May 2010 Family Spectrum

MAY 2010

Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

magazine

Summer Safety Tips Page 7

Wellness Corner Caught In The Spray Page 11

Summer Camp Guide Page 21

Great Park Pursuit Page

28

We know her cure by heart.

For almost two years, Danell Bonam suffered from sudden changes in her heart rhythm, sending it racing into danger without reason or warning. When traditional medications failed, Dr. John Kugler and a highly skilled team of cardiac specialists used a radiofrequency technique to eliminate an extra electrical pathway. That night, she came home, cured, to sing of life, love‌ and the mending of broken hearts.

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for more information on Visit information on howChildrensOmaha.org we can help your child.for Formore a pediatrician, family physician pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100. how we can or help your child.

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

on you

bcbsne.com An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

live love grow

From the Editor

Wishing you a Sunsational Summer As I contemplate my message to our readers this month, I am filled with mixed emotions. As excited as I am about the impending summer, I pause at my trepidation of yet another school year slipping away.

It seems as if it were just yesterday that I was marveling at how quickly last summer break went by. Our oldest child was entering her senior year of high school, and our youngest was beginning kindergarten. One was looking forward to leaving childhood behind while the other was anxious for her childhood to truly begin.

editor

Becki Jelinek

assistant editor Linda Persigehl

copy editor

Shari M. Prior, Ph.D.

director of marketing James Jelinek

photography

William Stearman

advisory council

Julie Huffman, Dr. Ruchi Kaushik, Peggy Brendel, Kathleen Thies

creative design

Johnny Voruz, Melissa Aden

legal counsel

Charles E. Dorwart, P.C., L.L.O.

a dvertisin g

Both girls had a tremendous school year, full of growth and selfdiscovery, however each is counting down the days to summer. So here’s to wishing all moms, dads and especially our children the safest and most sunsational summer ever!

Look Out For Family Spectrum This Summer I am happy to announce that Family Spectrum will not be taking a summer hiatus. We will continue providing local families with the same quality information and resources throughout the summer.

Readers will be able to find us at all Omaha Public Library locations, local summer camps programs, and almost anywhere you find kids and families!

If for some reason you can’t find us, read us online at www.readonlinenow.com.

Radio Remember to catch Family Spectrum on KCRO, 660 AM, M-F, noon-12:30. If you miss a show you can listen to our podcasts posted at www.Blog.FamilySpectrum.com.

May Giveaway! This month’s Staycation giveaway is a onenight stay at CoCo Key’s Holiday Inn, on South 72nd Street. If you haven’t already done so, sign up for our free monthly eLetter at www.

FamilySpectrum.com. All eLetter subscribers are automatically entered to win our monthly prizes.

Thank You A special thank you is extended to Nebraska City’s Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure for the lovely photographs featured on the front cover and on page 27. All photos are used by permission of Nature Explore.

Becki Jelinek

402.960.3428 | cell 402.884.2013 | office advertise@FamilySpectrum.com becki@omahapublications.com The information contained within Family Spectrum is for informational purposes only. It is not intended and should not be used to take the place of seeking professional advice, counsel or assistance. Omaha Publications makes no endorsement of and is not responsible for contributors or advertising herein. If you have concerns or questions related to your health, consult with your physician. Family Spectrum is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of Omaha Publications, 402.448.2013.

4 table of contents • april 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

Join Family Spectrum, M-F noon - 12:30 omahapublications.com

9

7

Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure

health & wellness

27 Featuring

7 • Summer Safety 9 • Welcome to Upward Bound 10 • One Simple Wish 11 • Caught In The Spray 12 • Foster Care Awareness 13 • Fit Chat, Fit Tips

on the go

27 • Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure 28 • Great Park Pursuit 27 • Bring Nebraska History To Life 33 • Staycation 35 • May Events

community of learning

15 • What’s In Your Heart 18 • Writer’s Corner 22 • 2010 Summer Camp Guide 23 • 2010 Summer Camp Guide Cont.

power of ONE

37 • Young Heroes: Collin

time out for safety

38 • Windows & Playgrounds

open forum

24 • A Story Too Common 26 • The Truth About Estate Planning: Part 3

22 readonlinenow.com

24

33

• • • • family spectrum magazine • april 2010 • table of contents

5

Share the experience

browse interact learn play explore

So much is new and in store for you!

We’ve got what no one else has…a new experience that will captivate, stimulate and get you on the go fast! It’s a store unlike any other.

Cox Solutions Store Locations: 7640 Towne Center Pkwy (Shadow Lake) Papillion, NE 68046 16909 Burke St. (Village Pointe South) Omaha, NE 68118

The NEW Cox Solutions Stores have it all…

• Personalized concierge service the moment you walk in the door.

• No need to carry any equipment – we’ll get it into Customer Service pronto so you can look around.

• We’ll show you firsthand how to hook up your X-box, enhance your viewing experience with surround sound or how to get your phone and Internet working together.

• Plus, get everything you need in one stop: – Sign up for Cox Services – Get all the cables, routers, phone systems you need to get hooked up – Pay your Cox bill – Sign up for classes in our Learning Lounge

Digital Centers: 3505 L Street (Hy-Vee) Omaha, NE 68107 340 N. 76th St. Omaha, NE 68114

So, come in…check us out…and get to know how the NEW Cox Solutions Stores can service your every entertainment need. ©2010 Cox Communications Omaha, LLC. All rights reserved.

Coming Soon: 10000 California St. Ste 2670 (Westroads Mall) Omaha, NE 68114

Call 934-3090

700 South 72nd St. (NFM) Omaha, NE 68114 1729 McPherson Ave. Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Summer Safety Tips

health & wellness

Kelli J. S h

Boys To idler, M.D. wn Ped iatrics

I

t’s almost summertime. When it’s hot outside, the coolest place to be may be your neighborhood swimming pool. It is well known that prolonged, unprotected exposure to the sun puts people at risk for skin cancer. The regular use of sunscreen on children can lower their risk of skin cancer by almost 78%. While you and your children are soaking in the rays and jumping off diving boards, Boys Town Pediatrics would like to offer a few summer sun and pool safety recommendations to help keep your family safe this summer.

Sun Safety For children over 6 months of age, in addition to limiting sun exposure, sunscreen should be used to help protect them from the sun.

Choose a sunscreen, preferably waterproof, with a protection level of at least SPF 15 to 30. Make sure the sunscreen is “broad-spectrum,” meaning it blocks both UVB and UVA rays. Before applying the sunscreen to all exposed areas, apply a small amount to a test area to look for a reaction.

Sunscreen should always be applied carefully around the eyes.

The sunscreen should be applied approximately 30-45 minutes prior to exposure to allow time for the product to

readonlinenow.com

activate. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming if a non-waterproof formulation is used.

Use sunscreen on cloudy days because the sun’s rays still pass through clouds.

Additionally, the sun’s rays can bounce back from surfaces such as sand and concrete, so use particular caution in these areas.

Zinc Oxide is a very effective sun block and can be used as extra protection on the nose, cheeks, tops of the ears, and shoulders.

If your child has sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen that is PABA-free, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free.

For infants less than 6 months of age, the best way to protect them is by limiting exposure to direct sunlight. When outside, try to keep your infant in the shade by placing them under a tree, or by using an umbrella, stroller canopy or a hat to shade your infant’s face. Sunscreen should be used cautiously on infants under 6 months of age.

Pool Safety Always supervise children at the pool. Do not engage in other activities that might take your eyes away from monitoring children.

Choose a pool with a lifeguard. Parents need to continue to supervise their children while a lifeguard is present.

Swim with a buddy Learn CPR. Early emergency help can dramatically increase the survival rate for a victim.

Reapply a broad spectrum sunscreen every 60-90 minutes.

Have your child take breaks from the pool about every 60 minutes. Have your child rest for a few minutes and drink plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated in the summer heat.

Do not use foam or air-filled toys such as noodles, kick boards and arm bands as floatation devices. These toys are designed for play, not to keep children safe in the water.

With consistent adult supervision, plenty of fluids and ample sunscreen, both children and parents will have an enjoyable summer at the pool.

For information on more than 9,000 pediatric topics, visit the Pediatric Advisor at boystownpediatrics.org.

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • health & wellness

7

or leading the way in maternity care,

only one hospital delivers.

Generations of families have known Methodist as the place to have a baby.

Now, the area leader in comprehensive birth services is creating a new legacy in women’s health with the opening of Methodist Women’s Hospital.

