Omaha Magazine - January/February 2020 - Hotel Edition

D AV I D P. M U R P H Y // T H E H U N G E R B L O C K // K A S S A N D R A M O N TA G // T H E G R O V E J U I C E R Y J A N U A RY / F E B R U A RY 2 02 0

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C A M I L L E A . B R OW N & DANCERS AT ORPHEUM T H E AT E R

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FROM THE EDITOR // LETTER BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN, MANAGING EDITOR

QUIT SMOKING? LOSE WEIGHT? Health and Wellness in the New Year

D

ouble-digits. Like many, I’ve been saying, “I can’t believe it’s 2020.” It’s a new year, a time to better oneself.

The most common resolution is to become healthier—45% of resolution-makers decree that they will lose weight. Many of those people will drop the resolution, not the weight. A study conducted by University of Scranton stated that only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s goals.

The people mentioned in our lead story may or may not have made a New Year’s resolution about their health, but they certainly achieved weight loss—to the tune of nearly 400 pounds. One person gave up alcohol, then smoking, then started exercising. One person worked with doctors at the Bariatrics Center at the UNMC. One person started a keto diet to help alleviate pain. A fourth had surgery and continued their weight-loss journey afterwards.

While they lost weight, they also helped their blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and more. The three aforementioned issues are also risk factors for stroke, a condition that affects more than 795,000 per year, according to the CDC. The majority of those people are over age 65—but around 15% are under 45. We interviewed three women around age 45 who experienced strokes when relatively young. Their strokes brought them together, and they have been advocates and friends—calling themselves the Stroke Homies (aka Stromies)—since.

The Stromies, fortunately, all live in the Omaha area and were able to receive medical treatment in a timely manner.

Those who live in rural areas may not be able to arrive at medical treatment in time to prevent major brain damage, or even death. The University of Nebraska is helping to alleviate this problem through its Rural Health Opportunities Program, a collaboration between several smaller state schools and UNMC. Makayla Brockhaus of Creighton, Nebraska, is one person who is using this program in hopes of becoming a health professional in a rural area.

Hopefully, by the time Brockhaus and her fellow students graduate from medical school, a few debilitating diseases will be reduced or perhaps eliminated.

Dr. Channabasavaiah B. Gurumurthy of the UNMC found an easier way to study genes and has been shaking the scientific world, collaborating with genome experts from Stanford to Oxford. His method is finding genes that are responsible for diseases from sickle cell anemia to certain cancers.

One reason this research is exciting is because, as Jackson Parks said, “The hospital isn’t everybody’s favorite place to be.” This Creighton pre-med student devotes his hours outside of school to helping others, particularly those at CHI Bergan Mercy Hospital. He answers phone calls and questions in person, and sometimes goes above and beyond by helping feed patients or going on walks with them.

With Parks’ people skills, he is likely going to have a great bedside manner, such as that of Dr. Oleg Militsakh, a plastic surgeon in Omaha. Militsakh is a specialist among specialists, and his work at Methodist Health Systems concentrates on those people who have experienced problems with basic functions such as swallowing or speaking.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

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2020

Because this is our medical issue, nearly all our articles focus on health in some way. Our chef profile is about Dan Hamilton, head cook at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, and his struggles with Guillain-Barré. He was diagnosed with this paralyzing condition in May 2019, and with hard work, he retrained his fingers to do everything from use his mobile phone to chop vegetables. It took five months for him to be able to work again.

That is about half the time it took Robert Chandler to go back to his passion of diving. This champion who has dived everywhere from Nebraska to South Korea misgauged a maneuver in early 2014 and hit his skull. Doctors said he would never walk again, but less than a year after becoming paralyzed, he not only walked onto, but jumped off of, a diving board.

None of these stories would be possible without the help of, and training by, the best doctors and nurses in the area. In this issue we also bring readers the Best Doctors 2020 list, and the 2019 Nurse of the Year winners.

This is 2020: A time to start anew. We hope these stories inspire you to exercise more, quit smoking, lose weight, volunteer, or anything else you resolve to do this year. * 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.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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TAB L E of CON T E N T S THE USUAL SUSPECTS 001 From the Editor

Quit Smoking? Lose Weight?

006 Between the Lines 008 Calendar of Events 036 History

Strange Weight Loss Methods

038 Adventure

Winterfest at the Amana Colonies

105 Obviously Omaha

Worst Winter Driving Spots

129 Explore!

134 Not Funny

The Evolution of a Sports Fan

135 Instagram

106

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

David P. Murphy

022 Visual

Zach Willard

026 Author

Kassandra Montag

030 Performance

Michael Johnson

DINING 106 Review

The Hunger Block

112 Feature

The Grove Juicery

116 Chef Profile

Dan Hamilton

119 Dining Guide

022

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

026

377 trees have been reforested

due to the printing of our last round of publications.

Learn more at printreleaf.com

DISCOVER VIDEOS AND ONLINE EXTRAS

for select content in this issue.

Use your smart device to go deeper into select stories from this issue of Omaha Magazine for FREE.

Step LOCATE A QR CODE PRINTED IN THIS ISSUE. Make sure you have internet access.

Step OPEN THE CAMERA APP IN YOUR SMART DEVICE. Newer smartphones/tablets come with capability to scan QR codes.

Step POINT AT THE QR CODE. A link will appear. Click on it.

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*Note: the hotel edition of Omaha Magazine has a different cover, and it does not include all of the editorial content featured in the magazine’s full city edition. Subscribe to the full magazine at omahamagazine.com/subscribe.

Between

THE LINES A LOOK AT FOUR OMAHA MAGAZINE TEAM MEMBERS LEO ADAM BIGA—Contributing Writer Biga is an old lion of Omaha journalism. In a 36-year career he’s reported on the arts and culture scene, and on social justice issues in his hometown. He’s known for writing about the AfricanAmerican, Latino, Jewish, and senior communities. Biga’s special interests in cinema, sports, and literature has given him the opportunity to interview and profile many filmmakers, athletes, and authors. He has organized film events, and taught film history and appreciation classes. His life partner, Pamela Jo Berry, is an artist and writer. Her daughter, Beaufield Berry, is a playwright.

Biga's proud to be part of one of Omaha's first writing families.

VIRGINIA KATHRYN GALLNER—Contributing Writer Gallner is a folk-rock musician and writer based in Omaha. Her songs stand at the crossroads of folk, blues, and jazz. She has participated twice in the Silkroad Ensemble's Global Musician Workshop, as well as Richard Thompson's Frets & Refrains Songwriting Camp. Gallner has volunteered with Omaha Girls Rock for three years as a guitar instructor, band coach, and after-school instructor. She has been nominated for Best Blues and Best Folk/Americana by Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards. Her debut album, Vintage Sepia, is available on all streaming services. Gallner is finishing her first novel, beginning a graduate program, and continuing work on her second album (while occasionally sleeping). Visit virginiakathryn.com to see her work.

GWEN LEMKE —Senior Sales Associate Omaha Magazine’s resident mother and grandmother, Lemke has been with the publication as senior sales associate and contributing editor for 60-Plus almost as long as she was in her previous career in real estate. She owned a real estate company and was active in the real estate association. Gwen and her husband, Raymond, raised four amazing sons—RL, Todd (the magazine’s publisher), Brad, and Tyler. The family now includes nine grandchildren. Gwen enjoys meeting with people, often making friends as she works with them on their marketing needs.

SEAN ROBINSON—Contributing Writer Growing up, Robinson’s family always agreed on one thing: Sean never shuts up. Years later, he’s still talking—but he’s made a career of it as a copywriter and communications specialist.

From startups and Fortune 500 companies to nonprofits and PR firms, he’s told brand stories for myriad companies across the metro. He really gets to talking when discussing his uber-naughty boxer dog Frank, the joys of being an active runner who chooses to never do a marathon, or his Oscar predictions. Readers: you’ve been warned.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 VOLUME 37 // ISSUE 8

EDITORIAL Managing Editor

DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN Senior Editor

TARA SPENCER Associate Editor

LINDA PERSIGEHL Editorial Interns

BRYAN VOMACKA · REBECCA WEIS Contributing Writers

HANNAH AMROLLAHI · KAMRIN BAKER · LEO ADAM BIGA TAMSEN BUTLER · VIRGINIA KATHRYN GALLNER · CHRIS HATCH GREG JERRETT · SARA LOCKE · SANDRA MARTIN · SEAN McCARTHY TOM McCAULEY · SUSAN MEYERS · NIZ PROSKOCIL SEAN ROBINSON · KARA SCHWEISS · CARIELLE SEDERSTEN SARAH WENGERT · DOUGLAS “OTIS TWELVE” WESSLEMANN

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MADY BESCH Contributing Photographers

KEITH BINDER · COLIN CONCES · SCOTT DRICKEY WILLIAM HESS · SARAH LEMKE

SALES Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing

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MARY HIATT Senior Sales Executive & 60PLUS in Omaha Contributing Editor

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JILLIAN DUNN

Whether it is day or night, inside or out, Joslyn has so much to offer.

FREE GENERAL ADMISSION

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THURSDAYS: Open ‘til 8 pm!

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Joslyn Art Museum features works from antiquity to the present with an emphasis on 19th- and 20th-century European and American art. A fun, relaxing, and artful destination for the whole family. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–4 pm. Conveniently located in downtown Omaha. Café, Museum shop, and free parking.

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» Exhibitions « FRIDA KAHLO’S GARDEN

Through Jan. 4 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Frida Kahlo is one of the most celebrated artists of the 20th century. The garden at her home in Mexico City was the creative inspiration of most of her work. Admission: $5 general admission, $3.50 for senior citizens and children under 5. 402.731.1137.

—elmuseolatino.org

HOLIDAY CULTURAL TREES DISPLAY

Through Jan. 5 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. A showcase of how cultures from around the world celebrate the holiday season. Each tree is decorated by a local Omaha ethnic society and is accompanied by interpretative text explaining the meaning behind the various decorations and unique traditions of each culture. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for children under 2 and members.

402-444-5071.

—durhammuseum.org

HOLIDAY POINSETTIA SHOW

Through Jan. 5 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Lauritzen Gardens gets into the holiday spirit with a display of thousands of poinsettias and a 20 ft. tall poinsettia tree at the center of it all. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children ages six to 12, free for children under six. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 402.346.4002.

—lauritzengardens.org

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

RACE: ARE WE SO DIFFERENT?

Through Jan. 5 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This exhibit takes an unprecedented look at race through biological, cultural, and historical points of view. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for children under 2 and members. 402.444.5071.

—durhammuseum.org

MONA2OMAHA: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER JOEL SARTORE’S PHOTO ARK

Through Jan. 5, 2020, at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. Photo Ark is an effort to document species before they disappear and record the world’s biodiversity. Sartore has spent the last 25 years documenting approximately 12,000 species from around the world.

To date, he has completed portraits of 9,000 unique species. Admission: free. 402.305.1510.

—gallery1516.org

THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN AND AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE MILITARY

Th rough Jan. 18 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African-American military pilots that fought in the second World War. Learn more about them at this exhibit. Admission: free. 402.932.7077.

—gpblackhistorymuseum.org

WORD AND IMAGE: THE SAINT JOHN’S BIBLE

Through Jan. 19 at Joslyn Art Museum. 2200 Dodge St. Th is ticketed exhibit features 76 pages from the first handwritten illuminated bible. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 college students with ID, free for members and ages 17 and under. Admission to the museum itself is free.

402.342.3300.

—joslyn.org

LOUDER THAN WORDS: ROCK, POWER & POLITICS

Through Feb. 2 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. From civil rights to feminism to war and peace, rock music has influenced large parts of our society.

Th is interactive exhibit explores how rock music has effected our society and features artifacts from famous musicians. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for children under 2 and members.

402.444.5071.

—durhammuseum.org

LISA BANG HOFFMAN/TERRY KOOPMAN

Through Feb. 7 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. Hoff man uses traditional gelatin-silver photography to evolve from the history of the medium and respond to the contemporary. Koopman is a 40-year veteran photographer who started with fi lm and has evolved to digital. Admission: free. 402.595.2122.

—artscouncil.nebraska.gov

RICHARD IBGHY AND MARILOU LEMMENS PROJECT

Through Feb. 15 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. Th is exhibit explores the communication of birds and the possibility of communication between different species of animals. Admission: free.

402.341.7130.

—bemiscenter.org

DIGGIN’ DINOS

Through April 11 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. Th is exhibit features life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and a digging and building area to transport your kids into another world. Admission: $14 age 2 and up, $13 seniors age 60+, free to members and children under 24 months. 402.342.6164.

—ocm.org

AREA HIGH SCHOOL ART EXHIBITION

Jan. 2-Feb. 2 at Artists Cooperative Gallery, 405 S. 11th St. Some of the best young artists in the area will be showcased in this exhibition. The intention of this special show is to promote the art of high school artists and provide insight on how to put on a professional show at a public gallery. Admission: free. 402-342-9617.

—artistscoopomaha.com

ORIGINS: NEW WORK BY GRACEANN WARN, MICHAEL JAMES, EDGARD CAMACHO, JASON PAPENFUSS AND JAMES FREEMAN

Jan. 3 through Feb. 28 at Modern Arts Midtown, 3615 Dodge St. Th is exhibit features contemporary works by listed artists and additional work by local abstract artists. Admission: free. 402.502.8737.

—modernartsmidtown.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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January 18 April 19, 2020 SPONSORED BY:

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This is a first-of-its-kind exhibition for children and families to celebrate the diversity of Muslim cultures in America and around the world through art, architecture, design, music, travel, trade, and more!

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St. Frances Cabrini The spiritual home of the Little Italy and Old Market neighborhoods since 1857.

stcabriniomaha.org 10th and Williams Street

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

100 PEOPLE

Jan. 17 through Feb. 22 at UNO Art Gallery, 6505 University Drive South. Artist Watie White’s project consists of wood carvings of local people who he admires. Admission: free.

