VOLUME 2 ISSUE 34 | AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 4 | 2018
YOUR
FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC
ART Stephen Kavanaugh
LIVE Gen-X
NEWSWEEKLY
HEALTH Coconut Water
REAL ESTATE Coldwell Banker
TABLE OF CONTENTS
YOUR
MBER 4 | 2018 | AUGUST 29 - SEPTE LY & MUSIC NEWSWEEK VOLUME 2 ISSUE 34 PERSONAL FINANCE, ENT,
FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINM
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FOCUS ON THIS WEEK! THE ARTS
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REAL ESTATE
Coldwell Banker REA Real Estate Listing Sponsored by Coldwell Banker ART
Stephen Kavanaugh
LIVE Gen-X
HEALTH
Coconut Water
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FAMILY
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EVENTS
REAL ESTATE
Coldwell Banker
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ON TEN
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THIS WEEKS FEATURE
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HEALTH
What is Coconut Water Sponsored by New Dawn Nutrition
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SPORTS
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FINANCE
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FOCUS WAS OUT, WHERE WERE YOU?
29 HAPPY HOUR
Focus is your FREE Arts, Entertainment, Personal Finance, & Music Newsweekly. We’ve brought all of these elements together for the first time, all in one weekly format. Our goal is to provide you, the customer, with the best possible publication to suit all of your needs.
Focus 7914 W Dodge Rd. # 413 Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 506-4309 focusomaha@gmail.com www.focusomaha.com
United States, Panama Sign MOU in Energy, Infrastructure Investments Sponsored By Foundation One Bank
What’s your advice to an aspiring artist? “Just have fun with it. I feel like a big part of what I do as an artist is done to keep the fun in art. Some people take it too seriously. My advice is to have fun and do what you wanna do, instead of showing people what you think they wanna see.” Favorite quote? “Don’t take life too seriously.”
Artist Bio By D.J. Grothe Name: Stephen Kavanaugh Age: 29 Hometown: Omaha, NE Medium/Style: Acrylic/Street Art/Surreal What inspires and influences your work the most? “There’s such a creative community here - both in music and art. I think we’ve got a more collaborative community than you’d see in other cities. A lot of artists have similar styles and build off each other, and being around that helps me to feel inspired. Street art is another major inspiration, too. Finally, there’s my kids - I love doing cartoons, and they love seeing that.”
the walls of hundreds of homes across the metro, including the private street art collection of John McIntyre and Laura Vranes. You can see more of his work digitally on Instagram @ stephenkavanaugh, or in person at the Down Under Lounge, Benson Theatre’s B Side, and Hugo’s Art Galleries. Be sure to check out his Facebook page for details on upcoming shows!
If you would like to be featured in Focus der a particular bridge in West Omaha. On The Arts email your information to There’s something beautiful about that Over the course of his career, Stephen’s art has found its way onto focusomaha@gmail.com open canvas, not to mention knowing that people are definitely gonna see The Down Under Lounge Painting what you did.” What are you currently working on? “I’ve been working on stickers and stuff, just kind of fun work. It helps to fill the void of not doing ‘street art’ anymore, plus it’s something my kids enjoy. I was also recently commissioned to start working on a mural for Medical Solutions. I feel like I’m finally starting to balance out this parent-lifework thing.”
Where do you see your art in the future? “I really enjoy my job with Angel Guardians, and I’d like to continue teaching. I’d also like to do more public work pieces and murals across town. I feel like Omaha’s become much more culturally aware. We have something When did you first start pursuing your really special here; I want to keep that art? “When I was five, I found out that going.” I really enjoyed making art, so I guess I knew at a young age that I wanted to Who’s the artist you admire most? be an artist. I figured that if I kept with “Locally, it’d be Dave Koenig - he’s a it, maybe I could make a successful tattoo artist, but he’s creative through career out of it someday. It’s the only so many different avenues. Nationally, thing I’ve really stuck with.” it’s probably David Choe. His style is What has been your favorite piece or series to create? “Honestly, my favorites were when my friend Evan and I used to go out and graffiti the wall un-
very unconventional, and he continues to push the boundaries of what you think an artist can do.”
