Momaha Magazine - October 2015

momaha.com

VOLUME 6 路 ISSUE 10

OCTOBER 2015

Get Organized

Bucking the midsemester slump.

S PLU a

ask Nebr es: g Colle state e m o The h tage. n adva

CHILLING, THRILLING + FILLING Decor, games and food for every little ghoul.

WHERE THE WALLS BECOME

THE WORLD AROUND

Time spent frolicking in the woods won’t keep you up on the Kardashians or help your kids crush it on Halo 5. But, it just might do a few other things for you. Like, boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, reduce your stress, improve your mood, improve your sleep, give you more energy, increase your ability to focus, and help your kids develop their creativity and social skills. Seriously, Google it. Push pause on the texting, clicking, sharing, and streaming, just for a moment, and come out to the forest. Move your feet, breathe in the fresh air, explore.

And watch what happens.

Visit

FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG for a complete listing of upcoming events and activities.

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% 9

EMP L O

T N E M Y

The proof is in the numbers. Of the Wayne State alumni who graduated in the last year, 99.6% were either employed or attending graduate school six months after graduation.

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BECOME COURT SAVVY Registration is open now to play Winter Basketball at the Y! WE HAVE A VARIETY OF LEAGUES FOR ALL AGES:

SEASON INFORMATION:

Fundamental Division - Kindergarten-6th grade

Register by November 28, 2015 and save!

Recreational Division - 3-4 years & K-8th grade

First Week of Practice: January 11, 2016

Competitive Division - 4th-6th grade

Number of Games Played: Fundamental & Recreational Division: 3 years-K: 6 1st Grade & Up: 8 Competitive Division: 10-12 + Tournament

High School Division - 9th-12th grade

SWIMMING IS NOT JUST FOR SUMMER FALL 3 SWIM LESSONS

November 8-December 19

• Member Registration starts October 19 Non member Registration starts October 23 • We have classes for all ages, in group or private settings Register in person or online. Learn to swim at the Y!

YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • METROYMCA.ORG 3

The Pout Pout Fish Visits Storytime

Don’t forget your camera!

4

Fri | Sept 25 | 10 AM Saddlebrook Branch

Wed | Sept 30 | 10:30 AM Willa Cather Branch

Sat | Sept 26 | 10 AM Benson Branch

Thurs | Oct 1 | 10:30 AM W. Dale Clark Main Library

Mon | Sept 28 | 10:30 AM Millard Branch

Fri | Oct 2 | 10 AM Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch

Tues | Sept 29 | 10:30 AM South Omaha Library

Sat | Oct 3 | 10:30 AM W. Clarke Swanson Branch

Celebrate

Halloween

parties • games • crafts costumes • storytimes lock-ins • dancing & more!

Visit omahalibrary.org for a

THE BEST PLACE FOR KIDS.

Campbell, age 5 Crohn’s Disease and Autoimmune Hepatitis

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.

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o Be T d u o re Pr We A

AS NOWN ERLY K FORM

momaha where parents connect

VOLUME 6 . ISSUE 10 . OCTOBER 2015 editor in chief

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tional e kids we th ccupa ech, O l Therapy to to set e p S ld like a ic vide s ro y p h r wou P ll: o to d s a e n n c u a o n 2 sti on nti Ext. 17 y que sultati We co E con -330-3211 ve an E a R h F u 402 If yo up a

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 kURT a. kEElER amy TokoS SaNDRa WENDEl TESS fogaRTy SaNDRa DRUmmoND JEffREy BEBEE

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

Sunday,October 25 at the Holland Center

Lobby Activiti Activities at 1:15 ppm | Concert at 2 pm | Trick-or-Treating after the show!

A hint of spookiness and a spirit of good fun await you at our annual Halloween concert featuring maestro Ernest Richardson, Anne’s Band of Merry Fiddlers, Omaha Public Schools Mini-Singers, and the Heartland Youth Ballet!

General Admission Adult & Kids Tickets $12 - Order Today!

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402.345.0606 | OMAHASYMPHONY.ORG

account executive mEgaN gUENTHER megan.guenther@owh.com 402-444-1489

Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 600, Omaha, NE 68102.

Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2015 by the Omaha World-Herald. All rights reserved. The opinions and perspectives published herein are those of the authors and should not be construed as those of Momaha Magazine.

WE INVITE YOU TO SEE CREIGHTON PREP FOR YOURSELF.

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2015 FROM 11:30 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. Our upcoming Open House is the perfect opportunity for young men in all grades and their families to tour Creighton Prep and meet our students, faculty, Jesuits and alumni. Preview our clubs and activities, learn about financial aid options, engage in a Q&A session, and more.

