Omaha Magazine - May 2022 - Creating Spider-Man

THE SANDHILLS JOURNEY • KELLY MADIGAN’S HI AND LO ADVENTURES • SIX ADVENTUROUS HOBBIES • FIZZY’S FOUNTAIN & LIQUORS

MAY 2022 | U.S. $4.95

CREATING SPIDER-MAN: MAUR O FIORE COMES HOME

PHOTO BY DANA DAMEWOOD

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FROM THE EDITOR // LETTER BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN

DISCO SKATING, 3D FILMMAKING, WALKING THROUGH ANCIENT SOIL M ay I s s u e T h r i l l s

A

s a child, I owned a pair of white roller skates—I think they might have originally belonged to my mother. I recall rolling around and around the top part of my parents’ driveway, the only paved part of the road. I skated for what felt like hours, trying not to trip over one or both of the cats, who thought I should be petting them. While I was in college, the in-line skating boom of the 1990s hit, and I skated outside with friends, trying not to trip over my own feet.

I don’t remember visiting a roller rink, but several of the people mentioned in this month’s Nostalgia article have fond memories of skating around and around various roller rinks in Omaha, wearing bell bottoms and big pompoms on their skates and spending the weekend with their friends.

My husband and I spent the majority of March watching films through the Omaha Film Festival. This is one of our favorite events in Omaha, although we have missed being there in person the past couple of years. The 2022 festival included one weekend of live events, and one of those events was an in-depth conversation with Academy Award-winner Mauro Fiore, the cinematographer behind hits such as Avatar, Training Day, and Spiderman: No Way Home. Although the talk had a limited attendance, all readers can learn more about this Omaha-based filmmaker through our feature on Fiore in this month’s edition.

During spring and fall, I often take a different route home from the office—driving I-80 East instead of Highway 34 East, then traveling south on Highway 275 through the Loess Hills. Kelly Madigan also enjoys traveling through the Loess Hills, but she prefers to walk. She has also walked north to south through the Nebraska panhandle and taken other long excursions. Her story is the subject of our other main feature.

As a youth traveling to Colorado, I always knew I had reached a different portion of the U.S. when we hit Grand Island.

The air felt drier, the earth became barren, and for a short while, I became distracted from my books and Walkman as we traveled near the Sandhills of Nebraska. Editorial assistant Julius Fredrick and photographer Sarah Lemke took an adventure to the Sandhills for this edition, traveling Highway 2 to the sites of the scenic byway and stopping in roadside cafes in towns of under 1,000 people.

As the weather warms and the days become longer, many places in Omaha and around Nebraska offer events and festivals to celebrate the spring. Memorial Day weekend is also at the end of the month. That’s why we focused on stories of adventure in this May edition. There are a lot of great articles, I hope you enjoy them all.

*Note: The hotel edition of Omaha Magazine has a different cover and does not include all of the editorial content included in the magazine’s full city edition.

For more information on our city edition, visit OmahaMagazine.com.

MAY

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2022

TAB L E of CON T E N T S THE USUAL SUSPECTS 03

From the Editor Disco Skating, 3D Filmmaking, Walking Through Ancient Soil

06

Between the Lines

08

Calendar of Events

044 History

Buchanan’s Service Centers

069 Obviously Omaha

Six Adventurous Hobbies

090 Explore!

095 Instagram 096 Not Funny

Tips for Travelers

A R T S + C U LT U R E 018 Dance

Liz Alford

022 Music

Enjoli Mitchell

024 Photography C. Scott Fields

026 Theater

Hughston Walkinshaw

040

F E AT U R E S

030 036 NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST 040 LIFE THROUGH A LENS ADVENTURE

The Sandhills Journey

Kelly Madigan Walks Hi and Lo Trails

Mauro Fiore Views Interesting Stories

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MAY 2022

PE O P L E 016 Gen O

Lexi Sun

034 Profile

Rian Kanouf

046 Sports

Michelle Bandur

048 Profile

Blake Bochnicek

GIVING 054 Feature

Marine Corps League

056 Calendar

read current and previous issues online at omahamagazine.com THE SANDHILLS JOURNEY • KELLY MADIGAN’S HI AND LO ADVENTURES • SIX ADVENTUROUS HOBBIES • FIZZY’S FOUNTAIN & LIQUORS

MAY 2022 | U.S. $4.95

CREATING SPIDER-MAN: MAUR O FIORE COMES HOME

A B O U T T HE COV ER

60PLUS

018

Omahan Mauro Fiore (photographed at Omaha Magazine) has been the Director of Photography on many Hollywood films, his most recent being Spider-Man: No Way Home.

062 Profile

George L. Davis Jr.

064 Nostalgia

Roller Rinks in Omaha

066 Active Living Lee Lazure

DINING 070 Feature

The Jaipur

074 Profile

Joel Mahr

076 Review

Fizzy’s Fountains & Liquors

080 Dining Guide SPECIAL SECTION 086 The Adventure Issue Sponsored Content

070

MAY 2022

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Between

THE LINES A LOOK AT TH R E E OMAHA MAGAZINE TEAM MEMBERS

OMAHA’S

MAGAZINE

SEAN McCARTHY—Freelance Writer McCarthy has steadily pursued the journalism grind for nearly 20 years. He has written for PopMatters and Paste Magazine, and some of his articles have been referenced in Newsweek and The Sunday New York Times Magazine. Since getting articles referenced in other publications doesn’t pay the bills, McCarthy also works as a user experience designer at a speech recognition software company. He has written about economics, music, and food for Omaha Magazine. In addition to being a vinyl enthusiast, McCarthy spends what free time he has cooking, playing video games, and reading. He’s the proud parent of a 10-year-old Weimaraner named Zoey.

JARRETT VAN METER—Freelance Writer Jarrett Van Meter is a native of Lexington, Kentucky.

Originally a sports writer, his first book, How Sweet It Is, is a first-person account of the 2015-2016 high school basketball season in his home state. He enjoys being outside with his dog.

SARAH WENGERT—Freelance Writer Wengert is a proud communications Swiss Army knife.

Whether through journalism, copywriting, poetry, random social media posts, or in person with her hands flailing about, she’s bound to tell you a story to remember. Wengert earned her B.A. in English with a minor in women’s and gender studies from Creighton University. She once served as managing editor at The Reader and has won awards for advertising and poetry alike. Wengert volunteers with the Women’s Fund of Omaha and Omaha Girls Rock. In addition to storytelling, she’s passionate about travel, reading, theater, equity, making lists, making mixtapes (err, they call them playlists now!), and her wonderful friends and family.

THE

FUTURE

OF BUSINESS OMAHAMAGAZINE.COM/PAGES/SUBSCRIBE

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MAY 2022

MAY 2022 VOLUME 40 // ISSUE 2

O

le n Sa

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No w

Sal

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EDITORIAL Managing Editor

DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN Associate Editor

LINDA PERSIGEHL Editorial/Digital Assistant

JULIUS FREDRICK Contributing Writers

LEO ADAM BIGA · TAMSEN BUTLER · GREG ECHLIN BRODY HILGENKAMP · ANDREA KSZYSTYNIAK · SEAN MCCARTHY SEAN ROBINSON · KARA SCHWEISS · JARRETT VAN METER SARAH WENGERT · DOUGLAS “OTIS TWELVE” WESSELMANN MIKE WHYE · DAVID ZORKO

CREATIVE Creative Director

MATT WIECZOREK

April 15 – May 8

Hawks Mainstage Theatre

May 6 – June 5

Howard Drew Theatre

Senior Graphic Designer

DEREK JOY Graphic Designer II

MADY BESCH Contributing Photographers

JUSTIN BARNES · KEITH BINDER · COLIN CONCES SCOTT DRICKEY · JOSHUA FOO · WILLIAM HESS · SARAH LEMKE

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OPERATIONS Accounting/Operations Manager

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MAY 2022

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EVENTS

» Exhibits « 25 YEARS OF ART AND RADICAL PEDAGOGY

Through May 7 at Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Rooted in love, relation-

ships, collaboration, and self-determination, this retrospective of the last 25 years of community collaboration was presented in 2021 at DePaul University in Chicago and is now traveling to The Union. 1-8 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 402.933.3161.

–u-ca.org

8 PRINTMAKERS & 1 QUILTER

Through May 8 at Roberta and Bob Rogers Gallery, 1806 Vinton St. As a storyteller each

artist has ideas, feelings and thoughts to express, share and show. Features the works of eight fine art printmakers and one fine art quilter. Admission: Free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.

402.496.4797.

–rbrg.org

SPRING 2022 BFA THESIS / BASA SENIOR EXHIBITIONS

Through May 13 at University of Nebraska at Omaha, Weber Fine Arts Building, 6505 University Drive S. A showcase of artwork by the

University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Spring 2022 graduating BFA and BASA students. Admission: Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursdays.

–unomaha.edu

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MAY 2022

NEBRASKA: FLATWATER

Through June 26 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. The name “Nebraska” was derived

from an Indigenous term meaning “flat water.”

Nebraska: Flatwater is an immersive video installation that will explore the natural beauty of the state throughout the four seasons. A series of projectors around the gallery will surround you with the changing landscape, with scenes including autumn wheat fields, roaming bison, and snow on the Platte River. Admission: Free. Open by appointment only. 531.375.6643 –gallery1516.org

EN LINEA/IN LINE, DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANCISCO MATA ROSAS

Through June 30 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. The photographs of Francisco Mata Rosas

that make up this series emerge directly from that world of arched appearances and twisted identities, crossed by the long and sinuous scar of the border. The border has gained fame as a place of extravagant imagery where kitsch is the dominant note of a syncopated melody of bullets. Mata Rosas evades this convention to show us a deeper, less ornamental absurdity. Admission: $5 general, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 students (K-12) and seniors (55+), free to members and children under 5. 402.731.1137.

–elmuseolatino.org

NELSON MANDELA: THE OFFICIAL EXHIBITION

Through July 3 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St.

This exhibition takes visitors on a personal journey through the life of the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and political leader. Includes previously unseen film, photos and over 150 historical artifacts on loan. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for members and children 2 and under. Noon-4 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday, Closed Mondays. 402.444.5071.

–durhammuseum.org

MAYA DUNIETZ: ROOT OF TWO

Starting May 7 at Bemis Center, 724 S. 12th St.

This solo exhibition by Maya Dunietz engages the physicality of sound through a series of installations encompassing the entirety of Bemis Center’s 13,000-square-foot gallery space. The works become an ensemble, connecting with each other through the viewer’s experience. Admission: free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. 402.341.7130.

–bemiscenter.org

PARADISE ON EARTH: THE ART OF MARCEL MOULY

Through August 20 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Marcel Mouly’s boldly colored, semi-ab-

stract artwork appeals to private and public collectors around the world. Whether they are still lifes, landscapes, interiors, boats, or port scenes, Mouly’s works are collected with equal enthusiasm.

Mouly created his unique style after studying under the tradition of modern art masters such as Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. Admission: $5 general, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 students (K-12) and seniors (55+), free to members and children under 5. 402.731.1137.

–elmuseolatino.org

THE HISTORY OF HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Through Dec. 30 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. Over a 12-month

period, this exhibit will highlight 107 HBCUs telling their history and the role they have played in providing quality higher education. HBCUs began with the Higher Education Act of 1965.

It was passed and defined an HBCU as being “any historically black college or university that was established prior to 1964. Each month the GPBHM will feature 10 HBCUs by the year in which they were founded.

–gpblackhistorymuseum.org

ROSITA RELÁMPAGO

May 6-June 16 at Amplify Arts, 950 S 10th St.,

Rosita Relámpago, a multi-disciplinary artist based in Oaxaca, Mexico, will be in residence at Amplify Arts’ Generator Space, using the gallery as her studio, exhibition space, and a vehicle to collaborate with Omaha-area artists. Her time in Omaha will culminate in an exhibition that examines mutuality and interrelation as praxis opening Friday, June 10, at 6 p.m. 402.996.1092.

–amplifyarts.org

Five venues, five unique celebration experiences. Hosting events for 100 - 1,000 guests, Omaha Event Group boasts 15 years of experience with over 300 events each year, including Omaha Fashion Week. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts today. hello@omahaeventgroup.com | 402.819.8792 | omahaeventgroup.com Omaha Design Center | The Downtown Club | Empire Room | Omaha Palazzo | Anderson O'Brien Fine Art Gallery

MAY 2022

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY THROUGH STREET SIGNS

DOROTHY

BEACH BUNNY

will focus on all the streets in Omaha that have been named after African Americans, and will also feature QRC codes placed on the signs throughout Omaha. Visits by appointment only.

402.932.7077.

–gpblackhistorymuseum.org

band was built around vocalist & songwriter Dorothy Martin. Born in Budapest and raised in San Diego, her Southern California roots paired with access to her family’s vinyl collection resulted in a laid back yet nasty rock sound. 8 p.m. Tickets: $19.50 advanced, $25 day of show, $95 VIP. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

On Honeymoon, the excellent debut album from Lili Trifilio’s songwriting project and four-piece band, it’s as if she’s singing about things everyone has felt before but never had the courage to put in words themselves. 8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $27 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

NAMASTE INDIA

HEARTLESS BASTARDS

May 6-June 25 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. Th is exhibit

Starting May 28 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. From Bollywood to the Taj Mahal,

from playing cricket to practicing yoga, visitors will experience the wonders of India in the cultural exhibit Namaste India. While encouraging global awareness and cultural appreciation, the exhibit features the vibrant art, food and colorful traditions of this culture. Namaste India was produced

by The Magic House. Admission: Free to members and under 24 months, $14 kids 2-15 and adults, $13 seniors (60+). 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

402.342.6164.

–ocm.org

Music ALEC BENJAMIN WITH SARA KAYS

May 1 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Ben-

jamin has achieved more than 4 billion global streams, 10 million social media followers across his platforms, 70 million in playlist reach, and 1 billion YouTube views on his channel. He has delivered powerful performances of his songs on The Late Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. 8 p.m. Tickets: $29.50 advanced, $35 day of show, $60 balcony.

–admiralomaha.com

FLYING BUFFALOS

May 1 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95.

Fueled by their desire to deliver the organic energy of rock-n-roll coupled with the lyrical honesty of classic country, Flying Buffaloes have found themselves opening for a range of acts including iconic rockers Drivin N Cryin as well as acclaimed Red Dirt Country artist Wade Bowen, in addition to headlining tours. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$100 GA, $250 VIP. –barnato.bar

GRATEFUL SHRED

May 1 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

This Grateful Dead cover band manages to channel that elusive Dead vibe: wide-open guitar tones, effortless three-part vocal harmonies, choogling beats, and yes, plenty of tripped out, shredded solos. 8 p.m. Tickets: $20 advanced, $25 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

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MAY 2022

May 3 at at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Th is

May 4 at The Waiting Room 6212 Maple St.

JASON BOLAND AND THE STRAGGLERS

May 5 at The Waiting Room 6212 Maple St.

For the past 20 years, Jason Boland & the Stragglers have dazzled audiences all over as one of the leading ambassadors of the Oklahoma and Texas music movement. 8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $28 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

May 3 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

Th is Ohio-bred and Texas-transplanted band’s new music affirms frontwoman Erika Wennerstrom as a songwriter with the power to profoundly influence, often by alchemizing her idealism into viscerally potent rock-and-roll songs. 8 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced, $25 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

MAYFLOWERS 2022: BACK IN THE MUD – WEEK 1

TECH N9NE WITH JOEY COOL, X RAIDED, AND MAYDAY

May 5, 12, 19, and 26 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Th is multi-artist show features

May 3 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Tech

new artists each week. 8 p.m. $10 advanced, $12 day of show, $25 four-show pass. 402.884.5707 N9ne owns one of the most insane, influential, –reverblounge.com and impactful legacies in hip-hop. This Kansas City rapper has gone from Midwest underground shows to being on the playlists of Sir Elton John FIELD DAY and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and being May 6 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military part of national commercials for the Super May Ave. Reuniting ex-Dag Nasty bassist Doug Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. 8 p.m.

Carrion and vocalist Peter Cortner, Field Tickets: $35 advanced, $40 day of show, Day originally emerged in 2019, performing $60 balcony. songs from their former group’s Wig Out at –admiralomaha.com Denko’s (1987) and Field Day (1988) albums. The event includes Cordial Spew, Hand Painted Police JASON EADY, JUSTIN WELLS, Car, and Mere Shadows. 9 a.m. Tickets: $12 BEN DAHANER advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707 –reverblounge.com May 3 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95.

These three artists headline this evening of music that will spotlight Eady’s country music, Wells’ IRATION roots rock, and Dahaner’s folksy singing/songMay 6 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Iration has writing. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$100 GA, $250 VIP. been touring nationally since 2008, performing at –barnato.bar festivals nationwide from Lollapalooza to Sunfest and Hangout, closing stages at festivals like Bottlerock and Outside Lands. The Hawaiian-bred MUDHONEY musicians look forward to spreading their origMay 4 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Mudinal sound and ‘Aloha spirit’ all the while never honey is an American rock band formed in Seattle, forgetting to get a surf in when possible. 7 p.m.

Washington, in 1988. In 2021, Mudhoney and label Sub Pop celebrated the 30 year anniversary of Tickets: $30 advanced, $35 day of show, $75 VIP. 402.345.7569. their sophomore album, Every Good Boy Deserves –theslowdown.com Fudge, with a remastered, deluxe version. Th is included remastered and re-released music videos and songs as well as previously unreleased songs RESTLESS ROAD and demos. 8 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced, $25 May 6 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. day of show, $32 balcony reserved, $35 pit-side This country music band was formed, and finished reserved 402.345.7569. fourth, in the third season of the American singing –theslowdown.com competition series The X Factor. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 GA, $55 VIP. –barnato.bar MAT KEARNEY – THE

6

JANUARY FLOWER TOUR

May 4 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Nash-

ville-based, Oregon-born Mat Kearney is back with his new studio album. Written between an isolated retreat in Joshua Tree and his home studio, it sees Kearney in his rawest form. 8 p.m.

Tickets: $30 general admission, $60 balcony.

–admiralomaha.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

DIZZY WRIGHT, 10-YEAR SMOKE OUT CONVERSATIONS TOUR

SATURDAYS @ STINSON CONCERT SERIES

Starting May 7 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St. Food, drinks, face painting, and balloon artists

May 8 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Wright is a rapper and producer. Wright’s

will all be available during these live concerts, which feature talented bands from Omaha. 7-10 p.m. Admission: free. 402.496.1616 –aksarbenvillage.com

debut studio album, Smokeout Conversations, was released on April 20, 2012, in honor of the annual marijuana holiday under Funk Volume.

8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, TBD day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

KRAMOS

May 7 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

Grounded in experience, the Kramos sound is unapologetically emotionally charged. Defined by layers of impassioned synths, lyrics with purpose, and moving vocal melodies, every Kramos song is uniquely crafted to make you feel something.

8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $28 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

EMILINE

May 13 at the Holland Music Club, Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. This 22-year-

old vocalist, violinist and songwriter who possesses a smoky, jazz-infused, genre-fluid voice admirable as much for the range of traditional sounds she draws upon, as for her startling freshness—fresh, as in new and innovative as well as in attitude and sly humor. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.345.0606 –ticketomaha.com

VIVA LAS VEGAS WITH THE OMAHA SYMPHONY

May 7-8 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Known for his entertainment

CHOP SUEY

shows and virtuoso piano technique, Moreno May 13 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple May brings the hottest shows on the Vegas Strip St. Chop Suey is coming to deliver the to Omaha with hits from Chuck Berry, The euphoric and immersive experience that only Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and of course “The they can deliver to the magic and might that King,” Elvis Presley. Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, is the unique sounds of System of A Down. This 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $20-$89. 402.345.0606. isn’t some cover band just trying to play the songs.

–ticketomaha.com This is an act that delivers the goods so well you can close your eyes and believe that it is the real thing. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show.

81355 402.884.5353.

May 8 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. 81355 (pro–waitingroomlounge.com nounced “bless”) is a voltronized collaboration between three of Indianapolis music scene’s elder statesmen, Sirius Blvck, Oreo Jones, and Sedcairn HECTOR ANCHONDO Archives. While the three have worked together May 13 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Local in the past, contributing to one another’s projartist Hector Anchondo entered the 2020 Interects as cameos and guest production, this is the national Blues Challenge in the solo/duo category first instance in which they have bonded together and came away with the top prize. He also took home the Memphis Cigar Box Guitar Award for from conception to execution. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 best guitarist in the solo/duo competition, where advanced/$15 day of show. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com he performed representing the Blues Society of Omaha. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced $14 day of show. 402.345.7569.

TRIO 29 –theslowdown.com May 8 at the Jewell, 1030 Capitol Ave. Trio 29 is a new musical venture featuring keyboardist Henry Hey, drummer Eric Halvorson, and organSTAR WARS, EPISODE V, THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK ist Mitch Towne. The group draws from myriad May 13-14 at Holland Performing Arts Center, influences ranging from jazz, blues, funk, and 1200 Douglas St. John Williams’ Academy soul to create music that is a blast for them to Award®-winning score will be performed in its play and for the audience to experience. Tickets: $20. 917.748.4337 entirety as the groundbreaking blockbuster plays –jewellomaha.com in the background. The Force is strong with this one. Tickets: $20-$89. 402.345.0606 –ticketomaha.com

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TWIN CITIES TAKEOVER

May 8 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

This is a show of several hard-rocking bands hailing from the Twin Cities in Minnesota. By The Thousands, In Search of Solace, and Waste are sure to rock your face off. 7 p.m. Tickets: $15.

402.884.5707 –reverblounge.com

CHNNLL

May 14 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

Led by multi-instrumentalist, Chris Davidson, the concept of CHNNLL started in 2016 with the release of his first single, ‘Waves.’ This Chicago-based, indie rock band is focused on creating music that feels fresh but relatable. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

PSYCHOSTICKS

May 15 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

This humor metal band has a reputation for having hilarious lyrics, heavy riffs, notorious stage antics, and a high-energy performance. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, $18 day of show. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

OSO AND OAYO SIDE BY SIDE

May 15 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. The new Music Director of The Omaha

Symphony works with the combined forces of the OAYO Youth Symphony and The Omaha Symphony. Always an energetic and inspiring concert, this year’s side by side performance includes classical favorites by Berlioz, Elgar and Saint-Saëns, music from John Williams contemporary classic, Star Wars and a hauntingly beautiful yet underperformed work by Florence Price. 7 p.m. Tickets: $15, $25 (suggested donation). 402.345.0606 –ticketomaha.com

NILUFER YANYA

May 19 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Sing-

er-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya’s realized early that playing by the rules has never been her forte.

First discovered at 20 years old after uploading her sparse, acoustic demos to Soundcloud, Yanya quickly made a name for herself following the release of her first three EPs. 8 p.m. $20 advanced $25 day of show. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

LOMELDA

May 16 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

Lomelda is Hannah Read’s musical project. In swampy, sweaty, Silsbee, TX, she first formed the band with her high school best friends. Tickets: $15. 8 p.m. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

SOUTHERN CULTURE ON THE SKIDS

May 17 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Th is group has been consistently recording

and touring around the world since its inception in 1983, when Rick Miller was a grad student at UNC-Chapel Hill. Their legendary live shows are a testament to the therapeutic powers of foot-stomping, butt-shaking rock and roll. 8 p.m. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

ADULT

May 17 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

Adult is a band from Detroit featuring Nicola Kuperus and Adam Lee Miller. Their music could best be categorized as dance punk. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

MAY 2022

// 11 //

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

JUAN WAUTERS

GOATWHORE

BILMURI

The Uruguayan-born, Jackson Heights, New York-dwelling musician is best known not for a specific musical style, but instead for the crystalline sincerity that underpins everything he does.

8 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

Goatwhore is an American extreme metal band formed in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1997. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

Bilmuri is a American one man Alternative rock|Alternative Indie pop|Indie-Pop band started

by Johnny Franck in 2016. The name Bilmuri is a abbreviated parody of the comedian and actor Bill Murray. 8 p.m. Tickets: $13 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707.

