Inspired Living Omaha July-August 2019

A N O M A H A W O R L D - H E R A L D P U B L I C AT I O N • S E R V I N G N E B R A S K A & W E S T E R N I O W A

J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 INSPIREDLIVINGOMAHA.COM

garden THE

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The perfect gift, the perfect way to entertain.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Christen 402-444-1094 | chris.christen@owh.com

OMAHA’S LARGEST SELECTION.

DESIGNER Jessica Thompson 402-444-1120 | jthompson@owh.com

AVAILABLE AT:

17650 Wright St. Ste 4 Omaha, NE 68130 402-502-1962

ISSUE 4

ASSISTANT EDITOR Marjie Ducey 402-444-1034 | marjie.ducey@owh.com

STORE HOURS:

M-S 10-6 Sun. 11-4

COPY EDITOR Shelley Larsen 402-444-1143 | shelley.larsen@owh.com

Njandcompany.com/Facebook | instagram: shopnjco 2161701-01

ON THE COVER Garden of Holly Barstow Photographed by Chris Christen CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS Holly Barstow, Jeffrey Bebee, Blackboard Design Build, Kurt A. Keeler, Chad Lebo, Sherry Spitsnaugle CUSTOM PUBLISHING SALES MANAGER Lauren Kruger | 402-444-1261 | lauren.kruger@owh.com ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES Emily Martin | 402-444-1411 | emily.martin@owh.com Marilyn Martin | 402-444-1405 | marilyn.martin@owh.com Deborah Fernsell | 402-444-1209 | dfernsell@owh.com EVENTS Tam Webb | 402-444-3125 | tam.webb@owh.com Tayler Kirtley | 402-444-1161 | tayler.kirtley@owh.com

1314 Douglas St., Suite 700, Omaha, NE 68102 Inspired Living Omaha (ISSN 23795948) is a publication of the Omaha World-Herald. ©2019, Omaha World-Herald, a Berkshire Hathaway Company. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for content, opinions or practices, or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos and text that appear, are assumed to be the original work of the provider, and the publisher is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement.

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EDITOR'S NOTE

GROWING PAINS IT HAS TAKEN ME

weed from flower. A Facebook

A DOZEN YEARS to

friend suggested that a weed is

discover the beauty of

anything you don’t want growing

gardening.

in a particular spot. I tried that,

I’ve struggled because

to the detriment of beds planted

gardening has nothing to do with perfection and everything to do with patience — which

by three landscaping services CHRIS CHRISTEN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

runs counter to my Type A personality.

colleague Henry Cordes recently

BONUS CONTENT

suggested that I download the

See more online! Visit inspiredlivingomaha.com for bonus photos and stories related to this issue.

free app Pl@ntNet. It’s slick: Simply snap a photo of the plant in question, upload

are immediate. I’m instantly gratified

it to the app and in seconds the plant is

when I’ve completed a task. In perennial

identified. It’s not foolproof, but it does

own for days, weeks, months, even years.

Thank goodness for annuals to carry me through the wait!

Memorial Day weekend, it dawned on me: Gardening is equal parts art and science, and both components are critical.

The garden spaces featured in this issue are extraordinary examples of what can happen when you put your heart into nurturing and tending what you plant.

Spoiler alert: Bob Goding’s backyard paradise has a river running through it while Holly Barstow’s haven boasts a lily pond and nine SUV loads of annuals.

I can only dream.

A big challenge for me is distinguishing

6 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

At top, from left: Star of Bethlehem, Old Fashioned Weigela, True Blue Montana Coneflower, European Columbine, Iris Pallida

over the years. World-Herald

In my job, the fruits of my labors

gardening, plantings don’t come into their

PRETTIES FROM MY GARDEN

seem to work most of the time.

I’ve tapped the volunteers at Benson Plant Rescue for planting tips. And, of course, there’s colleague Marjie Ducey, who lives and breathes gardens and writes

CONNECT WITH US Have a comment or idea for a future issue? Share it with chris.christen@owh.com.

Show us your renovation project! It’s easy. Click on the submission tab at inspiredlivingomaha.com.

about them year-round. In her July-August

FOLLOW US

column, she chats with a National Garden

Facebook.com/ inspiredlivingomaha instagram.com/ inspiredomaha

Club flower judge from Omaha who reminds us that the secret to a beautiful garden plot is pretty basic: Right plant, right place. Love a handpicked bouquet?

Don’t miss the pro’s growing tips.

Until next time, I’d love to hear the story of your garden journey.

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DESIGN DONE RIGHT

Everyday getaway 10  J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

BACKYARD VACATION SPOT KEEPS THE KIDS AT HOME STORY MARJIE DUCEY

I

PHOTOS CHRIS CHRISTEN + KURT A. KEELER

t wasn’t a simple request.

The owners of the Bluewater lake property in Valley wanted their

Nurseries, pulled it off.

“We literally feel like we’re at our favorite vacation resort when we’re back

backyard pool and landscaping to reflect

here,” homeowner Michele Ott says.

their favorite locations: Fort Lauderdale,

“We wanted to have a little mini

Arizona, Hawaii and the Ozarks.

vacation where you don’t have to leave

The setting needed to be a go-to destination, too, for their four kids − ages 12 to 19 − and their friends.

As difficult as that combination may

town to do it.”

She and husband Steve sprang for a patio with an 18-by-40-foot pool, three fire-water pots, a hot tub, fire pit, giant

sound, J.T. Savoie, a senior residential

chess board and covered eating area

landscape designer for Lanoha

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 11

POOL LANDSCAPES Pots are a great way to add color poolside without the hassle of mulch washing onto the pool deck or into the pool.

Kristy Fortik, a senior residential landscape designer with Lanoha Nurseries, also recommends pavers around pool coping and planting beds along paths and as borders for color and texture.

“Although some homeowners prefer rock in beds, it is not our first recommendation,” she says.

“With all of the pavers and concrete it can create a very harsh look.”

Mulch beds soften the overall aesthetic.

Privacy is always an issue.

Taylor junipers work well because they are narrow and compact. They are also evergreen, so they don’t shed leaves. Other good options include fineline buckthorn, columnar oak and columnar maples for height.

12 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m   13

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 early last summer and used the space until the end of September.

Despite a 34-degree start to the day, they had a big crowd after prom in April. They just cranked up the pool water to 95 degrees. The fire features were aglow, too.

Once the Otts shared their vision, Savoie had carte blanche.

“We didn’t want to alter his thoughts,” Michele says. “If that’s his gift, just do it.”

The Otts joke that there wasn’t a plant left at Lanoha Nurseries after Savoie put the finishing touches on the grounds last summer and annuals were brought in this spring.

Savoie, who has a degree in horticulture landscape, describes the

Annuals include sangria supertunias and sunpatiens.

Phoenix palms and yellow flambe provide the tropical fusion. The sand

“The boat dock was the first thing in,” Steve says. “We’d come out and have

sunsets provide the Ozarks vibe.

picnics on the beach as the house was

Although Savoie does use tall planters

design as rustic modern with a tropical fusion and an artistic twist.

landscape is permanent. Just not too

ornamental grasses and perennials such

the lot.

beach, dock and lake with amazing

to break up the hardscapes, most of the

He incorporated a variety of

The Otts began enjoying lake living almost as soon as they had purchased

close to the pool.

“Generally speaking, most people

being built.”

Walleye fishing has been pretty great at Bluewater, he says.

“Last year, I caught 50 off the dock in one weekend.” Most were 16 to 26 inches

as boxwoods, firewitch dianthus, Max

want to keep the pool landscape clean,

long. “People travel to Canada for that

Frei geraniums and moonshine yarrow.

green and easy to take care of,” he says.

type of fishing.”

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HOMESPIRATION

BIRD MAGNET Couple’s backyard oasis is a “spa” for flocks of feathered friends 16 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOS JEFFREY BEBEE

B

ob Goding laughs when asked how much time he spends on his “hobby.”