CALL 402.393.1190 TODAY TO REGISTER.

WE ARE PREP.

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

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Pre-K Programming!

CONTENTS

Devised by The Rose Theater Company Members under the direction of Gretta Berghammer

Oct 26 - Nov 14 A Pale e of Possibility is an interactive adventure designed with children on the autism spectrum in mind, but this magical and inventive exploration of color in all its various forms is perfect for preschool students having their first or their tenth experience in the theater. Audience members will be participating as we invent new ways of thinking about color in all the wonderful places it shows up in our world - from stoplights to the ocean.

TICKETS: $12 45 MINUTES without an Intermission Presented on The Rose’s Hitchcock Stage Funded in part by a grant from the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America.

TICKETS

(402) 345-4849 or www.rosetheater.org

Real MoMs + advice

10 Momaha.com Editor 12 Be Well: Tips for Healthy Living 14 Nutritious Eating on the Go 24 Get Organized 32 My Son’s First Selfie

college pRep

26 Reasons to Stay In-State 28 Tips for a Campus Visit 30 Same vs. Different

Our Si ers Don’t Just Sit! We Do All The Work for You!

• On-line convenience & reliability • Local & personal customer service • All si ers over 18 years old • CPR and First Aid cer fied si ers • All si ers pass in-depth background check

402.990.7795

seekingsi ersomaha.com 8

seasoNal

16 Easy Halloween Party 22 Halloween Caroling

oN the coveR YARD GHOSTS photogRaphy Jeffrey Bebee

HOW TO MAKE THEM:

1. Turn tomato cage upside-down and wrap white string lights around the wire frame.

2. Cut twin-sized bedsheet or white painter’s

drop cloth in half width-wise and drape cage with a half-section. Anchor sheet to tip of cage with large safety pin. 3. Using fat black permanent marker, draw eyes on sheet. 4. Plug the lights into a secure grounded outlet.

Take your Halloween festivities to the next level. We make it easy on page 16.

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M Y’s

Creating Futures!

A

F U N D

R A I S I N G

D I N N E R

F E A T U R I N G . . .

Kevin Sorbo!

G U E S T

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Dr. Woodrow Kroll Formerly with Back to the Bible

Kevin credits a life threatening illness suffered while playing Hercules on TV with saving his life. He has a powerful story of overcoming the odds through faith in Jesus Christ.

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IN

C H A I R S

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H O N O R A R Y

Dave & Kim Nabity Kim and Dave, Founder of Nabity Business Advisors, are committed public servants who actively support Christian ministries.

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TICKETS $75

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er d numb A limite k o ’s bo of Kevin : trength S e ru T “ ey from rn u o J My re s to Me Hercule w o H d an Mortal g in y D y Nearl ” My Life Saved ilable a v a e b will hase. for purc

D E T A I L S

Private Reception: 5:30pm Dinner: 6:30pm Attire: Business Casual Tickets are $75 per person ($45 for OCA parents & alumni) Proceeds from this event will enable needy children in our community to receive a Christ-centered education.

T

Kevin will share his gripping story of victory over this life threatening illness through faith and perseverance.

Now!

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In September 1997, Kevin Sorbo was sitting pretty.

He was playing the title role in the TV show "Hercules," had just filmed his first action movie, “Kull the Conqueror,” and had recently become engaged to actress Sam Jenkins.

And then, quite literally, his world collapsed. Sorbo suffered an aneurysm followed by three strokes. He almost lost his arm, and the battle was far from over. Sorbo's balance and vision were severely impaired and there was a constant hum in his head — it took years for his health to improve.

Toinckeltes Sa E V E N T

S P E A K E R

Join us for an exciting evening with Kevin Sorbo, star of the recent hit movie “God's Not Dead” and author of “True Strength: My Journey from Hercules to Mere Mortal and How Nearly Dying Saved My Life.”

Thursday November 5 2015

OMAHA CHRI TIAN ACADEMY Creating g Futures Futur sponsored by:

OMAHA CHRISTIAN T TA ALK

S P E C I A L

H O N O R S

Dr. Jim Eckman Please join us in honoring Dr. Jim Eckman for his outstanding service to the Omaha Community.

T I C K E T S AT W W W. S O R B O. E V E N T B R I T E . CO M

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At the Embassy Suites I-80 in LaVista W Pk es w tp y or

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

Mom to Sam. Native of Plattsmouth, Nebraska.

Follow her on Twitter: @ashleecoffeyowH

ashlee’s birthday favorite: the Frankenstein cake.

So much more than halloween

I

couldn’t be more excited: October has finally arrived and it’s all about me and my favorite things!

Let me explain. October is my birthday month.

