VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2 - JANUARY 7 | 2019
YOUR
FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC
EVENTS Art Exhibits & more
LIVE Anu Ratzburg from Sherry Drive
NEWSWEEKLY
SPORTS College Basketball
HEALTH CBD Products Entering the Food Industry
TABLE OF CONTENTS
YOUR
ARY 7 | 2019 | JANUARY 2 - JANU WEEKLY VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1 CE, & MUSIC NEWS ENT, PERSONAL FINAN
FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINM
4 EVENTS
Art Exhibits & more
LIVE
Anu Ratzburg from Sherry Drive
FOCUS ON THIS WEEK! THE ARTS
SPORTS
College Basketball
HEALTH
CBD Products Entering the Food Industry
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FAMILY
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EVENTS
Your Daily Guide
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ON TEN
Top Ten Events By Focus Omaha
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THIS WEEKS FEATURE
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SPORTS
Nebraska Basketball By Focus Omaha
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THE SHOPS AT COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE
Countryside Village Directory By Focus Omaha
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FOCUS ON BENSON
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HEALTH
CBD Trend is now entering the Food Industry By Focus Omaha
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SPORTS
Nebraska Basketball By Focus Omaha
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LIVE
Anu Ratzburg from Sherry Drive Branches Out By Focus Omaha
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FINANCE
Statement by Secretary Mnuchin Commemorating the One Year Anniversary of Historic Tax Cuts By Michael Herek Sponsored By Blue Capitol Wealth
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REAL ESTATE
Flood Insurance Will still be offered in spite of shutdown By Focus Omaha
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HAPPY HOUR
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 your needs.
Focus 7914 W Dodge Rd. # 413 Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 208-6545 focusomaha@gmail.com www.focusomaha.com
Friday, January 4 | 5p Benson First Friday Art Opening Featuring Donald Thayer | 6p - 9p The B Side of Benson Theatre 6058 Maple St., Omaha, Nebraska Movement, line, and color are the elements which inspire Donald to create. His hope is for the viewer to have an emotional, instinctive response to what they are seeing. -----------------------------------------------Friday, January 4 | 6p-9p Transcendence Opening Reception The Little Gallery Benson, 5901 Maple The first exhibition of 2019, curated by Marie-Elena Schembri, is an invitation to delve into the unsung stories of resolution, perseverance and liberation that are most often shared quietly over a cup of coffee, behind closed doors or with a select few who share a common purpose.
Through January 25 Bart Vargas: AMALGAMATIONS Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. Inspired by pop culture, Vargas’ works stand out as playful and entertaining ceramic figures. Admission: free. 8a- 5p Monday thru Friday http://www. artscouncil.nebraska.gov/opportunities/for-artists/fred-simon-gallery-exhibition.html -----------------------------------------------UPCOMING at TICKETOMAHA Russian, French and American Tales: Exhibition will run through January A Festival 26th. Please contact artist directly for January 11-19, 2019 inquiries about the show and artwork Holland Performing Arts Center sales. -----------------------------------------------Windborne’s Music of George is best known for the Great Michael Jackson Plains Black History Museum logo in January 12, Holland Performing Arts his home town of Omaha; Ne. George -----------------------------------------------has done book cover illustrations for Disney’s ALADDIN several authors. January 16-27, Orpheum Theater “Transcendence” provides a window ------------------------------------------------ -----------------------------------------------into these very private stories about Saturday, January 5 | 6p-11p Living the Dream the choices we make to become our The Blues at Metro January 21, 2019 best, most authentic selves. Whether Metropolitan Community College Holland Performing Arts Center that means breaking free from School of Culinary Arts - Bldg 22 -----------------------------------------------unhealthy cycles, overcoming The opening of our featured artist in Sidewalk Chalk addictions or even resisting harmful January, George Garrett III. January 25, Scott Recital Hall yet socially acceptable behaviors, all ------------------------------------------------ -----------------------------------------------these stories paint a picture of what it Through January 6 Dave Stryker means to seek a better way of being in Holiday Poinsettia Show January 26, 2019, Scott Recital Hall the world. Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. -----------------------------------------------Thousands of poinsettias bursting Omaha Symphony “Transcendence” runs through Jan. 26 with rich, vibrant color fill the floral Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Hours are:Tuesday-Friday, 3p to 6p display hall in a glowing tribute to the South Pacific in Concert Saturday, 10a to 1p, + by appointment holidays during the spectacular holiday January 26-27, 2019 ------------------------------------------------ poinsettia show. In the center of it all, Holland Performing Arts Center Friday, January 4 | 7p-10p a magnificent and majestic 20-foot-tall -----------------------------------------------Joe Addison’s “The Most Viable poinsettia tree stands tall. Surrounded AIR PLAY Option” , Jake’s Cigars, 6206 Maple St. by a cascade of twinkling white lights, Mar 16 2019 “The Most Viable Option” is a shoutout glittering ornaments and the whir and Orpheum Theater to all of my fellow artists and creatives whistle of model garden trains, this Ride the wind and dream with AIR working in the restaurant/bar industry show evokes the warmest greetings of PLAY, a modern spectacle that brings as a way to make ends meet. The work goodwill and cheer. to life the very air we breathe. Flying isn’t about resentment but it’s also not umbrellas, larger-than-life balloons, about glamorization—it’s just the most More than 5000 poinsettias in 26 giant kites floating over the audience viable option. different varieties were grown for the and the biggest snow globe you’ve ever 2018 display. The exhibit will be illumi- seen will make you gasp in wonder and Joe Addison lives and works in Omaha, nated from 5 to 8p on select evenings laugh until it hurts. Nebraska. When not waiting tables, for Holiday Poinsettia Show Aglow. -----------------------------------------------he can be found playing the role of: Upcoming Exhibits Photography Lab-Tech at The Union for Durham Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Contemporary Arts, Mentor through January 19, Oliver Jeffers:
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Kent Bellows Mentoring Program, or Co-Curator at Petshop Gallery. Guess he’s always an artist… He has studied Art in Omaha and Denver and exhibits nationally. View his artwork and more at joeaddisonphotography.com -----------------------------------------------Friday, January 4| 7p-9p George Garrett III Star Deli, 6114 Military Ave The opening of our featured artist in January, George Garrett III.