We know it’s about giving you our full attention. An advanced communications system that gets you assistance the moment you need it. Areas designed so staff can be highly efficient and react quickly. And all the care you deserve from Methodist Magnet-certified nurses, the gold standard of nursing care.

We know it takes a team that’s above and beyond in expertise. Our team is prepared to handle any unexpected situations because every birth services nurse has advanced training and certifications specific to maternity care. Thanks to wireless fetal monitoring, we always track your baby’s well-being during labor. And should your baby need special attention after delivery, our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides the highest level of NICU care in West Omaha.

We know it’s about comfort for you and your family. Rooms created with the perfect ambience. Special accommodations that allow C-section moms and their babies to recover side-by-side in the same room. And ample room for family and friends so they can share in your joy during this truly special time.

In comfort, in care, in security, we’re the name that’s raising the standard in birth services. And the name chosen by more moms-to-be than any other metro-area hospital. Our Methodist Women’s Hospital will arrive right on schedule in June. To begin your Methodist birth plan or to get more information, please visit methodistforwomen.org.

Explore the details: methodistforwomen.org

Proud to be a member of

devoted to helping women lead healthier lives.

Opens in June ©2010 Methodist Women’s Hospital, an affiliate of Methodist Health System

health & wellness

Welcome to Upward Bound!

“Upward Bound believed in me even before I believed in myself” - Student

U

pward Bound was developed as a result of the Economic Opportunity Act (1964). Upward Bound is one of several federally funded TRiO programs currently funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act (HEA). Upward Bound provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in pre-college performance and ultimately in higher education pursuits. In 2007, 971 Upward Bound programs were funded, serving over 65,000 students nationwide.

Nebraska Methodist College received the Upward Bound grant in December 2007.

The program hired a director and other staff in May 2008, and the program became operational in August 2008. The Nebraska Methodist College Upward Bound grant was funded to serve 50 students at Burke High School in Omaha, Nebraska.

“Everyone has inside of him a piece of good news. The good news is that you don’t know how great you can be! How much you can love!

What you can accomplish!

And what your potential is!” ~ Anne Frank

readonlinenow.com

N

ebraska Methodist College Upward Bound, in partnership with Omaha Burke High School, provides students with opportunities for academic enrichment, college preparation and a once-in-alifetime experience that can help determine a young person’s future.

Eligible first-time participants are 9th, 10th or 11th grade students who are potential first-generation college students and/or who meet federal income requirements. Once a participant is accepted into the NMCUB program, they are encouraged to remain in the program until high school graduation. The goals of Upward Bound are to increase the rates at which participants complete secondary education, enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education.

Upward Bound participants receive academic tutoring, participate in educational workshops and cultural enrichment opportunities, obtain assistance with the college admissions and financial aid application processes, become involved in the community, and much more. Upward Bound services are free to all eligible participants.

All Upward Bound programs provide a safe, fun, respectful learning environment in the areas of instruction of mathematics, laboratory science, composition, literature and foreign language. Other program services can include: instruction in reading, writing, and study skills, academic and financial counseling sessions and workshops, exposure to academic programs and cultural events, tutorial services, mentoring programs, information on post-secondary education opportunities, assistance in

completing college education and financial aid applications, assistance in preparing for college entrance exams, and work-study positions to expose participants to careers requiring a post-secondary degree.

Upward Bound provides an after-school program during the academic year, August - May, from 3:00-5:30 p.m. They also offer a 6-week summer program in June and July, which operates from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Each program offers specific and unique services.

Project Director Allison Kinney-Walker says, “The most important thing we do in Upward Bound is believe in our students, show them we care, and provide opportunities for our students to excel whether it is in math class or on the soccer field; whether it be on the ACT test or during a Poetry Slam. Our students have many talents; Upward Bound gives them the opportunity to shine.”

For more information about this program visit www2.ed.gov/programs/ trioupbound/ or www.methodistcollege. edu/familyandfriends/index.asp?S=13.

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • health & wellness

9

health & wellness One Simple Wish

By Dr. Cory Powers/Powers Chiropractic, P.C.

W

hat is your goal for ideal health? Is it enough to “not be sick” or would we prefer to be vibrantly healthy? Is it enough to “not have back pain” or would it be better to have a strong, resilient lower back? Are we usually just “getting through the day” or are you actively trying to make each day count? Once you commit yourself to striving for overall wellness instead of simply trying to avoid poor health, this new perspective will make all the difference.

“Achieving life is not the equivalent of avoiding death.” -Ayn Rand

Dr. Powers…

“Come see if stress is having a negative effect on your nervous system, your health, and your life.”

Call today for your Free Consultation

POWERS CHIROPRACTIC

A FRESH APPROACH TO HEALTHCARE

10 health & wellness • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

For example...

We brush our teeth to have fresh breath and a pretty smile as well as to prevent cavities and gum disease. If we waited to brush our teeth until they hurt or were falling out we’d have very few teeth left to worry about. The ideal application of chiropractic is to prevent pain emergencies by taking care of our spine just as we might care for our personal hygiene.

Part of my goal for every patient in our office is to teach them to be able to identify the subtle clues that the body gives when the spine is becoming stressed. Being proactive, instead of reacting to pain will help to avoid negative reactions like missing work or school.

For some people, identifying these subtle clues is easy. These people become very skilled at knowing when their spine is getting out of alignment, long before they have pain. For others, especially those people who have learned to live with a certain amount of pain almost every day, it is easier to come in for a check-up on a monthly basis regardless of pain to avoid a severe relapse of their condition.

My greatest wish is to be able to share chiropractic with as many people as I can and to teach them to use it in a way that will enhance the quality of their lives and the lives of their family members. Once they’ve experienced chiropractic, many people choose to come back periodically to maintain their good health for a lifetime…not because they “have to”, but because they want to. omahapublications.com

Wellness Brought

An Indepe

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Caught In The Spray

hen I was a kid, I clearly remember spending many miserable summer evenings shaking from chills after a full day in the water and the sun.

My fair, pre-teen skin had been burned to a stunning fire engine red.

It is truly one of those life experiences you can only know by going through it.

Back then, Solarcaine was your best friend.

You only had aloe if someone’s mom had a plant in her kitchen window. And the worst part? No sunscreen. No one knew what an “SPF” was until 1978. We had “suntan lotion” (Hawaiian Tropic was top-tier), and you used it to get deeper color, not to prevent burning. In fact, in my 12-year-old mind, I was sacrificing for “beauty,” because between regular summer sun burnings, my lily-white skin was a little darker than it normally would be.

Now, as an adult, I look back on those days and shudder. In the 1970 s we simply didn’t understand the connection between sun exposure and skin cancer. I now make sure that my middle-aged self gets regular once-overs from the dermatologist. So far, so good. And I’m simply obsessive about my kids using sunscreen.

Still, even as attuned as I am to skin protection, I still made a huge mistake with my children last summer. We visited the beach in North Carolina. As you may know, beach weather is deceptive.

Lazy, gentle breezes not only mask the heat that your skin is absorbing (both from the sky and the sand), they can also cause significant problems with proper sunscreen application.

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health & wellness

to you by

oss and Bl

arlson, A

W

Corner

The first day, all three kids started out with full lotion from head to toe. But when we pulled them out of the water for reapplication, we used sunscreen spray on my 11-year-old son. It looked like he was covered, but by the end of the day, it was clear that the spray simply didn’t take. He was pink, getting pinker, and by the time we got back to the room, he was flaming red. Talk about a lousy parenting moment.

It was a miserable way for my son to start his five-day beach vacation. He suffered, and he peeled like I’ve never seen before.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone wear sunscreen of at least 15 SPF all year, and no skimping. It also recommends that you choose a product that suits your skin, and your activity. As my family learned the hard way, sunscreen spray is probably not the best choice for the beach. Go for the lotions or creams.

Playing sports or outdoor swimming? You have sweat-proof and water-proof choices.

Sensitive skin? Many sunscreens are now hypo-allergenic, and there are even babysafe lotions.

As we finally start enjoying the sun again, please remember to protect your skin.

Experts say skin damage occurs with each unprotected exposure and accumulates over the course of a lifetime, so be proactive, and teach your kids how to guard their skin.

For more on the history and guidelines for skin protection, you can visit www. skincancer.org.

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • health & wellness

11

health & wellness

May Celebrates Foster Care Awareness

A

ll Jeff ever knew was abuse and neglect. He never knew his father, and his mother was always too high to pay attention to his needs. Often left alone for hours on end, Jeff didn’t understand life could be different. But when he met his Boys Town Foster Parents, he realized for the first time there was hope for a brighter future.