“This time of year, it’s 40 hours a week. It’s a full-

time job.”

The retired Omahan loves to garden, and since he and wife Janelle moved to the Omaha Country Club area in 2008, she has been drawn in, too.

She works on the yard about 15 hours a week. It’s a combination, she says, of a large yard and being empty-nesters.

“I really learned to love it,” she says.

POND PROS AND CONS Bob Goding says there are lots of reasons to have a pond. The first step, he says, is to decide whether you want to design and build the pond yourself or hire someone to do the work.

His favorite things: » The natural beauty. It never ceases to amaze us to watch it come alive every year and then observe the ever-changing landscape as it progresses through the seasons. » It’s serene and relaxing. We spend the majority of our free time on our patio when weather allows. The sound of the rushing water has an extremely relaxing effect. » The birds. Water attracts a wide variety of wildlife. We didn’t realize how many different species of birds there are in Nebraska. Some of our favorites are cardinals, Baltimore orioles, goldfinch, nuthatch, rosebreasted grosbeak, yellow warbler, mourning dove and chickadee. Not only are they fun to watch but their songs are hypnotic. » Escape. Janelle and I are avid hikers, and we particularly like hiking around mountain streams. In our case all we have to do is walk out our back door and we are there. » Sense of accomplishment. Because of our active participation, we look at it like we are artists, creating our own scene. It is very satisfying, after a long day of working on it, to sit down and observe the results of our efforts, along with Mother Nature of course.

There are cons, too: » Cleanup. Because we live in a heavily wooded area, the biggest issue is the amount of ongoing cleaning a water feature requires. Particularly in autumn when the leaves are falling and then again in the spring.

It takes several days to clean it up each year. And, because we are mixing leaves with water, it gets pretty messy. During the growing season the cleanup is minimal unless we get a big storm. » Maintenance. Each year rocks shift and move. A lot of the time this is because animals, mostly raccoons, get in the pond and move things around just by their own body weight and sometimes on purpose if there is something under a rock they want.

The freeze/thaw cycles in winter tend to shift and settle things as well. Wind blows the mulch away. Moles dig underneath, causing areas to sink that need to be repaired. And every so often, a pump goes out. Our pond has three pumps and we have had to replace each of them.

was in 2011, after putting on an addition

water feature,” he says. “We were going

had a blank canvas when they began

to the back of their brick ranch, that

for a mountain stream.”

landscaping. A bit daunted by the task

Goding took it to the next level.

Except for some large trees, they

ahead, friends gave them hostas, ferns and day lilies to get started.

They first created several bermed areas, which are surrounded by 15 tons of football- and basketball-size rocks. It

Tons of fill dirt remained from the

This water feature, built to Bob’s design, stretches the length of their

expansion, and Bob had the perfect

75-foot patio. It took 8 tons of rock to

solution: the water feature he had always

construct. Three pumps and a spinner

wanted. But it wasn’t a simple project.

keep the water flowing.

“We didn’t want it to look like a fake

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 17

GARDEN FAVORITES There are so many and each plant has its own time in the season to put on a show, Bob Goding says. Some favorites: Annuals Lantana, Calibrachoa, Impatiens, Spider Flower (Cleome), Pentas, Marigold

Perennials Hardy Hibiscus, Goatsbeard, Astilbe, Wisteria, Clematis, Hosta, Bugloss

and Bob has started experimenting with

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

native grasses on another side of the

“One of my friends calls this the

house.

Goding spa,” Bob says. “When it gets hot,

A shady area in back includes a

there are as many as a dozen robins in

hammock, a gift from children Nick

there.”

and Lindsey, that makes visitors dream

Janelle says it was an instant bird

of lazy afternoons curled up with a cool

magnet. They’ll spy orioles, robins,

drink and a good book. But not Bob.

hummingbirds, wrens, nuthatches,

“I’m such a Type A personality, I never

yellow warblers and even a bluebird and

use it,” he says. “I’ve been on it about two

a rose-breasted grosbeak from the large

hours in 10 years.”

picture windows at the back of the house.

Once planting and cleanup are done,

When they hear a certain sound on

the Godings cut back some, to allow for

the roof, they know it’s a wild turkey. The

camping and hiking trips.

bird feeder at one end of the pond has

Their private oasis, screened on both

proved so popular to raccoons, that Bob

sides by large bushes, has involved lots

finally resorted to putting Vaseline on the pole to keep them away.

Huge silver maples, pin oaks and a

of experimenting. Bob has gained a lot astilbe, begonias, lamium and vinca

of knowledge by becoming a master

minor.

gardener, something Janelle wants to do,

black locust keep the garden beds in

They cut the usual 14 yards of mulch

shade, so they’ve used large varieties

for the beds to six this year by planting

of hostas in the landscape, as well as

ground cover.

ferns, hydrangeas, impatiens, coleus, goatsbeard, bugloss, Solomon’s seal,

18 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

Shrubs/trees Japanese Maple, Hydrangea, Viburnum, Kiwi

A vegetable garden stretches across the sunny back edge of the property,

too, when she retires from nursing.

“I wanted to learn more,” Bob says.

“I’d been doing a lot by trial and error.

I decided to do that and get a little smarter as well.”

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m   19

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HOMESPIRATION

A

negative

TURNS INTO A

positive Backyard paradise features a pond, a stream and waterfalls STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOS CHRIS CHRISTEN + HOLLY BARSTOW

H

olly Barstow loves to travel and has stayed in some amazing places.

So she once asked herself: Why not

make my landscape look like the resorts we love?

After 28 years, she thinks she has succeeded.

“There aren’t many places I enjoy more in the summer than our backyard,” she says of her outdoor paradise near 132nd and Blondo Streets.

And it all started because of a drainage problem. Holly and husband Bruce bought the last available house on their block in the Bryn Mawr subdivision. Everyone’s rain run-off washed through their small lot.

They tried French drains, but then devised a more creative solution: a water feature. Actually a pond, a stream and two waterfalls. Complete with koi and lily pads.

“We took a negative and turned it into a positive,” she says.

It’s now the centerpiece of their garden.

They love to entertain in their outdoor living room under the glow of a chandelier hanging from a maple tree, planted when their daughter, Taylor, was a toddler. She’s now 29 and living in San Francisco. Son Brett, 32, resides in Seoul.

Every inch of the yard is planted with perennials and annuals. Holly says it took nine runs in her SUV this spring

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 21

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 to bring home the colorful one-season newcomers.

Favorite perennials include a 60-year-old bridal wreath moved from their former Country Club home, her grandmother’s peonies and mock orange shrubs planted by the deck as a privacy screen.

Hibiscus trees, geraniums, lobelia, French marigolds, lilies, ferns, dahlias, sun coleus and elephant ears top her annuals list.

She hires help for a few days to get things set up and then watches as the beauty unfolds.

22  J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

“The part that takes the most time is the watering,” she says.

Barstow has expanded her efforts into the front yard, too. It used to be your standard layout, she says, with plants clustered against the house.

People often remarked that it didn’t match the masterpiece that is her backyard. Although not as intense as the back, it now gives visitors a taste of what

TO POND OR NOT TO POND Holly Barstow loves her pond. It’s peaceful to see and hear the water running. She loves the fish and that it’s a different way of gardening.

But she has a caution for anyone considering a water feature.

“Water has but one job — to escape! And it’s like Houdini in its ability to do so, and it works on escaping 24/7,” she says. “I have lost many fish over the years to chlorine, mink, freezing, a failed heater — and it always makes me sad.”

Holly says she’s on a first-name basis with her pond guy and his team.

“That is not ideal. It isn’t the cheapest hobby in the world. However, for me the ledger is still obvious. I love my pond, stream, gardens and outdoor living areas, and I am always working on making them more beautiful and enjoyable.”

