Momaha Magazine - May 2017

momaha.com

What to grow for every interest

NEAT & TIDY The organized garden

Gluten-free recipes for the whole family

volume 8 ¡ issue 5

May 2017

s n e e T d n a s d i K r o f e g e l l Co ch 31 .

ins Mar g e b n o ti a tr is g e R ! ges 3 to 1 8

Classes for a

2017 College for Kids dates and locations

Technology Camps

• June 5-9 at Arbor Park Middle School (Blair)

• Make Your First Video Game!

Monday-Thursday, June 5-8

• June 12-16 at Grace Abbott Elementary (Millard) • June 19-23 at Heritage Elementary (Bennington)

• App Attack!

Monday-Thursday, June 12-15

• June 26-30 at Gretna Elementary (Gretna)

• Make Your First 3-D Video Game!

Monday-Thursday, June 19-22

• Skips July 3-7

• Code Breakers Monday-Thursday, June 26-29

• July 10-14 at Hickory Hill Elementary (Papillion) • July 17-21 at Prairie Lane Elementary (Westside)

• Minecraft Animators Monday-Thursday, July 10-13

• July 24-28 at Milliken Park Elementary (Fremont)

• Minecraft Designers Monday-Thursday, July 17–20

2017 College for Teens Summer Camps

• Minecraft Modders Monday-Thursday, July 24–27

Culinary, leadership, automotive, welding, art, drumming, dissection, stop motion, acting, fashion and much more!

Go to mccneb.edu/ce for the College for Kids and College for Teens schedules, tuition, course descriptions and more.

Register at mccneb.edu/ce or 531 -MCC-5437.

• Video Game Animation Monday-Thursday, July 31–Aug. 3

Robotics • MCC Robotics and Programming Camp Monday-Friday, June 19-23 • MCC Robotics and Programming Camp Monday-Friday, July 10-14 • Nebraska Robotics – Session 1 Saturdays, June 3–24 • Nebraska Robotics – Session 2 Saturdays, July 8–29

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Our students are going places.

• Six teams to Vex Robotics World Championship • Two students to the National Speech & Debate Tournament • Two National Jazz Education Network Scholarship Winners • Gold Medal Champions in Economics and Speech at Academic Decathlon State Championship • Three Superior awards at the Nebraska State Thespian Festival • First and second place winners in the Douglas County Spelling Bee • Top vocal soloist and 1+ rated a cappella group at Northeast Jazz Festival • First place in the Omaha Performing Arts Jazz Combo Competition

Enroll today and join the journey!

Preschool through twelfth grade.

Learn more at brownell.edu/goBT. 2015721-01

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MOVING BODIES ENGAGING MINDS 2017 YMCA Summer Camps

friends, a sense of belonging and accomplishment. And with a focus on closing the summer achievement gap, you can rest easy knowing your child is learning every day! Your kid will be having too much fun to realize they’re learning!

Camp runs May 30 - August 25 in week-long sessions. • Summer Day Camp • Camp Platte • Specialty Camps (full or half day options)

• Preschool Camps • Teen Summer Programs

Visit metroymca.org to view our full 2017 Summer Camp Guide!

Register at any YMCA Welcome Center.

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YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • www.metroymca.org 3

where moms connect VOLUME 8 . ISSUE 5 . MAY 2017

IN LA VISTA

Summer Kids Camps and Teen Nights filling up fast!

CHRIS CHRISTEN chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094

TEEN NIGHTS (6:30 PM - 9:00 PM) June 6 – This Kiss June 27 – Galaxy July 11 – Stripes July 25 – Game of Dragons

Call NOW: 402-502-5656

creative director + designer 2001790-01

KIDS CAMPS (8:30 AM - 1:30 PM) June 12 - 16 – Princess for a Week June 12 - 16 – Pirates and Paint June 19 - 23 – It’s a Zoo in Here July 17 - 21 – Summer Fun July 24 - 28 – Christmas in July & Other Holidays

editor in chief

www.pinotspalette.com/lavista

HEIDI THoRSoN hthorson@owh.com 402-444-1351

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

momaha.com editor

Choose Your Summer Camp Adventure!

