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ENTERPRISE SYSTEMS ENGINEER (First Data Technologies, Inc. - Omaha, NE): Ensure adherence to established technology standards using security devices of DataPower, Webmethods & WPS. Reqts: Master’s deg or foreign equiv in Mathematical Sciences, Comp Sci, CIS, Engg (any), or rel + 2 yrs of exp in job off’d or rel. Must have 2 yrs exp w/: DataPower, Webmethods, SAML, token based authentication, Java, Shell Programming, HTML/ DHTML, XML, XSLT, XPATH, Apache, JBoss, SiteMinder, WebSphere, WebSphere Datapower, IIS/.NET, & JProbe. Any suitable combo of educ, training or exp is acceptable. Apply at www.firstdatajobs.com. Go to “Search Openings” & enter Req. No. 32265BR. SENIOR PROGRAMMER/ ANALYSTS for Valmont Industries, Inc. in Valley, NE. Responsible for the analysis, design, development, implementation & maintenance of

engineering & drafting systems & programs. System-wide responsibility on complex projects & components. Must have a MS degree in Computer Science, MIS or related or a BS degree in the same & 5 yrs of experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience. Must have the demonstrated ability to use VB.NET, C#, PL/ SQL & Oracle plus must have working knowledge of advanced features/techniques in application development. Mail resume to Jean Ehrenberg at Valmont Industries, Inc., One Valmont Plaza, Omaha, NE 68154 START YOUR COMMERCIAL CLEANING FRANCHISED BUSINESS IN 2013. IT’S NOT TO LATE! We are ready to help you. Financing. Training. Initial Customer Base. Business Support Services. Call Today! 402.507.5157 This offer is made by prospectus only. See Franchise Disclosure Document for details. www.coverall.com.

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

PAYPAL. Customer Solutions Teammates. Contact abollard@paypal.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for information. LOOK GREAT TODAY. Massage Therapist. Contact Sharon@lookgreattoday.us. Go to OmahaJobs.com for info. WASHINGTON COUNTY EXTENSION. Support Staff. Contact dsaville@unl.edu. Go to OmahaJobs.com for information. PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO HOME OFFICE. Dishwashers, Wok Cooks, Pantry, Dim Sum cooks, Prep Cooks. Contact jgeisler@s2esolutions.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for info. ITC SERVICE GROUP, INC. Prism Installation Technician. Contact kedwards@callitc.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for information. NSI. Senior Project Analyst. Contact kcassidy@n-si.us. Go to OmahaJobs. com for info.

| THE READER |

MATTRESS FIRM. Sales Manager. Contact daja.pope@mattressfirm. com. Go to OmahaJobs. com for info.

PLANET FITNESS OMAHA. Front Desk/Cleaners. Contact abby@rehabresources.org. Go to OmahaJobs. com for more information.

SNELLING STAFFING SERVICES. Event Crew Captain. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information.

SNELLING STAFFING SERVICES. Data Entry. Go to OmahaJobs.com for information.

DENT RECON. Automotive Paint Technician. Contact kevin. obrien@dentrecon.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for info. GRETCHEN SWANSON CENTER FOR NUTRITION. Executive Assistant. Contact ayaroch@centerfornutrition.org. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information. REALRESULTS FITNESS AND HEALTH. L.M.T. Contact realresultsomaha@gmail.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for info. CRETE CARRIER CORPORATION. Litigation Adjuster. Contact ecoker@cretecarrier. com. Go to Omahajobs. com for info.

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DIRECT VOICE SOLUTIONS. P/T Customer Service Agent. Contact chris@ directvoicesolutions. com. Go to OmahaJobs. com for information. FLORAL PLANT GROWERS. Floral Plant Growers. Contact sandyk@hatbeauty.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information. CELEBRITY STAFFING. Customer Service. Contact Omaha@celebritystaff.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information. ROBERTS ADVERTISING CO. Customer Service Agent – Program Administrator. Contact todd@ robertsadv.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information.

CRETE CARRIER CORPORATION. Senior Financial Analyst. Contact ecoker@ cretecarrier.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information. CLUB MEGA. Waitresses, Cooks, DJ (Night Club). Bartenders. Contact fidel_favela@yahoo.com. Go to OmahaJobs.com for more information. PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF THE HEARTLAND. Certified medical assistant (CMA) Bilingual preferred. Contact Erika. githens@ppheartland. org. Go to OmahaJobs. com for more info.

Genuine! PT/FT, No Experience Required. Start Immediately! www.MailingBrochuresIncome.com (VOID IN SD) (MCN) WORK AND TRAVEL 6 Openings Now, Full Time Travel, Paid Training, Transportation Provided. Must be 18+. **BBB rated Company - Apply Online www.protekchemical.com or www.mytraveljob.com 1-916-273-2879 Extremely Fun Job! (MCN) BE YOUR OWN BOSS. Net Huge Profits. Over $60K/Year. A Real Business! (Invest. Req’d. - $4750) 1-877-725-0409 (MCN)

PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 a week mailing brochures from home! Genuine Opportunity! No experience required. Start Immediately! www.mailingcountry.com (VOID IN SD) (MCN)

WE’RE GROWING! McFarland Truck Lines, Inc. We need company/ drivers & owner/operators. Great pay & benefits package. Stay in the Midwest and be home on weekends. www.mcfgtl. com. Call Scott 800-5330564 ext. 205 Scott.Wermager@mcfgtl.com (MCN)

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We finance trucks! 1-877290-9492 (MCN) SOCIAL MEDIA JOBS AVAILABLE (Facebook/Twitter) NOW. $25 per hour. Training available. Full-Time/PartTime. Visit: www.AGoldConsulting.com or call 1-800-977-0150 (MCN) AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Housing and Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 877-492-3059 (AAN CAN) PAID IN ADVANCE!! Make up to $1000 a week mailing brochures from home! Helping home workers since 2001! Genuine opportunity! No experience required. Start immediately! www. process-brochures.com (AAN CAN) HELP WANTED! make extra money in our free ever popular homemailer program, includes valuable guidebook! Start immediately! Genuine! 1-888-2921120 www.easywork-fromhome.com (AAN CAN)

ProKarma Jobs Senior Software Engineer #SRJAVA1113

Senior Software Engineer #SRNET1113

Requires Masters Degree or foreign equivalent in Information Sys-

tems, Computer Science, Science, Engineering (any) with one year of

Information Technology-related experience; or, alternatively, a Bach-

elors degree or foreign equivalent in Information Systems, Computer

Science, Engineering (any) with five years of progressive Informa-

Science, Engineering (any) with five years of progressive Information

tion Technology-related experience. Foreign equivalent degree ac-

Technology-related experience. Foreign equivalent degrees accept-

ceptable. Experience must include skills in: Java, J2EE, JMS, SOA,

able. Experience must include skills in: Object oriented analysis and

Web Services, Weblogic/WebSphere/App server/JBoss, Oracle/SQL

design, Microsoft.Net Technologies, C#, ASP.net, ADO.net, XML,

Server, Maven, HTML. Analyze user needs, and modify and develop

Web Services, Oracle / SQL Server. Analyze user needs, and modify

existing software by using various computer skill sets.

and develop existing software by using various computer skill sets.

Software Engineer #JAVA1113

Quality Assurance Analyst #QA1113

Bachelors degree or foreign equivalent in Information Systems, Com-

Requires Masters Degree or foreign equivalent in Information Systems,

puter Science, Engineering (any), or equivalent to bachelors by com-

Computer Science, Science, Engineering (any) with one year of Infor-

bination of education and experience, and two years of progressive

mation Technology-related experience; or, alternatively, a Bachelors de-

Information Technology-related experience. Foreign equivalent de-

gree or foreign equivalent in Information Systems, Computer Science,

grees acceptable. Experience must include skills in: Java, J2EE, JMS,

Engineering (any) with five years of progressive Information Technol-

SOA, Web Services, Weblogic/WebSphere/App server/JBoss, Oracle/

ogy-related experience. Foreign equivalent degrees acceptable. Expe-

SQL Server, Maven, HTML. Write, update, and maintain computer

rience must include skills in: QuickTest Pro (QTP) 9.5, Test Director

programs by using various computer skill sets.

(Quality Center 9.5), ClearQuest and Excel Reporting (QC OTA API).

Software Engineer #NET1113 Bachelors degree or foreign equivalent in Information Systems, Com-

Job entails development and modification of test plans and scripts, both manual and automated, to ensure the quality, reliability, scalability, and monitoring of both existing and new software applications.

puter Science, Engineering (any) or equivalent to bachelors by combination of education and experience and two years of progressive Information Technology-related experience. Foreign equivalent degrees acceptable. Experience must include skills in: Object oriented analysis and design, Microsoft.Net Technologies, C#, ASP.net, ADO.net, XML, Web Services, Oracle / SQL Server. Write, update, and maintain computer programs by using various computer skill sets

SEND RESUMES TO: ProKarma, Inc., Attn: Jobs, 222 S 15th St. #505N, Omaha, NE 68102 or email: postings@prokarma.com. with Job Ref# in the subject line of the email omaha digs

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

Obamacare Scam Sites

he Better Business Bureau recently released a warning that scammers posing as government representatives have been phoning people who are eligible to take advantage of the medical insurance health exchanges and asking them for sensitive information, both personal and financial. The BBB says you should never share this information. They urge Nebraskans who receive these types of calls to ignore them because any details provided could be used to steal your identity or your money. With the new healthcare law, come many different websites designed to help consumers work their way through the health insurance marketplaces. Unfortunately, because individuals have to share personal and financial information to obtain a new health insurance policy, the playing field is ripe for scammers to try their best to access and steal this information. One way would-be scam artists have been trying to do this is by creating dummy pages or sites that look like the real thing. In fact, a story run by the Associated Press talked about an Arizona company that built a website that was misleading those shopping for healthcare because it looked a lot like the official New Hampshire marketplace. That particular business was sent a cease-and-desist letter and the site was taken down. And it wasn’t just New Hampshire. Washington state and Pennsylvania have had to make similar requests to private agents who were running sites that might mislead consumers to think they were on websites administered by the government. So how do you know if the website you are accessing is legitimate? Dell.com explains you can tell a site is fake if it: n Uses a public Internet account—If the email is from a public account, but claims to be a government-run site, do not trust the email. n Includes misspelled words—If a health insurance marketplace website misspells “insureance,” this is a pretty good clue that you’ve stumbled upon a phishing email or fake website. Mistakes are generally caught before emails are sent to you. n Is not a secure site—Legitimate sites use encryption, or scrambling, to help insure that your payment information remains safe. Clicking on the lock symbol in the browser window allows you to verify that a security certificate was issued to that site, a sign that it’s a legitimate, trusted website. Still not sure? You can Google any website name with the word fraud or scam after it and see if any complaints pop up. Many scammers use common misspellings of company names to draw people in so if you’re unsure how to spell the name of a particular company, double check that information before visiting any website. Knowledge is power. The best way to protect yourself and your important information is to educate yourself and report any website or email that doesn’t appear to be on the up and up. A few extra steps today may well prevent a large headache tomorrow.

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

uch like when you buy a car, there are certain options that are not optional. Brakes, headlights, windshield wipers - these are items that come with every vehicle purchased and similarly, with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all policies must now include 10 essential benefits. Included in this list are services that have always been part of health insurance coverage - emergency services, hospitalization and outpatient procedures. New to the list with the ACA are benefits including maternity and pediatric dental and vision care. One of the reasons for the new law, said Tom Gilsdorf, director of product development for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, was to ensure all Americans have access to the coverage they need. By including maternity and pediatric care services on the list of essential benefits, the ACA is spreading out the cost beyond those who use those services. “What we found is that plans providing for those benefits on an optional basis is that the costs were 20, 30, 40 percent higher,” Gilsdorf said. “What the law has done...they didn’t want to create an inherent disadvantage for young families or young females looking for coverage. They’ve made it a standard benefit across the board and now all people are covered.”

So, while a 25-year-old male will not need maternity services, his portion of that cost helps make it available to a woman who does need access to that benefit. The pediatric services were included, Gilsdorf said, as a way of heading off health problems later in life. “For pediatric I think it was really focused on the statistics and reports saying we need to make sure kids get in for routine dental cleanings and vision benefits,” he said. “It was based on expectations that children get checked out, they have the right care at a young age to prevent future problems down the road.” With the ACA, health insurance is no longer an a la carte menu, but a complete list of services that every American can access if needed. “All policies have some factor in their plans for maternity (and pediatric services) so those who do purchase it do not have to pay a higher premium,” Gilsdorf said. “They’ve removed the options; it’s not a menu, you’re not going to pick and choose the coverage you want. When you do that you start to segment enough that people who do need those services, it becomes cost prohibitive.” Whether you are a man or woman, young or old, under the new healthcare reform law, we all help to pay so everyone has access to the same essential benefits, including maternity for women and pediatric benefits for children.

The Nature of Insurance – Why You Pay For Maternity and Pediatric Dental

topnews

Strength in Numbers New Restoration Exchange brings groups together BY CHERIL LEE

“I

’m passionate about preservation and restoration,” said Kristine Gerber, Executive Director of The Restoration Exchange Omaha. The organization, formed in July of this year, represents a merger of three existing groups focused on restoration and preservation: Landmarks, Inc., Restore Omaha and Omaha Urban Neighborhoods. Landmarks, Inc. started in 1965 but has dwindled in members in recent years. Gerber was formerly with Restore Omaha and said the organization was made up of a group of scrappy volunteers who were architects, preservationists and people who lived in old homes. Restore Omaha saw the need to have a conference that taught people – through hands-on sessions with national and local preservation leaders – how to preserve and restore older homes and buildings. The conference has been going on since 2005. The group also had an ongoing tour of Omaha’s older historic neighborhoods to introduce people to different parts of town they may not have seen before. Gerber explained, “It gave people a reason to see these great old buildings and homes that were available and fairly inexpensive.” Omaha Urban Neighborhoods was created with a focus on redeveloping Omaha’s small commercial districts. Gerber said one of the ways they did that was by creating north and south 24th street walking tours. She said the walk took about 75 minutes and covered eight blocks. During the tours, people would hear a history of the area and walk through businesses where they could talk to the owners about why they love the area and what they do. “These three groups existed but none had paid staff and all were run by volunteers. None of them had a lot of money so you didn’t hear about them very often. We felt there had not been one really strong organization that had been doing any kind of advocacy work for preservation,” said Gerber. Two years ago, Omaha by Design commissioned a study by The National Trust. The group focused on preservation efforts in Omaha. Gerber said the study results revealed that people in town had a hard time naming any preservation leaders. According to Gerber, the organizations took that information to heart and decided to join resources to become THE force for preservation in Omaha.

“Our mission is to educate and motivate people to restore and preserve older homes, buildings and districts. We are doing that in three ways: advocacy, education and invigoration (communication),” Gerber explained. The education piece of Restoration Exchange Omaha’s mission will involve neighborhood tours. The group just did a tour of the Deer Park Neighborhood and is already hard at work on a Florence Boulevard tour slated for Fall 2014. The group will also offer tours of North and South Omaha as well as presenting its annual Restore Omaha conference. Another idea in the works is all-day workshops that give residents instruction on how to repair items in their homes, such as windows, rather than having to replace them. In terms of advocacy, Gerber explained Restoration Exchange Omaha is working with the city to ensure that old, historic buildings and homes that can be saved are not being demolished. “We are working on trying to landmark locally and nationally as many historic homes and buildings as we can because that kind of provides us a stopgap from them being demolished,” she said. Gerber said the organization is also looking at creating a state law, which would provide a state tax credit for people wanting to redo older commercial properties that are on the national register. The law would give them a 20 percent tax credit. The group’s focus on invigoration (communication) includes a monthly newsletter that highlights an old building and a craftsman each month as well as gives preservation news in the area. The Restoration Exchange Omaha is also working on creating a resource directory, so people can find experts to assist them with their preservation or restoration projects. The organization recently began moving into its new offices in the Joslyn Castle Annex. To Gerber it makes sense for the group to be housed in an old building and she loves the space. She said the move should be complete by the first week of December. According to Gerber there’s been a huge movement of people in their ‘20s who are wanting to live in Omaha’s urban core. She said they want to bike or walk to work or to get their groceries. They want that neighborhood feel. She said Restoration Exchange Omaha has a lot of dedicated young volunteers who are excited about what the group is doing. Ultimately, Gerber said restoration and preservation is good for the planet, “People are getting the tie between green living and sustainability. The greenest thing you can do is restore an older building or home rather than build a new one.” ,

VISIONS FROM FIVE MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE • NOVEMBER 21, 2013 • The occult will return, but in surprising ways. Recent versions have been revivals of ancient occult practices, mostly based on the ritual practices of farm-based communities. But a new magic will arise inspired by our modern life, based in urban living,

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digital interconnectedness, and economic unease. These cults will meet virtually, in secret online locations, and they will develop and share apps for cultic practices, including ritual sacriﬁce. Woe be those who stumble into this world unawares.

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

heartlandhealing N E W A G E H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S B Y M I C H A E L B R AU N S T E I N

Sugar or Honey: Is One Better?

veryone has a sweet tooth. Of the five basic tastes defining the human palate — salty, sweet, sour, bitter and umami — sweet is the only one we’re addicted to at birth. Human infants display a definite taste for sugar. In fact, as Michael Moss describes in Salt, Sugar, Fat, our addiction to sugar is rooted in our DNA while addiction to salt is by acquisition. Sugar in its natural form is generally good for us. But, like so many things in human history, we’ve managed to muck it up by meddling. To understand our relationship with sugar, we need to know more about how sugar exists in nature versus the way we consume it now in modern America. Let no man tear asunder. Sugar is a complex carbohydrate that exists in thousands of foods growing in nature. Almost every plant we can eat has some form of sugar in it we can use. Our body has evolved to deal with fructose as it’s presented in fruit, lactose as it presents in milk, maltose found in grain, even trehalose found in — wait for it — grasshoppers. Even the simple glucose and sucrose forms found in nature are far different from the way we get sugar in our modern processed foods. The big problem is that humans, like curious kids, like to tear things apart. So we’ve learned to tear asunder the things nature has wisely put together because we think we have a better way. We found sugar in nature then we refined it. Sugars in the form we’re eating them now have only been around for a couple hundred years, ever since we learned how to successfully and profitably refine them, reduce them to a concentrated form and then add them to nearly everything we eat. The biggest offender, of course, has been refined white table sugar. White sugar has a dark and sordid history. The sugar trade developed extensively in the 17th and 18th centuries when European cartels depended on slavery to run vast sugar empires established in the Caribbean archipelago, reaching from Barbados to the Virgin Islands, from Haiti to Hispaniola. Even today, Dutch windmills dot the landscape of St. Croix and old sugar mills now are part of Cruzan rum production. And now the only slaves to sugar in the 21st century are those of us addicted to it. Borrowing the old definition of pornography, refined sugar has “no redeeming social value.” White, refined

sugar traditionally was made from squeezing the juice from sugar cane, a thick, tough, bamboo-like stick. The process of crystallizing it was developed in 3rd century India. How unnatural is eating a teaspoon of refined sugar? Well, it takes three feet of sugar cane to make one teaspoon of sugar. There are about ten teaspoons of sugar in a can of Coke. You’d have to eat 30 feet of sugar cane to get the equivalent amount from nature. Beyond white cane sugar. Since the goal is simply to satisfy the human addiction to sweet, we’ve learned to pull sugars from corn and beets. Add to that the problem that those two crops are now genetically altered, we’ve really opened a can of worms in the form of unnatural sweetening. Most sugar in processed foods now comes from high fructose corn syrup which doesn’t even appear in nature but has to be synthesized using a chemical process. Cane sugar has almost become looked at as a health food in view of that. But still, any refined sugar is devoid of nutrient value. It’s long been called “empty calories.” The real problem is that refined sugar makes overindulgence as easy as… drinking a can of Coke. And overindulgence in sugar is linked to a nearly endless litany of maladies with cancer, heart disease, liver disease, diabetes leading the list. Understanding of the toxic impact of sugar has become so great that experts are calling for its regulation, much like we regulate tobacco or alcohol. More refined taste. Honey is made by nature, not man. In a way it is refined, too: by bees. Honey differs greatly from refined sugar, containing other kinds of complex sugars as well as micronutrients and enzymes. Unadulterated, raw and lightly filtered honey contains artifacts from nature that are beneficial to humans. Table sugar has none. Thus, honey does indeed have “redeeming value.” Honey is a product of nature that is virtually unchanged as we consume it. What nature has put together is made of components we can only guess the importance of. Humans have evolved to metabolize honey over eons. Refined sugar from beets, cane and corn has only been around for a relatively short time. The beneficial qualities of real honey are well documented. Honey has a host of healing properties. It is antiseptic, supports the immune system, contains probiotics and prebiotics, heals wounds, aids intestinal flora — the list is long. So when the question is, “Sugar or honey, which is better?” the answer should be obvious. Just get real honey from a trusted source. Visit the Honey Information page on Heartland Healing. Be well. ,

HEARTLAND HEALING is a New Age polemic describing alternatives to conventional methods of healing the body, mind and planet. It is provided as information and entertainment, certainly not medical advice. It is not an endorsement of any particular therapy, either by the writer or The Reader. Visit HeartlandHealing.com for more information.

