Metroquarterly summer 2015

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days of summer RECREATE • RELAX • REJUVENATE

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

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SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

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MAY/JUN/JUL 2015

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in this ISSUE

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

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features

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RAISING THE BAR omaha gives!

I HAD NO IDEA! (PART ONE OF TWO) nebraska humane society • the BIG connection

95 YEARS LATER omaha home for boys celebrates 95 years

OUTSTANDING! heartland family service friends guild

departments/columns

10 20 22

WHAT’S NEW • WHAT’S NOW TOP MOM’S & DAD’S DAY GIFT IDEAS

connecting our gifts

12 36

connecting our stewardship

GAME CHANGERS

connecting our generations

presented by planitOmaha

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HE SAID/SHE SAID mike & mary from KMTV’s morning blend

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SPOTLIGHT ON: midtown crossing • royal lux

TODAYS SAVINGS SWARTZBAUGH, FARBER & ASSOC. life insurance: is it a given?

IMPACT! VONDRAK DENTAL teeth whitening: is it healthy?

OCF OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION all about the numbers... of people

112 WAKING WORDS FROM ROB KILLMER

connecting our concerns

the law of attractiveness

events

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SCENE

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highlights from recent charity & cultural events

104 SAVE THE DATE

upcoming events for the summer of 2015

bravo! CELEBRATING THE ARTS

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90. SERIOUSLY! omaha community playhouse’s birthday party

102 BRAVO! TOP 6 PICKS

our picks for your cultural calendar

103 SPOTLIGHT ON:

omaha performing arts announces new calendar

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connecting our heritage connecting our friends

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May/JuN/Jul 2015 • VOl. 27 NO. 2 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

Creative Collaboration

andrea l. “andee” Hoig

Kali Baker leo adam Biga Mark Ciriaco Michelle Cleary Daniel Flanigan roger Humphries elissa Joy Wendy Moore MOrNING BleND’s “Mike & Mary” Jim Scholz Kara Schweiss Mary Vandenack Stephanie Vondrak D.D.S.

Editor/Creative Director

robert P. “rOB” Killmer Community Engagement

Dana Carlton-Flint tracy Fisher Special Thanks

Counterparts Printco Graphics

metroMaGazINe /

quarterly 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 alH Publications exists to inform, inspire and connect those who give back to the community through volunteerism and philanthropy, recognizing the ongoing efforts of area businesses, organizations and individuals who better our community.

Contents of this magazine are copyrighted by alH Publications, Inc. in their entirety. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior written consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 1990 – 2015 alH Publications, Inc. all rights reserved.

402.932.3522 • sales@SpiritofOmaha.com

advertise with us...

MAKE THE CONNECTION! “Count us among those who LOVE our relationship with metroMAGAZINE/mQUARTERLY. We absolutely see the value. This vehicle prominently places us in front of an upscale, affluent demographic. The entire publication is relevant, visually appealing and profiles our lifestyle brand message well.” ~ KIM JONES, REGIONAL MARKETING DIRECTOR AT RED DEVELOPMENT

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words FROM MY HEART

mquArterLy • Letter froM tHe pubLiSHer

relaxing

What if we could exist each and every day in a state of relaxation?

For many of us relaxation is a reward for getting things done, something we experience when we are on vacation, time for relaxation comes when our to do list is complete.

Relaxation is a luxury not a necessity.

I have lived most of my adult life in a very unrelaxed state. Deadlines, sales goals, responding to emails, paperwork aka computer work…there is always something that must be done 365/24/7.

Stress has been a constant force that I have wrestled with, and when the wrestling match was over I was left exhausted, depleted and uninspired. I would try to take a day off (or sometimes just a couple of hours) to relax and catch my breath – all knowing that soon I would be back in the ring wrestling with yet another deadline…which by the way always prevented me from fully relaxing. Something had to give.

Deadlines, sales goals, emails etc., are a part of running a business and also a part of life to one extent or another. Exhaustion, feeling uninspired as well as emotionally, physically and spiritually depleted, should not be.

AndreA L. Hoig ahoig@Spiritofomaha.com

A couple of years ago I made a decision to start simplifying my life and my business but no matter how much “stuff” I removed from both…old habits were hard to break.

What I mean by that is when you are accustomed to being busy (no matter how much stress and discomfort it may bring) and your daily mantra is,”I am so busy” or “I don’t have time for exercise, relationships, family, relaxation,”…it becomes a part of your identity.

“ “Tension is who you think you should be.

Relaxation is who you are.”

I had to stop myself from creating more stress: more work or more things to do for myself when space opened up. But maybe even more important than that, I realized that I needed to stop saying…”I am too busy!” What you declare to the world … you are.

~CHINESE PROVERB

As challenging as that was (and sometimes still is because I do have a lot going on at times) I have replaced“I am too busy” with “I have a lot of activity happening right now” – or better yet –“I have a lot of exciting activity in my life right now.”

Even with all of the “exciting activity” that fills my life creating time and space for relaxation is a priority for me now. The funny thing that happens when I create time and space for relaxation, my life becomes more relaxed. Even when the activity in my life is high, I am able to experience a sense of relaxation each and every day.

SERVING YOU AS YOU SERVE OTHERS! how can we support your mission today?

For me to accomplish this has required a daily commitment and a daily relaxation practice.

The rewards are priceless. I am able to create at my best when I am in a relaxed state.

I am able to tune into my higher self and my inner guidance what I am in a relaxed state.

I am able to show up at my best (even with a lot of activity in my life) when I am in a relaxed state. Life tastes better, sounds better, feels better when I am in a relaxed state.

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

I will admit that I am still a work in progress, but making a commitment to relax into each moment, life can truly be magical! ~ Andee

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connecting OUR COMMUNITY

what’s new creativity connection

new concept:

A MEMORABLE ERA MADE MODERN

Grāne Monday - Thursday 3 PM - midnight • Friday & Saturday 3 PM - 2 AM • Sunday noon - 2AM 120 S. 31st Ave., Ste. 5105 | Omaha Brix owner Dan Matuszek’s newest venture, Grāne, is a “globally unprecedented” brand capitalizing on whiskey’s resurging worldwide popularity. It features small portion-size whiskey dispensing with exclusive sampling equipment (Bartender by Wineemotion™), plus more than 450 varieties of whiskey available for purchase onsite. Grāne also features 1920s- and 1930s-style craft cocktails with handmade ingredients, exquisite presentation, and a level of care not found in the typical bar or lounge. Located in Midtown Crossing, Grāne also offers wine and beer, but the true customer favorite is an old-fashioned – a cocktail made from whiskey, bitters, water and sugar – unlike any other. Grāne offers a haven for the outlaw in all of us: a modern speakeasy wrapped in dark wood and dim lighting, the kind of atmosphere that begs for great conversation. It’s a new concept inspired by a memorable era.

(402) 934-5727 | www.granewhiskey.com

sophistication connection

new approach: CUTS & COCKTAILS scissors & scotch Monday 12 PM – 8 PM • Tuesday - Thursday 10 AM - 8 PM • Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM • Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM | 2835 S. 170th Plz., Ste. 212 | Omaha With the appealing tagline of “Superior Grooming for Sophisticated Gentlemen,” Scissors & Scotch provides an upscale grooming experience for men through a combination of traditional barbering services from experienced professionals and modern spa treatments in a truly relaxing atmosphere. The barbershop features haircuts along with coloring, spa services, shaves, waxing and shoe shines. Membership packages are available. Co-founders Tanner Wiles, erik Anderson, and Sean Finley invite patrons to enjoy a complimentary, hand-crafted cocktail in Scissors & Scotch’s private lounge following their grooming or spa service. The lounge offers a handful of whiskey-based cocktails, a similar number of non-whiskey cocktails, a selection of scotches and several local beers on tap. Cigars are also available for purchase.

(402) 333-1091| www.ScissorsScotch.com

style connection

now open: WASH, BLOW AND GO PrimP and Blow, a Blow dry Bar 2835 S. 170th Plz., Ste. 204 | Omaha Omaha native Danya Banning and co-owner Diana Cokingtin bring their “Primp and Blow, A Blow Dry Bar” franchise to Omaha, introducing a membership concept offering professional shampoo blow-outs, full makeup services, hair extensions and other salon luxuries. The new salon will be located in The Shops of Legacy at 170th and Center Streets. Primp and Blow features a comfortable boutique-style setting where appointments can be booked online, via a special mobile app or by phone, and walk-ins are welcome. “We are excited to bring one of the faster-growing concepts in the beauty industry to clients in Omaha,” Banning says. Cokingtin adds, “every woman should have access to this fabulous and affordable concept that skips the cut and color and focuses solely on the ‘do. We believe every day should be a fabulous hair day.”

(402) 513-2555 | www.primpandblow.com 10

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what’s now!

KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH our community

now funding: NP DODGE CARES giving connection

nP dodGe cares inc.

13321 California Street, Ste. 300 | Omaha Dodge Cares Inc., a 501(c)3 exempt agent-driven charity, donated over $34,000 to several non-profit and charitable organizations this year in its mission to help provide food, shelter and comfort for the homeless, displaced, and abused in eastern nebraska and western Iowa. Donations were made possible by generous contributions from nP Dodge sales associates and matching funds from nP Dodge Company for 2014. During the last 10 years, Dodge Cares has donated over $275,000 to local charities. “We’re so happy for those receiving these monetary gifts and proud of our agents for their generous giving to our communities,” said Mary robson rensch, President of Dodge Cares, Inc. recipients of the Dodge Cares donations are the Mission Omaha Foundation, Open Door Mission, Siena/Francis House, Stephen Center, Lydia House, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, Habitat for Humanity of Sarpy County, Fremont Area Habitat for Humanity, Council Bluffs Housing Trust Fund, Youth emergency Services, Joseph’s Coat, Together, and new Visions Homeless Services (MOHMS Place).

(402) 500-0309 | www.npdodge.com/dodge-cares

new honors: DAVID SCOTT

awards connection

emBassy suites convention center – la vista 12520 Westport Pkwy | La Vista embassy Suites Omaha - La Vista / Hotel & Conference Center has received a Platinum Adrian Award for public relations excellence in recognition of its highly successful Project SeArCH initiative, a national program which provides on-the-job training and long-term employment for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International Adrian Awards is a prestigious marketing competition for the hospitality, travel and tourism industries. David Scott, director of sales, accepted the Adrian Award on behalf of embassy Suites La Vista and John Q. Hammons Hotels & resorts (JQH). Scott, who was recently invited to the White House as a Champion of Change nominee for Disability employment, was also honored with the 2014 CeO Light & Warmth Award, Hilton Worldwide’s highest accolade for any Team Member. Based on the successful program at the embassy Suites in La Vista, JQH has extended Project SeArCH to nine additional hotels. In addition, a documentary on Project SeArCH, produced by Scott and his team and written/directed by Dana Altman, won Best Short Film at the Tenth Annual Omaha Film Festival in March.

(402) 331-7400 | embassysuites.hilton.com

mobile connection

now open: PLATFORM TO EXPRESS YOUR LIFESTYLE hutch Monday-Saturday 10 AM-9 PM • Sunday noon-6 PM • 3220 Farnam St., Ste. 2101 | Omaha “We want you to use Hutch as a platform to express your lifestyle in your home,” say Hutch owners nicholas Huff and Brandon Beed. “Our first impressions from customers have been, ‘It doesn’t feel like I’m in Omaha.” newly relocated to a beautiful 4,300-square-foot space in Midtown, Hutch brings a one-of-a-kind furniture shopping experience to Omaha clients with products ranging from furniture, lighting and rugs to home decor and artworks. An original concept that mixes modern, local and vintage furnishings, Hutch offers products from more than 40 modern furniture and home décor brands, including Gus Modern; 20 area makers of exclusive, locally-crafted objects and furnishings; plus a mix of seriously quality vintage finds and original art. Hutch also works closely with large-scale, commercial projects to source the brand’s collection.

(402) 403-4590 | www.hutchmodern.com

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community OF GIVING

having exceeded expectations in the first two years of omaha community foundation’s brilliant giving campaign, the concept is no longer a new one, and with the way area non profits, businesses and the community at large have embraced OCF’s 24 hours of giving, there is no reason to believe that this popular and productive philanthropic undertaking has come anywhere close to reaching its ceiling.

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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTO BY JIM SCHOLZ

• mquarterly

JOHN KOTOUC, SARA BOYD AND TODD SIMON AT THE BARBARA WEITZ COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CENTER

raising the bar OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION omaha gives! omaha gives!

OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

CONTINUED

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community OF GIVING

IT IS ONE OF THOSE THINGS THAT feeds ON ITSELF; THE MORE PEOPLE THAT PARTICIPATE, THE MORE THAT [OTHERS] want TO PARTICIPATE. ~ TODD SIMON CHAIR, OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BOARD SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, OMAHA STEAKS

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ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DANA DAMEWOOD

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OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION omaha gives!

raising the bar OCF staff

THOUGHT THEY HAD REALISTIC HOPES FOR THE FIRST OMAHA GIVES! THEY COORDINATED IN 2013. AFTER ALL, MODEST RESULTS ARE TYPICAL FROM NEW FUNDRAISING EFFORTS FOR THE FIRST FEW YEARS.

It takes time to gain credibility and recognition within the community, and it’s challenging to stand out from other commendable charitable events to capture the interest of new supporters.

But after phenomenal first-year results were followed by an even more amazing second year and an incredible level of ongoing engagement from the community, they’ve transitioned from merely hopeful to completely assured and are expecting the best year yet with the third annual Omaha Gives! taking place for 24 hours starting at midnight on Wednesday, May 20.

“It’s a heavy lift for our team but it’s a great opportunity for this group to take pride in what they can help the community accomplish,” Sara Boyd, president and CEO of the Omaha Community Foundation, said.

“We’re excited because we believe Omaha is special and we want to see another big showing, first and foremost because we care about this community and want to see it thrive. Secondly, there’s this sense of pride we all take from what we can all accomplish together and how we can put Omaha on the map as one of the most—if not the most— generous community in this country.”

easier than ever to give The 2015 Omaha Gives! fundamentals are the same: participants visit the website at omahagives24.org, use the search feature to find their favorite nonprofits, and make a donation of $10 or more using a credit card, Boyd said. What’s new is that a different technology partner, CiviCore, is offering expanded capability including a simplified shopping cart and the option of saving donor profiles. Donors can even schedule donations ahead of time.

“It’s more cost-effective, more flexible, and it will also be more enduring,” Boyd said. “This will increase the benefit for everybody.”

Last year, 569 nonprofits participated in Omaha Gives!, but this year’s final number is expected to reach 700. omaha gives!

OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

CONTINUED

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community OF GIVING

WE’RE EXCITED BECAUSE WE BELIEVE OMAHA IS special AND WE WANT TO SEE ANOTHER big SHOWING. ~ SARA BOYD PRESIDENT AND CEO, OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

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ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DANA DAMEWOOD

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OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION omaha gives!

raising the bar “I’m really pleased to see not only the social service organizations participating, but so many schools have done a really great job connecting to alumni, parents and supporters,” American National Bank executive chairman John Kotouc said. American National Bank is this year’s presenting sponsor. “But also there’s a whole category of animal-affiliated organizations that people love to be able to support…they’re an important part of the community, too. And there are also some charities of faith that are participating, and that’s really great to see.”

maximizing the day Todd Simon, Omaha Community Foundation board chair and Omaha Steaks senior vice president, said he was pleased that Steaks for Good from Omaha Steaks is the returning hourly prize sponsor for 2015.

“We saw the first two years of Omaha Gives! were great for the community and the project continues to grow, and we felt like we wanted to keep the momentum going,” he explained.

“The event has built its own brand, and I think for the foreseeable future, each year it’s going to attract more nonprofits and more donors. People like the energy that the day creates and from what I know, the nonprofits have learned a lot about how to maximize the day. They’ve figured out they can raise additional matching money from their own donors, they’ve learned how to market the event better. So I expect that, for the next several years, we’re going to continue to see year-over-year growth in the number of participants and the amount of dollars raised.”

Some new elements to this year’s event were inspired by ideas from the nonprofits themselves, Boyd said.

“One of the great advantages of an event like Omaha Gives! is that it is so flexible. If somebody has an idea, there’s likely a way to incorporate it. And part of keeping the energy around the event is keeping it fresh and continuing to demonstrate the value behind the day,” she said.

“This year we have something called extra bonus dollars. In the past, some of the organizations have raised their own match. This year we will be able to include that as extra bonus dollars those organizations will get credit for.” omaha gives!

OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

CONTINUED

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community OF GIVING

THERE IS THAT wise SAYING THAT IT’S MORE BLESSED TO give THAN RECEIVE. ~ JOHN KOTOUC EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, AMERICAN NATIONAL BANK

A few changes have been made to enhance the competitive spirit of the day, Boyd said.

“There will be more participation prizes this year…those are the prizes which go to nonprofit organizations that have the most donors participate. It’s really important to emphasize participation even if those organizations are not always the ones that raise the most money. This is about planting seeds of generosity that will pay off for the Omaha area long into the future,” she said. “We have three different time periods throughout the day and we’ve structured the event so that we can have new winners each time period.”

“The participation prizes are based on the number of individuals you can get to donate to your organization and it’s further divided into tiers so you’re competing with like-size organizations,” Simon added. “We try to do a lot make it fair and make it fun, because at the end of the day it should be fun.”

year-round impact The Omaha Gives! experience also has a longstanding effect on nonprofits, Simon said.

“And the nonprofits that participate, they’re learning new skills about marketing and fundraising, and they’re using social media and learning how to build a database, how to build an email file,” he said. “All of these things are useful skills for any organization to have, no matter the size.”

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ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DANA DAMEWOOD

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OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION omaha gives!

raising the bar Although organizers hope to attract new donors every year, the loyal core of returning participants is key to Omaha Gives! ongoing success.

“The issues and opportunities aren’t going away,” Boyd said. “So when donors opt to participate, whether it’s Omaha Gives! or engaging in some other fashion at some other time, they’re demonstrating their ownership of the future of this community.”

“The idea is to show them that it’s easy to give and it’s easy to become a supporter, and there is that wise saying that it’s more blessed to give than receive,” Kotouc said.

“It is one of those things that feeds on itself; the more people that participate, the more that want to participate. It’s a positive feedback loop. And there’s leverage on the money; all the dollars that are donated that day are going to get some sort of increase to them through either the hourly prizes or the participation prizes, and then there’s the bonus money pool. So there’s lots of different ways for additional funds to be raised that are not going to be raised on other days of the year,” Simon added. “So if you care about an organization and only give once during the year, you might as well give during Omaha Gives!.”

omaha gives!

OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

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their day GIFT GUIDE

it’s only natural Natural Yellow Diamond Earrings. Brighten Mom’s day with these handmade 18 karat white and yellow gold diamond earrings. Each earring contains one Natural Fancy Yellow Radiant Cut diamond weighing over 1 carat and perfectly matched round brilliant cut diamonds of F-G color and VS clarity.

GUNDERSON’S Village Pointe • 402.935.6332 | www.gundersons.com

bliss for mom Make Mom’s day unforgettable. The Le Vie Parisienne collection originates from old Parisian workshops established over 200 years ago. Each piece is rendered from original molds and stamping, set and painstakingly enameled by skilled artisans. Your relationship with Mom is one you treasure. View these treasurers exclusively at Bliss, a women’s clothing, accessory and gift boutique.

BLISS BOUTIQUE Bel-Air Plaza • 12100 W. Center Rd. #607, Omaha 402.991.3595 | facebook.com/BlissBoutiqueOmaha

anchoring hope Authentic Wax Seal Talisman. Give Mom a meaningful gift with a Pyrrha Wax Seal Talisman. Shown here: Anchor of Hope Talisman (348366) and Hearts Talisman (347775). These necklaces each have unique and inspiring meanings and are handcrafted from reclaimed sterling silver using wax casting. Each of these handmade pieces comes with a cottonpouch and a meaning card.

ELISA ILANA JEWELRY 13132 Davenport Street, Omaha | 402.926.3479 elisailana.com

a joyful outburst Watch the ones you love come alive when they see the Borsheims silver box.

Celebrate Spring, Mom and Grads with gifts from Borsheims that will make them forget themselves in the moment.

These Phillips House Infinity Necklaces, starting at $1,300, are sure to make a jaw-dropping impression.

BORSHEIMS FINE JEWELRY AND GIFTS Regency Court • 120 Regency Parkway, Omaha | borsheims.com I 800.642.GIFT

“gift” them on their day “Gift” them a personal shopping spree… no matter the occasion, a Village Pointe gift card can offer the recipient the perfect way to choose exactly what suits their own style and lifestyle. Good for shopping, dining, and entertainment at Scheels, Apple, Kona Grill, Sephora, J. Crew, Marcus Village Pointe Cinema, Gap and more.

VILLAGE POINTE 168th & West Dodge Road • 17305 Davenport St., Suite 203, Omaha 402.505.9773 | villagepointeshopping.com

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busy hands are happy hands If there is a needlecrafter on your list, find the perfect gift at Personal Threads Boutique.

For more than 22 years knitters have shopped their “Personal Yarn Store,” Personal Threads Boutique.

Whether you shop our extensive inventory, select a kit or gift card, rest assured that your gift will be appreciated!

Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

PERSONAL THREADS BOUTIQUE 8600 Cass Street (86th and Dodge) 2nd Floor, Omaha | 402.391.7733 www.personalthreads.com

destination: father’s paradise Every Father’s Day spouses and children ask “what do I get dad for Father’s Day?” Our answer is get him what he wants! A new St.Croix polo for the Father’s Day golf outing, a new sport coat from one of our exclusive brands for a nice Father’s Day dinner out with his family!

Our point: you can get everything in one place and one place only...Lindley Clothing Co.

LINDLEY CLOTHING CO. 707 N 132nd Dodge, Omaha | 402.491.4000 www.lindleyclothing.com

make her a star!

Periwinkles is the exclusive dealer for Kendra Scott in Omaha, and Kendra Scott is the hottest brand in jewelry.

Select the perfect gift for Mom (and treat yourself, too!) from the newest selection of Kendra Scott bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings in all new colors. Kendra Scott is the jeweler of choice for many of the top movie stars.

PERIWINKLES Village Pointe Shopping Center, Omaha | 402.289.0975 Bel-Air Plaza • 120th & Center, Omaha | 402.916.4789

mom deserves the best!

This locally owned women’s clothing boutique has been serving the Omaha community since 1990.

Tilly’s selections include unique and carefully chosen offerings from designer labels such as Carmen Marc Valvo; T. John; Weill; Franscara; Nina McLemore and Basler. Exclusive collections chosen with discriminating taste, creating a truly personal fashion experience appealing to women of every age and lifestyle. Tilly also offers shoes and accessories for women.

TILLY 120 Regency Parkway, Omaha | 402.399.8080

offerings from the fields Andrés Tortillery is the new Mexican concept in town presented in old world style. The Popp Family have turned their love of south-of-the-border cuisine and collected recipes into a restaurant tortillery and tequila bar. Son, Andrew, has created many fresh and healthy dishes featuring the goodness of the fields.

Handcrafted organic corn tortillas will be made daily as well as small batch salsas and guacamole.

ANDRÉS One Pacific Place | 103rd & Pacific, Omaha Ne 68114 | www.Andresomaha.Com

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game CHANGERS

• PRESENTED BY

through nancy k. johnson has built an incredible career in commercial real estate, starting at an unusually young age – in a field that remains male-dominated and challenging – but it’s not just her career that has made an impression in the community.

