metroMAGAZINE's December 2011 Issue

season’s reetings SpiritofOmaha.com • dec 2011

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features / DEPARTMENTS

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

features

events

cover STORY

10

TOUCH 10 LIGHT dick holland shares his story

29 46

the metroSCENE SAVE THE DATE

business MAKING A DIFFERENCE

26

NOW THAT’S ITALIAN! santa lucia: a night in sicily

knowing

14

nonprofits

metroSHOPPER

20

HEY, MR. JIM! the salvation army

TOP HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS holiday shopping guide

online at SpiritofOmaha.com

14

• •

DECEMBER HOROSCOPES with sue moon

THE SOUL’S JOURNEY with dixie clark

departments

28

LOOK WHO’S SHELTERING nebraska humane society

on the cover SARA SCHNACKEL model

bravo!

17

honoring our local

LAURIE AND CHARLES

PUTTIN’ ON THE WEITZ

Photography

opera omaha welcomes roger weitz

BUNGALOW 8 Hair and Makeup:

17 51

6

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

metro The Spirit of Omaha

DECEMBER 2011 • VOL. 23 NO. 12 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.O. BOX 241611, OMAHA, NE 68124 or e-mailed to: Editor@SpiritofOmaha.com

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Staff Photographers

Andrea L. Hoig

Daniel Flanigan Ariel Fried Cindy Grady Dave Stock Caroline Thompson

Senior Editor/ Creative Director

Robert P. Killmer Account Executives

Contributors

Katie Fourney Dawn Pieke

Scarlett Blake Dixie Clark Shelby Craw Molly Garriott Sue Moon Ashley Rosonke David Williams

Administration

Francesca Peterson Web Content Manager

Megan Olson

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

OFFICE/SALES

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

Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by ALH Publications, Inc. in their entirety. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 1990 – 2011 ALH Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

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feature STORY

DICK HOLLAND

DICK HOLLAND WITH HIS DAUGHTERS ANDY HOLLAND AND BARB KARL

JOHN GOTTSCHALK, MIKE KLUG AND MIKE YANNEY

is hardly going on a press junket for the release of his autobiography, “Truth and Other Tall Tales.” In fact, he wrote the book only at the repeated urging of his friends, JOHN CAVANAUGH AND MIKE YANNEY. “I never thought [my life] was worthy of an autobiography,” admits Holland.

Reluctance aside, is he glad he undertook the literary adventure?

“Ya,” he replies half-heartedly. “I’m still sort of wondering if I did the right thing.”

His mood changes sharply when asked if he expects a best seller.

He responds with a quick, and emphatic, “No.” “I’m amazed that 100 people are coming to the book launch,” he laughs self-deprecatingly. “That’s 95 too many.”

But gather they did on November 9th at, appropriately enough, the Holland Center for Performing Arts.

It is no surprise that Holland presents a fun romp through some pivotal episodes of his life.

In addition to being one of the city’s leading philanthropists, Holland was a well-known advertising executive for over 40 years, a writer as well as a visualizer, he maintains.

He wanted his autobiography to be different from books of a similar ilk.

High on his list was to avoid at all costs a “recitation of accomplishments,” a trap that other autobiographies fall into. So he opted for a lighter, comedic tone. Holland thought it would be more fun to write and hopefully more engaging to read if he didn’t take himself too earnestly.

dick holland, philanthropist and retired advertising executive, has written a witty account of his life growing up, studying, and working in omaha

light touch.

D I C K

H O L L A N D ’ S

STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA L. “ANDY” HOIG

10

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

S T O R Y

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha “If I was serious, it would be boring. It wouldn’t be any good without being funny,â€? he maintains. “The last thing I wanted to be was a big bore.â€?

The book is episodic with each chapter divided into what Holland calls “happenings, both pleasant and unpleasant.� It reads like a warm and witty conversation between friends.

Much of the book’s content is a transcript of Holland free-associating about the various events and escapades of his life. His writers added historical context, for instance, about the city at the time of Holland’s birth and background family history.

Though it is not meant to cover the entirety of Holland’s life, he does admit that he thought of at least a half dozen other stories he could have included in the collection after the book was completed. “People who know me will enjoy at least part of it,� he asserts. There are tales of his growing up on Pine Street just south of Dundee during the Great Depression, of his service in World War II, and his post-war studies at Omaha U. Included is his career at his advertising agency Holland, Dreves and Reilly Advertising, and his lonesome stand as an out-spoken, liberal democrat in a very red state.

He laughs when he (proudly) recalls how his fellow Omaha Country Club members dubbed him (lovingly, he is sure) “a country club pinko.�

But while he takes his family, his causes, and his politics seriously, he does not take himself seriously.

Which makes Truth and Tall Tales so much fun. “I hope it’s enjoyable,� the selfeffacing Holland confides. “I really hope it’s not a best seller. This whole thing is nutty.� m

BOOK COVER ARTIST TOM KERR WITH WIFE MARY

JAMES M. JOHNSON AND THOMAS WILKINS Additional photos on following page

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light touch.

D I C K

H O L L A N D

MIKE AND ANN BOYLE WITH BARBARA AND MARSHALL KUSHNER

GAIL YANNEY AND GERRY LAURITZEN

B O O K

L A U N C H

ROGER WEITZ AND JOAN SQUIRES

DEB DENBECK, BETH SMITH AND HARRIETT OTIS

GLORIA DUNBAR, MARIAN LEARY AND KAREN DRICKEY

MAYOR JIM SUTTLE AND FATHER GEORGE SULLIVAN S.J

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feature STORY

“IF I WASN’T

here I’d probably just be at home being bored,” explained Virgil Smith.

“We learn to make good decisions here. I choose this over gangs.”

The Central High School junior is just one of an increasing number of older kids who participate in the Salvation Army’s North Corps Community Center After School Program at the nonprofit’s facility at 24th and Pratt streets.

An instructional basketball program launched by Program Director Jim Sells is just one of the draws that has accounted for a 30 percent increase in attendance since the Fort Dodge, Iowa native became the center’s leader in May. The after school program serves students pre-K through high school.

“Jim has an incredible rapport with the kids,” said Major Barbara Shiels, the Salvation Army’s divisional director of older adult ministries. “All the kids sign in at the door, but their arrival isn’t really complete until they check in with Jim and give him a high five or a hug. He’s making a huge difference in the lives of our kids and has initiated some truly innovative community efforts.”

A recent visit to the free after school program found the building echoing with laughter in a hardscrabble neighborhood where opportunities for brevity are often all too rare.

growing with the salvation army after school program

“hey

mr. jim!”

STORY BY DAVID WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE SALVATION ARMY 14

“Right now I’m just trying to get them all tired out so we can feed them,” said Sells as we began a tour above the din of cheers and bouncing basketballs. “This is the last food that many of these kids will have today, so it’s important that dinner is a quieter time.”

The arts and crafts room was an explosion of vibrant creativity as crayons met paper before a chorus of “Aw, do we have to” pleas arose as dinner was announced.

Calls of “Hey Mr. Jim” and “Look over here Mr. Jim” rang out as joysticks clattered in the game room.

Screens were paused so kids could be ushered into the gym for that day’s menu of mac and cheese, ham and a selection of side dishes from the kitchen that served almost 6,000 hot meals in 2010.

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha “One of the things I’m working on is to get parents to come eat with the kids,” explained the 29-year-old graduate of New York City’s St. John’s University.

“

Jim has an incredible rapport with the kids.

He’s making a huge difference in [their] lives.

~ MAJOR BARBARA SHIELS

”

DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR

“That’s what families do,” Sells added.