If you just like the sound of a water feature, Barstow suggests starting with a fountain or pondless waterfall. Find a reliable pond company to help with the installation.

is to come.

Many are people Barstow will invite into her garden for dinners to raise

told. “Who would have thought?”

That love of entertaining and

plate, balancing a dish and making everything work together. In her garden,

funds for favorite charities. They always

gardening blend together perfectly,

she strives for balance and seasonality.

are blown away.

Barstow says.

There’s always something scented.

“This is kind of amazing,” she’ll be

Entertaining is about balancing a

“It’s the same kind of artistry,” she says. i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 23

EXPERIENCE L O CAL | A SP ONSORED FEATURE

CONTEMPORARY TO CLASSICS With everything from Beethoven to Bugs Bunny, symphony-goers will be jazzed

SPECIAL FOR OMAHA SYMPHONY

B

ook a great date night. Hear some of the most beautiful music ever created. Introduce your kids to classical music.

Groove to your favorite rock music from decades past.

Whether you’re a fan of classical, pop, rock or even movie theme

songs, the Omaha Symphony has something for you.

And with tickets to individual concerts on sale beginning Aug. 19, isn’t it about time to give this nearly 100-year-old institution a try?

For classical music lovers, the Omaha Symphony’s coming season includes music from greats like Beethoven, Brahms and Mahler. Highlights include Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” Debussy’s “La Mer” and for piano lovers, a powerful concert featuring pieces by Rachmaninoff, Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and a newly discovered piano concerto by African American composer Florence Price. The opening September concert will feature a special piece commissioned by the Omaha Symphony to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad.

The Omaha Symphony also attracts world-class guest artists, including pianist Condoleezza Rice, who will perform a Mozart concerto in May 2020; pianist Charlie Albright, who made his Omaha Symphony debut in 2016; and violinist Stefan Jackiw.

But classical music isn’t all the orchestra is known for.

Other programs include tributes to Rodgers & Hammerstein, Frank Sinatra and Motown, as well as the 50th anniversary of the

24 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

Beatles’ “Abbey Road” album and the music of Queen. A special concert will project classic Bugs Bunny and Looney Tunes cartoons on a big screen while the orchestra plays the exhilarating scores.

Hollywood legend John Williams’ soundtracks to “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” and “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” make you wish every movie could be screened this way!

As for the kids, the Omaha Symphony has three familyand budget-friendly concerts, including the ever-popular

Spooktacular, which allows kids to dress in their favorite Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat in the lobbies, and a concert presented in partnership with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Preconcert activities, an instrument petting zoo and a “wiggling encouraged” policy make learning about music fun.

With a little something for young, old and everyone in between, make time to visit your Omaha Symphony this year! Don’t want to wait until August? Season packages are on sale now.

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i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 25

HISTORIC GEM

Bemis beauty PERFECT BLEND OF OLD AND NEW SOLD COUPLE ON AMERICAN FOURSQUARE 26  J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOS JEFFREY BEBEE

E

ryn and Ben Swan were looking for a place to start a family last fall when they discovered a

newly renovated house on Hawthorne Avenue.

They’d lived downtown and in Dundee and Benson since marrying five years ago, and knew little about the Bemis Park neighborhood. But they liked the

DINING ROOM Eryn thought it would be neat to have a fireplace in that room.

proximity to downtown where they both

and updates done by a trio of Creighton

work; Ben owns Greenstreet Cycles and

students selling the house further sealed

Eryn, Wag Specialty Pet Store.

the deal.

Large sycamores and a welcoming

Every time they turned a corner,

front porch drew them in. By the time

Eryn says, they spotted a feature they

they stepped into the foyer, they gave

loved. Details like brick fireplaces on

each other a look, acknowledging that

both floors, wood finishes and pocket

this surprisingly could be the one.

“We were just falling in love more and more,” Ben says.

The mix of 1905 architectural details

FOYER

A replacement floor was custom-milled.

doors give the American foursquare a craftsman feel.

The updated kitchen and master

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

LIVING ROOM This is off the kitchen now, making it easy to move between the two rooms. i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 27

MASTER BEDROOM The fireplace isn’t in working order.

That’s another thing on their todo list.

MASTER BATHROOM A fourth bedroom was turned into the master bath.

KITCHEN Eryn likes cooking and loves the gas stove. The farm sink is another plus.

28 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

in, a stray kitty appeared on the front

now has a front-row seat for the work

suite, they say, are the perfect meeting

porch while they were enjoying a glass of

the couple is doing to make the house a

wine with the dogs at their feet.

home.

of modern and vintage.

“I love that there are so many

Besides owning Wag, Eryn helps run

intact historic details. It still looks

a cat rescue organization called Omaha

and feels like a historic home,” Eryn

Wags to Riches. The fact that a cat in

says. “It’s a really nice blend that works

need found her at her new place seemed

for both of us.”

to give it the stamp of approval.

They knew they made the right decision when, shortly after they moved

Bemis, as the hungry, matted and flearidden kitten is called, never left and

Up first this summer is the exterior.

They don’t have a driveway or garage but they are exploring that project.

Because it’s a landmark neighborhood, they have some extra regulations to follow before any construction can begin.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 29

GROUP PROJECT Three college students renovate a Bemis Park home and learn a lot in the process

STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOS BLACKBOARD DESIGN BUILD

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 Eryn’s favorite ferns dress up the front porch of the home, which stands out on the block with its blue paint (Gale Force SW 7605 by Sherwin-Williams) and white trim.

They’ve added a backyard fence

From left: Johnny Duggan, Blake Uhing and Rob Maxwell

and updated the coop where eight chickens and two Pekin ducks reside.

They join two dogs, Piper and foster Clementine, and three cats.

At any time there could be foster bunnies and kitties in the mix, too.

But there’s plenty of room for non-fur babies, too. The square footage of the three-bedroom home was listed at 2,800. That doesn’t include the basement, and there’s also a finished attic.

While little work is needed in the main living spaces, there’s still a long list of to-dos. Like finding the perfect table to fit in a kitchen corner.

Eryn jokes that because they are both so busy with work, they need a staycation to tackle everything on that list.

But they know they made the right decision to take a chance on a new neighborhood.

Friends once joked about their frequent moves, but they’re no longer looking at houses. They enjoy the walkability of the tree-lined streets and the quick commute to downtown and the interstate.

“I like community and character,” Ben says. “There is a lot of old world craftsmanship that is unique to these homes.”

BEFORE

30 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

RE-DOING A HOUSE from top to bottom was a learning experience that three Creighton University students pursued outside the classroom.

There were tests along the way, like when they bought vinyl windows for the entire house, and then learned they couldn’t be used in a renovation in the landmarked Bemis Park neighborhood.

But they had many more successes.

“We just saw a great opportunity,” says Blake Uhing of Blackboard Design Build, a company he formed while a finance major at Creighton.

Uhing, Johnny Duggan and Rob Maxwell did their homework before buying the house in foreclosure for $102,500 in September 2017 as college juniors. They pitched their renovation plan to investors and raised the capital they needed.

“The bones of the house were great. The foundation was in incredible shape, the woodwork was stunning, and original hardware was everywhere.” Uhing says. “When we saw it, we knew it was the right project. You just can’t build houses today like they did 100 years ago. We could do the extensive restoration ... and still have room for profit.”

The house took about $200,000 to restore. It sold for $360,000 after

THE CLASSICS

DINKER’S BAR & GRILL If you’re craving the city’s BEST burger and a cold beer, then Dinker’s is your destination. Family-owned and operated since 1965 in Omaha’s “Little Poland” neighborhood. Selections include daily hand-pattied burgers, homemade onion rings, wings and chicken sandwiches.

2368 S. 29TH ST. 402-342-9742 DINKERSBAR.COM

GORAT’S STEAK HOUSE eight months of work that included rewiring, replumbing, adding central air and refinishing every surface.