—reverblounge.com

May 20 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

May 18 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

TCHAIKOVSKY 4 WITH MAESTRO BAHL

THE CHATS WITH MEAN JEANS/THICK

May 20-21 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Music Director Ankush Kumar

May 19 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The Chats

Bahl returns for the final Masterworks concert of the season with the fiery Canadian violinist Lara St. John in tow. Th is event premieres British composer Martin Kennedy’s new violin concerto to the world in an unforgettable evening.

The program ends on an emotional, exuberant note with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F minor. Tickets: $20-$81. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

represent everything that’s good about Australia and nothing that’s bad: a rebel spirit, gallows humour and the endless hedonistic pursuit of A Bloody Good Time. Cold stubbies within close reach, 24-7. 8 p.m. $20 advanced $25 day of show. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

AMY GRANT

May 19 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Conventional wisdom has it that

Amy Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map, becoming the first CCM artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts, and the first to perform at the Grammy Awards. Since then, Grant has been strumming her way through a 30-plus year adventure as a singer-songwriter, author, television host, and speaker. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $53-$78. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

NATTALI RIZE AND INDUBIOUS

May 19 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St.

Nattali brings her 5 piece show stopping band from Jamaica. Joining the RIZE family on tour is powerful lyricist and songstress from Kingston Jamaica, MINORI. Indubious are a powerhouse of sound and energy where Musical Medicine meets Conscious Roots Reggae. 8 p.m. $18 advanced $22 day of show. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

LANCO

May 20 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Multi-Platinum selling band Lanco contin-

ues to forge new territory after the roots-frontier explorers and live-performance junkies broke out with the two-time Platinum multi-week No. 1 hit “Greatest Love Story.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $45 –barnato.bar

JUSTIN MOORE

May 20 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. The singer of the hit country song

“We Didn’t Have Much” comes to Omaha with special guests Granger Smith ft. Earl Dibbles Jr. and Lucas Hoge. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $40.50$70.50. 402.934.9966.

–libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com

// 12 //

MAY 2022

HAIRBALL

May 21 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. This hard-rock show will feature leg-

endary hits from Van Halen, KISS, Motley Crue, Queen, Journey, Aerosmith, and more. 8 p.m.

Tickets: $25 advanced, $30 day of show.

402.934.9966.

—libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com

May

21

OMAHA GIRLS ROCK SPRING SHOWCASE

May 21 at CulXr House, 3014 N. 24th St.

Omaha Girls Rock’s mission is to empower youth to find their unique voice through music education, performance and creativity. This event showcases what the girls at this organization have been learning throughout the last several months. Admission: TBD. 402.321.2252 —omahagirlsrock.org

May 25 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

INDIGO GIRLS

May 25 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.

These folk-rock favorites recently produced their 16th studio album Look Long, in which they tell their origin story. The album is a stirring and eclectic collection of songs with duo Amy Ray and Emily Saliers reunited in the studio with their strongest backing band to date. 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: TBD. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

AN EVENING WITH LISA FISCHER (WITH DANI CLEVELAND)

May 26 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. After four decades of featured back-

ground singing with icons like Luther Vandross, The Rolling Stones, Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, and Nine Inch Nails, Lisa Fischer set out to take center stage with her own humble, heartfelt song. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $29-$44. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

BUILT TO SPILL

May 26 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

Doug Martsch formed Built To Spill in 1992. The songs are haunting rather than catchy. Each musical thought is surprising and complete. Martsch’s lyrics hint at politics, but could also be personal.

8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

WITHER.DECAY

AARON LEWIS AND THE STATELINERS

This band is coming to Omaha for one night with Our Common Collapse, Neck Wrung, Cicadia, and Iced Wrist. Tickets: $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.884.5707.

—reverblounge.com

Lewis grew up in Springfield, Vermont, listening to his grandparents’ country 8-tracks. Those roots inspired the multi-platinum front man and founder of Staind to return to his origins and since has quietly made an impact on country music without flexing to let everyone know what a big deal he is .Tickets: $45 general admission, $99 balcony.

–admiralomaha.com

May 21 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

CHAYCE BECKHAM

May 20 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Chayce Beckham is one of the most buzzed

about newcomers in country music today, having won over millions of hearts while competing on Season 19 of American Idol. From the first audition, superstar Katy Perry highlighted how Chayce’s gravelly vocals sound like “the heart of America.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $30.

—barnato.bar

May 26 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Aaron

DOS CARNALES

May 27 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. Los Dos Carnales is a Latin American

music duo from Puerto Rico. Their first album, Amor De Mi Vida, was released in 2008. They have released six albums since then and are considered one of the most popular Latin American artists. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $30 day of show. 402.934.9966.

–libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

EMO NITE

WICKED

BUFFALO WOMEN

A variety of acts will perform at these two venues in one night. 9:45 p.m. $1 out of every ticket will be donated to Living The Dream Foundations.

–onepercentproductions.com

in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious, and very popular.

How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good is a unique story.

Times vary. Tickets: $53-$185. 402.345.0606 –ticketomaha.com

fire Series, the full production of this trailblazing new musical is our season finale! Juneteenth. New lives. New Freedoms. From playwright Beau Berry comes a tale of hidden figures living extraordinary lives on the frontier in 1865. Tickets: TBD. 402.345.1576.

–bluebarn.org

May 27 at The Waiting Room (6212 Maple St.) and Reverb Lounge (6121 Military Ave.)

THE ANTLERS

May 28 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. 8 p.m. This American indie rock band is

based in Brooklyn, New York, fronted by Peter Silberman. Tickets: $20. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

BELLE & SEBASTIAN

May 28 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Th is

Scottish pop band is coming to Omaha days after the release of their first studio full-length album in 7 years, A Bit of Previous. Tickets: $35 general admission, $70 balcony.

–admiralomaha.com

WIFISFUNERAL

May 29 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Florida-based rapper Wifisfuneral is noted

for his smooth, agile flow and his brutally honest lyrics about his struggles with drug abuse and depression. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$175 GA, $400 VIP, $50 Meet-and-Greet add-on.

–barnato.bar

SLEEP WALKER

May 31 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

This metal band from Michigan is making a stop in Omaha. Last year the group released their second album, Alias. It is set to dig deep and encourage listeners to question themselves, their reality and what it means to be alive. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $14 day of show. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

Performances THE GIVER

Through May 8 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Twelve-year-old Jonas lives

in a utopian society with no war, no pain and no memories. All of life’s choices, from your occupation to your family members, are conveniently dictated by the government to keep things perfectly equal and functional. But when Jonas is chosen

by The Giver to bear the memories of his society, past and present, he learns the truth behind his perfect world. Times vary. Tickets: $25-$35.

402.553.0800 –omahaplayhouse.com

Through May 15 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives

Starting May 26 at Bluebarn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. Hot off the saddle from last season’s Bon-

YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL

KINKY BOOTS

the work of some of the best teenage writers in the area. Most of the scripts featured in this production are created as part of The Rose’s yearlong Young Playwrights class. Written entirely by teens, the works are filled with comedy, tragedy, hopes, fears, romance, and all-out fun. Tickets: $10.

402.345.4849.

–rosetheater.org

father, Charlie Price reluctantly agrees to return to his hometown to take over the family’s failing shoe factory. Inspiration strikes when he meets Lola, an outspoken and unapologetic drag queen in need of a sturdy pair of exotic boots. Times vary. Tickets: $25-$45. 402.553.0800 –omahaplayhouse.com

May 5-8 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The Young Playwrights Festival showcases

TWO ON THE AISLE, THREE IN THE VAN

May 6-22 at Bellevue Little Theatre, 203 W. Mission Ave. The Neighborhood Actors Sum-

merfun Repertory Theatre is a friendly little playhouse where the company spends their downtime in the parking lot around an aging hippie/now turned techie’s van. Those looking for refuge at the asphalt oasis include: a stressed-out artistic director grappling for funding, a wanna-be diva who’s realizing her ingenue expiration date has just about passed, a board member’s nephew vying to direct the musicals with a Tarantino spin, and the “I’m no chorus boy” chorus boy who thinks every show should have a kick line—including Glass Menagerie. Tickets: TBD. 402.291.1554.

–bellevuelittletheatre.weebly.com

SNAP, MAGIC! RE-INVENTED

May 15 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.

Poof! Presto! Snap! Playing with space, time and the otherworldly, this eclectic ensemble of South Korean illusionists will boggle viewers’ minds with impressive powers of prestidigitation. Mixing dexterous sleight of hand, vaudevillian comedy and ingenious visual effects, SNAP conjures a marvelous, magical cabaret perfect for the whole family. 7 p.m. Tickets: $20-$45. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

FELIPE ESPARZA

May 21 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

Felipe Esparza is a comedian and actor, known for his stand-up specials, “They’re Not Gonna Laugh at You”, “Translate Th is”, and his latest dual-release on Netflix, “Bad Decisions/Malas Decisiones.” 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. $32.50 advanced $35 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

Starting May 27 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Following the death of his

THE MASKED SINGER NATIONAL TOUR

May 29 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.

Get ready to unmask the fun…The Masked Singer National Tour is coming to Omaha, bringing the popular television show to the next level on its first-ever North American tour with celebrity guests, amazing new performances and a spectacular live show! Tickets: $39.75-$89.75. Premium seats available for $250+. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

CELTIC WOMAN

May 31 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.

Grammy-nominated global music sensation Celtic Woman is thrilled to return in 2022 with a brandnew show Postcards from Ireland celebrating the rich musical and cultural heritage of Ireland; taking audiences on a journey of story and song from across the Emerald Isle. 7 p.m. Tickets: $43.25-$154.25. 402.345.0606.

–ticketomaha.com

Family & More FARMER’S MARKETS

Gardening season is open in Omaha, and those desiring fresh produce will find plenty of options in the area, along with artisan cheeses, farm-raised meats, freshly baked breads, assorted treats, and craft items.

• Council Bluffs (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays starting May 5.

• Old Market (11th and Jackson streets) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays starting May 7.

• Baxter Arena (67th and Center streets) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays starting May 8.

MAY 2022

// 13 //

Omaha

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// 14 //

MAY 2022

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foodiesomaha.com | 402.884.2880

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

SPRING KITE FESTIVAL

May 1 at 7346 S. 66th St. in La Vista. The whole

family can enjoy this free event of kite-flying.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own kites, and remember to bring a bag, as candy drops are held throughout the event. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: Free.

–cityoflavista.org

RETAIL STORE NOW OPEN We offer product viewing, purchase, and curbside pick up.

We will also ship to you!

LEASHES AT LAURITZEN

May 2 and 9 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Canine friends and their humans are

invited to explore the grounds and enjoy the outdoors. Heel for family photos, learn about local dog-related nonprofits, and enjoy treats and samples. 5-8 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 dogs, free for garden members. 402.346.4002.

–lauritzengardens.org

CINCO DE MAYO PARADE

THE “TIFFANY’S” OF RECLAIMED HOME IMPROVEMENT PRODUCTS WE FEATURE MODERN & TRADITIONAL:

May 6 along 24 Street from D to L streets. Th is

dazzling parade—one of the largest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the Midwest—features floats, marching bands, and more. Other event festivities, including a carnival and fiesta, take place May 6-8, rain or shine. 10 a.m. Admission: free.

–cincodemayoomaha.com

BURLINGTON CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL OMAHA

High Quality Reclaimed Furniture Custom Doors • Interior & Exterior Design Lighting • Unique Character Pieces for Home or Business All items Curated

Shop with us online at www.ootbreclaimed.com 7401 Main St., Suite 300, Ralston | 303-669-9808

May 6-8 at CHI Heath Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Witness international horse jumping

competitions. The 2022 event includes vaulting, an exciting event that combines acrobatics and horseback riding. Times and admission prices vary. 402.341.1500.

–omahaequestrian.org/international-omaha

MAIFEST 2022

May 7 at German-American Society, 3717 S. 120th St. Celebrate May Day the German

way with this festival, which includes dance performances, live bands, and German food. Th is year, the society is bringing back the tradition of Maikoenig and Koenigen (May King and Queen).

Admission: Free. 402.333.6615.

–germanamericansociety.org

DERBY DAY

May 7 at Tangier Shrine, 2823 S. 84th St. Cel-

ebrate the “Run for the Roses”and enjoy an array of signature cocktails, a full bourbon bar, and southern fare appetizers and dinner. Participate in the “Best Dressed” contest for men, women, and couples. 3-7 p.m.Admission: $25. 402.392.0404 –tangiershrine.com

RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL OF NEBRASKA

May 7-8 & 14-15 at Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, 11001 S. 48th St. Step back in time to

the days of knights in shining armor with full contact swordplay, equestrian jousting, six unique performance locations, 100+ costumed characters, and free make-and-take crafts. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission: $13 adults, $8 children. 402.331.5500.

–renfestnebraska.com

TOAST WINE FESTIVAL

CELEBRATE CB

One of the largest gatherings of Nebraska wineries in the state, this event brings together more than 15 wineries. The event includes artisan and food vendors, educational sessions, music and wine bingo. Admission: varies. 402.496.1616 –aksarbenvillage.com

Hop across the river to celebrate Council Bluffs.

Their community pride week begins with a proclamation by the mayor at Bloomer Elementary, a scavenger hunt, and more. The week ends with the Celebrate CB Parade on Saturday and the Children’s Activity Faire on Saturday and Sunday.

Times vary. Admission: free. 712-396-2494.

–celebratecb.com

May 13-14 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St.

CHILDREN’S BUSINESS FAIR

May 15 at Omaha Palazzo, 5110 N. 132nd St.

Up to 70 youth start-up businesses will develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at this one-day marketplace. 2 p.m. Admission: TBD. 402.819.8792.

–childrensbusinessfair.org

FLORENCE DAYS

May 14-15 in downtown Florence, 30th Street between State Street and I-680. Historic Flor-

ence retains its own small-town feeling with this annual event. Get in the spirit with the Florence Days Parade on Saturday from 1-3 p.m. from Miller Park to McKinley Street. Other activities will happen throughout the weekend, and attractions, such as the depot and firehouse, will be open. Admission: free.

–historicflorence.org

May 9-15 in Council Bluffs, various locations.

SALUTE TO SUMMER FESTIVAL

May 28 in downtown La Vista. Old-fashioned

fun will be available at this annual event, which takes place on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. There will be a carnival in Central Park, a parade down Park View Boulevard, a car show, and more. Times vary. Admission: free.

402.331.4343.

–cityoflavista.org

Event times and details are correct as of presstime, but are subject to change. Due to the COVID19 pandemic, many events are canceling and/or changing dates/time/places as needed.

Omaha Magazine encourages readers to visit venues' websites and/or calling ahead before attending an event or visiting a museum.

MAY 2022

// 15 //

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BORSHEIMS DESIGN MATT WIECZOREK

“

I KEPT MY OPTIONS OPEN AND WAS REALLY EXCITED TO SEE WHAT OPPORTUNITIES AROSE. I WAS SUPER-OVERWHELMED BY THE PEOPLE REACHING OUT.”

Lexi Sun

t r u o C n Killing it O GEN-O | STORY BY GREG ECHLIN

AND AT THE JEWELRY STORE

LEXI SUN PAVED THE WAY FOR FUTURE NEBRASKA ATHLETES Because of the pandemic, University of Nebraska women’s volleyball player Lexi Sun was granted an extra year of eligibility in the 2021 season. On two distinctive fronts, the Huskers’ two-time, first-team, All-Big 10 outside hitter cashed in.

First, by being part of a high-profile and closely scrutinized team that nearly won the national championship. Then, on the heels of a major rule change last year, Sun benefitted from a business partnership with Borsheims, the reputable Berkshire Hathaway-owned jewelry company.

Pressured by multiple state legislatures around the country that passed their own respective laws for compensating college athletes over the use of their name, image, and likeness, the NCAA finally caved and shook up the state of amateur athletics over summer 2021. The governing body of college athletics loosened its regulations.

All three divisions of the National Collegiate Athletic Association adopted an interim policy as of July 1, 2021, to allow athletes still in school to benefit financially from NIL. In Nebraska, LB 962, now known as the Nebraska Fair Pay to Play Act, was signed into law by Governor Pete Ricketts on July 21, 2020.

This permanent policy is set to take effect no later than July 1, 2023.

After graduating in December 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in communications studies, Sun was in the midst of her postgraduate work in advertising and public relations at UNL when the interim policy took effect.

Sun didn’t quite know what she was in for when the NCAA’s new rules kicked in. “I kept my options open and was really excited to see what opportunities arose,” she said.

“I was super-overwhelmed by the people reaching out.”

To her surprise, Sun said she received at least 50 potential suitors, including Borsheims.

Even before the new NCA A rules took effect, Andrew Brabec, the director of marketing and e-commerce for Borsheims, said the company had been studying potential partnerships with student-athletes still in college and zeroed in on Sun. Already aware of her volleyball resumé—first with the University of Texas as a freshman, then her three years with the Huskers—Brabec surmised that Sun became a premier player on the national level through her dedication to be the best.

That type of commitment, from Borsheims’ view, could carry over to insightful and sound business choices away from the volleyball court.

From the practical business side, Brabec also believed that Borsheims could expand its customer base through Sun’s social media connections. “It was great for us to get in front of potential new audiences and share our brand experience with her audience, knowing that she’s got several thousand followers on her Instagram account alone,” he said. As of presstime, Sun had 85,000 followers on Instagram.

From Sun’s perspective as a young adult with an increasing interest in fashion and jewelry, she admitted she was picky about the company she wanted to associate herself with. Sun preferred one that aligned itself with her values.

She said what pushed Borsheims to the forefront was, “I think they [Borsheims] were super-professional about what they were doing. They were really thoughtful.

[In] our communication, you could tell that they are actual people and not just wanting to do a deal.”

Of course, the contract details had to be compliant with UNL and NCA A guidelines for Sun to not jeopardize her eligibility while in her final season with the Huskers.

“I know that Borsheims was super-intentional about wanting to do everything right,” Sun said. “With all the rules, they

were always in communication with UNL, just making sure that they were on the same page, which was really helpful because we’re obviously both doing it for the first time.

There are a lot of things that we’re learning.”

At the same time the Huskers took on a rugged Big Ten schedule, Borsheims customers were learning about Sun’s tastes in jewelry through what’s called the Lexi Sun Edit, i.e. her favorite selections from the jeweler’s display case. Sun’s image and choices were published on Borsheims website.

Borsheims president and CEO Karen Goracke said she and Sun hit it off right away through their common penchant for yellow gold jewelry. Beyond that, in a business that seeks to sell authenticity, Goracke found that there’s nothing fake about Sun’s personality. “I told Andy [Brabec] right away, ‘I want to get her parents’ address because I want them to know what a nice young lady they raised,” Goracke said.

She wasn’t just describing Borsheims jewelry when characterizing the partnership between the company and Sun, an Encinitas, California, native, as “a great fit.”

Sun understood that she was not only carving her own path in life beyond UNL, but opening possibilities for the women’s volleyball players who follow in her footsteps at UNL. “It was a history-making thing [the NCAA policy] and I think that a lot of companies understood that. They understand the weight that athletes hold in society,” she said.

Sun’s deal with Borsheims, which ran through December 2021, was for undisclosed terms. Sun, however, enthusiastically said they made it financially worthwhile for her.

Only a Huskers women’s volleyball national championship at the end of the season would have made it more fitting. The Huskers lost to Wisconsin, but Sun won, having finished her career ranked 19th at Nebraska for career kills.

Visit borsheims.com/lexi-sun for more information.

MAY 2022

// 17 //

A+C DANCE

Liz Alford Dances, Teaches Classics

// 18 //

MAY 2022

“There aren’t that many choreographers that have that skill of finding humor and poignancy and emotion.”

Patrick R oddy

STORY BY ANDREA KSZYSTYNIAK // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

A+C DANCE Stage lights slowly rise, revealing two dancers performing as bugs.

Their movements are sharp, a bit creepy, legs clad in deep purple leggings, hair pulled back in tight buns. Opposite them, a group of women sit, dressed in clothes designed for laying in the sun, long legs crossed at the ankles.

Their relaxation is brief; these insectoid dancers quickly break up the scene, sliding amongst the seated group to lunge, tease, and attack. An all-too-familiar summer battle between people and the bugs that desire their blood ensues, women versus bugs, all set to a string cover of Coheed and Cambria music. This is ballet quite unlike most.

Local dancer, choreographer, and teacher Liz Alford has crafted this story on stage, a Balanchine-style ballet number in celebration of International Insect Week.

Many of Alford’s choreographed pieces play out like this. Stylistic, beautiful, but a little bit different. A Christmas performance set to Fleet Foxes’ “White Winter Hymnal” features dancers clad in bright red shirts playfully moving across the stage.

“I always told my students that I get choreography insomnia,” Alford said. She will spend nights up late, steps simply flowing through her mind. She said movement, for her, always begins with music; from there, steps naturally flow.

Patrick Roddy, the head of Creighton University’s dance department, where Alford also teaches, speaks warmly of some playful modifications that she made to a 2021 Creighton performance of The Nutcracker. COVID-19 made it hard to bring in folks outside of Creighton as dancers; so staff decided to have Creighton dancers play the roles of children. Alford and Roddy collaborated on the rework, giving the dancers choreography that would play with the idea that they were supposed to be much younger. They pulled it off; Roddy said he cracked up laughing every night of the performance.

“There aren’t that many choreographers that have that skill of finding humor and poignancy and emotion,” Roddy said. “And Liz is one of those people that can really feel all those things and portray them in a dance.”

The classically trained dancer has taught ballet at Omaha Academy of Ballet since 2015. She has also choreographed works for OAB, Omaha Dance Project, Nebraska Opera Project, Creighton, and others.

Her journey as a dancer began many decades ago. As a young child, Alford gave her all to gymnastics; she thought she would be a gymnast. But at age 9, a serious injury sidelined those goals; Alford fractured her back. Doctors advised her to leave the sport she loved.

So she did.

She had always been very flexible and active. Post-recovery, she began to spend more time in a local ballet studio; she discovered she had a natural talent for it.

Around her, dancers practiced the Balanchine method of ballet.

The style is a more extreme expression of classical ballet, originally invented by teacher and choreographer George Balanchine. Dancers move rapidly, take deeper plies, swan their arms more openly, move precisely and deliberately. Dance like this is the focal point of popular performances including New York City Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker, choreographed by Balanchine himself.

Liz’s dance career hits many of the ballerina, fairy-tale high notes. She performed in many productions, traveled to courses across the country, and grew her skill set. Then, at age 16, she moved to New York to attend the School of American Ballet full time.

“I’ve never been somebody who’s scared of like, stepping out and trying something new,” Alford said.

During her time at SAB, she danced in Columbia Picture’s 1998 dance romp, Center Stage, and danced in a number of New York City Ballet productions.

After a year with New York City Ballet, Alford sat back to reassess.

“My whole life had been ballet,” she said.

She ended up leaving New York to study at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts. Post grad, she moved to China to teach English.

It was during her time in China that Alford returned to the dance world, not in a professional studio, but in a Chinese elementary school. At the time, Alford was teaching kindergarten students and school staff were looking for someone to teach an after-school class. Alford humbly mentioned, “Well, I can dance.”

“When I quit New York City Ballet, I thought that that door was shut,” she said.

“But then, you know, I got an opportunity to teach.”

Alford’s skills grew opportunities for her; she missed dancing and decided on a whim to try a hip-hop class. She arrived at the studio and the class was canceled; the instructor, sick. But, a ballet class was going on. So she took it. After class, the owner of the studio came up to her and asked “What are you doing here? You’re a professional dancer.” Alford was immediately offered a job.

From there, she traveled from studio to studio across the country. Work would take her to do choreography for commercials for major brands such as BMW and to area women's shelters. She would remain in China for just under 10 years.

“I always told my students that I get choreography insomnia.”

Liz Alford

In 2014, business would bring Alford and her husband back to his hometown of Omaha. Soon thereafter, Alford started teaching at the Omaha School of Ballet.

Then, at Creighton. Now, she also teaches classes in her home.

Ballet is, at its root, a somewhat scientific practice. And Alford, with her years of experience choreographing and performing, can visualize exactly what minor modifications a dancer may need to make toward positioning to really stick the moves precisely.

“I think one of my gifts as a teacher is to be able to see really minute details that can help them be successful,” Alford said.