NANCY K. JOHNSON’S career

I said I would help, and before I knew it was in charge of taking a swing at it the live auction items. And I had about six weeks to Johnson first connected with UCP Nebraska by way of gather them up,” she said. “Then I started more work for golf, which she initially took up as a means to build her them and two years ago they asked me to be the guild professional network. president, and this year I was the honorary chair for their Fandango (fundraiser).”

“When I started in commercial real estate, I was very young – 21 – and when I was 25 I had someone say to “Nancy is one of those young women who pulled herself me, ‘If you’re going to be in that male-dominated But the impression she has made in the community up and has been extremely successful in a very profession, you better learn to play golf.’” Golf ultimately reaches far beyond her business achievements. became a beloved pastime, and five or six years ago competitive business. And instead of just taking that success and keeping it all for herself, so to speak, Nancy Johnson found herself offering some suggestions to Johnson has committed time and resources to several organizers of a small golf fundraiser for UCP on how to feels a sense of community responsibility to give back local nonprofits over the years as well as mentored other some of what she has learned and earned,” Henrichs said. make the event better from the golfer’s perspective. women professionals, and those who have seen her contributions firsthand say her efforts have made a real difference.

HAS FEATURED AN IMPRESSIVE RISE IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE, STARTING AT AN UNUSUALLY YOUNG AGE (SHE REMEMBERS THE EXACT DATE SHE FOUND HER CALLING: SEPTEMBER 17, 1987) IN A FIELD THAT IS STILL MALE-DOMINATED AND VERY CHALLENGING. IN 2003, SHE JOINED CB RICHARD ELLIS (CBRE-MEGA) AND TODAY SERVES AS A SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT.

“To know Nancy is to know a high-energy woman who has been very successful, and she finds a way to bring that same high-energy commitment to human care,” said Ruth Henrichs, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska (LFS) president and CEO. “She has incredible enthusiasm, and not only does she have great ideas, but she’s one of those rare people who always follows through,” Carol Hahn, United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Nebraska executive director, said. “She’s an amazing woman who cares about people and she’s always there to help out.”

Johnson said her commitment to community was instilled early on. The oldest of four children, she remembers her father reminding her of her responsibility to “set a good example” and that her mother, a “driven individual,” managed to make time for volunteer efforts.

SHE HAS INCREDIBLE enthusiasm, AND NOT ONLY DOES SHE HAVE GREAT IDEAS, BUT SHE’S ONE OF THOSE RARE PEOPLE WHO ALWAYS follows through.…SHE’S AN AMAZING WOMAN WHO CARES ABOUT PEOPLE AND SHE’S always THERE TO HELP OUT. ~ CAROL HAHN UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY (UCP) NEBRASKA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“I had very good role models in both my parents,” Johnson explained. “They are amazing people and they give back and work hard.”

before she knew it…

It was through a personal connection that Johnson first became involved with Lutheran Family Services.

“They’re very fortunate to have a great guild that was in “I opened my mouth,” she said, wryly. place long before I was involved. It’s women in the community who are really good workers and doers.

“I was introduced to LFS some 16 years ago when my Now she’s part of the executive committee for the friend adopted her baby through Adoption Links, which They simply do it because they have good hearts and are organization’s annual “Hit the Links” Drive Against fortunate in that they have the ability to give back,” is now part of Lutheran Family Services. When that Disabilities golf tournament and capitalizing on years of connections built through her career. particular friend was the honorary chair for a fundraiser, Johnson said.

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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM SCHOLZ

• mquarterly

NANCY K. JOHNSON AT THE LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES NORTH OMAHA CENTER

PRESENTS game

changers

NANCY K. JOHNSON

CONTINUED

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game CHANGERS

PRESENTED BY

through

FOLLOWING

“PEOPLE ARE afraid TO VOLUNTEER; THEY’RE AFRAID IT WILL TAKE TOO MUCH TIME AND TOO MUCH MONEY…I TELL PEOPLE THAT IF YOU HAVE one hour a month YOU CAN DO SOMETHING…I WOULD LOVE TO GET MORE PEOPLE…EXPOSED TO PHILANTHROPY. ~ NANCY K. JOHNSON

This special feature is sponsored by planitomaha. planitomaha is dedicated to honoring women whose influence not only impacts the boardroom but the community.

“Welcome to

”

one of the largest and most prestigious meeting planning firms in the midwest omaha magazine B2B winners since 2008 national, regional and local meetings and events nationally recognized as a leader in the meetings & event industry supporting our community through our non-profit work and the boards/organizations we are members of planitomaha has been providing event and meeting management solutions for over 15 years. we are a client-centric firm that provides unmatched service and professionalism. while proudly located in the midwest, our crazy-talented event team works from new york to la and everywhere in the middle.

“It’s evolved a little bit over time, but where my strength is now is finding companies to buy the foursomes, and I get involved in finding auction items,” she explained.

“It’s been a little bit of everything, but [all] trying to help in the fundraising efforts.”

“She didn’t just do this for a couple of years; she’s stayed with us,” Hahn said. “Nancy – from the very beginning, when we said we needed to do some fundraising – got on board. Anything she was asked to do, she jumped in and always helped.”

She’s largely had to forge her own path. Back in 1987, Johnson found few role models in commercial real estate to guide her, primarily because such a small percentage of the field (she estimates five percent or less) was female.

“I didn’t have anyone – especially women – to mentor me and help me with the challenges I had throughout my career,” she explained. “So I want to give back to the young women today.”

the mentor she never had Her involvement with CREW Omaha Metro (CREW stands for Commercial Real Estate Women) has made it possible for her to offer other women in her field the benefit of her experience.

work hard, give back

“Nancy Johnson has been such an incredible inspiration and mentor for me,” said Jennifer Shukert, director of Johnson’s giving-100-percent approach permeates everything she does, and has served her well in business. marketing with The Architectural Offices. “Her guidance through the different aspects of my career and personal But respect for others has been a big part of her success life has been invaluable.” as well.

“When I was younger, I didn’t realize [all that I had to “I always put my clients first and represented them to the offer] and now that I’m a little older and more seasoned in my career and in my fundraising, I do have some good best of my abilities. I also made it a point of respecting skills that I can maybe pass on to someone to help them my competitors and colleagues in the industry and become more confident themselves,” Johnson said. cooperating with them on deals. Because I did not have And she hopes to be able to continue to pay it forward. a book of business when I started in the industry I decided the way to get business was to network and I have worked very hard at that over the last 27-plus years.

I was not afraid to do the small deals so that I could learn every aspect of the business,” she said. “The commissiononly aspect has been extremely challenging over the years but I believe if you are honest and work hard you will be rewarded. As they say...the harder you work the luckier you get.”

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“People are afraid to volunteer; they’re afraid it will take too much time and too much money, but it really doesn’t.

You can do as little or as much as you want…I tell people that if you have one hour a month you can do something…I would love to get more people who may have never been involved get exposed to philanthropy,” she said. “And my passion is to continue to mentor young women and empower them to enable them to get to their real potential.”

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D BY

celebrating 25 years in 2016!

Call for Nominations!

For events presented between June 1, 2014 & May 31, 2015 Deadline to receive nominations is July 3, 2015!

• Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEventNOMS

Nominations accepted in these Categories: Best Event: 1st/2nd Annual • Best Event: Under 500 • Best Event: Over 500 Best Event: Over 1,000 • Best Event: Pet & Animal • Best Event: Heath & Wellness Best Event: Theme • Best Event: Education • Best Event: Food & Wine Best Event: Young Professional • Best Event: Walk/Run • Best Event: Speaker/Guest • Outstanding Guild Award

Finalists will be announced in our August 2015 issue!

Voting begins in August!

*

Winners in each category will be eligible to compete for:

• Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEventNOMS

PRESENTS

h

NANCY K JOHNSON

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the BIG connection PART ONE PRESENTED BY

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The $10K BIG CONNECTION

PART ONE OF A TWO PART SERIES

i had no idea...

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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM SCHOLZ

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JUDY VARNER PRESIDENT AND CEO, WITH “JASMINE”

an army of invested, faithful supporters and contributors propelled the nebraska humane society to become the inaugural winner of metroMAGAZINE’s 2015 $10k BIG connection, proving once again how deep and broad is the passion of those who believe in the mission of one of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive animal care and control organizations. yet even those who so ardently back NHS may not fully realize just how far-reaching and encompassing their services are... with a vision for doing much more!

NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY

more than you know the big connection

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the BIG connection PART ONE

I HAD NO idea!

I DIDN’T KNOW YOU WENT TO this LENGTH! I CAN’T BELIEVE all YOU DO! NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY STAFF MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS HEAR STATEMENTS LIKE THIS EVERY DAY FROM PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY ASTONISHED BY NOT ONLY THE NUMBER OF SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE ANIMAL WELFARE ORGANIZATION, BUT THE SHEER VOLUME OF ANIMALS HELPED AND THE INCREDIBLE MEASURES TAKEN TO SAVE ANIMALS’ LIVES AND FIND THEM FOREVER HOMES.

healthcare and medical

good behavior

Animals come to the shelter through various means, but all are given an initial health assessment upon intake, said Associate Vice President of Veterinary Services Dr. Amber Horn. Those who come in with injuries or illness and can’t be connected to owners are treated by medical staff, while others may end up receiving just basic vaccinations and deworming.

Some animals need a second chance behaviorally to help them become adoptable, and NHS has a team of staff supplemented by volunteers who work with fearful, untrained and unruly dogs through the shelter’s “Molly Project” program. Conditioning and a tremendous amount of patience with the dogs is combined with special counseling for adoptive owners on how to manage their new pet and maintain good “Shelter medicine is different than private practice in that behavior in its new home. we don’t have history on our animals, so we have to assume they are at risk for getting sick,” Horn said.

Director of Shelter Training and Behavior Denise Gurss “We care very, very deeply for every animal that comes in said behavior support for dogs starts even before they our door and we do everything in our power to save The health assessment also provides insight on an every animal that comes in our door,” President and CEO animal’s special needs, like soft food for a dog with dental enter the program, to help them adapt to new surroundings.

Judy Varner said. “When push comes to shove, if it’s not problems or an extra layer of bedding for an older cat. us, who is it? We take that to the core of our beings.”

Blood tests may be ordered, and non-emergency procedures ranging from lump removal to hip dysplasia “It’s a stressful environment for dogs. Many dogs who have been living as a companion dog, an owned dog, surgery – and including spaying or neutering – may be by the numbers aren’t used to living in solitary confinement,” she scheduled. With an objective to help animals be as The numbers speak for themselves: Just last year, NHS explained. “We have one of the best shelters in the U.S. healthy as possible in anticipation of making them provided services to more than 25,000 animals (as an open available for adoption, staff veterinarians have anywhere but to them, it’s San Quentin…We do everything we admission shelter, all animals are accepted: companion from fifteen to forty animals on a typical daily surgery list. can to try to relieve their anxiety and try to support animals, livestock and wildlife). Close to 3,000 lost pets them while they’re here.” were returned to their owners. More than 10,600 pets “If the animal has an infection or is hurting, it’s going to found new homes through the adoption program affect their quality of life,” Horn said. Even something Instead of expecting the dogs to understand humans, that a former pet owner may have considered harmless the people who work with the Molly Project dogs learn including 8,000 newly microchipped dogs and cats. inattention or delay – professional grooming or routine about dog psychology, nonverbal cues and what dogs More than 1,000 callers to the behavior helpline received teeth cleaning, for instance – can cause big problems are trying to communicate with certain behaviors. guidance on how to manage their pets. More than 5,000 from fur knots that cause skin damage to periodontal owned pets were spayed or neutered by the NHS disease that interferes with an animal’s ability to eat, so “Our volunteers get a lot of training in regard to thinking Spay/Neuter Center, and more than 6,000 shelter animals appropriate grooming and dental care can be part of the about this from the animal’s point of view,” Gurss said. were spayed or neutered. And volunteers contributed an medical package.

And it hopefully helps dogs find a permanent, happy extraordinary 71,231 hours caring for shelter pets. home with some follow-up efforts from NHS. “We have Treatable but unaddressed medical problems can even to support them from the door where they come in to The organization has been around since 1875, making it lead to behavior problems that prompt owners to the door where they leave and afterward; we don’t want surrender pets, like a bladder stone causing a dog to the fifth-oldest humane society in the U.S., but the this to be a revolving door…we want to make every humans who are part of it today are always looking ahead. urinate in the house, and “sometimes owners can’t effort to make it work if it can.” afford veterinary care,” Horn explained.

“Everyone here wants us to do better, do more: How can we operate more efficiently, more effectively?” Varner said. “We’re very protective of the dollars that are donated to us and we feel a great honor that people have entrusted us with their hard-earned dollars to help animals. So we’re extremely careful about how it’s spent.”

Veterinary treatment can be as extensive and specialized as therapy that helps an injured animal regain mobility.

“We basically get the animal to the point where they’re comfortable and can use the limb again, and then we can adopt them out,” Horn said.

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foster homes and caring volunteers The Guardian Angel Foster Care program provides temporary homes and specialized care for animals not yet ready for adoption, whether socialization and behavior issues are involved, the animal is too young to be spayed or neutered, or the animal is medically fragile.

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DR. AMBER HORN, ASSOC. VICE PRESIDENT OF VETERINARY SERVICES, WITH VETERINARY TECHNICIAN JILLIAN CUTSHALL AND “KATMANDU”

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the BIG connection PART ONE

NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY more than you know PART ONE OF A TWO PART SERIES

NHS partners with 200 approved foster homes, providing training for the human hosts and supplies for the animals in their care.

OUR VISION IS A GOOD HOME FOR every PET.…EVERYONE HERE WANTS US TO DO BETTER, DO more.…

WHEN PUSH COMES TO SHOVE, IF IT’S NOT us, WHO IS IT?” –

Other volunteers contribute on-site and in the field in a myriad of ways including transporting animals, socializing cats, walking dogs, counseling potential adoptive families, greeting visitors, helping with special events and even traveling to assist pets affected by natural disasters.

safety and welfare NHS animal control personnel offered 475 lost pets a free ride home last year and gave away collars, leashes and dog houses when these resources were available.

They talked to children about bite safety and proper pet care, and worked with pet owners to educate them on animal welfare. They worked with numerous other private, nonprofit and public entities to coordinate services or report conditions that affected property or humans, and offered consultation and support to agencies outside their geographic area of service.

~ JUDY VARNER, NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY PRESIDENT AND CEO

“The animal control officer’s job is quite varied and they never know what they’re going to have to deal with on a daily basis,” Field Director Kristie Biodrowski said.

“We help ensure the welfare of the animals. We respond to a variety of complaints but we always try to educate the community; when we come across a pet owner we work toward educating them first on what is appropriate pet care, why it’s important to provide proper veterinarian care, ensuring people are vaccinating pets against rabies, and – if we can – help to direct them toward resources that are out there if they need assistance.

This busy group provides services seven days a week and responds to more than 40,000 calls a year.

A GLIMPSE INSIDE THE BOWELS OF NHS’ SPRAWLING BACK-END HOUSING AN INFRASTRUCTURE THAT MANY HUMAN HOSPITALS WOULD ENVY

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“Animal control professionals work very hard every day to make sure the community is safe from animals that may pose problems and at the same time and ensuring the welfare of animals in the community so we have a safer and more humane society,” Biodrowski said.

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BEHAVIOR TEAM MEMBERS CHELSIE PETERS AND SONJA ROWLAND WITH “JASPER”

THE LOBBY OFFERS AN INITIAL INDICATION OF THE QUALITY OF PROFESSIONALISM AND CARE AVAILABLE AT NHS

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NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY more than you know PART ONE OF A TWO PART SERIES

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ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER DAVE PETERS WITH “SANSA”

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the BIG connection PART ONE

NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY more than you know PART ONE OF A TWO PART SERIES legislation and education While most of NHS activities involve direct animal care, there are behind-the-scenes efforts that improve animals’ lives, too.

NHS has been involved for years with legislative efforts in its municipalities and also at the state level to introduce, collaborate, author and testify for rules that will better the lives of companion animals and their owners, Varner said.

“We take our mission very seriously. We are extremely active in Legislature; almost all the bills having to do with puppy mills, we were instrumental in writing them,” she added.

Education is another important endeavor that has far-reaching effects, especially when it starts early.

NHS partners with schools to provide curriculum material and works with Scout troops for their pet care insignia, and its “Camp Kindness” summer camps educate the next generation of pet owners along with “Humane Hands,” a club for children.

HOPE (BEFORE)

Pet owners, even those who did not adopt through NHS, can also find support through NHS programs from training classes and a free behavior helpline to daycare services for dogs.

“We work so hard to help people succeed with their pets,” Varner said. “Our vision is a good home for every pet.”

That may mean helping to the extent of giving struggling owners access to a pet food pantry, arranging “Animeals” delivery for Meals on Wheels recipients who are also pet owners, or arranging temporary housing of pets for abuse victims through Project Pet Safe.

everyday miracles Although they certainly witness hard situations and have some sad stories to tell, NHS staff and volunteers also know their work is making a real difference in the lives of animals and the community. And they’re part of miracles happening every day.

Varner is quick to affirm the miraculous aspect of all that goes on up front and behind the scenes at NHS. HOPE (AFTER)

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“It’s really an amazing place to be a part of.”

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ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY

DOG WALKERS

ADOPTION KITTEN

THE CATTERY

ADOPTION PUPS

KENNELS

ADOPTION KITTEN

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non profit PROFILE

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OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS • a caring tradition

95 years later this year, the omaha home for boys turns 95. that’s more than nine decades of supporting and strengthening youth, young adults and families in the community.

95 years later

OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS

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non profit PROFILE

OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS • a caring tradition In the past, youth came to the omaha home for Boys as orphans or dIsplaced chIldren; now, some arrIve wIth judIcIal Baggage, placed By the courts, whIle others come Because they need a place of sanctuary or somewhere to rIght theIr lIves and start over.

nebraska’s forgotten children

But how much do you actually know about the omaha home for Boys? maybe you’ve heard the name but don’t know what it is? or driven by the home’s expansive 60-acre campus at 52nd and ames and wondered, “what do they do there?” or maybe, like a lot of people in the community, you think the omaha home for Boys is part of Boys town.

the youth represent a variety of backgrounds, upbringings and needs. many of these at-risk youth have been abused, neglected or come from families overwhelmed by socio-economic challenges.

Let’s clear things up a bit.

Omaha Home for Boys...

a local child-serving organization the home has been actively serving the community since 1920 and is similar to other agencies providing youth residential services but with a unique mission that just happens to be in the same city.

while the home originally took in boys as young as 4 and kept them until they graduated high school, today’s youth are a bit different. these days, the home provides care and support for more than 400 at-risk youth, ages 12-24, each year – all from the state of nebraska.

on the Inspiration Hill residential care campus, boys age 12-18 continue to attend their home schools, whenever possible, and participate in community programs. at the same time, when available, their families participate in parenting classes with family reunification as the goal. the residential campus is centered around eight family cottages with up to eight boys in each cottage. additional support services housed on campus, such as the Wurdeman Learning Center, dining hall and feature-rich Eugene C. Eppley Recreation Center, all contribute to the life-changing experiences and special care each resident receives at the home.

help these and other at-risk young men and women meet these challenges. a program for young adults ages 17-20, its goal is to help them become self-sufficient and transition into their own independent living situations. “jacobs’ place is a great addition to the omaha home for Boys’ continuum of care that is desperately needed in the metro area,” said home transition services program manager Brandy Gustoff.“By having a transitional living program, we are able to help young adults become self-sufficient and move into the community on their own; an opportunity is here that they would not otherwise have.” the program provides transitional housing along with skills-based training and educational support. It also equips young people who have been in the child welfare system for long periods of time with life skills like cooking, writing a resume or dressing for an interview to become independent adults. residents share the gender-specific apartment on the omaha home for Boys’ transitional living campus located at 48th and cuming streets.

independent and productive

the third level of the omaha home for Boys care continuum – Branching Out® Independent Living – offers unique service options to young men and women “we pride ourselves on building a home for our youth,” ages 14 to 24 who live on their own but frequently need said omaha home for Boys president & ceo Jeff Moran. additional assistance and support.

The Omaha Home for Boys came about when the “we strive to make it our mission to help improve the douglas county, neb., social welfare community sought lives of the young people and families we encounter these options are designed to fill in service gaps, a facility to care for orphaned and homeless youth in the by giving them a structured, stable, supportive home create much-needed structure and skill development environment.” downtown omaha area. twelve masonic lodges in the and increase success rates for foster care and former area collaborated to support the cause. foster care youth or those at risk of crisis for other continuum of care socio-economic reasons. the omaha home for Boys also addresses a community originally located near 22nd and davenport streets, need for transitional living and independent living Branching out youth also have access to Youth Mart, a the home’s present campus at 52nd and ames was services – providing a continuum of care where youth donation station owned and operated by the home in a completed in 1945 with house mothers as primary care are able to receive continued support and access other collaborative effort with several local agencies, to provide staff. Its cottage-style living became state-of-the-art in basic needs assistance. them with necessities like furniture, appliances, clothing quality child care. and personal items for independent living. cash and gift when youth “age out” of foster care, they face challenges cards to purchase needed items are also welcome. the home was the first of its kind to have marriedin life other teenagers with stable families don’t. studies donations can be made by contacting the home. couple house parents in 1959 and developed one of the show once young men and women involuntarily leave first transitional living programs in the state in 1995. foster care, they face greater challenges and risks to their “Branching out offers young adults either an opportunity a strong, trusting family foundation is the key to a success than other youth. to build skills to make healthy life choices or enhance successful transition for youth, and house parents their skills so that they can gain their own independent provide structure, support and mentorship during a the omaha home for Boys’ Jacobs’ Place transitional housing with wraparound supports to offer long term success,” gustoff said. critical time in each boy’s life. living program provides services and opportunities to no relation. not even distant cousins, although other organizations serve similar populations.

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STORY BY MIKE WATKINS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS

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95 years later

95 years later

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OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS • a caring tradition WE…MAKE IT OUR MISSION TO HELP improve THE LIVES OF THE YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES WE ENCOUNTER

BY GIVING THEM A STRUCTURED, STABLE,

supportive home ENVIRONMENT. ~ JEFF MORAN PRESIDENT & CEO

active cattle farm donated by local farmer Bob Cooper in 1948, the cooper memorial farm, located on mormon Bridge road, provides the setting for the home’s valley view 4-h club. the club started that same year with seven donated calves and has been a staple of the home for more than 60 years and continues to go strong. It is one of the oldest in the area and is an extension of the home’s longtime connection between youth and agriculture. hundreds of boys and girls have benefitted from participating over the years. under the guidance of longtime farm manager Mike Pallas, youth in both the residential and transitional living programs raise cattle – feeding them, caring for them, walking them and eventually showing them at fairs and shows throughout the state.

constantly evolving as the home approaches its 100th anniversary in 2020, the organization will continue to adapt and change to meet the needs of children and families throughout the community. the promise to help youth become successful, productive and independent adults who contribute positively to and responsibly in their community continues 95 years strong. the plan is to still be going strong in another 95 years.

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COMING IN 2015: GETTIN’ DUNKED for Omaha Gives!

Imagine Our Youth Celebration

WHEN: wednesday, may 20, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE: stinson park, aksarben village WHAT: donate money and see some of the area’s BIggest names in business, entertainment and sports get dunKed to support the youth and programs at the omaha home for Boys!

WHEN: thursday, september 10, 5:30-9 p.m.