Camps From Preschool To 8th Grade Starting In June

HITCHCOCK NATURE CENTER

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For more info. call 712-545-3283 or go to www.pottcoconservation.com

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 H owaR D k . m aRCUS, a my To koS, H E aT H E R w I N k E l

advertising sales manager DEBBIE mcCHESNEy dcavalier@owh.com 402-444-1448

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 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 2017 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.

e t e g a S t S the

2017-18 Mainstage Productions

Exciting, large-scale productions performed on The Rose Mainstage.

Rose members receive FREE tickets to these shows.

Membership is the best way to enjoy everything The Rose has to offer.

Babe The Sheep Pig Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Van Gogh & Me The Meaning of Maggie Seedfolks Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure Curious George & the Golden Meatball

Rose members receive access to seven regular season shows for one low price. That’s seven times to stop and laugh together with your child. Seven times to experience the awe and wonder of theater.

Seven times to make memories together as a family — memories that will last a lifetime.

Sept. 8-24, 2017 Oct. 6-22, 2017 Nov. 3-12, 2017 Jan. 26-Feb. 11, 2018 Feb. 23-Mar. 11, 2018 Mar. 23-Apr. 8, 2018 Apr. 20-May 6, 2018

2017-18 Premium Event Shows Toe-tapping musical numbers, fantastic sets, large casts and awe-inspiring productions the entire family will enjoy are highlights of our special event premium shows.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Disney’s Newsies

Dec. 1-23, 2017 June 1-17, 2018

2017-18 First Stage Productions Theater for very young audiences, preschoolers and children with special needs, performed on the Hitchcock Stage

Point A to Point B Wynken, Blynken & Nod

$

105

THAT’S 28 TICKETS! Memberships on sale now.

JOIN TODAY! 2016858-01

Oct. 21-Nov. 12, 2017 Feb. 10-Mar. 4, 2018

W W W. RO S E T H E AT E R .O RG 5

MoMaha.coM edItor // aShlee coffey Wife to Kevin Coffey, music critic for the Omaha World-Herald.

Mom to Sam and Elliott.

Follow her on Twitter: @ashleecoffeyowH

I

’ve always loved the saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” Spring is my favorite season next to fall. I love how everything is springing into life again and the weather is starting to warm up.

It also means I get to plant flowers and make my yard look beautiful again.

A few years ago, when my husband and I bought our house, I was really excited because it meant I had a yard to decorate – and a place to grow a garden. My parents have grown a garden for as long as I can remember. I loved being able to help them plant everything and pick weeds. But my favorite part was harvesting all the goodies. During summer vacation, I would often sneak into the garden and pick the most delicious-looking tomato and eat it like an apple.

With children of my own now, I can’t wait to introduce them to the joy of gardening. My son, Sam, is 3, and I think he’ll really enjoy helping me in the garden this year. Last year, he just liked picking the cherry tomatoes and giving them to me to eat.

Maybe he’ll get brave and try some this year.

If you’re looking to start a garden with your kids this spring, check out Heather Winkel’s tips, plus some crafts to enhance your new green spot.

We’ve also got a great story about garden basics to know with your kids as well as how to keep your own gardening tools organized.

So polish those green thumbs and get to work!

Also, Happy Mother’s Day out there to all the moms! We hope you enjoy your special day!

Get SocIal Facebook /momahacom TwiTTer @momaha_owh PinTeresT /momahaowh

SUMMER CAMPS 132nd & Millard Ave.

www.schoolofrock.com 402.691.8875 6

Come Home to...

Arbor Day 2017 Chances are,, you’ve y celebrated Arbor Dayy with us here before...but never like this!

Activities include an attempt p to break a Guinness Book of World Record in Tree Hugging, gg g, Fun Run, the parade ((candy!!!), y ), and the Home,, Craft,, & Garden Market (kids crafts!!!).

Bring the whole ffamily amily for the weekend!

Visit Vi it www.GoN www.GoNebraskaCity.com.

G Nebraska b kaCit Cit City.com com.

Paid for in part by Otoe County Visitors Commi ee

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Summer Discover Days May 30-August 15th, 2017 • 12 one week sessions Omaha Christian Academy’s Summer Program is offering an exciting summer filled with Christ-centered instruction, outdoor fun, creative & stimulating indoor activities and projects, swimming, new friends and more.

To sign up, contact the school office at 402-399-9565 7

On OUR RADAR // EDitOR’s Picks

THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Before kids eat their vegetables, they can watch them grow. This Deluxe Root Viewer comes with the seeds and soil to grow several servings’ worth of carrots, radishes and green onions. Talk about sharing what you learn at the dinner table! Fat Brain Toys, $18.95

GROWING GREEN THUMBS

While you’re getting your garden started, kids can get their hands dirty with the Little Tikes Garden Table. The set comes with garden tools, a watering can and a removable, washable basin.