402.554.2796.

—unomaha.edu

OEAA WINTER VISUAL ARTS SHOWCASE

Feb.

7-22

AMERICA TO ZANZIBAR: MUSLIM CULTURES NEAR AND FAR

Jan. 18 through April 19 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. Th is first-of-its-kind exhibit is designed for children to learn about the diversity of Muslim culture throughout the world. Different sections of the exhibit will focus on art, architecture, travel, and trade. Admission: $14 age 2 and up, $13 seniors age 60+, free to members and children under 24 months.

402.342.6164.

—ocm.org

Feb. 7-22 at Roberta and Bob Rogers Gallery, 1806 Vinton St. The folks behind Omaha Entertainment & Arts Awards will celebrate their visual arts nominees with this arts display.

Admission: free.

—oea-awards.org

PULITZER PRIZE PHOTOGRAPHS

Feb. 22 through May 3, 2020 at Durham Museum.

801 S. 10th St. Photography plays an important role in documenting history. Th is exhibit will feature over 80 large-format photographs that won the Pulitzer Prize.

Descriptions of how the photographer captured the moment will also be on display for a unique perspective on the images. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for children under 2 and members. 402.444.5071.

—durhammuseum.org

INFLUENCE

Through Aug. 20, 2020, at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Influence displays the creative work of KANEKO founder and Japanese ceramist Jun Kaneko and how his work, teaching, and creative philosophy has impacted the Omaha community and beyond. Admission: free.

402.341.3800.

—thekaneko.org

» Performances « LES MISÉRABLES

Jan. 14-19 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. One of the most popular productions in theater history, this is the story of former convict Jean Valjean’s life in 19th-century France. Tickets: $40-$125. Times vary.

402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

A RAISIN IN THE SUN

Jan. 17 through Feb. 9 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Set in South Side Chicago, this show follows the Younger family as they fight against poverty and racism. An unexpected insurance check could lead to a better life, but how should they use it? Tickets: $24+ adults, $16+ students. Times vary.

402.553.0800.

—omahaplayhouse.com

CIRQUE MECHANICS

Jan. 21 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Aerialists soar up to 42 feet in the air in this modern take on a traditional circus. Tickets: $18-$35. 7 p.m. 402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

MARY ZICAFOOSE, IKAT: THE ESSENTIAL HANDBOOK TO WEAVING RESIST-DYED CLOTH

Jan. 24-March 6 at Lied Art Gallery, 2500 California Plaza. Mary Zicafoose’s work is displayed throughout the world and her knowledge of weaving is self-taught.

Admission: free. 402. 280.2509.

—creighton.edu

SPONTANEITY: 10 NEBRASKAN ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISTS

Feb. 28-May 24 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. Th is exhibition features artwork by 10 abstract and abstract expressionist artists from Nebraska. Admission: free. 402-305-1510.

—gallery1516.org

IS THERE A DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE?

Jan. 26 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. The orchestra is sick and they need the audience to help them feel better. Tickets: $15. 2 p.m.

402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

WOMEN LAUGHING ALONE WITH SALAD

NATIVE GARDENS

WAKEY, WAKEY

THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD

Jan. 27 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. A staged reading by award-winning playwright Sheila Callaghan about the oppressive and unrealistic cultural expectations that women face in society. This event is free and open to the public. 7 p.m. 403.553.0800.

—omahaplayhouse.com

Jan. 30-Feb. 23 at Bluebarn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. Th is show talks about time, gratitude, childhood, and the million miracles at work in the world. It includes pictures, music, and cake. 7:30 p.m. most days, Sundays vary. $35 general admission; $30 seniors, educators, military members. 402-345-1576.

—bluebarn.org

Feb. 14-Mar. 15 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. A minor disagreement about property lines escalates into a much bigger battle between two neighbors. Tickets: $36+ students, $18+ students. Times vary. 402.553.0800.

—ticketomaha.com Feb. 15-Mar. 8 at Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The timeless tale of believing in yourself comes to the stage in a show for all ages. Tickets: $12 non-members, $10 members. Times vary. 402.345.4849.

—rosetheater.org

HOWIE D: BACK IN THE DAY

BLOOD AT THE ROOT

Feb. 19-22 at UNO, 6001 Dodge St. Feb. 28-29, Mar. 1 and 6-8 at The Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Th is performance recounts the story of the Jena Six and looks at racial double standards in America. Tickets: $16. Times vary.

402.554.7529.

—unomaha.edu

THE CRYSTAL

Feb. 21-22 & Feb. 28-29 at the Apollon, 1801 Vinton St. Th is interactive theatrical performance explores space and time. 7 p.m. Tickets: $25, includes dinner.

402.884.0135.

—apollonomaha.com

CAMILLE A. BROWN & DANCERS

Feb. 21 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Broadway choreographer Camille A. Brown blends hip-hop, ballet, and tap in this performance. Tickets: $20-$38. 7:30 p.m. 402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

Jan. 31-Feb. 16 at Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Howie Dorough explores what life was like as a middle schooler trying to fit in-long before he became a member of the Backstreet Boys. Tickets: $25 non-members, $12 members. Times vary. 402.345.4849.

—rosetheater.org

TODD BARRY

Feb. 1 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. International comedian and actor Todd Barry visits Omaha and brings his unique brand of standup with him. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

OPERA OMAHA: ABDUCTION FROM THE SERAGLIO

Feb. 7 and 9 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Th is comedic, yet ultimately tragic, opera is the story of two men rescuing their lovers from a Pasha’s harem.

Tickets: $19-$99. 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 7 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 9. 402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

A BRONX TALE

Feb. 11-16 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. An energetic show about a young man who finds himself caught between his love for his father and the mob in the Bronx in the 1960s. Tickets: $32-$90. Times vary.

402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000

Feb. 18 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Creator Joel Hodgson embarks on his final tour, complete with movie riffing robots. Tickets: $30-$300. 7:30 p.m.

402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

BUZZING ABOUT BUGS!

Feb. 23 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. An original work by 11-year-old Winston Schneider of Omaha, presented in partnership with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Tickets: $15. 2 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

SHEN YUN

Feb. 25 & 26 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Combining ancient legends and modern technology, this troupe brings a unique performance of Chinese dance to the stage. Tickets: $80-$165. 7:30 p.m. 402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Best of Omaha 2020

VIEW THE 2020 BEST OF OMAHA RESULTS ONLINE! OmahaMagazine.com/BestofOmaha

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | CALENDAR

ONCE

NEBRASKA’S OWN: JAMES BARNETT

PET ROCK

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

HOTEL DESPERADO

THE ANNIVERSARY

Feb. 28-March 22 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. An Irish musician falls in love with a Czech immigrant. Based on the Oscar-winning fi lm.

Tickets: $24+ adults, $18+ students. Times vary.

402.553.0800.

—ticketomaha.com

Feb. 28-March 15 at Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. A live stage performance of the story of Anne Frank.

Tickets: $20 non-members, $12 members. Times vary.

402.345.4849.

—rosetheater.org

STOMP

Feb. 28 & 29 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Traditional instruments make way for matchboxes, wooden poles, garbage cans, hubcaps and more in this inventive performance.Tickets: $25-$85. 7:30 p.m. 402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

Jan. 12 at Presbyterian Church of the Cross, 1517 S. 114th St. The second annual Nebraska’s Own concert features pianist James Barnett. Admission: free. 5:30 p.m. 402.333.7466.

—vesperconcerts.org

Jan. 17 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. These popular performers are a tribute band to the Eagles. Tickets: $12 advance, $15 day of show. 8:30 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

HAYSTAK

Jan. 17 at the Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Th is Southern hip-hop legend is coming to Omaha with a host of guests, including Bad News Bobby and Mr Lyd. Tickets: $15 advance. 7 p.m. 402.391.2554.

—lookoutomaha.com

THE PARTY AFTER

Jan. 17 at the Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. The rock band from Omaha released their first single in February 2019. Tickets: $10. 9 p.m. 402.884.5707.

—reverblounge.com

Jan. 25 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Hear music from The Eagles, E.L.O, Styx, and other ’70s bands performed by one of Omaha’s most popular tribute bands. Tickets: $70-$105. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

Jan. 29 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The Anniversary was formed in Kansas in the late ’90s and has consistently toured the Midwest region in the years since. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 day of show. 8:30 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS AND THE DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND

Jan. 30 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. These bands combine swing, funk, jazz, and blues for a unique sound. Tickets: $25-$40. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

PIANO POWER: RHAPSODY IN BLUE

Jan. 17 & 18 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Louis Schwizgebel and Xiayin Wang perform several classic works on piano. Tickets: $19-$75.

7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

MARK & MAGGIE O’CONNOR » Concerts « KEEP PUSH’N

Jan. 4 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Th is REO Speedwagon tribute band formed from a Beatles tribute band. Tickets: $10. 8 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

DIRTYSNATCHA

Jan. 18 at Omaha Conservatory of Music, 7023 Cass St. Grammy-winning violinist Mark O’Connor and his wife, Maggie, are performaning with Omaha Conservatory of Music strings students. A Th ree-time Grammy Award winner and three-time Grand Master Fiddler Champion, Mark has composed music for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Tickets: $10. 402-932-4978.

—omahacm.org

YOUR SMITH

Jan. 4 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The slowdown hosts an EDM dance party with Dirtysnatacha and Space Wizard. Tickets: $12-$15. 9 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

Jan. 19 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Caroline Smith makes music that is inspired by a combination of her hometown Minneapolis and Los Angeles. Tickets: $10-$12. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

RIFF RAFF: CRANBERRY VAMPIRE TOUR

COLD WAR KIDS

Jan. 9 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The 37-year-old rapper makes a stop in Omaha on his Cranberry Vampire Tour. Tickets: $20. 9 p.m.

402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

RECAPTURED

Jan. 10 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The Journey tribute band is one of the most popular in the region.

Tickets:$12-$25. 9 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

STRAVINSKY’S PULCINELLA

Jan. 12 at Witherspoon Theater, 2200 Dodge St. Omaha Symphony performs Stravinsky’s entire ballet, one that is both elegant and whimsical. Prior to the show, Joslyn curators will give a talk about the museum’s Degas statue, “Little Dancer Aged Fourteen.” Tickets: $35. 2 p.m. 402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

// 14 //

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Jan. 23 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The band’s latest album, LA Divine, is inspired by how weird and strange the city of Los Angeles is. Tickets: $32. 8 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

STEVIE STONE

Jan. 23 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Th is hiphop artist is signed to the same label as Tech N9ne. His music combines intense bars with gravelly melodies.

Tickets: $15 advance. 8 p.m. 402.391.2554.

—lookoutomaha.com

UNO FACULTY SHOWCASE

Jan. 24 at Strauss Performing Arts Center, 6305 University Dr N. A showcase of renowned musicians who are also committed to teaching students across the country. Tickets: $15 general admission, $8 students, seniors, military. 6:30 p.m. 402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

CHRIS JANSON

Jan. 31 at Ralston Arena, 1200 Douglas St. This country singer is known for hits such as “Fix a Drink,” “Buy Me a Boat,” and “Drunk Girl.” Tickets: $29.50-$49.50.

7 p.m. 402.934.6291.

—ralstonarena.com

SINATRA & BEYOND

Feb. 1 & 2 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Singer/songwriter/pianist Tony DeSare puts his own style on Sinatra classics. Tickets: $19-$82. 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 1 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 2. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

RUN RIVER NORTH

Feb. 5 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The band released their third studio album, Monsters Calling Home, Vol. 1, in May 2019. Tickets: $15-$18. 8 p.m.

402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | CALENDAR

BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS

Feb. 19 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The Colorado jam band is known for their hits like “Bittersweet,” and “Blue Sky.” Tickets: $29.50-$44.50. 7:30 p.m.

402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

BRAHM’S SYMPHONY NO. 1

Feb. 21 and 22 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Brahm’s Symphony No. 1 features a fantastic fi nale. Tickets: $19-$73. 7:30 p.m.

402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

FLOYD

Feb. 21 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. A tribute band to Pink Floyd intent on delivering the most authentic performance possible. Tickets: $12. 8:30 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

CURLY MARTIN & FRIENDS

EDDIE PALMIERI AFROCARIBBEAN JAZZ SEXTET

Feb. 6 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Omaha native Curly Martin performs in his hometown with several other locally-known jazz artists in this popular concert. Tickets: $19-$40. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

Feb. 11 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Since the 1950s, Eddie Palmieri has mixed American jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms into his own unique sound. Tickets: $20-$50. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

INGESTED, VISCERAL DISGORGE, CABAL, OPPRESS THE TYRANT, BA’AL BERITH

OTIS MURPHY

Feb. 6 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Th is show features performances from several bands, including the headliner, a death metal band from the UK. Tickets: $17. 6-11 p.m. 402.391.2554.

—lookoutomaha.com

Feb. 13 at Strauss Performing Arts Center, 6305 University Dr N. An internationally renowned musician, Otis Murphy has played at some of the largest concert halls in the world and will visit the University of Nebraska at Omaha for their International Concert Series. Tickets: $15 adults, $8 students, seniors, military members. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

JASON ALDEAN: WE BACK TOUR

Feb. 7 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. Following the release of his ninth album, the country music superstar makes a stop in Omaha on his latest tour.

Tickets: $51-$325. 7:30 p.m. 402.341.1500.

—chihealthcenteromaha.com

THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS

Feb. 13 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The Canadian indie rock band, known for their single “High Ticket Attractions,” released their eighth album, In the Morse Code of Brake Lights, in 2019. Tickets: $30. 8 p.m.

402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

CODY JINKS

Feb. 7 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. Th is singer of “I’m Not the Devil” and “Lifers” is coming to Omaha. Tickets: $29-$154. 402.934.6291.