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

heartland healing

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Wednesday, December 4 UNWIND WEDNESDAY - $50 mini Facial - 30% off all Skin Care Thursday, December 5 TREAT YOUR HAIR - All treatments $10 - L’Oreal and Hair Reborn 30% off Friday, December 6 GET YOUR GLOW ON - Airbrush Tans $19 - All Norvell Tanning products 30% off Saturday, December 7th GLAM UP SATURDAY - All color services this day will be entered to win a $100 Retail Gift Card - All makeup applications $20 and will receive 20% off any cosmetics purchase - Special Occasion styles $40

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BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS MARCH 9 Tickets available at whiskeyroadhouse.com, Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-300

11/4/13 1:11 PM

LEGACY The Emily Fisher Landau Collection NOW THROUGH JANUARY 5, 2014 Framing the Flame: Art That Ignites

Thursday, Dec. 19 @ 6 pm Marissa Vigneault, Weston Thomson, and Ying Zhu will each speak for ten minutes about a work that “lights their fire” from the exhibition, shedding light on how art inspires, engages, and impacts their own work in the Omaha arts community.

I-29 South, Exit 1B | horseshoe.com

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11/13/13 10:46 AM

preSenting SponSor:

Major SponSorS: Annette and Paul Smith, Douglas County; Contributing SponSor: Eve and Fred Simon; Supporting SponSorS: Joan Gibson and Don Wurster, Kathy and Marc LeBaron, Lincoln Financial Foundation, Inc.; Additional support provided by KPMG LLP, Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. iMage: James Rosenquist (b. 1933), House of Fire II, 1982, oil on canvas, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; promised gift of Emily Fisher Landau P.2010.241a-c., Art ©James Rosenquist / Licensed by VAGA, New York, photograph by Tim Nighswander/Imaging4Art

Open Tuesday through Sunday FREE Admission

Free admission. Cash bar opens @ 5 pm. Must be 21 years or older to attend shows or to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF (Iowa) or 1-800-522-4700 (National). ©2013, Caesars License Company, LLC.

www.sevensalon.com

2200 Dodge St. | Omaha, NE | (402) 342-3300 | www.joslyn.org

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

“N

obody beats our wiener.” That’s Chicago Dawg House’s slogan. Owner Kelly Keegan said he brought his business to Midtown Crossing last month because he wanted to have a good family restaurant where families could eat and not go broke. Keegan had never owned a restaurant before

there is one item they buy locally and that’s a brat they get from Stoysich. Other than that though, it’s all Chicago fare. The menu leads off with the Traditional Chicago Dawg. Keegan said they dress the dawg by dragging it through the garden. “We take an all-beef hot dog

but after 23 years in the corporate world, he was suddenly told his services were no longer required. He did receive a severance package and that was the money he used to buy Chicago Dawg House from its former owner, a friend of Keegan’s. “He is a great guy but not a good businessman. My friend tried to do too much without having a good support staff,” explained Keegan. When Keegan’s friend first told him he wanted to open up a hot dog stand he admits he thought his friend was nuts. But after Keegan tried the food at the former location, 108th and Maple, he said he was impressed. Keegan had had a little experience with Chicago cuisine, having spent a year and a half in the Windy City in his former life. He laughed as he said he ate and drank his way through that town, putting on 40 pounds in the process. Everything Keegan and company sell at Chicago Dawg House is shipped in from Chicago from the neon relish and pickles to the hard rolls and mustard and yes, the dawgs themselves. He admits

and load it up with tomatoes, a dill pickle spear, neon relish, two sport peppers, onions, natural celery salt and mustard. That’s a true Chicago dawg. And if the garden is too much, we can make your dawg with chili or chili and cheese,” Keegan explained. All of the menu items are named after people and places in Chicago. In addition to the dawgs, the restaurant offers polish sausages, brats, Italian beef sandwiches and hand-cut French fries. Popular daily specials include Sandberg Monday, featuring the Italian Beef sandwich and Footlong Friday. The restaurant seats 75 and has two grills, one in front, so customers who want to may watch their food being prepared, and one in back. He said that means food gets out quickly, making it possible for the lunch crowd to come in, order, get served, eat and make it back to work in 45 minutes. According to Keegan, the décor inside the restaurant is meant to make customers think of the ball field.

n Calling all opinionated diners. Would you like to participate in the James Beard Foundation Awards process? Give your name, e-mail address and state of residence and submit your suggestions for nominees in up to 20 categories, ranging from Best New Restaurant to Rising Star Chef of the Year, at www. jamesbeard.starchefs.com/awards/vote.. The dead-

line for entry is December 31, 2013 at 11:59 p.m. n If you haven’t already heard, Omaha’s own Isa Chandra who has charmed the nation with her recently released vegan cookbook, Isa Does It, is opening her first meat-less restaurant in Omaha off 50th and Center. The eatery, named Modern Love, will serve self-described “swanky vegan comfort food, prepared from scratch.” Check back soon for her opening date.

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

dish

“I’ve got two green baseball stadium seats from Wrigley field, courtesy of the Ricketts. The red seats are from the Cincinnati riverfront, when they tore that stadium down. A neighbor of mine had them in his backyard and I convinced him to give them to us.” A self-admitted Chicago Cubs enthusiast, Keegan also has a mural painted on the walls of the restaurant that features every member of his family as well as well-known announcer and legend Harry Carey singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” Keegan is a huge fan of Carey and actually does an impersonation of him in the ads for Chicago Dawg House. He said he plans to install a flagpole outside the restaurant so he can fly the big “W” flag

n The Urban Wine Company, located in the Old Market at 10th and Jones streets, has switched their hours for the winter season. They are open Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and on Sundays from 4 to 9 p.m. They will be closed on Mondays. n Congratulations to the French Bulldog for being nationally recognized as a 2014 Good Foods Award

each time the Cubs win a game. It’s a tradition that goes back to the ‘30s in Chicago. If the Cubs won, a “W” flag could be seen flying over the stadium so those who were on the train could see if their beloved team won. “Chicago Dawg House is a fun place to hang out, eat and get away from your cube for an hour. I really wanted a cozy atmosphere. When it’s full, there’s a nice vibe to it, making you feel like you’re at the ballpark,” said Keegan. , Chicago Dawg House, 3157 Farnam Street, Sunday 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., visit chicagodawghouse.com or call 402.504.1234.

finalist for their Hungarian Salami and Juniper Salami. The Good Food Awards look for the best of America’s craft food producers as they celebrate what is tasty, authentic and responsibly produced. Winners will be announced in December. Best of luck to the French Bulldog. — Krista O’Malley Crumbs is about indulging in food and celebrating its many forms. Send information about area food and drink businesses to crumbs@thereader.com.

Tequila Corner

’m going to tell you about the evening that changed my life. It was November 12th, when I had the pleasure of attending the tequila tasting dinner at the La Mesa on 156th & Q Street. Herradura tequila was the tequila of the night, and rightly so, as it’s amazing. I sat next to fascinating people and the conversation was great. Director of International Brand Development for Casa Herradura Ruben Aceves was in attendance, and he knows everything there is to know about tequila. It was great to listen to his take on each of the tequilas we sampled. I know a thing or two about tequila, but Ruben knows a thing or a million about tequila. The food was spectacular, but there’s no surprise there since this is La Mesa. Our appetizers were really delicious; in particular, I enjoyed the sopes although the quesadilla and the guacamole were both great too. Coupled with the first margarita of the evening, which was served in a commemorative mug (hand-decorated in Mexico), these appetizers set a celebratory tone for the evening. It sounds great, right? I’m not even to the part yet where I had my life-changing experience. We ate a salad that featured jicama, pineapple, strawberry and apple with a mango vinaigrette dressing. On the menu it was called, “Salada de Frutas,” and the more tequila we drank, the more fun it became to say this. My main entrée was the grilled tilapia with fresh mango salsa. It seems to me that tequila always goes best with fish, but the people at my table who instead ordered the carne asada or the chicken seemed pleased with their selections as well. As for me, I enjoyed the tilapia immensely and sampled another taste of Herradura tequila – this one was from the special barrel commissioned by La Mesa. Scott Voorhees hosted the event as part of the 1110 KFAB Gourmet Club. I’d never met Scott before this evening, but I will say that he’s a lot of fun and knows how to keep a party going. So there I was, minding my business and having a great time, when all of a sudden a margarita was placed before me. While you’re reading this, I want you to envision the beautiful margarita with a spotlight on it and the sound of a choir singing in the background, because this was the very moment where everything changed. I casually picked up the drink and took a sip, not even knowing what the flavor of the margarita was but happy to try it nonetheless. When the vibrant flavors hit my taste buds, I knew that things would never be the same. Yes, ladies and gentleman, I had just taken a sip of the perfect margarita. Don’t let the name of this drink throw

you off, but it’s called a Watermelon Habanero Margarita. I love watermelon, and I don’t mind habanero, but there’s something about mixing the two together that makes for absolute harmony. The sweetness of the watermelon and the kick from the habanero is a marriage made in heaven as far as I’m concerned. I’m not being overly dramatic here. After I had my life-changing sip, I looked up and watched the reactions of my fellow diners. Everyone followed a similar chain of events: take a casual sip, pause, stare at the margarita in disbelief, then take another sip and urgently whisper to the person seated next to them to try this margarita. It was when Ruben Aceves got up and announced that this was the best margarita he had ever had (which was followed by a burst of applause from everyone in attendance) that I knew we’d all just encountered greatness. There were plenty of other great things that happened that night that I could mention, like the chocolate flan dessert that I could have easily eaten three helpings of or the other smooth tequila samples we enjoyed, each with their own distinguishing tastes. But really, it was that Watermelon Habanero margarita that opened my eyes to a whole new margarita taste combination and changed my life forever. The good news is that I’ve been assured that this margarita is joining the new drink menu at La Mesa soon. The even better news is that La Mesa has more tequila tasting dinners scheduled in the future, so you can have the opportunity to enjoy a potentially life-changing moment too. Just be sure to make reservations quickly when the date is first announced, as these events can sell out pretty quickly. The best news? You don’t have to wait for a formal tequila tasting dinner to enjoy what La Mesa has to offer. Head to La Mesa and ask your certified server to teach you a thing or two about tequila, and you won’t be disappointed.

—Tamsen Butler

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

8 DAYS

TOPTV

“Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles” Saturday, 9 p.m. (HBO)

Don’t let that sweet face fool you. Or that pouty, innocent delivery. Sarah Silverman wants to gross you out, scandalize you, and take you to the edge of turning off the TV. The comedian specializes in saying things that are never said, regarding rape, incest, porn, Hitler, race, you name it. Her goal — and it’s an ambitious one, worthy of Lenny Bruce — is to get us laughing about the things that make us most uncomfortable. In the standup special “We Are Miracles,” she succeeds, most of the time. Given her approach, 100 percent success just isn’t in the cards. Silverman will always see how far she can go, which means she’ll occasionally go over the line. That’s what happens with a 9/11 joke that just made me sad. But she distinguishes herself as a social satirist in bits about religion and feminine hygiene products. Every once in a while Silverman even grosses herself out. “That’s disgusting erase!” she shouts following a line about father-daughter relations. I agree with her in that case, but there are about 45 minutes in this 55-minute performance I wouldn¹t erase for the world. — Dean Robbins

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

T H E R E A D E R ’ S E N T E RTA I N M E N T P I C K S N O V. 2 1 - 2 7, 2 01 3

THURSDAY21 Nov. 21

CULTS W/ SACCO & MOOD RINGS

Slowdown, 729 North 14th St. 9 p.m., $15 in advance/$17 day-of-show, onepercentproductions.com Cults filter classic pop song forms through a lens of today’s indie and electronic pop, distorting the textures of things like 60s girl groups into a distinctly cosmopolitan and modern feel. The band is centered on guitarist Brian Oblivion and vocalist Madeline Follin, whose first recordings in 2010 led them to a quick signing by Columbia Records. The tale of the New York City band catapulting from an EP on the Bandcamp website to major label success is the new form of how bands explode in the music industry now. After a self-titled 2011 album, Cults have smartly doubled-down on their core sound on 2013’s Static. The only evolution is a slight tendency to pull the saccharine sweet pop moves back to reveal a new dose of texture. – Chris Aponick

FRIDAY22 Nov. 22

TRAVELLING MERCIES W/ WELDON KEYS & THE SONS OF O’LEAVER’S O’Leaver’s Pub, 1322 South Saddle Creek Rd. 9:30 p.m., $5, facebook.com/oleavers

CULTS

piring songwriter, Jeremy Holan who’s joined by local music scene stalwarts John Klemmensen, Vern Fergesen, Colin Duckworth and Edward Spencer. If you were one of the cool kids back in the day (and by that I mean around six months ago) you probably caught Jeremy Holan plucking his six string at the (in)famous Trackside Lounge during their weekly epic open mic nights (now at O’Leaver’s). The group recently released their album Motel and have been nominated for an OEAA this year. Dig it. – James Derrick Schott

Omaha’s Travelling Mercies describe themselves as American music offered up on a platter of losing lotto tickets, runaway dreams, Midwestern family history, hellfire, and brimstone. To sum that up, Nov. 23 they’re roots americana/ AUDACITY W/ HUNTERS, VIDEO RANGER rock smouldering O’Leaver’s Pub, 1322 South Saddle Creek Rd. in an overflowing 9 p.m., $7 black ash trey most facebook.com/eyeballpromo likely stolen from some cheap diner. Fullerton, Calif. band Audacity Not so much of a came onto the scene playing a sum up but, the sum house-partying brand of lo-fi of their parts are most garage rock. Despite only bedefinitely greater then the ing in their late teens and early 20s, whole. Formed in 2009 by as- JEREMY HOLAN Audacity in 2009 already displayed a knack

| THE READER |

SATURDAY23

picks

for earworm melodies, even when slapping their songs together with slacker-punk abandon. Turns out what Audacity was at the forefront of was a movement in California, as they quickly became aligned with the founders of Burger Records, a lo-fi, mostly-cassette record label and record store. The label now hosts a bunch of bands with similar takes on sloppy punkish garage pop. But on Audacity’s 2013 album Butter Knife, they show that they’re now teaching a master class on these snotty party anthems. They still sound perfect for the basement, but these hooks could stick in your head just about anywhere. – Chris Aponick

AUDACITY

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ORCHESTRA SPONSOR:

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Help Shine the Light on Hunger by donating non-perishable food items at the concert.

Holland Performing Arts Center | THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

1 Hospital

in Nebraska. Again.

Recognized in 9 Specialties

NebraskaMed.com/BestHospitals

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

readers’ choice

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

Best of the Big O is the Best Because of You

Record levels of participation from Omaha consumers

ince 1996, The Reader has conducted an annual poll asking the public to nominate the best businesses in specific industries and categories. We were the first and today we’re the only local “Best Of ” poll to use an outside accounting firm to tabulate results and to utilize registrations and IP blocking to insure one person, one vote. In 2010, we partnered with WOWT-NBC to boost visibility and response. From March 1 through July 31 of this year, 1,254 Omahans made a minimum of 23 nominations recognizing businesses as the best in their category — resulting in almost 30,000 individual business nominations across 133 categories — a 40 percent increase from the year prior. Thank you Omaha! The public was required to nominate a minimum number of businesses in each of these six broad groups: 1. BEST DINING - Nominations in at least 5 categories 2. BEST GETTING AROUND - Nominations in at least 3 categories 3. BEST PROFESSIONAL & HEALTH SERVICES Nominations in at least 4 categories 4. BEST LIVING SERVICES - Nominations in at least 4 categories 5. BEST PERSONAL SHOPPING & SERVICES Nominations in at least 4 categories 6. BEST NIGHTLIFE AND PLAY - Nominations in at least 3 categories One of Omaha’s largest local accounting firms, Hancock & Dana, with whom we have no other business relation-

Lance Kugler, MD William Schlichtemeier, MD

ship, tabulated the results. At Hancock & Dana, giving back to the Omaha community is an important part of their history and mission.

Recognition Levels Winners will fall into four levels of recognition, but can only fall into one per category. Every nomination is a “Best Of ” vote, and often very small percentages separate the levels of recognition. The honorees are truly among the best of an often very crowded field or industry with dozens, if not hundreds, of competitors. 1) Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Any winner with more than 50 percent of the votes cast in that category or the top vote-getter. Only one winner unless it’s a tie. 2) Readers’ Choice: Any vote-getter with at least 20 percent of the votes cast in that category or up to the next top two vote-getters after Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O with at least 10% of the votes cast in that category. 3) Readers’ Recommended: Any vote-getter with at least 10 percent of the votes cast in that category or up to the next top three vote-getters after Readers’ Choice with at least 5 percent of the votes cast in that category. 4) Readers’ Refer: Any vote-getter with at least 5 percent of the votes cast in that category or the top votegetters to round out six winners in a category. —John Heaston

Omaha’s premier provider for vision correction services.