Best of all, accessories store neatly inside. We wish grown-up garden sheds were so tidy! Hayneedle, $41.99

FLUTTER BY

Flowers might not yet be attracting butterflies, but you can bring monarchs, swallowtails and other fanciful winged beauties inside with this delightful Butterfly Garden Squashed Pot. It’s ideal for stashing candy, jewelry, coins and other sundries. Mackenzie-Childs, $74

SAY HELLO TO FEATHERED FRIENDS

Bring nature right to your window with the Born in Sweden Window Birdfeeder. A suction cup holds the feeder firmly in place, giving your family a bird’s-eye view of the avian dinner hour. Danish Museum, $19.95

LOVE YOUR FOOD

It happens all the time. We use half a tomato (or cucumber or onion), and the rest goes to waste. Save the fresh fruits of your vegetable garden labor (or produce from the grocery store) with Food Huggers, stretchable covers that fit over cut produce halves to keep food fresh. Bonus: the covers fit over cans and jars for a tight seal. There are also avocado covers for guacamole lovers.

FoodHuggers.com, starting at $10.95.

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SKYHAWK SUMMER CAMPS Visit skyhawkcamps.com to register.

SOFTBALL SHOW CHOIR BASEBALL QUARTERBACK VOLLEYBALL KIDDIE CHEER CLINIC MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND TENNIS DANCE VOLLEYBALL GIRLS BASKETBALL SOCCER BOYS VOLLEYBALL BOYS BASKETBALL TENNIS

May 30 - June 1 June 1(One Day Only) June 5 - 7 June 5 - 7 June 5 - 8 June 5 - 8 June 5 - 9 June 12 -14 June 12 -14 June 12 -15 June 12 - 15 June 12 -15 June 16 (One Day Only) June 19 - 22 July 10-12

Ages 8 -14 Grades 3 - 8 Ages 8 -14 Grades 7 - 8 Grades 6 - 8 Age 4 - Grade 6 Grades 6 - 8 Ages 5 -14 Grades K - 8 Grades 2 - 5 Grades 2 - 8 Grades 1 - 8 Grades 4 - 8 Grades 4 - 8 Ages 5 - 14

9am -12pm 9am - 5pm 9am -12pm 9am - 12pm 9am - 12pm 8am - 12pm 1pm - 4:30pm 9am - 10am 9am - 11am 10am - 12pm 1pm - 4pm 9am - 11am 10am - 12pm 1pm - 4pm 9am - 10am

3131 S 156 Street • Omaha, NE 68130 • 402.333.0818

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New picks hot off the presses, straight to you COMPILED by Momaha Magazine

PLAY WITH ME!

Michelle Lee (G.P. Putnam’s Sons) Pip, the little pig, wants to play – hopscotch, blocks, dress up – anything! But brown bear, Nico, is more interested in his cello. After seeing that his friend is disappointed and frustrated, the young musician devises an activity they can do together – and love.

Ages 3-5

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THIS IS OUR BABY, BORN TODAY

Varsha Bajaj, Eliza Wheeler (Penguin Young Readers) Born wrinkled and gray, the baby elephant is welcomed not just by its mother, but also by aunts, sisters, neighbors, friends – even the Earth and the stars themselves.

The unfolding tale is a reminder that it takes a village – and a whole lot of love – to raise each and every precious child. Ages 3-5

THE RING BEARER

Floyd Cooper (Philomel Books) Jackson is nervous. His mother is getting married, and it’s his job to carry the rings down the aisle. But he’s also worried about getting a new stepdad and sister. A lot of changes are in store, but Jackson soon discovers he can handle them all with grace. The illustrations have an old-fashioned feel and make this book particularly charming.

Ages 3-7

ALWAYS WATCH OUT FOR THE FLYING POTATO SALAD!

Henry Winkler, Lin Oliver (Penguin Young Readers) Second-grader Hank Zipzer is funny, resourceful and whip smart. He also has dyslexia. Hank never lets it stand in his way, though. This engaging read is written in a style and font that make it easier for kids with dyslexia to stay on the page and read the story in its entirety.

Ages 6-8

THE ENCHANTED FILES: HATCHED

Bruce Coville (Random House Children’s Books) Move over, dragons, there’s a new mythical creature in town.