WHERE: ralston arena, 7300 Q st, ralston, ne WHAT: join the omaha home for Boys for its annual fundraising celebration on the floor of the ralston arena. former husker and national speaker aaron davis will motivate the audience with his message of hope and inspiration. cocktails, silent auction and dinner. vIp reception. tickets and sponsorships are available at www.omahahomeforboys.org or by contacting Kelley at 402-457-7165.

help ohB raIse funds to support youth and programs by donatIng onlIne through omaha gives!, 24 hours of community giving. Omaha Gives! is sponsored by the Omaha Community Foundation.*

‘Home’ for the Holidays Open House WHEN: friday, december 4 WHERE: ohB, 4343 n. 52nd street, omaha WHAT: Kick-off the 2015 holiday season at the omaha home for Boys “home” for the holidays open house.

2015 OHB Golf Classic WHEN: wednesday, june 3 registration and lunch – 11 a.m. shotgun start – noon. dinner, awards and raffle – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Indian creek golf course WHAT: register your team of 4 to play in the annual omaha home for Boys’ golf classic june 3 at Indian creek golf course, omaha’s premiere 27-hole public course with 37 acres of fairway, 65-plus well-placed bunkers and 15 holes with the threat of water.

see the beautiful 60-acre campus decorated for the holidays and enjoy food, fun and festivities.

Bring an unwrapped gift for our youth to be placed under our angel tree.

reserve your foursome and sponsorship by contacting travis at golf@omahahomeforboys.org or 402-457-7165.

Find Out More Visit www.omahahomeforboys.org, as well as their facebook page and twitter (@omahahomeforBoy) for up-to-date news, event information and opportunities to find out how you can help youth succeed.

95th Anniversary Reunion Weekend WHEN: saturday and sunday, aug. 1-2 WHERE: ohB, 4343 n. 52nd street, omaha WHO: alumni and families, staff and families and friends in the community WHAT: campus tours, a picnic/festival at cooper memorial farm pavilion, sunday worship service in the wurdeman learning center, brunch in the dining hall and activities in the recreation center. more information and registration at www.omahahomeforboys.org/ohb95th- anniversary-reunion-weekend/ *Editor’s NOTE: Look for our article on Omaha Gives in this issue.

95 years later

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non profit PROFILE

HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICE friends guild HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICE FRIENDS GUILD MEMBERS JOIN WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THEY ARE PART OF A WORKING GUILD IN EVERY SENSE OF THE WORD.

THE WHOLE ORGANIZATION IS ADAPTABLE TO NEEDS IN THE COMMUNITY, AND THEREFORE THE GUILD IS AS WELL…THERE IS A PLACE FOR EVERYONE ON THIS GUILD, AND THAT, I THINK, IS WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT. ~ CHRIS OLSON

The work begins, but certainly does not end, with yearround fundraising events and support activities ranging from an annual gala and the widely recognized Salute to Families, to providing gift baskets, birthday cards and homemade meals to HFS clients. The work includes The agency helps more than 50,000 people annually mentoring a Student League to usher in the next from more than 15 locations in the area. generation of volunteers, and continues with support to various Heartland Family Service programs and facilities.

“Heartland Family Service has so many different things Yet this is only a fraction of the work undertaken.

Guild members can be passionate about. You can work with preschoolers, you can work with seniors, you can The Guild’s countless efforts reflect the mutable nature work with moms and families. There’s such a wide of the agency it has supported since 1992, and recently variety,” she added. earned it metroMAGAZINE’s first-ever Outstanding Guild Award, presented at The BIG Event in January.

Heartland Family Service is also about serving clients

PAST PRESIDENT

diversity and opportunity Another element in the Guild’s success is diversity, along with turnover in leadership built into its bylaws; Kinnear, Scott and Olson have all served on numerous committees and in a variety of positions. “It gives everyone an opportunity to serve in a leadership capacity and get fresh ideas,” Kinnear explained.

“We have all ages from young mothers who are expecting to retirees, from the age of early 20s to up in their 60s and 70s in our guild, which has really made it wonderful.

Our collaboration is just unbelievable, how everybody gets along and has a great time together.”

John Jeanetta, Heartland Family Service President and CEO, echoes those sentiments.

holistically, Kinnear said. “The Guild can help Heartland Family Service by adding that little personal touch to motivate the clients. Heartland Family Service provides the counseling, the help, the encouragement and a safe environment for their clients. But the Guild provides that “We simply could not operate without the Guild. added human touch that provides a little bit more, with The Friends of Heartland Family Service help to raise a “They are all deserving of this award, so it is extremely encouragement like the birthday cards or the baskets or major portion of the private funds we need each year to humbling and we are so honored that the Heartland keep our agency growing and going. In addition, they homemade meals and Christmas gifts.”

Family Service Friends Guild received the first annual provide needed support services that contribute greatly outstanding guild award.”

“We’re along to say, ‘How can we help? What can we do to to helping our clients feel welcome, safe and loved. make that happen?’” Olson said. “The whole organization “We were honored and surprised and thrilled to receive is adaptable to needs in the community, and therefore For example, every woman entering our Iowa and the Outstanding Guild Award in its initial year,” the Guild is as well…There is a place for everyone on Nebraska Family Works residential addictions treatment Immediate Past President Chris Olson agreed. this guild, and that, I think, is what makes us different.” program receives a welcome basket from the Guild.

At such a stressful time in the lives of these women, this something to be passionate about “It’s a fun place to volunteer. There’s a little bit for small act of kindness makes an enormous difference.

A wide spectrum of opportunities for service is actually a everybody,” said Dianne Scott, a 15-year guild member And this is just one example of many. In short, the significant reason the Heartland Family Service Friends and a past president who’s even brought her two sisters talented and passionate women who volunteer on the Guild remains one of the most active and engaged group on board. There are many other women in the guild who Guild and give so generously of their time, talents and of women of its kind in the area, Olson said. Heartland are sisters or sisters-in-law, mothers or daughters, and treasure are key to our success.”

Family Service provides education, counseling and many who are friends brought in by other friends, she said. “We have women on this guild who just pour their support services to address problems like addiction, For more information on Heartland Family Service child abuse and domestic violence, juvenile delinquency hearts and souls into everything that they do, and I can’t Friends Guild, call 402-552-7424, email and poverty and homelessness; and to support progress think of one person this year on this guild who doesn’t FriendsGuild@HeartlandFamilyService.org, have that commitment down deep that they really want FriendsGuild@HeartlandFamilyService.org in important community matters like early childhood to help,” she said. development and mental health. or visit HeartlandFamilyService.org.

“Omaha is such a giving community and there are so many guilds in the metro Omaha area. All of them are so wonderful and impact the community in so many different ways,” Guild President Connie Kinnear said.

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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM SCHOLZ

• mquarterly

outstanding!

PRESENTED BY

• mquarterly

winners of this year’s outstanding guild award at metroMAGAZINE’s presentation of The BIG Event, the 200 women who comprise heartland family service friends guild are members, mentors and much more.

CONNIE KINNEAR, CHRIS OLSON AND DIANNE SCOTT

outstanding guild award

HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICE FRIENDS

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KMTV MORNING BLEND’S

SHE SAID

mike & mary How do you wish to Honor your Mom or Dad?

~ Mike DiGiacomo His ...

Hers ... ~ Mary Nelson

Forty-one years ago, a huge piece of twisted metal rest in my lap as I was sitting in my play pen (remember those?) Last weekend, I stood on stage holding a similar object, as I entertained a crowd of party –goers at an Omaha nightspot. From the time I could sit up, I had a trumpet in my hands. And I never put it down.

Her name is Ruth. I call her Mom... unless I want to get under her skin, then I call her Ruth. “I am your mother! Call me Mom,” she’ll exclaim.

A trumpeter himself, my dad is the one who encouraged me to play the instrument at an early age. His dad did the same with him. As a third generation trumpet player, I’ve come to appreciate my father’s influence on my life.

Mom is in a really good place today, though that hasn’t always been the case – starting with her childhood. Her handling of different challenges, and her determination to define her own life – instead of circumstance doing it for her – command respect and admiration.

I just giggle.

We have a wonderful relationship! It’s loving, supportive, nurturing, and honest.

We rely on each other, and always have.

My dad, Dominic “Don” DiGiacomo, is a quiet, kind and generous guy.

He’s not the type of person who enjoys the spotlight, or wants to be the center of attention. It’s an interesting trait considering he’s a musician.

He’s also not the type of person to influence his kids in deep, thought provoking discussions. He has always fathered by example.

My parents divorced when I was about eight years old, so I think about Mom as a single parent. She worked her tail off! She sacrificed for my brother, Mike, and me. She took a lot of time before re-entering the dating pool. Once she began to date again, I created a survey for men who wanted to date my mom. Not just any fella would do! After several single years, Mom found love with Claude. It’s wild that he worked just a few blocks from her in a tiny town, and yet they went years without ever meeting!

Like each Mothers Day, I’ll celebrate my beautiful mom this year.

I think it’s easy to praise parents who are vocally active in our lives, the parent who continues to push and motivate through words and discussion. But, let’s not forget those figures who lead by example.

I’ll also wish her a Happy Fathers Day. Why not? She was both!

From the time my dad put that instrument in my hands, his actions have always been spoken louder than his words. If I hadn’t had the chance to watch and observe Dad, my life’s path would have been much different.

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At this time of year, where single parents might wonder more than usual, “Am I getting it right… Will my kids turn out okay with just one constant?”

Be reassured: You are spectacular! Even when times are hard, keep your chin up.

You will never regret putting your family first, and your children will never forget it! mquarterly • May/JuN/Jul 2015

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spotlight on

• mquarterly

• MIDTOWN CROSSING

royal treatment ROYAL LUX MEDICAL SPA & WELLNESS CENTER

THE TREATMENTS THAT HAVE KEPT hollywood celebrities.

GLOWING AND FIT ARE COMING TO midtown omaha. ~ POONAM SHARMA, M.D.

FOR Omaha physician Poonam Sharma, M.D., it was one of those

lingering “bucket list” items: channeling an inherent entrepreneurial spirit into the creation of her own business.

Now, it’s a reality.

Early this summer, in conjunction with her full-time medical career, Dr. Sharma plans to celebrate the opening of an innovative, new medical spa and wellness center in midtown Omaha at Midtown Crossing.

“I am passionate about wellness and health. A natural evolution of my passion was creating a business that focuses on helping people achieve their appearance and overall health and wellness goals,” Dr. Sharma said.

Royal Lux, expected to begin welcoming guests in June, will offer a holistic approach to wellness with a focus on age management.

“The aesthetic treatments we offer can boost people’s self-pride and selfconfidence,” Dr. Sharma said. “It’s about helping people match their external appearance to their inner youthfulness.”

The clinical team at Royal Lux will treat a variety of conditions – from wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation to acne, scarring and stretch marks – to improve skin and overall well-being. They will have at their disposal an array of wellness programs and non-invasive, aesthetic treatments, including Botox, fillers, laser-based photofacials and hair removal.

“The treatments that have kept Hollywood celebrities glowing and fit are coming to midtown Omaha,” Dr. Sharma said.

The treatments, she added, promise to show results with no downtime and be popular among both women and men – and not just the older set.

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“Early preventative measures can lead to long lasting results,” she said. “We will offer services specially-designed for younger folks who are looking to fend off the signs of aging.”

Dr. Sharma’s expansion to entrepreneur is the latest enhancement to an already distinguished resume. Her medical career spans a quarter of a century – and the globe.

She has also practiced in India and England.

“I have interacted with men and women from all walks of life and heard their personal stories. One thing I know for sure – everyone wants to look and feel good!” she said.

Dedicated to her profession, Dr. Sharma will continue working full time as a physician after Royal Lux opens. She credits a superior team with making that possible.

“I know that alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. Surround yourself with those who are smarter than you, engage others and gather a team. That’s what I did,” she said. “It’s truly a team effort.”

Dr. Sharma promised that all Royal Lux guests will experience a fun, upbeat environment, exemplary customer service and quality care.

“They will receive a comprehensive analysis during consultation that will determine the best treatment plan to effectively address their needs. Our mission is to make our guests look and feel royal!” she said.

To complement esthetic procedures and provide at-home skin care and maintenance, Royal Lux will also offer – to clients and the public – a range of skin care products, including biologically-active cosmeceuticals that, Dr. Sharma said, “will provide benefits beyond the traditional products” for conditions such as acne, pigmentation, rosacea and photoaging.

Royal Lux is located next to Garbo’s Salon on 33rd and Farnam Street in Midtown Crossing.

“Midtown Crossing is a vibrant place with tremendous energy,” she said. “I saw a great opportunity here because of the similar businesses that are drawing the type of customers that Royal Lux will attract.”

From bucket list item to impending grand opening… Dr. Sharma said the experience has been nerve-wracking at times, interspersed with moments of selfdoubt. But more than anything, she is exhilarated.

“I am excited to help people feel like a million bucks!”

For more information or to connect with Dr. Poonam Sharma, email her at psharma2141@gmail.com mquarterly • May/JuN/Jul 2015

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todays savings

impact!

• SWARTZBAUGH-FARBER & ASSOCIATES, INC.

life insurance IS IT A given?

• YOUR DENTAL HEALTH

whitening

WHENyou buy a home it is a given that homeowner’s insurance will be

YOUR TEETH...

IS IT healthy?

YES! HERE’S WHY...

included in the payment. Have a car? Nebraska law requires you to at least carry liability insurance. I find it interesting that these replaceable items carry this requirement while something as important as life insurance is often times considered a back burner item for a lot of families. You cannot be replaced. But you can certainly make sure your economic impact on your household stays intact if something were to happen to you.

Most Americans have a vision of their healthiest, youngest looking self.

From fitting into skinny jeans to bright, white smiles in glossy magazines, everyone wants to look and feel their best. As a health-centered dentist, this begs an important question: Is whitening your teeth healthy? My answer: YES!

mark ciriaco

According to LIMRA, less than half of consumers age 25 to 64 have life insurance coverage, and 44% of those acknowledge that they need it. While not everyone needs life insurance, I would argue that anyone who has someone that is financially dependent on them should carry coverage. There are a lot of factors that should be considered when deciding if you need coverage and what that number looks like. Do you have debt? Do you want that debt paid off for your surviving spouse or children? Do you want to leave money behind to replace income?

How long do you want to replace your income?

stephanie vondrak d.d.s.

In my practice, teeth whitening is a health-centered dental procedure! In fact, I believe in whitening smiles for better, overall health! Why? Let's take weight management as an example. A healthy diet and exercise leads to weight loss. Weight loss is associated with improved self-confidence and self-worth. When this has happened for me, I feel elated, invigorated, and rewarded that my hard work paid off and I lost a few pounds.

Likewise, I am determined to maintain my new found self. Sound familiar? Your dental health is no different.

Love your smile… you will care for your teeth. Embarrassed by your smile… you will likely ignore them. In my practice, patients who whiten their teeth floss more, brush better, and are more likely to keep their 6 month cleaning visits. Teeth whitening is safe when used correctly and most effective when completed in the dental office by a dental professional. The chemical consistency of whitening agents is also antibacterial killing residual germs on or near the enamel surface.

To an extent, life insurance is more about “want” than it is “need”. If you are the primary wage earner and your loss significantly affects the household, I believe it is your responsibility to carry coverage to at least make sure your loved ones do not have to struggle. A common misconception is that it is expensive to get the coverage when, in reality, term insurance rates have dropped significantly over the past several years.

We’ve all seen the commercials – “Bob is 40 years old and got a $500,000 20-year term insurance policy for $25 per month.”Those numbers are actually what you can find out there.

Think about all of the stuff that you buy. Skip going out to lunch once or twice a month, divert those funds towards a policy, and just like that you’ve knocked out one of the most important parts of your financial plan.

Care for your teeth enhances greater overall health. Believe it. The mouth is the gateway to the body. By keeping your mouth clean you are preventing harmful bacteria such as those found in periodontal disease from overpopulating in your blood and clogging your arteries. According to the American Academy of Periodontology WebMD, people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to have coronary artery disease. Simple translation, a cleaner mouth means a healthier heart.

I can’t count the amount of times that I’ve sat down with families and, after doing a needs analysis, we found that they needed more coverage than what they had. Take a second to ask yourself if you have enough coverage to accomplish your goals if something were to happen to you. Talk to your spouse to see if they are comfortable with that amount. If they aren’t or if you do not have any or enough, then take the steps to make it right.

I believe that teeth whitening encourages individuals to better care for their dental health and inevitably impacts their overall wellness positively. Whitening can be a first phase in giving ourselves holistic reasons to smile brightly. It’s a simple treatment that supports a brighter future, not only doe our dental health, but our overall health and sense of wellbeing.

Vondrak Dental offers in-office ZOOM whitening. In just over an hour, you can brighten your smile up to eight shades whiter. For more information regarding ZOOM whitening, call Vondrak Dental 402-289-2313. Mention this article to receive special whitening rewards.

There are plenty of resources out there to make sure you find the right policy for you and your family, and as always - your financial professional is there to help.

*Look for our ad in this issue of mQUARTERLY Dr. Stephanie Vondrak is a graduate of the University of Nebraska Lincoln, the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, and a Fellow in the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. The AACP is an organization dedicated to helping patients suffering from TMJ pain, headaches, and other craniofacial pain disorders. Additionally, Dr. Stephanie Vondrak is a Premier Provider for Invisalign orthodontics. Dr. Vondrak believes education is paramount to comprehensive patient care and has completed over 400 hours of post-doctorate education including the Pankey Institute and the Schuster Center.

For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber – ‘Client Centered – Client Advocates™’. This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor or plan provider. Securities Offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Swartzbaugh-Farber & Associates, Inc. is independently owned and operated.

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omaha giving

• OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE numbers

...of people.

OMAHA GIVES! During the event, people not only give to nonprofits they know, but they explore other It’s all about the numbers – numbers of people. organizations investing in our community and give to new nonprofits as well. Omaha

At the Omaha Community Foundation, we’re thrilled to hear this, because Omaha Gives! is different. Not only because it’s online, but because it’s about community, the power of collective giving, and what that means for our local nonprofits.

While $6.3 million is an impressive number (that is incredible support for our local nonprofits!), we believe there is an even more impressive number that comes from Omaha Gives! – the number of people. Over 18,000 people made more than 35,000 donations in one day. That’s 18,000 people celebrating the work of nonprofits, supporting their efforts, and making a statement that makes a difference. And, that’s just the beginning. Omaha Gives! is one day – nonprofits have the opportunity to build lasting relationships with those donors that span far into the future.

Each donation connects an individual and a nonprofit. In 2014, 47 percent of Omaha Gives! donors reported giving to at least one organization for the first time.

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Gives! provides an avenue for people to give smaller donations to more organizations.

Because each donation is amplified with bonus dollars and prizes, it’s one day out of the year when a $10 donation makes a huge impact. And it doesn’t stop there.

Nonprofits can continue to build relationships with these donors and turn them into life long supporters. In fact, after last year’s event, 94 percent of donors reported that they will continue to support the nonprofits they gave to during Omaha Gives!

Omaha Gives! is about growing community and growing capacity. People come together; rally their friends and family; and show their love and support for their favorite nonprofits. The generosity of this community never ceases to amaze us.

Nonprofits come together; rally their staff, board, and donors; and tell their story to gather long-standing supporters and gain new donors. They build their capacity to do even more good work in the community.

Omaha Gives! is the most fun day of work we have at the Omaha Community Foundation! It’s a day of excitement and momentum that touches people all over our community. Those are the kind of numbers we jump up and down about. I hope you’ll join us and our local nonprofits to celebrate the metro area on May 20.

For more information about how to get involved in Omaha Gives!, contact us at (402) 342-3458 or visit www.omahagives24.org.

mquarterly • May/JuN/Jul 2015

Kali Baker, Vice President of Community Relations at Omaha Community Foundation

A new kind of fundraiser has taken the metro area by storm. Over $6.3 million was raised for 569 kali baker nonprofits last May during our 24-hour online fundraising event, Omaha Gives! This event has been described as something new or different, more public or communal than individual giving. And, the event hits a wider base, because it targets smaller contributions.

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event galleries

look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE EVENT BOOK 2015!

HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICE

JDRF

MIDLANDS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL

MERCY HIGH SCHOOL

THE ROSE THEATER

OPERA OMAHA

LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES

• VIEW & PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF THESE EVENTS now! AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

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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featured eVent

spotlight

Opera Omaha

PERFORMANCE GALA AT CROSSROADS MALL

PhotograPhy by Dan Flanigan additional Photos courtesy of opera omaha

dramatic!

DETAILS: When: January 16, 2015 Where: Crossroads Mall Why: To support Opera Omaha's February 13 and 15 production of A Flowering Tree About: The evening’s program included music by John Adams, performed by the remarkable soprano Andriana Chuchman (also singing the title role in the upcoming performances of A Flowering Tree), two acclaimed pianists, Timo Andres and Richard Valitutto, as well as five of this country's most talented modern dancers who are integral cast members of our new production. The creative force behind the night’s transformation and the opera production was director James Darrah and his team of designers: Emily MacDonald, Cameron Mock, and Adam Larsen. This same team created last year's sensational production of Agrippina and corresponding 2014 Gala at the Omar Baking Building.

MELANIE AND DAVID HECKER

Sponsors: Cindy and Mogens Bay, Richard Holland, Valmont Industries, Nebraska Medicine Caterer: Hap Abraham and The Grey Plume Attendance: 410 Amount Raised: $260,000 More information: 402-346-4398 | www.operaomaha.org

look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!

HONORARY CHAIR MOGENS AND CINDY BAY WITH DIRECTOR JAMES DARRAH 52

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mquarterly

| A Flowering Tree Gala

BETSYE PARAGAS AND DENNY MCGUIRE

FRANK MATTHEWS, DICK HOLLAND AND MARIAN LEARY

EILEEN HANSEN AND FRANK MATTHEWS WITH ANNE AND ARNIE WEITZ

BILL AND SANDI BRUNS WITH KATE CAVANAUGH AND ANDY HOLLAND

DAVID AND MARTHA SLOSBURG WITH TODD SIMON

SUE MORRIS AND WALTER SCOTT

RACHEL JACOBSON AND SARAH YALE

BETTY BEACH, LINDA ANDERSEN, MIKE KLUG AND MARY JETTON 53

mquarterly • may/jun/jul 2015

MIKE YANNEY, DR. HAROLD MAURER, GAIL YANNEY AND BEVERLY MAURER

KATE AND ROGER WEITZ

NICK BROTZEL AND MACHAELA CAVANAUGH

JAMES DARRAH, KATE WEITZ AND ZACK WINOKUR

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REFLECTIONS OF

event galleries

Photos courtesy of midlands community foundation

Heroism

Midlands Community Fdtn.

2015 Reflection Ball On January 17 at the Embassy Suites in LaVista, nearly $100,000 was raised. More than 330 guests attended the gala. Net proceeds from the event will be donated to the Military Veterans Fund, a designated fund established at Midlands Community Foundation. Donations to the fund will be distributed to various military and veterans organizations for veterans, families and caregiver services, including medical assistance, community programs and events, remembering those who served, and education and job training to transition back to civilian life.

At the event, the Reflection Award was presented to Bill and Evonne Williams for their dedication to military veterans and their families, always honoring, remembering and educating through their work with the Remembering Our Fallen Exhibit, the WWII and Korean War Honor Flights, and their leadership speaker series for high school students.