STEPHEN KAVANAUGH STEPHEN KAVANAUGH STEPHEN KAVANAUGH 4 Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
STEPHEN KAVANAUGH
Friday, September 7 | 7p - 9p Joeseph McHale Opening Reception Star Deli, 6114 Military Ave., Omaha His paintings have been described as “thought scapes full of kinetic energy that seem to assemble themsleves as you look at them.” McHale intends to create a visual reresentation of those moments when time stands still and it seems that past, present and future can be viewed as a singular entity. Exhibition is free and open to the public during regular business hours and runs through September 29th. -----------------------------------------------REALITY Through September 26 Tuesday – Friday | 12p - 8p & Saturday 11a - 5p KANEKO, 1111 Jones St., Omaha, The notion of truth, history, and the presentation of what is “real” will be dissected within the Reality programming season at KANEKO. A collaborative, interdisciplinary exhibition will investigate art, science, and technology that create, alter, and reflect upon our sense of the real. Performances, lectures, and educational offerings will further explore the concept of reality through various perspectives of art and science. https://thekaneko.org
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
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Friday, August 31 | 5p - 12p Saturday, September 1 | 12p - 12 a Sunday, September 2 | 12p - 12 a Monday, September 3 | 12p - 12 a Septemberfest, Century Link, 100 S 19th St, Omaha, NE Enjoy an eclectic mash-up of trendy vendors, food & entertainment. More than 40 vendors offering handmade and up-cycled-items! Live music, entertainment and more. Visit https:// www.midtowncrossing.com/events/ http://septemberfestomaha.org/ ----------------------------------------------Friday, August 31 | 6p - 8:30p Saturday, September 1 | 5p - 11p Sunday, September 2 12p - 11p American Italian Heritage Society 5110 N 132nd St, Omaha, NE 68164 Tickets are available at all Hy-Vee Stores; all Fantasy Stations and Rockbrook Camera Centers. $5.50 in
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advance and $7.00 at the gate. Great entertainment booked this year as well as Bellino Firework shows on Friday and Sunday nights! Saturday night enjoy a Husker tailgate Party with the game on 2 Big Screens and food and drink specials when the Huskers score or get a turnover. Come watch the game and enjoy all the great homemade Italian foods. Bring your family and friends. For a complete schedule visit online http://www.omahaitaly.com/ ----------------------------------------------Friday, August 31 | 6p - 10p Night Market, Midtown Crossing at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St, Omaha Enjoy an eclectic mash-up of trendy vendors, food & entertainment. More than 40 vendors offering handmade and up-cycled-items! Live music, entertainment and more. Visit https://
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
WWW.SUMTUR.ORG
www.midtowncrossing.com/events/ night-market/ for more information. ----------------------------------------------Friday, August 31 | 6p - 8:30p Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St, Ralston Join the Downtown Ralston Business Community, Ralston Area Chamber, and the City of Ralston as they celebrate a Last Blast of Summer at the Ralston Arena! Presented by H&H Chevy/H&H Kia, the end of summer celebration includes music by Finest Hour, food trucks, and ends with a fireworks show at dusk! Kids activities include water tag sponsored by Greta Ritchie-State Farm, selfies with local mascots, and more! Free for the whole family! ----------------------------------------------Saturday, September 1 | 12p - 5p & Sunday, September 2 | 12p - 4p Labor Day Festival
OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE CITY OF PAPILLION DAVID P BLACK, MAYOR
Cabela’s, 12703 Westport Pkwy, La Vista, Nebraska 68138 Crafts, Photos, Archery Challenge, Bait Toss Game, Duck Pond Game and more! https://www.facebook.com/ events/453088945184106/ ----------------------------------------------Saturday, September 1 | 5p - 10p 6th Annual Love of Art & Music (LOVAM) Festival, Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St. Art, soulful bands, family activities and entertainment for all ages, including: Grammy Nominated R&B / Jazz Musician Jonathan Butler Ed Archibald and Band, R- Style, Visual Artist – Thomas Lockhart III, kids activitie, on-site merchants and more. www.midtowncrossing.com
EVENTS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29 Bike Nite Quaker Steak and Lube, 5p -----------------------------------------------THURSDAY, AUGUST 30 Classic Car Cruise In Quaker Steak and Lube, 5p -----------------------------------------------The Back Pages McCoy’s at Thunderbowl, 6:30p
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Daddy Mac & The Flak McCoy’s at Thunderbowl, 7p -----------------------------------------------Chad Lee Amerisports, 8:30p SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Apple Days Music Festival Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard, 12p -----------------------------------------------Summer Concert Series w/ Towne Narrow River Park, 4p
FRIDAY, AUGUST 31 O.A.R. - Just Like Paradise Tour Stir Cove, 7p -----------------------------------------------Karaoke Fridays Horseshoe Casino, 8p -----------------------------------------------Chad Lee Amerisports, 8:30p
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October Rage, Saints of Lust & Miss Taken , Forte Music Hall, 7p ----------------------------------------------Win Lander In The Company of Serpents, Rift & Surfside Club, 6p Dope Corpse, Lookout Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Pam & The Pearls Matt Hackett Trio Ozone Lounge, 6:30p The B Side of Benson Theater, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Abandoned By Bears, Light UpThe Sky, Karaoke Boys of Fall & Timeless The New Frontier Bar, 7p Lookout Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Clash of the Comics Ray’s Piano Party Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p Mr. Toad’s, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sarah Brandt Gov’t Mule with The Magpipe Salute Growler USA, 8p SumTur Amphitheater, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Said The Sky Polka Police Sokol Underground, 8p The Huber Haus German Bier Hall, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Open Mic with Host Aly Peeler Bike Night The Down Under Lounge, 8p Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Indigenous with Sebastian Lane Band Anita Clark Janes & Luigi Waites The Waiting Room, 8p Jambo Cat, 7:30p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Jeremy Mercy, Palmer Runberg & Comedy Open Mic w/ Dusty Stehl Michael Trenhaile, Barley Street, 9p Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Thirsty Thursday Karaoke Karaoke w/ Host Adam Flohr Forte Music Hall, 9p Brokedown Palace, 9p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Shineys with Jessica Errett Alberta Harney Street Tavern, 9p Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Evanoff & Buzz Junior THURSDAY AUGUST 30 Reverb Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Lisa Lisa & The Acoustic Jam Christine Nicole The Bull & The Bear Lounge, 4:30p Beer Can Alley, 9:30p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Cate Brothers w/ Mannix Chris Shelton Chrome Lounge, 6p Dubliner Pub, 9:30p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Throttle Thursday Round #7 CatBeret w/Satellite Junction & Soul Dillon Brother’s, 6p Ghost, The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Julie Baker FRIDAY AUGUST 31 Ozone, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Septemberfest 2018 John Worsham CenturyLink Center, 5p Vino Mas, 6:30p --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Jake’s Just Because We Can Block Bike Night with Bad Aqple Party w/ Gerardo Meza and the Dead Dr. Jack’s Drinkery, 7p