“They eat together. They come together at a table. Work schedules and other things make that hard to do for many of our families, but I want my kids (he calls all the participants “my kids”) to have the same experience that so many of us take for granted.”

Adult outreach goes beyond an invitation to the table. The center’s adult program serves over 100 meals every weekday, but Sells aims to offer additional lures to attract more grown-ups from the neighborhood.

“I’m inviting adults into our computer lab,” he said of the facility equipped with a dozen stations, several of them new due to his fundraising efforts.

“It’s hard to get a job if you’re not computer literate.” It’s even harder to get a job, he added, if you don’t know how to put together a resume.

“Hey Cornell, how ya doin’” chirped Sells to one of the younger kids.

“You’re going to play flag football with us again next season, right?”

It was a throwaway question. Sells already knew the answer. The bright-eyed Lothrop Elementary School secondgrader had worn his football cleats to bed last fall the night before kicking off his introduction to organized sports in the league that is yet another Sells innovation.

“I love coming here to play football and basketball” beamed the boy sporting a faux-hawk who wants to become a policeman, “but my mom likes Mr. Jim because he helps me with my homework.” m

A D ONATION ON BEHALF OF YOUR D ONATION.

Open a new charitable account by December 15, and we’ll match 10% of your donation, up to $1,000.

Thanks to Carl Mammel and Bill March, whose generous support made this incentive possible.

Let good grow.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (402) 342-3458 OR VISIT WWW.OMAHAFOUNDATION.ORG.

Margaret Block k,, M.D. M. Salman Haroon, M.D. Ralph J. Hauke, M.D. Robert M. Langdon, Jrr.,., M.D. Kirsten M. Leu, M.D.

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Yungpo Bernard Su , M.D. Stefano R. T Tar arantolo, M.D. Stephan D. Thomé, M.D. Peter M. To Townley, M.D.

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West Dodge Medical Plaza (402) 445-8010 Pluss, Fremont and West Point (402) 941-7030

NATIVE SON ROGER WEITZ ASSUMES THE ROLE OF

celebrating the arts

OPERA OMAHA GENERAL DIRECTOR omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

puttin’ on the weitz

Opera Omaha welcOmes rOger weitz STORY BY LEO A. BIGA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY HOIG

Roger Weitz is back home.

The native son assumed the role of Opera Omaha general director last summer following a long stint as Chicago Opera Theater artistic administrator and general manager.

The Westside High graduate’s return marks a homecoming in many ways. While studying arts administration at Carleton College (Northfield, Minn.), where the legacy student followed his parents, Weitz worked an Opera Omaha internship. That experience proved formative.

"It gave me my first peek at what it would mean to be in the professional world of arts administration and from then on that was my path," he said. "I found out just how many things go into arts administration. All the planning. You're not a performer but it takes almost as much creativity to make it all come together."

{YOU'RE NOT A PERFORMER BUT IT TAKES ALMOST AS MUCH CREATIVITY

}

TO MAKE IT ALL COME TOGETHER. ~ ROGER WEITZ

A lifelong choir singer, Weitz studied piano and voice, majoring in music in college, but never seriously considered a professional performing career.

"To be a performer you have to have this real fire burning inside you, and I didn't have that passion."

Besides, he battled "horrible stage fright."

continued 17

metroMagazine • DeC 2011

continued omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

Weitz remains unfazed by public speaking and often does so touting Opera Omaha. Community engagement is a major focus for Weitz, whose philanthropic parents, Wally and Barbara Weitz and their Weitz Family Foundation, seek to break the cycle of poverty by supporting education programs. Like his family, Roger believes the arts enrich lives, saying, “We need to be a part of the community, serving the community and improving the life of the community to make a better Omaha.”

ROGER WEITZ WITH DICK HOLLAND

He foresees the company’s educational outreach efforts adding more opportunities for youth participation in opera.

"If you can get them creating it I think you really hook them for life, and the wonderful thing about opera is that it involves so many forms of expression. I think opera is actually a great way to introduce kids into the arts."

Giving youths a solid foundation is a focus of Building Bright Futures, among the educational initiatives his family supports. His parents always emphasized giving back.

DERYL AND RAMONA HAMANN

"They've really set a great example. I wouldn't think of doing it differently myself.

They're huge shoes to fill. I want to honor them, so I'm very much aware of that. The fact this is my hometown and I have this legacy only raises the stakes. I need to do everything in my power to do the best job possible. I don't want to let down the community, my family or the wonderful people that brought me in and who are taking a chance on me."

At 34 Weitz may seem young to head an opera company but he's already led one of comparable size and scope. The wunderkind enjoyed a fast rise in Chicago and enhanced his training as an Arts Management Institute Fellow at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. He’s worked opera’s expense and income sides, giving him a deep appreciation for what it takes to mount and sell productions. He can answer donors’ hard questions.

FRED AND EVE SIMON

If anything, he sees his age as “an opportunity” to reach a younger generation and thus cultivate new audiences.

Getting opera more love, he said, takes quality programming, good communication and relationship building. Referring to Omaha’s “arts renaissance,” he said, “I would love for Opera Omaha to get caught up in that wave of new energy and excitement. That’s a challenge and an opportunity because I don't think we’re quite in that wave yet.” He’s confident interesting programs and new partnerships will draw new members. "We need to state our case for support."

continued

JOHN AND SHAWN NEWMAN 18

metroMagazine • DeC 2011

Opera Omaha welcOmes rOger weitz “One way to get the word out and to get some extra buy-in is by collaborating. Future productions are going to have a highly collaborative nature to them. If we can get other groups involved and get their patrons to give opera a chance, then we can open up doors. We just need people to give it a chance.”

TOM AND NANCY HICKS WITH CINDY AND MOGENS BAY

Opera Omaha's 54th season kicked off with This is Opera! and Hansel & Gretel and continues Feb. 17-19 with The Marriage Contract and April 13 and 15 with The Mikado. He expects future seasons to represent similar range. Meanwhile, he champions opera as "the best deal in town," saying. "For the price of one ticket you get a night at the symphony, the theater, the art gallery.”

Opera, too, he said, is great literature and design. Where else, he asks, can you get so much?

He didn’t expect the stars would align to bring him home to run Opera Omaha but he’s glad it happened, especially as he and his wife Kate have just started a family.

ROGER WEITZ AND MIKE YANNEY

“I’m thrilled.”

{ I THINK OPERA IS ACTUALLY A

}

GREAT WAY TO INTRODUCE KIDS INTO THE ARTS. ~ ROGER WEITZ

ANNETTE AND PAUL SMITH WITH MARTHA AND DAVID SLOSBURG

SHELIA MCNEILL, ANDY HOLLAND, GAIL YANNEY AND ANNE THORNE

BETIANA AND TODD SIMON

DAVE AND SUE MORRIS WITH DOUG AND KAREN RILEY

holiday

metro SHOPPER

FASHIONABLE, FUNCTIONAL, AND AFFORDABLE!

A “Tote-Ally” new online shopping experience! Enjoy your Holiday shopping by finding gifts for everyone! Our stylish, affordable products are exclusive to Thirty-One. From our signature purses and totes to storage solutions that help organize… you’ll find something to fit every personality and situation. You can also add some fun embroidery options to your gifts!

LATOSHA JOHNSON, YOUR THIRTY ONE CONSULTANT www.mythirtyone.com/Latoshas31 | 402-332-6111

GIFT BASKETS FROM SPIRIT WORLD are the perfect treat for

clients, friends and family. Baskets range from $25 and up, and include your choice of wine, spirits, cheese, crackers, chocolate and assorted gourmet foods. Many options are available in our store, or order ahead for a custom-made basket.

