April/May 2011 HER Omaha Magazine

Celebrating, Empowering, Inspiring... the Women of Omaha.

Our Wedding Issue!

Get Your Party On! Wedding Reception Tips & Trends UNO Women’s Walk Festival

April/May 2011 • www.heromaha.com

Sexual Assault Awareness, Treatment & Prevention

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April/May 2011 Feature .................. 1o Oncology Nurse Navigators Feature .................. 12 Get Your Party On

Celebrating, Empowering, Inspiring... the Women of Omaha. published by

Photo Feature ....... 14 The Dress

omaha magazine, ltd publisher

todd lemke

Feature .................. 18 Walking the Walk

m a n a g i n g e d i t o r, o m a h a p u b l i c a t i o n s

corey ross editor

linda persigehl art director/graphic design

matt jensen graphic design

john gawley photography by

minorwhite studios (bill sitzmann & scott drickey) guest photographer

christian behr contributors

suzanne smith arney susan meyers • judy gilliard traci osuna •meghan townley ywca • girl scouts angelika stout account executives

On the Cover: Elisa (Omaha, NE) wears a beautiful wedding dress from Alfred Angelo available at Bridal Traditions. Organza, pleated organza, rhinestones, pearls, crystal beading & sequins, optional spaghetti straps & modesty piece, chapel train, $1,099.

Beauty Sheet ................................... 6 Come Wedding Day, Put Your Best Face Forward For Her Profile ............................... 7 Molly Maid Her Art ............................................ 8 Claudia Alvarez

gwen lemke • vick i voet greg bruns • gil cohen alicia smith-hollins stacey penrod

Auto Tips For Her ......................... 13 Car TLC

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For Her Profile ............................. 21 Ponca Hills Farm

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Let us know and we may share her story with the Her community of women. Her is your magazine; for the women of Metropolitan Omaha.

Health Focus ................................. 23 Taking A Stand Against Sexual Assault A Letter from the Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska ................................... 28 Leadership Experiences Make Girl Scouting Unique A Letter from YWCA Omaha ........ 29 Healthy Community, Healthy Relationships Food With Flair ............................. 30 Bridal Bliss with a Bundt Cake

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EDITOR’Sletter

EDITOR LINDA PERSIGEHL

Dear Readers, Spring is a time of renewal, when plants and trees return to their green glory, wildlife gives birth, and all of us feel a renewed energy thanks to more sunshine and longer days. I for one couldn’t be happier for its arrival!

Spring is also the beginning of wedding season! If you are not planning a wedding yourself, you likely know someone who is or you’ve received an invitation to a relative’s or friend’s nuptials.

This issue of Her Magazine includes a variety of fun articles on wedding-related topics, from wedding day makeup tips (pg. 6) to reception trends and advice (pg. 12) to delicious desserts to serve at your next bridal shower (pg. 30).

We also pay homage to the stars of any wedding -- the bride and her court of bridesmaids. Our photo feature (pg. 14), shot by fashion photographer Christian Behr, gives you a beautiful look at some of the most current and popular wedding gowns, modeled by some of Omaha’s own gorgeous young women.

On a serious note, April is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month. Our feature on page 23 details the efforts by local organizations to educate women on how to avoid becoming a victim, treating those who’ve been abused, and working to take the stigma out of reporting such crimes.

Other articles worth checking out: our inspiring story about Alegent Health nurse navigators, and how their efforts are helping cancer patients through the trials of treatment and recovery (pg. 10); our feature on artist extraordinaire Claudia Alvarez (pg. 8); and our history of the UNO’s Women’s Walk (pg.

18), which has been instrumental in creating strong women’s athletics here in Omaha for more than 25 years. This year’s event is April 30-May 1.

Lastly, if you’re looking for something else to do in the metro, there’s no shortage of options. Just a few of the local happenings: Omaha Beer Fest on May 20-21 (yes, a lot of women like beer, too!); Junior League of Omaha’s High Heel Dash at Village Pointe on May 22; and Omaha’s first annual Women’s Triathalon on May 22.

Happy Spring!

Linda Persigehl Editor

Visit our new website, featuring a blog with professional tips for your lawn, landscape and snow needs.

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4 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

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WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • APRIL/MAY 2011 • HER

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BEAUTYsheet STORY BY LINDA PERSIGEHL PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN BEHR

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Come Wedding Day, Put Your Best Face Forward!

Every bride wants to look radiant on her wedding day, but lack of sleep, stress, tears and lots of hugging and kissing can get in the way of looking your absolute best. We spoke with two local experts — professional makeup artist Melanie Smith and Omar Rodriguez, master designer at Fringes Salon in Omaha — to learn their tips for near-perfect wedding day makeup.

• If you’re hiring a professional to do your makeup, have a consultation a few weeks before and communicate exactly what you want. Bring pictures of makeup ideas you like. Define the look you want: romantic, modern, or avant-garde.

• Get microdermabrasion and an eyebrow wax and upper lip wax if needed a few weeks before the big day.

• Schedule a facial for the week of the wedding.

• Get adequate sleep, eat a good diet and drink plenty of water in weeks leading up to wedding to make sure your skin is in its best condition.

• Do a practice run-through, applying makeup in natural light.

Photograph yourself and check the color application. Make adjustments to shades as needed.

• Choose makeup colors in the same family of colors in your floral bouquet or your wedding party.

• Go light on the concealer, foundation and powder, and make sure your facial skin matches the skin on your neck and chest.

• Play up the eyebrows, eyes and lips for a more dramatic effect.

• Use waterproof mascara and water-resistant eyeliner to prevent running and smearing.

• Apply lip liner, then fill in lips with pencil. Fill in with lipstick applied with a brush. Then blot, reapply, and blot again to set lips for the day.

• Have a touch-up bag at the ready that includes: oil blotters to help with the shine, compact powder, lipstick, mascara, tissue, a few cotton swabs (moisten before use), a small mirror, eye drops and a mist-on moisturizer to refresh skin throughout the day.

6 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

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FORher

profile Cathy and Rick Tichy didn’t always dream of owning their own business.