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 29
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Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
of Night, Leafblower, I Forgot To Love My Father, Little Brazil & Cult Play Jake’s Cigars, 5p ----------------------------------------------Sam Swerczek The Cove, 5p ----------------------------------------------La Festa Italiana 2018 American Italian Heritage Society, 6p ----------------------------------------------Night Market at Turner Park Midtown Crossing, 6p ----------------------------------------------Last Blast of the Summer w/ Finest Hour, Ralston Arena, 6p ----------------------------------------------Caught Looking Surfside Club, 6p ----------------------------------------------Shadow Ridge American Legion Post #1, 7p ----------------------------------------------Daddy Mac & The Flak Bogie’s Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------4 On The Floor Dog House Saloon, 7p ----------------------------------------------Friday Night on the Duece w/ Lyfe Jennings Love’s Jazz & Art Center, 7p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke Millard VFW Post 8334, 7p ----------------------------------------------Mike Gurciullo’s Las Vegas Big Band Rockbrook Village, 7p ----------------------------------------------Open Mic w/ Aly Peeler The B. Side of Benson Theater, 7p ----------------------------------------------Live Music w/ Sweet Tea Trio Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p ----------------------------------------------Donnie J’s ‘Hiatus’ Performance Wired Pub, 7p ----------------------------------------------O.A.R. - Just Like Paradise Tour with special guest Matt Nathanson Stir Cove, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Aaron Stroessner Quartet featuring Emily Bass, Jambo Cat, 8p ----------------------------------------------The DU Singer-Songwriter Night The Down Under Lounge, 8:30p
Brooks & Aidan, Stately Wayne Manor, Virgin Mary Pistol Grip & Skysa!l American Dream, 9p ----------------------------------------------Dead on Dust, Ryan Human & James Abbott, Barley Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Hellbound Glory w/ Lucas Minor Buck’s Bar & Grill, 9p ----------------------------------------------Cypress Grove Dr. Jack’s Drinkery, 9p ----------------------------------------------Sinners & Saints Forte Music Hall, 9p ----------------------------------------------Midland Band Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Live Wire Ozone Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Friday, I’m In Love Reverb Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Josh Powell Skyybox, 9p ----------------------------------------------Silent PARTY OMAHA Trap/edm/ reggae, Slowdown, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Throwback Party The Waiting Room, 9p ----------------------------------------------Joystick Two Fine Irishmen, 9:30p
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 1 Septemberfest CenturyLink Center, 12p ----------------------------------------------Grunge Pop LIVE at Septemberfest CenturyLink Center, 12p ----------------------------------------------Midwest Indiefest! The Well, 2p ----------------------------------------------Wicked Wine Run Werner Park, 3:30p ----------------------------------------------La Festa Italiana 2018 American Italian Heritage Society, 5p ----------------------------------------------Love of Art and Music (LOVAM) Festival, Midtown Crossing, 5p
Husker Tailgate & Kick Off Party Jerzes Sports Bar, 5:30p ----------------------------------------------First Annual Corn King Music & Arts Festival, The Waiting Room, 5:30p ----------------------------------------------DJ Bishop 20 YR Anniversary Party Love’s Jazz & Art Center, 6p ----------------------------------------------Room with a View Fun-Plex, 7p ----------------------------------------------DJ Bishop 20 Yr Anniversary Party Love’s Jazz & Art Center, 7p ----------------------------------------------Sabbaths Disciples Molly’s Pub, 7p ----------------------------------------------The Coconuts Vino Mas, 7p ----------------------------------------------Quicksand Devil, Faceplant, Top-Notch Defectives, Cordial Spew & T-Philly’s Tenderness, Wired Pub, 7p ----------------------------------------------Shakey Graves The Tour X9 World Tour w/ Twin Peaks Sokol Auditorium, 8p ----------------------------------------------Freedom Minds Entertainment Presents St00p Kids Live w/ Marquisisdead, Jay Influential, Y.r.m, Bassic Stylz, Strvylight Finch & Psychadelic Sidekick The Side Room, 8p ----------------------------------------------The 402 & Ms. Maria Cottonwood Cove, 8:30p ----------------------------------------------SOAK w/ Aparo Bar 415, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Scabby Ghouls, The Ramparts & Jessica Moore, Barley Street, 9p ----------------------------------------------Dead Man’s Hand Chrome Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Maiden Voyage Dr. Jack’s Drinkery, 9p ----------------------------------------------Rhythm Collective Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Taxi Driver Ozone Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Port Nocturnal & Advent of Darkness Reverb Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Doo Dads The New Frontier Bar, 9p ----------------------------------------------Scott Severin Growler USA, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Johnny Knuclehead
Two Fine Irishmen, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Houma, Infernal Coil, Sutphin & Garoted, O’Leaver’s Pub, 10p
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 2 The Black Votes Matter Concert for Change featuring (Dolores Diaz and the Standby Club, Mesonjixx, BXTH, Dana Murray, The Dilla Kids and more 24th & Burdette, 2p ----------------------------------------------Stephen Monroe Soaring Wings, 2:30p ----------------------------------------------Swampboy Blues Band Heron Bay, 3:30p ----------------------------------------------Frank Thieman Memorial Poker Chip Run, SandBar Grille, 4p ----------------------------------------------Labor Day Celebration w/ 7 Day Stretch, ZZ KC A Tribute to ZZ Top, Double Visioner -Foreigner Tribute Surfside Club, 4p ----------------------------------------------Maria Bamford & Jackie Kashian Slowdown, 5p ----------------------------------------------Colin Roberts Steak & Grapes, 5p ----------------------------------------------Gaming Guild The Down Under Lounge, 5p ----------------------------------------------Bull Feathers Reunion with Skid Row and Johnny O! Jerzes Sports Bar, 6p ----------------------------------------------AvAricious Septemberfest, 6p ----------------------------------------------Bill Sammon Cedar Omaha, 7p ----------------------------------------------Andrew Kasab The Well, 7p ----------------------------------------------Matt Whipkey Growler USA, 8p ----------------------------------------------Taxi Driver il Palazzo, 8p ----------------------------------------------Maria Bamford & Jackie Kashian Slowdown, 8p ----------------------------------------------Booze Bingo The Down Under Lounge, 8p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke Night The Down Under Lounge, 10p continued on page 11
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Wicked Wine Run
WERNER PARK
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MarquisIsDEAD ‘St00p KiDs Live’ THE SIDE ROOM
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O.A.R. Just Like Paradise Tour STIR COVE
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Love of Art and Music (LOVAM) Festival
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Last Blast of the Summer!