THANK YOU OMAHA

for voting us the Best of the Big O for the second year in a row! At KuglerVision,, we are proud to provide the Omaha community with the most advanced methods of vision correction available anywhere in the country. » Investigator in multiple FDA clinical research studies

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NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

readers’ choice

BEST DINING

Readers’ Choice: Lisa’s Radial Café, Petrow’s Readers’ Recommend: Shirley’s Diner, Leo’s Diner, Vidlack’s Brookside Café

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pettit’s Bakery Readers’ Choice: Wheatfield’s, Panera Readers’ Recommend: Jones Bros. Cupcakes, Le Quartier, The Cake Gallery

BEST CATERER

BEST BAKERY

BEST BBQ

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Famous Dave’s Readers’ Choice: Hartland BBQ Readers’ Recommend: McKenna’s, Smoke Pit, Swine Dining Readers’ Refer: Jim’s Rib Heaven

BEST VALUE RESTAURANT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Cheddar’s Readers’ Refer: Texas Roadhouse, McDonald’s, Applebee’s, Golden Corral, Village Inn

BEST BUFFET

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: China Buffet Readers’ Choice: Golden Corral, Valentino’s Readers’ Recommend: Old Country Buffet, Hu Hot Readers’ Refer: A+ Buffet and Mongolian Grill, Harrah’s

BEST BURGER JOINT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Stella’s Readers’ Choice: Dinker’s Readers’ Recommend: 5 Guys Burgers and Fries, Louie M’s Burger Lust Readers’ Refer: Goldberg’s, Red Robin

BEST CAFÉ

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: 11-Worth Cafe

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hap Abraham Catering, Hy-Vee (tie) Readers’ Choice: Brandeis Catering, Catering Creations Readers’ Recommend: Eddie’s, Attitude on Food

BEST CHINESE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Three Happiness Express Readers’ Choice: China Buffet Readers’ Recommend: JC Mandarin, PF Chang’s, Golden Palace Readers’ Refer: China Road, Hiro 88, King Fong

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Scooter’s Readers’ Choice: Starbuck’s, Crane Coffee Readers’ Recommend: Caffeine Dreams, Panera, Blue Line Coffee Shop

BEST DOUGHNUT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Kripsy Kreme Readers’ Choice: Pettit’s Bakery, Winchell’s Readers’ Recommend: The Donut Stop, Dunkin’ Donuts, Lamar’s

BEST GREEK RESTAURANT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Greek Islands Readers’ Choice: Katie’s, Jim & Jennie’s Readers’ Recommend: Feta’s, King Kong Readers’ Refer: Legacy Gyro

CONTINUED

Methodist makes Omaha healthier.

Dr. Dittrick Surgery

Methodist’s impact on the health and well-being of families reaches far and wide. Regionally, we perform more surgeries and offer the only medical campus dedicated to women. But our impact goes beyond medical expertise. Because Methodist is where innovation meets compassion, working together to advance health and save lives. That’s the meaning of care. bestcare.org ©2013 Methodist Health System

readers’ choice

| THE READER |

NOV. 15 - 21, 2012

BEST ICE CREAM SHOP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ted & Wally’s Readers’ Choice: E Creamery, Cold Stone Creamery Readers’ Recommend: Dairy Queen, Goodrich Readers’ Refer: Zesto’s

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Le Sole Mio Readers’ Recommend: Olive Garden, Malara’s Italian Restaurant, Grisanti’s Readers’ Refer: Spezia, Nicola’s

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hiro 88 Readers’ Choice: Kobe Steakhouse, Blue Sushi Readers’ Recommend: Sakura Bana, Sushi Japan, House of Genji

BEST KID-FRIENDLY (NOT KID FOCUSED)

Readers’ Choice: Hy Vee Readers’ Recommend: Wohlner’s, Just Good Meat, Stoyisch Readers’ Refer: Whole Foods

BEST PRODUCE SELECTION

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hy-Vee, Readers’ Choice: Whole Foods, Baker’s Readers’ Recommend: Fareway, Trader Joe’s Readers’ Refer: Bag ‘N Save, Costco, Super Target, Wal-Mart, Wohlner’s

BEST RETAIL WINE SELECTION

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brix Readers’ Choice: Hy-Vee, Spirit World Readers’ Recommend: The Winery, Trader Joe’s Readers’ Refer: Baker’s, Wine Styles

BEST RESTAURANT MENU SPECIALS

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Applebee’s Readers’ Choice: Red Robin, Texas Roadhouse Readers’ Recommend: Spaghetti Works, Village Inn, Valentino’s

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Kona Grill Readers’ Choice: Applebee’s, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, M’s Pub Readers’ Recommend: Bonefish Grill, Hiro 88, Jam’s, Wheatfield’s

BEST LATE NIGHT RESTAURANT

BEST RESTAURANT WINE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Village Inn Readers’ Choice: Applebee’s, Kona Grill Readers’ Recommend: Local Motive Food Truck, Taco Bell Readers’ Refer: Amsterdam Café, Baxter’s, M’s Pub

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brix Readers’ Recommend: M’s Pub, Boiler Room, Stokes, V. Mertz Readers’ Refer: Fleming’s, J’s on Jackson, La Buevette, Mahogany, Pitch Pizzeria, Spezia’s

BEST LOCAL FOOD-SERVING RESTAURANT

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Grey Plume Readers’ Choice: Jams, Block 16 Readers’ Recommend: Lot 2 Readers’ Refer: Boiler Room, Bronco’s, J Coco, M’s Pub, Piccolo’s, Summer Kitchen Café, Upstream

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Drover Readers’ Choice: Texas Roadhouse, Anthony’s Readers’ Recommend: Piccolo Pete’s, Gorat’s, Mahogany’s

BEST SWEETS SHOP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: La Mesa Readers’ Choice: Hector’s, Julio’s Readers’ Recommend: Rivera’s, Fernando’s Readers’ Refer: Cilantro’s, Romeo’s

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hollywood Candy Readers’ Choice: Jones Bros. Cupcakes Readers’ Recommend: Cupcake Island, Delice European Bakery, Candy Wrappers Readers’ Refer: Bliss Bakery, Eileen’s cookies, The Cordial Cherry

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

BEST TAPAS/SMALL PORTIONS

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Plank Readers’ Choice: Salt 88, Baxter’s Readers’ Recommend: J’s on Jackson, Lot 2, Cheddar’s

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Espana Readers’ Refer: Taste, Urban Wine Company, Cantina Laredo, French Bulldog

BEST NOUVEAU CUISINE

BEST TEX-MEX

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Grey Plume Readers’ Choice: Lot 2, Jam’s Readers’ Recommend: J Coco, M’s Pub, Blue sushi

BEST ORGANIC GROCERY SELECTION

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Whole Foods Readers’ Choice: Trader Joe’s Readers’ Recommend: Hy-Vee, Natural Grocers Readers’ Refer: Baker’s, Jane’s Health Market, No Name Nutrition Markets

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Julio’s Readers’ Recommend: Stoke’s, Roja Mexican Grill West, Romeo’s Readers’ Refer: La Mesa, Taco John’s

BEST THAI

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Thai Spice Readers’ Choice: Mai Tai, Thai Pepper Readers’ Recommend: Bangkok Cafe, Taste of Thailand, Thai Kitchen

BEST PIZZA PARLOR

BEST VEGETARIAN

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Zio’s Readers’ Choice: Mama’s Pizza, La Casa Readers’ Recommend: Big Fred’s, Pitch, Dante Pizzeria

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: McFoster’s Natural Kind Readers’ Choice: Blue Planet Readers’ Refer: Block 16, Ingredient, Greengo Coffee & Deli

BEST RETAIL DELI COUNTER

BEST YOGURT SHOP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hy-Vee Readers’ Recommend: Wohlner’s, Spirit World, Whole Foods Readers’ Refer: Baker’s, Bag N Save, Fareway

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Red Mango Readers’ Choice: Orange Leaf, TCBY Readers’ Recommend: Cherry Berry Readers’ Refer: Scooter’s, Peach Wave, Yo Yo Berri

BEST RETAIL MEAT COUNTER

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

readers’ choice

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Fareway

CONTINUED

One Smile at a Time Dr. Kort Igel Orthodontics

r. Kort Igel has been voted “Best Orthodontist” for the past five years, and this year is no exception. A native of Omaha, Dr. Igel graduated from the Creighton University School of Dentistry. The University of Nebraska Medical Center conferred his Master’s Degree and Certificate in Orthodontics. Dr. Igel’s father and grandfather were both dentists, which peaked his interest. However, the idea of creating beautiful, healthy smiles and increasing people’s confidence with orthodontics was where he felt led. He discovered early on that this was his niche and he could actually picture the result before he started the treatment. Orthodontics is something he is passionate about and he has performed some incredible treatment results over the years. “Dr. Igel gets to do the “fun” stuff,” practice administrator Linda Lutmer says. “No shots, no fillings, no extractions. Kids actually want braces because all of their friends have them, which is fun for our entire team when we see their excitement on banding day.” While it’s universally understood that a trip to the orthodontist can stir up some apprehension in any child —or adult, for that matter-all fears quickly dissipate once they meet Dr. Igel. He’s renowned for making every person who walks through the door feel welcome, understood and comfortable about all aspects of their visit. The patient’s first visit is always complimentary. The consultation is complete with digital photos and x-rays, allowing Dr. Igel to create an individualized corrective treatment plan, which he can review with the patients and parents. “Kids want a pretty smile,” Lutmer explains. “Dr. Igel wants not just a pretty smile, but also a functional, healthy smile. These are two different things. The teeth can be straightened, but if the bite (or malocclusion) is not fixed, there can be problems such as TMJ issues, excessive wearing of the teeth, periodontal disease, and ultimately tooth loss.” Younger patients may require interceptive treatment, also known as Phase I treatment. This treatment is performed at an early age

to prevent the development of more serious dental problems over time. An example of this is the use of a palate expander to increase the size of a small jaw and provide adequate space for all the permanent teeth to prevent impacted teeth later. Comprehensive treatment is focused on aligning the bite with braces, aligners (Invisalign), and functional appliances to gradually move the teeth and jaws. Comprehensive treatment is typically performed after all the permanent teeth have erupted. Orthodontic treatment also opens airways to hopefully prevent sleep apnea. Today’s braces are much smaller and more comfortable than years ago. Dr. Igel uses the latest technology utilizing the GAC In-Ovation interactive self-ligating bracket system. This clear bracket system enhances patient comfort and shortens treatment time, while also keeping aesthetics in mind. Many teen and adult patients prefer Invisalign. The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates called aligners that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. Keeping the patient’s comfort in mind, Dr. Igel also utilizes the iTero digital scanner in his offices. Using the iTero scanner allows him to take highly accurate 3D digital impressions. Better accuracy means more precise results. The iTero scanner is all about keeping patients comfortable, while delivering precise imagery, without the goop or gagging associated with conventional impressions. “When your mouth is healthy, your overall health is, too,” Dr. Igel says. “We promote great hygiene in our office every day. We believe oral hygiene is so important that we provide every patient with an Oral B electric toothbrush the day they start orthodontic treatment. We give patients feedback on their brushing at every appointment and reward them with points when they have great brushing. Points can be redeemed for great prizes such as backpacks and gift cards. We also reward points to patients for great cooperation, having nothing broken, and for being on time for their appointments, which helps us stay on schedule for all our patients. Patients of all ages love our rewards program. And we love rewarding them for their success because we know their healthy, clean teeth

will move faster and they will be happy with their beautiful smile.” Dr. Igel carefully monitors growth and development and begins treatment when it’s ideal. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of a problem, or no later than age 7. By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, Dr. Igel can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. Beginning treatment early, when necessary, ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. Early treatment can prevent major problems later.

readers’ choice

“We focus on greeting every patient who walks in our door with a warm smile, and explain what we are doing every step of the way to ensure patients always feel comfortable at their appointments,” Dr. Igel says. “My team will work with your budget and file your insurance, all with a smile. The teamwork displayed in my office is like no other. It really is all about the patient and ensuring they have a fun experience in our office and a beautiful smile when we are finished. I am one lucky guy to have such a great team. They are a big part of my success. They are what make Igel Orthodontics the ‘Best Orthodontic Office’ six years in a row. We love what we do.” ,

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

BEST GETTING AROUND

BEST AUTO GLASS

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Safelite Readers’ Choice: Metro Glass, Omaha Glass Pro Readers’ Recommend: ABC Auto Glass, Harmon Glass, Husker Auto Glass

BEST AIRLINE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: South West Readers’ Recommend: Delta, United Airlines, American Airlines Readers’ Refer: Frontier, US Airways

BEST AUTO BODY

BEST AUTO PARTS

Readers’ Choice: Best Buy, Inphase Readers’ Recommend: Nebraska Furniture Mart, Metro Audio Dynamics Readers’ Refer: Autosound and More, South audio

BEST CAR WASH

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Russell Speeder’s Readers’ Choice: Dolphin’s, Fantasy’s Readers’ Recommend: Bucky’s, Stacey’s Readers’ Refer: Gorilla Wash, V.I.P. Carwash

BEST TOWING SERVICE

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP

BEST GAS STATION/CONVENIENCE STORE

BEST TRANSPORTATION/LONG DISTANCE TRAVEL

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Dingman’s Readers’ Choice: Dave’s Auto Body, B Street Collision Readers’ Recommend: Charlie Graham Body & Service, Baxter Auto Body, Inter-Tech

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Bucky’s Readers’ Choice: Quick Trip, Hy Vee Readers’ Recommend: Kwik Shop, Casey’s, Fantasy’s

BEST AUTO DEALER SERVICE SHOP

BEST BIKE SHOP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Lexus of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Markel BMW Readers’ Recommend: Acura of Omaha, Infiniti of Omaha Readers’ Refer: Huber, Mercedes-Benz of Omaha

BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP GROUP Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Performance Readers’ Choice: Woodhouse Readers’ Recommend: Baxter, Huber, Stan Olsen Readers’ Refer: H&H

BEST AUTO DETAIL SHOP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Auto Inceptions, Cornhusker Auto, Dolphins, Russell Speeder’s (4-way tie) Readers’ Choice: Elite Auto Spa Readers’ Recommend: E.R.S. Detailing, Huber Automotive, In & Out, Omaha Auto Detail

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Jensen Tire Readers’ Recommend: Firestone, Marion Tire, Midwest Tire Readers’ Refer: Tires Plus, Walker Tire

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: O’Reilly’s Readers’ Choice: Auto Zone, Advance Auto Parts, NAPA Readers’ Refer: Car Quest, Jensen Tire

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Exclusive Honda Readers’ Choice: Jensen Auto, Autocare Specialists Readers’ Recommend: Walker Tire, Firestone, Tuffy Auto Service

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Performance Readers’ Choice: Baxter, Lexus of Omaha, Woodhouse Readers’ Recommend: Huber, Superior Honda

BEST TIRE STORE & SERVICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Bike Rack Readers’ Choice: Trek Readers’ Recommend: Re-Cycle Bike Shop, Green Street Cycles, Olympia Cycle Readers’ Refer: Bike Masters

BEST BOAT DEALER

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Omaha Marine Center Readers’ Choice: BassPro, Valley Marine Readers’ Recommend: Leisure Life Sports

BEST BUY HERE PAY HERE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Sonny Gerber Readers’ Choice: TD Auto

BEST CAR AUDIO

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Stereo West

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BEST LUXURY AUTO

BEST NEW AUTO DEALERSHIP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Atchley Ford, Performance Toyota (tie) Readers’ Choice: Superior Honda Readers’ Recommend: Lexus of Omaha, Todd Archer Hyundai Readers’ Refer: Gregg Young Chevrolet, O’Daniel Honda, Old Mill Toyota, Stan Olsen VW

BEST PRE-OWNED AUTO DEALERSHIP

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: CarMax Readers’ Recommend: Atchley Ford, Lexus of Omaha Readers’ Refer: Superior Honda, O’Daniel Honda, Sid Dillion, Todd Archer Hyundai

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: AAA Readers’ Recommend: Bam’s Towing, Neff Towing Readers’ Refer: Buchanan’s, Ely’s Towing, Arrow

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Amtrak Readers’ Choice: Mega Bus, Greyhound Readers’ Refer: Happy Cab, Hertz

BEST PROFESSIONAL AND HEALTH SERVICES BEST ALLERGIST PRACTICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Midwest Allergy and Asthma Readers’ Choice: Asthma and Allergy Center, Alegent Creighton Readers’ Recommend: Dr. William Ingram, MD; Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Associates

CONTINUED

Garbo’s Salon and Spa Twenty-Five Years Strong

arbo’s Salon and Spa has been an vibrant part of the Omaha business community for the past 25 years. Originally located at One Pacific Place, the first store moved to Regency Court Mall and now boasts four more locations around the Metro area. It’s safe to say Garbo’s is here to stay. Mary Lou Walker established Garbo’s in 1988 and from the very beginning, the young entrepreneur sought to set Garbo’s apart from the rest. Walker retired from Brandies Depar tment Stores, where she served as the Director of Beauty Salons. Upon her retirement, she began her second career by establishing the Garbo’s Salon and Spa business. As President of Garbo’s, she has established herself as a legend in the Omaha Salon Industry. She has been directly involved with salon management, education, and professional development for stylist for

over 45 years. The original goal was to open multiple salon locations under a controlled and well-managed niche markets. The Oak View Mall location opened shortly after the original salon in November of 1991. Eagle Run at 138th St. and West Maple opened in 1996, and the original One Pacific Place salon relocated to the newly remodeled and rebranded Regency Court in 1998. The opening of Village Pointe shopping center provided the ideal opportunity to continue the placement of salons in well-positioned and marketed shopping centers, similar to the latest Garbo’s Salon located in Midtown Crossing, which opened in 2013. Roxanne Kahn, Walker’s daughter, witnessed firsthand her mother’s determination and eventually joined the family business, along with brother David Walker and daughter Becky Kahn. “Garbo’s Salons wanted t o change the marketing of the salon industry and did not want a typical salon name,” Roxanne Kahn explains. “The name Garbo’s evokes a different meaning to almost everyone who hears the name. In French, it translated different-

ly than in Italian, or Spanish. However, in every language it means style, elegance, and grace. The Garbo’s name is a brand that definitely fits the style and ambiance of the salon industry.” Garbo’s goes above and beyond a simple haircut. The well-trained staff specializes in trims, coloring, nails, massages, waxing, facials, and cosmetic application. Garbo’s always offers the highest quality professional salon products, and the product knowledge the staff possesses makes recommendations simple, which is crucial due to the many individual hair and skin types of each salon patron. Some of the services include: •Haircuts Start at $25 •Hair color and Highlights Start at $90 - $175 •Pedicures, Manicures, French Manicures and Other Variations are $25$60 •Massages range from $50-$110 •Specialty massages range from $85$150 •Waxing starts at $17 •Classic Facials, Teen Cleans, Spray Tans, Chemical Peels, and Microderm run $50-$125 Additional services include cosmetic applications, cosmetic lessons, lash tints, brow tints, ear piercing, and earwax removal. Beyond the vast number of services Garbo’s offers, Kahn believes the customer service and the experience provided is icing on the cake. “The mission statement for our 25th anniversary is ‘Garbo’s: Celebrating 25

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Years of Beauty.’ We strive to provide our customers with the very best salon experience,” Kahn explains. “We listen to our customers to give them the look they want and the service they deserve. We constantly work with keeping up on the latest trends and education for our staff and artistic creativity for our staff to maintain the highest level of customer service so our customers leave the salon achieving the perfect salon experience.” In 2007, Garbo’s Salons added a development partner and licensed owner, Darcy Michalek. Michalek’s infinite experience in the Omaha Marketplace has proven to be a dynamic relationship, which enables Garbo’s Salon and Spa to continue the growth of Garbo’s brand. Garbo’s future growth may be looking for the right opportunity to grow in other cities. Garbo’s talented and creative staff coupled with the exceptional customer service makes the business. It’s a model that has been perfected over the years and keeps patrons coming back. Kahn loves representing Garbo’s and is clearly proud to stand behind it. “Our customers and how we make them feel is the best part for me,” she says. “From a wedding party, where we understand it is one of the biggest days for a bride and groom, to our work with cancer patients whom may be suffering from the side effects of Chemo therapy, we feel everyone can be made to feel better about themselves to gain the confidence in how the look.” ,

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NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

BEST ATTORNEY- CRIMINAL

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: James Martin Davis Law Office Readers’ Choice: Shaefer Shapiro, LLP; McGill Law Readers’ Refer: Michael Nelson, Alan Stoler PC LLC, Krajicek Law Office, Law Offices of John P. Grant, Dunn & Stockmann Law, Regan Law Office, Paragas Law Offices