Uhing says working with the City of Omaha on a landmarked property was the biggest lesson of all.

Everything done to the exterior had to be documented and tracked to get the city to OK changes.

“When rebuilding the front porch banisters and steps, we had to draw each detail of the railings, how many spindles each section had, and match each cove and cut exactly.”

When the wood floors in the foyer couldn’t be salvaged, replacement pieces were custom milled. The same with many of the baseboards, crown molding and door casements, especially after turning one bedroom into a master bathroom.

Uhing, who is from Norfolk, Nebraska, came into the project with an interest in real estate and home design, especially historic buildings.

This project went so well that he’s now doing it full time at age 23.

“It’s a lot of fun,” he says. “Every old building has a story. I take pride in helping to tell it.”

THE FLATIRON CAFÉ Our classics endure for a reason.

Serving delicious food and timeless hospitality since 1995. Open Table “Diner’s Choice” Award 2018.

Trip Advisor “Ten Best Restaurants in Omaha 2019.”

1722 ST. MARY’S AVE. 402-344-3040 THEFLATIRONCAFE.COM

GERDA’S GERMAN RESTAURANT & BAKERY

An Omaha tradition since 1944.

Favorite of Warren Buffett, BRK shareholders, celebrities and dignitaries from around the world.

Top-quality filet mignon, prime rib, New York strip, whiskey ribeye, chops and seafood. Live music most weekends. Daily lunch and dinner.

Since 1976, Gerda’s has been serving Omaha’s best breakfasts, lunches and dinners as the only German restaurant in town.

Specialties include wienerschnitzel, bratwurst and sauerkraut, and the BEST pan-fried chicken around. Enjoy delicious breads, cakes, pies, and desserts from the bakery.

4917 CENTER ST. 402-551-3733 GORATSOMAHA.COM

5180 LEAVENWORTH ST. 402-553-6774 GERDASGERMANRESTAURANT.COM

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i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 31

LUXURY HOMES

Celebrating 30 Years!

6325 GARVIN ROAD R E S E RV E D

ALOY’S ACRES, 1+ ACRE LOTS

Lots starting at $125,000

Meet the Experts Nick and Asha Agarwal at Oriental Rug Palace

P

Introducing Aloy’s Acres, located in the beautiful rolling hills just north of 60th and State Streets. Homes starting at $500,000, including the lot!

Outbuildings allowed. Omaha city water and MUD gas and septic. 13 lots available, starting at $125,000. Scenic lots, $150,000. Treed lots, $160,000.

Rick Kanne 402-670-6644

roudly serving the Omaha metro area since 1989, Oriental Rug Palace brings you the most unique selection of handmade rugs, quality furniture and unique accessories from all over the world.

16901 S. 57TH AVE. $619,950 Large ranch on three acres with 50year shingles, fiber cement siding, covered deck with composite flooring, theater room and wet bar. Also two geothermal heat pumps for low utilities.

40 x 60 outbuilding with an auto lift.

Low tax levy at 1.759. All interior cabinets have recently been painted.

Betty Griffin 402-612-4305

Bring style, quality and luxury to your home.

Visit our showroom for an enjoyable shopping experience. To celebrate our 30th Anniversary, we are offering special savings throughout the store.

Oriental Rug Palace RUGS n FURNITURE n ACCESSORIES PROFESSIONAL RUG CLEANING REPAIR & APPRAISALS

980 S 72nd St. Omaha, NE ph: 402-390-1122 www.orientalrugpalace.com 2162175-01 32 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

5505 N. 230TH ST. $3,750,000 Follow the winding driveway to unveil your family’s new adventure today. This breathtaking and luxurious estate is tucked away on 13 manicured acres, with an additional 87 for sale. Luxury and privacy meet an active lifestyle with a one-of-a-kind infinity pool, and outdoor activities like hiking, dirt-biking, sledding, horse-riding, four-wheeling, etc.

A true masterpiece, this home built by Tackett is welcoming and cozy, with the highest quality finishes and attention to detail. Walls of windows with expansive views for miles. Entertainer’s dream home with wide open space, three wet bars, wine cellar, theater, sauna, workout room, billiards room, the list goes on. The den and trophy room are simply stunning with cherry wood walls and floors, soaring ceilings and a cozy fireplace. Endless privacy with Mount Michael to the north, Elkhorn river to the west, a private acreage to the south.

Come enjoy this breathtaking estate, rarely seen in Omaha today!

Michael Maley 402-981-7400

HOST

P

ART DIRECTION JESSICA THOMPSON TEXT AND STYLING CHRIS CHRISTEN PHOTOGRAPHY KURT A. KEELER LOCATION JOSLYN CASTLE, OMAHA icnics make summer better! With Joslyn Castle as a backdrop to illustrate the point, we couldn’t help but recall “Downton Abbey” and those lavish picnics with servants carrying the silver and crystal along. Our spread is a bit more down-to-earth, because who wants all that fuss? Nothing should get in the way of a good time — whether it’s an impromptu picnic in the backyard or a standing outdoor concert date with friends. Here are a few essentials for entertaining yourself in style. i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 33

ABOVE Waxed canvas Bordeaux Tote No. 503, $298, Artifact; Opal House boho throw, $34.99, Target; Corkcicle 25-ounce canteen, $37.95, Williams Sonoma; Corkcicle “Arctican” beverage can cooler, $19.95, Williams Sonoma; Iznik melamine plates, $12.95 each, Williams Sonoma; Two’s Company “Finest Catch” bottle opener/corkscrew/knife, $20, Spruce; Threshold melamine bowls, $1.99 each, Target; Threshold shatterproof wine glass, $1.99, Target

AT RIGHT AND ON PREVIOUS PAGE Canvas Day Tote No. 103, $98, Artifact; Threshold plaid blanket, $24.99, Target; Threshold melamine bowls and plates, starting at $1.99 each, Target; Threshold shatterproof wine glasses, $1.99 each, Target

34 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Who What Wear straw tote, $34.99, Target; S’well “Marina” water bottle, $42, Spruce Vacances thermal-lined cooler, $40, Spruce; Room Essentials Polka Dot melamine plate, $1.99, Target; Threshold shatterproof wine glass, $1.99, Target A New Day backpack, $29.99, Target; Corkcicle “Arctican” beverage can cooler, $19.95, Williams Sonoma; Threshold bowl, $1.99, Target; Dragonfly hand towel, $12, Spruce

THE LEGENDS

HOMY INN “A legendar y watering hole.”

There’s no place like Homy! Omaha’s only champagne on tap, plus cocktails and cold beer. A “must stop” where friends gather. An Omaha institution since 1956.

1510 SADDLE CREEK ROAD 402-554-5815 HOMYINN.COM

VIP LOUNGE Be a VIP where ever yone knows your name. A great neighborhood lounge.

One of the best places in town to just chill, listen to music, and have a couple of drinks. Staff is friendly and the atmosphere is easy-going.

9001 ARBOR ST. 402-391-7464 FACEBOOK.COM/VIPLOUNGENE

BROTHERS LOUNGE A vintage establishment in the Blackstone area. Classic jukebox selections include punk rock and new wave. Reasonable prices on drinks and occasional live music events. Staff is friendly. A great place to sit back, enjoy cool conversation and a Moscow mule.

3812 FARNAM ST. 402-558-4096 FACEBOOK.COM/BROTHERSLOUNGEOMAHA

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 35

Become a Rose member and start a tradition of special memories!

Family members receive four FREE tickets to each of these shows!

(Additional packages available for larger families.)

Go, Dog.G o!

A NEW MUSICAL

AnneFrank

Corduroy

THE DIAR Y OF

For just $105, Rose Members Receive...

Four free tickets to each regular season show listed above - that’s 24 free tickets!

Great discounts on classes, camps and costume rentals.