—ralstonarena.com

THE RUSH TRIBUTE PROJECT

Feb. 7 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. A tribute band for Rush performs their biggest hits. Tickets: $15 advance, $20 day of show. 9 p.m.

402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

BOB MARLEY BIRTHDAY BASH

Feb. 8 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Award winning band Rhythm Collective performs Bob Marley and other reggae songs in honor of the late singer. Tickets: $10-$12, $20 VIP. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

IMANI WINDS: THE BEAUTY OF STRIFE

Feb. 10 at at Presbyterian Church of the Cross, 1517 S. 114th St. The Grammy-nominated group aims to connect with their audience in every performance and will make their first stop in Omaha. 7 p.m. 402.333.7466.

—vesperconcerts.org

GRAYSCALE

Feb.

13

Feb. 13 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Grayscale has been building momentum since their 2011 beginnings with music influenced by everything from nineties rock to modern pop.

Tickets: $16 advance, $20 day of show. 7 p.m.

402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

KOE WETZEL

Feb. 14 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Country singer Koe Wetzel infuses hints of punk in his songs.

Tickets: $22-$25. 8:30 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

BATMAN (1989)

Feb. 15 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Experience one of the first big screen adaptions of the caped crusader while the Omaha Symphony performs the fi lm’s score live. Tickets: $19-$79. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

THE TOASTERS

Feb. 16 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. The Toasters perform in Omaha as part of their “4 Decades in Ska” tour. Tickets: $10-$12. 7 p.m. 402.391.2554.

—lookoutomaha.com

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

MOTHERFOLK

Feb. 22 at the Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. The indie rock band released their third studio album, Family Ghost, in October 2019. Tickets: $10. 9 p.m.

402.884.5707.

—reverblounge.com

WATCH WHAT CRAPPENS

Feb. 22 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. “The creators of “Watch What Crappens” are taking their show on the road. The podcast is a discussion of Bravo TV shows and stars. Tickets: $25 advance, $80 advance VIP, $28 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

THE GLORIOUS SONS

Feb. 23 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Th is Canadian band captures the confusion and chaos of young adulthood in their new album, Young Beauties and Fools.

Tickets: $20-$99. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

COLT FORD

Feb. 27 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Ford is known for his hits “Sleep Without You,” “Like I Loved You,” and “Mercy.” Tickets: $25-$30. 8:30 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

BRETT YOUNG WITH SPECIAL GUEST MATT FERRANTI

Feb. 27 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. The rising country music star is known for his platinum hits like “Sleep Without You,” “Like I Loved You” and “Mercy.”

Tickets: $35-$225. 8 p.m. 402.661.8501.

—ticketomaha.com

STEFON HARRIS & BLACKOUT

Feb. 28 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Harris combines jazz and R&B for a unique sound. Tickets: $19-$40. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0202.

—ticketomaha.com

» Family & More « MIRACLE ON FARNAM

Th rough Jan. 1 at Midtown Crossing, 30th and Farnam Streets. Miracle on Farnam is a unique tradition where families and friends can browse decorated storefront displays created by local artists and non-profits. Times vary.

—midtowncrossing.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE | CALENDAR

KWANZAA 2019

Through Jan. 1 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. Kwanzaa is a celebration of family, community and culture. Th is event will feature the traditional elements of Kwanzaa. 1-2 p.m. 402.932.7077.

—gpblackhistorymuseum.org

WINTERFEST, THE 2020 KROC WINTER GAMES

Jan. 11 at The Kroc Center, 2825 Y St. Th is event is fun for the entire family and includes Indoor Snowball Fights, Bounce houses, snacks and crafts, superheroes, a winter Olympic training ground obstacle course, floor hockey, and live entertainment. Admission: Free.

402.905.3500.

—omahakroc.org

BEE THRERE OR BEE SQUARE

NEBRASKA CHINESE ASSOCIATION NEW YEAR’S GALA

Feb. 3 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Th is year’s annual gala includes a rare and exclusive opportunity to see world renown performers from some of China’s top song and dance troupes. Tickets will also be available for a VIP Dinner featuring traditional Chinese banquet cuisine. 402-345-0606 —omahachinese.net

15TH ANNUAL DADDY/ DAUGHTER DATE NIGHT

Feb. 6 at Papillion Landing Community Center, 1046 W. Lincoln St. Th is annual date night is a special night for fathers or father-figures and their daughters. The event includes dinner, dancing, pictures, and more.

Semi-formal attire requested. Registration is required

by Jan. 31. Tickets: TBA. 402.597.2041 —papillion.org

Jan. 17 at Nebraska Extension Office, 8015 W. Center Road. Dr. Jody Green will speak about attracting bees and other polinators to gardens. She will also discuss THE OMAHA HOME AND GARDEN EXPO how to build and maintain a “bee hotel” for the Feb. 6-9 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. planet’s polinating friends. 9 a.m. Admission: The 54th annual Omaha Home and Garden Expo $5. 402.444.7804 features items and ideas for the inside and outFeb. —events.unl.edu side of your house. There is also a special focus on eco-friendly ideas. Tickets: $9 adults, $4.50 ages 5-12, free for children under 5. Times vary.

PHEASANTS FOREVER —showofficeonline.com

6-9

PRESENTS RIVER CITY HUNTING, FISHING, BOAT & RV EXPO

Jan. 17-19 at Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this show, which features more than 100 exhibitors showcasing hunting, fishing, and archery equipment; plus boats, ATVs, and campers.

Times vary. Tickets: $10 adults, $3 children 15 and under, and free to children under age 3. 712-323-0536 —caesars.com/mid-america-center

MISS NEBRASKA LATINA 2020-CORONATION NIGHT

Jan. 18 at Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Miss Nebraska Latina is the state’s largest beauty contest for Latinas. A winner will be crowned on this night.

Tickets: $25. 6-8 p.m. 402.345.4849.

—rosetheater.org

2020 MIDLANDS INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Jan. 23-26 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. Th is event features some of the finest cars in the world. There is something for every car fan out there, as cars, trucks, and SUVs will be on display. 402.341.1500.

—chihealthcenteromaha.com

MAC & CHEESE BINGE

Jan. 25 at Midtown Crossing. The fourth annual Mac & Cheese Binge features $3 mac & cheese samplers from participating restaurants. Participants can also vote on their favorites. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

—midtowncrossing.com

BASH & BRAWL 2020

Jan. 25 at The Bunker, 9006 Maple St. Omaha Roller Derby is hosting a holiday mini co-ed tournament. Get in the game, or take a seat and cheer on your favorites.

Admission: $5. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

—omaharollergirls.org

35TH ANNUAL CATHEDRAL FLOWER FESTIVAL

Jan. 25-26 at St. Cecilia’s Cathedral, 701 N. 40th St. Forty of Omaha’s fi nest floral designers join the Cathedral Flower Guild in this celebration of the coming spring season. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Sunday.

Cost: free. 402-551-2313.

—cathedralartsproject.org

OPERA & ENTREES

Feb. 7 at Monarch Prime, 316 S. 15th St. Before seeing “Abduction from the Seraglio,” opera-lovers can eat hors d’oeuvres and a three-course meal put on by the Opera Omaha Guild before the performance. In attendance will be the conductor, who will present a pre-dinner lecture about the production. Tickets: $75. 5 p.m.

402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

ASICS PRESIDENTS’ DAY CLASSIC

Feb. 15-17 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. Up to 450 of the best Junior Olympic volleyball teams from around the nation will be competing in this weekend of aces, digs, and spikes. Tickets: $10 for single-day pass or $25 for three day pass. Ages 6 and under are free. 402.341.1500 —chihealthcenteromaha.com

14TH ANNUAL OMAHA ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS AWARDS

Feb. 16 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Th is awards show recognizes some of the most talented artists and entertainers in the Omaha area in the categories of visual arts, performing arts and live music. 6 p.m. cocktails, 7 p.m. show. Tickets: $30-$60.

—oea-awards.org

2020 OMAHA BOAT SPORTS AND TRAVEL SHOW

Feb. 20-23 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. The 73rd year of this event features a wide variety of items for those who love the outdoors. Fishing, hunting, camping, and boating equipment will be on display and experts will be there to assist those looking for more information. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 students 18 and under, free for children 5 and under. Times vary.

402.393.3339.

—omahaboatsportsandtravelshow.com

14TH ANNUAL EXTREME PRESENTED BY BEERTOPIA

Feb. 22 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. Extreme is an event featuring over 300 beers including rare, new release, and seasonal flavors. 21+ only. 2-7 p.m. Tickets: $38-$65. 402-345-1708.

—beercornerusa.com

SNOW SCULPTING COMPETITION

OMAHA FASHION WEEK

OMAHA WHISKEY FESTIVAL

RESTORE NEBRASKA CONFERENCE

SECOND ANNUAL TATTOO ARTS CONVENTION

OMAHA ROYAL PRINCESS BALL

Feb. 7-9 at 2610 N. Main St. in Elkhorn This event will show beautiful snow sculptures from professional exhibitions across the nation local teams. Competitors will sculpt in sanctioned events for a chance at going to the 2021 national competition. The event will also feature Nebraska’s only Ice Bar. Admission: Free. 402-216-7812.

—mainstreetstudios2610.com/snowsculpting

Feb. 8 at Embassy Suites, 555 S. 10th St. Whiskey distillers, master blenders, and other whiskey experts who will be in attendance. The event will showcase a selection of single malt and blended Scotch, Irish, bourbon, rye, Tennessee, Japanese, Canadian, and craft-distilled whiskies.

—omahawhiskeyfest.com

Feb. 14-16 at Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way. Tattoo fans will appreciate this convention, which celebrates all things ink. Special guests include Ink Master contestants James Vaughn, Kyle Dunbar, and Al Fliction. Tickets: $20 day or $40 for a three-day pass.712-323-0536.

—caesars.com/mid-america-center

Feb. 23-29 at Omaha Design Center, 1502 Cuming St. The fifth-largest fashion week in the nation returns for another round of great clothes and great fun. Local designers are a big part of this event, which also includes a cancer survivors night and shopping. Tickets: $25$45. 402.937.1061.

—omahafashionweek.com

Feb. 28-29 at Metropolitan Community College, 5300 N. 30th St. Restoration Exchange is offering another weekend of public education and motivation to restore, revive and preserve older homes and buildings. The two day event opens Feb. 28 with an evening sneak peek tour of the restoration of the former Blackstone Hotel.

Times vary. 402-933-3104.

—restorationexchange.org Feb. 29 at Courtyard by Omaha Mariott Bellevue, 3750 Raynor Parkway. Princesses in training (and their parents) will get to participate in princess games, story time sing along, ballroom dancing, and more. Children will meet their favorite princesses, such as Cinderella, Beauty, the Snow Sisters, and more. Tickets: $25-$40.

402-408-5300.

—bellevueeventcenter.com

HIBERNATE & CREATE RETREAT

Feb. 15-16 at Hot Shops Art Center, 1301 Nicholas St. Guests can participate in this two-day event of fun and creativity, featuring optional classes, meals, and a dedicated space to create in any medium of their choosing. Registration required. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $200. 402-342-6452.

—hibernateandcreate.com

Event times and details may change.

Visist omahamagazine.com for complete listings.

Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

// 17 //

// A+C MUSIC // STORY BY VIRGINIA KATHRYN GALLNER

DAVID P. MURPHY IS A MASTER,

AND JACK, OF ALL TRADES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

// 19 //

2020

// A+C MUSIC // torch songs such as “Violet is the New Blue,” he elevates the melodies with key changes and modulations. With influences ranging from Randy Newman to Joni Mitchell, he has developed a voice all his own.

self-described creator of “original songs and gibberish,” David P. Murphy is a jack of all trades—and master of them all.

Writing is writing, Murphy insists.

Listening to the torch songs, tributes, and satirical asides that characterize his albums, it’s incredible to imagine that the same individual could make such seemingly different works of art.

Murphy began with music.

He started playing the piano at age 5 and was writing music by age 9. His teacher wanted him to play strictly what was on the page, but he wanted to take it to the next level and create his own accompaniments.

“Quite frankly, sheet music is not that good,” Murphy said.

“It doesn’t have all the colors.”

Murphy has found many opportunities to collaborate with area musicians as a producer, arranger, and accompanist. He engineered, arranged, and co-produced Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards Outstanding Jazz nominee Camille Metoyer Moten’s album Classic, which was also nominated for an OEAA in September 2019 for Album of the Year.

Classic is the culmination of a 10-year collaboration. Their relationship is an “almost telepathic thing,” in Murphy’s words.

“in A sterEo wOrld, it’s hArd tO be mOnO”

Shrugging, he explained, “It’s a left/right brain thing, really. It needs to be expressed by the composer in a certain way or there’s nothing to memorialize the composition.”

As a younger man, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue songwriting. His band David Murphy and the Storks performed in many places that have since shuttered their doors. In his opinion, the best club in L.A. was At My Place, where Bobby Caldwell and various smooth jazz singers used to perform.

“It was a remarkable time,” he said.

“I want things to sound timeless,” he said.

Moten’s rich vibrato reaffirms the timelessness of the songs.

The album includes two songs penned by Murphy, “Totally Blue” and “I Can Barely Think About the Spring.”

Murphy also produced, recorded, and arranged the single “Stand by Me” for Julie Baker, a local jazz vocalist.

Baker said, “[David] has this incredible gift of taking a song and making it new again. So many times, I will take a song to a rehearsal and he will say ‘let’s mess with this,’ which is code for ‘we are going to make it our own.’ He wants to get it right and does not cut corners.”

Even in the production process, it always comes back to the writing. “Everything serves the song [and] grows organically from there,” Murphy said. “I want things a certain way, as any writer does. It poses a challenge.”

Throughout all of Murphy’s albums, including his collaborations, a narrative thread binds together the different genres—perhaps owed to his experience writing prose fiction and satire.