BILL AND EVONNE WILLIAMS AND KARLA RUPIPER

JIM SMITH, MARY AND HAL DAUB WITH TIM SCHRAM AND TONEE GAY

FRONT ROW: MARY GAWECKI, JACKIE BORYCA, KYLE BLACK, JAN DAVIS, PATTIE ISKE, BINDY FREDERICK, LORI PANKONIN BACK ROW: KEN SUMMERFIELD (CHAIR), CARRIE KRIST, DIANE KNICKY, BRENDA CARLSON AND KRIS ZEY

Heading the event were Honorary Chair Dr. Mary Hawkins, president of Bellevue University, and Chair Ken Summerfield.

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to benefit the diverse needs of the Sarpy and Cass county communities by providing financial support, involvement and service.

For more information call 402-991-8027

AMY AND DR. ANDY RIKLI, TIM GAY AND BOB O’NEAL

DAVE PANKONIN AND STEVE ZEY

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

DR. MARY HAWKINS, KARLA RUPIPER, EVONNE AND BILL WILLIAMS, TONEE GAY AND KEN SUMMERFIELD

CAPTIONS

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Photography by roger humphries

KEEPING THEIR

Promises JDRF

Promise Gala – “Rockin’ for a Cure”

SCOTT AND KELLIE MINGUS

ALISON AND DAN O’NEILL

Highlights: A generous donor matched, dollar for dollar, all donations made at the $2,500 level and below in the Fund A Cure program. Bret Michaels offered an auction package which included VIP tickets to a concert of the bidders choice and an autographed guitar.

The package sold three times for $30,000 each, raising a total of $90,000. He also hosted a meet and greet for top sponsors.

Amount Raised: $945,000 (a record breaking year for JDRF’s Omaha Gala) Proceeds will go to type 1 diabetes research.

Venue: CenturyLink Center Omaha

JESS AND DANA ZEISS, ALISON AND DAN O’NEILL, REBECCA AND BRINKER HARDING WITH LORI AND JEFF MOEHN

Mission: JDRF is the leading global organization focused on type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. JDRF’s goal is to progressively remove the impact of T1D from people’s lives until we achieve a world without T1D. Number of Attendees: 730 Entertainment: Bret Michaels acoustic song “Every Rose has its Thorn”; Finest Hour played the After Party.

Honorary Chairs: Alison & Dan O’Neill

SHANNON AND PAUL STUKE

ANNE LEWIS WITH SCOTT AND JENNIFER PRIEST Event Chairs: Rebecca & Brinker Harding, Lori & Jeff Moehn, and Dana & Jess Zeiss

j.gallery photography

Presenting Sponsor: First National Bank

JEANIE AND RON CARSON WITH BRET MICHAELS

Theme: Rockin’ for a Cure. There were guitar picks in the programs, guitars and light-up cassette tapes on the centerpieces, and concert t-shirts on each chair.

More information: 402.397.CURE (2873) | jdrf.org STEVE AND ALICIA LOFTUS WITH DAUGHTER ELIANNA

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event galleries

Photos by dan flanigan

Carnies!

Heartland Family Service Carnival of Love

CHAIRMEN VICKI WARNER, STEPHANIE JEANNETTE AND PRESIDENT CONNIE KINNEAR

HONORARY CHAIRS KIRK AND TERESA KELLNER

Over 500 guests showed their love for Heartland Family Service on Valentine’s Day at the agency’s “Carnival of Love” Gala at the Embassy Suites by helping raise more than $205,000 to help vulnerable children and families in our community.

Guests were transported back to a vintage carnival with string lights, cloth bunting, posters and carousel centerpieces provided

by Terry Cossel at Grand Illusions. A fortune teller, magician and midway-style games —provided entertainment during the silent auction, in which guests bid on over 150 items through an electronic service by Qtego Auction Technology.

VICKI WARNER, SHERI SHONKA, SALLY STALNAKER, ANN KUTILEK AND JACKIE HOYT

DAVID AND BRENDA LANGENBERG WITH EMCEE BOB KROPP AND LORRAINE GRIFFIN

Master of Ceremonies Bob Kropp kicked off the evening’s program, followed by a welcome address by Friends Guild President Connie Kinnear, who also recognized Gala co-chairs Stephanie Jeannette and Vicki Warner. Honorary Chairs Teresa and Kirk Kellner then described the agency’s impact in the community.

“It’s been a privilege for Teresa and I to be involved in this event and with this organization,” Kirk said. “It’s not about the 50 programs or the 55,000 people that Heartland Family Service helps every year. It’s really all about the volunteers, the staff and everyone else that makes it possible to help all of the vulnerable citizens in our community. It’s a wonderful organization and we’re all here for that reason. Because this is what makes the community different—people like you and this organization. We’re just honored to be a part of it.”

Guests then heard from Heartland Family Service President and CEO John Jeanetta and viewed a heartfelt video featuring Heartland Family Service clients Jack and Kassie that set the tone for the live auction. As Heartland Family Service’s largest fundraiser of the year, the “Carnival of Love” Gala helps create the path to a better tomorrow for the over 50,000 individuals the agency serves each year.

MAGICIAN JEFF QUINN

ADAM JAIME AND CORTNEY SELLS

More information: 402.553.3000 | HeartlandFamilyService.org

CAPTIONS

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Star POWER

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska Fandango: All-Stars When: Friday, February 20 Where: Il Palazzo, Omaha Why: Fundraiser for Children Services Programs, which includes therapy for children who have experienced trauma, like sexual abuse; foster care; adoption programs; and many other early intervention and prevention programs.

BRAD AND LINDSEY EKWEREKWU WITH RUTH HENRICHS, ANTHONY ANDERSON AND KEITH BELL

LISA LACKOVIC, LISA KANNE, LISA LACKOVIC, LISA KANNE, NANCY K. JOHNSON WITH JULENE NANCY WARREN K. JOHNSON WITH JULENE WARREN

JACKIE PUEPPKE, DANIELLE SWERCZEK AND JENNI SHUKERT

LES AND MELANIE LESROBBINS AND MELANIE WITH LISA ROBBINS AND RICK WITHKANNE LISA AND RICK KANNE

MELISSA AND CHAD HODGSON WITH SON T.J. HODGSON

BOB AND JULIE UROSEVICH BOB AND JULIE UROSEVICH WITH DIANE AND HAROLD JOHNSONWITH DIANE AND HAROLD JOHNSON

MARILYN AND LYNN WEGEHAUPT WITH MARK AND JOANN STASTNY

RANDY AND PAM KORTH RANDY WITH ANDREW AND PAM FISHER KORTH WITH ANDREW FISHER

Caterer: Catering Creations Event Planner: Forever Families Guild Multimedia: Dog and Pony Attendance: 300 Amount Raised: $120,000+ Mission: Safety, hope and well-being for all people About: LFS of Nebraska is one of the largest human care organizations in the state of Nebraska.

More information: 402.342.7038 | lfsneb.org

MISTY AND BRIAN WAGNER

CAPTIONS

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Photos courtesy of make-a-Wish foundation® of nebraska

Wishful THINKING Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Nebraska Blue Jean Ball

HONORARY CHAIRS

Make-A-Wish Nebraska’s Blue Jean Ball: Once Upon A Wish presented by Mutual of Omaha drew more than 510 people and raised a record $300,510 to support granting wishes for Nebraska children with life- threatening medical conditions at its 17th annual event, on March 28, at the Mutual of Omaha Dome.

Sheri Abramson, served as the event chair, Mike and Pam Weekly served as honorary chairs, and KMTV’s Morning Blend, Mary Nelson served as the event’s emcee.

The event featured silent & live auctions and a raffle for 2 tickets to every College World Series game. Guests heard the impact of a wish from wish kid Ryleigh’s parents about her wish to have a service dog, along with 5-year-old wish kid Charlie, who has a life-threatening medical condition, being surprised by firefighters of the Omaha Fire Department’s Station 34 that his wish to go to Mickey Mouse’s Fire Station at Walt Disney World was being granted. And to end the evening, attendees were treated to an incredible vocal performance by wish kid Abbey, who is battling Osteosarcoma and wished was to sing in front of the judges of a hit singing competition television show.

KING FAMILY

ABBEY

CHARLIE A WISH KID

“This is the 17th year for the Blue Jean Ball which is our largest fundraiser of the year,” said Brigette Young, President of Make-A-Wish Nebraska. “We are truly grateful for the generous support of everyone involved. With more than 130 children currently in various stages of the wish granting process, this event helps us fund many of these wishes and make dreams come true.”

More information: 402.333.8999 | www.nebraska.wish.org

CHARLIE AND FIREFIGHTERS

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ROCKIN’ Fiesta

The Rose Theater Rockin’ Rosie 2015: Rosie Rocks the Fiesta

MARIA MINDERMAN, KAREN GRANGER, KATHY AND GARY GATES, TERRI EISCHEID AND STEPHANIE COTA

CLARK AND EMILY LAURITZEN

GRETCHEN AND JACK MCGILL WITH JILL AND MICHAEL BYDALEK

The Rose Theater Guild raised a record $205,500 at the 22nd annual Rockin’ Rosie: Rosie Rocks the Fiesta benefit held on February 7 at Hilton Omaha. More than 430 guests enjoyed a fun and festive evening with Honorary Chairs, Gary and Kathy Gates and Benefit Chairs, Stephanie Cota, Terri Eischeid, Karen Granger, and Maria Minderman.

“Rosie Rocks the Fiesta” was a casual evening including silent and live auctions, a raffle for a Borsheims’ pearl and diamond necklace, as well as a gift card pull. Guests were greeted with a mariachi band, signature margaritas from Johnson Brothers and festive décor donated by Oriental Trading Company. Along with dinner and dancing, attendees were entertained with a selection from the musical “Aladdin” performed by The Rose Brigade. The fiesta-inspired dinner included Stokes’ signature salsa and chips, as well as delicious dessert provided by Nothing Bundt Cakes. Malorie Maddox graciously emceed the event and S. Scott Moore served as the auctioneer.

The monies raised further support The Rose Theater’s mission: Enriching the lives of young people and their families through live theater, dance and arts education. The Rose Theater is one of the largest children’s theaters in the U.S., serving nearly 700,000 children and families each year.

CHAD AND JEN RUTAR WITH CONNIE AND PAUL RANDAZZO

CARRIE AND WILL SITTON

Besides offering outstanding productions that entertain and engage young audiences and the young-at-heart, The Rose strives to make the arts accessible to all children.

No child or family desiring access to productions and classes is ever turned away at The Rose.

Programs include: school field trips, professionally instructed drama and dance workshops, and unique after-school classes that bring disadvantaged youth to the theater. Additionally, The Rose offers programs specifically reaching children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Down Syndrome.

More information: www.rosetheater.org

MICHELLE SMITHBERG WITH ERIN AND MICHAEL MURNAN

NICKI CLEVELAND AND CHRIS OTWELL

CAPTIONS

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Hats OFF! Mercy High School Fiesta 2015 “Hats Off to Mercy” was the theme for the 2015 FIESTA. From the invitation, to the catalog, to centerpieces and décor, eye-popping hats and festive attire were evident everywhere and added to the enthusiastic and contagious spirit of the night.

STEVE FREESE, BOB ERVIN AND CHIP MAXWELL

RACHEL ZADINA, LOUISE BATTAGLIA FRANCO ‘50 SM, AND PHIL ZADINA

Amount Raised: $295,000 How the proceeds will be used: Monies raised from FIESTA will be used to fund the Negotiated Tuition Program at Mercy. Negotiated Tuition is an individualized tuition plan for each student tailored to her family’s financial ability. Last year Mercy provided $1.6 million in tuition assistance to 82 percent of its families.

TREVOR BECK, KRISTEN MARTIN ’05, PAT PARR, MARY LOU PARR, FIESTA CHAIRS AND SARAH REGAN-PRINCIPAL

EMILY GONDERINGER ’09, ROBERT GONDERINGER BOARD MEMBER

Mission: Mercy High School is a diverse educational community, founded by the Sisters of Mercy, focusing on academic excellence and inspiring young girls to become confident women of Mercy who embody faith, knowledge and compassionate service.

Number of attendees: More than 500

DENIS WALSH PAST BOARD MEMBER, JOE MOLLNER PAST BOARD MEMBER, SR. DELORES HANNON, RSM, PRESIDENT, MERCY HS, FRANK MIHULKA BOARD MEMBER AND SARAH REGAN PRINCIPAL, MERCY HS

ANNE ZADINA MCGILL ’00, MARIE CUSIC ’01, BETH KOWAL ’02 AND JOCE LAVELLE MASASI ’00

Highlights of the evening's program: The event opened with a Mass. Emma Deats, president of Mercy High School’s Student Council spoke and reflected on the impact a Mercy education has had on her life. Other highlights include the presentation of the Cor Misericordiae Award to the Sisters of Mercy.

KATHY DALEY JONES ’88, SR. JEANNE O’ROURKE, RSM, DENISE MATYA BARRETT ’88, HOLLY MCCOY AND KIM LANG BUNNELL ’88

CAPTIONS

AMY GAUGHAN MCAULIFFE ’86, ANGELA LEWIS AND MEGAN MCAULIFFE ’13

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DIVING In!

Marian High School

MarianFEST 2015: Under the Sea Dive Deep for Education

EXECUTIVE CHAIRS ERIC AND STACI MUELLER, BRYAN AND KELLY MICK, TOM AND ANNE BYRNE, MIKE AND WENDY PROSSER, WITH DAVID AND LORI LOSCHEN

SEAN AND ANGIE QUINN WITH KATHY AND BERNIE TOMPKINS

HELEN ANDREWS, MARY HIGGINS AND LINDA HADDICK

This year’s MarianFEST theme was “Under the Sea – Dive Deep for Education.” The theme was appropriate because Marian has been swept up in a “tidal wave” of excitement over its recent musical featuring Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” Marian was one of only seven schools in the country to pilot and perform the show onstage in fall 2014.

Given the magnitude of this production, it was a natural transition to carry over the excitement to the MarianFEST stage.

Sr. Mary Gehringer, O.S.M., U.S. Community Prioress of the Servants of Mary and 1966 alumna, welcomed the crowd as they were seated for dinner. “When the Servants of Mary opened the doors to Marian in 1955, we promised to never turn a student away because of financial limitations. I am proud to say that this promise still holds true today, due in large part to your generosity,” said Gehringer.

Mary Higgins, president of Marian and 1969 alumna kicked off the formal program. “Marian is such a special community, but it did not just spring out of the sea,” said Higgins. “It is our 8,800 alumnae and our current students who are the heart and soul of our school. They are the reason we are here tonight.”

STACI MUELLER AND SUSAN HEIM

ANJNA AND BRIAN VALENZUELA WITH ELIZABETH KISH, JACK HOSKING AND ANITA RAMACHANDRAN

Two leading performers from Marian’s fall 2014 musical featuring Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” provided the entertainment. Marian senior Charlotte Wortmann, dressed in full costume as Ariel, sang the iconic song, “Part of Your World” from the beloved fairy tale. Marian junior Claire Davis, dressed as Ursula, sang “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” Gene Klosner accompanied both students on the piano.

Attendance: 500 AMT Raised: $360,000 More information: 402.571.2618 | www.marianhighschool.net

SR. MARIANNA DESIMONE, SR. HELEN RAU WITH ROBIN AND CURTIS BOECK

MARIAN STUDENT VOLUNTEERS

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TAKING THEIR

Cues CUES The Gathering

When: Saturday, March 28th TRISH MAYNARD, MIKE MOYLAN, SUE THADEN, FR. TOM FANGMAN AND RICK THADEN

JENNIFER BETTGER, JULIE KENNEY, GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS AND SUZANNE SHORE

Where: Embassy Suites, La Vista Why: The Gathering is a fundraiser for the three CUES supported schools-Sacred Heart, All Saints, and Holy Name Schools. The money raised goes towards operational and educational programs within the three CUES supported schools.

Special Guests: Governor Pete Ricketts and Suzanne Shore, Archbishop George Lucas, Honorable Richard Spethman Sponsors: CUES

MARIA AND TRENT COOKSLEY, ZACH AND NATALIA ATCHLEY WITH JILL AND DUSTIN TALAKCO

Event Planner: Ann Rourke CUES, Co-Chairs Multi Media: Embassy Suites, La Vista Attendance: 675

GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS, MARTHA CRANE, JON CRANE AND ARCHBISHOP LUCAS

LEAH SVINGEN, ALICIA SMITH AND MICHAELA KLESITZ

Mission: CUES delivers financial support and operational guidance to three of North Omaha’s inner-city schools — Sacred Heart, All Saints, and Holy Name. CUES supported schools provide quality education and pertinent programming for children with the hopes of transforming lives and building hope for a sustainable and successful future.

About: CUES has been in operation for 40 years. Thirty seven of those years CUES oversaw operations and funding of just Sacred Heart School, before expanding our mission three years ago to also include All Saints School and Holy Name School.

More information: 402-451-5755 | www.CUESschools.org

MIKE AND SALLY KAHRE

CAROL LOGAN AND JIM TORCHIA

THANK YOU to Honorary Chairs

2015

ELAINE AND DOUG WILWERDING

and Event Co-chairs Laura and Brad Crosby Nathalie and Raleigh Hathaway Julie and Steve Kenney and Mari and Jeff Rensch

for a successful evening.

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Photos courtesy of girls inc. of omaha

ALL FOR THE Girls

Girls Inc. of Omaha Girls Nite Out When: January 29, 2015

Where: Ramada Inn Convention Center

HANNAH JACKSON AND LINA TRASLAVINA STOVER

ANDREA KATHOL, ESTHER MEJIA, CAROLYN “CT” WILLIAMSON AND JANEEN SAGON

Why: To raise funds, friends, and mentors for Girls Inc. of Omaha Special Guests: Warren Buffett Sponsors: CenturyLink, Borsheims, Lozier Corporation and Sherwood Foundation Attendance: 350 Amount Raised: $40,000 Mission: To inspire all girls to be "strong, smart, and bold."

More information: (402)457-4676 | www.girlsincomaha.org

AFRICAN DANCE WITH AFRICAN CULTURE CONNECTION

SUSIE AND WARREN BUFFETT

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HEART OF

Nebraska

American Heart Association 2015 Heart and Stroke Ball When: Saturday, February 21, 2015 Amount raised: Approximately $690,000

JASON AND ANGELA FISHER

GEORGE AND ANNA LITTLE

PERFORMANCE ARTIST MIKE DEBUS

DR. ROBERT AND MEG SPICER

JOHN KNICELY AND MALORIE MADDOX

RACHEL SAZAMA WITH SON ELLIOT

Venue: Peter Kiewit Grand Ballroom at the CenturyLink Center Mission: “Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.”

Number of Attendees: Approximately 1,000 attendees Highlights: The evening was hosted by Malorie Maddox and John Knicely from WOWT 6 News. The black-tie evening started with the Patron Party then moved on to silent and live auctions featuring artwork, entertainment packages, sports memorabilia, wine and more. Dinner, which featured performance artist Mike Debus doing a live-painting of Nebraska football legend Tom Osborne, was followed by a celebration that included the recognition of the 2014-15 Sweethearts.

Elliot Sazama was also crowned the 2015 Heart Prince.

A native of St. Paul, Nebraska, Elliot had two open heart surgeries and a heart transplant before his second birthday. The evening wrapped-up with the Pulse Party.

Entertainment: Performance artist Mike Debus did a live-painting of Tom Osborne during the dinner.

On The Fritz performed at the Pulse Party, following the dinner.

Honorary Chairmen: George and Anna Little from HDR Event Chairmen: Jason and Angela Fisher from Lund Company and Methodist Health System More information: 402.810.6842 | ashley.christensen@heart.org

MEMBERS OF THE 2014-15 SWEETHEARTS PROGRAM

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Bone TO PICK

Joslyn Art Museum’s Kent Bellows Mentoring Program Wishbone

ROB AND LISA JOHNSON

MIKE AND LENA MUNGER WITH JANET STRAUSS AND JACK BECKER

When it Happened: Friday, March 27 Where it Happened: Joslyn Art Museum Why it Happened: This third annual event was held in celebration and support of Joslyn’s Kent Bellows Mentoring Program. The program matches high school students with artists mentors for a unique mentoring relationship that explores artistic talents, teaches technical skills, and builds an art portfolio for the future artists. The Kent Bellows Mentoring Program has been recognized for its dynamic vision, unique and versatile curriculum model, and exceptional work with young people.

Special Guests & Dignitaries: Students, mentors, and alumni of the Kent Bellows Mentoring Program along with members of Joslyn Art Museum’s Board of Governors. Family members of the late Kent Bellows.

Catered by: Abraham Catering Number in Attendance: 225 Funds Raised: $50,000 More information: (402) 342-3300 | www.joslyn.org

GEORGE JOHNSON AND WESTON THOMSON

STEPHEN AND ANNE BRUCKNER WITH JIM AND DINY LANDEN

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GIVING

Photos courtesy of Omaha Symphony Guild

Etiquette Omaha Symphony Guild Debutante Ball 50th Anniversary Celebration Over 450 guests attended the 50th Anniversary of the Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball Celebration on January 15 at the Embassy Suites LaVista. Kicking off the celebration was the "Lizzie Post Luncheon," featuring guest speaker, Lizzie Post, great great granddaughter of Emily Post and co-author of Emily Post’s Etiquette 18th Edition.

The morning started off with a "Mingle, Mimosas and Memories," reception. Guests took a tour down “memory lane” with memorabilia of past debutante gowns, pictures and scrapbooks from the last 50 Years of the Debutante Ball. Marian Leary, who served as the visionary for the Debutante Ball, 50 years ago, was present. Guests also had a chance to meet and visit with featured guest, Lizzie Post.

The noon luncheon started with introductions and a video presentation of the education programs of the Omaha Symphony featuring The Margre Durham Concerts for Youth, which brings the joy of music to over 5,000 children each year.

The evening before, 50 guests attended a Patron Party with Lizzie Post. The party was held at the home of Honorary Chairs, Martha and David Slosburg. Co-chairs for the Lizzie Post luncheon were Brenda Christensen and Anne Jetter, 2015 Debutante Ball chair is Laura Doll. Over 100 community volunteers served on the committee.

ANNE JETTER, LAURA DOLL, LIZZIE POST AND BRENDA CHRISTENSEN

KIM BANAT, SALLY STALNAKER AND ANNE JETTER

SALLY STALNAKER, SHEILA NELSON AND LIZ CROSSON

NESSIE SWEDLUND, JAN FALK AND LINDA DOBRY

JANIS ENENBACH, JEAN CHAPMAN BELL AND SHARON MARVIN GRIFFITH

LAURA DOLL, RACHAEL DOLL, LIZZIE POST AND EMILY DOLL WITH SARAH DOLL

Over $40,000 was raised from the luncheon will help fund The Margre Durham Concerts for Youth education program for the Omaha Symphony. Other activities planned for the Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball 50th Anniversary Celebration are a Dinner/Dance Celebration on August 29, 2015 and the 50th Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball on December 27, 2015.

For more information visit www.omahasymphony.org

ANN KUTILEK, MARTHA SLOSBURG AND LIZZIE POST

LAURA HALE, MORGAN KOSTOHRYZ AND ANN BLUNK

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Photo courtesy of Debutante Ball Committee

COMMITTED

Women

Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball Committee 2015 Kick-Off Luncheon On Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at the Happy Hollow Club the new committee members were introduced by Laura Doll, Committee Chairman. Danielle Bunz is the Associate Chairman and Brigid Wilkining is serving as Advisor.

The new members are Patty Buser, Sally English, Donna Erker, Catherine Mahoney, Sally Stalnaker and Becky Wincek.