BEST ATTORNEY- DUI

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Shaefer Shapiro LLP Readers’ Choice: Nelson Law Office Readers’ Recommend: Paragas Law Offices, McGill Law

BEST ATTORNEY- DIVORCE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Koenig Dunne Divorce Law Readers’ Choice: McGill law Readers’ Recommend: Lustgarden & Roberts, Govier & Milone LLP Readers’ Refer: Chris Vacanti, Murphree Law Office

BEST ATTORNEY- PERSONAL INJURY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hauptman, O’Brien Readers’ Choice: Inserra & Kelley, Knowles Law Firm Readers’ Recommend: Abboud Law Firm, Clete Blakeman, McGill Law

BEST BANK

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: First National Bank of Omaha Readers’ Choice: Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank Readers’ Recommend: Great Western Bank, Bank of the West Readers’ Refer: Security National Bank

BEST CHIROPRACTIC PRACTICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Godfrey Chiropractic, Hauser Chiropractic & Acupuncture (tie) Readers’ Choice: Essentials Family Chiropractic Readers’ Recommend: Elsasser Chiropractic, Pearson Chiropractic, Performance Chiropractic

BEST COSMETIC DENTIST

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Dr James Lewer DDS, Marty J Matz DDS, Dr. Michael Sesemann DDS (3-way tie) Readers’ Choice: Dr. Daniel Beninato DDS Readers’ Recommend: Dr. Mike Starkey DDS, Steven Wegner DDS

BEST COSMETIC PRACTICENONINVASIVE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Skin Specialists, PC Readers’ Recommend: Bare Body Shop

BEST COSMETIC SURGERY PRACTICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Skin Specialists, PC Readers’ Choice: Aesthetic Surgical Images, Village Point Aesthetic Surgery, Popp Cosmetic Surgery Readers’ Recommend: Dr. Coleen Stice

BEST COUNSELING CLINIC

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Heartland Family Services, Kairos Psychological, PC (tie) Readers’ Choice: Alliance Counseling, Family Enrichment, Lutheran Family Services

BEST CREDIT UNION

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

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

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Readers’ Recommend: Omaha Federal Credit Union, First Nebraska Educators, Union Pacific Streamliner FCU

BEST DENTIST OFFICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Horizon Dental, Rainbow Dental (tie) Readers’ Choice: Dr. Roger K. Curry, Apple Family Dental Readers’ Recommend: Corpuz Family Dentistry, Tranquility Dental

BEST DERMATOLOGY CLINIC

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Skin Specialists, PC Readers’ Choice: Braddock Finnegan Dermatology Readers’ Recommend: Midwest Dermatology Readers’ Refer: Center of Dermatology PC, Dermatology Specialists of Omaha, Dr. Robert Fonda, Dr. Ferguson

BEST ENHANCED HEARING RETAILER

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: ENT Specialists, Glassman (tie) Readers’ Choice: ASI-Omaha Audiology & Hearing Instruments, Miracle Ear Valley View Council Bluffs Best Financial Advisor Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Edward Jones Readers’ Choice: Morgan Stanley Readers’ Recommend: Ameriprise, Feltz Wealth Planning, Renaissance Financial Readers’ Refer: Arkfeld Wealth Strategies, Northwestern Mutual

BEST HEALTH CLINIC

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Alegent Creighton Clinic Readers’ Choice: Methodist Health Clinic, UNMC Readers’ Recommend: Midwest Minor Medical, Charles Drew

BEST HOSPITAL

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Methodist Hospital Readers’ Choice: The Nebraska Medical Center, Lakeside Hospital Readers’ Recommend: Bergan Mercy Readers’ Refer: Methodist Women’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: State Farm Readers’ Recommend: Farmer’s, American Family, Allstate Readers’ Refer: Geico, AAA Insurance

BEST LASIK CENTER

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Kugler Vision Readers’ Choice: Omaha Eye & Laser Institute Readers’ Recommend: LasikPlus Vision Center Readers’ Refer: Nebraska Laser Eye Associates, Brumm Eye and Laser Vision Center

BEST LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hillcrest Country Estates Readers’ Choice: Immanuel Fontenelle Home, Good Samaritan, Lakeside Readers’ Recommend: Quality Living at Immanuel Village

BEST MASSAGE THERAPY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Massage Envy Readers’ Recommend: Omaha School of Massage, Faces Salon, Oasis Salon & Spa Readers’ Refer: Balance Works, Essentials Family Chiropractic

CONTINUED

Five Weeks of Holiday Lights

Events Launch on Thanksgiving Night

he Holiday Lights Festival, produced by Mayor Jean Stothert and the Downtown Omaha Inc. Foundation and presented by ConAgra Foods, KMTV Action 3 News and Star 104.5, showcases Downtown Omaha and celebrates the spirit of the holidays by providing a full season of fun, festive, familyfriendly activities. Festivalgoers will find an abundance of holiday spirit in Downtown Omaha this winter. The five-week Holiday Lights Festival is packed with exciting activities to offer a little something for everyone each weekend. More than 40 blocks of white lights, painting an incredible picture of Downtown Omaha, will again illuminate this year’s event, and more than 300,000 people are expected to enjoy the sight of the lights over their five-week display period. This year’s festival will feature favorites such as the annual CenturyLink Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony, the Making Spirits Bright Holiday Concert, Pacific Life Sounds of the Season, the ConAgra Foods Ice Rink, Wells Fargo Family Festival and the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular. The community theme will once again be a campaign to “Shine the Light on Hunger,” encouraging the entire community to help fight hunger by dropping off non-perishable food and household items at the ice skating rink as well as at collection barrels that will be placed at other locations throughout the community, including area Baker’s stores. Community members can also donate cash online by visiting www.shinethelightonhunger.org.

ne of Omaha’s favorite holiday events, he annual CenturyLink Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony will take place this year on Thursday, November 28, in the Gene Leahy Mall at 14th and Farnam. The illumination of the awe-inspiring display of hundreds of thousands of white lights is expected to draw approximately 10,000 people to Downtown Omaha, who will also be treated to a variety of musical performances including the choral group MasterSingers and the Jingle Brass Bells beginning at 5:30 p.m. At 6 p.m., Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert will lead the crowd in a countdown to the 2013 lighting display, and 3,000 LED votive

NOV. 21- 27, 2013

candles will be distributed to the first arrivals so these spectators can illuminate their candles at the same moment the lights go on. Trees throughout the Gene Leahy Mall and neighboring streets, plus the trees along 16th Street from Howard to Dodge Streets, and 10th Street from Douglas Street to Abbott Drive, will also be lit. Many downtown businesses and residences will feature lighting and holiday decorations as well. The lighting display will be turned on each evening from 5 p.m. until 1 a.m. through January 5, 2014. “CenturyLink is proud to again be part of this meaningful holiday tradition in Omaha,

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which some families are now enjoying into a second generation,” Danny Pate, CenturyLink Vice President and General Manager for Nebraska, said. “We’re looking forward to kicking off the holiday season with the lighting ceremony and shining the light on hunger in partnership with ConAgra Foods.” Coventry Health Care of Nebraska, Inc., is sponsoring the lighting display along Gene Leahy Mall on Douglas and Farnam Streets between 10th and 13th Streets during the Holiday Lights Festival period. The Gene Leahy Mall lights serve as a focal point and are considered the crown jewel of the entire array of downtown lights.

North and South Omaha Holiday Lights

or the third year, the Holiday Lights will expand to North Omaha and South Omaha, thanks to the generosity of The Sherwood Foundation. Lights will shine bright in South Omaha at 24th Street between L and Q Streets and in North Omaha along a six-block area around 24th and Lake Streets. These trees will be illuminated each evening beginning Friday, November 29. A South Omaha lighting ceremony will take place Friday, November 29, at 5:45 p.m. at La Plaza de La Raza, 24th and N Streets. The official ceremonial tree lighting for the North Omaha displays will take place Friday, November 29, at 5 p.m. near 24th and Lake Streets.

Holiday Lights Festival Events CenturyLink Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony Thursday, November 28, 6-7 p.m. One of Omaha’s most anticipated events of the holiday season is the night holiday spirits are boosted with the annual CenturyLink Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony held on Thanksgiving evening, November 28, in the Gene Leahy Mall at 14th and Farnam. The dazzling lights are sure to amaze people of all ages. Patrons will gather to hear a variety of musical performances, including the choral group MasterSingers and the Jingle Brass Bells, beginning at 5:30 p.m. At 6 p.m., Mayor Jean Stothert will lead the crowd in a countdown to turn on the cheer and the 2013 lighting display. Trees throughout the Gene Leahy Mall and neighboring streets will be lit with hundreds of thousands of white lights. The trees along 16th Street from Howard to Dodge Streets and 10th Street from Douglas Street to Abbott Drive will also be lit. Many downtown businesses and residences will feature lighting and holiday decorations as well. The Gene Leahy Mall lights are sponsored by Coventry Health Care of Nebraska. Following the ceremony, the lighting display will be turned on each evening from 5 p.m. until 1 a.m. through January 5, 2014. After the ceremony, the public is invited to shop and dine in the Old Market and attend a free holiday concert at the Holland Performing Arts Center. Making Spirits Bright Holiday Concert Thursday, November 28, 7 p.m. The Making Spirits Bright Holiday Concert will be presented at the Holland Performing Arts Center located at 13th and Douglas streets. Beginning at 7 p.m., the free concert will feature special guest vocalist Mary Carrick accompanied by the Nebraska Wind Symphony. TD Ameritrade sponsors the Making Spirits Bright Holiday Concert. Mammel Foundation supports the concert.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL

CALENDAR OF EVENTS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 CenturyLink Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony 6 – 6:30 p.m. Gene Leahy Mall, 14th & Farnam. Old Market Shopping and Dining 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Making Spirits Bright Holiday Concert 7 p.m. Holland Performing Arts Center 13th & Douglas

Pacific Life Insurance Company Sounds of the Season Saturdays, November 30-December 28, 7-8 p.m. Each Saturday from November 30 through December 28, from 7 to 8 p.m., the Sounds of the Season will showcase the talent of local choral groups ranging from youth to professional performers, including The Golmanaviches & Giselle, Omaha Academy Choir, School of Rock and Mater Dei Academy. Performances will take place throughout the Gene Leahy Mall and the Old Market. Wells Fargo Family Festival Sunday, December 8, noon-5 p.m. The Wells Fargo Family Festival offers an afternoon of free family fun. Six downtown arts and cultural institutions will provide free admission and hands-on activities for the entire family. Free trolley service provided by Ollie the Trolley will connect all participating locations from noon to 5 p.m. “Shine the Light on Hunger” donation barrels will be located at selected Family Festival venues. ConAgra Foods Ice Rink Friday, December 13-Sunday, January 5 The ConAgra Foods Ice Rink, located on the ConAgra campus at 10th and Harney streets, will return for a seventh year to entertain families and “Shine the Light on Hunger.” The rink will be open from 1 to 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays; 1 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays; and 1 to 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

The rink will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. A $5 admission fee includes skate rental, although patrons may bring their own skates. The ConAgra Foods Foundation will match all rink income dollar for dollar up to $100,000 and donate all proceeds to the Food Bank for the Heartland as a component of the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign. Donations of non-perishable food and household goods will also be collected onsite. For details, visit the “Shine the Light on Hunger” website at www. shinethelightonhunger.org. New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular Tuesday, December 31, 7 p.m. As a grand finale to the 2013 Holiday Lights Festival, the Fireworks Spectacular will begin at 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early as the event is expected to draw more than 30,000 people. The show will feature an amazing display of fireworks designed by J&M Displays. The official viewing site is the Gene Leahy Mall located at 14th and Farnam. Each firework burst is choreographed to explode in sequence to a unique musical score featuring lively music from the 1980s. Spectators are encouraged to bring a radio tuned to Star 104.5 to enjoy the musical accompaniment. The fireworks show offers a perfect ending to the fun-filled weeks of holiday activities and events.

SATURDAYS, NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 28 Pacific Life Sounds of the Season 7 – 8 p.m. Gene Leahy Mall and the Old Market

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Wells Fargo Family Festival Noon – 5 p.m. Downtown Arts and Cultural Institutions FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13SUNDAY, JANUARY 5 ConAgra Foods Ice Rink 1 to 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays 1 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays 1 to 5 p.m. Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve closed Christmas Day & New Year’s Day

ConAgra Foods Campus, 10th & Harney

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular 7 p.m. Gene Leahy Mall, 14th & Farnam

For more information, visit www.holidaylightsfestival.org.

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NOV. 21- 27, 2013

Old Market Shopping & Dining

ome of the Old Market’s finest shops, restaurants and pubs will be open after the Thanksgiving Lighting Ceremony. • 13th Street Coffee Co • Aromas in the Old Market/Bliss Bakery • Artists’ Cooperative Gallery • Barry O’s Old Market Tavern • Billy Frogg’s Grill & Bar • City Limits • Cubby’s Old Market • CupCakes in Omaha • Dubliner Pub • Falling Water Grille at Embassy Suites • Havana Cigar Bay • Hollywood Candy • Le Wonderment • Liberty Tavern • Magical Journeys Carriage Service • Maria Sangria • Michael’s • Moksha in the Passageway • Nosh Restaurant and Wine Lounge • O Dining • Old Chicago • Old Market Candy Shop • Passageway Gallery • Scooters • S.G. Roi Exceptional Tobaccos • Tannenbaum • Ted & Wally’s Ice Cream • The Tea Smith • Toyko Sushi • Wallflower Artisan Collective, Inc. • Yi’s Designer Jewelry

FREE Family Fun Downtown

Wells Fargo Family Festival Returns

ells Fargo presents this year’s Holiday Lights Family Festival, offering the community an opportunity to experience many of Omaha’s leading downtown attractions for free. This year’s Family Festival will be held Sunday, December 8, from noon to 5 p.m. A free trolley service will connect the participating venues described below. Each site will offer free admission and family activities. In addition, select Omaha musicians will perform at The Durham Museum, W. Dale Clark Public Library, the Wells Fargo Bank downtown branch and Joslyn Art Museum. “The Wells Fargo team is pleased to be sponsoring the Family Festival again this year,” said Kirk Kellner, Region President for Wells Fargo in Nebraska. “It’s been wonderful to see how the Family Festival has become a local tradition for many families. It’s an opportunity to showcase our downtown attractions and provide area families—free of charge—an afternoon enjoying some of the community’s best family-friendly venues. We’re thrilled to see families embrace the holiday spirit with such a fun and memorable day of activities.”

Wells Fargo Bank

20th and Douglas Streets • Enjoy Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn courtesy of ConAgra Foods • Children can pose for a picture with Wells Fargo’s very own “Jack the Dog” and make fun holiday crafts • Stop by the company museum and see the historically accurate reproduction of the Wells Fargo Stagecoach in the lobby before you jet off to the Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn and enjoy your very own ride! • Listen to holiday music and participate in other activities

W. Dale Clark Library

215 South 15th Street • Celebrate the holidays of bygone years by learning about the 1898 World’s Fair (also known as the Trans-Mississippi Exposition) held in Omaha • Dress up in 1890s attire and have your photo taken in a special World’s Fair setting • Play games and make a toy popular in the 1800s • Stop by the Wells Fargo activity area for cookie decorating and Swiss Miss hot cocoa courtesy of ConAgra Foods • Other activities include face-painting, story times, music and more

Joslyn Art Museum

2200 Dodge Street • Explore Joslyn Art Museum’s galleries including Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau Collection, a remarkable exhibition of contemporary art • Don’t forget to visit the studios and experiment with two hands-on activities to create your very own winter-themed works of art using alphabet stencils, sponges, oil pastels, tempera paint and more • Don’t miss your chance to get a magic wand from Wells Fargo and watch Amazing Lindy perform magic at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

NOV. 21- 27, 2013

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Omaha Children’s Museum

500 South 20th Street • Engage in active play in the museum’s permanent exhibits • Visit the temporary exhibit Things That Go for a discounted admission price of $3 • Take a carousel ride for $2 • Visit Santa (2-5 p.m.) • Make some fun crafts in the Creative Arts Area sponsored by Wells Fargo • Enjoy the free Super Snowy Science Show in the Science Lab

Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Barn

615 Leavenworth Street • Tour the stables and visit with Santa’s reindeer! • Learn how police officers care for the animals at the Mounted Patrol Barn and get your picture taken with the horses and reindeer • Officers will offer horse demonstrations as guests warm up with Swiss Miss hot cocoa courtesy of ConAgra Foods • Wells Fargo will be giving free stagecoach rides from 1 to 4 p.m. and helping young buckaroos decorate their cowboy hats • The Citizen’s Foundation for the Omaha Police Mounted Patrol will offer face painting, and one lucky person will win a large stuffed horse

The Durham Museum

801 South 10th Street • Experience the wonder of the season at the Durham Museum during Christmas at Union Station • See Omaha’s largest indoor Christmas tree, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy an exceptional lineup of family-friendly events • Visit the Ethnic Holiday Trees exhibit, an annual favorite which highlights the holiday traditions of approximately a dozen cultures in the Omaha community • View the wonderful temporary exhibitions on display including Liberty on the Border: A Civil War Exhibit and Goose Bumps: The Science of Fear • Children can also meet Wells Fargo’s “Jack the Dog”, pan for gold and participate in a scavenger hunt Ollie the Trolley will provide free trolley rides between locations. Have fun participating in holiday sing-alongs during your travels!

Ice Skating Rink Helps ‘Shine Light on Hunger’

onAgra Foods invites the Omaha community to help “Shine the Light on Hunger” for the seventh consecutive year as part of its role as a presenting sponsor for the 2013 Holiday Lights Festival. The company will again open the ConAgra Foods Ice Rink on its campus at 10th and Harney Streets, providing the public with an opportunity to enjoy outdoor ice skating while supporting the effort to fight hunger. Skaters will be able to drop off non-perishable food and household items at the ice skating rink and festivalgoers can do the same at collection barrels that will be placed at other locations throughout the festival event sites. The ConAgra Foods Ice Rink will be open Friday, December 13, through Sunday, January 5, so families with schoolchildren can enjoy the rink for an extended period during the winter break. The rink will be open from 1 to 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays; 1 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays; and 1 to 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. The rink will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. A $5 admission fee includes skate rental, although patrons may bring their own skates. CenturyLink will provide wi-fi service to the site for spectators. The ConAgra Foods Foundation will match all rink income dollar for dollar up to $100,000 and donate all proceeds to Food Bank for the Heartland as a component of the ConAgra Foods Shine the Light on Hunger campaign. Donations of non-perishable food and household goods will also be collected onsite. Last year, ConAgra Foods and the community collected more than 145,000 pounds of food and raised $305,000 during the campaign, the equivalent of nearly 1.5 million meals donated to Food Bank for the Heartland. The ConAgra Foods Foundation matched donations to Food Bank for the Heartland dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000. Not only did the campaign surpass its goal of 1.1 million meals, the total collected was an increase in meals raised over the previous year. The 2013 goal is 1.2 million meals. As presenting sponsor of the Holiday Lights Festival since it began 14 years ago, ConAgra Foods is pleased to see how this event has not only become a holiday tradition for many families, but also an opportunity for the entire community to help those in need,” said Gary Rodkin, chief executive officer of ConAgra Foods. “By participating in various Holiday Lights activities and supporting the 2013 Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, the community can have fun while continuing to make a difference for children and families throughout Nebraska and western Iowa.” The community is invited to enjoy a special Skating Extravaganza at the ice rink featuring skaters from the Blade & Edge Figure Skating Club and the Figure Skating Club of Omaha on Saturday, December 21, and Sunday, December 22, at 3 p.m. Both 30-minute performances are free of charge. For more information about the ConAgra Foods Ice Rink and other ways you can help “Shine the Light on Hunger,” please visit www.shinethelightonhunger.org.

