May/June 2016 Encounter

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Contents

6

L I V I N G : The Greenhouse A Century-Old Building Comes with a Great View

10

V I S U A L : Neil Griess Drawing on a Family Legacy

14

M U S I C : Yes She Is Kianna Alarid

16

V I S U A L : Joseph Broghammer Flying Back to Art

18

F E AT U R E : Doug Strain His Visual, Therapeutic Studio

22

F E AT U R E : Kellogg Place Passionate Nonconformity

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D I N I N G : Contemporary Pub Fare Jackson Street Tavern

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F E AT U R E : Why Not Omaha?

Downtown Amenities Attract Large Events

28

FA S H I O N : Look Bored & Wet

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FA C E S : Ben Rowe A Looming, Wicked Rabbit

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C O V E R : Dan Brennan Engineering Music With Passion

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H I S T O R Y: The Irish in Omaha Some Local Names of Note

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Downtown Omaha Map

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Merchants & Attractions

44

Calendar of Events ENCOUNTEROMAHA  4

MARCH / APRIL 2016 Publisher Todd Lemke Editor Robert Nelson Associate Editor Daisy Hutzell-Rodman Editorial Intern Jared Kennedy Contributing Writers Ryan Borchers • Tamsen Butler • Judy Horan Allison Janda • Greg Jerrett • Lisa Lukecart Claire Martin • Max Sparber • Mike Watkins Contributing Photographers Justin Barnes • Scott Drickey Creative Director Bill Sitzmann Art Director Kristen Hoffman Senior Graphic Designer Rachel Joy Graphic Designer Matthew Wieczorek Junior Graphic Designer Derek Taubert

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Branding Specialists Greg Bruns • Gil Cohen • Kyle Fisher • Mary Hiatt George Idelman • Gwen Lemke • Joshua Peterson Assistant to the Publisher Sandy Besch-Matson Account Assistants Jessica Cullinane • Alicia Smith Hollins Dawn Dennis Operations Tyler Lemke Accounting Holley Garcia-Cruz Warehouse Distribution Manager Mike Brewer For Advertising Information: 402.884.2000 omahamagazine.com Owned and Managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD. All versions of Encounter are published bimonthly by Omaha Magazine, LTD P.O. Box 461208, Omaha, NE 68046-1208. Telephone: 402.884.2000; fax 402.884.2001. No whole or part of the contents herein may be reproduced without prior written permission of Omaha Magazine, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted; however, no responsibility will be assumed for such solicitations.

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LIVING

The Greenhouse A C E N T U R Y- O L D B U I L D I N G C O M E S W I T H A G R E AT V I E W

by Judy Horan photography by Bill Sitzmann

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ARLIE FOGLE GAVE up his car three years ago. He no longer needs it.

Nine years ago, he moved from a five-bedroom home in Bellevue to a two-bedroom residence in the Greenhouse Apartments in downtown Omaha. The building is walking distance from, well, about every place he wants to go.

Downsizing to the apartment made sense to him.

“There was just me and the dog then. Other than my job, everything was downtown,” explains the retired U.S. Air Force senior master sergeant.

Ditching the car also made sense. Most places he’s headed for are nearby. Or he jumps on a bus that he can catch right in front of his apartment building.

The eight-story Greenhouse where he lives is a former warehouse that has been standing near Omaha’s downtown riverfront for more than 100

years. The venerable building by architect Thomas R. Kimball, created in the Renaissance Revival style, is on the National Register of Historical Places.

The then-warehouse was one of two identical buildings called the Nash Block when constructed in 1905; the second was demolished to make room for the Gene Leahy Mall.

At one time a building used in the 19th century as Nebraska’s first territorial capitol briefly occupied the land where the Greenhouse now sits.

On the main floor of the Greenhouse, a fitness center is available to tenants. But residents don’t need to pump away inside the fitness center for exercise. Instead they can jump on the walkway outside the building that connects to nearby walking/biking trails, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, and Heartland of America Park.

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The idea then was that if the SAC (now U.S. Strategic Command) Underground Command Center at Offutt Air Force Base was destroyed or became disabled, the Looking Glass would take over and run the show from 40,000 feet above. SAC controlled all U.S. nuclear bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles at that time.

Another treasured item framed in the hallway is a letter from Gen. Fahd of the Saudi Air Force. He was Fogle’s boss when the Minnesota native lived in Saudi Arabia as the first U.S. enlisted operations adviser to the Royal Saudi Air Force. The general’s uncle was King Fahd.

Fogle also served with the Air Force in southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, and Guam, where his son, William, was born. He and his late wife, Loretta, also had a daughter, Jacqueline. He retired and joined the private sector, first with a defense contractor, and then private industry.

Because of those years in Asia, he speaks some Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Thai.

Outside the apartment, Fogle appreciates being able to walk downtown.

“I have an original Doug McDermott bobblehead,” laughs Fogle. That’s another reason he likes living downtown—he can walk to the CenturyLink Center for a game.

Although the sports enthusiast also attends the College World Series each year, he prefers to spend time at the fan festival rather than at a game. “There are things to do. Things to watch.”

And there are things to do, things to watch, from Fogle’s fifth floor apartment. This is where he and his guests sit and watch downtown Omaha action, such as the fireworks in summer and the Holiday Lights Festival in winter.

Original brick from the warehouse of a century ago makes up the walls of Fogle’s apartment. The warehouse’s “No. 6” sign is still visible on his bedroom’s brick wall. An all-purpose space that serves as a kitchen-office-living-dining room provides a dramatic view of the downtown skyline from its floor-to-ceiling window.

The bedrooms both have full baths. The second bedroom is used as a TV room with a hide-a-bed for guests.

The hallway leading to his bedroom is decorated with a collection of framed awards and certificates from his 24 years in the U.S. Air Force.

Among them is a drawing of an Air Force “Looking Glass” aircraft.

Friday nights in summer bring music to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. The Summer Arts Festival provides fun every year. His apartment’s three rooms each have a window overlooking the spillway and Heartland of America lake as well as the Old Market. Next door, to the south, is the ConAgra campus.

The drawing is a reminder of the time before he retired, when Sgt. Fogle was in charge of 125 people who worked on the Strategic Air Command’s famed Looking Glass aircraft. The EC-135 flew 24 hours a day as an airborne nuclear command post.

So how’s it going since he ditched the car? Great.

He still has his parking space in the Greenhouse garage. Just no car to park in it. Encounter

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Neil Griess DRAWING ON A F A M I LY L E G A C Y

by Lisa Lukecart photography by Bill Sitzmann

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EIL GR IESS FELT like an alien. He immersed himself so deeply into his art that coming out of it felt unnatural. This feeling of being otherworldly, detached and yet painting reality, lasted for about three years. Later, driving home from the Union for Contemporary Art after opening night, he broke down in tears.

“It was a big sigh,” Griess says.

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VISUAL

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Don’t Sweat It! Don’t Sweat I Don’t Sweat It! Don’t Sw VISUAL

Call 402-345-8383 Call 402-345-838

Sweat It! Don’t Sweat It Call 402-345-8383 Call 402-3 at It! Don’tCall Sweat It! 2-345-8383 402-345-838 Don’t Sweat It! Don’t Swea His exhibit, “Pleated Field,” came together with the help of his entire family, who “took over the Union” back on November 14, 2015, when his exhibit began in the Wanda D. Ewing Gallery.

Griess, 27, learned he won Best Solo Exhibition at the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards in January. But he doesn’t paint for the awards.

game developer while the other is a sculptor. Jim laughs, saying he brings the frugality, common sense, and work ethic.

While he was pursing his Bachelor of Arts in the fall of 2011, Griess began developing his solo project.

He thought about the potential of spaces and how people could alter them on their own terms rather than the norm. Griess combined different objects he saw, then put them into believable spaces. It was an “exploration of possibility.”

Don’tSweat Sweat Don’t Sweat Don’t It!It!Don’t Sweat It! It! Call 402-345-8383 Call 402-345-8

-8383 Call 402-345-8383 Call 402-345-8383Call Call 402-345-8383 Call 402-345-8383 402-345-8383 Don’t Sweat It! Don’t Sweat It! He wasn’t always serious about his art, as his late uncle, award-winning realist painter Kent Bellows, often reminded him. Griess found being in his shadow difficult.

“He was the ultimate cool uncle, but I was intimidated by him growing up,” Griess admits. “I wanted his acceptance and affirmation.”

While Griess was a student at Westside High School, his uncle passed away in his sleep. It was a trigger for Griess, who felt like he had something to prove; perhaps to make up for the grief and loss of Bellows in his life.

As Griess says, natural talent doesn’t mean anything without hard work. Soon, he developed a portfolio of acrylic on wood. Griess’ realism is so evident, his father Jim jokes he should take the painting of him into his doctor’s office because even the vein popping out on his leg is shown with such great detail.

Griess’ art led to a Gold Medal by Scholastic Art, a $10,000 prize, and a visit to Carnegie Hall in New York City when he was only 18.

