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VOLUME 3 ISSUE 20 | MAY 15 - MAY 21 | 2019 ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH, PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC NEWSWEEKLY

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New Grass Revival

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOCUS ON THIS WEEK!

MAY 21 | 2019

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LY 20 | MAY 15 MUSIC NEWSWEEK VOLUME 3 ISSUE NAL FINANCE, & ENT, HEALTH, PERSO FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINM

THE ARTS

21 LOCAL Delta 88 – Keeping the Blues Alive By Andy Roberts

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Baseball

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Lizz Wright

LOCAL

FAMILY 22

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New Grass Revival

Delta 88

7 8

COUNCIL BLUFFS EVENTS

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Lizz Wright – On the Money By Andy Roberts

FINANCE

1040 Postmortem: Making Sense of Your Taxes and Withholding By Michael Herek

ON TEN

Sponsored By Blue Capitol Wealth

THIS WEEKS FEATURE

FOCUS WAS OUT, WHERE WERE YOU?

HAPPY HOUR

14 16

THE SHOPS AT COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE SEE WHAT’S NEW IN BENSON

17 THE STREAM Getting to Know The Kings of Newgrass: New Grass Revival By Jesse D. Stanek

HEALTH

Eagle Riders to Raise Awareness For Children’s Mental Health By Focus Omaha

SPORTS

Creighton Bluejays, Nebraska Huskers & Omaha Mavericks Baseball By Focus Omaha

We gathered up some of the BEST Happy Hour spots in and around the Omaha metro

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

Saturday, May 18 | 6p - 9p OWW, OWW!, Split Gallery 2561 Leavenworth St., Omaha Join Catie O’Brien, Nathan Wetjen, and Marcus Washington for OWW, OWW! For their first exhibition of work, they’ve combined O’Brien’s mixed-media compositions, Wetjen’s acrylic abstractions, and Washington’s photography for a fun exhibition from three distinct viewpoints. Brett Anderson is an Assistant Professor at Catie O’Brien on Instagram: the University of Southern Indiana, where he www.instagram.com/ceofolio/ teaches printmaking. His exhibition includes Nathan Wetjen on Instagram: relief and intaglio prints that explore popular www.instagram.com/milistrations/ American culture and 21st century conveMarcus Washington on Instagram: niences. The exhibition is currently on display instagram.com/marcuscreatesphotography ------------------------------------------------------during campus hours and will close after the Saturday, May 18 | 7:30p reception on Friday May 17th Streep Tease, SNAP! Productions Omaha ------------------------------------------------------3225 California St, Omaha Saturday, May 18 | 11a - 5p SNAP! Productions is please to announce the Pay It Forward Art Show featuring MarkArt cast of STREEP TEASE. The cast includes Ron Drips, 2205 N 24th St., Omaha Osborn, Brett Foster, Scott Fowler, Michael “Take what you like and pay whatever value Taylor-Stewart, Travis Wilcox, Jon Roberson, you feel the piece / pieces have, forward in Todd Brooks and Stephen Michael Shelton. whatever way is important to you.” The show will run May 17-18 with two shows each night (7:30/10:00). The show will be The creative process brings me joy and I’m performed at The B-Side in Benson. going to do it regardless. I create in order to Tickets are on sale now for this special event. share my thoughts. I feel everyone (not just ------------------------------------------------------those that can afford it) deserves the chance Tuesday, May 21 | 8p - 12a to surround themselves with things that LOOSE JUICE: Celebration for Omaha Gives! makes the smile. The hope is that every time Maple St. Construct, 5912 Maple St, Omaha consumers see the piece / pieces they have chosen, they will be reminded to serve others. $10 Suggested Donation It’s a global community and I want to give back -Visual artists Derek Courtney, Lauren Doeto the community that has given so much to schot, Shawnequa Linder, & Tom White. me. -DJ Kobrakyle Richardson, The Natural States, ------------------------------------------------------And How & Queerniverse Saturday, May 18 | 12p - 3p -HIGH FASHION brought to you by Revival & Ms. Portia V. Love Book Signing Lion’s Mane Vintage. Models styled by Weird “That’s All I Have to Say” Wild Stuff Vintage Clothing Great Plains Black History Museum -Community Painting Project 2221 N 24 St., Omaha -FREE professional ARTIST HEADSHOTS Join us as we welcome Ms. Portia V. Love to provided by BMVA Digital (8-10p) the GPBHM for a book signing of her recently released book of poetry titled “That’s All I Offering up some “Creative Juices” to get ya Have to Say.” During the first hour Ms. Love loose and some tasty brews from will provide a reading from the book. Benson Brewery Ms. Love is a self-published author, a writer in ------------------------------------------------------Residence, Carver Bank program through the Wednesday, May 22 | 7p - 11p Bemis Art Foundation. She provides writing RAW Omaha Presents Impact workshops to children, teens and adults for Sokol Auditorium and Underground Why?Arts. She is the owner of Just Write 2234 S 13th St, Omaha rawartists.org 4 Me, where she writes special poems for Show coming up! This is huge! There will customers and making them into pieces of art be multiple artists featured as well as live by framing them or putting them in boxes. She performance and music! All proceeds are for has also written Eclipses of the Sun and has the continuation of promoting artists through published numerous poems in the “Omaha these events! Star Newspaper” Many Artist will be featured; including: ------------------------------------------------------Friday, May 17 | 5p The Land of Plenty Closing Reception MCC, Fort Omaha Please join us for the closing reception of The Land of Plenty: Prints by Brett Anderson. The reception will take place from 5-7p on Friday May 17th at the Fort Omaha Campus in Building 21, The Mule Barn. This event is free and open to the public.

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20

FASHION- We Are Unapologetic-Omaha Our brand is dedicated to redefining the beauty standards society has with inclusivity. Catering to and showcasing all genders, ethnicities and body types. Reminding you that society doesn’t define your worth, and neither does your clothing. VISUAL ART -BA Designs- Omaha As a designer you always want to give that “woah” factor. For me, that’s exactly what I crave. Being a photographer and graphic designer I want to combine both of my professions and make a whole new perspective. My designs are made for people to take a second look, to step out of reality and step into design. My style is very different, maybe a little edgy and modern. MUSIC -Kaylyn Sahs- Omaha Kaylyn Sahs is a 20 year old singer/songwriter from Papillion, NE. She began singing as soon as she could talk and started performing at

a very young age but has been pursuing a full-time career in music and performance since she graduated from high school in 2016. She also plays the piano and the guitar. She has performed at several venues in Omaha and surrounding cities such as the SumTur Amphitheater, Ralston Arena, Sarpy County Fair, Flatwater Music Festival, Sozo Coffeehouse and many others. Kaylyn is passionate about making music that offers a message of hope and shares the radiant joy and beauty of life. Her smile radiates her inner joy and has a deep love for others. ACCESSORIES-Kearasmatic Creative- Omaha Hello! My name is Keara, artist of Kearasmatic Creative; born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. I love that creativity doesn’t have limits, and RAW embodies this well! I create one of a kind resin pieces, from magnets, necklaces, coasters, and even do special orders! I can’t wait to meet you and share my creations with you!

