THE READER - EL PERICO OMAHA AUG 2021 by PioneerMedia.Me

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JOBS: Get Hired, Lose Insurance Benefits? NEWS: SILVER BULLETS DISH: Omaha’s Food Halls HOODOO: Fiery Music Forecast MUSIC: Freedom Summer BACKBEAT: Buzzworth Omaha Music FILM: Mid-Year Top 10 FILM REVIEW: Roadrunner OVER THE EDGE: Burning Down the House PLUS: PICKS, COMICS & A CROSSWORD EL PERICO: El Reto Contra Las Barreras Lingüística en Omaha | Homeschool: La Opción de una Latina Para Guiar a Su Hijo | Fotos comunitarias

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JOBS: Disabled Workers Face Convoluted System

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NEWS: Silver Bullets, Easy Answers: Reckoning with Rising Crime

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DISH: Omaha’s Food Halls Feature Something for All

publisher/editor........... John Heaston john@thereader.com graphic designers........... Ken Guthrie Albory Seijas news..........................Robyn Murray copy@thereader.com lead reporter............... Chris Bowling chris@thereader.com associate publisher.... Karlha Velásquez karlha@el-perico.com report for america corps member........ Bridget Fogarty bridget@el-perico.com creative coordinator...... Lynn Sánchez lynn@pioneermedia.me

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COVER: What Our Readers Love Best in 2021

BACKBEAT: Buzzworthy Omaha Music

PICKS: Cool Things To Do in August

MUSIC: Freedom Summer Album Release

HOODOO: Fiery Music Forecast: A Sizzling August Music Schedule

FILM: Mid-Year Top 10 REVIEW: Roadrunner

healing...............Michael Braunstein info@heartlandhealing.com arts/visual.................... Mike Krainak mixedmedia@thereader.com eat.................................. Sara Locke crumbs@thereader.com film.................................Ryan Syrek cuttingroom@thereader.com hoodoo................. B.J. Huchtemann bjhuchtemann@gmail.com music............................. Sam Crisler backbeat@thereader.com over the edge..............Tim McMahan tim.mcmahan@gmail.com theater.................... Beaufield Berry coldcream@thereader.com

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CROSSWORD/COMICS: New Puzzle. Comics by Ted Rall, Doonesbury & Jen Sorensen

IN MEMORIAM: Gone But Not Forgotten

OVER THE EDGE: Burning Down the House OUR DIGITAL MARKETING SERVICES

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El Reto Contra Las Barreras Lingüística en Omaha // Tackling Omaha’s Language Barriers

Homeschool:

La Opción de una Latina Para Guiar a Su Hijo // A Latina’s Option To Guide Her Child

August 2021

Guide To A Safe Back To School

Community Photos // Fotos comunitarias Proud to be Carbon Neutral

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Follow Mike @shoottofill on Instagram, contact at shoottofill@gmail.com

“I’ve been shooting lighting for over 10 years and combining multiple strikes into one photo for just a year. This is only the fourth composite I’ve done, but this has been the most memorable of any I’ve shot. For one, we lost power right at the beginning of the storm. So instead of all the street lights of South Omaha you just see a dark outline. Secondly, the blueish lightning and fierce winds actually had me nervous for the first time ever. It wasn’t until I walked around the next day that I saw what went down.”

August 2021

O M A H A

J O B S

Get Hired, Lose Insurance Benefits? A Convoluted System Poses a Challenge for Nebraskans with Disabilities STORY by Leah Cates

f Michael Richard Warner works full-time, he could lose the wheelchair, independent living facility and assistive technology that are essential to his quality of life. Warner said the Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid systems would expect his work insurance to provide benefits, which wouldn’t cover the help Warner, diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy at age three, needs to get dressed, prepare meals and move around. The 34-year-old holds an associate degree, has spoken at the state Capitol about disabilities and wants full-time work. But besides some speaking engagements he’s only had one job –– a personal care planning facilitator for individuals with disabilities, which lasted half a year. Warner said he can’t work more than four hours per week and keep his benefits. “I’m tired of putting effort into a system that ... seems more [conducive] to me receiving benefits for

the rest of my life, not working, and shutting up, than to me working,” he said. Warner is dealing with a complicated benefit system that’s difficult to navigate, according to Ian Froemming, president of Nebraska’s Association of People Supporting Employment First chapter. Froemming said that, in Nebraska, Medicaid and Social Security are governed by separate bodies so have different requirements for what’s considered a disability. “There’s a ton of protections for people with disabilities in [Nebraska] that aren’t communicated well across systems,” said Froemming, who helps young adults with disabilities understand the benefit system as an assistant director of navigation services for Madonna School & Community-Based Services. “[But you must] understand the system better than the system understands itself.”

Shane Dworak, a client of Madonna School & CommunityBased Services Adult Employment Program, works as a wash bay attendant at Certified Transmission. Photo by Chris Miller, Madonna School & Community-Based Services.

August 2021

Froemming said people with disabilities can work part-time ( t h o u g h n ot necessarily fulltime) and keep benefits –– once they and/or their advocates figure out the system. He recommends people like Warner contact Easterseals Nebraska, which serves Tyler Wolfe, a client at Madonna Adult individuals with Employment Program, works as an disabilities, for environmental services associate at UNMC f r e e b e n e f i t s Sodexo. Photo by Chris Miller, Madonna School planning and & Community-Based Services. counseling. Everyone’s benefit and employment watched people with disabilities situation is unique, Froemming said, thrive in positions ranging from and you shouldn’t assume a peer’s childcare assistant to maintenance worker. experience will mirror your own. Warner, for his part, is creating According to Warner, barriers to work for people with disabilities a company that trains people with don’t end with benefit problems. disabilities in motivational speaking, He recalls employers and coworkers self-advocacy and securing wellwho insist they value team mem- paid employment –– including at bers with disabilities, yet refuse to the company itself. He knows that take them seriously and accommo- if the company makes enough money, he may lose benefits. But if he date them. doesn’t go for it, Warner said, he’ll “[People] claim individuals with always wonder what could have disabilities are productive members been. of society but [don’t] give [them] “I want to train individuals with access to be fully productive,” Wardisabilities to ... ask for [the salary ner said. they’re] worth and be their own Then there’s subminimum wage, advocates,” Warner said. “[Let’s] which allows some companies to spread that message across the pay people with disabilities less globe.” than minimum wage if they’re declared less productive than coworkers without disabilities. Froemming Special thanks to Bradley A. said he has seen someone get paid Meurrens, MPA, the public policy 87 cents for 40 hours of work. director at Disability Rights Nebraska, “Why aren’t we holding people for providing extensive background to a higher self-worth standard?” he information on subminimum wage and Medicaid coverage for individuals asked. with disabilities. But, Froemming said, other employers pay adequate wages. He’s

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N E W S

Silver Bullets & Easy Answers After a Year of Rising Violence, Omaha Reckons with How it Handles Crime by Chris Bowling

2022 budget includes a $5.3 million increase for police.

imara Snipes loves where she lives. The 45-year-old is president of the neighborhood alliance in South Omaha, an area of corner stores, aging apartments and turn-of-the-century stucco homes. She’s its representative on the Omaha Public Schools Board of Education and stays active with her church near her home on S. 30th St.

Most people, from activists to OPD administrators, also admit public safety goes beyond policing the community is stronger when it works together. But who defines “the community” is up for debate.

She never thought she’d want to leave. Then she found a bullet casing on her front step. “I’m living in this,” Snipes said. “I’m the one who has to come up to my house and I have a frickin’ gun shell on my doorstep. I’m the one who has to wake up because there’s shooting outside my window. The lady across the street from me ended up with a bullet in her window. That could have been my house.” Crime is on the rise across Omaha. The number of shooting victims through June was the highest it’s been since 2016. In total, 81 people have been injured or killed. Explanations for the spike, which has occurred across the United States, vary from pandemic stress to police cutbacks spurred by the “defund the police” movement. One thing all can agree on: The situation is serious. “It just seems like it’s getting worse and the kids keep getting

Coaches and players in the Urban Flag Football League put their hands in for a huddle before a game. Photo by Chris Bowling. younger,” said Steve Smith, 59, a lifelong resident of North Omaha. “So we got to try to touch them, you know what I mean? It can’t get much worse than 13, 15-year-olds dying and getting murder cases.” To some, Omaha embodies 21st century law enforcement. OPD Deputy Chief Ken Kanger hardly broke a sweat while coaching a team of kids through Operation NETS. The police-community partnership focused on building relationships through sports is just one program the 24-year veteran

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can highlight along with a mental health co-responder program and constant policy re-evaluations. “It’ll take time,” Kanger said. “I mean, it’s not like a light switch. You can’t reverse the effects of a pandemic in one year.” Others look at OPD’s $161.8 million budget and ask why that money can’t be invested elsewhere. For them, more policing doesn’t solve crime. But in 2020, the department easily secured a $1.9 million budget increase. Mayor Jean Stothert’s

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Qasim Shabazz Asad, a co-founder of the Black Agenda Alliance, a Black nationalist group in North Omaha, said he’s felt misrepresented by politicians like former Omaha City Councilmember Ben Gray and organizations like the Empowerment Network. Efforts like theirs have increased education, employment, homeownership and life expectancy in North Omaha, but Asad isn’t satisfied. “These people are totally invisible,” said Asad, 36. “We don’t see them. We don’t know where they’re getting their numbers from and the radical lies about solutions that they’ve produced. We’ve seen none.” Omaha has no shortage of people who want to help. The problem is, Snipes said, they don’t work well together. She wants to start a group that can facilitate that. But where will the funding come from? And can Omaha shift the conversation from law enforcement to crime prevention?

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NEWS Those questions worry her. But this is Snipes’ home. She has to try. “What we don’t need is someone running away from something,” Snipes said. “We say all the time, ‘You don’t operate in a spirit of fear.’ And I can’t be scared. I just can’t be.”

Suffering in Silence In 1973, when Roscoe Wallace was 6 years old, a bully took his big wheel tricycle. His mom told him to either get it back or she’d beat him. So he found the other boy and dragged a broken Coke bottle across the side of his face. “‘What’s on your hand?’” Wallace remembered his mom saying when he got home. “I looked and it was blood. So she said, ‘Go wash your hands. I’m a cook you something.’” And I looked at her, and I had never seen such a look of [pleasure].” That set the tone for Wallace, now 54. Fear, credibility and power meant everything. In the ‘80s he joined a gang. But after losing a son to gang violence and leaving the Nebraska State Penitentiary in 1999, Wallace dedicated himself to helping his neighborhood by working with programs like Coalition Rx and the Community Justice Center, two organizations focused on community advocacy and restorative justice. A lot has changed for him. He can’t say the same for Omaha. “The leaders are younger. The followers are younger. And the adults don’t see the trauma,” Wallace said. “The adults just see the effects of it, the behavior… [The kids] suffer silently. And we haven’t helped it. And it’s almost like we forgot about what actually precipitated this thing.” Shakur Abdullah, a trainer and outreach specialist for the Community Justice Center, remembers when an Omaha police officer shot

and killed 14-year-old Vivian Strong in North Omaha in the summer of 1969. Mobs burnt down buildings along 24th Street. Before that redlining kept many Black people from obtaining home loans outside North Omaha. Today many of the buildings burnt down 52 years ago remain empty lots. The neighborhood is still predominantly African American, the median income is some of the lowest in the city, and a Reader analysis of private home loans since 2007 found while predominantly white census tracts received about $12 billion in private home loans, majority-minority census tracts received about $275 million, about 45 times less money. White-dominated census tracts outnumber minority tracts, but the proportion of funding is out of balance. Meanwhile, government funds to rehab blighted areas, known as tax increment financing, have largely gone to building commercial districts in Midtown like Midtown Crossing and Blackstone instead of North and South Omaha where most of the city’s aging buildings are located. These factors probably aren’t top of mind when someone commits a crime. It wasn’t what Abdullah thought about when, at 16 in 1975, he shot two men, killing one and blinding another. He was placed on death row at 17 and released due to changing state laws about life sentences for minors. When he was released in 2016, Abdullah wanted to help people like himself find purpose. “There may be segments of the society that believe that they are throwaways and castoffs and rejects and misfits and all those things,” Abdullah said. “We take the opposite approach. You are still important; you still have value; you still have something to offer to society. We all make mistakes. None of

us should be or are the worst mistake that we have ever made.” Through the Community Awareness Program, the Community Justice Center gives incarcerated people a chance to share their stories. In August, Wallace said they’ll bring the program to Omaha police officers and, eventually, teenagers. Bridging those worlds, hurt and healing, is Wallace’s life focus. He drives between his home in Sioux City, Iowa, and Omaha about three times a week to mentor kids. One day he hopes to open a center for people to break down the real reasons they turn to crime. “My brother hate me more than anything now because when he looks in the mirror, he don’t like himself,” Wallace said. “And then we have all this ugliness perpetuating. That’s what we’re starting to deal with.”

Losing Grip and New Ideas Kimara Snipes used to run an after-school program at Omaha Public Library’s Charles B. Washington branch. Since the pandemic halted that, several kids she mentored have been arrested. One 17-year-old is charged with a double murder. A teenager Wallace mentored is charged with shooting and killing someone at the Westroads Mall. Kanger also saw an Operation NETS kid arrested. “Really [the pandemic’s been] a direct impact because he was going to school every day. And he was involved in basketball; he was involved in football,” Kanger said. “So it’s impacted a lot of kids and families all across the board.” Up until last year the police department had seen a decline in crime. Kanger thinks the city will get back there, but Snipes doesn’t

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OPD Deputy Chief Ken Kanger

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Kimara Snipes

Qasim Shabazz Asad

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AUGUST 2021

N E W S

think that will happen absent serious change. She wants to see people from the neighborhood, who know poverty and violence personally, go door to door talking to people. Everyday people need to take ownership of their communities, she said, finding solutions together. “We need enforcement,” Snipes said. “We have to have the police department. But I think the community is often left out of decision-making in so many things, and yet it’s the community that really is the one who can solve the problem.” Wallace’s imagined healing center, Snipes’ organization, scores of nonprofits, the police department, they all require money. Organizations like the Empowerment Network, which did not return requests to comment for this story, raised nearly $4 million in 2019, according to tax filings. Since filing for nonprofit status in 2013, the organization has helped thousands of kids find summer jobs through the Step Up! program and upped key socioeconomic metrics in Omaha’s Black community. Meanwhile, large, established organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands brought in about $12 million the same year and helped more than 5,500 kids in 2020, according to their tax filings.

South [Omaha]. And we have to get out of that. What about just east Omaha, period? Or all of Omaha together?”

By the Community, For the Community Qasim Shabazz Asad towered over the football field. His frame cast a broad shadow as he hyped the huddled players. “I am my brother’s keeper, right?” Asad yelled. “Yeah!” yell about 20 kids between 6 and 11 years old. “We all love each other, right?” “Yeah!” Two teams faced off on July 16 through the Urban Flag Football League, a rec organization Asad started as a positive outlet for Black kids completely run by Black people. The chants hammer home brotherhood. Black families crowd the sidelines. Even the team names are intentional: the Timbuktu Kings, ElHajj Bulldogs, Harlem Hellfighters and Garvey-ites (a reference to Jamaican civil rights advocate Marcus Garvey). “We’re not Vikings. We’re not Cornhuskers. We ain’t jets, bulls or bears,” Asad said. “If we play as hard as we do in the sport, man, we deserve a mascot or something.”

The funding is out there. Snipes hopes to find her slice of the pie by selling something unique. When she ran for mayor of Omaha, she wanted to bridge barriers in the city. The Empowerment Network’s program Omaha 360, which Snipes participates in, connects community advocates weekly with OPD. Lately Snipes feels like it’s fallen short as crime continues worsening in her neighborhood. The city needs more.

Asad thinks autonomy can solve the societal ills pushing people toward crime. Through his organization, the Black Agenda Alliance, Asad runs this football league as well as a Black Studies Boot Camp and Black boy scout troop. The goal is to rebuild the Black community, because despite after-school programs, summer jobs and grants, Asad said North Omaha feels the same as when he was a gang enforcer years ago.

“The biggest thing is coming together as multiple organizations to present a united front,” Snipes said. “That just has not been done, especially between North and

Taking control of their community is the goal of an upcoming Black Agenda Alliance program called the Warrior Society.

AUGUST 2021

“If you’re Black, and you want to run around here shooting and you don’t want to change, because I’ve had youngsters look me in my eyes and tell me they love what they’re doing, then you gotta go,” Asad said. “We’ve got it. We’re gonna work with who we need to work with to get you up out of this community.” Asad didn’t elaborate on how they’d achieve that, although he said enforcement doesn’t have to be physical. But showing strength is one aspect of it. Asad legally carries a concealed weapon and encourages his members to do the same. When asked if he worries how police might perceive that, he wasn’t phased. Asad said he’s talked to administrators with OPD about the Warrior Society. They know his intentions. And they know he doesn’t hate police. He’d be happy to see the kids in his programs become police officers. Asad said that beats what’s happening now. “There shouldn’t be white boys from Gretna, Papillion, Ralston, Council Bluffs, patrolling North Omaha,” Asad said. “That would be the same as 1,000 of us going to patrol Elkhorn or Gretna. If you’re going to patrol the community you should belong to that community.” The message is resonating. Black Agenda Alliance is constantly adding new members, Asad said, adding there’s “phenomenal” interest in the Warrior Society. Two candidates backed by the Black Agenda Alliance recently won political office, State Sen. Terrell McKinney and Omaha City Councilmember Juanita Johnson. But what matters most to Asad remains the small, personal connections. For Janae Peak, playing in the flag football league has filled a void left by her son’s father, who Peak said is absent most of the time. “They make sure my baby is motivated,” Peak said. “They make

Coaches and players in the Urban Flag Football League sure schoolwork is good. You know, they make sure at home he respects his mom.” “It’s more than football,” said Whitney Jackson, a parent. “They’re trying to make them brothers.”