“He’s just wonderful,” says his mother, Robin, prompting Griess to run out of the room in his worn black socks. Always the shy son, Greiss clearly becomes uncomfortable when his mother discusses him.

Griess designed miniatures of models, construction scenes. Sometimes, he would take the model out and experiment with different lighting like at dusk.

After taking photographs, Griess used acrylic to paint on wood panels.

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“He was the ultimate cool uncle, but I was intimidated by him growing up,” Griess admits. “I wanted his acceptance and affirmation.”

Griess now divides his time between being a guard at the Joslyn Art Museum and tutoring children at the Kent Bellows Mentoring Center.

Will he do another exhibit?

Griess thoughtfully looks to the side, weighing his jonesauto.com answer, slouching all in black on his mother’s white couch. Art is a challenge, a sacrifice.

jonesauto.com jonesauto.com jonesauto.com jonesauto.com “I’m playing, that’s all I will say,” Griess says with a

His mother is an artist, like his grandfather and uncle. Griess’ brothers are also creative. One is a

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MUSIC

Yes She Is KIANNA ALARID

by Greg Jerrett photography by Bill Sitzmann

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O BONE-HONEST OMAHA scenester between the ages of 15 and 35 doesn’t want to be Kianna Alarid when they grow up. Alarid’s first band, Tilly and the Wall, indie-rocked the 00s with effusively youthful songs on Saddle Creek Records, opening for Bright Eyes and appearing on soundtracks. Firmly established by 2004, Alarid’s gone from a wide-eyed, 23-year-old-innocent to a seasoned music industry professional and mother. Alarid is now based in Kansas City, where she spoke eloquently between diaper changes about the new band (Yes You Are), lessons learned, and maturity.

“I see the events in my life as steps on an ascending road. I didn’t always see it that way. I didn’t even realize there was a road. I think that’s what it means to be lost in the wilderness,” Alarid says. “But now that I am aware of this, I can view good events and bad events as steps going upward toward a destination. The present moment in my life is always reaching for that next level and always being aware of the obstacles and pitfalls so I don’t slip off this narrow way.”

Yes You Are came into being two years ago when Alarid and writing partner Jared White felt inspired and set to work in a more methodical, practical manner than in years past.

“We just set our focus on the next step: determine what it is we need to do to make that happen or get that ball rolling,” says Alarid. “For me, it’s like night and day. With Tilly I didn’t realize what I was doing. Inspiration came sporadically and felt organic yet fleeting.

With Yes You Are, I have learned to invoke inspiration at will.”

Alarid admits that while managed productivity seems obvious in many professions, to an artist, it feels like “a strange secret no one could’ve taught me.”

Alarid says the charm of Tilly’s music was in its eclectic collaboration of five songwriters and the innocence of their sound. In the best sense, she says, they were amateurs.

“We didn’t even know what we were doing,” Alarid says of Tilly glowingly. “Like we were kids dancing and singing in a basement and it sounded so pure and free. It just came out that way with no predetermined concept. Tilly songs were my songs of innocence. Yes You Are songs are my songs of experience. That’s how it feels to me.”

Every Yes You Are song is a two person collaboration between Alarid and White. What will define their sound will come from their “very different” current interests.

“There’s always this contrasting dual source,” Alarid says. “The magic happens when I try to write him a classic 60s pop melody and he tries to write a Swedish electronic song for me. Interesting things happen when we pass through each other’s filter.”

Being a mother has made Alarid realize she is duty-bound to actualize dreams she never knew she had.

“I need to teach my daughter by example that life is meant to be a quest. We’re meant to grow towards something,” Alarid says.

“We’re meant to believe in things before we can see them. I intend for my life to be the proof for her that she can be great at whatever she feels called to do. If I’m going to be great, I have to know what I want, be resolved to achieve that, and work hard until I do, never giving up.” ENcounter Visit weareyesyouare.com for more information.

“There are no handbooks when you start. No one clocks you in or out, and no one but you can hold you accountable. It feels like a natural kind of artistic maturity.”

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VISUAL

Joseph Broghammer F LY I N G B A C K T O A R T

by Allison Janda photography by Scott Drickey

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T HAS BEEN said that art imitates life. Joseph Broghammer’s art is based on his life, acting as a sort of diary that captures his minutes, his hours, and his days. Talking about the role art has taken in his life, it’s clear that being an artist has shaped Broghammer into who he is today. Art is so much more than something he just wakes up and does. It is part of him.

Broghammer says. “I use symbols, icons, religious objects, and more to spell out something that happened to me, that interests me, or something that I can learn from or someone that I can learn from.”

While Broghammer creates quite a few pieces centering around birds, he says the works aren’t always about the birds. They are more of a symbol to him and sometimes have nothing to do with the story he is trying to tell. It is always the story that matters most to Broghammer. However, seeing as birds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and even textures, they make an enjoyable subject.

This can be seen on his website, which is filled with images of birds. They aren’t quaint chickadees and bluebirds, but more often are imaginative images such as “King of the Lollipop Fatties,” a pastel of a realistic-looking bird covered in candies. He often creates art based on the Sandhill Crane.

Broghammer stumbled into the role of artist his senior year of high school when he took art as an extra class. At the suggestion of his art teacher, he also applied for a scholarship to the University of South Dakota. He won the scholarship, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts. He also started working on a master’s degree, but his art career nearly ended there.

“I got burned out from graduate school,” Broghammer recalls.

“I took time off from art.”

Broghammer clearly recalls his return to the world of art.

One day he walked into the The Antiquarium, a combination bookstore and art gallery located in the Old Market.

The Antiquarium’s director of the art gallery at that time, Al Strong, asked Broghammer if he was an artist. When Broghammer confirmed that he was, Strong asked if Broghammer wanted a show. “I said sure,” he recalls. “I decided then to make whatever interests me and I wanted to focus on my life.”

Broghammer’s work was described by the great Norman Geske (known as the father of Nebraska art) as “dry paintings.” In other words, Broghammer’s work is too bright and full of color to be considered drawings; however, they are not acrylic or oil, which would categorize them as paintings.

They are instead dry versions of wet painting.

“I started to use chalk pastels in college because I liked the look and feel of them,” Broghammer shares. “I like the quickness of the medium and I can do images in chalk that I just can’t do in paint.”

Broghammer also regularly participates in art shows. His art is currently being displayed at The South Dakota Art Museum and Museo de Filatelia in Oaxaca, Mexico (in collaboration with El Museo Latino in Omaha). ENcounter Visit josephbroghammer.com to learn more.

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Doug Strain HIS VISUAL, THERAPEUTIC STUDIO

by Claire Martin photography by Bill Sitzmann

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ESTLED IN THE leafy upper levels of the Old Market Passageway, tucked in the conjoining rooms of a former yoga studio, you’ll find the cozy abode of Aether & Epsom, a massage therapy studio and spa just a flight of stairs up from the bustle of Howard Street.

Beyond various massage techniques, Strain also selfstudies aromatherapy, creating his own scents and detailing them in a therapeutic index. His secondary passion is making craft cocktails, where he uses the hydrosols, or herbal distillates, as additives for the drinks.

You may also encounter the studio’s founder, Doug Strain, either brewing a cup of tea at the end of the hall or engaged in a session with a client. Strain practices a variety of techniques, from deep-tissue massage to aromatherapy, with self-concocted distillates.

Doesn’t it get stressful, managing all those tasks?

“I work with a large population in migraines,” Strain explains. “They’ve popped every pill and seen 500 neurologists, tried every CT scan, and I’ve been able to get a lot of them off of medication. They’re so frustrated and desperate to find something, anything, that will help them, and being able to be that resource for them—that’s pretty cool.”

Strain found himself disillusioned with nursing practice after four years of CNA work, and decided to pursue massage therapy where he could still pay homage to his science roots and “work proactively with people’s pain, not just in damage control.” Strain’s practices subscribe chiefly to neuromuscular massage, a deep-tissue technique that focuses on relieving the body’s pressure points to ease physical pain and tension. After adhering to Nebraska’s hefty requirement of 1,000 hours of massage therapy school, Strain’s decision to start his own business seemed like the natural conclusion.

“I have full control of my working environment, practice the way I want to in a way I know is best, and honestly, I can offer a private, quiet setting for someone to receive body work in,” Strain says. “You’re already getting treatment, that puts you in a vulnerable place; the quiet environment is just more comfortable for people.”

“Because it’s just me here, I wear all the hats, which can be stressful,” Strain agrees. “When it comes to customers, it’s really cool because I interact with them on every level. I’m their receptionist when they come in; I’m their therapist; I’m their manager. It actually gives me the opportunity to develop a better customer relationship than the average business might.”

Another service Strain offers is the chance to relax while viewing original art. Right next door to Strain’s studio is the art studio of abstract painter Mary Ann Chaney. Chaney exhibits a collection of barn paintings in the hallway for clients to peruse while waiting for their massage appointments.