Through June 15 Alison O’Daniel’s Heavy Air & Lui Shtini’s Tempos, Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St., Omaha Alison O’Daniel is a visual artist working across the mediums of film, performance, sculpture, and installation. Structured as a call-and-response between these mediums, she creates cinema, performances, sound-dampening textiles, sculptures and large-scale installations that intend to visualize what it means to not have complete access to sound. Through collaborations with composers and musicians as well as the experiences of deaf and hard of hearing friends regarding sound, O’Daniel’s work aims at building a visual, aural, and haptic vocabulary as a means of storytelling. bemiscenter.org ------------------------------------------------------Through June 23 American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St Omaha American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith, explores America’s bold experiment in a government “of, by, and for the people.” Featuring engaging multimedia experiences, immersive design, and artifacts from the Smithsonian and state historical organizations, it demonstrates that democracy relies on our active participation.

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20 5

Friday, May 17 | 5:30p - 11p On the Road to Rock n’ Soul Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands, 2610 Hamilton St, Omaha Don’t miss the event of the year at “On the Road to Rock n’ Soul.” Patron ticket holders get access to the exclusive patron pre-party with special musical surprises. The main event includes a fabulous sit-down dinner with entertainment by Boys & Girls Club members. After dinner, join us on the dance floor for Billy McGuigan’s “Rock Legends” show covering hits from the 50s-80s. Be dressed and ready to rock n’ roll! ----------------------------------------------------Friday, May 17 | 6p - 8p Family Fun Day Prairie Lane Elementary School 11444 Hascall St, Omaha Water Wars, Bounce Houses! Face painting! Balloon art! Magic! & More with Music by Tim Sanwick!

Saturday, May 18 | 9a Thank A Veteran Tour 2019 Dillon Brothers, 3848 N HWS Cleveland All are welcome to join the American Legion Riders Chapter 112 on our third annual Thank A Veteran Tour. We will be stopping at area retirement homes to thank veterans for their service and listening to their stories. The rallying point will be Dillon Brothers Harley Davidson 3838 N HWS Cleveland Blvd. Omaha, NE 68116. More information; including stops, maps, etc. will be available at Dillon Brothers from 9a-9:30a. There will be a taco bar available at Benson VFW Post #2503 from 4p - 7pThe Benson VFW is located at 8904 Military Ave. Free will donation. Come on out for a great day trip in your car, truck, minivan or motorcycle. This is a great opportunity to give, nothing but your time, to those that have sacrificed so much for all of us!

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20

Saturday, May 18 | 9a Walk MS Omaha Werner Park, 12356 Ballpark Way Walk MS brings together a community of passionate people for one powerful cause: to end MS forever. And with every step we take and every dollar we raise… we’re that much closer. Together, we are stronger than MS. 1 mile and 3 mile routes available Papillion, NE https://secure.nationalmssociety.org/site/ TR?pg=entry&fr_id=30438 ----------------------------------------------------Saturday, May 18 | 10a - 2p Helicopter Day SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy, Ashland sacmuseum.org An indoor and outdoor event held in celebration of aviation careers and the history of helicopters. Spectators will be able to watch in wonder as, the Nebraska National Guard, law enforcement, commercial and private helicopters fly over the horizon and land right in front them. The helicopters begin their descent at 10a. Register onsite for a he-

licopter ride, tour the helicopters after they land or head inside for a drone workshop, free balloon helicopters, a make-and-take project, and hands-on activities offered by community partners. Helicopter rides are $60 per person per ride (plus tax). Each person needs to be able to sit up and be restrained by seat belts in their own seat. No age restrictions for kids. Portion of the ride proceeds go to support the Museum. ----------------------------------------------------Saturday, May 18 | 6p #nebraskastrong benefit Burger Feed Chance Ridge Event Center, Elkhorn Come join us for burgers and beers!! Free will donation, all proceeds go to helping local farmers. We will have 3 live bands and a tribute video. Falling Clouds, Caught Looking

WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS? Family events continued onto the bottom half of page 7.

EVENTS THURSDAY, MAY 16 Celebrate CB Farmers Market & Superhero Night Bayliss Park, 4:30p -----------------------------------------------------Mental Health Matters Concert with Anonagon Music, Hyddin, voydblossom & Glava, CUBE Ultra Lounge, 9p

SUNDAY, May 19 Mystic Fest Spring 2019 Mid-America Center, 11a -----------------------------------------------------Go Outdoors Seminars, Bass Pro Shops, 11a -----------------------------------------------------Go Outdoors Event, Bass Pro Shops, 1p Mark Your Calendars: Bass Pro Shops Kids Weekend May 25th and 26th

SATURDAY, May 18 Mystic Fest Spring 2019 Mid-America Center, 10a -----------------------------------------------------Celebrate CB Parade 10:30a Bayliss Park Activities 12p - 3p www.celebratecb.com #CBRollingAlong -----------------------------------------------------Go Outdoors Event, Bass Pro Shops, 1p -----------------------------------------------------Lemon Fresh Day , Amerisports Bar, 8:30p -----------------------------------------------------DJ Air, CUBE Ultra Lounge, 9p -----------------------------------------------------Hookt, Whiskey Roadhouse, 9p Family events continued from page 6. & Ken Stler Band This is for anyone and everyone, come out and enjoy an evening and kick back. Starting at 6p come fill your belly! 6:15p recognition 6:30p tribute video 7p the bands start Enjoy a great night,with great people! ----------------------------------------------------Saturday, May 18 | 7p - 9p Saturdays at Stinson Park 67th & Center, Omaha Join your friends every Saturday night in Stinson Park at Aksarben Village for the Saturdays @ Stinson Concert Series sponsored by HDR. You will be entertained by the most talented bands in Omaha and the best part, its FREE! There will be food and drink vendors, face painting, balloon artists, bubbles, and the kids will play in the fountain and on the playground equipment. For the concerts you may bring chairs, blankets, an umbrella, and coolers. Please bring koozies for your cans and plastic cups for other drinks as no glass is allowed. Please do not bring tents, canopies or stake anything into the ground. Please have fun and enjoy your time in Stinson Park! Aksarben Villageâ&#x20AC;Śwhere there is always something fun going on!