RALSTON ARENA
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Maria Bamford MIDTOWN CROSSING SLOWDOWN
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 3 Septemberfest featuring 3 & Out, Fooey, & Shoot To Thrill CenturyLink Center, 4p ----------------------------------------------Spare Change Surfside Club, 5p ----------------------------------------------Small Houses: Alternative Country from Flint Sam Martin James Maakestad, O’Leaver’s Pub, 6p ----------------------------------------------Early Karaoke Forte Music Hall, 7p ----------------------------------------------Open Mic Barley Street Tavern, 9p
You Had To Be There w/ Ryan de la Carza, Reverb Lounge, 8p ----------------------------------------------Lake Street Drive & Kalbells Slowdown, 8p ----------------------------------------------Spencer’s WILD Movie Trivia The Down Under, 8p ----------------------------------------------Open Jam Barley Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke! The Down Under, 10p
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 4 Open Mic & Jam Night Therapy Bar & Grill, 6p ----------------------------------------------Billy Troy Ozone Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Mitche Towne Jazz Organ Trio Jambo Cat, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Open Mic Jam Brokedown Palace, 8p
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Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
Battling to the Top
is a relatively common handgun grip. For the OEAA winners, working the EP has meant branching out to Colorado and Wisconsin while remaining relevant in Omaha. VMPG has worked to avoid over-exposure, so they have performed about an average of twice a month for the past year.
“Some shows we get booked, some we get asked,” Hupke offered. R.E.M. is one reference point for their music, Hupke said. “A couple fans have By Andy Roberts described it as manic poetry put to Stepping out of Wrigley Field on a music.” Sunday afternoon for a quick phone call with Focus, Jales Hupke was happy Virgin Mary Pistol Grip has been workto update us on the status of Virgin ing on new songs and probably has Mary Pistol Grip (VMPG). “about an album’s worth” ready to go. Recording will likely start in the spring. The Omaha-based band released Secret Codes about a year ago when While the singing and musicianship is they were featured in Focus prior to strong, Hupke offered: “Relating with a release party. The five-track EP was the crowd, you know, on some lyrics,” their second release and had been as being a major band strength. “We all recorded in Omaha and Los Angeles. know our parts . . . do your job.” They did that one with Bob Marlette, who’d been behind the board for artists That will be what VMPG plans to do like Tracy Chapman and Rob Zombie. when the play for the right to perform at the Gen X Show. Hupke is excited That release, available for purchase about the possibility of what that can online at iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby, and do for the band. at music stores in Omaha, has been the basis for most of their work the past “It would help us immensely . . . . you year. have a built-in crowd,” he admitted. “We’ve basically just been promoting it, “It’s easier if there’s 5,000 people than doing shows,” Hupke said. “Just workif there’s 50,” Hupke said. “It’s always ing on exposure.” good to have support locally. A lot of cities don’t have the kinds of things we Hupke, on guitar and vocals, is joined have.” in VMPG by his brother Jas Hupke on drums, lead guitarist Wyatt Mason, and Catch them on September 8 when they Coleton Narduzzo handles bass duties. perform during the 6 to 11 p.m. show The name, for those who wonder, came at the Sociable Inn for one of two Focus out of an old Clint Eastwood western Presents Gen X competitions to and refers to what
find out who will open for the lineup on drummer Trevor Ratzburg, and screamSeptember 15. er bass player Cory Drennan. Singer Ratzburg shared Sherry Drive’s For more on Virgin Mary Pistol Grip: story with Focus. facebook.com/virginmarypistolgrip/ www.VirginMaryPistolGrip.com They’ve added jazz chords to heavy riffs and retooled their sound. Taking a new, “more mature” approach to vocals has added to the evolution. That means more mixing and studio work.
