VOLUME 3 ISSUE 5 | JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 5 | 2019
YOUR
FREE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH, PERSONAL FINANCE, & MUSIC NEWSWEEKLY
LOCAL Danielle Nicole
LIVE Devotchka
STREAM Howe Gelb/Giant Sand
SPORTS College Basketball
TABLE OF CONTENTS
YOUR
FREE
UARY 5 | 2019 LY | JANUARY 31 - FEBR & MUSIC NEWSWEEK VOLUME 3 ISSUE 5 PERSONAL FINANCE, TAINMENT, HEALTH, ARTS, ENTER
4
LOCAL
Danielle Nicole
STREAM
d Howe Gelb/Giant San
LIVE
Devotchka
SPORTS
College Basketball
FOCUS ON THIS WEEK! THE ARTS
6
FAMILY
8
EVENTS
Your Daily Guide
10
ON TEN
Top Ten Events By Focus Omaha
12
THIS WEEKS FEATURE
21
LOCAL
22
LIVE
24
FINANCE
26
STREAM
29
HAPPY HOUR
Grammy Nominated Blues Singer Danielle Nicole Set for Omaha Return By Andy Roberts
Devotchka: Making Mood Music For The Movies By Jesse D. Stanek
Women: Living in the Sandwich Generation By Michael Herek Sponsored By Blue Capitol Wealth
Getting to Know The King of Cactus Country: Howe Gelb/Giant Sand By Jesse D. Stanek
14
THE SHOPS AT COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE
Countryside Village Directory By Focus Omaha
We gathered up some of the BEST Happy Hour spots around the Omaha metro.
16
FOCUS ON BENSON
18
HEALTH
20
SPORTS
Mid-Week Cold Presents Danger By Focus Omaha
College Basketball By Focus Omaha
Focus is your FREE Arts, Entertainment, Health, Personal Finance, & Music Newsweekly. We’ve brought all of these elements together for the Ćrst 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
CityLight Arts Project presents pop-up art show curated by Melissa Musick — The Feminine Palette: featuring work by Courtney Kenny Porto, Evelyn Render-Katz & JK Thorsen. Artist discussion panel with visitors encourages dialogue about engaging with your local artistic community, how to approach and appreciate art, and how gender shapes creative output. Also featuring an interactive component where visitors gain insight into what it’s like to curate an art show themselves. Friday, February 1, 2019, from 6-9pm. Artists Discussion Panel at 7:30 pm 5603 Radial Hwy, Omaha, NE 68104— on the event map forBFF The Citylight Arts Project seeks to grow the Benson renaissance through empowering the next generation of creatives. www.citylightartsproject.com -----------------------------------------------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 Ćgures. Admission: free. 8a- 5p Monday thru Friday http://www. artscouncil.nebraska.gov/opportunities/for-artists/fred-simon-gallery-exhibition.html -----------------------------------------------Through January 26 Transcendence The Little Gallery Benson, 5901 Maple The Ćrst 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. “Transcendence” provides a window into these very private stories about the choices we make to become our best, most authentic selves. Whether that means breaking free from unhealthy cycles, overcoming addictions or even resisting harmful yet socially acceptable behaviors, all these stories paint a picture of what it means
4
to seek a better way of being in the world. Hours are:Tuesday-Friday, 3p to 6p Saturday, 10a to 1p -----------------------------------------------Through February 23 I LET THEM IN. Conditional Hospitality and The Stranger Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 724 South 12th Street Omaha http://bemiscenter.org/iletthemin “I let them in. Conditional Hospitality and The Stranger” is a two-person exhibition featuring videos by Kader Attia and Candice Breitz, curated by Taraneh Fazeli, 2018 Bemis Curator-in-Residence. Amidst the current “migration crisis,” these artworks interrogate who is afforded the right to speak or the ability to be understood considering dominant representational narratives and the political, socio-psychological and technological systems that shape our understandings of self and the communal. -----------------------------------------------UPCOMING at TICKETOMAHA: Russian, French and American Tales: A Festival, January 11-19, 2019 Holland Performing Arts Center AIR PLAY March 16 2019 Orpheum Theater Ride the wind and dream with AIR PLAY, a modern spectacle that brings to life the very air we breathe. Flying umbrellas, larger-than-life balloons, giant kites ćoating over the audience and the biggest snow globe you’ve ever seen will make you gasp in wonder and laugh until it hurts. -----------------------------------------------Upcoming Exhibits Durham Museum, 2200 Dodge St. January 19, Oliver Jeffers: 15 Years of Picturing Books, February 2, 30 Americans & Fred Tomaselli Holiday Lights Festival: The Capitol District Ice Rink January 14, 2019 to January 20, 2019 11th & Capitol Sts. Omaha, NE 68102 Mon-Thurs: 6-10pm/Fri: 6-11pm/Sat: Noon-11pm/Sun: Noon-9pm Admission: $10 (includes skate rental)