Silver Bullets and Easy Answers Basketballs smack against pavement as the sun sets over North Omaha in mid-July. Not far away, people laugh over paper plates stacked with Domino’s pizza, part of a community event at the Bryant Center on 24th Street. While kids run layups, Darnell Jackson watches. The former gang member turned community advocate doesn’t know how to stop crime. But the answer might be here. Not far away, his dad, Roscoe Wallace, reminiscences with an old friend, Steve Smith. Years ago OPD’s Ken Kanger used to chase Jackson; now they coach Operation NETS together. In the crowd there are politicians as well as members of the North Omaha Neighborhood Alliance, Black Agenda Alliance and Empowerment Network. It’s easy to get caught up on who’s right and who’s wrong. What’s working and what isn’t. But Jackson focuses on the big picture. Everyone wants the same thing. It doesn’t make the issue less complicated, but it offers a little hope. “Sometimes people get into that mode,” Jackson said. “But there’s sometimes you got to think about the great things that you are doing, versus the powers that be. And what I mean is, and it’s sad to say, you’re gonna always have [crime], right?...We just had murders on 24th Street. But look where we’re at on 24th Street, with all these kids after the murders. So I get it. I get it. It’s so tough, man.”

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AUGUST 2021

6/17/21 4:23 PM

D I S H

Omaha’s Food Halls Feature Something for All by Sara Locke cocktails to anyone milling Midtown. Open Sundays 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Mondays through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Fridays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

 B² Burger A purist’s delight, B² uses expertly sourced and seasoned local beef and offers diners few opportunities to defile it. With a limited number of sauces and toppings, B² relies on the quality and flavor of their beef and chicken to keep customers coming back for more.

 Culprit Café Inner Rail features 10 vendors to feed your appetite for adventure. Photo by Sara Locke.

inding the perfect place to feed the family, dine out with a food-finicky friend or meet a Tinder date in public without feeling stuck eating something you don’t like with someone you don’t like yet can feel like a tall order. Instead of sacrificing one of the limited number of meals we have on this planet, consider meeting at one of Omaha’s fairly new and option-packed food halls. An upgrade from your mall food court, but with a similar premise, food halls offer several menus from restaurants you’ll love, no matter what you love. This month, The Reader has put together a convenient guide to help you navigate the new and exciting food halls available to Omaha diners.

Inner Rail | Midtown 1911 S. 67th St. innerrailfoodhall.com

 Hola Mexican Eatery Mexican-inspired meals at Hola include chicken, steak, pork and vegan-style tacos, bowls and burritos. Stop in for chips and salsa before a night out, or settle in for a satisfying meal.

 Kathmandu Momo Station The only place to grab authentic Nepalese and Burmese street food in Omaha, Kathmandu proudly serves hot and savory ramen, Sekuwa and hand-wrapped steamed or fried dumplings.

menu much like the 40th and Farnam location’s, you can enjoy your favorite pizza by-the-slice (a very generous slice, at that) or order a pie the whole family will love.

 Nori Your favorite rolls, nigiri and rice bowls right in the middle of where you already wanted to be! Sushi can be as convenient as it is delicious, and this accessible spot has all you’ll need for date night, a quick bite or a grab-and-go delight.

 Rougamo & Boba Soup, salad and noodles might be the stars on most menus, but they’re the delicious sidekicks to R&B’s extensive milk tea and matcha menu. Enjoy the flavors curated by chef and China native Jing Stallworth.

 Sofra Creperie Airy and expertly crafted crepes wrapped around sweet and savory locally sourced ingredients make Sofra a decidedly grown-up eatery for those who

 Maharani Indian Kitchen Your home for rich Indian cuisine, breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy curry, Biryani and kebabs in the action-packed dining room, or grab it to-go for a delicious night at home.

 Noli’s Pizzeria

 The BackStretch BackStretch serves domestic beer, imported wine and creative

From 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily, enjoy artisan bakery items, coffee, espresso, tea and sandwiches in the spacious dining room or the fresh air patio.

Sofra Creperie has the sweet treats and sophisticated eats that satisfy the young and the young at heart. Photo via Sofra Creperie’s Facebook page.

Noli’s has changed the New York-style pizza game in Omaha and has spawned a little sister store to spread the love. With a

AUGUST 2021

Big Mama’s has been serving hearty soul food for 14 years and brings a lot of life to The Dining Room at the Highlander. Photo via Big Mama’s Kitchen’s Facebook page.

D I S H still have a taste for a little fun. Whimsical tutti frutti crepes on the same menu as a savory Lox selection mean you can enjoy a sophisticated brunch right beside your children (or your best friend who still lives on breakfast cereal).

The Switch | Blackstone 3618 Farnam theswitchblackstone.com

 Ansel’s A bite of the Big Apple without the crowds, Ansel’s serves your pastrami and bagels with a side of Nebraska Nice.

 Dirty Birds Pickle fried chicken, with a twist. You can learn about the team driving Dirty Birds and their recipe for success in our recent article. Search “Dirty Birds” at thereader.com.

 El Arepon Enjoy made-fresh daily Arepas, hot empanadas and ice-cold Chicha from this Venezuelan eatery in Blackstone. Priced right and guaranteed to satisfy, many items on the menu are gluten-free.

 MiniBar “The Biggest Little Bar in Blackstone” is the perfect place to grab a cocktail while you wait for your order from any of The Switch’s other vendors.

 Roast Do you ever wonder how the team at The Switch keeps it all going? The secret is in the beans. Every cook and dishwasher in the building is running on Roast, and you can too!

LOCALLY OWNED DELIVERY CO-OP

Dining Room | Highland Accelerator 2112 N. 30th St. highlanderomaha.com

USE CODE

GoLoCo

 Big Mama’s Kitchen Founded by the dearly departed Patricia “Big Mama” Barron in 2007, and taken up by her daughters after her passing, Big Mama’s has been a dining room table away from home for anyone who needs one for more than 14 years. The restaurant offers catering, hosts a general store and serves hot dishes to warm the soul Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

O MAHA

 Best Burger To call itself “best,” this spot has worked hard to create specialty burgers you can’t find anywhere else in Omaha. Shop the restaurant’s line of sauces and sides, schedule catering services for your upcoming events, or order a custom burger – right down to the grape jelly or pear pepper jam. Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Thursdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to midnight.

 Dena’s Place

El Arepon may be cheesy, but this Venezuelan cuisine means serious business. Photo via El Arepon’s Facebook page.

Your end-of-week destination, Dena’s serves Thursdays and Fridays from 3 p.m. to midnight and Saturdays from noon to midnight. The spot features exclusive events, excellent drinks and foods catered from the neighboring Big Mama’s Kitchen. The vibe is intentional and leaves you feeling fed, no matter what you ordered.

G et Ready O ma ha LoCo is owned and operated by local independent restaurants. The ultimate goal of LoCo is to offer delivery from the best local restaurants in town, provide great service, and enhance the local dining scene. Support local and download our app today.

AUGUST 2021

B est Lu xury Au to D e ale r / N e w Au to De ale r READERS’ CHOICE - SPONSORED STORY

Huber Cadillac To Receive Readers’ Choice for Best Luxury Auto Dealer and Best New Auto Dealer Huber Auto Group also receives Readers’ Choice for Best Auto Dealership Family-owned Huber Cadillac was first established in Omaha in 1985, and has spent those 36 years dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. While the Huber Cadillac family is devoted to the sale and maintenance of exclusively Cadillacs, their mission isn’t to be your favorite Cadillac experience, but your favorite car-buying experience, period. Their efforts have been officially recognized and rewarded, as you have named Huber Cadillac Best Luxury Auto Dealer, and Best New Auto Dealer for 2021. The Huber family of vehicles is committed to owner satisfaction, and stays with their clients through every step of the shopping, buying, selling, and maintenance of their Cadillac. Each new vehicle comes with a comprehensive owner benefit program called Cadillac Complete Care. This includes access to videos and tutorials for the care of your vehicle, a downloadable and easy to scan owner’s manual, access to service records, assistance with tech issues like Bluetooth pairing, OnStar, and help from a real person to answer questions and address concerns with your vehicle, for the life of your vehicle. You’ll also gain access to the Cadillac Loyalty Program, earning points toward allowances you can use on any vehicle bought and serviced through Huber. You can find more ways to connect, resources for checking the fuel levels or charge status of your Cadillac, and even download a remote key fob using the MyCadillacApp. With Cadillac, you are always connected!

The Future is Clean Huber may not have reinvented the wheel, but they may be ready to reinvent how you look at one. As the only standalone Cadillac dealer

in Nebraska, Huber Cadillac is setting the course for how Nebraskans look at luxury, sustainability, and style. Not doing our part for sustainability is not a luxury we have anymore, but that doesn’t mean sustainability and luxury shouldn’t co-exist. While there are still only a very select few luxury electric or hybrid vehicles on the market, Cadillac decided it was time to make the move. When considering how to create a more eco-friendly vehicle for a more discerning customer, Cadillac devoted their years of engineering and design to create the sleek, silent, and sustainable Cadillac Lyriq. Lyriq, a battery-electric crossover, is aerodynamically designed to reduce drag and improve performance. This modern approach to a classic car seamlessly marries responsible car ownership with the fun and status of driving a Cadillac. With a battery capable of taking drivers 300 miles on a single charge, your eco efforts won’t slow you down. In fact, the current specs clock the Lyriq going 0 to 60 MPH in about 4.3 seconds. The four-wheel-drive option is equipped with a second front-axle motor, with the rear-wheel drive option boasting 340 horsepower. The Lyriq was built entirely from scratch, bringing what Cadillac knew of luxury design to the world of scalable batteries and electric technologies. The first in what will be a whole line of electric and eco-hybrid vehicles, the Lyriq has only just been released overseas, and Huber is looking forward to its stateside debut in 2022! In addition to the new line of electric vehicles, Huber is excited for a number of new vehicles drivers can explore! Be sure to check out the new CT4/ CT4-V, CT5/CT5-V, CT6-V, XT4, XT5, XT6, and the 2021 Escalade.

Maintaining Excellence Huber stands behind each Cadillac sold, and is proud of the efforts their team makes to matchmake drivers with the vehicle of their dreams. Part of ensuring this satisfaction is staying with the client throughout the life of the vehicle, ensuring proper care is taken of both driver and car. Every new Cadillac you buy from Huber is equipped with a Premium Care Maintenance package, which covers most of your scheduled maintenance. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, cabin filter changes, multi-point vehicle inspection, a 4-Year/50,000-Mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty, and 6-Year/70,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. Huber employs factory-trained technicians who use state-of-the-art technology and equipment to maintain and repair the Cadillacs in their care. This ensures only expert maintenance of your vehicle, no guesswork involved.

At Your Service The service you can count on from Huber includes Concierge service at a nominal fee to Cadillac customers awaiting vehicle services. The team will collect your car and return it after services or repairs are complete. You also have access to a line of luxury loaner vehicles when repairs mean your car will be out of service for more than a day. Located at 11102 W Dodge Rd, Huber Cadillac is ready to change the way you drive. Browse the selection of new and certified pre-owned models, apply for financing, and schedule your in-person vehicle inspection or test drive at Huber Cadillac of Omaha | Cadillac Dealer in Omaha, NE (hubercadillac.com)

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE Nominations and final voting: Based entirely on community participation, Omaha businesses are nominated as the best in their category for about eight weeks at TheReader.com beginning in January and running through the end of February. Tens of thousands

of nominations inform the top nominees in each category who will appear on the final ballot. Final voting runs March 5 through April 30. Stringent procedures help insure one-person, onevote and minimize vote-buying. An independent accounting firm Hancock & Dana, one of Omaha’s oldest, counts final votes to tabulate the awards.

Winners: This list represents what Omaha locals and Reader readers love -- businesses that are the best at what they do. With deep thanks to everyone in the community who participated, we congratulate these amazing awardees!

Best Getting Around Best Airline Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Southwest Airlines

Readers’ Refer: Automotive Appearance Mr. Tintz

Best Auto Repair Shop

Readers’ Choice: United Airlines, Delta Air Lines

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Jensen Tire & Auto

Readers’ Recommend: American Airlines

Readers’ Choice: Omaha Car Care, Buchanan’s Service Center, Quality Auto Repair & Towing

Best Auto Body Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Dingman’s Collision Center Readers’ Choice: CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts, Great Plains Auto Body, Hallett Auto Body, Dave’s Auto Body Co.

Readers’ Recommend: Exclusive Repair, Tuffy Auto Services Center

Best Bike Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Bike Rack Readers’ Choice: Omaha Bicycle Company, Community Bike Project Omaha, Greenstreet Cycles, Trek

Readers’ Recommend: B Street Collision Center

Best Auto Dealer Service Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Huber Chevrolet Readers’ Choice: Baxter Subaru, Baxter Volkswagen La Vista, Gregg Young Chevrolet, Inc., Superior Honda of Omaha

Best Auto Dealership Group

Best Brake Service Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brakes Plus Readers’ Choice: Midas, House of Mufflers & Brakes, Guaranteed Brakes

Best Buy Here/Pay Here Used Car Lot

Best Gas Station/ Convenience Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Casey’s Readers’ Choice: QuikTrip, Bucky’s Readers’ Recommend: Anderson Convenience Market Readers’ Refer: Kwik Shop

Best Luxury Auto Dealer Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lexus of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Audi Omaha, Huber Cadillac, H&H Premier Automotive

Best Mobile Auto Detail Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hometown Detailing Readers’ Choice: Omaha Auto Detail, Omaha Auto Spa Readers’ Recommend: Automotive Appearance Mr. Tintz

Best Muffler & Exhaust Service

Readers’ Choice: Baxter, Huber, H&H Chevrolet

Readers’ Choice: Prime Auto Sales And Service, Auto World, Sonny Gerber Auto Sales

Readers’ Recommend: Exhaust Pros Automotive

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Safelite AutoGlass Readers’ Choice: Omaha Glass Pro Readers’ Recommend: ABC Glass, Auto Glass Now

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Russell Speeder’s Car Wash Readers’ Choice: Rocket Car Wash, Fantasy’s Car Wash, Cornhusker Auto Wash, Tommy’s Express Car Wash

AUGUST 2021

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Eckley Auto Brokers Readers’ Choice: CarMax, Prime Auto, Widman Motors Readers’ Refer: Auto World

Best Tire Service Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Discount Tire Readers’ Choice: Midwest Tire Company Readers’ Recommend: Marion Tire Pros, Pomp’s Tire Service Readers’ Refer: Tuffy Auto Services Center

Best Towing Service

Readers’ Choice: Arrow Towing, Heartland Towing & Recovery

Readers’ Choice: Mad Hatter Muffler & Brakes, Christian Brothers Automotive

Best Car Wash

Best Pre-Owned Car Dealer

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: AAA

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Eckley Auto Brokers

Best Auto Glass Repair Shop

Readers’ Choice: Grease Monkey Oil Change & More, Midas, Tuffy Auto Services Center

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brakes Plus

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Woodhouse

Readers’ Refer: Beardmore

Best Oil Change Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Tires Plus

Best New Auto Dealer Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Baxter Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram FIAT of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Superior Honda of Omaha, Huber Cadillac

Readers’ Recommend: 3B’s Towing

Best Transmission Repair Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Certified Transmission Readers’ Choice: Omaha Transmission, Tuffy Auto Services Center, AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care

B e s t A u t o D e a l e r S e r v i c e S ho p

402.496.0

READERS’ CHOICE - SPONSORED STORY

402.496.02 www.huberche

www.huberchevy www.huberchevy

“Your Way! Under the Expressway!”

Huber Chevrolet to Receive Best of the Big O! for Best Auto Dealer Service Shop “Your Way! Under Expressway!” 11102 West Dodge Rd. the • Omaha, NE 68154 “Your Way! Under the Expressway!” 11102 11102 West West Dodge Dodge Rd. Rd. •• Omaha, Omaha, NE NE 68154 68154

he vehicle you rely on is part of you and the life you live. We aren’t referring to the status of driving one brand, make, or model over another, how fast you drive, or even how well it handles. It’s a tool for doing what needs to be done, getting you where you need to be, and keeping the ones you love safe. Without it, you aren’t impacting the world in the ways it needs you. Keeping your vehicle in top shape gives you the freedom to do what you do best, with confidence. When you trust Huber Chevrolet with the care of your Chevy car, truck, or SUV, it’s about more than what’s going on under the hood. You are trusting the team with your life and livelihood.

A Legacy of Service

gives clients the freedom to handle car repairs immediately when they’re needed, instead of putting them off until they have time, which can often lead to more damage and more costly repairs.

Prices Matched, Service Unmatched Each vehicle varies, and knowing when your tires need rotated, aligned, or replaced can feel like a very dangerous guessing game. A pothole, curbcheck, and uneven roads can lead to misalignment or uneven wear and tear on your tires. The certified experts at Huber Chevrolet can assess the health and safety of your tires, while helping navigate the options for specific brands, styles, and types of tires. Your Huber team will learn about your needs and habits before suggesting All-Season, All-Terrain, Performance, Run-Flats, Snow, or Summer tires. They will also take the guess work out of reading your tires, from pressure to tread, you’ll know your vehicle stands.

For more than four decades, the Huber family has been keeping Omaha drivers safe on the road with reliable routine maintenance and honest, trustworthy service. The highly trained General Motors Certified Service technicians can service any Chevy make and model available. The team at Huber Chevrolet are rigorously trained to diagnose, And with Huber’s Tire Price Match Guarantee, maintain, and repair any issue that can arise in you can be sure that you are getting the very best a Chevy, www.huberchevy.com and commit to constant training to stay price on top-of-the-line tires for your Chevy. If ahead ofwww.huberchevy.com new trends, models, and modifications. www.huberchevy.com you find a better price within 30 days of your tire he Expressway!” Huber is proud to offer Concierge Service to purchase, simply bring in proof of the lower price the Expressway!” • Omaha, NE 68154 their repair customers for a nominal fee, picking up the Expressway!” and Huber will pay you the difference, no questions .. •• Omaha, asked! The price match guarantee is good on Omaha, NE NE 68154 68154 your vehicle from anywhere in Omaha, servicing it, and returning it to your location. This means you BF Goodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, never have to worry about rearranging your day, or Firestone, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kelly, taking a full day off to sit in a waiting room while Michelin, Pirelli, and Uniroyal brand tires. services are done. Instead, you can keep your vehicle in top shape without missing a beat! Specialized Service

402.496.0220

Huber also maintains a line of complimentary loaner vehicles, for when repairs will take longer than the team expects their customers to go without transportation. This

for Your Chevy

Whatever repairs or service your Chevy needs, Huber has the materials and expertise to handle the situation. With a 12 month or 12,000-mile warranty on parts, the service center offers free estimates on repairs, and offers services including:

• Tire Rotation • Wiper Blade Inspection and Installation • Engine and Cabin Air Filters • Battery Maintenance and Installation • Brakes • Full Synthetic Oil Chance Package • Pot Hole Damage Repair • Windshield Repair • Body Work • And More! The professionals at Huber are not only highly trained to handle whatever your Chevy can throw at them, they are a compassionate team who truly cares about your vehicle’s health and longevity. With their specialized expertise and customer care, it’s no wonder you have voted them Best Auto Dealer Service Shop for 2021! And if you don’t happen to have a Chevy for the Huber team to maintain? They have a solution for that, as well! Shop Huber Chevrolet’s expansive inventory of new and certified pre-owned Chevy cars, trucks, and SUVs. Leasing and financing options are available for those who qualify, and the no-pressure shopping experience makes browsing a breeze.