EVENT MAP AND PARKING GUIDE

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NOV. 21- 27, 2013

Fireworks Spectacular to Usher In 2014 with a Bang

he Holiday Lights Festival New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular will fill the sky with colorful bursts of light on New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31, starting at the familyfriendly hour of 7 p.m. The fireworks display, visible for miles, will take

NOV. 21- 27, 2013

place at the Gene Leahy Mall at 14th and Farnam streets. One of the largest New Year’s Eve fireworks displays in the region and the closing event of the Holiday Lights Festival, the show is expected to draw more than 30,000 people to downtown Omaha.

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Elderly persons and citizens with disabilities are welcome to view the fireworks from the fourth floor of the W. Dale Clark Library. The fireworks display, created by J&M Displays, Inc. is choreographed so that each shell explodes on cue

to a unique musical score featuring a lively soundtrack of popular 1980s- themed music. Spectators are encouraged to bring portable radios and tune in to Star 104.5 to enjoy the accompanying music while watching the dazzling show.

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NOV. 21- 27, 2013

James Martin Davis

here is infinitely more to Omaha attorney James Martin Davis than most people know. On the surface, Davis is able to sit comfortably in his Farnam St. office as one of the best criminal attorneys in the Midwest, having won the most criminal cases in Nebraska. However, once probed for a glimpse into his life, it’s clear he’s experienced more than several men of his age put together. He knew becoming a lawyer was his calling from a young age. “Ever since I was little, I always wanted to be a lawyer,” Davis says. “Criminal law is the most exciting part of the law. It’s the non-boring dimension of the practice of law. The cases are interesting, the stakes are high and it involves the concept of liberty, which is an idea that is very important to me. It should be to everybody.” Davis spent three years working as a Secret Service agent, which took him everywhere from the White House to Chicago. One day he’d be protecting the President of the United States, the First Lady or Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and the next, posing as a Mafioso named “Jimmy D” to bust counterfeit operations. He survived combat in the Vietnam War then powered through quintuple bypass surgery, a heart attack, and the untimely death of his only son. What makes Davis so successful comes down to a very simple philosophy: he works for the people. “I really appreciate them,” he says. “I have a lot of clients. I think there are two reasons for my success. Number one, I’ve been doing it for so long; number two, I’ve won more criminal cases than anyone in Nebraska because I defend the Constitution of the United States.” While Davis has always lived an adrenaline-charged existence, ultimately having a family pulled him back a little. He recalls a funny incident when he was still working as a Secret Service agent in Chicago, which involved his wife, Polo. “My wife hated it. I was doing an undercover operation in Cicero, Illinois

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where Al Capone was headquartered,” he recalls. “I had to do an undercover buy with these people to purchase stolen government securities. They thought I was Mafioso. I met them in a restaurant in Cicero. I had agents covering me, but I saw one of the people at the table had a gun. The informant was there, which is how this came to be. The informant calls me later that night so I could do a report in terms of how it went down. It’s 1 o’clock in the morning, my wife is sleeping and I get the call. And I’m taking notes and I say, ‘Yeah, I saw the guy with the .38 in his belt.’ Then I say, ‘Which one had a hand grenade?’ Then later on I said, ‘Where was the machine gun?’ I go back to bed and I hear my wife sniffling or something. She was pregnant. I said, ‘What’s wrong?’ She said, ’You’re never going to see your first baby born [laughs].’” Ironically, the day their daughter Tori was born, that particular case was the front page of The Chicago Daily News. Although he no longer works in the exciting world of the Secret Service, his life is anything but dull. This year he represented former Bellevue Police Chief John Stacey and former local news broadcaster Michael Scott, which were two high-profile cases. He took both of them to a jury and got a not guilty verdict on both counts. He has been listed as a “Super Lawyer,” which is a rating system that recognizes attorneys who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. He’s ranked among The Top 100 Lawyers and a member of the Martindale-Hubbell Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers. However, it’s the local recognition he appreciates the most. “ This recognition is more important to me than the others,” he says. “While those three are important to me, the recognition I am getting through the Reader is a lot more gratifying than the recognition I get from my peers. “I am very grateful to the people of Omaha to recognize me,” he adds. “I am here for the people. I went to work for corporate law firms, but that was not my interest. My interest is to represent the people.” ,

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

BEST NURSING HOME

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blumkin Jewish Home, Brookstone Village (tie) Readers’ Choice: Hillcrest, St. Joseph Villa Readers’ Recommend: Good Samaritan Society-Millard, Immanuel Fontenelle Home

BEST OB/GYN PRACTICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Methodist Women’s Clinic Readers’ Choice: Alegent Creighton, Mid-City OB/GYN Readers’ Recommend: Olsen Women Health-UNMC, Physicians Clinic Women’s Center Readers’ Refer: Omaha OB/GYN

BEST OPTICAL STORE (EYEWEAR STORE)

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: LensCrafters, Malbar Vision Center, ShopKo Optical (3-way tie) Readers’ Choice: Legacy Eyecare, Wal-Mart Optical Readers’ Recommend: America’s Best, Stanton Optical

BEST OPTICIAN

BEST PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Children’s Physicians Readers’ Choice: Boystown Pediatrics, Methodist Physicians Readers’ Recommend: Village Point Pediatrics, Alegent Creighton Health, Physician’s Clinic Regency

BEST PHARMACY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Walgreens Readers’ Choice: Hy Vee Readers’ Recommend: CVS, Baker’s, Super Target Readers’ Refer: Kohlls

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY/ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Excel Physical Therapy Readers’ Choice: Community Rehab Readers’ Recommend: Pro Care 3 Readers’ Refer: Alegent Creighton, Edge Physical Therapy, Infinity Wellness, Makovicka Physical Therapy, Methodist Physical Therapy

BEST REHABILITATION FACILITY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Malbar Vision Center Readers’ Choice: Legacy Eyecare, Midwest Eye Care Readers’ Recommend: Exclusively Eye Care, Clarity Eyecare, Family Eyecare Centers, Dr. Greg Gerdes, OD

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brookestone Meadows Readers’ Choice: Hillcrest, Immanuel Medical Center Readers’ Recommend: Excel, Blumkin Jewis Home, Quality Living Inc.

BEST ORTHODONTIST

BEST VETERINARY CLINIC

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Igel Orthodontics Readers’ Recommend: Clear Choice Orthodontics, Huerter Orthodontics, The Orthodonist Group Readers’ Refer: Kelly Conway, DDS, Weber Orthodontics

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ralston Vet Clinic Readers’ Choice: 24th Street Animal Clinic, Mobile Animal Clinic Readers’ Recommend: Best Care Pet Hospital, American Animal Hospital, Millard Vet Clinic

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BEST LIVING

Readers’ Refer: Carpetland, Lowe’s, Floors Etc, Mrs. B’s, Odermatt, Sherwin Williams

BEST APARTMENTS- DOWNTOWN

BEST CONCRETE COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Old Market Lofts Readers’ Recommend: Tip Top, Skinner Macaroni, Kensington Tower Readers’ Refer: Brandeis, Orpheum Tower

BEST APARTMENTS- MIDTOWN

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Midtown Crossing Readers’ Choice: Broadmoor Aksarben Readers’ Recommend: Pinhook, The Austin at Midtown

BEST APARTMENTS- UPTOWN

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Harrison Hills Readers’ Choice: One Pacific Place, Biltmore Readers’ Recommend: Country Club Village, The Heights, Thomasville

BEST APARTMENTS- WEST

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Broadmoor Hills Readers’ Choice: Torrey Pines, The Tradition Readers’ Recommend: Apple Creek Apartments, Grand Legacy

BEST ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Immanuel Communities Readers’ Choice: Quality Living Inc, Waterford- Miracle Hills Readers’ Recommend: Hickory Villa, Lakeside Assisted Living, SilverRidge

BEST CARPET/FLOORING STORE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Furniture Mart Readers’ Choice: Kelly’s Carpets

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Watkins Readers’ Choice: Rick Hauptman Concrete Construction, Hassenstab Concrete Readers’ Recommend: Modern Concrete, Owens Custom Contracting

BEST CONDO DEVELOPMENT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Midtown Crossing

BEST ELECTRICIAN

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Miller Electric Readers’ Choice: Hiller Electric, D & J, Nekuda Electric, Oak Hills Electric, Omaha Electric, Steve Andersen Electrical Contractors, Inc.

BEST EXTERMINATOR COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Terminix Readers’ Choice: Orkin, Presto X Readers’ Recommend: Cody Pest Control, Rove Pest Control Readers’ Refer: Husker Pest, Lien Pest Control

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Furniture Mart Readers’ Refer: Ethan Allen, Mrs. B’s, Furniture Row Outlet, Hutch, Niche

BEST GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Mulhall’s Readers’ Choice: Lanoha Nurseries, Earl May Readers’ Recommend: Indian Creek Nursery, Canoyer Garden Center, Lowe’s

CONTINUED

Luxury without Intimidation: Huber Cadillac does things a little differently

hink of Cadillac and a few words likely come to mind: luxury, dependable, American. One word that doesn’t come up –at least it won’t if you’ve ever had the experience of working with Huber Cadillac, is intimidating. This dealership is run by Bret Huber in a way that honors the customer’s time while also offering some of the most luxurious vehicles around. Huber Cadillac was recently recognized on the Best of the Big O list as one of the best luxury vehicle dealerships in Omaha. Considering this is the only American car dealership to make the list, this says a lot for Huber Cadillac. Says Bret Huber, “To have an American brand, and one that’s come so far, in the same sentence as the other manufacturers is right where we want to be…not only from a Cadillac standpoint, but from an independent standpoint.” Bret has an interesting philosophy when it comes to selling cars. He believes in honesty, integrity, and as he puts it, “all the good 1950’s stuff.” He strives to ensure that customers understand the entire process of buying a car and doesn’t allow his staff to pressure customers or make promises they can’t keep.

“We respect that people have earned the right to buy a car. We honor their time. It’s important to be clear, honest and concise.” This means that the Huber Cadillac salespeople never over-promise and they always strive to ensure the customer understands every aspect of the sale. “I don’t ever want it to be where there is a mystery with the negotiation,” says Bret. “I think on the whole we do a good job. And I also think that none of us would sleep well at night if we didn’t.” This is coming from a guy who started out his dealership career washing cars and sweeping the lot. “I’ve been in every facet of the dealership,” says Bret. He’s been the cashier and the porter and he’s sold cars. He took what he learned about how a dealership should run and he brought it to Huber Cadillac, and what he’s doing is working beautifully. Bret’s family didn’t always sell cars. In fact, he comes from a long line of cattle folks. “My dad was an old packing house guy from St. Joe. He saved up some money and drove into Kansas City with my mother to buy a car,” Bret says. “The guy selling him the car said, ‘You speak pretty well for yourself. You ought to come and sell cars.’ My mom told him he should try it out, and my grandfather told him, ‘Get out of the cattle business and go sell some cars.’ So that’s what my dad did.” “Dad just worked his tail off and did the American Dream,” says Bret. “He worked 80 hours a week and built it and kept ex-

panding it. Thirty-seven years later here we are. We’re not a huge auto group. We’re still a family business.” Bret is thankful for a quality product to sell, but he’s also hugely thankful for the customers. “We’ve always had a good, loyal following that sustained us through the recession,” he says. He also credits his employees for their dedication. “The three guys who have been here have taken such life-ownership of this building. I felt like it was my honor to come

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over here and work with them to improve upon what they have already done very well.” The future looks bright for Huber Cadillac, especially if they keep doing what they’re doing. “I see us as not nearly reaching the potential we can reach,” Bret says. “This has been the best year in Huber Cadillac’s history. The next step is to grow our share in the luxury car business. GM comes out with good products; that’s the key. Now we’re just filling in the blanks.” ,

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

BEST GUTTER COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: LeafGuard Readers’ Choice: Pyramid Roofing Readers’ Recommend: ABC Gutter, Gutterworks, H&S Contracting, The Gutter Company

BEST HEATING & A/C COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Fred’s Heating & Air Readers’ Choice: Thermal Services, Aksarben Heating & Air Readers’ Recommend: Burton Heating, Controlled Comfort, McCarthy Heating and Cooling Readers’ Refer: A-1 Heating and Air, Standard Heating and AC

BEST HARDWARE STORE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Westlake Ace Hardware Readers’ Choice: Menard’s, Lowe’s Readers’ Recommend: Home Depot Readers’ Refer: P&M Hardware, True Value

BEST HOME BUILDER

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Celebrity Homes Readers’ Choice: Ken Oster Homes, Regency Homes, SL Jensen Readers’ Recommend: Advance Design and Construction, Malibu Homes, Tackett Homes

BEST HOME THEATER STORE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Furniture Mart Readers’ Choice: Best Buy, Stereo West Readers’ Recommend: Custom Electronics Readers’ Refer: Aksarben, AMC, Niver Electronics

BEST HOTEL

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Hilton Readers’ Choice: Embassy Suites, Marriott, Magnolia Readers’ Recommend: Double Tree, Holiday Inn

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Merry Maids Readers’ Choice: The Maids, James Alan Carpet Cleaning Readers’ Recommend: O! So Clean

BEST INTERIORS STORE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Nebraska Furniture Mart Readers’ Recommend: Home Goods, Pier One Readers’ Refer: Designers Touch, Interiors by Joan, Kirkland’s

BEST INSULATION COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Liquid Foam Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: USA Insulation

BEST KITCHENWARE STORE

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Bed Bath and Beyond Readers’ Choice: Sur La Table, William Sonoma Readers’ Recommend: Lowe’s, Nebraska Furniture Mart

BEST LANDSCAPER

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BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Backlund Plumbing Readers’ Choice: Burton, Eyman Plumbing Readers’ Recommend: Roto Rooter, Rybin Plumbing Readers’ Refer: Tritz

BEST REALTY COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: CBS Home Readers’ Choice: NP Dodge, Prudential Ambassador Real Estate Readers’ Recommend: Deeb Realty Readers’ Refer: Remax, Keller Williams, PJ Morgan

BEST RETIREMENT HOME

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Elmwood Towers, Hillcrest, New Cassell, Sunridge Village (4-way tie)

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pyramid Roofing Readers’ Choice: Home Pride, Last Time Roofing, Ragole Construction, Valley Brother’s Roofing Readers’ Recommend: Thompson & Thompson 3rd Generation

BEST SIDING COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Ragole Construction Readers’ Choice: ABC Seamless Siding, Home Pride Companies Readers’ Recommend: Monarch Siding, Papillion Windows & Siding, Premier Affordable

BEST STORAGE FACILITY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Dino’s Storage Readers’ Choice: Milt’s Mini Storage Readers’ Refer: Armor Storage, U-Haul, All About Storage, Urban Storage

BEST WINDOW COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Pella Windows Readers’ Choice: Omaha Door & Window, Marvin Window & Door, Renewal by Andersen Readers’ Recommend: Window World Readers’ Refer: Champion Window Store, Home Depot

BEST NIGHTLIFE AND PLAY BEST BAR WITH LIVE MUSIC

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Waiting Room Readers’ Choice: The Slowdown, Loose Moose Readers’ Recommend: Two Fine Irishmen, O’zone, Havana Garage

BEST LAWN CARE SERVICE

BEST COLLEGE BAR

BEST LOCKSMITH

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Gerst Painting Readers’ Recommend: Certa Pro, Joe Harwood Painting

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Mulhall’s Readers’ Choice: Jay Moore, Lanoha’s Readers’ Recommend: Kinghorn Gardens, Patera

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: TruGreen Readers’ Refer: Heartland Lawns, Kozy Lawn, Legendary Lawns, Pat’s Irish Green Lawn & Landscaping, Penton Enterprises, Steve’s Yard Care, Turf Care

BEST PAINTING COMPANY

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Carl Jarl Readers’ Choice: Big Red Locksmith Readers’ Recommend: Keymasters, Able Locksmith, Enterprise Locksmith Readers’ Refer: Accurate Locksmiths, Pop A Lock

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blue Jay Bar and Grill Readers’ Choice: Crescent Moon Readers’ Recommend: DJ’s Dugout, Stadium Club Readers’ Refer: Dubliner, Mojo’s

BEST BEER SELECTION

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Old Chicago Readers’ Choice: Crescent Moon, Krug Park Readers’ Recommend: Upstream Readers’ Refer: Beertopia, Jake’s

CONTINUED

Best Personal Injury Attorney: Inserra & Kelley Attorneys At Law

or the second year in a row, the firm of Inserra & Kelley has been named a Readers’ Choice Best Personal Injury Attorney. “Being honored two years in a row by people that have either used us or know of our reputation for handling the healing and damage claims of our clients is something that makes us proud,” said partner Craig Kelley. “The firm has been around over 60 years and (Managing Partner) John Inserra and I have been together 27 years. That pays dividends in our team concept of helping people getting healed up and then properly compensated for their injuries, medical bills and lost wages.” Things change in any business or industry, especially over 27 years. Personal injury litigation is no different. “The insurance companies definitely are more bottom-line oriented than they once were and that makes it more difficult to work with them,” said Kelley. “Which means that now more than ever, it’s important that a person hires a personal injury law firm to handle their claims. Insurance companies really don’t deal fairly with people who don’t have legal representation anymore.” “Our paralegals work on specific areas of the claim,” he explains. “We have one that handles medical treatments, then another who takes over the claim when our clients reach the healing stage, then another paralegal that handles litigation with the negligent parties. That’s different because most firms have paralegals working with specific attorneys, rather than each area of their claim. Our paralegals are specialized in certain areas of our clients’ claims. That helps our clients get the best attention possible.”