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
Phone: (402) 345-5401 More Info: Visit The Capitol District Ice Rink presented by Energy Center Omaha to discover your winter tradition on ice. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, which supports Food Bank for the Heartland. -----------------------------------------------Dinosaur UpROAR January 17 - May 12 9a to 5p daily Don’t miss this life-sized adventure through the fauna and fearsome ćora of Lauritzen Gardens that’s fun for the whole family. Dinosaur UpROAR offers a realistic glimpse into the prehistoric world, allowing visitors to experience what life was like millions of years ago when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The indoor exhibit will feature 20 life-sized installations positioned throughout the
garden, where massive creations by Guy Darrough will appear right at home nestled among plants that have survived through the ages and jungle-like landscapes. The carefully crafted dinosaurs will range in size from a 14-inch Sordes to a massive 33-ft. Daspletosaur, and plant fossils of Nebraska and a collection of prehistoric plants will also be highlighted. With discovery stations and plenty of educational activities and special events scheduled throughout the exhibit, it is bound to be a RAWR-ing good time in the garden. Included with paid garden admission or membership ($10 adults, $5 children 6-12, free for children under 6).
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 5
Through February 23rd I LET THEM IN. Conditional Hospitality and The Stranger Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 724 South 12th Street, Omaha “I let them in. Conditional Hospitality and The Stranger” is a two-person exhibition featuring videos by Kader Attia and Candice Breitz, curated by Taraneh Fazeli, 2018 Bemis Curator-in-Residence. Amidst the current “migration crisis,” these artworks interrogate who is afforded the right to speak or the ability to be understood considering dominant representational narratives and the political, socio-psychological and technological systems that shape our understandings of self and the communal. www.bemiscenter.org -----------------------------------------------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
6
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 You’re the all-star in the special exhibit Super Sports: Building Strength, Sportsmanship and Smarts. Test your skills throwing footballs and baseballs. Take aim on the mini soccer, hockey and basketball courts. Family events continued onto the bottom half of page 7.
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
EVENTS THURSDAY, JANUARY 31 Winter Jam 2019 featuring Newsboys United, Danny Gokey, Mandisa, Rend Collective, Ledger, Newsong, Hollyn, Dan Bremnes, Ty Brasel, Manic Drive, Greg Stier, Zane Black, Adam Agee Mid-America Center, 7p FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 The 402 Amerisports Bar, 8:30p
---------------------------------------------Knockout Parties - DJ Jake - Every Friday Fri 7 PM · The Mile Away Hall & Tavern SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 The 402 Amerisports Bar, 8:30p
---------------------------------------------SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Dany Reyes’s Art Exhibit And Sale CUBE Ultra Lounge, 6p
Family events continued from page 6. Each area in the exhibit is an interactive experience focusing on a different sport or profession related to sports. Children can develop team-building skills, and learn about nutrition and an athletic lifestyle, all through play. There’s even a separate toddler area for our youngest athletes-in-training. www.ocm.org -----------------------------------------------Through April 28th Oliver Jeffers: 15 Years of Picturing Books Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge This exhibition chronicles Oliver Jeffers’ development and success as a children’s book artist, including illustrations from The Day the Crayons Quit and The Day the Crayons Came Home, both The New York Times #1 Best Sellers. A Mind’s Eye Gallery exhibition.