While I’m not exactly excited to be another year older, I am happy to trade my 30th year, which saw some sadness because of the passing of special people in my life, for my 31st, which I hope and pray will be on the brighter side.

Another reason to celebrate October: It finally feels like autumn. The air is cool and crisp; leaves are falling and crunching underfoot, and scarves and tights (two things I love to wear) are coming out of hybernation.

My birthday is Oct. 3. As a child, I wished my mom had

given birth to me nearer her due date, Oct. 17. That would have put my birthday closer to Halloween – my favorite holiday.

To make up for it, Mom always would decorate for Halloween by Oct. 1 and bake me a Halloween-themed cake. My all-time favorite was No. 27, a Frankenstein cake.

The decorating tradition continues in my own home.

I don’t care what I have going on, I always have my decorations up by Oct. 1.

I hope this month holds as much joy, spooky fun and fond memories for you as it does for me.

Happy Halloween!

Get SocIal Facebook /momahacom TwiTTer @momaha_owh PinTeresT /momahaowh

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Make friends.

Catch fish.

Earn badges.

Climb rocks.

Explore caves.

Take hikes.

Visit museums.

LAUNCH LA AUN NCH ROCKETS. ROC OCKE K TS KE TS. Race cars. cars Roast marshmallows.

Take pictures.

Help people.

Discover trails.

Ride bikes.

Play sports.

Learn games.

Build character.

Gain confidence.

Hit targets.

Laugh loud.

Grow better.

Camp out.

Work together.

Have fun.

Adventure A dventure iiss w waiting. aiting.

Build B uild yyours ours aatt LLaunchIntoScouting.org. aunchIntoScouting.org. 速

Providing quality dance education in a positive & encouraging atmosphere

Registration Now Open Classes Begin September 8th Nebraska Dance

11426 Davenport St, Omaha 402.895.0646 nebraskadance.com Photography By Michelle Lynn Photography & Design

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Advice for A better life coMPiled by Sandra Wendel

don’t make your home 100 percent child proof.

What’s the one thing that’s most guaranteed to keep your child safe? A responsible adult who is within eyesight of that child. American College of Emergency Physicians

Lighten up. Reducing kitchen clutter cuts snacking by one-third. “Slim by Design” by Dr. Brian Wansink, Cornell University.

SteaL a nap. Need an afternoon break?

Bring your blankie to work and catch some zzzzz’s. Studies have shown that a midday nap can counteract impulsive behavior and boost tolerance for frustration. University of Michigan Do the Math. Today, more than one-third – a whopping 34.9 percent or 78.6 million – of U.S. adults are obese. In 2008, medical costs for an obese person were $1,429 higher than those for a normal weight person. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Be a chiLD’S BeSt protection.

Parents have an arsenal of tools to keep children safe. Safety latches for drawers and cabinets keep dangerous products, sharp objects and medications out of curious hands. Safety gates, protective electrical outlet covers and fasteners for bookshelves, TVs and heavy furniture are other child-proofing musts. These tools, however,

Know your MeaSureS. A spoonful is a spoonful – unless you’re giving a child medication. To administer accurate dosages, forego that spoon in the kitchen drawer for a metric unit syringe. Dosing syringes are available at most pharmacies and are often provided free with prescription medication (so ask!). American Academy of Pediatrics reSpect gLuten-free. About one in every 133 people has celiac disease – a genetic autoimmune disorder that causes the body to react negatively to the intake of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley and their derivatives. For adults and children with the disease, eating gluten-free foods isn’t a trendy choice; it’s a necessity. Dr. Anca M. Safta, Gluten & Allergic Digestive Disorders Program

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

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402.691.8875

omaha.schoolofrock.com school of rock omaha

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WHEN YOU CALL BEFORE 10/31/15 NOW SERVING OMAHA, MILLARD, AND PAPILLION>

YOU’RE IN SKYHAWK TERRITORY. BE PREPARED TO

SOAR.

Skutt Catholic’s class of 2015 earned nearly 4 million dollars in college scholarships. This past year the Skyhawks won the US Cellular Cup, which is awarded to schools with the most successful athletic and activities programs. And even with full schedules, our students completed over 13,000 hours of community service. If you land at Skutt Catholic,

BE PREPARED TO SOAR. For questions regarding enrollment and financial aid contact Tim Bloomingdale, Director of Admissions, at 402-934-9085.

3131 South 156th Street | Omaha, NE 68130 | 402.333.0818 | www.skuttcatholic.com 13

Dining out can mean higher calories. Here’s the work-around.

W

e all love restaurant fare, but when it comes to eating healthy, nothing beats a home-cooked meal.

