FocusV2I47 by Focus Omaha

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 47 | DECEMBER 5 - DECEMBER 11 | 2018

YOUR

FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC

EVENTS Art, Family & Top Ten

LOCAL Jorge Nila Jazz Trio

NEWSWEEKLY

SPORTS Basketball

EXPERIENCE The Simple Man

TABLE OF CONTENTS

YOUR

MBER 11 | 2018 | DECEMBER 5 - DECE LY & MUSIC NEWSWEEK VOLUME 2 ISSUE 47 PERSONAL FINANCE, ENT,

FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINM

4 EVENTS

Art, Family & Top Ten

LOCAL

SPORTS

Basketball

FOCUS ON THIS WEEK! THE ARTS

FAMILY

EVENTS

EXPERIENCE

Jorge Nila Jazz Trio

The Simple Man

Your Daily Guide

ON TEN

Top Ten Events By Focus Omaha

THIS WEEKS FEATURE

THE SHOPS AT COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE

FINANCE

Report to President Trump on Reforming America’s Healthcare System Through Choice and Competition By Focus Omaha

REAL ESTATE

Federal Housing Finance Agency Raises Limits By Focus Omaha

HAPPY HOUR

FOCUS WAS OUT, WHERE WERE YOU?

Focus is your FREE Arts, Entertainment, Health, 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 13 SPORTS your needs. Nebraska and Creighton Sports By Focus Omaha

The Simple Man By Focus Omaha

FOCUS ON BENSON

HEALTH

Pediatric brain cancer is topic of Dec. 11 Omaha Science Cafe By Focus Omaha

LOCAL

Jorge Nila Jazz Trio – With Joe Voda and Kevin Lloyd By Eddie Torrez

Focus 7914 W Dodge Rd. # 413 Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 208-6545 focusomaha@gmail.com www.focusomaha.com

Friday, December 7th at 6p - 9p 4th Annual Little Show Opening The Little Gallery Benson 5901 Maple St., Omaha Featuring works by local artists. Each piece is 12 x 12 inches or smaller and retails for $100 or less. Get your holiday shopping done here! The show runs through Dec. 29. Gallery hours: Tuesday-Friday 3 - 6p Saturday 10a - 1p + by appointment -----------------------------------------------Friday, December 7th at 7p - 9p Mari Ramirez - Opening Reception Star Deli, 6114 Military Ave, Omaha Exhibition will run through Dec. 29th. Please contact artist directly for art sales. -----------------------------------------------Sunday, December 9th at 1p - 7p Dubliner Pub

1205 Harney St, Omaha, 68102 This Sunday December 9th from 1p - 7p join Dubliner Pub forthe second annual Holiday Art Show and Craft Beer Tasting.

Varieties will be replaced as needed to provide an ever-changing display. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show theme is The Year of Artists, Flavor Country Farms the Bird, celebrating 100 years of the Casey Anna , Peggy Franks Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Psychedelpscope, Creative Lotus Shop To help families make more holiday There will be local artist of many forms Kendall Lanning Art & Tarot, Jezabels memories, they can visit the NEW showcasing their work. We will have Tom Harnack, Abstract Artwork Family Chill Zone on the festival an local flight by a local brewery and an Showtime Photography garden patio to participate in a variety Irish flight of beer for tasting. You Do Voodoo, Inna Kulagina Silks of fun, family-friendly activities. Alvin Harper, Garrison Goat Company, www.lauritzengardens.org Tap Takeover by Kros Strain Brewing Stuey Dumb Art Shop ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Through December 29th Food menu provided by Craft Sliders Holiday Poinsettia Show Selma the March for Freedom & Beer Through January 6, 2019 | 9a-5p Daily 50 Years Later Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Great Plains Black History Museum This is an all ages show - 21 and up More than 5000 poinsettias in nearly 2221 N 24 St., Omaha must have ID & FREE Entry 20 different varieties were grown for the 2018 display. See varieties of Music Line Up multi-hued, deep red, sparkling white 1 to 3 pm Chris Shelton and speckled poinsettias that vary in 3 to 4 pm Dwayne Wilson hue, texture, height and bloom time.

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

4 to 6 pm Joe Fruehwald 6 to 7 Christina Muska

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Thursday, December 6th 4p - 7p Santa’s Workshop in La Vista Civic Center Park Clubhouse 8305 Parkview Blvd, La Vista Head to La Vista to visit with Santa, explore his workshop and enjoy treats and other fun holiday activities! (The event on December 6 will also feature live reindeer!) Other dates include Saturday, December 8, 9a - noon Thursday, December 13, 4p - 7p Saturday, December 15, 9a - noon Be sure to make a visit to Santa’s Workshop part of your holiday plans this year! More information online at http://cityofLa Vista.org/ ----------------------------------------------Friday, December 7th at 10a Llama Llama Holiday Drama Party La Vista Public Library, 9110 Giles Road, La Vista, NE 68128 Come celebrate the season with songs, crafts and holiday stories. ----------------------------------------------Friday, December 7th at 5p - 7p Art Aboard! Family Night Union Pacific Railroad Museum 200 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501 Create, learn, and play! Join us the first Friday of every month when we will be open 5-7p for activities and fun. uprrmuseum.org ----------------------------------------------Friday, December 7th at 6p - 8p Lights of Aksarben - Cocoa with a Cop Aksarben Village, 67th & Center St, Omaha, Nebraska 68106 Head to Stinson Park for the Lights of Aksarben presented by Pacific Life Aksarben Village and DJ’s Dugout Sports Bar. There will be a heated tent, free horse and carriage rides, face painting, and food and drink from Dudley’s Pizza & Tavern We are supporting the US Marines Toys for Tots Program this season and the First Responder’s from the Southwest Precinct will be here as well. Special thanks to Midwest Sound & Lighting, Avery Rents and Resource Rental for donating their services this season. Come have some fun with us and don’t forget to bring a toy for a child in need! Aksarben Village…where there is always something fun going on!

