Momaha April 2016

momaha.com

volume 7 路 issue 4

April 2016

STROLLER DERBY Your springtime trail guide.

GET ORGANIZED

Declutter and host a swap party!

plus

easy, b homem reezy ade sn acks for the ride.

RAPTOR WOODLAND REFUGE opening Spring 2016

Fourteen custom mews, spread over a half-acre development, will house up to 17 different raptor species. Over 120 feet of elevated boardwalk will guide visitors to treehouse cabins 30 feet above the forest floor to view the birds of prey in the forest canopy. Each visit is its own unique adventure, its own story, its own memory to share.

fontenelleforest.org

Free Newborn Expo with Boys Town Pediatrics

Newborn Expo Saturday, March 26, 2016 10:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.

14040 Boys Town Hospital Road (139th & Pacific, on Boys Town Campus) • Meet our Pediatricians • Newborn Seminars • Pampering Services

• Gift Bags • Desserts • Prizes

Grand Prize!

boystownpediatrics.org

Newborn Session from Brandy Miller Photography 1

2016 Jr.

Golf Programs P

Leagues,Clinics, Play Days & Team Golf

Snag Snag Golf Golf 5-8 5-8 yrs yrs

SNAG is the first step of the pathway for all players new to the game. We provide all the equipment to make that first step fun.

Wednesday June 1st - June 29th / July 6th - August 3rd / 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM

development camp

For beginning golfers with limited golf experience.

Tuesdays June 7th - August 9th / 8AM to 9:45AM. Each session will consist of golf swing instructions, activities and on course skill building.

Instructional league

For experienced to advanced golfers.

Wednesdays June 1st - Aug 3rd / 8AM to 11:00AM. 45 minutes of instructions and activities with on course play each week.

registration

miraclehillgolf.com 402-498-0220

2 1 6

Summer camps & classes for the performing arts!

Camps are taught by leading professionals in the field Many performance opportunities One-week & multi-week camps available Camps for ages 4-18, beginners to advanced

2

REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER DAY CAMP IS STILL OPEN! • Preschool Camps • • Summer Day Camp • Mini Camps • • Specialty Camps • • Teen Camps • YMCA Camp Platte • • Counselor-in-Training Program •

BEST SUMMER EVER! YMCA Summer Day Camp 2016

REGISTER TODAY AT ANY YMCA LOCATION OR AT WWW.METROYMCA.ORG!

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

Summer Baseball/Softball/T-ball (3yrs - 8th Grade)

LEARN THE GAME

YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • www.metroymca.org

3

momaha where moms connect VOLUME 7 . ISSUE 4 . APRIL 2016 editor in chief CHRIS CHRISTEN chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094

creative director + designer HEIDI THoRSoN hthorson@owh.com 402-444-1351

assistant editor kIm CaRpENTER kim.carpenter@owh.com 402-444-1416

momaha.com editor aSHlEE CoffEy ashlee.coffey@owh.com 402-444-1075

production coordinator paT R I C I a “ m U R p H y ” B E N o I T

content contributors DEv HaNUmaRa kURT a. kEElER Ta l I S H a k E R f E l D C aT H E R I N E k R a E m E R H owaR D k . m aRCUS amy TokoS SaNDRa wENDEl H E aT H E R w I N k E l

account manager CaRRIE kENTCH carrie.kentch@owh.com 402-444-1448

Full-Time Positions Available We are seeking energetic individuals who enjoy working with young children.

Previous childcare experience and /or early childhood education helpful.

Please email enrollment @smallmiraclechildcare.com or call Debbie at 402-932-2922.

account executive SaRa BakER sara.baker@owh.com 402-444-1442

account executive G ay l I D D E l l gay.liddell@owh.com 402-444-1489

account executive E m I ly m a R T I N emily.martin@owh.com 402-444-1411

account executive C aT H l E E N va N H a U E R cathleen.vanhauer@owh.com 402-444-1209

2 CoNvENIENT loCaTIoNS: 180th & Dodge • 402-932-2922 192nd & pacific • 402-991-0696

www.smallmiraclechildcare.com 4

Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the news division of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 700, Omaha, NE 68102. Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2016 by the Omaha WorldHerald. All rights reserved. The opinions and perspectives published herein are those of the authors and should not be construed as those of Momaha Magazine or its publisher.

Are GMO Foods Really Safe?

What are the Differences between Organic and Non-Organic Foods?

When do Farmers use Antibiotics, and Why?

Don’t Fear your Food.

Farm Fa rmer rm mer erss of offe fer er an imp mp por o ta tant nt persp nt pec ecti tive ti ve on fo food od od od.

That’ t’s why the far arm m wo wome men n of Commo monG nGro r un nd a e a va ar valu uab able resource forr making inf nfor orme m d food-r fo - elated d decisions.