Retooling &
Energizing By Focus Staff
For Anu Ratzburg of local rockers Sherry Drive, it’s all about the energy. “We’ve changed our logo, our appearance, everything. We’re bringing a lot more energy. That’s come with a lot of the changes over the years,” Ratzburg emphasized. “We bring 110% energy to the crowd and we’re able to feed the energy that we want from them.” Ratzburg and Sherry Drive – the name comes from a Bellevue street with which they have some familiarity - have been part of the local music scene since 2012. They’ve shared the stage with the likes of Sick Puppies, Like Moths to Flames, Volumes and Fit for a King. They hope to be part of the Gen X show on September 15. Ratzburg handles lead guitar and vocals for the band and is joined by Richard Ratzburg on rhythm guitar,
“A lot of ‘poppier’ vocal stuff along with an aggressive mix,” he elaborated. The lineup also has changed, resulting in a tighter sound that Ratzburg said has “matured” and he feels his writing is better and now allows him to create sounds from more genres. “We’re trying to bring something that no one else can,” he stated. Lyrically the material has its roots in what’s happening in Ratzburg’s life. “I want other people to have a connection to what I’m writing and be able to relate to it in their own lives.” While some of the music may be sad, Ratzburg hopes it sends a hopeful message. “It’s like saying you’re not going through things alone,” he offered. “Even when life feels good, you’re still allowed to be down in the dumps. “You can be having a great day and remember something that brings you down and you listen to music and something that relates to you.” His writing reflects deep thoughts and feelings. “It’s coming from my heart.” Sean Sorensen, who has worked with Canadian singer The Weeknd and whose band Devil in the Details is set
Photo Credit: Sean Thomas of Inspired Film Studios
continued on page 14
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
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“Everyone always says we put on one of the best live shows around,.” he offered. “Our live show is unmatched.” And it’s mostly original.
soar over Ashland’s soaring guitar as Wandel and Graffius rumble underneath.
Photo Credit: Tyler Beekley of Beekle Films
Heavy & Moving
By Howard Schwartz
Photo Credit: Tyler Beekley
of Beekle Films
Photo Credit: Tyler Beekley of Beekle
Films
to play the Gen X show, filmed Sherry Drive’s videos for “Breathe.” There may be more work in that area as Sherry Drive’s new album Distance is set for a fall or winter release. First, they are set to impress on September 8 at the Sociable Inn for the Focus Presents Gen X competition in a bid to play on the September 15 show. “We want to thank everyone in advance that will see us at the Sociable,” Ratzburg emphasized. “We hope that we bring the energy that will feed them.” For more on Sherry Drive: www.facebook.com/pg/SherryDriveBand/about www.sherrydrive.com
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Don’t make too much out of the name or try to read more into it than is there. “Through The Stone was just kind of a . . . ambiguous kind of meaning,” offered bass player Toby Wandel. “Kind of a collective idea about what our music reminds us of,” he said. Ambiguous or not, can best be described as a perfect storm of gritty, soulful, heavy rock with a dash of progressive/experimental rock. Wandel formed a band, which has transformed into Through The Stone, in 2007. During the next several years vocalist Kate Prokop and guitarist Tanner Ashland joined the project. TTS slammed out a 2012 demo that shaped their distinctive hard rock sound as they worked to develop a strong local and regional following. As Ashland and Graffius joined, something clicked. “Everything just worked out right away,” Wandel stressed. Those there were joined by drummer Wes Graffius in the fall of 2013 and the lineup was solidified. Their first professionally recorded album, a self-titled debut, was released on September 11, 2015. Since then they have worked to put their music in as many ears as possible. Through The Stone has created a one-of-a-kind sound that mixes multiple rock genres. Prokop’s powerful vocals
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
The power can only be expected to increase. “As we progress we’re getting a little heavier a little harder,” Wandel stated. Through The Stone performances feature a lot of energy, they are “super” tight, and provide a good deal of crowd interaction. Wandel calls that the band’s strength.
“We’ll through in a cover here and there,” Wandel said. “Mostly we like to focus on our originals.” If they make it to the Gen X show:“It would be something we’d be really looking forward to . . . It sounds like a great opportunity.” Through The Stone will perform at the Sociable Inn on Sept. 8 for the right to perform at the Gen X Show. For more information on Through The Stone: throughthestone.com facebook.com/ThroughTheStone/
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
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SATURDAY, JULY 28, 8PM
RODNEY
an evening of comedy with
CARRINGTON FRIDAY OCT 19, 2018
SEPTEMBER 20, 2018
7PM DOORS 8PM SHOWTIME
show at 8pm
tickets are available now at ralstonarena.com or box offIce
RALSTON ARENA
MORE INFO AT RALSTONARENA.COM // BILLENGVALL.COM
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Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
SATURDAY, JULY 28, 8PM
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
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What Is Coconut Water? By Focus Omaha
Coconut water is popping up everywhere in a variety of healthy beverages and you may be curious if it really lives up to the hype surrounding it. But, do the benefits stand up to its actual nutritional value? Is coconut water good for you?
vriksha,” which means “tree which gives all that is necessary for living.” In certain emergency situations, it has been used for IV hydration due to its high electrolyte content and the fact that it’s sterile if used directly from the inside of the coconut. People all over the world enjoy it for its multiple benefits and sweet taste.