SPIRIT WORLD 75th & Pacific Street, Omaha NE | 402-391-8680 spiritworldwine.com

CHARMING STOCKING STUFFER!

Story Charms are the perfect gift this holiday. Charms slide onto your choice of leather or suede, available in a variety of colors! These are sure to be on her Christmas List!

ELISA ILANA JEWELRY 13132 Davenport Street, Omaha NE | 402-926-3479 www.elisailana.com

THE GIFT OF STYLE

Give the gift of style this holiday season!

Shop Denim Saloon’s great selection of shirts, sweaters, denim, jewelry, and more to find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Hot holiday trends making the list this year include women’s colored denim, cozy sweaters, and capes. If you are looking for men, we have a stylish selection of vintage inspired denim, sweaters and casual button-up shirts. Can’t decide? A Denim Saloon gift card makes the perfect gift!

DENIM SALOON 4914 Underwood Avenue, Suite A, Omaha NE | 402-885-8880 www.denimsaloon.com • facebook.com/denimsaloon.com

THE PERFECT GIFT FOR HER

Find the perfect gift at beyourself and The Giving Tree. On a mission to promote self-esteem, our shops provide a wide variety of women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories in endless styles and sizes. We are locally owned and donate a portion of our monthly profits to various charitable organizations. Prices are affordable and we buy in small quantities so you are guaranteed to find something extra special just for her!

BEYOURSELF BOUTIQUE 307 N. 78th Street, Omaha NE | 402-933-9584 THE GIVING TREE 16902 Wright Plaza #195, Omaha NE | 402-884-1110 www.beyourselfonline.com 20

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

GIFT IDEAS

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

A SAGE AESTHETICS GIFT CARD

will allow her to “fade her lines” this season. Whether her goal is to make her skin sparkle, or to create a youthful glow, Sage Aesthetics’ full line of therapeutic treatments will allow any woman to put her best, most confident self forward. Tell your favorite woman that you care. Sage Aesthetics has her covered from head to toe.

SAGE AESTHETICS MEDICAL SPA AT SHOPS OF LEGACY 16920 Wright Plaza (168th & Center), Suite 130, Omaha NE 68130 www.sagemedics.com | 402-991-0789

A LOVELY GIFT.

A Gift Card to T’eez - A Thomas Sena Salon.

They use it any way they want. Cut, color, hightlights, extensions, straighteners, waxing, makeup, hair products, styling tools like curling irons, flat irons, blowdryers and more. We all love getting gift cards and you can get them sent to you free online at teezsalon.net or pick up at T’eez.

T’EEZ - A THOMAS SENA SALON 158th and Maple, Omaha NE | 402-397-9500 www.teezsalon.net

HO HO HO!!

Give the gift of laughter this season! Catch a show or give a gift certificate. New Year’s Eve is always a fun time!!

THE FUNNY BONE COMEDY CLUB & RESTAURANT Village Pointe, Omaha NE | 402-493-8036 www.funnyboneomaha.com

THE SPIRIT OF GIFT GIVING

is captured in a hip and innovative local boutique. Christel’s offers fabulous selections in denim, t-shirts, designer collections in daywear and special occasion. From sumptuous sweaters, exclusive handbags, belts, scarves and one of a kind jewelry, our knowledgeable staff creates a fun and personal shopping experience. Celebrate in style!

CHRISTEL’S CLOTHING 633 N. 114th Street, Omaha NE 68154 | 402-493-7343 www.christelsclothing.com

FOR THE WATER LOVERS

on your list, pick up a gift card at DiVentures. Gift cards are valid toward swim lessons, scuba classes, dive equipment and travel, and can be purchased in any amount. Looking for something big?

Check out DiVentures’ Ultimate Holiday Package! This package includes a lifetime scuba certification, personal diving equipment and a trip to Cozumel, Mexico - all for just $2,100!

DIVENTURES 4303 S. 121 PLAZA, Omaha NE 68137 | 402-933-6251 www.diventures.net 21

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

metro SHOPPER

GIFT IDEAS VILLAGE POINTE® makes holiday shopping a breeze.

Find gifts of style, the latest electronics and dazzling home décor for everyone on your list.

Still can’t choose? Give them a personal shopping spree with a Village Pointe gift card redeemable for everything from fashions to fine dining, so it’s guaranteed to please.

Available for purchase at the Management Office (located on the second floor next to Funny Bone Comedy Club) or online at villagepointeshopping.com.

FOR THE WOMAN WHO HAS EVERYTHING,

give her the gift of time for herself. Present her a Mickies Maids gift card, and she can skip the holiday cleaning this season!

Mickies Maids is celebrating 30 years of excellence in the Omaha Metro area, and this holiday season she can celebrate a break from tedious cleaning.

Gift Cards are available online at www.mickiesmaids.com

MICKIES MAIDS 3012 S. 82nd Plaza, Omaha NE 68124 | 402-392-2000 www.mickiesmaids.com

FUN,FASHIONABLE & STYLISH...

Find it all at Kajoma’s a “MUST SEE” Boutique! Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Jewelry and Giftables. Kajoma Gift Kards make shopping easy. Like us on FACEBOOK and receive Kajoma Jingle updates, daily deals during December, featuring fabulous holiday savings.

Extended Holiday Hours starting November 29th: Sundays 12-4 • M-W-Th 10-6 • Tues to 9pm • Fri 10-7 • Sat 10-5

KAJOMA’S FASHION BOUTIQUE 84th & 1st Street Downtown Papillion | 402-991-4477

SEARCHING FOR THAT PERFECT

Holiday Gift?

Look no further! We have the Holiday Deal you CRAVE! Purchase $100 worth of CRAVE gift cards now until December 31, 2011 and receive a FREE $60 bonus, or buy $50 worth of CRAVE gift cards and get a FREE $10 bonus. Visit CRAVE at Midtown Crossing or www.craveamerica.com/holidaydeal for details.

CRAVE OMAHA MIDTOWN CROSSING 200 S. 31st Avenue #4103, Omaha NE 68131 | 402-345-9999 www.craveamerica.com

LOOKING FOR A “YUMMY” WAY

to share the holidays with friends and family this holiday season? Nothing Bundt Cakes has several delicious options ranging from 3.99 and up… Cross one item off of your holiday list! Give us a call at 402-933-9305 or place your order online at www.nothingbundtcakes.com.

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES -One Pacific Place 10347 Pacific Street, Omaha NE 68114 | 402-933-9305 www.nothingbundtcakes.com 22

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

metroMagazine • The Spirit of Omaha

LOOKING FOR A GREAT HOSTESS GIFT?

This season, we’ve stocked up on gifts for the women in your life. Choose from our large NEST collection – including the new Sir Elton John Holiday candle. These leave a lingering Holiday scent and make wonderful gifts! Or choose one of the other 13 scents we stock. Open until 8:00 p.m. during the week or shop online.

THE LINEN GALLERY Regency Court, Omaha NE | 402-399-5242 www.LinensandDown.com

RICK ANDERSON HAS DONE IT AGAIN. In this 20” x 30” Ohio State vs. Nebraska game poster Nebraska photographer Rick Anderson has captured the inaugural kick off to the first Big Ten game ever at Memorial Stadium. The game is Nebraska’s biggest comeback ever in school history.

A must for all Huskers Fans of all ages.

RICK ANDERSON GALLERY 15418 W. Center Road, Omaha NE 68144 | 402-778-9829 www.rickandersongallery.com

HANCRAFTED TO PERFECTION...

