FocusV3I51 by Focus Omaha

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 51 | DECEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 24 | 2019

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Beckyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Back

REVIEWS Plack Blague

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH, PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC NEWSWEEKLY

FINANCE Media Giants

HEALTH Flu Epidemic

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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| 2019 BER 18 - DECEMBER 24 VOLUME 3 ISSUE 51 | DECEM PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC NEWSWEEKLY AINMENT, HEALTH,

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THE ARTS

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FAMILY

SPORTS NU vs. Purdue By Focus Omaha Dominant Defense Lifts Creighton Men’s Basketball to 89-58 Win By Andy Roberts Omaha Mavericks By Howard Schwartz

EVENTS

Media Giants

HEALTH

Plack Blague

FOCUS ON THIS WEEK!

Flu Epidemic

ON TEN

FINANCE

Media Giants Are Battling It Out As The Streaming War Heats Up By Ian Jenkins Sponsored By Blue Capitol Wealth

This week’s top ten events you don’t want to miss! By Focus Omaha

THIS WEEKS FEATURE

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Becky’s Back . . . By Andy Roberts

REAL ESTATE

HEALTH

Listings 48 Lakeshore Ct, Council Bluffs, IA 51501 & 2447 Titus Ave, Omaha, NE 68112 By Eric Cano Sponsored By Eric Cano

Nebraska State Unit on Aging Receives Disaster Recovery Grant By Tatiana Ballinger DHHS Reports High Levels of Flu Across Nebraska By Focus Omaha

COUNCIL BLUFFS

LINCOLN

REVIEWS

Plack Blague By Tatiana Ballinger

HAPPY HOUR

We gathered up some of the BEST Happy Hour spots in and around the Omaha metro! Focus is your FREE Arts, Entertainment, Health, Personal Finance, & Music Newsweekly. We’ve brought all of these elements together for the first time, all in one weekly format. Our goal is to provide you, the customer, with the best possible publication to suit all of your needs.

Focus 7914 W Dodge Rd. # 413 Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 208-6545 focusomaha@gmail.com www.focusomaha.com

THROUGH JANUARY, 19, 2020 PAUL ANTHONY SMITH Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Drawing on the art historical traditions of Pointilism and Geometric Abstraction, Paul Anthony Smith creates “picotages,” named for a pattern printing technique that entails pressing textured blocks onto fabric. Trained in ceramics, Smith uses sharp, wooden tools to stipple the surfaces of photographs he has taken in New York City and Jamaica that examine the African and Caribbean diasporas. THROUGH JANUARY, 19, 2020 WORD AND IMAGE: THE SAINT JOHN’S BIBLE Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Featuring the first handwritten illuminated Bible commissioned by a Benedictine Monastery since the fifteenth century, The Saint John’s Bible incorporates contemporary imagery and events to connect traditional medieval craftsmanship with the twenty-first century. https://www.joslyn.org THROUGH FEBRUARY, 2, 2020 LOUDER THAN WORDS: ROCK, POWER, AND POLITICS Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This exhibit explores how rock music has shaped cultural norms on topics such as civil rights, feminism, war, and more. Historical artifacts, photos, and videos show how the power of rock has influenced politics throughout American history. durhammuseum.org THROUGH FEBRUARY 15, 2020 Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 724 South 12th St., Omaha Jillian Mayer: TIMESHARE Jillian Mayer’s practice continually explores how technology affects our lives, bodies, and identities through investigating the blurred lines between our physical and online worlds in regard to dependency and value. Recent works by the artist include her prolific group of Slumpies—the artist’s sculptural answer to the shape our bodies take while engaging with hand-held technology. While referencing the history of art and the live model, these playful yet critical sculptures address the way humans are physically altering their bodies due to these technologies. Often paired with humourous promo-videos, these deeply imperfect sculptures are inviting as well as entrenched with contemporary marketing techniques, allowing their reach to stretch between the art gallery and the storefront. In TIMESHARE, Mayer explores how art can function and/or aid during times of disaster or even when the planet becomes uninhabitable.

Her work uses the formula of part solutionism part subtle denial mixed with an “everything will be fine” attitude. While the problem might actually be too large to be addressed in any actual sense, the works in this show attempt, with humor and insight. For example, A Sculpture Can Be Used As A Flotation Device In Times Of Emergency is a text work that greets the viewers, and sets the stage for the exhibition. Upon entering further, the viewer will be transported into a contemporary conservatory, an indoor/outdoor sculpture park of sorts, complete with fountains, architectural resting zones, and greenery. Through a variety of mediums that include video, painting, and sculptural objects, Mayer’s environment can act as a place that offers refuge and solace while also serving as a blueprint for garden designers of the future. TIMESHARE investigates and comments on both art’s objective and the artist’s responsibility.

Friday – 11 AM–5 PM Saturday – 11 AM–5 PM Free and open to all. THROUGH MARCH 8, 2020 SOUND THE ALARM: THE MAKING OF THE OMAHA FIRE DEPARTMENT Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. The Omaha Fire Department traces its roots to 1860 when the city’s first firefighting company was founded. Using documents from the Byron Reed Collection this exhibit chronicles the Omaha Fire Department’s late 19th century beginnings. INFLUENCE Thru August 20, 2020

Jillian Mayer: TIMESHARE was first presented at the University of Buffalo Art Galleries February 5–May 11, 2019.

Seeds of Time Screening January 9 | 6:30–8:30 PM

KANEKO 1111 Jones St. Omaha, NE 68102

Lunch + Learn Surviving and Thriving with Hydroponics January 15 | 12–1 PM

FREE Open to the Public

Jillian Mayer: TIMESHARE Catalogue Release Party January 30 | 6:30–8:30 PM Jillian Mayer is an artist living in Miami. Her works and performances have been premiered at galleries and museums internationally such as MoMA, MoCA:NoMi, BAM, Bass Museum, MoMa PS1, the Contemporary Museum of Montreal and film festivals such as Sundance, SXSW, Rotterdam and New York Film Festival. Mayer is a recent recipient of the Creative Capital Fellowship for 2015, the South Florida Cultural Consortium’s Visual/Media Artists Fellowship 2011 and 2014, Cintas Cuban Foundation Fellowship 2012, and was named one of the “25 New Faces of Independent Film” by Filmmaker Magazine. She is also a fellow of the Sundance New Frontiers Lab Program for 2014 and the Zentrum Paul Klee Fellowship in Bern, Switzerland for 2013 and was recently a Bemis Summer 2019 Artist-in-Residence. jillianmayer.net Gallery Hours: Wednesday – 11 AM–5 PM Thursday – 11 AM–9 PM

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

www.focusomaha.com Creativity Begins with an Idea.

Nothing exists by itself; everything has something next to it. Something changes drastically depending on what is next to it. – Jun Kaneko The exploration and celebration of the creative process are at the core of the KANEKO mission. To seek out the challenges of artistry and to discuss the diversity of creative thought in philanthropy, education, and the sciences is what connects all KANEKO programs, exhibitions, and partnerships. This is the vein that passes through the diverse offerings of KANEKO, containing the unique and irreplaceable voice of one of the greatest artisans in history. To influence is to enact change; to sway the course of history and challenge the boundaries of what was once believed to be limitations. Jun Kaneko has forged this path for countless artists, educators, and creative thinkers around the lioiooityrworld, and in the founding of KANEKO has created for the Omaha Community a space in which to be inspired and to enact change.