Discounts on tickets to The Rose’s FIRST STAGE shows, A Bucket of Blessings and The Little Engine That Could, as well as the premium and special event shows:

��

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ef

HOWIE BACK In the

ß

WWW.ROSETHEATER. ORG

DAY

EXPERIENCE L O CAL | A SP ONSORED FEATURE

BONDING OVER THEATER Shared experience of live performances builds lasting memories

THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD

SPECIAL FOR THE ROSE THEATER

T

hree-year-old Emma is already a theater veteran, thanks to her experience as a member of The

Rose Theater.

“That place is fun,” she says when learning she’ll be seeing new plays at The Rose.

Linda Meyers, Lucy’s grandmother, says a Rose membership was something she always knew she wanted to do for – and with – her grandchild.

“I am passionate about her learning to enjoy the arts,” Meyers says. “But best of all, we truly bond over these shows. We read the children’s book in advance and several times afterward and talk about how the book and the play compare. It is a special time together.”

Meyers has fond memories of the theater from her son’s early years. “We always made a point to see shows when my son was little, so now it is a special experience for me to be able to take my granddaughter to The Rose,” she says. “It’s like our own special date together.”

During the 2019-20 season, The Rose will celebrate 70 years of children’s theater in Omaha. The season is designed to inspire young people to find their own voice through stories like “The Cat in the Hat,” “Ella Enchanted,” “The Diary of Anne Frank” and more.

From the tunnels of mole rats to the antics of dogs on the go, a ticket to The Rose takes families on journeys of discovery, entertainment and exploration.

Rose artistic director Matthew Gutschick says the shared experience of live theater can bring families closer and build lasting memories.

“I remember being 7 years old. My first memory of a play includes seeing my grandmother and mother laughing so hard

people I love happy spending time together.

six main-stage shows for $105. This season’s

This is the unique gift you share with your

offerings are:

loved ones when you bring them to The

• “Go, Dog. Go!” (Aug. 30-Sept. 15) • “The Cat in the Hat” (Sept. 27-Oct. 13) • “Ella Enchanted” (Oct. 25-Nov. 10) • “The Diary of Anne Frank”

Rose.”

This season offers shows and activities to engage children of all ages and open the lines of conversation for the entire family. Children will recognize many of the characters on stage from their favorite storybooks. Whether inspiring children to think creatively, to stretch their horizons or to face the world bravely, Gutschick hopes the topics addressed will encourage families to engage in thoughtful – and fun – discussions.

This is the spirit which Emmy Gifford envisioned from the early days of the theater. Gifford founded the Omaha Junior Theater in 1949. The theater was later renamed as the Emmy Gifford Children’s Theater until it moved to its downtown location, the Rose Blumkin Performing Arts Center (affectionately known as The Rose).

“You know, in the beginning, the concept of children’s theater was considered a little odd,” Gifford told The World-Herald in 1990. “We were pioneers in that area.

Looking back over it all, it just gradually happened. ... I’ve seen all the changes over the years, and I’m quite proud of it all.”

The season will consist of 11 shows,

(Feb. 28-March 15, 2020) • “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed:

The Rock Experience” (March 27-April 11, 2020) • “Corduroy” (April 24-May 10, 2020)

In addition, three shows will be presented on the main stage as special or premium events priced from $22 to $27. These are: • “Elf the Musical” (Nov. 29-Dec. 22) • “The Sound of Music” (June 5-21, 2020) • “Howie D: Back in the Day” (Jan. 31-Feb. 16, 2020)

For the first time, a package is available for families with very young children. The First Stage+ Package allows families to see two shows in the smaller Hitchcock Stage, specifically designed with preschoolers in mind. After experiencing these shows, First Stage+ package-holders graduate to the main stage with four tickets to “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience.”

The 2019-20 First Stage productions are: • “A Bucket of Blessings” (Oct. 12-Nov. 3) • “The Little Engine That Could”

(Feb. 15-March 8, 2020) For Emma and her grandmother, the season promises to be another positive and memorable experience that both will cherish. “I have yet to see a presentation

that tears spilled from their eyes,” he says.

offering something for kids from preschool

at The Rose that I would call less than

“Years after my grandmother’s passing, that

to high school.

wonderful!” Meyers says. “The kids love

image is one of my most cherished – seeing

A membership includes four tickets to

them all.” i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 37

GARDENING

CAREER IN

bloom Future president of the National Garden Clubs really knows her plants!

D

onna Rouch’s first gardening job was picking bugs off her grandma’s hundreds of potato

plants.

Mary Kroliski promised the youngster a penny a bug one summer, and Donna found so many she nearly broke the bank.

“That’s how I got started,” Rouch says.

Many years later, the Omaha woman is the newly elected third vice president of National Garden Clubs Inc., and in a few years will be president. The organization has 165,000 members as well as clubs in every state and across the world.

Nebraska, part of the Rocky Mountain Region, has several clubs that belong.

Rouch, a retired

HE IDI HO FFMA N

pharmacist, is also a flower show judge,

together and is a lot of fun.”

something she learned

Now that she’s retired

at a school sponsored

the look of a big hosta.

Her biggest piece of advice for

and traveling more with

gardeners: Be sure you have the right

MARJIE DUCEY

husband Jim, she has

plant for the right spot. The simplest

SPEAKING OF PLANTS

trimmed back her own

way is to look at the tag accompanying

handbook exam in 2016

extensive garden efforts.

your plant at the garden center, nursery

and judges five or six

This year they’re going to

or big box store. The tag contains the list

by the National Garden Clubs. She passed the

shows a year.

It’s a lot of work. She has to take a

Canada with the club and the following

of requirements, so you’ll know if it will

year to New Zealand.

flourish.

symposium to learn more every three

She no longer grows vegetables for one.

years and earn ribbons of her own at

“I have things that I find are easy to

spacing between plants, bloom time, sun

shows. Whatever flower show she judges,

grow and I can also use in flower shows

and shade exposure, water requirements

she needs to know everything about the

and arrangements,” she says.

and hardiness zones are usually listed.

plant.

“You have to hone your skills. If you don’t have the design correct, you don’t get a ribbon,” she said. “It works well

38 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

Hostas are a favorite. Growers are

For example, the plant’s height,

The hardiness zone informs you if the

working on making them more fragrant,

plant can withstand the summer heat or

she says, and creating bigger blooms.

winter cold in your area. If not, you may

Her hosta tip? Group mini hostas for

choose to plant it as an annual.

DONNA ROUCH’S TOP 10 FLOWERS FOR FLORAL DESIGNS Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica) A focal asymmetrical flower, thrives in full sun, rich sandy soil; annual in Nebraska, blooms midspring to late summer. Zones 8-11.

Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica) Focal flower, full sun to part shade, soil evenly moist; blooms midspring to early summer, blooms triangular shape, two blooms per stem. Zones 3-8.

Delphinium Pacific Giants Mix Spiky height, 5 feet, full sun, fertile soil, well-drained; blooms early to midsummer; cut plant to the ground and add compost and water well; may get second bloom period. Zones 3-7.

Penstemon Spiky height, 2-3 feet, full sun, fertile well-drained soil, blooms tubular from early spring to early fall; some foliage is burgundy colored. Zones 4-9.

Alliums Tall and short height, full sun, well-drained garden soil; bloom of individual florets and the overall shape may be round, oval or cascading, purple or pink color; excellent fresh or dried. Zones 3-9.

Drumstick Plants (Craspedia globosa) Height 2 feet, full sun, well-drained soil; flowers dry well, flower heads look like mallets. Zones 9-11.

Speedwell (Veronica spicata) Spiky height, 2-3 feet, full sun, well-drained soil; low maintenance, blooms summer; purple, pink, white. Zones 4-8.

Spider mum (Dendranthema grandiflorum) Height 1-6 feet, 4-6 hours of sun, well-drained soil, water every day, liquid fertilizer every 15 days; bloom petals are long narrow strands that droop and resemble spider’s legs; stays fresh for 14 days. Zones 5-9.

