Talking to your children about safety
Protecting your children starts with communication. Talk with them early and often to open the lines of communication so that it’s natural for them to talk to you if they are worried about their safety.

Parents should talk to their children about:
•Kids’ experiences at school. Talk about whether they’re happy and feel safe, if something is concerning them, if they’re being bullied, and what the other students are like.
•Appropriate ways to handle anger. Fighting, aggression, and violence aren’t the answer to anger in any situation. Teach your kids to work on remaining calm and patient, talking out problems instead of fighting, and seeking an adult’s help when necessary.
•Communicating about problems at school. Make sure your kids know to talk to you or a trusted teacher or administrator if they know of someone who has behaved violently or made threats.

How prevalent is bullying?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, student bullying is one of the most frequently reported discipline problems at school. During 2005 – 2006, bullying was reported at:
•21% of elementary schools
•43% of middle schools
•22% of high schools

How do you talk about safety with your child without frightening them unnecessarily?
•Talk honestly about bullying. Help them understand what it means, what can happen as a result of bullying, and the signs of bullying in various forms.
•Promote self-confidence in children. Get children involved in activities that they enjoy and that make them feel good about themselves so that they’re confident at school and with friends.
•Teach that bullying will not be tolerated. Make sure that your children understand that it’s never OK to bully or be bullied, and that it’s important to speak to a parent or teacher if they witness any bullying.

More from ParentSavvy:
• Learn more about bullying from ParentSavvy

Is lack of physical activity really a problem?
The percentage of young people who are overweight has more than doubled since 1980. Consider these U.S. government statistics:
• 33% of high school students doesn’t participate regularly in vigorous physical activity.
• Only 30% of high school students attend daily physical education classes.
• About 25% of children spend four or more hours a day watching TV, and 66% of children spend at least two hours per day

What’s a parent to do?
If your child is young, activity has been shown to actually help
build stronger bones in the growing child.

Exercise also helps older children and teens develop healthy habits that keep diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease at bay. Here are some ideas for your family to try:
1. Establish an activity period after dinner.
Whether you take a family walk or just do the chores – anything separate from plopping on the couch will help add to the 60-minutes-a-day goal.

2. Be open to non-team forms of exercise.
Not everyone is happy in organized sports. Consider some individual-skill sports such as: ice skating, bowling, running or swimming.

3. Be the leader.
Organize family outings that involve exercise – a trip to the zoo or exploring a park or nature area. Your children take your lead – tell them why exercise is important throughout your life and why it is a priority for you.

4. Relive the fun.
Whether making a snowman, cleaning the garage or picking up around the house – you can inject fun into the activity. Have a race to see who picks up the quickest and most items. Winner gets to pick the evening program to watch. Play tag, jump rope or play hopscotch. Don’t make exercise a chore.

ParentSavvy.com has ideas for you and your family:
Check out these topics for more ideas on increasing the fun and activity in your household:
How to Get Your Kids In Shape
9 practical steps to put activity into your child’s daily routine.

Family Tips for Getting Fit
How can you join together as a family and make fitness a fun priority? Check out 8 tips to get your family moving.

Exercise and Adolescents
Now is the time to help your teen develop healthy habits that stay with them into adulthood.

Have a question for ParentSavvy? Ask our experts!

click the play button below to listen 

 Omaha Family Radio Show December 7, 2011

December 7, 2011

Lauren talks to Dan and Michelle about birthday parties ideas and locations in the metro.

click the play button below to listen 

 Omaha Family Radio Show January 11, 2012

January 11, 2012

Since it opened its doors just a year ago, School of Rock continues to expand and make playing music a reality for kids of all ages. David Campagna, owner and general manager of the Omaha location, explained that the school started with just 15 kids and now has 80 students enrolled in the program.

We do more than teach music, Campagna said. He explained that the school instills self-confidence and provides the opportunity for students to use their creative abilities. “We believe the best way to learn music is to play music,” he said. “We take students from the lesson room to the stage, developing both their confidence and musicianship with programs designed for all skill levels.”

Getting started

Once a student is enrolled, he or she received a 45-minute private lesson on the guitar, piano, bass, drums or vocals. The staff works with him or her to help discover what instrument and program is best. From there, the student is placed in a band, which the school calls Rock 101. It is in this environment that the student learns the intricacies of playing in a band, Campagna said.

Once a student graduates from Rock 101, he or she is part of the performance level. At this level, students are cast into different shows. The shows are based on previous popular bands like the Beatles, KISS, Guns N Roses and Queen. The next three months are spent perfecting a concert and traveling to local music venues to perform.  There are generally between 16 and 18 students involved in each show.At this level, students still maintain weekly private lessons along with three-hour band rehearsals.

“The best kids have the opportunity to try out for the ALL-STARS Program,” Campagna said. “They actually go on tour in the summer and experience opening for major acts and playing at festivals such as Lallapalooza in Chicago.” As part of the ALL-STARS Program, students have the opportunity to play in some of the largest and most recognized venues.