Through the exploration of physical space, artistic themes, history, and experience, the season of INFLUENCE will examine the history of change at KANEKO while celebrating the future of the organization which has become a driving force for inclusion and diversity of creative thought in Omaha. The artists and collaborators participating in INFLUENCE will illustrate the importance of the creative process, visually and emotionally impact visitors, and present a unique vision that is the hallmark of KANEKO exhibitions. The INFLUENCE season displays the creative work of KANEKO founder and Japanese ceramist Jun Kaneko and how his work, teaching, and creative philosophy has impacted the Omaha community and beyond. INFLUENCE explores the results of living and collaborating within a creative environment, showcasing the history of the creative community in Omaha and how the path of creative individuals impacts the lives of others. The season will highlight projects by previous KANEKO program partners and explore how their work has changed since their creative debut at KANEKO. Their stories, combined with the stories of previous employees and apprentices of the Jun Kaneko Studio, the Bemis Residency Program, and the collective visiting audience of the Omaha community, will showcase the overarching narrative of creative inclusion that KANEKO has assisted in facilitating over the ten-year history of the organization.

WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS OMAHA?

www.focusomaha.com

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51 5

LAS POSADAS 2019 El Museo Latino, 4701 S 25th St., Omaha Celebrate the tradition of Las Posadas on December 18th, 6pm-8pm as El Museo Latino FREE ADMISSION Hands-on Activities for Children with music & Snacks Background! Participate in a traditional Posada at 6:30pm! COOKIES WITH SANTA Thursday, December 19, 6pm - 7:30pm Maple Street YMCA, 7502 Maple St., Omaha THE CAPITOL DISTRICT ICE RINK Friday, December 20, 6pm Continue your winter tradition with destination ice skating through – January 21, 2020! Visit The Capitol District Ice Rink where a portion of proceeds go to the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, which supports Food Bank for the Heartland. The $10 admission fee includes skate rental (admission is still required for patrons who bring their own skates).

#rentalcity #holidays2019 #copsrock What could be better than cookies or Santa? Well what about both?! Come join us for an evening of cookie decorating, tasting and hanging with Santa. Bring the whole family for some memorale fun! LIGHTS OF AKSARBEN WITH SANTA Friday, December 20, 6pm-8pm Stinson Park, 2232 South 64th Street Join us in Stinson Park for the Lights of Aksarben. There will be a heated tent, free horse and carriage rides, free face painting, free food and drink from Hilton Garden Inn Omaha Aksarben Village and the wonderful sounds of Music Masterz! Don’t forget Santa and Mrs.Claus are making their final stop in Stinson Park. Special thanks to Rental City Omaha, Midwest Sound & Lighting and Resource Rental for donating their services this season. We have so much to be grateful for this season so come have some fun with us. Aksarben Village…where there is always something fun going on!

A portion of the proceeds from the rink is donated to Food Bank for the Heartland as part of the “Shine the Light on Hunger” campaign, a significant component of the Holiday Lights Festival. Conagra Brands Foundation will match ice rink admission up to $100,000 for the campaign.

KID’S 2019 CHRISTMAS PARTY Saturday, December 21, 10am American Legion Post #1 Omaha, NE Sing-a-long with music form Cassandra Miller. Gifts, Refreshments and Activities galore! Post Colors: 10:00 Sing-a-long: 10:05 - 10:30 Santa: 10:30 - Noon.

For every $1 donated, Food Bank for the Heartland can distribute three meals to those in need. Bring non-perishable food item donations with you to the rink and drop them in the Shine the Light collection (blue) barrels - these donations will be distributed to families in need by Food Bank for the Heartland. www.holidaylightsfestival.org/ice-rink/

MINION STORY MEET AND GREET Saturday, December 21, 1pm Regency Court · Omaha, Nebraska Stop by Center Court and meet your favorite Minion from Dispicable Me from 1-2pm. Bring your camera for quick pics and don’t forget to visit Santa from 12-8pm.

LIGHTS OF AKSARBEN – COCOA W/ A COP Friday, December 20, 6pm-8pm Aksarben Village, 67th & Center, Omaha Join us in Stinson Park for the Lights of Aksarben and Cocoa with a Cop. There will be a heated tent, free horse and carriage rides, free face painting, free food and drink from Hilton Garden Inn Omaha Aksarben Village and the wonderful sounds of Music Masterz. Special thanks to Rental City Omaha, Midwest Sound & Lighting and Resource Rental for donating their services this season. We have so much to be grateful for this season so come have some fun with us. Aksarben Village…where there is always something fun going on! #lightsofaksarben2019 #aksarbenvillage #stinson park #cocoawithacop #omahaweekend #hiltongardeninn

HORSE & CARRIAGE RIDES Saturday, December 21 · 1pm-5pm Village Pointe Shopping Center 17305 Davenport St, Omaha Holiday shoppers can enjoy complimentary horse and carriage rides throughout the center on Saturdays from 1-5 p.m. Pick up and drop off in front of fireplace by Marcus Village Pointe Cinema. LIVE NATIVITY & SANTA, MS CLAUSE & HIS REINDEER Saturday, December 21, 5pm Scatter Joy Acres, 4966 Newport Ave Nothing brings the true spirit of Christmas to life like a living nativity scene. A perfect way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, a living nativity provides the centerpiece for

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

children’s plays, candlelight caroling,or the telling of the Christmas story. A living nativity scene engages people of all ages and brings to life the true meaning of the holiday. Our exciting Live Nativity animals gives you a chance to have one on one interaction and to be educated with the animals from the birth of Christ! This is a free drive-thru event; donations are appreciated. SANTA’S WONDERLAND AT CABELA’S Through December 24, FREE Cabela’s, 12703 Westport Pkwy., La Vista, NE Santa’s Wonderland offers free crafts throughout the season, featuring a different craft each week. Plus, families can enjoy games and activities and visits and pictures with Santa. (Bass Pass required for free photo with Santa.) Write a Letter to Santa, Receive an email from Santa! FREE Craft & Activity Tables and more!

week. Plus, families can enjoy games and activities and visits and pictures with Santa. (Bass Pass required for free photo with Santa.) HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL – Through January 5, 2020 FREE Celebrate the spirit of the holidays with a full season of festive, family-friendly activities. Due to the construction at the Gene Leahy Mall, the lights will illuminate the Old Market and surrounding streets with white lights and garland from November 25 through January 5, with added special events as part of the Holidays in the Old Market. This year’s lights will span from 10th-13th Streets and from Harney to Jackson Streets. The display also covers North and South Omaha along 24th St.

Shine the Light on Hunger invites visitors to donate non-perishable food at the ice skating SANTA’S WONDERLAND AT BASS PRO SHOP rink and other locations throughout the festival. Through December 24, FREE Sounds of the Season Saturdays, through New Bass Pro Shops, 2901 Bass Pro Dr., Council Bluffs Year’s Eve. Santa’s Wonderland offers free crafts throughFamily events continued onto the out the season, featuring a different craft each bottom half of page 7.