Gerald Overflight is a griffin who doesn’t fit in with his own kind.

Told through letters, diary entries and articles from enchanted books, the novel point of view lets readers piece together the entertaining story.

Ages 8-12

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Kids’ gardens open young minds to the natural world TEXT Kim Carpenter PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy of Lauritzen Gardens

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t’s springtime, and whether you’re potting some basil in a porch container, establishing a cutting garden or putting up cages for tomatoes, chances are you’re indulging in some form of gardening this time of year.

Invite your kids to join in and cultivate green thumbs of their own, advises Victoria Schoell-Schafer, director of horticulture at Lauritzen Gardens. The rewards come not from bouquets of fragrant flowers or fresh vegetables, but from time spent learning in the great outdoors – the one right in your own backyard.

Schoell-Schafer speaks from experience.

Mom to two boys, Cosmo, 11, and Orion, 10, she’s made sure her kids spent time in the garden with her before they took their first steps.

“Whether they were walking with me, attached to me or sitting in a bouncy chair or on a blanket in the shade, there was always something for my children to see in a garden,” she says. “We’ve always had one.”

Given children’s natural propensity to play amid plants, that didn’t come without challenges. Schoell-Schafer learned early on that it was smart to provide rules of engagement for rough-and-tumble youngsters.

“I put down nice stones. They could still explore and get down and look closely at something, but they had to stay on the path,” she says.

While that tactic saved some prized plants from trampling, it didn’t sate the boys’ curiosity about what was happening

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in the garden.

The solution?

“When they got older, I designated a spot to give them their own space,” Schoell-Schafer says.

According to the expert, kids are never too young. “Even a 3-year-old can just scatter parsley seeds and watch them come up. They can choose plants and explore the touches, sights, smells, sounds and, depending on what you grow, the tastes of the garden. It’s the ultimate sensory table – and it’s always changing!”

She advises letting kids decide what to plant, but also says it’s necessary to provide guidance.

“My whole goal is to get them excited about nature and being in the garden, so I let them grow what they want to grow,” she says. “I take them to the store and let them pick out between five to six plants.

You want kids to like them, so let them choose. If they don’t all make it because they’ve chosen shade plants for a sunny spot, that’s a valuable life lesson.”

Other lessons are just as important.

“Kids learn that gardening is hard work,” explains the horticulturist. “You have to prepare; there is a process. We have to clean the garden and till the soil. That’s how things grow faster.”

Then there’s something even deeper.

“Having a garden lets kids figure out why something happens,” emphasizes Schoell-Schafer. “There is a reason for everything in nature. Kids can ask, ‘Why is a leaf flat?’ Because it provides a perfect

landing spot. Or, ‘Why does a flower have polka dots?’ Because they direct bees to nectar. They see how things in the environment interact.”

The objective, the expert says, isn’t to grow a beautiful garden. It’s to explore and learn about the natural world.

“One of my children filled his garden with holes. He loves to dig. He would drop peach pits and walnuts into the holes to see if they’d grow. In a garden, kids can learn how everything is connected, and they appreciate the natural environment as a whole.”

Schoell-Schafer says that even something as simple as digging for worms or playing in the dirt helps kids observe and learn.

“If they’re making mud pies, they’re learning about absorption rates and how long it takes for dirt to dry out. There are so many layers. Just remember, they’re going to get messy – and they’re just going to have to learn that bath time comes afterwards.”

GARDEN BASICS No matter your child’s interests, there’s a garden for her or him. You can opt for a simple pot (start with one at least 18 inches in diameter to accommodate several plants) or with a small plot. Here, SchoellSchafer shares her plant suggestions for getting started. She recommends giving mini green thumbs their own kid-sized garden tools and providing them with their own storage space.

