Since the founding of Downtown Omaha Inc. in 1967 as a nonprofit, privately funded corporation, the DOI has followed its mission statement “to inform, promote, and unite the downtown community.” Its ultimate goal: creating a world-class place for living, working, leisure, and the arts.

Its board is composed primarily of presidents and CEOs from downtown businesses, though everyone in the downtown area—from merchants to workers to residents—is encouraged to become involved in activities that make Downtown Omaha a better place. The Holiday Lights Festival, the Heartland Walk for Warmth, and the new Wayfinding project are just a few of the efforts supported by DOI that have created economic opportunities for area businesses, supported local charities, and spawned new traditions for countless Omahans.

Beginning in 1997, Downtown Omaha Inc. has recognized individuals, associations, and corporations in different categories for contributing to the growth of Downtown Omaha at its biannual Gala event. A list of past DOI Outstanding Achievement Winners reads like a "Who’s Who" of Omaha: Holland Performing Arts Center, Midtown Crossing, Hal Daub, River City Rodeo, and Joslyn Sculpture Garden, to name a few.

The DOI will recognize 2013 honorees at its Gala event held at the Downtown DoubleTree Hotel on January 26th. Winners include:

• Architectural Planning - Don Prochaska of Old Market Place
• Economic Development - America First Real Estate Group, DICON General Contractors, and Holland Basham Architects for the L14 Flats
• Cultural Arts & Entertainment - Omaha Children’s Museum
• Spirit of Community - Paula Steenson of Paula Presents!
• Visionary Pioneer - Frank McGree of Goodwill
• Special Events/Festivals - Bobby Mancuso for Taste of Omaha
• Adaptive Reuse/Restoration - Scottish Rite

Award recipient Paula Steenson, owner of Paula Presents!, an event planning and graphic/web design firm based in Omaha, is an active member of the DOI, serving as vice president of the group and coordinator of this year’s Gala. She’s also reaped big rewards from being involved with the organization. “DOI has been a huge part of my professional life the last 15 years,” she says. “It’s given me the opportunity to meet and work with many of the people and businesses downtown and to grow my business.”

Aggie DeRozza serves as secretary on DOI’s Board and also has great things to say about her involvement: “I’ve been with Bass & Associates for the last 18 years and our company has been a member of DOI during the entire time. DOI is instrumental in bringing quality programs and networking to its members monthly. It is a wonderful networking opportunity for companies and you find that you are conducting business with many of the people you meet there.”

The theme for this year’s Gala is “Back to the ’50s,” and will feature ’50s music, a silent auction, a menu reminiscent of the ’50s, and Omaha Publications’ own Gil Cohen as emcee. A ’50s era costume contest will also be held with mystery judges. Proceeds from the event will support Downtown Omaha Inc.’s future endeavors to help downtown businesses and organizations grow.

Speaking of the DOI Gala, DeRozza said, “It promises to be a fun event!”

The DOI Gala 2013 will take place at the DoubleTree Hotel, 1616 Dodge St., at 5:30 p.m. For more information about becoming an event sponsor, activities, or the organization, visit downtownomahainc.org or call 402-341-3700. Tickets are $75 each. RSVP no later than Jan. 22.