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20 7

WEDNESDAY MAY 15

THURSDAY MAY 16

FRIDAY MAY 17

Acoustic Performance with Billy Raffoul Homer’s Music & Gifts, 1p --------------------------------------------F.U. VIC is turning 52 BDay Party The Down Under Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Hippie Happy Hour The Down Under Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Mexican-Style Craft Beers & Tacos Crescent Moon Alehouse, 4p --------------------------------------------Dr. Webb Music The Down Under Lounge, 4:20p ----------------------------------------------Omaha Hawkeye Happy Hour Thunderhead Brewing Downtown, 4:30p --------------------------------------------Live402 Happy Hour with Lynette Farhart, Project Houseworks Liv Lounge, 5:30p --------------------------------------------King Estate Oregon Wine Class! Spirit World, 6p --------------------------------------------Farmers Flood Relief Concert w/ LOCASH and Russell Dickerson, Stir Cove, 6p --------------------------------------------Andrew Bailie ft Enjoli Mitchell The Jewell, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Gotta Be Me Heartlight Choir Annual Spring Concert Midtown Crossing at Turner Park, 7p --------------------------------------------Bike Nights at Therapy w/ Freddy & John Therapy Bar and Grill, 7p --------------------------------------------The Temptations and The Four Tops Orpheum Theatre, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Slothrust with Summer Cannibals Reverb Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Railroad Earth w/ Lindsay Lou Slowdown, 8p --------------------------------------------Parachute with Billy Raffoul The Waiting Room Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Another Wednesday Night Karaoke Brokedown Palace, 10p --------------------------------------------Dylan’s Duets Tuesday Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p

Wine Whiskey & Wishes – 4th Annual Tasting Fundraiser Champions Run Omaha, 6p --------------------------------------------Pinot, Pigs & Poets 2019 Happy Hollow Club, 6p --------------------------------------------eNVy Acoustic at Lombardo’s Lombardo’s Bistro & Bar, 6p --------------------------------------------Grace’s Duo, Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Brothers Book Club: The House of Broken Angels, brothers lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------Bike Night with Last Minute Band Dr. Jack’s Drinkery, 7p --------------------------------------------Cane Hills + Locals, Lookout Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------NOAH & Friends A Community Healthcare Fundraiser at Waiting Room The Waiting Room Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------Dog City Disco w/ Mr. E & the Stringless Kite + Supper , Lucy’s Pub, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Samuel J Comroe Live Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Derek Hough: Live! The Tour Orpheum Theatre, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Punk Rock Trivia, Reverb Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------BFF presents LOOSE JUICE, a celebration for Omaha Gives! , Maple St Construct, 8p --------------------------------------------Spencer’s Trivia Dojo The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Girls Night Out the Show Wired Pub & Grill, 8p --------------------------------------------Bonne Finken, The Shineys & Kemble Barley Strret Tavern, 8p --------------------------------------------Industry Night w/ DJ Sam EC Parliament Pub West, 9p --------------------------------------------Droids Attack, Ten Dead & Hussies Reverb Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Mic (Standup), The Backline, 9p --------------------------------------------Feelin’ Good Karaoke w/ Rod The Down Under Lounge, 10p

4th Annual Food Truck Rodeo Reverb Lounge, 4p ----------------------------------------------Jared William Gottberg The Cove Lounge, 5p ----------------------------------------------Acoustic H Hour The Down Under Lounge, 5p ----------------------------------------------Tim Javorsky Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen, 6p --------------------------------------------Taxi Driver, Bogies Bar and Grill, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------AMMO Presents WOLF SKIN + Friends Dr Jack’s Drinkery, 7p --------------------------------------------Jacob Johnson In Concert FolkHouse Concert Series, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Ari Shaffir, Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p/9:30p --------------------------------------------Hi-Fi Hangover, Horsemen’s Park, 8p --------------------------------------------Tynan, Karma Nightclub, 8:30p --------------------------------------------Feel Good Fridays Featuring Tyi Hakeem, The Omaha Lounge, 8:30p --------------------------------------------Diary of Ozz & Low D, American Dream, 9p --------------------------------------------May The Tribe Keep You Dancing! Bar 415, 9p --------------------------------------------The Sounds of Many, Maya Duis, Greg Woods Music & MICH, Barley Street, 9p --------------------------------------------Chad Lee, Copacabana Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------The 9s, Growler USA, 9p --------------------------------------------DJ Ivan Alfarez, Parliament Downtown, 9p --------------------------------------------Sweet Tea Trio , Rathskeller Bier Haus, 9p --------------------------------------------WWT-S Record Release w/ The Bedrock + Relax, It’s Science , The B. bar, 9p --------------------------------------------24 Hour Cardlock, SubVectors & Michael Campbell, The Down Under Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Lil West & Dominique Morgan The Waiting Room, 9p --------------------------------------------Sidecar69, Two Fine Irishmen, 9p --------------------------------------------Karaoke, Winchester Bar & Grill, 9p ---------------------------------------------

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20

Daniel And The Deliverance Dubliner Pub, 9:30p --------------------------------------------Magu solo, Adam D’ Josie & Dirt House O’Leavers Pub, 10p

SATURDAY MAY 18 MysticFest 2019 Mid-America Center, 9a --------------------------------------------Great Strides Omaha Stinson Park, 9a --------------------------------------------EZ Records & Almost Music Present: Reverb Record Show Reverb Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Parking Lot Party with Jacked, Teacherz Pets & 4 On the Floor Therapy Bar & Grill, 4p --------------------------------------------Eckophonic, Horsemen’s Park, 5p --------------------------------------------The Reunion Beatles - Fantasy Tribute Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Omaha, 6p --------------------------------------------The Sounds of Many, Maya Duis, Greg Woods Music & MICH The Barley Street Tavern, 7p --------------------------------------------Re-Captured- A Journey Tribute Stinson Park, 7p -------------------------------------------ReCaptured: A Journey Tribute Stinson Park, 7p --------------------------------------------Cane Hill & Locals Lookout Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Red Delicious The New Frontier Bar, 8:30p --------------------------------------------Terry Parker Quartet The Omaha Lounge, 8:30p --------------------------------------------Diary of Ozz and Low D American Dream, 9p --------------------------------------------Live Music Daddy Mac & the Flak Copacabana Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------KoZee Karaoke KoZee Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Chop Suey! w/ Hybrid Theory & Evandale The Waiting room, 9p --------------------------------------------The Begats

Harney Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------Bad Habit, Live Two Fine Irishmen, 9p --------------------------------------------Chad Lee Growler USA, 9p Brazen Throats / Mere Shadows / Lodgings Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------DJ Animale The Cove Lounge and grille, 9p --------------------------------------------Daniel And The Deliverance Dubliner Pub, 9:30p --------------------------------------------Omaha Beat Brigade The Down Under Lounge,9:30p