Pincushion (Scabiosa) Height 8-12 inches, full sun, moderately fertile soil; long durable stems, bloom is lacy. Zones 3-8.

Amaranth (Amaranthus) Height 4 feet, full sun, does well in poor soil, blooms midsummer; blooms are tails of drooping flower heads with hundreds of tiny flowers; green, burgundy, yellowish. Zones 2-11.

HEIRLOOMS AND

curated COLLECTIONS

1702 Cuming Street Omaha, NE 68102 402-502-5265 • prairieinbloom.com

2152364-01

CUT FLOWER GROWING TIPS » Flowers that can be cut and used in floral arrangements are wonderful to grow in your home garden. Some plants are perennial and return year after year. Although some plants are perennials in other parts of the country, they may not return the next year in your garden and therefore are considered annuals. » Some plants should not be used as cut flowers. For example, the day lily has a variety of bloom colors and markings. As the name implies, each bloom lasts only one day. Asiatic and other lilies are beautiful in an arrangement, but you must remove the stamen carrying pollen because it will stain your clothes.

Daffodils should not be in a vase with other flowers because they secrete a substance that will clog water vessels in the other flowers’ stems. » Flowers provide the wow factor in an arrangement. Foliage provides color, texture and interesting shapes to a design. These may be discovered in your outside garden or your indoor houseplants. » To keep your floral arrangement looking fresh, start with a clean container.

Use commercial flower preservative or create your own with 1-2 teaspoons sugar, 2 teaspoons vinegar and 1 quart tepid water. » If you are using bulb flowers such as hyacinths or tulips, use cold water and avoid bleach. Change water and preservative every 2-3 days and recut the stems with a knife at a 45-degree angle. Scissors crush the stem and water will not be able to enter the stem.

Maintenance Free Manufactured in the U.S.A. Lifetime Warranty visit www.omarail.com and click on Free Estimates 2117 S. 156 Circle | 402.216.9911

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 39

MEET THE EXPERTS | A SP ONSORED FEATURE

Our Legacy of Service Continues

OVER

MAKE IT YOURS Tips for creating an outdoor living space

BY LINDI JANULEWICZ SPECIAL FOR INTERIORS JOAN AND ASSOCIATES

A

n outdoor space can add livable square footage if you furnish it correctly. Whether you live on the prairie or the beach, here are three must-haves to get the most from an outdoor room.

• Fire pit. Nothing is as mesmerizing as a crackling fire under a starry sky.

A built-in or freestanding fire pit is an easy addition. Make it the focal point of your outdoor living area and the ambiance is set for hours of enjoyment from early spring through late fall.

Visit our convenient location at

7805 West Center Road

• Crematory On-site • Affordable Advance Planning Options • Personalized & Unique Memorial Services

OTHER LOCATIONS:

KORISKO CHAPEL 5108 F St 402-731-1234 BELLEVUE CHAPEL 2202 Hancock St, Bellevue 402-291-5000 DWORAK CHAPEL 2466 S 16th St 402-346-1144

402-391-3900 www.heafeyheafey.com

• Comfortable loungers. Whether you choose sling-style or traditional upholstered cushions, loungers provide a respite from the sun when positioned under umbrellas, and the perfect spot for napping, reading or sunning.

• End tables. You’ll need a spot for your watch, phone, glasses and Mai Tai, and there really can’t be too many little scatter tables to serve this purpose.

End tables are trending in indoor design, as well. We love when form and function combine!

8.18.19

Q. What should I look for in outdoor furniture?

A. Choose pieces that will stand up to the elements. If you live on a windy

bluff, invest in heavy pieces that won’t blow away. If you have a pool, select fabrics that are both UV and chlorine resistant. For a beach setting (sea not lake), metals and woods should be appropriate for sand and salt exposure.

For minimum maintenance, choose sling-style chairs and loungers, which are designed to allow water to flow through the fabric. If you don’t mind covering or moving cushions from the pouring rain, then upholstered cushion furniture might be a good choice.

Q. How do you tie the outdoor space with your indoor living space?

A. Start with pieces that are weather appropriate but also functional for

your lifestyle and consistent with your existing design aesthetic. Think cohesiveness. If you live in a contemporary loft, a scrolling trellis wrought iron table and chair set isn’t going to be the “look” for your outdoor space.

Conversely, if you live in a traditional Tudor home, furniture pieces with ultra modern lines won’t fit your aesthetic. In selecting pieces, carry your color palette from the indoors out.

Q. How do I get the look of a “room”?

A. A designer can help you to create a look that is less “set” and more

eclectic. Outdoor rugs, lighting, art and accessories can really make a space stand out. A designer can give you a curated look that is more custom not only by design, but also by function for your particular setting and lifestyle.

Designers also have access to an incredible library of fabrics and frames that you won’t find at a big-box store. Make it yours!

40 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

PREMIER BRIDAL SALON AND FASHION SHOW Hosted by Wedding Essentials Magazine • Produced by Omaha Fashion Week

High-end Runway Show • Vendor Marketplace Shopping • VIP Experiences Giveaways • Hors D’oeuvres • Champagne • and more!

TICKETS: AISLESHOWOMAHA.COM

N E A R + FA R

DENVER DISHES A guide to wild and woolly places to dine in the Mile High City

at the Denver Zoo. The Brown Bear BBQ

STORY + PHOTOS

meats, with all the trimmings, and a

SHERRY SPITSNAUGLE

craft beer will fortify you to explore the

I

and Smokehouse is smack dab in the middle of the facility, next to the bear mountain exhibit. The hardwood smoked

80-acre habitat.

n Denver, a city that boasts hundreds of restaurants (245 new

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

dining establishments opened last

Train-station food may not sound all

year alone) and is often referred to as

that appealing, but cuisine at Denver’s

the Napa Valley of craft beers, eating

trendy Union Station is the exception.

and drinking rank right up there with

Here, you’ll find gourmet food with

hiking and biking. So, swirl an IPA and

a choice of restaurants from basic

get ready to grin.

FROUFROU COCKTAILS AND AN EASY BREEZY VIBE Adrift Tiki Bar feels like a tropical oasis after you come in from the grit of south Broadway. One glance and you’ll understand why locals love this hangout.

But if it’s Tiki Tuesday, which translates to happy hour all night, pace yourself.

(Arriving via Uber is the best choice because of parking.) Bartenders wear

to pricey, as well as some of the best people-watching in the city. At Stoic ADRIFT TIKI BAR

the octopus tentacle graphics on the jungle music and an umbrella in your drink, this island-inspired bar could come off as kitschy. But it’s in the best possible way. The cuisine is as good as the craft cocktails. You might come for a mai tai or mermaid medicine, but you’ll stay for the loco moco meatloaf.

aloha shirts and are so fun-loving, you’ll think they are on vacation, which is how

and Genuine, you may not even notice

DON’T MISS DOBBY

owner Loren Martinez wants guests to

Barbecue aficionados and animal

feel. With hand-carved totems, exotic

lovers alike will find their happy place

walls, because you’ll be drooling over the octopus mortadella or the squid ink pasta. Wondering about the name? The two chef owners described each of their personalities in one word, and Stoic and Genuine was born.

THE MOST WOOLLY With its distinction of having liquor license No. 1 in Colorado, the Buckhorn

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40 i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 41

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39

This drinking destination is the brainchild of three buddies who went on the adventure of a lifetime: heli-skiing in the Alaskan backcountry. They are also partnering with Denver Botanic Gardens to create a gin from plants. Across the street is Tamales by La Casita, for some of Denver’s best tamales. Try

MADAMA BUTTERFLY Puccini

Christmas style, with both red and green chiles.