May celebrates Foster Care Awareness to honor those individuals who work to ensure youth like Jeff have a safe and loving place to call home. At Boys Town, Foster Family Services is part of our Integrated Continuum of Care, bringing the research-proven Boys Town Model to foster care.

“Boys Town recognizes how important foster parents are in the life of a child,” said Lana Temple-Plotz, Boys Town Nebraska/Iowa Foster Family Services Manager. “We strive to ensure all our foster families receive the support and guidance they need to provide healing and hope.”

Our Foster Parents are heroes to the youth who are placed with them. They provide boys and girls with a safe place to live and a nurturing environment they may never have known otherwise. We also know Foster Parents can’t do it alone. That’s why Boys Town offers comprehensive training and the 24/7 professional support that Foster Parents need to help children succeed. Our Foster

Parents also receive a competitive reimbursement for making a difference in a child’s life. While living Boys Town’s mission, our Foster Parents become a part of a 92-year history that has changed the way America cares for children and families.

For Jeff, being part of a family and coming home every day to someone who cares are what really helped him succeed in his first year as a Boys Town foster child. Jeff ’s grades jumped dramatically and he got in less trouble at school, mainly because of the care and support of his Foster Parents.

“Boys Town is committed to growing our foster care program in Nebraska and Iowa to serve the many children in need in our community,” said Temple-Plotz. “We are so lucky to have families that are willing to give their heart and their home to provide children with the help and support they need to be successful.”

You too can become a hero in the lives of children like Jeff. If you’ve always dreamed of being a Boys Town Foster Parent, now’s the perfect time to make your dream a reality. Hurting children are counting on you.

For more information, call 402.498.3018 today and become a hero in the life of a child!

a child needs you » » » »

24/7 support Competitive reimbursement

ter Parent s o F a e m o c e B

On-going training Access to leading care strategies and research

498-3018

12 health & wellness • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

0912-233

Call today for more information

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FITCHAT

health & wellness Fiesta Burgers Con Queso 30 to 35 minutes

y

stin Kenned Robert & Kri ness Kennedy Fit 5 9 402-871-7 3

Fit Chat, Fit Tips

S

ummer break is upon us. Another school year has come and gone. Some of you have graduations to attend, many of you may be preparing for a family vacation...and I’d be willing to bet that almost none of you are thinking about next school year yet!

We have truly enjoyed writing Fit Chat, and would like to thank you for reading it. We would also like to thank Family Spectrum for allowing us the opportunity to write for you these past nine months. It has been our pleasure to meet, and even help some of you begin achieving your health and fitness goals.

Kristin and I are planning an abbreviated version of “Fit Chat”, simply titled “Fit Tips” for the upcoming summer issues of Family Spectrum. At the same time, we are very excited to have been asked to continue “Fit Chat” next school year! If you have any suggestions for topics that you’d like us to write about next year, please contact us or Family Spectrum to let us know.

For now though, I’d like to remind each of you how important it is for you to take care of yourself. It’s so easy to get caught up in “the daily grind” and help everyone other than you! Please remember that the choices you make regarding your own health can affect everyone you know and love.

If you choose to eat fast food because your too busy to cook, skip the gym because you’re “too tired”, or decide you’ll quit smoking “next month”... These choices will not only have an adverse effect on your health, but may in fact leave your spouse a single parent, and your children with an irreversibly unfortunate impression of the “right and wrong” choices that they should make in their own lives.

Love your family. Love yourself. Show it through good health.

1 pound ground beef 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 1 jalapeño pepper, minced 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro 1/2 cup shredded Chihuahua cheese, divided 4 small tortillas, warmed or hamburger buns, split, toasted Toppings: Thinly sliced lettuce, chopped tomato, avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, guacamole (optional) 1.Combine ground beef, onion, jalapeño, cilantro and 1/4 cup cheese in medium bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lightly shape into four 1/2-inch thick patties.

2.Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place patties in skillet; cook 10 to 12 minutes turning occasionally, occasionall until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160°F, turning occasionally. About 3 minutes before burgers are done, top evenly with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.

3.Place burgers in tortillas or buns; season with salt and black pepper, as desired. Top with desired toppings.

Makes 4 servings.

Bruschetta Burger 30 to 35 minutes

1 pound ground beef 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons minced green onions Olive oil 4 slices rustic crusty bread, cut 1/2 inch thick Bruschetta Topping: 3/4 cup chopped red tomatoes 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chopped yellow tomatoes 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh basil Pepper 1.Combine Bruschetta Topping ingredients in medium bowl; set aside.

2.Combine ground beef, cheese, green onions and garlic in medium bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lightly shape into four 1/2-inch thick patties.

3.Place patties in center of grid, over medium, ash-covered coals.

Grill, uncovered, 11-13 minutes (over medium heat on pre heated gas grill, covered, 7-8 minutes) until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160°F, turning occasionally, .

4.Meanwhile, brush both sides of bread slices with oil. About 3 minutes before burgers are done, place bread on grid. Grill until lightly toasted, turning once.

5.Season burgers with salt and pepper, as desired. Place 1 burger on each bread slice; top each with 1/4 cup Bruschetta Topping. Serve open-faced.

Makes 4 servings.

Recipes continued on back...

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• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • health & wellness

13

health & wellness Sweet

Hawaiian Mini Burgers 35 to 40 minutes

1 pound ground beef 4 canned pineapple slices, drained 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 12 Hawaiian sweet or small whole wheat dinner rolls, split Lettuce Sauce: 1/4 cup barbecue sauce 1/4 cup pineapple preserves 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar 1.Combine ground beef and Worcestershire sauce in medium bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lightly shape into twelve 1/2-inch thick mini patties. Set aside.

2.Combine sauce ingredients in small saucepan; bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

3.Place patties on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, uncovered, 8 to 10 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, covered, 9 to 11 minutes) until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160°F, turning occasionally.

4.Meanwhile brush pineapple slices with sauce and place on grid around patties. Grill pineapple 4 minutes, turning once and brushing with additional sauce. Remove pineapple, keep warm.

Brush burgers with remaining sauce after turning.

5.Cut each pineapple slice into thirds. Line bottom of each roll with lettuce, top with burger, then with pineapple piece.

Makes 4 servings.

Bistro Burger 30 minutes

B A B I E S are our business

1-1/2 lb ground beef 4 sweet onion slices (1/2") Vegetable oil 8 slices Swiss process cheese food 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 Tbsp Dijon-style mustard 4 crusty rolls, split, toasted Romaine lettuce, tomato slices 1. Lightly shape ground beef into four 3/4" thick patties. Brush onion with oil.

2. Place patties in center of grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Place onion around patties. Grill, uncovered, 13 to 15 minutes to medium (160°F) doneness, until patties are not pink in center and juices show no pink color and onions are tender, turning occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

About 1 minute before patties are done, top each with 2 cheese slices.

3. Mix mayonnaise and mustard; spread on roll tops. Serve burgers and onion in rolls with lettuce and tomato.

4 servings

OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc. 4920 South 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68107 30th & L Street (Located in the Historic Livestock Exchange Building)

Call 734-4110 for an appointment

For more recipes visit www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com 14 health & wellness • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

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3/22/2010 2:26:28 PM

What’s In Your Heart?

RoxAnn Worley, LMHP, CPC • Norris Elementary Counselor, Millard Public Schools

I

was reading a very interesting book that focused on our hearts. The book was not about the physical health of the heart, but rather the bad habits of the heart. It discussed how a sick heart, full of anger, resentment, jealousy and secrets, can damage our relationships and our character. Our denial allows us to ignore the sickness lodged in our hearts. We may try to hide it, but it eventually comes out in the way we act or treat others. What about the person that finds it easy to find fault in other people, but cannot look at his faults?

What about the person that doesn’t care if his anger or negativity affects other people?

Our anger desensitizes us to the harshness we are inflicting on others or on ourselves.

Beyond the obvious angry person, what about the individuals with the bad feelings in their hearts as a reaction to someone’s negative habits? How have they responded and what resentments do they hold?

As part of caring for ourselves, we need to guard against what can be hidden in our hearts.

As I read this book, I started to reflect on what needed to be done to heal the pain that was creating problems in my heart. I needed to look at how these issues were

affecting my life? After a reflection of my emotional health, I started to think of another very important reason to rid my heart of these negative habits. My actions, my relationships and my character all influence what my child has in her heart.