Like many in today’s economy, Cathy found herself out of work after 30 years with a local company. Deciding it would be fun to do something together, Cathy and her husband, Rick, looked into opening their own franchise. Molly Maid seemed like a perfect fit.

Together in 2008, Cathy and Rick started Molly Maid of Central Omaha/ Council Bluffs. “When we found Molly Maid, we knew we had found our niche,” says Cathy. “We loved the people in the company, we loved the business model, and we knew that we could take our love of house and home and make it a career.” After just two years of operation, Molly Maid has grown to include 14 employees and over 200 regular customers.

Molly Maid provides a thorough cleaning service for time-strapped clients and retired persons. “Having a house-cleaning service used to seem like a luxury but anymore everyone’s schedule is so hectic having a cleaning service is more of a necessity.” Unlike many cleaning services, Molly Maid does not use a rotational chore chart or a cookie-cutter approach to service; instead, employees clean everything every time, specifically tailoring their cleaning service to each client. “We strive to always excel at serving our customers—doing what is expected and a little bit more, keeping our promises and communicating as often as possible.” Cathy and Rick believe excellent customer service is a keystone to the success of Molly Maid.

Molly Maid also prides itself on its contribution to Cleaning For A Reason, a non-profit company that networks cleaning services across America to provide free services to women receiving cancer treatment. “We have had the good fortune of helping over 10 women with their cleaning needs while they have their treatment and we look forward to helping many more in the years to come.”

It’s not all work, though. “We make sure that there is room for fun every day,” says Cathy. Last summer, Molly Maid cleaned several Burlington Railroad train cars, including a dining car, an exercise car, a lounge car and several bedroom cars. Employees were even treated to lunch and dinner, with ice cream treats. “It was a great time for our employees that were assigned this work.

Most of them had never been on a train before, so it was fun for them to take a train ride while they were cleaning!”

Cathy Tichy

www.mollymaid.com 402.932.MAID (6243)

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • APRIL/MAY 2011 • HER

7

HERart

Kids Fighting, 2010 PHOTO BY REBECCA TRAWICK

Claudia Alvarez “My hope is to recognize the beauty of humankind, even if mixed in with anger.” ­ Claudia Alvarez’s life was shaped by her years as a transport ambulance driver. She and the medical staff worked regularly with these most vulnerable of patients, most of them elderly or children. Accompanying them to appointments and treatments, sometimes from diagnosis until the end of their lives, they witnessed their highs and lows, and the challenges each patient faced. “I’ve seen brave, mature children say goodbye to the world, and adults, fragile and helpless, afraid to face their final journey on earth,” Alvarez says. “In their eyes, I saw the miracle of life and death.”

Much of Alvarez’s sculpture and painting features children, embodying simplicity and innocence. Motivated by her hospital experiences, she began to explore pure emotion, as it might be

PHOTO BY TERRY ROSENBERG

expressed by a little child. Her figures are nearly life-size, and marked by contradiction. Natural poses, soft, rounded bodies, and pastel colors vie with violence, slashes of red, weapons and masks. Some viewers find her work disturbing. “Our lives are complex,” Alvarez says. “Children feel emotions such as anger, fear, joy, or pain, but they lack awareness of sociological and cultural propriety.”

She describes the first five years of her career (2000-2005) as “a spiritual quest.” This period was also marked by completion of her MFA at California College of Arts, being awarded a Bemis residency, and moving to Omaha. In the years since, although her primary subject has remained childhood, her focus has evolved.

From looking at children’s emotional naiveté, she’s shifted her

8 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

COLUMN BY SUZANNE SMITH ARNEY

attention to adult responsibility. “Why is there anger, crime, war, and violence?

It fills the media. What are we teaching children?”

Some examples illustrate Alvarez’s work. Preciosa (2005) is an oil painting of an infant’s complete vulnerability.

Kids Fighting (2010) and The Flower Eaters (2009) are installations of threedimensional ceramic figures. In the first, two children fight while others watch, their faces and bodies revealing their reactions.

In The Flower Eaters, two children bend, eating blossoms, while nearby stands a mysterious girl in silver wearing an elaborate headdress. (In many cultures, silver is divinatory.) Flowers are another recurring motif, sometimes representing nature/the unknown, or simply beauty and life. Mi Jardin, a watercolor exhibited earlier this year at St. Cecilia’s Sunderland Gallery, celebrates Latino artists.

Alvarez has always had a faculty for drawing, but didn’t recognize her calling until she took a weekend ceramics class in college. “The sensation of touch and fingerprints and moving the clay…!” she recalls. “Later I used that hand movement in painting. I eliminated the brush. It’s a personal experience with materials; my hands bring the two media together.”

Omaha is Alvarez’s home base, despite a schedule of residencies, exhibitions, and invitations to teach that keep her moving across the country and around the world. She stays because of the welcome she received.

“Omaha is a great place to work, and people are supportive,” she says. “My identity as an artist was confirmed here.”

Alvarez will speak at UNO April 13 at noon, room 214, Fine Arts Building, free and open to the public. Her newest installation, Falling, will be spotlighted at the Museum of Nebraska Art April 16-July 3. A talk

by Alvarez at 1:30 p.m. on April 16 will be followed by a reception. Haydon Art Center, Lincoln, will exhibit Alvarez’s work in a group show, Transformations & Fluid Natures, Oct. 13-Nov. 12.

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FEATURE STORY BY MEGHAN TOWNLEY PHOTO BY MINORWHITE STUDIOS

Nurse navigator Jennifer Jorgensen, left, with Mimi Lemmers Wilson

Oncology Nurse Navigators There to help patients focus on healing

10 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

On Oct. 19, 2010, Mimi, 45, was given an alarming diagnosis: breast cancer.

“I had never been diagnosed with anything in my life,” Mimi said. “The shock and surprise sets you back quite a bit.”

Mimi was in the outpatient procedure room at Immanuel Hospital waiting to go into surgery when she met Jennifer Jorgensen, her assigned nurse navigator.

Jennifer reassured Mimi that she was there to answer questions and to help with whatever she may need.