MAY 2022

// 21 //

the

A+C MUSIC It’s a warmer-than-average spring evening, and bandmates Enjoli Mitchell and Eden Butler sit elbowto-elbow outside, laughing at inside jokes and wearing smiles as bright as the blazing, soon-to-set sun.

There’s silliness but, even as the two joke and jostle, also a clear display of mutual support and a unified passion for music.

“See, this is the same vibe we give onstage,” Mitchell said. “We just really like to have fun, make noise, and make music. That passion keeps us together.”

VOICE Enjoli Mitchell’s Passion Drives Sultry R&B Vocals Mitchell sings for Enjoli &

Mitchell grew up singing in church in North Omaha, alongside her organist father, vocalist mother, and other family and community members.

THE

STREET

of

Timeless, in which Butler handles drumming duties, Timothy Corbitt plays keys, and Ray Williams plays bass guitar. They affectionately call themselves “four-piece-and-a-biscuit.”

“Both sides of my family are musically oriented, between playing instruments and singing,” Mitchell said. “[Music] was in me before I even knew what it was.

Then, when I was about 16/17, I figured out that I could sing outside of the church.”

Mitchell emphasizes strong lyrical content, citing influences including Patti LaBelle, Aretha Franklin, Jazmine Sullivan, Fantasia, Tyrese, and Musiq Soulchild. Her natural talent does the rest—with vocals that come in smooth and silky but also pack a spicy smack.

“To know Enjoli is to love her,” Butler said. “If you close your eyes and just listen to the music, the lyrical content is the contents of her heart, and it’s pure. It draws people in, like the moth to the flame. That passion is there and that’s what I appreciate.

That’s what keeps us together and keeps us pushing.”

“Growing up in North Omaha and going to Miller Park pool, then making it through the streets and being able to come back and perform in a place where you grew up is really humbling,” Mitchell said. “Omaha has such a rich music culture.”

That show was “the official birth” of Enjoli & Timeless.

Since then, the group opened for acts such as CeCe Peniston, Keith Sweat, Juvenile, Angela Winebush, Lecrae, and Twista. Mitchell said the journey is humbling and she never takes it for granted, but it’s not just about big names and big stages. She and Butler agree one of their top moments was playing Omaha Performing Arts’ Music at Miller Park series in 2021.

“I’d actually strayed away from music and, with the passing of my sister, that’s what relit my fire to come back to it,” Mitchell said. “We formed the band in early 2017, and

by May 2017 we were opening for Pleasure P, a world-renowned artist, as one of our first shows.”

After briefly living in Denver, Mitchell moved back to Omaha in 2015, due to her older sister Elissa’s death.

As a result of the band’s passion and hustle, people are listening. Mitchell’s been intermittently dubbed “The Voice of the City” and “The Voice of the Street.” She’s proud those monikers didn’t originate from a critic.

They came from a fan who recognized her at work and said, “You’re the voice of the city.” Mitchell said it stuck, although it developed variations.

“I love The Jewell, it’s one of my favorite places to perform and it’s opened us up to a totally different crowd of people that really like our music. The sound guy there, Randen Foland, is hands down, A-1, one of the best sound guys, and Brian McKenna, the owner, is such a cool dude,” Mitchell said, also praising the venue’s aesthetic.

Although Mitchell says Enjoli & Timeless’ favorite place to play is “anywhere and everywhere,” Love’s Jazz & Arts Center was a favorite venue for years. The Jewell is a current haunt for the group and Mitchell, who sometimes performs there with other musicians, including Andrew Bailie and Mitch Towne.

MAY 2022

Follow Mitchell and her bandmates at Facebook.com/ EnjoliandTimeless. Enjoli & Timeless’ music is available on iTunes and Spotify.

“They all push me and it helps me keep going,” Mitchell said. “And so does my sister [Elissa], because she’d be so proud of me if she was here. She would have loved to go on this journey with me.”

Mitchell is quick to credit her support system, especially bandmates and family.

“People think Omaha is so small that you can’t gain big wings here, but you just got to work on it. Put your head down and keep pushing. If it’s supposed to be, it’ll be— no matter where you are,” Mitchell said. “Singing is my passion, and that passion keeps me going.”

Mitchell released her first solo album, Set the Mood, in 2013, working with Alfonzo Jones at Icon One Recording Studio. Enjoli & Timeless have also released multiple tracks and videos, and practice, write, create, and stay in the studio as much as possible. The group plans to release an album in summer 2022.

In February 2022, after years of nominations in both Soul and R&B categories, Enjoli & Timeless won their first Omaha Entertainment and Arts Award, for Outstanding R&B.

“It blew my mind because I didn’t expect that.

I’m just doing music because it’s my passion, not to be the voice of the city or the voice of streets— it’s just what I love,” Mitchell said. “But it makes you feel like you’re doing the right thing. People are seeing, hearing, and accepting [your work]…they’re receptive to it and taking notice.”

STORY BY SARAH WENGERT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

// 23 //

he name Hughston Walkinshaw is pretty distinctive, but the man who embodies that name is memorable for portraying various characters on the stage, from Hans Gruber in A Very Die Hard Christmas and Screwge in Reform School Timmy! (a spoof of A Christmas Carol) to American painter Jamie Wyeth in Nureyev’s Eyes and the title character in The Dresser.

A + C T h e a t e r // s t o r y b y K a r a S c h w e i s s p h o t o g r a p h y B y B i l l S i t z m a n n // d e s i g n b y D e r e k J o y

“Hughston is a true chameleon on stage. He embraces the art form in a way very few others do,” said Susan Clement-Toberer, Bluebarn Theatre’s producing artistic director. “He is able to completely transform himself once he begins rehearsals. It’s exciting to watch his process as you never know what he might do as he is manifesting the character he is playing.

His physical choices as a character are clever and unexpected and are always unusually brilliant.”

“That was a particularly creative period that I look back on fondly,” Walkinshaw said. He even delved into film, starring in an early work by Slamdance Film Festival co-founder Dan Mirvish called Omaha (The Movie), which led him to Los Angeles for a time.

“Hughston and I met in 1984 at SUNY Purchase. We were both in the same professional actors training program for four years. It was one of the top 10 professional actor training programs in the country at the time,” ClementToberer said. “During that four years we grew as artists but also grew into a very close company of comrades.”

The program encouraged students to start a theater company, and Walkinshaw and classmates Kevin Lawler, Nils Haaland, and Mary Theresa Green were inspired to found Bluebarn in Omaha in 1989.

“Ours was the first group—at least to my knowledge—that seriously sat down throughout our senior year and talked about that concept,” Walkinshaw said.

Coming to Omaha wasn’t a wellthought-out strategy, but rather “purely by chance,” Walkinshaw said.

MAY 2022

play described by Walkinshaw as “very clever, very funny, scripted but very loose…kind of a late-night, R-rated show. The tagline was, ‘Timmy Isn’t Tiny Anymore.’”

Audiences loved the novelty of being part of the show, he added.

“We made up this contrivance where the actor didn’t show up and we were going to pull people from the audience to fill in that person’s role.”

It started a trend that included Go Go Boys From Planet X and Little Nelly’s Naughty Noel and even A Very Die Hard Christmas, which was staged at Bluebarn last year.

“I’m never sure what people think of me or remember me for, if that ever comes up,” Walkinshaw said, but his talent stretches past comedy to serious roles like in The Pill Man, The Dresser, and the one-person show The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me. He’s performed in theaters in several states over the years, although his base remains Omaha.

Walkinshaw grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, discovering his love of acting early when he was cast as Joseph in a children’s play about Jesus. His Southern Baptist church had a “great budget for extravaganza shows and a great choir director and drama person,” Walkinshaw recalled.

He cultivated a serious interest in theater and attended the Theatre Conservatory at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Purchase, graduating in 1988.

“It was Kevin Lawler who came back here to Omaha—because he’d gone to Creighton University—for a visit or something, and he stumbled into the Bemis Center,” Walkinshaw said. “It had an outreach program called Cultural Arts Together. He told them about this idea of starting a theater.”

// 24 //

In conjunction with the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, the group produced their first play, America in Pieces, a series of one-acts by Spalding Grey, David Mamet, and Sam Shepard. After two seasons at Bemis, the Bluebarn team moved to their own space on 13th Street and remained there for six more years.

“I’ve been here for 30-some-odd years and it feels like home to me now,” he said. “I’ve lived in LA, I’ve lived in New York, and I’ve lived in a number of different places for different stretches of time, and definitely I like the Midwest.”

HUGHSTON WALKINSHAW AS HIMSELF “My time there was bookended by O.J. Simpson, that whole thing. I got there right before the murders happened, I was there when he was acquitted. I even helped entertain the jury,” he said, explaining that he was stage manager for a special performance of Molière’s The Imaginary Invalid for the sequestered jury. “It was in a weird, weird, weird time.”

Walkinshaw also saw several spoof shows in L.A. that creatively intrigued him. “They were tonguein-cheek, kind of naughty, irreverent,” he said. He brought the idea to fellow actors Jill Anderson and Tim Siragusa, which led to Siragusa writing Reform School Timmy!, a

Walkinshaw has served in offstage roles—including a stint as Bluebarn’s artistic director—and he’s directed many plays, but he said he prefers acting. He also said he’s looking forward to performing at the Bluebarn in the near future and is proud to continue to be associated with the theater.

“One thing I hope people would remember me for is helping to start the Bluebarn Theatre because it’s now an organization that actually pays artists, and that’s what we wanted way back when,” Walkinshaw said, referring to the Arts Fund that was started in 2009.

“Now Bluebarn is a place where some artists are making a living, which is phenomenal, and other artists are coming in and being compensated to do their art. That, to me, is the ultimate gratification.”

Visit bluebarn.org for more information.

C. Scott Fields Finds Global Community

A Photographer

with the World at Their Feet

A+C PHOTOGRAPHY STORY BY KAMRIN BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

25

C. Scott Fields walks steadily around their Dundee duplex, a tricolor corgi named Avocado on their heels. Fields wears a Blue Line Coffee crewneck sweatshirt; old wooden floorboards in their living room give. Incense burns, a silver tinsel Christmas tree remains in the corner of the space, and Fields swoops auburn bangs out of their eyes.

They are comfortable; they are relaxed; they are at home.

It’s hard to believe that in another life (a pre-pandemic one), Fields was a world traveler, attached to nothing but a camera strap.

Fields visited Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Peru, Colombia, Canada, and Jamaica; all far-fetched places for that pair of Council Bluffs-grown feet to land.

“I started traveling around the time Instagram got big and everyone wanted to see the world and get the coolest shots,” Fields said. “But historical books and magazines, seeing beautiful photos of southeast Asia, photojournalism is what shaped the way I approached travel photography. My goal was to see how long I could sustain myself with my camera and a singular backpack full of things.”

Fields’ first travel experience, however, was as cookie-cutter as could be; a resort in Jamaica. At first, it was fun. Then, a new feeling arose.

“I realized I was missing out on the community,” Fields said. “It was a slap in the face to go to the edge of this resort and see a fence that people couldn’t enter. I felt like there was more beyond it, and I felt passive being there. I wanted to know about the people who worked in the hotel, who they were and what they did when they clocked out. Like, who are you beyond this resort?”

The gears were set in motion.

“My goal was to see how long I could sustain myself with my camera and a singular backpack full of things.”

-C. Scott Fields In the beginning, there was little rhyme or reason to the travels. Soon, though, Fields followed their Omaha network around the world. An Omaha social media connection led to photographing a traditional Vietnamese wedding in Đà Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.

Later, an invitation from friend Nicole Malene brought the two of them to Costa Rica, where they followed and photographed a troupe of acrobats and performers on a weeklong teaching and learning excursion.

“I was placed in a situation where people opened up to me without any hesitation and let me stick a camera in their face,” Fields recalled.

“At the end, the whole troupe of, like, 80 people rushed around me and hugged me. I snapped photos in that moment, blurry smiles of people enveloping me, and I went back to my tent and just wept. It was a ‘click’ moment where I realized I was in the right place.”

Fields grew up in a predominately white city and attended Catholic school, but perceptibly learns best outside of a classroom—thrown into the world with a first-hand account of it all.

“I dropped out of college to go on a 16-day trip with a couple other photographers,” Fields said.

“I don’t know how else I’m going to learn. It was a way for me to expand my worldview, to learn what it was like to be vulnerable, to see other people’s faces, and count on the kindness of strangers. Travel is incredibly humbling and teaches you a lot about how to shut up and listen.”

Part of Fields’ desire to leave the Midwest was that of being a stranger, to observe, and to “get out of the way.” Fields, however, describes their photographic style as a kind of conversation, up close and personal and the subject, rolling with the punches.

// 28 //

MAY 2022

This is the nuance of Fields’ work; existing in the background in such a way that allows another human to feel so comfortable that a connection is natural and immediate. It’s as if viewing the world as an art gallery of humanity, and Fields’ job is to sit on a bench until they understand the person.

Fields’ friend and fellow photographer Michael Hennings is another voracious traveler—and an avid admirer of Fields’ work.

“Their style is a duality between intimate and pedestrian,” Hennings said. “When I see their travel work, I see it as a form of falling in love and appreciating the nuance of each individual place as if it was a person. When you consider the color palette, the way they compose, the way they work with talent, the textures, and the subject matter, their work, as a whole, feels like a mood board for something bigger.

It’s expressing the larger story of who they are and what they hold dear in life.”

These days, Fields has been leaning more into what it means to be an artist over what it means to be a traveler, considering what the next iteration of a photography career looks like, perhaps holding space in a gallery or producing printed work.

“For a long time, I [was] like a hacky sack.

Wherever I was kicked, I went,” Fields said. “People were incredibly gracious to me, and I am grateful that anyone gave me the opportunity to take their portrait.

Figuring out this new phase, it’s intentional and slow. I’m trying to find appreciation from where I came from, rather than escaping it.”

Visit carleyscottfields.com for more information.

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// 29 //

ADVENTURE STORY julius fredrick PHOTOGRAPHY sarah lemke DESIGN matt wieczorek

The Sandhill

30

ls Journey

ADRIFT IN MEMORIES OF “SPECIAL NOTHING”

31

ADVENTURE

“I

t’s not so much that there’s a special something to see along Nebraska’s Highway 2. There’s a special nothing to see,” reflected Charles Kuralt in an early episode of his long-running CBS travelogue, “On the Road.”

It was for this “special nothing” that Kuralt ranked Nebraska’s Scenic Highway 2 among his top 10 most beautiful drives in the U.S. He was entranced by the granular trickle of time; the spaces where civilization bobs gently in the slow wake of dune and prairie, or dissolves altogether.

Amy Johnson, a 20-something visitor from Ohio, echoed this sentiment during a stop at Alliance, Nebraska, roadside attraction “Carhenge.”

“Highway 2 reminds me of the Great Divide Basin in Wyoming,” she said. “It’s so vast and open, and so cool to see something so undeveloped, especially now.”

This dearth of development corresponds with scarce settlement, and the Sandhills’ byline of “wasteland” was high-profile among Nebraska homesteaders early on.

Today, Alliance represents the highway’s only city exceeding 1,000 people between Broken Bow, Nebraska, nearly 200 miles southeast, and well past the South Dakota border 100 miles north. Reaching a population considered “dense” requires a four-and-a-half hour drive to Grand Island, the hour lost shuffling timezones notwithstanding.

However, “wasteland” often translates to “nonarable” in agrarian circles, and the near total absence of intensive farming led to the World Wide Fund for Nature deeming the Sandhills ecoregion the most pristine in all the Great Plains; 85% of the natural habitat is largely unchanged since the “medieval warm period” of the second millennium.

Unlike their Wiltshire counterparts, this unblemished backdrop outlines a stark contrast when eyed from between the steel chassis of Carhenge. A five-minute detour from Alliance via northbound Nebraska Highway 87, the automotive ode to Stonehenge is worth a pit stop.

The cars’ exposed undercarriages and sunken taillights evoke something amusingly dystopian in the vein of Mad Max, replete with a rotor-crested dinosaur prowling the periphery for scrap and fossil fuels. Impressively, Carhenge is a strut-to-stone replica of the famed neolithic earthwork, down to England’s mythshrouded Heel Stone, ‘Nebraskafied’ as a 1962 Cadillac sedan.

“We’re actually taking a road trip for our honeymoon,” said Jessica Riggs, an instructor at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She showed a contented smile, her husband threading their wagging pooch through rattletrap archways and jutting jalopies. “We’re just looking for wacky and weird things to see.”

Doubtless an inspired feat, Carhenge initiates a surreal farewell to the industrial—an acknowledgement that vehicles and the people driving them will soon be noticeably fewer and farther between.

// 32 //

MAY 2022

Due southeast from Alliance, Highway 2 rapidly sheds its city-block edges.

Colors are vivid but begin to bleed, as though an aperture has widened; shudder slowed. Mounds of alluvial sand inch taller with each passing mile, and by the time the “Nebraska Byway Sandhills Journey” sign crowns the horizon, they’ve amassed into dunes. Prairie flowers and hardy grasses cling fiercely to all but the loftiest crests, a few splayed and lashing skyward—uprooted and felled. The wind carves the dunes, and in turn the dunes break the wind.

Depending on annual rainfall, 1,500 to 2,500 ponds and lakes shimmer across the countryside.

Boat mechanic and outdoorsman Russ Jackson knows the voyage well. “The scenic byway seems to draw me in almost every year,” he conceded.

Having spent 30 years living in Omaha before moving to Ashland, Jackson regards Highway 2 a breather from the urban haze.

“Spring or early summer is my favorite time; oceans of green grass with natural blue lakes around every bend,” Jackson recalled. “Zero light pollution shows just how many stars we don’t get to see in the city. It’s therapeutic in so many ways.”

Jackson isn’t alone in his starry-eyed review.

About 30 miles south from the village of Mullen, moored below the north fork of the Dismal River, an oasis parts the drifts. Here, a single-lane road runs deep into the heart of the prairie, pavement conceding to dirt under the glower of grass-fed cows. Amid sun-soaked bluestems, a veranda casts inviting shade; from “nothing,” the Dismal River clubhouse surfaces.

“It’s not what you expect in Nebraska,” said club VP of Operations Jodi Jacobs.“This is pretty special out here.”

The Dismal River Club’s 18-hole White Course spans more than 7,000 yards of prairie-hemmed terrain from the tips. According to the club website, golf legend and course designer Jack Nicklaus envisioned, “stepping back in time and seeing what the dunes of Northeast Scotland must have looked like a hundred years ago” when prospecting the site for untapped greens in 2003.

The club also hosts hunting expeditions, firing ranges, fine dining, and the sister fairways of Tom Doak’s critically lauded Red Course.

“The fire-pit is really the cherry on top,” Jacobs said, glancing past spent logs toward the smoldering skyline. “It’s just so gorgeous. It really is…”

Like most of the golf retreats near Mullen, the Dismal River Club is member-exclusive. Yet kicking up sand on Dismal River Road requires little more than a state-valid driver’s license and a gut for dips, bends, and swaying air-fresheners.

The 400-foot dunes loom taller—if not much closer—between the remote roadway and crackling riverfront.

Returning to Highway 2, distant embers of green grow nearer; 42 miles southeast of Mullen, they catch. Copses of ponderosa pines and red cedars break upon the hills, converging into one of the state’s proudest ongoing achievements: Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands.

“We’re the country’s largest hand-planted forest nestled within the most intact temperate prairie in the world,” said District Ranger Julie Bain, citing a January 2022 study by Reinhardt Scholtz and Dirac Twidwell of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Agronomy and Horticulture. “You can see all of this by climbing the Scott lookout tower, 75 steps to the top.”

Bain emphasized regional conservation efforts, highlighting vulnerable biomes patrolled by Jack pine sentinels and drawn blades of lovegrass.

“

Spring or early summer is my favorite time; oceans of green grass with natural blue lakes around every bend.

Zero light pollution shows just how many stars we don’t get to see in the city. It’s therapeutic in so many ways.

-Russ Jackson

“We have the only populations of the federally endangered blowout penstemon,” Bain said, referencing a waxy perennial with pale, periwinkle leaves, “and every spring we put up blinds for sharp-tail grouse so people can watch them on a ‘lek,’ which is their breeding grounds. It’s really, totally amazing.”

The Bessey Ranger District maintains three campgrounds for overnight camping, the largest supporting 40 sites— half with electricity. Affiliated grounds nearby are popular for horseback riding and gunning ATVs past trailheads.

Before setting up camp for the night, a stop by the Double T Bar in adjacent Halsey can provide a cool drink, and if lucky, a hot plate of bar matron Reta Teahon’s legendary (gravy-less) chicken fried steak. “As my mother always said, ‘If you’re truly proud of something, you shouldn’t hide it!’” Teahon exclaimed.

Littered pine needles and bulging roots are quickly swallowed, the prairie satiated and rolling again by the time Broken Bow emerges 51 miles southeast.

Though the forest has receded, the town’s local brewery is branching statewide.

”

One advantage of starting from “nothing” is the quality and consistency of the water—drawn straight from the Oglala Aquifer. Another is open space, enough to dream and to build.

Hodges sold his Thedford gas station in 2013, saddled up his new Harley, and cruised America with wife Alice in search of America’s choicest brews. He returned to Broken Bow a year later, funneling his experiences into vats of what would become Kinkaider Brewing Co.—now servicing additional taprooms in Grand Island, Lincoln, and Omaha.

“It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. You got to find those places along the way, and just pull over and stop,” Hodges urged. “You’ve got to find that ancient history before it’s gone, before it’s lost.”

Highway 2’s remaining 80 miles southeast trace the dunes in gradual decline, the waves stilled and the land placid once ashore in Grand Island. The journey ends, yesterday’s surface hardly scratched; depths unknown.

“Writers inevitably use a metaphor of the sea to describe the hundreds of thousands of acres of grass—and hundreds of thousands of acres of sky,” Kuralt continued in his episode. “Like the sea, there’s a feeling that as long these two things are in order, all the rest can be forgotten until tomorrow.”

Visit nebraskahighway2.com for more information.

“We hit a goldmine, I mean we hit that spot, that sweet spot, and we ran with it,” said Dan Hodges, head brewer and co-owner of Broken Bow’s Kinkaider Brewing Co. MAY 2022

// 33 //

PROFILE //

B A L D - F A C E D , A N D B A C K E D , I N t H E W I N D Rian K anou f f S e t s Guinne s s Wor ld R e c ords

STORY BY JARRETT VAN METER PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA HORNER // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

T

he chaos swallowed him as soon as he hit the grass.

“Grab his helmet!” yelled a voice from somewhere in the mass of people surrounding him. Hands were thrust upon him from all angles, peeling his parachute backpack and helmet away from his body. It was hot, heat advisory hot, and the commotion was a bit disorienting.

Within a matter of seconds, Rian Kanouff was left standing in nothing but his sneakers. That’s when they hit him with the pies.

“My entire body was pie-d, private parts, buns, everything...” Kanouff remembered.

“They just rushed me, and they did it right, too. The guys who were taking off my gear were distracting me, and all the people who I thought were celebrating behind them all had pies in their hands and came through and just machine-gunned me with pies.”

The dessert fusillade was the culmination of a record-breaking day when Kanouff secured the Guinness World Record for most naked skydives in 24 hours. He completed 60 jumps between 5:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Lincoln Sport Parachute Club in Weeping Water, Nebraska.

Kanouff, who is 33, began skydiving six years ago. He grew up in South Omaha playing hockey and football, racing motocross, and wrestling. He continued playing hockey into adulthood, and when a teammate invited him to go skydiving for that teammate’s 29th birthday, he was hesitant.

“I was terrified,” he remembered of the buildup toward his first jump. “My No. 1 fear in life is heights. I did not want to do it even a little bit, zero desire to jump out of an airplane.”

On August 26, 2016, he forced himself into the plane and, once it was up in the air, jumped over the threshold toward the world below. As soon as he was airborne, his life changed forever.

“The second we left the airplane I was like, yep, this is what I want to do,” he recalled.

When he hit the ground, he asked the cameraman who had jumped alongside him how he could get a similar job. The cameraman suggested a training course being held the following weekend. It was the last session of the year, so Kanouff registered. A week after his first jump, he was on his way to making a career out of skydiving.