Remember the saying, “out of the mouths of babes?” Have you ever been embarrassed when your child said something he/she heard you say? Have you ever seen your child act in a way that was modeling your behavior? We all know our children pick up on what we say and what we do, as well as how we think. If there is anger, resentment, guilt or jealousy in our hearts, our children can easily take on these characters. As parents, we want our children to enjoy life and have a genuine concern for others. If this is a real desire, then we can’t ignore the true condition in our hearts. It is important to guard against the bad habits that can easily be transferred to our children.

Part of being a parent is making sure our children use good manners, complete their homework, keep their room clean, and eat healthy. We teach them to monitor their behavior and performance, but do we teach them to pay attention to their hearts? Do we teach them to guard against the painful clutter that can lodge in their hearts? The book reviews how we can train our children to monitor this by the questions we ask.

We can help our children learn to examine the bad secrets that can cause an unhealthy heart by asking, “Is everything okay in your heart? Is there anything you need to tell me, anything you are worried about? Are you mad at anybody or did anybody hurt you today? Has anyone let you down?” These questions teach our children the value we place on a healthy heart and help them to gauge what they keep in their heart. By doing this, we can teach our children to confess, forgive, hold genuine feelings and be able to celebrate the successes of others.

The healthy heart can lead to greater happiness and positive relationships now and in to adulthood.

What is your heart showing?

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • community of learning

15

community of learning

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AND WITH A HEALTHY HEART, I’M FINALLY GOING TO AND WITHTAKE A HEALTHY HEART, I’M MY DAUGHTER TO FINALLY EUROPE.GOING TO AND WITHTAKE A HEALTHY HEART, I’M MY DAUGHTER TO FINALLY EUROPE.GOING TO We all have passions. at Iowa Heart, passion is delivering TAKE MYAndDAUGHTER TOthat EUROPE.

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Fontenellewww.fontenelleforest.org Forest Nature Center • 402.731.3140 1111 Bellevue Blvd N. in Bellevue Fontenelle Forest Nature Center NealeBellevue Woods Nature 1111 Blvd N.Center in Bellevue 14323 Edith Marie Ave. in Omaha Neale Woods Nature Center 14323 Edith Marie Ave. in Omaha

16 community of learning • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

Get ready to explore and play in Omaha with the upcoming 2nd edition of GO! Play Adventure.

This program takes your family all over the greater metro area to experience all kinds of outdoor fun. Finish the book and earn prizes! watch for details on how to obtain your book. or call the NRD at 444.6222

www.papionrd.org

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community of learning Learning through www.ocm.org

Calendar Closed for Benefit Friday, April 30-Saturday, May 1 The museum will be closed April 30-May 1 for the 31st annual For the Kids Benefit. Go to www.ocm.org for tickets or more information.

First Friday Family Date Night May 7, 4-8 p.m.

Join the team and celebrate during this Super Sports themed evening that’s fun for the whole family.

All activities are included with admission or membership. Dinner available for purchase.

Grand Opening of Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog™ Saturday, May 29, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Member Preview Saturday, May 29, 9-10 a.m.

Be the first to experience the new traveling exhibit full of ”paws-on” fun. See Clifford, Emily Elizabeth and all the residents of Birdwell Island!

Closed for Memorial Day Monday, May 31 Dress Up Days – Every Friday!

Check ocm.org for themes.

Go to www.ocm.org for details on calendar events.

Join in the fun and learning – follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

500 S 20th Street | Omaha, NE 68102 |

(402) 342-6164

| FREE Parking

March Highlights First Friday Family Date Nights!

Looking for the perfect Friday night family activity? Look no further. Omaha Children’s Museum will be open late until 8 p.m. on the first Friday of each month while we’re observing Winter hours. Hooray! These nights will be packed with activities for your perfect family date. Mark the calendar on May 7 for the last Family Date Night of the season. See you then!

Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog™ Board the Birdwell Island ferry and journey to the world of Clifford™, America’s beloved big red dog with a heart to match. See Emily Elizabeth™ and all the residents of Birdwell Island.

Inspired by scholastic’s top rated TV show Clifford The Big Red Dog™ on PBS KIDS™, the exhibit offers numerous immersive “paws-on” adventures that reinforce “Clifford’s Big Ideas,” 10 simple, tangible, life lessons are designed to help young children navigate their world.

Visit all of Clifford’s favorite places on the island, including Clifford’s doghouse, and a colossal nine-foot Clifford with a tail kids can slide down, just like Emily Elizabeth does on the television show. Kids can also help fill Clifford’s big dog bowl with bones using a conveyor belt. Create sand art and find “bone-ifide” treasures at T-Bone’s Beach. Watch for BIG RED special events coming soon!

As always, you can get all the details on the museum’s events and activities at www.ocm.org!

May 7 NEW Traveling Exhibit Coming to Omaha Children’s Museum

Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum together with Scholastic Entertainment. © 2010 Scholastic Entertainment Inc. SCHOLASTIC and logos are trademarks of Scholastic Inc. CLIFFORD and CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG and logos are trademarks of Norman Bridwell. All rights reserved.

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4 -8 p.m.

Super Sports Theme!

Come in your favorite sports uniform.

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • community of learning

17

community of learning

Writer’s Corner

Proudly Presented by:

8702 Pacific St., Countryside Village (402) 392-2877 www.bookwormomaha.com

Exploring Day By: Diana Have you ever had a special day? For instance, exploring day, soccer day, fun day or others? I probably am always using my vivid imaginacion (imagination in Spanish). So, we may all have different days.

Exploring day is my day.

If I wanted to get away, the only place I could think of going is …MY woods! Just kidding, it’s not MINE! It’s the woods behind my dad’s house. OK, let me get on track. I’m entering the mysterious woods. As I enter, the dead leaves once beautiful are crunching. “Crunch, crunch, crunch, crunch.”

The other sounds I hear are the symphony of crickets, the wind pushing against my cheeks and my hands are freezing. Meanwhile, my body is as warm as a polar bear would probably be.

Wait! I hear something. It’s just the wind telling me to hush. I look back to see if anyone is sneaking behind me trying to scare me, but no one is there.

There is slippery mud under my feet. Oh, my gosh!

I slipped but did not get dirty. Well on my back now, I face the sky, and there I see the birds. They are leaving because it’s too cold to stay here. Now, this is where my vivid imaginacion (imagination in Spanish) starts. I’m jumping across the skinny swamp full of crocodiles. I’m alone with my friends. It’s cold and windy.

I’m finally here! I’m at the peaceful village. It’s vivid and silent too. Everywhere I turn, I see different things, sizes and colors. Kind of when you see a snowflake. Wait we are not alone. We

To read more short stories from local youth, check our blog page at www.blog.familyspectrum.com. This month we are featuring Megan and her story, “Best Friends.”

18 community of learning • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

mustn’t make a sound. It will eat us. I hear the scream of my dad yelling, “Diana come back.” This interrupts my day. Maybe there will be another exploring day…who knows?

My name is Diana. I live with my mom. She is a role model to me. After school I go to Girls INC. At GIRLS INC. I do many activities. Later my dad comes to pick me up. With my dad I like to go to the backyard where I usually let my mind explore. Also, where I wrote my story. I enjoy reading, math, helping out and getting on the internet. I love my family and all the people around me.

Diana was the intermediate winner of a writing contest at her school and her principal, Sandra Bredfeldt, submitted this for publication.

ATTENTION YOUNG WRITERS!

Submit your original short stories and/or poems to writers@FamilySpectrum.com, and we may choose YOURS to feature in our next issue! In addition, all featured work will be awarded with a gift certificate to The Bookworm bookstore.

Submission of a story or poem automatically gives Family Spectrum publishing rights to publish in whole or in part. Family Spectrum will notify writers of intent of use prior to publishing.

omahapublications.com

20 title • month/month year • website

community of learning

2010 Summer Camp Guide Arbor Day Tree Adventure Discover something new.

Arbor Day Tree Adventure is an attraction that surrounds you, touches all your senses, and captivates you with fun and discoveryevery time you visit. Visit www.arbordayfarm.org for more information.

Arts For All Arts For All is a dynamic arts education program developed to be affordable for all. We provide quality culturally enriched classes that encourage personal growth. Our summer programs have not been finalized yet, however look for more information here next month.

Visit our website www.artsforallinc.com.

Goddard Schools Summertime Fun and Learning at The Goddard School. For more information about camp options call 891-4897.

Hitchcock Nature Center Pottawattamie County Conservation Summer Day Camps are designed to encourage hands-on learning through outdoor explorations, hiking, activities, crafts, games and more. We offer camps at Hitchcock Nature Center and Arrowhead Park. For more information visit http:// www.pottcoconservation.com/html/ daycamps.html.