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
15 Years of Picturing Books, February 2, 30 Americans & Fred Tomaselli -----------------------------------------------The Omaha Public Library and Lauritzen Gardens announced that they will be the latest partner to offer free admission to library patrons. “As Omaha’s public garden, we exist for the enjoyment and education of the entire community,” said John Newman, Lauritzen Gardens’ executive director. “We hope that this partnership will allow more families access to the garden, giving them the opportunity to experience the joys of nature year-round.” Each of the library’s 12 locations will have one day pass per location available year-round to adults who are Douglas County residents or have a non-resident paid membership to the library. Each pass will admit two adults and children from their household. Only one pass may be issued per library card and customer. Passes must be returned to any Omaha library location within five days of checkout. Unreturned or late passes will be subject to a $5 replacement fee. To see which library locations have passes available, people will be able to visitwww.omahalibrary.org and search for “Lauritzen Gardens” in the online catalog or call any Omaha library branch to check availability. Lauritzen Gardens joins Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, Fontenelle Forest and the Omaha Children’s Museum as the fourth community organization offering free admission through the Omaha Public Library. For more information, go to omahalibrary.org.
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Thursday, January 3 | 2p-2:45p Winter Fun Day: Cinderella Workshop with the Omaha Symphony Milton R. Abrahams Branch Celebrate music with Omaha Symphony over winter break! This program will feature attendees acting out the story of Cinderella through ballet and movement with an Omaha Symphony artist. This special workshop will explore the early literacy skills of singing, playing, talking and reading. The program is recommended for children ages 3-7, but children of all ages are welcome. Registration is required https://omaha.bibliocommons.com/ events/5be3512d472c6e2b00fc46c8 -----------------------------------------------Friday, January 4 |5:30p-8p Pajama Jam! Family Night at the UP Museum, Union Pacific Railroad Museum, 200 Pearl St, Council Bluffs,
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Create, learn, and play! Throw on your jammies, grab your favorite plush friend, and come join the fun. Enjoy hot chocolate, games, and a pajama parade to end the festivities. -----------------------------------------------Saturday, January 5 | 9a-12p Kids Workshop at Home Depot 4545 North 72nd Street, Check online for your local Home Depot store. #KidsWorkshopExplore Pique your child’s visual arts interests with our hands-on workshop where you and your child can build an easel. Your young artist can display artwork from school or create a new masterpiece on the dry-erase whiteboard keeping the project mess free. Encourage your artist to experiment with different mediums—Picasso, Kahlo and Basquiat utilized easels after all. Once your easel is built, your child can deco-
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
rate it with paint and stickers. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron and pin. -----------------------------------------------Rust Buster 5K Saturday, January 5th | 10a-12p Two Rivers State, 27702 F St. Waterloo, NE 68069 First of the 2019 Two Rivers Winter Fitness Series. Flat, closed road course. USATF Certified and Sanctioned. Perfect for first timers, New Year’s Resolutions or those wanting to test their fitness. Hand made participation awards, home baked goodies, hot chocolate, door prizes, official times and more. ------------------------------------------------
Saturday, January 5th, 2019 @ 4p-8p American Legion Auxiliary District 8 Spaghetti Supper Bennington American Legion Unit 111, 15312 S. 2nd St., Bennington, NE “Pasta With A Purpose” is being sponsored by The American Legion Auxiliary District 8 Units on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019. The 17 supporting units are in Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties in Nebraska. The benefit is to fund the 2018-2019 District 8 President’s Projects: Victory and New Vision apartments tenants, Eastern Nebraska Veterans Home residents and Veterans Administration Medical Center-Omaha patients. Activities included a Pasta Sauce Family events continued onto the bottom half of page 7.