Visitt them on the Visi e we eb at Com omm monGroun ndN dNeb eb bra raska.co com m an nd Findou urc rcom ommo mong mo ngro roun oun u d..co com om

Brou ughtt to you by A Am meric erica’s a’ss soyb soy o ean oy a an and d cor corn far corn farmers me ers and nd th their the irr check heckoffs ckoffs off .

Raider For a Day Brownell-Talbot Wants You To Experience

BT

We pair your child with a Student Ambassador who has similar interests and talents. They spend their time following a typical class schedule, are introduced to classrooms and faculty, meet their peers, participate in clubs, and gain an understanding of our culture and community.

Raider for a Day experience,

 ����� �­€€�

Â?

400 N Happy Hollow Blvd Omaha NE 68132 402.556.3772 brownell.edu

Preschool - Grade 12 Nebraska’s only private, preschool through grade 12, independent, coeducational, college preparatory, day school.

It’s happening here.

5

Concerned with your child’s progress report?

Organizational Skills

Anxiety

CONTENTS

Emotional Control

Sensory Issues

Academic Struggles

Attention & Focus

Contact today for long term solutions! classes and private sessions available

Ruth Murray 402.339.0992 www.movementsolutions.us

Real MoMs + advice

Camps include: Open Weekly camps run from Jump, Dodgeball, Laser June 6 - July 29 Open to Kids 6-12 yrs old Maze, Dunk City, Duel $100/Child Climbing Wall and Siblings are an much more! additional $75 each 8am - Noon

8 Momaha.com Editor 10 On Our Radar 18 Affordable Summer Camps 20 Be Well: Advice for a Better Life 24 Get Organized

diY coRNeR

21 Earth Day Tote Bag 22 Terracotta Pots 5 Ways

ReciPes

16 Granola Bites 19 Spaghetti Salad

oN the coveR Stroller derby PhotogRaPhY Heidi Thorson

CAMPS FORMING NOW! CALL OR REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.DEFYGRAVITYUSA.COM

10421 PORTAL RD * (402) 934-3394 6

Tyler, 6-month-old son of Talisha and Mitch Kerfeld, enjoys a Sunday stroller ride. We break down four stroller-friendly trails in the metro, Page 12. Plus, tips for happy outings and must-haves for your trail pack. Pages 14 & 15.

Dial 2-1-1 to locate public and nonprofit human services.

OUR MISSION We focus the efforts of many to help our neighbors stand strong – by addressing basic needs, and fostering success in the classroom and the workplace.

Free call, 24/7.

Hosted by UWM. Serving Nebraska and Iowa

Learn more at unitedwaymidlands.org 2201 Farnam Street, Omaha, NE 68102 402-342-8232

7

MoMAhA.coM editor // AShlee coffey Wife to Kevin Coffey, music critic for the Omaha World-Herald.

Mom to Sam. Baby on the way.

Follow her on Twitter: @ashleecoffeyowH

A

pril showers bring May flowers, right?

Well, the next time a perfect day rolls around, dust off the stroller that has been collecting dust since October and head out on an adventure with the kids.

Not sure where to go? Turn to

page 12 for four mom-approved suggestions complete with route length, walking time and scenic highlights. We even share a recipe for a travel-friendly snack.

So get out there and start walking!

It’s the perfect way to get in shape and meet up with other moms.

If you’re caught inside on a rainy April day, see our tutorial for easy Earth Day totes and terracotta pots.

Or explore our list of affordable summer camp options.

Before you know it, summer – and warmer temperatures – will be here.

Happy spring!

Get SociAl Facebook /momahacom TwiTTer @momaha_owh PinTeresT /momahaowh

8

19 SEASON TH

Tap Ballet Jazz Hip-Hop Tumbling

• Top Quality Dance Instruction • Caring Teachers in a Fun, Positive Learning Environment • State-of-the-Art Facility • 3 Large Studios at 1 Location • Age-Appropriate Classes, Choreography & Costumes • Serving the Papillion/La Vista Area Since 1998 • Boys • Girls • Ages 2 to Adults

FREE REGISTRATION FOR SPRING & SUMMER 2016 CLASSES*

8610 Brentwood Drive, #7, La Vista 402-592-6722 ADCdance.com | adcboss@cox.net | Jennifer Kinsey, owner *Expires 4-30-16. New students only.

Theater for Young Audienc

es

Anyone who has ever felt “different” will understand what it feels like to be Ugly the Duck. He doesn’t look like any of his family flock and only his mama understands how lonely he is down on the farm. When a terrible blizzard hits, however, Ugly discovers there’s much more to him than anyone thought. With clever, inspiring songs and a whole lot of heart, this charming reimagining of “The Ugly Duckling” will quack you up and bring a smile to your beak!