Saturday, December 8th at 10a - 6p & Sunday, December 9th at 10a - 6p The Giant Snow Globe Event Westroads Mall, 10000 California St. Bring the family and take home a memory! Walk into this 10-foot snow globe and get your photo taken with your loved ones. It’s a free event, happening at Westroads Mall, next to Flagship Commons. Open for photos 10a - 6p each day!

2901 Bass Pro Dr, Council Bluffs, IA Santa’s Wonderland is the ultimate free family Christmas event. The magic returns to Bass Pro Shops and debuts at Cabela’s in La Vista, 12703 Westport Pkwy, La Vista, Nebraska 68138 Families are invited to enjoy this enchanting Christmas village offering NEW THIS YEAR – Grab the family free 4x6 studio-quality photos with and climb into our antique sled for a Santa and free family holiday activities, memorable photo opportunity! including fun crafts and games. ---------------------------------------------The BEST part for each photo posted Family Night with Santa is included Through December 31 on social media with #GlobeofGiving, with Museum Admission and 32nd Annual Gingerbread Festival, Mutual 1st Federal will donate $1 Free for Museum Members! Mormon Trail Center at Historic to our community partner, Adults: $11, Seniors (62+): $8 Winter Quarters, 3215 State St. Child Saving Institute. Children (3–12): $7 the Mormon Trail Center is showing ----------------------------------------------- Children 2 years and under FREE the annual Gingerbread House Display Saturday, December 8th at 1p - 3p durhammuseum.org with viewing from 10a until 8p. each Holiday Open House & Christmas ---------------------------------------------- day. The 2018 theme is “Family (a Decorations Workshop Through December 24 glimpse of heaven).” The display is free La Vista Public Library, 9110 Giles Santa’s Wonderland @ Bass Pro Shops to attend. Road, La Vista, NE 68128 Enjoy holiday refreshments and festive music while browsing the library and connecting with others in the community. Live music will be provided by A Ring of Flutes. Several Christmas craft projects will be available for all ages to make as gifts. ----------------------------------------------Saturday, December 8th at 7p - 8p Sounds of the Season Gene Leahy Mall & Old Market Saturdays, thruDecember 22nd Rich Blues & More at Gene Leahy Mall – Arch at 11th & Farnam & Mater Dei Academy at Old Market – 11th & Howard Weather permitting. Check the Holiday Lights Festival’s Facebook page for updates at facebook.com/holidaylightsfestival/ ---------------------------------------------Tuesday, December 11th at 5p - 8p Family Night with Santa The Durham Museum 801 S 10th St, Omaha, 68108 Family Night with Santa -- one of the many holiday traditions that is part of Christmas at Union Station, presented by First National Bank of Omaha. During the busy holiday season, The Durham Museum makes it easy for families to create special memories.

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Santa and his reindeer visit the museum the first three Tuesday nights in December leading up to Christmas. Families can also take part in creating holiday crafts at the Mangelsen’s Craft Corner and enjoy live performances by local choirs and ensembles.

EVENTS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 Wednesday Night Ballroom Dances The Center, 7p FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 Art Aboard! Family Night Union Pacific Museum, 5p -----------------------------------------------Knockout Parties - DJ Jake The Mile Away Hall & Tavern, 7p -----------------------------------------------The End of the Road Weekend Amerisports, 8:30p SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 The Six - the final night! Amerisports, 8:30p -----------------------------------------------Joe Nichols wsg Morgan Myles Whiskey Roadhouse, 8:30p

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 5

THURSDAY DECEMBER 6

Omaha Symphonic Chorus Joslyn Art Museum, 12p ----------------------------------------------Carrie Jean’s Happy Hippie Hour The Down Under Lounge, 3p ----------------------------------------------Dr. Webb Music The Down Under Lounge, 4:20p ----------------------------------------------Beer, Bingo & Trivia Kros Strain Brewing Co., 6p ----------------------------------------------Ten Thousand Beers Scriptown Brewing Company, 6p ----------------------------------------------Daybreak, Ozone Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Do Or Die Smoke And Ride Tour Forte Music Hall, 7p ----------------------------------------------80’s Music Trivia Stocks n Bonds, 7p ----------------------------------------------Acoustic Open Mic Night The New Frontier Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------4 On The Floor, Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p ----------------------------------------------Mitch Towne Trio, Jambo Cat, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Creighton’s Classical Christmas: Lessons & Carols , St. John’s Parish, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Rayford Jones The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Comedy Open Mic Barley Street Tavern, 8p ----------------------------------------------DJ LAY-C, Bar 415, 9p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke w/ Host Adam Flohr Brokedown Palace, 9p ----------------------------------------------Mace Hathaway w/ The Cosmic String Riders, Harney Street, 9p ----------------------------------------------Throwbacks & Classics Love’s Jazz & Art Center, 9p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke Underground The Sydney, 9p