“I didn’t know what to do. All I could think about was biopsies and procedures, so it was nice to have someone there,” Mimi said.

The nurse navigator’s job is to be that extra support. They are trained oncology nurses who can answer most questions patients may have about their diagnosis or treatment. If necessary, the nurse navigators will sit in on appointments and take notes or coordinate upcoming doctor visits and procedures.

“Jennifer made appointments for me throughout my treatment…I could focus on getting well and she took care of the day-to-day,” Mimi said.

Besides aiding with the medical care, nurse navigators are also a resource for dealing with the long-term side effects of cancer. They can help with transitions back into the work force and provide support for the spouse or primary caregiver on how to deal with the stress of taking care of their sick loved one.

“A lot of people are trying to live their everyday lives while going through treatment,” Jennifer said. “Health is obviously the biggest concern, but sometimes the day-to-day worries [job or family] are most concerning to these patients.”

The level of involvement by the nurse navigator is completely up to the patient, but the assigned nurse navigator can be available from diagnosis all the way through treatment.

Mimi said, “I had my husband, but imagine someone who doesn’t have anyone else. She [Jennifer] would be their rock.”

The nurse navigator program is unique to the Omaha area and is a free service open to all cancer patients at Alegent.

Nurse navigators are staffed at Omaha and Papillion Alegent hospitals, private practices, and clinics. Nurse navigators are becoming more popular around the United States — in oncology fields as well as cardiology and gastroenterology — but they are not yet the standard practice.

Jennifer has been working as a nurse navigator for 4 ½ years and worked as an oncology nurse for 15 years before that.

She has been a nurse navigator for about 300-400 patients and has kept in touch with many of them.

“We follow all patients routinely for one year after diagnosis and many of them longer [than that] based on their needs,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer finds her job both rewarding and challenging.

“I really enjoy getting to know patients and their families and knowing that I can help them to feel a little more comfortable during such a dark, stressful time in their lives,” Jennifer said. “ I feel very satisfied knowing that though I alone cannot change the outcome of the course of their disease, but I can make their journey a little bit easier along the way by being a neutral person who is able to guide them…and alleviate some of their fears.”

Jennifer says she learns something new every day and gains clarity on her own life through working with oncology patients.

“Many patients are able to strengthen family and other personal relationships as a result of their diagnosis,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer and Mimi are still in touch.

Mimi completed her treatments this January and remains optimistic about her future health.

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WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • APRIL/MAY 2011 • HER

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FEATURE STORY BY TRACI OSUNA PHOTO BY MINORWHITE STUDIOS

Get Your Party On!

Wedding reception tips and trends

Location, location, location…you’ve heard it before, but one of the first and most important decisions to planning a wedding reception is deciding just where you will be hosting your first big shindig as man and wife. Whether you are planning to invite 30 people or 300, finding the right space will set the tone for the entire event.

While local ballrooms and social halls are still popular venues, many of today’s couples are seeking out more unique locales that reflect their interests or personalities. Museums and local art galleries complement the beauty and significance of the day.

A favorite restaurant — the site of a first date or the proposal, perhaps — makes an intimate setting. Outdoor venues, whether it be a backyard, a park or a botanical garden, keep the feeling light and bright as you start your new life together.

The locale you select will most likely influence the type of food, music and décor that you select as well. Many couples are leaning toward the simple, yet elegant and chic receptions. And while many of us grew up thinking it should be done “this way,” the rule today is that there are no more rules.

When it comes to food, elegant does not necessarily mean expensive. Jennifer Snow of Catering Creations says that with a mid-day wedding ceremony, couples may choose a more economical, yet still chic, brunch for their guests. Afternoon ceremonies lend themselves nicely to champagne and wedding cake receptions or even cocktail parties with an assortment of hors d’oeuvres. “It’s not a lunch hour, it’s not a dinner hour; people aren’t actually expecting a meal and they’re not hungry at that time of day,” says Snow. “That’s really up to the couple and the type of event they want to have.”

12 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

AUTO TIPS FOR HER STORY BY DARCIE DINGMAN, DINGMAN’S COLLISION CENTER

For those hosting a dinner for their guests, there are plenty of ways to add your own personality into more traditional fare.

“We still see a lot of dinner buffets and we do a lot of food stations.” Snow recalls a couple that selected various kinds of bar foods for their event, and another couple that requested Chinese food, as the groom had proposed to his bride while eating Chinese take-out.

Another current trend includes what Snow refers to as “a late-night snack.”

Around 10 p.m., caterers will set up food PHOTO COURTESY OF CATERING CREATIONS

stations offering guests some well-deserved sustenance after a night of socializing. A few examples of “late-night snack stations” include pizza, gourmet mac-n-cheese, a nacho bar, and a french fry bar, including a variety of the fried favorites and assorted condiments. “Even though [the guests] ate around 6 or 7 p.m., after they’ve been dancing for a while they get a little hungry again.”

Be sure to check with your caterer regarding alcohol service. Some caterers have their own liquor license, some venues require that you buy their liquor, and in some cases, other arrangements need to be made. Catering Creations, which does have a liquor license, will often offer a signature specialty drink in addition to beer, wine, and soda. Snow also shares that, with

micro-brews being so popular, couples often request that the caterer pick up their favorite beer from the local brewery.

Décor is another area that stumps a lot of brides-to-be. Again, the types of table centerpieces may depend on the venue and the personality of the couple.

The trend of using tall vases with ornate flower arrangements is still seen, but simple is making a comeback. “Many girls are doing sort of half taller centerpieces… to kind of break up the room…and half shorter styles, so there’s a variety,” says Mark Griffith of Omaha’s Beyond the Vine.

Tracy Taylor of Taylor Flowers agrees, noting that what a bride chooses does depend on the venue. She adds that rather than flower arrangement centerpieces, many brides are going with vases filled with stones, glass beads or floating candles. Another trend toward the simple are immersable flowers — flowers that sit on the bottom of a bowl of water — with floating candles. “They’re going for a classy, simple look,” she says. “Petals [strewn across the table] are really popular.”