For the man that deserves the best... St. Croix’s winter collection of the finest men’s sports wear is created from the world’s finest raw materials. Shop Lindley’s for St. Croix sportswear including lightweight cotton-blend knitwear, made in the USA. Pair with Italian sport shirts, trousers, jackets and hosiery to create a look that’s uniquely yours.

LINDLEY CLOTHING 707 N. 132nd Street, Omaha NE 68154 | 402-491-4000

SHOW HER HOW YOU FEEL

with a custom designed jewelry piece from Whirls of Pearls! Each creation is unique to the owner and utilizes real gemstones and sterling silver. Your loved one will be dazzled by the thought you put into her gift, and be sure to think of you every time she admires her special piece! The process is simple, just give Joan a call today.

WHIRLS OF PEARLS 402-659-5230 | Facebook: Whirls of Pearls www.whirlsofpearls.com

GIVE THE GIFT OF GOOD HEALTH

and great food! Absolutely Fresh Seafood offers the areas finest fresh fish, flying in multiple shipments every day. Choose from two seafood markets:18th & Leavenworth and 119th & Pacific. Gift cards available for use at Shuck’s Fish House and Oyster Bar at 119th & Pacific and 169th & Wright Plaza in the Shops of Legacy.

ABSOLUTELY FRESH SEAFOOD 1218 S. 119th St., Omaha NE | 402-827-4376 1727 Leavenworth St., Omaha NE | 402-345-5057 www.absolutelyfresh.com 23

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

You Y ou Make M the List, W We’ll e’ll Check itt T Twice wice

C./H C  .  /H   

..

exquisite.

birthstone of the month SPONSOR ED BY B OR SHEIM S

DISCOVERED ONLY ABOUT 40 YEARS AGO BY Masai warriors in Tanzania, tanzanite is found nowhere else on earth. It has grown quickly in popularity and is the birthstone for December. Tanzanite can range in color from bluish-purple, to blush-violet, to violet-blue, to blue. It features a unique, strong characteristic, called pleochroism, which allows tanzanite to show two different colors at the same time. Tanzanite can also change color when viewed under different light sources.

The blues are more evident under fluorescent lights, and the violets are more evident under incandescent lights.

Tanzanite is most often inclusion free, therefore it is not rare to see a tanzanite completely free of inclusions.

Tanzanite will scratch and abrade more readily than many other gemstones. It is recommended that you take extra precaution if wearing this gemstone in a ring.

BIRTHSTONE OF THE MONTH

Shown: Oval Tanzanite and diamond pendant

Retail $550, Borsheims price $435

tanzanite

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metroMAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ DEC 2011

feature STORY

MOST

MIKE DIGIACOMA WITH CINEMATOGRAPHER MAURO FIORE, 2010 OSCAR WINNER FOR HIS WORK ON THE MOVIE AVATAR

the city’s italian population celebrates its long-standing traditions in festival and film.

now that’s italian!

STORY BY MOLLY GARRIOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA HOIG

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Omahans have been the happy beneficiaries of the city’s vibrant Italian heritage.

You’ve experienced Italian hospitality if you have walked through the doors of the VENICE INN or MANGIA ITALIANA or tucked into a plate of mostaccoli at a SONS OF ITALY lunch or LA FIESTA ITALIANA celebration. You’ve sampled a little hometown culinary history when you serve Orsi’s or Rotella’s bread at your family meals. And if you were lucky enough to grill up some of Frank Marino’s hand-ground links before he closed up his S. 13th Street grocery store, you know the simple but sublime pleasure of a darned good sausage.

Many of the above are family businesses. The importance of food and family plays heavily in Italian culture, and so does faith. Every year, these three form the backbone of the SANTA LUCIA FESTIVAL, a longstanding tradition among Omaha’s Italian community.

Omaha’s first Santa Lucia Festival was in 1925.

Modeled after the 300 years old Santa Lucia Festival in Carlentini, Sicily, it was a reinstitution of homeland traditions in the “new world.” The originators of the event went door to door, raising funds to replicate the statue of Santa Lucia, or Saint Lucy, used in the Sicilian festival. The duplicate was shipped to Omaha and has been the focal point of the festival all these years.

Today, a group of Italian-Americans in Omaha are recording their ethnic heritage in film. The documentary uses the Santa Lucia Festival, says MIKE DIGIACOMO, producer, writer, and videographer of the project and Vice-President of the 2011-2012 Santa Lucia Festival, as a “vehicle to tell a much more important story.

That story is: the traditions that Italian immigrants brought with them, and the ties that still exist today between the Omaha Italians and those Italians who never left Italy.”

Since its inception, the festival’s mission is to give back to the local community. This philanthropic spirit is the driving force behind the Santa Lucia Festival Committee which seeks to fund its charitable works through monies raised by the festival. The group provides coats to the needy, visits the sick, and supports programs and aid for the vision impaired.

Saint Lucy is the patron saint of the blind.

DiGiacomo and his fellow producers are casting a wide distribution net and will pitch the film both locally and nationally once it is completed in 2012.

“But more than anything, we want churches to show it to parishioners, community groups to show it to their members, and most importantly families to show it to their kids to preserve the history of Italian/Americans in Omaha,” states DiGiacomo.

LEWIS AND CLARK LANDING is the home of the five-day festival today. The area that once comprised “Little Italy” is no longer predominantly Italian.

Though Omaha’s Italian population does not share physical proximity like it once did, its spirit remains intact. One guest equated the grassroots support of the documentary at its launch party on November 9 to a “new Italian Renaissance.”

Notes DiGiacomo: “So many Italians, from different Italian organizations, came together in one room to support one cause.”

For more information about the Santa Lucia documentary, visit www.santaluciadocumentary.com.

metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

NOV. 18DEC. 23, 2011

DEC. 2-31, 2011

By Charles Dickens, Adapted by Charles Jones, Musical orchestration by John J. Bennett

An Interactive Beatles Experience Featuring Billy McGuigan Š

2007 By Rave On Productions

6915 CASS STREET | (402) 553-0800 | WWW.OMAHAPLAYHOUSE.ORG sponsor:

orchestra sponsor:

special effects sponsor:

media sponsor:

sponsor:

YPO / WPO Nebraska

media sponsor:

Look Who’s Sheltering Shelter Pets

Shop with us this Holiday Season!

Need supplies for the sophisticated pet?

How about interactive toys for big chewers?

Maybe fun feathers for felines? Animal Outfitters can take care of all the pets, and pet lovers, on your holiday list.

Antlers: full of minerals and harder than bones for those big chewers.

Harnesses/Collars/Leashes: made to stand up to the strongest pullers.

Chirping Cat Toys: for those finicky felines who need extra enticement.

Thundershirts: for those nervous nellies.

Plus we have a full line of pet supplies from food and crates to shampoo and toothpaste. Shop with confidence at Animal Outfitters, located in the Lobby of the Nebraska Humane Society, knowing that your gift gives twice. All proceeds stay right at NHS to help the animals!

Training Just for You Is Fido a little too frisky for your family and friends? Would you like a little more control, but don’t have time for a class? Let our trainers come to you. The Nebraska Humane Society offers private, in-home, training at your convenience. Talk to a trainer and get started on those new habits today!

Call 402-444-7800 ext. 272 or online at www.nehumanesociety.org.

The Kotoucs: John, T.J., Wende with Molly, and Cami Photo courtesy of Mervin Reese Photographers

John and Wende Kotouc When Molly joined the Kotouc family in March of 2010, it seemed to be a perfect fit. And it was.