After living in LA for 25 years, Murphy returned to Nebraska. “Out there where the west begins,” as he sings. The Midwest seems to have inspired many of his songs. “Long Lake,” for example, is an instrumental piece that opens with bird calls, evoking early morning walks by a lake. Specifically, for Murphy, Long Lake in Park Rapids, Minnesota.

“I was tainted [by satire] from a young age,” he said with a laugh, referencing inspirations such as Mad Magazine, National Lampoon, and Monty Python.

Murphy uses diverse instrumentation in his songwriting: birdsong, backup harmonies, and horn sections, as well as the standard guitar, bass, and drums. In

Murphy’s SoundCloud page is peppered with fake ads. One of the “sponsors” for his SoundCloud is deadflowers.com, originally made for his friend Dave

Wingert, a morning DJ on AM/FM Boomer Radio.

He contributed “Moby Dick and Jane,” a piece he described as “mash-up satire,” to McSweeney’s, a popular satire website.

His five published books include Zombies for Zombies: Advice and Etiquette for the Living Dead, a motivational guide for the recently (un)deceased.

Murphy takes many things in life with tongue firmly planted in cheek.

He has a genetic predisposition for high blood pressure. Nearly five years ago, it manifested suddenly and without warning, destroying the optic nerve in his left eye in what is known as an ocular stroke.

The first sign something was wrong was a change in temperament. The normally genial Murphy became cranky. He said he knew he had high blood pressure, but never knew this version of a stroke existed.

Losing half of his vision changed a lot of things for Murphy.

As with most things, Murphy approaches his loss of sight with a sense of humor.

“In a stereo world, it’s hard to be mono,” he quipped.

Even the most difficult obstacles seem easier with a laugh.

“It’s a lot harder to find things around the house,” he admitted. “Darkness is not my friend.”

Within two years of having his stroke, he met three people with the same condition.

He said it’s “like when you get a new car and you start to see the car [everywhere.]”

It has been five years, and he tries his best to keep a positive attitude.

“We can all get lulled into a false sense of security about what we do and who we are,” Murphy said. “I know other people who have situations far worse than mine.

You move on, you be grateful for what you got.”

Talking about these life changes, he got goosebumps. “Music means more [now]. It’s like some kind of bold underscore.”

Visit davidpmurphy.com for more information.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

// 21 //

W r

A+C VISUAL // STORY BY GREG JERRETT PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

no WEApons reQUIreD Art Conquers All in Fight

Against a Dangerous Narrative JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Warranted or not, creative ability and mental illness are viewed as traveling companions.

Since Lord Byron’s day, many literary critics have leaned into a poetic notion connecting “genius” and “madness.”

Many artists have been posthumously diagnosed with everything from severe depression to schizophrenia based on hearsay and work product. Jack Kerouac, Vincent Van Gogh, Virginia Woolf, and others fall into an often-romanticized category of mentally ill geniuses.

In 2014, Harvard lecturer Shelley Carson said in James Kaufman’s The Shared Vulnerability Model of Creativity and Psychopathology: “In general, research indicates that creative people in arts-related professions endorse higher rates of positive schizotypy than non-arts professionals.” Perhaps. After all, art is about communicating to an audience a different perspective from the everyday.

One is more likely to present a view of life outside the mainstream if they see the world in a way that others do not, and illness can certainly do that.

Zach Willard, 28, is an Omaha multimedia artist who goes by the handle ZWIAN (@Zach.W.is.a.Nerd). He works and experiments with video art, animated gif art, glitch art, mixed media, lenticular prints, woodburning, apparel, zines, and humor. He has also lived with mental illness for much of his life.

“I’m a definite jack-of-all-trades, master of none. Someday, I think it’d be nice to switch up and be a jack of a few trades and master of some, but I haven’t struck that balance yet,” Willard said. “Being a multimedia artist is like saying a person is a Renaissance man who knows how to work a computer.”

Ten years ago, Willard was diagnosed with manic depression, now more commonly referred to as bipolar disorder. In 2018, he was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and situational anxiety disorder.

“Generally, situations make me anxious,” Willard said. He has also suffered from undiagnosed chronic abdominal pain for much of his 20s, which became acute in the last three years.

In 2018, a scan showed a nodule on Willard’s adrenal gland, causing a cancer scare. Fortunately, he was was diagnosed quickly at the renowned Mayo Clinic and found that he was cancer-free.

“Unfortunately, the cause of my pain is still a bit of a mystery. I had to leave a job I really enjoyed working for—my parents’ business, Willard Auto Machine,” he said. “I did lots of physical labor, but due to my physician’s recommendation, I had to switch back to an office job.”

Willard uses art to distract from his illness, as well as to amuse himself and others. At a showing of his work at The HideAway art gallery in Benson, he used various images of digital glitches others might ignore.

Willard captures them in screenshots or photographs them for examination.

Old videos others throw out are a goldmine of analog artifacts. He layers a variety of images culled from garage-sale VHS tapes with screen-capped digital glitches and images from his own life, such as animated pastiche set on a loop and projected on the wall or displayed on old television sets.

As much as his illness affects his life, Willard finds the romanticized connection between illness and creativity problematic.

“It’s bulls---. Everyone has the ability to ‘see the world in a novel and original way,’” he said. “It’s a matter of establishing an original perspective.”

Dr. Albert Rothenberg noted in a 2015 Psychology Today article, “Creativity and Mental Illness,” that the titular conditions are both nonnormative behaviors with similarities. Euphoria, mania, anxiety, and depression can be signs of mental illness as well as normative aspects of a healthy Janusian creative process.

Rothenberg said that mental illness can be a hindrance to creativity, and often the most productive artistic periods for afflicted artists happen when their mental illness is best controlled. As one example, Jackson Pollock suffered from alcoholism and bipolar disorder, but ushered in abstract expressionism during a time of great personal improvement in his condition.

“The idea that creative ability doesn’t already belong to everyone is unnecessarily exclusive in an effort to elevate people who are neurologically different rather than accepting that everyone is different in the first place,” Willard said. “To ‘literally see things that others cannot’ is psychosis.

That is not a blessing nor an enhanced capacity, it’s an affliction that is harmful to look at through a rose-tinted lens.”

Willard said he does not believe that creativity or art are “Newtonian.”

“Every creative action in life doesn’t cause an equal or opposite reaction,” Willard said, adding that crediting mental illness for creativity “weaponizes” it. “Inspiration can certainly come from any form of hardship, but it isn’t a requirement. Weaponizing mental health can be a dangerous narrative. Even if I personally thought my worst mental health moments somehow influenced the best things I make, it wouldn’t make it a net positive or worth experiencing. An unexpected result or creation may be a silver lining to me having to deal with my health issues, but that doesn’t make it worth the clouds in the first place.”

Willard stressed the importance of keeping the number for The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on hand: 1-800-273-8255.

“People should program the number in their phones and share it,” he said. “Even if it seems like something you’ll never need yourself. It’s important for removing the stigma around reaching [out] for help.”

Visit zachwisanerd.com for more information.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

A+C AUTHOR // STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA

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Nebraska writer Kassandra Montag grew up with a strong sense of home.

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She spent her Arcadian childhood outside Kearney playing in nearby woods and beside a creek. She built campfires and rafts, and stitched clothes together. Adventure stories fed her imagination and the outdoors offered a canvas to reenact these dramas.

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Wr i t i n g i s s u c h a n i s o l a t i n g c a r e e r. Yo u n e e d t h a t c o m m u n i t y a n d s u p p o r t . I t i s h a r d t o f i n d .

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“To me, it was a sanctuary because I love to be outside, I love nature,” Montag said. “It brought me a lot of comfort.”

Even as a child she expressed herself in writing.

“I wrote journal after journal. When you are a writer, you’re making a whole world from your mind. There’s this thing about creative people and the way we pay attention to the world around us and are able to transform that raw material into an experience for someone else. It’s part observation, part intuition.”

Then there’s the feeling of “having something inside you that you have to get out.” At 18, while a student at University of Nebraska at Kearney, she found a kind reader in the Nebraska poet Don Welch.

They began a correspondence. “I would drop off some poems in his mailbox and he would write notes on them, critique them, and encourage me,” Montag recalled. “It was incredibly nurturing and uplifting. It meant the world to have someone who believed in me and also challenged me. He was that perfect mentor.”

Working on her master’s at Creighton University, she found another mentor in poet Susan Aizenberg. “Writing is such an isolating career. You need that community and support. It is hard to find.”

That support emboldened Montag to start submitting to literary journals.

After a decade of having her poetry and short stories published, she wrote her debut novel, After the Flood. The book tells a post-apocalyptic tale of a mother’s search for a place to call home.

Within two weeks of mailing queries and sample chapters, she landed a literary agent. “It’s incredibly rare,” said junior literary agent Jessica Spivey on behalf of Montag’s agent, Victoria Sanders. “Within two weeks we are usually just beginning to read a manuscript, not giving an offer.”

William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins, secured the publishing rights at The London Book Fair. The screen rights sold at a Hollywood auction to Chernin Entertainment. “It was really exciting and overwhelming. It’s especially fulfilling to share it with family and old friends because they know where I’ve come from,” Montag said. “They’ve supported and believed in me the whole way.”

There’s little chance Montag will develop a big head.

“Myra is such a force of nature. She doesn’t give up, she perseveres. She’s willing to take risks. I admire that courage. The writing of the book became a journey of finding out more about these characters and what this mother would do in this dilemma. It became a quest of the mother to see her missing daughter by joining a ship of people searching for a safe haven.”

Montag said she did three major drafts before it was ready.

It paid off. “The story itself is captivating right from the start,” Spivey said. “Her prose is lush and beautiful. It’s a really timely story as well.”

Montag’s turn from poetry to prose took her far afield.

“This was a huge departure from my previous work of domestic realism poetry and short stories,” Montag said. “This was an epic saga of a family in crisis in a future flooded world. It felt more daring and scary to do. I’d never attempted a project of this scope and quite this action-packed.”

In another sense, she said, it was liberating. “Writing this felt like returning to my childhood love of pure adventure storytelling.

It felt really freeing. I felt like breaking away from having to be purely realistic.”

Still, she endeavored to ground her fictional story in fact, balancing her research between survival guides, for practical details, with historical accounts of life before technology.

“I felt like I also carried this memory of what it feels like to fend for one’s self outdoors. My childhood taught me to really pay attention to small changes in the natural world. That led to me being able to write a book in which environment plays such a large role.”

The journals she began as a child sparked a lifelong practice of jotting things down, including inspirations for her novel.

“I love journaling—both as a way to reflect on my own life and to explore influences and new ideas. I’m not as religious about it as I used to be. Now my writing time is spent working on my next book.”

That next book, she says, is a murder mystery set in the Nebraska Sandhills. “I love the Sandhills. It’s a very beautiful, haunting, eerie setting. I knew I wanted to set a book there at some point.

I like to write characters with that gritty Midwestern work ethic and perseverance.”

“I have two young boys who never let me get ahead of myself.

They keep me very grounded.”

Even with the novel selling well, she says a writer’s lot “is knowing you’ll fail most of the time.” Forget security when rejection is a returned manuscript away.

The idea for the book came after she and her husband Andrew Baumgartner, a geriatric psychiatrist, returned from The Netherlands, where he’d been studying on a Fulbright scholarship.

“You don’t know if you’ll spend two or three years of your life on a book that never sells. But I guess it’s motivating that you always have to hustle.”

“I started having these recurring pregnancy nightmares of a wave of water coming across the Nebraska prairie,” she said. “I had this image in my mind’s eye of a mother living in this future flooded world on a small boat with her young daughter and her other daughter in danger being held somewhere.”

Montag felt she heard the strong, assertive voice of the mother, Myra. “I felt like I knew her personality just from the quality of her voice.”

She believes many readers, like herself, can identify with Myra’s fierce, maternal mettle.

“So much of the novel is about Myra contending with losses.

I think that’s universal. We’ve all lost something or someone. All of us deal with how can we be courageous in the face of loss.”

Visit kassandramontag.com for more information.

A+C PERFORMANCE // STORY BY KAMRIN BAKER

downtown MICHAEL JOHNSON TAKES FLIGHT

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disruptor PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

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ICH A EL JOH NSON SAT I N A N A BST R ACT, R ED A N D W H I T E BI R D COST UM E AS A N AU DI E NCE GAT H ER ED A ROU N D. BLU E A N D PI N K ST R E A M ERS A N D A N “I T’S A BOY” BA N N ER H U NG I N CON F I DE N T F EST I V I T Y. JOH NSON R EV E A LED A N EEDLE; T H IS WAS T H E DAY T H EY BEGA N HOR MON E R EPL ACE M E N T T H ER A PY.

Johnson is a transgender artist who splits their time between Omaha and Des Moines—and is a self-proclaimed expert in “goofy gay s---.”

Essentially, this means Johnson creates artwork—painting, drawing, design, performance, and more—to highlight queer and transgender identities, as well as arts accessibility.

The aforementioned baby shower was a show called Pluck at Petshop gallery in Benson in June 2019.

In terms of identity, Johnson is upfront and knowledgeable, but seemingly most sure of themselves through the lens of the Wiggle Bird, an autobiographical fictional character born in 2016. It first appeared as drawings and paintings, and is now a performance art costume.

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Johnson decided to start hormones while building the Wiggle Bird costume. They started walking around downtown Omaha in the seven-foot-tall bird suit that “kind of looks like a dolphin” to some.

if I called them zines, people would look at my little comics,” Johnson said. “So zines have been really great to just keep me making. And they’re not just a creative outlet, they’ve also helped me meet so many amazing people.”

Exploring transhumanism through soft sculpture was incredibly freeing, Johnson said, adding an explanation in a follow-up email.

The income generated from this project goes directly towards Johnson’s top surgery, which is planned for late 2020.

For Johnson, top surgery will be more than simple breast removal, because in addition to removing breast tissue, the surgeon will also sculpt the chest to create a masculine shape.