While this is the typical approach, Campagna pointed out that there are other options. For example, the Lessons+ Program is available for a student who only is interested in lessons, but still wants the benefits the school offers like access to special member-only artist events or workshops.

A chance to perform

All of the performances are booked by School of Rock. In the past year, students have played at the Waiting Room Lounge in Benson, the Chrome Lounge in Ralston, the MAC Center in Council Bluffs and at the Qwest Center. According to Campagna, crowds of 400 plus are typical for the school’s performances.
The school has two concerts coming up. Its Guns N Roses, KISS and Alice Cooper concerts will be performed on January 22^nd at the Chrome Lounge and January 29^th at the Waiting Room.

Playing up the benefits

“School of Rock offers a safe haven for these kids,” Campagna said. “It is an alternative to extracurricular activities that a lot of these kids can really fit into where they might feel out of place in other arenas.”

He said the staff is truly committed to the students and music. “Our instructors live to play and play to live,” he said. “They are experienced professional musicians and music majors that can instruct students on the finer points of their instrument, while at the same time educating them on everything that goes into putting on a great live show.”

The school is open to all skill levels and does not turn students away. Instead, they look for the best place for that student. “For example, in our Beatles shows there are very tough harmonies and intricate musicianship in most of their later music, but there also is simpler technique in their early 60s music,” Campagna said.

The school is designed to continue helping a student reach their goals even after they have made it through the Rock 101 and Performance Programs. It offers an Artist Development Program, which is designed for advanced-level students and helps them take their journey to the next level. This can be through band coaching, studio time or giving them a a jumpstart on songwriting and recording.

About School of Rock

There are nearly 80 School of Rocks across the United States. It was founded in 1998 in Philadelphia, Penn. with the philosophy that the best way to learn music is to play music. Located in what was the Millard Alternative High School on 132^nd and Millard Ave, School of Rock is equipped with three performance rooms, seven lesson rooms and lounge.

In addition to the programs listed above, School of Rock also hosts a summer camp for both beginning students and more experienced musicians. Each camp is one week from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and concludes with a mini concert at the end of the week.

Lessons start at $30 a week. To enroll, call the school or fill out an application online. For more information, visit www.schoolofrock.com

Visiting Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake Geneva, located in southeastern Wisconsin is one of the Midwest’s most beautiful natural wonders. Recreational activities are abundant in Lake Geneva. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, water skiing, biking, horseback riding or playing one of the twenty golf courses in the area.   Lake Geneva plays host to annual town parades, fairs and festivals. Unlike some resort towns that focus on just seasonal activities, Lake Geneva offers a variety of entertainment throughout the year. The historic downtown area boasts an array of shops where rare antiques and delicious Wisconsin-made confections can be found.

Did you know…

Producers/creators William Bell and Lee Phillips developed the soap opera “The Young and the Restless” while living in Lake Geneva, and set the popular daytime drama in the nearby town of Genoa City

The famed “Dungeons & Dragons® Role-playing Game” was founded in Lake Geneva. “Dungeons & Dragon’s” is a registered trademark of TSR, Inc.

Hugh Hefner chose Lake Geneva as the home for the nationally acclaimed Playboy Club & Resort, now the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa.

There’s fun for everyone at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa. The resort has a AAA Four-diamond rating and offers luxury guest accommodations that include executive hotel suites, deluxe hotel suites, deluxe guest rooms, and junior rooms. Located just a short distance from both Chicago and Milwaukee, the drive from Omaha runs about 7.5 to 8 hours. The phrase “one of a kind” would best describe this resort. It provides a virtually endless array of fun and exciting activities. Enjoy playing on two championship golf courses; relax in the WELL Spa + Salon; enjoy both indoor and outdoor tennis courts and swimming pools. Kids will love the “Kids are Grand Recreational Center along with The Mountain Top Ski and Snowboard park. There’s also horseback riding, hiking paths and hay or sleigh rides (seasonal). From cozy romantic getaways to fun-filled family vacations, Grand Geneva Resort offers something special for just about everyone.

The Timber Ridge Lodge, located within Grand Geneva Resort is the only all-season, all-suite, destination of its kind in the Midwest.

The family-friendly lodge and waterpark offers a collection of 225 expansive one- and two-bedroom suites that are equipped with whirlpool baths, private balconies and spacious living rooms. Full kitchenettes, which boast full-sized refrigerators, stove-top burners, dishwashers and double sinks, provide complete comfort for families. The lodge also offers its signature 50,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor aquatic wonderland, Moose Mountain Falls – the area’s only Waterpark – as well as a 3,600-square-foot arcade, 3,500-square-foot ballroom, and a family barbeque restaurant. Other ammenities include the New Lego® Brick Create and Take Experience. Come join in for a fun and creative Lego Brick building experience. Advance registration is required. Fees apply. Arts & Crafts Every Weekend. Movies in the Cinema and Activity Center. Updated weekly, the resort offers the best kids’ movies of all time! Stop by and relax on over-sized pillows. Available during scheduled times. Scavenger Hunts. Challenging, yes! Fun, yes! If you are in the mood for a contest, stop by the Activity Center when the popular scavenger hunts are going on!