SUNDAY MAY 19 90s Pop Music Bingo Moe & Curly’s Pub and Grill, 1p --------------------------------------------On The Fritz, The Surfside, 5p --------------------------------------------Marinas Gaming Guild The Down Under Lounge, 5p --------------------------------------------Turn It Up, The Waiting room, 7p --------------------------------------------DU Free Booze Bingo The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Sunday Funday Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p

MONDAY MAY 20 2019 Children’s Charity Golf Classic Champions Run, 10a --------------------------------------------Happy Hour! The Down Under Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Akira & Princess Mononoke MM The Down Under Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Free Pool Mondays, Big John’s Billiards, 6p --------------------------------------------Aly Peeler and Andrew Bailie Monarch Prime & Bar, 6p --------------------------------------------Ozone Big Band, Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Early Karaoke, Forte Music Hall, 7p --------------------------------------------BINGO at Southwest Infusion Brewing Company, 7p --------------------------------------------Dog City Disco w / Mr. E & the Stringless Kite + Supper, Lucy’s Pub, 7p --------------------------------------------Michelle Eva Bleu feat. B. Baldwin The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Shoreline Mafia, The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------Open Mic, Barley Street Tavern, 9p ---------------------------------------------

DJ Howie’s Karaoke Grant St. Bar, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Mic and Molly’s Molly’s Pub, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Jam With Jason Figueroa The Down Under, 9p --------------------------------------------Down Under Sunday Night Karaoke The Down Under, 10p

TUESDAY MAY 21 eNVy Acoustic at Lombardo’s Lombardo’s Bistro & Bar, 6p --------------------------------------------Grace’s Duo, Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Brothers Book Club: The House of Broken Angels, brothers lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------NOAH & Friends A Community Healthcare Fundraiser at Waiting Room The Waiting Room Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------Dog City Disco w/ Mr. E & the Stringless Kite + Supper , Lucy’s Pub, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Derek Hough: Live! The Tour Orpheum Theatre, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Punk Rock Music Trivia Reverb Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------BFF presents LOOSE JUICE, a celebration for Omaha Gives! Maple St Construct, 8p --------------------------------------------Spencer’s Trivia Dojo The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Girls Night Out the Show Wired Pub & Grill, 8p --------------------------------------------Industry Night w/ DJ Sam EC Parliament Pub West, 9p --------------------------------------------Droids Attack, Ten Dead & Hussies Reverb Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Mic (Standup), The Backline, 9p --------------------------------------------Feelin’ Good Karaoke w/ Rod The Down Under Lounge, 10p

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20 9

WEDNESDAY MAY 15

THURSDAY MAY 16

FARMERS FLOOD RELIEF BENEFIT LoCash & Russell Dickerson Jen Kirkman STIR COVE WAITING ROOM

SATURDAY & SUNDAY MAY 18 & 19

SATURDAY MAY 18

MysticFest 2019 Parking Lot Party MID-AMERICA CENTER THERAPY BAR

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20

THURSDAY MAY 16

Lizz Wright HOLLAND CENTER

SATURDAY MAY 18

The Reunion Beatles Fantasy Tribute RAMADA PLAZA

FRIDAY MAY 17

TRAMPLED BY TURTLES Andrea von Kampen SLOWDOWN

TUESDAY MAY 21

Derek Hough: Live! The Tour ORPHEUM THEATRE

FRIDAY MAY 17

Chicago STIR COVE

WEDNESDAY MAY 22

RAW: Impact SOKOL AUDITORIUM

Maryland Realtor® JoAnne Poole testified before the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development and Insurance as the panel examined racial disparities in American homeownership. Poole, who has 33 years of experience throughout the Baltimore, Maryland, region is currently Vice Chair of the National Association of Realtors®’ Multicultural Real Estate Leadership Advisory Group. In her testimony, she highlighted NAR’s work to address some of the most disturbing trends in the U.S. housing market, particularly as African American and Hispanic homeownership rates of 41 and 47 percent, respectively, sit well below the national average of 64.2 percent. “Too many people in this country, homeownership is synonymous with the American Dream, creating stable communities, increasing civic participation and building our feelings of self-worth and self-esteem,” Poole told the House panel this morning. “If America is to remain a nation of homeowners, we must address the persistent barriers that minorities continue to face. NAR is working to close racial homeownership gaps by encouraging local governments to adopt zoning laws, building codes and other policies that encourage free-market production of entry-level homes and other affordable housing units.” Maryland REALTOR® JoAnne Poole discusses NAR’s work to boost minority homeownership rates Poole was one of seven witnesses invited to testify at Wednesday’s hearing, including National Association of Real Estate Brokers President Jeffrey Hicks. Realtors® have partnered with NAREB as the group maintains a central and historic

role highlighting the issues impacting minority homeownership in America. NAR, NAREB and the Urban Institute recently convened a roundtable focused on improving African American homeownership rates. A five-point framework that can be applied across all minority communities emerged from that meeting, a framework which continues to drive additional policy discussions today. “Priority should be placed on advancing local policy solutions; tackling housing supply and affordability; promoting equitable and accessible housing finance; reaching out to mortgage ready millennials and renters; and maintaining a focus on sustainable homeownership and preservation,” Poole said. “NAR commends Chairman Clay and Ranking Member Duffy for facilitating critical discussions surrounding minority homeownership,” said NAR President John Smaby, a second-generation Realtor® and broker at Edina Realty in Edina, Minnesota. “Realtors® have fought for decades to keep the American Dream available to everyone in this country. That fight continues on Capitol Hill and in state legislatures across the country as we seek out policies that will close these persistent and unacceptable racial homeownership gaps.” The National Association of Realtors® is America’s largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Let Eric answer the tough questions:

What’s trending in Omaha? Why is commercial real estate a good investment?

Photo by Jessica Lautz

He’ll offer helpful tips for buyers in a seller’s market, and much more!!

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20 11

According to the Self-Storage Association, the United States has more than 50,000 storage facilities. That is better than five times the number of Starbucks. There are 7.3 square feet of self-storage space for every man, woman, and child in the nation. Thus, it is physically possible that every American could stand—all at the same time—under the total canopy of self-storage roofing.

Thankfully, with all of this “stuff” available, there are places like Midwest Pickers for people to find vintage furniture, artwork, jewelry, knick-knacks, home décor items and so much more. Founded in 2011, April Avery was a stay-athome mother who was working as a medical recruiter. Her father, Gene Martin, always liked to find collectibles and wanting to spend more time with him she joined him in his hobby. As things began to progress they started

selling their wares. More and more

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20

designers began asking for their items which eventually led to them opening a storefront in 2011 at 3701 Leavenworth Street. Even Avery’s husband, Brandon, who owns a Farm Bureau Insurance Agency, gets in the mix by helping carry the heavier items. Avery recalls meeting the producer of American Pickers, the History Channel program which has helped bring exposure to this unique industry, at Junkstock.