The synthesis between massage therapy and artwork is a natural one, it would seem. “You’re almost in a zone when you paint; I like that aspect of it, it’s like therapy,” Chaney says about her work. “I like painting abstract, not tight realism. They have to look kind of relaxed, but also controlled.”

She pauses, smiles, and adds, “Just like massage.” ENcounter Visit aetherandepsom.com for more information.

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F E AT U R E

Kellogg Place PA S S I O N A T E N O N C O N F O R M I T Y

by Jared Kennedy photography by Bill Sitzmann

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ONCONFOR MITY IS AT home at Kellogg Place. The bustling, brick, glass-fronted space at 24th and Harney streets hosts three separate business operations that buck the status quo.

Muglife Coffee Roastery, Greenstreet Cycles, and Wag pet shop came together out of the separate proprietors’ yearning to satisfy passions for niche markets that were previously underdeveloped across Omaha.

Ben Swan initially had the idea to start the bike and brew consortium. When Swan started Green street six years ago, he noticed Omaha was not friendly to cycling, walking, and other pedestrianism. Even with the clear need for someone to start a cycling movement in Omaha, he says people called him crazy for trying to open a shop downtown, yet he persisted.

“To me, cycling is one form of pedestrian-friendly, sustainable transportation,” Swan says. “It’s about making people want to live in a sustainable area where they can live their life without being dependent on a car. It’s about making Omaha better.”

All three companies predate their current residence at Kellogg Place. Muglife and Greenstreet share a space, while Wag is next door. MugLife is owned by Brenna and Matt McCrary, Ben Swan runs Greenstreet, and Wag is owned by Eryn Swan.

While the McCrarys have different reasons for loving coffee, they are both in it for the human experience.

Matt initially went to college as a music major, but he eventually felt more compelled to study fields like humanities and socioeconomics. His alternating college majors were indicative of his wide range of interests, and it was an introductory experience to specialty coffee that really sparked his enthusiasm as something tying all of those interests together.

“I had been frustrated with my cubicle jobs. I visited some friends in Portland and Seattle, and they took me to coffee shops that were managing relationships with [coffee bean] farmers, only roasting coffee that was in season, and only purchasing directly from farmers,” Matt says.

Watching Ben Swan work has a similar allure.

Charming, encouraging, and informative, he gives each customer his undivided attention. He seems to share each customer’s childlike excitement for some of the more specialty bikes. Watching him work, it’s clear there’s nothing he would rather be doing.

He was inspired. Matt quit his job, started studying graphic design, and on the side he learned all he could about coffee. The latter soon took over.

The passion the owners have for what they do seems to have a trickle down effect on the whole space.

Loyal customers flock to the popular destination, and employees speak highly about the impact this place has.

Brenna’s passion for coffee is centered on her love for making connections. Through coffee, she gets to see people make new friends, talk about beautiful things, and actually be real with one another.

“For me it was really inspiring to recognize that people who would otherwise never get the opportunity to connect…tend to be more open, vulnerable, and inspired by one another when coffee is involved,” she says. “The experience of it all was really romantic to me.”

Spending time at Muglife/Greenstreet, it can sometimes be hard to tell which business people are there to patronize. Some come in for coffee then peruse the bikes, others come in to have their bike serviced—grabbing coffee while they wait.

Between the aromas in the air, the clicks of bicycle gears, and the quiet rumble of conversation, it’s a comfortable and stimulating atmosphere. For those into coffee, it’s the place to be. For cyclists, it’s a one-stop-shop, and for the folks interested in both—it’s something out of a dream.

Brenna and Matt can be heard chatting with customers, engaging them in conversation, or vice versa, as coffee or tea is prepared. Neither misses an opportunity to educate a patron about the beverage they have chosen. Each gives detailed descriptions about the subtleties and flavors the drink contains.

It’s like poetry—the way they pull such powerful words out of each cup.

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“I think it is really helpful to people who come to get bikes if they aren’t really into specialty coffee, we can open their eyes to it,” says Teresa Coulter, a barista at Muglife. “A lot of our customers get to come in and drink coffee, and if they want to look at bikes they can. They can build relationships with both sides of the business, and then feel like they are at home when they come here.

Seth Erickson is a bike mechanic for Greenstreet.

When he first came to Greenstreet as a bike apprentice, he didn’t know anything about bikes. In the beginning of his time there he didn’t even own a bike. Now it’s his passion.

“I just kind of fell in love with it. I really like the shop, and I am definitely pretty invested in it,” Erickson says. “My goal is to work in the bike industry now, and the shop has kind of fueled my career goal.”

Four people, and the deep love for their respective vocations, changed the face of the Kellogg Place neighborhood. They took a dilapidated building, a place boarded up and not used for more than 20 years, and made it an essential spot for good hangs, and a crossroads for life in Omaha. ENcounter Visit greenstreetcycles.com or muglifecoffee.com to learn more.

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DINING

Contemporary Pub Fare JACKSON STREET TAV E R N

by Tamsen Butler photography by Bill Sitzmann

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ACKSON STREET TAVERN offers contemporary American cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Chef and co-owner Deke Reichardt is hesitant to label it “fine dining.”

He explained, “People have a lot of options in this neighborhood and city, so we pride ourselves in not being pretentious.”

Reichardt also explained that the inclusion of the word “tavern” in the name was never meant to imply a bar-like atmosphere. “The name of the place was meant to imply that it’s a relaxed tavern-esque atmosphere that serves good quality food.” He is proud of the menu options and the quality of the cuisine. “We source as much as we can when the season is right. It’s good stuff. We don’t even have much in the way of freezer space, which is by design because of physical limitations.”

Of note is the extensive gluten-free menu options available. “My wife eats gluten-free and my motherin-law has Celiac,” he explained. “We wanted to not just offer a couple items but have something a little more extensive for people with special dietary needs.” Though the specific menu items frequently change and evolve, gluten-free options range from appetizers, to entrée salads, to bunless burgers, desserts, and more.

One of the most popular items—the duck tacos— landed on the menu as a result of Reichardt’s ingenuity. He explains, “The irony is that when I put the original menu together I definitely wanted to have duck on the menu. Roast duck was my first preference, so the only issue was what am I going to do with the leftover duck?…So we started to break it down and pull the meat and make little tacos with fresh tomatillo salsa. Honestly, we roast more ducks for duck tacos than we do for roast duck.”

Jackson Street Tavern is also known for its Sunday brunch. “It was just going to be Easter, Mother’s Day, and those popular brunch days, but it was so

center-cut filet mignon well received we decided to keep doing it,” said Reichardt. “We do brunch every Sunday from 10 to 2. It’s not a brunch buffet; it’s a la carte table service.

It’s one of the most consistent meal periods that we have.” Reichardt added that reservations are encouraged; however, “generally speaking, there’s going to be space for walk-ins.The exception would usually be on those special occasions.”

Beyond the menu, the casual atmosphere of Jackson Street Tavern is one of the most appealing aspects for regulars. FITGirl founder Cheri Dickmeyer says, “I love the ambiance. The dark wood and low key lighting make the entire space comfortable and relaxing. The menu is unique and fresh, and I was pleasantly surprised at how affordable the items were on the menu. Very upscale restaurant with Midwest pricing—I love it!”

Jackson Street Tavern recently added a private dining room to accommodate large groups and opened a patio space that Reichardt calls “a nice addition.” He’s proud of the solid reputation Jackson Street Tavern has built and foresees a bright future. “We recognize that we’re only as good as the last meal we serve or glass of wine we pour, and we don’t take that for granted.” Encounter Visit jacksonstreettavern.com for more info.

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lamb chops

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Why Not Omaha?

DOWNTOWN A M E N I T I E S AT T R A C T LARGE EVENTS

by Mike Watkins photography by Scott Drickey & Justin Barnes

Scenes from CWS in north downtown

J

UST AS IT has been for the past 65 years, Omaha—especially downtown—will be hopping this summer.

Since 1950, the city has been known as home base for the College World Series—first at Rosenblatt, and for the past five years at TD Ameritrade Park.

But throughout the past 10-plus years—largely since downtown welcomed the CenturyLink Center in 2003—events and entertainment opportunities have exploded.

During that time, Omaha has hosted two (soon to be three) Olympic Swim Trials for USA Swimming at the C-Link, bringing thousands of people from throughout the country to River City.

E N C O U N T E R O M A H A . C O M 26

F E AT U R E

Prior to their arrival, many swimmers, visitors, and family members think of Omaha as a cow town (seriously, some think cows literally walk the streets). But once they arrive and see the majesty and versatility of the arena, complemented by the restaurants, shops, and other activities within walking distance, they gain a new perspective about the city.

So what makes Omaha such a growing Mecca for events like the College World Series, Swim Trials, or USA Triathlon Age Group National Championships (coming to town this August)?

Or first- and second-round NCAA men’s basketball games? Or the NCAA Women’s Volleyball National Championships last year and in past years?

Why Omaha instead of sports towns like San Antonio or St. Louis?

Maybe the better question is “Why not?”