Family events continued from page 6. Holidays in the Old Market – The lights will be on nightly from through January 5. As part of Holidays in the Old Market, special holiday activities, events, and caroling will also take place.

world where dinosaurs and humans work together to build a dinosaur research facility. The exhibit will include a combination of life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and construction equipment as well as a digging and building area. Children will be able to test out a variety of S.T.E.M. careers including engineer, architect, construcCapitol District Ice Skating Rink – Open Dec. 6, -Jan. 21, 2020. $10 admission fee includes skate tion worker, vehicle operator, paleontologist, rental and benefits Food Bank for the Heartland. and veterinarian. Engineering challenges and interactive presentations will also take place in the exhibit daily. LAKESHORE’S FREE CRAFTS FOR KIDS Saturday, December 14, 11am WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS? Lakeshore Learning, 12005 W. Center Rd. Free Crafts for Kids, Ages 3 and up www.lakeshorelearning.com CARRIAGE RIDES AT VILLAGE POINTE Saturday, December 14, 1pm Holiday shoppers can enjoy complimentary horse and carriage rides throughout the center on Saturdays from 1-5pm Pick up and drop off in front of fireplace by Marcus Village Pointe Cinema. Saturday, Dec. 14 & & Saturday, Dec. 21 KIDS EAT FREE ON MONDAYS* Monday, December 16, 23, 30 *one free meal per adult qualifying purchase, subject to change at anytime. Hector’s, 1201 S. 157th St., Omaha, NE 68130 DIGGIN’ DINOS Open through April 11, 2020 Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 South 20th Street, Omaha, NE 68102 Diggin’ Dinos will place children in an imagined

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51 7

Sullivan King w/ Yakz, Heretik, ENT!TY Slowdown,9m Holiday Show, Barley Street Tavern, 9pm Roe Hempel Solo, Harney Strret Tavern, 9pm

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 18 Holidays in the Old Market, 11am Holiday Harmony featuring Sherri Galovich Lauritzen Gardens, 5pm Mug Club Weihnachten Party w/ Barry Boyce Band, Huber Haus German Bier Hall, 5pm

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19 Year of the Stave - Maker’s Mark Barrel Release , Havana Garage, 5pm Harrison Campaign Holiday Event Big Mama’s Kitchen, 5:30pm

Taproom Bingo, Zipline Brewing Co, 6pm Dark Nights/ Ugly Sweater Contest Cunningham’s Pub and Gril, 6:30pm The Brits, Ozone Lounge, 6:30pm Pete Fucinaro Quartet, The Jewell, 6:30m Ray’s Piano Party, Mr. Toad’s, 7pm A Christmas Carol Omaha Community Playhouse, 7pm Extreme Bingo, The New Frontier, 7pm PWP Live presents: WrestleRama! The Waiting Room Loung, 7pm America’s Pub Quiz | Every Wednesday Clancy’s Pub, 7:30pm Soul Tree Duo, The Omaha Lounge, 7:30pm Karaoke, Retro Rewind, 7:30pm Killer Queen Free League, Beercade2, 8pm Trivia Mafia Wednesdays, Spielbound, 8pm Open Mic with Host Aly Peeler The Down Under Lounge, 8p Comedy Open Mic, Barley Street Tavern, 9pm Karaoke, Brokedown Palace, 9pm Karaoke, Moe and Curly’s, 9pm

Karaoke, Moe and Curly’s, 9pm

Holiday Harmony featuring Tangier Shrine Chanters, Lauritzen Gardens, 2pm

DJ, Retro Rewind, 9pm

Elf the Musical, Rose Theater, 2pm

Chris Shelton, Dubliner Pub, 9:30pm

Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration, Holland Center, 2pm

“Touch Of Grey” Thursdays! Brokedown Palace, 11pm

FRIDAY DECEMBER 20 Jessica Errett The Cove Lounge and Grille, 5pm

Holiday Harmony featuring Ashley Mohling Lauritzen Gardens, 4pm Winter Solstice Yoga, Fontenelle Forest, 5pm

Uncle Jim’s Holiday Party, Reverb Lounge, 6pm The Confidentials Holiday Show at The Jewell The Jewell, 6:30pm

Holiday Movie Watch N’ Skate The Polar Express, The Capitol District, 6pm

Live Music w/ Skretta Etc at Vino Mas, 6:30pm

Elf the Musical, Rose Theater, 7pm

Holiday Harmony featuring Ashley Mohling Lauritzen Gardens, 6:30pm

Big Fert’s Big Holiday Bash Lookout Lounge, 7pm

Winter Solstice Constellation Viewing Fontenelle Forest, 6:30pm

Trivia, Thunderhead Brewing Downtown, 7pm

Country Christmas with Kali Indiana Omaha Ballroom, 7pm

Game Night, American Legion Post #1, 6pm

John Worsham, Ozone Lounge, 6:30pm

Family Movie Night, La Vista Public Library, 6pm Johnny Beehner, Omaha Funny Bone, 6:30pm Uncle Jim’s Holiday Party Reverb Lounge, 6pm

University Of Nebraska Omaha Men’s Basketball Vs. Montana, Baxter Arena, 12pm

Frostival 2019 | 12th Annual Holiday Charity Event featuring Blue Martian Tribe / Linear Symmetry / Funk Trek / Sebastian Lane Band / A Ferocious Jungle Cat / Dr. Webb / Jerry Pranksters / Rock & Roll Suicide / Mr. E & The Stringless Kite / Omaha Beat Brigade / Peach Truck / Doom Lagoon, The Waiting Room, 6pm

Santa & Mrs. Claus at DJ’s Dugout Plattsmouth! The Electric Rev. Jimmie Bratcher DJ’s Dugout Sports Bar - Plattsmouth, 5:30pm Stocks n Bonds, 6pm Yin Yoga, Lauritzen Gardens, 6pm

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21

Tis the Season to Rock the Season: Christmas Benefit for Make-A-Wish w/ Superman’s Hero & George Heaston Experience The Waiting Room Lounge, 7pm

Gingerbread House Competition Infusion Brewing Company, 5pm

A Christmas Carol Omaha Community Playhouse, 7:30pm

2019 Winter Solstice Yule Ball DC Centre Banquet Facility, 7pm Karaoke, The New Frontier, 7pm Oye Como Va, Santana Tribute, The Jewell, 7pm

University Of Nebraska Omaha Men’s Hockey Yesterday And Today: The Interactive Beatles Ex- Vs Arizona State, Baxter Arena, 7:07pm Weekend Primer with Cabaret Theatre perience, Omaha Community Playhouse, 7:30pm The B Side of Benson Theatre, 7pm And How / Magu / Garst / Supper at Drips, 8pm Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony A Christmas Carol Christmas Celebration, Holland Performing Ugly Sweater Party, River City Saloon, 8pm Omaha Community Playhouse, 7:30pm Arts Center, 7:30pm PetRock’s Holiday Spectacular Weekend: Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas A Very Merry Christmas Concert Feat. Night 2, Slowdown, 8:30pm Celebration, Holland Center, 7:30pm Mariachi Herencia de Mexico Orpheum Theater, 7:30pm Christmas FOOLishness w/ the FOOLish Few Ladies Night Giveaway & Chad Lee at American Dream, 9pm Copacabana Cocktail Lounge, 8pm Public Enemies Tour, Bourbon Theatre, 8pm A Totally 80’s X-MAS, Bourbon Theatre, 9pm Home Free: Dive Bar Christmas Tour in Omaha, PetRock’s Holiday Spectacular Weekend: Omaha Performing Arts, 8pm Night One, Slowdown, 8:30pm The Willards and The Bedrock Harnney Street Tavern, 9pm Home Free - Dive Bar Christmas Hookt, American Dream, 9pm Orpheum Theater, 8pm DJ Rebirth, The Cove Lounge, 9pm Emo Nite, Reverb Lounge, 9pm Trivia Thursday at RSBH Sidecar 69 Rocks Two Fine Irishmen, 9pm Rathskeller Bier Haus , 8pm Emo Nite, The Waiting Room Lounge, 9pm Oye Como Va, Santana Tribute, The Jewell, 9pm General Trivia, The Cove Lounge, 8pm I-29 Comedy Productions Barley Street Tavern, 9pm Trivia, Julio’s, 9pm R&B Thursday featuring Sherri MC The Omaha Lounge, 8:30pm Pancho’s Return , Harnney Street Tavern, 9pm Karaoke, Moe and Curly’s, 9pm A Miracle On Barley Street The Barley Street Tavern, 9pm Ugly Sweater, Rhythmz, 9pm