Shots for Tots Toy Drive Mercury - Drinks + Food, 4p ----------------------------------------------Mike Zito w/ Dodge Street Stocks n Bonds, 5p ----------------------------------------------UNO Jazz Combo Chrome Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Dominique Morgan The Union for Contemporary Art, 6p ----------------------------------------------UNO Jazz Combo Ozone Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Ugly Sweater Workshop Bärchen Beer , 7p ----------------------------------------------Happy Hour with Grace Holland Center Omaha, 7p ----------------------------------------------FILTH, The Machinist, The Tale Untold, Old Empires & Tetelestai Lookout Lounge, 7p ----------------------------------------------Acoustic Open Mic Night The New Frontier Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------Josh Sneed Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Trivia, The Sociable Inn, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Music Trivia Bingo Twisted Vine, Papillion, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------The Shineys Growler USA, 8p ----------------------------------------------R&B Thursdays w/ Sherri McPherson The Omaha Lounge, 8:30p ----------------------------------------------3OH!3 & Emo Nite: The Want HouseParty Tour w/ Lil Aaron The Waiting Room, 8p ----------------------------------------------Dirty Thursday w/ Vince Prince Bar 415, 9p ----------------------------------------------A Miracle on Barley Street: feat. tvrtledøve®, Siebe/Pratt & tba Barley Street Tavern, 9p

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Chad Lee Copacabana Cocktail Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Thirsty Thursday Karaoke Forte Music Hall, 9p ----------------------------------------------Ricky Szablowski Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Chris Shelton Dubliner Pub, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Side Talk The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p

FRIDAY DECEMBER 7 Bellevue East High School-East Street Jazz & Take 2 Joslyn Art Museum, 12p ----------------------------------------------Charlie Alley, Growler USA, 5p ----------------------------------------------LaughingFalcon, TheNaturalStates & Bogusm , The Sydney, 5p ----------------------------------------------High Country American Legion Post #1, 5:30p ----------------------------------------------Grand Opening Celebration The Capitol District Ice RInk, 5:45p ----------------------------------------------Out of the Whirlwind:Rachel Droppers Citylight Arts Project, 6p ----------------------------------------------Rat Pack Duo , Gorat’s, 6p ----------------------------------------------First Fridays w/The Steve Thornburg Trio w/ Noelle, The Market Basket, 6p ----------------------------------------------Chris Shelton, The Cove, 6p ----------------------------------------------Lights of Aksarben, Stinson Park, 6p ----------------------------------------------Opening Reception: The Unreal Wild The B SIde of Benson Theatre, 6p ----------------------------------------------70’s Band, Bogie’s West, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Benefit show for Mike, (Uncle Smiley) Webb, Lookout Lounge, 7p ----------------------------------------------Friday Night Karaoke!! Millard VFW Post 8334, 7p ----------------------------------------------Room 101, Petshop, 7p

Not U Two, Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p ----------------------------------------------Hallow Point, TenDead, Wicked Sun Wired Pub, 7p ----------------------------------------------Josh Sneed, Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Jitterbugs’ Night w/ UNO Big Band Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 38, 8p ----------------------------------------------Aaron Stroessner, Jambo Cat, 8p ----------------------------------------------Pineapple Karaoke, Twisted Post, 8p ----------------------------------------------Joe Nichols wsg Morgan Myles Whiskey Roadhouse, 8p ----------------------------------------------Preoccupations & Protomartyr w/ Rattle, The Waiting Room, 8:30p ----------------------------------------------Sebastian Lane’s Barley Street Blues Jam, Barley Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Double Treble, Burrito Envy, 9p ----------------------------------------------Bad Habit, Chrome Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Daddy Mac & the Flak Copacabana Cocktail Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Hookt , Forte Music Hall, 9p ----------------------------------------------The North Fork Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Trivia Night, Julio’s, 9p ----------------------------------------------Wicked Fun, On The Q St. Bar, 9p ----------------------------------------------Eric Dadourian Live Album Recording O’Leaver’s Pub, 9p ----------------------------------------------Lemon Fresh Day, Ozone Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Felly w/ Gyyps, Trip Carter, Slowdown,9p ----------------------------------------------Naughty & Nice Comedy Night The Verdict, 9p Royce Johns, Beer Can Alley, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Connor Dowling, Dubliner Pub, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Vince Swaney Band The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p -----------------------------------------------

SATURDAY DECEMBER 8 Jon Dee Graham and Ben De La Cour The B. Side of Benson Theatre, 6p ---------------------------------------------Jorge Nila Trio , Gorat’s, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Donovan Johnson 2018 Love’s Jazz & Art Center, 7p --------------------------------------------Karaoke Night Millard VFW Post 8334, 7p --------------------------------------------Disney Date Night: Sips & Dips Omaha Ballroom, 7p --------------------------------------------Middle Kids, The Sydney, 7p --------------------------------------------Carrie-oke Entertainment (Karaoke) American Legion Post #1, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Justin Timberlake - The Man Of The Woods Tour , CHI Health Center, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Karaoke & Music, Smitty’s Garage, 8p --------------------------------------------Mischief, Therapy Bar & Grill, 8p --------------------------------------------Mark Stuart Concert The New Frontier Bar, 7p -------------------------------------------Toy Drive for Pine Ridge Benefit Reverb Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Toy Drive for Pine Ridge Benefit The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------palindroSeff, Bar 415, 9p --------------------------------------------Captiva, Port Nocturnal & Kid Computer, Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------Sunny Sweeney, Ward Davis, and Brennen Leigh, Buck’s Bar and Grill, 9p --------------------------------------------Odyssey, Chrome Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Blue House, Copacabana Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Domestic Blend, Harney Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------Eckophonic, Ozone Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Power 106.9’s December To Remember Christmas Party Slowdown, 9p --------------------------------------------Mr. Sinister, American Dream, 9:30p --------------------------------------------Bleed The Dream, Gallivan, The Long Awaited & Badsquatch O’Leaver’s Pub, 9:30p --------------------------------------------- Supper w/ MRMC$ The Dow Under Lounge, 9:30p