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 7
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 30
THURSDAY JANUARY 31
Carrie Jean’s Happy Hippie Hour The Down Under Lounge, 3p ----------------------------------------------Dr. Webb Music The Down Under Lounge, 4:20p ----------------------------------------------Beer, Bingo & Trivia Kros Strain Brewing Co., 6p ----------------------------------------------The Persuaders, Ozone Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------CD 105.9 Whiskey Wednesday Library Pub, 7p ----------------------------------------------Trivia, Stocks n Bonds, 7p ----------------------------------------------Acoustic Open Mic Night The New Frontier Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------WTF: eNVy Acoustic Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p ----------------------------------------------Addicts Comedy Tour Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Rayford Jones The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Comedy Open Mic Barley Street Tavern, 8p ----------------------------------------------Thursday Night Trivia, Nifty Bar, 8p --------------------------------------------Aly Peelers Open Mic Night The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------DJ Lay-C, Bar 415, 9p ----------------------------------------------Karaoke w/ Host Adam Flohr Brokedown Palace, 9p ----------------------------------------------Brady Wells Residency Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Comedy Open Mic Vino Mas, 9p ----------------------------------------------Open Mic Night (Hosted by Stathi) The B. Bar, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Wednesday Night Karaoke with Brixz Brokedown Palace, 10p
Acoustic Happy Hour Jam The Down Under Lounge, 4p --------------------------------------------The Jimmys at the Thursday Matinee Series, Chrome Lounge, 6p ----------------------------------------------BFF: Casey Callahan / Gummi Picnic Jake’s Cigars, 6p ----------------------------------------------Ed Archibald CD Release Ozone Lounge, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------Not U Two, Vino Mas, 6:30p ----------------------------------------------“SPEAK UP” SINGLE RELEASE SHOW Jocelyn wsg Aly Peeler Slowdown, 7p ----------------------------------------------Acoustic Open Mic Night The New Frontier Bar, 7p ----------------------------------------------Phil Valdez, Buck’s Bar and Grill, 9p --------------------------------------------Kountry Wayne Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p, 10p ----------------------------------------------Trivia, The Sociable Inn, 7:30p ----------------------------------------------Trivia Night, Alderman’s Bar, 8p --------------------------------------------Juke Butter, Growler USA, 8p ----------------------------------------------Thursday Night Trivia, Nifty Bar, 8p ----------------------------------------------General Trivia, The Cove Lounge,8p ----------------------------------------------Elevate, The Waiting Room, 8p ----------------------------------------------Alexsed & Danny Aparo, Bar 415, 9p ----------------------------------------------Anna Stine Barley Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Ladies Night Copacabana Cocktail Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Thirsty Thursday Karaoke Forte Music Hall, 9p ----------------------------------------------Ricky Szablowski Harney Street Tavern, 9p -----------------------------------------------
8
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
KoZee Karaoke, KoZee Lounge. 9p ----------------------------------------------Open Mic with Annie Dee “Ladies Night”, Pageturners, 9p ----------------------------------------------Salsa Lessons, Rehab Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Chris Shelton, Dubliner Pub, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Singer-Songwriter Night The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1 2019 Midwest Dart Championship Ramada Plaza Omaha, 11a --------------------------------------------Friday Happy Hour The Down Under Lounge, 4p ----------------------------------------------Luke Johnson The Cove Lounge, 5p ----------------------------------------------February Group Art Show to BeneĆt YES, The Sydney, 5p ----------------------------------------------The Feminine Palette Citylight Arts Project, 6p ----------------------------------------------High Country American Legion Post #1, 7p ----------------------------------------------Heartland Boogie Band Bogie’s West, 7p ----------------------------------------------Panic! At the Disco: Pray for the Wicked Tour with Two Feet CHI Health Center, 7p ----------------------------------------------Joteria, Petshop, 7p --------------------------------------------BFFzz #4 Release Party! The Sydney, 7p --------------------------------------------Kountry Wayne Omaha Funny Bone, 7:30p/9:30p ----------------------------------------------Aaron Stroessner Quartet wsg Emily Bass, Jambo Cat, 8p ----------------------------------------------Grand Opening w/ OG Nixin, SoundTrooper, Dabski, Luvrboy, & Bvssvine Karma Nightclub, 8p