Recently, coconut water’s health benefits continue to be touted, as many marketers call it “nature’s sports drink” and a “life enhancer.” But, are What Is Coconut Water? Coconut water is the clear liquid found the claims that coconut water is good inside a young, green coconut which is for you really true? usually about the size of a basketball. Ideally, young coconuts are harvested Coconut Water Nutrition Facts The liquid inside the coconut contains at 5–7 months of age, to contain the approximately 46 calories per cup, most water. 10 grams of natural sugar, with little protein and zero fat. It contains As the coconut matures, the liquid multiple vitamins, minerals and is replaced with coconut “meat.” The phytochemicals that are ideal for greatest nutrient health benefits of human health. coconut water comes from drinking the water of the young coconut, not The primary nutrient in coconut water the mature coconut milk, which is is potassium. It contains approximately generally lower in nutrients. 600 milligrams (12 percent daily value), making it a high electrolyte The water from coconuts has been beverage. Coconut water also contains consumed for centuries in tropical a small amount of sodium, about 40 countries and is believed to treat a milligrams and up to 10 percent of variety of health-related ailments. In your daily calcium and magnesium Sanskrit, coconuts are called “kalpa
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Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
needs. Electrolytes are critical to maintain blood volume, heart health, as well as to prevent dehydration. Maintaining electrolyte levels can help reduce fatigue, stress and help maintain muscle relaxation. With these nutrition benefits is coconut water good for you? The answer is yes! If you really like the flavor, it can be a low-calorie, lowsugar alternative to soda. It is pretty refreshing to consume on a hot day and to help re-hydrate. Other health benefits of coconut water include: • Lowered blood pressure • Weight loss • Increased athletic performance
• • • •
Boosted energy Lowered cholesterol Reduced cellulite Relax muscle tension
Coconut water is a safe, healthy beverage for most people. Those with kidney disease should limit consumption foods that are too high in potassium, including coconut water. Now let’s explore the research and science-backed benefits of coconut water. Until next week, “Stay Healthy Omaha!”
Focus | August 22 - August 28 | Volume 2 Issue 34
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Nebraska Football
“We just heard this morning they’re going to bump the Big Ten travel number to 74. I think that’s a good idea. By Focus Omaha On his definition of success in year If you change the redshirt rule and we one can play redshirts in four games a year Husker Head Coach Scott Frost had “I’ve talked about this a lot. I want immost likely those guys are going to get a lot to say at his first weekly press provement. I want improvement from limited reps on offense or defense and conference leading up to his showpractice to practice, improvement from play on a special team or two. It’d be down with Akron. Here are just a few game to game. I want us to be better hard to travel those guys and use those of his comments and new quarterback in week two that we are in week one. guys in one of their four games on the starter Adrian Martinez. On fans thinking Nebraska may be a I want week one to look better than road with a travel restriction of 70. four or five-win team again this year week 12 last year. We do that, we’re That’ll give us some freedom to take On how he’s feeling five days before “I don’t care what they think.” going to land in a good place. Other some of the guys that we need to get kickoff this season compared to how things I’d mentioned, I want to see a experience in a limited fashion at away he was feeling at this time last season On the effect, Grant Wistrom and team that’s going to put out effort no games as well as home games.” at UCF Jason Peter had when they addressed matter what and fight no matter what. On whether he’s thought about his “It was a work in progress down there, the team Up 21 we need to be playing harder, first play call it’s going to be a work in progress “When you’re away from guys like down seven we need to fight harder. “We’ve been grinding on the game here and I’ve said that since I got here. that for a while you forget how much Fourth quarters need to be on point, plan through the weekend and will I know how far this team has come. passion there is. Grant and Jason’s paswe need to be a physical team. I want today. We go over call sheet and what We’re light years ahead of where we were in January, but we still have to go sion for Nebraska football was evident to see passion, I want to see together- we’re going to call when on Thursday. even the other day. It’s inspiring to be ness and I want to see a bunch of guys We’ll probably make that decision on play. Sometimes when you’re playing around that kind of passion, guys that playing for each other.” Thursday.” with a new offensive and defensive care that much, guys that are willing to On his overall feelings about the Big scheme, new coaches, everybody tolay it on the line that much. Maybe it’s On when he and the coaching staff Ten gether for the first time, there’s going knew that Adrian Martinez would be “It’s a great league. I’ve admired the to be mistakes. We’re going to live with just the past coming back to me, but they pushed my buttons, I was ready the starting quarterback Big Ten coaching from two different the mistakes and roll through them. leagues now. I think last year the Those particularly happen when we’re to play after I listened to them talk and “Middle of last week, late last week. I think a lot of guys took their talk to I told the coaches we weren’t going Big Ten was arguably the best in the playing young players and we’re going heart.” to decide right now but I kind of took country, I think the bowl games kind to be playing a bunch of them. We’re a straw poll of who everybody else of proved that. I think there’s some going to try and limit them as much On whether this year’s team has that thought. That was after Mario and I elite teams at the top and a lot of other as we can, not let them drag us down, kind of leaders on it spoke and Coach Walters and I spoke. teams that are good enough to beat and move on to the next play. We’ve It was pretty clear at that point, want- you any time and closing the gap on got enough talent we’ve made enough “I don’t think we have leaders that are that good. I don’t know how many Ne- ed to see it play out yet. I give credit some of those elite teams. It’s going improvement to be really dangerous, braska teams in history have had lead- to both guys, they’ve done really good to be a highly competitive league and we’ve got to execute more and take ers that are that good. We had them on things but it was consensus among we’re excited to compete in it.” care of the football.” offense too, on the offensive line with the coaches that he gave us the best On his thoughts about his cornerbacks Aaron Taylor and some of the guys. chance. ” and whether they are good enough On whether the quarterback deciand experienced enough to play the sion had anything to do with thinking A team’s the strongest when coaches don’t have to get involved, when On any changes to game-day rules for defense the way he wants ahead to 2019 and beyond “I felt great about the DB’s all camp. “2019 and beyond? Not at all. It would players are the police of other players, his staff “The only thing that might get us to I give those guys credit because that be different if we had a senior and were when players are holding each other change a little bit is the new headset was a position that I was worried about starting a freshman instead of a senior. accountable. Absolutely no question when Grant and Jason were here if you rule. We’re limited to a number of coming into fall camp. I think there’s We had two freshmen. So, whichever got out of line it didn’t ever get to the headsets because I think there’s some been increased competition at some of guy won it was going to be around coaches, it was going to get stopped in people out there that probably have those spots because some of the new here for a long time. We were hoping more coaches than they’re supposed guys that have come in, some of those the backup would be around for a long the locker room. We’re starting to develop that, we’ve got some guys trying to have coaching on game day. We’ll be new guys are going to play and a lot of time. I know going through it a couple compliant on that front, as close we can the guys that had been here did a good keep to the status quo the better for us job stepping up and holding onto their so that we can all operate in a way that jobs and improving their play. We’ve we’re used to.” gotten really good play out of the secOn updates to the new travel roster ondary, a lot of credit to Coach Fish on rules for the Big Ten that front, but I feel good about where
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years ago that we’re going to get some really good playing, but I want whoever is playing to understand that there’s going to be mistakes and we’re not going to be perfect. We’re going to work through them and getting experience early really helps you down the road, but we’re not thinking ahead at all we want is to win games this year. “
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to step into that role. I think that’s a piece that’s been missing for a while.”