Connor Dowling, The Dubliner, 9:30p --------------------------------------------Great Team Hero Therapy Bar & grill, 10p

SUNDAY DECEMBER 9 Lash LaRue’s The Toy Drive Reverb Lounge, 9a --------------------------------------------Arts & Drafts, Dubliner Pub, 1p --------------------------------------------Holiday Harmony w/ Vince Baker Lauritzen Gardens, 1p --------------------------------------------Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration Holland Performing Arts Center, 2p --------------------------------------------Toy Drive & Stocking Design Leavenworth Bar, 2p --------------------------------------------Generations & Still Here Party American Legion Post #1, 3p --------------------------------------------Blues Society of Omaha Toy Drive for Pine Ridge, Chrome Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Jazz to the World 9 FirstCentralCongregationalChurch,4p --------------------------------------------Toys for Tots Showcase & Dance Omaha Ballroom, 4p --------------------------------------------Holiday Harmony w/ Ashley Mohling, Lauritzen Gardens, 5p --------------------------------------------New D.U. Smash Sunday! The Down Under Lounge, 5p --------------------------------------------Irish music session, Brazen Head, 6p --------------------------------------------Aaron Bressman & the Tribe The Waiting Room Lounge, 6p -------------------------------------------Customer Appreciation Night! Jerry’s Bar, 7p --------------------------------------------A Summer High with Bronnie and The Catching, Lookout Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------FREE Booze Bingo! The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Epic Duets Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p

MONDAY DECEMBER 10 Aly Peeler and Andrew Bailie Monarch Prime & Bar, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Ozone Band, Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------continued on page 11

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Thursday December 6

3OH!3 & Emo Night WAITING ROOM

Saturday December 8

Thursday December 6

Mike Zito w/ Dodge Street STOCKS N BONDS

Monday December 10

Symphony Justin Timberlake - The Christmas Celebration Man Of The Woods Tour HOLLAND CENTER CHI HEALTH CENTER

Friday December 7

Joe Nichols with Morgan Myles

Friday December 7

Grand Opening

CAPITOL DISTRICT WHISKEY ROADHOUSE ICE RINK

Monday December 10

Saturday December 8

Toy Drive for Pine Ridge

REVERB LOUNGE & WAITING ROOM

Tuesday December 11

Daughtry with Travis Scott Dave Koz & Friends Freakabout ORPHEUM THEATRE CHI HEALTH CENTER ORPHEUM THEATRE

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Early Karaoke Forte Music Hall, 7p --------------------------------------------BINGO at Southwest Infusion Brewing Company, 7p --------------------------------------------Herbe Sainte Pop-Up for AFSP Reverb lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------Mafia Trivia, Vis Major Brewing, 7p --------------------------------------------Travis Scott Astroworld: Wish You Were Here Tour CHI Health Center, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Dave Koz & Friends: Christmas Tour Orpheum Theatre, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Michelle Eva Bleu w/ B. Baldwin The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------As Cities Burn, Salt Creek + more Lookout Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Pub Quiz, The Sydney, 8p --------------------------------------------William Elliott Whitmore w/ Raye Zaragoza, The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------Open Mic Barley Street Tavern, 9p

TUESDAY DECEMBER 11 Omaha Holiday Luncheon & Silent Aucton, Field Club of Omaha, 11a --------------------------------------------CHAIR-ity Silent Auction Artists’ Cooperative Gallery, 12p --------------------------------------------GO NACE December Program: Ugly Sweater Happy Hour Doubletree Downtown, 4p --------------------------------------------Open Mic & Jam w/ Tony Romero Therapy Bar & Grill, 6p --------------------------------------------Grey’s Anatomy Trivia Big Red Restaurant, 7p --------------------------------------------Science Cafe, Slowdown, 7p --------------------------------------------Mitche Towne Jazz Organ Trio Jambo Cat, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Daughtry with Freakabout Orpheum Theatre, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Hector Anchondo The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Open Mic Jam Brokedown Palace, 8p ---------------------------------------------

Spencer’s WILD Bar Trivia The Down Under, 8p --------------------------------------------Aqueous with Goose The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------Turbo Tuesdays w/ Vic Nasty Bar 415, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Jam hosted by Scott Moyer Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------Toppin’ the Charts Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p

www.focusomaha.com

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Bad Voodoo Daddy has played with orchestras and before three U.S. presidents. They were frequent guests on the Jay Leno Show and played the Super Bowl XXXIII halftime. And that’s the short list. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy doesn’t just pay tribute to swing. The band creates a lot of original material