Mar 25 - Apr 10

TICKETS S

Show Sponsored By:

www.rosetheater.org • (402) 345-4849 ww

First National Bank

Discount vouchers available at Hy-Vee

9

On OUR RADAR COMPILed by Heidi Thorson

WALL WHIMSY

THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH

LeT YOuR KIdS HAve SOMe fReedOM

Add COLOR

Punch up your springtime wardrobe with a colorful clutch. The Brucie Bag, made by a Carter Lake, Iowa, artisan, has a sleek profile with sexy grommet trim. Find assorted colors at truebluegoodsandgifts. com. Suede and leather variations; $42

10

Sure, you can put parental controls on your TV. Now, let the kids have a turn with this splashproof universal remote control with touchscreen display from Sony.

Amazon.com; $12

Welcome spring into an office, living room, kid’s room or kitchen with a Rachel O’s crocheted jackalope wall hanging, a crueltyfree alternative to taxidermy created by a local mom. Assorted animals available. truebluegoodsandgifts.com; $50

SHOWeR POWeR

April showers bring giggles and grins on bath night with my Own Shower Children’s showerhead.

The playful dolphin is at the end of a 3-foot-hose, which connects to your hardware in no time.

Bedbathandbeyond.com; $15.80

TeA TIMe

Tea lovers, rejoice! Enjoy your tea anytime, anywhere and on the go with the Full Circle Tea Time 19-ounce glass tea bottle that lets you infuse your favorite blends and features a twist-to-lock lid. food52.com; $24.99

.

Find Your Pediatric

Health Care Home oma a b y rg omahalibrary.org o Bellevue 2207 Georgia Avenue (402) 502-8855

South Omaha 4920 S. 30th St. (402) 734-4110

Cass Family Medicine 122 S. 6th St. Plattsmouth (402) 296-2345

Teen & Young Adult Health Center 4310 S. 24th St. (402) 502-8880

Northwest Omaha 4229 N. 90th St. (402) 401-6000

West Omaha 4101 S. 120th St. (402) 505-3907

Check out seeds

• Check out up to six packets of seeds per library card per month. •

to return seeds. •

person at Benson Branch, Elkhorn Branch or South Omaha Library. th Omaha 0 S. 30th St. ) 734-4110

OneWorldOmaha.org

t Omaha S. 120th St. ) 505-3907 thwest Omaha 9 N. 90th St. ) 401-6000 s Family Medicine

Learn about animal behaviors and nutrition.

Explore a day in the life of a veterinarian.

Perform a simulated exploratory surgery.

Interact with live animals each day.

Get expert help

• Â

� • � �

Â?

All are welcome!

• �

experience levels can check Â? • Â

experience the joy of ­ the fruits of their labor.

Benson Branch 6015 Binney St. Elkhorn Branch € ‚‚ ƒ „�

South Omaha Library 2808 Q St.

SAVE $25 ENTER THIS CODE AT CHECKOUT:

MOM16

MOM16

Junior Vet Camp

Intermediate Vet Camp

Students completing 2nd - 5th grade Mon. - Thurs. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm • June & July

Students completing 6th - 8th grade Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm • June & July

For registration and information, visit:

www.oxbowvetcamp.com

Visit guides.omahalibrary.org/commonsoil for details!

11

A FAMILY AFFAIR Mitchell and Talisha Kerfeld take their 6-month-old son, Tyler, out for a Sunday stroll at Walnut Grove Park near 150th and Q streets in Omaha.

TEXT Ashlee Coffey, Catherine Kraemer and Talisha Kerfeld PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Thorson

let the good times stroll with these perfect warmer-weather locations

12

STrOller MOM: Ashlee Coffey WHere: elmwood Park, Omaha lengTH: 1 mile TIMe TO COMPleTe: 25 minutes

STrOller MOM: Ashlee Coffey WHere: Heartland of America Park lengTH: 1.85 miles TIMe: 1 hour

One 65-degree day in late February, my 2-year-old son and I ventured to Elmwood Park for a walk. It was the first time we had used the stroller since October.

We parked on the far south side of the park and followed the trail past the ball fields, exercise equipment and the park.

We crossed Elmwood Park Road and walked the sidewalk to the west of the park and then back to the car.

The walk took about a half-hour and included stops to look at squirrels and to pet the nice dog whose owner graciously stopped for a moment.

I love Elmwood Park. On a hot day, its tall trees provide a shade canopy from the sun.

After your walk, you can relax on a bench while your kids burn off energy on the playground equipment.

Bring a blanket and have a little picnic or a snack. Since there aren’t any places nearby to grab refreshments, be sure to bring your own water or food.

When I lived in downtown Omaha in my mid-20s, I loved running around Heartland of America Park.

My 2-year-old son loves it now because of the wildlife – there are geese galore – and the lake.