But when he decided to go after the world r e c o r d , h e d i d n ’ t w a n t t o m a k e i t a b o u t h i m s e l f.

It wasn’t even about skydiving. Kanouff used the platform to raise awareness for another c a u s e c l o s e t o h i s h e a r t: m e n ’ s m e n ta l h e a lt h .

At the time of the interview, Kanouff had completed 704 jumps—most of them clothed—in nearly a dozen different states.

He has become a sought-after motivational speaker and positioned himself at the sport’s vanguard. But when he decided to go after the world record, he didn’t want to make it about himself. It wasn’t even about skydiving. Kanouff used the platform to raise awareness for another cause close to his heart: men’s mental health.

Within a five-month span leading up to his record-setting day in June 2021, Kanouff lost four people close to him to suicide: his grandfather, his childhood neighbor, his high school best friend, and a fellow member of the skydiving community. It is tradition in skydiving culture to complete one’s 100th jump in the buff, but the man who has set naked skydiving records declined to make his century-milestone in this traditional way. “I jumped naked for the first time filming another jumper’s 100th celebration,” Kanouff said, noting that it was for his jumping buddy, who took his own life just before his own century milestone. That’s when Kanouff decided his record would be set naked. The folks at Guinness told him he needed to jump 24 times to set the record. He chose 60 to represent the number of men who die of suicide every hour.

He contacted the men’s health nonprofit Movember Foundation, and the organization agreed to back the project. A team of volunteers from the Lincoln Sport Parachute Club, Kanouff’s home drop zone, helped plan and execute the day without any hiccups, repacking his parachutes after jumps, monitoring his hydration, and even cooking him bacon and eggs for sustenance.

Kanouff alternated between five different parachutes, each re-packed by his team between uses, and two aircrafts. He typically jumps from 10,000 and 14,000 feet, but in order to maximize his total, all of his 60 record-setting jumps were from between 2,500 and 3,000 feet. He estimated that each jump took between seven and nine minutes.

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And Guinness World Records wasn’t the day’s only governing body to sanction the event. Jeff Dawson, the founder and president of the Society for the Advancement of Naked Skydiving, drove in from Milwaukee to serve as a verifying official. On jump number 37 of the day, Dawson stripped down and joined Kanouff.

“It’s freedom, it’s breaking the rules, being naughty, doing things that the rest of society wouldn’t normally accept,” said Dawson, who also holds the world record for number of cumulative naked jumps. “But mainly it’s the sense of freedom and just being able to go out there and enjoy the skydive without any clothes on with friends who are doing the same.”

Kanouff and Dawson even joined hands briefly during their jump to set the Nebraska state SANS record for a formation with two people—yet another accomplishment during a day that raised nearly $13,600 for Movember, set a World Record, and launched Kanouff’s career to new heights.

There would be more than 500 news stories about the feat appearing across 25 countries.

The Hollywood mainstay Skydive Perris would take notice, and recruit Kanouff to California to serve as a cameraman and instructor. There would be agents and PR teams and podcast appearances. But as soon as his feet hit the ground for the 60th time, none of that was on his mind, only jubilation, fellowship, and pie.

He hasn’t stopped yet. In late February, Kanouff set the record for largest naked formation jump, bringing his total of naked jumps (at presstime) to 84.

“It was surreality is what it was,” he said of the sugar-soaked culmination in June. “I couldn’t believe it was happening.”

Visit 1011now.com/2021/06/17/nebraskaman-sets-world-record-naked-skydiving-cause to watch Kanouff skydive or movember.com to learn more about the cause.

FEATURE //

NORTH, SOUTH, E STORY

mike whye

PHOTOGRAPHY

bill sitzman

DESIGN

matt wieczorek

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EAST, WEST Kelly Madigan Walks Hi and Lo Trails

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Something’s afoot with Kelly Madigan.

When Madigan visits the great outdoors, she prefers to walk rather than ride in a car. “I think our brains evolved at the rate of just walking,” said Madigan, a wellpublished writer and poet who shares her experiences in journals and magazines and has authored two books of poetry and one nonfiction book.

From when she was a child, Madigan has always found herself restored by nature.

“That was taught to me by my family, who were nature lovers,” she said. “Nature is where I rejuvenate, get grounded. What’s going on in the natural world around me fascinates me. I’d rather be outdoors than indoors.”

Walking through the world is what appeals to Madigan the most. “It’s like we’re aligned at that speed to go through a landscape. It feels so right to experience those things on foot,” said Madigan, who, after traveling across the country in an Air Force family, graduated from Bellevue East High School in 1980. Afterward, she attended the University of NebraskaLincoln, concentrating on creative writing and drug and alcohol counseling.

While working as a writer and counselor for 30 years at Bryan Medical Center in Lincoln, she took to experiencing the world on foot after being inspired by friends who had hiked El Camino de Santiago. Also called the Way of St. James, El Camino is a network of trails in Europe that were begun by religious pilgrims walking to the cathedral in Santiago De Compostela in northwest Spain. Some of the trails are 500 miles long.

Madigan said learning about the Camino put the idea of making long walks into her head, but she hadn’t been walking long distances yet. When she visited her sister, who had been walking on a regular basis, Madigan wasn’t sure she could keep up with her. “She invited me to go on a walk with her,” remembered Madigan. “She had been walking five miles at a time, and that sounded impossible to me. But with her encouragement, I did, and that was a turning point in my head. Prior to that, I didn’t even know I could do that, and then I went on to walk longer walks than that.”

A

FEATURE // NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST

Around 2010, Madigan began walking through parts of Lincoln, especially Wilderness Park with a friend. They would walk there three times a week at sunrise.

“We called those walks our ‘Going to Tree Church,’” she said.

When visiting Florida in 2013, she walked long distances on the beaches there. That same year when in Lincoln, she and some friends walked across the city from its northern boundary to the southern city limits. She followed that with walking 21 miles around parts of Omaha. Then she walked across Nebraska that year…sort of.

“I wanted to say I walked across Nebraska.

But I didn’t want to walk 500 miles,” said Madigan about Nebraska’s east-to-west length with a laugh. “So, I began at the South Dakota border north of Gordon and basically walked south across the panhandle with a little variation, entering Colorado at Julesburg.”

Madigan walked 17 days to cover those 180 miles, reaching Julesburg on the Fourth of July. On some days, she’d walk in the cool of the mornings and the evenings to avoid the midday heat. Because she carries snacks and water—but no camping gear—when she walks, friends and locals helped shuttle her so she could sleep in places other than where she would end a day’s hike or eat in a diner or with friends. However, on one night, about 30 miles south of Gordon, she slept near Nebraska novelist Mari Sandoz’ hillside grave, which overlooks the ranch created by Sandoz’ father, Old Jules.

Madigan does not like to walk back and forth on a trail. She prefers to go only in one direction, no return trips for her. “My hikes are almost all where I get dropped off somewhere,” she said. “I want to keep going. I don’t want to walk somewhere and go back.”

During her walks, Madigan observes the world through the senses of a poet. “When you’re driving a car in beautiful areas, you see beautiful things but you miss so much because of the speed you’re traveling,” she said, adding that she also just likes to sit and observe. “If you sit still in a beautiful place for a long time, you’ll see things you’d never see even if you were walking.”

The themes of her writings and poems revolve around the environment. “I say my purpose in life is ‘I’m here to adore the world,’” she said. “I celebrate the things I see. I’m an enthusiast. I’m like, ‘Hey, look!

There’s this really cool thing. Everybody should come look at it.’”

Basically, anywhere Madigan visits, she wants to walk around to explore it on foot.

Madigan sees herself as a long-distance walker rather than a hiker. In recent years, she has also explored parts of Nebraska by canoe and kayak. So far she has paddled in the Missouri, Platte, Middle Loup, Dismal, Elkhorn, Little Blue, Cedar, Calamus, Niobrara, and Big Blue rivers.

When visiting extended family about 40 years ago in western Iowa, Madigan became acquainted with the Loess Hills, a slim line of hills that front that state’s western edge along the Big Sioux and Missouri rivers.

Formed by wind-blown soils called loess about 11,000 to 14,000 years ago, the hills are between three and five miles wide. Only China has similar loess formations as tall and taller than Iowa’s. Fascinated by the hills, Madigan kept learning about them, including how unique they are.

In 2007, she bought an acreage in the hills in Monona County, Iowa, a bit more than 50 miles north of Omaha. A few years ago,

she moved permanently into a century-old farmhouse there with her partner, Doug Chafa, and his daughter, Isabel. Across a gravel road from their place, a long line of grassy hills overlooks a pond with a small dock.

One of Madigan’s goals is to teach people about the importance of the Loess Hills.

“We have this slender place where we still have hundreds of forms of life that we have all but wiped out to the east and west of here because of our monoculture, basically two crops [corn and soybeans],” Madigan said.

To show others the importance of the hills, Madigan made another of her long treks in summer 2020. This one was from the northern end of the hills in Plymouth County, Iowa, to the Missouri border, 270 miles to the south. Not worrying much about COVID-19 in the outdoors, she preferred to walk on dirt and gravel roads, and public lands, rather than use paved highways. She crossed private land only with permission. Friends shuttled supplies to her as she hiked the region in segments over six weeks that October and November.

Occasionally, a driver offered her a lift, which she politely declined with thanks. At least two people called the law to investigate this solo walker with long, dark, curly hair, but all was fine in the end.

She logged her adventure with text and photos on a Facebook page she created and named for her route: the LoHi Trail, which represents the Loess Hills and the low and high elevations she traversed. Madigan explained she wasn’t trying to establish a real trail by any name but just wanted to explore what’s in the hills for herself and made up the name for her walk. People soon began to ask how to find the LoHi

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Trail. “It’s not a thing,” Madigan explained.

“It’s a route, a passageway. It’s one person exploring to see if [the hills] can be walked.”

pond, standing under an outdoor shower, and savoring ice cream.

Over the years, some people have wished for a continuous trail through the hills, similar to the Appalachian Trail. But Madigan thinks not. “I actually don’t think that the Loess Hills are well suited for an Appalachian Trail-style trail. But they are suited for something akin to El Camino De Santiago where some of it is a trail, some of it is walking on a road, and some of it is walking through a village.”

During their trip, they met people who Madigan had arranged to talk about the hills.

Chafa taught about native prairie plants.

Farmers talked about how their families have been in the hills for generations. One person described how prescribed burns rejuvenate the prairie plants and push back invasive trees. “The walk was an immersive experience,” Madigan said. “We brought neighbors to sit at the campfires to talk about their lifestyles in the hills.”

Part of educating people about the hills, Madigan said, is making them aware that the hills cannot support much use— including foot trails—because of the fragile nature of the loess soil which, when not covered by vegetation, can practically melt away in the rain. That trait has caused some residents of the hills to call the easily eroded soil “sugar clay.”

Cynthia Ybarra, who lives in Omaha and is a registered nurse with the Veterans Administration Hospital, said she learned that brome grass is an invasive plant and more. “Every single person who visited us was passionate about the land,” Ybarra said. “One man said he decided to live in them when he finally saw them for what they were.”

Coordinating her efforts with other groups, including Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, Madigan said, “We don’t want this to be Disney World.”

Patrick Swanson, a professor in microbiology at Creighton University who has a strong interest in the parcels of prairie in the hills, was a participant of the hike and talked to the group about prairie restoration. At times the Omahan identified some f lowers seen by the participants.

“Kelly has a great project…” he said. “… getting people to understand that, one, the hills are fragile. Two, people can enjoy them. Three, they need to be protected, and four, there’s a potential for economic development here. It’s all for the good of the landscape.”

To help people understand the Loess Hills, Madigan has hosted online writing workshops about them. She also worked with some private and government agencies to promote a four-day trek for about 30 people to walk through parts of the hills last June. Although high temperatures forced changes in the routes and activities, the group passed through shady woods, crossed sunny meadows, walked along ridges topped with waving prairie grasses, and camped under starlight. Some heard whippoorwills for the first time. The group enjoyed spending two nights on Madigan’s property, swimming and kayaking in her

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“My question is, can a person on foot safely walk this distance?,” said Madigan of ways through the hills. “Then that lends itself to the question of, is there safe passage for other creatures? So walking with the idea of, ‘If I was a salamander, if I was a snapping turtle, if I was a hummingbird, if I was a dragonfly, if I was a grasshopper…how could I expand my range and what are the limits of that range?’ What we’ve ended up with are these little pockets of existing and rare species that can’t make it across the road to get to another protected area and become more genetically diverse.”

She continued, “That’s what I want to bring awareness to, can we support human habitation and thriving small economies and also do it with an eye on safe passage for humans and wildlife?”

Madigan hasn’t reached her limit of places to hike. She still would like to walk a lesserknown stretch of El Camino De Santiago that passes along the coast of Portugal on the way to Santiago de Compostela, and she has thoughts about elsewhere. “I’ve known that there are some historical walks across Scotland and Ireland as well. I think Ireland’s like walking the Loess Hills,” she said with a smile.

The 2022 LoHi Trek, a three-day, 25-mile trek through the Loess Hills State Forest, will be held May 28-30. Shuttle and food provided.

Visit visitloesshills.org/lohi.html for more information.

“I began at the South Dakota border north of Gordon and basically walked south across the panhandle with a little variation, entering Colorado at Julesburg.”

-Kelly Madigan

OREK PHOTOGR APHY BY BIL T WIECZ T A M Y B L SITZMANN // DESIGN

MAURO FIORE VIEWS INTERESTING STORIES FEATURE | STORY BY SEAN McCARTHY

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n Feb. 15, the 3D Academy Award-nominated blockbuster movie Avatar moved down one notch to become the fourth highest-grossing movie of all time in the United States. It’s a number that the film’s cinematographer, Omahan Mauro Fiore, doesn’t obsess over. Even if he did, Fiore could take comfort in the fact he was also cinematographer for the movie that overtook Avatar—Spider-Man: No Way Home.

Fiore’s friend Ben Drickey dubbed him “the two billion-dollar man” because those films each grossed more than a billion dollars globally. Sitting down and ordering a mini Denver omelette at an Omaha restaurant, Fiore said he didn’t think in terms of box office when selecting a project. His extensive resume has included big-budget action films and small, intimate dramas… and nearly everything in between.

Fiore emigrated to the United States when he was 7 years old with his parents from his birthplace of Marzi, in southern Italy.

His uncle, Vincent Fiore, sponsored their emigration. He attended high school in Palatine, Illinois.

“It was very suburban,” Fiore said.

The high school was modern for early 1980s standards, complete with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a full photography studio, and a darkroom. That’s where his love for film began. Fiore took other art classes and dabbled in sculpture, but photography was the area that struck the deepest chord. He joined the school’s photography club.

“The whole ‘images appearing on paper’ was a real magical thing,” Fiore said.

After graduating high school, Fiore went to Harper College in Palatine. There, he played soccer and began taking art classes. After

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earning some credits in art and film, Fiore had a choice: go to Northwestern or Columbia College Chicago. He chose Columbia for two major reasons: his credits at Harper could transfer to Columbia, and his girlfriend was already a dance and theater major there.

While at Columbia, Fiore took lighting and cinematography classes. The majority of the films he studied were French and European.

Fiore said American cinema wasn’t given a huge focus in film school in the late 1980s when he was a student. While studying, Fiore began connecting with Italian films, specifically from directors such as Federico Fellini and Pier Paolo Pasolini. While watching those films, Fiore said he felt like he had “just uncovered this incredible heritage of filmmaking.”

For leisure, Fiore played soccer with his friend Jeffrey Wisniewski, who was studying at the Art Institute of Chicago. The two friends also formed an art-punk band called Anonymous Noise Production (ANP).

FEATURE | MAURO FIORE

W “

E WOULD SPEND ALL SUMMER JUST PLAYING AND CREATING ORIGINAL SONGS,” FIORE SAID. “WE ONLY HAD TWO REAL PERFORMANCES.”

After graduating in 1987, Fiore moved to Los Angeles following a call from fellow classmate and friend Janusz Kaminski.

Kaminski had been living in Los Angeles for a few months and had secured work on a film by Roger Corman, widely known for his campy B-movies, some of which were later mercilessly mocked in Mystery Science Theater 3000 episodes.

However, high-profile directors have praised Corman. He has been credited for jump-starting the careers of Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and Jonathan Demme.

been years since Hollywood had made a serious effort in embracing 3D. For nearly 20 years, 3D films were usually shown in museums and zoos (Wild Safari 3D, or director James Cameron’s own Ghosts of the Abyss, whose theme revisited Cameron’s then-biggest cinematic achievement: Titanic). Before that, some of the most notable Hollywood 3D movies were novelty sequels like Friday The 13th Part III and Jaws-3D. Cameron, however, aimed his Titanic-sized ambitions at nothing less than revolutionizing the moviegoing experience.

In a phone interview from Hollywood, Kaminski said Corman needed a gaffer and a key grip for his movie. When the original gaffer quit, Kaminski took over that person’s job. Kaminski then asked Fiore to be a key grip. Fiore’s Hollywood career was born, and from 1987 through 1994, Kaminski and Fiore were roommates, along with Kaminski’s ex-girlfriend. The three shared a small studio apartment while their careers took off.

Fiore said before Avatar’s release, Cameron had a meeting with some of the owners of the largest theater chains—as well as big-scale directors like Robert Rodriguez, Stephen Spielberg, and Peter Jackson—to discuss how 3D could bring more people back into the theater.

“The boundaries between work and personal life were nonexistent,” Kaminski said. “It was always about work, particularly making movies.”

Kaminski is now one of the most celebrated living cinematographers. He won the Academy Award for best cinematography for Schindler’s List in 1993 and for Saving Private Ryan in 1998—both directed by Steven Spielberg.

Kaminski and Fiore’s paths oftentimes intersected in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In the late ’90s, Kaminski was finally given a chance to direct a major studio motion picture, 2000’s Lost Souls, which starred Winona Ryder as well as Omaha’s own John Beasley. Kaminski chose Fiore to be the film’s cinematographer. Kaminski said Fiore did a fantastic job as a cinematographer, but he had less kind words to say for the script writers.

“In the end, if you don’t have a strong story, great visuals will not improve the movie,” Kaminski said.

Avatar is recognized for ushering a new era of cinema. Before its release, it had

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“For Jim [Cameron], [filmmaking] is a business program,” Fiore said. “His technology…how [the movie] is going to be perceived—he has done quite a bit of research on what was jarring to the eye.”

To film a movie that takes place primarily in an alien forest, Cameron sought out Fiore, who had filmed a movie that took place in a jungle on Earth: 2003’s Tears of the Sun. That movie, starring Bruce Willis, was filmed in Hawaii. Cameron liked how Fiore shot the environments and brought him in for an interview.

Fiore spent two hours interviewing with producer Jon Landau.

Up to that point, Fiore had been filming for two-dimensional environments. Now, his talents were being tested to film in another dimension. New cameras were developed just for the environment, and, because many actors’ roles required 3D, motion-capture technology, Fiore had to film extremely close to them. While the final product was a showcase of innovation, Fiore faced some limitations in how he could film.

“You are creating the perspective of 3D with just color and lights,” Fiore said. He also asked, “How do you create a frame in a two-dimensional plane that looks like three-dimension and fools the eye?”

To answer that question, Fiore worked on Avatar for more than a year. When he joined the project, Cameron had already worked on the motion-capture part of the film for nearly two years. After Fiore’s work was finished, Cameron put yet another year into refining the motion-capture. Fiore saw a rough cut of the film and he remembered being overwhelmed at the thought of the work that the film still needed. Those gaps made seeing the final product all the more special for Fiore.

“It was kind of mind-blowing. It’s still mind-blowing for me to see that,” Fiore said.

Avatar is one of those rare movies that can translate big box office into Academy gold.

The movie was nominated for Best Picture as well as Best Director. While it lost both respective awards to Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker, it won three technical awards, including that for Best Cinematography.

In his acceptance speech, in front of 42 million viewers in the United States alone, Fiore began speaking in Italian. Fiore said he still regrets being so caught up in the moment that he forgot to thank his wife, Christine.

Parts of Avatar were filmed in Hawaii, others in New Zealand. Some of Fiore’s favorite locations to film include Morocco, Tuscany, London, and Berlin. He preferred filming on location as opposed to a set because that’s where the surprises happen in filmmaking.

One such surprise came while filming the 1998 dramady Love From Ground Zero.

Fiore was the cinematographer for that film, which was partially shot in Nebraska. While filming, he struck up a friendship with Christine Vollmer, the movie’s costume designer. Fiore admitted with a chuckle to have been taken by Christine’s looks, but after the movie’s wrap party, the two agreed to keep in contact. They dated for about two years before marrying in 2000.

“It turned out to be a more important film for my life than just my career,” Fiore said.

Mauro and Christine continued to try making a life in Los Angeles while raising a family. Their two children, Olivia and Tessa, were born in Los Angeles. Christine began traveling to Omaha to get help from her family when their work demands overlapped. There were times when Fiore had

to travel frequently to Vancouver and Toronto to film.

“When I left, Christine was basically by herself,” Fiore said.

Christine and Mauro talked about getting a place in Omaha. They needed help raising their children. Despite having a support system in Omaha, Mauro said he was hesitant about moving.

“What am I going to move to Omaha for?

What am I doing?” Fiore asked himself.

Omaha eventually won Fiore over, so much so that Fiore gave a shout-out to the city in his Academy Award acceptance speech. He said he retains a house in Los Angeles for when the demands of filming require him to be in Hollywood.

Fiore’s post-Avatar work is similar to an actor who chooses smaller, more intimate roles before going back into the world of big-budget action movies. He was cinematographer in 2013’s Runner Runner (starring Ben Aff leck and Justin Timberlake) and 2015’s Southpaw (Jake Gyllenhaal, Forest Whitaker) before doing 2019’s X-Men: Dark Phoenix.

As X-Men: Dark Phoenix was in theaters, plans were well underway to film a third Spider-Man movie with Tom Holland as the web slinger. Fiore was not planning on working on the film, as Seamus McGarvey was tapped as the initial cinematographer. Then, 2020 happened. Like those of everyone else on the planet, Fiore’s plans changed.

McGarvey had to step away from his filming duties in Spring 2021 as he revealed he contracted COVID-19. Fiore stepped in for McGarvey and finished filming the Marvel blockbuster.

A good portion of Spider-Man: No Way Home takes place in Doctor Strange’s (Benedict Cumberbatch) Sanctum Sanctorum, specifically the undercroft, a dank, dungeon-like environment. It was the area where Doctor Strange locked up all of the foes from various dimensions that Spider-Man captured in the movie.

While filming, the directing team stressed the importance of conveying the darkness of the area. It was one of the most challenging things to film in the movie, Fiore said.

OMAHA EVENTUALLY WON FIORE OVER, SO MUCH SO THAT FIORE GAVE A SHOUT-OUT TO THE CITY IN HIS ACADEMY AWARD ACCEPTANCE SPEECH. “How do you light darkness?” Fiore asked rhetorically. “That’s the tough thing. How dark is dark? And darkness is really nothing if you don’t have light.”

Fiore and his team eventually settled on drilling holes into the set, which was primarily made of solid foam, to achieve some subtle levels of light on the walls. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, more than 90% of the exterior locations in the movie were filmed outside the film studio lot. For scenes that took place in New York City, they filmed the backgrounds in New York, and then matched the lighting conditions in Atlanta, where the film set was located.

Fiore’s next project is a much smaller endeavor from the blockbuster SpiderMan: No Way Home. Titled A Good Person, the movie centers on a woman who tries to rebuild her life after being involved in a deadly accident. Written and directed

by Zach Braff (Garden State), the movie stars Morgan Freeman, Molly Shannon, and Florence Pugh.

The shift from filming a movie with a near-unlimited budget to a small, independent film can be jarring. With smaller movies, cast and crew are far more likely to work closely with the director when it comes to making creative decisions, Fiore said. As the film budget shrinks, good storytelling and simplicity becomes the focus of the picture.

“If I’m interested in the story, I do find a way to make it work,” Fiore said.

Fiore spent more than six months filming Spider-Man: No Way Home. He jokingly referred to any similar length of time getting reacquainted with his Omaha home as his “re-entry period.” When he’s not on location, Fiore gets up early and makes a latte. He then reads the news on his iPad before going to the gym.

asked where he goes in Omaha to eat when he gets homesick, Fiore said he preferred to cook at home.