“Twenty-five years old. Original members, seven of us,” Sodergren said. Cooper on lead trumpet is one of the newer additions. “He’s just a smokin’ player. Joined us a little over a year ago.” By Howard Schwartz Cooper also is the band’s youngster at 26 and was introduced to Big Bad Around since 1994, Big Bad Voodoo Voodoo Daddy when he saw them as Daddy brings its Wild and Swingin’ a kid. Holiday Party to Omaha for a special Focus concert at the Ramada Plaza This isn’t the first band for Sodergren next Wednesday, December 12. and Morris – the band’s co-founders. Sodergren said the move to swing These guys have been on tour nearly nonstop since their founding in Venice, was Morris’s idea. “We were a trio at California. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s all the time and we were playing kind of original core line-up includes guitarist- swampy blues.” vocalist Scotty Morris, drummer Kurt Sodergren, vocalist and double bassist That blues connection explains the name – it comes from an autograph Dirk Shumaker, Andy Rowley on signed by the legendary Albert Collins. baritone saxophone and vocals, Glen “The Kid” Marhevka on trumpet, Karl “Scott wanted to do bigger things,” Hunter on saxophones and clarinet, and pianist-arranger and Joshua Levy. Sodergren said. “We were familiar Alex Henderson has joined the band on with the music, but we really hadn’t performed it very much.” trombone and Mitchell Cooper adds another trumpet. So, the one-time punk rockers took lessons, made the big change, and Sodergren took time to talk to Focus this week before a California show. He started playing gigs. They also got a big recalled having played Omaha but, the break when the appeared in a movie featuring the then-unknown Vince details were sketchy. Vaughan. “We’re on the road probably 150 days “We got the Swingers (movie a year . . . but I know I’ve been there appearance) and that really opened up before.” the doors to going across the States,” Sodergren recalled. A quarter century on the road can do that to a man. The BBVD lineup has It’s now roughly 3,000 live shows been amazingly stable. and about a dozen albums later. Big

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

“We’re going to get together in January and probably start working on new material,” he said. A busy year has kept Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on the road and delayed any anniversary events. They hope to get together in January and begin work on some new material.

“Hopefully get something hammered out by the middle of the year.” Then there is a little thing on the calendar called a tour of Hawaii in January That plays through the holiday music, as well. “Our Christmas records, too. “We all said yes to that immediately,” They’re not (all) original songs, but Sodergren laughed. they’re original arrangements.” A high energy show can be expected Anyone who’s played in a band knows on Wednesday at The Ramada Plaza. most of them don’t last 25 years. Sodergren said it’s no mystery why “We’re really excited to come out BBVD is still around. again. I’m looking forward to making some more Omaha memories and “Everyone in the band is really cool, keeping them this time,” Sodergren if I can be as simplistic as possible,” said. he offered. “There’s not a lot of ego. Everyone just truly enjoys playing the For more on Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: music.” www.bbvd.com facebook.com/BigBadVoodooDaddy They are the most obvious survivors instagram.com/ of the early 1990s swing revival, but bigbadvoodoodaddyofficial/ Sodergren said the movement is far youtube.com/user/bbvdofficial from dead. twitter.com/BBVD “I see other bands out,” he said. Squirrel Nut Zippers are out, he observed, and Cherry Poppin’ Daddies do some shows. Former Stray Cat Brian Setzer does his holiday shows as well. Morris writes the songs and Levy arranges, Sodergren said. “It’s a pretty good unit we have.”

BBVD Takes a Swing at the Ramada Plaza

and tour on it. Now that often is set up before October.

“It is still happening,” Sodergren stated. “We just kept doing our things and branching out . . . If people want to see us come and play, we’ll come and play.” Next week’s Omaha performance is the band’s Christmas show. Sodergren said that shouldn’t come as a surprise as one of their first records was a Christmas EP. Their first full-length Christmas record came out in 2004. It was fun for the band and they soon realized they could do a whole show

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

The Simple Man By Focus Omaha The Simple Man is a store for all men, and if I can could sum it up in three words it would be- not so simple. This is a store that is all about men and the real treat is that inside you can find the great quality clothes that for those of us that are older (not that younger men mind great quality), we truly miss.

style and quality of clothes that a guy is looking for in a casual men’s store.” It’s also worth noting that you don’t have to feel uncomfortable asking questions, because Boyd and his staff will make you feel right at home. They will also be available for a popup at The Lounge at Westroads on December 14-16, so if you happen to be Mall shopping you can also catch them there and the following weekend with “A Local Collective” in front of Von Mauer.

From original Navy Pea Coats by Schott (the real ones), to everything a guy could want- or need for this holiday season. They also carry Thorogood shoes and even Reuzel hair care products. If you have that special man in your family that already has everything under the sun, this is the place where you can find a unique item that’s sure to put the smile on his face for style and originality. After all, that’s why owner Boyd Redinbaugh refers to it as, “A modern day mercantile for men.” After 15 years in the transportation and safety industry Redinbaugh says that he started the store because he felt that, “Omaha didn’t have the

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Pediatric brain cancer is topic of Dec. 11 Omaha Science Cafe By Focus Omaha This Science Café is being held in partnership with the Team Jack Foundation www.teamjackfoundation.org

Jonathan Schwartz, D.O., assistant professor in the division of pediatric hematology/oncology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, will discuss research and awareness for pediatric brain cancer at the next Omaha Science Café at 7 p.m. on Dec. 11 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St.