The Durham Museum Explore Extreme Weather at Durham’s Summer Camps!

This summer, kids will be able to immerse themselves in the awesome powers of Mother Nature with summer camps based on The Durham Museum’s new interactive exhibit, Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters, from Chicago’s Field Museum.

The camps will explore the science behind Earthquakes, Tornadoes, Hurricanes, Volcanic Eruptions and Tsunamis. To register, visit www.DurhamMuseum.org.

Hummel Park Summer Camp The Hummel Day Camp Program is an outdoor recreation and education program for youth who have completed 1st grade through 7th grade this current school year. They offer week-long camps run from June 7th - August 13th. Activities include: hiking, nature identification, archery, arts and crafts, outdoor cooking, wilderness skills, water and mud activities, camp singing, and many more! For more information, visit http://co.douglas. ne.us/omaha/parks/hummel-day-camp.

Fontenelle Nature Association Gear up for a summer adventure! 2010 Nature Discovery Day Camps Fontenelle Nature Association presents over 50 summer day camps. Whether you choose a camp focused on canoeing, critters or art - your camper will have an amazing summer adventure! Camps for toddlers through 8th graders. Visit www.FontenelleForest. org for more information.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center Summer Day Camp Enjoy the camp experience of a lifetime at CAMP KROC, June 7 - July 30. This exciting day camp for kids, Kindergarten through 6th grade, is jam-packed with activities that help youth find their natural giftedness and potential through Education, The Arts, Sports and Spiritual Enrichment. Register by May 15th and receive 50% OFF your camp registration

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fee! For more details, call 402-905-3580 or visit us on-line at www.omahakroc.org.

Lauritzen Gardens Omaha’s Botanical Gardens offer three camp programs: Summer Garden Adventures, Camp Green Thumb or Explore Omaha Camp. For more information, or to register, call the education department at (402) 346-4002 ext. 263.

NE Humane Society If your kids are crazy about animals, then the Nebraska Humane Society Camp Kindness is for you. Children 6 to 12 years of age will experience the unconditional joy of bonding with animals, while learning life lessons about responsible pet ownership and the impact that animals have in our lives. Highlights include picking a “kennel buddy,” tours of the surgical suite as veterinarians work, lessons from trainers on humane dog training, even bathing puppies! For information check our website at www.nehumanesociety.org.

Omaha Children’s Museum Register for Summer Camps 2010 by contacting the museum’s Group Sales Coordinator at groups@ocm.org or (402) 342-6164 ext.

424. There are several camps to choose from including The Land Before Time, Camp Clifford, The Amazing Race and Pirates of the OCM, and MORE. For more information visit www.ocm.org.

Omaha Hearing School Language Fun Camp is offered daily from 9-11:30 a.m., June 7-25. Sign up for 1, 2, or all 3 weeks! This program is designed for to 3-5 y/o hearing children and is particularly beneficial

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • community of learning

21

will spend part of their time laughing, community of learning Kids bouncing and playing “Brainy” games. The to children needing extra assistance with speech/language. Call the Omaha Hearing School for more information. 558.1546.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Have a WILD summer with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Daycamps! Certified teachers will guide students through days packed with educational activities, tours, games and much more! For more information, visit www.OmahaZoo.com.

Papio-Missouri River NRD Summer Camps This year Papio-Missour River NRD is offering three different summer camp programs: Diggin Nature for Pre-K, ages 4-5; Jr. Explorers Camp is for ages 6-9 and Survival Camp is for campers ranging from age 10 to 14. For more information visit http://66.37.246.222/educational_ resources/summer_camps.shtml.

Phoenix Academy The Phoenix Academy has summer school programs for all ability learners. We offer two sessions for Language and Math. First session begins June 7th-July 2nd, and the second session runs July 12th -30th. For more information call 3990-0556.

P.E. 101 We invite you to visit Omaha’s Best Indoor Playground for kids!! At P.E. 101 Kids Gym our Summer Camps focus on “Making Fitness FUN”! Our goal is to provide your child with the best Summer Camp experience in Omaha! Our camps combine fun fitness games with free play activities. Some activities include climbing our rock wall, zipping down the Zipline, playing basketball, jumping on the trampoline, swinging into the giant foam pit, running obstacle courses and building forts with our shape mats. P.E. 101 is located at 2920 North 118th Circle (4 blocks south of Maple Street). Please call us at 445-8343 or visit www.pe101kidsgym. com for more information. Please join us in “Making Fitness FUN at P.E. 101!”

Pump it Up & LearningRx Join Pump it Up and LearningRx as they offer “JumpN-Art with a Brainy Twist.” Now kids can explore their creative side, their bouncing side AND enhance brain skills all in one amazing camp.

rest of their time will be spent exploring their inner Rembrandts. “Jump-N-Art with a Brainy Twist” is a combination of two great methods; allowing children to explore art through self–expression while enhancing cognitive skills like attention and processing speed through fun brain games.

Omaha Royals - Family Fun Days on Sundays Game schedule available at wwworoyals.com. Every Family Fun Day there will be clown and face painters entertaining kids. If you are a Royals Kids Club member you get into the game FREE. Plus all kids after the game can run the bases at historic Rosenblatt Stadium. For more information visit www.oroyals.com.

Participants will also have lunch, snacks and experience other awesome activities.

So make your next camp, “Jump-N-Art with a Brainy Twist”, at Pump It Up! SAC Musuem The Strategic Air & Space Museum’s Education Department is committed to fueling the curiosity of children across the Midwest and to educating them with special emphasis in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). We believe that STEM is a direction of great significance for our youth and the future of our country and world and so we strive for excellence in all of our STEMcentered educational programs. For more information visit http://www.sasmuseum. com/education/summer-camps/.

Other Summer Fun Activities: CoCo Key Water Resort Wouldn’t it be great to be able to get away to the tropical islands any time you want without having to get on a plane? Now you can, at CoCo Key Water Resort, Nebraska’s Largest Indoor Water Resort. CoCo Key combines the relaxation and enchantment of the islands with the wild excitement of a 60,000 sq.-ft. of indoor waterpark. Every day is a bright, sunny 84 degrees at CoCo Key, featuring a selection of signature attractions. For more information visit http://www. cocokeywaterresort.com/locations/ omaha/water-park/attractions.aspx#.

Omaha Public Library Make waves at Omaha Public Library’s Summer Reading Program Kickoff, June 1 from 6 to 8p.m. at Elmwood Park! Splish splash with animals and have oceans of fun at the dunk tank, among other high seas adventures. Join Scamper and your friends as we turn on the waterworks to welcome the Summer Reading Program!

22 community of learning • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

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• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • community of learning

23

open forum

A Story Too Common

K

evin was a 13-year-old referred to Child Protective Services.

His mother struggled with drugs and his father was in jail for sexual abuse charges. Kevin was removed from his mother’s home after being hit across the back and stomach with a belt when he acted out. He was also hit in the face when he had difficult days at school. After three months, Kevin’s uncle, who was providing care for Kevin and his siblings, decided that he could no longer care for him.

Embrace Foster Children There are thousands of kids in foster care in Nebraska. Many

are vicitms of physical, sexual and emotional abuse or neglect. Many have problems that interfere with their ability to succeed in traditional foster care. Many need specialized family settings.

Kevin was taken to a foster home with a few of his belongings packed in a large, black trash bag. He struggled in his new school setting, showing no motivation, very little respect, and slim commitment to getting better.

After enrolling in school, Kevin’s foster parent’s grown son introduced Kevin to the two school football coaches. After trying out, Kevin was asked to join the varsity team as a freshman! He worked and attended practice twice a day during summer football camp, not missing a single practice. Kevin, who was initially described as “unmotivated, overweight and tough to control,” finally felt like he belonged to something.

Kevin could not wait for his first game. His foster mother called everyone she could think of, as did Kevin, to invite them to watch the first game. Kevin’s caseworker, foster care specialist, relatives, teachers–even Kevin’s foster parent’s employer was called. In fact, the employer was so proud of Kevin’s accomplishment that he offered to pay for Kevin to have his name sewn onto the back of his jersey. There were dozens of supporters in attendance for the first game. Kevin’s team won 62-34 that night.

All of them need help and hope. tly Curren riety a va seeking ilies for m fa of d Foster anve Adopti n!

Childre

Certainly, Kevin has had his share of ups and downs, but he continued to stay committed to his team. Football became a part of his treatment process. He felt like he had a responsibility to his team. He felt like he had a responsibility to himself to be a part of something that made him feel good.