Committee assignments for the 2015 year are as follows: Patty Buser, Community Files and Data Entry Chairman; Sally English, Debutante Associate; Donna Erker, Stag Associate; Teresa Johns, Arrangements Chairman; Julie Liakos, Invitations and Program Chairman; Joni Lindquist, Decorations and Fall Cocktail Party Chairman; Laura Luther, Brunch Chairman; Cindy Magid, Reservations Chairman; Catherine Mahoney, Photography and Scrapbook Chairman; Toody Moffatt, Presentation Chairman; Janet Nichting, Stag Chairman, Sally Stalnaker, Underwriting Chairman and Omaha Symphony Guild Liason; Lisa Strohmyer, Debutante Chairman; and Becky Wincek, Treasurer and Tribute Cards.

This year is the 50th anniversary of the ball, which is scheduled for December 27 at the Embassy Suites in La Vista.

FRONT ROW: DANIELLE BUNZ, LAURA DOLL AND BRIGID WILKENING SECOND ROW: JULIE LIAKOS, TERESA JOHNS, TOODY MOFFATT AND LAURA LUTHER THIRD ROW: JANET NICHTING, JONI LINDQUIST, BECKY WINCEK AND LISA STROHMYER FOURTH ROW: CATHERINE MAHONEY, SALLY ENGLISH, SALLY STALNAKER, PATTY BUSER, AND DONNA ERKER

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FOR THE

Photography by Dan Flanigan

Founders

Omaha Community Playhouse 90th Season Founders’ Soiree When: March 31 Where: The Joslyn Castle, Omaha

DOTTIE AND STAN TRUHLSEN WITH DEL AND PHYLLIS TOEBBEN Why: The Founders’ Soiree was designed to raise crucial funds to support the Omaha Community Playhouse and it’s mission while celebrating the people who have contributed to the growth, artistic quality, financial stability, and success of OCP throughout it’s 90-year history.

Sponsors: Mrs. Shirlee Fonda, Mr. and Mrs. N.P. Dodge Jr., Del and Phyllis Toebben, John A. Gentleman Mortuaries and Cremation Services, Lincoln Financial Group Caterer: Catering Creations

TIM SCHMAD WITH SARAH JOSLYN

ELIZA DOOLITTLE AND HENRY HIGGINS

Attendance: 108 Amount Raised: $46,550 Mission: 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, thought-provoking stories and first-hand involvement.

MIKE AND LAURA LUTHER, CAROLINE LUTHER, KATE AND SANDY DODGE WITH NATE DODGE About: Established in 1924, OCP has grown to be the largest community theatre in the nation, serving the community through four main programs: season productions/special events, alternative programming, professional tours and More information: 402.553.4890 | www.omahaplayhouse.com

CAMILLE METOYER MOTEN WITH ELAINE JABENIS

ERIK AND JEN JOHNSON

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Photos courtesy of ymCA

Thanks A LOT! YMCA of Greater Omaha Capital Campaign Thursday, February 26 at Harrah’s Casino’s 360 restaurant. Nearly 50 people gathered for hors d’eourves and drinks and congratulations following the success of raising $12.4 million to date for the new YMCA, which will be located on Kainesville Boulevard in Council Bluffs. Eighty percent of the total raised was donated by individuals and organizations in Council Bluffs and Iowa, the rest being raised from Omaha.

The total is the highest ever raised by the YMCA of Greater Omaha for a capital project.

JOHN NELSON, PETE TULIPANA AND LEN ROMANO

The new YMCA, which will be called the Charles E. Lakin YMCA, will provide an additional 1,000 families with access to a safe recreation and wellness facility. Features of the new facility will include a larger and advanced early childhood education center, a dedicated space for teens and families, teaching kitchen and access to medically based wellness programs. The medically based wellness programs will address health disparities, including diabetes, cancer, arthritis and obesity.

More information: 402.977.4310 | jlimbach@metroymca.org JUDY DAVIS AND SHIRLEY HANAFAN

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ON THE Table

Omaha Symphony Guild Table Art When: March 4-5 Where: Champions Run, Omaha

Why: Table Art is put on annually by the Symphony Guild to raise money for children’s music education programs provided by the Omaha Symphony.

NATALIE PETERSEN, COURTNEY HELLMAN AND ANN KUTILEK

BEV MAURER, DAVID GOODING AND DR. HAL MAURER

Honorary Chair: Beverly Maurer Guest Designer: David Gooding CEO of Juliska Sponsors: Borsheims, NP Dodge, Clark Creative Group, Barnhart Press, Kiewit Building Group, National Pharmaceuticals and Security National Bank Caterer: Champions Run

NANCY AYOUB AND JULIE RICHARDS

JENNIFER KATZ AND JAMES JOHNSON

Attendance: 100 for the preview party, 235 for the luncheon Amount Raised: $64,000 Mission: The Omaha Symphony Guild promotes the Omaha Symphony for the benefit of our community and for all of Nebraska and Iowa.

About: The Omaha Symphony Guild was established in 1957

JEAN BARTMAN, KAREN O’CONNOR AND TERESA ELLIOTT

JENNIFER CREIGHTON AND LAURA SNYDER

More information: www.omahasymphony.org/guilds

JOAN MILLER, RICHARD WHITE, MARY BIRCHER AND BECKY JACKSON

JOHN AND LINDA REBROVIC

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WEARIN’ O’ THE Green

Photos: Dan Flanigan for metromaGaZIne & mark Holiday for Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities Irish Fest When: March 14

Where: La Vista Conference Center

EVENT CHAIRS JEFF AND KATHY NEARY, HONORARY CHAIRS SHARON AND NORM TIMMERMAN, EVENT CHAIRS KYLE AND MIKE ROBINO AND CATHOLIC CHARITIES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, JOHN J. GRIFFITH

Why: To help underwrite the programs and services of Catholic Charities Special Guests: Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Suzanne Shore Sponsors: Sharon and Norm Timmerman, The Heider Family, Kiewit Corporation, UltraAir, LLC, Catholic Mutual Group, Stephanie and Jack Koraleski, Ron and Teri Quinn

BOB AND SUSI DALRYMPLE WITH MARY JO AND BOB LANGDON

Caterer: Embassy Suites

TRISH KUEHL, JACKIE HERDZINA, RANDY VICKERS, CARLA SHEPHERD AND CHARLIE REDDING

Multi Media: TMS Attendance: 540 Amount Raised: $560,000 Mission: Mindful of the presence of God in our midst, we serve, empower and advocate for individuals and families in need.

About: Catholic Charities ministers to the greatest and most fundamental needs of our community. Since 1926, Catholic Charities has had a rich tradition of serving and advocating for more than 100,000 voiceless, hungry, addicted, abused and forgotten individuals and families annually throughout the area.

ARCHBISHOP GEORGE LUCAS WITH HONORARY CHAIRS SHARON AND NORM TIMMERMAN

ANNE AND DON ERFTMIER, RICK AND JEN BETTGER WITH GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS

More information: www.ccomaha.org

KATE AND RICH GILLOON WITH JULIE KENNY

BETSY FLOOD, CASEY FINDLEY AND ELISA BLAZEK

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SWEET Gifts

Wings of Hope Cancer Support Center Valentine Chocolate Gala When: February 14, 2015

Where: Ameristar Ballroom, Council Bluffs, IA VICKI POSPISAL AND VANESSA SHILENY

HOST COUPLE SANDY AND ALAN BYERS

Why: The Valentine Chocolate Gala raised funds specifically for the Wings of Hope HOPE Program. This program provides financial assistance to cancer patients in active treatment in the form of medication assistance, transportation assistance, home medical equipment assistance.

Special Guests: Our three judges were Elaine Fenner, Margarite Goodenow, and Jess Dolson.

MICHAEL AND MARY ZLOMKE

Sponsors: Gold Sponsors: CHI Health, Heartland Oncology & Hematology, Hematology & Oncology Consultants, Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital; Silver Sponsor: Council Bluffs Savings Bank; Bronze Sponsors: Amber Pharmacy, Health Forward, HyVee Pharmacy Solutions, Mutual of Omaha

HOST COUPLE STEVE AND ROSEMARY DERMODY

Attendance: 200 Mission: Wings of Hope Cancer Support Center assists those with cancer at all stages of their illness and helps patients and families cope with cancer in their lives.

PENNY MALCOM, SUSAN WARNER, PAUL AND KATY KNOTT

PATTI HIGGINBOTHAM, JORDAN SCOTT AND AMY COOK

About: Wings of Hope offers all services to patients and families free of charge.

More information: 712-325-8970 | www.wingsofhope.org

LAURA AND DAN RUTLEDGE WITH LYNNE BRANIGAN AND GARDNER BROADBENT

PENNY MALCOM CAKE JUDGES AND SUSAN ELAINEWARNER, FENNER, MARGARITE GOODENOW WITH PAULAND ANDJESS KATYDOLSON KNOTT

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MAGGIE AND CHARLIE GRAEVE

JAYME NIELSEN AND JESSICA FLORES

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SOARING High Angels Among Us Cheers to Angels When: February 20, 2015 Where: Champions Run, Omaha Why: Helping Families with Children Battling Cancer

MELISSA AND KEVIN O’MARA WITH ROBERTA TONJES

MIKE AND SHELLY STICK WITH SHANNON ZIMMERMAN AND VINCE LEISEY

Special Guests: Chairs-Kevin and Melissa O’Mara Sponsors: Bland and Associates, Berkshire Hathaway Ambassador Real Estate, Lozier, Steier Group, Kohl’s, Morning Blend, Corkscrew, Scheel’s and Step//Group Caterer: Champions Run Event Planner: Step//Group JULIE MADOTT AND KATIE RYAN

MMedia: Morning Blend and Step//Group

BRENT O'MARA AND NATALIE KELSAY WITH CARIE AND CHAD KELSAY

Attendance: 175 Amount Raised: $10,000 Mission: To financially assist families of a minor child that has cancer About: Angels Among Us will assist cancer families with the expenses for which they need help: mortgage or rent payments, health insurance premiums, utility bills, taxes, and unforeseen expenses which each family might incur in the process of treatment and day to day expenses.

These expenses are paid directly to the companies by our organization.

HOLLY OLMER, JEREMY GALL, JENN AND BOB KANNE WITH SCOT BALLAN

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOME SERVICES

More information: 402-885-4840 | myangelsamongus.org

MEGHAN POTTHOFF, RYNE BESSMER AND MIKE POTTHOFF

we make a difference: we dream

NICOLE CLIFTON, MIKE DIGIACOMO AND KELLI WINKLER

BIG!

*Nominations run June – July 3 ONLY!

Call for Nominations!* CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

For events presented between June 1, 2014 & May 31, 2015 Winners in each category are eligible for the $25K BIG Connection!

JOSH AND

Deadline to receive nominations is July 3, 2015!

• Go to www.SpiritofOmaha.com/BigEventNOMS 74

we make a difference.

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HOPE’S Helpers

Advocates Board of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center Ambassador of Hope Gala When: March 21

NANCY HORNSTEIN, DR. ALISON FREIFELD AND ANN STINSON

ANDREW SHUE AND GUEST SPEAKER AMY ROBACH WITH HONORARY CHAIRS ANNE AND JOHN NELSON

Where: CenturyLink Center, Omaha, NE Why: The Ambassador of Hope Gala is a biennial event that raises funds for cancer research at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. The event, features a keynote speaker, an award ceremony, auction, and dinner. Since 1998 the event has raised over $6 million for cancer research.

DR. JEFFREY GOLD, ANDREW SHUE, AMY ROBACH, SUSIE BUFFETT, PAMELA BUFFETT AND DR. KEN COWAN

ANDREW SHUE, AMY ROBACH, DR. JEFFREY GOLD, DR. KEN COWAN AND DR. ALISON FREIFELD

Special Guests: ABC News correspondent Amy Robach received the Ambassador of Hope Award. Walter and the late Suzanne Scott received the Margre Durham Spirit of Nebraska Award for their support of cancer research in Nebraska.

Caterer: Levy Catering Attendance: 600 Mission: The Advocates Board is an elected group of volunteers whose purpose is to support the initiatives of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center and its mission of eradicating cancer by serving as advocates for the Center within the community.

JAN AND JERROLD HIBBS

NANCY OLSON, VICKI AND NATHAN CHRIST WITH SUSIE NORTON

About: The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center in Nebraska.

More information: 402.559.4179 | www.advocatescc.org

WILLIE AND CRAIG JACOBS

PAMELA BUFFETT

CELEBRATE 25 years with us in 2016!

In 2016 metroMAGAZINE & ALH Publications, Inc. will mark 25 years of celebrating Omaha’s Charitable & Cultural scene.

JOIN US as we celebrate a quarter century of CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY! CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

celebrating 25 years in 2016!

we make a difference.

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OUTSTANDING

Omahans

Omaha Junior Chamber of Commerce(Jaycees) Ten Outstanding Young Omahans(TOYO)

TEN OUTSTANDING YOUNG OMAHANS (TOYO) AWARD RECIPIENTS

When: January 28, 2015 Where: CenturyLink Omaha Why: The Ten Outstanding Young Omahans awards exist to honor those individuals who strive for excellence and have a strong commitment to service in the community as well as personal and professional development.

Special Guests: Mayor Jean Stothert, Past Mayor Hal Daub, Master of Ceremonies Malorie Maddox Sponsors: Valmont, Vintage Financial Group, Midwest Eye Care, Mutual of Omaha, Hush Blackwell LLP, Bank of the West, JSAV, Village Pointe Shopping Center, Children Hospital & Medical Center, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Junior League of Omaha, Travel & Transport More information: (402) 218.6979 | www.omahajaycees.org

JOE STOTHERT AND MAYOR JEAN STOTERT WITH MARCO LEROC

BESTY AND JOHN MENICUCCI JR. WITH MUFFIN AND JOHN MENICUCCI SR.

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Photos courtesy of Greater Omaha young Professionals

HEADLINE

headline organization event

YOUNG AT

Heart

Greater Omaha Young Professionals Young Professionals Summit

ipsum dolor sit amet consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.

BARATUNDE THURSTON, SARAH TUCKER, SHABNAM MOGHARABI AND LINDSEY SPEHN

TOP: ANNA HOOGEVEEN, TUCKER,elitr, sed ipsumWILLEY, dolor BLAKE sit amet conseteturSARAH sadipscing diamSCHORR, nonumy eirmod tempor ut labore et ALLISON LINDSEY SPEHN AND invidunt ALEXIS BROMLEY dolore magna sedAND diam voluptua BOTTOM: SARAH SJOLIE,aliquyam KRISTINAerat, PETERS SARAH WERNIMONT sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.

When: March 5 Where: CenturyLink Center Omaha Why: The YP Summit is a conference that brings together diverse young professionals, change makers, business and community leaders to engage with one another and invest in themselves and our community.

ipsum dolor sit amet consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.

Special Guests: Mayor Jean Stothert

ipsum dolor sit amet consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor

Multi Media: J&S Audio Visual

Caterer: Levy Restaurants

Attendance: 1460 Amount Raised: $173,000 in sponsorships More information: omahayp.org | omahaypsummit.org | 402.233.7150

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Photography courtesy of CSI Guild

event galleries

TEAM Spirit

CSI (Child Saving Institute) Guild

“Spirits of the World” Fundraiser

PAT & ADRIENNE FAY

KATHY BECK, CHRISTINE SCHULTE & SHELLY RUWE

On Thursday, January 23, sixty guests raised more than $11,000 for children in need in our community at the Child Saving Institute Guild’s 2nd annual “Spirits of the World” fundraiser, this year themed “Bourbon or Scotch: Pick Your Pleasure.” The event was held at Gorat’s Steak House and included tastings of premium bourbon, scotch, vodka, and whiskey accompanied by Omaha Steaks tenderloin carving station.

The evening also included a live auction led by Kris Covi with packages donated by Scissors & Scotch, Catering Creations, and Gorat’s. Music was provided by Adam Lee. Event chairs were Kathy Beck, Shelly Ruwe, and Christine Schulte.

Child Saving Institute, a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit child welfare organization, is dedicated to the prevention, intervention and treatment of child abuse, neglect and abandonment. CSI has met the changing needs of metro area children for more than 120 years based on the belief that ALL children should have homes where hope is kindled and dreams can be achieved.

MOSAH & LAUREN GOODMAN

DAWN HOVEY & JANIS WINTERHOF

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Photos courtesy of Completely KIDS

Kid POWERED Completely KIDS

Completely KIDS Author Luncheon When: March 31, 2015 Where: Hilton Omaha

NEIDA QUIROZ, ISABEL GOTT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PENNY PARKER, DR. ROBYN SILVERMAN, MAYELA HERNANDEZ AND MELANY HERNANDEZ

Why: As a fundraiser to support Completely KIDS after-school and family programs that educate and empower youth and families living in poverty.

The event is also meant to bring a timely issue to the awareness of attendees.

Attendance: Nearly 500 Amount Raised: $75,000 Mission: Completely KIDS educates and empowers kids and families to create a safe, healthy, successful and connected community.

More information: 402.397.5809 | completelykids.org

MAYELA HERNANDEZ

DOUG GLASS, ROB REED AND JANE MILLER

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ARTSY Scouts

Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska artVenture When: Saturday, March 28 Where: UNO’s Mammel Hall

MARGIE AND GLENN TREMBLEY

Amount Raised: $150,000 Proceeds from artVenture support Girl Scouting in Nebraska including programming, camp and properties maintenance, volunteer development and support, community outreach and the many leadership opportunities provided to girls by the council.

DIANE DUREN AND DREW COLLIER

Mission: Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

DORI SETTLES, KATRINA METHOT-SWANSON, JUDITH JOHNSTON AND DIANE OSTDIEK

DAR AND MIKE VANDE VOORT

Attendees: 300

JEFF AND KATE BETSWORTH WITH LESLIE AND CHAD MCMAHON

Caterer: In addition to beverages and hors d’oeuvres, gourmet desserts made with popular Girl Scout Cookies were provided by Catering Creations.

About: If a picture tells a thousand words, artVenture’s story of artistic collaboration was emblazoned on the walls of Mammel Hall! More than 200 pieces were created for or donated to the event. Much of the art was made by more than 850 girls who worked in teams with professional artists. The girls discovered their artistic voice and learned about philanthropy by making an art-donation. Additional art for the auction was contributed by celebrated, local artists.

PAULA WALLACE AND KAROL BURCHFILED

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

KERRY WINTERER, NORMA HANSEN, SANDI CARDILLO AND RICHARD FERGUSON

MARK GOODALL, PAM AND SCOTY BRADLEY WTIH LINDA WILLIS

SUBSCRIBE & make a difference with us!

Subscribe to metroMAGAZINE’S mQUARTERLY in 2015 and receive The Event Book & Giving Guide 2015 Tenth Anniversary Issue plus 101 Things to Love about the metro™ An entire year of relevant, elegantly presented content that connects discriminating readers with the charitable & cultural organizations and

CAPTIONS

Only $29.95!

businesses making a difference in our community!

we make a difference.

Click the SUBSCRIBE link just under the METRO MAGAZINE tab at SpIRITOfOMAhA.COM 82

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ARTISTIC adventures

THE CASE FOR Hope

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Nebraska

girl scouts spirit of nebraska

Hope Brews Benefit

artventure Photography by Dan Flanigan

The Nebraska Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is proud to announce that $93,500 was raised for CF research through the 5th annual Hope Brews event, Friday, March 27th at the Omaha Marriott. The evening was hosted by Ambassador Brewer, Jeremy Danner, of Boulevard Brewing Company. Danner traveled from Kansas City to provide the 220 attendees with educational information about the brewery and the beer/food pairings.

Funds raised through sponsorship, ticket sales and auction for this event support the Foundation’s mission to find a cure and improve the quality of life for those with cystic fibrosis.

More information: 402.330.6164 | Nebraska@cff.org AMBER AND STEVE STEVE PRESTON, PRESTON,STEPHANIE STEPHANIEHANKINS, HANKINS,AND ANDKELLI KELLIAND ANDRYAN RYANLIEURANCE LIEURANCE Photography by lindsey zentic

SUE AND BILL PALMER WITH SUSAN ERICKSON

JULIE FRITZ, DONNA WALSH, GRANT LIPPINCOTT, LANCE FRITZ AND KEVIN MURPHY

NORA HERZBERG AND DR. MARY CASE

NICOLE MCLEOD, KATE AND JEFF BETSWORTH WITH LISA DAUB

WENDY MCMAHON, SUE MCCARVILLE AND TONI BLAZEK 85 85 85 85

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YES Chef!

Food Bank for the Heartland Celebrity Chef Fundraiser

CHEF GEOFFREY ZAKARIAN, EMCEE BRANDI PETERSEN AND ERIC HAUGEN

ANDY ULRICH AND RYAN EBERHART WITH HOLLY AND HENRY VALDES

A sell-out crowd of 950 guests was treated to an evening of food and fun at Food Bank for the Heartland’s 14th annual Celebrity Chef fundraiser on March 12, 2015. The event raised $300,000 to help feed children, families and seniors in need across the Food Bank’s 93-county service area.

Restaurateur, television star and author Geoffrey Zakarian charmed the audience and showcased his talents during a culinary presentation at the event. He demonstrated recipes for an Omaha Steaks rib crown steak with chickpea tartare, brown rice crab cake and pine nut and pomegranate salad then presented the dishes to guests seated at the special tasting table on stage. Zakarian is an award-winning chef who is a host on the Food Network’s Iron Chef America, Chopped and The Kitchen.

JEFF AND RENEE ZACHARIA WITH JILL AND MATT MCCLURE

JOAN SQUIRES AND ALAN POTASH

Presented by ConAgra Foods with KETV serving as the media sponsor, Celebrity Chef was held at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista. Food Bank board member Sally Christensen was the event chair. KETV Newswatch 7 anchor Brandi Petersen was the Celebrity Chef emcee.

Funds raised at Celebrity Chef help Food Bank for the Heartland continue its mission of providing emergency and supplemental food to the people in need in Nebraska and western Iowa.

During 2014, the Food Bank distributed 15.5 million pounds of food. Last year’s Celebrity Chef raised more than $290,000.

RENEE FOX, SHANNON AND MIKE KOTLARZ WITH JANNA PETERSON

CALVIN JONES, MELEA HEADLEY AND JOE HODGES

More information: www.FoodBankHeartland.org

look for the DIANA WILKINS, KELLY PTACEK, ANGELA ALTAMORE AND AMY TURBES

SUSANNE SHORE, LYNN OLDENHUIS, GAYLE SMITH AND MARRHA SHORE

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!

we make a difference: we share! follow us and the charities we celebrate on faceboook!

we make a difference.

Like us on facebook!

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Photography by Dan Flanigan

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JOHN MANGIAMELI AND THE CREATIVE HAIR DESIGN TEAM AND SUPPORTERS

VINCE LEISEY AND BROOKE DELANO

DANCING IN THE

Sunshine The Sunshine Kids

Dancing with the Omaha Stars

ERIN POWERS AND HOUSTON ALEXANDER

Attendees watched as 22 local celebrities danced with professional instructors ending with hilarious commentary from local celebrity judges. The event featured undefeated professional boxer Terence Crawford, television and film actor G.W. Bailey, plus many more! Proceeds will benefit The Sunshine Kids, the non-profit organization dedicated to children with cancer which provides a variety of programs and events, free of charge, for kids who are receiving cancer treatments in hospitals across North America.