EVENTS FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 Pajama Jam Family Night Fri 5:30 PM · Union Pacific Museum
---------------------------------------------Knockout Parties - DJ Jake - Every Friday Fri 7 PM · The Mile Away Hall & Tavern
---------------------------------------------eNVy @ Amerisports Bar Fri 8:30 PM · Ameristar Casino
---------------------------------------------SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 Matt & Josh Sat 7 PM · Cellar19 Wine & Deli
---------------------------------------------eNVy @ Amerisports Bar Fri 8:30 PM · Ameristar Casino SUNDAY, JANUARY 6 Knights of Columbus Breakfast Sun 8:30 AM · St. Patrick Catholic Church
Family events continued from page 6. Contest, which will run from 4p until 7:30p.Tickets are sold on site as “votes” for participants’ favorite sauces. Other event activities include a silent auction and 50/50 cash pots. Information may be obtained by calling and leaving a message at 402-763-6209. -----------------------------------------------Saturday, January5 | 7p Holiday Lights Festival Gene Leahy Mall, Downtown Omaha The new date for the fireworks will be Saturday at 7 p.m. The Holiday Lights Festival is produced by Mayor Jean Stothert and the Downtown Omaha Inc. Foundation, and presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska with media sponsors KETV Channel 7 and STAR 104.5. -----------------------------------------------Sunday, January 6 | 12:30 - 3:30p Epipheny celebration il Palazzo Omaha 5110 N 132nd St, Omaha, 68164 The Befana will be there as well as Santa Claus with gifts for all the kids. Dinner is free for all members. Guests are welcome and asked for a donation or joining the Society. Come celebrate this family friendly event!
Monday, March 18 | 6p PJ Masks Live! Save The Day Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St, Omaha PJ MASKS LIVE: is back with an all new super-heroic, live musical show, featuring the heroic triofrom your favorite series: The PJ MASKS! Watch Catboy, Owlette and Gekko along with their new friend PJ Robot, as they try to save the day from the sneaky villains - Romeo, Night Ninja and Luna Girl! Fluttering Feathers! Leaping Lizards! What a CAT-tastrophe! www.ralstonarena.com -----------------------------------------------Through April 14 Super Sports: Building Strength, Sportsmanship, and Smarts Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th Children can test their skills by throwing footballs and baseballs, take aim on the mini soccer, hockey, and basketball courts, attempt a CrossFit course, practice curling, and bump, set, spike on multi-level volleyball nets. Admission: $13 children and adults; $12 seniors (ages 60+); free for children under 2 and members. www.ocm.org
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WEDNESDAY JANUARY 2 Happy Hippie Hour with Carrie Jean The Down Under, 3p ----------------------------------------------Music from Dr. Webb The Down Under, 4:20p ----------------------------------------------Daddy Mac and the Flak Ozone Lounge, 6p ----------------------------------------------Trivia Stocks n Bonds, 7p ----------------------------------------------Gunnar and JR Duo AG Tavern on Q, 7p ----------------------------------------------Acoustic Open Mic Night The New Frontier Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------WTF- Music By The DiBaise Brothers Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p ----------------------------------------------Shawn Bell Trio Live Jambo Cat, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Rayford Jones Wednesdays The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------2018 Review Trivia Granite City Food & Brewery, 8p ----------------------------------------------Aly Peelers Open Mic The Down Under Lounge, 8p ----------------------------------------------Comedy OPEN MIC w/ Dusty Stehl Barley Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke w/ Host Adam Flohr Brokedown Palace, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Brady Wells January Residency Harney Street, 9p ----------------------------------------------2018 Trivia Stoli’s Lounge, 9p
THURSDAY JANUARY 3 Joyann Parker Chrome Lounge, 6p ----------------------------------------------Timothy J Koehn Solo Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen, 6p
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Ed Archibald with Chad Stoner Ozone Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Colin Roberts Vino Mas, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke The New Frontier Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------Trivia The Sociable Inn, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Joe McCarthy Barley Street Tavern, 8p ----------------------------------------------Julie Baker Growler USA, 8p ----------------------------------------------Chris Knight with Matt Cox The Waiting Room, 8p ----------------------------------------------R&B Thursdaysw/ Sherri McPherson The Omaha Lounge, 8:30p ----------------------------------------------Open Mic American Dream, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Shineys Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------KoZee Karaoke KoZee Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Salsa Classes & Karaoke w/ DJ Status Rehab Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Chris Shelton Dubliner Pub, 9:30p ---------------------------------------------- Lucy & Charlie w/Charlie Alley The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p
FRIDAY JANUARY 4 Swampboy Blues Trio JAZZ a Louisiana Kitchen, 6p ---------------------------------------------- Transcendence Opening Reception The Little Gallery Benson, 6p ---------------------------------------------- The Steve Thornburg Trio The Market Basket, 6p ---------------------------------------------- Not My Weekend, Midwest Coastal,