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

Vince’s Third Thursday Jam | DU The Down Under Lounge, 9pm

DJ, Retro Rewind, 9pm Big Hearts Big Sound, The Shineys Barley Street Tavern, 9pm

Damien McCarthy, Dubliner Pub, 9:30pm

Awesome Sound: A Tribute to Ween Reverb Lounge, 8pm

Benson Soul Society at The Sydney, 10pm Tueday Open MIc, Brokedown Palace, 8:30pm

SUNDAY DECEMBER 22

Open Mic, Barley Street Tavern, 9pm

Sunday Celebration, Bridge Church , 10am

Karaoke, Moe and Curly’s, 9pm

Holidays in the Old Market, 11am

Open Mic (Standup), The Backline, 9pm

Holiday BINGO Brunch with Infusion Crescent Moon, 11am

A Nightmare Before Christmas 2, O’Leaver’s, 9pm

Ice Skating with Santa Claus The Capitol District Ice Rink, 1pm A Very Die Hard Christmas, Bluebarn Theatre, 2pm Holiday Harmony featuring Hannah Clark Lauritzen Gardens, 2pm Elf the Musical, Rose Theater, 2pm Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration, Holland Center, 2pm Cookie Decorating Party w/ Ash The Down Under Lounge, 3pm Holiday Harmony featuring Ashley Mohling Lauritzen Gardens, 4pm Blue Sunday at The Down Under Lounge, 4pm University Of Nebraska Omaha Men’s Hockey Vs Arizona State, Baxter Arena, 4:07pm Holiday Harmony featuring Ryan Crick Lauritzen Gardens, 6pm Skye Junginger Quartet feat. Madeline Reddel The Jewell, 6:30pm

Christmas Eve Karaoke w/ Zach The Down Under Lounge, 10pm

TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 2019 Holiday Safe Ride Home® Today 8 PM · Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop · Omaha, Nebraska

We founded Safe Ride Home in 1990 with a single mission – help Nebraskans avoid drinking and driving by paying for their cab fares, so everyone can safely get home to their friends and loved ones. Since then, we have provided more than 67,000 rides, saving countless lives. To be truly effective, we need YOUR help spreading the word. Please tell your friends and family about our Safe Ride Home program by sharing across your social networks. Together, we can make a difference.

RIDES ARE PROVIDED 8p - 3a FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6TH THROUGH NEW YEAR’S EVE AND WITHIN DOUGLAS & SARPY COUNTIES ONLY. Get all instructions and download the app here: www.hauptman-obrien.net/safe-ride-home/

Bayside, Capstan & Moonlighting The Waiting Room Lounge, 7:30pm

RULES: • You will be taken home or to a hotel, not to Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony another event location or bar. Therefore, you’re Christmas Celebration, Holland Center, 7:30pm allowed one free ride per night. Orca Welles w/ The Beeves, Uh Oh, 8pm Lemon Fresh Day’s Annual “Ugly Sweater Holiday” Party! Horsemen’s Park, 8:30pm

MONDAY DECEMBER 23

• You must use the promo code SAFE or your ride won’t be free. When you are picked up, be sure to tell the driver you’re taking a free Hauptman O’Brien SAFE RIDE HOME®. • Please be patient. There are more than 120

Santa’s Magic Omaha Children’s Museum, 10am Holiday Harmony featuring Karen Kalinowski Lauritzen Gardens, 10am Small Works Exhibition Anderson O’Brien Fine Ar, 10am Holiday Harmony featuring Jean Holtmann Lauritzen Gardens, 2pm Ladies Night, Liquid Sunshine Taproom, 7pm

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51 9

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19 8PM

HOME FREE

ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S SIXTEENTH STREET

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21 # 4PM MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S SIXTEENTH STREET

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19 8PM

SULLIVAN KING

PHYSICIANS MUTUAL CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

SLOWDOWN HOLLAND PERFORMING 729 N 14TH ST., OMAHA ARTS CENTER, OMAHA

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21 4PM

FROSTIVAL WAITING ROOM 6212 MAPLE ST. OMAHA

SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 6:30PM

BAYSIDE, CAPSTAN & MOONLIGHTING WAITING ROOM 6212 MAPLE ST. OMAHA

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19# SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22

FRIDAY DECEMBER 20 9PM

PUBLIC ENEMIES BOURBON THEATRE 1415 O ST, LINCOLN

SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 8:30PM

UGLY SWEATER HOLIDAY” PARTY! W/ LEMON FRESH DAY HORSEMEN’S PARK 6303 Q ST., OMAHA

FRIDAY DECEMBER 20 7:30PM

THE CONFIDENTIALS HOLIDAY SHOW

THE JEWELL 1030 CAPITOL AVE., OMAHA

TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 7:30PM

MULBERRY LANE CHRISTMAS EVE A CAPPELLA CONCERT

ST. MARY MAGDALENE CHURCH, 109 S 19TH ST

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51 11

You might find it surprising that it took until 2014 for the first nativity scene to pop up at the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln. It was placed there by a Catholic-affiliated attorney group that was seeking to place Nativity scenes in state capitol buildings all over the country. As one could imagine, this left the door open for all kinds of groups, including Satanists, to seek the public presentation of their beliefs and make sure their cause also was well represented. What could go wrong? The nativity scene originated in Italy by St.

Francis to show the unfortunate circumstances cells) is in Claremont, California, at Claremont of Jesus’s birth. We try to make it warm and United Methodist Church. fuzzy today, but who do you know that was born in a trough? Maybe it’s time we looked at these scenes for what they really are. A marketing ploy to gain Enter political nativity scenes circa 2019. attention and further benefit the individual parishes and churches involved. In Dedham, Massachusetts, a nativity scene outside of St. Susanna’s shows the Three Wise My question is this: Men and animals submerged in water beneath a banner that reads, “God so loved the Earth, Will our sanctimonious placing of nativity will we?” scenes visualizing the problems so prevalent in humanity really make people think twice Not sure they’re familiar with the great flood and lead to individuals changing their carbon and Noah’s Ark?! footprint or affect their political alignment, or are they further making a mockery of our Last year they put a cage around the Baby nation which seems to be already struggling Jesus and walled off the Three Wise Men. A with issues of faith? similar scene with mannequins of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph - separated in individual cages With the advent of social media, we live in an topped with barbed wire and Jesus wrapped unprecedented age where our personal opinin what appears to be a Mylar blanket (which ions can be expressed to the masses in ways are the sheets migrants are we never given in holding anticipated. The left

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

seems to be swinging ultra-left, while the right trends ultra-right. With our 24-hour news cycle, we’re acutely aware of the issues affecting the planet and our attempts at shutting others out. Is it possible for us to make this holiday season more about meeting in the middle? WWJD? I’m not sure, but I think he may want us to spend less time (and space) messaging about what’s wrong with the world in front of our churches and parishes, and more time encouraging us to love one another and come together as one body?! You be the judge. Oh, that’s right, we’re not supposed to do that.

www.focusomaha.com

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Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

Becky’s Back . . . By Andy Roberts

It’s not Peace, Love, Etc. or High Heel & the Sneekers. Don’t call it a reunion. Just call it a must-see band. Drummer Barry Clark said Becky’s Back plays smoky, sexy songs which makes it totally different from the big rock sound of the other bands mentioned. Becky Braun (formerly Morrison) is back on vocals – that’s why Becky’s Back. They are joined by Steve Busteed on bass, Dan Sullivan on guitar, and multi-instrumentalist Bucky McCann. All the members sing.