That’s what a recent study at Johns Hopkins University discovered when comparing the diets of people who dined out versus those who cooked at home.

Published in the journal Public Health Nutrition, the study found that those who prepared supper at home six to seven nights a week averaged 2,164 calories daily, while those who ate supper out six times a week consumed an average of 2,301 calories daily.

Another motivator: Getting back into the kitchen is one of the best ways to reduce your child’s risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, according to Healthy Kohl’s Kids, a partnership between Children’s Hospital & Medical Center and Kohl’s Department Stores, which aims to help families make smart choices.

When hectic home and work schedules make home-cooked meals impossible or impractical, these tips from Healthy Kohl’s Kids can help you dine out with little or no regret in the calorie department.

Compensate for oversized portions Have your kids share an entrée or order half a portion of a healthy appetizer for their main course.

Be on word watCh Avoid dishes that contain the following descriptive words (and save on calories and fat): Alfredo, basted, batter-dipped, breaded, creamy, crispy, deep-fried, pan-fried, cream sauce, butter sauce. suB it out Order six-inch (not 12-inch) subs and go easy on extras like dressings and oils. wrap it up Opt for a healthy wrap – a flour tortilla stuffed with salad ingredients, chicken, fish, beans and vegetables. skip the extras Ask your server to remove extras such as bread, butter and chips-and-dip to keep you and your kids from binging. steer Clear of easy enaBlers Avoid all-you-can-eat buffets. You’ll probably eat too much.

find reCipes

For a library of healthy home recipes and additional nutrition and fitness ideas, visit HealthyKohlsKids.com or follow the program on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest for healthy ideas and information on Healthy Kohl’s Kids events.

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OCT 27 6PM ticketmaster.com • 800-745-3000 Information Only: 402-554-6200

Early Childhood educational Program

$35/ month

Helps promote physical fitness into your child’s daily routine.

Halloween Costumes

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Coats / Snow Gear Dancewear / Sports Gear Jr. Clothing Furniture / Cribs Bedding Highchairs / Strollers Toys / Books DVDs Gaming Systems Boots / Shoes 1/2 PRICE SATURDAY I 9:30AM - 4:00PM

Ask about babyjam for infants 0 - 18 months

Phone: 831-869-0483 Email: kjamana@yahoo.com

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The Soccer Club 14706 Giles Rd. Sept. 16th - 18th, 9:30am-7pm Sept. 19th, 9:30am-4pm OPEN TO THE PUBLIC kidzshoppeomaha.com f 15

With Pinterest as inspiration, a haunted forest springs to life. Here’s how to get the look.

STORY Chris Christen PHOTOGRAPHY Jeffrey Bebee

Wreath Wednesday

Holiday Decor

String Art

An arts and crafts studio with classes for all ages and skill levels

your next class at

The Makery Limit one coupon per customer.

Expires 11-31-2015

12100 West Center Road, Suite 612 (402) 715-5959 themakeryomaha.com

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E

ach October, eyeballs pop out of their sockets as visitors roam a haunted forest in the back yard of a west Omaha home.

More magical than spooky, this Halloween experience (by invitation only) has taken on a life of its own since its inception four years ago.

The homeowner, who is active in local philanthropic circles, had previously hosted an annual Christmas party for 150 at her house. “That was nuts,” she confided. “It got bigger and bigger and I hardly got a chance to visit with my friends.” She scaled back on the December event and now treats children – many of them grandchildren of friends and members of charity groups – to a spooktacular night of Halloween fun under a canopy of trees oozing goblins and colored lights.

“It’s not about me or my place,” the homeowner stresses. “It’s about the kids and the families. In 2015, there were six parties with all the trimmings for six different groups.

The transformation begins in early September with marathon craft sessions inspired by the homeowner’s Pinterest board. Meanwhile, Estate Landscape Nursery is on the scene tricking out trees, bushes and set pieces with strings of lights as well as building mazes and other activity areas designed for giggles and eye-rolls rather than fright and tears.

“I’m not one who dwells on the dead,” the homeowner says. “I like to keep it fun not creepy.”

“Every year we try to interpret her vision,’’ says Jana Kruger, a perennial helper who knows a thing or two about family entertainment as chair of the Nebraska State Fair Board. “Sometimes we have to reel in each other,” she teases.

“There is no better team of people to work with me,’’ the homeowner says of her collaborators. Even the landscaper’s young son and his friends have gotten in the act as official testers of the maze.

On the following pages, we help you replicate some of the haunted forest’s magical treats and décor.

We love the details here, from pumpkins as serving bowls to a skeleton rising from a coffin as a centerpiece.