Current Promotions Being Offered at Grand Geneva Resort

Stay and Ski Free package features two tickets valid for one day of skiing or snowboarding at The Mountain Top along with overnight accommodations in a newly renovated deluxe guest room. The Stay and Ski Free package is valid for Sunday through Thursday night stays through March 11, 2012. This package is not available on holidays or during holiday periods. Rates start at $159 per night, exclusive of resort fee and tax. Package is weather permitting.

Hit the Slopes with Family

The Mountain Top offers a variety of programs for families looking for a structured lesson for their snow bunnies-in-training. There are over 70 instructors, with a select group that specializes in children’s programs. There are two ski options available for kids: Snow Cubs – A special club offered in January and February, designed to introduce children 4 – 6 years of age to a snow experience. Professionally trained instructors coach children within a group setting. Mountain Mites – This three-week program was created especially for children 6 – 14 years of age.  Kids learn skills under the supervision of professionally trained instructors, using a specialized teaching system.

The fun continues at Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark, where families can experience two vacations in one with the Splash and Ski package, featuring: Overnight accommodations in a one-bedroom suite; four passes to Moose Mountain Falls Waterpark; four  lift tickets for one day of skiing or snowboarding at The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva along with 50% off ski rentals for children 11 years and younger

Rates for the Splash and Ski package start at $249 per night for a one-bedroom suite, exclusive of resort fee and tax. Rates for a two-bedroom suite start at $349 per night and include six waterpark passes and six lift tickets. Saturday stays require a two-night minimum stay with the package. Package is weather permitting.

To reserve accommodations at Grand Geneva, please call 800.558.3417 or visit www.GrandGeneva.com. For reservations at Timber Ridge Lodge, please call 866.636.4502 or visit www.timberridgeresort.com.

Balloons and blowers, piñatas and presents, cake and candy, goodies and games—children love birthday parties with all the bells and whistles.

But for parents, party time can be stressful. Planning games and activities to keep kids happily occupied can tax any parent’s creativity. Pre-planning and preparation add more items to an already overwhelming “to do” list. And balancing the business of the birthday buddies with getting the next activity ready on party day can leave a parent frazzled and exhausted.

Following are Omaha businesses that specialize in kid’s birthday parties. By letting one of these businesses do the planning, work, and cleanup for you, your next birthday party can be a blast for both your child and you.

Amazing Pizza Machine-The MOST AMAZING birthday parties happen at

The Amazing Pizza Machine! Our multiple, all-inclusive Party Packages

feature BIG FUN Play Cards, a spin on the Prize Wheel, delicious birthday

cake and more! NEW Party Packages give you more options to customize

your party with unlimited ride passes, timed play, themes, favor bags and even

a Party Host. Your Party Host will take care of everything for you,

from serving fantastic food in your private party room to playing games in

the arcade. It might not be your birthday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have

a little fun, too! All non-hosted parties include a trip (or a few trips) to

the Amazing Buffet to fuel up for fun. With over 100 delicious choices –

pizza, pasta and nachos to name just a few – there’s something for even

the pickiest eater! Kids can finish off their meal with something sweet from

the dessert bar, or save room for birthday cake. Kids love the 150 video

and arcade games available in the Amazing Arcade. Thrills abound on the

Wild Ride roller coaster or the Grand Spree racetrack, just two of our nine

rides and attractions – all under one roof! With so many options it’s easy

to create the perfect party at a price that fits your budget. For extra special

offers, sign up your kids in-store or online for Cogswell’s Kids Club! You can

join our Big Fun Club for adult-size offers, too.            Visit AmazingPizzaMachine.com or

call 402-829-1774 to book your party today!

beads etc- Want a fun and unique birthday party with little effort on your part? Why not try a birthday party at beads etc! At beads etc. every birthday party includes postcard invitations, a goody bag, two bead projects / competed pieces of jewelry for each child to take home, games, time to open presents and time for whatever treats you bring. The birthday package includes the items above and a special charm for the birthday girl. Cost is $16.99 per child. All you need to do is send out the invitations, bring the treats, drinks, and utensils…beads etc. will do the rest! There is an 8 child minimum, 12 girl maximum. Ages 2nd grade and above to 12 years old. Your party will be an hour and a half with a party coordinator for the whole time. Want a smaller party for 5 to 6 girls? The fee is $99 and includes postcard invitations, a goody bag, two bead projects / competed pieces of jewelry for each child to take home and a few minutes for games. You will have a party coordinator for one hour. If you want to have treats and open presents at the store you can keep the room for an extra half hour without a party coordinator.  beads etc. has even more birthday party options for 12 and above. beads etc. is located at 17306 Lakeside Hills Plaza, 173rd and West Center Road. (402) 932-0820 or visit www.beadsetcomaha.com.

Clara’s Closet Dress Up Parties- If your little girl loves to dress-up then a birthday party at Clara’s Closet is perfect for your little princess. Parties include dress-up time, glamour session, pictures, crafts and time for presents and refreshments. Refreshments and paper products are provided by the parents.  Party favors are provided by Clara’s Closet.  Party themes include:  Wedding, Fashion Show, Tea Party, Hawaiian, Pageant and special request.   Parties are 11/2 or 2 hours long. Dress-up trunks are also available for rental and include both girl and boy themes. Phone: 289-9680. Location: 2822 N Main St. Elkhorn. Visit www.dressupparties.net for more information.