CONNIE FRY, MELISSA FRY, JOBETH DEVERA AND ADRIAN DAVIS

browse & buy from hundreds OF PHOTOS FROM THIS AND OVER 35,000 EVENT PHOTOS AT METROSCENE.ZENFOLIO.COM

KATE WILLIAMSON, AMY TODD, KIRBY KEOMYSAY, RACHAEL EVERSOLE AND KRISTEN ROZMIAREK WITH KONTEMPO

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featured eVeNt

spotlight

metroMAGAZINE/mQUARTERLY THE big EVENT 2015

THE GIVING GUIDE & EVENT BOOK 2015 TENTH ANNIVERSARY EDITION LAUNCH PARTY

big givers

PhotograPhy by dan flanigan aNd roger humphries

GETTING EXCITED: Over 300 invited guestsgathered together on January 22nd at The Durham Museum to celebrate the release of the 10th Anniversary edition of The Giving Guide and Event Book 2015, and to celebrate all of the charitable fundraising events held during 2014 by honoring the winners of The BIG Event 2015.

The BIG Event (sponsored by metroMAGAZINE & ALH Publications, Inc.) is held annually to recognize all of the efforts of those working in Omaha’s charitable sector.

“The whole idea for The BIG Event has always been focused on drawing attention to all the work done by every organization throughout the year, not just the organizations who are nominated and voted as winners,” said Andrea “Andee” Hoig, President, Founder and Publisher of ALH Publications, Inc. and metroMAGAZINE. “All of the winning organizations really embraced this as a way to celebrate everyone’s achievements during the year. It was one evening where all organizations represented seemed like one big family.” added Rob Killmer, ALHP Vice-President.

NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY $10,000 BIG CONNECTION WINNERS: KATHRYN SCHAPPER, ANDEE HOIG, LORI ECKLEBE, JUDY VARNER, KIM DAVIS AND GORDON KRENTZ

Editorial sponsors: Borsheims, CenturyLink, Embassy Suites La Vista, The Lund Company, NP Dodge Real Estate, Parsonage Vandenack Williams LLC, SAC Federal Credit Union, SilverStone Group

NOTABLES: $10,000 BIG CONNECTION Winner: Nebraska Humane Society: Black Tie & Tails Publishers Choice Award for BEST Event: Opera Omaha Agrippina Gala Outstanding Guild Award: Heartland Family Service Friends Guild

RECOGNITIONS: The Event Book & Giving Guide 2015 is presented in partnership with Heritage Services in celebration of their 25th anniversary. The 2015 edition of The Giving Guide and Event Book features a section dedicated to the contributions made in our community over the past 25 years through the work of Heritage Services and its leadership.

DAN NEARY, SUE MORRIS, WALTER SCOTT AND BETH OCHSNER 90

Heritage services is chaired by Walter Scott.

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| The BIG Event 2015

ANGELS AMONG US

MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL

CARRIE SITTON WITH THE ROSE THEATRE

BRIAN OSBORNE AND RYAN ROURKE WITH THE NEBRASKA CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY

ANGIE PHILLIPS, KAREN DANEU AND MELLISSA BARTON WITH SUSAN G. KOMEN FOUNDATION

ZACH WALLINGER, TRACY FISHER AND DAN SCHNEIDER

BRIAN BARKS WITH FOODBANK FOR THE HEARTLAND

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

JULIE HORGAN WURTH, ROGER LEWIS, REGAN FAHEY MUHS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION

HOLLY WORTHINGTON AND MELISSA STEFFES WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

CHARISSA HAUGE WITH HEARTLAND FAMILY SERVICE

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featured eVeNt

spotlight

metroMAGAZINE/mQUARTERLY

RICHARD AND SHARON SECOR

BRUCE LAURITZEN WITH ANN AND KEN STINSON

SARA BOYD AND ROGER LEWIS WITH PAT AND DICK BELL

NP DODGE REAL ESTATE :TODD RENSCH, MARY RENSCH, MIKE DOOLEY, ROXANNE DOOLEY, MIKE RIEDMANN, RACHEL TILLER, BRANDON TILLER AND JODEE DRAKE-SOTO 92

JENNIFER AND MARK WILLIAMS

CHRISTI JANSSEN WITH THE DURHAM MUSEUM EVENT VENUE

ROB KILLMER GIVES CLOSING REMARKS

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| The BIG Event 2015

GAIL AND JOHN DEBOER

STUART CHITTENDEN, ROGER WEITZ AND AMY CHITTENDEN

LISA TAFOYA, CATHERINE HUGHES AND CARI PRYOR

ATTITUDE ON FOOD: JASON MOORE, BRITNEY FOWLER, SHELBY BARTELS AND DONNY RODDEN

OVELL BARBEE, SABRINA WEISS AND ROB

Thank you for making

BRANDEIS CATERING: JOE THALLAS, CAROLYN SULLIVAN, LUICI DI RUOCCO AND HAMI ALLHIJJAWI

CHRISTI ANDERSEN AND DENISE NIEBRUGGE

LINDSAY WILSON, SUSIE GENTLEMAN AND CICI CHRISTIAN

KARIE MILFORD AND MONIKA JOHANNSEN WITH JUSTIN AND SARA KOHLL

a BIG SUCCESS!

IN•KIND SPONSORS Attitude on Food BRIX • Catering Creations Dog & Pony Productions, Inc. • Elissa Joy Design

celebrating 25 years in 2016!

Brandeis Catering Cutchall Management Co. Events in Bloom

Gigi’s Cupcakes • Hap Abraham Catering • Karma Koffee • The Durham Museum The Motion Content House

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celebrating THE ARTS

• mquarterly

STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE

90. seriously. omaha community playhouse at 90: SERIOUS ABOUT ITS MISSION SERIOUSLY CELEBRATING AS A THEATER FROM THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY CELEBRATES 90 YEARS, OMAHA’S LOVE AFFAIR WITH ITS PLAYHOUSE ENDURES & DEEPENS AS THE RELATIONSHIP APPROACHES THE CENTURY-MARK. DURING ITS 2014-2015 SEASON the Omaha Community Playhouse has celebrated nine decades of stage productions and theater arts education. On June 27 the venerable theater is throwing itself a grand Birthday Bash on its east lawn. The free 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. event, organized by the theater’s support group, Act II, will feature live entertainment, headlined by Playhouse favorite Billy McGuigan, a convoy of food trucks and Broadway bingo.

RAGTIME

All of Omaha is invited to party like it’s 1925.

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celebrating THE ARTS

CONTINUED

When the Playhouse put on its first season 90 years ago the theater brought some much needed culture to a wild and woolly city still shaking the dust off its frontier origins.

From a humble start motivated by a desire to just put on plays, it ECHOES OF THE PAST became an Omaha institution. Along the way it changed locations, Long woven into the community fabric, the survived a natural disaster, added a professional touring company, Playhouse developed as the city did. Omaha was expanded facilities and welcomed many unforgettable characters. Hundreds a wide open cow town when the Playhouse gave of productions have been performed before millions of patrons. it its only legitimate theater. As Omaha grew, so Bound up in the Playhouse story is an aspiration to bring people did the arts. The Playhouse mirrored that together for a common goal of producing entertainment that engages and evolution. In the span of a decade that saw the fosters community. Civic pride has made it Omaha’s theater. Ambition, Jazz Age give way to the Great Depression, the determination and generosity has taken it to undreamed of heights as Playhouse joined two other significant arts America’s largest community theater. organizations: the Omaha Symphony Orchestra “The key figure in the rise of the Playhouse to the top, Charles Jones, and the Joslyn Art Museum, in maturing the arrived in 1974,” says Warren Francke, author of the new book, cultural landscape. All made their mark and The Omaha Community Playhouse Story: A Theatre’s Historic Triumph. remain strong presences today. Of the three, the “The simplest reasons the Playhouse became number one were the Playhouse has perhaps been the least stuffy. things Charles Jones accomplished.”

Founded as part of a movement to democratize Jones penned a wildly popular adaptation of A Christmas Carol the arts, the Playhouse formed itself from the and created the professional touring wing, the Nebraska Theatre community for the community. Even with a Caravan. Under his leadership the Playhouse’s audience, budget and professional staff, its grassroots volunteers have always staff eventually exceeded any community theater in the nation. filled out the casts and crews and supported the theater in “His adaptation of A Christmas Carol became, pardon the myriad other ways. expression, the cash cow for decades.”

Among those figuring prominently in its early success were That show’s a tradition 39 years and counting now. two families who, against all odds, produced stage and screen Francke says the Caravan brought talent to the icons. Dodie Brando played the lead in the first play, Playhouse and carried the theater’s brand nationwide.

The Enchanted Cottage. Her husband, Marlon Brando Sr., was Several standouts came to Omaha via the troupe. theater manager. Their son Marlon, who changed the face of acting Jerry Longe succeeded Dick Boyd as Scrooge in in New York and Hollywood, was five when he and his family moved Carol. Bill Hutson headed the Creighton University away, otherwise he would likely have been pulled into the Playhouse drama department and won multiple Fondaorbit the way of another future star, Henry Fonda. Dodie recruited McGuire acting awards. young Hank into the Playhouse fold. He served as a jack-of-all-trades Jones was also adept at getting donors on board. assistant director and as an actor. His sisters Jayne and Harriet were “Everyone describes him as the most charming regular players on the fledging theater’s stage.

Southern gentleman they ever met and he Not long after Henry went East to pursue an acting career he returned charmed people, not just performers, but the to star opposite a promising ingenue, Dorothy McGuire, in business community and Knights of Ak-SarA Kiss for Cinderella (1930). McGuire herself went onto stage and screen Ben leaders,” says Francke. He says Jones’ stardom. In 1955 she and Fonda, long established names above the title ability to get people like Marge Durham, by then, came back to play opposite each other in a benefit production of Barbara Ford, Ed Owen and Howard Drew to The Country Girl. Henry’s then 17-year-old daughter, see philanthropy as crucial to the future of the Jane, the future two-time Oscar-winner, made her stage debut.

Playhouse was critical for the ascendancy that Jane’s brother, Peter, who also became a screen star, continued the took place from 1975 through the mid-1990s.

Fonda family’s Playhouse legacy – acting there while a University of Franke says the Playhouse’s stable of memorable Omaha student. A cousin, Matt Fonda, later acted there as well. personalities is led by the charismatic Jones and the The Fondas and McGuire are not the only Playhouse “graduates” flamboyant director, Bernard Szold, “an ex-football Allwho moved onto Broadway, film, television success. Current American opera cape-wearing character.”

Playhouse president Tim Schmad’s uncle Howard Fischer used Dodie Brando, actor Marlon Brando’s mother, was a the venue as a stepping-stone to a career as a Broadway stage passionate if troubled enthusiast. manager and actor.

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The Fonda-McGuire heritage lives on at the Playhouse.

Artistic director Hilary Adams says, “Having a pedigree is very beneficial for us. I think anything founded and initiated by people of that caliber and passion – it really is the passion in their work – has a continuing legacy here.”

Adams heard of the Playhouse while working in New York City as a much-in-demand freelance director, but she only learned about its distinguished past once she started researching it. She appreciates being part of an organization so intertwined with its community and one that boasts such a long, colorful history.

“Ninety years, I mean, that’s astonishing for a theater.

That’s huge.

Theaters fight for their survival and the fact it could survive for that long not only speaks volumes about the work the theater is doing but also about the community support and engagement of the community in the arts . That immediately stood out for me – its history and the way it was founded as part of a desire for a community-based organization to bring culture to Omaha as part of the Little Theater Movement.”

THE ONLY SHOW IN TOWN

1955: ThE counTRy GIRl, fEATuRInG JIM MulhollAnd, doRoThy McGuIRE And hEnRy And JAnE fondA

ART dIREcToR hIlARy AdAMs

Ex-associate artistic director Susie Baer Collins says the Playhouse parlayed that pedigree into a reputation as “the premiere place for local theatrical entertainment.” She says it’s remained a considerable force even as other theatre companies have put down roots and professional touring productions now regularly come to town.

“It was a little scary for all of us the first time The Lion King came to the Orpheum Theater and stayed for more than a month. I wasn’t sure if the Playhouse could survive that kind of stellar competition and still find its audience, but somehow we did. We tried to remain relevant.”

She says the theater’s knack for putting on stellar shows, particularly musicals. grew “in the heyday of Charles Jones,” adding, “He was extremely committed to strong production values and the Playhouse gained a reputation for wonderful scenery, lighting and costumes that enhanced every production.”

Doing a Playhouse show meant you’d arrived.

“It was like if you got on at the Playhouse then that meant you were doing something theatrically in the city,” says Playhouse veteran Camille Metoyer Moten.

“I mean, even now it’s still a big deal.”

“It’s definitely a big deal,” says fellow stage veteran Elaine Jabenis.

“It opened up a whole new world for me. I met people I ordinarily would not have met,” including Henry Fonda, Jane Fonda and Dorothy McGuire when Jabenis worked backstage for The Country Girl.

“There’s a lot of people I met and worked with who helped pull me up because of their talent.”

Jabenis says it’s no accident the Playhouse has held the community enthralled for going on a century.

“Audiences just keep coming back for that magic, for that moment to escape their own life and to see what happens in other lives. It is absolutely magic.”

The Playhouse annually nets more local Theatre Arts Guild awards than all its competition combined.

CONTINUED

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ALL FOR ONE, ONE FOR ALL “Our job then is to get those newcomers here Year after year, generation after generation, the Playhouse, no just once. If we can’t get them back that’s our fault matter the need or challenge, has always found the necessary but we think if we expose them to our product community backing because it’s a vital, touchstone place for people. they’ll understand why community definitely is a “You know, it’s a funny thing about feeling vital,” says Jabenis, whose part of who we are.” first Playhouse role in a 1952 production of Father of the Bride was in the old 40th and Davenport site. “When they announced plans to build COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT the present theater I was on the committee to help raise money. I went Before Adams ever started working at the house to house. I was never that bold a person. I was really pretty shy.

Playhouse she was impressed by what she But I believed in it, I really did. I was so anxious for it to happen.” found on visits there during the search process Jabenis says her eagerness to pitch-in reflects a communal desire “to to replace longtime artistic director Carl Beck. make Omaha the best in everything we do,” adding, “It’s kind of a “It was really about community engagement – hunger and it’s something we’ve pushed for.” She also starred in the that’s what I immediately saw. And then I first production, Say Darling, at the current site in 1959, taking the discovered not only do they support the Playhouse stage mere minutes after hosting a live remote for local television. in Omaha but they support the arts in Omaha.”

“It’s like the perfect storm or something,” says Metoyer Moten, Since joining the staff in mid-2014 Adams, whose first role there was as the title character in Evita (1986). a Drama Desk nominee for Outstanding Director of “You had the people who started it off that had this dream and a Play, has been bowled over by the Playhouse’s these high expectations. Somehow they were able to impart that singular approach to community theater. to the next generation, who had that same passion. I don’t “The quality of work is astonishing. I think it’s a real know how that happens. Maybe it’s because we’re in the hybrid situation that’s unique to community theaters in that middle of nowhere and people are hungry for culture. We we have a paid staff and everything we do supports our don’t have mountains or the ocean, so we turn to ourselves volunteer actors, with the exception of the Caravan. What we to give that thing we can bring, which is artistic. do have here is really high quality and high support for volunteer “It’s a good common cause.” actors, and the staff here is incredibly talented and experienced.

This sense of getting behind something is not so We treat the people who walk in our doors the same or better as different than Omaha’s embrace of the College World Equity actors or people who do this for a living.

Series. It’s what happens when something springs from “Volunteers are at the heart of the Playhouse. We have more than the community and is nurtured by it.

1,000 in a season. They’re involved onstage, backstage, in the box The community theater model, dependent as it office, as ushers, answering phones, on the board, in Act II. is on amateurs or volunteers, leads to The public is everywhere in this building.” misconceptions the Playhouse fights against.

Her first exposure to the Playhouse in action was at a performance of “There’s been times over the years where there’s Les Miserables. The seamless blending of community she witnessed that been debate whether community should be in our night is what she’s come to expect. name,” says president Tim Schmad.

“I saw all that in operation backstage, And in the front of the house at “We hear that newcomers to town see intermission for Les Mis, the entire audience stood up and cheered and I community in our name and they immediately still get like goose bumps thinking about this because almost the entire think of a renovated 70-seat church space with cast was fellow community members.” productions not the quality we think ours are.”

The outpouring of love happened again at curtain call and once again But Schamd points out community is part at the meet-and-greet in the lobby, as community members in the of the theater’s DNA and its volunteers work audience, the cast and crew expressed appreciation for each other. side by side with professionals to create work This mutual admiration happens nearly every show. that he and New York City theater veteran Schmad grew up with this sense of community. His aunt Margaret Adams, say compares favorably with Broadway.

Fischer saw every production from the theater’s start until her death.

“We feel community definitely needs to be in our Many of her friends acted on stage there and she and the rest of the name because of the status we have in Omaha and the family were always in the audience to encourage them. Schmad fact we rely on Omahans to put on our product for the says many Omaha families claim similar Playhouse legacies. most part,” Schmad says.

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Whether attending shows and classes or volunteering onstage or backstage, the Playhouse becomes a multi-generational tradition. He says it’s not uncommon for someone to start there as a child and to either continue or resume ties in adulthood, often getting their own children involved.

“That’s really symbolic of what the Playhouse is,” he says.

It goes back to community being the basis for everything there. “That is very unique. It’s all part of this cycle of “bringing theater with and for communities,” says Adams. It jives with her own theater interests, which is why she left New York for here.

“I was looking for a place where I could combine the professional theater experience I had with the skills and focus of my master’s program, which is in applied theater – using theater for social change, transformation and education. I really wanted to merge those two parts of theater. I also came from a community theater background as a young person. From the time I was really small I was also going to New York and seeing shows. So I’ve always sort of been in that hybrid.”

TRAINING GROUND • PRO ENVIRONMENT

susAn bAER collIns And cARl bEck foRMER AssocIATE ART dIREcToR And ART dIREcToR

Baer Collins says “The performers may be volunteers, but they’re surrounded by professionalism. A great number of the designers and directors, along with the music director, choreographer, technicians, carpenters, costumers, et cetera. are employees of the Playhouse and all are committed to making each show the very best it can be.”

That expertise and care shows up on stage.

“The Playhouse’s professionalism continues to have a reputation among the theatre community,” she says “Actors who may have significant experience or training are often interested in performing at the Playhouse as a volunteer because it strives for such high-quality and its shows have such a professional look.

“It was always a thrill when an audience member would say they thought the actors were professional.”

Metoyer Moten, who starred in last spring’s production of the musical Little Women, says it’s a regular occurrence.

“You hear it all the time at the (post-show) meet-and-greets where people say, ‘I saw the same show on Broadway and this is way better.’

Or they ask, ‘Where are you people from?’ It’s such a professional performance they don’t think it could be local. They think it’s a cast that’s been brought in from someplace else, when the truth is I may live around the corner from them.”

Metoyer Moten says the professionals employed in key positions at the Playhouse “guide mentor” volunteers to do professional-level work.

“They have high expectations. It’s all about expectations. I’ve worked in quite a few theaters and I still feel like when I’m there I have the most professional treatment.”

“You feel more secure because you know they’re really pulling out the very best in you and you’re making it the very best you can,” Jabenis says.

Amid the bright lights and standing ovations, its easy to forget the Playhouse is a training ground for people of any age and experience level to get a top-notch theater immersion and education.

lEs MIsERAblEs CONTINUED

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THE SHOW MUST GO ON

Hilary Adams is impressed the Playhouse has “As a community theatre, education is at the core of everything consistently dared to do provocative work. we do,” Adams says. “We have a very strong education and outreach “They really came out of the gate very strong program that includes adult and youth classes, youth summer camp with innovative productions even in the ‘20s. intensives, in-school workshops and residencies, after-school programs, They were doing wonderful work here.” a Theatre Technology Apprenticeship Program, an alternative Historian Warren Francke says, “Almost programming series and go-beyond the show programming.” from the start the Playhouse was willing to She’s proud of the two-year apprenticeship program in partnership tackle Eugene O’Neill’s Anna Christie about a with Metropolitan Community College and registered with the U.S. prostitute. When they did controversial plays Department of Labor. then they were defended by two board “Our apprentices run a lot of the shows backstage. They are supervised, members who were clergymen, one a rabbi and supported and mentored by our paid staff every step of the way. So here the other a Unitarian minister.” you have a professional house that looks like what you’d have on Francke discovered a “wonderful story nearly Broadway or high off-Broadway or high regional theater, with all the lost to history” that illustrates the pressure the accoutrements, bells and whistles, and the people working that are this Playhouse sometimes felt. really unique combination, from teens on up, of people really new at “A man wrote a play about Brigham Young and it and people really experienced.

Bernard Szold, the then-Playhouse director, knew “It’s an incredible program. It’s the only one like it in the country.” him and together they conspired to pick up the play.

Apprentice grads have gone on to work for big-time theatrical Szold went to his artist friend Grant Wood, who’d troupes, theater festivals and network television. just done “American Gothic,” to do the scenic design.

The Playhouse is also where young talent gets its start.

That’s overshadowed by the fact the night before Baer Collins says, “We worked very hard to bring young opening the Mormon Church got the president of Union people into our shows, in particular A Christmas Carol.

Pacific Railroad and their general counsel to convince the That yearly production became an amazing training Playhouse board to drop 14 of Young’s 17 wives in the cast.” ground for children to learn about the discipline and art Adams says community theater serves so many tastes that of performing onstage. I worked with some amazing devising a slate of plays “is about finding the right balance and young people who grew into outstanding performers. challenging people, but not so far that they get upset with us.

They start with learning to smile onstage and to For 2015-2016 we’ve created a diverse season of offerings from hang up their costumes and end up playing amazing new American playwrights rising in prominence as well as better roles like Annie in Annie or Wendy in Peter Pan.” known pieces. The season mixes genres and styles and includes two John Lloyd Young made it all the way to experimentations in form.”

Broadway, where he headlined the cast of Controversy over content still happens. In the 2003-2004 season Jersey Boys, winning a Tony for his efforts. profane language in the main stage production of The Tale of the Others who’ve gone onto stardom include Allergist’s Wife elicited such negative feedback that Schmad says “it Terry Kiser and two-time Tony winner showed us how we shouldn’t mess with their Playhouse.” “We learned a Norbert Leo Butz. Two Caravan alums who lesson from that,” he says, namely that the main stage Hawks Theatre is found fame returned in triumphant roles: better suited to tamer shows. “We did lose a lot of memberships because Kevyn Morrow, a veteran of the Broadway of it. Hopefully, we got some back. They sent a message. It was kind of and London stage, headlined the cast of ironic that our first show in the Hawks the next year was Hair,” the nudie Ragtime in 2006; and opera star Greg Ryerson musical about free love. “It did fine.” anchored South Pacific in 2008.

Playhouse leadership has come under fire, too. ‘When we had some Some Omaha natives who made it big public issues in the past I learned just how important the Playhouse is to before acting at the Playhouse have returned to the community,” Schmad says. In 2009 friction between the play there, including Equity performer administrative and artistic sides made news. “It was something at that John Beasley, who starred opposite Elaine Jabenis time that needed to be discussed and it was and we came out much in 1996’s Driving Miss Daisy. better because of that. We learned that this place is bigger than all Former Omaha mayor and congressman of us. We all came to that conclusion.”

Glenn Cunningham and film-TV producer Schmad says the upshot of that has been better William Dozier are among the notables who acted there. communication and a clearer division of responsibilities.