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
Lightspeed Highway, NeVes Omaha & Jyo The Zombie Lookout Lounge, 7p ---------------------------------------------- Ian & Dylan SoZo Coffeehouse, 7p ---------------------------------------------- Music By Shawn Fredieu Therapy Bar and Grill, 7p ---------------------------------------------- Schocke The Well, 7p ---------------------------------------------- Jo Koy: Break The Mold Tour Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p ---------------------------------------------- Jitterbugs’ Night Out: Joyann Parker Fraternal Order of Eagles, 8p ---------------------------------------------- 4 On The Floor The Dog House Saloon, 8p ---------------------------------------------- Doug and Tim’s Capricorn Celebration Love’s Jazz & Arts Center, 8p ---------------------------------------------- Less Mis/Zip-Zopera (Musical Improv) The Backline, 8p ---------------------------------------------- Bring The Team Into 2019 Feat. Big Mista, Bacon Dasmalltown General, J Longoria, PlayBoi Lottery, Marcus Turner(Menace), Mike Note’s and AJthe Dread... DJ Lay-C on the 1’s and 2’s! Opening is Wyte Owl & Jack Forey Forte Music Hall and Bar, 8:30p ---------------------------------------------- D.N.D, Hallowed Oath & Broken skulls American Dream, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Hyddin & Redhed, Bar 415, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Sebastian Lane’s Blues Jam Barley Street Tavern, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Lloyd McCarter & Honky Tonk Reviva Buck’s Bar & Grill, Venice, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Charlie Alley Burrito Envy, 9p ---------------------------------------------- The 9’s, Harney Street Tavern, 9p ---------------------------------------------- KoZee Karaoke KoZee Lounge, 9p -----------------------------------------------
Hi-Fi Hangover Ozone Lounge, 9p ---------------------------------------------- DJ HotBoy | Special Guest DJ REHAB Nightclub, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Porter Union w/ Pony Creek Slowdown, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Mikey Dean & Adam Peterson Acoustic South Omaha’s Finest Tequila Garage, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Shoot To Thrill with Blow Your Top The Waiting Room Lounge, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Dustin Prinz Live The Warehouse, Bennington, 9p ---------------------------------------------- Plan B Chrome Lounge, 9:30p ---------------------------------------------- Wasted Highway w/ Cole Rath The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p ---------------------------------------------- The Bralettes, The Morbs & Bach Mai O’Leaver’s PUB, 10p
SATURDAY JANUARY 5 Us and Them Memphis Fundraiser Bogie’s Bar & Grill, West, 6p ----------------------------------------------Swampboy Blues Trio JAZZ a Louisiana Kitchen, 6p ----------------------------------------------Holiday Lights Festival Fireworks Gene Leah Mall, 7p ----------------------------------------------The Blues Metro Metropolitan Community College School of Culinary Arts, 7p ----------------------------------------------Broasted Chicken Event w/ Come Together Band Millard American Legion Post 374, 7p ----------------------------------------------Keith Coleman The Well, 7p ----------------------------------------------Adam Lee Live Vino Mas, 7p
WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS OMAHA?
Toni Zeta En Vivo Wired Pub & Grill, 7p ----------------------------------------------Snowy With A Chance Of Wubs Featuring Snag, Burnadub, Rvger And Bandit , Bourbon Saloon, 8p ----------------------------------------------Dude Day 2019 Nifty Bar, 8p ----------------------------------------------Jack And The Giant The B Side of Benson Theatre, 8p ----------------------------------------------The Kerwins Therapy Bar and Grill, 8p ----------------------------------------------Ninja Blues The New Frontier Bar, 8:30p ----------------------------------------------Smokin’ Shepherd & James and the Hat Barley Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------DJ Nick Bliss - Free Show Burrito Envy & Tequila Bar, 9p ----------------------------------------------Meet & Greet 1 Trak Mind Chrome Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Linoma Mashers Growler USA, 9p ----------------------------------------------Sailing in Soup | HST Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Trivia Night Julio’s, 9p ----------------------------------------------KoZee Karaoke KoZee Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Pranksters Nifty Bar, 9p ----------------------------------------------The Confidentials Ozone Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Plack Blague, CBN, Glow in the Dark & Lowercase Tres, Reverb Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Gallivant w/ Freakabout & The Long Awaited The Waiting Room Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Tequila Brothers American Dream, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Corusco, Armful of Tiger Lilies, Dead on Dust The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p
SUNDAY JANUARY 6 Epipheny celebration il Palazzo, 12:30p -----------------------------------------------
Great Plains Bluegrass & Old Time Music Association, American Legion Post #1, 2p ----------------------------------------------Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony Sun 2 PM · Joslyn Art Museum Fear In Truth, The HYPE, Sekoyah, Blandfor , Forte Music Hall, 5p --------------------------------------------DU Smash Sunday The Down Under Lounge. 5p ----------------------------------------------Arthrighteous Brothers The Grand Reserve At Elkhorn, 6:30p --------------------------------------------TAPESTRIES: The Nuveau The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Jake Bellows w/ McCarthy Trenching Slowdown, 8p ----------------------------------------------FREE Booze Bingo! The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Taxi Driver Amerisports Bar, 8:30p ----------------------------------------------Charla’s Sunday-Night Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p