--------------------------------------------Sebastian Lane’s Barley Street Blues Jam, Barley Street, 9p ----------------------------------------------TJ Broscoff with The Belles Buck’s Bar and Grill · Venice, 9p --------------------------------------------Charm School Dropouts Chrome Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Bad Habit, Live, Forte Music Hall, 9p --------------------------------------------Matt Cox Band Harney Street Tavern, 9p ----------------------------------------------Trivia Night, Julio’s, 9p ----------------------------------------------Dummy Head Torpedo w/Flavortown MaĆa, O’Leaver’s Pub, 9p ----------------------------------------------Lemon Fresh Day, Ozone Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Party Life Night-clubside, Latin Nightlounge, Rehab Nightclub, 9p --------------------------------------------Matt Whipkey & Garst Reverb Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------THE INFINITE SMILES TOUR w/ King Tuff, StoneĆeld, Slowdown, 9p ----------------------------------------------DJ ANimale, The Cove Lounge, 9p ----------------------------------------------Elevate Dance Party #31 - Black Rock City, The Waiting Room, 8p --------------------------------------------Ragged Company w/Harper & Lee The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Wild Colonial Bhoys Dubliner Pub, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Jorden and Xandria Brokedown Palace, 10p
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 2 Front Porch Therapy Bar & Grill, 5:30p --------------------------------------------Paul Nelson, Chrome Lounge, 7p --------------------------------------------VIP Dance, Omaha Ballroom, 7p -----------------------------------------------
Cirkle Of Fifths The New Frontier Bar, 7p -------------------------------------------Hunks The Show American Dream, 8p --------------------------------------------The Matt Amandus Jazz Trio Jambo Cat, 8p --------------------------------------------Karaoke & Music Smitty’s Garage, 8p --------------------------------------------Trivia & Karaoke Night Stumble Inn, 8p --------------------------------------------Front Porch Therapy Bar & Grill, 8p --------------------------------------------Frequency, Bar 415, 8p --------------------------------------------Dr. Webb Infusion Brewing Company, 8p --------------------------------------------A very groovy chili feed with Supper and Vibe Rations, The B. Bar, 8p --------------------------------------------Ray Scott Buck’s Bar and Grill · Venice, 9p --------------------------------------------The Bedrock, Travelling Mercies & White Wolf T-Shirt Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------Sidecar 69, Chrome Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Violent Death Equipment/Ashes of Immolation/DrowningInThePlatte Dr. Jack’s Drinkery, 9pGrowler USA, 9p --------------------------------------------Sailing In Soup Harney Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------Trivia, Julio’s, 9p ---------------------------------------------Joystick, Ozone Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Matt Whipkey & Garst Garst Reverb Lounge, 9p --------------------------------------------Koe Wetzel wsg Jacob Bryant Slowdown, 9p --------------------------------------------VInce Swaney Band The Down Under Lounge, 9:30p --------------------------------------------Wild Colonial Bhoys Dubliner Pub, 9:30p ----------------------------------------------Bollywood in Benson The Waiting Room, 10p