There are thousands of Kevins in Nebraska whose history of their families are all too similar. Kevin was blessed with the support of his extended family and community to help him feel somewhat whole again. If you or someone you know may have room in your heart and home for a foster child and would like to learn more about how to become a foster parent, please call Kim Clark-Kaczmarek, Luthern Family Services at 661-7110.

Children Services Center | (800) 267-9876 | (402) 661-7100 | www.lfsneb.org

“Building & Strengthening Families”

Family Spectrum 1 24 open- Embrace forum •Foster mayChildren 2010 •ad 3-16-10.indd family spectrum

A Community of Support

magazine • • • •3/10/2010

11:01:37 AM

omahapublications.com

Omaha Real estate Is it a good time to buy?

We are often asked if this is a good time to buy a home. Some clients are concerned that home prices may fall further than they have already. They are assuming that the best course of action is to wait for the bottom in the market and then buy. The problem with this approach is that you don’t know where the bottom is until you see it in the rear view mirror, meaning until you’ve missed it!

Home prices are one factor in determining your cost of ownership, but so are interest rates and financing availability. Even though interest rates have remained steady, they are still near historic lows. Since your monthly mortgage payment is a combination of paying down your principal and paying the interest owed, if home prices come down a little further but interest rates up, it could cost you even more to service a mortgage on an identical home!

Featured Properties

5630 N 51 Avenue $95,000

3310 N 147th Court $130,000

While a home is a major investment, it is also the center of your personal life. It’s important to live in a home that reflects your taste and values, yet is within your financial “comfort zone.” To that end, it may be more important to lock in today’s relatively low interest rates and low home prices, rather than to hope for a further break in prices in the future.

Please give us a call if we can be of any assistance in determining how much home you can afford in today’s market.

11663 Newport Avenue $135,000

For All Your Real Estate Needs: www.therealestateprosomaha.com

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Cohoe

831 Redwood Lane $175,000

6607 N 157th Circle $375,000

open forum Part 3: THE ESTATE PLANNING SOLUTION: The Three Step Strategy ™

The Truth About Estate Planning

I

t’s Not About Documents – It’s About Results! The key to proper estate planning is clear, comprehensive, customized instructions for your own care and that of your loved ones. These instructions can be included in a will, a trust, and in several other related documents. We find that most of our clients are best served with a combination of these tools, backed up by the Three Step Strategy™.

STEP 1: DEVELOP Your Plan with Counseling–Oriented Planning Partners. (as opposed to a word processing, documentoriented attorney) We fear that much of what passes for estate planning in this country is little more than word processing! We don’t believe you should pay a licensed professional to do word processing. Their value is in their counsel and advice, based on knowledge, wisdom, and experience. If word processing is all you want, you may as well do it yourself ! But if you want an estate plan that works, seek good counseling from an attorney who is willing to work closely with other professionals such as your financial advisor.

STEP 2: COMMIT Yourself and Your Family to a Continuing Maintenance and Education Program.

An estate plan faces a myriad of changes. First, there is constant change in your personal, family, and financial situation. Secondly, there is constant change in both tax law and non-tax law that impacts your estate plan. Third, there is constant change in your attorney’s experience and expertise. Your professional advisors are continually improving through ongoing education and collected experience. Since everything constantly changes, you cannot expect a plan to accomplish what it was intended to accomplish if it is never updated. The costs of failing to update are typically far greater than the costs of keeping your plan current.

STEP 3: SECURE Appropriate Assistance for You and Your Family to Transfer Your Wisdom Along with Your Wealth.

It’s one thing to pass your wealth to the next generation. It’s a different thing to pass it along in an orderly and protected manner.

And it’s yet another thing to pass along your wisdom. A good estate plan will accomplish all three things. By working with a team of professionals, your heirs will be able to receive their inheritance in a form that is protected from creditors and predators. In addition, you can structure your estate plan to provide in–depth instructions or commentary on those things that you believe are important for those heirs to know and do.

by Charles E. Dorwart, Estate Planning Attorny

11414 West Center Road, Suite 344, Omaha, NE 68144 (402) 558-1404 Member of National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys

Be Sure

They Inherit More Than Your Good Fashion Sense

Truth About Estate Planning

Wills & Trusts Trust & Probate Administration Estate Tax Planning Medical Directives

Free Estate Plan Review Charles e. Dorwart Estate Planning Attorney 11414 West Dogde Road, Suite 344 Omaha, Nebraska 68144 (402) 558-1404 • cdorwartjd@aol.com

26 open forum • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

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on the go

At Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City, it’s more than a forest – it’s discovery around every bend.

The Perfect Family Outing Less than an hour south of Omaha, Arbor Day Farm® Tree Adventure™ attraction is the natural choice for a summer family daytrip. With 260 acres of hiking trails, exhibits and orchards, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. Play a forest melody on the marimba. Listen to birds in the trees, then mimic and record your own unique bird call. Climb aboard the Discovery Ride for a guided journey deep into the forest. Take a tour of the greenhouse, where thousands of tree seedlings get their start every year. Or climb a tree house 50 feet high for a bird’s eye view of the treetops. Even sit back, relax, and watch “Trees in the Movies” on the giant screen, a compilation of notable films with trees in the leading role.

These are the things that family memories are made of. What will you discover at Arbor Day Farm?

Summer Guided Tours From April through October, more than 15,000 children visit Arbor Day Farm each year. Scout troops, summer school students, daycares and other groups hit the trails to learn about tree identification, renewable energy, honeybees, and the strength, beauty, and value of trees in the natural world. Carol Crook has been a tour guide at Arbor Day Farm for more than 16 years. “I lead pre-school groups and high school tours and it is always fascinating,” says Carol. “It’s exploring, and kids love to explore. The fun is in the spontaneity.”

Find a list of Arbor Day Farm Guided Tour options online at www.arbordayfarm.org/tours.

Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure 2611 Arbor Avenue Nebraska City, NE 68410 (402) 873-8717 Open Daily Hours & Admission online at www.arbordayfarm.org/visit

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• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • on the go

27

on the go

Great Park Pursuit K

icking off its third season on May 1, 2010, the Great Park Pursuit will return with more family fun and outdoor adventure. This year’s program will challenge teams to visit fifteen park sites throughout Nebraska.

At each site participants follow clues to collect nature–based impressions from posts hidden in the park.

Entry into prize drawings are based on the number of impressions collected.

Sharing a common goal to promote the use of parks as a sensible and inexpensive way to stay healthy, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and Nebraska Recreation and Park Association partnered to launch the program in 2008.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services returns as the program’s title sponsor to help encourage active lifestyles while increasing awareness of Nebraska’s nature rich outdoor recreation opportunities. Outdoor Recreation Products’ third year of program sponsorship will continue to provide closeto-home opportunities for participants.

The Great Park Pursuit program and registration are free.

Participants only need to pay for postage when mailing in nature impressions and entry into some of the park sites. Teams can be made up of families, friends, coworkers, youth organizations, or any other group of individuals.

To register, visit www.negpp.org, (402)471-5424 or email info@negpp.

Connecting families and youth in the natural world is more important than ever. The Great Park Pursuit strives to provide an opportunity which allows participants to have fun and feel comfortable in natural environments. This year’s sites will again showcase the great natural resources of Nebraska while highlighting locations that offer educational, historical, and entertainment opportunities.

28 on the go • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

questions

call

2010 Great Pursuit Location Sites: Branched Oak State Recreation Area David City Park – David City Johnson Park – Fremont Zorinsky Lake – Omaha Willow Creek State Recreation Area Niobrara State Park Cowboy Trail near Long Pine Riverside Park – Scottsbluff Legion Park – Sidney Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Lake Helen Park – Gothenburg Fort Kearny State Recreation Area Bussell Park – Ord Streeter Park – Aurora Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area

June 5-6, 2010 Qwest Center Lot G Saturday, June 5 10 am - 8 pm Sunday, June 6 11am - 5 pm

This year’s program will highlight the relationship between physical activity, access to quality open space, and healthy Nebraskans. To promote the relationship, posts will be located between one-half mile and one mile out on accessible trail systems at park sites. This distance allows participants to achieve their 30 minutes of daily physical activity as recommended for adults by the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

A second change to this year’s program will be the inclusion of long –distance posts at three selected sites. These posts will be located at further distances in the park. Participants will have the opportunity to select the normal post at each of these three sites, or choose the longer distance “bonus” posts. Additional prize drawings will be held for teams reaching the bonus posts.