Avery said, “The Producer called and wanted to shoot an episode here. But we declined when they asked us to plant something in the store as if they found it here.” They continue to contact Avery about every quarter asking to produce a show at the Leavenworth Street store. She expressed some frustration with the prices they claim to offer. “They mess up the market because

they offer so much for items that people come in (are) expecting to get too much. It can really mess with the industry.”

If you’re worried about the latest trends, don’t. Avery attends the annual Las Vegas market and design trade show where she’s always able to get current on what’s up and coming and then hand-picks those items for the store. So, what’s hot now? “ ‘80s and ’90s are back,” Avery stated. And she knows.

Her Father shared a good example of this while we were there. A customer came in asking for a hub cap for a classic vehicle. He told a story about the time when he had an entire box of classic hub caps, many of which www.facebook.com/Midwestpickers were listed in trade magazines for decent money. He received $10 for all of them at an auction. Martin is the kind of guy who, if you haven’t had the privilege of coming in and meeting him yet, you should. Straight out of a bygone era of men who tell it like it is, he’s a one-of-a-kind salty character you could spend hours listening to (although he’ll probably take a bat to me for this) and appreciating his unique personality. He reminded me of how sad it will be when America loses his generation.

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20 13

Focus | May 15 - May 21 | Volume 3 Issue 20

Getting to Know The Kings of Newgrass:

New Grass Revival

By Jesse D. Stanek

Twas a time when Bluegrass music was solely played by old white men in matching suits and cowboy hats. Then along came a scraggly, rag-tag bunch of longhairs covering rock and reggae tunes with Bluegrass instrumentation. New Grass Revival (NGR) was founded in 1971, the brainchild of mandolin/fiddle ace Sam Bush, NGR featured a host of legendary players over the years: Courtney Johnson, Bela Fleck, John Cowan, Curtis Burch, Butch Robbins, Pat Flynn and others. The band had a 17 year run before dismantling in 1989, however the players who first made this band matter continue to play festivals and release records in various formations, birthing the Newgrass movement which has exploded beyond what any of the idiom’s fathers could have hoped for or dreamed. Bands like String Cheese Incident, Yonder Mountain String Band, Railroad Earth, Trampled By Turtles, Old Crow Medicine Show and Leftover Salmon all borrowed liberally from NGR’s picking-and-plucking bag-o-tricks. NGR’s early records shattered genre expectations, the playing is as fierce and passionate as the music is daring and fresh. The band had commercial success towards the end of it’s career, the music much poppier and easier to digest for mainstream country.

times, fresh and vital. Young Sam Bush’s vocals are everything you want from your high-lonesome, almost praise-like gospel-inflected, sweeping and dramatic, strong and vibrant.

In 1981 NGR recorded a live record with Leon Russell on the keyboards; it’s nothing short of spectacular. Prior to this seminal recording nobody had added piano to bluegrass with any remote degree of success. Leon Russell’s fiery pin-point playing proved the perfect addition to the already genre-blending sound NGR created. I can’t find the original release anywhere on a reliable streaming source, however there are a handful of re-released recordings of the collaboration. The best I’ve found is “Live and Picking Fast,” It’s a different set of songs than the original but the recording quality is vastly superior. They get real nice and spaced out on tunes like “I’ve Just Seen A Face” and sweetly funky on Russell’s “One More Love Song.” The collaboration proved to be a watershed moment for both NGR and Russell, both able to show longtime fans they can play with anybody and also inviting new fans to the party. The work with Russell would be the last for the original NGR lineup, later that year both Johnson and Burch would decide touring was too much, Bush and Cowan would keep the band going, adding banjo ace I haven’t been able to find NGR’s self-titled debut on a streaming/downloading service, a Bela Fleck and guitarist/vocalist Pat Flynn. true shame as the record really captures the The Bela Years (1981-1989) would see NGR f-you-to-the-status-quo energy these guys grow poppier and more polished in an effort were playing with out the gate, piss in your to reach out to the Country music mainroses and run your racehorses ragged, this was Bluegrass for the kids made by the kids. stream. Much of the work from this period sold fairly well, trading ferocious picking 1979’s “Barren County” is a great record for a more steadied, ballad-centric flow. nonetheless, full of the same raw energy of the debut and a bit spacier, a bit more playful The band’s record from 1983’s Toulouse Bluegrass Festival in the South of France reand inventive. These aren’t songs Bill Monroe would be comfortable performing, more mains a high-water mark for NGR. The vocal like something Leftover Salmon could encore harmonizing is impeccable, Fleck showing the world you can do things with a banjo with in the Telluride town park. There’s a beyond what anybody deemed possible and snarl to most of the songs, a noticeable and intentional bucking of preconceived notions, Bush’s flavorful mandolin and solid singing serving as the backbone. The version of RusThe picking stays true to the roots, but just sell’s “One More Love Song” is a goosebump enough to make it recognizable. The ideas ride, Bush able to do things vocally with the and spirit of the playing was born of the

number that Russell couldn’t. “Reach” and “Watermelon Man” are reinvented with flair and given a new voice while “Sapporo” is a jam for the ages, some of the best stretched out acoustic picking you’ll ever come across. Bela’s playing was starting to make the Bluegrass standard-bearers take notice, his lightning-fast picking owing as much to Coltrane and Byrd as to Stanley and Scruggs. In 1984 he recorded what is technically a solo record but included the classic NGR lineup along with special guests like Dobro master Jerry Douglas and violinist Mark O’Connor (Hot Rize). “Deviations” was revelatory; I-Tunes calls it a “Country” album, a distinction both lazy and ridiculous. The playing isn’t what you might expect from a seasoned Bluegrass outfit. The record is jazzy and bold, unafraid to look back and pushing hard into that mythical place where legendary things happen. The record serves as an excellent precursor to the work Bela Fleck would later do with his Grammy-winning Flecktones. “Nuns for Nixon” is a fun little, jumpy number that both Fleck and NGR would come to use as a live staple, The album is a great example of the daunting range NGR played with and the musicianship is some of the most developed and intricately realized the project ever released. “Ambrose” is six minutes of sweet, sweet sunshine, a loping time signature Fleck often would come back to in his later more experimental work. “Deviations” is a great record for that summer road-trip you’ve got on the calendar.