“She has been nothing but a joy for us,” says Wende. Indeed, the 3 year old Bichon makes everyone smile with her winning ways. “She has perfected the art of ‘couch cushion hopping’ and rotates through the house on an hourly basis in search of the perfect spot.” When she’s not curled up on cushions Molly loves walks, hanging out on the porch with family and being outside in general. She is loyal to her family but also loves to welcome guests and visiting children into her home.

Everyone loves Molly’s morning ritual. According to Wende, “She sleeps downstairs, but waits with great anticipation to greet each family member when they come down for breakfast. We can hear her tail wagging when we’re on the second floor. It’s a wonderful way to start each day.”

www.nehumanesociety.org gives you all the info!

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

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omaha • lincoln • council bluffs

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LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES WICKER & WINE 2011

JOSLYN CASTLE TRUST MAGIC AT MIDTOWN

ONEWORLD MILAGRO DINNER

NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL SOIREE 2011

L.I.F.E. 1ST ANNUAL LIFE CELEBRATION

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MIDWEST HEART CONNECTION HEARTS OF HOPE

SCOTTISH RITE FOUNDATION 4TH ANNUAL FRIENDS OF SCOTTISH RITE DINNER

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VANITA AND JOHN LUND WITH MARY MARGARET WILES

JOCELYN MCNAMARA, MOLLY SKOLD AND ANDY HOIG

JACK BECKER AND LESTER KATZ

MagicCastle joslyn castle trust MagiC at MiDtown Patron Preview Guests were dazzled the evening of November 17th as they received a first look at the Magic at Midtown design tour.

Twelve Midtown Crossing condominiums (divided into 32 professionally-designed spaces) are on display through December 4th.

Proceeds from the tour benefit the Joslyn Castle Trust.

MARILY HANSEN WITH KRISTEN NELSON

Photos by Dan Flanigan

FELLA, RICHARD KLAAS AND MARK MASER

DAVID AND LORI SCOTT

DAVID SCOTT, JULIA RUSSELL AND RICK CAREY

JOHN DEE, SUSAN MCMANNAMA AND MARY JOCHIM

Thanks for the success.

Thank you to our Designers, Volunteers & Guests.

Investors Midtown Crossing KETV 7 Omaha World Hearld Clear Channel Radio Mercedes-Benz of Omaha Benefactor Continuum Worldwide Metro Magazine KVNO 90.7

a tour of upscale urban residences featuring the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest Interior Designers

Partner Maser Family Foundation

Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2022; Â&#x201E;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2021;ƤÂ&#x2013; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? ĆŹ Â&#x2026;Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2018;Â&#x2C6; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2018;Â&#x2022;Â&#x17D;Â&#x203A;Â? Â&#x192;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021;

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Donor Baird Holm Â&#x201D;Â&#x2022;Ǥ Â&#x2018;Â&#x160;Â? Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2021;ƤÂ&#x2026;Â?

McGill Restoration United Rental Supporter Diane and Robert Ames Lyle and Freda Bauer Mary and Mark Bohn Meri and Ron Crampton Kim and Adrian Ferguson Carmen and Gary Godbersen George Kleine Legacy Preservation LLC Robert Mundy, David Harding and Jim Fogarty Nano and Doug Little

metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ DeC 2011

Sharon McGill Patti and Tom Peterson Security National Bank Annette and Paul Smith Friend Cindy and Mogens Bay Kate Bradley Carol Gendler Â?Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2014;ĆĄ

Scott Semrad and Jerry Reimer, Urban Village Monte and Duane Thompson

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MARK ANDERSON, DONNA ALBERSTON, MARK VONDRASEK, ROBIN ANDERSON AND DIXIE MCBREEL

CLINT SISKOW, STU SUTHERLAND AND LISA RUSSELL

DAVID WORKMAN, DAVID WORKMAN JR. AND JOHN NEUMAN

goodscouts boy scouts mid american council annual Celebration Dinner anD awarDs reCePtion For information about this event visit www.mac-bsa.org.

MARY CASH, MARY STANLEY JR., HARRY STANLEY JR. AND HARRY STANLEY SR.

JAMIE YOUNG, NATHAN YOUNG AND ROD VANHORN

Photos by ariel Fried

KATHY SPOONHOUR, SUE BALDWIN, KARA ASMUS AND ARLI BOUSTEAD

JERRY PAPE, JACK PAPE AND ANNE PAPE

Congratulations to our Award Recipients!

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JIM SIEDLECKI, RUTH HENRICHS AND HONORARY CHAIRS MICHAEL AND MARIE KNEDLER

DEBBIE AND LLOYD MARISH WITH TOM AND LINDA SCHMITT

NIKKI TIARKS AND NIKKI ALFORD WITH BARB AND GARY WOODS

goodspirits lutheran family services wiCker & wine 2011 Guests arrived in record numbers for Lutheran Family Services’ annual “Wicker & Wine Basket Auction.” At least three hundred people attended the cocktail and auctions at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs. A final tally showed over $120,000 was raised, which will go directly into services at the Pottawattamie County Center for Healthy Families.

TAMI DOLL AND JANE WHALEN WITH AMANDA, TAMI AND TAYLOR SCOTT

Marie and Mike Knedler were the honorary chairs of the 2011 event, and each spoke briefly to the large crowd. LFS CEO Ruth Henrichs introduced a video about the Center’s role in the community which included client testimonials.

Guests also bid on a great variety of silent auction baskets, and one lucky live auction winner will spend a weekend in Chicago in box seats at a Cubs game!

JESSICA BOONE AND AARON THARP

Lutheran Family Services is a community-based organization which impacts over 35,000 individuals annually, from 31 offices in 18 cities in the areas of behavioral health and children and community services.

Learn more at www.lfsneb.org.

STEVE AND CHRIS HENSLEY

Photos by Dan Flanigan

KAREN HEAD, MELISSA HEAD, INEZ SUMMY AND GEORGE HEAD

M MANY AN Y T THANK H ANK S T TO: O:

Presenting Presenting S Sponsor ponsor

www.LFSneb.org www w.LFSneb.org .LFSneb.org

Honorary Ho n o ra r y C Chairs h air s Marie and and M Marie Mike ike Knedler Knedler

And And to to our our m many any ssponsors! ponsors!

LEONA L E ONA & B BILL I LL K KERNEN E R NE N

Supporting the Pottawattamie County Center for Healthy Families

SM

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CHERYL SHETLAR, DAVE WEBBER AND JANICE STRANG

JULIE AND KYLE PETERSON

CHARLENE LIESVELD, NANCY JOHNSON, LEONA BRAKKE AND PAT MCCOLLISTER

CaringCaravan assistance league ChristMas Caravan Preview Party

ANN BREETZKE, KIRK FOSTER, LAURA DIMAIO AND LIZ HEESE

On November 2nd, Christmas Caravan- Glitz, Glamour and Gifts Galore A Tour of Homes, decorated by outstanding florists for the holiday season. The highlight of the event was the preview party held at Champions Run. Guests had the opportunity to shop at the Christmas Caravan Boutique, bid on silent auction items, make donations "wish list" for ALO's philanthropic programs and enjoy dinner.

Funds raised through this event support the league's philanthropic programs.

PATTI FUDGE, RITA SEILER AND TRUDY MOCK

Assistance League of Omaha is an all volunteer nonprofit organization providing philanthropic programs to serve specific needs of children and adults in the greater Omaha community.

Operation School Bell provided new clothing to over 3,000 children in October. Fundraising activities include Assistance League's Yesterday's Best Thrift Shop, Christmas Caravan, Cruise for the Kids, grants and tributes to support their philanthropic programs.