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 3 30 Americans: Free Opening Weekend Joslyn Art Museum, 10a --------------------------------------------Omaha Men’s Basketball vs. North Dakota, Baxter Arena, 12p --------------------------------------------Creighton Bluejays Men’s Basketball vs. Xa , CHI Health Center, 12p --------------------------------------------Super Bowl Sunday 10 pt. Pitch Tournament, Brokedown Palace, 12:30p --------------------------------------------2019 Season Auditions - Omaha Lied Education Center for the Arts, 1p ----------------------------------------------Shen Yun 2019 - Omaha Orpheum Theatre, 1p --------------------------------------------Open Mic Sunday! American Legion Post #1, 1:30p --------------------------------------------James Harman wsg Nathan James Chrome Lounge, 1:30p --------------------------------------------Acoustic Sunday Soaring Wings Vineyard, 1:30p --------------------------------------------Great Plains Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association American Legion Post #1, 2p --------------------------------------------The Civil Rights Movement in Omaha Great Plains Black History, 2p ----------------------------------------------2nd Annual Puppy Bowl Watch Party! Jerzes Sports Bar, 2p ----------------------------------------------Chili Cookoff Super Bowl Sunday Kozee Lounge, 2p ----------------------------------------------Super Bowl Chili Contest Party The Sociable Inn, 2p ----------------------------------------------Super Bowl Sunday Funday! Bogie’s Bar & Grill, 3p ----------------------------------------------Super Bowl Party, Reverb Lounge, 4p --------------------------------------------Super Bowl Party, O’Leaver’s, 5p ----------------------------------------------Super Bowl Party, Slowdown, 5:30p --------------------------------------------Chili Cook-Off Therapy Bar & Grill, 5p ----------------------------------------------Super Bowl Chili Cook-Off Dr Jack’s Drinkery, 5p ----------------------------------------------Superbowl Party, Jerzes Sports Bar, 5p ----------------------------------------------Super Bowl Party & Chili Cook Off Molly’s Pub Ralston, 5p continued on page 11
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 9
1
#
Thursday & Friday JANUARY 31# FEBRUARY 1
2
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1
#
3
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1
2019 Midwest Kountry Wayne Panic at the Disco Dart Championship OMAHA FUNNY BONE CHI HEALTH CENTER RAMADA PLAZA
6
#
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 2
7
#
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 3
#
8
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 3
#
4
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1
BFF BENSON
9
#
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 3
Superbowl Party/ Chili Cook-Off Harlem Globetrotters Creighton Vs. Xavier Super Bowl 53 CHI HEALTH CENTER THERAPY BAR CHI HEALTH CENTER ON THE BIGSCREEN
10
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
#
5
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 2
King Tuff SLOWDOWN
10
#
MONDAY FEBRUARY 4
Beryllium Takeover / Even Coast / Molten WAITING ROOM
Events continued from page 9 Super Bowl Party O’Leaver’s, 5p --------------------------------------------Superbowl Party/ Chili Cook-Off Therapy Bar & Grill, 5p --------------------------------------------SuperBowl Potluck American Legion Post #1, 6p --------------------------------------------Super Bowl 53: Big Game on the 20’ Slowdown, 6p ----------------------------------------------Super BOWL Special! Scorz Sports Center, 6p ----------------------------------------------PUNK SHOW//To The Teeth/Verb The Noun/Not Ben Shin/Not Funny Lookout Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------TAPESTRIES: The Raw & Uncut The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p -------------------------------------------FREE Booze Bingo! The Down Under Lounge, 8p --------------------------------------------Karla Kitty’s Launching At 40! Hot Shops Art Center, 7p --------------------------------------------Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p
Open Mic Barley Street Tavern, 9p --------------------------------------------DJ Howie’s Karaoke Grant St. Bar, 9p --------------------------------------------Open Mic, Molly’s Pub, 9p --------------------------------------------Poker Night, Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p --------------------------------------------Blue Monday Blues Jam The Down Under, 9p
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 5 Gift of Grapes - Chocolates & Wine for a Cause, Vino Mas, 5p --------------------------------------------Open Jam Therapy Bar & Grill, 5:30p --------------------------------------------Roe on the Rocks, Slowdown, 6p --------------------------------------------Music Bingo Guy Ozone Lounge, 6:30p --------------------------------------------Open Jam hosted by Scott Moyer Barley Street Tavern, 7p --------------------------------------------Trivia, Goldeez, 7p ---------------------------------------------