Breakfast & Lunch Catering for Pta! Delivered & Set-Up At No Extra Charge

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Witche’S hat cookieS

HOW TO MAKE THEM:

1. Lay fudge shortbread cookies on a cookie sheet, decorative side down. 2. In a bowl, tint

white canned icing or white candy melts with orange food coloring (10 drops of yellow and 3 drops of red). 3. Place tinted icing in zip-lock sandwich bag, close top and clip an end slightly to create a piping bag. Pipe a silver dollar-sized circle of icing in the center of the cookie. 4. Crown icing with a Hershey’s chocolate kiss, pressing lightly until orange frosting forms a welted ring around the chocolate kiss. Let set for one hour.

Spooky BoneS

HOW TO MAKE THEM: 1. Cap each end of a small pretzel stick with a mini marshmallow. 2. Dip pretzel in white chocolate melted in microwave oven.

3. Lift “bone” from chocolate using a fork, tap off excess chocolate and place on waxed paper or foil to cool.

4. Serve in black bowl.

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Mini puMpkinS

HOW TO MAKE THEM: 1. Place a handful of orange bean-shaped sugar candies in center of a 6-inch square of orange tulle. Gather the four corners of tulle and tuck loose areas to secure candies in a round pouch. 2. Tie with brown pipe cleaner coiled to form a stem.

SPIDER POPS

HOW TO MAKE THEM: 1. For each spider pop, center four black pipe cleaners at base of one lollipop and wrap ends around the stick once so there are four legs on each side. 2. Bend pipe cleaner ends to form eight feet. 3. Using craft glue, secure a pair of googly eyes to base of pop wrapper to create spider’s head. The pop becomes the body.

HALLOWEEN S’MORES KIT

(Party favor; not shown) HOW TO MAKE THEM: 1. Add one ghost or pumpkin marshmallow peep, two graham cracker squares and one Hershey bar to a clear gift sack or zip-lock sandwich bag. 2.

Using a home computer, create your own tag with a Halloween motif and s’mores directions (found below). 3. Attach tag to bag with staple, tape or Halloween ribbon.

To melt the s’mores: 1. Place a marshmallow peep on a graham

cracker. Microwave on medium for 5 to 10 seconds or until Peep becomes gooey.

2. Remove from microwave and top with chocolate and another graham cracker.

3. Let cool slightly before eating.

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MUMMY-WRAPPED UTENSILS

(For your buffet table; not shown) HOW TO MAKE THEM: 1. Using craft glue, affix a pair of googly eyes one half-inch from tip of handle on black plastic utensil. 2. Haphazardly wrap handle with medical gauze to create mummy. Variation: Skip the gauze and simply glue googly eyes to handles of white, orange or black utensils.

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CANDY CORN BOTTLES

HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Using sponge brushes and multi-surface or glass paint, paint the bottom third of glass soda bottles yellow and then the top third white. Let dry completely on a paper plate.

Apply second coat of paint if necessary. 2. Paint middle section of bottle or jar with orange paint making sure no glass shows between the color layers. 3. Let paint dry completely. Dress up the neck of the bottle or jar with string or ribbon. If using a mason jar, dress up the edge of the lid with washi tape. Variation: For quicker but maybe not as precise decorating use spray paint.

VAMPIRE BLOOD SHOTS

HOW TO MAKE IT: 1. Prepare strawberry or cherry gelatin mix according to package directions. 2. Using turkey baster, fill syringes (available where Halloween party supplies are sold) with gelatin. Or simply place the end of the shot dispenser in the gelatin and pull back the plunger to fill the reservoir.

3. Refrigerate syringes until gelatin sets.

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Heroes, Merlin and a Meaningful Life Author T.A. Barron October 22 at 7 PM The award winning and bestselling author of Lost Years of Merlin, Merlin’s Dragon and The Great Tree of Avalon. His latest book, Wisdom of Merlin: 7 Magical Words for a Meaningful Life, tells how reading epic stories can inspire us in everyday life. $10 adults/$5 students—kids under 14 free Countryside Community Church 8787 Pacific Street, 402-391-0350 kellyk@countrysideucc.org

Book, Music and Lyrics

by Scott Elmegreen Based on the books by Annie Barrows Illustrated by Sophie Blackall

Oct 9-25, 2015

Fridays at 7 pm • Saturdays at 2 pm & 5 pm • Sundays at 2 pm

Meet quiet Ivy, who has amazing ideas, and outgoing Bean, who loves to put ideas into action. The mischievous second graders meet and form an unlikely friendship in this extraordinary musical adventure!