To start, we parked on Douglas Street just east of 13th Street. We joined the trail at the Gene Leahy Mall downtown and walked east toward Heartland of America Park. Once there, we maneuvered our way around the lake and back to our car.

Along the way, we made many stops to say hello to geese or to let Sam get out of the stroller.

Though the route took us about an hour to complete, I’m sure it would be shorter with fewer stops. In the summer, boat rides are available, and it’s a hot spot for walking, running, roller skating, biking or lounging around the lake. Bonus: It’s close to the Old Market, so food and drink options are just a hop away if you need to take a break.

STrOller MOM: Catherine Kraemer WHere: OPPD Arboretum lengTH: 0.6 miles TIMe: 30 minutes at a kid-friendly pace

STrOller MOM: Catherine Kraemer WHere: Memorial Park lengTH: 2.2 miles TIMe: 1 hour, 45 minutes with stops

STrOller MOM: Talisha Kerfeld WHere: Walnut grove Park lengTH: 1 mile TIMe: About 30 minutes

Last summer, my employer moved to a space at 120th Street and West Dodge Road, which changed my commute and gave me new things to see along the way.

Since then, I’ve been curious about the OPPD Arboretum, a 26-acre park nestled between businesses and the OPPD substation at 108th and Blondo streets.

We recently had the opportunity to check out the trail, and it has officially made our list of great, low-key places to explore with kids.

The arboretum features a mile-long unpaved trail and a half-mile paved trail.

We opted for the shorter route, which works well for a stroller or for kids who want to wander stroller-free.

The arboretum’s more than 1,000 trees and shrubs are labeled along the way, and informational signs offer insight about local wildlife and tips for saving energy. A gazebo and several benches make it a great place to enjoy a sack lunch.

We live in Dundee where we are lucky to have great parks, restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Our standard spring- and summertime walk involves Memorial Park with its few particularly steep hills and the promise of ice cream at the end.

We’ll set out from our house, head down to Happy Hollow Boulevard and then walk along Dodge to Memorial Park’s westernmost path, which leads us straight to the playground, where we often hang out for 30 minutes. Then we’ll head east on Underwood Avenue. Our next stop is equally exciting and much more delicious.

For an out-of-shape mom pushing a double stroller, the hills are merciless.

By the time we reach eCreamery in the business district, it appears as a sparkling mirage on the horizon. We’ll grab some water and two scoops to split, and we’ll sit inside until we’ve worn out our welcome.

Walnut Grove Park is about 10 minutes from where we live, which makes it really convenient for my husband, Mitchell, and our 6-month-old son, Tyler, on a stroller ride a couple of times a month.

Tyler was born in September, so we haven’t been out much due to winter weather, but are looking forward to more walks this spring and summer.

There is usually a handful of people walking their dogs or running along the trail, but for the most part, it’s not too crowded.

A small lake and playground make this trail fun for a variety of age groups.

Spring is the perfect time to dust off the stroller and shake off cabin fever by taking to the metro’s walking trails.

Here, Momaha online editor Ashlee Coffey, Momaha blogger Catherine Kraemer and Omaha mom Talisha Kerfeld give us the lowdown from the slow lane. Pick one of their routes, or just hit your neighborhood’s sidewalks to savor all things spring. It doesn’t matter where you steer your stroller – just that you get the kids outside for fresh air.

PLUS 4 Other favorite areas in town include Joslyn Art Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, Henry Doorly Zoo and Boys Town Lake.

13

Expert says it’s never too early to be mindful of the sun TEXT Chris Christen

“I really love it when families get outside,” said Dr. Jeremy Granger, a pediatrician with Boys Town Pediatrics and a dad of two with an active lifestyle. “Good habits start early.”

An essential one is protecting skin from the sun.

“Sunscreen is a must,” the physician said.

“The earlier in life you get your first sunburn, the higher your risk of skin cancer in your lifetime.”

His recommendation: Apply sunscreen to exposed skin before heading out the door and repeat every two hours while outside.

But not just any sunscreen. “Some sunscreens contain chemicals that are bad for kids,” the physician said. (Find product ratings from the Environmental Working Group at ewg.org).

Granger also recommends avoiding outdoor walks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays can do the most damage. And dress your child in loose-fitting clothing that

blocks the sun’s rays but isn’t too hot.

“Children get warm riding in a stroller.”

Check on your little passenger every 15 or 20 minutes,” Granger said.

Offer your child a drink and look for red blotches on his or her skin that might indicate the start of a sunburn and the need to head indoors. Slow responsiveness, dry mouth and dry lips are signs that your child is dehydrated and needs a cool drink.

“I’m a little bit crazy when it comes to safety,” said Granger, who takes his 3-year-old and 1-year-old on stroller outings to Chalco Hills and Zorinsky Lake recreation areas several times a week, weather permitting.