MONDAY JANUARY 7 Happy Hour! The Down Under Lounge, 3p ------------------------------------Aly Peeler and Andrew Bailie Monarch Prime & Bar, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Ozone Big Band Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Early Karaoke Forte Music Hall, 7p --------------------------------------------BINGO at Southwest Infusion Brewing Company, 7p --------------------------------------------Trivia Mafia Monday’s Vis Major Brewing Co. , 7p --------------------------------------------Michelle Eva Bleu featuring B. Baldwin The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Comedy OPEN MIC w/John Lehman Burrito Envy & Tequila Bar, 8p --------------------------------------------Brave The Fall, Midwest Coastal & Eli Dykstra, The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------Open Mic, Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------DJ Howie’s Karaoke, Grant St. Bar, 9p continued on page 11
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Transcendence THE LITTLE GALLERY BENSON
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Dude Day 2019 NIFTY BAR
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Jo Koy OMAHA FUNNY BONE
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Shoot To Thrill with Blow Your Top WAITING ROOM
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Tuesday January 8
NYE Holiday Lights Holiday Poinsetta Aglow Remember Sports’ Fireworks Spectacular FARNAM ON THE MALL LAURITZEN GARDENS REVERB LOUNGE
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
Events continued from page 9 --------------------------------------------Open Mic and Molly’s Molly’s Pub, 9p --------------------------------------------Happy New Year Blues Jam The Down Under Lounge, 9p
TUESDAY JANUARY 8 #TeamJack Spaghetti Feed Big Red Sports Bar, 11a --------------------------------------------Open Mic & Jam w/ Tony Romero Therapy Bar & Grill, 6p --------------------------------------------River City Shakers Line Dancing Bogie’s Bar West, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Midwest Lampworkers Guild for our Monthly Meeting Hot Shops Art Center, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Subby Anzaldo and Ricky Coz with Matt Wallace , Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------NFL Trivia, Goldeez, 7p --------------------------------------------Hector Anchondo The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Open Mic Jam , Brokedown Palace, 8p --------------------------------------------Remember Sports with Nadine Reverb Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------2000’s Pub Quiz with Sara and Rob! The Sydney, 8p --------------------------------------------Brave The Fall, Midwest Coastal & Eli Dykstra , The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------Karaoke, Forte Music Hall, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Mic (Standup), The Backline, 9p --------------------------------------------Christmas Karaoke O’Leaver’s Pub, 9:30p --------------------------------------------Duets with Dylan Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p
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Come mid-December the staggering amount of “Best of” lists can be overwhelming, stuffy, judgmental music writers like myself hamming up our obscure tastes and praising the “it” record of the year (has to be Mitski’s “Be The Cowboy” this year, a great record for certain but you’ll have every other list on the newsstand and web to read about that one). This list in no way captures all the musical magic birthed in 2018, nor will I attempt to organize by genre or attempt to offer a little something for everyone, This is just a list of great records that deserve a moment of your attention. Here’s to hoping some of you more adventurous souls out there will give these efforts the spins (or downloads, isn’t that what
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the kids are doing) they merit.
John Prine, “The Tree of Forgiveness,” Oh Boy Records
John Prine is a national treasure. OK, now that’s out of the way, let’s get back to brass tacks here folks. Prine’s 2018 record is arguably his best and most important release since 1971’s self-titled debut. That’s not a knock on Prine, “Tree” is just that great of a record. Prine has long been a hero to those of us who eagerly follow the singer-songwriter world, a name wholly deserving mention alongside Dylan, Townes, Neil, Springsteen, Petty. His easy manipulation of words, his tongue-in-cheek sense of humor (“I knew that topless lady had something
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
up her sleeve”), his keen insight and attention to the everyday details make Prine one-of-a-kind. “Tree” does a great job of illustrating why Prine’s work is so important. It’s still that same old singing mailman from the 1970s, it’s still that same creaky drawl, It’s just delivered with a lifetime’s worth of folk-wisdom and a dozen cracked mirrors worth of reflection. Songs like “God Only Knows,” “Egg & Daughter Nite, Lincoln, Nebraska” and the achingly beautiful “Summer’s End” standup just fine alongside Prine’s treasure trove of previously released sonic gems. This record makes people happy, and at the end of the day is a perfectly intoxicating listen. Here’s hoping Prine has at least one more
record in him, but if not, “Tree” will serve as an excellent bookend to an unrivaled career. Sing on Maestro.