While Griffith says he gets requests for ranunculus, calla lilies and peonies for spring weddings, Taylor says that gerbera daisies are a client favorite. Of course, both florists say roses are always appropriate.

As for hot colors this wedding season, Taylor says she’s seeing a lot of lime greens, melons and purples. “Soft pastels are going out,” she says. “A lot of hot pinks and oranges together with a splash of lime… that’s a really popular one.”

Regarding music, both live bands and DJ’s are good options when you want to get the guests moving. A smaller jazz combo would complement a brunch or afternoon cocktail reception. Some couples are even getting their guests up on stage to sing karaoke — a sure way to make the party even more memorable for everyone!

Destination weddings are very popular.

Of course, with many friends and family unable to attend the actual nuptials, the couple will often hold a reception at a later date in order to celebrate with those who were not able to join in on the festivities.

When it comes to planning your big day, don’t get caught up in the do’s and don’ts of perceived “reception etiquette.” Says Snow: “The couple just brings in their own personality. Now-a-days, anything goes.”

Car TLC It’s that time of year – spring cleaning season. This not only applies to our homes but to our vehicles as well.

We’re finally getting out of that snowy mess we’ve been dealing with for months. And while there’s still sand, grime and chemicals on the streets in addition to hundreds of potholes, it’s not too early to give your vehicle some TLC after the long winter.

To begin with, an extremely good wash is in order.

This doesn’t mean just rolling through a carwash on your way home from work. A basic wash won’t get the areas that are in desperate need of cleaning. It’s extremely important to clean underneath your vehicle.

That’s where the majority of all the “gunk” is hanging out. Also, the wheel wells need to be cleaned well, even scrubbed. This is a prime spot for rust to start.

Open your doors and make sure that you clean the door jambs where the hinges are, as well as the bottom of the interior door. This is another place where salt and chemicals hang out and can begin to create rust issues.

Anything that can be done to prevent the beginning of rust should be done. Once it starts, there aren’t a lot of great options.

After giving your vehicle a thorough washing, paying close attention to all the “hot spots,” you should be in good shape to begin spring. My last piece of advice is: if you notice your vehicle driving a little funny, pulling one way or another, you may need to get your alignment checked. Potholes can create this issue very easily, and it’s better to get it taken care of right away rather than drive around with your car’s alignment off. Not doing so may result in uneven wear on your tires, which in turn may mean having to replace them sooner. The best way to avoid having to spend a lot of money on your vehicle is by doing regular upkeep.

If you have any questions about your vehicle or need advice, please visit our website at www.dingmans.com

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • APRIL/MAY 2011 • HER

13

Lauren; Omaha, NE Morganne; Lincoln, NE Monica; Norfolk, NE Fashion Editor, Karleen Sucher | Photographer, Christian Behr | Story, John Gawley | Hair, Bangs Salon Omaha & Bungalow/8 Makeup, Heather Dizmang & Kelly Haley | Locations. Joslyn Art Museum & Joslyn Castle 14 HER • april/may 2011 • www.readonlinenow.com

‘I Do’

is done, the food is gone,

the music has stopped and the heals are off. After all is said and done, you’ve got two things that’ll last forever. The photos, and your dress.

M

organne wears this beautiful white dress from Alfred

Angelo, net over satin, organza ribbon, embroidery with metallic accents, rhinestones, pearls, crystal beading and sequins, with chapel train, $999. Junior Bridesmaid Lauren, left, wears a mocha satin dress, organza, satin flower, optional spaghetti straps, cocktail length, $156, Alfred Angelo. Monica, right, wears a green apple cotton sateen dress, optional spaghetti straps, cocktail length, $159, Alfred Angelo. Hair by Hillary Hubbell, Bangs Salon Omaha.

Photo taken at Joslyn Castle.

A

lesha wears a taffeta dress, net, re-embroidered lace

with metallic accents, rhinestones, pearls, crystal beading optional spaghetti straps and modesty piece, semi-cathedral train, $1,099.

Bridesmade Abby, left, wears an orchid cotton sateen dress, optional spaghetti straps, cocktail length, $150, Alfred Angelo. Tonya, right wears an orchid cotton sateen dress, cocktail length, $150, Alfred Angelo. Ring Bearer Miller wears a sharp, classic tux from Gentleman’s Choice. Hair by Rebecca Forsyth, Bangs Salon Omaha.

Photo taken at the Joslyn Art Museum.

Abby; Omaha, NE | Alesha; Omaha, NE | Miller; Omaha, NE | Tonya, Omaha, NE Special thanks to Katie Hanke and Bethany Miller from Bangs Salon Omaha. Jewelry provided by J’Amore Boutique and J Crew. Dresses provided by Bridal Traditions and Alfred Angelo.

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • april/may 2011 • HER

15

E

va Kay wears an ivory satin gown, crumb catcher bodice,

corset back. Savannah wears a satin style classic dress with beaded belt.

Available at Bridal Traditions.

Hair & makeup by Bungalow/8.

Photo taken at Joslyn Castle.

K

ortnye wears the Disney® Snow White dress, net-over-

satin ballgown, lace bodice of organza apple blossoms, rhinestone and crystal centers, skirt with scattered blossom detail, $999, Alfred Angelo. Mother of the bride, Rose, wears a luxe taffeta, protrait collar, organza flowers on the skirt, also available knee and floor length.

Flower Girl Madie looks cute in a white satin v-neck dress with a black sash. Bridesmaid Mariah wears a black satin, trumpet skirt with black beaded belt. Hair and makeup by Bungalow/8. Photo taken at Joslyn Castle.

Eva Kay; Norfolk, NE | Savannah; Elkhorn, NE Jewelry provided by J’Amore Boutique and J Crew. Dresses provided by Bridal Traditions and Alfred Angelo. Photos taken at Jolsyn Castle 16 HER • april/may 2011 • www.readonlinenow.com

E

va Kay wears an ivory satin gown, crumb catcher bodice,

corset back. Savannah wears a satin style classic dress with beaded belt.

Available at Bridal Traditions. Hair & makeup by Bungalow/8.