TICKETS: $18 • ROSE MEMBERS RECEIVE 4 FREE TICKETS EXPECTED RUN TIME: 75 MINUTES Show Sponsored By:

Ivy + Bean: The Musical is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW), 570 Seventh Avenue, Suite 2100, New York, NY 10018. (866) 378-9758 www.theatricalrights.com

TICKETS: (402) 345-4849 or www.rosetheater.org 21

These neighborhood kids take to the streets for more than trick-or-treating.

STORY Kim Carpenter PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Thorson

J

ust say “trick or treat” and get candy on Halloween? Not in northeastern Pennsylvania, where I grew up. Even with the tacit threat of a “trick,” if you wanted a treat you had to work for it!

Some of us had groan-worthy Halloween jokes (“Why was the skeleton afraid to go skydiving? He didn’t have the guts!”).

Others memorized short and snappy poems (“Halloween is here again, time to trick-ortreat. Halloween is here again, give us sweets to eat!”). Most of us, though, sang songs.

More specifically, we serenaded neighbors with Halloween carols – cheeky takes on Christmas classics (“Joy to the night, It’s Halloween”) in exchange for treats.

It always struck me as a bit wrong that here neighborhood kids get candy just by holding out their voluminous treat bags.

Okay, maybe I’m a smidge miffed that we had to put

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forth more effort than just donning a costume.

Even more so, though, Halloween carols stir warm memories of those chilly nights of fun in my own youth.

That’s why I revived the tradition with my daughter and her friends several years ago.

Because Halloween itself is too hectic with trick-or-treaters, we schedule our caroling party the weekend before (which also gives the girls, now ages 11 and 12, a welcome extra occasion to wear their costumes). After a quick rehearsal, they gamely take to our block, song sheets in-hand, and delight neighbors with their silly doorstep serenades.

To get you in the spirit of this tradition, here’s a sampling of Halloween carols that have become as memorable as the Christmas tunes upon which they’re based. Enhance the fun by having your own children add verses or pen their own parody of a wellknown tune.

Joy to the Night

tune: “Joy to the World” Joy to the night It’s Halloween The night of fright has come This time of year we wait We know they won’t be late Goblins and ghouls will come!

Goblins and ghouls will come!

Goblins and ghouls and witches will come!

They rule the world On Halloween!

They’re coming for us tonight They’ll spook us to our toes Anything goes But it will be such fun!

But it will be such fun!

It will, it will be such fun!

o FraNkeNsteiN

tune: “o tannenbaum” O Frankenstein, O Frankenstein Lurch around our neighborhood O Frankenstein, O Frankenstein Chase us down the street We know you’re tall and scary As we flee, we won’t tarry O Frankenstein, O Frankenstein Lurch around our neighborhood

god rest ye, spooky spirits

tune: “god rest ye, Merry gentlemen” God rest ye spooky spirits, let everyone dismay If we wake your slumber, you won’t want to play You’ll chase us ‘round and scare us just to make us pay Oh, tidings of spooky shrieks and screams Spooky shrieks and screams Oh, tidings of spooky shrieks and screams

deck the hauNted house

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HOmesickness

You’re more than ready to go home to your comfy bed and your favorite home-cooked meal. This is normal.

Homesickness is a longing for the familiar. This time in your life, though, isn’t about looking back. It’s about finding a new normal and moving forward. Start by making your new surroundings feel like home. Find a favorite study spot, a friendly coffee shop and an uplifting place outside the dorm where you can connect with others who are adjusting too. A long-lasting friendship just might be made.

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TOP TIP: Use your calendar to journal your moods.

Identify which activities trigger your homesickness and which ones pull you out of your slumps. Once you see a pattern, go with the positive flow.

WeiGHt Gain

If your pants (including your beloved sweats) are fitting a little snugger, it’s a sign that you need to move more and eat healthier. Choose water over sodas and coffee. Load up on fruits and vegetables as snacks. Limit pizza, fast food, ice cream and other high-calorie foods. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Hit the campus gym. These small things add up and will help keep you healthy and feeling energized.

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TOP TIP: Use an app like FitnessPal to track calories and maintain a well-balanced diet.

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Top Tip: Reach out for help. Most colleges have tutoring or support centers. Ask professors how you might benefit more from their classes, receive extra credit assignments or get permission to redo projects or reports for higher grades. Quiz a teaching assistant on ways to improve your performance in specific classes.

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ConsTanT disTraCTions

Community living competes for your time and attention.

There’s always someone or something to distract you from your studies. As fun as that can be, it’s crucial to curtail the distractions and maintain focus. If your room is a central hangout, move to another location when it’s time to study.

Shut off electronics (phone included!) for periods of time.

Designate nights without Netflix, video games or other similar activities.

