | Omaha | 3 pm – 8 pm It's the 5th Annual RIVERFRONT WINE FESTIVAL! Hundreds of wines from around the world, Wine Academy sessions, live music, VIP Lounge, food vendors and more! All General Admission tickets are good for a day of sampling and include a Riedel glass, 10 one ounce samples of wine, and access to the hourly Wine Academy sessions. There will be hundreds of wines from around the world to sample. The Wine Academy sessions will include tastings and food pairings, all included with your general admission ticket. There will be live music, and food vendors will be available. You must be 21+ with a valid ID to enter. Designated Driver tickets will be available at the door for $10. No outside food or drink allowed (exception: water bottles). No pets, please. Your attendance supports Junior League of Omaha's literacy program, A Book of My Own. Cost: $35 General Admission, $60 VIP (at door price) More information: 402-850-6776 | www.riverfrontwinefestival.com

August 2 STRIKE A CORD Heartland Family Service Council Bluffs | 6 pm – 1 pm Strike A Chord is an annual dueling pianos event, enlivened each year with a different theme and a totally unique celebrity art auction. The evening begins calmly with soft piano stylings. Guests enjoy several different stations of themed food and drink while they peruse silent auction items and buy votes for their favorite celebrity artwork. The People’s choice award begins the live auction for the most coveted items. Then the dueling pianists crown the evening with lively song and the crowd takes the dance floor! Cost: Corporate Table Sponsor: 850, Contributing Sponsor 400, Individual Patron 75 More information: 712-435-5600 | www.heartlandfamilyservice.org

August 3 BEER AND BACON FESTIVAL Omaha Jaycees and Ronald McDonald House Old Mattress Factory Beer and Bacon, what more could you ask for! The First Annual Beer and Bacon Festival will tempt your taste buds for a good cause. The festival, organized by the Omaha Jaycees in cooperation with the Old Mattress Factory, will be comprised of a bacon competition with participants providing samplings of delicious bacon-themed dishes. Various craft breweries will also be handing out samples of hand crafted beer. The event benefits The Ronald McDonald House.

More information: www.omahabeerandbacon.com

UPCOMING

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

event spotlight

August 29 ANNUAL LAKESIDE PAWTY & FUNDRAISER Hearts United for Animals Regency Lake & Tennis Club More information: 402-616-5002

Hearts United for Animals is a national no-kill shelter and sanctuary dedicated to the relief of suffering. The Annual Lakeside Pawty & Fundraiser is a great way to help benefit the over 400 dogs in the care of Hearts United and assist with future puppy mill rescues, the emergency medical care program for pets of low income families, spay/neuter programs, as well as Tia’s Place, a refuge for pets of families fleeing domestic violence. To learn more visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/heartsunitedforanimals.

FEATURING Cost: $50 • Buffet catered by Catering Creations • Open Bar • Silent Auction with Fabulous Items •

Dress is casual, the pawty will be indoors with a covered outdoor deck area, so rain or shine we'll have a dog gone good time!

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August 10

August 17

DANCE FOR A CHANCE YouthEmergencyServices

SUMMER BASH FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER Metro Area Youth Foundation, Inc.

Slowdown | Omaha | 6:30 pm – 10 pm Local celebrities will strut their stuff on the dance floor to raise money and awareness for hundreds of homeless youth in the Omaha metro. Dance for a Chance is a competition similar to the show "Dancing with the Stars." Contestants are paired with dance instructors to perform a short routine in front of celebrity judges and attendees. Funds raised through voting, ticket sales, silent auction and raffle benefit the youth and programs at YES. Cost: $50 In advance | $60 At the door More information: (402) 345-5187 ext. 105 | www.yesomaha.org

Tip Top Ballroom | 1502 Cuming Street | Omaha | 5:30 pm – 9 pm Summer Bash for Childhood Cancer is a fundraiser presented by the Metro Area Youth Foundation, Inc. The event raises funds to assist families being treated at local hospitals for childhood cancer. Funds are distributed to families needing help covering regular living expenses and exceptional expenses related to the care of their child. Funds are also donated to other local organizations supporting these families.

The fundraiser includes dinner, silent and live auctions and various raffles. Cost: $50/person More information: 402-871-6246 | www.summerbashforccc.org

August 10

August 17

2013 JDRF WALK TO CURE DIABETES JDRF Lewis & Clark Landing | Omaha The annual JDRF Walk To Cure Diabetes is a family-friendly event that includes face painting, clowns, bands, food and drink, and all kinds of fun entertainment! The T1D 5K Dash begins at 7:30 AM, and the Walk begins at 9:00 AM. Join us to run or walk to raise funds that support T1D Research! Cost: Free More information: 402-397-2873 | www.jdrf.org

August 10 ASSISTANCE LEAGUE "CRUISE FOR THE KIDS" Assistance League of Omaha Dillons Harley-Davidson | 173 & Maple | Omaha | 9 am Cost: $25 donation More information: www.alomaha.org

OMAHA WALK TO DEFEAT ALS The ALS Association- Keith Worthington Chapter Werner Park | 12356 Ballpark Way | Omaha, NE | 9 am – 12 pm Anyone and everyone can become part of the fight against ALS by joining the local Omaha Walk to Defeat ALS®. All Walk routes are wheelchair accessible and Walk Day activities include something for all ages! There is NO FEE to participate in the Walk to Defeat ALS®. Walk participants contribute to local patient service programs and internationally-driven ALS research by raising donations through a variety of fundraising methods. Walk participants can raise anywhere from $100 to $100,000 dollars - the sky is the limit! Cost: Free More information: 402-991-8788 | http://webkwc.alsa.org

August 17 MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY CARNIVAL EVENT Muscular Dystrophy Association

August 11

Ranch View Estate Neighborhood 1209 Ranch View Lane | Elkhorn | 6 pm – 10 pm Additional parking can be found at Elkhorn Valley View Middle School, South of 208th & Pacific Street.