Dr. Schwartz is a pediatric neurooncologist who joined the pediatric brain tumor program at UNMC this summer. The program is funded by a $3 million grant from the Team Jack Foundation. He brings a specialization in pediatric brain tumors that was previously not available to children and families in Nebraska. Dr. Schwartz received his doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from Touro University in Nevada and completed his residency at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. He did fellowships in pediatric hematology and neuro-oncology at Children’s Hospital of Michigan at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. This Science Café is being held in collaboration with the Team Jack Foundation, named after Jack Hoffman, a pediatric brain cancer survivor, from Atkinson, Neb. Hoffman’s parents, Andy and Bri Hoffman, formed the foundation in 2013 to raise awareness and funding for pediatric brain cancer research.

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Science Cafés involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are open to everyone (21 and older) and take place in casual settings like pubs and coffeehouses. Each meeting is organized around an interesting topic of conversation. A scientist gives a brief presentation followed by a Q-and-A period. Pizza will be provided for the first 50 people provided by The Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures. For more information about Science Cafes, go to www.unmc.edu/sciencecafe.

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ALL SESSIONS & CHAMPIONSHIP TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

HOMEPRIDETIX.COM Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Nebraska and Creighton Sports By Focus Omaha Creighton Basketball

The Creighton Bluejays (6-2) looked to build on the success of their Cayman Islands Classic championship during the past week and did just that. On Wednesday a Montana team that won 26 games last year and made the NCAA Tournament came to town. The Grizzlies put up a battle before CU put them away in a 98-72 win. Five players scored in double figures for CU with a sixth adding nine points. Saturday, in from of more than 18,500 at the CHI Health Center, the Jays took on top-ranked Gonzaga in a battle of Jesuit schools that had CU leading for 26 minutes of action. Expected to be high scoring, it was, as Creighton fell 103-92 and a national TV audience watched. Zach Norvell Jr. dropped 23 in the second half for the Zags in a performance reminiscent of his demo job last year at Spokane. He finished with 28 to lead three Gonzaga players who topped 20 points. Ty-Shon Alexander lead Creighton with 27 points to maintain his team lead. Creighton looks nothing like the team that sputtered to a 2-1 start in Omaha before heading to the islands. Built around a talented group of freshmen and sophomores, the team’s rapid growth has surprised many. This week they moved to No. 24 in The Athletic’s poll of the nation’s top teams. A measuring stick comes Saturday in Lincoln when they meet Nebraska with the Jays looking for an eighth straight win in the I-80 series.

Nebraska Basketball

Although it may be hard to believe that the Huskers haven’t won ten straight conference home games since a 12game stretch spanning the 1965-66 and 1966-67 seasons, it’s true. And for those diehard Husker basketball fans, maybe not so surprising. But there’s new life in the Husker hopeful and with good reason as they continue to improve as they head to the big showdown at home in Lincoln this weekend against Creighton. The Huskers didn’t get sidetracked at home against Illinois, as they soundly defeated the not so Fighting Illini by the final score of 75-60. James Palmer Jr. has another good game and added 23 points. Palmer now has his third 20-point game this season and 11 for his career. It also helped that Nebraska, who at times has struggled at the charity stripe, made 25of its 30 free throws for 84%. Palmer Jr. talked about the importance of attacking the rim against a stiff Illinois defense after the game, ““As a team, we definitely wanted to get to the free throw line. We know they extend their defense and pressure, so you just want to get to the basket.” Glynn Watson Jr. also had 14 points, and is a key factor in getting hot early if Head Coach Tim Miles wants to finally win his first game against Creighton’s Greg McDermott. But not to get ahead of myself, the Huskers also have one more conference game to take care of at Minnesota Wednesday at 8pm. The Creighton game will be played in Lincoln on Saturday at 5pm.

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Jorge Nila Jazz Trio – With Joe Voda and Kevin Lloyd

Nila is excited about the new project. “Gorat’s is starting to have some different music in there and we’re one of them,” he said. “That room kind of caters to an older crowd.” Of the Trio: “It’s a different crew . . . Kevin Lloyd on keyboards, a tremendous talent . . . Very talented cat.” They play together in Ninja Funk, but Nila is also honored to share a stage with Voda.

couldn’t play, but plant-based eating and other work has him back on the scene.

“I’m back and that’s all that matters,” Nila said. “I just can’t play every night.” That is happening more and By Eddie Torrez more in different ensembles. Saturday marks the latest debut of a “I got a new record out. It’s legend, who really hasn’t been missing. called Tenor Time,” Nila said. Native Omahan and “The Mayor” of Drum City, Joe Voda, ace guitarist Dave Stryker will join local sax ace Jorge Nila and played on it and produced. keyboard whiz Kevin Lloyd in the Jorge Nila Jazz Trio at Gorat’s Steak House. “Everybody I play with are a lot younger As with many jazz The music starts at 6 p.m. than me. Some are even half my age,” ensembles in the city, things Voda laughed. “I had a business for 41 change often. Nila says he’ll Drummer Voda, 83, who closed his years . . . I played professionally before hire Voda every chance he long-standing store in 2001, resumed that.” gets. He’s also excited by performing a couple years ago with what he sees around the the opening of Jambo Cat in Dundee. But after he started the business, which metro area. Nila, who dealt with some health issues, had a 41-year run, there wasn’t often also has been back on the scene. Lloyd time to perform. “The Omaha music scene is seems to be playing somewhere every really vibrant now . . . and night, which is a very good thing. “There was quite a few years I didn’t it’s live. We just have to play at all,” he recalled. support it.” Voda played at the old Red Lion back Voda also is pleased to again be a part in the day and at Jambo Cat for the of the scene after spending many of his last couple years since it started. early years playing around the nation following his stint in the military. “That’s how I got out of retirement, to tell you the truth,” he stated. “I’m just lucky I’m still able to do some of those things,” Voda said. Many old Voda works for the Omaha Public friendships have been renewed with Schools when called upon to repair folks he hasn’t seen since he closed the percussion instruments and enjoys drum store. the company and talents of the younger musicians. In addition to Saturday night at Gorat’s, “They’re great players,” Voda said. Voda will be playing December 22nd at “When you’re 83 years old it’s not Jambo Cat. There’s nothing like live like being twenty-some years old . . jazz to warm a soul on a cold winter . I can still hang in there.” night. Nila was hanging in there for a “It looks like it’s going to be a long while but is getting back on his winter” Voda said. For him, that means game. you need to, “Come on out.” “I had a heart attack in 2012 and there were some complications,” he recalled. Three years ago he