“There’s no reason for me to go eat Italian because I know I can cook it better,” Fiore said.

Shopping for ingredients can be difficult.

Fiore said there were some Italian delis in Chicago and Los Angeles, but there is such a need for a local Italian deli that he and Christine occasionally talked about opening one in Omaha. In the meantime, he said he settles for bringing back suitcases of cheese and salami after each visit to Marzi.

“Illegal salamis,” Fiore quipped.

Drickey shares Fiore’s love for cinematography. As founder of the Omaha-based multimedia and content creation company Torchwerks, Drickey was already aware of Fiore’s work when he found out that their children attended the same Montessori school. When asked about his favorite movie featuring Fiore as a cinematographer, he quickly said the gritty police drama Training Day, for which Denzel Washington won an Academy Award for Best Actor. Drickey admired the raw and claustrophobic mood of the film, and how Fiore’s camera work brought the viewer into Washington’s character. Drickey said as a viewer, he felt like he was living inside Denzel’s car for two hours. Being able to establish such a mood is a reason Fiore is so respected in his craft, Drickey said.

“In the business, we call them the ‘one-percenters,” Drickey said. “Less than one percent of people get to that level.”

Visit imdb.com and search for Mauro Fiore for more information.

Fiore gets back to his hometown of Marzi at least once a year, where he shares a house that he inherited from his parents. When

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Keeping a Bad Evening, or Early Morning, FROM GETTING WORSE HISTORY

STORY BY SEAN McCARTHY // PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

Buchanan’s Service Centers Handle Vehicle Troubles Off-Hours

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M

ost people can think of one Friday after work when their car wouldn’t start.

Or when their battery chose to die on a Sunday just as they were planning on running a day’s worth of errands. The lucky people who have a car reliable enough to avoid those pitfalls can still find plenty of screws and nails scattered about driveways, parking lots, and streets—determined to make one’s night or weekend miserable. That’s not even mentioning the pothole situation in Omaha.

Most auto service centers have the 8 to 5 hours worked by about 80% of America, according to the Department of Labor. Fortunately for Omaha motorists, there are two Buchanan’s Service Centers that pick up the slack when most mechanics hang up their ‘Closed’ sign. The locations—one each at 80th and Dodge streets and 50th and Dodge streets—offer general repairs, tire fixes, and oil changes until 11 p.m. on weekdays and 6 p.m. on weekends.

Two locations. Two shifts. Two very different days, weather-wise.

On a bitingly cold Thursday night in February at the 80th and Dodge location, evening service manager Brandon Minor had a relatively quiet night that included working on an early 2000s-era black Honda Accord with a misfiring cylinder. At 7:30 in the evening, Minor was the only one in the garage. Depending on the complexity of the order, Minor said he usually works on five cars a night.

When asked what the most common repairs during the off-hours were, every mechanic at both locations said two things: tire repairs and oil changes. Because of the cold temperatures during Minor’s Thursday night shift, he had already completed two battery replacements.

As the temperatures get nicer, Minor said he expected to see a lot of pothole-related repairs. Minor, who has worked at Buchanan’s for 11 years, remembered one particularly brutal season in 2019.

“We were literally having people leave after getting a new tire, and hitting another one [pothole], and blowing a tire again,” Minor said.

Potholes aren’t the only thing that have caused the demise of tires at Buchanan’s. Minor extracts plenty of nails and screws from vehicles on an almost daily basis.

But he has found far weirder stuff inside tires.

“We’ve found wrenches, knives…we’ve found bullets,” Minor said. “Rifle bullets…we’ve pulled two of those out the last two years. Be careful of those.”

The cold temperatures kept customers away for Minor’s Thursday shift. But as temperatures crept up later in the week, so did the activity. Three days later, at Buchanan’s 50th and Dodge street location, business was brisk on a Sunday afternoon. Though the temperatures were struggling to reach the 40s, there was a line for the car wash, and a steady stream of punctured tires and battery checks were keeping the team busy.

Trumaine Kedelty, the Sunday manager, was busy finishing repairs to a Nissan Rogue and taking the occasional phone call, one from a stranded motorist at one of the casinos in Council Bluffs. During his shift, he received three separate calls from people who said their front left tire was wobbling.

“After the second person, I was a little confused. And when the third person came in, I thought ‘something’s definitely going on,’” Kedelty said.

Customer Al Thomas’ Sunday began with him forgetting that he had a piece of trim with some nails in it laying inside his garage. When he backed his Chevy pickup over the trim, he instantly knew what had happened.

He got out and looked at the damage to his tire.

“

We’ve found wrenches, knives…we’ve found bullets.

Rifle bullets…we’ve pulled two of those out the last two years. Be careful of those.

”

-Brandon Minor “More than a couple minutes, it started going down,” Thomas said.

He remembered Buchanan’s was open because he used to live near 50th and Dodge streets. He drove his Chevy over to the station and waited while the team worked on his tire. The team was able to save the tire by patching it. Janice Hume rung him up. It was the last hour of her shift, which began at 7 a.m. The day before, she worked a 16-hour shift.

“I’m the go-to,” Hume laughed. “I’m the one that has nothing going on at home. All my kids are grown and out of the house.”

Hume has been a cashier at Buchanan’s for almost two years. She picked up several extra shifts in late 2021 and early 2022 as the Omicron variant of COVID19 was spreading. On Jan. 9, Hume herself contracted COVID-19.

Bob Fenster, owner and manager at Buchanan’s, said almost a third of his team contracted COVID-19 during the Omicron surge. Fenster said he ended up filling in for a few mechanics who were ill, including the occasional late shift.

Evenings and weekends would seem to be the time for emergency repairs, but oil changes contribute to a majority of Buchanan’s “non-business hours” service requests. One reason for this is simply because most people’s work schedules nearly overlap the hours of most mechanic shops. By offering an extra window of time, Buchanan’s can fit into most people’s schedules, Fenster said.

“We’re a fast-paced place,” Fenster said. “We get ’em in, get ’em out, and get ’em going.”

Visit buchanansservice.com for more information.

MAY 2022

// 45 //

RUNNING, REPORTING, AND SHARING SPORTS // STORY BY JARRETT VAN METER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

T

he clock showed the time as a little before 9:30 a.m., and Michelle Bandur grew antsy. Races normally begin around 7 a.m., but given the size and magnitude of the day’s event, her start time was pushed back by more than two hours. It was a hot September morning but she was hydrated, rested, ready. Finally, her age group was released, and she high-stepped her way down the shore embankment to the crisp waters of Sand Hollow Reservoir. It was the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in St. George, Utah, a race she would not soon forget.

The water felt amazing in the heat. Her 5 feet, 10 inches frame began churning out big, powerful, clean strokes. The surface was choppy, more so than other races, but she assumed it to be the result of the 2,000 athletes who stirred it up before her. When she reached the buoy, the turnaround point for the swim stage, she was corrected.

“I’ll never forget, I turned at the buoy and the sky was black,” Bandur recalled.

The swim was even more difficult on the way back to shore, and as she emerged from the water she heard the event announcer urging spectators to seek shelter from the incoming elements. Was it over? Were they calling the race? Race volunteers continued to urge her forward through the course. She reached the transition area to prepare for the bicycling phase and found the racks of bicycles swinging like unlatched farm gates. She found her bike, hopped on, and could barely push forward into the oncoming headwinds. Then, the rain started… then the hail…then the sleet. Then came the heat again.

“Honestly, I just laughed the whole time,” Bandur recalled. “I kept thinking, this is hilarious. This is so funny. And I kept thinking that at least it’s not an Ironman, it’s half the distance of an Ironman.”

Bandur said the St. George race was the most challenging of her triathlon career, one that has seen her complete 20 half Ironman distance races and six full Ironmans (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, 26.2 mile run). Those numbers sound like a lifetime’s work, but Bandur, known to many for her reporting work in front of the camera for KETV, didn’t

Michelle Bandur’s Three Loves take to the sport until adulthood. She graduated from Westside High School before earning a degree from Iowa State University. Her journalism career took her to Kansas, Texas, and California before ultimately bringing her back home to Omaha, and her homecoming would serve as the jump-off for her endurance racing career. Her first race was UNO’s Try-Athalon, followed shortly thereafter by the Papillion Mayor’s Triathlon.

She was drawn to the physical difficulty of the sport, the mental perseverance it demanded; but most of all, she loved the camaraderie it fostered.

“Even though it’s an individual sport when you are out there, it’s always been each triathlete is cheering each other on,” she said. “Also the volunteers too. There are people out there volunteering their time to make sure we finish the race and doing our best and wanting us to do our best.

Just the overall excitement of it during the actual race and crossing that finish line, I just thought it was so cool. I was hooked.”

Even more important to Bandur than sharing the sport with her peers is passing it on to the next generation, particularly to kids who might not be able to afford the sport’s hefty entry fee. In 2018, after receiving a mean-spirited, anonymous note that criticized her physical appearance, Bandur founded the Ironhawk Juniors Triathlon Club, an eight-week summer program during which girls between the ages of 8 and 14 receive triathlon coaching, lessons, and equipment, free of charge. The session is capped off by an actual triathlon race. In 2018 the club had 213 active participants; in 2019 it jumped to 272; and, following a COVID-19 hiatus, Bandur expects the number to be even larger this summer.

Whether it’s turning insults into fuel for good or trudging through an entire elemental spectrum in the Utah desert, Bandur credits triathlon with giving her the self-reliance and perseverance needed to continue moving forward, and this is what she hopes to pass on.

“Even though it’s an individual sport when you are out there, it’s always been each triathlete is cheering each other on.” -Michelle Bandur Her enthusiasm for the sport and the community it fosters has made her a beacon for triathletes around the city, veterans and rookies alike. Bandur encouraged Camila (Orti) Rutford, a former co-worker at KETV, to take up the sport, and insisted on accompanying her for training rides in the early going. The two now travel to most races together, including a half-Iron world championship race in Nice, France.

“She is so open and so comfortable with people immediately that you feel very safe around her, even being vulnerable and asking questions because she just wants to share,” said Rutford, who now works for Fox 12 News in Portland, Oregon.

“She just wants to share with people, that’s just how she is. “

“When someone asks me about it, I start recruiting them because I love it so much,” Bandur said. “The joy it brings me, the friendships that I’ve made and being able to challenge myself and build confidence, set goals and be disciplined, and know that I’ve been sacrificing and working hard, and that I am able to accomplish this. That sense of accomplishment really goes a long way…I want other people to feel that joy and build those friendships and feel that confidence.”

Search @IHjuniorstriclub on Facebook for more information.

MAY 2022

// 47 //

HE S ' SO ILL PROFILE

STORY JARRETT VAN METER PHOTOGRAPHY BILL SITZMANN

DESIGN MATT WIECZOREK

[Here Comes A Warning, He Can't Be Killed]

When watching someone f lying an ultralight at 6,600 feet on a partly cloudy day, held aloft by a parachute and a prayer, most people f ind certain words come to mind: foolhardy, insane, or totally cool. Opinions vary, but those who meet Blake Bochnicek of Papillion often find this 32-year-old Army veteran to be an eccentric-but-competent adventurer.

Bochnicek gained notoriety on TikTok starting in Januar y as @OliveIron23 (also on YouTube). His first video shows him over a cloud shelf with the ground far below calmly talking about idling and practicing an unpowered descent.

Bochnicek has made social media success look effortless, with roughly 23 million TikTok views and more than 4 million likes since posting the f irst time on New Year’s Day. // 48 //

MAY 2022

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PROFILE

"There are people who come up to me in every parking lot I'm in and say something about how cool it is or how inspiring it is knowing there are just people out here who enjoy driving weird things."

-Blake Bochnicek Bochnicek’s first high-flying video has been so popular that other TikTokkers have boosted their popularity by sharing reaction videos of appearing agog at his bravery, demonstrating that one way to become popular on TikTok is to be great at finding and watching other people’s popular videos. Bochnicek said he has seen TikTok accounts boost their own popularity by thousands of views.

“I saw one woman had over 40,000 views just for reposting my first video with her own reaction. Wherever they’ve been posting it, it’s just generating a whole lot of attention,” Bochnicek said, laughingly noting even Flat-Earthers on Reddit have used it. “I suppose it depends on your perspective.”

The difference between 6,000 and 30,000 feet seems negligible whether one has a head for heights or not. The day Bochnicek flew, the sky was smokey from wildfires and a scattering of clouds partially obscuring terra firma. Either way, a free fall would’ve resulted in a beautiful swan dive ending with a wet thwack. But, much like his inspiration, James Bond, Bochnicek has no fear.

“I’ve been flying the ultralight for about eight years,” said Bochnicek, who bought the aircraft on Craigslist with insurance money from a car crash. “I’d see one flying around once in a while and it sparked this memory from The World is not Enough. And I thought, ‘man, I’d really like to do that.’”

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Bochnicek went for a joy ride on a twoseater demonstration model with an instructor and loved it.

“I looked around and I was amazed, checking things out. I was kind of speechless,” Bochnicek said. A few grand later he was the proud owner of his own 007-inspired aircraft. With his mechanical experience from the Army, he’s been able to do all the work on the experimental plane himself.

Bochnicek’s mom, Patti Bochnicek, said she had issues with her high-flying son taking to the clouds, but with some trepidation, she had to give in to her inner daredevil as well.

“I had my concerns as any mother would, but I went up with his instructor to check it out,” Patti said. “I’m not that great with heights myself, but it wasn’t too bad.”

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Hunter Willimon has been friends with Bochnicek since they were grade-schoolers at Rumsey Station Elementary in Papillion, pulling stunts for their own amusement.

“When we were kids, Bochnicek had a four wheeler and we pushed a Volkswagen Rabbit with no engine or brakes downhill on his street,” Willimon said. “We ran into the stop sign, and had to tow it back up to the house. His mom was really not happy.”

In addition to being a new media sensation, Bochnicek is also a volunteer with Disabled American Veterans and a collector with a yard full of military and unique civilian vehicles of American, Russian, Ukrainian, and German manufacture.

Among those in his collection: a KaiserJeep M109A3 “Deuce and a Half ” (a mobile repair shop now converted for camping), a 1981 Soviet VAZ 2101 Zhiguli civilian motor car, a Ukrainian military 1985 KMZ MB650 Dnepr sidecar motorcycle, a 1985 German military Mercedes Benz 1017A flatbed, and a 2010 U.S. Marine light-strike General Dynamics M1161 Growler—sans machine gun.

Bochnicek said his ultimate satisfaction will come from creating a lifestyle that gives other people as much pleasure from what he does as he takes from living it. Luckily for Bochnicek, whether intended or not, he’s becoming an internet influencer—a lucrative career in itself.

“The end goal is to be able to travel around a little bit and just make videos, live life, and make people smile, honestly,” Bochnicek said. “That, to me, has been ever more fulfilling than anything I’ve done for work ever, just helping people and making people happy, giving them experiences riding around in any of these pieces of equipment they would be unlikely to ever get that experience with. There are people who come up to me in every parking lot I’m in and say something about how cool it is or how inspiring it is knowing there are just people out here who enjoy driving weird things.”

Search for @OliveIron23 on TikTok for Bochnicek’s videos.

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MAY 2022

// 51 //

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// GIVING FEATURE // STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

Service Members Keep Service Mindset

T

he brotherhood of the U.S. Marine Corps is exemplified by the military branch’s motto: semper fi (from the Latin semper fidelis or always faithful).

Many local marine veterans attest to this bond. Duane Tunnyhill, age 96, is a World War II veteran who fought on Iwo Jima in the Pacific and saw duty in occupied Japan.

Leroy Andresen, age 90, is a Korean War veteran. They still feel a part of the “jarhead” family with the help of the Marine Corps League.

There are several ways the league members help one another. Jerry Boganowski is the commandant of the League’s area Miguel Keith Detachment 609 and a veteran of the Iraq War. He started a tradition during the pandemic of doing a birthday drive-by for members ages 90 and older. Boganowski leads a convoy in his surplus military jeep and trailer and sets the pace for the flag waving and horn honking in front of the honoree’s home.

Tunnyhill was particularly touched by the drive-by for his 95th birthday in 2021, since he’d just returned home from a hospital stay.

The members also deliver an oversized card with the standard Marine gift: beer. “The Marine Corps and beer, you can’t be without ’em, never apart,” Tunnyhill quipped.

Andresen appreciated that, on his birthday last year, the members who convoyed to his place swapped tales with him in his driveway.

“It was kind of nice,” Andresen said.

Tunnyhill was also feted last November at the annual celebration of the Marine Corps birthday honoring the oldest and youngest Marines. A natural storyteller, he entertained the assembled throng with anecdotes from his wartime and postwar experiences, sprinkling in some colorful language. As he said, “There’s the English language and then there’s Marine language.”

“If any Marine that’s active in the Corps or retired, that’s in the League or not, needs our help, he’d get it.”

-Duane Tunnyhill // 54 //

MAY 2022

Social, Community, Charitable A monthly League breakfast draws members of diverse ages and campaigns. They cook twice a year for a Marine Corps Reserve unit on the Fort Omaha campus and bring a presence to processions and funerals for fallen Marines. Members band together to clean up Marine memorial sites and participate in Toys for Tots drives.

“About 12 years ago I had to have a pacemaker put in,” Tunnyhill said. “I happened to mention the fact to the Marine Corps League, I let them know I had some leaves in my yard that had to be moved and someone said, ‘When do you want ’em moved?’ I said Saturday would be fine, and 15 Marines showed up and cleaned up my yard for me.”

Perhaps most importantly, however, the League is a resource for members if they need assistance.

Other times, the League raises money from its ranks to make donations for Marines or

First row left to right: Ed Baker, Phil Haines, Doc Boldt, Florentino Vasquez, LeRoy Andresen, Kurt Geschwender Seated at the table: Commandant Boganowski, Col. Georgia Parment, Chuck Real, Roy Edwards Standing back row: Vincent Reyes, Dave Warren, Brad Lorentzen, Aviar Zeltins, Tom Bizzarri, Joel Rogers, Duane Tunnyhill, Yuri Blazauskas and his son Andrew

families of Marines in need, including a Marine whose family’s home burned down.

“The nature of the need determines the response,” Boganowski added. “If you’re a Marine and the need is legitimate, the League will do whatever it can to help you.”

Andresen got an offer of assistance when members learned his late wife was battling cancer. He declined the offer only because he had family to assist, but he appreciated the gesture.

“They’re always there for you if you’re sick, you need help, you need a meal, you need your lawn cut, your house painted,” Andresen said. “They’ll come, you can count on it, they’ll be there.”

Tunnyhill agreed, saying, “If any Marine that’s active in the Corps or retired, that’s in the League or not, needs our help, he’d get it.”

Andresen echoed Tunnyhill in saying this intense esprit de corps never wanes.

“We were trained to take care of each other,” Andresen said. “That’s why we’re always Marines. We just take care of each other all the time. We never speak of ourselves in the past. The bond continues. At my age, it’s a privilege to have that camaraderie of Marine brothers in my life. It’s not my whole life, but it’s part of it." continued on pg.60 MAY 2022

// 55 //

GIVING CALENDAR MAY 20 2 2

May

03

D.J.’s Heroes Awards BENEFITING: SALVATION ARMY

Location: CHI Health Center

This annual benefit for the Salvation Army will feature speakers Dr. Tom Osborne, former Creighton athletic director Bruce Rasmussen, and Omaha native David Sokol. Started in 2001, The Salvation Army of Omaha has awarded 172 D.J.’s Hero Awards scholarships to Nebraska high school seniors who exemplify D.J. Sokol’s perseverance, selflessness, and servant-leadership.

—centralusa.salvationarmy.org

FEATURED EVENT

May 1

May 7

May 12

Benefiting: ALS in the Heartland

Benefiting: Brownell Talbot

Benefiting: Chariots 4 Hope

WALK AND RALLY FOR HOPE

Location: Baxter Arena —alsintheheartland.org

BROWNELL TALBOT CARNIVAL Location: Brownell Talbot —brownell.edu

May 5

May 7

Benefiting: Kids Can

Benefiting: Omaha Children’s Museum

CAN DO LUNCHEON Location: —kidscan.org

May 12

Location: Omaha Children’s Museum —ocm.org

Benefiting: College Possible

May 7

Benefiting: Memories for Kids

Benefiting: Micah House

Location: Online —memoriesforkids.org

May 6

LEADERS FOR LIFE LUNCHEON

Benefiting: Creighton University Female Student-Athletes Location: DJ Sokol Arena —creighton.edu

Location: Peter Fink’s American Muscle Car Museum —chariots4hope.org

FOR THE KIDS BENEFIT

May 5 (Virtual)

CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA

FEEL THE FREEDOM

CHAMPAGNE AND DIAMONDS Location: Mid-America Center —themicahhouse.org

May

09

May 9

MADONNA GOLF CLASSIC

Benefiting: Madonna School

Location: Eagle Run Golf Course —madonnaschool.org

May 10

10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

May

12

Location: Scott Conference Center —college possible.org

May 13

FORE THE CLUBS GOLF OUTING

Benefiting: Boys & Girls Club of the Midlands

Location: Fox Run Golf Course —bgcomaha.org

May 13

ALL CARE HEALTH CENTER BLOOD DRIVE WITH RED CROSS

Benefiting: Red Cross

May 6

25TH ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION DINNER

Location: All Care Health Center —redcrossblood.org

Benefiting: Habitat for Humanity

Location: Champions Run —projectextramile.org

May 13

May 10-12

Benefiting: 100 Black Men of Omaha

WOMEN’S POWER LUNCHEON Location: Hilton Omaha —habitatomaha.org

May 6

BROWNELL TALBOT SOIREE

Benefiting: Brownell Talbot

Location: Cottonwood Hotel —brownell.edu

May 7

REMEMBRANCE WALK AND KITE FESTIVAL

Benefiting: Collective for Hope Location: Miller’s Landing —thecollectiveforhope.org

May 7

CABARET 2022

Benefiting: The Child Saving Institute

Location: Embassy Suites-La Vista —childsaving.org/newsevents/cabaret

// 56 //

MAY 2022

Benefiting: Project Extra Mile

DO GOOD DAYS 2022

Benefiting: Various nonprofits

MEN OF HONOR

Location: Hilton Omaha —100blackmenomaha.org

Location: varies —shareomaha.org

May 14

May 11

Benefitting: The Rose Theater

GO BEYOND GOLF CHALLENGE

Benefiting: Go Beyond

ROCKIN’ ROSIE

Location: Omaha Mariott Downtown —rosetheater.org

Location: Quarry Oaks Golf Course —gobeyondne.org/golf

May 14

May 12

Benefiting: Local Food Banks

CHIPPING FOR CHILDREN GOLF OUTING

Benefiting: Children’s Square USA Location: Topgolf Omaha —childrenssquare.org

STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE

Location: personal homes (mail carriers will pick up food) —stampouthungerfooddrive.us

// GIVING CALENDAR //

COUNSELING CONNECTIONS & ASSOCIATES

May 14

WEAR YELLOW RIDE, RUN & WALK

Benefiting: Wear Yellow Nebraska

Location: Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum —wearyellownebraska.org

May 14 WALK MS

Benefiting: National MS Society Location: TBD —nationalmssociety.org

May 14

GREATER OMAHA HEART AND STROKE WALK

Benefiting: American Heart Association Location: Miller’s Landing —heart.org

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2022 First Place

2022 First Place

May 16

SWING FOR THE SPECTRUM GOLF BENEFIT

Benefiting: Autism Action Partnership

Location: Shadow Ridge Country Club —autismaction.org

May 17-19

#1 Counseling Services

DO GOOD DAYS

Benefiting: SHARE Omaha Location: online —shareomaha.org

May 18

ICAN WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

18

Location: CHI Health Center Omaha —icanconference.com

May 18-22

NEBRASKA SPECIAL OLYMPICS SUMMER GAMES

Benefiting: Special Olympics Location: Varies —sone.org

May 20

15TH ANNUAL REBUILDING THE VILLAGE CONFERENCE

Benefiting: Empowerment Network

Location: CHI Health Center Omaha —empoweromaha.com

May 20

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May

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Kristi Tackett-Newburg, PhD, LIMHP Lucy Hancock, MA Marilyn Erickson, APRN Marty Stoltenberg, APRN-BC Mary Loftis, LMHP, CPC Michele Yanney-Wehbi, LIMHP, CPC Nicole Obrecht, LIMHP Peggy Deaver, LIMHP, CPC Salina Anderson, APRN Sarah Wenzl, LMHP, CPC

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NSAA UNIFIED STATE TRACK & FIELD

Benefiting: NSAA Unified

PEDICURE • MANICURE • SHELLAC DIPPING POWDER ARTIFICIAL NAILS • NAIL ART WAXING • VERSAPRO SUNLESS TANNING

Location: Burke High School —sone.org

May 21

NAMIWALKS NEBRASKA

Benefiting: NAMI Nebraska

Exemplary Educators, Super Students, & More in each edition of FamilyGuide.