COOKING ESSENTIALS HERB GARDEN 1. Basil 2. Chives 3. Cilantro 4. Dill 5. Mint 6. Oregano 7. Parsley 8. Rosemary 9. Sage 10. Tarragon 11. Thyme MAGICAL FAIRY GARDEN 1. Coleus 2. Elfin Thyme 3. Ferns 4. Miniature Ivy 5. Golden Stonecrop or other succulents 6. Polka-dot Plant BUTTERFLY GARDEN 1. Asters – great nectar plant for many butterflies 2. Butterfly Bush – attracts a variety of species 3. Joe Pye Weed – attracts a variety of species 4. Milkweed – host plant for Monarch butterflies 5. Dill/Fennel/Parsley – host plants for Black Swallowtail 6. Dutchman’s Pipe – host plant for Pipevine Swallowtail 7. Hollyhock – host plant for Painted Lady 8. Zinnia – attracts a variety of species BASIC VEGETABLE GARDEN 1. Beets 2. Carrots 3. Cherry Tomatoes 4. Lettuce 5. Snap Peas FRUIT GARDEN 1. Dwarf Apples 2. Elderberry 3. Grapes 4. Raspberry 5. Strawberry Visit momaha.com for more gardening tips.

ATTENTION

Is your child suffering from an

Ear Ache?

Quality Clinical Research, Omaha, NE

is conducting a research study of an investigational medication for children with an ear ache.

Qualifications for children participating in the study include: • Ages 5 to 12 years old • Physically active • Able to communicate their level of pain from pictures provided

Qualified participants: • Will receive all study medication and study care at no cost • May receive compensation for time, travel, parking

Health insurance is not required

Call Quality Clinical Research at 402-934-0044 QUORUM REVIEW APPROVED INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD

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BASIC ANNUAL & PERENNIAL FLOWER GARDEN 1. Black-eyed Susan 2. Coneflowers 3. Cosmos 4. Daisies 5. Hollyhocks 6. Marigold 7. Snapdragons 8. Sunflowers

ADVENTURE AWAITS YOU

JUNE 5 – JULY 28, 2017 Aviation, Circuitry, Coding, Robotics, Science, Space, or Survival!

Space is limited– register at: W W W. S A C M U S E U M . O R G / C A M P S A S M I T H S O N I A N A F F I L I AT E

28210 West Park Highway Ashland, NE 68003 1999663-01

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Start a garden this spring and reap the benefits for months to come Story & PhotograPhy Heather Winkel

Gardening with your kids can be a great learning and bonding experience. Growing plants teaches kids about nature, health and responsibility. Playing in the dirt is downright fun, and eating what you grow is pretty cool, too! Here’s how to start, plus some crafts to enhance your new green spot.

Make a Plan

Every successful garden begins with a plan. Create one together and encourage kids to pick out their own plants.

Help your youngsters color or paint a garden map to follow during planting.

Start SMall

Keep your first garden kid-sized and simple so nobody gets overwhelmed. Container gardens or raised garden beds are ideal because they’re manageable, easy to get to and generally require less weeding. Remember to put your garden container in a sunny or shady spot, depending on your plants’ light requirements. As your kids get older and learn more about gardening, you can graduate to a larger plot.

ChooSe eaSy PlantS

Select plants that are recognizable and grow quickly. It can be frustrating for kids to wait weeks to see their plants grow. Leafy plants – such as lettuce and spinach – are fast growers, and they look pretty in the garden. Radishes, cherry tomatoes and strawberries also are great choices. Some radishes can be picked within 30 days.

re-think PerfeCt

Gardening with children usually means giving up straight rows – and that’s OK! Come up with an unconventional way of organizing. Try saying, “Let’s put all of these plants in this area because they are a family,” or “Let’s make a cool pattern.”

enjoy the fruitS (and VegetableS!) of your labor

The best part about a garden is eating it. Come up with recipes that can be made with different plants from your garden, then cook a yummy meal together. Make pizza with tomatoes and basil or pick strawberries for your cereal.

Visit momaha.com for more mommy and me gardening tips and diy projects.

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SUMMER @ THE ROSE 2016857-01

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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.

LuLaRoe Gi Cer ficate…

The perfect gi for the perfect mom!

LuLaRoe is a unique clothing line that brings comfort and fashion together with limited prints.

Sizes XXS to 3XL & childrens.

Host your in-home pop up party today or stop by Facebook, Wednesday night online pop ups 7-10pm.

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 10% 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. 212

www.lauritzengardens.org 2016773-01

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W

e need all sorts of garden tools. We have large rakes and small shovels, clippers and hand trowels. We also might have some potting soil and pots, along with stakes, twine and plant food.

Because there is such a variety of gardening – cutting gardens versus vegetable plots, herb containers versus window boxes – a variety of organizing tools are needed to get (and keep) your gardening tools neat and tidy.

If you’re a spontaneous gardener, consider keeping some storage space in the garden itself. This can be any size container to keep high-use items close at hand.