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

For more on Jorge Nila: https://www.facebook.com/jorge. nila.581

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Report to President Trump on Reforming America’s Healthcare System Through Choice and Competition By Focus Omaha The President The White House Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: On October 12, 2017, through Executive Order 13813, you directed the Administration, to the extent consistent with the law, to facilitate the development and operation of a health care system that provides high-quality care at affordable prices for the American people by promoting choice and competition. We are pleased to provide you with this report, prepared by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in collaboration with the Departments of the Treasury and Labor, the Federal Trade Commission, and several offices within the White House. This report describes the influence of state and federal laws, regulations, guidance, and policies on choice and competition in health care markets and identifies actions that states or the Federal Government could take to develop a better functioning health care market. As health care spending continues to rise, Americans are not receiving the commensurate benefit of living longer, healthier lives. Health care bills are too complex, choices are too restrained, and insurance premiums and out-ofpocket costs are climbing faster than wages and tax revenue. Health care

Patients First,” a historic blueprint for actions to bring down the high price of drugs and reduce out-of-pocket costs. HHS has taken a number of actions that were laid out in the blueprint to empower consumers and promote competition, building on accomplishments such as the Food and The Administration has already taken significant steps to improve health care Drug Administration’s record pace of generic drug approvals. markets by addressing government rules and programs that limit choice In December 2017, you signed the Tax and competition and produce higher prices for the American people. Among Cuts and Jobs Act, which eliminated the onerous and regressive individual the most significant actions: mandate tax penalty. This freed Americans to finance their health care In October 2018, the Departments of HHS, the Treasury, and Labor proposed needs in the way that works best for them. a rule that would provide employers with significant new flexibility in how The Administration has enacted they fund health coverage through Health Reimbursement Arrangements reforms to deliver better value through choice and competition in the (HRAs). If finalized, this flexibility Medicare program, including payment would empower individuals to take changes that establish site-neutral greater control over what health payment policies for a number of insurance benefits they receive. The Medicare services, a simplification of Treasury estimates that more than 10 how physicians are paid for evaluation million employees would benefit from and management visits, new consumerthis change within the next decade. transparency measures, and flexibility for insurers to offer more options and In August 2018, the Departments of HHS, the Treasury, and Labor finalized benefits in Medicare Advantage. a rule to expand Americans’ ability to purchase short-term, limited-duration HHS and the Treasury have issued revised guidance under section 1332 insurance—coverage for which of the ACA that significantly expands premiums are generally much more the ability of states to reform their affordable than Affordable Care Act individual insurance markets while (ACA) plans. Millions of Americans, ensuring that people with pre-existing including middle-class families who conditions are protected. cannot afford ACA plans, will benefit from the additional choice and competition resulting from this reform. While the Administration has made much progress in reforming the American health care system In June 2018, the Labor Department finalized a rule to expand the ability of significant obstacles remain. This report identifies four areas where employers, including sole proprietors federal and state rules inhibit adequate without common law employees, to join together and offer health coverage choice and competition and offers through Association Health Plans. For recommendations for improving public many employers, employees, and their policy in each of these four areas. families, these employee benefit plans Health Care Workforce and Labor will offer greater flexibility and more Markets: Reduced competition among affordable benefits. clinicians leads to higher prices for In May 2018, HHS released “American health care services, reduces choice, markets could work more efficiently and Americans could receive more effective, high-value care if we remove and revise certain federal and state regulations and policies that inhibit choice and competition.

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

and negatively impacts overall health care quality and the efficient allocation of resources. Government policies have suppressed competition by reducing the available supply of providers and restricting the range of services that they can offer. This report recommends policies that will broaden providers’ scope of practice while improving workforce mobility, including telehealth, to encourage innovation and to allow providers more easily to meet patients’ needs. The report also recommends that the Federal Government streamline funding for graduate medical education to allocate taxpayer dollars efficiently and to address physician supply shortages. Health Care Provider Markets: State policies that restrict entry into provider markets can stifle innovative and more cost-effective ways to provide care while limiting choice and competition. These policies have resulted in higher health care prices and fewer incentives for providers to improve quality. This report makes several recommendations to promote choice and competition in provider markets, including state action to repeal or scale back Certificate of Need laws and encourage the development of value-based payment models that offer flexibility and risk-based incentives for providers, especially without unduly burdening small or rural practices. Health Care Insurance Markets: Government mandates often reduce choice and competition in insurance markets and increase overall premiums. In the individual and small group markets, many consumers face limited coverage options that cover services they do not want or need and that drive up premiums, while others have been completely priced out of the market. Regulations that limit coverage choices should be changed so that states have more flexibility to develop policies that account for diverse consumer preferences. This