K

ortnye wears the Disney® Snow White dress, net-over-

satin ballgown, lace bodice of organza apple blossoms, rhinestone and crystal centers, skirt with scattered blossom detail, $999, Alfred Angelo. Mother of the bride, Rose, wears a luxe taffeta, protrait collar, organza flowers on the skirt, also available knee and floor length.

Flower Girl Maggie looks cute in a white satin v-neck dress with a black sash. Bridesmaid Mariah wears a black satin, trumpet skirt with black beaded belt. Hair and makeup by Bungalow/8.

Rose; Omaha, NE | Madie; Fremont, NE | Kortnye; Lincoln, NE | Mariah; Omaha, NE Special thanks Bungalow/8. Eric Burden, owner | master stylist. Kelly Haley, make-up artist. Sarah Zito, stylist | educator.

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17

FEATURE

(Back row) Lauren Fox, soccer; UNO Director of Community Relations Pam Schwarting; Women’s Walk founder Connie Claussen; UNO volleyball coach Rose Shires; Logen Watts, soccer; and Dani Suponchick, golf. (front row) Brittney Hanssen, volleyball; Kerry Pivovar, socccer; and Katelyn Tschida, soccer.

STORY BY COREY ROSS PHOTO BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

Walking the Walk

Now going on its 26th year, the UNO Women’s Walk has paved and paid the way for many local female college athletes

The stories from the early days of women’s athletics at the University of Nebraska Omaha aren’t as much about wins and losses as they are about cramped locker rooms, shared uniforms and looming budget cuts.

There was little glamorous or extravagant about women’s sports in the late ‘60s and ‘70s, and then in the ‘80s the state legislature started forcing athletic programs to make sacrifices to survive, or do more to foot the bill.

At UNO, the response in the women’s athletic department was to start a walk to bolster support for female athletes, and thus the Women’s Walk was born in 1986.

A novel concept at the time, 84 walkers turned out to raise

$12,000 — much more than the goal of $5,000 and plenty to support athletic scholarships.

“That was a lot of money at the time,” says Connie Claussen, who organized that walk and has participated in every one since. “Our scholarships were $400-$500.”

Claussen was Coordinator of Women’s Athletics — “I think I gave myself that title” — at the time, as well as coach of all three women’s sports teams. Facilities for women’s sports were so sparse that her office was in a shower in the women’s locker room.

Claussen is now part of a women’s athletic department that proudly offers eight sports, and this year’s walk on April 30th will go a long way toward supporting those athletes in their endeavors.

18 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

HER DENTAL HEALTH STORY BY STEPHANIE VONDRAK, D.D.S.

The walk is being expanded to an says. “It’s great to see how much people are entire weekend this year and has been willing to give.” renamed the Women’s Walk Festival. The But the money raised for scholarships is opening Friday will feature an appearance only part of what makes the walk a rewarding

by Olympic gold medalist gymnast Carly experience for athletes. They also make career Patterson. The walk and 5k fun run to connections, Suponchick says.

Aksarben Village — new this year — “You build relationships in the community begins at 10 a.m. on the 30th. and people get to know you on a first-name UNO women’s volleyball coach Rose basis,” she says. “It’s about more than the Shires says Patterson’s appearance will scholarship.” hopefully draw parents and their daughters, Junior volleyball player Brittany Hanssen who can use Patterson as a role model, just says the participation in the walk by all as Shires expects her athletes to be.

UNO female athletes sends a message of For that matter, all of UNO’s nearly gratitude to donors.

150 female athletes participate in the “It’s a way for all our athletes to show our walk, which is how it has been from the appreciation to our supporters,” she says. beginning. It’s that lead-by-example “The benefit of it is you get to meet people who attitude that has drawn others to participate, could eventually set you up with internships Claussen says. and help you in your career.”

“We have to be willing to work for In turn, the athletes get to share their ourselves,” Claussen says, characterizing experience of being a UNO athlete. For the spirit of the walk in the department.

Suponchick, that’s meant invaluable The nearly 1,000 or more walkers who opportunities. join them are symbolic of the support in the “I’ve been able to travel the country community, Shires says, adding she uses and in the meantime be able to get an pictures from the walk when she’s recruiting. education,” she says. “The opportunities it “I show them there are a 1,000, 1,200 brings about are once-in-a-lifetime.” women willing to spend their time fundraising When her college days are over, Suponchick for them,” Shires says. “These walks provide plans to stay involved in athletics by using her us the financial support to excel.” degree in physical therapy.

While the money the walkers raise is “I’d love to stay around here and work important to the effort, it’s the corporate with athletes, maybe high school age,” she dollars that have allowed the event to flourish. says. “I had a knee injury in high school The next year, Diet Pepsi signed on and that I had to rehab. This would be kind of has remained the title sponsor with an like giving back.” increasingly sizable donation, Claussen says.

Shires has seen many of her athletes enter At $152,000 at press time, this year’s the local community professionally and corporate allotment is already a record, remain, as educators, business leaders and Claussen says. Proceeds from the walk are other people of influence. excepted to push the 26-year total past Besides their degrees, those former $4 million. Corporate dollars have carried athletes use many of the skills attained on much of that load. the playing field to advance their careers.

A group of community women, called the And many owe that opportunity to the Strike Force, donate their time to secure Women’s Walk, Shires says. corporate funds, Claussen says. That’s Shires credits the walk, and the how Lori Scott, this year’s chairperson, opportunities it provides her athletes, originally became involved. as being a reason for her remaining at The last few years, the walk has raised University of Nebraska at Omaha for 23 years. more than $250,000. A full scholarship at Shires says, “The fact that I’ve stayed UNO is $14,600, but many athletes receive here is a true testament to what I believe partial scholarships, meaning the walk the University of Nebraska at Omaha dollars go a long way for support. stands for, what I can accomplish at this This will be the fourth women’s walk for university and what a student athlete stands senior UNO golfer Dani Suponchick, who to gain for being involved. says the walk is a big part of the experience “The Women’s Walk has allowed us to not of being a UNO athlete. just remain the same, but to be one of the “It’s an amazing experience to see all cutting edge women’s athletic programs in those people come out to support you,” she the nation.”