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STRATEGIC AIR & SPACE MUSEUM

2010 SUMMER CAMPS Mad Scientist Camp * June 14 -16/July 5-9 Weekend Flight Camp * June 11-13, July 9-11, Aug 6-8 Resident Flight Camp * June 21-24 & July 12-15 Astronaut Academy * June 27 – July 1st & July 25-29

Register Online today! www.SASMuseum.com or Call Zach at 402-944-3100 ext. 211 readonlinenow.com

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • on the go

29

Did You Break a Bone in the Last Five Years?

The Creighton University Osteoporosis Research Center is currently recruiting for a bone quality study.

Call if you meet the following criteria: • Ages 45-70 • At least four years since last menstrual period • Not currently on treatment for osteoporosis • The broken bone was not a result of an auto accident For more information, please contact our research staff and mention the bone quality study at 402.280.BONE (2663) or toll free 800.368.5097. http://osteoporosis.creighton.edu

The Creighton University Osteoporosis Research Center

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May not be used in conjunction with special events.

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Check out current and past results of Best of Omaha®. See who the readers of Omaha Magazine chose as their local favorites for Dining, Entertainment, Shopping and much more.

Papio Bay Aquatic Center

815 E. Halleck Street Papillion, NE 68046 (402) 597-2041 www.papillion.org/recreation.cfm 30 on the go • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

omahapublications.com

on the go New Activities Bring Nebraska History to Life for Fourth Graders 8212 ZOO_Fam_Spectrum_summer_ad_fnl.pdf

1

3/17/10

3:21 PM

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esigned to complement the existing fourth-grade Nebraska history curriculum, new tools and activities to engage students and bring elements of history to life in the classroom will soon be available to teachers across the state.

Games, materials and interactive activities will help educate students about the fun and historical discoveries they can make along Nebraska’s nine scenic and historic byways.

Developed by the Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism with input from teachers, the new tools, games and activities are based on information in The Nebraska Adventure, a popular Nebraska history textbook. The Division of Travel and Tourism’s animated youth mascot, Tyler, is featured prominently in the creative presentation, while content is focused on the historical significance of locations across Nebraska. Topics include map reading, state symbols, American Indians, explorers and pioneers, forts and military bases, and more.

Beginning in May, each Nebraska elementary school will receive a complete kit of fourth-grade activities and tools including: a Nebraska map with icons for various historical locations across the state; a DVD of a new Nebraska byway history video for kids; classroom activities including crafts; worksheets and interactive games; and field trip suggestions. A Web site has also been developed at HistoryWithTyler. com that includes electronic versions of many of the program materials as well as online games such as Who Are They?, Geography Jam and a photo hunt to show kids that learning Nebraska history and fun really can go hand in hand.

Download electronic program materials, play the online games and learn more about the new classroom tools and activities at HistoryWithTyler.com.

readonlinenow.com

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • on the go

31

open forum

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Dog Grooming Salon All Grooms Include

Lots of TLC Pet Sitting Also Available Gentle Handling Licensed, Bonded & Insured Individual Attention Bath & Blow Dry Brush Out Nail Trim www.4pawsomaha.com Hair Cut 402-894-1812 Ear Cleaning

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32 open forum • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

omahapublications.com

on the go

! n o i t a c ay t s M ay is full of new adventures, so take your family on a local Omaha vacation!

face with some rare and exotic creatures.

While you are at the zoo, eat lunch with the monkeys at the Treetop Café.

To get a “jump start” on your summer planning, make plans to attend a special event on May 22nd, from noon to 8:00 p.m. at Village Pointe. Omaha Convention and Visitors Bureau, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, The Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha Children’s Museum, Joslyn Art Museum, Village Pointe and the Amazing Pizza Machine will unveil the Omaha Adventure coupon book that will entice families to explore our wonderful city. Family activities are planned throughout the day, with a 6:30p.m. concert.

Stop by The Durham Museum to be a part of Nature Unleashed, a highly interactive experience that takes you and your family inside natural disasters in a whole new way.

Discover what triggers a volcanic eruption, witness the power of hurricane-force winds, and monitor earthquakes around the world in real time.

To begin your weekend adventure, plan an overnight at the newly renovated Holiday Inn Omaha Convention Center Hotel, conveniently located right off of I-80 & 72nd Street. While you are there, you can enjoy CoCo Key water resort, featuring three thrilling 40-foot-high slides that wind outside and drop you back into the plunge pool below, an interactive play island, adventure river, 300-gallon dump bucket, activity pool, kiddie area, and indoor/outdoor jacuzzi!

Here are some other great activities to make your May staycation memorable!

Visit an exotic island at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. The exhibit, Madagascar, opens in May, allowing visitors to will travel to the top of the Zingy Forest, listen to the rare call of the Aye-Aye, and come face to readonlinenow.com

Remember, all you have to do is sign up for our free monthly eLetter no later than May 10th at www.FamilySpectrum.com. May Staycation winner will be awarded on May 15th. Good luck!

Before your visit to the zoo, plan a trip to Nobbies to outfit the family with binoculars and fun adventure hats!

Take the kids on an adventure with a bubbleologist at Omaha Children’s Museum.

They’ll learn the science of bubbles and even receive a top-secret bubble recipe.

For more great Staycation ideas, go to the Omaha Visitors Center at 10th and Farman or visit their website at www. visitomaha.com.

May Staycation Giveaway!

Sign up for Family Spectrum’s free monthly eLetter and automatically be eligible to win Family Spectrum’s May Staycation. One family will be selected to win a one-night stay at Holiday Inn, CoCo Key! You’ll receive a free nights’ stay which includes four water park admission tickets. You’ll then have the opportunity to share your Staycation story on our family blog and be automatically eligible to win a Grand Prize Staycation Package in December.

Academy Award Nominee: Best Animated Feature

THE SECRET OF KELLS May 7 – 20, 2010 •

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Film Streams at the Ruth Sokolof Theater 14th & Mike Fahey (formerly Webster) St •

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Find showtimes & more familyfriendly films at • filmstreams.org

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • on the go

33

on the go

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34 on the go • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

omahapublications.com

May Events

on the go

High School Rodeo May 8–9 Garfield County Rodeo Grounds Burwell, NE (308) 346-5638 www.visitburwell.org

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Workshop at Ponca State Park May 21–23 Ponca State Park Ponca, NE (402) 755-2284 www.outdoornebraska.org

Teenagers from across the state compete in a variety of rodeo events during two days of action at the historic Garfield County Rodeo grounds. It’s the same arena that professional rodeo champions have performed in since 1921 during Nebraska’s Big Rodeo, and the Burwell area offers charming, small-town appeal along with numerous outdoor recreation options courtesy of the nearby Calamus Reservoir.

With classes on subjects including archery, GPS and topography, kayaking, outdoor survival, archery, shotgun basics and Dutch oven cooking, among others, the Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Workshop will be three days of action-packed fun. Hosted in the beautiful but steep woods of Ponca State Park in northeastern Nebraska, participants will develop the skills necessary to feel confident and have fun on a variety of outdoor adventures.

Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival May 11 Central Community College Grand Island, NE (308) 385-6282 www.cpnrd.org

Learn more about events across the state at VisitNebraska.gov.

Click on Things to Do and search events by date or city.

For more May events, visit www.familyspectrum.com to view our event’s calendar or visit our blog at www.blog.familyspectrum.com.

Designed to teach fourth and fifth graders about the importance of groundwater in a hands-on, interactive manner, the Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival is a one-day event including all sorts of fun and education events. There will be interactive displays and presentations by groundwater and natural resources professionals, environmental organizations and higher education, as well as musicians, water magicians, storytellers, raptor shows and more. Participation is a great way to help kids begin to understand how groundwater connects to other natural resources and why they need to care.

Stuhr Under the Stars May 21 Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer Grand Island, NE (308) 385-5316 www.stuhrmuseum.org Back for a second year, Stuhr Under the Stars gives Stuhr Museum guests an opportunity to play games on the museum green as the sun sets, followed by an outdoor movie in Railroad Town.

Watch the Stuhr Museum Web site for an announcement of the movie that will be shown. It’s sure to be a classic the whole family will love!

readonlinenow.com

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • on the go

35

We are...

•

omaHa! Page 16

Downtown • River

DINING CELEBRATING, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING ...

•

the Women of Omaha.