Pedestrians and motorists know when they’re in their path, thanks to reflector tape and a small flashing light on the stroller. “If you think about it, you’re putting your child out front” in the stroller, he said. “Buckle up and be safe!”

TIPS FOR JOGGERS

• Chose a model with good head support for an infant age six months or younger and stick with smooth surfaces until your child can support his or her head.

• Wear a safety strap attached to the stroller around your wrist, especially when running downhill.

• If stroller wheels are removable, check the locking system before heading out.

• Carry a piece of muslin or a light blanket as a makeshift sun canopy.

HOW TO SHOP A well-made stroller can be a lifesaver if an accident should occur.

Look for models that meet U.S. safety standards.

14

If you’re a jogger, invest in a true jogging stroller with fat inflatable tires that help absorb bumps.

Other smart features for rough terrain: a lockable front wheel, hand-operated brakes and good suspension.

Talk with friends and ask to test-drive their strollers with your child aboard as a starting point. Ask parents which accessories are useful and which can be easily skipped.

Test-drive your three top models in the store with your child aboard. Fold and unfold the stroller and see if you can carry it comfortably with one hand. Check that the stroller fits in your vehicle.

Don’t be afraid to consider a used model. The workout a stroller gets before a child outgrows it is minimal, plus functionality doesn’t change that much from year to year.

FITNESS ADVICE YOU CAN FOLLOW. WHAT TO TOTE

Don’t leave home without these doctor-recommended essentials in your day pack.

• Sunscreen, SPF 50 or higher  • Sunglasses, especially if you’ll be near water

• Hat, to protect against heat and sunburn • Hydration (iced formula or breast milk, or water, depending on your child’s age) • Light blanket or muslin for shade • Diapers and changing wipes, if you’ll be out more than an hour. Make sure to have a small garbage bag handy if waste receptacles aren’t nearby. • Small toy or book, in case your travel buddy gets antsy • Fresh fruit, vegetables or a non-carb snack • Pocket tissues for wiping a runny nose • Insect repellent. Note: the FDA recommends not using insect repellents containing DEET on children under 2 months of age. Avoid oil of lemon eucalyptus products on children under 3 years-old.

Photos: Heidi Thorson, kohlcraft.com, nivea.com, owlbaby.com, sodahead.com, zappos.com, hudsonbaby.com

HEALTHYKOHLSKIDS.COM

AGES: 5-14

Summer

Camps

CAMP REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN TO MEMBERS & NON MEMBERS

  Â? Â?Â? Â? Â

�  �  ­ € ­ in � �

 � ‚ � ƒ� „ ƒ�

Â…Â?

†ƒ�

� ‚ � � � �

‡ WWW.JCCOMAHA.ORG 333 South 132nd Street | Omaha, NE | 402-334-6426

15

RECIPE & STYLING Heather Winkel PHOTOGRAPHY Dev Hanumara

These easy-to-make granola bars are sure to provide your kids with plenty of wholesome, homemade energy. The only challenge?

Keeping enough of these tasty bites on hand to please your entire family.

16

Granola Bar Bites

HOW TO MAKE THEM: 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Add 2½ cups old fashioned rolled oats to a baking sheet and bake 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly toasted. 3. Combine ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces, ¹⁄3 cup honey, ¼ cup light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon salt in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until butter melts and sugar dissolves. 4. Pour mixture into a large bowl with toasted oats and mix well. Let cool 5 minutes then stir in ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped, and ½ cup dried blueberries, chopped.

5. Line bottom and sides of square pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray, then transfer mixture to pan and firmly press the mixture into pan. 6. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

7. Remove granola bars and peel away aluminum foil. 8. Cut into bites.

Join us for a summer of

EXPLORE and G R O W

OUTDOOR E ADVENTUR

Summer Adventure Camps at Lauritzen Gardens provide exciting opportunities for children ages 4-12 to connect to nature and foster an appreciation for the environment through direct experiences with the natural world. Visit lauritzengardens.org for details.

THE MORE YOU

EXPLORE

THE MORE YOU

SAVE

• Buy one week of camp at regular price, get 15% off the second week • Buy two weeks of camp at regular price, get 50% off the third week

FUN THEMES • FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING OPPORTUNITIES FOR DISCOVERY 100 Bancroft Street, Omaha (402) 346-4002, ext. 263

www.lauritzengardens.org 17

YmCa

These Omaha summer camps have weekly themes such as giving back, superheroes and treasure hunting as well as mini camps for fishing, canoeing and sports. There’s something for everyone, and the YMCA wants to make sure everyone can experience them. “It’s a huge advantage for parents to be able to send their kids to camp. It’s also a financial burden for a lot of people,” says Jocelyn Houston, vice president of marketing and communications. “Being able to offer affordable options is part of our mission.”