BUCKHORN EXCHANGE

Exchange is as woolly as they come. Bobcats,

THE ABDUCTION

FROM THE SERAGLIO Mozart

pheasants, bears, wolverines, rattlesnakes, mountain lions, raccoons and badgers — yes, they are stuffed — stare down with steely eyes as you feast on elk, bratwurst or steak. Located in an area that seems like it’s always under construction, this historic restaurant is the

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST Stradella

destination. You won’t find many shops or bars nearby. What you will find is a gregarious staff who say they are like family. You can even order those little delicacies we call Rocky Mountain oysters. Or not.

THE CAPULETS AND

THE MONTAGUES Bellini

HOT DIGGITY! The history of Biker Jim’s is as juicy as the dogs. A successful repo man in his

WHAT’S IN A NAME? A NANA MARTINI, THAT’S WHAT! The aroma of the wood-fired pita bread will lead you to Safta before you even reach the entrance. Located in the Source Hotel and Market Hall in RiNo (River North), Denver’s newest and trendiest part of town, Safta serves a blend of Israeli and Mediterranean cuisine that will have you dreaming of baba ganoush.

Opened in 2018, Safta might just be the darling of RiNo. Safta’s hummus is a world away from what you find at the store, and its pitas are made from flour bought from a farm in Kansas.

Safta is the word for grandmother in Hebrew, and Chef Alon Shaya named the restaurant for his own beloved NaNa. And if that’s not enough of a tribute, there’s even a NaNa martini.

previous life, Biker Jim in 2005 opened a hot dog stand on downtown’s 16th Street Mall,

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a pedestrian-friendly outdoor stretch of shops and restaurants. Downtown workers came in droves. One day, the late Anthony Bourdain delved into a dog on his show “No Reservations,” and the rest, as they say, is history. Named Best Hot Dog in Westword’s 2019 Best of Denver, Biker Jim’s serves organic

SAFTA

veggies as well as a vegetarian hot dog. But he’s best known for his plump gourmet wild boar and Alaskan reindeer dogs and his signature mix of cream cheese and Coca-Cola onions that you’ll hear and see sizzling in a skillet when you walk through the door.

CAN YOU SAY CHARCUTERIE? With its sleek décor and sophisticated feel, the Truffle Table is refined and unpretentious at the same time. This artisanal cheese and wine bar in the Highlands (it’s best to Uber here) shows off its sense of humor too. Check out the sign on the patio that reads, “No dogs, no smoking and no smoking dogs.” Proprietor Ian Maxwell will welcome you warmly, and the truffle baked brie and prosciutto meatballs

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eat Raclette served with salami, veggies and a BIKER JIM’S

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42 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

BELLY UP TO THE BAR Mythology Distillery serves up spirits and fun. Think whiskey, rum and live music.

house-baked baguette. Ooh la la.

Sherry Spitsnaugle is a guidebook author and travel writer. She lives in Denver with her husband, Don, and their furry kid, Alfie.

THREADS

in full bloom Garden mixes for the home — no watering required STORY + PHOTOS CHRIS CHRISTEN

B

ig, beautiful blooms are flourishing and not just in the gardens of summer.

Textile designers are bringing them to wallpapers, fabrics and murals.

The bolder the better as interior design transitions from grays (yes, it’s happening!) to rich blues, emeralds and golds.

“Gray is slowing down. It’s like someone flipped a switch. We’re gravitating toward color,” says Sharron Roncka Haas of Textiles Inc. It was just a matter of time. Gray has been around for nearly a decade. “People don’t realize it has been that long.”

Mother Nature’s inspiration is undeniable in designer wallpaper and fabric from Christian Lacroix, Schumacher, Thibaut and others.

“People come in and drool over the books,” Haas says. “One lady stayed so long that she ordered a pizza.”

Something to keep in mind as you’re browsing for your home: A large-scale print can be too much of a good thing.

One wall usually is plenty, Haas says.

The exception might be a powder room, where boldness has a positive impact.

Wallpaper-covered panels can be an affordable way to use a pattern that might otherwise be out of your budget, Haas says. The panels can be hung like artwork — without long-term commitment or risk of damaging the wall when the covering is removed.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 43 AT LEFT Nobilis Paris “La Havane” Lush Cosmopolitan wallpaper provides a backdrop for RM CoCo 33SR 462 linen-cotton floral print; Osborne & Little “Karavansara Serai” geometric print; Schumacher “Zenyatta Mondatta Peacock” chevron weave; Glant Provence Collection “Bagutta Violet” abstract print.

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 43

44  J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41 But Haas sees staying power in the larger-thanlife floral prints her clients are choosing.

“The Midwest is unique when it comes to interior design,” Haas says. “From the street, a home may look very traditional, even nondescript. But inside?

Oh, my gosh! It’s alive with color and pattern.”

Sometimes you just have to plant a seed and watch it grow, Haas says. See if our fabric play doesn’t inspire you to bring the outside in.

TRENDING » Wall murals. They’re emerging, Haas says.

PJ-Mashup, a new line from Phillip Jeffries Ltd., offers wall-size digital prints that can be customized by size, texture and embellishment, like rivets. » Wallpaper sold by the yard instead of the roll. That’s already the case in some murals and textured wallcoverings. » Draperies in a mashup of fabrics throughout a room. Each window is dressed in a different combination of prints yet the look is completely coordinated.

COLORWAYS Golds, from citrus to mustard Pinks, from peony to coral Greens, from lime to emerald Blues, from cobalt to indigo Purples, from lilac to eggplant TEXTURES Raffia, silkwood, banana husk, linen, poplin, suede, shagreen, silk, vinyl, velvet

AT LEFT RM CoCo 33SR 462 cotton-linen floral print; Schumacher “Zenyatta Mondatta Peacock” chevron print; Schumacher “Zenyatta Mondatta II Viridian” stripe; Designers Guild “Manipur Moss Tyg” honeycomb velvet; Glant Provence Collection “Bagutta Violet” abstract print; Osborne & Little “Karavansara Serai” geometric print.

OPPOSITE PAGE Thibaut “Kendall Persimmon” wallpaper; Thibaut “Downing Gate Tangerine” wallpaper; Casamance “Charivari” contemporary print; Osborne & Little “Butterfly Garden” cottonlinen blend; Thibaut “Bonita Springs” coral wallpaper; Jim Thompson carpet in Lotus Green, Mustard, Petrol Blue, Terracotta, Midnight Blue.

NEXT PAGE Groundworks “Hutch Yellow” rabbit-print wallpaper; Casamance “Parisette Jaune Or” abstract print; Casamance “Garbo” multi-tone velvet; Fadini Borghi “Olimpia Girasole 2” embroidered silk; Pierre Frey Paris “Contrefond Mojito Jaune” wallpaper; Camengo “Quietude Safran” silk print; Casamance “Kebaya Moso” viscose-linen solid.

i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 45

46  J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

ELEGANCE

REIMAGINED SHOPPING HOURS Monday - Friday, 10 am - 8 pm | Saturday, 10 am - 7 pm Sunday, 12 pm - 5pm | Individual store hours may vary

STORES | SERVICES Ann Taylor | Anthropologie | Apricot Lane Boutique Borsheims | Evereve | Garbo’s Salon & Spa Learning Express Toys | LOFT | Nails Spa Village Parsow’s Fashions | Pottery Barn | Pottery Barn Kids

Tilly | White House Black Market | Williams-Sonoma

DINING Bonefish Grill | Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Mode de Vie | Paradise Bakery & Café 120 Regency Parkway, Omaha | RegencyCourtOmaha.com 2161709-01

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RECIPES

DOIN’ JUST PEACHY, THANK YOU

These summery entrées have a fruity slant

Life is better than death, I believe, if only because it is less boring, and because it has fresh peaches in it.”

— Alice Walker, novelist and poet I most heartily agree with Alice. A sun-warmed peach plucked from the limb is about as fine as fruit gets. And to get to the last piece of a proper peach pie, I don’t know if I would necessarily hard-check my own grandmother into the boards, but I would not be beyond shamelessly distracting her while I forked down the final crumbs.