There are no shortage of lawyers in the world, particularly in Iowa and Nebraska. The quality interactions and successful legal representation offered by Inserra & Kelley is what separates and defines them. “I think we have a lot of happy clients. When they have a friend or relative hurt due to someone’s negligence, they send them our way. Also, my partner and I have done nothing but personal injury law. The reason we don’t do anything else is because to be the best, you really can’t be practicing other areas of law.” Inserra & Kelley are also active members of the community. “On Tuesday Nov. 22nd we’re having our second annual ‘Lawyers Against Hunger’ benefit,” Says Kelley, “where we give out 500 turkeys so families in need can have a Thanksgiving dinner. Our firm is involved with motorcycle and bicycle charities because I am an avid motorcycle rider. I spend a lot of time in advocacy groups that are involved with bicycling and motorcycling to help make those sports bigger and safer.” With 2014 just a few weeks away, the firm is expanding its approach to personal injury and integrating a larger base of people who need their help. “The biggest thing for next year is that we’ve expanded our personal injury practice to include representation of people who were injured by bad medical devices or pharmaceutical drugs,” said Kelley. “Since 2012, we’ve been working with other firms outside of Nebraska on DePuy ASR hips and bad knee replacements, and with women across the nation on transvaginal mesh implants and Yasmin birth control. “We are also starting an anti-bullying campaign next year,” said Kelley in closing. “We think it’s important to give back and preach safety to try and prevent accidents before they occur, as well as handling accidents after they occur.” ,

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| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

BEST BILLIARDS BAR

BEST DANCE CLUB

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Big John’s Readers’ Choice: Upstream, Fox & Hound Readers’ Refer: Impulse, Shark Club

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Maxx Readers’ Recommend: Capitol Lounge, House of Loom, O’zone Readers’ Refer: Flashbacks, Whiskey Tango

BEST CASINO FOR SLOTS

BEST DARTS BAR

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Horseshoe Readers’ Choice: Ameristar, Harrah’s

BEST CASINO FOR TABLEGAMES Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Horseshoe Readers’ Choice: Ameristar, Harrah’s

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Bucky Dexters Readers’ Choice: Clancy’s, Scorz, Starskys

BEST DJ SERVICE Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Complete Music and Video Readers’ Refer: Bandstand Music, DJ Shif D, Master DJ, Showtime Music

BEST CIGAR BAR Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Jake’s Readers’ Choice: Havana Garage Readers’ Refer: Cigarros

Indian Creek Readers’ Recommend: Elmwood Park, Happy Hollow, Stone Creek

BEST HAPPY HOUR BAR Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Blue Sushi Readers’ Choice: Kona Grill Readers’ Recommend: Roja Mexican Grill, Old Chicago Readers’ Refer: Shucks, Upstream

BEST BAR FOR HIDING OUT

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Homy Inn Readers’ Choice: Green Onion Readers’ Recommend: Bud Olson’s, Interlude, Office West Lounge, The Hideout

BEST BAR FOR AN INTERNET DATE

BEST FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Beercade Readers’ Choice: Brix, Homy Inn, Impulse

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Mister Toads Readers’ Choice: Brix, Pageturner’s Readers’ Recommend: Crescent Moon, Krug Park, Liv Lounge, M’s Pub

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Amazing Pizza Machine Readers’ Choice: Family Fun Center, Sempeck’s Readers’ Recommend: Dave & Buster’s, Fun Plex Readers’ Refer: Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha Children’s Musem, Papio Fun Park

BEST KARAOKE BAR

BEST BIKE TRAIL

BEST FIREWORKS STAND

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Keystone Readers’ Choice: Wabash Trace Nature Trail, Big Papio Trail Readers’ Recommend: Zorinsky Lake Readers’ Refer: Tranquility Park

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Wild Willy’s Readers’ Choice: Bellino’s, Kracklin Kirks Readers’ Recommend: KaBoomers

BEST BAR FOR CONVERSATION

BEST GOLF COURSE Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Omaha Country Club Readers’ Choice: Pacific Springs, Tiburon Golf Course,

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

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Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Mic’s Karaoke Readers’ Choice: Moe & Curly’s Pub Readers’ Recommend: Grandmother’s Readers’ Refer: Alderman’s, Doghouse, House of Loom, Pheasant Tavern, Sullivan’s, The Cabin, Winchesters

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Stir Concert Cove Readers’ Choice: The Slowdown, The Waiting Room Readers’ Refer: Sokol Hall, Holland Center, CenturyLink, Ozone

BEST BAR FOR STIFFEST POURS Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: The Green Onion Readers’ Refer: O’Leaver’s Pub, The Holiday, The Max, Barrett’s Barleycorn, Bud Olson’s, Impulse, Jake’s, Library Pub, The Getaway Lounge

BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Henry Doorly Zoo Readers’ Refer: The Old Market, College World Series, Durham Museum, Pedestrian Bridge, Joslyn Art Museum, Vala’s Pumpkin Patch

BEST LOUNGE/ULTRA LOUNGE Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Liv Lounge Readers’ Choice: Halo, Alter Ego, Marquee lounge Readers’ Recommend: Capitol, The Maxx, Vegalou, VooDoo

BEST MOVIE THEATER Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Aksarben Cinema Readers’ Choice: AMC, Village Pointe Readers’ Recommend: 20 Grand, Rave, Midtown Cinema

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD TAVERN Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Homy Inn Readers’ Choice: Dundee Dell Readers’ Recommend: Addy’s, Tanners, Jerry’s Bar, Pat & Mike’s

BEST OUTDOOR FESTIVAL Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Maha Music Festival Readers’ Choice: Jazz on the Green, Summer Arts Festival, Taste of Omaha Readers’ Recommend: Playing With Fire, Shakespeare on the Green

BEST PATIO AT A BAR Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Kona Grill Readers’ Choice: Mr. Toad’s, Rose and Crown Readers’ Recommend: Charlie’s on the Lake, Loose Moose, Varsity 144th

BEST PERFORMING ARTS THEATER Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Orpheum Theater Readers’ Choice: Omaha Community Playhouse, Holland Performing Arts Center Readers’ Recommend: Rose Theater, Blue Barn Readers’ Refer: Shelterbelt

Readers’ Recommend: Mahoney State Park, Chicago, IL Readers’ Refer: Minneapolis, Henry Doorly Zoo, Okoboji, Worlds of Fun

BEST VINEYARD/WINERY Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Soaring Wings Readers’ Choice: James Arthur Vineyard Readers’ Recommend: Slattery Vintage Estates Readers’ Refer: Sugar Clay Winery, Breezy Hills, Silver Hills Winery Tekamah NE, Whiskey Run Creek

BEST WINE SHOP Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Brix Readers’ Choice: Spirit World Readers’ Recommend: Hy-Vee, Corkscrew, WineStyles Readers’ Refer: The Winery

BEST SAND VOLLEYBALL Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Digz Readers’ Choice: O’Leavers Readers’ Recommend: Sempeck’s, Big Red Keno Readers’ Refer: Spikers Sports & Spirits, Barrett’s Barleycorn, Fun Plex, Schmidleys, Sinnot’s Sand Bar, Winchester

BEST SHUFFLEBOARD BAR Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: My Way Readers’ Choice: Elbow Room, Musette Readers’ Recommend: Brownies Papillion Readers’ Refer: Full House, Harolds, Jimi D’s, Maloney’s, Perry’s Place, Piccolo’s Bar

BEST BAR FOR SPIRITS SELECTION Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Dundee Dell Readers’ Choice: Jake’s, Krug Park, Library Pub Readers’ Recommend: Berry and Rye, Brix, House of Loom

BEST SPORTS BAR Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: DJ’s Dugout Readers’ Recommend: Tanner’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Ice House Readers’ Refer: Brewsky’s, Oscar’s

BEST STAYCATION DESTINATION (WITHIN 8 HOUR DRIVE)

Readers’ Choice Best of the Big O: Kansas City

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| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

Top Fitness Center Prairie Life Takes Workout Experience to a Whole New Level

Since 1985, Prairie Life has committed to the goal of , “Fitness for the Entire Family.” Inside their walls, guests find a wide range of classes, fitness equipment, and helpful staff, making the personal workout an enjoyable experience. Now Prairie Life has taken the workout experience to a whole new level with Perfit PerFit is a new app powered by Prairie Life Fitness. With PerFit, everyone can have a personal trainer who’s available wherever they are and whenever they have time to work out. It’s perfect for people who can’t get to the gym, prefer to work out elsewhere or for those fitness buffs who want to enhance their in-club workouts. There’s no other app like it, and it’s free at the iTunes Store.

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

PerFit provides workouts based on individual preferences and fitness goals, whether those include a desire for six-pack abs, a full-body sculpt or a stronger core. Certified personal trainers created all of the PerFIt exercises and demonstrate each one through high-quality video and audio. The app also provides step-by-step instructions for each move as well as healthy eating tips that include suggestions for balanced meals and 100-calorie snacks.

Two PerFit upgrades provide additional benefits. For a one-time download fee of $4.99, PerFit Plus customizes workouts based on personal data that users enter. For $9.99/month, PerFit Pro provides one-on-one ongoing contact with a certified personal trainer who will tailor workouts to each person. The app sends the workouts to users and automatically adds them to their calendars for easy scheduling. ,

| THE READER |

readers’ choice

ew musicians are more highly esteemed than Sir Elton John. His signature round, often-tinted glasses, outlandish outfits and incredible talent have placed him among the upper echelon of legendary musicians. He’s performed at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Concert, won five Grammy Awards and even did a controversial duet with Eminem at the 2001 Grammys. After 30 studio albums, John recently broke his sevenyear silence with 2013’s The Diving Board and embarked on an extensive worldwide tour. Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in Pinner, Middlesex, England, his calling came at the tender age of 17 when he left Pinner Country Grammar School to pursue a career in the music industry. His parents, however, were less than enthusiastic about his chosen path, but he forged ahead and did it anyway. Ironically, it was his parents that exposed him to popular music of the ‘50s and ‘60s. He recalls being immediately hooked on rockn-roll when his parents brought home records by Elvis Presley and Bill Haley & His Comets. John had already been playing piano since the age 3 and later earned a junior scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music where he was classically trained. He quickly mastered Chopin, Bach, and Handel—all the greats. “Anyone who played the piano was my hero,” John recalls. “My first serious piano player that I loved was George Shearing at the age 5, when my dad used to buy all his records. Then I graduated to all the other great piano players. And then of course, along came Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, and Fats Domino, and changed my life. And then Ray Charles—and you know I’m always a piano player fan. If anyone’s a piano player or a keyboard player I’m on their side. Because I think–you know, that’s what I do. “The piano is my friend,” he continues. “I went to the Royal Academy for five years, between 11 and 16. And, you can hear a lot of classical influences in my chord changes. The thing about being a piano player is you over complicate things. All the great rock-n-roll songs are written with four chords: The Avett Brother songs, Buddy Holly; they’re so simple. And they’re written on guitar. And, guitarists can do that, and make things sound so good. When you’re a piano player you tend to want to get more chords involved, and that’s the way I am. I like chord changes and that’s the way you know—When I write, I hear a chord change and I go, ‘Alright, I’ve got to put that in the song.’ But you know every time I sit at a piano and write a song, it’s a new ball game. John stared writing music in an eight-unit apartment building called Frome Court, where he lived with his mother and stepfather. He wrote the songs that would eventually launch his career as a rock

n Nearly a year after originally being slated for release, the oft-delayed For Against vinyl box set is finally available for purchase in time for Christmas. Hook that special family member who remembers and cherishes this seminal Lincoln post-punk, whose melodic bliss made them an important band that helped morph shoegaze’s sonic overdrive into elegant dream-pop soundscapes. New York-based label Captured Tracks is releasing a deluxe vinyl-only

star; he lived there until he had four albums simultaneously in the American Top 40. After landing a songwriting job with NME (New Musical Express), he met Bernie Taupin, whom he still works with today. “We’ve never had an argument, we’ve never disagreed on anything, and it’s been an amazing privilege to have that kind of relationship in ones life,” he says. “To write with someone for 46 years and not have an argument is pretty amazing. And a lot of people who are songwriters argue and split up and it’s so sad. And I always get so sad when that happens. I’ve never had that happen to me. Yes, we’ve written apart from each other. We gave each other a break, but we had to. We had to let each other go to come back and be stronger than ever.” In 1968, the pair joined Dick James’s DJM Records as staff songwriters. This eventually led to John’s self-titled debut in 1970. John’s first American concert took place at The Troubadour in Los Angeles that same year. “When I first came to America I was lucky enough to be Universal: UNI Records [Universal City Records] with Russ Regan and Pat Pipolo and all those kind people,” he recalls. “And I had the best time of my life. I’ve never had that since then. And I feel now with this new team at Capitol, and with the team in England who are so enthusiastic, at 66, all I can ask for when I make a record is for people to be enthusiastic about it and get it. And they get it, and that’s all. And I’m so excited about that, you know.” For someone who has accomplished so much, it’s baffling why he doesn’t just sit back amongst his estimated $265 million fortune and bask in his achievements. However, like most artists, the need to create outweighs anything else. In January 2012, he got to work on The Diving Board, which was released in the U.S. in September 2013. The team of John and Taupin wrote the album while T-Bone Burnett, who produced their collaborative effort, The Union, in 2010, took the helm again. Not surprisingly, it debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200. “It’s very hard to hear a record, you know, first time through, and get it,” he explains. “When I did The Union with my dear Friend Leon Russell, the first record I made with T-Bone [Burnett], it led me to a new place in my life musically. Before I made that record I thought—I analyzed my career and I hadn’t made a solo record since 2006. I went, ‘I have to go back, and listen to my old stuff, to move forward again and find out where I am. I know I’m not going to get played on the radio; what kind of music do I really want to make?’ And when I made that record with Leon, that was the kind of record and music I wanted to make. It was the music that I played on Tumbleweed and Mad Man, and it was the music I fell in love with.”

The album’s premiere single “Home Again” was released on June 24, 2013, the same day the album became available for pre-order. On August 28, 2013, a video for “Mexican Vacation (Kids in the Candlelight)” was released on YouTube, being the album’s second single. The 15-track album is another shining example of the harmonious marriage of Taupin’s lyrical prowess and John’s incredible composing abilities. “Most of it is inspired by America,” he explains. “You know; it’s a lot of Deep South and it’s a lot of gospel influences and music from The Band. We were talking about Capitol Records today and the great artists that have been on this label. And The Band kind of changed my life with Music from Big Pink, and the way that Bernie Taupin and I wrote songs—And I have to say before I go any further that the lyrics on this album are unbelievable.

“I just wanted, at 66 years of age, or 65, to make records that I think befits a person of my age,” he adds. “And things that I- you know: records and songs that I really want to make. A template was Modern Times by Bob Dylan. When I heard that record I went, “God, my god.” This record could have been made any time in the last 50 years.” Amazingly, humility has not escaped the great Sir Elton John. “There are so many great keyboard players that are playing in bands that are probably much better keyboard players than I am,” he says. “Obviously I’m just a piano player.” ,

package, highlighting the band’s three albums. The box set, fully remastered and packed with a bonus booklet, is being offered in a limited run of 1,000 units. Expect this item on select record store shelves and on Captured Tracks online store, where you can already pre-order it, beginning Tuesday, Dec. 3. Don’t be a grinch and consider buying one for a favorite Reader scribe as well. Even columnist Tim McMahan would be thrilled with a Christmas gift. n It went down to the wire, but Brad Hoshaw and the Seven Deadlies met their $7,500 Kickstarter

fundraising goal. The month-long campaign let donors provide the money needed to finish mixing and mastering the local Americana band’s forthcoming album, which should now be out by spring 2014. The band’s fans contributed $7,790 total during the fundraising period. n Snake Island! is hosting and headlining a special event that the band is calling the Acid Test. The show takes place Friday, Dec. 13, at Venue 51, 1951 St. Mary’s Ave. Expect a whole host of psychedelic projections and other headtrip visuals to accompany

the night’s music. Worried Mothers and Dereck Higgins will also perform. Higgins, a longtime fixture on Omaha’s music scene, will also be spinning vinyl selections from his expansion record collection as part of the evening’s festivities. — Chris Aponick

music

Elton John, November 23, at Pinnacle Bank Arena, Lincoln, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $80. Visit www.pinnaclebank.arenalincoln.com for more information.

The Reader’s Backbeat column seeks to cover the local music scene from all corners of the sound spectrum. Whether it’s news of new bands, farewell shows, album releases or special events, the Reader’s music team wants to hear from you. Got a tip? Email it to backbeat@thereader.com.

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

livemusiccalendar

SEND CALENDAR INFORMATION — including addresses, dates, times, costs and phone numbers — to The Reader’s calendar editor. Mail to or drop off information at P.O. Box 7360 Omaha, NE 68107; email to listings@thereader.com; fax to (402) 341.6967. Deadline is 5 p.m. the Thursday prior to issue date.

THURSDAY 21

HARPER, (Blues) 5:30 pm, 21st Saloon, $8. DURTY THURSDAY - E BROWN, 9 pm, Bar 415, Free.

READER RECOMMENDS OMAHA GUITAR TRIO W/ JACOB DUNCAN, 9 pm, Barley Street Tavern, $5. NEW MOON SONGWRITERS NIGHT, (Folk/Singer-Songwriter) 7 pm, Crescent Moon Coffee, FREE. STEVE LOVETT SINGS THE BLUES, (Blues) 7 pm, Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen, Free. NORTHWEST PASSAGE W/ PARK STREET & PAINT THE SECONDS, 9 pm, Knickerbockers, Contact Knicker bockers for cover charge. THE GREASE BAND, (Cover Band) 6:30 pm, OzoNE Lounge at Anthony’s Steakhouse, Free. JUSTIN MOORE’S OFF THE BEATEN PATH TOUR, 7 pm, Pershing Center, $39.75 (Pit / standing room only) $39.75 / $24.75 (reserved). WE TRIPPY PARTY, (DJ/Electronic) 8:30 pm, Red9, $5, $3 w/ college I.D. CULTS W/ SACCO, MOOD RINGS, 8 pm, Slowdown, $15 ADV / $17 DOS. ACOUSTIC MUSIC THURSDAYS, 8 pm, Two Fine Irishmen, Contact Two Fine Irishmen for cover charge. FAT TOUR 2013: LESS THAN JAKE W/ ANTI-FLAG, MASKED INTRUDER, & GET DEAD, 7:30 pm, Waiting Room, $21 ADV / $23 DOS. RIVER FRONT BOYS- AFTERNOON COUNTRY CLUB, 6 pm, Zoo Bar, $5.

READER RECOMMENDS CORNERSTONE DUB W/ RO HEMPEL BAND AND 23RD VIBRATION, 9 pm, Zoo Bar, $5.

FRIDAY 22

3D IN YOUR FACE, (Cover Band) 9 pm, 21st Saloon, $5. COMPLICIT & SENTENZA, 9 pm, Bar 415, Contact Bar 415 for cover charges.

READER RECOMMENDS MATT MASON W/ THE TALBOTT BROTHERS, 9 pm, Barley Street Tavern, $5. HOTT 2 TROTT, (Cover Band) 8 pm, Firewater Grille, Free. KARAOKE THEATRE, 8:30 pm, House Of Loom, Free. LIVE MUSIC BY KAJAM, 7 pm, Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen, Free. FEAR FACTORY W/ SOIL, DEADECHOES & A DIFFERENT BREED, 9 pm, Knickerbockers, $18 ADV / $20 DOS.

READER RECOMMENDS HONEYBOY TURNER BAND, (Blues) 8 pm, McKenna’s Booze, Blues & BBQ, Free.

READER RECOMMENDS TOBY MAC, (Country) 7 pm, MidAmerica Center, Floor Seats / $35 Concourse Reserved / $25 VIP Upgrade / $35 plus a ticket Group / $15 (Concourse only. Must have 50+ in group.).

READER RECOMMENDS TRAVELLING MERCIES W/ WELDON KEYS & THE SONS OF O’LEAVER’S, (Rock) 9:30 pm, O’Leaver’s Pub, $5. LEMON FRESH DAY, (Cover Band) 6:30 pm, OzoNE Lounge at Anthony’s Steakhouse, Free. URBAN GROOVE PROJECT, 9 pm, Shamrock’s Pub & Grill, Contact Shamrock’s for cover charge. CAT POWER SOLO W/ NICO TURNER, 8 pm, Slowdown, $22.50 ADV / $25 DOS. SWEARIN’ WITH FLAMBOYANT GODS AND COAXED, 10 pm, Sweatshop Gallery, $7. SOUL DAWG, 9 pm, Two Fine Irishmen, Contact Two Fine Irishmen for cover charge.

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

| THE READER |

music listings

TRIBAL EQUINOX – NIGHT ONE, W/ PURVEYORS OF THE CONSCIOUS SOUND, FUNK TREK, THE DECATURES, JERRY PRANKSTERS, & BENTONE, 8 pm, Waiting Room, $10 EACH NIGHT / $15 ADV 2 NIGHT PASS STONEBELLY, 9 pm, Zoo Bar, Contact the Zoo Bar for cover charge. AVARICIOUS, 8 pm, Arena Bar & Grill, Free.

SATURDAY 23

CITRUS CLUB, 8 pm, Arena Bar & Grill, Free. TALI-BANG & KG, 9 pm, Bar 415, Contact Bar 415 for cover charges.