Here When you Need Them The family-owned Huber Chevrolet has been serving Omaha for nearly half a century, and plans to continue serving for generations to come. Huber is located at 11102 West Dodge Road, and is open for service, maintenance, and repairs Monday through Friday from 7am to 6pm, and Saturdays from 8am to 12pm. Calls can be made to (402) 496-0220. Learn more about the Huber family, their team, and the work they do by heading to www.hubercars.com.

AUGUST 2021

402.496.0220

402.496.0220 www.huberchevy.com

“Your Way! Under the Expressway!” “Your Way! Under Expressway!” 11102 West Dodge Rd. the • Omaha, NE 68154 “Your Way! Under the Expressway!” 11102 11102 West West Dodge Dodge Rd. Rd. •• Omaha, Omaha, NE NE 68154 68154

AUGUST 2021

www.huberchevy.com www.huberchevy.com

HELPING WOMEN THROUGH FAMILY LAW ISSUES, INCLUDING: • Divorce • Separation • Child Custody

Also OFFERING collaborative law and mediation, alternatives to court proceedings and litigation

402.548.5418

McGillLawOmaha.com

@McGillLawOmaha Best Law Firm - Divorce

Guiding women through the legal process is our passion

THANK YOU, OMAHA, FOR VOTIN G U S T H E BE ST!

Best Cosmetic Practice - Noninvasive: Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O! 2021 Best Dermatologist: Readers’ Choice 2021 Best Day Spa: Readers’ Choice 2021 Whether you want the latest in aesthetic treatments or need the best in dermatological care, you’re in expert hands with Dr. Joel Schlessinger and the LovelySkin staff. Visit Skin Specialists P.C., LovelySkin Spa or the LovelySkin Retail Store to find the perfect treatments and products for your unique skin.

LovelySkin.com/Retail

LovelySkin.com/Clinic

LovelySkin.com/Spa

Skin Specialists and LovelySkin Spa are under the direction of Joel Schlessinger, M.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgeon.

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE

Best Professional & Health Services Best Cosmetic Dental Office Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: New Image Dentistry

Best Bank Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: First National Bank Readers’ Choice: Pinnacle Bank, American National Bank, Dundee Bank, Great Western Bank Readers’ Recommend: 1st State Bank Readers’ Refer: ACCESSbank

Best Chiropractic Practice Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Essentials Natural Family Health Readers’ Choice: Koca Chiropractic, Becker Chiropractic and Acupuncture, Kunz Chiropractic

Readers’ Choice: Premier Dental, Shadow Ridge Dental, Bolding Dentistry, Hardy Benjamin G DDS

Best Cosmetic Practice - Noninvasive Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Skin Specialists PC: Joel Schlessinger MD Readers’ Choice: Dermatology Specialists of Omaha, Ideal Image Omaha Readers’ Recommend: Imagen Cosmetic Surgery Best Cosmetic Surgery Practice Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Popp Cosmetic Surgery

Readers’ Recommend: Powers Chiropractic PC, Martin & Schrage Chiropractic Readers’ Refer: Special Kneads LLC

Readers’ Choice: Aesthetic Surgical Images, Ideal Image Omaha, Finkle Cosmetic Surgery Center

Best Counseling Clinic Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Best Dermatology Clinic

Heartland Family Service Readers’ Choice: Psychiatric Services, P.C., Arbor Family Counseling, The Center for Mindful Living

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Midwest Dermatology Clinic P.C.

Readers’ Recommend: Omaha Integrative Care

Best Credit Union Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Centris Federal Credit Union Readers’ Choice: Metro Credit Union, Cobalt Credit Union

Readers’ Choice: Braddock Finnegan Dermatology, P.C., Dr. Joel Schlessinger, M.D., Skin Specialists PC

Best Float Tank Center Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Float Center

Readers’ Recommend: Creighton Federal Credit Union, Omaha Police Federal Credit Union

Readers’ Choice: True REST Float Spa

Best Health Clinic

Readers’ Refer: Omaha Firefighters Credit Union

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Methodist Physicians Clinic

Best Dentist Office

Readers’ Choice: CHI Health, OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Premier Dental

Readers’ Recommend: Boys Town Pediatrics

Readers’ Choice: The Dentists at Village Pointe, Bolding Dentistry, Hoover Dental

Readers’ Refer: Strada Healthcare

Best Hospital

Readers’ Recommend: Roger K. Curry DDS, Susan M Niles DDS, Today’s Dental Tranquility Park

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Medical Center Readers’ Choice: Methodist Women’s Hospital,

Readers’ Refer: Parra Family Dentistry

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AUGUST 2021

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Serving the entire Midwest, The Omaha Eye & Laser Institute specializes in bladefree Customized iLasik (one of • s # • # r 1 fvision the most advanced forms of 1 a o your eyes feel tired? their toll, because ars Tyour fo e HE o F Ye O Y Tmanipulated BI Are you experiencing eye is constantly fully-customized , bladeless for voting fatigue from highus amounts and adjusted. LASIK is the Lasik Laser Vision Correction), screen time? Do you find perfect solution for these and is committed to deliverBEST ofLASIK CENTER yourself rubbing your eyes problems and corrects your ing the best possible care for for the last 5 years! after aon long day atthe work? distance vision so that you our patients so you can enjoy N We pride ourselves providing most advanced CE 9 9 to glasses and customerno longer need visual1 aids clear, crisp distance vision technologyPrescription paralleled with seasoned lenses canexpectation. also take see clearly. without glasses or contacts. servicecontact that goes beyond

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Best Day Spa and Best Massage.

Boys Town Pediatrics is proud to be named Best Pediatric Practice in the Best of the Big O! Awards. With 5 locations in the Omaha area and a team of board-certified pediatricians, we strive to keep our patients and their families first. Patients at Boys Town Pediatrics have access to: • 24-Hour Appointment Scheduling • Same Day Sick Appointments, Including Evenings and Weekends • 24-Hour Nurse Support • Extended Evening and Holiday Hours • Virtual Visits for Primary, Specialty and Behavioral Health Care

Looking for a pediatrician? Schedule a free meet and greet with one of our pediatricians.

“The best in Massage, Body Treatments, Spa, Pedicures, Manicures and Laser Hair Removal.”

531-355-1234 boystownpediatrics.org

To schedule an appointment Please call 402-384-8400 Facesspa.com • 2605 S 84th St. AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE Methodist Hospital, CHI Health Lakeside Hospital

Omaha Eye & Laser Institute

Best In-Home Health Care Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Visiting Nurse Association Readers’ Choice: Hillcrest Health Services, CHI Health Lakeside, Comfort Keepers

Best Insurance Agency Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: State Farm: Greta Ritchie Readers’ Choice: State Farm: Steve Skidmore, State Farm: Beau Iske; Farmers Insurance: Lance Juett; American Family Insurance: Steve Grow Agency, Inc.

Readers’ Choice: LasikPlus, Kugler Vision

Best Law Firm Bankruptcy Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Patino Law Office Readers’ Choice: John T. Turco & Associates, P.C., The Abboud Law Firm, Husker Law, Skrupa Law Office, LLC

Best Law Firm Criminal Defense Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Abboud Law Firm Readers’ Choice: Schaefer Shapiro, LLP, James Martin Davis Law Office Readers’ Recommend: Petersen Law Offices

Best Lasik Center Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

AUGUST 2021

Best Law Firm - Divorce

Readers’ Choice: The Abboud Law Firm, Dyer Law

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Koenig Dunne Divorce Law

Readers’ Recommend: Ronald J. Palagi

Readers’ Choice: McGill Law, P.C., L.L.O., Kinney Mason, PC, LLO, Husker Law

Readers’ Refer: Inserra l Kelley l Sewell, Injury Attorneys

Readers’ Recommend: The Law Office of David Riley

Best Law Firm - DUI Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Schaefer Shapiro, LLP Readers’ Choice: Olsen Law Offices, Robb N. Gage Attorney at Law, Craig Martin Law

Best Law Firm Personal Injury Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hauptman O’Brien Wolf & Lathrop, P.C.

Best Long Term Care Facility Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hillcrest Health Services Readers’ Choice: Brookestone Village, Maple Ridge Retirement Community Readers’ Refer: Quality Living Inc, Westgate Assisted Living

Best Massage Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Massage Envy Readers’ Choice: Intuitive Wellness with Makala, Faces

READERS’ CHOICE - SPONSORED STORY The videos provide people with another channel to receive information, and because the very personable Dr. Popp appears in the videos, potential patients can also become acquainted with Dr. Popp virtually as well.

r. Jeffrey C. Popp knows about the tremendous amount of potentially harmful misinformation about cosmetic surgery out there. The cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon, who’s been in practice since 1983, not only sees the online rumors and fallacies firsthand, he and his staff hear about them every day from their concerned patients. Now Dr. Popp is fighting back with facts. He has created a growing library of videos that serve as an online resource center and a trusted source for clear, medically correct information. He details a spectrum of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures (including before-and-after photos), but also addresses patient expectations and potential side effects. “It’s my belief that the more the patient knows about their problem and about their treatment options, and the pros and cons and the risks and complications and recovery, the better they’ll do,” he explains in one video. The video library is the newest complement to the comprehensive Popp Cosmetic Surgery website, poppcosmeticsurgery. com, that includes abundant information and even a blog with a questions-and-comments section. It all supports Dr. Popp’s philosophy of encouraging patients to expand their knowledge before a procedure and even before the first consultation by doing research, putting together a list of questions for the medical team, and exploring their motivations and expectations by contemplating questions such as “Why do I want surgery?” and “Am I at the right point in my life for this type of procedure?”

The first video introduces the Popp Cosmetic Surgery practice and facilities, which include a certified surgery center. Other early videos explain the “Popp Approach” to cosmetic surgery and take the viewer on a journey along the stages of cosmetic surgery from “thinking about it” to post-procedure results. Dr. Popp personally details how he guides patients through the first conversation about their concerns, and then how “It’s my job to apply the options as to how we correct those.” Early videos cover some of the most requested procedures, including eyelid surgery and reconstruction; Exilis treatment, a non-surgical procedure that reduces fat and tightens loose skin; breast augmentation, CO2 laser skin resurfacing, otoplasty (ear pinning), neck lifts and neck liposuction. Dr. Popp has a knack, evident in the videos, for being able to take scientific medical terminology and explain it in layperson’s terms. He has also added a video about his work treating veterans and training student doctors at the Veterans Administration Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System. The video collection continues to grow. Popp Cosmetic Surgery procedures include an array of surgical and nonsurgical face, breast and body procedures from the fairly well-known (facelift, liposuction, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty) to the latest (Emsella treatment for urinary incontinence, Latisse for eyelash enhancement, Exilis).

have their positives: it’s rewarding to help patients who didn’t choose to have surgery but need reconstruction for a variety of reasons from cancer to car accidents. He enjoys working with cosmetic surgery patients because those procedures are between him and the patient; no third party, such as an insurance company, is involved. With his patient-centered “Popp Approach,” it’s no surprise that Dr. Popp was recently selected by the community for top honors as Readers’ Choice for Cosmetic Surgery Practice. Patient care is a team effort, and the staff has built a reputation for courtesy and helpfulness, providing a level of care that gives patients confidence and makes them feel comfortable to return in the future. The clinic’s goal is to help patients realize and maintain a state of physical as well as mental wellness. The credentials of the staff and health professionals of Popp Cosmetic Surgery are equally impressive. They are known for providing patients with the highest quality of cosmetic and reconstructive surgical care available, and they promote and maintain the highest level of medical proficiency. Dr. Popp is board-certified in facial plastic surgery and general cosmetic surgery. He has the coveted title of Fellow in the following organizations: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, American College of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, and American Academy of Aesthetic & Restorative Surgery. He is also a member in good standing in the following organizations: American Society Of Liposuction Surgery Inc., Associate, European Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, American Society of Cosmetic Breast Surgery, The International Society of Cosmetic Laser Surgeons, and EyePlastics®

About half of the practice’s patients come in for cosmetic surgery and the other half for reconstructive surgery, Dr. Popp said. Both types of surgeries

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE Spa, Old Market Massage, Omaha School of Massage Therapy, Skilled Touch Health & Healing

Best OB/GYN Practice Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Medicine - Olson Center for Women’s Health Readers’ Choice: CHI Health Clinic Women’s Health, MidCity OB/GYN, P.C., Omaha OB/GYN Associates, P.C.

Best Optical Store

Readers’ Choice: Pearle Vision, ModernEyes Eyecare + Eyewear, Midwest Eyecare, Millard Family Eyecare Q Street

Best Orthodontist Office Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Omaha Orthodontics Readers’ Choice: Hawley Orthodontics, Huerter Orthodontics, Braces Omaha, Igel Orthodontics Dentofacial Orthopedics

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Boys Town National Research Hospital

AUGUST 2021

Readers’ Refer: Elmwood Pharmacy

Best Physical Therapy/ Occupational Therapy

Readers’ Choice: Excel Physical Therapy, Makovicka Physical Therapy

Best Pediatric Office

Readers’ Choice: Kohll’s Rx, Baker’s Pharmacy

Readers’ Choice: Pearle Vision, LensCrafters

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Malbar Vision Center

Member FDIC

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Walgreens

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: OrthoNebraska

Best Optometrist Practice

For over 25 years in a row, thank you for naming us the Readers’ Choice Best Bank in Omaha. It’s an honor to be Recognized for our dedication, integrity, and service by the community we call home. It’s what you can expect from the great big, small bank.

Best Pharmacy

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Malbar Vision Center

Readers’ Recommend: Commercial Optical

PUTTING YOU FIRST.

Readers’ Recommend: John J. Vann, M.D., CHI Health Lakeside

Readers’ Choice: Omaha Children’s Clinic PC, Children’s Physicians Eagle Run

Readers’ Recommend: Noll Spine Rehab & Orthopedic Readers’ Refer: Physical Therapy Works Inc

Best Podiatrist Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Foot and Ankle Center of Nebraska and Iowa Readers’ Choice: Ankle & Foot Clinic, Foot and Ankle Specialists, Mid Plains Podiatry, P.C., Momentum Foot and Ankle Wellness Center

Best Veterinary Clinic Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Walnut Creek Veterinary Clinic Readers’ Choice: Ralston Vet, Westgate Animal Clinic, Papillion Animal Hospital Readers’ Recommend: American Animal Hospital, Goodrich Veterinary Clinic, Millard West Veterinary Clinic, Morgan Pet Clinic, Best Care Pet Hospital, Heartland Pet Hospital

YOU’RE

PERFECT

JUST AS YOU ARE Thanks for thinking of us when you want to make changes

PoppCosmeticSugery.com 402-391-4558

Thank you Omaha for voting Thrasher

Best Foundation Repair Company Call Today for Your FREE Estimate (800) 827.0702 | GoThrasher.com AUGUST 2021

s k n a h T

a h a m O ears! Y 64

Plumbing Company HVAC

TrusT The Big red Truck!

Trusteyman.com • 402-731-2727

B e s t P L U M B I N G H E AT I N G & H VA C READERS’ CHOICE - SPONSORED STORY

Eyman will receive 2021 Best of the Big O! for Best Plumbing Company & Best HVAC Company, plus a Readers’ Choice for Best Drain Cleaning Company.

ince the late 1950s, Eyman Plumbing Heating and Air has provided a vital service to homes and workplaces in the Omaha area. And it will continue that strong tradition of excellence throughout the 2020s and beyond, doubtless due to the company’s recent roll-out of a modern technological variety: the Resource Center on the Eyman website.

city’s sewer system), what clogs look like, and how they can begin near the fixture (such as a bath or shower) or can run deep and even reside inside the sewer line. The information by itself puts the entire plumbing profession into perspective: it’s all about problem-solving and being passionately knowledgeable in your field to help regular people out.

Introducing the Eyman Resource Center

The videos don’t just provide helpful background information but instead give real-world steps to avoid causing another drainage issue. And above all, videos like this on the Eyman website Resources Center are great for at-home understanding and prevention, proof that Eyman professionals are the best techs for the job. The Eyman Resource Center has, at the time of writing, seven animated videos, appropriately referred to on the platform as insights, with plans for more coming soon. And because they cover a wide range of plumbing and HVAC topics (furnaces, drains, and air quality) in a digestible and non-draining way at no cost, you can trust Eyman to understand, respect, and genuinely help their customers, you, and everyday people.

The Eyman family business has rolled out a brand new feature online to enhance their much-celebrated service that has been a fixture in the city for four generations. Check out the accessible addition of the Resources page, where the company provides concise yet intelligent animated videos about HVAC and plumbing systems and the problems associated with those installations and fixtures. When watching a video, you never have to worry about feeling lost, just like working with an Eyman professional on-site and in person. Videos on the platform go into specific detail while keeping things grounded and easily digestible. But if you did need a second to pause and catch up with the information provided, viewers and listeners can merely press the pause button at their convenience. Take Eyman Can Unclog Any Drain, Big or Small, for example. That video explains what plumbing fixtures are (essentially just smaller drains connecting to the

The Future Starts with Four Generations of Success The Eyman family business has spanned across four generations, helping homeowners and businesses in two centuries. So, it is no wonder they are making full use of modern technology and the prominence of the internet to continue, expand, and enhance the company-wide mission to assist the Omaha area with consistency. Of course, that forward-thinking legacy all started with Bob Eyman Sr., one South Omahan who believed in genuine service and treating every customer like they were family. That philosophy remains intact today and recently resulted in the 2018 Better Business Bureau Integrity Award, a win resulting from a baton pass to Bob Jr., who expanded business under those same necessary values, followed by his children – Tim, Tom, and Terry – who did the same. Let that be a lesson to everyone: hard work, fair prices, and dedication to family honor all pay off in the end.