Khruangbin, “Con Todo El Mundo,” Dead Oceans
Khruangbin is the best band you’ve never heard of. The Texas-three-piece sounds like nothing you’ve ever heard of, unless of course you are one of the 12 people really into old Thai-surf-funk records from the 70s and 80s. Don’t let that Spanish title fool you, the sound on “Con Todo” is pure smoky funk from another continent. The band’s mood is singular, unique in every fashion, not really like anything else on the record shelves but perhaps a distant cousin to acts like Calexico and Tortoise,
bands who pride themselves on strong groove based moods calling forth images of exotic locales, mysterious meetings around cobblestone corners, shady strangers and just enough danger to keep you on your toes. The musicianship is impressive, at times sounding like a full-on five or six-piece band. The guitar playing is hypnotic enough to keep your head nodding long after the needle lifts. “Con Todo” is perfect for a dinner party or a mellow Sunday morning drive through the frosty countryside.
Matt Cox, “High Places,” Sower Records
Cox has been quietly writing some of the Omaha area’s best songs for over a decade now, his hobo-next-door lyrics and growly soulful vocals are at their finest we’ve heard them yet on “High Places.” The musicianship is a step-up from anything Cox has done in the past, with outstanding playing from Colin Duckworth, Eric Elworth and drummer Jarron Storm. Tracks like “Medicine Man,” “Granite Angel” and “Palace of The Sun” are sure to become live staples. These compositions are strong enough to stand on their own bare-bones, however, in the capable hands of Cox and crew, they become much more: multifaceted in scope, rich in texture and at times foot-stomping (“Pepper Pickin’ Daddy”) and at others forlorn yet forgiving. A masterpiece by one of the area’s most talented songwriters.
little help from some of Austin, TX’s finest players and Ayahuasca Tea she has crafted a record both timeless and very of the moment. Art rock diddies for the cowboy shirt masses.
High Up, “You Are Here,” Team Love
High energy Soul-Rock from some of Omaha’s most talented players; Janis Joplin on a steady diet of Motown, Muscle Shoals and Stax. The record is almost as good as the band’s much talked about live performances. I expect big things from this band, especially from singer Christine Fink.
Kamasi Washington, “Heaven and Earth,” Young Turks
For the past decade and a half Washington’s name has been tossed about as a “possible savior” of jazz, a modern voice not afraid to lean just the right amount on the past. The multi-talented saxophonist/producer/ composer knocked it out of the park on this sprawling, close-to-two-anda-half-hours collection. The songs can be tepid at times but transcendent moments follow quickly and often.
John Coltrane, “Both Directions At Once: The Lost Album,” Impulse
Coltrane’s playing is exquisite, you can quite literally hear the emotion in Erika Wennerstrom, “Sweet his horn, at times reaching, at others Unknown,” Partisan reflecting, often sorrowful but just as Wennerstrom has up till now been often joyous and serene. He is and will best known for her work as part of The always be the spiritual ambassador Heartless Bastards. “Sweet Unknown” of jazz. The recordings on the “lost” will change all of that. On the heels of record were made in 1963 with a life-changing breakup (both band Trane’s powerhouse quartet of Jimmy and marriage), Wennerstrom’s first Garrison, McCoy Tyner and master of solo outing finds her searching (in The the sticks Elvin Jones. Furthermore, Amazon as well as within) and with a for all you vinyl geeks out there Rudy
Van Gelder did the original mixing. The title comes from starting in the middle of a sentence and simultaneously trying to work your way both backwards and forwards. This collection is a must for any jazz fan.
could be a lost cousin of “Cortez The Killer”). I also find an inexplicably never-mentioned David Nance Group, “Peaced and tie to old Pink Floyd, a spacey mood Slightly Pulverized,” with plenty of room for coffee and Trouble In Mind old books. The lyrics are infectious as This record just might be a well, painted vignettes peopled with masterpiece, and although we’ll characters you’ve already met and probably need a couple years to see those winsome strangers who often how it ages, in the meantime it sure is a become good friends. One of the most lot of fun to listen to. The comparisons arresting releases to have come out of to Neil Young & Crazy Horse are the area in recent years. obvious and well-merited (“Amethyst” WHAT”S YOUR FOCUS OMAHA?
Focus | January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1 13
Countryside Village By Focus Omaha Countryside Village is located at 87th and Pacific Streets, smack in the heart of one of Omaha’s most beautiful residential neighborhoods. DIRECTORY 1 Coming Soon House of R 2 Leasing Opportunity 3 Omaha Power Yoga 4 Travel Faire 5 Leasing Opportunity 6 PuFFi’s 7 Crash %ang %oom 8 Village NeedleZorNs 9 Leased 10 Leasing Opportunity 11 merci 12 Vanessa %arrett Interiors 13 Cedar 14 Village Alterations 15 Countryside Village Management 16 RSVP 17 The Casual Pint 18 Nails Spa Village 19 Leasing Opportunity 20 Amnesty Home 21 The MIx 22 Leasing Opportunity 23 Le Quartier Baking Company 24 Stephanie Moss Salon 25 The Loft at Remlo Studios 26 The Casual Pint 27 Paper Kite Omaha
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28 The Linen Gallery 29 Ren-Mo Boutique 30 Leasing Opportunity 31 Camille’s Bakery 32 Chill Body 33 Gramercy 34 Timber Wood Fire Bistro 35 Starbucks Coffee 36 Robert Max Opticians 37 Max I. Walker 38 The Fold 39 Village Pomegranate 40 Made In Omaha 41 Coming Soon House of R 42 Swartz’s Delicatessen 43 Inkwell 44 Dennison Dahlman - Spirited Barbers 45 The Simple Man 46 Village Grinder Thinking big locally. Knowing price as well as value. Pairing innovation and ingenuity with convenience and practicality. Liking trees and digging greenery while cultivating satisfaction and smiles. For over sixty years and counting, this is who we are. Omaha’s Original Small Town in the City Stop by, stay a spell, let Countryside cast its magic. Above all, relax and enjoy.