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Top Tip: Find a quiet spot on campus to hang out between classes and get a head start on assignments.

ChroniC Tardiness

Professors completely understand if you are late once or twice, but if you’re chronically tardy, they won’t give you the benefit of the doubt when grading time rolls around. Be on time. Simplify your morning routine. Organize your clothes, books and supplies before you go to bed so you can simply grab them and go in the morning. An easy hair style and minimal primping are musts. Go to bed earlier and set your clock 10 minutes ahead.

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Nebraska’s competitive spirit trickles down to college choice.

ComPiLeD by Ashlee Coffey, Momaha.com editor

N

ebraska, no matter how you spin it, is a great place to live, work and have fun.

According to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, we’re the fourth best state for business, the ninth top state for growth and innovation, the third least financially distressed state and the second happiest state in the nation.

Admittedly, to a high school senior those stats may not swing the college-choice pendulum in Nebraska’s favor. But for a college grad? The future looks bright. For that college-bound student who is on the fence, here, courtesy of colleges we contacted, are reasons why the Cornhusker State has a competitive advantage.

The UniversiTy of nebraska aT kearney

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The UniversiTy of nebraska-LinCoLn

Underdogs triumph here. Forty percent of UNK students are the first generation in their family to attend college. The resources and support that UNK offers allow students to achieve a life some may never have thought possible.

Internships. Faculty connections with businesses and organizations provide an internship program with more internships than students to fill them and oftentimes the experiences come with paychecks – and eventually, full-time job offers.

Portal classes get freshmen off to a good start while capstone courses test what they have learned. Senior-level capstone courses include studying zombies and the undead, scientific illustration, brewing science, “e-citizenship” and the politics of love.

Omaha boasts one of the lowest costs of living in the nation. Mavericks benefit from affordability in food, gas, amenities and more. With one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation, Omaha makes it easy for UNO students to find work in their fields through internships, chase their dream careers and thrive in a robust local economy.

In Nebraska, you don’t have to go far to make a difference. Big things are happening here, from silicon prairie startups – many of which were founded

by UNL-alumni – to groundbreaking research. So getting involved and making a difference isn’t hard.

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Nebraska loves its students. Universities – especially UNL – are hugely important to Nebraska’s economy, so students receive strong support and engagement from the state and local community.

Creighton University

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Creighton is located in a city where five Fortune 500 companies are headquartered. Omaha also has more millionaires per capita than any other city in the country. Couple that with the No. 1 city for paid internships, and it’s hard to resist.

Creighton is a campus where Omaha-area students can “go away” for college even if they grew up here. Eighty percent of CU’s student body is from out-of- state with roommates and floor mates heralding from the East Coast, Midwest, West Coast and even Hawaii. This allows the feel of going away, but if friends are looking for a homecooked meal, you get to be the hero and ask your family to provide.

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Wayne state College Students and alumni of Wayne State College say there’s something special about the school’s rural setting. Many students grew up in small towns about the size of Wayne and had dreams of leaving Nebraska all together. But many have moved back over the years to raise families.

There’s a sense of community in Wayne that you won’t find at any other university. Students note the ability to see the stars at night, feel safe and enjoy small town life. “It’s hard to express and quantify.

It’s something many students don’t appreciate until they leave,” said Wayne State staff member Tricia Moyer. “But it’s something that sticks with them forever.”

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Questions drive ‘excellent’ campus visit.

COMPILED by Ashlee Coffey, Momaha.com editor PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents

T

he best way to get a feel for a college is to make a campus visit. The more campuses a student sees, the easier it will be to recognize the best fit. Here, the admissions staff at the University of NebraskaLincoln offers 10 tips to put students (and parents) on the road to an excellent campus visit.

1. Arrive with questions. Do your homework on the school and the program(s) you’re interested in and make a list of questions for the administrators, faculty and students you will meet.

2. Don’t be shy about impromptu questions. Ask about anything that comes to mind, even if it seems dumb. Your hosts won’t mind.

3. Strike up conversations with current students. Most universities recruit students to lead tours; their first-hand perspectives can be invaluable.

4. Take notes. You may think you’ll remember everything, but it’s easy to forget details.

When it comes time to make a decision, your notes will help you compare pros and cons of each university.

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5. Talk to an advisor and a professor in your field of interest. Quiz them about the academic experience and expectations. Inquire about clubs and organizations outside the classroom.

6. Explore campus. Part of your college experience is where you live, eat, play and study, so scope out your surroundings. Visit fraternity and sorority houses, libraries, dorms and common areas.

7. Eat in a dining hall. Sometimes college cafeteria food gets a bad rap. Sample it for yourself before passing judgment. If the offerings fall short, leave a comment in the suggestion box and inquire about dining alternatives on or near campus.