Six Vital Divisions: Full-service and on-demand The Eyman results speak for themselves, including some of the most historic houses, the cutting edge of industrial and commercial developments, and pivotal citywide infrastructure projects. Eyman specializes in full-service plumbing and HVAC repair and replacement, helping residential, commercial, and industrial customers alike with drain cleaning, sewer lines, and water heater problems, among other vital services. To better understand the Eyman gold standard, the company has boiled itself down to six service divisions. Each one is simple yet expansive in scope. Those include the following.  Plumbing Service and Drain Cleaning (Each drain cleaning truck comes with the cutting edge in jetting technology)  Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Boiler Service (includes all heating and air units)  Plumbing Construction (including blueprints, bidding, managing projects, and communicating with owners, architects, and engineers)  HVAC Installation (including remote hot water service on demand to restaurants)  Utilities (Eyman usually handles significant water mains breaks throughout Omaha)  Insulation (including fire stopping whenever necessary)

Over 60 Years of Excellent Service and Counting! There are always over twenty service technicians working in the field at all times, each one to stand behind their work, their service, systems, and products, and do the best possible job for you, as if you were family. But if you want even more instant and direct access to the Eyman standard of HVAC and plumbing comprehension, the Resource Center is also available 24/7. Check it out today!

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE

LIVING & HOME SERVICES Readers’ Refer: DPS Concrete Construction

Best Custom Cabinetry Best Apartments Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Shadow Lake Square Apartments Readers’ Choice: Vivere, Titan Springs Readers’ Refer: Briar Hill Apartments, Old Mill Apartments

Best Appliance Repair Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: ServiceOne Readers’ Choice: Andy’s Appliance Repair & Parts House, Nebraska Home Appliance Readers’ Refer: Able Appliance Repair

Best Bathroom Remodeling Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Re-Bath Omaha Readers’ Choice: Omaha Bathroom Designer Service Readers’ Recommend: Bath Fitter, Superior Home Solutions

Best Carpet Cleaning Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: COIT Cleaning and Restoration Readers’ Choice: Zerorez, Jones Services, L & M Carpet Cleaning, Maxim Cleaning and Restoration

Best Concrete Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Aksarben Concrete Readers’ Recommend: Omaha Concrete and Paving, Omaha Concrete Designs

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Fox Custom Cabinets Readers’ Choice: C R Custom Cabinets Readers’ Recommend: Ed Grace Woodworking & Cabinetry, Moyer Cabinets

Best Custom Home Builder Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Castle Brook Builders of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Denali Custom Homes, Silverthorn Custom Homes LLC Readers’ Refer: River Stone Custom Homes

Best Drain Cleaning Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Major Drain Readers’ Choice: Eyman Plumbing Heating & Air Readers’ Refer: Affordable Sewer & Drain Cleaning, Bill’s Sewer Service

Best Duct Cleaning Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: DuctMedic, Midwest Clean Air Readers’ Choice: Maxim Cleaning and Restoration Readers’ Recommend: Sharp Carpet & Air Duct Cleaning

Best Electrician Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Miller Electric Co Readers’ Choice: Vaughn Electric

AUGUST 2021

Readers’ Recommend: Advanced Electrical Services Readers’ Refer: Vierregger Electric Co

Best Fence Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: S & W Fence Inc Readers’ Choice: American Fence Company Omaha

Best Fireplace Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Fireplace Stone & Patio of Nebraska Readers’ Choice: Claxton Fireplace Center Readers’ Recommend: Fireplace by Design, Table Rock Company

Best Floor Covering Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Furniture Mart Readers’ Choice: David Wood Floors Readers’ Recommend: Midwest Floor Covering

Best Foundation/ Basement Repair Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Thrasher Foundation Repair Readers’ Choice: Quality Foundation Repair Readers’ Recommend: CLS Foundation Repair & Waterproofing

Best Furniture Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Furniture Mart Readers’ Choice: Posh Peacock Consignment Furniture

Readers’ Recommend: HomeGoods Readers’ Refer: Found Vintage Market

Best Garage Door Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Overhead Door Company of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Omaha Door & Window, Precision Garage Door Service of Omaha, Midtown Doors & Services

Best Garden Center/Nursery Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Mulhall’s Readers’ Choice: Canoyer Garden Center, Benson Plant Rescue Readers’ Recommend: Lanoha Nurseries

Best Gutter Install/Repair Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Omaha Gutter and Siding Company Readers’ Choice: Home Pride Contractors, Omaha Gutter Company

Best Handyman Services Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Omaha Handyman Service Readers’ Choice: Let Me Fix It Handyman Service Readers’ Recommend: Hemminger’s Handyman Services

READERS’ CHOICE Best Hardware Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Menards Readers’ Choice: Ace Hardware, Home Depot, Ideal Hardware Readers’ Refer: P & M Hardware

Best Heating & A/C Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Eyman Plumbing Heating & Air Readers’ Choice: R Mechanical Heating & Air, Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., SOS Heating & Cooling Readers’ Recommend: ServiceOne Readers’ Refer: Eccles Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

Best Home Builder Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Landmark Performance Homes Readers’ Choice: Castle Brook Builders of Omaha, Charleston Homes

Best Home Remodeler Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Cornerstone Remodeling, Inc. Readers’ Choice: HC Remodel & Design, Stormberg Construction Readers’ Recommend: Halo Construction & Remodeling

Best Home Window Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pella Windows Readers’ Choice: Midwest Window & Door, Omaha Door & Window, Renewal by Andersen

Best Hotel Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Magnolia Hotel

Readers’ Choice: Omaha Marriott Downtown, Element Omaha Midtown Crossing Readers’ Recommend: Hilton Garden Inn Omaha Downtown Readers’ Refer: Aloft Omaha Aksarben Village

Best House Cleaning Service Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: COIT Readers’ Choice: Pink Shoe Cleaning Crew, Maids & More

Best Interiors Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: HomeGoods Readers’ Choice: Found Vintage Market, Allens Home Readers’ Refer: Ehly’s Interiors

Best Kitchenware Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Williams Sonoma Readers’ Choice: HomeGoods, Bed Bath & Beyond Readers’ Recommend: The Container Store

Best Landscaping Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Sun Valley Landscaping Readers’ Choice: The Lawn Boyz, S & N Landscape Design

Best Lawn Service Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Heartland Lawns Readers’ Choice: Ladybug Lawn Services, The Lawn Boyz Readers’ Recommend: Turfbuilders Lawn Care, Inc.

Best Moving Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Two Men and a Truck

Readers’ Choice: Somebody With A Truck, Firefighters On the Move

Best Painting Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Painting Company Readers’ Choice: Ultimate Painting, Brush & Roll Painting Readers’ Recommend: Custom Colors Painting and Home Remodeling, Marshall Painting

Best Plumbing Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Eyman Plumbing Heating & Air Readers’ Choice: T & J Plumbing Readers’ Recommend: Integrity Plumbing Readers’ Refer: Aksarben ARS, Bill’s Sewer Service

Best Pool & Spa Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Platinum Pools Readers’ Choice: Continental Pool & Spa, Outdoor Living Pool & Spa Readers’ Recommend: Classic Pool & Spa

Best Realty Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Realty Readers’ Choice: P.J. Morgan Real Estate, Berkshire Hathaway Ambassador Real Estate Jennifer Petak, Keller Williams Bronte Home Team Omaha Real Estate Agents

Best Residential Siding Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Home Pride Contractors, Inc.

Readers’ Choice: Midwest Siding, Inc., Midlands Siding & Window Co Readers’ Recommend: Omaha Gutter and Siding Company

Best Roofing Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pyramid Roofing Readers’ Choice: McCoy Roofing, Royalty Roofing

Best Storage Facility Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: StorageMart Readers’ Choice: Dino’s Storage, Milt’s Mini Storage Readers’ Refer: Redhawk Services, The Storage Loft

Best Tile Installation/Repair Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Midtown Tile Readers’ Choice: Exclusive Ceramic Tile Specialist LLC, Keystone Carpet & Tile, Tile Formations

Best Tree Service Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Terry Hughes Tree Service Readers’ Choice: Vinny’s Tree Service, Steve Torpy Tree Service, Arbor Aesthetics Tree Service

Best Window Covering Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Gotcha Covered Readers’ Choice: All About Blinds, Custom Blinds & Design

Best Wood Floor Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: David Wood Floors Readers’ Choice: Ohana Wood Floors Inc., Heartland Wood Floors

AUGUST 2021

B e s t H o m e W i n d ow C o m pa n y READERS’ CHOICE - SPONSORED STORY

Pella Omaha Replacement Windows A Popular Pandemic Upgrade W

hen the pandemic was keeping people at home, it also made homeowners acutely aware of their houses, inside and out. According to a report released in March 2021 by Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, while the U.S. economy shrank in 2020, spending on home improvements grew more than 3%, representing nearly $420 billion. Pella Windows & Doors of Omaha and Lincoln—a long-time Reader’s Choice favorite and 2021 Best Home Window Company—stayed busy adding to curb appeal, making homes more energy-efficient, creating a more modern look for some houses, and faithfully honoring the beautiful traditional architectural elements of others. A visit to Pella’s website shows a variety of local projects (pellabranch.com/omaha/projects/) representing a wide range of styles and homeowner needs. For instance, the makeover story of one Omaha home’s front entry reflects the wishes of the homeowners to create an updated entryway to complement their almost 30-year-old house. They wanted the new doors to have a contemporary look including frosted-glass panels and solid-glass transom windows. The Pella team installed Architect Series Modern double-entry doors in a striking charcoal stain finish. The new doors brightened up the formerly dim entryway and the dark gray exterior coloration enhanced the modern design. One Lincoln project story demonstrates how a mid-century home’s sunken family room gained better patio access, improved function and a refreshed look through the installation of three-panel sliding doors. The new sliding doors replaced a space previously occupied by entry doors surrounded by windows. The original double-paned plate-glass windows from 1951 were foggy and allowed significant air infiltration, so the new doors were much

AUGUST 2021

tional and fixed, with grilles between the glass for easy cleaning. They also chose two exterior Pella doors: one to the back patio and a slider door from the basement walkout. In her blog, Knowles described why the investment in Pella products was “worth it.”

before

after

more energy-efficient. The homeowner reported being “extremely happy” with not only the aesthetic and functional results of the project, but also pleased with the reasonable cost. A home doesn’t have to be especially aged to warrant replacement windows and/or doors. One local project story portrays a home in Pottawattamie County, Iowa, built in 2005. The homeowners, who wanted some architectural flair to differentiate their home from the uniformity of a residential development, replaced the windows throughout their home with Pella Reserve tilt-turn windows. These versatile windows can be swung inward from the side (like a door) or tilted inward from the top for ventilation. The homeowners also replaced two sets of sliding patio doors with new Pella Reserve three-panel traditional sliding patio doors. The home’s woodwork had a light interior stain that was challenging for the Pella team to match, but the end result was flawless. The customers appreciated the aesthetic results of the project and also loved the functionality of their tilt-turn windows. Omaha home and lifestyle blogger Kate Knowles (kateknowleshome.com) devoted a blog entry to her new home’s Pella Lifestyle Series windows, calling out the product’s reputation for energy efficiency, beautiful casement profile details, and value for her budget. Knowles and her husband chose a combination of custom wood casement windows, both opera-

“When we researched what type of windows we wanted in our home, Pella was our top choice for a number of reasons. Their high-quality products, variety of options for all budgets, and long- term customer service were most important to us in choosing windows and exterior doors for our home,” she wrote. “We couldn’t be happier with our choice in Pella windows. They stand by their products and not only helped us achieve the look we were going for, but their high energy-efficiency performance will help us save money for years to come.” Since 1925, Pella has been a leader in innovation in the window and door industry. The company, headquartered in Pella, Iowa, understands the need for replacement windows and doors to stand up to Midwestern weather extremes from steamy hot summers to frigid winters and all the storms in between. Local Pella Window & Doors showrooms feature products and expertise area homeowners need for their projects. The new Omaha showroom northwest of the intersection of Highways 50 and 370 (14478 Crest Road) opened in 2020 and serves the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro and surrounding areas. The Lincoln Experience Center is located at 4822 Pioneers Boulevard and serves customers in and around Lincoln. Homeowners are welcome to stop by either showroom to see and touch a variety of windows and doors in full scale and view window options including beautiful wood, low-maintenance vinyl, and durable fiberglass; and wood, fiberglass or steel entry doors. A sales representative can also be scheduled for a free, no-pressure in-home consultation. Either way, it’s an easy process to begin turning a vision for your home into a reality.

OMAHA, WE DON’T COAST ON COMFORT.

Window & Door Replacement

We make it easy to stay comfortable through all of Omaha’s most unpredictable weather. That’s because our energy-efﬁcient windows and patio doors are crafted with the highest quality materials and expertly installed to seal in comfort in your home, for years to come. Claim your special limited time offer at PellaOmaha.com, or call 402-493-1350.

Best Window Company, Again. Thanks Omaha! VISIT OUR NEW EXPERIENCE CENTER.

14478 Crest Rd, Omaha, NE 68138 NW Corner of Hwy 370 & 144th Street

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE

Best PERSONAL SHOPPING & Services Readers’ Choice: Metropolitan Community College, University of Nebraska at Omaha, UNMC

Best Barbershop

College of Medicine

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Best Day Spa

Scissors & Scotch Readers’ Choice: Lady Jane’s Haircuts

Faces Day Spa

for Men Readers’ Recommend: Arlan’s Barber Shop, The Beard & Mane

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Max I. Walker

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Choice: Camelot Cleaners,

Bombshell Beauty

Fashion Cleaners, Nu Trend Dry

Readers’ Choice: The Copper Pin Salon & Spa, Fringes Salon, The Salty Blonde Salon Old Market Readers’ Recommend: Bella & Co, Hank & Ax A Salon

Readers’ Choice: Genesis Health Clubs, Life Time Fitness

The Bookworm

Readers’ Recommend: SuperSlow

Readers’ Choice: Barnes & Noble,

Zone Pacific Springs

Hearthside Candles & Curios Readers’ Recommend: The Next

Best Florist

Chapter

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: A Flower Basket

Best Cell Phone Provider/Carrier

Readers’ Choice: Piccolo’s Florist, Purple Orchid Flowers

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Refer: Loess Hills Floral,

Verizon Wireless

Mag Pooja & Flowers

Readers’ Choice: T-Mobile, AT&T, U.S. Cellular

Best Grocery Store

Best Church

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hy-Vee

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: First United Methodist Church Readers’ Choice: Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, Lifegate Church,

Creighton University

Cleaners

Planet Fitness

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Recommend: Tide Dry

& Gifts Readers’ Refer: Riddle’s Jewelry, Express Jewelry Repair

Best Martial Arts Studio Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Heartland Family Karate Omaha

Readers’ Choice: Trader Joe’s, Fareway Grocery Readers’ Recommend: Whole Foods Market

Best Jewelry Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Borsheims Luxury Jewelers Readers’ Choice: Kay Jewelers, Goldsmith Silversmith Inc

AUGUST 2021

Best Pet Grooming Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ashley’s Pet Spa Readers’ Choice: The Paw Spa Pet Resort, Dogtopia of OmahaWest, That Dog Wash Readers’ Recommend: Pucci’s, Wag

Best Pet Store

Readers’ Choice: Omaha Blue Waves, Mick Doyle’s Kickboxing and Fitness Center, CKO Kickboxing Omaha

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Green Spot Readers’ Choice: Long Dog Fat Cat,

Best Men’s Clothing Store

Woof & Whiskers, Pet Supplies

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Plus, Pets Earth

Lindley Clothing Readers’ Choice: Jerry Ryan Clothing & Sportswear, Men’s Wearhouse, PacSun

Best Nail Salon

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Best Bookstore

Best College or University

Cleaners

Best Fitness Center

Readers’ Refer: A Shear Thing

Church, Lincoln Atheists

Readers’ Choice: LovelySkin Spa

Best Dry Cleaner

Best Beauty Salon

St. Mary Magdalene Catholic

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Recommend: JR’s Jewelry

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Martini Nails & Spa Readers’ Choice: Minabella Beauty

Readers’ Refer: Ruff Haus Pets

Best Phone Repair Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: iFixOmaha Cass Court Readers’ Choice: UBreakiFix, We Fix It Phone Repair Readers’ Recommend: CPR Cell Phone Repair

Best Shoe Store

Resort, Vibe Salon and Day Spa, Legacy Nails & Spa Readers’ Recommend: Artisan Nails Spa

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Von Maur Readers’ Choice: DSW Designer

Best Organic Grocery Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Trader Joe’s Readers’ Choice: Whole Foods Market, Natural Grocers, ALDI, Hy-Vee

Best Pawn Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Sol’s Jewelry & Loan Readers’ Choice: Mid-City Jewelry & Loan Readers’ Recommend: E-Z Money Pawn Shop Readers’ Refer: AAA Ultimate Pawn

Shoe Warehouse, Haney Shoes, Famous Footwear

Best Sporting Goods Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: SCHEELS Readers’ Choice: DICK’S Sporting Goods, Play It Again Sports Readers’ Refer: Select Sail & Sports, LLC

Best Store for Engagement Rings Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Borsheims Fine Jewelry Readers’ Choice: Goldsmith Silversmith Inc, Zales, Kay Jewelers Readers’ Recommend: Perspective Jewelry

READERS’ CHOICE

Best PERSONAL SHOPPING & Services Readers’ Choice: Metropolitan Community College, University of Nebraska at Omaha, UNMC

Best Barbershop

College of Medicine

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Best Day Spa

Scissors & Scotch Readers’ Choice: Lady Jane’s Haircuts

Faces Day Spa

for Men Readers’ Recommend: Arlan’s Barber Shop, The Beard & Mane

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Max I. Walker

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Choice: Camelot Cleaners,

Bombshell Beauty

Fashion Cleaners, Nu Trend Dry

Readers’ Choice: The Copper Pin Salon & Spa, Fringes Salon, The Salty Blonde Salon Old Market Readers’ Recommend: Bella & Co, Hank & Ax A Salon

Readers’ Choice: Genesis Health Clubs, Life Time Fitness

The Bookworm

Readers’ Recommend: SuperSlow

Readers’ Choice: Barnes & Noble,

Zone Pacific Springs

Hearthside Candles & Curios Readers’ Recommend: The Next

Best Florist

Chapter

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: A Flower Basket

Best Cell Phone Provider/Carrier

Readers’ Choice: Piccolo’s Florist, Purple Orchid Flowers

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Refer: Loess Hills Floral,

Verizon Wireless

Mag Pooja & Flowers

Readers’ Choice: T-Mobile, AT&T, U.S. Cellular

Best Grocery Store

Best Church

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hy-Vee

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: First United Methodist Church Readers’ Choice: Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, Lifegate Church,

Creighton University

Cleaners

Planet Fitness

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Recommend: Tide Dry

& Gifts Readers’ Refer: Riddle’s Jewelry, Express Jewelry Repair

Best Martial Arts Studio Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Heartland Family Karate Omaha