Focus On The Stream/Getting to Know is a weekly column by contributing writer Jesse Stanek. Each week the column will introduce (or in the case of many artists reintroduce) the reader to a different band or artist and tell you why they’re worth checking out. The column will recommend albums by the artist/band to stream or download.

Records to Stream/Download: New Grass Revival: “Barren County” Leon Russell & The New Grass Revival: “Live and Picking Fast” New Grass Revival: “Live” Bela Fleck & New Grass Revival: “Deviations”

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Eagle Riders to Raise Awareness For Children’s Mental Health By Focus Omaha

Lincoln – Volunteer motorcyclists will travel Wednesday, May 15th across the state from May 15 through May 18 • 6:30 pm, Scottsbluff: Public event at for the 12th annual Pony Express, an effort Cirrus House, 1802 17th Ave. In addition to raise awareness about children’s mental to the Eagle Riders appearance, Cirrus health. The ride will finish in a ceremony at the House will hold its annual block party. Nebraska State Capitol at 1:30pm on Saturday, Thursday, May 16th May 18. • 9 am, Sidney: Sidney Community Center/ Kids Korner, 627 Toledo St. The ride focuses on the message that mental • 11:10 am, Ogallala: Keith County CASA, health is fundamental to overall health, a 307 W. A St. message shared by the Department of Health • 1:50 pm, North Platte: Connection and Human Services. Homeless Shelter, 414 E. 6th St. • 3:20 pm, Gothenburg: Lafayette Park, The bikers, most of whom are members of the 314 27th St. Fraternal Order of Eagles and called Eagle • 5 pm: Kearney: Kearney Armory, 5710 Riders, will kick off their ride in Scottsbluff on Airport Road, event with Families Care May 15. During the ride — which spans almost 900 miles — these dedicated riders will reenact the mail-delivery service of the venerable Pony Friday, May 17th • 9:40 am: Grand Island: Boys Town Express by picking up letters about children’s Shelter, 3230 West Wildwood Drive mental health written by youth, their families • 11:10 am, York: Wessels Living History and other supporters, which will be delivered Farm, 5520 S. Lincoln Ave. to state employees at the State Capitol. • 1:45 pm, Columbus: Youth For Christ, 2809 13th St. “For the past 12 years, the Eagle Riders have • 3:55 pm, Norfolk: Ta Ha Zouka Park, been a key partner in raising awareness for public event with Parent to Parent children’s mental health,” said Sheri Dawson, Network director of the Division of Behavioral Health at DHHS, noting that suicide prevention in youth is a key focus this year. “The Eagle Riders physically pick up letters at each of the stops across the state, then deliver the letters to Lincoln, and their advocacy helps us deliver the message that there is hope and there is help for those who are dealing with difficult situations.” “Creating awareness is vital in the pursuit of improving the systems that support our young people struggling with behavioral health challenges in Nebraska,” added Sara S. Nicholson, executive director of the SnowRedfern Foundation, a supporter of the ride. On May 16, the riders will make a stop in Sidney to pick up children’s letters, then head to Ogallala, North Platte, Gothenburg and Kearney. May 17 will take the riders to Grand Island, York, Columbus and Norfolk. The final day, May 18, the riders will visit Boys Town’s main campus in Omaha and wrap up the tour on the steps of the Nebraska State Capitol, where the letters will be delivered to state leaders. Stops (all times local to the city’s time zone) include:

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Saturday, May 18th • •

10 am, Omaha: Boys Town Main Campus, West Dodge Road 1:30 pm: Arrive at Nebraska State Capitol Building to deliver letters

DHHS provides many resources for families with behavioral health needs, including the Nebraska Family Helpline, a free, confidential resource for parents with questions or concerns about their child’s behavior. The Helpline phone number is 1-888-866-8660.

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Creighton Bluejays

Nebraska Huskers

Jake Holton had a grand slam and six RBIs and Creighton took advantage of nine walks and three errors for an 11-0 win over St. John’s on Friday. Creighton ace Mitch Ragan cruised through six scoreless innings, allowing only four hits and one walk to move to 7-2 on the year as the team picked up its 30th win. Things didn’t go as well Saturday as the Jays saw a five-game winning streak end as St. John’s took a 6-4 win in a game moved up due to expected bad weather. St. John’s took a 2-0 lead in the third on a two-run home from Wyatt Mascarella. Creighton got on the board in the fourth as Jared Wegner drew a bases loaded walk with one down, but a strikeout and pop out to close the frame left the Bluejays down 2-1. The Red Storm took advantage of two hit batters in the sixth to plate four runs with two outs on a pair of doubles. A CU rally fell short as the club left the bases loaded in the eighth and stranded 12 for the game.

The Nebraska baseball team seemed to be headed for a long Alumni Weekend after a 15-6 drubbing in Game 1 by Arizona State and the nation’s 2nd ranked offense.

By Focus Omaha

The Jays took Sunday’s series finale to claim the weekend matchup and remain in the running for a Big East regular-season title topping The Red Storm 4-2. With a 1-0 run after the first inning, Creighton added a pair of runs in the fourth and plated an insurance run in the seventh. CU got three hits from sophomore catcher David Vilches including a two-run single in that key fourth inning. Senior righty Evan Johnson three six scoreless innings with eight strikeouts. Creighton is 31-11 overall and 11-4 in the Big East. That has them a half game behind Xavier, but the Musketeers are done with league play at 12-4 following the cancellation of their final weekend game against Villanova. Creighton has a chance to take the title when the Wildcats come to Omaha for three games this weekend. Before that it’s a Tuesday game with UNO.

By Focus Omaha

But in Game 2 Senior Nate Fisher picked up his fifth win of the season, throwing 5.1 innings and tied a career high with seven strikeouts. Robbie Palkert fanned six Sun Devils in relief to tie his career-best strikeout total. Freshman Colby Gomes earned his team-high 10th save of the season by pitching the final inning. Nebraska struck first with a run in the bottom of the third. Mojo Hagge’s one-out single was followed by a steal and Aaron Palensky was intentionally walked to put two runners on. Luke Roskam’s RBI single scored Hagge to give NU the lead. The Huskers added a run in the fourth to make it 2-0 before ASU got on the board in the fifth for its only run in the 2-1 Nebraska win.

The regular season ends against Michigan at Hawks Field for a three-game series slated to begin Thursday. All three games will be televised on the Big Ten Network.

NEBRASKA BASEBALL SCHEDULE Thu, May 16 // 6:35 PM CT vs. Michigan Hawks Field at Haymarket Park Fri, May 17 // 6:35 PM CT vs. Michigan Hawks Field at Haymarket Park Sat, May 18 // 2:05 PM CT vs. Michigan Hawks Field at Haymarket Park Wed, May 22 - Sun, May 26 Big Ten Tournament Omaha, Neb. (TD Ameritrade Park) The Huskers wrap up their regular season with the Michigan Wolverines May 16 -18! Don’t miss out on any of the action at Haymarket Park as two of the B1G’s best battle in their regular season finale.