“Omaha is the perfect host city for these kinds of events for several reasons, but the biggest reason is the people who live here,” says College World Series of Omaha Inc. Director of Marketing and Events Dan Morrissey. “People in the Omaha area embrace events like the College World Series and Olympic Trials even if they aren’t sports fans.

“During the CWS, there is always a small contingent of fans cheering for their teams, but TD Ameritrade Park seats 24,000—and the majority of spectators are from the area. They are there because they enjoy and support the event. It’s really a matter of pride for people in Omaha.”

Omaha is also considered a jewel for big-name events because of geographic location, ease of traffic and transportation, and proximity to the airport, among other amenities.

But buildings like the Century Link Center and TD Ameritrade Park—versatile, state-of-the-art venues—have opened doors to top events that would have been too big or sophisticated for the Civic Auditorium to properly host.

After many years at Rosenblatt Stadium, the NCAA considered relocating the CWS to another city if the powers that be in Omaha didn’t upgrade to a bigger, better facility—one that was closer to the action in downtown. TD Ameritrade Park opened as the solution in 2011 and has been a tremendous draw for fans—local and not-so-local—ever since.

The city’s commitment to keeping the CWS in town has made it possible for millions of dollars in hotel room rentals, food, transportation, and entertainment sales to impact the business community.

“Downtown is really the heartbeat of the city, and when the CWS was at Rosenblatt, it was very isolated from everything else that was happening in the growing downtown,” Morrissey says. “Moving the event to a new stadium within walking distance of restaurants, bars, shopping, and hotels greatly enhanced the overall experience. People love coming to Omaha for the CWS.” People from coast to coast also have loved coming to attend the Olympic Swim Trials at the CenturyLink Center. The economic impact of the swim trials in 2012 was in the $30 million range, and this year’s trials—which has sold out almost every session and is welcoming a record number of athletes—could be around $40 million.

According to USA Swimming Assistant Executive Director Mike Unger, when USA Swimming was looking for a new spot to host the swim trials in 2008, a committee scouted several cities—and Omaha came out on top.

“We narrowed the search to two or three cities, and ultimately Omaha provided everything we needed and wanted to host a world-class event,” Unger said.

“The versatility of the venue (CenturyLink Center) was a huge factor. Having a warm-down pool just steps away from the competition pool in an indoor facility is amazing.

“Very few arenas have that capability, and then having a 4-star hotel attached to the arena, and other hotels within walking distance of the arena, was a big selling point. Omaha has it all. We always feel very special when we come to Omaha.”

Another event calling Omaha home for several days this summer (and again in 2017) is the USA Triathlon Age Group National Championships.

Centered around competition at Carter Lake (swimming), the Missouri River trails (biking) and TD Ameritrade Park (finish of the marathon), Omaha was a great fit for the triathlon after Milwaukee hosted the past three.

A big selling point for the event to come to Omaha was the proximity of the airport to Carter Lake, where the event will be headquartered, as well as the city’s central location--within a day’s driving

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 27

distance or less for the majority of the competitors and their families. Plus, the city’s ability to host larger events like the CWS and the swim trials proved Omaha could handle an event of this scope.

“Omaha really knows how to roll out the red carpet for these kinds of events; everyone involved definitely knows what they’re doing,” said USA Triathlon National Events Senior Manager Brian D’Amico. “Hotels and restaurants are all within close proximity to the lake and, with upwards of 5,000 total athletes—not to mention families, friends, officials, etc.—we needed the availability of between 2,500 and 3,000 room nights for everyone. Omaha was able to provide that and then some.”

D’Amico also referenced the tremendous backing and support from city officials in USA Triathlon’s decision to hold its event—which is expected to contribute between $11 and $12 million to city and business coffers—in Omaha.

“We received letters of support from the mayor, local sports commission, police, and other city departments committing their support to us and our athletes,” he said. “We need to have roads completely blocked off for the marathon section of the triathlon, and that takes full city support.

Omaha brings that.”

Omahan Susie Sisson, who recently bought tickets for the July 1 session of this year’s Olympic Swim Trials and has attended the past two trials at the Centurylink Center, says the reason to choose Omaha begins and ends with the people and their enthusiasm for sporting events.

“People here love sports, especially amateur sports, and will buy tickets, even if they don’t know much about that particular sport,” said Sisson, a teacher at Marian High School. “These types of events always seem to be sold out, or nearly sold out, and I think that’s because people here love to feel like they’re participating in something important and exciting.

“On a practical level, the city also has a builtin infrastructure of hotels, convention space, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It’s easy for organizers and fans alike to feel welcomed and accommodated.” Encounter Visit jacksonstreettavern.com for more info.

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Bored &Wet photography by Bill Sitzmann

hair and makeup: Chevy Kosicek | styling: Nicholas Wasserberger | models: Jordyn, Alex, Caitlin, Slinko

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FA C E S

Ben Rowe A LOOMING, WICKED RABBIT

by Daisy Hutzell-Rodman photography by Bill Sitzmann

B

ENJAMIN ROWE CREATES cocktails that, quite frankly, say, “drink me.”

They are magical, but they won’t make you smaller. The magic comes from the fact that they are crafted with a lot of thought and care.

“I couldn’t quite decide what I wanted to do for a living,” Rowe says of starting as a career bartender.

“Bartending was something I had always done on the side.”

Rowe has worked in the bar industry for more than 10 years, and through that time he’s seen several changes.

“It’s only been in the past few years that you have been able to see bartending as a career. It’s not just about slinging drinks anymore. It’s about being professional. I think it’s good for the industry to have someone in it for 20 years and impart that knowledge on to others.”

He’s worked in several places, but came to the forefront of the bartending profession with an opportunity to work at the Dell in 2006, which, he says, had the best bartenders in the city then.

“It was a great opportunity to learn from who were at the time the masters of bartending,” Rowe says.

After learning from the best in Omaha, Rowe eventually wound his way to a bar that became synonymous with craft bartending and themed parties—the House of Loom. The new wave of craft bartending reinvigorated Rowe for the profession.

“For me it really was the culture of The Loom that did it,” Rowe says. “From the beginning the motto at

the Loom was ‘we care.’ We care about the customer experience, we care about the music that’s playing, we care about the cocktails that go across the bar.”

That care began to show in the passion he gained for the profession. He began wanting to know more about the spirits, about the ingredients. The House of Loom focused on a seasonal menu that encouraged people to try new drinks every quarter.

“For us it was more important to have you try a new drink. We put a lot of time and effort, and money, to develop these cocktails,” Rowe said. “They are still making great interesting seasonal cocktails.”

These days, Rowe can be found behind the bar at the Wicked Rabbit, a speakeasy near Hotel Deco serving a wide selection of pre-prohibition style drinks.

“Wicked Rabbit is a different animal,” Rowe says.

“We find it is very much about the cocktails. It’s very much about the quality of the cocktails, right down to the glassware we choose to serve it in.”

While customers can, and are encouraged to, try a new cocktail, they can also serve the standards.

“A lot of this bar is about suspension of disbelief,” Rowe said. “You don’t go and watch Schindler’s List and then read it and expect the same thing out of it. Just to get into the bar you have to walk into a store, and then you have to walk through the shelf. That sets the tone for the bar. The rest of the experience should take you down that path. That being said, we don’t want to tell someone who has been drinking whisky and Cokes for 20 years that we can’t serve it.”

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 35

That attitude of serving what guests want was especially helpful when they first opened.

“We are technically a hotel bar,” Rowe said. “We get a very eclectic mix here. I appreciate that. The first week we were open there was a convention here that had something to do with farming. So they came in and looked around, and at first they thought they were a little out of place. But you put a whisky in front of them, and you chat with them, and soon they had a great time.”

But it’s the specialty cocktails that keep patrons coming back, and Rowe continues to create new specialty cocktails.

“As I progress, I want to push the boundaries of what is a great cocktail…At the end of the day, it’s liquid in a cup. I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of some of those bars that give the the best liquids in some of the best cups in the city.”

Whether someone wants to drink their standard cocktail or to try something new, Rowe’s commitment to caring about cocktails means he wants every patron to enjoy themselves.

“We want anyone who wants to experience this journey to come here and have a great time. I don’t care what walk of life you’re from. Anyone who wants to come here should be able to come here and have a great time.” Encounter

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Dan Brennan ENGINEERING MUSIC W I T H PA S S I O N

by Ryan Borchers photography by Bill Sitzman

E N C O U N T E R O M A H A . C O M 36

COVER

D

AN BR ENNAN, 37, has long understood how important the sound system is during a live music performance.

“I’m a musician. I was always fascinated by watching other engineers do what they do,” he says. “I understood at a young age that the soundman can really make a difference in the performance of the band or the artist.”

Brennan is the production manager at Slowdown in north downtown. In layman’s terms, he’s the guy in charge of the sound system.

That’s an important job for a venue like Slowdown, which hosts live music three to four nights a week.