Doodle Cakes- Introducing a new and unique way to celebrate your child’s birthday! Doodle Cakes: “Decorate-A-Cake” parties! Let your child be a “Cake Boss” for a day! This all inclusive party includes: invitations, chef hats (that guests decorate and take home), a two-tiered mini cake for each guest, cake decorating lesson on making simple borders, stars, polka dots, etc., two pastry bags and four tips for each guest to use, doodle cakes aprons for each guest to wear, cupcakes, drinks and all paper products for each guest, PLUS a balloon for each guest. Parties last one and a half hours in our private suite. The parties are best suited for kids ages 5 and up but we can accommodate younger children with parent participation. Great for boys and girls! Everyone loves a fun, edible art project! Perfect for birthdays, scout troops, day cares, women’s groups and bridal showers. Ask about our new children decorating stations at your wedding reception. We also have terrific add on activities to create even more FUN! We are located at 14732 Grover Street . (South of 149th & Industrial Road ) Call (402) 697-8702 or visit www.doodlecakes.com.

Gymboree Play & Music- The perfect place to host your child’s first through fifth birthday. From set-up to clean-up the stress is taken out of party preparations. Gymboree parties are available to everyone! It is a 90 minute private party with all the elements you love about Gymboree. Equipment play time, music activities, parachute time with bubble oodles, songs and games starring the birthday child and lots of fun! There is even more… all parties include a present for the birthday child, Gymboree branded invitations and paper goods.

Not only do we facilitate terrific birthday parties, we offer classes too. Gymboree Play & Music has been fostering creativity and confidence in children for over 30 years. Designed by experts, our age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. Our programs are also recognized for their unique approach to parent involvement—which encourages participation in and understanding of each child’s development. From sensory stimulation to problem-solving games and storytelling, our classes use play-based activities to stretch the body and mind. Inspire your child’s imagination and self-expression with a world of hands-on art activities. Through painting, sculpture, drawing, collage, dramatic play and more, our art classes encourage confidence and support artistic potential.

Call us at 402-330-1864 to schedule your free preview. Mention that you saw us in Omaha Family Magazine and we will give you $50 off a birthday party package and/or $50 off a new family enrollment! Offer expires March 1, 2012, call today!

Henry Doorly Zoo- Animal lovers will love the themed zoo parties at Henry Doorly Zoo. Parties include invitations, face painting, games, favors, cake, ice cream, punch, a T-shirt for the birthday child, and zoo admission. Choose from the themes “Party with the Birds” or “Wildlife Carousel” in April-September and “Aquatic Splash” or “Jungle Safari” in October-March. Parties are not available in December. Phone Number: 733-8400. Address: 3701 S 10^th St.

It’s Yours Pottery- HAPPY 2012 to all… and lets make it a year of CREATIVE and MEMORABLE Birthday celebrations for your family!  IT’S YOURS POTTERY has changed up their Birthday  offerings…adding even more for your creative at heart.  Try one of our POTTERY Birthday Packages with options for all ages, and reasonable priced to fit most family budgets. *  For those 9 years and up, we offer a super fun GLASS FUSION party, making a colorful night light along with a pendant or magnet. *  If playing with CLAY sounds like fun…we have it!  Get a little muddy creating one of many hand building clay offerings. *  For a creative MAKE & TAKE party, try our MOSAIC option…gluing tesserae glass or beans and seeds on a picture frame or shape of choice… sure to keep the kids busy!  And…our NEWEST option … CANVAS PAINTING!  Let your inner artist out painting with acrylic on stretched a canvas board. ”Creating in Clay and More” is truly what we’ve become over the years!  Give us a call, check us out at WWW.ITSYOURSPOTTERY, LIKE US on FACEBOOK…or stop by anytime!  Refer to our advertisement in this addition and SAVE 10% off any Birthday Package throughout the entire year ! ! !

Kroc Center -The Salvation Army Kroc Center has offered Swim Birthday Parties since opening two years ago.  Swim Parties became so popular that the expansive community center has added more themes including Pottery Parties, Princess Parties, Cooking Parties, Dance Parties, Sports Parties and more. Rachael White, special events manager said, “Our birthday parties are such a hit that people come from all over Omaha.  Kids always leave smiling, happy, and excited and parents tell us how easy it is for them to plan.  We are finding many families keep coming back as their kids grow.” Party packages include up to three hours of celebration, a fully decorated private Party Room; hot dogs and chips or homemade pizza and a dedicated Party Host.  During Swim Parties, kids splash and slide in the Kroc Center Recreation Pool with the big water slide and lazy stream.  Pottery Parties give kids a chance to make their own piece of pottery.  Princess Parties include time to dress up, play and have a fashion show.  During Cooking Parties, kids make their own treats.  Dance and Sports parties are filled with movement and fun. Kroc Center birthday parties are as low as $12.99 per person (plus tax) with a minimum of ten children.  Parties can be reserved by calling Rachael White at 402-905-3531 or sending an email to KrocBirthday@usc.salvationarmy.org.  More information can be found in on the Kroc Center website under Quick Links at www.OmahaKroc.org.