Readers’ Choice: Trader Joe’s, Fareway Grocery Readers’ Recommend: Whole Foods Market

Best Jewelry Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Borsheims Luxury Jewelers Readers’ Choice: Kay Jewelers, Goldsmith Silversmith Inc

AUGUST 2021

Best Pet Grooming Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ashley’s Pet Spa Readers’ Choice: The Paw Spa Pet Resort, Dogtopia of OmahaWest, That Dog Wash Readers’ Recommend: Pucci’s, Wag

Best Pet Store

Readers’ Choice: Omaha Blue Waves, Mick Doyle’s Kickboxing and Fitness Center, CKO Kickboxing Omaha

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Green Spot Readers’ Choice: Long Dog Fat Cat,

Best Men’s Clothing Store

Woof & Whiskers, Pet Supplies

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Plus, Pets Earth

Lindley Clothing Readers’ Choice: Jerry Ryan Clothing & Sportswear, Men’s Wearhouse, PacSun

Best Nail Salon

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Best Bookstore

Best College or University

Cleaners

Best Fitness Center

Readers’ Refer: A Shear Thing

Church, Lincoln Atheists

Readers’ Choice: LovelySkin Spa

Best Dry Cleaner

Best Beauty Salon

St. Mary Magdalene Catholic

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O:

Readers’ Recommend: JR’s Jewelry

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Martini Nails & Spa Readers’ Choice: Minabella Beauty

Readers’ Refer: Ruff Haus Pets

Best Phone Repair Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: iFixOmaha Cass Court Readers’ Choice: UBreakiFix, We Fix It Phone Repair Readers’ Recommend: CPR Cell Phone Repair

Best Shoe Store

Resort, Vibe Salon and Day Spa, Legacy Nails & Spa Readers’ Recommend: Artisan Nails Spa

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Von Maur Readers’ Choice: DSW Designer

Best Organic Grocery Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Trader Joe’s Readers’ Choice: Whole Foods Market, Natural Grocers, ALDI, Hy-Vee

Best Pawn Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Sol’s Jewelry & Loan Readers’ Choice: Mid-City Jewelry & Loan Readers’ Recommend: E-Z Money Pawn Shop Readers’ Refer: AAA Ultimate Pawn

Shoe Warehouse, Haney Shoes, Famous Footwear

Best Sporting Goods Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: SCHEELS Readers’ Choice: DICK’S Sporting Goods, Play It Again Sports Readers’ Refer: Select Sail & Sports, LLC

Best Store for Engagement Rings Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Borsheims Fine Jewelry Readers’ Choice: Goldsmith Silversmith Inc, Zales, Kay Jewelers Readers’ Recommend: Perspective Jewelry

READERS’ CHOICE Best Store for Unique Gifts Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Made in Omaha Readers’ Choice: City Limits, Dusk Goods & Gifts, The Afternoon, Tannenbaum Christmas Shop Readers’ Recommend: Hearthside Candles & Curios, Wilma & Rose Readers’ Refer: Spencer’s, Earl & Gray in Bennington

Best Tattoo Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Liquid Courage Tattoos Readers’ Choice: Big Brain West, Black Squirrel Tattoo, Eye Candy Tattoo, Viking Tattoo Inc. Readers’ Recommend: Strategic Tattoo Readers’ Refer: Skin Deep Tattoo and Body Piercing

Best Thrift Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Goodwill Readers’ Choice: Thrift World, Scout Dry Goods & Trade, The Humble Lily Readers’ Refer: Plato’s Closet, Thrift America

Best Women’s Clothing Store Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Von Maur Readers’ Choice: Scout Dry Goods & Trade, Dress Barn, Altar’d State, beyourself boutique

Best Yoga Studio Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lotus House of Yoga Readers’ Choice: High Vibe Cafe, Legacy Pilates Readers’ Recommend: Lighthouse Yoga, YOGA NOW

Winner of

Best Tile Installation/ Repair Company

THANK YOU, OMAHA FOR CHOOSING US! HARDWARE STORE

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE

Best DINING Best Buffet Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: HuHot Mongolian Grill Readers’ Choice: China Buffet, Pizza Ranch, Valentino’s, Ameristar Heritage Buffet

Best Burger Joint

Best Bagel Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Bagel Bin Inc. Readers’ Choice: Bruegger’s Bagels, Panera Bread Readers’ Refer: Ultimate Bagel Inc.

Best Bakery Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pettit’s Pastry Readers’ Choice: Sweet Magnolias Bake Shop, The Omaha Bakery Readers’ Recommend: Square Donut, Great Harvest Bread Co., Olsen Bake Shop, Uptown Bakery Readers’ Refer: Wahoo Bakery, *Holly’s Healthy Holes *closed since voting :(

Best BBQ Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Porky Butts BBQ Readers’ Choice: Tired Texan BBQ Readers’ Recommend: Hartland Bar-B-Que, Jim’s Rib Haven, We’ll Smoke You BBQ Readers’ Refer: 402 BBQ, Cubby’s BBQ, Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que, Papio Pit BBQ

Best Breakfast Joint Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lisa’s Radial Cafe Readers’ Choice: First Watch, Saddle Creek Breakfast Club, Early Bird Brunch, Summer Kitchen Cafe Readers’ Recommend: The Sojourn Cafe Readers’ Refer: Jimmy’s Egg, Homestyle Cafe, Jojo’s Diner, Sunnyside on Center

Best Brewpub Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Upstream Brewing Company Readers’ Choice: Brickway Brewery & Distillery, Farnam House Brewing Company Readers’ Recommend: Benson Brewery, Jaipur Brewing Company and Restaurant

Best Brunch Spot Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lisa’s Radial Cafe Readers’ Choice: Saddle Creek Breakfast Club, Early Bird Brunch, Jimmy’s Egg Readers’ Recommend: The Sojourn Cafe

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Stella’s Bar & Grill Readers’ Choice: Dinker’s Bar and Grill, Block 16 Readers’ Recommend: Winchester Bar & Grill Readers’ Refer: Cheeseburgers, Naughty Buddha Burger Bar, Louie M’s Burger Lust

Best Cafe/Diner Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Culprit Cafe Readers’ Choice: Lisa’s Radial Cafe, Edge of the Universe, Jimbo’s Diner Readers’ Recommend: Harold’s Koffee House, The Sojourn Cafe, Jojo’s Diner Readers’ Refer: Zen Coffee Company

Best Catering Company Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Abraham Catering Readers’ Choice: Catering Creations, QDOBA Mexican Eats, Oasis The Falafel Joint, Flagship Commons Catering Readers’ Recommend: Aaron’s Catering Readers’ Refer: Chef Hattam Catering

Best Chicken Joint Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Alpine Inn Readers’ Choice: Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Dirty Birds - The Switch, Popeyes, Quick Bites Soul Food Readers’ Recommend: Time Out Chicken

Best Chinese Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Three Happiness Express Readers’ Choice: Crystal Jade Restaurant Readers’ Recommend: Five Spice, Ming’s Restaurant, Taste of China, Golden Bowl Chinese Restaurant, Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen, Dragon Cafe, Gold Mountain Restaurant Readers’ Refer: China Palace Restaurant, Hunan Fusion, Rice Bowl, Hunan Palace

Best Coffeeshop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Scooter’s Coffee Readers’ Choice: Dripped + Draped, Karma Koffee Readers’ Recommend: Stories Coffee Company, Edge of the Universe, Archetype Coffee - Little Bohemia, Zen Coffee Company

AUGUST 2021

Readers’ Refer: Amateur Coffee, Hardy Coffee Co., Blue Line Coffee, Dundee Double Shot Coffee, Green Beans Coffee Co., Black Sheep Coffee House, Urban Alley

Best Doughnut Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pettit’s Pastry Readers’ Choice: Hurts Donut Co., Square Donut, Olsen Bake Shop Readers’ Recommend: LaMar’s Donuts and Coffee, Dunkin’ Donuts, Sunrize Donuts, Bob’s Donuts Readers’ Refer: The Omaha Bakery, *Holly’s Healthy Holes *closed since voting

Best Drive-Thru Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Runza Restaurant Readers’ Choice: Abelardo’s Authentic Mexican Food, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Curry in a Hurry Readers’ Recommend: Taco Bell Readers’ Refer: Harrison Beijing Gate

Best Falafel Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob Readers’ Choice: Oasis Falafel, Sam’s Gyros, El Basha Mediterranean Grill Readers’ Refer: Shahen Afghan Restaurant

Best Food Truck Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: 402 BBQ Readers’ Choice: The Churro Truck Readers’ Recommend: Fauxmaha, Bigdogs Patio Cafe, The Smoothie Truck

Best French Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Le Voltaire French Restaurant Readers’ Choice: Le Bouillon, La Buvette, Dario’s Brasserie

Best Greek Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Greek Islands Readers’ Choice: Jim & Jennie’s Greek Village Readers’ Recommend: Feta’s Greek Restaurant, Feta’s Gyros & Catering, Sam’s Gyros Readers’ Refer: King Kong

Best Gyro Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Jim & Jennie’s Greek Village Readers’ Choice: El Basha Mediterranean Grill, Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob Readers’ Refer: Greek Islands

Best Ice Cream Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Coneflower Creamery, Ted & Wally’s Ultra-Premium Ice Cream Readers’ Choice: Zesto Shoppe Readers’ Recommend: Mixins Rolled Ice Cream, eCreamery Ice Cream & Cookies, Graley’s Creamery, eCreamery Ice Cream & Gelato Readers’ Refer: Dolci Old Market

Best Indian Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Jaipur Readers’ Choice: The Oven, Flavors Indian Cuisine, Curri Fine Indian Cuisine Readers’ Recommend: Taj Indochinese Cuisine, Curry in a Hurry

Best Italian Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lo Sole Mio Ristorante Readers’ Choice: Roma Italian Restaurant, Spezia - Steaks, Italian and Seafood Restaurant, Malara’s Italian Restaurant Readers’ Recommend: Nicola’s Italian Wine & Faire, Mangia Italiana

Best Japanese Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blue Sushi Sake Grill Readers’ Choice: Yoshitomo, Sakura Bana Japanese Restaurant, Dragon Cafe Readers’ Recommend: Hiro 88, Matsu Sushi

Best Local Food-Serving Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Block 16 Readers’ Choice: Benson Brewery, Fauxmaha, Stirnella Readers’ Recommend: Modern Love, Boiler Room, J. Coco Readers’ Refer: Dante Ristorante Pizza, Kitchen Table, Table Grace Cafe

Best Mexican Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: La Mesa Mexican Restaurant Readers’ Choice: Maria’s, Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh, Cilantros Mexican Bar & Grill Readers’ Recommend: Trini’s Mexican Restaurant, Roja Mexican Grill, Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant, Taqueria El Rey Readers’ Refer: Estilo Jalisco Mexican Restaurant, Tixteco Mexican Restaurant, Howard’s Charro Cafe

Celebrating Over 30 Years Of Making Ice Cream Th e Old Fashioned Way

Two Omaha Locations:

Old Market

Downtown • 1120 Jackston 402.341.5827

Benson

6023 Maple 402.551.4420

tedandwallys.com

Home of America’s Most Premium Ice Cream Ted & Wally’s Ultra-Premium 20% Butterfat Made from Scratch with Rock Salt & Ice AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE Best Middle Eastern Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: El Basha Mediterranean Grill Readers’ Choice: Ahmad’s Persian Cuisine, Chaikhana Bar & Shishkabobs, Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob Readers’ Recommend: Shahen Afghan Restaurant

Best New Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Switch Beer and Food Hall Readers’ Choice: Cheeseburgers, Naughty Buddha Burger Bar, Pacific Eating House Readers’ Refer: Edge of the Universe

Best Nouveau Cuisine Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Modern Love Readers’ Choice: Edge of the Universe, Boiler Room Restaurant, Le Bouillon, Brushi European American Cuisine

Best Pasta Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Spaghetti Works Readers’ Choice: Malara’s Italian Restaurant, Pasta Amore Cafe & Bar, Spezia - Steaks, Italian & Seafood Restaurant, Via Farina

Thanks Omaha For Voting Us Best Indian Food

Best Pizza Parlor Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Mama’s Pizza Readers’ Choice: Copps Pizza Company Readers’ Recommend: Johnny Sortino’s Pizza Parlor, Big Fred’s Pizza Garden & Lounge, Frank’s Pizzeria, Virtuoso Pizzeria by David Losole, Zio’s Pizzeria Readers’ Refer: Noli’s Pizzeria, The Brick Oven Pizzeria, Sgt. Peffer’s Cafe Italian, PizzaWest, Tasty Pizza, Caniglia’s A Mano, Via Farina, Bernie’s Pizza Parlor, Don Carmelo’s Pizzeria

Best Ramen Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ika Ramen Readers’ Choice: Yoshi-Ya Ramen, Ika San Ramen, JINYA Ramen Bar Readers’ Recommend: Lucky Tiger Izakaya & Sushi

Best Restaurant for Romance Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brother Sebastian’s Steakhouse Readers’ Choice: Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, Spezia - Steaks, Italian, and Seafood Restaurant

Omaha’s Original Indian Restaurant & Brewing Company

Readers’ Recommend: J. Coco, La Buvette Wine & Grocery, Johnny’s Cafe Readers’ Refer: Modern Love

Best Retail Meat Counter Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Fareway Meat and Grocery Readers’ Choice: Just Good Meat, Hy-Vee, Stoysich House of Sausage Readers’ Refer: B.I.G. Meats

Best Retail Produce Selection Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hy-Vee Readers’ Choice: Whole Foods Market, ALDI, Trader Joe’s Readers’ Refer: Natural Grocers

Best Retail Wine Selection Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hy-Vee Readers’ Choice: Spirit World, Wine, Beer, and Spirits, Trader Joe’s Readers’ Recommend: La Buvette Wine & Grocery Readers’ Refer: Marks Pantry and Bottle Shop, Whole Foods Market, Vino Mas

Best Sandwich Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Block 16 Readers’ Choice: Jimmy John’s, The Bánh Mì Shop, Ethnic Sandwich Shop, Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub & Grill Readers’ Recommend: Star Deli, Hartland Bar-B-Que Readers’ Refer: Fauxmaha

Best Seafood Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Shucks Fish House & Oyster Bar Readers’ Choice: Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Plank Seafood Provisions Readers’ Refer: Lutfi’s Fried Fish

Best Steak House Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Drover Readers’ Choice: Brother Sebastian’s Steakhouse, Mahogany Prime Steakhouse Readers’ Recommend: Charleston’s Restaurant, Cascio’s Steakhouse, Gorat’s #1 for 18 years in a Row

Best Sushi Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blue Sushi Sake Grill Readers’ Choice: Yoshitomo, Hiro 88 Readers’ Recommend: Ponzu Sushi & Grill, Sakura Bana, Matsu Sushi

Best Sweets Shop

Family owned and operated. Jaipur has something for all ages.

10922 Elm Street Omaha, NE 68144. • Tel.(402) 392 7331

AUGUST 2021

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Old Market Candy Shop Readers’ Choice: Sweet Magnolias Bake Shop, Chocolat Abeille Readers’ Refer: A Family Affair Caramels

Best Taco Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Maria’s Readers’ Choice: Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh, Voodoo Taco, California Tacos & More Readers’ Recommend: Taco Co., Roja Mexican Grill, Hook and Lime Readers’ Refer: Mas Chingon, The Hoppy Taco

Best Take Out Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Winchester Bar & Grill Readers’ Choice: Hartland Bar-B-Que, Salween Thai Restaurant Readers’ Recommend: Crystal Jade Restaurant, Modern Love, Naughty Buddha Burger Bar, Oasis The Falafel Joint, Nice Rollz Readers’ Refer: Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen

Best Tapas (Small Portions) Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blue Sushi Sake Grill Readers’ Choice: Hook and Lime, Le Bouillon, Oasis The Falafel Joint Readers’ Refer: The Grove Juicery & Wellness Cafe

Best Tex-Mex Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Roja Mexican Grill Readers’ Choice: Maria’s, Cilantros Mexican Bar & Grill, Trini’s Mexican Restaurant, Stokes Grill & Bar Readers’ Recommend: Hook & Lime Readers’ Refer: Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill

Best Thai Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Salween Thai Restaurant Readers’ Choice: Thai Pepper Readers’ Recommend: Thai Orchids Restaurant, Bangkok Kitchen, Mercy Thai Restaurant, Laos Thai

Best Vegetarian Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Modern Love Readers’ Choice: Fauxmaha, Okra African Grill, Soular Power Plate

Best Wing Restaurant Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Oscar’s Pizza & Sports Grille Readers’ Choice: Wingstop, Ray’s Original Buffalo Wings Readers’ Recommend: Buffalo Wild Wings, The Salty Dog Bar & Grill, Crescent Moon Readers’ Refer: Modern Love, Nite Owl

Thanks Omaha for voting us

READERS’ CHOICE - SPONSORED STORY

5 years strong:

Upstream Brewing Company voted 2021 Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O

BesT BrewpuB, AgAin Proud pioneers of the fermenter-to-table movement.

Upstream Brewing Company is on a roll. This year’s Readers’ Choice award marks the fifth consecutive win for the Old Market brewery, an impressive feat as Omaha’s brewing scene continues to expand and develop each year. With a simple, four word motto of “eat well, drink better”, Upstream nails the fundamentals of craft beer, inspiring customers to return year after year.

It would be wrong to say the freshest beer is automatically the best beer. But the best beer almost always tastes its best when it is, in marketing speak, at the peak of freshness. And it’s hard to get any fresher than beer brewed thirty feet away from your table. And it’s doubly hard to get any better than when that table is here at Upstream. But we suspect you already knew that.