Your Teeth...

Your Future If you had the ability to predict your future, would you? When pondering this question, many aspects of our lives quickly come to mind. Many of us worry about not having enough money, if our children will be happy, or if we’ll see another terrorist attack. It’s human nature to speculate about the future, and often about things we cannot control. But what about those things we CAN control going forward. Would you make decisions to better your future if given the time and attention needed to do so?

In health-centered dental practices, these questions are answered every day when patients are given the opportunity to choose care based on meeting individual treatment goals. Yes, when considering a plan for your future, think about your mouth… think about dentistry.

Dental health is a known predictor of overall systemic health. Research has found links between poor oral health (periodontal disease) and systemic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Additionally, the link between stressful life events and disease has been proven time and time again.

Consider the demands of your daily routine and then add an unplanned, painful dental emergency, such as a fractured or abscessed tooth. Would this cause you more stress?

Health-centered dental care is preventive medicine involving one-on-one planning with your dentist to outline your individual dental goals and to design a plan to meet your individual dental needs. The stability of your entire oral system (including your teeth, gum tissues, muscles of mastication and Temporomandibular joints) is considered when determining your overall treatment plan. Dr. Charles Mayo, M.D., founder of the Mayo Clinic, said, “It has been by observation that people who keep their teeth live an average of 10 years longer than people who lose them.” * So ponder this question again…Would you choose a better dental future if given the time and attention by your dentist needed to do so? *Dr. Mayo’s quote was taken from CentersforDentalMedicine.com 2006.

More information about Vondrak Dental can be found at www.drvondrak.com.

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profile If you’re a horse enthusiast living near Omaha, chances are you’ve heard of Ponca Hills Farm. Established in 1964 by J. Allan and Ann Mactier, Ponca Hills Farm sits about three miles north of I-680 and Hwy. 75 and boasts five barns, an indoor arena and a cross-country course, all on a sprawling 300 acres with miles of beautiful scenic trails.

Today, Ponca Hills Farm is still family owned and operated by Jan Mactier, Ann Mactier’s daughter. “What makes the farm unique in this market is our property — 300 acres is rare for horse farms today, since most become encroached by suburbs over time.”

Ponca’s reputation quickly grew nationally by producing champion show horses around the country. Ponca Hills Farm is Omaha’s first equestrian facility to offer an indoor arena and heated barn, something riders can appreciate during those harsh Nebraska winters.

Ponca Hills Farm offers riding lessons for students age 7 and up and various clinics throughout the year.

“Today, I’m retired from competition and get to focus on helping up-and-coming riders reach their goals,” says Jan. “Having the opportunity to compete so much myself, locally and nationally, has allowed me to build quite a network of respected professionals in the industry — and many of them have travelled to Omaha as our visiting clinicians, including former Olympians.”

In 1964, Ponca Hills Farm launched Ponca Summer Day Camp, giving children ages 8-16 an opportunity “to bond with a special horse that they can treat as their own, and to enjoy the outdoors.” Children will learn how to lead, groom and tack a horse, and of course how to ride with the help of a qualified instructor while at the summer camp. “This is a labor of love for my mom and me,” says Jan. Education plays an important role in the operations of Ponca. “All the women in my family were educators, especially my mother, who served on the Omaha and Nebraska state education boards for many years and who, at 88, continues to support the Phoenix Academy Day School.”

Jan fondly recollects her first memories with a horse, saying, “I’m a fourth-generation Nebraskan, and I’m never far from the barn. I remember at 3 years old walking into Auntie Latenzer’s barn and meeting a horse with a velvet nose, and how his breath felt on my hand. He seemed to say ‘Hello,’ and I knew I’d made a friend for life.”

L-R: Jan Mactier and Ann Mactier

14605 N. 42nd St, Omaha www.poncahillsfarm.com 402.453.0900

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STORY BY SUSAN MEYERS PHOTOS BY MINORWHITESTUDIOS.COM

Assault survivor Polly Mitchell.

Taking A Stand Against Sexual Assault April is Sexual Assault Prevention & Awareness Month Polly Mitchell was betrayed by the hands she loved and trusted most — her own husband.

It took her 10 years to break away from the physical and sexual abuse she endured daily.

Today, eight years later, she is still learning to deal with the emotional aftermath.

“It never really goes away,” says Mitchell. “But therapy has helped me deal with my emotions and to move on.”

For many years, Mitchell was too afraid and ashamed to report the abuse. It wasn’t until her son, modeling his father, strangled his sister until she passed out, that she drew up the courage to leave him. “I couldn’t have my children growing up thinking that type of behavior was normal,” says Mitchell. “Besides that, I was in constant fear for my life and that of my children. I knew that I couldn’t live like that anymore.”

In the United States, one in eight women each year will be raped. Rape statistics in Omaha mirror national trends. Among college students, that number rises to one in continued on next page

WWW.READONLINENOW.COM • APRIL/MAY 2011 • HER

23

HEALTHfocus

Jackie Thielen, APRN-NP, Clinical Coordinator for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) and Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital.

five women. The majority of these assaults – as many as 80 percent – are performed by someone the victim knows — a boyfriend, friend, family member, relative, neighbor or other acquaintance.

“Rape is one of the most common violent crimes and the most underreported,” says Sue Michalski, RN, MS, training and education director for Omaha’s Domestic Violence Coordinating Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of domestic violence and bringing together community resources to help victims. “For as many people who come forward, it is estimated that four times as many don’t because of reasons like selfblame, shame, use of alcohol or drugs.”

While statistics show a sharp increase since 1960 in the number of women who are reporting sexual assault, there are still many who don’t, says Jackie Thielen, APRN-NP, clinical coordinator for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) and Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) program, located at the Emergency Department at both Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital.

While statistics show a sharp Approximately eight years ago, the SANE/ increase since 1960 in the SART program was number of women who are developed to help improve the process for reporting sexual assault, there those women who choose are still many who don’t. to come forward. The program was initiated by — Jackie Thielen

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24 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

HEALTHfocus “[Sexual assault victims] need unconditional support, calmness and understanding from others around them.”