“Transhumanism is the idea that humans can physically transform, alter, or otherwise better themselves through science and technology. For me as a trans person, transhumanism means using hormones and surgery to change my body in ways that make me feel happier and more at home in my own skin. It means taking

Many people—in their different, glorious, confusing forms—are sure to see the message in Johnson’s work.

E NTI R E LI F E, I HAVE ALWAYS E NJ OYE D MAK I N G LITTLE C O M I CS, AN D I LEAR N E D THAT I F I CALLE D TH E M Z I N ES, P EO P LE WO U LD LO O K AT MY LITTLE C O M I CS.”

“The Wiggle Bird pretty much functions for me like a little bit of a diary,” Johnson said. “It’s been a really powerful tool of self-reflection, and a way to admit what I am really feeling to myself. The Wiggle Bird has been really instrumental in me coming to terms with my identity and eventually making the decision to start hormone replacement therapy—which I ended up kind of memorializing through Pluck.”

Johnson said the response to Pluck was “phenomenal.” The performer was pleased with the turnout at the gallery, moved by the support of the art community, and felt safe in a climate of openness and acceptance.

However, Johnson’s art doesn’t hinge on a single personal celebration or communal bonding, but rather, through constant disruption.

“The idea of art sometimes scares people because it’s seen as this very fancy thing that you need a degree to make and understand, and a disruption is just, like, walking around a mall with a traffic cone on your head,” Johnson said. “I love art that doesn’t take itself seriously, that is silly, that involves other people, that calls people out of the routine that they walk through every day.”

initiative and ownership of the way I exist in the world.” As an artist, Johnson extends the concept to costumes, using the wearable, soft sculpture to change body shape, abilities, and perception.

As a trans person, passing as one’s identified gender is stressful—including during simple acts such as walking around in public.

“So, it’s a really radical act to build this bird costume and say ‘OK, this is my new body,’” Johnson said. “In the same way that I may be freaked out walking around downtown and not knowing how I am being perceived by others, now all of a sudden, these people whose gazes might otherwise scare me—now they’re freaked out.”

“I do make art about my identity, and I don’t necessarily try to make really positive work, but I think that’s mostly how I feel about myself, and that is what I feel compelled to make,” Johnson said. “It’s deeply, impossibly gratifying when people see being trans as a casual, positive, sexy thing.”

Johnson would like to know more trans/ masculine performance artists and role models in the community, adding that “A support group would be nice.” Seeing those representations earlier in life could have brought Johnson more peace and understanding a lot more quickly.

“I don’t see the things that I make and I don’t see the things I feel or experience represented in art nearly as much as I’d like to,” Johnson said. “That is a driving force about why I am so upfront about things that are so personal. I want to challenge people, and even here in the Midwest, people are really starting to wake up.”

The baby shower, bird costume, portraits, zines, and beyond are simply extensions of Johnson’s wingspan, reaching as far as possible.

While personally bold and inventive, Johnson produces subtle and routine daily work as a graphic designer for Hatchlings in Des Moines, Iowa. The artist also creates a monthly zine for their Patreon patrons, a loving flock called the Wiggle Bird Mailing Club.

“It’s cliché, but we’re all human,” Johnson said. “We should all be building bird costumes, you know? I think everybody should build a new body for themselves.

Try it out.”

“My entire life, I have always enjoyed making little comics, and I learned that

Visit artstoragejohnson.wixsite.com/portfolio for more information.

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OBVIOUSLY OMAHA // STORY BY SARAH WENGERT // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

Worst Winter Driving Spots W

inter in the Midwest can be a feast for the senses: the comforting taste of hot cocoa by a warm fireplace, the sight of fresh snow on evergreen trees as picturesque as a Bob Ross painting, the laughter of children whizzing down alabaster hills on their sleds. This time of year also brings ice scrapers shrieking against frozen windshields, tires spinning in vain, and white-knuckled motorists trying to reach the top of a snow-packed hill—then trying to successfully stop at the bottom. All Omahans have their least favorite spots for winter driving, but there are some common locales so infamous they may as well be marked with caution tape come snowy days.

01. EASTBOUND ON FARNAM STREET

APPROACHING 42ND STREET

This one’s a double-whammy of steep hill and sharp curve where Farnam Street morphs into Harney Street. Ice and snowpack can make it tricky to stay in a lane as the road esses and the grade steepens.

Just beyond the traffic light at 42nd Street is the remaining hill between there and 40th Street—a beast if the road is even remotely slick.

02. SOUTHBOUND ON 78TH STREET

APPROACHING PACIFIC STREET

Another steep hill, but a decline as opposed to an incline. On some roads, it’s OK to slide or spin out a bit because there’s nothing much to run into. At this treacherous spot, the scariest possibility is that drivers may be unable to stop and can slide into five lanes of traffic on perpetually busy Pacific Street.

03. WESTBOUND ON BLONDO STREET

APPROACHING 90TH STREET

This mega hill is no fun for drivers headed downhill to the east, but it’s worse for those heading west uphill. Those driving straight west on Blondo have a fighting chance, especially when they hit a green light right at the bottom of the hill crossing 85th Street; but good luck to those who turn westward off 85th and need to generate momentum. Cars routinely get stuck all the way up to 90th Street as this road shows no mercy in snowy times.

04. EASTBOUND ON CALIFORNIA STREET

APPROACHING 40TH STREET

This ultra-steep incline is well known as a mettle-tester for every manual-transmission driver in Omaha. Those who drive up this hill and achieve the perfect balance of clutch and gas without rolling back too far or killing the engine on a summer day have officially mastered manuals. Add winter road conditions and, even in an automatic, it’s an incredible feat for any driver to make it up the hill and through the intersection.

If the light turns red here on an icy or snowpacked day, drivers should pray.

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05. WESTBOUND ON STATE STREET AT

MILITARY AVENUE

State Street slopes up here so that coming to a full stop at the stop sign likely means drivers won’t make it through the intersection. But, in true quagmire fashion, failing to stop at the stop sign is also quite dangerous.

06. HARRISON STREET BETWEEN 42ND

AND 48TH STREETS

The consecutive hills throughout this stretch make it like riding a wave—but not a fun, beachy, summer one. This “wave” of hills makes for a tricky stretch and more than a few people have gotten stuck here several times.

DINING REVIEW // STORY BY NIZ PROSKOCIL // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

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Patacon sandwich Pab e

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arlos Mendez co-owns Au Courant a popular Europeaninfluenced restaurant in the Benson neighborhood. Before that, he ran two eateries that specialized in Spanish cuisine. But for his latest venture, the Omaha restaurateur went back to his roots and opened a Latin American spot that serves many of the dishes he grew up eating in Venezuela.

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endez and business partner Rognny Diaz, also from Venezuela, opened The Hunger Block in May 2018 in Rockbrook Village.

It’s housed in the space formerly occupied by Little España, which Mendez operated from 2014 to 2018. The Hunger Block offers an interesting, diverse, and, for the most part, tasty lineup of Venezuelan favorites, as well as food from other South American countries, including Colombia, Argentina, and Peru.

The menu includes appetizers, salads, and main courses, plus classic Venezuelan street fare commonly found in bustling food-filled areas called “la calle del hambre,” which translates to “the hunger street.”

Arepas—grilled or fried flatbread made from corn flour—are enjoyed day and night in Venezuela, Colombia, and other Central and South American countries. They can be eaten plain, but they’re often split in half and filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.

The Hunger Block serves arepas stuffed with shredded beef, chicken, beans, cheese, and more. A vegan version boasts avocado, black beans, sweet plantains, and slaw.

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My dining partner and I tried mini arepas, or arepitas, listed under the appetizer section. The simple yet palate-pleasing dish features five small discs of deep-fried arepas, crispy and golden on the outside and soft inside. The arepitas are accompanied by a wedge of queso fresco, sliced avocado, and Salvadoran crema (similar to sour cream).

Other shareable appetizers include nachos, tequeños (fried cheese sticks), and Peruvianinspired ceviche (citrus-marinated raw fish).

The street food section of the menu includes tacos, patacon (a sandwich that uses fried green plantains instead of bread), burgers, and empanadas. Many cultures have their own variations on the empanada, a hand pie plump with sweet or savory fillings.

The restaurant’s chicken empanada features a shredded chicken filling tucked inside a flaky pastry pocket in the traditional half-moon shape. The pastry was crisp and golden, but the chicken needed more seasoning and was a bit dry. Two aromatic house-made condiments—a white garlicky sauce and a zesty avocado-and-cilantro sauce—enhanced the flavor of every bite.

Pabellon criollo is a traditional Venezuelan dish of shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried sweet plantains. The entree is among the restaurant’s most popular. Although nicely seasoned, the beef was on the tough

side, and the texture of the plain rice was more firm than fluffy. Slightly sweet, caramelized, and tender plantains—similar to a banana but bigger and starchier—were my favorite part of the dish.

Forget counting calories here. Portions are big, and most dishes are starchy and filling.

But there are options for health-conscious diners and those who prefer vegetarian, vegan, or low-carb meals. Gluten-free offerings are available, too. Arepas, for instance, are made from corn and thus naturally gluten-free.

Those who order the bandeja paisa should come hungry: it is a hefty platter of red beans, rice, ground beef, smoky sausage, sweet plantains, fried pork belly, avocado, an arepa, and a fried egg. A popular meal in Colombia, it’s a belly-busting dish that may put a person in a food coma.

Many menu items pair well with a glass of fruity, refreshing sangria, made with red or white wine. Other cocktails include Peruvian pisco sour, margaritas, and mojitos. The dining room is bright and cheerful, with lowand high-top tables, wood finishes, brick accents, and fun touches such as colorful wall murals. Service the night we visited was friendly and attentive, and food arrived fast.

Appetizers run from $3 to $14, arepas are $8, and entrees are in the $15 range.

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We didn’t have room for dessert, but diners who do can tackle massive chocolate and vanilla milkshakes big enough for three or four people. The restaurant has gained a following for the towering, totally Instagram-worthy treats, which are topped with everything from doughnuts and ice cream sandwiches to cookies and cake, plus a mountain of whipped cream, Nutella, and sprinkles.

The Hunger Block’s casual, laid-back atmosphere is enjoyable and, for the most part, the food is too. Although some dishes could be tweaked, the restaurant excels in showcasing the rich flavors of Latin cuisine and adds to the diversity of Omaha’s dining scene.

Visit thehungerblock.com for more information.

THE HUNGER BLOCK 11036 ELM ST. | 402.557.6738 FOOD SERVICE AMBIANCE PRICE OVERALL

$$ 5 STARS POSSIBLE

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DINING FEATURE STORY BY CARRIELLE SEDERSTEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

RAINBOW COLORS

FEED THE MIND, BODY, AND SOUL

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ven those who haven’t been to The Grove Juicery have likely seen photos of it.

Its snapfriendly aesthetic and decor— combining modern elements of white walls and a navy velour sofa with the organic element of fresh flowers and indoor plants—have made it a popular place for devout foodie Instagrammers.

The Grove Juicery is a popular wellness cafe founded in 2018 by Meghann Schense, with a mission of providing nourishment for a sharp mind, glowing body, healthy heart, and happy soul.

Schense is subtly stylish in a French way. She lived in Paris for more than two years.

During that time, she basically lived out of her suitcase, working with fashion designers in Canada and Europe to bring them to the U.S. fashion market.

She was constantly in different time zones, staying out late to grab dinner with clients, and her schedule was all over the place. Her lifestyle then wasn’t the model for optimal health it is today.

“When I was on the road I found…I was seeking places like this [The Grove Juicery] out,” Schense said. “I was always looking for a health cafe or a juice bar or anything that could kind of help balance out the craziness in my life at the time.”

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She became a huge consumer of cold-pressed juice to combat jet lag, improve her energy, and stay healthy during her travels.

Regularly consuming a product doesn’t lead everyone to open a business centered on that product, but in Schense’s case, that’s exactly what happened.

After asking herself what she wanted to do with her life and what she was passionate about, she knew it had to be in the health and wellness field. She also knew it had to be in Omaha.

Every time she came back to visit, she asked her friends, family, and all of her Uber drivers if they knew what cold-pressed juice was, and the resounding answer was yes. However, they didn’t have access to it.

Schense thought carefully about the location of The Grove Juicery, which is near 24th and Farnam streets. It was important to her to be accessible to downtown, South O, North O, and Midtown because she believes those areas are food deserts.

She wants to give people living in these neighborhoods and the rest of Omaha who may not have access to fresh food the opportunity to take control of their health the way she has.

“I really want people to understand that they have the power to make these choices and really take care of themselves and heal themselves from within,” Schense said.

She believes people need to get away from the idea of always

looking for a quick fix for their health and return to eating real food. “The more colorful your diet is from natural foods, the better,” she said.

will empower change. These issues are really important, and they go hand-in-hand with our health care and our health industry.”

The Grove Juicery makes it easy and fun to add more color to what people eat and drink.

Their products include the Yonce—short for Beyoncé—a bright yellow cold-pressed juice made with lemon, jalapeno, sea buckthorn, alkaline water, and maple syrup; or a reddishpurple acai bowl topped with house-made granola, banana, or coconut; or a pastel-pink ginger and beetroot beauty latte that make up all the vibrant colors of the rainbow (and some not often seen in the sky).

Schense thinks the reason people are so wasteful is that fast food teaches us not to value food, because it’s not nutritious and it’s cheap enough that if it’s left out, people buy more. This conditioning results in people not valuing themselves and their health—something Schense would like to help change.

The juicery uses organic fruits and vegetables as often as possible and sources local produce whenever it’s available.

Schense said sourcing organic produce, especially locally, is one of her biggest challenges.

During the summer and fall, The Grove Juicery is a vendor at the Omaha Farmers Market, and Schense uses the opportunity to connect with local farmers and get their perspective on the agriculture industry. She said she keeps hearing the same chilling story about the high use of crop duster planes applying chemicals to crops and fields. She said a lot of farmers don’t feel as though they have a choice in using it and aren’t proud of the food they’re growing.