Mahoney State Park: Located near Ashland, just off of I 80 at exit 426, Mahoney nestles on 690 acres along the picturesque Platte River. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers year-round accommodations and recreational use. The Activity Center provides year-round entertainment with an indoor playground, activity simulators, concession stand and an ice skating rink is available November through March (weather permitting). Mahoney Park offers three packages for birthday parties. Packages A and B include admission, reserved area for an hour and a half, cleanup, one game pass per guest for rock climbing simulator, T-Shirt for birthday child and a party hat. Either package includes a small pop, bag of chips and a hot dog or slice of pizza. Park entry permit required per vehicle. Fees are per person, based on the package option selected. Birthday cake may be brought in with a scheduled party only. Reserve parties at least seven days in advance. For more information, call 402-944-2523.

Moylan Ice Plex- Does your child have a birthday coming up? Come celebrate your special day with us! We offer a great birthday party package to help make the day a memorable one. For only $12 per child you get: admission for public skating, skate rental, a meal (Choice of cheese pizza or hotdog, chips and fountain pop), party room for an hour prior, during or after public skating. You can bring in your own dessert. Group Lessons available for an additional charge. *There is a 10 person minimum pricing for birthday parties. Contact us at 402-431- 0335 to schedule your next party. Moylan Ice Plex is located at 12550 West Maple Road. Visit www.moylaniceplex.com for more information.

Omaha Children’s Museum: Omaha Children’s Museum sets the perfect stage for a fun and memorable birthday party for your child. The museum offers party rooms for birthday festivities, hours of play in its interactive exhibits and each party includes a party host. Plus, we make it easy by giving you your choice of themed paperware and invitations for the party and a tee-shirt for the birthday boy or girl. And, kids will delight in their name being announced over the museum loudspeaker on their special day!

Party Package: one hour in birthday room; admission for a minimum of 12 people (all sizes of parties can be accommodated); personal party host; invitations; tee-Shirt for birthday child; name announced in the museum after conclusion of party. The following themes are available: Dino-Mite!; Surf’s Up!, Pirate Party, Princess, Howdy Partner, Rock Star and Welcome to the Carnival. To book your party, or for more information, please contact the groups coordinator at groups@ocm.org or at (402) 342-6164 ext. 424.

Papio Fun Park hosts birthday celebrations for all ages.  Activities include Lazer Runner (a laser tag game available year round) or miniature golf and go-karts (both outdoors and usually available only March-October ).  You can select to do just one of the activities; two activities; or, unlimited use.  Packages range from $8-$20/person with a minimum of 6 attendees.  All packages include unlimited rotations in the two trampoline games, Spaceball and Jumpshot.  There is no charge for adults not participating in the activities.  With a reservation and $20 deposit the celebration package includes invitations, a two-hour reserved decorated table with helium balloons, paper products for the cake the birthday parents bring, and a gift for the birthday child. Your choice of food packages can be added: a hot dog, canned soda and bottomless popcorn bowls is $2.50/person; or, order whole, large, single topping pizzas for $13-$15/each depending on number ordered. No outside food or beverages can be brought in except the birthday cake.  Parties can be scheduled any time the park is regularly open.  Also available, but not included in the packages are batting cages and arcade games.  These operate with quarters.  For large groups, private events can be scheduled at times when the park is closed.  These start at $300 which includes the first 25 participants.  Papio Fun Park is located two blocks east of 84^th St in the heart of Papillion at 210 East Lincoln Street.  More details are available at www.papiofunpark.com or call 592-5671 to arrange your event.

Premier Gymnastics- Premier birthday parties – the fun is at the gym!
Birthdays are special times for all, so take the stress out of planning and enjoy your child’s birthday as much as possible. Let Premier plan your child’s next Birthday Party with 90 minutes of fun and fitness. For one hour, children ages three and up will have the opportunity to use their natural energy while they BOUNCE, ROLL, SWING and JUMP in our 12,500 sq. ft. main gym. Our birthday party staff will lead the children in several different structured activities including exploring our giant inflatable, bouncing on our in-ground trampolines and swinging from rings into a giant foam-filled pit. Children will also enjoy 30 minutes in our party room where they can have cake and open presents, or any other creative ideas you may have. We do the clean up when your done celebrating. Parents can just relax and enjoy while the children are having a blast!  We provide invitations which includes a map to our facility, a goodie bag, and a helium balloon for each child.  We also offer add-ons such as: pizza, cupcakes, and/or juice boxes.  Parties are Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.  For more information check out our website at www.premier-gymnastics.com, call Premier today at 402-571-6630 or stop by our facility at 10702 Browne Street. The fun is at the gym!