COMMUNITY

Best ohfa® a lts Om 10 Resu

How I roll Page 13

Old Market •

YLE

FACES

Cures for Cabin Fever

20

front artS & entertaInment Page 14

'80s Flashback

The Know-It-All OmAHA! How I Roll

A Good Sport

0

Harley Schrager

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The Nebraska Humane Society’s

Camp Kindness

L Cam animove a p K is f ind ls? or y ne ou! ss

The camp for animal-loving kids!

Experience fun, hands-on, awesome activities to learn about: • dogs and cats • critter care • local wildlife • watch veterinarians in action

• bathe and groom dogs • explore animal careers • help train dogs • and much more!

Registration Opens March 1 Nebraska Humane Society

36 power of ONE • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

Check our Web site www.nehumanesociety.org for more information or call 444-7800, ext. 470

omahapublications.com

Young Heroes proudly sponsored by:

power of ONE Young Heroes

submitted by Erin Simmons

D

uring a 19-week ultrasound, our son Collin was diagnosed with Gastroschisis, a birth defect in which an infant’s intestines stick out of the body through a hole on one side of the umbilical cord. About 1-in-10,000 births are affected by this defect and of those, about 75% suffer little or no adverse affects after initial treatment. However, since Collin’s intestines were exposed to irritating amniotic fluid, over 90% of his intestines had died, leaving him with a lifelong condition called Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS). Some signs and symptoms of the condition are malnutrition, diarrhea, fatigue, unintentional weight loss or a complete inability to absorb nutrients, fats and electrolytes necessary to survive. In newborn infants, the four-year survival rate is about 70%.

Since day one, Collin has been a fighter. On his first day of life, after arriving two months premature, he endured an 8-hour surgery to remove dead intestines and reconnect the remaining healthy bowel. During the three months hospital recovery, Collin received nutritional support and hydration through a Central Venous Catheder (CVC). As his bowel recovered, feeding was made through his gastronomy tube (feeding tube).

At five months, Collin endured his second major surgery to open up an obstruction in his intestines caused by swelling. His surgeon decided to perform a then novel procedure called the Serial Transverse Enteroplasty or (STEP) procedure. The goal was

to increase the length of the small intestine so that Collin could better tolerate nutrition through the gastrointestinal tract. After a successful surgery and recovery, we began feeding Collin through his feeding tube. It didn’t take long for us to realize that surgery had been a success.

Collin is our hero! Now 3 years old, it is amazing to see him walk, run, talk and yell. His medical treatments have become a part of his typical day. He requires tube feedings for about 12 hours per day, he never complains about carrying it with him all of the time. In fact, sometimes he will carry it when he is not on tube feedings. He likes to say, “I’m going to school!”

If I had to define Collin in one word it would be persistent. We know that Collin will persist through the problems of life just like he has since the very beginning. Although we wish he would not have struggles in his life, we know he will. He has a lifelong condition that will pose its own unique issues during each of his developmental stages of life. His relentless determination during every trial and tribulation is truly motivating. He is our blessing and we are thankful he is still with us today.

Recently Collin’s wish to meet Mickey Mouse was granted through Make-A-Wish Foundation. To continue reading about Collin’s “wish”, visit www.blog.familyspectrum.com. To volunteer, donate or refer a child to the Wish program, please visit www.nebraska. wish.org or call 800-760-WISH. To nominate your own Young Hero, submit to Heroes@ FamilySpectrum.com.

SUNDAY FUNDAY! Fun for the Whole Family!

ORDER TODAY: 738-5100 OROYALS.COM

The FUN includes: • Clowns!

• Face-Painters!

• Kids Run the Bases

(Post Game-Weather permitting)

• $1 Coca-Cola Fun Zone Passes

readonlinenow.com

• • • • family spectrum magazine • may 2010 • power of ONE

37

Time Out for Safety brought to you by: National Safety Council Greater Omaha Chapter

Windows and Playgrounds Can Be Dangerous-These Safety Tips Can Keep Your Children Safe During April there are two safety observances which are very important to young children – National Window Safety Week and National Playground Safety Week. These observances provide the Council opportunity to share important safety information with you.

We are accustomed to hearing about falls and injuries on the playground, but we often don’t think of windows as being a safety risk for our children. Each year, more than 2.3 million children ages 14 and under are treated annually at hospital emergency rooms for fall-related injuries, and this includes falls from windows and playground equipment.

Recent reports show falls killed about 80 children ages 14 and under in one year. Infants are more likely to fall from furniture, baby walkers and stairs; toddlers tend to fall from windows; and older children fall most often from playground equipment.

With such a long and difficult winter behind us, children will be ready for some warm fresh air and to get outside and play. Here are some window and playground safety tips to help you keep your child safe and out of the emergency room or worse during the spring/summer season.

Window Safety Tips • Watch your children as they play and keep them away from windows and patio doors.

• Keep windows closed and locked when children are around.

• Plant shrubbery or grass and use wood chips under windows to cushion a fall.

38 time out 4 safety • may 2010 • family spectrum magazine • • • •

2.3 million children ages 14 and under are treated annually at hospital emergency rooms for fall-related injuries • Teach young children not to play near windows or screens as well as not to lean against or out of windows.

• Only open windows children cannot reach and open them from the top.

• Install window guards to prevent children from falling out of windows. An insect screen only keeps insects out, not children in.

• Educate your child on how to safely use a window to exit in case of emergency.

Playground Safety Tips • Examine the playground area for potential hazards.

• Watch for strings on clothing or ropes used for play that can cause accidental strangulation if caught on equipment.

• Make sure your child plays on age-appropriate equipment.

• Make sure the playground surface is acceptable – such as mulch, sand, wood chips, rubber mats or shredded tires instead of concrete, dirt or grass.

• Check to make sure the equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, and there are no exposed footings, etc.

• Teaching your child the appropriate and safe way to use all playground equipment.

To find out more about children and window and playground safety visit the National Safety Council, Greater Omaha Chapter’s website at www.safenebraska.org.

omahapublications.com

Making Omaha a Safe Community

Drivers’ Education Win CASH! Scholarships Available Become a Safety Icon!

Save lives and enjoy fame as the winner of our Safety Icon Contest!

Receive the Safety Icon Trophy, $1,000 CASH and have your presentation showcased at the Safety and Health Awards Luncheon on May 20, 2010!

New for 2010 - 2 Categories!

Community

(Individals, Families, Schools, Civic Groups)

Business

Each Category Winner Receives $1,000 CASH! Needs-based scholarships provided by:

For more information: SafeNebraska.org “Safe Driving” or call 896-0454.

Adult/Pediatric Combo FA/CPR AED Classes Combo Standard & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Schedule

Every Parent, Grandparent and Caregiver Should Know How to Save a Life!

Certificate: First Aid 3 Years, CPR/AED 2 Years

Saturday Daytime Classes Time Tuition Adult and Pediatric First Aid Only 8:00-11:30 $50 Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED Only 12:30-5:00 $60 Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR/AED 8:00-5:00 $69 2010 Saturday Class Dates: April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, September 25, October 16, November 13, December 4 All classes held on Saturday, at our location 11620 M Circle (120th & LSt.)

Share your talent … individual or group!

Get out the camcorder and produce your own engaging safety video. Video can be for training or entertainment. Maybe you have wanted to parody a song or you have a comedy routine that would be excellent.

Entries can be musical, serious, comedic, a parody.

Safety Icon will be selected by popular vote!

Friends, family and others can vote online after May 10 or at the Safety and Health Summit Tradeshow where top contenders’ videos will be shown continuously from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., May 19, 2010. Local celebrities will critique your entry from 12:00 p.m.– 12:30 p.m. on the May 19th.

Become a Star! Anyone can enter!

You have plenty of time to put it all together…

See past winners and download complete rules and entry form at: www.SafeNebraska.org.

Completed entries are due May 3.

Call 896-0454 or visit www.SafeNebraska.org for more informaton or to register!

A not for proi 501 (c) (3) organiza on

website • month/month year • title

39

Children Are Unpredictable That’s why there’s

Parent TALK Presented by Boys Town Pediatrics If you’re expecting or have little ones at home, Parent Talk is for you! Join Boys Town Pediatrics for a one-hour informal presentation by one of our pediatricians, on hot pediatric issues that parents need to know. The session includes food and prizes and is always free.

Location:

Boys Town National Research Hospital 14000 Boys Town Hospital Road on the Boys Town Campus

(139th & Pacific Street)

For weekly pediatric tips check us out on facebook and twitter.

facebook.com/BoysTownPediatrics and twitter.com/BoysTownPeds

boystownpediatrics.org

27 pediatricians at 8 convenient locations.