He says, “I started getting interested in running sound when I was volunteering at The Cog Factory,” an all-ages music venue for punk rock bands that closed in 2002. “That would have been in the late ’90s.” From there he attended recording school and worked at several recording studios. After that, he transitioned from making records to working in live sound.

Brennan has been a long-time friend of Slowdown owners Jason Kulbel and Robb Nansel. His wife, Jenny Zimmer, is an architect who, coincidentally, designed Slowdown’s building.

“It was the right fit for the venue,” he says about taking the job he has held for nine years. It involves working nights and weekends, but that’s a small price to pay to do what he loves. “I get to see a lot of good music [and] be around other musicians and engineers.”

“I think having a basic, general knowledge of music is vital to the job,” he says. Having a good ear is, of course, essential. Even more important, though, is being able to communicate with the artists.

Working with the performers to create just the right sound is a skill itself. Sometimes the shows are so big as to strain the venue’s capacity, as was the case when the Smashing Pumpkins came and brought two semi-trucks’ worth of equipment.

“Being able to communicate with the bands or their crew is the biggest challenge of the job,” he says. “It’s a lot more than just pushing knobs and buttons.”

But sometimes, everything comes together. Brennan fondly remembers a 2008 show that served as a rally for Barack Obama’s campaign for president. The show included a solo performance by Conor Oberst. Jim James, the lead singer and guitarist for My Morning Jacket, played a set.

“There was just something about [James’] performance with just an acoustic guitar and his voice,” he says. “It literally made the hair on the back of my neck stand up.”

Ultimately, the goal is to make sure the fans have the best possible experience. And Brennan clearly doesn’t take that responsibility for granted.

“I feel very fortunate to have a career in music,” he says. “Not very many people get to have that opportunity.” Encounter Visit theslowdown.com to learn more.

Of course, it doesn’t always go quite as smoothly as he would like.

Every performance comes with its own unique challenges.

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 37

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Cubby’s Old Market Grocery 601 S. 13th St.

HISTORY

The Irish in Omaha SOME LOCAL NAMES OF NOTE

by Max Sparber

IRISH IN OMAHA

I

T’S IMPOSSIBLE TO tell the early story of Omaha without discussing its residents of Irish ancestry. Sadly, Omaha’s first Irish neighborhood, located just south of Florence, was called Gophertown. It derived its name from the dug-out shanties the residents built for themselves.

While these shanties were built for those without much money, not all of Omaha’s pioneer Irish population were poor. Take the Creighton brothers.

These Ohio residents, sons of Irish immigrants, came to Omaha with a string of successes behind them. The older brother, Ed, was one of the largest builders of telegraph lines in America. He came to Nebraska, in part, to survey the route for the Transcontinental telegraph in 1860. While he was here, Creighton became heavily involved in early railroad, beef, and banking concerns—three of Omaha’s main industries for the next century.

Younger brother John also worked in the telegraph business and later the beef business. But he followed the trail west, mining for gold in Montana and eventually developing a reputation for battling desperadoes. John settled in Omaha permanently in 1868, and the brothers went on to have long careers as local businessmen, eventually starting the college that bears their name.

The Irish are well-known for their political acumen, and County Tyrone in the motherland produced one of Omaha’s best-known early mayors—James E. Boyd. He came to Omaha in 1956 as a carpenter, but in 1872 built a lucrative packing house. This gave him the resources to build one of Omaha’s earliest performance venues, Boyd’s Theater and Opera House on 16th and Harney streets.

Boyd ran a successful campaign for mayor in 1881, and then again in 1885. He set his sights on the gubernatorial race in 1890, and, though elected, would have to wait to take office. The previous governor refused to vacate the office, claiming that

18 5 4: because Boyd was born in Ireland, he was ineligible to serve. The case went to the U.S. Supreme Court, and in 1892 the judges sided with Boyd. He was the first Democrat to act as Governor of Nebraska.

Omaha also wound up with a hero of Irish nationalism; he may not have lived in Omaha during his life, but he has been here ever since. John O’Neill, buried in Holy Sepulchre cemetery, became a member of the Fenian Brothers, which eschewed politics in favor of militant action to expel the British presence in Ireland. O’Neill’s story is too complicated to fit into this article, but it is suffice to say that in the 1800s Irish-Americans decided it would help the cause to invade Canada. O’Neill did so repeatedly, leading the most famous of these “Fenian raids.” He died in Nebraska while working for a firm of land speculators. Somehow his body wound up in Omaha.

The most colorful of early Omaha’s Irish leaders was a man named Tom Dennison, who spent his young years working some of the roughest jobs in some of the roughest towns in the American west. He came to Omaha in about 1892, possibly bankrolled by gambling interests out west, and quickly became the king of Omaha’s semi-legal vice industry. Dennison would functionally be the town’s political boss for most of his adult life, and was the major player in Omaha’s bootlegging crime rings during Prohibition. His powers really only waned at the end of the Prohibition era, and he died in 1934, having run the town for close to four decades.

The 2000 census reports that today, 16 percent of Omahans claim Irish ancestry, second only to German as a European ethnicity. Based on history, our current Irish-American neighbors can look forward leaving a storied legacy. Encounter Visit happyhooligan.co to learn more.

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 39

Ireland native James Ferry moves to Omaha, builds many of the early buildings, including territorial capitol; his daughter is officially first white child born in new city

18 5 6: Irish Catholics build first church, St. Mary on Eighth Street between Harney and Jackson streets, led by the Rev. John Cavanaugh

18 6 0 : Pioneer businessman Edward Creighton moves to Omaha; brother John settles in Omaha in 1868

18 6 3: Edward and Mary Creighton donate land for convent, used

by Sisters of Mercy, a religious institute founded in Ireland

18 6 4: Irish begin to arrive in Omaha in large numbers to assist in building of Union Pacific Railroad

18 81: Irish-born James Boyd elected mayor of Omaha; elected Nebraska governor in 1892 18 8 5 : Formation of Union Stockyards; leading founders were all of Irish descent 18 9 2 : Political and crime boss Tom Dennison moves to Omaha

Downtown Omaha Map N O R T H / S O U T H N U M B E R S 1 0 - 1 9 ( N U M B E R S 1 - 9 O N PA G E 4 1 )

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Historical Tour Union Station, 1931 Windsor Hotel, 1885-1887 H3 Omaha Fire House, 1903-1904 H4 Omaha Bemis Bag Company, 1887-1902 H5 Anheuser-Busch Beer Depot, 1887 H6 Skinner Macaroni Building, 1914-1915 H7 Aquila Court, 1923 H8 J.P. Cook Buildings, 1885-1889 H9 The Overland Hotel, 1903-1904 H10 Morse Coe Building, 1892-1893 H11 Hotel Howard, 1909 H12 Millard Block, 1880-1881 H13 Baum Iron Company Building, 1880 H14 Poppleton Block, 1880 H15 Burlington Building, 1879 H1

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Merchants Attractions

OLD MARKET · DOWNTOWN · RIVERFRONT Plank Seafood Provisions [E-15].............402-507-4480 OLD MARKET Roja Old Market [E-14]............................402-346-9190 A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T Spaghetti Works [F-15]...........................402-422-0770 Stokes Bar & Grill [E-15]......................... 402-408-9000 ART GALLERIES & MUSEUMS The Diner [E-14]......................................402-341-9870 Bemis Center for Trini’s Mexican Restaurant Contemporary Arts [E-18]........................402-341-7130 [F-15 in The Passageway]...................... 402-346-8400 Joslyn Art Museum [2200 Dodge St.]....402-342-3300 Twisted Fork Grill & Bar [F-15]................402-932-9600 KANEKO [F-17].......................................402-341-3800 Upstream Brewing Company [F-16]...... 402-344-0200 Omaha Children’s Museum [500 S. 20th St.] ....................................402-342-6164 F A S T- C A S U A L D I N I N G The Durham Museum PepperJax Grill [D-15]..............................402-315-1196 [801 S. 10th St.].................................... 402-444-5071 Wheatfields Express [E-15].....................402-991-0917 T H E AT E R & P E R F O R M I N G A R T S

American National Bank [C-14]........... 402-457-1070 Bozell [G-18]........................................... 402-965-4300 Clark Creative Advertising [D-16]........... 402-345-5800 Cullan & Cullan [F-14]............................. 402-397-7600 First National Bank [E-15].......................402-341-0500 J. P. Cooke Rubber Stamp Co. [D-15]..... 402-342-7175 Klein Law Office [E-16]............................402-391-1871 Market Media [E-14].............................. 402-346-4000 Security National Bank [F-15].................402-344-7300 Stinson Leonard Street [D-14]................ 402-342-1700 Sutera & Sutera Law Office [F-15]..........402-342-3100

S P E C I A LT Y F O O D

Cubby’s Old Market [D-16].....................402-341-2900 La Buvette Wine & Grocery [F-15]......... 402-344-8627