Heidi Wilke, a rape victim, and her husband Jeff, who helped raise $1.5 million to fund the city’s first program of its type.

Before the SANE/SART — Michelle DuBay program, victims who sought medical care at local hospital ERs would sometimes endure long waits to be examined. Those who performed the exams often lacked experience in working with sexual assault victims and gathering forensic evidence.

Since initiating the SANE program, there has been a profound change in the way we deal with sexual assault victims, says Thielen. In addition to helping preserve the victim’s dignity and reduce psychological trauma, the SANE program provides specialized training to nurses that has improved the comprehensive care and evidence collection process. Now when assault victims come to the ER, they are admitted immediately and taken to a private room away from the rest of the ER. SANE nurses trained to deal with the physical and medical needs, as well as the sensitivities and emotional issues involved in such cases, see the patient first. An advocate from the YWCA is called to the hospital and is available to assist the patient with their permission. A case manager also follows up with the patient within 48 hours to address any unmet needs or direct them to other community resources.

Another component of the program, SART, consists of community members who work jointly to continually improve the process for sexual assault victims who seek medical

Michelle DuBay, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Therapist at Alegent Health.

continued on next page

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HEALTHfocus and legal assistance. Omaha SART members include YWCA counselors, law enforcement, the city/county attorney’s offices, as well as Methodist Hospital physicians, pastoral care and other health care professionals.

Assault victims are encouraged to seek care as soon as possible. “Timesensitive evidence may be lost the longer the time between the assault and being seen,” says Thielen. “Medical conditions to which the patient may have been exposed can develop and advance, even to life-threatening states, if left unrecognized or untreated.”

Failing to seek medical care and counseling can lead to both long-term physical and emotional ramifications, notes Michelle DuBay, mental health and substance abuse therapist at Alegent Health. These include the development of STDs, which can lead to infertility if not treated, as well as life-threatening conditions such as HIV; emotional problems; sexuality issues; relationship problems; and divorce. Others may develop eating disorders or turn to drugs and alcohol as coping mechanisms.”

“What a survivor goes through is very traumatic,” says DuBay. “We can help them work through their feelings, develop coping skills, reaffirm their self-worth, and support them in the various stages of shock, internalization, fear, anxiety, depression and repression.”

In addition to seeking counseling, “it’s also very important for these women to have a good support system in place such as their families,” says DuBay. “These women need unconditional support, calmness and understanding from others around them.”

While Methodist has the only SANE/ SART program in place, other area ERs report following strict protocols in dealing with sexual assault victims, which includes use of the Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit issued by the Omaha Police Department.

Susan Stensland, manager of Social Services at The Nebraska Medical Center, says Social Services is available to provide support to these victims when needed. “In some cases, women are admitted for something else and do not report the sexual assault until later in their hospital stay,” she says. “In those types of cases, we may provide crisis intervention.

We listen, help them problem-solve and direct

26 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

them to the appropriate community resources.”

“It can be a very long road to recovery for these victims,” says Michalski. “It’s about rebuilding trust and self-esteem.

That’s where we as a community come in.

We need to meet them where they are at, provide the right resources and be there for them for the long haul.”

Mitchell has come a long way since she left her abusive husband. He was charged and found guilty of child abuse, false imprisonment and terroristic threats. He has been in prison since 2006. Mitchell went back to school, completed her bachelor’s degree in nursing, and is now a full-time nurse.

Mitchell’s message to those women caught in an unhealthy relationship: “If it happens once, it’ll happen again. So get out now.”

Tips for Preventing Sexual Assault April is Sexual Assault Prevention & Awareness Month. Women can help reduce their risk of becoming a victim of sexual assault by taking a few steps to reduce their vulnerability. Sue Michalski, RN, MS, training and education director for Omaha’s Domestic Violence Coordinating Council, recommends the following tips: • Before going to your car, have your keys in your hand and be aware of your surroundings.

• Always park in a well-lit area.

• Socialize with people you trust in a social situation.

• Do not leave drinks unattended.

• Do not get into stairwells or elevators alone.

• Keep your blinds closed at night.

• Keep your doors locked during the day and night.

• Lock your door when you get into your vehicle.

• Don’t use earphones when jogging.

• Don’t use or carry weapons or mace that can be taken away from you.

• If you are single, use initials rather than your first name in the phone book.

• Preplan your trip before you leave home; have a back-up plan in case you get lost or stranded.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact: YWCA 24-hour hotline: 402 345-7273 or Heartland Family Services: 402-553-3000.

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message from

Theresa Cassaday, Chief Communication Officer

Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska

Girl Scouts is making every girl a promise: She can become the leader she wants to and that society needs her to be.

Leadership Experiences Make Girl Scouting Unique

Girl Scouts has introduced a new approach to what girls do, how they do it and how they benefit—for the rest of their lives. Based upon three principles, the Girl Scout Leadership Experience provides an outcome-based foundation that helps girls: 1. Discover what they can do; 2. Connect with others; and 3. Take action to improve the world around them.

In the following areas of a young woman’s development, Girl Scouts is forging a path to leadership.

Science and Technology When today’s girls graduate from college, America will need 3 million more scientists and engineers. Girl Scouts is fueling this pipeline. Programs in science, technology, engineering, and math now account for over half of all Girl Scout awards and thet introduce more girls to inspiring role models in scientific fields than any other organization.

Financial Literacy Millions of girls learn their economic ABCs by participating in the Girl Scout Cookie Program. This nationwide business—run by girls—teaches these young

entrepreneurs vital life skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics.

Global Citizenship A Girl Scout Research Institute study found that nearly half of U.S. girls hope to have an effect on the whole world. Through the world’s largest organization of girls, every girl has a chance to make a global impact and have a global voice.

Environmental Stewardship Girl Scouts combines environmental education with community action on a national scale. Last year alone, 83,000 girls worked directly with conservationists and scientists to complete Girl Scout environmental projects in 43 states.