Founded in 1996 by Brian Magee, Upstream is an Omaha classic. Beyond its name recognition, the iconic brewery utilizes its large capacity, prime location, and emphasis on in-house quality to provide local Omahans and visitors alike with a drinking experience they are sure to remember. “When we have a brand that people are familiar with, consistency is just as important as being good,” head brewmaster Dallas Archer said. Archer knows the Upstream brand well. 14 years ago, Archer was a 20 year old University of Nebraska-Omaha student unsure about his career aspirations. He started as an Upstream server, and slowly fell in love with the process of brewing craft beers. Upstream supported Archer’s budding talents, eventually promoting him to head brewmaster in 2013. Today, Archer leads a small full-time brewing team through each step of the brewing process, as well as leading required brewing education training sessions for the entire staff. “Accessible is a good word, approachable,” Archer said. “[I want] to make people feel comfortable being able to try new stuff. And, I mean, who doesn’t want to taste some free beer?” However, this year posed particular challenges for Archer and his team. Brewing craft beers requires flexibility, as the team tries to anticipate which drinks will be popular two to three weeks before they hit the bar taps. When the COVID-19 pandemic reduced in-person dining, that adaptability became even more essential. “A lot of people don’t think about if you have a batch of beer sitting around for too long, that’s a quality concern,” Archer said. “We would brew a lot of smaller batches, which takes just as much work, just so we can make sure we went through it quickly. But then that causes logistical problems, because we go through it too quickly.” This year’s win cements that Upstream managed the struggles of 2021 with success. Now, Archer looks forward to bettering his brews and sharing his joyful passion for craft beers with more Omahans. “That’s what drives us, is always creating something new, increasing our quality. Whether it’s through process or ingredients or by design, whatever it is,” Archer said. “But it’s funny, because people are always like ‘working on anything fun?’... well, we’re always working on something fun.”

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE

Best NIGHTLIFE & PLAY Best Bar for Conversation

Best Bar for an Internet Date Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Tiny House Bar Readers’ Choice: Beercade, Edge of the Universe, The Homy Inn Readers’ Recommend: Nite Owl, The Village Bar Ralston, WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers Readers’ Refer: Stocks n Bonds, Local Beer, Patio and Kitchen, The Down Under Lounge

Best Bar for Beer Selection Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Crescent Moon Readers’ Choice: Krug Park, 72 Table & Tap, Local Beer, Patio and Kitchen, Blatt Beer & Table Readers’ Refer: Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews, The Down Under Lounge

Best Bar for Billiards Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Big John’s Billiards Readers’ Choice: Perry’s Place, Stocks n Bonds

Best Bar for Cheap Drinks Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Winchester Bar & Grill Readers’ Choice: Brothers Lounge, O’Leaver’s Pub, Alderman’s Bar Readers’ Recommend: Sullivan’s Bar, KoZee Lounge, The Down Under Lounge Readers’ Refer: Local Beer, Patio and Kitchen, Rose & Crown Pub, Century Lounge

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Edge of the Universe Readers’ Choice: The Homy Inn, Mr. Toad’s Pub Readers’ Recommend: Corkscrew Wine & Cheese, The Down Under Lounge, Red Lion Lounge, The Berry & Rye Readers’ Refer: The Village Bar Ralston, Dario’s Brasserie

Best Bar for Craft Cocktails Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Wicked Rabbit Readers’ Choice: Tiny House Bar, Alice Readers’ Recommend: Edge of the Universe, The Berry & Rye, WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers, Krug Park Readers’ Refer: The Trap Room, Flixx, Red Lion Lounge

Best Bar for Darts Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Winchester Bar & Grill Readers’ Choice: Stocks n Bonds, Addy’s Sports Bar & Grill Readers’ Recommend: The Down Under Lounge Readers’ Refer: Century Lounge

Best Bar for Hiding Out Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Green Onion Lounge Readers’ Choice: Edge of the Universe, Alderman’s Bar, Brothers Lounge Readers’ Recommend: The Down Under Lounge, The Trap Room, Jerry’s Bar Readers’ Refer: Kaitei, Babe’s

AUGUST 2021

Best Bar for Spirits Selection Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: PROOF Whiskey Bar & Craft Cocktails Readers’ Choice: Dundee Dell, Krug Park, Copacabana

Best Bar for Whiskey Selection Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Berry & Rye Readers’ Choice: WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers Readers’ Recommend: The Down Under Lounge, Century Lounge

Best Bar with Live Music Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Waiting Room Lounge Readers’ Choice: Slowdown Readers’ Recommend: The Down Under Lounge Readers’ Refer: Brokedown Palace, The Omaha Lounge, Barnato Lounge

Best Bartenders Are At… Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: M’s Pub Readers’ Choice: Edge of the Universe Readers’ Recommend: Village Bar, WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers, Krug Park, Alice, The Down Under Lounge Readers’ Refer: Journeys Bar and Grill, The Berry & Rye, Stocks n Bonds, Winchester Bar & Grill, The Tavern - Pub & Market

Best Casino Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Prairie Flower Casino Readers’ Choice: Horseshoe Council Bluffs Readers’ Recommend: Ameristar Readers’ Refer: Harrah’s

Best Cigar Bar Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Jake’s Cigars & Spirits Readers’ Choice: Havana Garage, Copacabana Cocktail Lounge Readers’ Refer: Nickleby’s Smoke Ring

Best Cocktail Lounge Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lake Lono Rum Club Readers’ Choice: WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers, Alice, Cedar Readers’ Recommend: Lemon Drop Bar & Grill, Holiday Lounge Readers’ Refer: Interlude Lounge

Best Concert Venue Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Stir Cove Readers’ Choice: Slowdown, Holland Center Readers’ Recommend: Sokol Auditorium

Best Dance Club Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Max Readers’ Choice: Bushwackers Saloon & Dance Hall, Ozone Lounge Readers’ Refer: Bar 415

Best DJ Service Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Jack Entertainment Readers’ Choice: Bryan Hill Entertainment Inc., A Lasting Impression DJ, GMan Entertainment

Best Driving Range Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Topgolf Readers’ Choice: Milt’s Golf Center, Stone Creek Golf Course

Readers’ Recommend: Schmidley’s Family Golf Range

Best Escape Room Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Escape Omaha Readers’ Choice: Get Out: Omaha, House of Conundrum Readers’ Recommend: Locked Room Omaha

Best Golf Course Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Field Club of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Tiburon Golf Club, Quarry Oaks Golf Club Readers’ Recommend: Bent Tree Golf Club

Best Happy Hour Bar Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blue Sushi Sake Grill Readers’ Choice: DJ’s Dugout Sports Bar, WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers Readers’ Recommend: Edge of the Universe, Alderman’s Bar, Hiro 88 Millard, The Tavern, The Trap Room, Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub & Grill Readers’ Refer: The Village Bar Ralston, The Down Under Lounge

Best Karaoke Bar Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Winchester Bar & Grill Readers’ Choice: Alderman’s Bar, Moe & Curly’s Pub Readers’ Recommend: Renos Karaoke Readers’ Refer: KoZee Lounge, Brownie’s Watering Hole

AUGUST 2021

READERS’ CHOICE Best Movie Theater Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Marcus Majestic Cinema of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Aksarben Cinema, AMC Oakview Plaza 24, Film Streams’ Dundee Theater

Best Neighborhood Tavern Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Homy Inn Readers’ Choice: Winchester Bar & Grill, Alderman’s Bar, The Village Bar Ralston, Krug Park Readers’ Recommend: The Down Under Lounge Readers’ Refer: KoZee Lounge, Perry’s Place, Village Bar

Best New Bar

Best Patio at a Bar

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Edge of the Universe Readers’ Choice: Tiny House Bar, Alice Readers’ Recommend: Sickies Garage

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: 1912 Benson Readers’ Choice: Bärchen Beer Garden, Mr. Toad’s Pub, WestEnd Cocktails and Appetizers, Blatt Beer & Table Readers’ Recommend: Brownie’s Watering Hole Readers’ Refer: The Trap Room, The Down Under Lounge, The Tavern

Best Organized Bike Ride Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Tour de Nebraska Readers’ Choice: Radler Bike Festival, Omaha Biathlon Readers’ Recommend: Interscholastic Nebraska Cycling League Race

Best Organized Footrace/Run Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ralston Fun Run Readers’ Choice: Lincoln Marathon, Shamrock Run, Papillon Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Fun Run

Best Sand Volleyball Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Winchester Bar & Grill Readers’ Choice: O’Leaver’s Pub, Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub & Grill, Big Red Restaurant & Sports Bar, The MARK

Readers' Choice Best of the Big O! Best Throwing Axe Place 1507 Farnam St. • Omaha, NE 68102 https://flyingtimber.com 42

AUGUST 2021

Best Shopping District/Mall Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Crossing Outlets Readers’ Choice: Village Pointe, The Old Market, Downtown Ralston, Westroads Mall, Shadow Lake Towne Center

Best Sports Bar Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Good Life Readers’ Choice: DJ’s Dugout Sports Bar, Tanner’s Bar & Grill, Addy’s Sports Bar & Grill Readers’ Recommend: IceHouse Sports Bar Readers’ Refer: Ref’s Sports Bar & Grill

Best Throwing Axe Place Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Flying Timber Axe Throwing

Readers’ Choice: Craft Axe Throwing - Omaha, Axe Games | Axe Throwing

Best Tourist Attractions Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Readers’ Choice: The Old Market, Lauritzen Gardens Readers’ Refer: Omaha Performing Arts, Hollywood Candy

Best Wine Shop Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Spirit World Readers’ Choice: La Buvette Wine & Grocery, Wine, Beer, and Spirits Readers’ Recommend: Vino Mas, Twisted Vine

W PICKS W The Dominican-born artist, who is a recent graduate of Creighton University, describes their digitally rendered artworks as derived from “dreams of slurry and glitchy gradients while embracing the beauty of the person and expression.” Human figures appear in dazzling colors against rich, dark backgrounds, appearing to float against starry night skies.

August 2-7

Omaha Under the Radar Festival

$25 KANEKO, OutrSpaces, Joslyn Art Museum Returning for an 8th annual installment, the Omaha Under the Radar Festival provides unique entertainment experiences by showcasing contemporary and experimental music and art performances.

Events will be held at KANEKO, OutrSpaces and the Joslyn Art Museum. This year’s festivities, previous installments, tickets and schedules can be found at undertheradaromaha.com. – Efren Cortez

August 6

The exhibit runs through Sept. 24. The gallery is located at 2725 N. 62nd St. To visit after the opening reception, please check the gallery’s Facebook page or email alex@bff.org for more information. – Janet Farber

August 6

Bach Mai

$8 advance, $10 door Slowdown

Sensory Perceptions 7-10 p.m. Petshop

Omaha pop punk band Bach Mai is back with their third fulllength album, What You’re Given. Originally planned for a 2020 release to coincide with their first extensive tour, Bach Mai will debut What You’re Given at Slowdown’s front room on Aug. 6 for an all-ages crowd. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show will start at 8.

2021’s featured composers include Chari Glogovac-Smith, Veronica Anne Salinas, Frederick Gifford and Stacey Barelos. The party starts early with the SOUNDRY Institute, a series of workshops on experimental music, sound art and modern classical music, from August 2-6. In conjunction with the 8th annual New American Art Festival presented by Benson First Friday and Lutheran Family Services, the Petshop gallery will feature the vibrant work of Virgilio Rodriguez Reinoso.

The night will also be a celebration of some of Omaha’s best music acts. Opening for Bach Mai are 15-time Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards nominees J. Crum and Steady Wells, the solo project of Twinsmith’s Jordan Smith. More info at theslowdown.com. –Efren Cortez

Cathedral Arts Invitational The Cultural Center, St. Cecilia’s Cathedral

Sample some of the best Midwestern art this summer at the 2021 Annual Cathedral Artists Invitational. Eighty works by Midwestern artists are on view in the Sunderland Gallery at St. Cecilia’s Cathedral Cultural Center. The exhibit, a highlight of the Cathedral Arts Project, opened to the public on July 2, but a second artist’s reception takes place Friday, Aug. 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. The 40 artists, hailing from Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota, provide a pastiche of style and medium. Be sure to catch work by Judith Anthony Johnston, Bart Vargas, John Dennison, Stephen Cornelius Roberts, Paula Wallace, Linda Garcia and Troy Muller, among several others. The Cultural Center is located at 3900 Webster St., just east of St. Cecilia’s Cathedral. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. The Invi-

August 2021

W PICKS W tational runs through Aug. 15. For further information, visit cathedralartsproject.org. –Kent Behrens

August 7

Music at Miller Park Series

Dani Cleveland and the Nelson Mandela Elementary School Choir 7-9 p.m. | Free Miller Park, 2707 Redick Ave. o-pa.org

August 7

In the Market for Blues $20-$75 14 venues, downtown Omaha

Aug. 7 will be a big day for blues fans in Omaha when more than 40 blues acts perform at 14 venues in the downtown area. From noon to 2 a.m., blues will be heard all over the Old Market, the Capitol District and downtown Omaha. Those who purchase VIP tickets gain perks such as express check-in, meet and greets and VIP-only performances by ANA POPVIC and Hector Anchondo Band at The Jewell on Aug. 6.

One of Omaha’s leading mistresses of gospel, soul and R&B will be joined by perhaps the metro’s most charming young vocal ensemble for Music at Miller Park on Aug. 7. Singer Dani Cleveland is among a cadre of hidden talents who work regular jobs by day before transforming into magnetic performers on stage at night. Whether accompanying a lounge band, performing sacred music at Salem Baptist Church or showing her acting-singing chops in musical theater productions, Cleveland is a versatile, powerful songstress who commands attention. This time, she’s backed by an adorable children’s choir from Nelson Mandela Elementary School. The free concert series from a collaboration of community partners concludes Sept. 4 with Big Wade and Black Swan Theory.

The list of bands and venues can be found at omahablues.com. Tickets can be purchased online or at the main box office at 1300 Howard St. between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.

ments and snacks. A word to the wise: The park’s billboard light at Raymond Rd. and 98th St. goes dark at 11:30 p.m. To get a safe fix on the site, visit tinyurl.com/ BOO-Location-Map.

The restoration will be done by Kenneth Bé, an art conservator from the Ford Conservation Center. Guests can watch Bé actively restore Aerial View of Omaha from the photo archive’s working lab. In addition to seeing the mural being brought back to life, historic photos of Omaha from the museum’s collection will be digitized by museum staff. The exhibit runs through Nov. 21. More information at durmhammussum.org.

Kevin Nealon

August 13

Perseid Meteor Shower LATE NIGHT Star Party

11 p.m.-2 a.m. | Free Branched Oak Observatory, Raymond, Nebraska

August 7

Omaha Uncovered Admission $7-$11 The Durham Museum

August 2021

– Leo Adam Biga

August 20-21

$25-$35 Funny Bone

– Efren Cortez

– Leo Adam Biga

This fall, guests at the Durham Museum will get the opportunity to see Aerial View of Omaha restored. The faded mural from 1905 once hung in the lobby of the Omaha Daily Bee and is part of the Durham Museum’s permanent collection. The mural captures Omaha from above and across the Missouri River.

A familiar face in comedy will appear at The Funny Bone August 20-21 when Kevin Nealon stops by. The comedian appeared as a cast member on SNL, had a leading role in Showtime’s Weeds and currently appears on the CBS series Man with a Plan. Nealon has also appeared in comedy films with the likes of Adam Sandler, Eddie Murphy and Drew Barrymore. In addition to his extensive resume, Nealon has two Showtime comedy specials. His two-day visit consists of early and late shows on both Friday and Saturday. All shows 21 and older. More info at omaha.funnybone. com. – Efren Cortez

August 21 Scanning the night sky is one human pastime that never grows old. Even the best CGI can’t improve on a clear, starry-starry night. As stargazing goes, this party promises to be a humdinger. Telescopes will be trained on planets, galaxies, nebulae and star-clusters, and the moonless night will offer prime time, naked eye viewing of the perennial Perseid meteor shower. Sky-park visitors are invited to BYO chairs, blankets, pillows, coolers, refresh-

Dundee Day 8 a.m. to midnight | Free 50th St. & Underwood Avenue dundeeday.org

W PICKS W The 28th annual Dundee Day street festival will be in full swing this year. The fun will include a 5k Dundee Dash for the daring, the beloved parade along Underwood Avenue, a bounce house and Kids Zone, a flowing beer garden, free yoga, live music, pancake breakfast for early goers, street Olympics, vital community groups, and vendors of delicious food and handmade crafts. It’s fun for all ages, and there is cause to celebrate if that cause unites the community. Come down!

August 26-27

Omaha Fashion Week Showcases

1406 S. 13th St. infusionbrewing.com

6-11 p.m | $45-$85 Omaha Design Center omahafashionweek.com

– Matt Casas

The outdoor Bluebarn Theatre will host Omaha’s 26th Lit Fest this year. Ten bucks will get you an array of readings, how/why I write seminars and three moderated panel discussions. There will be book signing breaks. Authors/ critics/poets involved include Kate Gaskin, Jamaica Baldwin, Erin Belieu, Claire Jimenez, Julie Iromuanya, Chigozie Obioma, Saddiq Dzukogi, Chris Harding Thornton, Timothy Schaffert, Lindsey Baker, Lydia Kang, Matt Mason, Lisa Fay Coutley, Gene Kwak and Theodore Wheeler. Come out. Tell a friend. It is going to get lit! – Matt Casas

August 26

SingerSongwriter Showcase

6:30 p.m. | Free Holland Center Outdoors o-pa.org

The singer-songwriter phenomenon is rooted in the folk, country, Tin Pan Alley traditions. By the 1960s, personal expression was in vogue and the intimate stylings of artists who wrote-voiced their own material transcended labels until singer-songwriter became its own genre. Being the creator, interpreter, performer of your own words and music can be a game-changer. This OEAAOPA showcase lets new artists take the stage, engage with an audience and connect with fellow singer-songwriters. One artist will be chosen to open theSept. 2 Alternate Routes at Holland Center Outdoors gig. The showcase is free. $10 donation encouraged. Proceeds go to the artists. – Leo Adam Biga

Omaha’s fashion curious and cognoscenti will gather for this Midwest equivalent of a New York or Paris runway show featuring the work of emerging and established designers. The Aug. 26 showcase is branded JOVIAL and the Aug. 27 showcase WANTON. Now that the veil’s been lifted from these style orgies by reality TV fashion series, audiences bring more sophistication to the events, adding pressure for designers. The stakes are not as high as they are in glam capitals, but it’s still a chance for creatives to let their freak flag fly in front of local tastemakers and build their brand. VIP guests bag premium runway seats and access to signature cocktails and canapes. – Leo Adam Biga

Echoes of the corny old Bohemian Cafe jingle that went, “Dumplings and kraut, today,” may reverberate on South 13th Street during this everything-Czech fest. Enjoy authentic, ethnically appropriate street food – fried cheese, kielbasa, kolaches, strudels – made by babushka ladies. Wash it down with a Lil Boh Czech Pilsner and a shot of Becherovka and Blackberry brandy from the beer garden and shot station, respectively. Work it all off dancing to Polka music. All brought courtesy of Infusion Little Bohemia Beer Hall and Omaha Czech/Slovak Cultural Club. It’s a high-calorie, don’t-count-on-gluten-free-options bash.