For more information about this event visit www.omaha.assistanceleague.org.

Photos by Dan Flanigan

RACHEL RICHARDS AND JACQUELIN SEILER

CHERYL AND STEVE SHETLAR

Members of Assistance League wish to thank everyone who attended our 2011 Christmas Caravan Preview Party Glitz, Glamour and Giving Galore .

We sincerely appreciate the community organizations and individuals who have contributed to the success of the annual Christmas Caravan tour of homes decorated for the holidays by area florists.

We are especially grateful to the Vetter Foundation, recipient of the Crystal Bell Award for their generous support of Assistance League’s philanthropic programs.

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SENATOR DANIEL C. LYNCH

PENNY LYONS AND LYNDI DUDIK

DAVID M. AMBROSE, PHD

safetyFirst national safety council soiree 2011 Almost 400 people enjoyed Soiree 2011 on October 21 at the Embassy Suites LaVista. The event featured the induction into the Safety and Health Hall of Fame of David M. Ambrose, PhD and NE Senator Daniel C. Lynch, a silent auction, dinner and entertainment by “Yesterday, A Tribute to the Beatles.” The event brought in more than $90,000. Beneficiaries of the event include community safety programs of the Council.

KATHY AND KEVIN CONNORS

TOM BELFORD AND CAROL CASEY NE Senator Daniel C. Lynch and David M. Ambrose, PhD were inducted into the Safety and Health Hall of Fame. Honorary Chairmen were Tom and Lee Belford, Chairman were Brad and Ann Ashford.

The unique mission of the nationally recognized and award winning National Safety Council, Nebraska (formerly Greater Omaha Chapter) is to promote safety and health by providing programs, resource services and education to reduce both the personal and economic loss associated with injuries, accidents and health hazards.

Learn more at www.safenebraska.org.

JIM SMITH AND JEFF BAKEWELL

Photos by Dave stock

JOE AND JAN KAMINSKI, RYAN MAJOR, AND SAMANTHA ALLEMANG

Gold Sponsors

Nebraska

A Fundraiser for Community Safety

We are grateful to our sponsors, volunteers and supporters who helped make Soiree 2011 a success. With their generous contributions we can continue to serve our community and make Nebraska a safe place to live, work and play!

Silver Sponsors Dessert Sponsor

Invitation Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors SAC Federal Credit Union 34

metroMagazine • DeC 2011

A.C. Nelsen

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HAL AND MARY DAUB WITH CURT EDIC

HAL AND MARY DAUB WITH CURT EDIC

ROBYN WITH HER HUSBAND CONGRESSMAN LEE TERRY

theriteway scottish rite foundation 4th annual FrienDs oF sCottish rite Dinner anD auCtion

AMY AND DAVID MEINZER

The 4th Annual Friends of Scottish Rite Dinner and Auction was held on Saturday October 15th, 2011 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center.

The event served as a benefit for the Scottish Rite Foundation of Omaha. This year, the dinner raised $12,000 to support the Scottish Rite Foundation of Omaha. 150 guests joined Honorary Chairs, the Hon. Lee and Robyn Terry for an evening of cocktails, silent and live auction items.

CHUCK SEDERSTROM AND DEL WEBER WITH ANN AND JOHN WILLIAMSON

The evening was emceed by Charles Sederstrom III, Scottish Rite member and community volunteer, and other notable guests included Hal and Mary Daub, the 2010 Honorary Chairs for the Friends of Scottish Rite Dinner and Auction.

Scottish Rite Masons recognized the need for all Nebraska children to have access to services to diagnose and treat speech and language disorders.

To learn more about the Scottish Rite Masonic Center and the Scottish Rite Foundation of Omaha, visit www.scottishriteomaha.org.

UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-OMAHA NATIONAL STUDENT SPEECH LANGUAGE HEARING ASSOCIATION OLIVIA HORNER, GRACE LALLMAH, KELSEY PAUL AND ASHLEE LILLEY

Photos by linda shepard

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SCOTT AND RACHEL GILLILAND WITH ALLIE AND DAVE HENGEN

metroMagazine â&#x20AC;˘ DeC 2011

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ANDREA SKOLKIN, SENATOR GWEN HOWARD, DR. JOANN SCHAEFER AND DR. PAUL ESPOSITO

SARA HOWARD, STEPH GOULD AND HALEY ARMSTRONG

MakingMiracles milagro dinner OneWOrlD COMMunity HealtH Centers inC. The 2011 OneWorld Community Health Centers Inc. annual Milagro fundraising dinner took place on November 10th at the Historic Livestock Exchange Building. The evening began at with a social hour and silent auction, followed by dinner with key note speaker Dr. Joann Schaefer, Nebraska’s Chief Medical Officer.

REGAN AND MIKE MACKINTOSH

Each year the Milagro (The Spanish word for miracle) dinner recognizes the significanceMAHA of contributions made by volunteers and partnering organizations. This year’s award recipients included: Bergan Mercy Medical Center, Building Bright Futures, Robert Fitzgibbons, M.D., Midwest GYN Oncology, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center-Department of Family Medicine. Over 350 people attended and together raised $72,500 for OneWorld’s mission.

FRIENDS OF MEREDITH WEITZ

Established in 1970, OneWorld Community Health Centers, in partnership with the community, provides culturally respectful, quality health care with special attention to the underserved.

Learn more at www.oneworldomaha.org.

ONEWORLD STAFF

MAHA

Photos by Dan Flanigan

DR. BO DUNLAY, LISA JORGENSEN AND DUSTIN ZABOKRTSKY

OneWorld would like to congratulate our Milagro winners and thank our Milagro level partners on a successful 2011 event!

2011 MILAGRO AWARD RECIPIENTS Bergan Mercy Medical Center Building Bright Futures Robert Fitzgibbons, M.D. Midwest GYN Oncology University of Nebraska Medical Center - Department of Family Medicine

2011 MILAGRO SPONSORS American National Bank, Creighton University, UNMC College of Public Health & Center for Reducing Health Disparities, US Bank and the Weitz Family Foundation

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EMILY AND DR. MARK PUCCIONI AND JULIE CORNELL WITH LORA AND BART SLADOVNIK

DR. DEEPAK MADHAVAN, TIM MASTERS, MICHELLE BUNTON, EMILY GERCH AND KIELY MADHAVAN

CelebratingliFe We are so pleased wiortht. the amount of supp ~ Stacey Doty

EVENT COORDINATOR

lifestyle innovations for epilepsy 1st annual liFe CelebratiOn

MEG BUSING, MONICA BENTZINGER, SUMMER WHALEY-HULL, KAEL BUSING, AMBER BENTZINGER AND ERIC BENTZINGER

The 1st Annual LIFE Celebration took place on Thursday, November 3rd at Nomad Lounge in the Old Market. The proceeds from the event benefit LIFE, a not-for-profit servicing the region with epilepsy programs and services.

DR. JAMES AND DR. JENNIFER HANOWELL, LAURA NEECE-BALTARO AND DR. RICHARD BALTARO WITH STACEY AND STEVE DOTY

Guests enjoyed hors d’ouvres, cocktails and the latest culinary creations prepared by local chefs.

The Nebraska Wind Symphony performed while guests bid on a variety of silent auction items.

The evening ended with a live auction which inspired bidding wars for highly coveted items.

One hundred percent of the evening’s proceeds directly benefited the programs and services of LIFE. LIFE provides critical assistance to people living with epilepsy and their families, and programs of interest to individuals using non-medical treatments to assist with seizure control.