READER RECOMMENDS DIRTY RIVER RAMBLERS W/ PRAIRIE GATORS BAND AND BUD HEAVY AND THE HIGHLIFES, 9 pm, Barley Street Tavern, $5. EARLY SHOW: DEMOS & MARS LIGHT, 6 pm, Bourbon Theater, $5: 21 and up / $7: 18 and up. LATE SHOW: JOHNNY BLISS & FRIENDS, 9 pm, Bourbon Theater, $7: 21 and up / $9: 18 and up. COUNTY ROAD 5, (Country) 9 pm, Coyote Willy’s, $5. A NIGHT OF MUSIC W/ ANSWER ME, NECTTAR & KATIE JANE, 9 pm, Duggan’s Pub, $5. KARAOKE, 8 pm, Firewater Grille, Contact Firewater Grille for cover charges. DREW JUDE AND THE COOL TONES, (Blues) 9 pm, Havana Garage, Free. PICKLED BEATS PRESENTS WATTIE GREEN (NASHVILLE), (DJ/ Electronic) 10 pm, House Of Loom, $3 before 11pm / $5 after. LIVE MUSIC BY SARABANDE, 7 pm, Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen, Free. BEAVER AND THE HOTTAGE CUTCH W/ THE BARISTAS, 9 pm, Knickerbockers, Contact Knickerbockers for cover charge. HI-FI HANGOVER, (Cover Band) 11 am, Loose Moose, Contact the Loose Moose for cover charges. STEPHEN MONROE, (Blues) 12 pm, Nebraska at the Market, Free for students / $200 for professionals. THE AUDACITY W/ HUNTERS & VIDEO RANGER, 9:30 pm, O’Leaver’s Pub, $7. WGO, 6:30 pm, OzoNE Lounge at Anthony’s Steakhouse, Free. ROUND ROBIN SONGWRITERS NIGHT, (Folk/Singer-Song writer) 8 pm, Pizza Shoppe Collective, $5. CACTUS HILL, 9 pm, Red9, Contact Red9 for cover charge.

READER RECOMMENDS COMIC BOOK COMES TO LIFE AS BIG NATE ROCKS THE ROSE THEATER, 7 pm, Rose Theater, $18 / Discount ticket vouchers are available at all area Hy-Vee stores for $14 each. SPLITLINE & LOUGUZZO, & SURVEYING THE DAMNED, 9 pm, Shamrock’s Pub & Grill, Contact Shamrock’s for cover charge. PHOX W/ LOT WALKS, 8 pm, Slowdown, $8. AVARICIOUS, 9 pm, Two Fine Irishmen, Contact Two Fine Irishmen for cover charge.

READER RECOMMENDS THE BISHOPS, (Reggae/Island) 9 pm, Venue 51, Free. TRIBAL EQUINOX – NIGHT TWO, 8 pm, Waiting Room, $10 EACH NIGHT / $15 ADV 2 NIGHT PASS. THE WIND UP, 9 pm, Zoo Bar, Contact the Zoo Bar for cover charge.

SUNDAY 24

BIG FREEDIA, 9 pm, Bourbon Theater, $15 ADV / $18 DOS. SALSA SUNDAY @ LATIN MADNESS, 7 pm, House Of Loom, $5.

I2CHOIR TO PERFORM & HOST COMMUNITY SING, 2:30 pm, International Quilt Study Center and Museum, Free. GOON SALOON W/ SELF-EVIDENT & JOHN KLEMMENSEN & THE PARTY, (Rock) 9:30 pm, O’Leaver’s Pub, $5. O’LEAVER’S OPEN MIC NIGHT, 9 pm, O’Leaver’s Pub, Free. PRIMER 55 W/ BLACKLITE DISTRICT, 9 pm, Red9, $10 ADV / $12 DOS.

READER RECOMMENDS CRAIG “THUMPER” DANIELS, 2 pm, Soaring Wings Vineyard, Free. GORILLA MUSIC BATTLE OF THE BANDS, 4 pm, Waiting Room, $8 ADV / $10 DOS.

MONDAY 25

OPEN MIC & SONGWRITER SHOWCASE, (Folk/Singer-Song writer) 9 pm, Barley Street Tavern, FREE. CADAVER DOGS W/ WILLY CITRO & THE DUSTERS, 9 pm, Bourbon Theater, $5: 21 and up / $7: 18 and up. FIRST CUT W/ DJ DRDIGGS, (DJ/Electronic) 9 pm, House Of Loom, FREE. GOOCH AND HIS LAS VEGAS BIG BAND, (Cover Band) 8 pm, OzoNE Lounge at Anthony’s Steakhouse, Free. WRITELIFE PRESENTS: WRITERS’ OPEN MIC, (Folk/Singer -Songwriter) 7 pm, Pizza Shoppe Collective, Free. BENT SHAPES, 8 pm, Slowdown, $7. WAITING ROOM MUSIC QUIZ, 8 pm, Waiting Room, FREE.

READER RECOMMENDS SMILE EMPTY SOUL W/ ACIDIC, (Rock) 8 pm, Waiting Room, $12 ADV / $14 DOS. PIANO HOUR W/ EMILY BASS, 5 pm, Zoo Bar, contact the Zoo Bar for cover charge. ZOO BAR HOUSE BAND, 7 pm, Zoo Bar, $3.

TUESDAY 26

VIC NASTY, 9 pm, Bar 415, Contact Bar 415 for cover charges.

READER RECOMMENDS THIRD EYE BLIND, (Rock) 7 pm, Bourbon Theater, $35. OUR LADY W/ LIGHTHOUSES & BURNING DOWN THE VILLAGER, 9 pm, Knickerbockers, Contact Knickerbockers for cover charge.

READER RECOMMENDS JESSICA ERRETT & KELSEY NORD, (Folk/Singer-Songwriter) 6:30 pm, OzoNE Lounge at Anthony’s Steak house, Free. OPEN MIC, FOR KIDS, 7 pm, Pizza Shoppe Collective, Free. NICKELODEON’S THE FRESH BEAT BAND, 4 pm, Ralston Arena, Reserved Admission: $159.50 VIP Pkg., $59.50, $39.50, plus applicable fees. EVERY TIME I DIE W/ LETLIVE & CODE ORANGE KIDS, 8 pm, Waiting Room, $15. JAZZOCRACY, (Jazz) 6 pm, Zoo Bar, Free.

WEDNESDAY 27

JAMS BEFORE YAMS, 9 pm, Bar 415, Contact Bar 415 for cover charges. THE FLASHBULB, 8 pm, Bourbon Theater, $6: 21 and up / $8: 18 and up.

READER RECOMMENDS DEPRESSED BUTTONS W/ ROUTINE ESCORTS & BUTTERHIPS | SARAH WACHHOLTZ 40TH BDAY & THANKSGIVING EVE, 8 pm, House Of Loom, $5 before 10pm / $7 after. DUMB BEACH W/ MR. & MRS. SPRINKLES (FEAT. JIM SCHROEDER OF UUVVWWZ), 10 pm, O’Leaver’s Pub, Free. JOHNNY RAY GOMEZ SHOW, 6:30 pm, OzoNE Lounge at Anthony’s Steakhouse, Free.

READER RECOMMENDS ANCHONDO W/ THE BISHOPS, FUNK TREK, ROCK PAPER DYNAMITE, YOCEMENTO, (Rock) 8 pm, Slowdown, $8 ADV / $10 DOS. LAST DANCE CONTEST WITH DJ NICK THE QUICK, (DJ/ Electronic) 8:30 pm, The Grove, $5 21+ / $10 18+. POLICA W/ MARIJUANA DEATHSQUADS, 9 pm, Waiting Room, $14.

READER RECOMMENDS SONS OF 76 THANKSGIVING EVE SHOW, 9 pm, Zoo Bar, $5. TOASTED PONIES, 6 pm, Zoo Bar, $6.

BY B.J. HUCHTEMANN

Stompin’ Blues & Boogie

he 21st Saloon brings the “world blues fusion” of Harper & Midwest Kind Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-9 p.m. Australian Harper is a fine harmonica player in the Chicago blues style and a master of the traditional didgeridoo wind instrument. Detroit Live Magazine wrote Harper’s music is “a prime example [of] when sublime inspiration and diverse cultures collide; beautiful things blossom.” See harper.biz. There is no blues show at The 21st Thursday, Nov. 28, Thanksgiving day. Thanksgiving eve The 21st Saloon presents the Todd Wolfe Band, 6-9 p.m. Wolfe is a veteran musician who was a songwriting partner in the 1980s with then-unknown singer Sheryl Crow. Wolfe went on to be Crow’s guitarist in the 1990s before pursuing his own music. His latest CD, Miles to Go, is getting great reviews for its blues-rock power-trio sound with southern rock, Texas blues and psychedelic influences. See toddwolfe.com. Have Horn, Will Travel: Friday night there was a great boogie piano blues event in Iowa City hosted by Iowa City native and keyboard talent Chase Garrett and featuring American and European boogie keyboard artists. See chasegarrett.com for more on this annual event. It was great to catch up with Hoodoo favorite Sax Gordon Beadle, who was featured in the three-piece horn

hoodoo

section. Beadle led the band in a stomping finale with the title track from his 1998 solo debut Have Horn Will Travel (Rounder Bullseye). He is one of the few younger sax players working today who celebrates the raucous, jumpin’ saxophone style made popular before guitars took over roots music. Earlier this year, Beadle released his first solo CD in 13 years, Showtime. The disc is packed with hard-charging originals cast in rich, rockin’ arrangements and includes a couple of guest appearances by Beadle’s friend and former boss Matt “Guitar” Murphy. Check it out at saxgordon.com. Thanksgiving Eve Preview: Blue House plays at Grandmother’s, 84th & L. The Zoo Bar has bluegrass from The Toasted Ponies 6-9 p.m. followed by Josh Hoyer’s Sons of 76 band that has been reuniting periodically. The Zoo is open Thanksgiving night with the Lil’ Slim Blues Band, 9 p.m. Matt Cox hosts his fourth annual benefit for Food Bank of the Heartland at Barley Street Tavern Nov. 27, 9 p.m. Hot Notes: Todd Wolfe Band also plays at Sugar Clay Winery in Thurman, Iowa, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2-5 p.m. Visit sugarclaywinery.com. Sunday Roadhouse presents Nashville singersongwriter Tommy Womack Sunday, Nov. 24, 5 p.m. at Side Door Lounge. See sundayroadhouse.com. ,

HOODOO is a weekly column focusing on blues, roots, Americana and occasional other music styles with an emphasis on live music performances. Hoodoo columnist B.J. Huchtemann is a Reader senior contributing writer and veteran music journalist who has covered the local music scene for nearly 20 years. Follow her blog at hoodoorootsblues.blogspot.com.

REGISTER TO ATTEND Go to sxsw.com/attend now to take advantage of current registration discounts and to get your hotel. Next discount deadline November 22, 2013. MUSIC GEAR EXPO March 13–15, 2014 Learn more at sxsw.com/trade-shows/gear ADVERTISE | MARKET | EXHIBIT sxsw.com/marketing EXPERIENCE MORE Visit us at: youtube.com/sxsw Brought to you by:

hoodoo blues

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

NAPOLEAN BONAPARTE

Cutting Room provides breaking local and national movie news … complete with added sarcasm. Send any relevant information to film@ thereader.com. Check out Ryan on Movieha!, a weekly half-hour movie podcast (movieha.libsyn.com/rss), catch him on the radio on CD 105.9 (cd1059.com) on Fridays around 7:30 a.m. and on KVNO 90.7 (kvno.org) at 8:30 a.m. on Fridays and follow him on Twitter (twitter. com/thereaderfilm).

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

REPORTCARD

n For a guy who was as dominant militarily as someone who is biologically French can be, we haven’t seen a lot of Napoleon Bonaparte in movies. Really, the only lasting impression he’s made on the big screen was opposite Bill and Ted, but the Wyld Stallyns may have to move over. Rupert Sanders, known equally for directing Snow White and the Huntsman as he was for doing it with that film’s lead actress, is going to bring the Frenchman’s life to epic glory in a biopic being described as “Scarface-like.” Please let him say “Say bonjour to my little croissant.” n When it comes to your dreams, don’t give up…don’t ever give up. This week, the diehard contingent of fans that has been breathlessly awaiting a sequel to 1989’s The War of the Roses, which proved domestic violence can be so wacky and hilarious, finally got their wish! Some 25 years later, we’ll get to see another madcap sendup of a marriage that devolves into violence! Oh, comedy. n The gosh-darn hilarious comedy duo Key and Peele are teaming up with Judd Apatow to write a new movie. That’s exciting for several reasons: first, those guys are brilliant and need more work. Second, it’s nice to see a comedy being conceived by a biracial group of writers. Third, maybe Key and Peele, who work in short segments on their Comedy Central show, can introduce Apatow to the concept of brevity. n If you haven’t been paying attention, 2015 is going to be stupidly packed with big-budget, highly anticipated fare like no other movie year in history. Think I’m exaggerating? Here is a small sample of the 42 movies with confirmed dates: Avengers: Age of Ultron, Jurassic World, The Fantastic Four, Ted 2, Terminator, Ant-Man, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay part 2, Star Wars Episode VII, Mission Impossible 5 and so on and so on. With a list that full, they can’t all do the money they expect. It’s like the Hollywood version of the Hunger Games…and one of the movies IS The Hunger Games! —Ryan Syrek

Captain Phillips C A fake-feeling real-life story that’s fine but unnecessary. The Counselor F Diaz does sex things to inanimate objects. It’s best if you don’t ask. Ender’s Game C This is one tame, lame video game. READER RECOMMENDS

Thor: The Dark World B+ As good (if not better) than the first. Will we see Throg in the 3rd one?

| THE READER |

film

ew rule: You can watch Django Unchained as many times as you want, but you have to watch 12 Years a Slave at least once first. What Quentin Tarantino sensationalized and spaghetti-Westerned up, writer John Ridley and director Steve McQueen pared down to its barest, most brutal essentials. Slavery, the ghost of American prosperity and invisible shackle that still pins down inner city bootstraps, has never been shown this honestly on screen. 12 Years a Slave occupies that sparsely inhabited place beyond Oscar statues and Tomatometer scores, in the upper stratosphere of movies that act as a time machine and history professor. It is, for want of a better word, important. Based on the memoir of Solomon Northup, a free man kidnapped and sold as a slave, the film never once slips into exploitation or melodrama, never fetishizes the violence nor veers into overt moralizing. When Solomon (Chiwetel Ejiofor) is kidnapped by Brown (Scoot McNairy) and Hamilton (Taran Killam) while on tour as an accomplished musician, he is sold by the slaver Freeman (Paul Giamatti) to the mostly kind Ford (Benedict Cumberbatch). It’s worth noting that McQueen and company never fall victim to the pitfall of most white-helmed slavery-era films, in that no Master is forgiven or shown to be nothing more than a victim of that era’s way of thinking. After Solmon, given the slave name “Platt,” gets into a dustup with an overseer (Paul Dano), he is sold to the wicked Epps (Michael Fassbender), a master so realistically vile he makes Leonardo DiCaprio’s slave owner in Django Unchained downright cuddly. It is here, on Epps’ cotton farm, that the hellish reality of America’s past leaps from the screen and singes the audience’s hearts and minds. Hope is lost, as we see Solomon finally, horrifyingly become the slave known as Platt. For the empathetic, this is exactly as torturous and painful as it should be. For as ugly as the content is, McQueen’s film is quite beautiful. Everything is so deliberate, from the long, slow reaction shots of Ejiofor’s watery eyes to the sound of his bare feet struggling in the mud to keep his neck from falling too far into a noose. There is symbolism in every frame, every character. And the film’s resolution toes the perfect tone between much-needed hope and the acknowledgment of a scar that will never heal, not all the way. Much of this is due to Ejiofor’s performance. He and Fassbender produce the kind of work that only the most dedicated performers can create; neither gnashes or wails to heighten the drama. They realize there’s no need. Simply playing out the truth ON DVD of these men is enough to craft the most heart-rending of conflicts. The Art of Killing A Not to be forgotten is newcomer Lupita Nyong’o, whose tortured One of the most gripping, jaw-dropping documentaPatsy will haunt audiences after the credits roll as surely as she ries of recent years. haunted Solmon’s heart. The To-Do List C+ Girls have as much right to be raunchy as boys, but 12 Years a Slave is epic, profound and appropriately difficult to this doesn’t prove that. watch. It neither needs nor wants Oscar glory, but will get it. And We’re the Millers C that’s a blessing, provided it urges more people to experience a truth Classic comedy misfire: The trailers have all the funny. The World’s End A America often tries to run from. , The summer’s best was saved for last. GRADE: A+

Sack Leader Huskers’ Gregory showing he has it all, almost BY MIKE BABCOCK

s David Santos remembers it, Connor Cook was rolling out and he was pursuing the Michigan State quarterback when Nebraska teammate Randy Gregory “blew right past me.” Gregory, a defensive end, “took a good angle, had a full head of steam,” said Santos, a linebacker. “I already knew Randy was fast, but right then, it was like, ‘Whoa, this guy can move.’” “This guy” is 6-foot-6, 255 pounds, it should be noted. He’s large as well as fast. The week of the Huskers’ game at Purdue, Gregory received a lot of media attention because of his connection to the Boilermakers. He had committed to them out of high school but had changed his mind while attending Arizona Western Community College. Since the Purdue game, however, he has received a lot of media attention because of what he’s been doing on the RANDY GREGORY field. He leads the Big Ten with eight sacks and he’s among 18 candidates for the Hendricks Award, presented to the nation’s top collegiate defensive end. Last year’s winner, South Carolina’s Jadeveon Clowney, is not on the list. Gregory is running in fast company, you might say (if you lacked imagination). And though Nebraska lost to Michigan State on Saturday, it wasn’t for lack of effort on his part. He was credited with eight tackles, one sack and four quarterback hurries. Gregory’s play has been such that Husker coach Bo Pelini was asked during his weekly news conference on Monday if Gregory, a sophomore, might be ready to move on to the NFL. “Right now? No,” Pelini said. In the future? “He’s got a lot to learn right now. It’s the little things,” said Pelini. “He’s a really good pass rusher. (But) the details aren’t quite there with Randy. He’s got a lot to learn. That’s to be expected. He’s raw right now. But the potential is there. He’s going to be very good.” Consider that before the news conference discussion of Gregory’s potential NFL future was over, and Pelini responded to a question about punt returns, former NFL players Charles Haley and Willie McGinest were mentioned – heady stuff. McGinest played 15 NFL seasons and was credited with 86 sacks. Haley had 100½ sacks in 13 sea-

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sons and was included in the Dallas Cowboys’ Ring of Honor in 2011. “He was, in my opinion, one of the best ever,” Pelini said. Gregory is far from either, of course. Still, just to be in the conversation is significant. “He reminds me of having the potential,” said Pelini. “A year in the weight room is going to be big in the off-season. To be able to combine the power and strength with the athleticism and the speed to come off the edge and the ‘wiggle’ that he has in the pass rush and explosiveness there, it’s a great combination. It’s why it’s such a priority at the NFL level.” The main storylines this week have to do with how the Huskers will respond now that they’re out of contention for a return trip to the Big Ten championship game and, on the individual level, whether redshirt freshman quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. can shake off the mistakes he made against Michigan State. But Gregory’s play was a positive footnote to the 41-28 loss. “Randy brings just about anything you could ask for,” Santos said. Opposing offenses have made him “a target,” said Santos, who also has settled in at WILL linebacker after beginning the season at MIKE. “So he takes pressure off some of us so we can get free on plays. He brings a lot to the defense, and we need him.” Gregory is among the reasons the defense has improved. “He’s got speed,” Santos said. “He’s very fast.” Apparently, what Gregory doesn’t have is a proper nickname. “We’re working on it right now,” said Santos. “He needs something. I heard ‘RG44’ but it’s not very good. We’re working on something for him.” The “RG44” is a variation of “RG3,” the nickname of Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III, and “RK3,” Husker teammate Ron Kellogg III. The “44” is Gregory’s jersey number. Gregory wanted a single-digit number, such as the No. 7 freshman defensive tackle and roommate Maliek Collins wears. “I told him, really, I should have had No. 7,” Gregory said. “But he’s wearing it well. I’m wearing 44 well, so it’s all good.” And it can get even better. “We talk about controlling what you can control and that’s getting better every day,” said Pelini. That’s how Gregory can find his way to the NFL. ,