“We wonder where cancers are coming from and where some of these diseases and illnesses are coming from,” she said. “I think…when people realize what they put into their body really matters, that will empower people and that

“It starts with self-worth and feeling like you deserve this valuable, good food, and you should have that,” she said.

Some of the most rewarding moments for her is when people come in and experience her products for the first time.

“When we give them samples, you can just see their face kind of light up—that they are remembering what some of these things [foods] actually taste like,” Schense said.

they know how few [food manufacturers] you can actually trust on the market today; to seasoned, rural farmers talking about toxic pesticides being sprayed all day, every day, over thousands of miles of crops. Not to mention the shattering floods and fires, affecting food tremendously. All essentially revolving around the same issue—climate change and our health.”

Schense said whatever inspires someone to move in that direction, she believes there are only positive results.

“Whether it’s your health, or the climate, or performing at your best, I think these are all things people are really starting to understand and feel.”

Visit thegrovejuicery.com for more information.

Schense sees her business as more than a way to impact the lives of people. She views it as a way to impact the planet. Schense said the food industry, particularly animal products, has a large impact on the environment—from what it does to our water, to our soil, to our air. But there is a growing number of people making the switch to a plant-based lifestyle specifically because of climate change.

“A lot of the time…conversation tends to swirl around the same topic,” she said. “From innercity kids without access to real, quality food and exposed to various city pollution; to young suburban couples who grow their own food because

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

// 116 //

GB CHEF PROFILE // STORY BY TAMSEN BUTLER

S

DAN HAMILTON: LIVING WITH GUILLAIN-BARRÉ

“It was weird.” That’s how Dan Hamilton describes what it was like to suddenly lose the ability to do things he took for granted such as walking, talking, and swallowing food. In May 2019, he was working two cooking jobs, one at Waubonsie Station in Tabor, Iowa, and the other at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. A regular day would include standing for most of the shift, being around a hot stove, and plenty of knife work—dangerous work if you’re not careful. “I was stressed and under pressure to make ends meet for my family.”

The weekend before Memorial Day he was driving home from his second job when he noticed something was wrong. “My glasses were hurting my eyes and I had double vision,” he said. Instead of seeking out medical care the next morning, he headed into work.

“I drove…with my hand over one eye so I could see,” he remembered. He wondered if he should call in sick, but forged ahead to Children’s Hospital.

Once he arrived, he said, “My limbs felt like Jell-O, like I had just worked out. There was lots of fatigue.”

He got through the day by taking frequent breaks to sit down but left an hour early. “I knew something wasn’t right.”

Upon returning home, Hamilton told his wife, Kim, he wasn’t feeling right. She insisted they visit an urgent care facility together. They had both felt under the weather for around three weeks, but these were new symptoms. At the facility, Kim was diagnosed with walking pneumonia and Hamilton was diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection. “That sounds about right,” he thought. “I started antibiotics and steroids, ate dinner, and then went to bed.”

“I woke up the next morning and tried to get out of bed but I fell forward—my legs weren’t working.” Hamilton struggled to stand and made his way up the stairs to the living room by holding onto the walls. “I had a really difficult time walking up the stairs. My motherin-law, who was staying with us since being evacuated from the floods in Pacific Junction, said, ‘What’s going on there Dan?’ I collapsed onto the couch.” His wife took one look at him, then they headed to the ER.

// CHEF PROFILE //

H

amilton was given a CT scan, an MRI, and a spinal tap at the hospital.

“They thought it was meningitis, but I didn’t have a fever. While they were checking off all the boxes, one doctor in the room said, ‘It could be Guillain-Barré.’” After some further tests, a physician turned to Hamilton’s wife and said, “Don’t Google it.”

She did, of course, and was shocked by what she found.

“I hope it’s not Guillain-Barré,” she said to Hamilton. “I asked her what the internet said, and she wouldn’t tell me,” Hamilton said.

Guillain-Barré involves the body’s immune system attacking portions of the nervous system, resulting in varying levels of paralysis. The disorder presents in different ways for different people. Some notice problems with coordination, others experience complete paralysis, and some die from the disorder.

By the next day, he couldn’t move his arms or legs. “I was paralyzed from the neck down,” he said. He received the Guillain-Barré diagnosis and began treatment. He received a transfusion of antibodies from donors and was transferred to UNMC.

// 118 //

It was a week before he could use his fingers again. With use of his fingers, he used his smartphone to research his diagnosis. “I researched and found there’s no cure,” he said. “I got emotional thinking about my wife, my kids, and my job.”

Hamilton spent most of June at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital. “I had to relearn everything—texting, swallowing, and speaking correctly.” He worked hard to retrain his body. “Now, I feel pretty good,” he said. He encounters weakness and decreased stamina, and notices he is more emotional now. “I’m more impatient.”

Nowadays, “I can breathe, swallow, drink, and use my hands,” Hamilton said. “I don’t have two jobs anymore. Having just one job makes a big difference.”

He returned to work in September 2019, but needed to modify his work schedule because of his decreased stamina.

He started by working shorter, five-hour shifts, but said that only lasted a week before he was back to a regular 40-hour week. “Children’s Hospital was very gracious. They offered me a chair to work in and allowed me to take extra breaks. They were very accommodating.” In true service industry fashion, he’s now working full shifts without additional accommodations.

“I RESEARCHED AND FOUND THERE’S NO CURE, I GOT EMOTIONAL THINKING ABOUT MY WIFE, MY KIDS, AND MY JOB.”

Recovery was slow. “I needed a lot of help with everything. I could only eat chicken broth and ice cream,” Hamilton said. His senses were disturbed—foods he normally loved tasted bad, he was incredibly sensitive to touch, and spent days in his hospital bed wearing sunglasses because the sun shining through the window was too much. “They explained to me that my neurons were hypersensitive,” explained Hamilton.

He can’t know if he’ll experience another flare-up of paralysis.

Guillain-Barré affects people differently, so there is no way to know what to expect in the future. “It seems the only thing everyone with Guillain-Barré have in common is stress—pushing through, trying to make that money to pay those bills,” he said. “The bottom line is, I need to take care of my body. I didn’t pay attention to what my body was saying.”

It was particularly strange for Hamilton, whose cooking career already spanned 22 years, to not be able to taste food correctly. He is a self-taught cook with no formal culinary training, so to hold the position of head cook at Children’s Hospital—yet suddenly not be able to taste food correctly—proved problematic.

He said the experience put everything in a different perspective. “Value loved ones more. Work and paying the bills isn’t everything. Enjoy life and the people around you. I thought I was dying. It’s a scary thing to think and feel.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

“I’m very blessed to live to tell the tale,” Hamilton said.

“I’m happy I’m here.”

- Sponsored Content -

Omaha

DINING GUIDE

Get a Little Get Saucy.

AMERICAN CHARLESTON’S - $$$

140th and Dodge streets - 402.431.0023 76th and Dodge streets - 402.991.0055 an Dining Itali

a Little Saucy. CHANGE SPEZIA SPECIALTIES

Charleston’s is a casual, upbeat restaurant with a menu filled with dishes prepared from scratch daily. We focus on providing our guests with excellent prices and selecting the highest quality ingredients.

Whether you are new to Charleston’s or a long-standing guest, we look forward to seeing you soon!

—charlestons.com/locations

FRESH SEAFOOD • ANGUS BEEF INNOVATIVE PASTA • RISOTTO SPEZIA SPECIALTIES

DJ’S DUGOUT - $

WOOD FIRE•STEAKS & SEAFOOD GNOCCHI FRESH SALMON DAILY INNOVATIVE PASTA—RISOTTO—GNOCCHI FRESH SALMON DAILY

636 N. 114th St. - 402.498.8855 1003 Capitol Ave. - 402.763.9974 10308 S. 23rd St. - 402.292.9096 2102 S. 67th St. - 402.933.3533 180th and Q streets - 402.292.9096 192nd & West Maple St. - 402.315.1985 HWY 75 & Oak Hill Road - 402.298.4166

SATURDAY LUNCH [11am–4 pm] Saturday Lunch 11 am - 4 pm

$10

COCKTAIL HOUR 1/2 Price Cocktails

MONDAY – SATURDAY Daily 4 - 6 pm 4 – 6 PM ALL COCK TAILS, 11 GLam ASS -WINE Sunday Brunch 2 pm AND BEERS ARE HALF Bottomless MimosasPRICE and

OFF ANY TICKET OVER $25 NO CASH VALUE. EXPIRES 12/31/2011

NO CASH VALUE. EXPIRES 2/29/2020 Not Valid With Happy Hour or Any Other Promotions. One Per Check.

Catering

Bloody Marys

CALL FOR Party RESERVATIONS . Private Rooms•.402-391-2950 Walk-Ins Welcome

3125 South 72

Street

CENTRAL LOCATION • 3125 SOUTH 72ND STREET • nd EASY ACCESS OFF I-80 • 72ND STREET EXIT

(Easy access off I-80, take 72 Street Exit) nd

402.391.2950 . Call today to make your reservation

OMAHA’S ORIGINAL STEAKHOUSE

Prime Rib

• Proudly serving visitor & locals for 90 years.

• Featured on CNN.com Best Meat Cities in America • Serving hand-cut steaks, aged on premise & slow-roasted prime rib with pride

402.731.4774 • johnnyscafe.com 27th & ‘L’ St., Kennedy Frwy, ‘L’ St. Exit 8 Minutes from Downtown Omaha

Catch all of the action at six Omaha-area locations. DJ’s Dugout features burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, appetizers, and an impressive drink menu along with HD TVs and projectors. Home to Blazin’ Pianos, Omaha’s only dueling piano concept.

—djsdugout.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

Best Of Omaha 14 Years Running

WHERE GOOD FOOD AND GOOD SERVICE NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE.

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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SECTION // NAMES

Bakery

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

rotellasbakery.com

thanks to our customers for voting us the

Hamburger

“BEST BURGER

IN OMAHA

“Serving World Famous Hamburgers Since 1936” 106 Galvin Rd., Bellevue, NE • 402-291-6088 • Open Monday-Saturday, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Sports Bar

Sports Bar

2016 First Place

Omaha

DINING GUIDE LE PEEP - $

69th & Pacific - 402.933.2776 177th and Center streets - 402.934.9914 156th Street & W. Dodge Road - 402.408.1728 120th and Blondo streets - 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

KETV 7 • Baxter Arena

OMAHA’S #1 SPORTS BAR! DJSDUGOUT.COM

LISA’S RADIAL CAFE - $

817 N. 40th St. - 402-551-2176

American. Cafe. Diner. Vegetarian-friendly.

Gluten-free options. This old-school diner serves hearty portions of American comfort classics for breakfast and lunch.

Family-owned and operated. This business is a must if you’re in the area. People rave about our chicken-fried steak, stuffed French toast, coffee, and friendly staff.

Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.-2 p.m

Breakfast

STELLA’S - $

106 S. Galvin Road, Bellevue 402.291.6088 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! MondaySaturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., closed Sunday.

—stellasbarandgrill.com

TED AND WALLY’S - $

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!

12

1

Drive-Thru Open (Center St. Only) Open Daily 6:30am-2:00pm Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day!

1120 Jackson St. - 402.341.5827 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.

—tedandwallys.com

LEPEEPOMAHA.COM | @LEPEEPOMAHA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

// 121 //

PRIVATE PARTIES & EVENTS • FULL OR PARTIAL VENUE BUYOUT • CUSTOMIZED MENUS

HAPPY HOUR:

Tues–Sat 3-6pm & All Day Sunday

REVERSE HAPPY HOUR:

Friday & Saturday 9-11pm $1 OFF TACOS, $3 MEX BEERS, $5.50 MARGS 735 N 14th St. Omaha, NE 68102 402.933.4222 | hookandlime.com

To Book Your Event, Email: gm@barchenbeer.com

402.502.9902 6209 MAPLE ST. • BENSON BARCHEN BEER.COM

BEER GARDEN & BEER H A L L

Bringing Italy to Omaha Since 1919

Take a Taste of Italy Home Today!

Tues-Thurs: 8:30am-8pm Friday: 8:30am-8:30pm Saturday: 7:30am-8pm Sunday: 7:30am-6pm

Walking Distance to CHI Health Center Omaha & TD Ameritrade Park CLEAR BAG POLICY IS IN EFFECT

402.346.9116 | 501 N. 13th Street | theMattOmaha.com /the old mattress factory omaha

@Matt_factory

An Omaha favorite for over 100 years (1919-2019)

402.345.3438 621 Pacific St, Omaha NE orsibakery.com

Pasta

THANK YOU FOR VOTING OUR PASTA

NUMBER #1

Rockbrook Village (108th & Center) 402.391.2585 www.pastaamore.com We can accommodate parties of 30 or more, by reservation only Catering Available

DINNER HOURS // Mon-Thur: 4:30-9PM, Fri & Sat: 4:30-10PM

// 122 //

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Omaha

DINING GUIDE I TA L I A N LA CASA PIZZARIA - $$

45th and Leavenworth streets 402.556.6464

La Casa Pizzaria has been serving Omaha its legendary Neapolitan-style pizza and pasta for 60 years. We offer dine-in, carryout, party facilities, catering, and now pizza shipments to the 48 contiguous states.

Open Tuesday-Saturday at 11 a.m. and Sunday at 4:30 p.m.

—lacasapizzaria.net

LOMBARDO’S BISTRO & BAR - $$

13110 Birch Drive - 402.884.9800 We are a locally owned and operated neighborhood eatery with an Italian flare.

We offer a full, made-from-scratch menu along with extensive wine, craft cocktail, and craft beer lists. Casual is the best way to describe the warm and friendly service you will come to enjoy when choosing us.

