Seemed very safe, lot of restaurants and hotels in the area. However, my visit was during the College World Series and there was extra activity and security in the area at this time.

1st base side gets shade first. Lower sections higher rows get shade next.

Not sure, we sat in section 200's, but if I am guessing I would say they do have seat backs. Try to get into the 200 level floor and hit the bar in there, alot of fun.

Well, FIRST, I hope your hope becomes reality, because this week long event is very fun! Whether you sit in the club level or "cheap seats," the atmosphere is electric and every baseball lover has a ball. As for seating, I am enclosing the website to go to so you can see which seats are where. Shade, of course, depends on time of day/time of play. The games are in the afternoon and the evening and depending on Nebraska weather, it can be 100 in the shade so bring a fan, and hat. There is a whole level where the restrooms and restaurants are to get out of the sun and still see the field. In general, know that home plate is essentially North/northwest and the players then hit to the south/southeast, so you would have a greater chance of more shade is you sit on the west side of the stadium. See TD Ameritrade Park Omaha on the web, stadium, seating layout links. Hope to see you in Omaha!