In Game 3 Nebraska took down Arizona State in the series rubber match, 8-5, at Hawks Field on Sunday afternoon. Senior righthander Reece Eddins earned his team-high sixth win of the season tossing 6.0 innings while allowing three runs with three strikeouts. Shay Schanaman tossed the final 1.1 innings to earn his third save of the season. Senior Alex Henwood had a career-high three hits with a home run and a double. Angelo Altavilla and Aaron Palensky each had two hits. Nebraska took an early lead with Cam Chick’s solo homer in the bottom of the first. The Sun Devils responded with three runs in the top of the second, but the Huskers tied it up with two runs in the bottom of the frame. Tied 3-3 NU plated four runs in the bottom of the fifth. Spencer Schwellenbach was hit-bypitch then advanced to third on Henwood’s double and scored on a wild pitch. Colby Gomes drew a walk to put two runners on before Jaxon Hallmark stroked a three-run home run to left field. ASU added solo homers in the seventh and eight before the Cornhuskers manufactured

an insurance run in the bottom of the eighth.

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Omaha Mavericks By Focus Omaha

The Mavericks were set for a Wednesday trip to Minnesota when – what else? Cold and rain caused the game to be cancelled. The weather has been on of the year’s biggest baseball stories. Omaha snagged a 10-inning win over Western Illinois, 4-3, in the series opener Friday afternoon. Senior Payton Kinney tossed 7.1

innings with five strikeouts on three walks, three hits and three runs allowed. Cal Hehnke picked up the win (4-2) with three strikeouts and one hit in 2.2 relief innings. Parker Smejkal had two hits and two RBIs. Omaha fell 5-0 in the second game on Saturday afternoon, getting only two runners on base in the final four innings, then dropped Sunday’s game and the series falling 8-5 to the Leathernecks. That marked the third straight week in which the Mavericks have lost a series finale. The game was stopped after the top of the eighth by weather. Omaha (27-18-1, 19-8 Summit League) holds a 1.5 game lead over South Dakota State. A four-game week starts Tuesday at Creighton, followed by a three-game homestand with Oral Roberts that begins Thursday.

Delta 88 – Keeping the Blues Alive By Andy Roberts

If not the foundation the blues is one of the seeds that is key to the DNA of most great popular music since the 1950s and probably before that. While it has gone through periods of lesser and greater popularity, it’s always in the mix and it seems the cycle may be ready to turn again. To keep pushing things in a positively bluesy direction is Delta 88. The Omaha-based band of music vets has been on the case since 2007 and is lead by Lou Deluca on vocals and harmonica. Steve Harmon joined about three years ago on guitar and is supported by the rhythm section of Doug Collins on bass and drummer Brad Yearwood. The name evolved out of DeLuca’s encounter with a fellow blues player whose band included an automobile reference in its name but offered high praise for the Oldsmobile Delta 88. DeLuca has been playing for years, and said this lineup simply evolved over time. “Doug and Brad have been with me for years. I call them ‘The Metronome Twins’ because of their timing.” But, it’s not just by accident this collection of individuals turned into a blues band. “The other thing that brought everybody together is our love of traditional style blues.”

plans, DeLuca doesn’t expect that to change in the future. “Just continue to gig. Eventually the goal is making a record in a hotel room, I think,” he offered. “A cheap hotel room.” The right tone is everything.

DeLuca said 30 years ago his first musical interest was in playing the saxophone. Then, while waiting to meet his friend Sam DiBiase at a music store, DiBiase walked in playing a harmonica. That changed musical directions for DeLuca. “The more I got into harmonica the more I drifted into the blues,” he recalled. That led to DeLuca meetings more professional blues players including many who were dedicated to keeping the music form alive and moving it forward. Among those was Bill Lupkin who has become a major influence. “A monster harmonica player,” who has played with many of the greats, recalled DeLuca. For him, the blues is: “People’s music. It’s got a beat and a rhythm to it that’s in all our hearts and souls . . . It’ll reach out and touch you.” DeLuca said it’s “tremendously hard” to find good blues players. Most of those who want to play come from a rock ‘n’ roll background. They may hit the right notes, but the rhythm, timing and tone are a challenge for them to pull off well. Delta 88 performs some original material but focuses on the classics, DeLuca stated. “Kind of like Muddy and that . . . things that were made famous by rock ‘n’ rollers . . . very catchy, especially ‘Mannish Boy.’” For those who don’t know, The Rolling Stones took their name from a phrase in that song. Much of the blues audience is older, DeLuca acknowledged, but the music easily makes a connection to the younger crowd once they are exposed to it. Your chance to be exposed comes Friday at The B Bar in Omaha. In July the band plays a gig in Crescent, Iowa, and then they are set for Blues in the Market. Beyond that it’s a matter of coordinating schedules. Delta 88 has been at it for years and, while there are no specific

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Lizz Wright – On the Money By Andy Roberts

From Hahira, Georgia, to New York City to Omaha, Lizz Wright brings her tour in support of Grace to the Holland Center on May 16. She offers what The New York Times has touted as, “a smooth, dark alto possessed of qualities you might associate with barrelaged bourbon or butter-soft leather.” Wright, the daughter of a Southern preacher and church music director, blends jazz, blues, gospel and American folk music. Grace, released on Concord in the fall of 2017, features ten covers and an original co-write with Maia Sharp. It features her distinctive arrangements of songs by American greats such as Ray Charles, Allen Toussaint, Nina Simone, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, k.d. lang, Bob Dylan, Frank Perkins and Mitchell Parish, plus newer artists Rose Cousins and Birds of Chicago. Her talents were honed at Georgia State University and later the New School in New York City and in Vancouver, B.C. She joined the Atlanta-based vocal quarter In the Spirit in 2000 and two years later signed a recording contract with Verve Records. The spring of 2003 saw the release of

her first album, Salt, which reached No. 2 on Billboard’s Top Contemporary Jazz Chart the following year. Dreaming Wide Awake added a folk influence when it came out two years later and topped the charts in 2005 and 2006. The Orchard followed in 2008 and Fellowship, an album of mostly gospel standards, was released in 2010. Around the time of her first album Wright made a national name for herself as a vocalist in a touring concert tribute to Billie Holiday. Her 2015 release, Freedom & Surrender, kept her on top of the charts and the single from that album, “Lean In,” landed on President Obama’s 2016 Summer Playlist. Critic Howard Reich, writing in The Chicago Tribune penned an early review of the Grace tour in which he praised the material as an evocation of her Southern roots. He added: “But even if she had been singing the Yellow Pages (do they still make those?), she would have proved compelling.” High praise, indeed.