We offer dine-in, carry-out, catering, a daily happy hour (3-6:30 p.m. and all-day Sundays), live music Tuesdays and Sundays, and half-price bottles of wine on Wine Down Wednesdays.

—lombardosomaha.com

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 oven-roasted 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+

PASTA AMORE - $$

11027 Prairie Brook Road 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. Dinner starts at 4:30 p.m. Reservations recommended.

—pastaamore.com

PITCH - $$

5021 Underwood Ave. - 402.590.2625 An OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice for 2014 HotSpot Restaurant in America. Keeping up with the traditional way the first pizzas in Italy were made, our pizzas are cooked in a coal-fired oven. The menu also features seafood, hand-cut steak, housemade pastas, and burgers full of flavor. Our goal is to provide you with local, housemade, and imported ingredients. We offer a happy hour menu through the week. Our bar provides an array of in-house concoctions as well as your traditional libations. Our wine selection is well-thought-out and most impressive. You will enjoy Pitch. Monday 3 p.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 3-10 p.m. —pitchpizzeria.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 Monday-Sunday. 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

JULIO’S - $

2820 S. 123rd Court - 402.330.2110

Locally owned since 1977, Julio’s prides themselves on serving the finest Tex-Mex cuisine and offering top-notch customer service. Our loyal customers are the reason we have been around for nearly 40 years. We have an extensive menu that has both classic and innovative dishes—giving everyone the opportunity to find something they love. Salivating for Southwestern fare? We have tacos, tostadas, a dozen different enchiladas, and classic fajitas. And, of course, nachos!

—julios.com

LA MESA - $$

158th Street and W. Maple Road - 402.557.6130 156th and Q streets - 402.763.2555 110th St. and W. Maple Road - 402.496.1101 Fort Crook Road and Hwy 370, Bellevue - 402.733.8754 84th Street and Tara Plaza, Papillion - 402.593.0983 Lake Manawa Exit, Council Bluffs - 712.256.2762 Enjoy awesome enchiladas, fabulous fajitas, seafood specialties, mouth-watering margaritas, and more at La Mesa. Come see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s No. 1 Mexican restaurant 16 years in a row.

Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

—lamesaomaha.com

MARGARITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT - $

4915 S. 72nd St. - 402.393.7515

Margarita’s is a business with more than seven years in the food world. We offer authentic Mexican food where you can enjoy a nice moment with your family.

—margaritasmenu.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Omaha

DINING GUIDE ROMEO’S MEXICAN FOOD AND PIZZA - $

90th and Blondo streets - 402.391.8870 146th St. and W. Center Road - 402.330.4160) 96th and L streets - 402.331.5656 Galvin and Avery roads, Bellevue - 402.292.2028 29th and Farnam streets - 402.346.1110

WALKING DISTANCE

TO CHI HEALTH CENTER OMAHA & TD AMERITRADE PARK YOUR PRE-GAME HE AD QUARTE RS FOR LUNCH, DINNE R OR YOUR NE XT EVE NT!

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

SPECIAL DINING BÄRCHEN BEER GARDEN - $

501 N. 13TH ST • 402.346.9116 • THEMATTOMAHA.COM / theoldmattresfactoryomaha

@Matt_factory

6209 Maple St. - 402.502.9902

Located in Benson, Bärchen is a modern American beer garden and beer hall influenced by German communal drinking culture.

Indoor seating for approximately 125 people and outdoor seating in our beer garden for approximately 125-150 people. The laid-back atmosphere pairs well with our 30 rotating taps, international beer list, unique sausage & sandwich menu, and locally made pretzels. We are family and dog friendly—all are welcome. Hours: Tues-Thurs 3 p.m.-11 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information or to host an event, please email gm@barchenbeer.com —barchenbeer.com

STEAKS • CHOPS • SEAFOOD ITALIAN SPECIALTIES 7 private party rooms Seating up to 400 Lots of parking

1620 S. 10th Street

402-345-8313

www.casciossteakhouse.com

BRUSHI BISTRO+BAR - $$

721 N. 132nd St. - 402.884.6878

Swiss-trained chef Paul Braunschweiler combines the best of Europe’s epicurean delights with an American flair. Brushi’s casual and open atmosphere combine to create a true bistro experience. Fresh ingredients highlight the menu. Happy Hours and nightly specials. Private dining available. Patio seating weather permitting.

—brushiomaha.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

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

// 124 //

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

The Original Whiskey Steak is Back!

@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

JAMS OLD MARKET • 1101 Harney St • Happy Hour M-F 3pm-6pm

JAMS MIDTOWN • 7814 West Dodge Road • Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm

JAMS LEGACY • 17070 Wright Plaza • Party Rooms & Patios • jamseats.com Open for Happy Hour 4-7pm Daily

OMAHA’S

#1 MEXICAN RESTAURANT

17 YEARS IN A ROW!

OMAHA – 158TH & MAPLE (402) 557-6130

PAPILLION – 84TH & TARA PLZ (402) 593-0983

OMAHA – 110TH & MAPLE (402) 496-1101

BELLEVUE – FT. CROOK RD & 370 (402) 733-8754

OMAHA – 156TH & Q (402) 763-2555

COUNCIL BLUFFS – LAKE MANAWA EXIT (712) 256-2762

Dining Room Opens at 5pm Daily Private Dining Room Available all day

140 Regency Parkway Omaha, NE 68134 FlemingsSteakhouse.com/Omaha 402.393.0811

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

// 125 //

Omaha

DINING GUIDE CRESCENT MOON ALE HOUSE - $

KOREA GARDEN AUTHENTIC ASIAN CUISINE AND SUSHI - $$

THE DROVER RESTAURANT & LOUNGE - $$$

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 beer-lover’s destination. Hours: Monday-Saturday 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.com

Lunch specials served Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., featuring signature Korean dishes like bulgogi, doenjang jjigae, and grilled mackerel. Menu includes appetizers, traditional specialties, rice, noodles, soup, and beverages. —koreangardenomaha.com

Famous for the original Whiskey Steak.

Truly a one-of-a-kind Midwestern experience. Excellent food, wine, service, and value. Rare...and very well done. Lunch Monday­- Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., cocktail hour 3-6 p.m., dinner nightly 5 p.m.

—droverrestaurant.com

3578 Farnam St. - 402.345.1708

FIRST WATCH - $

1222 S. 71st St. - 402.932.5691 2855 S. 168th St. - 402.330.3444 3605 N. 147th St. - 402.965.3444 304 Olson Drive., Papillion - 402.965.3444 2015 Pratt Ave., Bellevue - 402.991.3448 We begin each morning at the crack of dawn, slicing fresh fruits and vegetables, baking muffins, and whipping up our French toast batter from scratch. Everything is made to-order here at First Watch.

We use only the finest ingredients possible for the freshest taste around.

—firstwatch.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. MondayThursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.- 7 p.m.

—greekislandsomaha.com

J.COCO - $$$

5203 Leavenworth St. - 402.884.2626

The building that once housed a beloved neighborhood grocery has a new future.

Built as a grocery back in 1925, it is now home to J. Coco. Our seasonal menus, rooted in tradition, showcase our natural ingredients. Local, organic, and sustainable when available. We feature craft bartending, housemade desserts, and pastas. We celebrate the traditional with a modern twist. Lunch: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dinner: Monday-Saturday 5 p.m.-close.

—jcocoomaha.com

5352 S. 72nd St. - 402.505.4089

PARADISE BAKERY - $

17305 Davenport St. - 402.934.5757 120 Regency Parkway - 402.991.3000 Paradise Bakery offers freshly prepared baked goods made from scratch every morning with the finest ingredients available. Offering a variety of meals including soups, salads, and sandwiches. Our associates are extremely proud of the reputation Paradise has earned for providing exceptional service and producing the finestquality products.

—paradisebakery.com

TAJ KABOB AND CURRY - $ 654 N. 114th St. 402.933.1445 / 402.238.4317

Taj of Omaha shares its love of traditional Indian cuisine with friends and family in the Omaha area. The owners invite you to come enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and new menu. Taj offers both lunch and dinner specials, delivery and catering services, and a free party room. —tajofomaha.com

STEAKHOUSES CASCIO’S - $$

1620 S. 10th St. - 402-345-8313

2121 S. 73rd St. - 402-391-7440

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE - $$$$

140 Regency Parkway - 402.393.0811 At Fleming’s, a steak is never just a steak.

It’s the culmination of a meticulous process of selection, preparation, and service that ensures it reaches your table at its very best. We obsess over every detail so that you’ll savor every bite. This is why we offer the finest USDA Prime beef, available both wet- and dry-aged and broiled at 1,600 degrees or iron-crusted. You can elevate your selection even more with our indulgent steak companions, including truffle-poached lobster, diablo shrimp, and lump crabmeat. Each dish is crafted from scratch by our culinary team and served by our skillful staff. Reservations recommended. —flemingssteakhouse.com

JOHNNY’S CAFÉ - $$$ 4702 S. 27th St. - 402.731.4774

Years of quality dining and hospitality make Johnny’s Café a restaurant to remember. We serve only the finest beef the Midwest has to offer. Aged steaks and prime rib are the specialties, with homemade bread and pies to complete a meal. An excellent wine list adds to the enjoyment at one of Omaha’s original restaurants. Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

—johnnyscafe.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

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

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

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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6350 E. Thomas RD. Scottsdale, AZ 480-272-7500

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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// EXPLORE CALNENDAR //

STAY & PLAY IN SARPY COUNTY! Courtyard by Marriott

Located just a few minutes south of Omaha, Sarpy County awaits with a wonderful mix of fun things to see and do this winter. Get out of the cold and stay in one of our premier hotels. Dine in an elegant restaurant. Spend the day at a family fun center. From brewpubs and malls to specialty shops and hotels, Sarpy County is the perfect destination for your next getaway! For a full list of shopping, restaurants and area events, visit us at

GoSarpy.com.

BELLEVUE • GRETNA • LA VISTA • PAPILLION • SPRINGFIELD • OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE • OMAHA METRO

Nebraska Crossing, Gretna

Springfield Drug Old-fashioned soda fountain, Springfield

Old Presbyterian Church, Bellevue

Alamo Drafthouse, La Vista

Leopard Lanes, Bellevue

Shramm Park, south of Gretna

// EXPLORE CALENDAR //

HIBEERNATION WINTER BEER FEST Jan.

NEBRASK A

ILLUSIONIST JOSHUA JORDAN Jan. 11 at

GI Free Church, Grand Island. Illusionist Joshua Jordan reads minds and performs tricks for people of all ages. 308-382-1898.

—gifree.org

COLD DAYS, WARM HEARTS, AND FAMILY FUN Jan. 13 at Mahoney State Park. This

25 at Kinkaider Brewing Co.,Grand Island.

Beer lovers will be able to sample beer from 12 different Nebraska breweries at this festival, which also includes food and live music.402480-6488. —kinkaiderbrewing.com

BLUE MAN GROUP SPEECHLESS TOUR

winter celebration includes education activities, winter crafts, and the ability to roast hot dogs and s’mores over a bonfire.

402-471-0641. —outdoornebraska.gov

Jan. 29 at Lied Center for Performing Arts, Lincoln. This group’s shows have been seen by over 35 million people. They are known for original compositions, JAN. acts, and instruments. 712-258-9164.

—liedcenter.org

INDOOR AIR SHOW Jan. 18 at Strategic Air

NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN’S CLASSIC

Command & Aerospace Museum. This event brings the fun and excitement of an air show inside with radio-controlled models. 402-9443100. —sacmuseum.org

FULL WOLF MOON 5K Jan. 19 at Two Rivers

State Recreation Area, Waterloo. Runners will enjoy a flat, and fast, good time at the second annual Wolf Moon 5k. The event includes hot chocolate, baked goodies, and door prizes. 402-917-7818. —omaharun.org

OGALLALA GUN SHOW Jan. 19-20 at Keith County Fair & Exhibit, Ogallala. Gun collectors from across the Midwest will gather and share their knowledge on hunting and guns. 308-284-6952. —keithcountyfair.com

MARTHA REDBONE PRESENTS BONE HILL: THE CONCERT Jan. 23 at the

LAKES AREA GAME FEST Jan. 4-5 at

Arrowwood Resort, Okoboji. Individuals of all ages come to participate in board and card games from all eras. Participants can take home raffles, prizes, or giveaways. Games provided, but people are encouraged to bring their own to share with others. 712-332-2161.

—arrowwoodokoboji.com

7-8

Feb. 15-23 at Buffalo County Fairgrounds, Kearney. Nebraska is one of the largest beef producers in the nation, and this show will feature many of the state’s largest cattlemen. Events include Battle of the Breeds and a chef’s Best Beef competition. Youth are also encouraged to show and sell cattle. 308-627-6385.

—cattlemens.org

BILL T. JONES/ARNIE AND COMPANY ON THE WATER Feb. 27 at Lied Center for

Performing Arts, Lincoln. One of the world’s most iconic dance companies will perform in Lincoln. The group showcases styles such as improvisation, Caribbean dance, and modern techniques. 402-472-4747.

—liedcenter.org

FEB.

28

THE SECOND CIT Y: SHE THE PEOPLE Feb. 28 at the Lied Center

Lied Center for Performing Arts, Lincoln. This renowned blues and soul singer explores her family’s history in music genres that stand through generations.

402-472-4747. —liedcenter.org

for Performing Arts, Lincoln. This comedic play was designed entirely by women and promises to make people laugh all night long. 402-472-4747. —liedcenter.org

CARDINAL VIRTUES AT TREE ADVENTURES

NEBRASKA WINTER PRIDE Feb. 29 at Das

Jan. 25 at Arbor Day Lodge. Nature-lovers can learn more about this iconic red bird during this event, including their repertoire of songs, and how to attract them to the yard.