So that set things in motion, and Braun met McCann over the summer when he was working at a music school attended by her nephew. That, basically, sealed the deal. McCann’s versatility allows Becky’s Back to use some different sounds. “It’s not a dance band,” Clark emphasized. “It’s kind of different than what we did before.” Which is just fine with him. Clark expects the band to play about every six weeks as Braun continues to make her home in Chicago. Rehearsals, he said, have been going extremely well.

“Bucky’s the musical director,” Clark said.

“We’ve all been in different combinations,” While you may have seen the members in other Clark stated, pointing out the members have bands recently – and many over the years – this played together, just not in this lineup. “We all know what we’re in for.” has been in the works for a while. “About a year ago Becky was in town for a wedding,” Clark recalled. Braun and her boyfriend met Clark and Busteed at M’s Pub where they convinced the couple it was time for her to hit the Omaha stages again.

The debut of Becky’s Back is at Mars Bar the day after Christmas. They are expected to start at 9:30 with a likely return to the same venue in about six weeks.

For more on Becky’s Back: Clark said Braun’s voice, a High Heel highlight, www.facebook.com/Beckysis better than ever. “No bar throat at all. Crystal Back-105262654302116/ clear,” he stated.

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48 Lakeshore Ct, Council Bluffs, IA 51501 $118,900 MLS # 21706986 Beds 2 Full Baths 1 Laundry Facilities: Main Floor Cooling Features: Electric Central Fireplace Features: Family Room, Gas Log, Main Floor, Yes Heating Features: Gas Forced Air Interior Features Cathedral Ceiling, Ceiling Fans, Garage and Parking Number of Garage Spaces: 1 Garage Description: Detached School Information Elementary School: Lewis Central High School: Lewis Central Middle School: Lewis Central School District: Council Bluffs Homeowners Association

Source Listing Status: Active County: POTTAWATTAMIE Tax Year: 2018 Source Property Type: Condominium Area: Area 10 Property Subtype: condo Source Neighborhood: Lakeshore Est Parcel Number: 7444 12 378 048 Subdivision: Lakeshore Est Source System Name: C2C Square Feet Living: 1688.00 Year Built: 1987 Building Features: Garage Construction Materials: Frame Property Age: 32 Roof: Composition House Style: 1.5 Story Total Area Main: 1268.00

Association Fee Frequency: Monthly Association Fee Amenities: Blacktop Road, Off Street Parking

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

2447 Titus Ave, Omaha, NE 68112 $120,000 MLS# 21916818 Bathrooms: 2 Full Bathrooms: 2 Bedrooms: 3 Dining Room Level: Main Floor Kitchen Level: Main Floor Enclosed Porch Fencing: Full Road Frontage Type: Avenue Lot Size Square Feet: 5280 Cooling Features: Central Air Heating Features: Heating Type: Forced Air, Heating Fuel: Gas Number of Fireplaces: 1 Garage Door Opener Living Room Level: Main Floor Lot Description: In City, In Subdivision, Public Sidewalk, Curb and Gutter, Paved Road Lot Size Acres: 0.1212121 Lot Size Dimensions: 44 x 120 Number of Garage Spaces: 1 Garage Description: Detached

Elementary School: Minne Lusa High School: North Middle School: McMillan School District: Omaha Annual Tax Amount: 1502.98 Source Listing Status: Active County: Douglas Directions: North on 30th St, Titus East to home Tax Year: 2018 Source Property Type: Single Family Residence Source Neighborhood: Minne Lusa Parcel Number: 1749170000 Subdivision: Minne Lusa Source System Name: C2C Square Feet Living: 1272 Year Built: 1922 Construction Materials: Aluminum Siding Property Age: 97 Roof: Composition Structure Type: RESIDENTIAL House Style: 1.5 Story Total Area Main: 924

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Nebraska State Unit on Aging Receives Disaster Recovery Grant By Focus Omaha

The Nebraska State Unit on Aging, a unit of the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, has been approved for a $97,205 grant from the Administration for Community Living for Disaster Assistance for eighty counties that were affected by the blizzards and flooding in March.

maining in the community of their choice for as long as possible.” Senior Centers in northeast Nebraska were particularly hard hit, with Cedar Rapids, Beaver Valley in St. Edward, and Boyd County in Spencer receiving the most significant damage and long-term disruption of services. Grant funds will largely be provided to the Northeast Nebraska Area Agency on Aging, whose service area includes these three centers, for repairs and other losses to continue to serve the seniors who depend upon these services.

Those events led to the collapse of the Spencer hydroelectric dam and the increased water release rate from Gavin’s Point dam. Widespread damage and flooding to public and private infrastructure disrupted vital services to older Nebraskans as towns were evacuated, senior centers lost critical utilities In addition, each Area Agency on Aging and equipment, roads were impassable, and across the state will receive funding to rebridges were severely damaged by ice floes. plenish their inventory of shelf-stable meals, also known as “blizzard boxes.” These meals A total of 73 senior centers were closed from are provided to clients in advance of anticione to 81 days, removing 1,919 meals from pated service disruptions and after unforethe nutrition programs and other support seen disruptions. During the March disaster, services to 570 clients. these meals were vital during the recovery process. The Eastern Nebraska Office on Ag“We are grateful for the federal disaster ing (ENOA) has already proactively ordered grant – it will help the Area Agencies on 800 shelf-stable meals to replenish their Aging buy and replenish shelf-stable meals supplies for the coming winter. If you haven’t for clients statewide,” said Cynthia Brammei- received the flu vaccine, don’t delay er, administrator for the State Unit on Aging. “Nutrition programs are the largest program Area Agencies on Aging manage in terms of budget and services provided. Nutrition is about $5.5 million in federal and state funding – which provided 1.6 million meals last year. Of those meals, 45% were home delivered. Area Agencies on Aging provide and manage over 30 programs and services statewide, helping people age in place – re-

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

DHHS Reports High Levels of Flu Across Nebraska By Focus Omaha Lincoln – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is reporting high levels of flu across the state, which is driving an increase in doctor visits, flu-related hospitalizations and outbreaks in schools and long-term care facilities.

other long-term health conditions Residents of nursing homes and other longterm care facilities

Vaccination can reduce flu-related illnesses, visits to the doctor, missed work and school and flu-related hospitalizations. The flu vac“Flu is taking on a life of its own and we’re cine is safe, effective and rigorously tested. seeing surprisingly high numbers of cases The most common reaction people may for this time of year,” said Dr. Tom Safranek, experience from a flu shot is soreness and State Epidemiologist for DHHS. “If you redness at the injection site. After vaccinahaven’t gotten your flu vaccine yet, there is a tion, it takes about two weeks for the body sense of urgency so don’t wait any longer.” to build immunity. The flu vaccine is the best protection against the flu, which can make any of us sick and can be a life-threatening illness for some people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older every year.

People should promptly seek medical care if they have flu-like symptoms which can include some or all of these symptoms: Fever or chills Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Certain people are at greater risk for serious Muscle or body aches complications, and it’s extremely important Headaches they receive vaccine: Tiredness -Young children -Adults 65 years of age or older Some people may have vomiting or diarrhea. -Pregnant women This is more common in children than adults. -People with chronic lung disease (like asth- Antiviral drugs are the best way to treat flu ma and COPD), diabetes (type 1 and 2), heart so take them if your doctor prescribes them. disease, neurologic conditions and certain Early treatment with antivirals can lessen

continued from page 18 symptoms, shorten the amount of time you are sick, reduce the risk of serious flu complications, and potentially decrease the additional spreading of the virus. High levels of flu also underscore the importance of non-vaccine approaches to help prevent flu: -Wash your hands often -Avoid contact with people who are sick -Stay home from school, work, family gatherings and social functions if you’re sick -Cover your mouth and nose when you cough with a tissue or sleeve, not your hands -Eat healthy and get plenty of rest -Don’t smoke DHHS started its statewide flu surveillance for the season in October. The Department uses multiple public health surveillance systems to track flu viruses, including physicians who report the number of people with flu-like illness weekly, lab tests, school surveillance, hospital data, emergency department data and death reporting. Flu surveillance shows where the flu is and how fast it’s spreading across Nebraska. For more flu information, visit the DHHS website at www.dhhs.ne.gov/flu or the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/flu.