WHATS YOUR FOCUS OMAHA?
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
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according to pubmed.gov, researchers even found that it helped prevent cognitive decline in mice that were predisposed to Alzheimer’s. I’m sure with all the positive research, one can completely understand why we keep lagging and would want to keep this product out of harms (the general public’s) reach and our filthy hands.
CBD Trend is now entering the Food Industry
But as the rest of the country continues to catch up, make sure to reach out to your local constituency and encourage them to help us enter 2019 as a more forward-thinking state that’s intent is to look out for the health and best interest of your district.
By Focus Omaha
products, popcorn, dog bones, and more it’s likely to continue becoming the new food health trend for 2019.
As CBD products have received renewed attention across the state of Nebraska due to some recent raids, it’s of interest to note and discuss that due to the relief that many have found in the product it’s now being added by chefs across North America to some of our favorite foods.
But don’t tell our state Legislature that continues to flounder on updating the laws regarding CBD usage. There are now nine states that have legalized marijuana, with medical marijuana being legalized in 30 others.
From luxury hotels like the James New York NoMad, where chef Andrea Drummer was given the task of designing a CBD-infused menu to relax its guest, to CBD- infused honey
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The Cannabidiol is now given credit in many circles for helping with pain relief, reducing anxiety and depression, alleviating cancer-related symptoms, aiding in heart health, neurological benefits…... and the list goes on. Heck, in one long-term study
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To be continued...
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Cookie Miller, Charles Richardson, Jake Muhleisen and Cookie Belcher. 10 - Number of 20-point games for Husker players in 2018-19. James Palmer Jr. has six while Isaac Copeland Jr. (two), Glynn Watson Jr. (one) and Isaiah Roby (one) also enjoyed 20-point games.
Nebraska Basketball By Focus Omaha
It didn’t take long for Nebraska to impose their will on SW Minnesota State in a 79-38 win at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Saturday. They never fell behind and scored 32 points in the paint while getting some much-needed bench minutes.
on the road to College Park as 2-point underdogs to face Maryland. The Terrapins are young and hungry, and come into Wednesday’s game with a 10-3 record following a 78-64 win over Radford on Saturday. Bruno Fernando finished with 19 points and 12 rebounds to lead for Terrapins in double figures. Fernando leads the Big Ten in field goal percentage (.702) and blocked shots (2.5 bpg) while ranking third in the Big Ten in rebounding (9.6 rpg). Numbers: 2 - Maryland natives on the Husker roster (James Palmer Jr., Upper Marlboro; Amir Harris, Frederick).
The bench scored 21 points with all 10 players who dressed scoring, and James Palmer Jr. continued his hot free 6 - Glynn Watson Jr. was the sixth throw streak scoring 16 total points Husker in the last 20 years to record and going 4-4 from the charity stripe. at least 10 assists per game with his 10 The Huskers are going to need to put it assist performance vs. Cal State Fullerton on Dec. 22, joining Lance Jeter, all together on Wednesday as they go
Isaac Copeland Jr. and the Huskers travel to Maryland on Wednesday evening. Photo by Allyssa Hynes/Nebraska Communications
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14 - The Huskers have had 17 runs of at least 10-0 in 2018-19, including a 22-0 run against Southeastern Louisiana. The Huskers have allowed three double-figure runs this season. 57.8 - Nebraska is seventh nationally in scoring defense, holding teams to 57.8 points per game. NU has held six of its 13 opponents to their lowest total of the season. 80.2 - NU’s scoring average is the highest after 13 games since the 199596 team averaged 89.5 ppg in that timeframe. The Huskers face Maryland at 5:30 on Wednesday before heading Iowa bound to square off against the No. 25/20 ranked Hawkeyes on Sunday. That tip-off is at 4:30 p.m.