8. Explore the city. Check out coffee shops, student hangouts and entertainment venues.

Could you be comfortable here?

9. Consider the area’s free amenities. Do you enjoy biking trails, parks, lakes?

10. Take it all in. Limit distractions and focus on experiencing everything the university has to offer during your visit, including a football game or other sporting event, concert or play.

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COLLEGE Despite a familiar feel, technology is the difference maker. story Sandra Drummond

E

ach fall, during parents’ weekend at the university my son attends, I find myself reminiscing about my time as a college student.

Socially, college life is much the same as it was 25 years ago with traditions like Homecoming and Greek Week safely preserved.

Technology, however, has completely changed the life of a student. My top 10 examples: 1. Parents are in constant contact.

Instead of waiting until Sunday to call home, students can connect with their parents at any time via text, email or a phone call.

Sometimes this can alleviate homesickness; however, constant communication with a parent may make it difficult for a student to develop a sense of independence.

2. class registration is more efficient.

Instead of standing in long lines to register in person, students grab their laptops and log into a scheduling program at an appointed time, enter their course requests and wait for the tuition bill.

3. students may not have to attend class.

Online courses are popular options.

Students still interact with their professors electronically. Even when enrolled in an on-campus

30

course, students may also log into virtual classroom programs, such as Blackboard, to participate in discussions, read course materials, print class notes and upload assignments.

4. social media ParticiPation is essential.

Many campus organizations use social media to communicate and advertise events. Socially, students rely on social media to make connections and foster relationships.

5. students rate their Professors online.

Rather than relying on a few friends’ opinions when choosing a professor, students check reviews on RateMyProfessor.com. The caution for students here: While some ratings are genuine, others are spiteful.

6. the internet is a PoPular tutor.

Live tutors are still in demand, but students needing extra instruction can do a quick online search and find multiple explanations on sites like YouTube.

7. cheating is easier.

With so many cheating sites on the Internet, it’s simple to find answers to a quiz, test or essay question.

Sometimes it’s as simple as searching to find an answer.

8. it is also easier to get caught cheating.

Colleges subscribe to plagiarism prevention programs including Turnitin.com. This site looks for similarities between a student’s work and Internet sites as well as other student papers from all over the world. Teachers can also Google a line or two from an essay and find original versions of copied work.

9. student/Professor communication is imProved.

Students and teachers have a number of ways to communicate outside office hours. Many teachers welcome questions through email, text and social media.

10. feedback can be immediate.

Thanks to virtual classroom sites, students can log on, complete an assignment and upload it for grading. Professors can create quizzes and tests that are computer graded and posted immediately.

Instructors can comment on written work online and quickly send a response. bonus Point: you’re still needed for something.

Although technology has altered the college experience, one thing will never change. A parent can still count on a call, text or email asking for money.

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Among son’s memorable ‘firsts’ – a day with a camera.

STORY Tess Fogarty PHOTOGRAPHY Hugh Fogarty

P

ut a disposable camera in the hands of a 4-yearold and what do you get? A delightful view of the world from a shorter, younger perspective.

Being a shutterbug myself, I was eager to see how my son, Hugh, would handle a camera. After a tutorial on using the viewfinder, pressing the shutter and advancing the film, the sky – or ground – was the limit.

Shooting that first roll of film (two years ago now) was fun for my son, but seeing his work in print was even more thrilling – for him and me. Each image in a show-and-tell was accompanied by detailed commentary.

Hugh captured long views of fields with tiny creatures in the distance. “Those were the horses, and I love horses. Know why?” And then there were close-ups of hairs on the back of a neck. “That hair was hard to touch (stiff). And there’s Quinn …” (a pin-dot figure). Classmates were documented with and without full faces and bodies. Detailed shots of grass… maybe?

A fence? A shoe and lunch all mixed in with amazing candid shots of classmates doing the chicken dance, playing hide-and-seek and laughing.

The best surprise was my son’s first selfie. Two selfies really, while riding the bus. One looking down capturing his legs; the other pointed up capturing his face. Who knew a young man just graduating from “toddlerdom” (that should be a word) could so easily find his way into mainstream media with a disposable camera?

Recently, Hugh, now 6, did a series of selfies which were so impressive we turned them into an Andy Warhol-inspired poster for our home.

TRY IT OUT!

To set your own child on a photo adventure, you’ll need that sometimes-elusive disposable camera. My best local sources are Rockbrook Camera, Walgreens, Walmart, Target and the gift shops at Henry Doorly Zoo and The Durham Museum. Another tip: Buy in bulk so you are ready for your next field trip or family adventure.

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