those guys are going into the first game why I wanted to be the starting quarand I think that could end up being a terback and why I want to succeed. strength for us.” Calling him and being able to tell him that my hard work has paid off to this Freshman Quarterback point was a great feeling. He was really Adrian Martinez excited for me and he’s coming out to On how he learned he was the starting the first game. And he just told me we QB know what to do now. We’ve got to “I got called up by Coach Verduzco. He win this game. We’ve got to approach told me to meet him on Saturday, late it week by week and the struggle is not Saturday. I drove over on my scooter over, you’ve got to keep working.” and I met with him and he told me I was the starting quarterback. So it was a On the reception he got from the team pretty special feeling.” “I think they were just waiting to see who to go with. We have a band of On the magnitude of becoming Nebrothers. I think whether it would have braska’s first true freshman starting been me or Tristan, these guys would quarterback have been able to rally behind him and “Obviously, it’s an honor to be the support him, and I felt that support.” starting quarterback at this university, and I don’t really feel that type of pressure in a sense that I haven’t played since my junior year. I’ve been practicing since spring. I think I’m used to that speed. I don’t think it’s going to feel foreign to me out there. I feel like that doesn’t really have any significance in my mind.” On his family’s reaction to finding out he was the starter “I was really excited to tell my dad. He’s a big part of why I work so hard and
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• Photo Credit: https://pa.usembassy.gov
From left to right: Economy Vice Minister Gustavo Valderrama, Acting Presidency Minister Salvador Sánchez, Treasury Undersecretary David Malpass, and Energy Assistant Secretary Steven Winberg.
United States, Panama Sign MOU in Energy, Infrastructure Investments U.S. Treasury Under Secretary for International Affairs David Malpass led a U.S. delegation to the Republic of Panama to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with its government that will foster U.S.Panama cooperation on energy and infrastructure investment. This marks the formal inauguration of the U.S. initiative called America Crece, or the Americas Grow. The delegation also includes U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary Steven Winberg.
• • •
country’s economic growth; Broaden Panama’s role as a liquefied natural gas hub for Central America and the Caribbean; Integrate natural gas as a source of downstream energy, furthering Panama’s environmental goals and making Panama’s economy more competitive; Accelerate Panama’s adoption of innovative power technologies, including renewables and related micro‑, mini-grid and battery storage systems, that will help achieve energy source integration and catalyze investment in rural areas and at critical infrastructure facilities, thereby increasing Panama’s energy resiliency; Increase access to the electricity grid; Bring electricity to underserved populations in rural areas; and Enhance the reliability, resilience, and efficiency of the national energy systems.
Under Secretary Malpass will take part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new AES LNG power facility in Colon, Panama, and later, will sign the MOU with members of Panama’s government at the Presidential Palace in Panama City.
“This framework will expand energy security and spur economic growth for both nations. It will help catalyze private sector capital for investments across the energy value chain, including upstream energy production, as well as power generation, transmission, and distribution,” said Under Secretary Malpass. “It is a great step forward for the U.S. and Panama.” Under the MOU, the two countries will cooperate to: • Further diversify Panama’s sources of energy to power the
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Valery Copeland 402-612-3348
valery@reaomaha.com 12771 Mormon Street $260,000 MLS #21811990 Status ACTIVE Area 211 Property Subtype Detached Housing City Omaha State NE Zip 68142 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 # of Rooms 9 Style Ranch Parcel Number 1919727510 County Douglas County Sub-Area 2112
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Subdivision Deer Creek Reserve SID 0 Assessments Yes Assessments Paid Annually # of Fireplaces 2 Garage Spaces 3 Main Floor SqFt 2,092 Finished Below Grade 0 Total Finished SqFt 2,092 Lot Size Range Over 1/4 up to 1/2 Acre Lot Dimensions 76.6 x 135.5 Living Room Size 14 x 26 Kitchen Size 14.5 x 10 Family Room Size Master Bedroom Size 13 x 18.5 Bedroom #2 Size 11 x 11 Bedroom #3 Size 11 x 12.3 Laundry Room Size Year Built 2018 APPLIANCES INCLUDED Range, Oven, Dishwasher, Microwave COOLING Central Air EXTERIOR Stone, Hardboard, Cement Board EXTERIOR FEATURES Covered Patio/Deck, Sprinkler System FENCE None GARAGE TYPE Attached HEATING FUEL Gas HEATING TYPE Forced Air INTERIOR FEATURES Cable Available, 9’+ Ceiling MASTER BATH TYPE Full ROOF TYPE Composition SEWER AND WATER Public Water, Public Sewer Gorgeous newly built home in Deer Creek Reserve w/ fabulous view of
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the green on hole #5. Many incredible features such as an extra-large master Listing Agent closet w/ dresser island, soaker tub, walk-in tiled shower, large sliding glass door to composite deck w/ aluminum rails, walk-in pantry & upgraded valery@reaomaha.com granite. This home has easy access to the interstate, nearby shopping &
Valery Copeland 402-612-3348
backs to a beautiful golf course. I’m excited to be a real estate agent! I have been married for 23 years and my husband has been involved in new home construction for 27 years. A little over a year ago he decided to become a homebuilder and he’s built almost a dozen amazing new homes with satisfied customers, so I decided to change my profession to real estate. I enjoy helping my husband sell his homes and helping our customers by listing their homes. My goal is to satisfy my customers and assist them in home building, buying and selling.