Mitch Towne Jazz Organ Trio Jambo Cat, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Hector Anchondo The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Open Mic Jam Brokedown Palace, 8p --------------------------------------------Trivia The Down Under, 8p --------------------------------------------Turbo Tuesdays w/ Vic Nasty Bar 415, 9p --------------------------------------------Karaoke Forte Music Hall, 9p -------------------------------------------Open Mic (standup) The Backline, 9p -------------------------------------------Karaoke The Down Under Lounge, 10p
MONDAY FEBRUARY 4 Happy Hour! The Down Under Lounge, 3p --------------------------------------------Aly Peeler & 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 --------------------------------------------Poker Night Therapy Bar & Grill, 7p --------------------------------------------MaĆa Trivia Vis Major Brewing, 7p --------------------------------------------Michelle Eva Bleu w/ B. Baldwin The Omaha Lounge, 7:30p --------------------------------------------Pub Quiz w/ Rob & Sara! The Sydney, 8p --------------------------------------------NMM: Beryllium Takeover, Even Coast & Molten, The Waiting Room, 8p ---------------------------------------------
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 11
and civilian personnel were potentially exposed to airborne dust and debris contaminated with plutonium.
.
Fukushima nuclear accident Service members may have been exposed to low doses of radiation in Japan from March 12 to May 11, 2011, following a nuclear accident on March 11, 2011.
.
Radiation-risk activity (includes “Atomic Veterans”) Activities include participation in nuclear weapons testing and the American occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
.
Military occupational exposure Various military occupations, such as nuclear weapons technicians and dental technicians, include routine and usually safe exposure to radiation.
RADIOACTIVE
and women in the armed forces from exposure to radiation.
Many of us were not yet alive to experience that period in our great nation that gained notoriety all the way back in WW I and continued until the height of the Cold War known as the “Red Scare.”
In addition to possible military uses, the need for protection from radiation exposure has evolved into many other areas. Everything from the now questionable notion that that nuclear power plants were a safe way to provide clean energy to the use of radiation for disease therapy that began with the work of Leopold Freund and Eduard Schiff in 1896.
By Focus Omaha
In the dawn of the nuclear age and after the 1945 Potsdam Conference it evolved into the “Red Menace.” People were led to believe communists were lurking around every corner and children were taught how to tuck themselves into secure corners and under a school desk (as if that would save them) in the event of a nuclear attack. Bomb shelters became a thriving industry.
.
Depleted uranium During an explosion, pieces of depleted uranium used in tank armor and some bullets can scatter and embed in muscle and soft tissue.
. LORAN radiation U.S. Coast Guard Veterans who worked at LORAN (Long Range Navigation) stations from 1942 to 2010 may have been exposed to X-ray radiation from high voltage vacuum tubes.
bomb tests between 1945 and 1962. Hopefully, the risk of both civilians and the military to exposure is about to change with some local help. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has turned to the University of Nebraska for help. Ken Bayles, Ph.D., Associate Vice Chancellor for Basic Science Research at UNMC and co-principal investigator spearheaded the program and funding along with Dr. David Berkowitz, Ph.D., professor of chemistry at UNL. The NU project for the Defense Health Agency (DHA), in collaboration with the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI), is being awarded nearly $11 million in potential federal funding over the next Ćve years. NU researchers will look for therapeutics candidates the U.S. military would need to protect troops from radiation in case of exposure, as in a nuclear accident or a nuclear weapons incident. Leveraging the full, collaborative strength of a united university system – multiple campuses, and a network of successful alums – directed by the DOD - is something new for NU. “I’ve never been involved with anything like that before,” Dr. Berkowitz said. “This team came together as a joint vision between the team leadership and our DOD funders and it’s pretty unusual across the country to see such a publicprivate-government partnership.”