Camps start at around $130 a week, and financial assistance is available via forms parents can complete when registering their child. “We work with people’s financial needs and work really hard to provide quality programs people can afford,” says Houston. “We’re open to all regardless of the ability to pay. If a family has financial obstacles, we’re here to work with them.” metroymca.org

Girl SCoutS: mY Summer plaCe

Stay within your budget with these affordable options teXt Kim Carpenter

T

hey add up. A camp here, a camp there and before you know it, you’ve blown the whole family budget on keeping your child happily occupied while school’s out for summer. It can be particularly challenging for working parents whose children are at loose ends from 9 to 5 for up to 10 weeks as well as for parents with large families, who have to shell out multiple camp fees.

We talked with four organizations that actively work to make camp affordable and profile the options they offer.

Camp KitaKi

“We passionately believe that every kid deserves to go to camp,” emphasizes Jason Smith,” executive director of the popular overnight camp located on 200 sprawling acres just a half-hour outside Omaha. It’s a beloved camp institution, one that includes traditional camp activities like archery and bonfires as well as ones that focus on horseback riding, canoeing and leadership. “We talked about how to eliminate barriers to attending, and cost was Number 1.”

With that in mind, Kitaki offers three levels of pricing, and parents can choose which tier best fits their budget when they fill out the online registration. “There is no difference in the camp program or experience that the kids receive,” says Smith.

“They get everything the same, and no one knows what tier you pick. Up to 70 percent of our campers are on some form of assistance. If you want your child to do camp and wonder how to make it work, talk to us, and we’ll figure it out.” ymcacampkitaki.org

18

“Our target is people who are looking for something affordable all summer long,” says Lisa Hiatt, COO of Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska. That often means accommodating the schedules for working parents. The program is open to all girls, not just registered Girl Scouts, and runs 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from June 1 through July 29. Activities include field trips, swimming at community pools, earning Girl Scout badges, doing arts and crafts and exploring new interests in and around the Omaha metro. One full week in July is also spent at Camp Maha, where girls can enjoy nature.

Costs run $425 for the entire summer, but parents can qualify for up to 50 percent off in financial assistance or register for just one month at a time. Hiatt says 70 percent of campers are on some financial assistance. “It’s a really great program, and we want it to be available to all girls.” girlscoutsofnebraska.org

omaha GirlS roCK

One of the city’s most popular camps for girls, OGR’s mission is to empower young women by helping them find their unique voices through creativity and music. It’s also costly at $350 for just one week. Executive director Melissa Wurth explains that the organization happily offers financial assistance and charges tuition on a sliding scale, with up to half its campers on scholarships. “We want to offer the camp experience to girls who ordinarily wouldn’t be able to afford it. Many parents pay what they’re able to, and some girls even have full scholarships. We want to make it more available and serve as many girls as possible.”

The director says the financial assistance program is simple.

“There’s a tab on the website where you can indicate that you want to apply for a scholarship and indicate what you expect to be able to pay. If you’re eligible, we usually offer assistance.” omahagirlsrock.com

FEEDING A CROWD RECIPE + PHOTO Courtesy of CommonGround

L

inda Schwarz, who farms with her husband and two children near Smithfield, Nebraska, shares a recipe through her association with CommonGround.

The Schwartzes’ organic crops include corn, blue corn, popcorn, white milo, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa.

During spring planting season, a hardy midday meal is a must for those working in the fields. Spaghetti Salad leaves them satisfied without stressing the cook. Try it for your next family meal or potluck.

Spaghetti SaLad

Servings: 12 HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Mix together 1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained, 2 cups chopped cucumbers, 2 chopped tomatoes, 1 chopped red onion, 2 diced green peppers, 2 cans sliced black olives and ½ to 1 16-ounce bottle of Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing (depending on preference) and McCormick’s Salad Supreme, also to taste. 2. Refrigerate before serving.

CommonGround is a grassroots movement among women on farms and in cities that fosters conversation about the sources of our food. The organization serves as a partnership between the nation’s soybean and corn checkoffs.

Learn more: findourcommonground.com

.

1/2 off first month for new and returning students!

Concerts For Performers • Lessons For Beginners 13270 Millard Ave. | Omaha | 68137

402.691.8875

omaha.schoolofrock.com school of rock omaha

@SORomaha

19

Give your parents...

safety & dignity.

Give yourself...

peace of mind.

Stair Lifts •Affordable

•FREE estimates & installation

 � � � �  ­ �

€ ‚ ƒ „…† ‡ ˆ

402.408.1990 - 12741 Q St.

$300 OFF

KOHLLS.COM

Locally Owned & Operated for over 65 Years!

Any Stair Lift ‰Š ‹Œ„ŽŒ„‘

OMAHA CHRI TIAN ACADEMY Combining academic excellence with positive Christian values since 1972!

ea ScheduTl our Privateay!