Learn more at www.epilepsylife.org.

BILL RANDBY AND JULIE CORNELL

Photos by Dan Flanigan

RENEE GOTTULA, STACEY DOTY, MARY SCHLIEDER AND MATT LAHM

Your support helps those living with epilepsy in the Midwest.

Thank You to all who helped make our 1st Annual event a success!

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HostingHonors

tede.bearPicnic

omaha hospitality hall of fame Dinner & inDuCtiOn CereMOny

ted e. bear hollow COMFOrt FOOD ClassiC

The Omaha Hospitality Hall of Fame was the largest ever, with 320 people in attendance. All proceeds go to support Culinary Education through the ORA Foundation and through the ICA. The event is to honor people of distinction in the Omaha community for their contributions to the Hospitality industry. In attendance were Katie O’Connor, president of the ORA, Jack Kawa,President of the ORAF, Steve Oltmans, representing the Mayor’s office, and David HO, VP of Academic Affairs at MCC.

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Photos by Dan Flanigan

Photos by Dan Flanigan

ANDREW DUNGAN, EMCEE CAROL WANG AND CHRISTINE LAUE

FLANAGAN FAMILY

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NANCY HEMESATH WITH BOARD CHAIR MARY LEE FITZSIMMONS AND EVENT PLANNER CINDY TOMCAK

TANYA AND BILL FORAL WITH GARY AND PAT REZAC

LORI SCHRAM, TAMEE WADDELL, STEFANIE BARRETT, ELIZABETH WADDELL AND ANGELA WADDELL

LOSOLE FAMILY WITH DON AND MARIE 38

metroMagazine • DeC 2011

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Doin’JustFine cystic fibrosis fdtn nebraska’s Finest The Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in coordination with the Nebraska Regional Cystic Fibrosis Care Center at UNMC, hosted Nebraska’s Finest, a unique dinner and dance featuring over 350 guests, on October 14 at Omaha’s historic TipTop Ballroom.

BRIDGET AND SAME TYNAN WITH PEG O'MALLEY AND JULIE PETERSON

JACK, HONOREE KEVIN, TAYLOR AND PATTY O'MALLEY

Those honored included CF Patients Autumn Zgambo, Sarah Pinkleman, Jill Fliege & Toni Blazek from Nebraska’s Regional Cystic Fibrosis Care Center at UNMC and Kevin O’Malley of Travel & Transport, long time volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. CF Parents Erica & Aaron spoke about their son’s challenges with CF and thanked all those that have been a part of the fight against CF. The entire room gave them a standing ovation and paid tribute to the couple after they shared their heartfelt story about their love for 4-year-old Sam. Keynote speaker was Steve Warren, former Husker and Green Bay Packer as well as founder of D.R.E.A.M and Warren Academy.

Learn more at www.cff.org.

This is an event that . highlights the positive..

STEVE AND HEIDI WARREN WITH TERESA AND CHAD MARDESEN

la Kros ~ Event Director Ange Photos by Dan Flanigan

HONOREES AUTUMN ZGAMBO, TONI BLAZEK, JILL FLIEGE AND SARAH PINKELMAN

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One O ne Drake Drake P Place lace Salon Salon & Spa Spa 12100 12100 West West Center Center R Rd d 402.933.7253 402.933.7253 onedrakeplace.com onedrakeplace.com

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4the Heartland ak-sar-ben PurPle ribbOn auCtiOn

KEN AND BEVERLEY POHLMAN HEROES AWARD WINNERS

HAL AND MARY DAUB WITH DIANE AND DICK WESTIN

More than $200,000 for scholarships was raised at the annual Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Stock Show’s Buyers Club Purple Ribbon Auction on September 25. The auction featured 38 champion 4-H youth exhibitors and their award winning livestock projects being auctioned in the form of college scholarship dollars.

Over 1,000 exhibitors from the region showcased their livestock projects, competing throughout the weekend against their peers for a spot in the auction. For many it was the ultimate reward for a year’s hard work, raising and caring for their animal. During the event, Mr. Ken Pohlan of Omaha was regonized for his dedication to the cause with the 2011 Hero’s Award. Mr Pohlman has been a longtime supporter of the Purple Ribbon Auction and Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Stock Show, which celebrates the region’s hertiage and educates families and youth.

To learn more visit www.rivercityrodeo.com.

KEN BIRD, DEL TOEBBEN AND ANNIE BIRD

2011 GRAND MARSHALS DOUG AND LORETTA PATTERSON

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Photos by Dan Flanigan

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FortheChildren nchs HOMegrOWn HomeGrown returned for its fifth year on Friday, October 14, 2011 at the Nomad Lounge. Organized by Nebraska Children’s Home Society Young Professionals board, B.R.A.N.C.H., HomeGrown was a casual, fun evening featuring a charming photographic exhibit of children served through Nebraska Children’s Home Society. This year the photos were the work of photographer Stacey Kinney, Friedland Studio, Inc. The event was chaired by B.R.A.N.C.H. Board President Beth Benton. The event raised more than $15,000, and 335 people attended.

Photos by ariel Fried

FRONT: BETH PANTANO, TRACY FISHER, JEN MUCKY, ELLIE STEINBRINK, SARAH ARUNSKI, MEGAN STORM AND JOHN HERTZLER BACK: JOE SCHAFFNER, BETH BENTON, JIM MUCKY, MARK SPOTANSKI, TODD CLASSEN AND GREG BARNHARDT

CAROL KRUEGER, BRIAN OSBORNE, KIM ANDERSEN,TRACY FISHER AND KAREN AUTHIER

JODI NELSON, DAVE NELSON, STACIE KINNEY, WILLIAM DORSTE AND DOROTHY DORSTE 41

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beeaccurate

FREE Home pick-up & delivery…

Makes My Life Easier!

the literacy center aDult sPelling bee A frolic through the dictionary gave the community a fun way to get involved in helping adults learn to read. The third annual Adult Spelling Bee, held October 14 at the Scott Conference Center, raised more than $20,000 for the Literacy Center. The audience of 130 included closet bibliophiles and philomaths, who took part in an audience spelling quiz. Honorary chairs for the Spelling Bee were Terry and Jackie Kroeger. Event Chairs were Leilani and Dan Harbeck.

Learn more at www.midlandslitearcy.org

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MOLLY MAGUIRE, TERRI BUSH AND SIGRID MOYLAN

ANNE PETERSON, CINDY RIEKE, RUTH KENNEDY AND DEE SCHLAUTMAN WITH REX AND DEB FISHER

RENEE FRANKLIN WITH ROBERT PATTERSON 42

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event galleries

rides recycled women’s fund of omaha Fall lunCHeOn

SUSAN SCHNASE WITH SPEAKER CARLA HARRIS AND RENEE BLACK

RECYCLED RIDES RECIPIENT 2011 SHANNON SPEARS WITH RECYCLED RIDES RECIPIENT 2010 SHAWNIE IRVIN

Nearly 900 people attended the Women’s Fund of Omaha’s 11th annual fall luncheon Oct. 27th at the Ramada Plaza Hotel. Guest speaker Carla Harris, managing director at Morgan Stanley Investment Management and author of the book “Expect to Win,” provided advice on how to thrive in the workplace.

Honorary co-chairs were Kathy Mallatt, plan president for UnitedHealthcare Community and State, Share Advantage, and Connie Ryan, president of Streck Inc. Luncheon cochairs were Renee Black and Susan Schnase.

Grants totaling $133,000 were presented to nonprofit agencies for their work on behalf of Omaha-area women and girls.