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plAyhousE fAcIlITy on cAss sTREET

ElAInE JAbEnIs And John bEAslEy In dRIvInG MIss dAIsy

“The way we’ve structured it now, which is different than a lot of community theaters, is that I’m here to do the administrative things. though I do also oversee the artistic side. But I leave the management of the artistic up to them. I have confidence and trust in what they do.”

OMAHA’S THEATER Schmad views himself as the steward of a valued community resource.

“When I first came here I said I want to be the caretaker of this place but I also want to move it forward. I feel responsible for this place. I know how important it is to people. In my decision-making I certainly have to take care of my staff and the people who come to the shows, the donors, the board members. There are many nights where I’m awake at three in the morning, but that comes with the territory.”

As for what’s next, he says, “We’re looking at the future, we’re looking at strategic planning, and that’s very important to us. It’s a combination of what we need to do administratively and artistically. There’s no question that selling tickets, donor support and remaining relevant to the community is extremely important.

“Right now I think we’re in good hands. Our board is good, our foundation is strong. I’m really proud of our staff. We’ve got some real go-getters that know what they’re doing and are very talented and that love theater and love the Playhouse.

“It’s not all [a bed of] roses but I’m kind of proud of where we are.”

A clear indication of the theater’s continued popularity is that some hit shows in the last decade broke all box-office records.

Amidst all the Playhouse’s challenges – realizing a new home in 1959, repairing structural damage from a 1975 tornado, supporting a major addition in 1986, building the endowment – Omaha has responded.

“We’ve been very fortunate the community’s come forward to support any special needs,” he says. “We are always trying to improve ourselves. Our facility looks nice but we’ve got 50-some years in this building and so we definitely have some improvements that need to be made, especially in staging and equipment that’s pretty old. So we’re in that mode right now in trying to really improve what we have.”

He expects, while not taking for granted, tha the community will respond again.

“They’ve always been there.” Everyone from philanthropists like Howard and Rhonda Hawks to season subscribers and casual theatergoers. “That’s what makes Omaha what it is. The community is proud of the arts and culture [here]. When it comes to the Playhouse, a lot of people have worked here and given a lot of their life to this place.” They’ve given their time, talent and treasure, too.

“There’s a real sense of ownership that comes with that.”

That’s why it’s called the Omaha Community Playhouse.

Visit www.omahaplayhouse.com.

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TOP •6 • PICKS! OUR TOP PICKS FOR GREAT upcoming attractions MAY 1 – 17 SABRINA FAIR Bellevue little theatre 203 W. Mission Ave. | Bellevue A timeless romantic comedy about the power of love to cross class lines, SABrinA FAir is a jewel of a love story involving the very wealthy larrabee brothers, david and linus, and sabrina, the daughter of their chauffeur. After working in paris for five years, a beautiful and sophisticated sabrina returns to find she’s still in love with playboy david. Romantic complications arise when the more worldly older brother, linus, enters the scene. 402-291-1554 | bellevuelittletheatre.com

MAY 12 – 17 ONCE Orpheum theater Omaha 409 S. 16th St. | Omaha Winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards including best Musical, Once is the musical adaptation of a 2007 indie film transformed into a truly original broadway experience. featuring an impressive ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, Once tells the enchanting tale of a dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs. 402-661-8501 | www.omahaperformingarts.org

JUNE 5 – 28 MARY POPPINS the rOse theater 2001 Farnam St. | Omaha eaturing the irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular disney films of all time, plus brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stagecraft, MAry POPPinS is a hit musical for the whole family. Written by downton Abbey creator Julian fellowes, this production promises to be an unforgettable time at The Rose. Get swept up in the fun of this high-flying, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious tale! 402-345-4849 | http://www.rosetheater.org/

MAY 29 – JUNE 28 SPAMALOT hawks mainstage theatre Omaha community Playhouse | 6915 cass St. | Omaha Tony award-winning SPAMAlOt is the uproarious comedy “lovingly ripped off from” the 1975 british cult classic Monty python and the holy Grail. king Arthur and his companions’ quest for the holy Grail is interrupted by the knights who say ni, harold the shrubber, The black knight and countless other iconic characters. die-hard Monty python fans may burst into anticipatory laughter ahead of their favorite jokes and sight gags, but audience members new to the genre will also love the hilarity of SPAMAlOt. 402-553-0800 (box office) | http://www.omahaplayhouse.com/

MAY 1 & 3 BALLET NEBRASKA: MOMENTUM JOslyn art museum (may 1) 2200 Dodge St. | Omaha arts Center at iOwa western COmmunity COllege (may 3) 2700 college rd. | council Bluffs MOMentuM, ballet nebraska’s annual mixed-repertory program, is a sparkling mix of short ballets in a wide range of styles; a perfect introduction for the first-time balletgoer and a fascinatingly varied mix for the seasoned dance enthusiast. Along with several original works, MOMentuM features International Masters, a portfolio of brilliant dance spanning centuries and styles; the dazzling 19th-century classic ballet PAquitA; 20th-century legend George balanchine’s masterful VAlSe-FAntAiSie; and On My MOther’S SiDe, a modern dance classic by groundbreaking choreographer and nebraska native charles Weidman. 402-541-6946 | balletnebraska.org

JUNE 18 – 21, JULY 1, 2, 5 AS YOU LIKE IT neBraska shakespeare On the green 2015 elmwood Park | 60th and Dodge Streets | Omaha The tragedy of loss, the drama of heartache, and the comedy of best-laid plans balance each other with passion, music, and laughter in AS yOu like it, the kickoff production for the 2015 season of nebraska shakespeare on The Green. show up early to get the best seats and enjoy great food, preshow entertainment, activities, and more activities. performances start at 8 p.m., with Greenshow at 7 p.m. parking is available on the university of nebraska omaha campus. 402-280-2391| www.nebraskashakespeare.com 102

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• OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS

extra! READ ALL about IT!

Omaha perFOrming arts annOunCes stellar 10th anniversary seasOn more than 600 season members, patrons and vips attended Omaha performing arts’ announcement event heralding its 2015/16 season. the evening opened with an awe-inspiring aerial performance by the dance troupe bandaloop. performances by cast members from disney’s neWSieS and the PhAntOM OF the OPerA, gave the audience a glimpse of two of the upcoming broadway national touring productions.

Joan squires, president of Omaha performing arts, announced details on celebrate 10, the organization’s commemoration of a decade of full season productions by omaha performing Arts and the 10th anniversary of the opening of the holland performing Arts center. broadway, film and Tv actress kristen chenoweth will headline the celebrate 10 Gala, the first event in a packed weekend of festivities that will also include the holland stages festival, featuring a return of bandaloop and several other free performances open to the public.

Other highlights of the season include the broadway national touring productions of kinky BOOtS, Dirty DAncinG and Rogers + hammerstein’s cinDerellA; performances by dance Theatre of harlem, comedian and singer Jane lynch; the vienna boys choir; the return of the national Geographic live, daniel Tiger’s neighborhood lIvE and Ramsey lewis Electric band with special guest phillip bailey of Earth, Wind and fire.

For more information, go to omahaperformingArts.org/seasonTickets or call 402-345-0606.

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community CALENDAR

LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/

MAY 2

4:00 PM – 7:00 PM AK DERBY Ak-Sar-Ben Friends Frank’s Warehouse 14th and Marcy | Omaha The Ak Derby party is a fundraising event held by the Ak-Sar-Ben Friends membership arm. Funds raised support the Ak-Sar-Ben Friends Community Grant Program and the Ak-Sar-Ben Friends Community College Scholarship Program. Guests are invited to wear their Derby best and watch the Kentucky Derby live. $25 for individuals under 30. $100 for all others 402-554-9600 | http://akderby.com

MAY 2 5:00 PM – 1:00 PM BLUE JEANS AND DREAMS Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy HETRA Barn 10130 S 222nd Street | Gretna Put on your hats and boots for an evening of entertainment country style with great food, friends, and entertainment at the 15th annual “Blue Jeans and Dreams”. Doors open in time to watch the Kentucky Derby! Social hour and silent auction begins at 5:00pm, dinner at 6:00, special presentation at 8pm, and dancing to the music of Crossfire at 9pm. Event dollars will support the HETRA Rider Sponsorship Program. Buy your tickets or reserve a table at www.HETRA.org For more info call 402-359-8830. Where Horses and YOU make dreams come true!

402-359-8830 | www.HETRA.org

MAY 2 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM vinNEBRASKA WINE EVENT Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, Inc. Ramada Plaza Omaha 3321 S 72nd Street | Omaha Join us for a grand celebration of great wines, nationally recognized winemakers, gourmet food and amazing auction packages for wine collectors and enthusiasts of all kinds. During wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres on Saturday, guests will be able to bid on packages in the silent auction and purchase a bottle (or two!) in our Mystery Wine Pull. Program will include a grand auction of thirty-plus items from our participating vintners. Attire is Business Casual. $100 per ticket 402.346.9377 | www.vinnebraska.com

MAY 2

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM FOR THE KIDS BENEFIT Omaha Children’s Museum 500 South 20th Street | Omaha Mark your calendar for the 36th annual For the Kids Benefit. Support Omaha Children’s Museum while enjoying a lovely night full of shopping, food and fun. Tickets start at $150 402-930-2349 | www.ocm.org

MAY 16 URBAN LEAGUE OF NEBRASKA SCHOLARS RECEPTION Urban League of Nebraska ULN Scholars and their families are invited to a reception, honoring multiple high school students with scholarships. Recipients are selected through a rigorous application and selection process. Scholarship are made possible through the Urban League of Nebraska, Metropolitan Community College, and the ULN Guild. FREE 402-451-1066 | http://urbanleagueneb.org

save the date CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help!

Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com.

MAY 4 LIBERTY MUTUAL INSURANCE INVITATIONAL Nebraska Kidney Association Oak Hills Country Club 12325 Golfing Green Drive | Omaha Omaha’s premiere charity golf event, to benefit the Nebraska Kidney Association. Join other foursomes at Omaha’s beautiful Oak Hills Country Club to support kidney health and compete for incredible prizes, including the opportunity to play in the Liberty Mutual Insurance Invitational National Finals at TPC Sawgrass. $1,350 per foursome 402-932-7200 | www.kidneyne.org

MAY 5

11:45 AM D.J.’S HERO AWARDS LUNCHEON CenturyLink Center Omaha A fundraising luncheon that benefits programs for children and families. Academic scholarships are awarded to outstanding young Nebraskans and a nationally known speaker is featured. $100 per seat or $1,000 for table of ten (402) 898-5906 | www.GiveSalvationArmy.org

MAY 5 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION OneWorld Historic Livestock Exchange Building 4930 S. 30th Street | Omaha Enjoy music, food and drinks! All proceeds benefit OneWorld programs, providing funding and support to those that need it most. $30 4026195302 | www.OneWorldOmaha.org

MAY 6

6:30 PM – 9:00 PM PINK RIBBON GALA Susan G. Komen Nebraska Scoular Ballroom | 2027 Dodge Street | Omaha . This exclusive event will feature guest speaker Cokie Roberts, wonderful food and an evening with friends. Cokie Roberts will share her personal story as a breast cancer survivor. She is an award-winning journalist and best-selling author. A private patron party will be held from 5:30-6:15 p.m. and Ms. Roberts will have her latest book available for signing.

Proceeds from the evening will benefit Susan G. Komen Nebraska’s mission to end breast cancer.

Online registration will open by April 1, 2015, at www.komennebraska.org or you may contact the Komen Nebraska office at 402-502-2979. $125.00 402-502-2979 x206 | www.komennebraska.org

MAY 6 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM HONORING OUR VETERANS The New Cassel Foundation New Cassel Retirement Center | 900 N. 90th | Omaha Honoring Our Veterans honors over 40 veterans of which 25 are WWII veterans at New Cassel Retirement Center and Franciscan Centre Adult Day services. FREE 402-390-5317 | www.newcassel.org

MAY 7 HIGH HEEL DASH Junior League Midtown Crossing | 200 S. 31st Ave. | Omaha The High Heel Dash is a unique FUNdraiser - a 50-yard dash run in heels that supports Junior League of Omaha’s community projects. This year’s 50-yards will take place on the pathway around Turner Park at Midtown Crossing. The fee to participate as an individual is $35 and a four-person relay team is $120.

Registration for the High Heel Dash is now open on Active.com or through the Junior League of Omaha website. $35 402-493-8818 | www.jlomaha.org

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• VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

• mquarterly look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!

MAY 8

9:00 AM – 4:30 PM SAFE HAVEN GOLF TOURNAMENT Heartland Family Service Tregaron Golf Course | 13909 Glengarry Cir | Bellevue This annual

18-hole event is a fundraiser for the Heartland Family Service Safe Haven concealed domestic violence shelter for women and children. Your participation will help us give them a safer future! TBA 402-552-7424 | www.HeartlandFamilyService.org

MAY 8

5:00 PM GALA 2015 Brownell-Talbot School 400 N Happy Hollow Blvd | Omaha The 2015 Gala will take place on campus the evening of Friday, May 8. The traditional fun-filled, and entertaining evening will include a silent auction spanning unique gift items to exceptional student experiences, dinner, a live auction featuring outstanding, one-of-a-kind opportunities, and phenomenal music performed by their award-winning, student jazz ensemble. Funds raised this evening help underwrite innovative instructional programs, scholarships, and financial aid. $100 402-556-3772 | www.brownell.edu/

MAY 8

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM COPE CLASSIC Pacific Springs Golf Course 16810 Harney St | Omaha We invite you to join us as a sponsor for Christian Outreach Program of Elkhorn’ (COPE) Annual Golf Fundraising Tournament. Your sponsorship, makes it possible for families/individuals to stay in their homes and keep their heat on when they experience tough times. $100 individual or $350 team

MAY 9 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE CABARET 2015 Child Saving Institute Embassy Suites La Vista | 12520 Westport Parkway | La Vista Please join us as we come together to celebrate and support Child Saving Institute’ work for the prevention, intervention and treatment of child abuse and neglect at our 23rd annual Cabaret fundraiser: “It’ a Mad, Mad, Madigan World!” If you, too, are committed to creating happy outcomes for at-risk kids, you won’t want to miss this casual and entertaining event that includes cocktails, dinner, and hilarious entertainment from of one of the funniest stand-up comics in America – Kathleen Madigan! $175 402-504-3664 | http://childsaving.org

MAY 9

7:00 PM – 10:00 PM SALUTE OUR MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDERS CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY BASEBALL GAME First Responders Foundation

TD Ameritrade Park | 1200 Mike Fahey Street | Omaha Attend a Creighton baseball game specifically organized as a salute to our military and first responders. An Honor and Remember Walk will take place prior to the game. Be a part of history in the making as hundreds of citizens line the street to lend their enthusiastic and heartfelt support to the families of the fallen. It’s free for veterans, military and first responders. Honor and Remember is a national organization that bestows special, personalized flags to families of fallen military members. TBD 402-672-6331 | www.firstrespondersomaha.org

MAY 11 CHIP IN FOR KIDS GOLF TOURNAMENT Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation Champions Run | 13800 Eagle Run Drive | Omaha Golfers will take flight on Monday, May 11 at Champions Run for the 25th Annual Chip In For Kids Charity Golf Tournament. Through the efforts of Chip In For Kids, more than $1 million has been raised to benefit the programs and services Children’s Hospital & Medical Center provides for Heartland families. $180 402-955-6865 | www.ChipInOmaha.org

MAY 12

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM KIDS CAN LUNCHEON CenturyLink Center 455 North 10th Street | Omaha Join us for our 2015 annual Can Do Luncheon and inspire a CAN DO attitude among others in our community. Kids Can has touched the lives of thousands of children and families who may otherwise not have access to quality educational services or childcare. The luncheon will host keynote speaker, Alejandro Hernandez, an expert at identifying and addressing company reputations and social responsibility. All proceeds from the luncheon will go directly towards programming that provides education to children in our community. 402-731-6988

MAY 13

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM

2015 GREATER OMAHA BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS LUNCHEON Greater Omaha Chamber Embassy Suites Omaha-La Vista | 12520 Westport Parkway | La Vista Held each year in May to recognize Greater Omaha businesses for their contribution to the positive growth of our business community. Companies may nominate themselves or be nominated by others.

Submissions will be reviewed by a committee of Chamber volunteers to select award winners. $40 402-978-7957 | www.omahachamber.org 105

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LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/

community CALENDAR

save the date • VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM’S ZENFOLIO PHOTO STORE: METROSCENE.ZENFOLIO.COM

over 35,000 photos • over 33,000 visitors MAY 14 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM SAVING PLACES - A PRESERVATION CELEBRATION Restoration Exchange Omaha Scottish Rite | 20th and Douglas Streets | Omaha In celebration of Landmarks Inc. 50th anniversary, Restoration Exchange Omaha (REO) is reviving Landmarks’ Preservation Awards program. The event will feature drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres, visuals of Omaha’ significant preservation projects over the past 50 years, silent auction items made by local craftsmen, a fast-moving video awards ceremony and desserts and conversation to end the evening.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Restoration Exchange and its ongoing work of educating and motivating Omaha to breathe life back into our city’ historic homes, buildings and neighborhoods. $100 402-679-5854 | www.restorationexchange.org

MAY 17

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

GREAT STRIDES: A WALK TO CURE CYSTIC FIBROSIS Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Aksarben Village - Stinson Park | 67th & W. Center Rd. | Omaha Starting the first weekend in May, people in cities and towns all across the nation will participate in GREAT STRIDES, the CF Foundation’ annual walk and largest fundraiser. With every step of each route, money is raised to help find a cure for CF. Anyone can join in the festivities for health, fun and prizes. Individual goals are $150 and teams of ten are $1,500. The first $100 earns a “Team CF” t-shirt. No Cost to walk & Sponsorship from $500-$30,000 402-330-6164 | www.cff.org/Chapters/nebraska/

MAY 17

7:00 AM – 1:00 PM OMAHA TOUR FOR HOPE CYCLING EVENT Storz Trophy Room 345 Riverside Drive | Omaha A recreational ride with multiple routes (12, 25,

50 miles) to interest both casual and experienced riders. The main purpose of this signature event is to generate funds needed for suicide prevention research, education, advocacy and programs for survivors of suicide loss. 2015 Tour for Hope May 17, 2015 - Storz Brewing Company Presenting Sponsor -Ride will start at the Storz Trophy Room on the Omaha Riverfront Registration covers t shirt, sports bag, breakfast, lunch, snacks, rest stops, full mechanical support $35 registration & $200 fundraising minimum 402-250-3961

MAY 18

12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

MIDLANDS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT Midlands Community Foundation Platteview Country Club | 4215 Platteview Road | Bellevue Annual golf tournament benefitting non-profit causes that fit the mission of Midlands Community Foundation. $125/person; sponsorships 402-991-8027 | www.midlandscommunity.org

MAY 20 – 21 12:00 AM – 12:00 AM OMAHA GIVES! Omaha Community Foundation www.omahagives24.org Powered by the Omaha Community Foundation, Omaha Gives! is our community’s charitable giving holiday! On May 20, 2015, we invite you to donate $10 or more to the causes you care about. There are hundreds of participating nonprofits and over the past two years, nearly 30,000 individuals have supported the incredible work of charitable organziations in our community through Omaha Gives! Bring your circles together around giving at www.omahagives24.org. Minimum donation of $10 402-342-3458 | www.omahafoundation.org

MAY 25

8:00 AM MEMORIAL DAY RUN Boys Town National Research Hospital Skip Palrang Memorial Fieldhouse | 122 Heroes Boulevard | Boys Town Campus | Boys Town Enjoy the scenic views and historic landmarks of Boys Town as you walk or run the annual Boys Town National Research Hospital’ Memorial Day Run. Start your holiday morning off with an event for all ages and fitness levels. Individual and discounted family registrations are available online at memorialdayrun.com. The Memorial Day Run benefits the programs and services for children who are deaf and hard of hearing at Boys Town National Research Hospital. Visit website for pricing 402-498-6729 | www.memorialdayrun.com 106

mquarterly • May/JuN/Jul 2015

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CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help!

Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com.

• VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

• mquarterly look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!

MAY 28

11:30 AM – 5:30 PM ANGELS AMONG US GOLF OUTING Tiburon Golf Club | 10302 S 168th Street | Omaha Angels Among Us Annual Golf Outing Sponsored by Bland & Associates $125 402-397-8822 | www.myangelsamongus.org

JUNE 4

MAY 30 – 31

JUNE 4 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM ALEGENT CREIGHTON HEALTH GALA & GOLF Alegent Creighton Health Foundation Embassy Suites | 12520 Westport Parkway | LaVista

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM SELL THE FARM Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation

Scott Conference Center | 6450 Pine St | Omaha Sell the Farm is an annual fundraiser in which teams of 5 bid on auction farm lots in an interactive game. All proceeds go to Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Scholarships. $1500 per team 402-554-9600

6:00 PM – 12:00 AM

RELAY FOR LIFE OF SARPY COUNTY American Cancer Society Papillion LaVista South High School - Stadium | 10799 HWY 370 | Papillion The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is the world’s largest and most impactful fundraising event to end cancer. It unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. Because it’ a team event, individual participants are not required to be there the entire time. But it’s so much fun, you’ll find it hard to leave! Registration is FREE! Sign-up Today! 402-393-5801 | www.RelayForLife.org/SarpyCoNE

June 4th, 2015 Alegent Creighton Health Foundation Gala Alegent Creighton Health Foundation Embassy Suites Convention Center, Lavista $175 402-343-4550 | www.chihealth.com/foundation

JUNE 4 PINOT, PIGS & POETS Completely KIDS

Happy Hollow Club | Omaha

Pinot, Pigs & Poets returns for a sixth year featuring an enjoyable evening of wine lover’ paradise and hog heaven cuisine. Pinot, Pigs & Poets is a collaborative effort with the Nebraska Pork Producers Association.

MAY 30

6:00 AM – 1:00 PM NEBRASKA TOUR DE CURE American Diabetes Association Glacial Till Winery | 1419 Silver Street | Ashland New Location! New Routes! New 2015 Nebraska Tour de Cure! We are happy to announce the Tour de Cure is moving to Ashland, NE. This picturesque downtown location is the perfect setting for hundreds of Nebraska cyclists to join forces in the fight to Stop Diabetes– and raise critical funds for diabetes research, education and advocacy in support of the American Diabetes Association. $15 Registration Fee, $200 Fundraising Min. 402-571-1101 | www.diabetes.org/tournebraska

All proceeds benefit the Completely KIDS weekend and after-school food programs. Patrons and guests have the opportunity to sip on outstanding pinot noir wines and sample savory pork dishes from renowned local chefs. Visit http://pinotandpigs.org/ for more information. Costs TBA 402-397-5809 | http://pinotandpigs.org/

JUNE 5

7:00 PM YOUNG FOR THE YOUNG Children’s Square Omaha

Peak Performance | 519 N 78th St | Omaha Young for the Young is a 5K that is in it’s 13th year. This

MAY 30

12:00 AM K9 BARK AND WALK Leap-For-A-Cure Chalco Hills | 8901 So. 154th Street | Omaha 4th Annual K9 Bark and Walk for Brain Cancer.