September 4

African Cultural Festival

2-10 p.m. | $10 (kids 12 and under free) Stinson Park, Aksarben Village eventbrite.com

– Leo Adam Biga

September 3

Omaha Lit Fest 4-9:30 p.m. | $10.00 Bluebarn Theatre omaha-lit-fest.com

August 28

Little Bohemia Czechfest

Noon to 8 p.m. | Free Infusion Little Bohemia Beer Hall

The city’s burgeoning African population has come into its own. No better proof of how Africans representing many different na-

August 2021

W PICKS W tions from the cradle of civilization are staking their claim here is AfroFestOmaha. Live music, dance, art, food and everything else Motherland take center stage in this part-village-marketplace, part-Midwestern-county-fair fete.

Inspired by what was once a sprawling sea of grasses stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the Mississippi River where flora and fauna thrived, ditch seed examines the prairie and processes of colonization that whittled it down to 1% of what it once was.

There’s a children’s village for kids, along with traditional and modern offerings, from performances to crafts to cuisines, which create a sensory feast. It’s a fun, relaxed educational opportunity to immerse yourself in and learn about different cultures. Brought to you by Afromaha.

The July/August offering by Amplify Arts at its Generator Space gallery is a collaborative installation by three artists: Annika Johnson, Jesse Meredith and Sarah Rowe.

–Leo Adam Biga

Ongoing through Aug. 27

Ditch Seed By appointment | Free Generator Space by Amplify Arts

The show runs through Aug. 27. The gallery is open by appointment and limited to groups of 10 or smaller. Generator Space is located at 1804 Vinton St. Visitors should register through Eventbrite or email peter@amplifyarts.org. Face masks are requested. – Kent Behrens

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August 2021

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August 2021

7/21/21 8:48 AM

M U S I C

Freedom Summer and a New Omaha Sound Marcey Yates, Xoboi and Culxr House release hip hop album with Saddle Creek Records by Sam Crisler

he Omaha hip hop scene started to take form in 2014, according to hip hop artist and founder of Culxr House Marcey Yates. He had just come home after leaving the state for audio engineering school, and when he returned, artists like Mars Black, Black Jonny Quest, Conny Franko and King ISO were on the scene and releasing music. That year, Yates released a handful of his own albums, including a collaborative effort with Xoboi, titled Sophomore Slump. On that LP, the duo sounds relentless, with assertive, complementary flows that attack each track, like they had something to prove. Veterans of the Omaha scene now, Yates and Xoboi have been collaborating for nearly a decade. But their ambitions have grown beyond music. “It’s bigger than hip hop. It’s always been bigger than hip hop,” Yates said. “It’s using your platform to make changes or bring awareness to things that reflect your community.” Today, Yates runs Culxr House (pronounced “culture”), a community center on North 24th Street that serves as a meeting place for artists, activists and future civic leaders. It brings in crowds with its

grew up going to shows at the long-defunct Cog Factory, the influential, hole-in-the-wall punk club on Leavenworth where many early Saddle Creek bands cut their teeth. “This is one of those, ‘Oh, that’s full circle for me’ things,” Xoboi said.

Culxr House: Freedom Summer features more than a dozen collaborators. Photo by Andre Sessions. open mic nights, art shows and lectures. On July 30, Yates and Xoboi released Culxr House: Freedom Summer on Saddle Creek Records, showcasing the artistic community that has formed at the North Omaha creative and entrepreneurship hub. Within that context, Yates’ intentions for the album were straightforward. “The mission is always just to make good music,” he said. “I don’t see it as anything outside of that. It was going to be what I wanted it to be at the end of the day, which was going to be a good record.” Saddle Creek has created a successful niche in the rock and

August 2021

folk lanes and has rarely veered into different territory. Hip hop has gone largely unrepresented. But the label has kept up with Yates’ and Xoboi’s music over the years and watched Culxr House blossom into the community hotspot it is today. “Any time we connect with an artist on a creative and personal level the way we have here, we will always be interested in working with them, regardless of genre,” said CJ Olson, a Saddle Creek spokesperson. The duo respects Saddle Creek’s status, too, as a national tastemaker and target for local acts to strive for. Xoboi, aka Lorenzo Fuller, said while he’s mainly into hip hop, he

While last year’s social unrest was the impetus for Freedom Summer, the project shouldn’t be viewed as a protest album, Yates said. “But here and there, you’re going to hear that messaging in there. You’re going to get a good record that was made in that moment.” On the lead single “Inherit the Earth,” Yates and Xoboi rap over a somber, piano-driven trap beat about daily struggles: low wages, violence, the death of loved ones. Positivity on the track is present, but fleeting; they search for gratitude in the moment but are disheartened when they look up. “Inherit the Earth, but what is it worth?,” Yates asks in the hook. That sense of dejection exists elsewhere on the album, but so do feelings of hopefulness. Other tracks, like “Fruit SNX,” featuring Conny Franko, offer applicable life advice: “Money is only a variable, true wealth is held.” Yates produced each track on Freedom Summer, and he

M U S I C brings his A-game, arranging vibrant beats that nod to jazz rap, with prominent piano and trumpet samples that feel organically soulful, like what you might hear a busker playing in the afternoon sun. More than a dozen musicians are featured on the project, but Yates’ production is what ties the various artistic styles together.

The album art for Culxr House: Freedom Summer. Art by Rosalia Alexis.

“It’s a cohesive sound,” Yates said. “It’s over my production, so it’s in that box.” Every artist featured on the project is connected to Culxr House in one way or another. Some are long-time collaborators and veterans of the Omaha hip hop scene (J. Crum, Franko), and others are newcomers who Yates has mentored (Come Back Sandy, Corro Corleone). “Some of those are [artists] that I helped with during their development. They come up through our open mic program. They’re ones who look up to me and just respect what we do,” Yates said. “Other artists like J. Crum and Conny [Franko], these are guys I’ve been working with the whole time I’ve been out on the scene.” As a prominent figure in the hip hop scene and as Culxr House’s founder, Yates embraces a position of influence that brings with it the challenge of representing himself and an entire community, whether through promoting civic engagement or changing the discussion around hip hop in

Omaha. When he was coming up in the hip hop scene, he said he noticed an indifference toward local rappers from certain venues, promoters and publications that he said either wouldn’t give coverage to the scene or chose not to book local hip hop artists to open for touring rappers. “We all know that you’ve got good hip hop, and you’ve got people that make hip hop that’s not right in certain settings,” he said. “So I wanted to make sure that there was a difference that I represent and can be played at Maha and on certain stages, but also can be the face of moving hip hop music forward.” Now, as Saddle Creek releases Freedom Summer to a national audience, that means Yates and Xoboi will become the de facto faces of Omaha’s hip hop scene. Yates said he hopes listeners consider the music like they would any other album that shows up in their Spotify feed. “The focus shouldn’t be ‘Oh, this is coming out of Omaha,’” Yates said. “It should be ‘That sounds good. Oh, this is from Omaha?’”

Together again! Back Sundays IN PERSON @ 10:50 am ONLINE via Facebook

We WILL NOT be resuming other activities. Masks & social distancing will be required. 7020 Cass Street 402.556.6262 www.fumcomaha.org

August 2021

B A C K B E A T

The Return: Omaha Music Scene Searches for its Footing Our Favorite Pandemic Releases and Predicting the Scene’s Future by Sam Crisler

s concerts and local shows start to happen again, I can’t help but think about the chaotic week that led up to the lockdown in 2020. Venues started canceling shows left and right. I book shows as a side gig and had a few Lincoln shows lined up for that week in March; I canceled all of them out of caution. One of the few that proceeded was the closing show at Midtown Art Supply, which took place on March 14 and was set to feature about 20 bands before a handful dropped out as concerns about the oncoming pandemic grew.

haven’t yet — you should put on right now and turn up until the neighbors can hear. Band leader Brendan Leahy sounds absolutely manic over a knives-drawn bed of tasteful-but-wailing guitar leads and a rhythm section that recalls ‘80s goth rock at its best, a la Christian Death. One can only imagine how it would have sounded live at a Halloween release show at Midtown Art.

MagŪ’s Dwell, courtesy of Bad Dad Records.

It left a lot of local musicians and showgoers without a sense of direction. The music scene was their lives. And that was gone. For well over a year. Shows were not an option, but musicians didn’t stop writing music. There have been plenty of high-profile Omaha releases in the past year that deserved to be heard live.

No Thanks’ Submerger, courtesy of Black Site Records. Punk band No Thanks never had the chance for a proper album release show for their October LP Submerger, which — if you

started reopening, like the psychpunk band Garst, who, in early July, hit the road for a few out-oftown dates (one of which was under an overpass in Wichita). They played their first Omaha show in more than a year on July 16 with The Real Zebos and Bad Self-Portraits at The Waiting Room. The Zebos headlined, but the crowd was just as much there to mosh and hear Garst sing about Greedo from Star Wars.

David Nance’s Staunch Honey, courtesy of Trouble In Mind Records. In November, David Nance dropped Staunch Honey, which is like ’60s and ’70s acid rock repurposed in a lo-fi haze; Nance played nearly all the instruments (banjo, harmonica, auxiliary percussion, you name it) and recorded and mixed the project on tape in his basement. It’s entirely a product of Nance’s imagination, hence the billing as a solo album instead of releasing under the David Nance Group name. Nance brings the familiarity of classic rock bands — Steely Dan or The Byrds come to mind — but delivers some truly experimental bits on the LP’s b-side. I can’t think of another album that has the same vibe.

August 2021

Finally, Magū might have been the Omaha band that best used the pandemic to their advantage. The art rock band set out to write multiple LPs in 2020, and they released one of the resulting projects, Dwell, in April of this year. The band that started as David McInnis’ solo project has morphed into a four-headed monster, with bassist Sam Lipsett, guitarist John Staples, keyboardist Erin Mitchell and McInnis all taking on lead vocals on at least a couple songs. Spread over 10 tracks, the equal opportunity songwriting approach doesn’t exactly lend itself to consistency, but there’s no mistaking these songs for those of another band, especially when Cam Thelander’s saxophone enters the fold. Other notable Omaha COVIDera releases include Cat Piss’ Zeppelin Four, Pt. 2, Urn’s An Attempt to Quiet the Noise, Dex Arbor’s Sapiosexual Soul Rhymes, Living Conditions’ Vows, Velvet Velvet’s Ends at Odds, DEATHGOD’s Joy & Pain and NANORAY’s Zapper. Some local bands have hit the ground running since venues

Other signs of an imminent return to normalcy exist. Black Heart Booking hosted its annual Punk Rock BBQ on July 17 and had an impressive turnout. The Petshop Gallery in Benson has its annual Petfest scheduled for Aug. 14 and has nearly 20 local and touring acts on the bill, including Universe Contest, Anna McClellan and All Young Girls Are Machine Guns. That’ll help the cause. On the whole, the post-pandemic rollout has been slow to gain momentum (the Delta variant may be partially to blame). But one thing I know, the excitement will return to the scene, because Omaha’s artists are resilient. The faces in the audience might be unfamiliar. The artists on stage might be younger than you remember. Bands will pop up like they always have, and some will mature and become Omaha exports. I saw hardcore band Jocko for the first time at DIY space Milk Run in 2016. The last time I saw them, they packed Midtown Art from wall to wall. A healthy music scene has a constant ebb and flow. I can’t wait to see what people have been working on in their basements. See you at a show.

H O O D O O

Fiery Music Forecast In the Market for Blues, ZOOFEST and Music for the City highlight a sizzling August music schedule Story by B.J. Huchtemann Héctor Anchondo’s first trip to Memphis for the 2015 International Blues Challenge was the inspiration for In the Market for Blues, an Old-Market-based, multi-venue, multi-band event that has grown exponentially each year. The festival is now supported by the Blues Society of Omaha and a variety of sponsors. After a year off with pandemic closures, the festival is back, promising “14 hours of music at 14 venues,” which now include The Capitol District locations and the Holland Center outdoors space. More than 50 acts are currently scheduled, featuring local, regional and national artists. Guitarist/vocalist Ana Popovic is the event headliner. Chicago’s Nick Moss Band, K.C.’s popular artists Heather Newman Band, Womanish Girl and Old No. 5’s and Pacific Northwest trio Polly O’Keary & The Rhythm Method are all on the schedule as are local favorites like Matt Cox & The Marauders, The OK Sisters, The Rex Granite Band featuring Sarah Benck, Tim Budig Band and, of course, 2020 IBC solo/ duo winner Héctor Anchondo and his band. Wristbands allowing entry to all venues are $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the show. See all the details, including a VIP ticket option at omahablues.com.

Zoo Bar Anniversary Plans are underway for Lincoln’s historic Zoo Bar’s annual anniversary event. The bar began

presenting live music in 1973 at the suggestion of the late Larry Boehmer, who eventually became the main owner of the club until his retirement in 2000. A special show Wednesday, Aug. 10, features Austin’s Beth Lee at 5 p.m. The spotlight is on a 7 p.m. performance from the remaining Hacienda Brothers. This national country-soul band was a beloved act among Zoo Bar regulars. The diagnosis of vocalist Chris Gaffney with liver cancer sidelined the charismatic Southern California singer-songwriter-musician. Gaffney passed in 2008, and the return of the remaining band led by co-founder Dave Gonzalez (also guitarist/ vocalist for The Paladins and The Stone River Boys) is a much-anticipated event that was put on pause last year due to the pandemic. Due to the scheduling of the Garth Brooks show at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 14, the ZOOFEST street festival is taking place Thursday-Friday, Aug. 12-13. Here is the schedule: Thursday, Aug. 12, see Tony Meza & Chupacabra (5 p.m.), The Hacienda Brothers (7 p.m.), Nikki Hill (9 p.m.) and Myles Jasnowski (11 p.m.). Friday, Aug. 13, catch Earl & Them (5 p.m.), Eric Gales (7 p.m.), Mike Zito Big Band with special guest Tito Jackson (9 p.m.) and Andy William & Nebraska All Stars (11 p.m.). Aug. 12 tickets are $20 advance/$25 day of show; Aug. 13 admission is $25 advance/$30 day of show.

A long-time favorite of local roots audiences, Hadden Sayers showcases his solo acoustic blues at Music for the City and FolkHouse. Photo via Hadden Sayers Band Facebook page.

A two-day pass is $40. Find the most current information at facebook.com/zoobarblues.

Music for the City The final free Music for the City concert, organized by promoter Jeff Davis, is set for Saturday, Aug. 21. The show takes place at the Dam Grill & Bar on the River City Star’s landing. Music begins at 4:30 p.m. with BluesEd band Us and Them Blues Band. Headlining the night is Patrick Sweany, who has been on the touring scene for more than 20 years. Sweany’s gritty, soulful vocals have raked in glowing reviews from publications ranging from American Songwriter to Paste, Esquire and Mojo. The Nashville Tennessean described his sound as “effortlessly cool, sunburnt soul.” Check out patricksweany. com. Blues-rockers the Terry Quiett Band will amp things up with an electric set prior to Sweany’s performance. Hadden Sayers, a local audience favorite with deep Texas bluesrock roots, kicks off the lineup of national artists with his solo show. Sayers’ acoustic work was recognized with a 2019 nomination for best acoustic artist in the Blues Foundation’s Blues Music Awards. Find more information at musicforthecity.net.

BSO Presents On The Move The long-standing Thursday blues matinee presented by the Blues Society of Omaha is now

going to be moving from venue to venue, according to talent booker Terry Sedivy. And notable shows may not be on Thursdays. Keep an eye on facebook. com/bluessocietyofomaha and omahablues.com for the latest updates. Highlights include Danielle Nicole Band at Barnato Saturday, Aug. 14, 8 p.m. and Orphan Jon at The Strut, 5402 N. 90th, Thursday, Aug. 26, 6-9 p.m.

Hot Notes Hadden Sayers also performs a solo show Friday, Aug. 20, 7:30 p.m. at FolkHouse. Find all the details at folkhouseconcerts. com. Austin’s powerhouse, Grammy-nominated blues-rockers Black Pumas plug in at Waiting Room Outdoors Sunday, Aug. 8, 7 p.m. Neal Francis opens. Austin singer-songwriter-guitarist Jackie Venson, who has been featured on Austin City Limits, is scheduled at Reverb Lounge Saturday, Aug. 28, 8 p.m. Sunday Roadhouse is back with their second 2021 show at Reverb Lounge. The Claudettes perform Sunday, Aug. 22, 5 p.m. See sundayroadhouse.com. Willie Nelson & Family and The Avett Brothers play Lincoln’s Pinewood Bowl Tuesday, Aug. 10, 6:30 p.m. Tickets at ticketmaster.com.

August 2021

F I L M

The Best Movies of 2021 So Far Cinema’s Performance Evaluation through Q2 by Ryan Syrek

ll years are weird, but few years make people do the pandemic hokey pokey. “You put your right foot in … oh God, take your right foot out! Unless it’s vaccinated. And even then, you have to wear a sock.” With public safety guidelines evolving, theaters are filling up again, and studios are once again asking for your money. That means the back half of 2021 is gonna be jam-packed and chock-full. The films that are packing jams and filling chocks may well displace the weird, quirky films released early in this plague year by the time “best of” lists are due. With that in mind, here’s a fun experiment: With only six months gone since I wrapped up my top 10 of 2020’s movies, let’s look at what would make this year’s list if I made it today. If nothing else, this will hopefully give you some overlooked gems to stream if/when pandemic restrictions pull a Jesus Christ.

8 - Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar In the kindest way, this feels like an overlong SNL sketch from the early 2000s. At a time when real-life morons are endangering us in new and exciting ways, Barb (Annie Mumolo) and Star (Kristen Wiig) are the type of idiots I miss. A simple vacation movie laced with a bit of Austin Powers and a lot of culottes, it’s the kind of cult comedy we don’t seem to get anymore.

7 - Golden Arm If you blended a smoothie made of Cobra Kai, Over the Top and GLOW and chugged it while a mulletted trainer named Big Sexy threw random objects at you, you’d have Golden Arm. It’s basically every underdog sports cliché standing on top of one another, wearing a trench coat and saying in a fake-deep voice “Yes, I am an original movie film please?” It’s also a goddamned delight.

6 - No Sudden Move

9 - The Dark and the Wicked

Nobody does breezy crime movies (or laid-back, jazzy Oscar ceremonies apparently) quite like Steven Soderbergh. His latest features a deft turn from Don Cheadle, David Harbour as total maroon, an upsettingly perfect cameo, and the rarest of all Benecio del Toro performances: one where he doesn’t do any weird, goofy shit to his voice. It’s not Ocean’s 14, but who can count that high?