NIGHTLIFE BARS

Bar 415 [D-15]........................................402-346-7455 Barry O’s Old Market Tavern [G-15]........402-341-8032 Billy Frogg’s Grill & Bar [E-15].................402-341-4427 Eat the Worm [E-15]................................402-614-4240 Havana Garage Cigar Bar [G-15].............402-614-3800 J D Tucker’s [G-15].................................402-934-5190 Mr. Toad’s Pub [G-15]............................ 402-345-4488 Parliament Pub [E-14].............................402-934-3301 DINING The Hive [E-14]....................................... 402-504-4929 The Stadium Club BAKERIES & SWEET SHOPS Sports Bar & Grill [G-15].........................402-359-1290 Bliss Bakery [F-17]..................................402-934-7450 The Tavern [G-16]................................... 402-341-0191 Cupcake Omaha [F-15].......................... 402-346-6808 Dolci Old Market [G-15]..........................402-345-8198 C R A F T C O C K TA I L S / Hollywood Candy [E-16]..........................402-346-9746 M I C R O B R E W E R I E S Juice Stop [E-15].....................................402-715-4326 Brickway Brewery & Distillery [E-15].......402-933-2613 Old Market Candy Shop [G-15].............. 402-344-8846 The Berry & Rye [F-15]........................... 402-613-1333 Ted & Wally’s Ice Cream [E-16]...............402-341-5827 The Boiler Room [F-17]........................... 402-916-9274 Wheatfields Express [E-15].....................402-991-0917 Upstream Brewing Company [F-16]...... 402-344-0200 COFFEE & TEA

13th Street Coffee Co. [D-16].................402-345-2883 Aromas Coffeehouse [F-17]....................402-614-7009 Beansmith [E-14].................................... 402-614-1805 OM Center [D-15]....................................402-345-5078 Scooter’s [E-15]......................................402-991-9868 The Tea Smith [E-15]..............................402-932-3933 Urban Abbey/Soul Desires [G-16]...........402-898-7600

LOUNGES

Bricks & Mortar Bar & Bistro [F-17]....... 402-934-0005 Omaha Lounge [C-14].............................402-709-6815 Sake Bombers @ Blue [E-15]................ 402-408-5566 Waters Edge Lounge at Embassy Suites [G-15]....................... 402-346-9000 PUBS

Big Brain Productions [E-17]...................402-342-2885 WELLNESS

Courtyard by Marriott [G-11]...................402-346-2200 DoubleTree Hotel [A-11]..........................402-346-7600 Embassy Suites Old Market [555 S. 10 St.]....................................... 402-346-9000 Fairfield Inn and Suites [1501 Nicholas St.]...................................402-280-1516 Hampton Inn [1212 Cuming St.] ............ 402-345-5500 Hilton Garden Inn [G-11] .........................402-341-4400 Hilton Omaha [10th & Cass St.]............. 402-998-3400 Holiday Inn [1420 Cuming St.] ............... 402-341-0124 Homewood Suites [1314 Cuming St.].....402-345-5100 Hotel DECO XV [B-14, 15th & Harney]....402-991-4981 Hyatt Place [E-16]...................................402-513-5500 Magnolia Hotel Omaha [A-15].................402-341-2500 Residence Inn by Marriott [B-12]............402-342-4770

Unique décor, ornaments and collectibles for every season. oTannenbaum.com • 402-345-9627

Fresh chocolates and fudge made in our own kitchen.

OldMarketCandy.com • 402-344-8846

MOVING & STORAGE The Storage Loft [E-18]...........................402-807-2537 U-Haul [D-18]......................................... 402-346-9322 Urban Storage [D-18]..............................402-342-4449

PRAISE & WORHIP The Market Church [D-17]..........TheMarketChurch.com Urban Abbey Worship Service [G-16].....402-898-7600

R E A L E S TAT E R E A LT O R S

America First Companies [G-13].............402-444-1630 Berkshire Hathaway Real Estate [13th & California].................................. 402-493-4663 Blackthorne Real Estate Development... 402-884-6200 Bluestone Development [B-17].............. 402-505-9999 Grubb & Ellis/Pacific Realty.................... 402-345-5866 Investors Realty, Inc................................ 402-330-8000 Mercer Management Co. [F-15]............ 402-346-4445 NP Dodge Condo Sales...........................402-255-5099 NuStyle Development Corporation...........712-647-2041 Old Market Life [D-16]............................402-305-8106 Sandi Downing Real Estate [E-15].......... 402-502-7477 Shamrock Development, Inc. [D-13].......402-934-7711

Dubliner Pub [E-14].................................402-342-5887 O’Connors Irish Pub [D-15].....................402-934-9790 Ahmad’s Persian Cuisine [G-15]............. 402-341-9616 Omaha Tap House [C-13]........................402-932-5131 S H O P P I N G Blue Sushi Sake Grill [E-15].................... 402-408-5566 Stiles Pub [E-15]......................................402-991-9911 Bricks & Mortar Bar & Bistro [F-17]....... 402-934-0005 T. Henery’s Pub [F-14]............................402-345-3651 A N T I Q U E S Falling Water Grille [G-15] ..................... 402-346-9000 Antique Annex [E-16]..............................402-932-3229 Himalaya’s [G-15]................................... 402-884-5977 W I N E Fairmont Antiques & Mercantile [E-16]402-346-9746 J’s On Jackson [F-16]..............................402-991-1188 Bricks & Mortar Bar & Bistro [F-17]....... 402-934-0005 Flying Worm Vintage [E-16]....................402-932-3229 Jackson Street Tavern [E-16]..................402-991-5637 La Buvette Wine & Grocery [F-15]......... 402-344-8627 Joe’s Collectibles (E-16 Alley]................. 402-612-1543 Jams Bar & Grill [F-14]......................... 402-399-8300 Nosh Restaurant & Wine Lounge[G-11].. 402-614-2121 Julio’s Old Market [D-15]....................... 402-345-6921 Reserve Goodwill [D-15].........................402-342-4102 M’s Pub [F-15]........................................402-342-2550 H E A LT H & B E A U T Y Second Chance Antiques [C-14]............ 402-346-4930 Matsu Sushi [G-13]................................ 402-346-3988 The Imaginarium [D-15]..........................402-594-7061 S A L O N S & S PA S Michael’s Cantina at the Market [F-14]...402-346-1205 Nicola’s Italian Wine & Faire [D-16]........ 402-345-8466 Curb Appeal Salon & Spa [G-16]........... 402-345-0404 A R T G A L L E R I E S Old Chicago [F-14]...................................402-341-1616 RARE [D-15]............................................402-706-9673 Anderson O’Brien Fine Art [F-16]...........402-884-0911 Omaha Tap House [C-13]........................402-932-5131 The Hair Market Salon [F-15]................. 402-345-3692 Artists’ Cooperative Gallery [F-14]..........402-342-9617 CASUAL DINING

Four Old Market

TAT T O O PA R L O R S

Alegent Creighton Clinic [C-18]...............402-280-5500 Anytime Fitness [F-17]............................402-991-2333 Commercial Optical Co. [D-16]...............402-344-0219 Natural Therapy [D-18]...........................402-995-9874 Zio’s Pizzeria [F-15].................................402-344-2222 Old Market Massage [D-15]................... 402-850-6651 OM Center [D-15]....................................402-345-5078 FINE DINING Omaha Dental Spa [F-15].......................402-505-4424 801 Chophouse at the Paxton [C-13]......402-341-1222 Omaha Yoga School [F-15].....................402-346-7813 Le Bouillon [F-15]....................................402-502-6816 Wonder Foot Spa [E-14]..........................402-618-7595 Omaha Prime [F-15]................................ 402-341-7040 The Boiler Room [F-17]........................... 402-916-9274 O L D M A R K E T L O D G I N G V. Mertz [F-15 in The Passageway]........ 402-345-8980 D O W N T O W N H O T E L S

Blue Barn Theatre 614 S. 11th St.].........402-345-1576 Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre [1002 Dodge St.].....................................402-502-4910 Holland Performing Arts Center [1200 Douglas St.]................................. 402-345-0606 OM Center [13th & Howard St]...............402-345-5078 Omaha Symphony [1605 Howard St.]....402-342-3560 Opera Omaha [1850 Farnam St.].......... 402-346-4398 F A S T F O O D Orpheum Theater [409 S. 16th St.]....... 402-345-0606 Little King [E-15]......................................402-344-2264 The Rose Theater [2001 Farnam St.].... 402-345-4849 Subway [D-15]........................................ 402-341-8814 Ticket Omaha [13th & Douglas St.]........ 402-345-0606

BANKING | LEGAL | BUSINESS SERVICES

The Nail Shop [H-12].............................. 402-595-8805 Urbane Salon & Day Spa [G-13]..............402-934-2909 Victor Victoria Salon & Spa [F-15]......... 402-933-9333 Wonder Foot Spa [E-14]..........................402-618-7595

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 41

Travel essentials plus souvenirs and Nebraska-made gifts.

OldMarketSundries.com • 402-345-7646

Authentic Italian desserts, coffee, and FlavorBurst TMice cream.