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MAHA MUSIC FESTIVAL 08/16/18 & 08/17/18
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BARRETT’S BARLEYCORN 4322 Leavenworth St. M-F 4P-6P $2.25 Domestic Bottles $3.00 Well Drinks BROKEDOWN PALCE 8805 Maple St. Happy Hour 12P-6P $4 28 oz Domestic Frozen Mugs $5 28 oz Nebraska Brewing Cardinal Pale Ale Frozen Mug BUSHWOOD LOUNGE 711 N 14th St. $1 Off Everything 3p-7p REverse Happy Hour Monday-Thursday 8p-2a CADDYSHACK 2076 N 117th Ave & 7007 S 181st St M-F 2P-6P $1 Off Beer, Wine & Wells TUES- HAPPY HOUR All Day JAIPUR BREWING CO. 10922 Elm St., Omaha, NE 68144 THURS, FRI, SAT 4P - 6P $3.45 16oz Hand Crafted Beers, Jalapeno Ale, Wheat, IPA, Raspberry Wheat. $5.95 House Wines by the Glass. $23 Bottle House Wines. $4.95 House Liquors. $5.95 Cocktails. Happy Hour Appetizers and Breads from $1.25 – $4.75 JERRY’S BAR 6301 Military Ave Happy Hour Prices ALL Day! JERZES 501 Olson Dr, Papillion, NE 68046 Daily Specials! JULIO’S 123rd & Center M-F 3P – 6P & FRI & SAT AFTER 9M $1 off all Tap Beer, $3 House Margaritas, $5 Pitchers of Bud Light & Miller Light KOZEE LOUNGE 5813 N 60th St. Daily Drink Specials!
LEAVENWORTH BAR 4556 Leavenworth St. M-F 12P-7P
$1 Off All TapBeers $4 Svedka, $4 Windsor, $4 Sauza Silver, $4 Cruzan Rum
LOOKOUT LOUNGE 320 S 72nd St. EVERY DAY 4-7, MIDNIGHT - 2 AM $2 PBR, $2.50 Domestic Bottles , $3 Wells, $3 Fireball
RAILCAR MODERN AMERICAN KITCHEN 1814 N 144th St. M-F 3:30-6:30P $4 Well Drinks $3 Off Signature Cocktails
NOSH WINE LOUNGE 1006 Dodge St. Everyday 4P- 6P Reverse HH 10P -12A $3 domestic beers and wells, $2 off Glasses of Wine, $4 House Wine MALONEY’S IRISH PUB 1830 N 72nd St. M-F 3P-7P $1.00 off any beer
SCRIPTOWN 3922 Farnam M-F 4P - 6P $1 Off Beers & $1 Off Well Drinks
THE DOWN UNDER 3530 Leavenworth St. MON-SAT 3P-7P SUNDAY-ALLDAY THERAPY BAR & GRILL 5059 S 108th St Monday-Friday 3-6pm $.50 cents off Bottles, Drafts, & Wells THE SOCIABLE INN 4917 S 136TH ST M-F 2P-7P $2.50 Pints, $2.50 Domestic Bottles
TIGER TOM’S SMITTY’S GARAGE 7103 Military Ave 7610 Dodge St. M-F 4P-6P Everyday 3P - 6P & 9P - CLOSE $12 Domestic Buckets $2.50 Domestics THURSDAYS $1 OFF Local Beer Draws
O’CONNORS IRISH PUB 1217 Howard St. M-TH- 4P-6P & FRI 2P-7P $1.00 off all Draft, Premium, and Domestic Wells PADDY’S McGOWN’S PUB & GRILL 4503 Center St. Happy Hour Specials from 3-6pm PARLIAMENT OLD MARKET 1212 Harney St. MANIC MONDAYS with D.J. Travis $2 draws, $3.50 wells, $4.50 calls THURSDAY-LADIES NIGHT $2 Domestic Drafts PARLIAMENT WEST 16939 Wright Plz EVERYDAY 3P - 7P 1/2 Price Martini’s, $2 Domestic Pints, $1 Off Other Drinks PITCH PIZZERIA 5021 Underwood Ave. 17808 Burke M-F 3P-6P $5 off any appetizer $5 off any pizza OMAHA TAP HOUSE 1401 Farnam St. & 579 N 155th Plz M-F 3P - 6P & ALL DAY SUNDAY
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