This farmland-friendly fright flick is part meditation on the burdens of family and part blatant creepy jeepering. Complete with face spiders and slowly severed fingers, writer/director Bryan Bertino understands the storytelling power and spectacular spookiness inherent in agro-horror. A mustsee if you like cows but also fear them.

Religious delusions have not so quietly had a real strong 2021. Writer/director Rose Glass’s tale of demented piety is what can be lovingly referred to as an “uh oh” movie. It quietly and relentlessly churns toward the “uh oh” waiting at the end of the story. This film is also a stark warning about those who actually walk among

10 - Made You Look: A True Story About Fake Art The most feel-good of feel-good movies are documentaries where rich people get fleeced, right? I can think of no more victimless crime than wealthy white folks getting tricked into buying art forgeries. It’s the rarest of true crime docs: one that features 0% Ted Bundy.

5 - Saint Maud

August 2021

If HR can make employees suffer through a mid-year review, I can do the same to cinema, right? Lots of surprises among the best of the best for the first half of an odd year. Photo credit: I Blame Society, produced by Nowhere us doggedly convinced that only they are on the same wavelength as an invisible almighty creator.

4 - Fear Street: 1994 Do we need the impending Scream remake when this slasher jam already spurted and sprayed nostalgic blood everywhere? The first 20 minutes is basically just magnificently 90s needle drops, blowing through tunes faster than someone looking for PJ Harvey on a playlist. With a same-sex central love story and savvy casting, the first adaptation in this RL Stinebased trilogy should make Ryan Murphy feel very, very bad about himself.

3 - About Endlessness Writer/director Roy Andersson’s collection of vignettes feels like power walking through a museum or speed reading a book of poetry. The very loosely linked stories — which can only very loosely be called stories — are mini-meditations that vary from absurdism to profundity. Equally as upsetting as enthralling, this is the sort of film that would make a perfect date movie, provided both parties really like Swedish existentialism. Which, I mean, who doesn’t?

2 - I Blame Society Writer/director/actress/mischievous malcontent Gillian Wallace Horvat’s I Blame Society is a wry, anarchic mockumentary. It is a nonchalantly, lackadaisically unhinged satire that draws intersecting and parallel lines between what it takes to make it in the film industry and what it takes to be just a really successful serial killer. Don’t care about inside Hollywood bullshit? No worries! Set that meta-conceit aside, and you’ve still got a subtly hilarious, effortlessly droll comic gem crammed with quotable lines and goofy killin’. If Tiny Furniture got Lena Dunham an HBO show, I Blame Society should get Horvat her own damn network.

1 - Zola Sinisterly (almost sneakily) hilarious and meaningfully stylish, Zola is the single best piece of evidence to suggest that the creation of Twitter wasn’t a profound mistake. It is Spring Breakers without the baggage of Harmony Korine. It is satirically Scorsese-ish, were he to ever cast Black actors. Above all else, it is writer/director Janicza Bravo writing her name on the “must-watch filmmakers” list in fluorescent permanent ink.

F I L M

I Explain and Complain About the Bourdain Refrain Roadrunner is Ghoulish by Ryan Syrek

he first footage in writer/director Morgan Neville’s documentary, which serves as a lavish eulogy for Anthony Bourdain, is Anthony Bourdain explicitly saying that he doesn’t want a lavish eulogy. That feels bad, right? Starting with that scene could be seen as an apology that Bourdain will never hear for a transgression he thankfully won’t ever feel. It’s either that or it’s a cheeky shoulder shrug, a “whatta-ya-gonna-do?” wink and nod from a director who knows he’s participating in some kind of maniacal, grotesque necromancy. Good news: We don’t have to wonder which it is. In an interview with The New Yorker, Neville admitted to using AI to replicate the voice of a cultural icon — beloved for his honesty and sincerity — to make him say things he never said out loud. That feels bad too, right? It gets worse! Neville’s response when ever-so-lightly pressed on the issue was “We can have a documentary-ethics panel about it later.” No need, Morgs! Even if it weren’t for that clear and total violation of not just artistic integrity but basic human decency, Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain would be wildly upsetting. Neville doesn’t lay Bourdain’s suicide at the feet of his girlfriend, Asia Argento, despite never even asking to interview her, it all but throws his body at her. It also fea-

tures speculation that Bourdain’s outspoken passion for the #MeToo movement was displaced heroin addiction. Neville allows Bourdain’s longtime TV producers to weep and declare that they never exploited their friend. They go totally unchallenged, despite Bourdain telling fellow chefs and artists how he had lost himself in the process of doing the show. The documentary even includes a scene where it is revealed that Bourdain’s ideal version of the program that truly made (and kept) him famous wouldn’t even focus on him at all. That is a pretty damning thing to include in a film focused entirely on him. That’s all really very bad, right? Is it neat to see this quasi-retrospective of Bourdain’s rise from badboy chef to self-deputized American ambassador? Sure. There’s also, like, hundreds of hours of him doing that outside of this ill-conceived endeavor. The point of Roadrunner seems to be to understand a man who never understood himself, despite that man’s very clear request that nobody try and do just that. The film makes frequent references to Bourdain’s fame without contextualizing his impact. That is to say, it’s wonderful and necessary to hear from those who were closest to him. It would also be nice to see his societal footprint in ways beyond people just noting that he was

Other Critical Voices to Consider Kristy Puchko at Pajiba says, “Some might crave something cleaner, brighter, more cathartic. But such an offering would be a disservice to an artist who pushed the envelope, pulled at our heartstrings, and demanded we meet him wherever he roamed.” Carla Renata from The Curvy Film Critic says the film “is a reminder to pay attention to those you truly love, as they may be struggling with internal

Irrelevant at best, intentionally malicious at worst, whether or not you’re a big fan of Anthony Bourdain, leave this one in parts unknown. Photo credit Focus Features. a best-selling author with a popular TV show. The footage at the very end of strangers creating a makeshift memorial at his former restaurant speaks to a profound impact that is never measured or depicted, just inferred. The positive reactions to Roadrunner appear to mostly be goodwill and an embrace of Bourdain himself. Because, to be clear, the film is truly successful at absolutely nothing. It doesn’t reveal meaningful insights that couldn’t be gleaned from reading, seeing or hearing Bourdain in the previous words he

chose to share. It doesn’t serve as a coda on the end of a chaotic life in any way that isn’t gross. As so many cultural figures are anointed in death, Bourdain is getting dangerously close to pop cultural sainthood. The sole redeeming moment in Roadrunner comes when David Choe realizes that the best way to honor his friend is to actively work against that progression. He gets it. Neville doesn’t..

Grade = F

demons you will never know or recognize. However, sometimes all the love in the world can’t save someone who doesn’t want to be saved.” Courtney Small at Cinema Axis says “The documentary also serves as a solid introduction into Bourdain’s life for newcomers. Since Bourdain is such a complicated individual, Roadrunner lacks the cohesiveness it is searching for. However, it is the film’s imperfections that allow viewers to connect with its subject on a more personal level.”

August 2021

C R O S S W O R D

Get It Together

AnswerS in next month’s issue or online at TheReader.com

— it’s a tie game — by Matt Jones

Across

1. Italian pies, if you’re a Scrabble player (and trapped in the 1980s)

4. Backtalk

15. Hardly any

4 14

17 20

16. TV intro music

17. Election Day day (abbr.)

39 45

31 36

39. Homer’s father, on “The Simpsons” 42. Omar Khayyam’s poetry collection 43. ___ latte

44. Needle opening 46. Spheres

47. Enters carefully

20. Disinfected / Completely wasted attempt to make angry?

23. Hospital section

24. “Star Wars” character who kills Jabba

25. Yodeler’s mountain 26. Jigsaw puzzle starting point, often

51 57

53 59

51. Flatware company named after a New York tribe

54 60

53. Airport code for O’Hare

60. ___Fone Wireless (prepaid mobile phone provider) 75

54. “Catch ya later!” 55. Bowling alley rental

33. Catch a wave

56. Group with the #1 hit “Butter”

38. Electric car company 40. Yes, in France 41. Total prize money 45. Blogger’s personal bio section

70. English royal house after York 71. Delhi garment 72. Sleep in a tent

59. Abbr. on a letter to Spain

73. Bridge measurements

61. Like some coffee or tea

74. Biblical garden

62. Stabilizing, with “up” / Got out a piece of jewelry?

75. Foot feature

66. Horse noise

Down

49. Bed grower

68. Japanese sashes

52. ___ Paulo, Brazil

69. “Is that ___ or nay?”

1. Trouble spots for teens

48. Floating harbor marker

63. Down to the ___ 64. Lost fish in a Pixar film

31. Positively 35. Toy racer on a track

57. “___ Were the Days” 58. “It’s ___ it’s good”

27. Furious state 29. 1970s guerrilla org.

49. Fire-striking stones 50. Tie, as sneakers

19. Gulf of Aden country 49

36. Gay and lesbian lifestyle magazine 37. Curry and Rice, for two

30 35

22 25

18. Scruff of the neck

24 27

8. Fastener with a slotted head 13. Kappa preceder

August 2021

2. August, in Paris

3. Pittsburgh players 4. Some beachwear 5. To the ends of the earth 6. Old photo tinge 7. Hunky-dory 8. Pig pen

14. “... long ___ both shall live” 21. Ice, in a Berlin bar 22. Huge, story-wise

27. Suffix for art or humor AnsweR to last month’s “Adjusted to Fit Your Screen”

28. Regret deeply

30. Surname of three 9. Angelic figure / Ate baseball brothers the spice mix before preparing the meat? 32. A few Z’s 10. Did a cover of

65. Open-mouthed stare

34. Drinking vessel at Renaissance Fairs / 11. Come into existence Imperfect geometric 12. Proceeded shape?

C E R T D E F E R B O D S

A R I A

P I G S

S C H E M O Z E R O S A X T H E Z O U R A H A L E O H E E

T R A I M E N T T S I D E G E M R O A N S N S D H A I R T A B L E A M E L I N E D N S C A I M O S N O I S S G A R T E F A S T

L O S U P R P E R A E D T S E S T T H A I W R S

E R G

S A Y I N G S

E O E H M N O E H M

G I G A

G L O B

E A T U P

T R A N S

S O A P

L O L A

E W A N

C O M I C S Garry Trudeau

Jen Sorensen

TED RALL

August 2021

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Allan Lozier Dec. 11, 1933 - July 11, 2021 As a post-World War II adolescent, the late Allan Lozier grew up around his family’s small North Omaha business — not with a silver spoon or a sense of entitlement but with a determination to succeed and an obligation to give back. Lozier took the reins in 1956 while still only in his early 20s, and with but a year of college behind him. What he lacked in classroom knowledge, he made up for by what he gleaned from reading and from real life business experience. His innate sense for leveraging strategic growth opportunities served the company well. Under his leadership Lozier Corporation became the nation’s largest store fixtures manufacturer. He built it from a single location serving local clients to a multi-facility enterprise serving regional, national and international clients. As chair and chief executive officer Lozier increased the payroll from 25 to 2,000-plus employees, making Lozier Corp. one of the metro’s largest employers. The Omaha Technical High School graduate and Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame inductee also dedicated himself to community service and philanthropy. He sat on the boards of several area Omaha institutions, including College of St. Mary, Girls Inc., Bellevue University and Nebraska Methodist Hospital. When disinvestment ruled in North Omaha, Lozier kept his business headquartered there, expanding facilities and job opportunities in that community. This focus on the inner city and the underrepresented extended to the giving profile of the Lozier Foundation, which he established in 1986. Since then hundreds of millions of dollars have been donated to charitable causes. The foundation supports education, social services and programs aiding women and children.

tenacity that was both awesome and respected by all who played with him; yet, he was never shy about giving pointers or sharing his philosophies. He was a great teacher and even made videos available online for friends who wanted extra help with their golf swing. He had a way with words and believed in people’s abilities even when they couldn’t believe in themselves. Albert loved cooking and, more importantly, bringing people together to share a meal. As a young boy, he would watch his mother cook in the kitchen at home, trying to learn as much as he could. After cutting his teeth in his parents’ restaurant, The Food Gallery, and various other restaurants, he and his family opened Tamam in December 1996, a Middle Eastern restaurant with French influences. Albert ran the kitchen but wore many hats. He was a poetic chef and believed the meal to be sacred. Bringing people together to share a meal, physically break bread with one another and to genuinely enjoy each other’s company in that moment was of utmost importance to him. If a guest was unhappy, Albert would do anything, at all costs, to make sure that guest was fed well and satisfied. He was the type of person who would give someone the shirt off his back if he knew it would make them happy. Albert was a pioneer in Omaha, catering to many vegetarians and with his upscale approach to plating and presentation. Arabic nights were among his favorite at the restaurant. Belly dancers would perform, and Albert would create a special menu for the night. He was a master of creativity in the kitchen and could make the best meal anyone had ever had out of the leftovers in the refrigerator. He also loved cooking for his close friends, often taking the opportunity to teach others about cooking. Albert left this world with so many people who felt positively impacted by his kindness and generosity. He will forever hold a special place in our hearts that will remind us to see the good in everyone, to be kind to one another and to simply enjoy each other’s company. “Good food, good meat, good God let’s eat!” — By Jason Johnson, nephew of Albert Saigh

Lozier, who died at age 87, is survived by his wife Dianne, two children and multiple grandchildren. His succession planning has left the company and the foundation in the hands of family members. — Leo Adam Biga

Albert Saigh Nov. 20, 1963 — June 21, 2021 Albert Saigh — legend of service, avid golfer, inspiration to many and friend to all — died June 21, at home in Omaha, Nebraska, surrounded by family and friends. He was 57. Born in Omaha to Bert and Vida Saigh, Albert was kind and charismatic from the beginning to the end. The youngest of four children and the youngest of all the grandchildren, Albert was the baby of the family and cared for by all. He graduated from Benson High in 1982 with many friends and was considered the life of the party. His humor was short, quick and unexpected yet always with perfect timing. He had a way of commanding a stage and bringing people in to share the spotlight. Everything he loved he loved passionately, and he explained his passions in ways that were relatable to everyone. One of Albert’s passions was for golf. He played with an ever-hungry

August 2021

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O V E R

T H E

E D G E

Burning Down the House

Former Omaha Musician Denver Dalley Makes a Career Move by Tim McMahan

Denver Dalley takes part in the Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Independence Day parade. Photo credit: Denver Dalley.

et me start by telling you who Denver Dalley is. Because some of you (OK, most of you) don’t remember or weren’t around when Omaha was at the center of the indie music world, circa 2001-2005.

Dalley was (and is) a stellar guitarist and songwriter who played in seminal Omaha indie punk band Desaparecidos with Conor Oberst (of Bright Eyes fame) alongside a handful of talented young bucks. They released an album around 2002 on local label Saddle Creek Records called Read Music/Speak Spanish and briefly toured the country with the likes of Jimmy Eat World and Rilo Kiley, to name a few. As quickly as they came, they disappeared (just like their name), only to return for the Concert for Equality in Benson in 2010. That was followed by another brief tour. Five years later, they released Payola on Epitaph Records and toured yet again. And then, like before, the band went away. In the meantime, Dalley toured for a few years as guitarist for singer/songwriter Sean Tillmann, who performed under the pseudo identity Har Mar Superstar. Dalley also nurtured his own solo project called Statistics (Jade Tree Records), was a tour manager and became known by some for his hi-jinx as a world traveller. We all vicariously lived through Dalley, Omaha’s

blond-headed version of Keanu Reeves.

It had been years since I heard from Dalley, and then, flipping through the socials after July 4, there was a photo of Denver dressed head-to-toe in a firefighter’s outfit, complete with shiny black helmet, walking down the street in a parade looking like Captain America. I had to find out what was up. It turned out that, yes, indeed, Dalley was a firefighter … or will be. “I’m a volunteer at my local fire station,” Dalley said. “I’ve taken my Fire 1 and Fire 2 classes and have been certified in both, but I still need to be certified as an EMT, which will happen in the fall.” Until then, Dalley is driving the station’s ambulance, which he says, “Is still fun and hands on. It’s not a career at this point, but it’s headed that way.”

Life indeed has slowed for the musician, who just turned 40 in May. After years on the road, he says he got tired of it and dropped out three years ago. He moved to a small town just outside of Milwaukee, bought a house, and then two years ago got hitched. As he’d done when he lived in Omaha, Dalley makes ends meet by painting houses.

been sent to a number of vocalists for contributions, including Blink 182’s Mark Hoppus and Jimmy Eat World’s Jim Adkins. More to come.

“It’s not uncommon for me to paint from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. then go on call with the fire station from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m.,” he said. The actual fire calls are few and far between. Most calls are PNBs — Pulse Not Breathing — and “a lot of car fires and car accidents,” he said. “I’ll be putting out a car fire one day and putting down oil-dry the next.”

PRESSERS could be the project that gets him on the road again. “The timing would have to work out,” he said. “I don’t know if I could go back on tour and lose my ass. When I first started touring, gas wasn’t nearly as expensive and you could crash on people’s floors. As I get older, I don’t know if I want to do that anymore.”

And while he’s quite content with his new life as a fire-fighting homebody, Dalley is still very much involved in music with multiple pots a-boil on the stove. Among them is a project with The Faint’s Clark Baechle, who recorded tracks at Dalley’s home studio during a visit. Going by the name The Weaknights, the tracks have

Then there’s PRESSERS, a project that took shape a few years ago in Los Angeles with Jonah Ray and Blood Brothers’ Cody Votolato. “We recorded an album and have been trying to find a home for it and just found a label,” Dalley said.

Still, his favorite memories are of that first Desaparecidos tour in the early 2000s, when the band would all pile into one room at a Hotel 6. “You’d wake up in the morning surrounded by your friends.” And we likely haven’t heard the last of Desa. Dalley said to look for a new vinyl release of the band’s 2015 performance at Brooklyn DIY space Shea Stadium. “It’s been remastered and will be out on limited vinyl by Freeman Street Records,” Dalley said. “It just went out to the plant.” If Conor comes a-calling, Denver said he’ll hit the road again, but for right now, he’s “stoked to be in one place for a while. I’m ready for the next chapter.”

Denver Dalley performs as a member of Desaparecidos in New York City, circa 2015. Photo credit: Denver Dalley.

Over The Edge is a monthly column by Reader senior contributing writer Tim McMahan focused on culture, society, music, the media and the arts. Email Tim at tim.mcmahan@gmail.com.

August 2021

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