Location: Virtual —naminebraska.org

ure & Pedicu nic re Ma

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VOTED #1 FOR 11 YEARS

May 21

2022 First Place

GREAT STRIDES

Benefiting: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Location: Stinson Park —fightcf.cff.org

Kendra Steiner

Featured in FamilyGuide’s 2020 Issue

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MAY 2022

// 57 //

// GIVING CALENDAR // May 21

WALK TO CURE ARTHRITIS

Benefiting: Arthritis Foundation

Location: —walktocurearthritis.org/nebraska

May 21

Savor the experience

COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP CHALLENGE

May

Benefiting: Global Leadership Group Community Garden

21

Location: The garden, 3118 N. 24th St. —globalleadershipgroupomaha.org

May 22

AFRICAN CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Benefiting: Eat ’N’ Talk Africa

Location: Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha —eatntalkafrica.org

May 22

5K AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Benefiting: Life Launch Academy

Location: Chalco Hills Recreation Area —lifelaunchacademy.org

May 24

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GOLF INVITATIONAL

Benefiting: Project Harmony

Location: Indian Creek Golf Course —projectharmony.com

May 24

CHANCE LUNCHEON

Benefiting: Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha Location: Embassy Suites-La Vista —csfomaha.org

May 26

THE OSCA’S

Scan to Join Our Dental Health Club & Start Saving Today

Benefiting: Omaha Sports Commission Location: CHI Health Center Omaha —omahasports.org

May 30

MEMORIAL DAY RUN

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// 58 //

MAY 2022

Benefiting: Boys Town

Location: Boys Town and virtual —memorialdayrun.com Visit omahamagazine.com for complete listings.

Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

ody Rep to B air Au

ody Rep to B air Au

2022 First Place

2022 First Place

1ST PLACE 17 STR AIGHT YEARS!

“We’d Rather Be The Best Than Apologize for Anything Less.”

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SETTING THE STANDARD IN COLLISION REPAIR 402.558.3500 Corner of 50th & South Saddlecreek

402-502-8757 Southwest Corner of 144th & Industrial Rd

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// 59 //

// GIVING FEATURE //

continued from pg.55

“The Marine Corps and beer, you can’t be without ,em, never apart.”

-Duane Tunnyhill Andresen continued, “I feel quite comfortable being around them. I love to exchange stories with them. You absolutely can relate to some of the stories you hear because you’ve been through it yourself.”

Last year, League members joined Wounded Warrior volunteers in delivering personal care supplies to at-risk veterans residing at Victory Apartments in Omaha, and before the pandemic, members visited residents of the Eastern Nebraska Veterans Home in Bellevue to share conversation.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

Tunnyhill has served as the League’s detachment commandant twice and state commandant once. Today he’s limited to drive-bys and breakfasts, where he holds court.

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“If Duane starts talking, everyone else at the table clams up,” Boganowski said of those breakfast gatherings at the Hy-Vee on 96th and Q streets. “It’s out of respect and on account of he’s probably going to tell you something extremely interesting that you’ll never hear anywhere else. I’m a history buff and when I found out he fought on Iwo Jima and he’s the senior member in our group, I was kind of drawn to him. I have the utmost respect for the guy and I try to include him in all the things we do, and have the League do special things for him.”

Andresen only found out about the League late in life when he struck up a conversation with a fellow veteran he happened to meet while traveling. His curiosity aroused, Andresen went to a meeting and soon joined. He’s been a regular ever since.

Tunnyhill echoed Andresen in the belief that any Marine should know about the League because of what it can mean in their life.

It’s just like this together-forever family says: Never turn anyone away or leave anyone behind.

Search @MCLOmaha on Facebook to find more information.

@OmahaMagazine

// 60 //

MAY 2022

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“They truly gave my mother moments of joy.”

Kathy, Daughter of CountryHouse resident Moving her mom into assisted living was incredibly difficult for Kathy. So when she realized her mom needed even more advanced dementia care, she looked to CountryHouse for support. Not only did the team answer Kathy’s questions and help arrange a speedy move, but they took the time to really get to know her mom’s stories and interests.

“Kindness and respect are two words that come to my mind when I think of the caregivers at CountryHouse.”

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OMAHA’S

MAGAZINE

28,825 TREES & COUNTING Omaha Magazine, by partnering with PrintReleaf, has reforested 28,825 standard trees since April 2015.

OMAHAMAGAZINE.COM/PAGES/SUBSCRIBE MAY 2022 • 60 PLUS

// 61 //

60+ PROFILE

PUSHING FORWARD Couple’s Paths Lead to Ollie the Trolley

to find a building for eight “ Trying or nine trolleys is not easy. ” -George L. Davis Jr.

story by Kara Schweiss // photography By Bill Sitzmann // design by Derek Joy

n 2014, George L. Davis Jr. was working as a retail store manager following a unique career path that had branches in transportation and politics. His now-wife, Deb Skinner, was a development director for a health care foundation and had a background in marketing and tourism.

Davis was ready for a career change.

“I was dissatisfied. I didn’t see any opportunities for advancement and growth, and because I was already mature, I had graduate and postgraduate degrees,” he said. “I said, ‘I don’t have to stay here. I can do something different with my life that would give me satisfaction’…so we were talking and Deb said, ‘Why don’t we look at buying a business, and you tell the rest of the story?’”

The rest of the story began with their purchase (as Davis Entertainment) of Ollie the Trolley, which the couple have now co-owned for nearly eight years. They settled easily into their respective roles of Davis as general manager and Skinner as marketing director.

“It was a natural fit,” Skinner said. “Our backgrounds just came together with this.”

Margaret Dunn founded Ollie the Trolley in the mid-1980s as a single trolley, and, under a series of owners, the business grew over the years to multiple trolleys, which look like traditional streetcars and are outfitted with nostalgic details like wooden benches, but do not run on tracks or use a pole to draw power from an overhead wire. Davis and Skinner manage a fleet of nine trolleys today with names like Ollie (of course), and the rhyming Polly and Guacamollie—but also Porkchop, Buttercup, and Trolley Brown. Drivers must have a commercial driver’s license to operate the trolleys, which carry a maximum of 32 to 47 passengers, depending on the specific vehicle. The business consists of a variety of private charters and public tours and peaks in the summer with a staff of around 20, but runs on a varying scale year-round.

“We have heated trolleys, and in the summertime, we have four trolleys that are openair and the others are all air-conditioned,” Davis said.

The trolleys are especially popular for wedding parties, with as many as 600 bookings a year, and for other private bookings like corporate events and personal celebrations for 15 or more participants.

Ollie the Trolley public tours include Haunted Cemetery tours, led by trained historians (including Davis, who dresses up like an undertaker) that feature local cemeteries and infamous locales from Omaha’s “Wicked City” period. Taco Tequila Tuesday tours highlight South Omaha and a tour guide with a mariachi background teaches participants a few new songs during the ride. Other public tours include River City History tours in partnership with The Durham Museum, Bloody Mary Brunch and Tours on Saturdays, and seasonal College World Series and Holiday Lights tours. The company’s newest offerings—introduced this spring—are Beer, Barbeque & Bourbon tours that include visits to Nebraska Brewing Co. and Soldier Valley Spirits, along with stops for food and activities like indoor golf.

Davis and Skinner have been together for a decade and married in 2019. They both grew up in Omaha but spent years away from the community for work.

Skinner was in Wisconsin for 20 years, as owner of Skinner's Riverside Marina in Marinette for seven years and as a tourism marketing consultant for the state for 13 years. She returned to Omaha in 2003 to work for the Convention & Visitors Bureau followed by later positions in marketing and development. Davis served as a presidential appointee in the George H. Bush Administration at the Federal Department of Transportation.

“I’ve walked with presidents and I’ve helped the homeless,” he said. Davis remained in Washington, D.C., for another decade before returning to Omaha in the mid-1990s.

“When I came back from the Bush administration, I went into banking for a short period of time. Then I became assistant mayor in Omaha for Hal Daub, as well as his civil rights director,” Davis said. “Then, when I left his administration, for a short while I managed the small business network. I taught business classes and political science classes at Metro [Community College] and I enjoyed teaching for 11 years.”

Davis’ resume also includes seven years with Union Pacific and three with Federal Express, and the stint in retail management before he and Skinner bought Ollie the Trolley.

“Two people with no money had no business buying a business,” Skinner said, with Davis laughing heartily in response. “But we had great resumes, so we were able to get a loan and buy the business.”

Ollie the Trolley’s tagline is “all about fun,” but the journey has had some detours, like when the business had to move twice when buildings it leased space in were sold. “Trying to find a building for eight or nine trolleys is not easy,” Davis said, adding that the fleet is now comfortably ensconced at 1716 Cuming St., just north of downtown. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the successful business had to abruptly put on the brakes. Fortunately, grants and loans kept things moving.

“We had to hang on,” Davis said. “We were able to survive it and keep going.”

Now they’re rolling along again nicely.

“We’re an Omaha icon and the business has been around 37 years now,” Skinner said.

“We think this is going to be our biggest year ever.”

Visit olliethetrolley.com for more information.

MAY 2022 • 60 PLUS

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“I MISS THAT IT GAVE KIDS SOMETHING TO DO OTHER THAN L O O K A T A S C R E E N .”

-K EL LY W I T T

he year is 1988. It’s Kelly Witt’s senior year of high school, and she is riding high. Well, roller skating high is a more apt description. Witt whips and whizzes past her peers on the rink. It’s all a swirl of twinkling lights above and neon fashion to her left and right.

With each lap around Skateland’s slick wooden floor, she picks up momentum.

Faster and faster she goes. At this point in time—in this little corner of a thenOmaha cornerstone—Witt and her roller buddies are skate stars. The 17-year-old didn’t know it yet, but she is living and racing through a piece of history. One that’s soon to fade away in the coming decades like disco and drive-ins before it.

“It was my whole childhood. I remember skating all the time,” Witt said. “I was the one who went around the edge really, really fast, dancing and dipping around.

Me and my girlfriends, that was our perfect Friday night.”

CERNIK CRE ATED A ROLLER-SK ATING REVOLUTION IN OMAHA, WITH THE REST OF T HE COUN T RY SHOR T LY FOLLOWING AS HE SOLD HIS BLUEPRINTS NATIONWIDE. In fact, the Irvington location was the third metro Skateland to be opened in a total of six. Frank Cernik opened the first off of 108th and Q streets in 1967.

Black-and-white illustrated advertisements for its grand opening read “Take a family fun break!”

Business soon exploded—and Omaha became one of the birthplaces for the roller disco boom in the 1970s.

Funky 1980s music blaring. Disco balls hanging overhead. The girls attempting sleek, gliding skating tricks to impress the boys and vice versa. Donahue remembers it all.

Her friends group wasn’t limited to her classmates. She had a crew that spanned citywide as kids from different schools flocked to the rink and bonded over their love of lacing up.

“I met so many people…kids from all over,” Donahue said. “Everybody who went week-to-week wanted to have the best skates. We’d have different color skate wheels or decorate the inside of our roller shoe cases with collages of magazine clippings. It was a big deal.”

Though Witt was hanging rink-side half a city away, she too remembers kids’ drive to express their creativity by dressing up their skates and cases.

60+ NOSTALGIA • STORY BY SEAN ROBINSON • PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED • DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

Rolling Along THE BYGONE CRAZE OF ROLLER RINKS IN OMAHA

Once upon a time, from the years of about 1960 to 2000, roller rinks were the place to see and be seen. Witt was just one of hundreds of Omaha residents who reveled in the golden era of this pastime. Invoking nostalgia and notions of the past, roller skating was all the rage for metro kids looking to have a good time on Friday and Saturday nights.

From all corners of the country, rink operators came to see what this fella in Nebraska was doing so right. It’s because his state-of-the art rink wasn’t designed like those from the 1940s and 1950s.

According to family information, his had many firsts in the industry, including “panda parties” where kids could win stuffed animals by inviting friends.

“Oh, I had the biggest pom-poms on my skates,” Witt said. “And there were bells and everything was puffy. Imagine me in those and my bell bottoms. What a look.”

“It was an every weekend night thing.

Sometimes Sunday days, too,” Witt said.

“There was even overnight skate occasionally where you’d be there until 6 in the morning. It amazed me because this was the one place we all went and hung out.

Good times, man.”

Cernik created a roller-skating revolution in Omaha, with the rest of the country shortly following as he sold his blueprints nationwide. Located off 132nd and Grover streets, Skatedaze was Cernik’s last Omaha rink to open and the last to close, operating from 1982 until 2019.

Their favorite hotspots have closed—as have almost every other roller rink in the city. The only place still inviting people to spend a night on wheels is Skate City off Fort Crook Road in Bellevue.

Witt and her friends called Skateland off Irvington Road their weekend home away from home. Her mom worked as the ticket taker, and her high school beau was a skate guard. (Think lifeguard but on roller wheels.)

This was hardly the only place Omaha residents were letting the good times roll.

“Skatedaze was where we belonged,” Jen Donahue said. “It just felt like we as kids always had a place to go in the ’80s, especially if you were one of the regulars.

It wasn’t like going to the mall where it was just a ton of random people walking around. You had your people you knew.”

Witt and Donahue may have hung up their skates decades ago, but their memories of pom-poms and parties at the rink live on.

“I miss the exercise of it all now as an adult,” Witt said. “I miss that it gave kids something to do other than look at a screen. We were interacting. We were getting a workout in. We were having the time of our lives and didn’t even know it.”

Visit skatecitybellevue.com for more information.

MAY 2022 • 60 PLUS

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60+ ACTIVE LIVING // STORY BY BRODY HILGENKAMP PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

g n i d i Rith iends w Fr

LAZURE SPREADS THE MESSAGE TO BRING CYCLISTS TOGETHER L

ee Lazure was always physically active, running for a number of years until his knees started hurting. That’s when he decided he needed a new way to occupy his time and keep moving. He considered indoor pastimes, but was drawn to the outdoors; hunting or fishing didn’t provide much social interaction.

Bicycling, however, checked all the boxes. It also granted him a new life endeavor and a new community.

Lazure, 77, began his cycling journey nearly two decades ago when he bought a TREK 7200 Hybrid and started riding three or four miles per outing. He realized he liked riding because he could listen to music while he rode, and it was an enjoyable way to meet people.

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“Everybody who’s on a bicycle seems to get along with everybody else, and it’s a great social activity as well to just exercise,” he said.

»

“IT’S ENJOYABLE TO RIDE BY YOURSELF, BUT IT’S PERHAPS EVEN MORE ENJOYABLE WHEN YOU RIDE WITH A GROUP OF PEOPLE AND YOU STOP TO HAVE SOMETHING TO EAT, HAVE COFFEE OR BEER AND YOU CAN RIDE WITH EACH OTHER AS YOU’RE

”

GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY.

LEE LAZURE

// 60+ Active Living // FTER A FEW YEARS, LAZURE GOT MORE INVOLVED WITH THE OMAHA CYCLING COMMUNITY THROUGH THE OMAHA PEDALERS BICYCLE CLUB, AND EVENTUALLY HE BECAME THE VICE PRESIDENT OF BICYCLE RIDE ACROSS NEBRASKA, A 400-PLUS-MILE RACE THAT OCCURS EVERY JUNE.

The Omaha Pedalers organize rides «throughout the Omaha area. Some of the

rides are weekly outings, such as joining the Taco Ride on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in Iowa, “Rusty Spokes” rides on Thursday mornings, or Saturday rides from Waterloo to Fremont and back. The group also organizes signature rides like the Great American Pie Ride—scheduled for May 21—tours of historic landmarks throughout Omaha, and rides to vineyards.

Camaraderie and community hooked Lazure because the rides are accessible to all levels of cyclists, from those who want to ride fast to those who pedal at a more leisurely pace.

“They’re just open to anybody and everybody. No one is left behind,” Lazure said.

“They’re a social event as opposed to a race.”

Lazure begins each year hopping on one of his three bikes during warm days in January and February, if weather and trail conditions permit. As the spring progresses, he’ll start doing hill training on the stretch of Highway 75 that runs from Omaha to Fort Calhoun and Blair. Eventually he’ll work his way up to 90 or 100 miles a week during the peak riding season of the summer months. All of the outings organized by Omaha Pedalers and the motivation to ride in BR AN, which Lazure has done nine times, mean Lazure easily rides 2,700 miles in a year. His personal record is 4,104 miles in a year.

“It’s enjoyable to ride by yourself, but it’s perhaps even more enjoyable when you ride with a group of people and you stop to have something to eat, have coffee or beer and you can ride with each other as you’re going down the highway,” he said.

Kim and Doug Scherlie have worked closely with Lazure in promoting the cycling community in Omaha, Kim as the president of Omaha Pedalers and Doug as the president of BRAN. “Lee was always there to help out,” Kim said. “He’s always been a really good supporter.”

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60 PLUS • MAY 2022

Lazure’s biggest impact, they said, has been in promoting BR AN. Lazure first rode in BR AN in 2010, and years later, when he came on board as vice president, he took over the public relations responsibilities. Ridership had fallen into the 300s, because as riders aged out or developed other interests there weren’t new riders coming in to replace them. The previous group that organized BR AN, Northwest Rotary Club of Omaha, had seen its membership decline and no longer had the manpower to organize the event, Doug said.

The Omaha Pedalers took over organizing BR AN in 2018.

“There really had not been a whole lot of work done to reach out to people, to advertise what BR AN was about,” Lazure said.

He didn’t have much experience in marketing but had taken some classes in graduate school. His first idea was to place advertisements in magazines like Bicycling and Adventure Cyclist. To accomplish this, he secured grants from the Nebraska Tourism Commission to pay for the advertising. He also enhanced communication with local media, and developed posters and other material to display at bike shops and wellness exhibitions. BR AN has also started advertising on social media. The result was a notable increase in riders—425 rode in 2019, the last year BR AN was held.

“He’s been really good about writing stuff and promoting it, and he’ll call you up and he’s like, ‘Hey, can I knock [an idea] around on you?’” Kim said.

Lazure said his favorite part of working with BR AN is the interaction with the BR AN committee, all of whom are volunteers. The event requires coordination with seven different towns that will have to accommodate more than 400 people in an evening. “You get to know the people in the smaller communities in Nebraska, and they are just wonderful people to work with. They really add to the ride,” he said.

This year’s BR AN will be June 5-11 from Alliance to Wahoo, with stops in Hyannis, Thedford, Callaway, Ord, St. Edward, and Shelby. The course is 424 miles, and the longest stretch is from Thedford to

Callaway at 82 miles. It’s the 40th BR AN and is dubbed BR AN 40.2 because the event was canceled the past two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lazure worked in human resources for 43 years, and he retired in 2015 from his role as the personnel director for Douglas County, one he had held for 10 years. He found his experience working in human resources applied to promoting BR AN because both revolved around recruiting and developing relationships with people.

“When you work in the human resources profession, a lot of times you’re dealing with really complicated issues and problems, and in a way getting into the [cycling] organizations and the clubs and so on, I could see where there were a lot of things that could be done for the benefit of the sport and for the benefit of the people,” he said. “In HR, you are an advocate for the employee to make sure they’re well taken care of so you can retain them. In HR, you’re constantly trying to take care of the most important asset of the company.”

The Scherlies said Lazure’s work experience is an asset to BR AN. “He not only helps us get the ride going but then he thinks about the post-ride: what we need to do, what we need to ask, what worked well and what didn’t work well?” Kim said.

It’s obvious Lazure enjoys devoting his mental and physical energy to cycling because he is always interacting with people on rides and is so proactive in promoting BR AN, the Scherlies said.

“There’s an old saying, when you get off the bike you feel younger,” Doug said. “...

It frees the mind and the soul to do a lot of things and it gives you a lot of time to think, but it also affords you the ability to communicate and hang out with a lot of other people too.”

Lazure agreed: “When you retire you kind of feel like, 'Well, what am I going to do next?' And here cycling was a sport that provided enjoyment, it provided people interaction.”

Visit bran-inc.org for more information.

// OBVIOUSLY OMAHA //

01

STORY BY LINDA PERSIGEHL // PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

SIX ADVENTUROUS HOBBIES AND WHERE TO TRY THEM

T

aking up an adventurous new hobby can provide a range of mental and physical benefits. It might entail aerobic activity that’s great for cardiovascular health, or mandate overcoming a fear. It can enhance brain function by having to learn a new set of skills, or even stimulate dopamine release in the brain, making one happier. Or maybe it just helps to create better work-life balance. Here are six adventurous hobbies to consider and where to try them.

1

DRESSAGE

prairiegemstables.com | jfequestrian.com Defined as training a horse to perform special, carefully controlled movements as directed by the rider, dressage is seen as an art form by some. Learning balance, control, and quiet communication with the animal takes practice and expertise. Prairie Gem Stables and Coda Cavallo Riding Academy are two places that offer group or private lessons in dressage, both English and Western varieties. Riders can learn to refine their horsemanship skills and master the techniques, or may even prepare to compete in the show ring.

2

FLYING AN AIRPLANE

oracleaviation.com

Pilots understand that controlling an aircraft thousand of feet in the sky is exhilarating.

It provides a sense of freedom and a new perspective on the Earth below—but most of all, flying is simply the most fun. Learning to fly does require a huge time commitment, however, both in ground and in-air training hours. Oracle Aviation offers FAA-certified professional flight training to earn a pilot’s license for recreational use, or to become a pilot as a career. Lessons are offered at Millard Airport in Omaha.

3

ROCK CLIMBING

omaharockgym.com | unomaha.edu

Rock climbing is a test of mind and body, requiring planning and strategy as well as physical strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Approach Climbing Gym offers certifiedinstructor-led top rope classes for those 14 and older, as well as adults-only classes in bouldering, top rope belay, and more on its 6,000-square-foot climbing wall. University of Nebraska at Omaha also provides rock climbing lessons and practice time, offered free to UNO students.

4

02

SCUBA DIVING

diventures.com | facebook.com/dreambluescuba Being immersed in beautiful marine life and feeling weightless—it’s easy to see why scuba diving is so addictive. DiVentures Aquatic Center offers a group introductory course for those 10 and older, and advanced classes for those with higher fitness and swimming skills in a 90-degree indoor pool year-round. The center provides the suit, gear, and certified instructors, and also plans diving trips in exotic locales. Dream Blue Scuba offers a wide range of educational scuba adventures as well.

5

SKYDIVING

03

04

skydivelspc.com | skydive402.com There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as freefalling at speeds of up to 120 mph, then deploying a parachute and floating down to earth like a bird. Lucky Chuck Skydiving in Bellevue and Lincoln Sport Parachute Club offer lessons by certified instructors for the beginner who wants to tandem jump, as well as instruction to become a licensed skydiver, in both accelerated free-fall and static line methods.

Adventurers can find their inner adrenaline junkie and sign up for a jump this summer.

6

TARGET SHOOTING

88tactical.com | athenafirearms.com Shooting a firearm can be empowering for those who are well-trained and confident.

Whether it’s to improve marksmanship for hunting, self-defense readiness, or simply for the challenge, there are many reasons to take target shooting lessons at a range. The company 88 Tactical offers more than a dozen firearm classes, from precision rifle to handgun to competitive shooting, at its indoor readiness center and range. Athena Arms in Bellevue also offers personal training sessions on accuracy coaching and defensive shooting skills.