DolciOldMarket.com • 402-345-8198

All located at 10th & Howard

Downtown Omaha Map N O R T H / S O U T H N U M B E R S 1 - 9 ( N U M B E R S 1 0 - 1 9 O N PA G E 3 9 ) 0

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N O R T H / S O U T H N U M B E R S 1 - 9 ( N U M B E R S 1 0 - 1 9 O N PA G E 3 9 )

Restaurants Pubs, Taverns & Lounges

Parking

Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen [B-13]....................402-342-3662 King Fong Cafe [B-14]..................................... 402-341-3433 Iron Decor and More [E-16].............................402-346-6123 Liberty Tavern [G-6]........................................402-998-4321 Niche [F-15]....................................................402-344-4399 Mula [CC-22].................................................. 402-315-9051 Urban By Design [D-15]...................................970-214-7608 Nosh Wine Lounge [G-11]................................402-614-2121 Omaha Press Club [A-11]................................402-345-8008 JEWELRY Orsi’s Italian Bakery & Pizzeria [7th & Pacific].402-345-3438 Cibola of Omaha [F-15]....................................402-342-1200 Siagon Surface [C-14].....................................402-614-4496 Cornerstone Gem & Bead Co. [D-16].............402-346-4367 Wilson & Washburn [C-14]..............................402-991-6950 Goldsmith/Silversmith [F-15]...........................402-342-1737 Perspective Jewelry Design Studio [E-14]......402-934-4416 C O F F E E & T E A

Farrah Grant Photography [F-15].................... 402-312-8262 H O M E F U R N I S H I N G & D E C O R ART GALLERIES [CONT’D]

Garden of the Zodiac [F-15 in The Passageway)................................402-341-1877 Mangelsen-Images of Nature Gallery [E-14].................................................. 402-341-8460 Old Market Artists Gallery [F-15].....................402-346-6569 Omaha Clayworks [D-16]................................402-346-0560 Passageway Gallery [F-15 in The Passageway]................................ 402-341-1910 Visions Custom Framing Archetype Coffee [CC-22].............................. 402-934-1489 SMOKE SHOP [E-18 @ Bemis Center]...................................402-342-0020 Blue Line Coffee [D-4]....................................402-932-4463 Havana Garage Cigar Bar [G-15].....................402-614-3800 White Crane Gallery Hooka Ran’s [E-15].........................................402-934-3100 F A S T F O O D [F-15 inThe Passageway]................................ 402-345-1066 SG Roi Tobacconist [F-15]............................... 402-341-9264 Zesto Ice Cream [5-E].....................................402-932-4420 BOOKS

Jackson Street Booksellers [E-16].................. 402-341-2664 Soul Desires/Urban Abbey [G-16]..................402-898-7600

NEARBY

FA S T C A S U A L

A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Farnam House Brewing Company [HH-22]....402-401-6086 Nite Owl [CC-22]............................................. 402-991-6767 Oasis Hookah Bar and TaZa Nightclub [B-13].402-502-9893 Scriptown [CC-22]..........................................402-991-0506 Sullivan’s Bar [CC-22].....................................402-933-7004 MUSIC • DANCE

Capitol Lounge & Supper Club [G-11].............402-934-5999 Slowdown [C-4]..............................................402-345-7569 The Max [C-16]................................................402-346-4110 Whiskey Tango [B-13]..................................... 402-934-4874 WINE

Corkscrew Wine & Cheese [CC-22]............... 402-933-3150 Nosh Wine Lounge [G-11]................................402-614-2121

SHOPPING CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Block 16 [A-13]................................................402-342-1220 Kleveland Clothing [CC-22]..............................402-401-6147 Kitchen Table [B-13]........................................ 402-933-2810 Lids Locker Room [E-5]..................................402-334-0183 CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES ART GALLERIES & MUSEUMS Panda House Downtown [A-13].......................402-348-1818 Urban Outfitters [D-3]......................................402-280-1936 All About Me Boutique [F-15]..........................402-505-6000 Hot Shops Art Center [D-1].............................402-342-6452 Table Grace [17th & Farnam]...........................402-708-7815 Curbside Clothing [F-15] Modern Arts Midtown [GG-210].....................402-502-8737 G I F T & S P E C I A LT Y S H O P S FINE DINING Drastic Plastic [E-15].......................................402-346-8843 Greenstreet Cycles [D-4]................................402-505-8002 Flying Worm Vintage [E-16]............................402-932-3229 M O V I E T H E AT E R Spencer’s for Steaks & Chops [G-11].............402-280-8888 Inclosed Studio [D-4]...................................... 402-321-3442 McLovin [G-15]...............................................402-915-4002 Film Streams [D-4]..........................................402-933-0259 Sullivan’s Steakhouse [B-13]..........................402-342-0077 The Shop Around The Corner Overland Outfitters [G-15]...............................402-345-2900 The Flatiron Cafe [17th & Howard]..................402-344-3040 [E-15 The Imaginarium]...................................402-609-8046 Reserve Goodwill [D-15]................................. 402-342-4102 S P O R T S Simply Fabulous [E-16]....................................402-812-2193 CenturyLink Center Omaha [H/I-5/6]..............402-341-1500 S P E C I A LT Y F O O D HOME FURNISHING & DECOR Souq, Ltd. [F-15 in The Passageway]............. 402-342-2972 TD Ameritrade Park Omaha [E/F-3/4]........... 402-546-1800 Patrick’s Market [B-15]................................... 402-884-1600 Habitat ReStore [24th & Leavenworth]........... 402-934-1033 The Lotus [E-15]..............................................402-346-8080 Peanut Butter Johnny’s (Food Truck) [CC-22].402-206-7459 Wallflower Artisan Collective (1402 S. 13 St.).402-677-9438 Z O O • B O TA N I C A L C E N T E R JEWELRY SPORTS BAR

Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha’s Botanical Center Takechi’s Jewelry [17th & Harney].................. 402-341-3044 [100 Bancroft St.]............................................402-346-4002 Burger Theory [B-2]........................................402-933-6959 Drastic Plastic [E-15].......................................402-346-8843 Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium/IMAX Theater DJ’s Dugout Sports Bar/ MUSIC STORE Homer’s Music & Gifts [E-15]..........................402-346-0264 [3701 S. 10th St.]...........................................402-733-8400 Blazin’ Pianos [G-10]........................................402-763-9974 Saddle Creek Shop [D-4, 721 N. 14th St.].....402-384-8248 Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill [D-6] ........... 402-346-9116 FLOWERS BANKING The Dugout [D-2]............................................402-934-5252 Old Market Habitat [F-15]...............................402-342-0044 Pinnacle Bank [10th & Douglas]......................402-346-9180 MUSIC STORES

G I F T & S P E C I A LT Y S T O R E S

DINING

Ashley’s Collectibles [E-15, L. Level]...............402-934-3100 City Limits [F-15].............................................402-345-3570 Le Wonderment [F-15]....................................402-206-9928 Old Market Sundries [G-15]............................402-345-7646 OM Center [D-15]............................................402-345-5078 Souq, Ltd. ]F-15 in The Passageway]............. 402-342-2972 Susie’s Baskets [D-13].................................... 402-341-4650 Tannenbaum Christmas Shop [G-15]..............402-345-9627 The Tea Smith [E-15]......................................402-932-3933

CASUAL DINING

NIGHTLIFE LOUNGE

Local Beer, Patio & Kitchen[H-11]................... 402-315-4301 Blatt Beer & Table [E-5].................................. 402-718-8822 Capitol Lounge & Supper Club [G-10].............402-934-5999 Farnam House Brewing Company [HH-22]....402-401-6086 Goodnights Pizza Bar & Patio [D-4].................402-502-2151 Heritage Food & Wine [B-13]..........................402-991-0660 Hiro 88 [D-16, 13th & Jackson]...................... 402-933-5168

Brothers Lounge [FF-22]................................402-558-4096 The Omaha Lounge [B-13]............................. 402-709-6815

BARS

California Bar [LL-20]......................................402-449-9138 Crescent Moon [HH-22].................................. 402-345-1708

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 43

VISIT US IN THE HISTORICAL RILEY BUILDING AT 10th & DOUGLAS ON THE MALL 402.346.9180 OR ONLINE AT pinnbank.com

T HE

W AY

B A N K I N G

S H O U L D

BE

MEMBER FDIC

15_POG73_RILEY_ENCOUNTER_AD.indd 1

maY/JUNE calendar of Events

12/10/15 12:50 PM

SPONSORED BY PINNACLE BANK

ART AND MUSEUM EXHIBITS Time + Space: Beginnings Through May 14 at the Bemis Center, 724 South 12th St. In this yearlong rotating exhibition, we celebrate 35 years of supporting artists from around the world. Time + Space features artwork from multiple generations of artists-in-residence, and archival materials that reflect the rich history of our location in Omaha’s Old Market. 402-341-7130 -bemiscenter.org Sheila Hicks: Material Voices June 5-Sept. 4 at the Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Drawing on traditions of weaving, architecture, fashion, and her own personal narrative, Sheila Hicks’ fiber-based works reveal a remarkable understanding of color, line, and texture. Admission $10; free for ages 17 and under, students, and members. 10am-8pm. 402-342-3300 -joslyn.org Omaha Hosts the Presidents Through May 22 at the Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. Flyover country. Nothing could be further from the truth of what Omaha really is. With its strong military presence, and economic output, Omaha has become a required stop for presidents, and presidential candidates out on the campaign trail. This 12-image exhibit explores the various presidents who stopped in Omaha from the 19th century onward. Take home your favorite print, or the whole presidential package! Admission $10; free for ages 17 and under, students, and members. 10am-5pm. 402-444-5071 -durhammuseum.org

Preservation in the Archive Through Jan. 1, 2017 at the Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. The Photo Archive at The Durham Museum has spent the past 40 years preserving and displaying the photographic history of Omaha.