Make it fun and decorative. One idea is to use metal mailboxes that can be hung on an outside wall or put up in the garden.

It’s a clever space to tuck gloves, clippers and a small trowel.

The advantage to keeping tools handy is that when we’re out lounging or cooking burgers on the grill, we notice something that might need a trim. If the tools are handy, such trims are quick, easy tasks. The key to this type of storage is that it holds the couple of tools you use frequently. This storage solution doesn’t work for large numbers of tools.

If your garden is spread out, you might consider putting high-use small tools into a garden tool caddie. A portable caddie is easy to grab and wheel around as you tend your plants.

Many types are available. To choose the best one for you, consider the space you need for your tools and the space available to store the caddy when not in use. Smaller caddies can be hung on a hook in the garage, but larger ones that also function as seats on wheels require more storage space.

Also, be careful what you store in your caddie. High-use items are best, but you also need to be conscious of weight. If the caddie becomes too heavy, you won’t use it. Beyond that, lugging something heavy around can cause injury.

If you’re lucky, you have space for a gardening center. This is where you can do your potting and store tools and supplies.

To make a gardening center work well, it’s best to have space to hang high-use hand tools. A pegboard on a wall works well, but be sure to include the ability to hang small things such as seed packets and plant labels in small bins.

Having a counter with adequate space can make your gardening center useful when potting and tending to plants, but take care that the space doesn’t become a landing place for items. Cabinets are handy for storing larger items, including bags of soil, grass seed and fertilizer.

As always, keep your kids safe. Sharp tools and dangerous chemicals need to be kept out of children’s reach. Having child safety locks on garden chemical storage is just as important as locking up cleaning supplies.

Summer Reading Program

Richard brooke Foundation

June 1–July 31, 2017

Kick-off Parties Sat | May 27 | 1-3

except W. Dale Clark

Kids, teens & adults: read to receive great prizes!

Find out more & Sign up at omahalibrary.org.

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20TH SEASON • State-of-the-Art Facility • 3 Large Studios at 1 Location • Top Quality Dance Instruction • Boys • Girls • Ages 2 to Adults • Caring Teachers in a Fun, Positive Learning Environment • Age-Appropriate Classes, Choreography & Costumes • Serving the Papillion/La Vista Area Since 1998

8610 Brentwood Drive, Drive #7 | La Vista 402-592-6722 ADCdance.com | adcboss@cox.net | Jennifer Kinsey, owner FREE REGISTRATION FOR 2017 CLASSES* 2004226-01

*Expires 5.31.17. New students only.

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A gluten sensitivity, wheat allergy or Celiac disease doesn’t mean saying goodbye to baked goods altogether RECIPE PREPARATION, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Heather Winkel

I discovered my gluten sensitivity and went gluten-free two years ago. Even though my body felt amazing, I craved the comforts of cookies, muffins, croissants, macaroni and cheese and stuffing at Thanksgiving.

That is, until I discovered gluten-free baking. Though it comes with a learning curve, I can now eat some of my favorite recipes without the usual side effects.

MAKE BAKING EASY

The best way to acquire gluten-free baked goods is to bake them yourself. Most recipes call for multiple ingredients in place of traditional all-purpose flour. I recommend either making your own blend (like the Minimalist Baker’s blend of 1½ cups brown rice flour, potato starch, ¼ cup white rice flour and ¼ cup tapioca flour) to have on hand or buying Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. You’re then (mostly!) able to follow your favorite baking recipe by substituting the all-purpose wheat flour with your gluten-free blend.

GLUTEN, GLUTEN EVERYWHERE

Gluten can be tricky, and many items contain hidden gluten (soy sauce, flavored coffee syrup, even candy).

Be sure to check all labels and use your judgment based on your sensitivity before using an ingredient. Hidden gluten can make it especially hard to eat at restaurants, because unless dishes are on a certified gluten-free menu and prepared away from gluten, you can’t be certain they’re actually gluten-free. Find Me Gluten Free is a useful app for finding gluten-free and gluten-free friendly restaurants. Here are three of my favorite recipes.

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Open to members & Non members!

June - August • Weekly • AGES: 5-13

s p m a C SUMMER Day Camps

Premiere Camps

Register today at www.jccomaha.org

333 S. 132nd St. | Omaha, NE 68154 | 402-334-6426

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CRUSTLESS QUICHE

Serves 4-6 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Beat 8 eggs and combine with ž cup half-and-half or heavy cream. 3. Cook 8 slices cooked bacon and chop into small pieces. 4. Add olive oil to a skillet and sautÊ 2-3 handfuls spinach leaves until wilted.