Rock Paradise- We are partying like a rock star at Rock Paradise. Bring out your child’s inner rock star with full stage, lights and plenty of action. Singing and dancing parties is Omaha’s newest party craze! Say ALOHA to our all inclusive birthday party package: invitations, electric guitar to decorate and take home, rock star sunglasses, rock star removable tattoos, sing karaoke on the enormous stage, (Got a shy one? Don’t worry we have multiple microphones so everyone can join in the fun!) learn the latest dance craze or just a dance party on the main dancing floor with our LED light show, limbo contest (with a special trophy for the winner), gift bag and balloon for each guest, cupcakes, drinks, and all paper products! Plus an extra treat for the birthday boy or girl. Ask about party add-ons and our special packages for scouts or day cares! We are located at 14732 Grover Street (South of 149th & Industrial Road) For more information call 402-697-8702 or www.rockparadiseomaha.com.

SkateDaze: Celebrate your next birthday at SkateDaze! SkateDaze is nationally recognized as one of the top three roller skating facilities in the U.S. SkateDaze is more than just skating!  Offering  Roller skating, Playdazium, Best of Omaha Lazer Tag, Roller Coaster, Bumper Cars, Amusement Games and the Rock Climbing Wall. Parties include party invitations, ride tickets, game tokens, pizza or hot dog, unlimited drinks, 2 for 1 return coupons, party host/hostess available, PA announcement, paper products, favors and utensils, party room. The birthday celebrity receives one month of free skating, helium balloons and a visit to the “Wind Machine”. For more information visit SkateDaze at 132^nd and B Street. Call 333-3555 or visit the web site at www.skatedaze.com!

Swimtastic- At Swimtastic Swim School, your birthday party will be a Splash!  Come enjoy the 90° water, water slide and optional games before relaxing in our observation room after you swim.  Our courteous and helpful staff will supervise the party both in the pool and out and make sure kids of all swimming abilities enjoy their time at Swimtastic.  For those kids who are not strong swimmers, we offer lifejackets so they can enjoy the pool with their friends.  Moms and dads are welcome to join in the fun at no additional charge as well.  Choose from Bubbles of Fun, Fun and Games or Private Party. Call today to reserve your time and give your children a party they will surely remember! Call or stop by today for more information or to book a party. 496-SWIM or visit us on our website at www.swimtastic.com

That Pottery Place- ‘Paint Your Own Pottery, Mosaics & glass fusing’.  Celebrate at ‘The Birthday Place’.  Creating memories since 1997 That Pottery Place welcomes parties for all occasions and ages. Special party packages are available for children’s parties of eight or more. Each child will paint a piece of pottery and create a work of art.  Their keepsake will be glazed and fired.  Choose from four packages starting at $12 per child or customize your own. Parties run one and a half hours including time for refreshments and opening gifts.  We also offer parties to go!  Let us pack up everything you need for a great in-home party.   Want something different?  That Pottery Place also offers No-Grout Mosaic Frames for ages seven years and older.  These masterpieces will be ready to take home the day of the party.  We also offer glass fusing with a choice of nightlights or pendants.  A custom birthday plate with your child’s name on it is available for $18. and complimentary with all parties over $135.  Invitations are complementary and available to download from our website .  Make your reservations for an unforgettable birthday by calling 392-1166 (7828 Dodge St)

YMCA: If you’re looking for something new and unique to do for someone’s birthday, celebrate it at the YMCA. You can use the pool, gym and party room. Your kids and their friends will love it. Call your local YMCA for more details.

by Leah Parodi

Fans of the reality television show The Biggest Loser may remember a stand out couple from season three; Marty and Amy.  They met on the show, fell in love and are now married with an adorable two year old son.  As they talk about their time on the show and their passion for helping people of size, it is easy to see why America fell in love with them.

Marty and Amy meet me for lunch and apologize for their sleepiness.  It seems that their two year old son, Blaine, was wide awake at two in the morning, the morning just after Halloween.  But Marty and Amy beam as they laugh about his bouncing restlessness due the possibility of a little too much Halloween excitement.  Married for just over three and a half years, the Wolff’s recount how they first met during the pre-taping of The Biggest Loser.

During the pre-show taping contestants are gathered but are forbidden to talk to each other.  But that did not stop Amy.  “Here is the biggest opportunity of my life happening,” says Marty.  “And Amy couldn’t keep her mouth shut!  Where are you from, what’s your name she’d ask.  I was afraid we were going to get kicked off the show before it even started.”

But soon taping began and Marty and Amy gravitated to each other as they discovered that they were both from the Omaha area.  “From day one we had a connection, a basic level of friendship,” says Amy.  “From that first day forward we laughed together, we were always standing next to each other in line and at the weigh-in.  And Bob (a Biggest Loser trainer) was always telling us to just stay moving, that we should not be sitting still for more than 30 minutes at a time.  So Marty and I would go on hikes, take walks all the time.”

Marty says that he and Amy looked at The Biggest Loser as a wonderful opportunity and made the best of it in many ways, including having fun while they were there.  But despite their budding friendship they soon discovered that The Biggest Loser was not all fun and games.  “Biggest Loser is different than other reality shows,” says Marty.  “You can’t fake it because all day long, every day they beat you up.  You can’t fake who you are.  They pierce a person’s soul, so when there is a connection, you can see it.”