Tod ke Also, ta f our ge o advanta

dent New Stouunt!

Disc r K-12 Student)

($750

Preschool -12th grades in one convenient location near Fort and I-680!

off pe

any ed with combin e b t. t n o u n o c May er or dis other off

OmahaChristianAcademy.org | 402.399.9596 20

Advice for A better life coMPiled by Sandra Wendel

Kids And fAlls: don’t looK the other wAy

Think about how your kids hurt themselves. They fall – from playground equipment, off changing tables, off infant seats placed on tables or counters, from baby walkers, out of shopping carts and out of windows. Falls are the leading cause of childhood injury. Parental supervision is essential at all times.

If a child sustains an injury from a fall, contact your doctor. If it’s serious or life-threatening, seek immediate medical attention.

If there are no obvious injuries, watch the child, and if he or she is not acting normally after a fall, seek medical treatment immediately. Mayo Clinic Children’s Center

GerM Alert. Mom, we have a rabbit in our classroom!

Animals can be effective and valuable teaching aids for children in the classroom and on field trips to farms and zoos, but there is a risk of illness and injury from contact with animals.

Young children are especially at risk for illness, because their immune systems are still developing and because they are more likely than others to put their fingers or other items into their mouths, a behavior that can spread germs. After kids touch an animal, or anything in the areas where an animal lives and roams (including in the school classroom), they should wash their hands immediately with running water and soap or hand sanitizer to help prevent illness. Adults should always supervise handwashing for young children. U.S. Department of Agriculture love Me, love My Phone. Say it ain’t so! Cell phones are damaging romantic relationships and leading to higher levels of depression. Does your partner always have the phone where she can see it? Does he keep glancing at his phone when talking with you? Do you both constantly check your phones? “Pphubbing� – partner phone snubbing – creates conflict and lower relationship satisfaction, lower levels of life satisfaction and higher rates of depression. Baylor University study r U UP? Texting at night affects teens’ sleep and can cause poor academic performance the next day. The instant message is this: teens normally get to sleep late and get up late, but using electronic devices after “lights out� can cause further sleep problems, especially if texting in the dark. The effect of blue light emitted from smartphones and tablets is intensified when viewed in a dark room and can delay melatonin release, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Journal of Child Neurology Sandra Wendel is a veteran health journalist and book editor who lives in the Omaha metro area. She is a frequent contributor to World-Herald publications.

Meet Award-Winning Author

Earth Day totE Bag Paper or plastic? Your answer should be neither.

When it comes to doing our part for the environment, sometimes the simplest yet most impactful thing we can do is use our own shopping bags. Plastic bags pollute the environment, clutter landfills, choke waterways and endanger sea life.

While paper bags might seem like the lesser of two evils, they still result in forests being felled for their creation. Both also require natural resources to make – and recycle – and are typically used only once.

In honor of Earth Day on April 22, we’ve designed an easy-to-make tote bag to showcase children’s art work. Your child can generate a drawing especially for your new bag, or you can use a work your youngster has already created. You’ll both be doing your part for the planet – and doing so in whimsical style.

HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Iron a plain cotton or canvas tote bag (available at most craft stores or online) to eliminate any wrinkles in the fabric. You will need a smooth surface for your iron-on transfer. 2. Photocopy your child’s drawing onto an iron-on sheet (we used June Tailor Iron-On Quick Fuse Sheets for Ink Jet Printers).

3. Trim edges of image to desired shape and size.

4. Apply image to tote bag, following manufacturer’s instructions for iron setting and length of time for applying heat. 5. Let cool and set before using.

Tobias Wolff

Saturday, April 2 at Benson Branch for A Novel Affaire,

the Omaha Public Library Foundation’s Annual Fundraiser

Patron Tickets: $100 General Admission Tickets: $60 For 30 years, the Omaha Public Library Foundation has raised funds and advocated for Omaha Public Library.

To purchase tickets or for more information:

foundation@omahalibrary.org or (402) 444-4589

21

TerraCoTTa PoTs 5 Ways TeXT & sTyLING Heather Winkel PHoToGraPHy Dev Hanumara

It’s a potted plant classic: the simple, humble, very basic terracotta planter.

It’s also a perfect canvas for a craft.

Dress up yours with these fresh takes on baked clay. Plain earthenware never looked so fun.

22

PoPsicle stick Hanger 1. Lay two Popsicle sticks parallel to

each other flat on a table; use a hot glue gun to glue two more sticks flat on top to form a square. 2. Continue stacking and gluing sticks until you create a square five sticks tall. 3. Cut a length of rope or heavy yarn double the distance your planter will hang from the ceiling. 4. Fold in half and thread the halfway point through the square toward the outside on one corner of the square. Take the ends of the rope and thread through the loop before pulling tight. Do this on all four corners. 5. Take all four strands and pull them upward together so the rope is taught; tie a knot about half way up. 6. Knot the ropes once more at the top. 7. Position a planted pot in the square and hang the planter.