report recommends scaling back government mandates, eliminating barriers to competition, and allowing consumers maximum opportunity to purchase health insurance that meets their needs. Consumer-Driven Health Care: Our health care systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excessive reliance on third-party payment insulates consumers from the true price of health care and offers them little incentive to search for low-cost, high-quality care. When federal and state health policies give consumers more control over their health care dollars, they can use that power to demand greater value. For example, promoting and expanding Health Saving Accounts (HSAs) and HRAs would expand personal control and introduce more consumer power into the health care market. The report recommends expanding access to HSAs, implementing reference pricing where appropriate, and developing price and quality transparency initiatives to ensure that newly empowered health care consumers can make well-informed decisions about their care. We know the United States health care system too often fails to deliver the value it should. This report identifies barriers on the federal and state levels to market competition that stifle innovation, lead to higher prices, and do not incentivize improvements in quality. It recommends policies that will foster a health care system that delivers high-quality care at affordable prices through greater choice, competition, and consumer-

directed health care spending. While American consumers and many providers would significantly benefit from the reforms laid out in this report, there are entrenched and powerful special interest groups that reap large profits from the status quo. It will take bold leadership to confront these incumbents and implement reforms, but under your direction, we are convinced we can significantly improve the American health care system. We look forward to working with you as we create a more effective and efficient health care market that provides information for consumers as they make health care decisions for their families, rewards quality, encourages innovation, and delivers care at prices the American people can afford. Sincerely, /Alex M. Azar II/ Alex. M Azar II Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services /Steven T. Mnuchin/ Steven T. Mnuchin Secretary U.S. Department of the Treasury /Alexander Acosta/ Alexander Acosta Secretary U.S. Department of Labor

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BLUECAPITALWEALTH.COM | 402-502-9322 3814 FARNAM ST. STE 202 Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Federal Housing Finance Agency Raises Limits By Focus Omaha The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced it will raise the national conforming loan limit for 2019 by 6.9 percent from $453,100 to $484,350. In addition, the high-cost limit will rise from $679,650 to $726,525. As a result, loan limits will be higher in all but 47 counties or county equivalents across the country beginning on January 1, 2019. The FHFA’s limits define the maximum

one unit single-family mortgage amounts that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may finance and are also used to define the loan limits for the Federal Housing Administration’s program. These limits are important for funding home sales in high-cost coastal markets like California, Virginia, and Maryland, but are increasingly important in other markets across like Nashville and Denver, along with those in Utah and Wyoming.

countless families working with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Without this assurance that loan limits keep up with home price growth, borrowers across the country risk being pushed out of the market altogether as mortgage rates and rising home prices continue to hold back potential homebuyers,” said NAR President John Smaby, a second-generation Realtor® from Edina, Minnesota, and broker at Edina Realty.

“The National Association of Realtors® is pleased to see the Federal Housing Finance Agency raise its national conforming loan limits for 2019. Today’s decision reflects rising or near record high home prices in many U.S. markets, and the move helps keep the American Dream within reach for

Visit the FHFA’s Conforming Loan Limits page to view for the new limit in your county.

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Each year, the FHFA updates the national and high-cost limits based on the FHFA’s national price index. The market for private financing

has improved but remains hobbled since the Great Recession, requiring more onerous standards of wouldbe homebuyers who do not possess pristine credit and/or face higher rates than those charged by the Enterprises.

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

THE MOTET WITH MUNGION AT THE WAITING ROOM 12/01/18

BARRETT’S BARLEYCORN 4322 Leavenworth St. M-F 4P-6P $2.25 Domestic Bottles $3.00 Well Drinks BROKEDOWN PALACE 8805 Maple St. Happy Hour 12P-6P $4 28 oz Domestic Frozen Mugs $5 28 oz Nebraska Brewing Cardinal Pale Ale Frozen Mug CADDYSHACK 2076 N 117th Ave & 7007 S 181st St M-F 2P-6P $1 Off Beer, Wine & Wells TUES- HAPPY HOUR All Day 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, $8 Pitchers of Bud Light & Miller Light, $2 Tacos & $8 Nachos KOZEE LOUNGE 5813 N 60th St. Daily Drink Specials! LEAVENWORTH BAR 4556 Leavenworth St. M-F 12P-7P LOOKOUT LOUNGE 320 S 72nd St. EVERY DAY 4-7, MIDNIGHT - 2 AM $2 PBR, $2.50 Domestic Bottles , $3 Wells, $3 Fireball 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

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 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 $1 Off All TapBeers $4 Svedka, $4 Windsor, $4 Sauza Silver, $4 Cruzan Rum RAILCAR MODERN AMERICAN KITCHEN 1814 N 144th St. M-F 3:30-6:30P $4 Well Drinks $3 Off Signature Cocktails SCRIPTOWN 3922 Farnam M-F 4P - 6P $1 Off Beers & $1 Off Well Drinks SMITTY’S GARAGE 7610 Dodge St. Everyday 3P - 6P & 9P - CLOSE $2.50 Domestics THURSDAYS $1 OFF Local Beer Draws 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 7103 Military Ave M-F 4P-6P $12 Domestic Buckets

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | - December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47

Focus | December 5- December11 | Volume 2 Issue 47