Participate with any Leap-For-A-Cure donation; all proceeds benefit the purchase of a therapy pool for Methodist Health System. Activities, vendors, raffle, agility course, and more before the walk; walk begins at 1:00. Registraion begins 11:30. 402-333-9370 | http://LeapForACure.org

event is hosted to raise money for children in the foster care system to attend summer camp. The YMCA has graciously joined our efforts and will be matching funds to send children to camp. For more information please contact jkiolbasa@childrenssquare.org or call 402-556-6765. You may also register on-line at www.raceit.com, just search for Run for the Young! $15/$20 day of the event 402-556-6765 | www.childrenssquare.org

MAY 31 YOUTH FRONTIERS’ ANNUAL EVENT

Friends and donors of Youth Frontiers will gather to raise support for this school year’ retreat programs – helping Youth Frontiers challenge kids to stand up for what’ right, treat each other with respect and act with moral courage. This engaging event will include original music, inspirational stories and the fun that Youth Frontiers is known for! $75

JUNE 3

11:00 AM – 6:30 PM 2015 GOLF CLASSIC Omaha Home for Boys Indian Creek | 203 & Maple | Omaha The Omaha Home for Boys Annual Golf Classic will take place on Wednesday, June 3, 2015 at Indian Creek Golf Course. Shotgun start is noon; includes lunch and dinner. See our website for details and registration. $125 Early Birdie/$150 (after 1/31/2015) 402-457-7005 | www.omahahomeforboys.org

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JUNE 5 – JUNE 7

11:00 AM – 5:00 PM OMAHA SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL First National Bank 10th to 15th on Farnam Street | Omaha The Omaha Summer Arts Festival

celebrates its 41st year in Downtown Omaha. The festival is Omaha’s premier destination for arts and all your entertainment. The festival features 135 of the nation’s finest visual artists, a stage full of rich multicultural musical performances and a hands-on Children’s Fair. In addition, TasteFest offers a large variety of food vendors, some of which include Mexican, Greek, barbeque, and traditional festival fare, including hamburgers, hot dogs, and funnel cakes, which should satisfy any festival-goer’s cravings.

FREE! 402-345-5401 | http://summerarts.org

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LEARN MORE details about any of these events by searching our extensive Community Calendar at mQUARTERLY’s website: http://www.SpiritofOmaha.com/Metro-Magazine/Community/Calendar/

community CALENDAR

save the date

JUNE 5 – JUNE 7

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM SAND IN THE CITY® Nebraska Children’s Home Society Downtown Omaha, 10th and Mike Fahey Streets |

JUNE 8 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM 13TH ANNUAL HOPE CENTER FOR KIDS CLASSIC Champions Run Golf Course 13800 Eagle Run Dr | Omaha Please join us for the 13th Annual

Omaha Kick off your summer at the 12th annual NCHS’ Sand in the City®! See downtown transformed into a beach by more than 400 tons of sand. Watch corporate teams compete to build their best 15-ton sand sculpture. Play in the interactive Kid Zone, gigantic sand box, bounce houses, face painting and more. Downtown Omaha, 10th and Mike Fahey Streets FREE, donations welcome 402-451-0787 | www.nchs.org

Hope Center for Kids Golf Classic on June 8th at Champions Run Golf Course. Spend a fun afternoon on the green with your team followed by dinner and a short program.The driving range will open at 10:30am with a shotgun start at noon. $750 for a foursome/$175 individual

JUNE 5 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM SWING FOR KIDS GOLF TOURNAMENT Papillion-La Vista Schools Foundation Eagle Hills Golf Course | 501 Eagle Hills Dr. |

JUNE 8 LEXUS CHAMPIONS FOR MARIAN GOLF TOURNAMENT Indian Creek Golf Course 20100 West Maple Road | Omaha Plans are “teeing off” for the 20th

Papillion The Swing for Kids Golf Tournament and Dinner helps fund programs like Kids Club, the Elementary Arts Program, Scholarships for Seniors, Outdoor Ed, Summer Library, Junior High Tutoring, Employee Recognition, Career Academies, Post Prom, Graduate Safe, Vehicle Day, and more. Starting at $100.00 for golf, sponsorships available 402-829-1340 | http://plvschoolsfoundation.org/community/golf_tournament

annual Lexus This year’ celebrity golf pro is Johnny Miller! In 21 years, Johnny won 25 times on the PGA TOUR and was inducted into the PGA TOUR Hall of Fame. The tournament was started by the late Tal Anderson, who sponsored the event for 14 years, and Anderson’ son Mickey and daughter Angie are carrying on his legacy. To register for the tournament, please visit www.marianhighschool.net. For more information about the event, contact Shari Gilg at 402.571.2618, ext. 1167 or at sgilg@omahamarian.org. $175/golfer. Corporate sponsorships available. 402-571-2618 x1167 | www.marianhighschool.net

JUNE 5 – 6

JUNE 9

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM OMAHA BEER FEST Urban Events, Inc. Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | 67th and Center Streets | Omaha It’ the 5th Annual OMAHA BEER FEST! Hundreds of American Craft Beers, 50 breweries, hourly Beer Academy sessions, live music, a Homebrewer Expo, VIP Lounge, food vendors and more! All General Admission tickets are good for one day of sampling and include a tasting glass, unlimited 2 ounce samples of craft beer, live music and access to the hourly Beer Academy sessions. Your attendance at Omaha Beer Fest benefits Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. $10-$60 402-850-6776 | www.omahabeerfest.com

1:00 PM 20TH ANNUAL PROJECT HARMONY GOLF INVITATIONAL Project Harmony Indian Creek Golf Course | 3825 North 202nd Street | Elkhorn The 20th Annual Project Harmony Golf Invitational will be held on Tuesday June 9, 2015 Sponsorship Levels 402-595-1326 | www.projectharmony.com

JUNE 12

JUNE 5 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM AFRICAN-AMERICAN LEADERSHIP AWARDS Urban League of Nebraska The 26th Annual African-American Leadership Awards (AALA)

6:00 PM STRIKE A CHORD 11 Heartland Family Service Mid-America Center One Arena Way | Council Bluffs All proceeds from this musical, casual-attire event will benefit all Heartland Family Service programs in southwest Iowa. Check back for more details!

Questions? Contact Sara Sabaliauskas at 402-552-7475. TBA 402-552-7475 | www.HeartlandFamilyService.org

recognize the accomplishments and achievements of African Americans in our community who have made significant contributions to the City of Omaha. $50 402-451-1066 | www.urbanleagueneb.org/aala/

JUNE 13 – 14 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM RELAY FOR LIFE OF MIDTOWN OMAHA American Cancer Society Norris Middle School | 2235 S. 46th Street | Omaha

JUNE 6

5:30 PM – 10:30 PM ON THE ROAD TO THE CLUB - ROUND 2 Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands Champions Run Golf Course | 13800 Eagle Run Drive | Omaha Various sponsorship levels 402-342-1600 | www.bgcomaha.org

JUNE 8 – 12

8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Organized, overnight community fundraising walk • Members of each team take turns walking around the track • Food, games and activities provide entertainment and build camaraderie • Family-friendly environment for the entire community! Registration is FREE! Sign-up Today!

402-393-5801 | www.RelayForLife.org/MidtownOmahaNE

ECHOS OF DECO - A SUMMER ARTS DAY CAMP Arts For All, Inc.

JUNE 14

Omaha Northwest High School | 8204 Crown Point Ave. | Omaha Arts For All, Inc. is offering this summer arts day camp where kids ages 8-16 will learn about Omaha and the Art Deco period through dance, theater, music and the visual arts! The field trip to the Durham Museum will be provided by Ollie the Trolley! For more information, or to register, please visit www.artsforallinc.com/camp, or call us at (402) 556-7821. $240 for Early Bird Registration 402-556-7821 | www.artsforallinc.com/camp

Guild has been the annual garden walk held in June. Proceeds from that event and others total more than $1 million over the past four decades. These funds are used to help fund programs at the Institute that might otherwise go unfulfilled. This year’s walk will feature 5 uniquely beautiful private gardens $15 402-493-7217 | www.unmc.edu/mmi/mmiguild.html

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MUNROE-MEYER GUILD GARDEN WALK Munroe-Meyer Guild Over the past 40 -plus years, the major fundraiser for the Munroe-Meyer

EXPERIENCE MATTERS. OVER 10 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE in eliminating pain and symptoms associated with Temporomandibular joint disorder: FACIAL MUSCLE PAIN • JAW JOINT PAIN POPPING AND CLICKING • HEADACHES

CONTACT US TODAY • BE FREE OF YOUR PAIN • Fellowship, American Academy of Craniofacial Pain • Member, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine • Diplomate, American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine

HEALTH CENTERED DENTISTRY• 402.289.2313 Dr. Stephanie Vondrak • Dr. Ashley Rainbolt • DrVondrak.com

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE. 108

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CONNECT WITH over 100 non profits and learn more about their mission and how you can help!

Order your copy of The Giving Guide & Event Book 2015 today at mQUARTERLY’s SpiritofOmaha.com.

• VIEW & PURCHASE PHOTOS OF THESE AND OTHER EVENTS 365/24/7 AT SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

• mquarterly look for the LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2015!

JUNE 15 11:30 AM – 4:30 PM ALEGENT CREIGHTON HEALTH GOLF EVENT Alegent Creighton Health Foundation The Players Club at Deer Creek | 12101 Deer Creek Dr

JUNE 27

| Omaha June 15th, 2015 Alegent Creighton Health Foundation Golf Event Alegent Creighton Health Foundation The Players Club, Omaha $3500 Golf Foursome 402-343-4550 | www.chihealth.com/foundation

Playhouse | 6915 Cass Street | Omaha Celebrate 90 years of community theater with this free outdoor family event. Musical and theatrical performances will be featured on an outdoor stags. Carnival games, roving artists and family-freindly activities will complete the day. With any birthday and especially this big one, we’ll serve birthday cake! FREE activities. (402) 389-03282 | www.omahaplayhouse.com/get-involved/view/90th-birthday-bash/

JUNE 15 1ST ANNUAL FIRST RESPONDERS FOUNDATION GOLF OUTING First Responders Foundation Oak Hills Country Club | 12325 Golfing Green Drive | Omaha Proceeds from the 1st Annual First Responders Foundation Golf Outing fundraiser will help support our non-profit mission to enhance public safety in our community by providing resources to police officers and firefighters, and to show appreciation for their dedicated service. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available. TBD 402-672-6331 | http://firstrespondersomaha.org

JUNE 19

7:00 AM – 5:00 PM 2015 BUSINESS ON THE GREEN Greater Omaha Chamber Tiburon Golf Club | 10302 South 168 Street | Omaha Business on

the Green is a program of the Small Business Council of the Greater Omaha Chamber. Playing to win takes on a whole new meaning with Business on the Green. Designed to create an environment that encourages camaraderie and promote business opportunity among Chamber members, the event continues to grow each year. The entry fee includes lunch, a golf cart, scoring and a full-service experience. $175 per golfer, $750 per foursome with a hole sponsorship. Various sponsorship 402-978-7957 | www.omahachamber.org

JUNE 20

12:00 PM – 4:00 PM OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE 90TH BIRTHDAY BASH Omaha Community Playhouse ACT II Guild Omaha Community

JUNE 28 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM 2015 WALK/RUN Siena/Francis House Lake Zorinsky | 156th & F Street | Omaha The 21st Annual Siena/Francis House homeless shelter’Walk/Run is set for 8:30 a.m., Sunday, June 28, 2015 at Lake Zorinsky. This annual fundraising event will attract over 700 runners (and walkers). $25 or $30 or $35, depending on date of registration 402-341-1821 | http://sienafrancis.org JULY 13 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM KEEP OMAHA BEAUTIFUL CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC Keep Omaha Beautiful Player’s Club At Deer Creek | 12101 Deer Creek Drive | Omaha This event is open to everyone and will be held at the player’s club at deer creek with a 12 noon shotgun start. sponsorships are available. lunch will be served and after play a dinner with over 70 raffle prizes will be given out. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will receive awards. The cost for the event is $125 402-444-7774 | www.keepomahabeautiful.org

11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

2015 HEARTLAND PRIDE FESTIVAL United In Pride dba Heartland Pride

JULY 17 – 18

6:00 PM – 12:00 AM HOPE IN THE HEARTLAND GALA Stinson Park at Aksarben Village 67th & Mercy Road | Omaha The funds raised at this event

Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | 2232 South 64th St | Omaha Our Heartland Pride Festival is celecbration of diversity and equality. It is a one day, outdoor festival that provides entertainment and information/education for all ages, genders and socio-economic status. Our community festival including local and regional art,music, and poetry as well as activities for children and families throughout the day. $5 in advance or $10 at the gate, the day of the event 402-990-4795 | www.heartlandpride.org

will enable the ACS to continue it’s life saving fundraising through research, government advocacy, community education, crucial programs that support patients battling cancer, the families behind them in their fight, and future generations hoping to defeat cancer. Cost varies, please see website for details 402-298-0764 | www.hopeintheheartlandomaha.org

JUNE 20

JULY 17

9:00 AM OMAHA TAKE STEPS WALK FOR CROHNS AND COLITIS Lake Chalco Hill Recreation 8901 S 154th St | Omaha Come walk with us! As part of the Take Steps family you’ll be raising critical dollars that fund our mission. From groundbreaking research to programs focused on improving patient care, we’re working harder and smarter to enhance the quality of life for patients and accelerate progress. This year’s walk will have a raffle, activities for the kids, live music and food/beverage. Come out and Take Steps with us! FREE

JUNE 26 ALS IN THE HEARTLAND GOLF CLASSIC ALS in the Heartland

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM ALES FOR TAILS Legacy Hall 6104 Irvington Rd | Omaha This is a social night for anyone who likes craft beers, fun music, and helping homeless animals. Ales for Tails benefits the Nebraska Humane Society. We take over Legacy Hall and dance the night away to tunes by the Fishheads as we draw for door prizes and raffle off cool stuff. *This is a people only event so Fido can snooze at home. $35.00 402-905-3483 | www.nehumanesociety.org

Tiburon Golf Club | 10302 South 168th Street | Omaha Cost for Individual Golfer- $150

JULY 18

402-592-2374 | www.alsintheheartland.org

TBD | Omaha Distinguished event to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. $125 402-502-4301

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6:00 PM – 9:00 PM ALL STARS GALA Methodist Health System

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community CALENDAR

save the date JULY 18 TED E. BEAR HOLLOW 17TH ANNUAL REMEMBRANCE WALK

Ted E. Bear Hollow Miller’s Landing | 151 Freedom Park Rd | Omaha We walk together to remember forever! Gather with your family and friends in remembrance of your loved ones! Hours of family friendly activities include: arts and crafts, games, vendors, even an obstacle course. Most money raised in support of Ted E. Bear Hollow, the region’s non-profit agency providing FREE grief support for kids, families, and adults. $25 for adults, $10 for kids 3-18, Free for kids under 3 402-502-2773 | www.tedebearhollow.org

JULY 20

11:00 AM – 7:00 PM MERCY HIGH GOLF FEST Mercy High School Players Club at Deer Creek | 12101 Deer Creek Dr. | Omaha A golf tournament to raise funds for Mercy High Schools held at the Players Club at Deer Creek. Includes cookout lunch, buffet dinner and prizes. Sponsorships are also accepted. $150 or 18 holes of golf; $600 for foursome.

402-553-9424 | www.mercyhigh.org

JULY 23 – 24

6:00 PM – 3:00 PM LINKS TO A CURE DINNER & GOLF BENEFIT Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Omaha Hilton Downtown & Quarry Oaks Golf Course | Omaha More than 150 golfers participate in this exclusive dinner gala and tournament. The event is filled with unique silent & live auction packages that will appeal to everyone. Each year’ tournament provides golfers with impressive Nike player’ packages, commemorative golf shirts and a marvelous golfing experience. The ‘15 tournament promises these amenities plus much more. Sponsorships from $2,000-$35,000 402-330-6164 | www.cff.org/Chapters/nebraska/

JULY 26

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM JOSLYN CASTLE CLASSIC CAR SHOW Joslyn Castle 3902 Davenport Street | Omaha The 6th Annual Joslyn Castle Classic Car Show returns to the Castle on Sunday, July 26, 2015 from 10 AM to 4 PM. Featuring the finest in classic cars, trucks and motorcycles and enjoy free tours of the Castle. $10 - $12 per person 402-595-2199 | www.joslyncastle.com

JULY 27

4:30 PM – 8:00 PM DESTINO 2015 Latino Center of the Midlands Historic Livestock Exchange Ballroom | 4920 S. 30th Street | Omaha Destino (destiny) is the Latino Center of the Midlands’ (LCM) annual fundraising event. Destino 2015 offers an opportunity for guests to enjoy a networking reception, silent auction, dinner and program. The funds raised from Destino 2015 enable the Center to continue extending new and expanded services to those in need. LCM is the conduit that provides opportunities for youth, adults and families to find their path to a better Destino (destiny). $85 402-733-2720 | www.latinocenterofthemidlands.org

JULY 27

8:00 AM – 6:00 PM SWING 4 KIDS Partnership 4 Kids Field Club of Omaha | 3615 Woolworth Ave. | Omaha A great day of golf for a good cause, this 18 hole scramble includes exciting course contests, prizes, free food and beverages, and even a chance to win $10,000! All proceeds benefit local youth mentoring program, Partnership 4 Kids-helping Omaha students succeed from kindergarten to careers. Morning and afternoon tee-times are available. $150 per player / $600 per foursome 402-930-3002 | http://bidpal.net/swing4kids15

JULY 31

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM DANCE FOR A CHANCE Omar Events Center 4383 Nicholas Street | Omaha Dance for a Chance is an annual fundraiser for Youth Emergency Services that pairs local celebrities with dance instructors who then perform in front of a panel of celebrity judges and an audience of YES supporters for their chance at the mirror ball trophy. This year’s event will be another exciting night of dancing and food and will include a silent auction. All proceeds from the event go directly to YES’ youth and programs. $50 402-345-5187 | www.yesomaha.org

AUGUST 1

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 95TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION

Omaha Home for Boys Omaha Home for Boys | 4343 N 52nd | Omaha The Omaha Home for Boys will host a 95th Anniversay Reunion on Saturday, August 1, 2015. This fun filled day will bring together staff, alumni, friends and supporters of the Home to celebrate its’ 95 year contribution to the youth and families of Omaha and surrounding communities. FREE 402-457-7014 | www.omahahomeforboys.org 110

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waking WORDS

mquarterly • letter from the editor

ROB KILLMER

attractiveness.

We’re becoming an increasingly vain society. If we want (or don’t want) to be inundated with messaging promoting hundreds of products and services designed for making ourselves more attractive, we don’t have to look very hard (in fact, we don’t have to look at all, it comes looking for us!)

Every form of media is absolutely loaded with marketing touting (and shouting) that we “need” to look younger, sexier, cooler, hotter, firmer, softer…and everything in between – all pushing us and pulling us to “improve” – not our character, but our appearance.

I spent one weekend paying just slightly more attention to these messages than usual, and was bombarded with literally hundreds of them coming at me through social media & the web, radio, television, direct marketing…you name it! Everywhere I turned someone was asserting (if not aggressively preaching) that there were a ton of ways I “need” to be improving my outer game. In contrast, I detected very few messages oriented towards helping me develop my inner game. Something is seriously out of balance here.

For starters, it just can’t be healthy to drive around, walk around, and look around while constantly absorbing these messages that there’s so much wrong with us that needs to be upgraded…where’s the peace of mind inherent in that? Hey, I get that it sells “stuff” – that it is the grease (literally, a lot of the time) in the mechanism of consumerism, that keeps our appetites teased & titillated to always desire more…more products, more services, more “stuff” that we don’t already have. I get that this is making someone a lot richer…but how is it fundamentally enriching me, the individual? How much of all of this do I really require in order to truly upgrade my life and relationships?

Listen, I’m a very self-aware and sensitive guy, and I’ve been on a path of self-improvement for decades, but I can tell you, as much as Life has prompted me to improve myself, there is no way that I “need” to spend that much time, energy, efforts & resources just upgrading my appearance! Some wise soul once said that “appearances can be deceiving” and is that ever applicable here…consider all the grist that grinds this mill supporting “the Law of Attractiveness”. You can have bigger boobs, bigger biceps, bigger bling – not to mention bigger…well, other things (but don’t forget you can also make other parts of yourself a lot smaller & thinner while you’re at it.)

robert P. Killmer editor@Spiritofomaha.com

When I hear gentlemen sharing sad stories about how the girl doesn’t “connect” with their world, doesn’t “get them” I too, am saddened. She is there for what they were pitching.

The “Pitbull” persona and pecs that were pushed at her is what drew her interest, so when presented with what’s underneath all of that, it’s no longer the feelings and experience she was initially craving (and by the way – so much of the “Law of Attractiveness” is about what we crave rather than what we need!)

The “Law of Attractiveness” works against, not for us. It focuses us too greatly on the externals, and not greatly enough on the internals. We’ve lost something here, as a culture.

And as individuals it’s truly important that we find ways to maneuver around that loss.

For years now, there’s been a concept floating around in the cultural milieux called “The Law of Attraction”. This concept was made more widely known initially through the distribution of the original documentary called The Secret. This “Law of Attraction” (in a nutshell, which condensation obviously does it some disservice) states that we are all You too, can look more like the perfectly toned & tanned mouthpiece model selling you “stuff” “attracting” into our lives precisely what we are putting out – that everything positive and negative that surfaces and resurfaces in our personal “energy field” is there because we drew (and even some of these are becoming so perfect in appearance they cease appearing it in, because we established the tone, and the things and people that match that tone human, which then makes them…you got it: UN-attractive!) Nevertheless… become magnetized (attracted) to us because it’s “familiar” to them and us.

You can look years younger, pounds lighter (without losing a pound because of the latest wonder-fiber); you can load your face up with botox so you look more like a mannequin than If this is true (and I for one believe it is) then the “Law of Attractiveness” I’m exploring here is a human (but hey, the wrinkles are gone). You can lypo-suck, nip & tuck, and fill a truck… the ugly (on the inside) sister of the “Law of Attraction”. The “Law of Attractiveness” locks us with the “stuff” they will send you – and what’s the basic point driving it all? into the darker side of the “Law of Attraction”. It focuses our orientation on surface appearance, on that which is vain, unsustainable, defrauding. It focuses our time, energy, It’s all so we can “fool” someone of the opposite (or not-so-opposite) sex into finding us more efforts & resources on things that merely “buy us a little extra time” in worshipping the (outwardly) attractive. It’s all about pruning the peacock feathers that get us that extra external things: physical beauty, physical youth, perfect skin, perfect hair, perfect perkiness. glance, that extra second of appraisal, that extra moment of admiration – feeding our egos and promoting our “attractiveness”…promoting what we look like – not who we are – None of those things carries a relationship. It always…always…comes down to character, who we can appear to be. and character compatibility. Communication skills. Inner peace and harmony promoting relationship peace and harmony. It’s what’s behind the eyes that carries the day, not what’s It’s not about substance (that which the “attracted one” will actually be dealing with on a painted (or wrinkling) around the eyes. regular basis if the relationship develops into anything more than ogling the “attractive one”) it’s all about attracting potential admirers…not drawing in those who are looking deeper, but those who look skin deep. Does it not occur that by buying into this whole narcissistic dynamic, we are actually becoming more oriented to skin deep ourselves?

I am sincerely grieved when I hear women bemoaning the shallowness of the guys they attract, but they are essentially getting what they paid for. The bait they crafted drew in the kind of person focusing on that inducement.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s a place for enhancing our external wellbeing. There’s a physical stewardship that’s absolutely required, but even that – when healthy – flows from inside out.

At our healthiest we are bringing all aspects of ourselves into balance and harmony, and thereby “attracting” more balanced and harmonious things and people into our lives. I’m on the record as suggesting that the current fixation on improving our lives by focusing on the externals is not only out of balance, it’s a lie.

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