WHAT”S YOUR FOCUS?

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Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

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Nebraska held Purdue to its worst shooting performance of the season. The Boilermakers shot just 30.4 percent from the field (24-of-79) and only 17.1 percent from the 3-point line (6of-35). Purdue’s 30.4 percent shooting was the lowest mark Nebraska has held an opponent to this season.

NU vs Purdue By Focus Omaha

The young Husker basketball team seems to be putting things together as the Hoosiers narrowly escaped a loss at home in OT on Friday before the Huskers fell 96-90, but snapped back on short rest to upset the Purdue Boilermakers at home on Sunday 70-56. Contributing to the victory, Sophomore G Cam Mack had the Huskers first triple-double in program history. After the game, Mack talked about what was working so well for him, “Basically just getting my teammates involved and you know they came through. I wouldn’t have gotten any assists if they didn’t make shots. So, I can really appreciate my teammates for making shots and helping me out.”

Nebraska’s 70-56 win over Purdue marked the first Big Ten coaching victory of Fred Hoiberg’s career, and the Huskers’ 14-point margin of victory was the second-largest of the season. The Huskers had a season-high 22 assists in the win, the first-time Nebraska had 20 assists in a game in more than a year dating back to a 21-assist performance against Missouri State on Nov. 18, 2018. Nebraska had 22 assists on its 26 made baskets.

Cam Mack had 11 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists to post the first triple-double in the history of the Nebraska men’s basketball program (Note: Brennon Clemmons had a triple-double in an exhibition game against Sports Tours on Nov. 14, 2002). Mack’s tripledouble was the first in Big Ten play since Zavier Simpson of Michigan had one against Ohio State on Jan. 29, 2019. With his triple-double, Mack has now posted a double-double in each of his first two career Big Ten Conference games, as Mack had 15 points and 10 assists in Friday’s game at Indiana. Mack is the first Husker in at least 30 years to have back-to-back double-doubles in points and assists. Mack has posted three points-assists double-doubles in 11 games this season. In Nebraska’s previous 29 seasons, a Husker had produced a points-assists double-double a total of just five times.

NU had 22 assists and only 11 turnovers in the game, as Nebraska posted its best assist-to-turnover ratio of the season (plus-11). The Huskers boast a plus-21 assist-to-turnover Dachon Burke Jr. scored a game-high 18 points against Purdue after scoring a game-high 25 ratio in their two Big Ten Conference games points at Indiana on Friday. Burke has scored (41 assists, 20 turnovers).

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

43 points in the first two Big Ten Conference games of his career. Burke also tied his season high with seven rebounds against Purdue. Thorir Thorbjarnarson scored 13 points, his fourth consecutive game in double figures and the fourth time in his career he has scored 10 or more points. Home teams are now 12-0 in Big Ten play following Nebraska’s win. Nebraska snapped a three-game losing streak to Purdue dating back to Jan. 6, 2018, Beating Purdue is no small feat, as the Boilermakers have the fifth-best defense in the country, but Nebraska will have to continue to improve as they get a break until 12/21 when they face two non-conference opponents before returning to conference play on 1/3 against Rutgers.

Dominant Defense Lifts Creighton Men’s Basketball to 89-58 Win By Andy Roberts

Creighton has a trio of guards whose shooting can keep the team in almost any game. The Bluejays also have an injury list that is keeping the Med School working overtime. The club entered Friday’s bye game with the University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) with seven healthy and eligible scholarship players. Damien Jefferson scored six straight early to put the Jays up 12-5, then twisted his calf, leaving CU with six scholarship guys for the rest of the night. So, Ty-Shon Alexander and Marcus Zegarowski combined for 43 points and the Jays played some of their best defense of the year. Mitch Ballock, the third shooter, added 11 points and at 6’5” played the post for much of the game. The resulting effort lifted Creighton to an 8958 win over UTRGV which improved the team to 8-2 on the season.

Back to the injury report: Jefferson was back on the bench but didn’t play in the second half. Davion Mintz and center Kelvin Jones were held out as they recover from injuries but could be available Tuesday for the Oklahoma game. Sophomore 7-footer Jacob Epperson remains out with a broken leg and is unlikely to play this season. One player who will be ready to hit the court is 6’5” Denzel Mahoney who has three times scored 30 points or more in his previous stop at Southeast Missouri State. That gives Creighton’s roster four players who have dropped 30 or more in a D-1 game. Mahoney also is a stout 225 pounds with a 6’11” wingspan, giving the Jays a physical element they have lacked. It will be needed as the OU game is followed by a Saturday trip to Arizona State and then the Big East season with a tune-up against Midland in between.

www.focusomaha.com

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Mavericks go One-andTwo Three in Past Week By Howard Schwartz

The desert wasn’t a very friendly place for the Omaha Maverick basketball team.

to the win column with a season-best scoring mark in a 92-82 victory over the same UTRGV that had played two days earlier at Creighton. On December 9, the team staged a second-half That snapped a four-game losing skid and put rally but fell 73-65 to Northern Arizona. Oma- Omaha at 6-7 on the season. ha was led by Matt Pile with 18points and 13 rebounds. Zach Thornhill supported him with Pile delivered his third straight double-double 14 points and five rebounds while KJ Robinson with 19 points and 14 rebounds. He shot 9-ofadded 10 from the bench. 10 from the floor with a career-best six assists. JT Gibson and Robinson scored 17 each and As if the Lumberjacks weren’t tough enough, with Thornhill chipping in a dozen and Ayo it is on to Tucson and the Arizona Wildcats. Akinwole dropping 10. Pile had his second straight double-double Omaha will be flying out Monday for a Tuesday with 10 points and 12 boards, but the Pac 12 night game at Eastern Washington. The schedteam rolled 99-49 as they bounced back from uled calls for a return to Baxter Arena a 5-point loss to Baylor. Chase Jeter and Josh on Saturday and a game with Montana. Green each had 15 points to lead five ‘Cats in double figures. www.focusomaha.com On Sunday afternoon the Mavericks returned

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Media Giants Are Battling It Out As The Streaming War Heats Up By Ian Jenkins

as well. These big firms are throwing billions into the fight, hoping to claw away some market share from Netflix. But there’s one big sector they’re all missing.

Right now a NEW streaming war is taking place. It’s one that’s being ignored by anyone over the age of 18. Why? There’s a quiet revolution happening in the media world. Mentioned in today’s commentary includes: Verizon (NYSE:VZ), Telus Corporation (NYSE:TU), Alibaba(NYSE:BABA), International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), MGM Grand (NYSE:MGM).

ny bought up the rights to a ton of great content—The Office, Friends, hundreds of popular TV-shows and movies—and used the revenue generated from monthly subscriptions to grow fast.

Now, competition for streaming market share is fierce. Nearly every media company, from Comcast to Disney, has a stake in the “streaming war.” Why? The network effect. Streaming services find a niche and grow their audience, quickly.