Bus transportation by Teenie Weenie Buses can take you to and from the event. Live music by the popular cover band - High Heel, a mechanical bull, NE husker players signing autographs, live animals

by Soby Ranch, Hot Air Balloon rides by Scenic Wind Balloon Tours, unforgettable beats by M.E.M.O.I.R.E. Music, magic by the Gregory Wayne and Joe Brogie, Tom Jensen balloon artist, face painting, motorcycle rides by Elkhorn Valley Harley Group, carnival games and more!! Food will be available for the first 500 people. Plus, first 100 children receive a cowboy/cowgirl hat! Check out more information at www.LimeLightExpressions.com/MDA2013 Cost: Free More information: 402-915-3534 | www.LimeLightExpressions.com/MDA2013

BACON FEST OMAHA The Salvation Army Kroc Center 2825 Y Street | Omaha | 1 pm – 6 pm Cost: General Admission Tickets

August 16 – 24 6TH ANNUAL MUSICAL REVUE GALA AND EVENT Children's Respite Care Center | 6 pm CRCC will present a Broadway Musical Revue -A Dinner and Music Show Experience. There will be Cocktail reception, Dinner and Show Performance. Cost: $35-250 More information: 402-895-4000 | www.crccomaha.org

ESERVE R YOUR SPACE NOW! CALL 402.932.3522 EXT. 103 TO RESERVE SPACE FOR YOUR NON PROFIT OR BUSINESS PROFILE

ed the acknowledg

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or email sales@spiritofomaha.com

ses ties & Busines of Area Chari

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metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

August 19 - 8/24

August 24

OMAHA FASHION WEEK Fashion Institute Midwest

GREAT NEBRASKA BEERFEST Nebraska Brewing Company Nebraska Craft Brewers Guild

Captiol District | Omaha

August 23 BOX OFFICE BASH 2013 Omaha Performing Arts Omaha | 6 pm Box Office Bash 2013 is a fundraising event hosted by the volunteer guild, THE PRESENTERS, in support of Omaha Performing Arts. The event offers an evening of buffet dining, a live auction and raffle, dancing, and live entertainment. The Box Office Bash will celebrate the 2013/2014 Broadway Season.

Cost: $125 per person More information: 402-661-8454 | www.OmahaPerformingarts.org

August 24 ANGELS FOR ANGELS CELEBRATION Madonna School & Workshop Mutual of Omaha Dome 3301 Dodge Street | Omaha | 5:30 pm – 9:45 pm The Angels for Angels Celebration is the major dinner/auction fundraiser benefiting Madonna School & Workshop. This year's event, "Working Wonders" will highlight the 30th anniversary year of the madonna Workshop. Madonna serves children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Cost: $125 per ticket More information: 402-556-1883 | http://madonnaschool.org

August 24 15TH ANNUAL TED E. BEAR HOLLOW 5k Run & Remembrance Walk Outback Steakhouse 7605 Cass Street | Omaha | 8:00 am – 10:30 am What has become one of the longest "running" events in the Omaha area, the 15th Annual 5k Run & Remembrance Walk is an event for the entire family. Held at Outback Steakhouse, 7605 Cass St., the run and remembrance walk is an opportunity to remember those special people in life that have died. With both individual and group registration prices, this is an event for individuals and families alike. Run to give back to a great cause or walk as a large group in honor of a special person. You choose. All registrants receive great Outback Steakhouse food. Cost: $35 for individuals, 65 for groups (see website for details) More information: 402-502-2773 | www.tedebearhollow.org

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Shadow Lake Town Ctr | 72nd and Hwy 370 The Great Nebraska Beerfest is held every August at Shadow Lake Towne Center Mall and is hosted by Nebraska Brewing Company. This summer is our 5th year and if our past years growth is any indication, we expect over 80 breweries (400+ beers) and 3,500 people.

More information: Angela Arp angela@nebraskabrewingco.com

September 7 JEWELS OF AUTUMN Alegent Creighton Health Alegent Creighton Health Lakeside Hospital | 168th & Center | Omaha An annual event to raise money for special projects at Lakeside Hospital. Event includes food, drinks, silent and live auctions. Cost: $TBA More information: 402-717-8182 | www.AlegentCreighton.com

September 7 ZOOFARI 2013 Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium 3701 South 10th St. | Omaha Join Event Chairs Gerry and Bruce Lauritzen and Honorary Chairs Suzanne and Walter Scott to celebrate Zoofari 2013 on Saturday, September 7, 2013. Nebraska’s premier fundraising event will once again take place across from the Zoo’s main campus near Rosenblatt Stadium’s former footprint but--for the first time in the event’s history–guests will celebrate on a Saturday night. Zoofari attendees will enjoy unparalleled silent and live auctions as well as entertainment and first-class fun in support of the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Cost: $150 per ticket

September 12 TAILGATE ALS in the Heartland Shops of Legacy 168th and West Center Road | Omaha Join ALS in the Heartland at the Shops of Legacy for the tailgate of the year! Walk, shop, and tailgate all while raising funds and awareness for ALS patients in Nebraska and western Iowa.

More information: 402-592-2374 | www.alsintheheartland.org

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY ©LAURIE AND CHARLES

outtakes

SHOOTING THE COVER

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alh p u b l i c a t i o n s

inform • educate • inspire P.O. Box 241611 • Omaha, NE 68124

PrEsOrtEd staNdard U.s. POstagE

Paid Omaha, NE PErmit NO. 2013