“But we really enjoyed ourselves,” adds Amy.  “The Biggest Loser takes your cell phones, books and magazines.  There is no TV, no newspaper, you focus on each other.  We loved it, we had a great time.”

And though Marty and Amy are thankful for the opportunity The Biggest Loser gave them, they recall how hard it was initially going from 5,000 calories a day and no exercise to 1,200 calories and at least 5 hours of exercise each day on the show.  And while neither Marty nor Amy ended up being the winner of The Biggest Loser they both lost a considerable amount of weight.  But when the show was over and they returned to “normal” life they ran into challenges and obstacles that forced them to refocus their weight loss and new lifestyle.

Marty and Amy were now well known as a result of their time on The Biggest Loser.  Amy recalls many times when fans of the show would approach her at the store or in a restaurant and ask her how much she weighed.  And then there were the looks and stares when she and Marty would go out to dinner.  It got to the point that if Marty and Amy wanted to eat something that others deemed unhealthy, they would order in.

And then they became newlyweds and soon began to gain back some of the weight they had lost.  The newlyweds realized that they had each gained around 30 pounds fairly quickly so they began exercising and keep food journals.  “On The Biggest Loser you learn new habits, new skills,” says Marty.  “But you go home to the same environment that you were in before.  I realized that I was a food addict and here I am with a McDonalds on every corner.”

In order to help stay in the right frame of mind as well as help others Marty and Amy both became certified personal trainers through the American Council on Exercise.  “We wanted to help others and we started a weight loss camp,” says Amy.  “That was in January of 2007 and Marty has had the passion ever since.  That is why we are starting up Square One that will work with overweight people.”

Marty and Amy know the struggles that people of size experience.  But more than that, they know that the body of an obese person is different than that of someone who is 10 – 20 pounds overweight.  According to Marty, Dr. Huizenga, the medical doctor and advisor for The Biggest Loser, through years of research discovered that obese people go through physiological changes and their weight loss is very different from those who lose less than 30 pounds.

“There is a medical research side to The Biggest Loser, says Marty.  “Never before have there been studies on morbidly obese people who have lost weight.  The Biggest Loser and Dr. Huizenga are leading the charge on this research.”  Marty says that the groundbreaking studies show that the body of an obese person who loses a lot of weight fights to gain the weight back, like a magnet.  “It’s really quite fascinating, that is why Dr. Huizenga is so instrumental and he is the lifeblood of the show.”

Marty says, for example, research suggests that people of size must exercise a minimum of 9 hours a week.  “It’s good to understand the battle I’m facing,” says Marty.  “But most people don’t, they give up.”

“And they are so afraid to test the limits of their body,” says Amy.  “We can exercise for 20 minutes and fool ourselves into thinking that is enough.  There are a lot of hard lessons.”

Amy says that Marty has become happy with his weight but she has seen her weight go up and down especially after the birth of her son.  “Since having my baby I know I gained more than I should have.  I’ve been up and down like a roller coaster.  But I am open to the fact that I am still trying to figure out how to manage a full-time job, son and a busy schedule.  I take it day by day.  I exercise, keep a food journal and make no excuses!”

“I have grown a lot,” Amy smiles.  “I worried about the expectations of other people.  I used to be afraid of what people would think.  But I have evolved, it’s about me and my journey, how I feel about myself.”

Marty and Amy are taking everything that they have learned and are applying it to their new gym called Square One.  Expected to open by the first of the New Year, Square One will be geared to those who need to lose 30 or more pounds or those who may have already lost a significant amount of weight.  “This will be a great place for like-minded people with issues surrounding weight,” says Amy.  “Square One will provide power with people who understand, people who will be supportive of each other.”

“It’s simple, but for us it’s a: for people of size by people of size health club mentality,” says Marty.  “Here, we are all people of size, we struggle with weight, we get it.”

Marty feels that the most valuable resource of Square One will be the community aspect.  “We come in, work out and then talk and support each other.”  Marty is planning on community races, walks, dinners and picnics to encourage support in any way he can.  “We will have additional support like an emotional eaters club and cook book club.  All of these things help people learn, make life easier.  There is power in knowledge.”

And knowledge for Amy is key.  “My whole journey has led me to forgive myself,” she says.  “What can I do this minute, this hour that will get me to my goals?”

“I struggled for 25 years with the thought that this battle I was fighting had to be done alone,” says Marty.  “You need to declare what direction you are going in, where you want to go and what people will help hold you accountable.  You need people around who care.”

As we end our lunch it has become clear to me that it would be hard to find two people who care more about helping others get healthy than Marty and Amy Wolff.  And even though they may have the same weight related struggles as the rest of us they are still laughing, enjoying themselves and having a really good time.

For more information on Marty and Amy’s journey visit www.realitywellness.com and for information on Square One, go to www.square1club.com.