CHAD LEBO

THE HIDDEN PANTRY

Peaches are an inspiring ingredient.

The only hard part of developing recipes

this time around was narrowing it to three. The trio here showcase different techniques and pairings that will hopefully spark some creativity of your own.

Don’t stop at chicken for the spicy peach sauce. This BBQ-adjacent sauce can be a sweet and savory glaze for grilled shrimp. It also can be slathered on pulled pork or even served as a spread on a turkey sandwich.

The peach-in-a-blanket is a fruity slant on the Thai appetizer, goong sarong. The crispy rice noodles, bright mint and high heat bring out whole new layers of peach flavor. Experiment and sub the mint for basil, lemon balm, bergamot and more.

My personal favorite is a play on French Alsatian tarte flambée. The peach and bacon pizza balances the stone fruit’s sweetness with sour cream, smoky bacon and tart onion.

Explore, invent and enjoy.

48 J U L Y/A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

PEACH & BACON PIZZA YIELDS 4 PERSONAL PIZZAS Skip the dough and start with pita or naan bread. This is not meant to be a heavily loaded pizza thick with meat. Keep the layers fairly thin and the amount of peaches and bacon roughly equal. It is important that everything is sliced thinly, so it cooks quickly. The bacon should be partially frozen and then sliced into thin ribbons. The red onion should be almost paper-thin half-moon slices.

INSTRUCTIONS 4 fresh naan, pita or other flatbread 1 large peach, thinly sliced 8 ounces sour cream, full fat 1 egg ¼3 red onion, very thinly sliced ¼-½ pound bacon, sliced in very thin ribbons ¼ teaspoon salt Nutmeg to taste

1. Preheat grill or oven to 500 F. 2. Blend sour cream, egg and salt until smooth. 3. Spread a layer of the sour cream mixture across the top of each crust. 4. Add a thin layer of onion, followed by a layer of bacon. And finally, a layer of peach. 5. Sprinkle with salt and a dusting of nutmeg. 6. Place pizza directly on the rack of grill or oven.

7. Bake about 10 minutes until top is browned and crust is dark brown on edges. If using a grill, use indirect heat. Use the burners or coals on only one side of the grill and put the pizzas on the opposite side and NOT directly above the heat. DO NOT USE A PIZZA STONE. 8. Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. 9. Let rest 2-3 minutes before slicing. Can be served later at room temperature as an appetizer.

PEACH-INA-BLANKET YIELDS 4 SERVINGS PER PEACH You may have come across crunchy golden goong sarong at a Thai restaurant. It is a great technique of wrapping shrimp or prawns with rice vermicelli noodles and deep-frying until crispy. Use the same method and try with other fruits or small portions of meat.

INSTRUCTIONS 1 large peach 4 ounces dried vermicelli rice noodles, fine 4 mint leaves Vegetable oil for frying

SPICY PEACH CHICKEN THIGHS This is at its roots a BBQ sauce. The sweetness comes solely from the peaches, the heat from jalapeño and a savory note from garlic. The ingredients get an extra level of flavor from having been charred on the grill or under the broiler first. Using the same techniques and ratios, try different fruits, chilies, oils and vinegars. And no need to stick to chicken. Though it is a little mild for beef, the sauce works with pork, fish, shrimp, lamb and more.

INSTRUCTIONS 6 chicken thighs, bone-in with skin (or 1½-2 pounds of other meat) 2 medium-large peaches 1 green jalapeño

1. Bring pot of water to a simmer and remove from heat.

2. Add vermicelli and allow to soak for a few minutes until soft. Rinse with cold water to cool. Spread out on wax paper to dry for a few minutes.

3. Cut peach into four large pieces. Trim outside edges of each piece. 4. Lay a mint leaf on top of each piece. 5. Take some of the cold vermicelli and wrap tightly around middle of each piece. Do not try to wrap the entire piece. 6. Fill small saucepan with 2 inches of oil and heat over medium-high heat until 375 F. 7. Fry one or two pieces at a time for about 2 minutes each until lightly golden. Drain on paper towels.

8. Can be served warm or at room temperature later. Top with fresh mint and powdered sugar. Great alone or served with ice cream or custard.

4-6 cloves garlic 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Salt to taste

1. Salt both sides of the chicken thighs and set aside. 2. Using high heat on a grill or under a broiler, roast the whole peaches, whole jalapeño and garlic cloves about 5 minutes until they are browned and lightly charred. Remove the garlic after it browns, but before it turns black. However, some black on the peaches and jalapeño is a good thing.

3. Remove pits from peaches and seeds and veins from the jalapeño. 4. Using an immersion or stand blender, puree all ingredients until smooth. 5. Add salt. Taste. Repeat until slightly salty. 6. In a bag or bowl, add the chicken and mix with half of the sauce.

Reserve the remaining sauce for later. Let the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. 7. Heat grill or oven to 500 F. 8. Put a teaspoon of the remaining sauce on top of each thigh and spread across the skin. 9. Cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160 F and skin is browned and crispy. If using a grill, use indirect heat. Use the burners or coals on only one side of the grill and put the chicken on the opposite side and NOT directly above the heat. 10. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes. 11. Serve remaining sauce on the side or drizzled over the top. i n s p i r e d l i v i n g o m a h a . c o m 49

SMALL BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ALL SEASONS FLORAL & GIFTS

DEBRA JOY GROESSER FINE ART

EHLY'S INTERIORS

Your ONE STOP GIFT SHOP! Summer, fall, winter and spring…we have everything you need! Décor, food, clothing and more.

Shop online or visit us at The Shops of Legacy – West Omaha.

Offering original fine art and artful gifts priced for every budget, including the work of nationally acclaimed painter, Debra Joy Groesser. Now showing: the last available paintings from Todd Williams’ “The Legacy of Nebraska” collection.

We do windows, blind repair and more!

See us for full interior decor services: fabrics, drapery, upholstery, wallpaper and carpeting. Family-owned and operated for over 42 years. Stop by our showroom. $10 off window blind repair.

5615 S. 77TH ST., RALSTON 402-592-6552 DEBRAJOYGROESSER.COM

2312 BOB BOOZER DRIVE 402-330-6557 EHLYSBLINDS.COM

16939 WRIGHT PLAZA, SUITE 136 402-991-9300 SHOPALLSEASONSFLORALOMAHA.COM

ERWIN'S JEWELERS

LEGACY ART & FRAME

NEW LIFE THRIFT

This beautiful little shop in Bellevue offers fine jewelry, wedding and engagement rings, and jewelry repairs.

Their extensive gift collection includes collectible treasures from the San Francisco Music Box Company.

A cozy little shop around the corner in Dundee. Filled with great finds, antiques, consignments and chandeliers. Framing for antique and contemporary works of art.

Great finds include work apparel, designer clothing, antiques, furniture and appliances.

Watch for our huge Back-to-School sale in August. Call for pick-up of your estate sale leftovers, clothing and furniture.

Like us on Facebook!

223 MISSION AVE., BELLEVUE 402-291-2454 ERWINSJEWELERSCO.COM

111 N. 50TH ST. 402-330-6665 LEGACY ART & FRAME ON FACEBOOK

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Gifts for every occasion, wonderful books and journals, décor, jewelry and accessories.

Rosie Jane offers clothing, toys and games for babies and toddlers.

Complimentary gift wrap.

Dare to be unique! Textiles has it all.

Interior design. Custom upholstery.

Lighting. Drapery. Wallpaper. Furniture.

See our huge selection of summer outdoor fabrics.

Omaha's premier needlepoint shop. Your destination for turning your passion for needlepoint into a work of art. Located in Countryside Village.

5018 & 5022 LEAVENWORTH ST. 402-952-4480

149TH STREET & INDUSTRIAL ROAD 402-399-8764 TEXTILESINTERIORS.COM

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