#2 Get in the Game The secret to Torque Esports is right there in the name. Esports refers to video game The success turned Netflix into a billion-dol- sporting events—live competitions that pit lar company. In 2017, the company brought in gamers against one another. Sound weird? $11 billion in revenue. Netflix is now a major Maybe. But take a look at the numbers. film and TV producer—in 2018 it published Video games, as an industry, are already more than 80 original films. Netflix is also international—it has 58 million subscribers in bigger than Hollywood—the sector earned the US and 78.5 million more in international $131 billion in revenue in 2018. Thanks to markets. Other streaming services are trying mobile games and the explosive international success of titles like Fortnite and Overwatch, to catch up. video games are set to reach $300 billion in revenues by 2025 according to some Disney recently rolled out its own service, analysts. Disney+, in November 2019. Like Netflix, it

Old competitors — like Blockbuster – couldn’t keep up. This new niche will likely be even bigger. And one company is about to bust the streaming wars wide open: Torque Esports Corp. (GAME.V, MLLLD) Torque has something the many other streaming services haven’t secured yet: a huge reach into one of the hottest NEW streaming sectors, esports. Right now, esports is just starting to come up, but many believe that it is set to grow even larger. Its corner is sports and video games—two sectors that dwarf the video distribution market. The NFL is worth $63 billion. The NBA is worth at least $30 billion, the average team is worth $1.9 billion. Premier League soccer is worth $10.2 billion.

From only 900 titles, the company used an algorithm-driven data model to expand to more than 70,000 different “microgenres.” It leveraged user data—the viewing habits of its users, their particular tastes, as well as personal information like age and gender—to target content.

hopes to scale quickly. Disney+ will include most Disney properties—including a few it pulled from Netflix—as well as new original content. From zero, Disney+ hopes to have 80 million subscribers by 2024.

The trend is so big, even telecom providers are looking to dig their claws into this new revolution. Verizon (NYSE: VZ) is engaged in all aspects of communications, information and wireless services. With Verizon’s Fios Live TV, you can stream On Demand Now, compare that to video games–$135 and select live TV titles on your compatible billion in revenue in 2019, with $300 billion projected by 2025.Torque is in a unique posi- devices including mobile. All you have to do is tion to leverage video streaming expertise for log in with your password and username on a esports, an up-and-coming sector that could broadband connection. potentially explode in size. No other company Canada’s Telus Corporation (NYSE: TU), can match its command of user data. And serving over 8 million Canadians from coast no other company stands where Torque to coast, is also in on the race. Though it’s not (GAME.V, MLLLD) stands: at the crossroads producing its own content, it is carving out its of sports, games, and on-line streaming. own path in the industry thanks to its Optik TV App which allows customers to stream on Here’s what you need to know: any device. #1 Scale Quickly The secret to success in streaming is…scaling. AT&T, Comcast, Apple— are all diving into the streaming war with their own platforms That was Netflix’s big move. The compa-

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

That’s where Torque Esports (GAME.V, MLLLD) comes in. It’s already making key acquisitions that will strengthen its position. But with a new mega-merger with Tom Rogers, the media legend behind CNBC, MSNBC and more, right around the corner…Torque is looking like a true competitor in the new media revolution.

Video games are popular, addictive, and hold international appeal—the biggest titles, like Call of Duty, cost $100 million to produce and can generate four times as much in revenue. And now, video games have turned into a spectator sport. A study from early 2019 estimated earnings from esports events will top $1 billion this year. Audiences for these events have exploded, thanks to streaming platforms like Twitch, which broadcast the events live on-line. In 2017, some 335 million people tuned in to these events—and that number could reach 645 million by 2022. And the money is pouring in. Even Chinese tech giant Alibaba (NYSE: BABA) is jumping on board. According to Alibaba global esports director Jason Fung, “Alibaba has given us a five-year time frame to figure out what works in esports and to seek out business models that make sense. We’ve had that time frame to start becoming profitable and break even.” Not only are tech giants betting big on this burgeoning sector,

major gambling players are looking to cash in too. In July, International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) announced a deal with popular sports betting platform FanDuel. IGT will bring FanDuel’s services to its existing platforms in markets across fifteen states. FanDuel made headlines in November for becoming the first online sportsbook to accept League of Legends World Championship bets in the United States. Though IGT was the first online sportsbook to accept bets, MGM Grand (NYSE: MGM) was already pioneering the trend in Vegas. Back in 2017, the company partnered with esports betting platform Unikrn to host its own event in the LEVEL UP lounge. Esports will attract 300 million viewers in the next few years, according to Goldman, “on par with NFL viewership.” And Torque has an edge on one segment of this market. #3 User Value What’s the most valuable commodity on earth? Is it oil? Gold? Nope. It’s data. Specifically, user data—information tied to a specific individual’s online habits, from shopping patterns to viewing habits to personal information. All of that data is precious to companies hoping to hawk their wares on-line to consumers, including the millions tuning in to esports events. Advertising and brand investment will make up the biggest chunk of revenue from esports. This year, esports will bring in $906 million in revenue, and advertising for esports events was the centerpiece of an Advertising Week, a gathering of thousands of advertising professionals. Everyone knows there’s money to be made in esports. The key is getting to consumers. And who are those consumers? Typical video gamers are young, and audiences for esports events are overwhelmingly 18-40 years of age, typically with disposable income. According to one market research firm, esports fans tend to be well-off, professionals with purchasing power, with high levels of

enthusiasm.

offer this kind of service.

They’re drawn to the video game events out of strong interest, which means they’re likely to not click away out of boredom—it also means they won’t skip the ads, for fear of losing a moment of the e-sport excitement. The user data for esports attendees is priceless for advertisers.

Ad-buyers are desperate to obtain useable consumer data for esports advertising. And Stream Hatchet can provide that, and so much more.

Torque (GAME.V, MLLLD) has unique services. It’s on the cusp of breaking into the esports streaming sector, a $3 billion market But ad buyers are in a pickle. They can’t get that could potentially grow big, and grow access to accurate data—the industry is in its fast. infancy, and advertisers are having trouble finding the right metrics. And Torque Esports #5 The Sky Is The Limit (GAME.V, MLLLD) has developed a service that makes it akin to the “Nielsen of Gaming.” Torque Esports is small potatoes—a tiny $5 million company, with a few assets, including #4 The Data Edge Stream Hatchet, a bespoke esports comTorque’s secret weapon: a service that gath- petition, and a video game development ers and measures data relating to esports company. consumers. It’s called Stream Hatchet, and here’s how it works: It’s attracting major attention however, with professional racers offering endorsements, A data analytics/intelligence company an expanding YouTube esports channel, and under the Torque umbrella, Stream Hatchet key presentations at major esports confocuses on gathering analytics on esports, ferences. But the opportunity it’s grasping allowing clients to identify influences and could be worth far, far more. trends within the esports sector. The video-game industry is bound to grow— Torque has gained a major advantage in what it’s already bigger than Hollywood, and in a could potentially become the most lucrative few years esports could surpass other ‘real’ sector in esports. It is the gatekeeper to sports. And Torque (GAME.V, MLLLD) has monetization and optimization in one of the found a unique niche. world’s fastest-growing industries. And right www.focusomaha.com now, there are few other companies that can WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS?