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Anu Ratzburg from Sherry Drive Branches Out By Focus Omaha
While they may not be playing three shows a month any longer, since 2012 many have become familiar with the primal style and mix of original and cover music that Sherry Drive brings to the scene. Now lead singer Anu Ratzburg has branched out on a single venture called Kea. While it’s totally different than Sherry Drive, Ratzburg said it’s also fun to try out something new. He added “It comes more naturally. It’s more music from the soul.” His intent is to create a style that’s a mix of Trap music with R&B and polished off with an Emo feel. He’s currently working with some other artists on about four or five songs and is planning on releasing three or four singles every two months that will be available on Spotify, Soundcloud, and iTunes. As far as where he sees this project going Ratzburg said, “I can see this new project really taking off. There’s a lot of interest across the country, but not many people doing it around here.” He wants everyone to know that he trying to start something new off in the Omaha scene and wants to get people involved. Ratzburg concluded, “It’s sad
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boy season.” You can check out his new video titled “Sick” available now on YouTube and stay tuned for more. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=0PwXjEoq-WM
www.sadboiszn.com
WHAT”S YOUR FOCUS OMAHA?
IN PRINT & ONLINE WWW.FOCUSOMAHA.COM
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Statement by Secretary Mnuchin Commemorating the One Year Anniversary of Historic Tax Cuts By Focus Omaha Washington—U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin issued the following statement today commemorating the one year anniversary of the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA): “The economy has strengthened in the last year since the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Tax cuts and regulatory relief actions by the Trump Administration have led to more investment in America, strong economic growth, higher wages, and more Americans going back to work. “For the first time since 2005, our economy is growing by over 3 percent annually. The unemployment rate is
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historically low at 3.7 percent. Wages and salaries have risen 3.1 percent over the past 12 months with the fastest growth among low-income workers. Business fixed investment grew by 6.8 percent over the past year, and capital expenditure indices suggest that continued growth is expected. This is thanks in large part to the TCJA, which included lower corporate tax rates, immediate expensing, and repatriation, helping to bring back hundreds of billions of dollars from overseas to our country. “Hardworking American families are enjoying lower tax rates, a doubled standard deduction, an expanded child tax credit, and other key benefits. Moreover, over 500 companies have announced bonuses, raises, enhanced retirement contributions, and other positive measures directly affecting more than 6 million workers. “Now we are focused on making sure that all Americans are able to share in this economic renewal. The TCJA created Opportunity Zones, a tax incentive designed to spur economic development and job creation in economically distressed communities. We anticipate more than $100 billion in investments to revitalize cities,
Focus | - January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1
towns, and neighborhoods across the country. We are confident that more Americans will have greater
opportunities to participate and succeed in our growing economy.”
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BLUECAPITALWEALTH.COM | 402-502-9322 3814 FARNAM ST. STE 202 Focus | January 2 - January 7 | Volume 3 Issue 1 25
home sales while the partial shutdown of the federal government is ongoing, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will issue and renew flood insurance policies, reversing an unexpected and controversial ruling the agency released earlier this week.
Flood Insurance Will still be offered in spite of shutdown By Focus Omaha WASHINGTON– In a critical win for
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Congress on Dec. 21 passed legislation that extends the National Flood Insurance Program until May 31, 2019. In an unexpected policy decision, though, FEMA on Dec. 26 said it couldn’t allow insurers to issue and renew federal policies while the partial government shutdown was ongoing. “FEMA and the Administration deserve That ruling was unexpected because credit for hearing our concerns and in past government shutdowns, FEMA acting swiftly to address them,” says continued to operate the program as NAR President John Smaby. “This new authorized. NAR, along with other decision means thousands of home sale organizations, including the Property transactions in communities across Casualty Insurers Association the country can go forward without of America and the Independent interruption, as Congress intended Insurance Agents & Brokers of when it renewed the flood insurance America, urged policymakers to program earlier this week. Our reevaluate the decision. Congress research has shown that 40,000 home expressed concern as well. sales are lost every month that flood insurance is not available.”
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“We thank the Administration and Congress for stepping up so quickly to ensure the smooth continuation of flood insurance at a time when market disruption would be extremely hard-felt,” says Shannon McGahn, NAR senior vice president of government affairs.
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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
SUNDAY-All Day THERAPY BAR & GRILL 5059 S 108th St Monday-Friday 3-6pm $.50 cents off Bottles, Drafts, & Wells
$2.50 Tier 1 Import and Domestics, $3 Tier 2 Import and Domestics, $3 Off Signature Cocktails, $4 Well Drinks, $2 Off Glass of Wine, $1 Off Tap Wine. & Select Gourmet Food and Appetizers Starting at $5
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 TIMBER WOOD FIRE BISTRO 8702 Pacific St – Countryside Village M-F Patio Only 11A-7P M-SAT 2P- 6:30P & SUN 2P-10P $2 Off Local and Craft Drafts,
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 BULL & THE BEAR LOUNGE 11341 Davenport St M, T, W 2P - 6P SUN 12P - 2A THE CASUAL PINT 8718 Countryside Plaza M, W, TH 4P-6P TUES All Day $1 Off All Draft Beers. Friday – 1/2 Price Growler Refills Sunday – Ladies Day. $1 Off All Pints for Ladies from 1P–8P THE DOWN UNDER 3530 Leavenworth St. MON-SAT 3P-7P
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