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i SAGITTARIUS (11.21-12.20) Welcome into the sign of the prophet, prophecy and all tall tales; wild and divine. Tell/write me what’s on your mind, and why it’s so hard to find. It’ll be a short story, right? Gotcha! Sagittarius also rules humor, wit and composition. You LOVE telling ($elling?) stories — and if you tell ’em well enough (to $ell ’em) and long enough, they’ll sometimes seem true for/to you, too. Ask O.J. Simpson. Your ruler, Jupiter — which also rules freedom — is retrograding conjunct O.J.’s Sun. Maybe he’ll be sprung by next spring, when Jupiter moves direct… Sometimes what you make up can happen. It’s called prophecy if it works, compo$ition/entertainment if it $ells, and humor if it doesn’t. Ask Sagittarian Mark Twain. j CAPRICORN (12.21-1.18) Admit it! (If not to me, at least to yourself.) You’ve never been sooooo horny! (Yes, I’ve been thinkin’ ’bout’cha too.) You’ve got another HOT(!) 2 months to g(l)o(w) through, and then we enter the sign of the unexpected! Making love is either an athletic event (like here in the Midwest…“Go BIG RED”!) or an opportunity to be at one and touch the cosmos. Take your pick. There must be another way to show your love for a woman…and when I figure it out, I’ll text ya! k AQUARIUS (1.19-2.17) Do they get the “READER” at the asylum? Just checking… (Carrie Olsen, make a note.) You’ve got ’til mid-December, when your ruler, the planet Uranus… (Yes, I know that’s a BIG joke at “the home,” just as it was when I was visiting. What got me, though, was that since nobody was wearing any uniforms, you had to watch carefully to see who left at 5:00 p.m. and who stayed on.) Oh, well…cigarette break! l PISCES (2.18-3.19) Ahhhh…the know-it-alls of the zodiac — the sign of universal consciousness! “My god’s BIGGER than yooouuur god!” Can I get an “amen”? I’d suggest that you read Sagittarius, et al., but then any knowit-all worthy of their inherent superiority complex would do that anyway; with an eye (of course) to hunting for and ferreting out any “mistakes” to test and prove their editorial acumen. How does this lowly MOJO know… You can lead a Pisces to water, but you can’t make ’em think… a ARIES (3.20-4.18) Work on it for these next 2 weeks, ’til Mars moves on past Virgo into Libra the zebra — where it’s all black or white, day or night, and wrong or right. And then, look at yourself from another’s (lover’s?) point of view; from across the pew, the room, the office, the people you meet and greet on the street, your hometown and/or your favorite bar, to/ and find out who and what you are. b TAURUS (4.19-5.19) Last week (on the 15th at 3:30 p.m., Omax time) your economic status regenerated/ improved, as your ruler Venus conjuncted Pluto (which means “the rich one”) in pragmatic, economically-

B Y

M O J O P O

oriented Capricorn. Perhaps a “good-looking” Capricorn/ Scorpio has solved all your economic woe — but how far will it go? How does/will the MOJO know that Chri$tma$ i$ due/going to throw you a curve or two? It’ll take ’til February to straighten it out and give you a chance to batter up romance. Take a swing and hit the ball by the preseason, the 1st week in March. c GEMINI (5.20-6.19) Two more little weeks (of Mercury in Scorpio ’til December 5th) to study the mysteries of life and death, sex and regeneration…and then off you go (with the one you love? Who were you thinking of?) on your next little “vacation,” as your ruler Mercury moves into your opposite sign ’til Christmas Day and you discover the price you have to pay for your lover’s “gifts,” and how they make you have to say/play at being someone else — so’s you can’t really be yourself. As I tell my children, they’re all trouble, but some of them are worth it. d CANCER (6.20-7.21) If food is your answer — and it is — then this is your week! Let’s see how much you/ we can eat… Maybe it’s not food you/ we truly seek? We’ll know when next we speak. It’s not really the food. It’s not even about nourishment or energy. It’s excitement! It’s what turns you on in the loooong run. Trust me. I had bulimia before they had a name for it, to go along with my bleeding ulcer at 6. What we are/were seeking is/was security, and the only security that lasts is spiritual security… e LEO (7.22-8.21) Kings: Sunday’s Full Moon square signals a/your day off. Your reputation is in the process of suffering, and there’s really nothing you can do about it ’til the bearer of the bad news and the teller of tales bails and starts to lobby for a new hobby. I’d suggest that you gobble all day and meditate as you vegetate before the (TV) “Church of the NFL,” and let all “them dirty, rotten liars” rot in hell. Queens: Cook for the schnook and pretend you’re interested. f VIRGO (8.22-9.21) Please read Gemini. It’ll all be true for you, too. In addition (just for you!), the Moon moves into Virgo at dawn on Moonday. But your REAL day is Tuesday! There are glorious aspects to the Moon in Virgo ’til dawn on Wednesday! Use ’em before you lose ’em! g LIBRA (9.22-10.21) Please read Taurus. With you, it’$ working out a$ involving (expense$ regarding?) your home center — your 4th Hou$e. h SCORPIO (10.22-11.20) Nobody cares about life and/or death anymore, or what you feel to be real, or the depth of your ocean of emotion, or the (im)possibilities of your — or their — emotion/devotion, or the love of enchantment and/or the mysteries and/or the lessons/ morals of their/our histories. When the days shortened 2 Moons ago, we humans are/were left with the analogy/ meditation/metaphor that our days are also shortening. To compensate, we artificially engender good vibes and will from the holiday season; from Thanksgiving through Christmas, which marks the return of the “Son”/Sun, and is the realm/month/transit of “opti-mystic” Sagittarius. Let’s party ’til the Taureans come home! ,

overtheedge

COLUMN BY TIM MCMAHAN

PAYNE’S NEBRASKA: THE SAD, OLD, BORING LIFE

I’

ve been interviewing rock bands for The Reader going on 20 years now. Whenever I do a phoner with a touring rock band coming through town for the first time, I ask the interviewee to list his/her preconceived notions of our fair city and Nebraska in general. The five most common misconceptions about Nebraska: 1. It’s flat 2. It’s barren 3. It’s boring 4. It’s one gigantic Boys Town 5. It’s flat (again) Anyone who lives in Omaha knows that the town is anything but flat. The fact that out-of-towners think it’s flat is a cruel joke come wintertime when we’re trying to make it up a sheet of ice driving west on Dodge Street at 30th, or in the summer riding a bike west from downtown faced with one backspasm-inducing climb after another. How the myth got started that Omaha (and Nebraska) is flat is something of a mystery. The only cultural reference I know to Omaha’s perceived “flatness” is an ancient episode of WKRP in Cincinnati where intrepid news reporter Les Nessman croons, “Ooohhh, Nebraska. I’d love to go to Omaha. It’s one of our nation’s leading pork packing centers. The terrain there is so level, so flat, so relaxing..,” -- a line no doubt written by someone who had never stepped foot in Nebraska. Alexander Payne has no such excuses. With the release of his film, Nebraska, we’ll be faced with a whole slew of new stereotypes to battle about our state. I caught a late-night soldout screening of the film last Saturday at Film Streams as a sort of research project since I’ll be attending this Sunday’s Feature V presentation at The Holland Center where Mr. Payne and members of the film’s cast will be interviewed on stage by SPY Magazine founder Kurt Anderson (Yes, I

know Kurt also hosts Studio 360 on NPR, but it’s SPY and his novel Turn of the Century that I first admired). My capsule review: I liked the movie more than The Descendants but less than Sideways. The basic plot is a benign contrivance involving a Publishers Clearinghouse-style direct mail contest that the protagonist — Woody Grant, played by Bruce Dern (Who we all remember as the main bad guy in John Wayne’s The Cowboys) — purposely mistakes for being a real winning million-dollar contest ticket (even though later in the film the word “if ” clearly connotes that Woody didn’t read the certificate very carefully (though his wife says he memorized the letter. I told you the plot was contrived)).

But the plot is merely a device for the actors to dance around for a couple hours, and oh what a dance they do. McGruber’s Will Forte, Mr. Show’s Bob Odenkirk, and best of all Dern, whose deadpan portrayal of a senile old man who doesn’t comb his hair is bound to earn him his first Oscar, guaranteeing that Nebraska will be seen by millions of filmgoers forever and ever amen. Which brings us back to the topic of how Mr. Payne portrayed The Good Life state. Payne’s Nebraska is a cold, barren, lonely world inhabited by bored, confused older men whose lives have been sapped of all color, presumably from sitting in front of a television for hours at a time. I guess it’s fitting that Payne shot the film in black-and-white. It’s a world where laughter results only from ridicule, where men rarely smile, and Dern’s Woody

never does. The citizens of mythical Hawthorne -- population 1,300+ (though it looks smaller than my hometown of Ft. Calhoun, population 600+) -are as gullible as they are poor, desperately believing Woody won a fortune even after being told by his children that the whole thing is a sham. Yeah, I know they want — no, they need -- to believe, because Woody’s good luck is the only shred of hope left in their hopeless lives. This is how the world will now perceive Nebraska. I realize Payne didn’t set out to make a documentary. But like I said, I’m from rural Nebraska and the one portrayed in this film doesn’t even vaguely resemble the one I grew up in. I kept thinking while watching the droll proceedings that my people are funnier than these aholes. That they’re more skeptical and definitely smarter than this. And that their lives, while mundane, while (yes) fueled mostly by television and beer and football, are more interesting than the lives I was seeing up on the screen. That’s the most disturbing stereotype of all: That rural Nebraska is a colorless, boring world made up of colorless, boring, stupid people. And anyone who’s lived there knows that’s far from the truth. But it doesn’t matter. It is, after all, only a film, right? Still, the next time I interview a traveling rock star and ask what his/her preconceived notion is of our fair city and Nebraska in general, I’m bound to hear: It’s flat. It’s barren. It’s boring. It’s just like that Alexander Payne film. It’s flat (again). And it’s shot entirely in black and white. , Over The Edge is a weekly column by Reader senior contributing writer Tim McMahan focused on culture, society, the media and the arts. Email Tim at tim.mcmahan@gmail.com.

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T H E WO R L D G O N E F R E A K Y B Y C H U C K S H E P H E R D W I T H I L LU S T R AT I O N S B Y T O M B R I S C O E

Worth the Commute

owntown London residences are known to be staggeringly expensive, but media blogger Sam Cookney calculated in October just how much. Cookney said he can live in an upscale apartment in Barcelona, Spain, and commute almost every workday to London (700 miles away) for less money than a modest central London rental. (Sixteen commuter days over four weeks a month would run, in pound-dollar equivalents: $2,420 for a West Hampstead rental, $121 council tax, and $188 transit travel card, totaling $2,730. Barcelona, in euro-dollar equivalents: $938 for a threebedroom flat with three balconies near transit, no tax, $47 daily round-trip on Ryanair, $32 a day in airport transportation, totaling $2,202 -- a savings of $528 a month.) Plus, he said, sunny Barcelona is on the Mediterranean. (On the other hand, Cookney luckily can work on the plane, for each flight is two hours long.) Can’t Possibly Be True Lawyers for Radu Dogaru, who is on trial in Romania for stealing masterpieces last year from the Kunsthal museum in Rotterdam, Netherlands, said the heist was also the museum’s fault -- for having such unimaginably lax security -- and that if the museum did not admit that, Dogaru would sue. Museum officials said they had tracked some of the works to Dogaru’s mother, who is claiming ignorance, and the son’s lawyers hope to discount any insurance-company judgments against her by spreading the blame. The online retailer Amazon.com maintains a side business of operating massive Internet-capacity “cloud” farms and contracts out space to some of the world’s largest entities, including U.S. government agencies. In a case brought to light in October by a U.S. Court of Claims ruling, Amazon had won its bid against IBM for a cloud contract with the CIA, but had gone a step further by actually improving the CIA’s system and implementing a better plan. In the bizarre world of government contracts, that created a “fairness” problem, as IBM argued that its rights were violated because the specified contract work was no longer exactly what was being done (i.e., the client’s work

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

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weird news

was being done better). IBM lodged a time-consuming protest, but later dropped the suit. Update: Perhaps thousands of Baghdad residents have been killed by bomb couriers who had passed through supposedly secure checkpoints that were “equipped” with useless ADE-651 bomb “detectors,” but the devices were surely to be history following the April fraud conviction of the British scam artist who made $75 million selling them. (American officials had warned Iraqis for years that the ADE-651 was basically a novelty golf-ball finder.) However, despite the debunking evidence brought out at trial, Iraqi police continue to use them, according to an October dispatch in London’s The Independent, with the September death toll at nearly 1,000 from bombers who passed through checkpoints, past silent ADE-651s. Even Prime Minister al-Maliki vouches that the ADE works “up to 60 percent” of the time. Unclear on the Concept In September, San Diego Superior Court Judge Patricia Cookson, perhaps sensing an autumnal whiff of romance in the courthouse, agreed to perform the wedding ceremony, in her courtroom, of Mr. Danne Desbrow and his fiancee, Destiny -- and even to serve the lucky couple homemade cake afterward. However, Judge Cookson did all of this immediately after sentencing Desbrow to a 53-year-to-life term for first-degree murder and for threatening a witness. Many parents long for armed protection for their kids at school, but a few parents at Entz Elementary in Mesa, Ariz., have the opposite concern -- and demanded that local cop (and parent) Scott Urkov not wear his service weapon, or uniform, when he drops his child off in the morning. The principal sided with the complaining parents (although at least one mother defended Urkov, albeit defining the issue primarily as “his right” to be in uniform as he heads off to work). The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has been delaying a decision for months about whether to punish the Apache ASL Trails housing complex in Tempe, Ariz., for the sin of renting 85 percent of its units to the hearing-impaired -- for whom the facility was actually designed (equipped with comfort and safety features to serve the deaf ). However, HUD has

COPYRIGHT 2013 CHUCK SHEPHERD. Visit Chuck Shepherd daily at NewsoftheWeird. blogspot.com or NewsoftheWeird.com. Send Weird News to WeirdNewsTips@yahoo.com or P.O. Box 18737, Tampa, FL 33679. Illustrations by Tom Briscoe (smallworldcomics.com).

threatened to withhold federal funding because Apache is suspected of illegally discriminating against the nonhearing-impaired (who under guidelines should, HUD believes, occupy three-fourths of Apache’s units). State officials and Arizona’s congressional delegation have voiced pride in Apache’s mission, but the HUD secretary’s indecisiveness has left Apache tenants in limbo, according to a September Arizona Republic report. This year, the Florida legislature passed the Timely Justice Act to cut short the legal dawdling that allows death row inmates to postpone their execution -- sometimes for more than 25 years. Among the first “victims” of the act was to be Marshall Gore, set to be executed in September for two 1988 murders. However, his date was once again postponed -- because Florida’s tough-on-crime attorney general had scheduled a re-election campaign fundraiser that conflicted with her presence at the execution. (Gore will instead die in January.) People With Issues Matched Pair: Prominent Los Angeles cosmetic surgeon David Matlock is himself a finely chiseled specimen of muscle and zero body fat, but he said that when patient “Veronica” came to him in 2007 for “vaginal rejuvenation” surgery, he instantly fell in love despite her somewhat-pudgy figure. He proposed marriage, she accepted, and with her consent, Dr. Matlock set out not only on the requested procedure but on what he called the “Wonder Woman Makeover” -- diet, exercise, surgeries, suctions and injections, and by August 2013, reported Huffington Post, the sculpted couple were competing in matching bodybuilding contests. (However, Veronica’s daughter Isabella, 9, is not on board, remarking, “Healthy food doesn’t taste good.”) Least Competent Criminals Recurring Theme: Joshua Goverman, 29, was arrested in Glendale, Ariz., in October for allegedly stealing copper wiring from the back of an air-conditioner truck in a driveway. The thief apparently had trouble pulling on the wires, and police found a human finger at the scene. Despite Goverman’s excuse (that he cut his finger during a “car repair”),

the crime-scene finger’s print matched Goverman’s other fingers’ prints. Strange Old World In July, several foreign news sites publicized the current Guinness Book record held by Jemal Tkeshelashvili of the Republic of Georgia, who blew up ordinary drugstore hot water bottles to the point where they would explode -- using only air from his nose. His record was three within one minute, but perhaps equally impressive, he subsequently dazzled Discovery Channel viewers by reportedly partially nose-inflating a hot water bottle being held down by a small car.) Readers’ Choice (1) Researchers from Georgia Tech, working at the Atlanta Zoo recording various mammals’ urination habits (rats, dogs, goats, cows and elephants), have concluded that, regardless of size, each takes about 21 seconds to empty a full bladder. (Technically, reported New Scientist, the evacuation time is proportional to the animal’s mass, raised to the power of one-sixth.) (2) Her family wanted U.S. Army Sgt. Kimberly Walker (who was killed in a suspected domestic violence incident in February) to have a burial reflecting her delight of SpongeBob SquarePants and installed a 4-foot-high marker on her grave in the character’s likeness (at a cost of $13,000). However, the Spring Grove Cemetery in the family’s hometown of Cincinnati ordered it removed in October as inappropriate, and despite family and community pressure, is unyielding. A News of the Weird Classic (October 2008) French Surrealism: According to the Palais de Justice in Paris, a recent (2008) preliminary hearing marked the first time in France, and perhaps in the world, in which a dog had been called as a formal witness in a murder case. “Scooby Doo” was brought into the courtroom so that a judge could watch how he reacted when he approached the defendant, who was accused of killing Scooby’s master, and according to a dispatch in London’s Daily Telegraph, the dog “barked furiously,” helping convince the judge in the Paris suburb of Nanterre to set the case for trial. ,

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Alexander Payne, Bruce Dern & Will Forte in conversation with Kurt Andersen

Sunday, November 24 Holland Performing Arts Center | 13th and Douglas streets Honorary Chairs: Susan & Mike Lebens

TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE! Call 402-933-0259 or visit filmstreams.org

FEATURE V PARTNERS

Film Streams at the Ruth Sokolof Theater 14th & Mike Fahey Street (formerly Webster Street) More info & showtimes 402.933.0259 · filmstreams.org

This week! Nebraska First-Run (R)

Dir. Alexander Payne. Showing exclusively at Film Streams’ Ruth Sokolof Theater! The latest from Omaha’s own Alexander Payne. Now with up to 11 showings a day!

Blue is the Warmest Color First-Run (NC-17) Dir. Abdellatif Kechiche. Through Thursday, November 21 Last chance! This epic coming-of-age lesbian love story is both intimate and universal. Winner of the Palm d’Or at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.

Coming Soon Let the Fire Burn First-Run (R)

Inside Llewyn Davis First-Run (R)

Forever Young Family & Children’s Series Admission 2.50 for kids 12 and under! Free Willy 1993

Dir. Simon Wincer.

November 21 Last chance!

The classic story about a boy and his orca. For fans of BLACKFISH.

| THE READER |

NOV. 21 - 27, 2013

THANKS, OMAHA!

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