This exhibit gives visitors a sneak peek at our digitization initiative, explores the history of the archive, and brings to light the museum’s race against time and deterioration to save these iconic images. Admission $10; free for ages 17 and under, students, and members. 10am-5pm. 402-444-5071 -durhammuseum.org Saving Places: 50 Years of Landmark Preservation Through June 12 at the Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. Today, the words “historic preservation” are acted out in many areas of Omaha. The city has a catalog of beautifully restored homes, businesses, and designated historic sites the public frequents daily. Over time, some historic gems have been lost physically—yet survive in the historical record. In partnership with Restoration Exchange Omaha, and through archival photos and architectural salvage, this exhibition celebrates 50 years of historic preservation. 10am-5pm. 402-444-5071 -durhammuseum.org Odyssey’s Shipwreck!

Pirates & Treasure May 28-August 28 at the Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. Odyssey’s SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure takes visitors on a voyage through more than 2,000 years of

seafaring history. The exhibit contains more than 500 authentic shipwreck artifacts, a variety of interactive games and challenges, and a full-size replica of ZEUS, Odyssey’s eight-ton Remotely Operated Vehicle. 402-444-5071 -durhammuseum.org Doug Aitken: Migration (empire) June 4-Sept. 4 at the Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. For this spellbinding video, Aitken filmed animals in the incongruous setting of roadside motel rooms, reflecting the migratory patterns of wildlife, and illuminating tensions between the built and natural environments. 402-342-3300 -joslyn.org Drawing Stories: The Picture Book Art of Marla Frazee June 11-Sept. 18 at the Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Explore the art of author-illustrator and Caldecott Honoree Marla Frazee. Watercolor and gouache paintings from All the World, A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever, Roller Coaster, Walk on!, and other books will be on view in this Mind’s Eye Exhibition. 402-342-3300 -joslyn.org FAMILY EVENTS Cinco de Mayo Parade May 7 in Downtown Omaha This dazzling parade, one of the largest in the Midwest, features floats, marching bands, and other entertainers cheered on by crowds lined up along historic 24th Street. Rain or shine. Free admission. Begins at 10am.

-cincodemayoomaha.com

E N C O U N T E R O M A H A . C O M 44

Taste of Omaha June 3-5 at the Omaha Riverfront Omaha’s annual summer food event, showcasing outstanding restaurants with exciting live entertainment. Activities daily on three riverfront Parks: the Heartland of America Park, Lewis & Clark Landing, and River’s Edge Park.

Free admission. Times vary. 402-346-8003 -showofficeonline.com St. Lucia Italian Festival June 9-12 at Lewis & Clark Landing Join Omaha’s substantial Italian community in celebration of Italian culture. Omaha’s Santa Lucia Festival is one of three organizations supported by the Italian Community.

Omaha’s Santa Lucia Festival was founded in 1925 by Grazia Bonafede Caniglia. The mother of six immigrated to the United States from Carlentini, Sicily in 1900. Free Admission. Times TBA. 402-342-6632 - santaluciafestival.com Omaha Summer Arts Festival June 10-12 in Downtown Omaha The Omaha Summer Arts Festival celebrates its 42nd year as Omaha’s premier destination for arts and entertainment. The festival features the nation’s finest visual artists, musical performances, and a hands-on Children’s Fair. 402-345-5401 -summerarts.org

CONCERTS James Tormé Celebrates the Greats May 6 at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. James Tormé, son of Grammy-winning jazz legend Mel Tormé, is taking the legacy he was born into even further. The charismatic young star’s debut album “Love For Sale” has topped both the iTunes and Amazon Jazz Charts.

Admission TBD. 8pm. 402-345-0606 -omahaperformingarts.org Engelbert Humperdinck May 12 at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Engelbert Humperdinck, the charismatic and consummate entertainer, will lavish audiences with music spanning his career. He has garnered Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe, countless gold and platinum albums, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Admission TBD. 7:30pm. 402-345-0606 -omahaperformingarts.org Luke Bryan (Ft. Dustin Lynch and Little Big Town) May 12 at Century Link Center, 455 N. 10th St. Luke Bryan, the reigning two-time CMA Entertainer of the Year and two-time ACM Entertainer of the Year, will embark on a brand new tour in early 2016, “Kill The Lights Tour.” 7:30pm. 402-341-1500 -centurylinkcenteromaha.com Twinsmith May 20 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Each diverse track is imbued with an individual voice and style and ranges form propulsive, melodic rock, to buoyantly playful pop, from soaring, sing-along retro pop, to sumptuous, evocative new wave. From shimmery, summery pop, to moody, slowburning ballads. There’s a youthful sense of longing and exploration that permeates the new album, which reflects on the highs and lows, advantages and disadvantages, hopes and fears of 20-something life with crafty, unassuming depth. Admission $5 in advance, and $10 at the door. 9pm. 402-345-7569 -theslowdown.com Beethoven’s First Symphony May 22 at Omaha Symphony, Joslyn Art Museum 2200 Dodge St. Beethoven’s youthful symphony caps a program that includes the charming duet-concertino

of Richard Strauss. Featuring Thomas Wilkins, conductor, James Compton, bassoon, and Carmelo Galante, clarinet.

Admission $33. 2pm. 402-345-0606 -omahasymphony.org Sam Beam (of Iron and Wine) and Jesca Hoop June, 8 at the Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Love Letter for Fire is the name of the collaborative record from songwriters Sam Beam and Jesca Hoop. It’s collection of songs steeped in the tradition of the male/female duet where love—requited and unrequited— takes center stage. The two have carved out something that feels wholly original and should have no trouble appealing to fans of their previous work. Admission $28. 402-345-7569 -theslowdown.com PERFORMING ARTS Heathers - The Musical by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy May 19-June 19 at the Blue Barn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. The darkly delicious story of Veronica Sawyer, the brainy and beautiful misfit who hustles her way into the most powerful clique at school: the Heathers. Recurring weekly Thurs.Sunday at 6 pm. Admission $30 adults, $25 students and seniors. 402-345-1576 -bluebarn.org The Book of Mormon May 31-June 5 at the Orpheum Theater 409 S. 16th St. Winner of nine Tony Awards, and hailed by the New York Times as “the best musical of this century,” this outrageous musical comedy follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries sent halfway across the world to spread the good word.

Admission TBD. Times vary. 402-345-0606 -omahaperformingarts.org Disney’s The Little Mermaid June 3-19 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Dive “Under the Sea” for a swimmingly good time as one of Disney’s all-time favorites splashes to life in this Broadway musical adaptation. Best for ages 5 and up. Admission $30 main floor, $25 balcony. Recurring weekly Friday-Sunday at 2pm. 402-345-4849 -rosetheater.org

With 15+ handcrafted beers on tap and 1/2 price growlers every Friday, Brickway— Omaha’s only combination brewery/distillery— is the place to experience craft brewing at its finest.

Call 402.933-2613 to book our tasting room for your party.

1116 JACKSON ST | OMAHA’S OLD MARKET

1415 Harney Street Telephone: 402.341.7576 www.cityviewdentalomaha.com

The Convenient Downtown Dentist

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OMAHAMAGAZINE.COM

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5:08 PM

Live Jazz & Blues 7:30 - 10:30PM SUN - THURS 8 - 11PM FRI - SAT Happy Hour 4PM - 7PM & 10PM - CLOSE EVERY NIGHT!

1505 Farnam . 402-709-6815 . TheOmahaLounge.com

★

HAVANA GARAGE CIGAR LOUNGE

1008 Howard St. / TheHavanaGarage.com

E N C O U N T E R O M A H A . C O M 46

Not Exactly PUB GRUB.

Eat, Drink, Relax.

Sophisticated American cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Classy, but unpretentious.

Creative, but approachable. Live music Wednesday - Saturday.

Lunch, Dinner, Sunday brunch.

Fresh Daily Specials.

Open 11AM Tuesday - Saturday Sunday Brunch 10AM - 2PM Happy Hour 4PM - 6PM Tuesday- Friday Private dining/meeting room available, up to 50 people.

Reservations accepted

1125 Jackson St. | Old Market, Omaha, NE | 402.991.5637 | JacksonStreetTavern.com