402-873-8717. —arbordayfarm.org

IOWA

Haus, Lincoln. This day includes a brunch, educational activities, and a show. RuPaul’s Drag Race star Vanessa Vanjie Mateo comes to Lincoln for the evening, including a meetand-greet.531-500-5528. —eventbrite.com

JERSEY BOYS Jan. 7-8 at Orpheum

Theater, Sioux City. These four guys from Jersey, became a sensation almost the minute they started singing. While onstage they were presented as All-American boys, offstage, life was very different. 712-258-9164.

—orpheumlive.com

KEELIVE MUSIC Jan. 17-18 in Downtown

Cherokee. Formerly the Cherokee Jazz and Blues Festival, this weekend includes pub crawls on Friday and Saturday nights, a jam session on Saturday afternoon, and a big band dance on Saturday night. A music clinic is offered for high school students on Friday.

712-225-6414. —keelivemusic.com

BARNES BULL RIDING CHALLENGE Jan. 17-18

at Tyson Events Center, Sioux City. The late owner of Barnes PRCA Rodeo once told a reporter, ”We are to rodeo what Cadillac is to cars.” This bull-riding challenge is a familyfriendly event that is sure to please those ages 1 to 99. 402-279-4850. —tysoncenter.com

AKC ALL BREED DOG SHOW Jan. 18-19 at

HyVee Hall Events Center, Des Moines. The Central Iowa Kennel Club will show dogs of all ages and breeds at this event. 515-5648000. —iowaeventscenter.com

36TH ANNUAL BALD EAGLE APPRECIATION DAYS Jan. 18-19 in Keokuk. View bald eagles

in their natural habitat at the Mississippi Riverfront and Victory Park & Southside Boat Club. A variety of indoor activities are also available at River City Mall. 319-524-5599 —keokukiowatourism.org JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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// EXPLORE CALENDAR //

JASON ALDEAN Feb. 6 at Iowa Event Center,

Des Moines. One of country music’s top artists, Aldean is known for hits like “You Make it Easy,” and “ Girl Like You”. 515-5648000. —ticketmaster.com

WINE, FOOD & BEER SHOWCASE Feb. 21

in Des Moines. Foodies from all over the Midwest can sample food, wine, and beer from over 40 of the Des Moines area’s finest restaurants, caterers, and breweries from the area. 515-961. —desmoinesmetroopera.org

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ICE RACING

Feb. 22 at Tyson Center, Sioux City. This event features motorcycle and quad racers speeding on ice. These racers will run on an ice track by having over 2,000 sharp studs in their tires. 402-279-4850. —tysoncenter.comg

K ANSAS

WSU CHILDREN’S DANCE FESTIVAL Jan.

40TH ANNUAL UNIVERSITY OF OKOBOJI WINTER GAMES Jan. 23-26 at Lake Okoboji.

WINTERFEST Jan. 25 at Amana Colonies,

Amana. This annual festival includes Iowa’s fictional university puts on this zany games such as ham-throwing, annual festival. Activites include broomball, and a beard contest. 319 - 622-7622 . flag football, softball, bags tournament, a —amanacolonies.com chili cook-off, the chocolate classic, and a polar plunge. 712-332-2107. — BACKCOUNTRY FILM FESTIVAL Jan. uofowintergames.com 25 at Indian Creek Nature Center, JAN. Cedar Rapids. This festival focuses CHRIS JANSON Jan. 30 at Orpheum on nature, with each screening Theater, Sioux City. Janson is the supporting conservation efforts. winner of the 2019 “Video of the Year” There will also be winter education and from the Academy of Country Music avalanche safety programs to raise awareness Awards for his video "Drunk Girl.” Fans of winter management issues. 319-362-0664. can expect to hear this and other his such —winterwildlands.org as “Fix a Drink” at this show. 712-258-9164.

—orpheumlive.com

25

SNOW BOX DERBY Feb. 2 at Mount Crescent,

Crescent. Cardboard, glue, paint, and imagination will be used to create a variety of derby vehicles that will slide down the ski hills during this special event. 712-545-3850.

—skicrescent.com

DES MOINES HOME AND GARDEN SHOW Feb. 6-9 at Iowa Events Center, Des Moines. This show features over 400 exhibitors, 1,000 experts, and amazing gardens. 515-244-5456.

—desmoineshomeandgardenshow.com

COLOR THE WIND KITE FESTIVAL Feb. 15

at the Seawall, Clear Lake. CBS Sunday Morning once referred to this as “A kaleidoscope at the end of a string.” One of the midwest’s largest and most colorful kite festivals, the event features everything from inflatables to home-made kites. 409-797-3500.

—colorthewind.org

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

26 at Wilner Auditorium, Wichita. This festival brings together performers from across the Midwest to share and showcase their talents. Master classes will be taught

by WSU dance faculty. 316.978.3530.

—wichita.edu

// EXPLORE CALENDAR //

WWE LIVE Feb. 1 at Tony’s Pizza Event

Center, Salina. WWE fans can watch some of their favorite stars compete and show off their signature moves. 785-826-7200.

—tonyspizzaeventscenter.com

JAZZ FESTIVAL Feb. 14-15 at Friends

University, Wichita. This event features jazz music from Friends University Jazz Ensemble with award-winning trumpet player Bobby Shew. 316-295-5000. —friends.edu

FEB.

31S T A NNUA L WIN T ER BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Feb.

22-23 at Wichita Marriott Hotel, Wichita. The Kansas Bluegrass Association will be throwing the 30th annual festival, which will include Grammy Award-winning singer Tim O’Brien, a songwriting workshop, and an instrument petting zoo. 316-651-0333.

—kansasbluegrass.org

22-23

MISSOURI

K ANSAS CIT Y RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 10-19 throughout Kansas City.

This annual 10-day dining event spotlights K a n s a s C i t y ’s h o t t e s t r e s t au r a n t s .

—kcrestaurantweek.com

SCHLAFLY CABIN FEVER FESTIVAL Jan.

11 at Schlafly Bottleworks, St. Louis. This is an afternoon of big music, big beers, and big fun outside. Cabin Fever celebrates beer with over 40+ styles, guaranteed to take away the winter blues. 314-241-2337.

—schlafly.com

417 MAGAZINE’S WHISKEY FESTIVAL Jan. 18 at John A. & Genny Morris Conversation Center, St. Louis. With 200 whiskeys, live music, and booze-inspired food this event is scheduled to be bigger and better than ever. 417-225-1162. —417mag.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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KANSAS CITY WINTER WHISKEY TASTING FESTIVAL Jan. 25 in Kansas City. This

festival gives whiskey-lovers the ability to sample everything from Irish whiskey to a blend of bourbon and rye. —whiskydo.com

GEORGE STRAIT Jan. 25 at Sprint Center, Kansas City. George Strait is known for hits such as “ Amarillo by Morning,” and “Write This Down.” 816.949.7100. —sprintcenter.com

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: AXEL Jan. 30-Feb. 2 at

Sprint Center, Kansas City. Axel is a young artist who falls for Lei in a high-speed chase for love and self-realization. 816.949.7100.

—sprintcenter.com

MIRANDA LAMBERT Feb. 6 at Sprint Center,

Kansas City. This Grammy-award winning country music star is known for her hits like "The House That Built Me.” 816.949.7100.

—sprintcenter.com

SEVENTH ANNUAL BEER, WINE, CHEESE, AND CHOCOLATE Feb. 8 at Ozark Empire

Fairgrounds & Event Center, Springfield. This is a unique tasting and shopping experience for guests 21 and older. The event includes live music, educational seminars, and live cooking demonstrations from top local chefs. 417-8332660. —ozarkempirefair.com

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Feb. 8 at Sprint

Center in Kansas City. The spinning, dunking, hijinks-performing basketball team has an all-new show. 816.949.7100.

—sprintcenter.com

TICKETS START AT $19

CHOCOLATE WINE TRAIL Feb. 21-23 at Hermann Wine Trail, St. Louis. This unique event pairs chocolates with wine along seven stops on the Hermann Wine Trail.

800-932-8687. —visithermann.com

TAPAS & TEQUILA Feb. 22 at 2201 Locust Street, St. Louis. Chef-paired tapas are the theme of this event, which also includes over 100 different tequilas, live music and a photo booth with take-home prints. 314.615.2480.

—lumenstl.com

CHANCE THE RAPPER Feb. 22 at Sprint

MOZART

Center, Kansas City. Chance the Rapper will perform some of his greatest hits such as “No Problem” and “Slide Around.” 816949-7100. —sprintcenter.com

Event times and details may change.

Visist omahamagazine.com for complete listings.

Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

FEBRUARY 7 & 9, 2020 OPERAOMAHA.ORG | 402.346.7372 TICKETOMAHA.COM | 402.345.0606 THE FRED AND EVE SIMON CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Spring is Coming to Two Traditions Unite

54TH

ANNUAL

Thursday through Sunday, FEBRUARY 6-9

Don’t Miss the Home & Garden Event of the Year!

Browse over 200,000 square feet of displays showcasing everything for the home—Inside & Out! Featuring fresh design ideas, waterfalls, blooming flowers & the smells of Springtime!

omahahomeandgarden.com

Produced by Mid-America Expositions, Inc. Contact Mike Mancuso, Show Director 402·346·8003 | Producing Quality Shows Since 1964

NOT FUNNY // COLUMN BY OTIS TWELVE // PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL SITZMANN

THE EVOLUTION OF A SPORTS FAN

I

’m a sports fan.

Statistics, studies, and common sense tell me that it’s likely you’re a fan, too. It seems every American roots for one team or another, cheers for their favorite gymnast, ice skater, or thrills for that airborne, over-oiled pro-“rassler.” We wear logocovered T-shirts or sweatshirts, or we slather our bodies with the team colors when no shirts are available. We pay money for our favorite sport’s TV channel…NFL…MLB…Indoor Lacrosse?…

English Premier League Hooligan’s Channel…or simply the Home Shopping Network.

How did this happen to us? How did it come to be that a certain percentage of our emotional well-being is tied up in the athletic performance of someone else?

Of course, in the beginning we ourselves actually played sports.

You took figure skating with your BFF, or your mom ran you to Saturday morning gymnastics in the big padded room. Dad was the assistant coach of your little league team or he kibitzed your Pop Warner football practices. Whether you went to cheerleading camp or made a kid cry with a header to the face at YMCA Saturday morning soccer, you were part of the game.

Then something happened. Basically, it centered around the realization, sometimes slow, sometimes sudden, that we all came to understand that we weren’t really very good at our beloved game.

We couldn’t dribble with our left hand without staring cross-eyed at the ball while we tried it. A triple toe loop was two toe loops beyond us. We couldn’t throw a pass on a quick out to the flat that had more velocity than a dirigible in a headwind. Or, in my case, I couldn’t hit a curve ball.

I mean, I was a good baseball player. I could move in the field like Shelob chasing Frodo. My arm was as accurate as Al Roker in June. I could hit any 70 mph fastball you threw at me. Then, I ran into Monty Montrose. Monty had a curveball. It was a stake in my heart made of Kryptonite. My major league career dream switched from a rocket flight to Yankee Stadium to Evel Knievel taking on the Caesar’s Palace fountain. I was washed up. By the way, so was Monty. He had elbow surgery at 17 and ended up a wealthy construction company owner instead of a AA minor league phenom for two summers in Duluth, poor guy.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Anyway, I had only one place to go. I put away the glove and became a fan.

Becoming a “fan” has a miraculous effect on our own athletic skill set and knowledge. Suddenly we know things that were beyond us when we were stuck in the mundane world of actually playing the game. Suddenly we can see the open man on the post pattern and drop a dime to him undeterred by coverage that’s tighter than undersized yoga pants. Suddenly we know which pitcher should come out to close the game, and after watching the manager refuse our psychic advice, and the grand slam that beats us, realize how we are six intellectual steps past sabermetrics…whatever the heck those are. By being a “fan” we become geniuses.

As fans we acquire the right to judge every player and coach on “our team.” We get to shout (Though usually, we just “comment” on social media…actual shouting is only done when we are alone with our big-screen watching the game in the evacuated family room and scaring the dog.)“Fire him!” “Bench him!” “Kill them!” Yeah, we actually say stuff like that. Even my wife shouts at gymnasts from time to time. Why? Because we are fans.

There is a 24-year-old kid on my favorite football team. When he plays well, I am ecstatic. When he doesn’t produce some miraculous outcome that I desire, I am sad. No, I am melancholy. No, I become morose. I despair. I see the world and life itself as a dreary burden that I can no longer bear. This is the life of a fan.

It is not good. I have decided I have to get out of this bleak circle of athletic co-dependency. I must change.

I swear I will never watch that kid and his darned team again. I will no longer be disappointed. I’m going to play again.

Because Monty Montrose just called to challenge me to a game of pickleball.

Otis Twelve hosts the radio program Early Morning Classics with Otis Twelve on 90.7 KVNO, weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m.

Visit kvno.org for more information.

// 134 //

2019

#OMAHAMAGAZINE SHARE YOUR PHOTOS OF OMAHA TO BE FEATURED HERE.

@d2lifephotography

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@rcphoto.co

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instagram.com/omahamagazine

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facebook.com/omahamagazine

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

// 135 //

2020

Proudly Produced by Main Street Studios I N S T RE E

T

MA

FEBRUARY 7-9, 2020

Friday & Saturday | 10 am - 6 pm Sunday | 10 am - 4 pm

The Nebraska Snow Sculpting Competition is the sole sanctioned snow competition in Nebraska. With multiple amateur and professional teams from across the country proudly carving and displaying beautiful 8-foot-tall snow sculptures in Olde Towne Elkhorn. Come join this completely FREE event for the public with our exhibits, amateur competition, people’s choice award, and limited time ice bar.

MainStreetStudios2610.com/Snow-Sculpting | 2610 N Main St., Elkhorn, NE 68022 | 402.216.7812 curnescreations@gmail.com | 2020 Nebraska Snow Sculpting Competition Sponsored By:

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