Metallic

textured clay

1. Place a terracotta pot in a shallow box with enough room to to turn the pot and reach all sides; coat with primer and let dry. 2. Apply several thin coats of Krylon metallic spray paint, allowing each coat to dry before adding the next. 3. Seal the entire pot inside and out with two coats of a clear Krylon indoor/outdoor sealant.

4. Let dry thoroughly before planting.

1. Press air-dry clay around a terracotta pot from just under the lip to the bottom and smooth with your fingers. 2. Stamp a pattern using a clay knife or a household item. We used a potato masher with a hash pattern for the pot on the left. 3. Allow clay to air dry for 36 hours. 4. Use water-based acrylic paint to coat the entire pot. Apply 3-4 coats. 5. If using your pot outside, seal it inside and out with two coats of clear Krylon indoor/outdoor sealant. 6. Let dry before planting.

Funny Face

White Wash

1. Use a sponge brush and water-based acrylic paint to paint the bottom third of your terracotta pot. Apply 2-3 coats. 2. Using a small crafting paintbrush, paint a smiley face above the paint line. 3. Plant a small succulent and fill with moss that resembles hair to complete the face.

1. Dip a small paintbrush in water and then dip the tips in white chalkboard paint. 2. Blot on a paper towel and then paint large strokes around the pot haphazardly, avoiding full coverage. 3. Repeat this technique until you achieve the desired amount of whitewashing.

4. Let dry thoroughly before planting.

23

Get ORGanized // amy tOkOs Amy Tokos is a Certified Professional Organizer and the owner of Freshly Organized. You can find more organizing tips at freshlyorganized.com.

Organize a swap party instead

y

ou have stuff to get rid of in your home. We all do.

The options are to donate or sell, right? There’s one more: a swap party.

Your friends might want some of the stuff you need to jettison, and they most likely have stuff that you can use.

Swap parties are eco-friendly and a great motivation to clean out your cabinets and closets. They’re also more fun than an all-day garage sale with strangers.

GettiNG stArted 1. Pick your theme. What do you want to swap? Garden tools? Toys? Kitchen items?

2. Send an invite to your friends and lay out the ground rules. Steal this list: • Bring items that are clean and in gently used condition.

For example, no puzzles with missing pieces. No clothes with stains, tears or busted zippers.

• You can only swap the same number of items that you bring. If you bring 10 items, for example, you get 10 tokens for 10 items to take home.

• If you’ll be taking turns selecting, let guests know the time that numbers will be drawn to determine the picking order. If they arrive late, then they’ll be last to pick.

WHAt to sWAP To make a swap party a success, sort items thematically and put small sticky notes on items that need identification. Indoor s’mores maker, anyone? How about that Veggetti?

• Kids toys: For a category like this to work, invite friends with children in the same general age group. You don’t want to bring baby toys if everyone else has kids in grade school.

• BooKs: Include other people besides your bookclub friends who already own many of the same volumes as you. The focus can be adult or kids’ books. Ask participants to include a small review on a sticky note and place it on the cover.

• Home décor: Our tastes are always changing, and this is a great way to update or redecorate without spending a dime.

• Accessories: Those one-size-fits-all items – bags, jewelry, scarves – that we buy as a trend then tire of quickly are perfect for swapping. A “new to you” handbag could be just the thing to put an extra spring in your step.

• clotHes: Invite a group of friends who wear similar sizes. Remind guests to wear something that they can slip in and out of easily. Full-length mirrors that let guests check out the ensembles are an added bonus.

Look for Summer Salads May 15th!

Helping H elping Healthy Families GR O W $500 Off $20

$1000 Off $30

Excludes Bakery & Specialty Items.

Excludes Bakery & Specialty Items.

Anytime

After 4 pm Anytime

OPEN ALL DAY EVERYDAY 6AM - 8PM | Conveniently located off I-680 & Center - Rockbrook Village | 402.393.0252 | gardencaferockbrook.com 24

WE ARE READY FOR YOU TO EXPERIENCE CREIGHTON PREP.

Nothing will give you a better idea of what it’s like to attend Creighton Prep than spending the day with one of our students. When you shadow at Prep, you can experience the school day from start to finish, meet our students and teachers, and envision yourself here.

8TH GRADE SHADOW APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE THROUGH DECEMBER 4TH.

CALL 402.393.1190 TODAY TO SCHEDULE.

WE ARE PREP. 7400 Western Ave. Omaha, NE 68114-1878 | www.CreightonPrep.org

THE BEST PLACE FOR KIDS.

Lawson, age 8 Clubfeet

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for more information on how we can help your child.

For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.