MAY

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2022

05 06

DINING FEATURE // STORY BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

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MAY 2022

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Cooking, Managing, Brewing Jaipur Owner Does it All

g

Gazing at the crystal balls extending from the ceiling at 5018 Underwood Ave., a patron might wonder if the dining experience they are about to have at The Jaipur in Dundee will be similar to one at The Jaipur in Rockbrook Village. That answer is yes.

On a blustery Tuesday night in late March, the new location was about one-third full of diners. People at the tables inquired about the style of food (North Indian) and what was on the menu. They inquired what the wait staff enjoys eating. They themselves found the food enjoyable.

A plate of rice with visible fragrant spices and aloo gobi (cauliflower and potatoes) came out steaming hot. A plethora of cilantro on top added a hint of green to an otherwise dreary spring day, but the large pane windows and aforementioned crystal balls on the chandeliers—a holdover from the previous Paragon and Kith and Kin restaurants—ensured ample lighting.

MAY 2022

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The quality of the dish was much the same as a plate of Bengan Bearta consumed at the Rockbrook location a few days earlier. The roasted eggplant dish—sautéed with ginger, garlic, spices, and potatoes—includes jalapeño as one of the ingredients, but diners do not notice any spicy heat from the dish. The fragrant white rice showed a green cardamom pod sticking out. At both places, a diner can discover flavor without heat and sip wine or spiced chai in view of a large mural of a tiger being hunted. That carefully cultivated attention to American palates is a source of pride for Jaipur owner Gyanendra Bhandari.

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MAY 2022

Bhandari started cultivating these recipes for the restaurant in the early 2000s. He is originally from Nepal, where he was a lawyer, but came to America in the mid-1990s to attend college for the burgeoning field of computer engineering. He landed in New York City, but found the busy lifestyle did not work well with his studies. He bought his own limousine and drove part time while studying; his friends kept wanting him to go out for dinner, for drinks. He traveled to Omaha, then to Denver for a few months, and came back to complete his degree at Bellevue University.

Omaha, he said, had some of the nicest people on Earth, continuing that the support he found in Omaha was what brought him back to finish school here.

// DINING FEATURE //

Knowing that Americans are not as used to spicy food as Indians or Nepalis, he created meals that would be pleasing to those palates.

That’s when he worked at The Jaipur, which opened in 1992. He served food, bussed tables, and eventually became the chef. It was training that would serve him well when, in 2004, he offered to buy out then-owner Steve Gordon.

“I know the pain of all the staff,” Bhandari said. “I treat them the way I want to be treated. I know how it goes.”

He also knew the customer base.

Bhandari said, “I have no tourists, so the priority was to provide the best product and service [to Omahans].”

Knowing that Americans are not as used to spicy food as Indians or Nepalis, he created meals that would be pleasing to those palates.

The Jaipur easily accommodates this, as the cuisine of North India leans toward curries and breads while using mild to moderate spices such as cinnamon or cardamom. South Indian food tends to be spicier and is based on more rice or lentil-based dishes and stews.

Vindaloo, a popular dish, is meat cooked in a red gravy. The spiciness of a vindaloo traditionally comes from turmeric, coriander, cumin, curry powder, and other spices, including several Kashmiri chilis, a chili with a Scoville unit of 1,000-2,000.

Jalapeños, for reference, are generally 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville units. The dish packs some heat, but diners can always ask for their food prepared spicier.

An inquiry at the Dundee restaurant discovered there is one exception to that rule of everything being housemade—the three cakes, including an American-style carrot cake and the mango cheesecake—are not made there.

The two traditional Indian desserts—kheer (rice pudding with cardamom and cinnamon) and kulfi (mango ice cream)—are made in house. Bhandari said anything that is not sold that day goes home with the staff. It’s also why he never has a buffet.

Although the last couple of years have been hard on many in the restaurant business, Bhandari announced on Facebook The Jaipur was opening a second location in June 2021, and in December, they held a soft opening.

The Dundee space is about half the size of the Rockbrook restaurant.

Two dishes Bhandari recommends for those new to Indian food are chicken korma— chicken traditionally cooked with yogurt, ginger, garlic and milder spices such as turmeric and paprika—and Thimpu chicken— chicken cooked with cauliflower in creamy sauce. He recommends chicken tikka for children, who often don’t like gravies. On that dreary Tuesday in Dundee, a Caucasian toddler wearing a Batman sweatshirt was fed chicken tikka and rice from his mother’s plate and left it as clean as any toddler does.

“I was thinking of opening for a long time,” Bhandari said. “I was keeping an eye on that location.”

If those dishes still don’t work for a customer, there is always the fusion menu, which offers more American-style dishes such as blackened salmon with Indian spices and a tikka wrap.

While Jaipur customers can get a bottle of name-brand beer from the menu at the Dundee location, they could not get a Jaipur beer from a tap as of presstime, as they do not have their brews in Dundee. They also have liquors and wine available.

The attention to his customers’ tastes has brought in high-end clients.

“Warren Buffett has been here a couple of times. Don Bacon has been here,” said the affable owner. “Business owners in Omaha… they are my friends.”

Bhandari prides himself on the freshness of the food he serves. He said customers won’t find soups made from yesterday’s chicken or cream that is about two days from being out of date. He also said everything is made in-house.

A call from his realtor gave Bhandari the push to open that second site, giving a different group of Omahans a place to experience his food. Like Rockbrook, Dundee’s village vibe means the people who eat there are often those who live there. That’s why Bhandari said the majority of people coming to eat at Jaipur Dundee don't eat at the Rockbrook location.

While there are more than 30 Indian restaurants in Omaha, this stalwart of North Indian cuisine continues to find new patrons as people discover the flavors of India.

“The more Indian restaurants in town, the better it is for me,” Bhandari said. “If I continue to have good service, they will continue coming here.”

Visit jaipurindianfood.com for more information.

MAY 2022

// 73 //

74 CHEF PROFILE STORY DAVID ZORKO PHOTOGRAPHY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN MATT WIECZOREK

Big-City Flair, Small Town Living

CHEF JOEL MAHR BLOSSOMS Corning, Iowa, has a population of around 1,500 people—and one fine-dining restaurant with a chef who has cooked at the James Beard House in New York. “[Chef Joel Mahr] draws people to him. He has a need to learn and a willingness to teach, probably more than anyone else I know,” said Chef John Rea of Via Farina in describing his friend and former V. Mertz alum. Mahr is now the owner of Primrose, 619 Davis Ave. in Corning, Iowa.

Mahr’s beginnings were Wendy’s and KFCtype humble, but that start made an impression. He described “coordinated chaos…you got flames and people’s hands and knives moving all over and then, ya know, they just have this dance around themselves.” Mahr’s cooking roots go farther back than those fast food spots—he started learning from his grandmother, with whom he lived during his time as a latchkey kid while “Not his mother was in nursing school.

2. During his time at Lot 2, he was invited to cook for a special dinner at the aforementioned James Beard House. Then, Mahr took a significant step in setting out on his own.

Mahr had good influences. “My grandfather, he used to own a bar back in the day. I...never settled for all the places that I’ve worked at.

I always wanted to grow, ya know somehow, pretty quickly. If I was the guy on the fryer, I wanted to be on sauté…then it was like oh there’s a sous chef…then…oh you wanna be an executive chef, yeah…Once I got to being a head chef it was like the next step was to be an owner.”

Rea said about Mahr’s food, “It’s about the attention to detail. Taking something familiar, like fried chicken or a burger, and making it the best…you’ve ever had.” Primrose has a static lunch menu to satisfy the working person, and a seasonal menu in the evening.

Mahr is able to keep things fresh with his rotating menu and his garden producing seasonal vegetables.

“Not everybody is as lucky as we are...Where I find inspiration is those Sundays that I have to work in the garden. Well, I don’t have to, I choose to. Those days are great…It’s backbreaking work. To have an understanding of something, a granule of peppercorn, you’re making sure that they’re the perfect size that you want,” Mahr said. It’s also very rewarding when you can pick stuff at its [peak]. When you can sit there and try to gauge it and cuss Mother Nature out and praise her when she wants to be nice.”

everybody is as lucky as we are, we have a garden. Where I find inspiration is those Sundays that I have to work in the garden. Well, I don’t have to, I choose to. Those days are great.”

-Chef Joel Mahr

Mahr fondly remembers helping to make gravy for Thanksgiving and pot roast. He said he misses those nights when it’s “crisp in the air and you get something nice, warm, and comforting.” Mahr described that pot roast as his “Anthony Bourdain-like last meal, death-row kinda thing.” He still has a spoon from his grandmother, his first mixing spoon. “It’s always kinda funny how chefs are with their spoons,” Mahr relayed. Mahr’s Irish grandmother imparted her tastes and technique; and his German grandfather influenced a love of cuts of meat known as offal, such as liver and tripe.

Mahr required hand surgery about 20 years ago, and in a conversation with a doctor regarding the motor skills in that hand, Mahr said, “Well, I can still cut garlic with it.” The doctor, curious about Mahr’s culinary skills, asked if he could cook. That doctor connected him with a chef who was working at a restaurant in Elkhorn, which is where Mahr honed his restaurant chops. He then cemented his education by attending the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts program.

Mahr grew in friendship and knowledge at jobs from V. Mertz to the now-closed Lot

Mahr said in small-town Iowa, bankers think it humorous when approached about opening a restaurant. Banks number one through five turned him down. A loan officer at the fifth bank to turn them down had these cautionary words for Mahr: “Around here, nobody sees more than 50 people for lunch and about no more than 70 for supper. So I don’t know how you guys are planning on surviving.” Financing from bank number six helped prove them wrong. Primrose turned the tables and the covers that first day, as they served 95 tables, and one hour and 45 minutes after opening, they ran out of food. After that, Mahr reduced and refined the menu, as supplies can be harder to obtain away from the metro. As Mahr said, “It’s kind of an island out here.” The second day, Primrose sat around 70 tables, and they have continued to serve high numbers of customers.

Mahr still loves offal cuts, and Rea recalled his memory of Mahr taking “beef blends from scraps at the end of the night just to perfect the mix he wanted to use.” Yet he has been playing with vegetables as the main focus as of late.

Those seasonal ingredients are an opportunity in time to capture something special. Mahr’s philosophy about respecting ingredients is, “Whatever that ingredient is, [it] should be the star of it and then things that go along with that should coexist. Food should have a texture…maybe a cold element…something acidic…maybe something fatty.”

He continued, “There’s times where I want to make Clayton Chapman-type, [gourmet] food all the time and then there’s times where some people just want a good cheeseburger and I can respect that.”

Mahr’s food—like the chef—is familiar, and agreeable.

Visit @primrosecorning on Facebook for more information.

Fizzy’s

Fountain & Liquors

bright and happy P R O V I D E S

OLD-SCHOOL FEEL, N E W

D R I N K S

Hummingbird Ice Cream Cocktail

DINING REVIEW STORY TAMSEN BUTLER PHOTOGRAPHY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN MATT WIECZOREK

F Fizzy’s Fountain & Liquors in Little Bohemia opened in March 2020. This is an adult version of a classic soda fountain, featuring a vintage look and feel, plenty of drink options, and a menu of elevated diner food.

It’s a place to go for the quirkiness of it —certainly not for a quiet night out.

Rooster Sandwich

While it’s true that the eatery doesn’t allow minors, so there’s no danger of a tantrum-throwing toddler in the next booth over, Fizzy’s plays their music so loudly that the customers feel compelled to speak louder to be heard over the music—and the tables are very close together. So, instead of screaming children, there are nearly screaming adults and loud music that harkens back to the days of busy soda fountains.

77

DINING REVIEW

It’s also dark, but the quirkiness of the eatery makes it seem brighter. Customers order from phones attached to the wall instead of ordering from a server standing nearby with a notepad. We never saw the woman who took our orders via phone, but she was very nice.

The staff was attentive and kept our water glasses filled throughout the meal.

Every time we ordered something else, it was quickly brought to our table. On this night, my husband and I met with two friends at Fizzy’s for an old-fashioned double date to complement the vintage feel of the restaurant.

Vegan Burger

I ordered a vegan burger because, in my opinion, if an eatery can get a vegan burger right, the rest of their food must be pretty good, too. Fizzy’s vegan burger features a Beyond Meat patty with vegan cheese and a “special sauce” and pickles on a bun. It was a good dish, albeit a little salty for my taste, but I wasn’t disappointed.

My husband, who has never once ordered a vegan burger and certainly wasn’t going to start with this meal, ordered the Fizzy’s Double Cheeseburger featuring a wagyu beef patty along with all the typical burger fixings, including a “fancy sauce.” He said it was a good burger and thoroughly enjoyed it.

The shoestring fries served with a side of ketchup were a little hit-or-miss. Some of the fries were crispy and tasty while some were soggy and limp, but the presentation of the fries in a paper bag on a plate was a quirky and fun touch. We left no fry untouched.

My friend ordered a Hummingbird Song from the Ice Cream Cocktails menu.

It’s a cardamom-clove gin with mango, velvet falernum, and coconut ice cream from local favorite Coneflower Creamery.

She took her first sip and her eyes lit up.

I asked her if the drink was good and she breathed, “Oh, yeah” before taking another sip. Her husband ordered a Scriptown Nutjob Brown Ale, which he described as a “good, smooth, dark beer.”

The crescendo of the meal was dessert.The pie flavor that day was cherry-ginger, served warm with a scoop of Coneflower Creamery vanilla ice cream on top.

78

We all enjoyed seeing local sourcing on the cocktail and food menus. Like most Omahans, we want to see local places supporting other local places.

My friend and her husband enjoyed the sandwiches they ordered—a burger for her and a “Rooster” for him, which features a fried chicken thigh and fixings. All of us agreed the food was good and said we wouldn’t be opposed to eating there again sometime. We would just have to make sure it was on a night where we didn’t have to have any serious or private conversations, since that’s not what Fizzy’s is about. It’s an eatery designed for rambunctious fun and laughter in an adults-only setting.

Fizzy’s has an extensive menu of drinks, from beer and wine to house cocktail slushees and drinks like an Espresso Martini and a “Flying Chai”—a cocktail comprised of chai aged rum, honey, vanilla, lime, and Prosecco. Those looking for an interesting drink in a quirky place will find Fizzy’s is an excellent choice.

Island Boy Cocktail

Though we didn’t get the opportunity to visit during Fizzy’s “Hangover Brunch,” the menu for that is full of perfect foods for hangover recovery, such as biscuits and gravy, breakfast tacos, and plenty of booze options. They also host Happy Hour Wednesday through Saturday from 5-7 p.m. with a limited menu of tasty bites and drinks.

The crescendo of the meal was dessert.

The pie flavor that day was cherry-ginger, served warm with a scoop of Coneflower Creamery vanilla ice cream on top. The pie itself is served in an individual pie dish instead of as a slice that allows the filling to spill all over the plate. I would absolutely visit Fizzy’s again just to eat that pie.

Visit fizzysomaha.com for more information.

FIZZY’S FOU NTAIN & LIQUO RS 1408 S 13TH ST. - 402.91 6.4144 FOO D S ERVICE AM BIAN CE PRICE OVERALL

$$$ 5 STARS POSSI B LE

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- Sponsored Content -

Omaha

DINING GUIDE AMERICAN BARREL & VINE- $$ 1311 South 203rd St., Omaha, NE 68130 -402.504.1777 Barrel and Vine’s restaurant is an elevated food experience that is made from scratch daily with love in our kitchen. Our menu combines a mixture of Chef driven creative dishes, crave-able comfort meals and premium Nebraska steaks. Barrel & Vine also doubles as a live music venue and offers a rooftop bar, outdoor patio with firepits, and dozens of high end bourbons, scotch, and over 100 wine selections. Come check out an experience that is like nothing else in Nebraska. Open 7 days a week.

—bvomaha.com

JAMS- $$ 7814 Dodge St. - 402.399.8300 17070 Wright Plz, Ste. 100 - 402.810.9600 1101 Harney St. in the OldMarket - 402.614.9333 Jams is an Omaha restaurant legacy, an “American Grill” that offers a melting pot of different styles and varieties. The dishes are made with high-quality ingredients that pair well with award-winning wines or creative cocktails. —jamseats.com

LE PEEP - $ 69th & Pacific - 402.933.2776 177th and Center St. - 402.934.9914 156th St. & W. Dodge Rd. - 402.408.1728 120th and Blondo St. - 402.991.8222 Le Peep puts a wholesome perspective on your favorite neighborhood breakfast and lunch spot. Fresh. Simple.

Elegant. Inviting. We put the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. We focus on providing each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. Open daily 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. —lepeepomaha.com

DJ’S DUGOUT SPORTS BAR - $ Seven Metro Area Locations:

Bellevue - 10308 S. 23rd St. - 402.292.9096 Miracle Hills - 777 N. 114th St. - 402.498.8855 Downtown - 1003 Capitol Ave. - 402.763.9974 Aksarben - 2102 S. 67th St. - 402.933.3533 Millard - 17666 Welch Plaza - 402.933.8844 Elkhorn - 19020 Evans St. - 402.315.1985 Plattsmouth - 2405 Oak Hill Rd. - 402.298.4166

STELLA’S - $ 106 S. Galvin Road, Bellevue - 402.291.6088

Voted Omaha’s #1 Sports Bar, DJ’s Dugout is locally and Vietnam Veteran owned. DJ’s Dugout features delicious burgers, wings, wraps, salads, sandwiches and an impressive drink menu. Plus, DJ’s has huge media walls full of HD TVs and projector screens. Catch all the action at DJ’s seven Omaha-area locations.

Dig In... At The Dugout! —djsdugout.com

Since 1936, we’ve been making our worldfamous Stella’s hamburgers the same way.

The family secrets have been handed down to each owner, ensuring that your burger is the same as the one you fell in love with the first time you tried Stella’s.

And if it’s your first time, we know you’ll be back! Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., closed Sunday. —stellasbarandgrill.com

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

WELCOME BASEBALL FANS! st 2021 1 PLACE SPORTS BAR

7 OMAHA METRO AREA LOCATIONS DJSDUGOUT.COM | // 80 //

MAY 2022

xican Dining Me

ichanga Chim

2022 Winner

2022 Winner

4 METRO LOCATIONS!

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

VOTED OMAHA'S #1 SPORTS BAR!

Nacho Typical Family Restaurant!

st 2021 1 PLACE

www.romeosOMAHA.com

Omaha

DINING GUIDE TED AND WALLY’S - $ 1120 Jackson St. - 402.341.5827

Get a Little Saucy.

Appetizers

CHANGE 2022 Winner

yH Happ our

an Dining Itali

2022 Winner

2022 Winner

SPEZIA SPECIALTIES

WOOD FIRE STEAKS & SEAFOOD INNOVATIVE PASTA—RISOTTO—GNOCCHI FRESH SALMON DAILY

Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner

NOW HIRING

APPLY IN PERSON Catering

Take Out & Patio Dining Available!

. Private Party Rooms . Walk-Ins Welcome 3125 South 72 nd Street

(Easy access off I-80, take 72

nd

Street Exit)

402.391.2950 . Call today to make your reservation

Hamburger

thanks to our customers for voting us the “BEST BURGER

IN OMAHA 2022 First Place

“Serving World Famous Hamburgers Since 1936”

106 GALVIN RD., BELLEVUE, NE • 402-291-6088 • OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY, 11 AM - 9 PM

Come experience the true taste of homemade ice cream in the Old Market.

Since 1986, we’ve created gourmet ice cream flavors in small batches using rock salt and ice. We offer your favorites, plus unique flavors like margarita, green tea, Guinness, and French toast. Special orders available. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.- Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday.

Noon-10 p.m. —tedandwallys.com

VARSITY SPORTS CAFE - $$ Ralston - 9735 Q St. - 402.339.1944 Bellevue - 3504 Samson Way - 402.932.1944 Millard - 14529 F St. - 402.505.6660 Ralston, Bellevue, Millard and Dundee.

We are truly grateful to have been welcomed into each of these communities and welcome you in for good food, a cold drink and a comfy seat to enjoy the sport of your choosing! Determined to bring only the freshest ingredients, homemade dough and our specialty sauces to the table, we have worked hard to perfect our craft for you. Our goal is to bring the best food service to the area and show the best sports events that you want to see. Pick up and Delivery availalble. Please check website for hours of operation.

—varsityromancoinpizza.com

I TA L I A N LO SOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO - $$ 3001 S. 32nd Ave. - 402.345.5656 The restaurant is located in a residential neighborhood, surrounded by charming homes. Everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes and basil, a bowl of ovenroasted garlic cloves, specially seasoned olive oil, and (at night) a jug of Chianti!

The menu includes a large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, and even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, and eggplant parmigiana are also available.

Lunch offerings include panini, salads, and one of the best pizzas in town.

Patio seating, full bar, and a great wine list complete the atmosphere. No reservations, except for private rooms.

—losolemio.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

MAY 2022

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OMAHA'S ONLY SUPPER CLUB LUNCH | DINNER | BRUNCH

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEKEND! BVOMAHA.COM FOR FULL SCHEDULE:

n Sandwi ube ch Re

2022 First Place

Try Omaha’s Favorite Reuben!

Omaha’s largest selection of craft beers.

3578 Farnam St • 402-345-1708 www.beercornerusa.com

DINE-IN TAKE-OUT

ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE 4524 Farnam St. - 402-991-7724

FREE PARKING . LIVE MUSIC . BIER GARDEN

R AT H S K E L L E RO M A H A .C O M

// 82 //

MAY 2022

Omaha

DINING GUIDE Breakfast

day Brunch Sun

Staff & Servi ce ait W

2022 Winner

2022 First Place

2022 First Place

156th & Dodge • 408-1728 177th & Center • 934-9914 120th & Blondo • 991-8222 69th & Pacific • 933-2776

Thanks for Voting Us # BREAKFAST YEARS in a Row!

14

1

Drive-Thru Open (Center St. Only) Open Daily 6:30am-2:00pm Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day!

LEPEEPOMAHA.COM | @LEPEEPOMAHA

HUNGRY?

PASTA AMORE - $$ 11027 Prairie Brook Rd. - 402.391.2585 Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine, and capellini. Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as linguini amore and calamari steak, penne Florentine, gnocchi, spaghetti puttanesca, and osso buco. Filet mignon is also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannoli. Monday-Thursday 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 p.m.

Reservations recommended.

—pastaamore.com

SPEZIA - $$$ 3125 S. 72nd St. - 402.391.2950 Choose Spezia for lunch or dinner, where you’ll find a casual elegance that’s perfect for business guests, get-togethers, or any special occasion.

Exceptional food, wine, and service, with a delectable menu: fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks, innovative pasta, risotto, gnocchi, cioppino, lamb, entrée salads, Mediterranean chicken, flatbreads, and fresh salmon daily.

Enjoy a full bar, Italian and California wines, Anniversary/Lovers’ Booth (call to reserve), private dining rooms, and wood-fired grill. Open MondaySunday. Cocktail hour 4-6 p.m., when all cocktails, glasses of wine, and beers are half price. Evening reservations recommended.

—speziarestaurant.com

MEXICAN FERNANDO’S - $ 7555 Pacific St. - 402.339.8006.

380 N. 114th St. - 402.330.5707 Featuring Sonoran-style cooking made fresh daily. Catering and party rooms also available. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 4-9 p.m.

—fernandosomaha.com

F O O D F E AT U R E S

. C H E F P R O F I L E S . R E S TA U R A N T R E V I E W S

OMAHAMAGA ZINE .COM

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

MAY 2022

// 83 //

Omaha

DINING GUIDE LA MESA - $$ 158th St. and W. Maple Rd. - 402.557.6130 156th and Q streets - 402.763.2555 110th St. and W. Maple Rd. - 402.496.1101 Fort Crook Rd. and Hwy 370 - 402.733.8754 84th St. and Tara Plaza - 402.593.0983 Lake Manawa Exit - 712.256.2762 MODERN COCKTAILS MIXED WITH AMERICA’S MUSIC

3825 N. 30 TH ST., OMAHA, NE @JOHNNYTSBARANDBLUES

Enjoy awesome enchiladas, fabulous fajitas, seafood specialties, mouthwatering margaritas, and more at La Mesa. Come see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s No. 1 Mexican restaurant 18 years in a row. Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. lamesaomaha.com

ROMEO’S MEXICAN FOOD AND PIZZA - $ 90th and Blondo streets - 402.391.8870 146th St. and W. Center Rd. - 402.330.4160 96th and L streets - 402.331.5656 Galvin and Avery roads - 402.292.2028 29th and Farnam steets - 402.346.1110 Romeo’s is your friendly, family Mexican food and pizza restaurant.