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Wright now makes her home in rural North Carolina, a setting she finds perfect for relaxing and writing. The Thursday show is a priority for jazz lovers and her appearance a major score for Omaha Performing Arts. The evening will begin with Beyond-theStage Conversations featuring Omaha jazz artist Kim Lomax at 6:45. Check ticketomaha. com for seats. For more on Lizz Wright: https://lizzwright.net/

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1040 Postmortem: Making Sense of Your Taxes and Withholding By Michael Harek The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which passed in December 2017, made fundamental changes to the U.S. tax code, and 2018 returns were the first time most taxpayers could see the practical impact of these changes. In an April 2019 Gallup poll, 43% of Americans said they were unsure how the new tax law affected them personally. Surprisingly, 21% thought their federal income taxes went up in 2018, and 21% said they were about the same. Only 14% of respondents reported that their taxes went down, even though independent analyses and preliminary tax filing data suggested that about two-thirds of Americans would owe less in federal taxes in 2018.1-2 One reason for this apparent confusion might be because taxpayers tend to pay little attention to employer withholding, and any potential increase in take-home pay may have been less noticeable when divided into weekly (or biweekly) paychecks. It’s also possible that many respondents didn’t take the time to compare their tax burdens to the previous year and/or may not know how to do so. Despite a stated effort to simplify the federal withholding and tax filing process, the tax code is still complex, and many taxpayers don’t understand the details and terminology. Stay on top of withholding About 73% of 2018 tax returns showed a refund, averaging $2,725.3 The amount of your refund or the amount you owe with your return has little to do with your overall tax burden. These numbers reflect whether your withholding and/or estimated tax payments during the year were more or less than your final tax bill. In theory, your withholding should equal your tax liability; otherwise, you are loaning your money interest-free to the government. But IRS formulas tend to err on the high side, partly because people usually dislike owing a balance and are often happy to receive a tax refund. Employers estimate your federal tax bill based on the number of exemptions claimed

on your W-4 Form and on IRS calculation tables. The IRS rather quickly released 2018 calculation tables reflecting the new rates and rules. However, the agency did not replace the W-4 Form and worksheet, which are based on exemptions, deductions, and credits that were reduced or eliminated under the new tax law. This resulted in smaller refunds or higher tax bills than expected for some taxpayers, especially dual-income households with more complicated situations. The Treasury estimated that 21% of taxpayers would be subject to under-withholding because of the TCJA, compared with 18% if the tax law provisions had not changed.4 If you owed a large amount of money for 2018, bumping up your withholding now could help avoid a similar fate next April. You might also reevaluate your withholding If you received a large refund. You could make larger retirement contributions instead or take home more of your pay and put it to better use. It’s also a good idea to review your withholding whenever something changes in your life — such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, new job, or other significant change in your financial situation. The IRS (irs.gov) has an up-to-date, online calculator that can help you determine the appropriate amount of withholding. You still need to complete and submit a current W-4 to your employer to make any adjustments. An all-new W-4 Form for the 2020 tax year is in the works but isn’t expected to be available to employers until later in 2019. Measuring the impact How you fared under the TCJA depends on a variety of factors, such as how much you earned, your filing status, the ages of your dependents, and where you live. Undertaking a thorough side-by-side comparison of your 2017 and 2018 returns could help you identify changes that affected your bottom line. Be sure to note differences in your allowed deductions, taxable income, and total tax liability.

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New marginal tax brackets are likely to mean that much of your income is taxed at lower rates. But other provisions may add to or reduce that benefit. Standard deduction amounts for 2018 roughly doubled to $12,000 for single filers and $24,000 for married taxpayers filing jointly. However, personal exemptions ($4,050 in 2017) for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents are no longer available. The expanded child tax credit may offset the loss of exemptions for many taxpayers, but the math may not work out in your favor if you’re a family of four or more. A number of tax deductions commonly used by high earners have also been modified, capped, or eliminated. For example, the itemized deduction for state and local taxes (SALT) is now limited to $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately). This provision caused tax increases for some taxpayers

in high-tax states. On the other hand, the overall limit on itemized deductions that applied to higher-income taxpayers (commonly known as the “Pease limitation”) was repealed, and fewer taxpayers are subject to the alternative minimum tax.

continued on page 25

You might also consult a tax professional who can explain the relevant changes and recommend potential strategies to help reduce your tax liability for 2019. What if you owe money and can’t pay? If you didn’t file your 2018 federal income tax return because it’s going to show a balance due, you should file your return immediately and pay as much as you can afford. This can help limit penalties and interest, and being up-to-date on filing is generally required to pursue a payment agreement with the IRS. If you owe $50,000 or less, you may even be able to apply for a short-term extension (up to 120 days) or a longer payment agreement online. Interest and penalties continue to accrue on unpaid amounts. 1) Gallup, April 12, 2019 2) The New York Times, April 14, 2019 3) Internal Revenue Service, April 12, 2019 4) U.S. Government Accountability Office, 2018

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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

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 PADDY’S McGOWN’S PUB & GRILL 4503 Center St. Happy Hour Specials from 3-6pm

CADDYSHACK 2076 N 117th Ave & 7007 S 181st St M-F 2P-6P $1 Off Beer, Wine & Wells TUES- HAPPY HOUR All Day

PITCH PIZZERIA 5021 Underwood Ave. 17808 Burke M-F 3P-6P $5 off any appetizer $5 off any pizza

COHEN & KELLY’S LOUNGE 13075 W Center Rd M-F 4:30P - 6:30P Drink Specials

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

DUBLINER PUB 1205 Harney St. Nightly Drink Specials & Happy Hour 1P - 7P Everyday !! $1.00 off Pints and Bottles GETAWAY LOUNGE 4745 S 96th St M-F 2P - 6P $2 Busch Lite Bottles $2.25 Busch Lite Tall Boys $3 Fireballs $3 Apple Pie Shots JERRY’S BAR 6301 Military Ave Happy Hour Prices ALL Day EVERYDAY! 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 MALONEY’S IRISH PUB 1830 N 72nd St. M-F 3P-7P $1.00 off any beer

RAILCAR MODERN AMERICAN KITCHEN 1814 N 144th St. M-F 3:30-6:30P $4 Well Drinks $3 Off Signature Cocktails

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 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, $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

Rathskeller Bier Garden 4524 Farnam St. Monday to Saturday – 3P to 6P | 10P-Close Sunday – All Day BOSO – Buy one second one for $.25 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 SUNDAY-All Day

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