5. Combine egg mixture with bacon, spinach, 1 cup sliced mushrooms, ½ cup grated carrots, 1 scallion, 1 cup smoked cheddar cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. 6. Pour into a greased pie dish and bake for 40-45 minutes.

Make Summer Learning Fun!

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

Makes 12 muffins 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. 2. Line cupcake pan with liners. 3. Combine dry ingredients – 1½ cups gluten-free flour (such as Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour), 1 cup sugar, Ÿ teaspoon salt and 2 teaspoons baking soda – in a bowl. 4. In a separate bowl, mix together wet ingredients: 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1 egg, ½ cup milk and 2 teaspoons vanilla.

5. Combine dry and wet ingredients. 6. Carefully fold in 1½ cup blueberries. 7. Spoon into cupcake liners and bake for 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of muffin comes out clean.

On average, students loose one to three months’ worth of learning during summer break.

You can help keep your kids mentally fit, come visit and see how!

GET $5 OFF WHEN YOU SPEND $25

Good through 5/31/17 May not be combined with other offers or store credit.

2932 S. 84th St., Omaha NE 68124 | 402.763.8455 | www.learninghq.com

19

GET MORE LIKES AT THE DINNER TABLE.

HEALTHYKOHLSKIDS.COM

LEMON OAT CRUMBLE BARS

Makes 12 bars 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 2. Lightly grease a 7”x10” baking dish. 3. For the lemon filling, mix 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk, 3 teaspoons grated lemon zest (about 2 lemons) and ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (1-2 lemons, depending on size) in medium bowl and stir until thickened. Set aside. 4. To make the crumble mixture, blend 1¼ cups gluten-free flour (such as Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour), 1 cup gluten-free old-fashioned oats, ½ cup packed brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt and ½ cup softened unsalted butter in a medium bowl until crumbly. 5. Press half the crumble mixture in dish and bake about 10 minutes to set crumble crust. 6. Spread lemon filling over baked crust and top with remaining crumble mixture. 7. Bake for 20 minutes.

Serve as a warm crumble or let cool and cut into bars.

Note: Oats that aren’t certified gluten-free are likely crosscontaminated. Buy certified gluten-free. Not all people with Celiac disease can tolerate even gluten-free oats.

2017 Summer Semester: May 30 - July 25 Registration Now Open! www.artsforallinc.com (402) 556-7821 2016909-01

20

When His Ears Hurt Too Often

We Trusted Them More people trust Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat Institute when someone they love needs help.

Our Board Certified doctors specialize in treating problems ranging from common ear, nose and throat illnesses and disorders, to chronic sinus problems, to complex head and neck conditions, all backed by more than 40 years of life-changing research.

To schedule an appointment near you, visit BoysTownENT.org or call 402.498.6540 2011683-01

21

Mother’s Day

GIFTS

5018 Leavenworth St Omaha, NE 68106 Store Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10-6 Saturday 10-5

402.991.8800 22

Spring flowers sprout early with easy icing blossoms TEXT & RECIPE PREPARATION Ashlee Coffey PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Thorson

SPRING ON INTO OUR NEW LOCATION

Spring Ridge Shopping Center at 180th & Pacific

Recipe adapted from bettycrocker.com

• Holiday Parties • Customer Gifts • Corporate Events • Gift Baskets • Fundraisers • Bridal & Baby Showers

1223 S 180th Street | Omaha| 402.933.8698 www.popperista.com 2011567-01

Fall Schedule Now Online www. stepperettestudios .com

JOIN US FOR A THREE WEEK SUMMER SESSION Tuesday, June 13th through Tuesday, June 27th Classes meet from 6:00-7:00pm

INCLUDES

Baton, Pom/Dance, Tumbling

Benefits your child will enjoy • Upbeat, age appropriate music • Easy to learn routines • Physical fitness and coordination skills for girls and boys • Enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructors

CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT

402-592-4545

WWW.STEPPERETTESTUDIOS.COM

2003962-01

L

ooking to make a cupcake or cake decorated in beautiful flowers? Look no further than Russian piping tips.

When I first bought them, I was a little intimidated.

There’s a lot of prep work that goes into it (making the butter cream frosting, coloring the frosting and assembling and filling the piping bags).