Kohll’s Pharmacy and Homecare has been a staple in Omaha since the family owned business opened its doors in 1948.  Kohll’s is regarded as one of the area’s leading providers of pharmaceutical supplies, home medical equipment, flu shots and vaccinations.  And now Kohll’s has expanded to include a new division. Kohll’s Preventative Medical Clinic will offer services from skin care and dermal fillers to medically-supervised weight loss programs. Additional services include micro-dermabrasion, waxing, and oxygen facials.

Walking into the Kohll’s Millard Plaza location at 127^th and Q Streets you get the feeling of being in a contemporary day spa. There is fun and funky furniture in the waiting area and the shelves are lined with cosmetics and skin care products. But the private rooms for services are warm and cozy with candles, soft blankets and a Zen like atmosphere. The difference at Kohll’s is that the services are provided by medical experts to provide the utmost in care.

Kristi Andersen is an LPN and esthetician who specializes in skin care.  Wax hair removal, oxygen facials, medical grade facial peels, skin resurfacing and working with a physician-grade skin care line are examples of the services that Kristi provides to help clients with fine lines, wrinkles, acne, scars, age spots and sun damage.  Kristi began working as an esthetician in 1999 and then added her nursing degree a few years later.  Kristi says that she loves working with her clients, although she admits that initially she had a hard time working with facial and chemical peels.  “When I started in 1999 I said that I would never do peels because I was afraid of what they would do to people,” she laughs.  “But the peels we use today are better, safer and faster.  They target sun-spots, fine lines, wrinkles and scars.  They are absolutely safe and produce results.”

Kristi, in addition to being medically trained in various skin rejuvenation procedures, is also an expert when it comes to showing clients how to use the skin care and cosmetics lines.  “Because I have a medical license I am able to provide medical-grade products like our skin care line,” says Kristi.  “These products provide better, faster results.”  Omaha’s pop music group Mulberry Lane uses Kristi for her make-up expertise and she recently helped transform the blond trio into the Kardashian sisters for Halloween.

Kristi enjoys the initial consultation process with clients to see what is best for them but if she feels that a client may be looking for more than a peel or oxygen facial, she refers them to Sara Legleiter.

Sara Legleiter, MSN, APRN, BC is a nurse practitioner who specializes at the Preventative Medical Clinic in the areas of Botox, filler injections, laser photo rejuvenation, healthy medically-supervised weight-loss programs including HCG and Ideal Proteins and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

Sara’s patients come to her for Botox, laser and filler injections used to eliminate fine lines and put volume back into the face to help reduce deeper wrinkles.  Botox is used to decrease lines on the forehead and around the eyes.  “Botox is for that sports-mom squint,” smiles Sara.  “I am a baseball mom myself and I have spent time squinting in the sun watching my son play.”  Sara is excited about sharing with her patients a new Botox alternative product that will become available in the spring of next year.  “Xeomin has the same molecules as Botox but is cheaper.”

Fillers like Juvederm and Radiesse are used to reduce moderate to severe lines and put volume back into the face and lips.  “But I refuse to let any of my patients walk out of here with duck lips,” she says.  “I want them to have a more natural look, replacing the volume that is lost as we age.”

Laser treatments stimulate collagen and help replace the collagen that we lose as we get older.  “After age 28 we lose a teaspoon of collagen each year,” says Sara. “With Botox, fillers, laser treatments and our really good skin care line we can help put off or even prevent a facelift,” she adds.

Sara is also a specialist in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.  This hormone replacement therapy is plant-based which means that Sara can alter the therapy for the specific needs of her patients.  And with this plant-based product Sara can eliminate the estrogen that causes cancer.  “We can tailor this to fit each woman’s need,” she says.  “The goal is to get the hormone levels in balance so that the patient feels better.  Maybe she is having issues with sleep. We may not get her back to a 10, but we can get her to an 8.”

Sara also offers her patients healthy weight loss options like the very popular HCG diet as well as MIC injections and the Ideal Protein program.  HCG involves a series of injections, a low calorie high protein diet, temporary elimination of exercise with slow introductions of new foods.  “With HCG people can lose up to 30 pounds in six weeks,” says Sara.  “This program is for everyone, even those with a lower BMI (body mass index).”

The Ideal Protein program works similarly to HCG but without the injections.  Regardless of the program, all patients go through a thorough hour long consult, body fat analysis, weekly visits (length of which depends on program selected) and coaching.

Laurie Dondelinger, Kohll’s Marketing Director, is thrilled to be able to offer so many services to Kohll’s clients and customers with such a skilled and well educated staff.  “Kristi and Sara fit in so well here because we are holistic professionals,” says Laurie.  “When you are feeling and looking your best, you can be your best.  People are more productive, have better relationships with their spouses…it’s a self-esteem thing that effects all facets of one’s life.  We are all from the sun-babies generation and are starting to see the effects of the sun with blemishes and sun-spots.  Even tanning beds can cause damage to the skin.”  According to Laurie, Kohll’s is always looking at ways to provide better and more services to their customers.  And the new Preventative Medical Clinic is just one of them.

For more information on any of the Kohll’s Preventative Medical Clinic services, go to www.omahapmc.com or call the Millard Plaza location at (402) 895-8001.

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