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Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

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Plack Blague By Tatiana Ballinger

Drum machine joy buries jungle beats in Plack Blague, throwing cloaks over normal loungey 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hits from dusty roller rinks. Their song titles are epic and saucy, short and sweet, fully explanatory and great for a winter stress reliever. As another timeless decade closes and random 180 intentions for the new year proliferate, we are expected to attend important snowed-in parties that celebrate vague understandings of ancient traditions as we feed who we are not. These days, holiday parties revolve around consumer-based, quantifiable happiness. Hypocritical holiday guilt submerges Omaha transplants and locals alike in a mopey state of depression as snow sticks to the ground. Focus on Plack Blague this holiday season. It is preferential party music because it is bound to human nature in its club sound and rampant with queer reclamation in its lyrics and cover art. Loops of classic house are distorted with faint vocal multiples fleshing out catchy erotic one-liners. Instead of the basic Christmas winter wonderland music, why not spice up these holiday parties with some music to completely drown out the sorrow and re-

mind us of what we should be most grateful for and that is voluptuary arguments and the open arms of industrial music. Allow pink and black to replace a dreaded time for the color blind. A masked queer kinkster stands as a midwestern satanic moniker in punky spikes and gay BDSM aesthetics. Plack Blague interprets death rock in a friendly sense as a Nebraska cowboy hooded in black leather. Find remixes, music videos, and interviews from the last decade online and streaming if you are in the mood for maximalism. As the years progress, gothic fashion rarely finds itself outdated. It is fit for many different occasions. For example, other masked frontmen entrenched in leather exposing a comfortable root chakra are Hunx and His Punx, Cum Stain, and No Bunny. If it is done well as Plack Blague has managed, it is almost always housed underground and rarely strays from where it was born remaining constantly mainstream, consumable, and fashionable. Look out for shows with Plack Blague and Las Cruxes in Lincoln and Omaha.

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

BARRETT’S BARLEYCORN 4322 Leavenworth St. M-F 4P-6P $2.25 Domestic Bottles $3.00 Well Drinks BROKEDOWN PALACE 8805 Maple St. Happy Hour 12P-6P $4 28 oz Domestic Frozen Mugs $5 28 oz Nebraska Brewing Cardinal Pale Ale Frozen Mug CADDYSHACK 2076 N 117th Ave & 7007 S 181st St M-F 2P-6P $1 Off Beer, Wine & Wells TUES- HAPPY HOUR All Day COHEN & KELLY’S LOUNGE 13075 W Center Rd M-F 4:30P - 6:30P Drink Specials DEJA VU LOUNGE 1021 South 178th St. Everyday NOON - 6PM $2.50 Draws, $3.50 Wells $2.50 Domestic Bottles

DUBLINER PUB 1205 Harney St. Nightly Drink Specials & Happy Hour 1P - 7P Everyday !! $1.00 off Pints and Bottles HECTOR’S BAJA STYLE MEXICAN COUSINE 1201 S. 157th St Reverse HH M-Thurs-8P-Close Available only in the bar $1 off All Margaritas and Beers $2 Tacos Beef or Chicken Half-priced Select Appetizers JULIO’S 123rd & Center M-F 3P – 6P & FRI & SAT AFTER 9M $1 off all Tap Beer, $3 House Margaritas, $8 Pitchers of Bud Light & Miller Light, $2 Tacos & $8 Nachos KOZEE LOUNGE 5813 N 60th St. Daily Drink Specials!

LEAVENWORTH BAR 4556 Leavenworth St. M-F 12P-7P LOOKOUT LOUNGE 320 S 72nd St. EVERY DAY 4-7, MIDNIGHT - 2 AM $2 PBR, $2.50 Domestic Bottles, $3 Wells, $3 Fireball NOSH WINE LOUNGE 1006 Dodge St. Everyday 4P- 6P Reverse HH 10P -12A $3 Domestic Beers and Wells, $2 off Glasses of Wine, $4 House Wine PADDY’S McGOWN’S PUB & GRILL 4503 Center St. Happy Hour Specials from 3-6pm PARLIAMENT PUB DOWNTOWN 1212 Harney Street T-SUN 3P-7P Drink Specials

PARLIAMENT PUB WEST 16939 Wright Plaza M-F 3-7PM ALL DAY SUNDAY! $2 Domestic Pints, $5 Vodka Red Bulls, $5 Shots & Bombs, 1/2 price Martini’s & Wines PITCH PIZZERIA 5021 Underwood Ave. 17808 Burke M-F 3P-6P $5 off any appetizer $5 off any pizza PUB134 3015 N 90th St Happy Hour ALL DAY-EVERYDAY OMAHA TAP HOUSE 1401 Farnam St. & 579 N 155th Plz M-F 3P - 6P & ALL DAY SUNDAY $1 Off All TapBeers $4 Svedka, $4 Windsor, $4 Sauza Silver, $4 Cruzan Rum

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THERAPY BAR & GRILL 5059 S 108th St Monday-Friday 3-6pm $.50 cents off Bottles, Drafts, & Wells THE SOCIABLE INN 4917 S 136TH ST M-F 2P-7P $2.50 Pints, $2.50 Domestic Bottles

TIGER TOM’S 7103 Military Ave M-F 4P-6P $12 Domestic Buckets TIMBER WOOD FIRE BISTRO 8702 Pacific St – Countryside Village M-F Patio Only 11A-7P M-SAT 2P- 6:30P & SUN 2P-10P $2 Off Local and Craft Drafts, $2.50 Tier 1 Import and Domestics, $3 Tier 2 Import and Domestics, $3 Off Signature Cocktails, $4 Well Drinks, $2 Off Glass of Wine, $1 Off Tap Wine. & Select Gourmet Food UNDERWOOD BAR 4918 Underwood Ave M-F 4:30-6P $2 Bud and Bud Light

RAILCAR MODERN AMERICAN KITCHEN 1814 N 144th St. M-F 3:30-6:30P $4 Well Drinks, $3 Off Signature Cocktails RATHSKELLER BIER GARDEN 4524 Farnam St. M-SAT 3P to 6P | 10P-Close SUNDAY – All Day BOSO .25– Buy one second one for $.25 RETRO REWIND 15475 Ruggles St #108, Omaha EVERY THURS, FRI & SAT 7P-9P SCRIPTOWN 3922 Farnam M-F 4P - 6P $1 Off Beers & $1 Off Well Drinks SMITTY’S GARAGE 7610 Dodge St. Everyday 3P - 6P & 9P - CLOSE $2.50 Domestics THURSDAYS $1 OFF Local Beer Draws THE CASUAL PINT 8718 Countryside Plaza M, W, TH 4P-6P TUES All Day $1 Off All Draft Beers. Friday – 1/2 Price Growler Refills Sunday – Ladies Day. $1 Off All Pints THE DOWN UNDER 3530 Leavenworth St. MON-SAT 3P-7P SUNDAY-All Day

Focus | December 18 - December 24 | Volume 3 Issue 51

WESTEND COCKTAILS AND APPETIZERS 1529 S 203rd St Suite 1 M-F 3P-6P AND ALL DAY SUNDAY $1 off all craft/import beers, $3.75 domestic bottles, $4.75 wells, $7.50 signature martinis, $2 off all other house cocktails. $8, $6, and $4 select appetizers!

WILSON & WASHBURN 1407 Harney St. M-F 2P- 6P REVERSE HH 10P-2A M-W and ALL DAY SUNDAY Regular menu available everyday from 11am-12am / YOSHITOMO 6009 Maple St. T-F from 4-6P Reverse HH Friday & Sat 10p-11 P and ALL DAY SUNDAY. Includes several food and drink specials ZIO’S PIZZERIA 1109 Howard Street 7834 Dodge Street 12997 West Center Road 18110 Wright St. Lunch Specials: Every Weekday 11A-4P EVERY DAY 4-6 PM $3 imported/craft beer $3 margaritas, $3 glass of wine 50% off domestic bottled beer and 50% off tap beer. ZIPLINE BEER LOUNGE 3808 S 203rd Plaza MON-THURS 4P-6 P and includes discounted pints!

WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS? WWW.FOCUSOMAHA.COM

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