But let me tell you – it’s worth it.

The first thing to do is find a good butter cream frosting recipe you like.

Here’s mine: In a medium bowl, mix 3 cups powdered sugar and 1/3 cup butter or margarine, softened with a spoon or, like I did, an electric mixer on low speed.

Once it’s mixed well, stir in 1½ teaspoons vanilla and 1 tablespoon of milk.

Gradually add in just enough of the remaining 1 tablespoon milk to make the frosting smooth and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add more milk. Likewise, if too thin, add a little powdered sugar. Add food coloring for your desired colors.

Note: Thick is good. To create solid flowers, you need really thick frosting. The first time I made my flowers, they dissolved into piles of goop because the frosting wasn’t thick enough.

When forming the flowers, it’s best to practice piping petals a few times on a napkin or plate. Make sure to press down into the cupcake so the frosting sticks to the cake. You don’t want to lift up and bring the flower back up with you.

If you want to get particularly fancy with flower shapes, YouTube features videos with step-by-step instructions.

NG SHIPPI LE! B AVAILA

LET US HELP YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT EVENT YO Y OUR UR NEX XT EVEN NT

23

SWIM INTO SUMMER ONCE-A-WEEK SWIM LESSONS T TWO WEEK CAMP SESSIONS

REGISTER NOW FOR SWIM LESSONS Ages 6 Mos. & Older.

Morning, Afternoon Evening & Saturday Morning

Timeslots Available!

Advice for A better life coMPiled by Momaha Magazine

Spring is here. Whether you’re laying your garden beds or just relish spending time outdoors, it’s time to get out from enclosed spaces and get some fresh air.

GArdeNer’S bliSS

Spending time in even the most modest garden plot can be calming, a Dutch study shows. A group of 30 people performed several stressful activities. Afterwards, half read indoors for 30 minutes while the other half gardened outside. Gardening and reading each led to decreases in the stress hormone cortisol during the recovery period, but decreases were significantly stronger among the gardeners.

Positive mood was fully restored after gardening, but further deteriorated for readers. Put on those gardening gloves!

Journal of Health Psychology

GroW blooMS, booSt YoUr brAiN

Physical activity keeps a body young, and gardening counts.

The risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease can decrease by a whopping 50 percent and increase brain volume by doing physical activities such as gardening and dancing. A perfect reason to add that gardening shed to the backyard! Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease

More vitAMiN d, PleASe!

The majority of Americans don’t get enough Vitamin D, yet this necessary vitamin can help protect against osteoporosis, cancer, depression, heart attack and stroke. Getting enough is easy: just spend 10 to 15 minutes several times a week outside on a sunny day with arms and legs exposed. Don’t overdo it – you still need to wear sunscreen regularly to protect against skin cancer. Harvard Health Letter

GreeN MeANS Go

Spending time outside may just be what your exercise routine needs. Research at the University of Essex indicated that the color green, like the one found on trees, grass and other outdoor plants, makes exercise feel easier. Cyclists pedaled in front of gray, red and green images. Those in front of the latter reported fewer mood disturbances and showed lower exertion during their workout. Now to move that treadmill outside!

National Center for Biotechnology Information

PAY AtteNtioN!

402-932-2030 LittleWavesFamilySwimSchool.com 24

Kids who play outside have longer attention spans and show more self direction than peers who stay indoors. Moreover, being outside in greenery seems to reduce the symptoms of attention deficit disorder in children. Time to evict kids into the sunshine! American Journal of Public Health

THE BEST PLACE FOR KIDS.

Peter, age 9 Ulcerative Colitis

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.

2016993-01

THE ROSE THEATER PRESENTS

A musical based on the play by Sir J.M. Barrie Lyrics by Carolyn Leigh. Music by Morris (Moose) Charlap Additional Lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green.

Additional Music by Jule Styne Originally Directed, Choreographed and Adapted by Jerome Robbins

JUNE 2 - 18, 2017

Fridays at 7 pm • Saturdays at 2 pm • Sundays at 2 pm Fly to the second star to the right and straight on ’til morning— on the adventure of a lifetime.

Featuring fabulous flying effects, Peter Pan is the perfect show for the child in all of us!

PETER PAN is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com

TICKETS $27 Main Floor $22 Balcony

Show Sponsored By:

2001 Farnam Street Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 345-4849

WWW.ROSETHEATER.ORG