Learn more at www.omahawomensfund.org.

CONNIE RYAN WITH CARLA HARRIS AND KATHY MALLATT

SARAH JOHNSON AND SARAH LUKAS

SAVE THE DATE

AAnn ev evening ening e of shopping shopping, g,, cco cocktails, ocktailss, dinner and laughs. laughs.

Thursday, T hursday, JJanuary anuary 26, 2012 Mutual of O Omaha maha Dome (33rd (33r d & Dodge) Dodge) Featuring e Featuring extraordinary xtraordinary ccomedienne omedienne Maryellen Mar yellen H Hooper, ooper, American American Comedy C omedy A Award’s ward’s FFemale emale Comedienne C omedienne of the Y Year ear - 1998.

CCost: ost: $75 per person ($45 is tax deduc deductible) tible) or $50 ffor or those under age 30 ($20 is tax deduc deductible) tible)

TToo mak makee rreservations, or eservations, orr ffor moree information Inc.. aatt mor infforma ormation call call Girls Girls Inc 402-457-4676 or go ttoo w www.girlsincomaha.org ww.girlsincomaha.org IInspiring nspiring all g girls irls to to be strong, strong, smart smart and boldsm PPresenting resenting SSponsor: ponsor: GALLUP GALLUP

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metroMagazine • DeC 2011

Photos courtesy of the Women’s Fund

event galleries

localHeroes kvc health systems 41st HerO aWarD KVC Health Systems, at its annual meeting, recently presented its 41st Hero Award to brothers Robert and Will Scott of the Lincoln-based Kinder Porter Scott Foundation. The Scott brothers were recognized for their dedication to KVC Behavioral HealthCare Nebraska and its mission of enriching and enhancing the lives of Nebraska children and families in the local area.

Last year, as KVC celebrated its 40th anniversary, it recognized 40 heroes who, through their unwavering support, had made a profound impact on the organization throughout the past four decades. The annual meeting is a chance to gather KVC staff members, stakeholders and those special heroes to celebrate the successes that they have inspired in the past year.

Among those heroes were Robert and Will Scott, who made the nearly fivehour drive to Kansas City to receive the award. The Kinder Porter Scott Foundation has been a leader in supporting KVC Nebraska’s efforts with the Families Matter initiative and has become a valued community partner.

“The Scott brothers helped pave the way for KVC in Nebraska,” KVC Nebraska President Sandra Gasca-Gonzalez said. “As KVC entered Lincoln, Will and Robert were very accommodating and served as our ambassadors, introducing us to many community professionals and legislators in the area. KVC’s 41st Hero Award was our way to show our gratitude for the Scott brothers’ selfless efforts to keep KVC ingrained in Nebraska communities and to thank them for their ongoing support of KVC’s work with the Family Matters initiative.”

KVC Behavioral HealthCare, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit organization established in Nebraska in 2009. KVC Nebraska is a subsidiary of KVC Health Systems, Inc, which provides medical and behavioral healthcare, social services and education to children and families. KVC Health Systems also provides services in Kansas, West Virginia, Missouri and Kentucky.

KVC Nebraska is one of the lead agencies in Nebraska’s Families Matter initiative and serves children and families in crisis in 19 southeast and eastern counties.

The Scott brothers helped pave the way for KVC in Nebraska. ~ Sandra Gasca-Gonzalez KVC NEBRASKA PRESIDENT

Photo courtesy of kVC Health systems

ROBERT SCOTT AND WILL SCOTT WITH B. WAYNE SIMS, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF KVC HEALTH SYSTEMS

Learn more about KVC by visiting www.kvc.org.

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metroMagazine • DeC 2011

Reach Out And Lend A Hand...

support our mission of mercy

www.hua.org

!

!

!

HUA works every day to shut down puppy mills, saving dogs from years of neglect and abuse. Our shelter and sanctuary is home to over 400 rescued dogs awaiting their forever homes. Those who cannot be placed due to behavioral or medical conditions stay with us forever as Sanctuary Sweethearts.

savethedate December 1

February 18

HOLIDAZZLE Benefiting the Nebraska Children’s Home Society Enjoy exhibitors and live presentations, including a Younkers Fashion Show featuring local celebrities.

DC Centre – Omaha – 6:00 P.M. Visit www.nchs.org.

THE CARNIVAL OF LOVE Benefiting Heartland Family Service This event is hosted by Heartland Family Service Friends Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. Visit www.HeartlandFamilyService.org.

December 3

ART & SOUP Benefiting the Visiting Nurse Association Art & Soup celebrates its 15th anniversary with soups, original artwork, silent auction items and entertainment.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 2:00 P.M. Visit www.thevnacares.org.

NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STARS A benefit for the Nebraska AIDS Project This gala includes entertainment by Dueling Duos, a piano show, and a silent art auction.

Magnolia Hotel – Omaha – 8:00 P.M. Visit www.nap.org.

December 18 A NIGHT AT THE SYMPHONY A benefit for The Dobleman Head and Neck Cancer Institute The event begins with a pre-concert reception and is followed by “Christmas with the Symphony” performed by the talented Omaha Symphony Orchestra.

Holland Performing Arts Center – Omaha – 5:30 P.M. Call 402-393-7050.

joy

vibrations • with sue moon

Peace on Earth. sagittarius

December 27 DEBUTANTE BALL Benefitting the Omaha Symphony Join the Omaha Symphony Guild in honoring the debutantes, stags and their families of 2011.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 5:00 P.M. Call 402-342-3560.

NOV 22 - DEC 21

Some of your old relationships may need to be let go of so that newer and more positive ones can come in. READ MORE NOW ONLINE!

capricorn

January 7 30TH ANNUAL REFLECTION BALL Hosted by Midlands Community Foundation Proceeds from this year’s Ball will benefit Mosaic, an organization serving people with intellectual disabilities.

Embassy Suites – La Vista – 6:00 P.M. Visit www.midlandscommunity.org.

DEC 22 - jaN 19

The world is looking to you to be a standout for authenticity, integrity and doing it right! READ MORE NOW ONLINE!

Read your full horoscope from Sue online NOW at SpiritofOmaha.com!

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metroMAGAZINE • DEC 2011

February 26

March 2-4 20TH ANNUAL AMERICAN GIRL FASHION SHOWS Benefiting Junior League of Omaha This event features historically inspired clothing and matching dolls from the American Girl clothing collection, American Girl of Today and the American Girl Bitty Baby collections.

Happy Hollow Country Club – Omaha Visit www.juniorleagueomaha.org.

March 7 SPEAKING OF CHILDREN Benefiting Project Harmony The day includes training sessions for professionals, and features speaker, Sugar Ray Leonard, Olympic medalist.

CenturyLink Center – Omaha Visit www.projectharmony.com.

April 4 ICAN WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Hosted by the Institute for Career Advancement Needs This 19th annual ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference, A Global Conversation, will feature keynote speaker Arianna Huffington.

April 21 UNO WOMEN’S WALK / 5K RUN Benefitting UNO Women’s Athletics UNO Sapp Fieldhouse – Omaha – 8:00 A.M. Visit http://omavs.com/womenswalk.

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120 Regency Parkway | Omaha, NE 68114 | 1.800.642.GIFT | borsheims.com HOLIDAY HOURS, STARTING NOVEMBER 25TH, 2011 THROUGH DECEMBER 23RD Monday - Friday 10am-8pm | Saturday 10am-5:30pm | Sunday 12-5pm Christmas Eve & New Years Eve: 10am-3pm Borsheims will be closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, December 26th, New Year’s Day and January 2nd.