We take real pride in serving our guests generous portions of the freshest, most flavorful dishes made with the finest ingredients available.

Zesty seasonings and the freshest ingredients combine to ensure the ultimate in flavor. Our savory taco meat is prepared every morning at each location. Make sure to try our chimichangas; they’re the best in town.

—romeosomaha.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

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MAY 2022

SPECIAL DINING CRESCENT MOON ALE HOUSE - $ 3578 Farnam St. - 402.345.1708 Founded in 1996, we’ve grown into Beer Corner USA with the additions of The Huber Haus German Beer Hall, Max and Joe’s Belgian Beer Tavern, and Beertopia—Omaha’s Ultimate Beer Store. With more than 60 beers on tap and Omaha’s best Reuben sandwich, we are a Midtown beerlover’s destination. Hours: MondaySaturday 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Kitchen hours: Monday-Wednesday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight.

Closed Sunday.

—beercornerusa.co

RATHSKELLER BIER HAUS-$$ 4524 Farnam St. - 402.991.7724 Rathskeller Bier Haus celebrates daily with German beer, wurst and many other menu items. Within arm’s reach of the Blackstone District and historic Dundee. Rathskeller Bier Haus is our German castle and designed to bring the storied traditions of Bavaria to the beating heart of Omaha’s metro area.

Come enjoy our large outdoor beer garden and four legged friends are welcome. Prost! Open daily 11 a.m.Late.

—rathskelleromaha.com

GREEK ISLANDS - $ 3821 Center St. - 402.346.1528 Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. We are well-known for our gyro sandwiches and salads. We cater and can accommodate a party for 65 guests.

Carry-out and delivery available.

Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

—greekislandsomaha.com

Omaha’s Riverfront Entertainment Venue

Omaha

DINING GUIDE 168th & •West WEDDINGS PARTIESCenter • EVENTS 11th & Harney motsomaha.com

JAMS OLD MARKET • 1101 Harney St • Happy Hour M-F 3pm-6pm

STEAKHOUSES CASCIO’S - $$ 1620 S. 10th St. - 402-345-8313

JAMS MIDTOWN • 7814 West Dodge Road • Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm OPEN MAY to OCT

402-342-7827

THE DROVER RESTAURANT & LOUNGE - $$$ 2121 S. 73rd St. - 402-391-7440

• WEDDINGS • PARTIES • EVENTS • REUNIONS • MEETINGS

JAMS LEGACY • 17070 Wright Plaza • Party Rooms & Patios • jamseats.com

Cascio’s is Omaha’s No. 1 steakhouse.

We have been serving Omaha for 69 years. We feature steaks, chops, seafood, and Italian specialties. We have seven private party rooms, seating for up to 400 people, and plenty of parking.

—casciossteakhouse.com

151 FREEDOM PARK ROAD • OMAHA www.rivercitystar.com

h Steak ouse

Famous for the original Whiskey Steak . Truly a one -of-a-kind Midwestern experience. Excellent food, wine, ser vice, and value. Rare... and ver y well done. Lunch Monday­- Friday 11 a .m .-2 p.m ., cock tail hour 3- 6 p.m ., dinner nightly 5 p.m .

—droverrestaurant.com

2022 First Place

@The Drover Restaurant & Lounge | Gift Cards Available 2121 S. 73 St. | (402) 391-7440 | DroverRestaurant.com Open Monday - Friday 11am - 2pm | Dinner nightly from 5pm

ek Dining Gre

Find the best food in Omaha! omahamagazine.com/pages/subscribe

2022 First Place

Family Owned Since 1983 CATERING / PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE HOMEMADE, FRESH FOOD, ALWAYS.

3821 Center St. / 402.346.1528 GreekIslandsOmaha.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

MAY 2022

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ADVENTURE | SPONSORED

LIED LODGE AND ARBOR DAY FARM THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT NATURE,

about getting outside, that both calms and invigorates. A beautiful sunrise beckons you to sit back and watch and then pulls you to get moving. We call this phenomenon “nature’s dance,” and it’s all around you at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City where yesterday’s relaxing just-the-twoof-you stroll can quickly become today’s family time playing in the trees.

An Arbor Day Foundation property, Arbor Day Farm encompasses 260 acres complemented by sprawling orchards, a 52-room historic mansion, the newly reopened Apple House Market, and natureinspired lodging and attractions. A favorite for fall exploration (thanks to all of those apples), the property is just as popular throughout the year and especially during the spring and summer months.

Arbor Day Farm’s Tree Adventure offers an abundance of fun for all ages, with miles of wooded trails, family-focused activities, and countless ways to engage with nature.

The latest addition is Treetop Village®, a unique opportunity to clamber into the treetops to explore 11 different treehouses

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scattered across 3 acres and connected by wooden bridges and netted walkways.

This attraction is the first of its kind in the U.S. And it’s the first in North America to feature the WonderNet, a large, raised area for jumping, playing, and bringing out the kid in everyone. Treetop Village is perfect for the entire family and accessible for everyone. It’s also the only place in America where having fun helps plant trees in forests around the world.

A passion for tree planting was the impetus for Arbor Day, which began in 1872 at Arbor Day Farm. Join us this year as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the holiday with a variety of activities. Plus, it’s a great time to explore Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, the original home of the Morton family and the very site where the idea for Arbor Day took root.

When it’s time to take a break or tuck in for the night, Lied Lodge awaits at the south end of Arbor Day Farm. Walking into the entrance is its own experience as you stop to take in the massive timbered construction, floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and

unparalleled view of the riparian forest that weaves its way through the property. Lied Lodge is the pinnacle of hospitality with 140 guest rooms, an expansive pool, and an on-site spa.

Three options are available for dining at Arbor Day Farm. Timbers, located inside Lied Lodge, provides an extraordinary dining experience and beautiful views of the property. For those seeking lighter fare in addition to cocktails and an impressive local beer selection, Lied Lodge’s Library Lounge is sure to deliver. And on the north side of the property, Porter’s offers falloff-the-bone barbecue made right here at the farm.

Whether you come for an afternoon or an extended stay, take a moment to embrace the wonders of nature. And be inspired by this special place where the Arbor Day Foundation’s tree planting mission comes to life.

Lied Lodge and Arbor Day Farm 800.546.5433 arbordayfarm.org

WanderNebraska Locations

VISIT ALLIANCE

VISIT PELLA

NEBRASKA STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION JOIN THOUSANDS OF TRAVELERS

THE CITY OF ALLIANCE welcomes every-

one to Chart Your Course and experience the unexpected discoveries in and around Alliance, Nebraska. From scenic drives, to remarkable parks, an extensive library, museums, rich art, and the infamous Carhenge, visitors will be transported to a simpler life where there is history at every turn.

They will experience charming shops that line Alliance’s historic downtown brick paved streets, outstanding service at local restaurants and welcoming locals who will smile and wave. Don’t miss out on the remarkable 18-hole champion Skyview Golf Course.

Whether one is interested in history, cars, the military, nature, or art; there is certainly something here for everyone! The hospitality and beauty of this city leaves visitors wanting to come back for more. Fur babies are encouraged to come and run off their energy at Wiggly Field Dog Park.

Plan a getaway now!

City of Alliance 324 Laramie Ave., P.O. Box D Alliance, NE 69301 308.762.5400 visitalliance.com

Join us for our 87th Annual Tulip Time, May 5th-7th, 2022. Parades, Petals, and Poffertjes! Live performances, Dutch food, culture, history, tulip gardens, craft market, and more!

Tour the tallest working windmill in the United States, stroll along our Molengracht Canal, visit Iowa’s largest lake, Lake Red Rock!

Pella has it all; fine dining, wine houses, pubs, authentic Dutch bakeries, coffee shops, meat markets, street food, shopping, architecture, historic village, camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and biking. We invite you to come to experience Pella with your family and friends, any time of the year.”

Ann M. Frost Executive Director Visit Pella 641.204.0885 facebook.com/VisitPella visitpella.com

as they explore museums, libraries, parks and other historical points of interest featured in the newly launched WanderNebraska, an adventure travel program from the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation (NSHSF). By visiting the 27 historical organizations included in this year’s program, you will be checking off a list of fascinating Nebraska destinations across the state, supporting economic growth in these communities and winning prizes along the way!

The WanderNebraska locations are part of the Statewide Grants Program launched by NSHSF in 2021, awarding grants to benefit local historical and educational organizations in their efforts to provide programming and preserve their local history. To date, almost $17,000 in grants have been distributed in 18 counties across Nebraska.

To get your WanderNebraska booklet, visit: www.nshsf.org/projects/ wandernebraska To donate to the Statewide Grants Program, visit: www.nshsf.org/ statewide-grants-program

ADVENTURE | SPONSORED

Alliance hosts various events throughout the year, and are easily located on the website’s Events Calendar.

“YOU MUST EXPERIENCE PELLA!

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Spring Adventures in Benton County, MO. 3

5

6

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Visit the Benton Cou nty Barn Quilt Trail or quilt sh ops Explore beautiful C ole Camp's history and shops Escape on the Lake on a SUP or kayak Visit the Harry S Tr uman Visitor Cente r and Pioneer Village Attend the Warsaw Wine Stroll & Art Walk on April 30, 2022 Hike 22 miles of be auty at the Truman Lake Mount ain Bike & Hiking P ark Bike the Warsaw riv erfront trails Take a self-guided historic walking tour in Warsaw or Cole Camp Cruise around the beautiful roads of Truman Lake Dine at one of our "Best of Missouri" restaurants

FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO

WWW.VISITBENTONCOMO.COM

AND “LIKE” BENTON COUNTY TOURISM AND RECREATION ON FACEBOOK.

Seek Your Adventure FROM SUNRISE TO SUNSET IN KNOX COUNTY

K N OX C O U N T Y N E B R A S K A . C O M / K n ox C o u n t y N E

@ V i s i t K n ox C o _ N E

VISIT BEATRICE & GAGE COUNTY

/ v i s i t k n ox c o u n t y n e

IF YOU HAVE A HUNGER FOR HITTING THE TRAILS, Gage County welcomes

you to 22 miles of scenic woodlands, beautiful river views, and glimpses of Nebraska wildlife along the Chief Standing Bear Trail. Being one of Nebraska’s newest trail additions, the Chief Standing Bear Trail is perfectly outfitted for avid and novice bicyclists and runners. Known for its well-kept landscaping and amenities, the trail is used for multiple events throughout the year. At the four trailheads you will find rest stops, bicycle repair stations, and even infographics about the rich, local history.

Chief Standing Bear Trail follows the Union Pacific Route whose original track was laid in 1879 alongside an old reservation road from Beatrice to Marysville, Kansas. The old reservation road was the trail the Poncas were forced to take upon their removal from Niobrara, Nebraska to Oklahoma in 1877. This is one of the only places in Nebraska where you can walk the Trail of Tears.

OMA HA MA GA ZIN E.C OM/PA GES/SUBSC RIBE

ADVENTURE | SPONSORED

Gage County Tourism 218 N 5th St. Beatrice, NE 68310 402.223.2338 beatricechamber.com

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explore.

come and

LE T’S PLAN A ROAD TRIP!

DAYTRI PS I N NE BRA SK A , I OW A , K AN SA S, AN D M I SSOURI

SIP NEBRASKA May 6-7 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Wine, craft beer, and

NEBRASKA

NEBRASKA CITY’S 150TH ANNUAL ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION May 1 in Nebraska

spirit tastings supplemented by live music, outdoor games, and trolley tours through the scenic state park. 402.944.2523.

—blurparties.com/sip-spring

City. Originally proposed in 1872 as a

day to focus on tree planting, Arbor Day is now celebrated in all 50 states and in many countries around the world. While this celebration kicks off the 150th Arbor Day, festivities of 150 years of Arbor Day will continue into May 2022. 402.873.6654.

—gonebraskacity.com

LINCOLN MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON May 1 in Lincoln. This

event includes three different races.

Runners can participate in the full marathon or half marathon. Races start at 7 a.m. and end at Memorial Stadium. —lincolnmarathon.org

SPRING DAZZLE CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW May 7 at Fonner Park in

Grand Island. Artisans and vendors

01

HELICOPTER DAY AND MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT May 21 at Strategic

Air Command and Aerospace Museum in Ashland. Spectators will be thrilled

shows off their top canine competitors in a variety of events, from obedience to rally trials. —nebraskakennelclub.com

May

07

gather from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. to delight visitors with unique, hand-crafted wares in the Fonner Park Concourse.

308.382.4400. —visitgrandisland.

May com

10TH ANNUAL JUNKSTOCK AT SYCAMORE FARMS May 1, May 6-8 in Waterloo.

Event includes over 200 vendors, more than 23 food trucks, and various bands on the Junstock Stage. Cash recommended and pets are welcome. 402.765.8651.

—junkstock.com

NEBRASKA KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW May 21-22 at the Lancaster Event Center in Lincoln. The Nebraska Kennel Club

by commercial and private helicopters whirring over the horizon and landing at their feet. The museum will also be hosting an early Memorial Day Concert on the same date. The two events combine for a full day of family entertainment.

402.944.3100. —sacmuseum.org

EIGHTH ANNUAL MIGRATORY BIRD DAY May 28 at Indian Cave

State Park. Kicking off at 3 p.m., the event includes a car show, birdthemed crafts and games, a glow in the dark egg hunt, and more. 402.883.2575 — outdoornebraska.gov

NEBRASK A JUNK ATHON May 27-29 in Sargent. Vendors come together

for a festival of antiques, food, and more. 308.750.9435. —facebook.com/ junkathonfleamarket

ANNUAL BROWNVILLE SPRING FLEA MARKET

May 28-30 in Brownville. Hundreds of

vendors bring their wares to this annual tradition, including recycled and up-cycled products, food, and antiques. 402.825.6001.

—brownvillehistoricalsociety.org

IOWA

FROM BRIGHT LIGHTS TO WIDE OPEN SPACES, Lincoln has a variety of adventures waiting for you, showcasing what a day, weekend or longer feels like in our city. From the distinct shops of the Haymarket to the UNL campus and surrounding attractions, live as the locals do and “Love Lincoln”!

—Lincoln.org/omahamag SPONSORED

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MAY 2022

MAIFEST May 1 at Amana Colonies.

Dancers, food trucks, and a parade will bring German traditions to this celebration of Spring. 319.622.7622. Email info@ amanacolnies.com for more information.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT May 5, 2022 in Cedar Falls.

Enjoy a fun evening of shopping, dining and making memories the first Thursday in May and October from 5-9 pm. 319.277.0213.

—cedarfallstourism.org

MORE THAN YOU’D EVER EXPECT. COME SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS SUMMER IN SARPY COUNTY! Renaissance Festival, Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch

Angus Burgers & Shakes, Gretna Sawyer Brown at

Bellevue Rocks!,

June 11th

Werner Park, Papillion

UPCOMING EVENTS MAY 7-8 & 14-15 Renaissance Festival Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, Bellevue

Storm Chasers at Werner Park, Papillion

Nebraska Brewing, La Vista

Pint NIne Brewing Co.

Union Omaha Soccer

JUNE 9-11 Bellevue Rocks Riverfront Festival American Heroes Park, Bellevue JUNE 11-12 Omaha Potter Faire 2022 Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, Bellevue

Platteview Country Club

Sarpy County will be awaiting with a wonderful mix of fun things to see and do. Catch an Omaha Storm Chasers game or a Union Omaha soccer game at Werner Park. Drop your canoe in the Platte

Springfield Drug Old

Fashioned Soda Fou

at Schramm State Park. Spend the day at Fontenelle Forest or the evening at one of our many local breweries, distilleries and winery. We’ll have outdoor recreation, historical sites and seasonal fun you can only find here in Sarpy County. For the area’s most complete and up-to-date listing of restaurants, hotels, events and more, be sure to visit us online at GoSarpy.com!

BELLEVUE • GRETNA • LA VISTA • PAPILLION • SPRINGFIELD • OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE • OMAHA METRO

ntain

E XPLORE CAL E NDAR

ART WALK May 7 at Kohlmann Park in Waverly. This fine arts walk

includes over 40 artists for goers to look at. Open to the public. 319.352.4526.

—waverlychamber.com

SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL May 7 at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden in Des Moines. This event

OKOBOJI FLEA MARKET WEEKEND May 29-31 at Treasure Village in Okoboji.

Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free parking and admission. Over 60 vendors present wares ranging from antiques, jewelry, collectibles, and more. 712.337.3730 —treasurevillage.org

largest gathering of “freaks, geeks, artists, and musicians” around, visitors are sure to be charmed by the festival’s medley of street performers. 913.634.1711 —lawrencebuskerfest.com

KANSAS

PEONY FESTIVAL May 28 at Stockton Area Chamber of Commerce in Stockton. The annual Peony Festival

celebrates everything garden: activities, workshops, and much more. 515.323.6290.

—dmbotanicalgarden.com

BIG KANSAS ROAD TRIP May 5-8 in Brown, Doniphan, and Nemaha Counties. The

VALLEY JUNCTION ARTS FESTIVAL 2022

May 15 in Des Moines. Discover and

buy paintings, sculptures, furniture, and more from Iowa’s finest artists and artisans while strolling the historic Valley Junction, described as the “heart and soul” of West Des Moines.

May 515.222.3642. —valleyjunction.com

801ST ANNUAL ORANGE CITY TULIP FESTIVAL May 19-21 in Orange

City. This event, which began in 1936,

celebrates Dutch heritage and consists of beautiful tulips, dances performed in traditional Dutch clothing, daily parades, old-country foods, and more. 712.707.4510.

—octulipfestival.com

LAWRENCE BUSKER FESTIVAL 2022

May 27-30 in Lawrence. The area’s

15

Big Kansas Road Trip was created as a fun, interactive way to bring people together and make an economic and social difference in these counties. Go at your own pace, in your own vehicle trying out the local cafes, shopping local, seeing the attractions, and attending events. 785.296.2009.

—travelks.com

will feature peony displays around the city. The event includes a parade, craft vendors, and more. 785.425.6703.

—stocktonks.com

MISSOURI

KANSAS CITY BBQ FESTIVAL May 6-8 at

May

60TH ANNUAL HUTCHINSON ART FAIR May 7 at the

Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Over 30,000 pounds of BBQ will be smoked by award-winning pitmasters from across the country. Free entry and live music with choice meat cuts and ice-cold beer available for purchase.

—kcbbqfest.com

6-8

Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. This event will include

fine art for sale by local and regional artists, a kids crafts station, live music, and more.

620.663.1081. —hutchinsonartcenter.net

83RD ANNUAL NORTH IOWA BAND FESTIVAL

May 26-30 in Mason City. Seventy-six

trombones (or more) will parade through the streets of this Iowa town, where Music Man composer Meredith Wilson lived. Along with marching bands, this festival includes a carnival, food, games, and live entertainment. 641. 423.5724 .

—nibandfest.com

CELEBRASIAN May 27 at the Western Gateway Park in Des Moines. In its 19th

year, Celebrasian will be a celebration and appreciation of Asian culture, uniting the Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander communities in Des Moines. Guests can enjoy live performances, authentic food, and educational activities. 515.770.1026.

—iowaasianalliance.com

ANNUAL TIVOLI FEST May 27-28 in Elk Horn. Celebrate all things Danish at this

annual spring festival, which includes Danish food, dances, live entertainment, fireworks, and more. 712.764 .7001.

—danishmuseum.org/visit/events/tivoli-fest

THERE’S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT YOU IN LINCOLN, NEBRASKA

L I N C O LN .OR G/ OM A H A M AG

Fall in love for the first time or fall in love all over again. Lincoln looks good on you!

MAY 2022

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E XPLORE CAL E NDAR

TA K E T I M E TO

HARRY’S HAY DAYS May 6-7 in Grandview. Starting 7 p.m. at the Grandview

UNWIND

Amphitheater on Friday with a free concert, then a parade and festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Main St. on Saturday, Harry’s Hay Days is a celebration of President Harry Truman’s legacy and his connection to the Grandview community.

—grandviewharryhaydays.com

2022 APPLE BLOSSOM PARADE FESTIVAL May 7 in St. Joseph. The parade

has been in existence for over 90 years, and it has expanded into a festival with a Kansas May City BBQ Society-sanctioned barbecue contest. The event runs in conjunction with Discover Downtown, which features live music, food vendors, and kids activities. The pageant will not be taking place this round. This year’s theme is “Garden Party: Room to Bloom.”

816.261.0422. —appleblossomparade.com

07

ARTFEST ON WALNUT May 7-8 in Spring-

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MAY 2022

14TH ANNUAL SIKESTON JAYCEE CRAWFISH BOIL & MUSIC FESTIVAL May 14 at the

Sikeston Rodeo Grounds in Sikeston.

Event goers can can enjoy music and family entertainment. This event includes a grand feast of fish and Louisiana crawfish. 573.471.2498. —sikeston.net

EVENT TIMES AND DETAILS MAY CHANGE. Visit omahamagazine.com for complete listings. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

Dalton • Gurley • Lodgepole Potter • Sidney

Great things for the whole family, and Mom too!

field. Over 100 artists will be on display at this celebration of art, with performances, food, and activities for the whole family.

417.831.6200. —springfieldarts.org

HA S H TAG #OMAHAMAGAZ INE O N I N S T AG R A M T O B E F E A T U R E D B E L O W

@deanbirkheimer

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MAY

// 95 //

2022

twitter.com/omahamagazine

NOT FUNNY // COLUMN BY OTIS TWELVE // PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL SITZMANN

THING S I THO UG HT I WO ULD HAV E BY NO W

I

was so sure that by this point in the far future…(Hey, we are 21 years past 2001 after all, and we should have figured out the puzzle of the monolith and the repercussions of the embryonic star child looming above us in intra-lunar space by now)…the promises made to me on the cover of Popular Science magazine would have come true. The depth of my resultant disillusionment is based on the following failures of our species. To wit:

1. I still don’t have a flying car. This was a biggie even before The Jetsons hit the little screen. Of all the wonders that were sure to be delivered, the flying car was the highest on the list. But here I sit. Well, I mean I don’t have a flying car. I don’t even have a car with any rudimentary Space Age features, even heated seats. I do have a back-up camera hooked to a little screen on the dash of my Korean import, but here in the snow and road salt-speckled Midwest, half the time the view is akin to an old, foggy scene from a Basil Rathbone/Sherlock Holmes movie.

Oh, and the car’s hands-free feature tends to link to anyone’s Android phone who stops next to me in the turn lane. So, I am still trapped hopelessly in the primitive past. My car cannot fly; nor, for that matter, can it drive itself as was also promised in the Popular Science Spring 1937 issue, and by Elon Musk six years ago at a Tesla shareholder’s meeting.

2. I still don’t have access to: a. A personal submarine, b. Selflaundering clothing, or c. My own personal rocket ship. (Of course, if you are Jeff Bezos you do have all of these things.)

3. I still don’t live in a glass-domed city. Multiple tech-prophets predicted this one. Think of it. No snow to shovel. No need for umbrellas, raincoats, or galoshes. (Though I must admit that galoshes do seem to be completely obsolete nowadays.

That’s a good thing.)

4. I still can’t travel to nearby glass-domed cities on huge, helium lifted, rigid-framed airships with little red, self-driving flying cars poised on the flat top deck to shuttle passengers to and from the floating airports near their robot-run houses.

5. I still don’t have a robot-run house.

These resentments grow as the years go by. I blame the library near my childhood home where I went to devour all the back-issues of Popular Science magazines. I might be more content now if I had never been exposed to such dreams and fantasies then. I might have stayed blissfully unaware of such aspirations set in a world of possibilities. I might have been better off, but still, every day, I think of that library. Such a wonderful place, because when whenever I was there…I did have a flying car.

Otis Twelve hosts the radio program Morning Classics with Otis Twelve on 90.7 KVNO, weekday mornings from 6-10 a.m. Visit kvno.org for more information.

MAY

// 96 //

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