We owe every girl in this country the opportunity to be the leader that she wants to be, and that society needs her to be. This is Girl Scouts’ promise: That every girl in this generation will have the opportunity, the tools and the access she needs to reach her fullest potential.

Log on to join us on our journey at girlscoutsnebraska.org.

IN EVERY ISSUE, HER MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE GIRL SCOUTS SPIRIT OF NEBRASKA. YOU CAN HELP, GET INVOLVED!

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message from

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things you aren’t sure you want do, including having sex or taking drugs.

Healthy relationships are based on non-threatening behavior, including talking and acting in a way that makes your partner feel safe and comfortable. They involve showing respect by listening in a non-judgmental way, and understanding and valuing his/her opinions.

Trust and supporting your significant other’s goals in life are also signs of a healthy relationship. Your partner has a right to his/her own friends, feelings and activities. Being in a healthy relationship also means that you accept responsibility for yourself and acknowledge when you’ve had a change in behavior; admit to being wrong when it is appropriate; and communicate openly and honestly. When things are out of control, take steps to seek the appropriate help.

There are several informative websites to help you if you are unsure if your relationship is healthy, including www. loveisnotabuse.com. You can also take the Healthy Relationship Quiz at www. girlshealth.gov. If you suspect you are in an unhealthy relationship, contact the YWCA Omaha at 402-345-6555 to find out resources that are available to you. Our 24-hour hotline is 402-345-7273.

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Live Well™ Omaha is an effort to raise awareness and raise the bar on the physical health of our community.

Currently, Omaha ranks 142nd out of 182 metropolitan cities. Just as critical, however, to our overall well-being is the health of our relationships.

Whether it’s marriage, a long-term relationship or a short-term one, some people have never known what a healthy relationship looks like. People are often stuck wondering if the things that are happening in their relationship are normal. According to LoveIsRespect.org (from founding sponsor Liz Claiborne Inc.), there are some questions that can help you decide if your relationship is healthy or not.

For example, do you ever feel guilty about having your own interests and friends, and feel pressured to spend time with your boyfriend or girlfriend when you’d rather do something else? Do you change your behavior to avoid a fight with your significant other?

Often you can spot behavior that can lead to an unhealthy relationship, such as a boyfriend or girlfriend getting jealous when you talk to other friends or new acquaintances. Your significant other may try to control how you dress, they may call or text you constantly, and may push you to do

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FOODwith flair

COLUMN BY JUDY GILLIARD

Bridal Bliss with a Bundt Cake Ahhhh, true love…the first kiss, the engagement, and finally, the wedding. It’s all so…well, romantic!

The bridal shower is always a fun and happy occasion. Consider planning a shower that’s a throwback to the romantic days of Old Hollywood. First, the setting…pull out the white table linens, and the pearls and rhinestones to use in your centerpiece. Have the bride’s favorite romantic music playing (John Legend or Norah Jones, perhaps), and as the guests arrive, serve them Kir Royal in a champagne glass rimed with sugar. Kir Royale consists of a ½ ounce of crème de cassis (currant syrup), topped off with Champagne. A nice sparkling wine, such as Prosecco from Italy or Cava from Spain, is a perfect substitute and is also budget friendly.

On the table, have a few finger sandwiches, quiche, and the choice of Chocolate Cherry Almond Cake or Cherry Almond Cake. As the party favor, give guests a bag of almonds tied with white ribbon—they’re a great aphrodisiac. For a bit of kitsch, pick up a copy of the 1939 movie “The Women” to watch after the gifts are unwrapped. Most of all, revel in all the romance.

Chocolate Cherry Almond Cake

By Chef Judy Gilliard Servings: 16 2 cups Heart Smart Bisquick 1 cup almond flour 3/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder 2 teaspoons instant coffee granules 1 cup turbinado sugar 2 large eggs 1 cup buttermilk 1 can cherries in light syrup 1/2 cup chocolate chip, mini semi-sweet (If you prefer milk chocolate, use 1/2 cup cocoa and milk chocolate chips) Mix Bisquick, almond flour, cocoa, instant coffee and sugar together. Beat eggs, buttermilk and liquid from cherries together and mix into dry ingredients. Fold in cherries. Place in a bundt pan and bake in a 350-degree oven for 40 min. Let cool 20 min. before taking it out of pan.

Per Serving : 209 Calories; 8g Fat (32.1% calories from fat); 5g Protein; 33g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 27mg Cholesterol; 156mg Sodium.

Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1 Other Carbohydrates.

Cherry Almond Cake

By Chef Judy Gilliard Servings: 16 1 1/2 cups Heart Smart Bisquick 1 cup almond flour 2 large eggs 3/4 cup turbinado sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 15 oz can dark sweet cherries in syrup In a large bowl, mix Heart Smart Bisquick and almond flour together. In a separate bowl, whip eggs and sugar together, add vanilla and almond extract along with the juice from the cherries. Add your liquids to the dry ingredients and mix together, then fold in the dark sweet cherries. Put mixture in a bundt pan and bake in a 350-degree oven for 40 to 50 min. Let cake rest for 10 min., then take it out of pan and let rest 60 min. before slicing.

Per Serving : 137 Calories; 5g Fat (30.5% calories from fat); 3g Protein; 22g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 27mg Cholesterol; 105mg Sodium.

Exchanges: 0 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; 0 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

30 HER • APRIL/MAY 2011 • WWW.READONLINENOW.COM

Ask her to explain it again. And she will.

Even 24 more times.

After hearing the words “you have cancer,” it’s hard to think about anything else. And when it comes to medical language, what you think you hear might only be part of the story. That’s why we offer the Nurse Navigator program to all oncology patients in the Alegent Health system. As your single point of contact, these nurses are with you as often as you need throughout your cancer experience. From helping you understand your diagnosis to coordinating and attending your appointments, these nurses will help you and your family with whatever you may need during this difficult time.

CANCER NURSE NAVIGATORS 402-717-CARE | Alegent.com/Cancer

Alegent Health is a faith-based health ministry sponsored by Catholic Health Initiatives and Immanuel.