. McMurdo Station, Antarctica nuclear power plant According to the U.S. Department of The U.S. Navy operated a small Veterans Affairs, here are a few of the nuclear plant at the McMurdo Station, documented instances where military Antarctica, from 1964 to 1973. The service members have been exposed to nuclear plant was decommissioned after Dr. Bayles recently told Focus that radiation: a leak was discovered. there may be a reason that there hasn’t been much progress made up to this . Radiological cleanup of Enewetak . Nasopharyngeal (nose and throat) point, and that reason is big pharma. Atoll radium irradiation treatments “It’s all about economics. Big (Pharma) The U.S. conducted 43 nuclear tests on Certain pilots, submariners, divers, companies are looking for drugs that Enewetak Proving Ground at Enewetak and others were given this treatment people can use for the rest of their Yes, anti-communist sentiment was at its Atoll from 1948 to 1958. Radiation at during service in 1940 to the mid-1960s lives. Therefore, Big Pharma is getting height. Controversial groups existed like the test site was cleaned up from May to prevent ear damage from pressure out of other areas of medicine. That’s the Hollywood 10 and the HUAC (House 1977 - May 1980. why we can me up with this drug changes. These Veterans are eligible for Un-American Activities Committee) led development pipeline concept to Ćll the a free Ionizing Radiation Registry health by the notorious Sen. Joseph McCarthy. . U.S. Air Force plutonium clean-up void. Pharmaceutical companies are exam. His actions culminated in his accusing mission, Palomares, Spain in the business of making money. They our own army of being inĆltrated by A nuclear weapons mishap occurred . Radiation therapy would argue that the FDA has made it communists, which eventually resulted on January 17, 1966, over Palomares, Ionizing radiation can be used to treat so difĆcult to due to regulation that they in his own Republican political party Spain, when a United States Air Force disease, most commonly cancer. need a big payday.” The Universities, he turning against him. (USAF) B-52 bomber and KC-135 tanker added, “don’t do things strictly based on aircraft collided. The mishap led to According to the National Association of proĆt.” This period also ushered in an era the release of four nuclear weapons. Atomic Veterans, or NAAV, there are 21 of unprecedented technological Two of the weapons were damaged cancers currently traceable to radiation and military advancement. With all when they hit the ground and released exposure and 195,000 veterans were There also may be an area that Big the attention given to nuclear war, plutonium, a radioactive material. There exposed to radiation when the United Pharma didn’t consider. Radiation is surprisingly few of these achievements was no nuclear detonation. During the currently used to treat over 60% of States conducted atmospheric nuclear were made in protecting our men response, approximately 1,600 military 12
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
tumors, according to Rebecca Oberley Deegan, Ph.D., UNMC, and radiation therapeutics is another area of the project. Dr. Deegan stated, “These same components can protect people receiving radiation from cancer. The caveat is the protector can’t protect the cancer cells.” So basically, the trick is to create a drug that protects the patient that’s receiving treatment, without reducing the desired effect to eliminate the cancer cells. There’s also an unprecedented level of threats around the world including dangers from North Korea and Iran to the recently increased posturing from China and, of course, Russia.
When asked if this funding is in perfect timing with the current Trump policies that are escalating risk between the U.S. and its various potential adversaries Dr. Bayles said, “The timing is deĆnitely compatible but I can’t speculate on that. They’re interested in all the aspects, clean-up, etc.” The following University of Nebraska scientists bring key expertise to the NSRI project to establish a drug development pipeline that could speed the process of developing new drugs at the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute to counteract the effects of radiation exposure:
Samuel Cohen, M.D., Ph.D., UNMC, toxicology. Patrick Dussault, Ph.D., UNL, synthetic chemistry. Babu Guda, Ph.D., UNMC, bioinformatics. Tomas Helikar, Ph.D., UNL, computational systems biology. The exercise was in response to the DJ Murry, Pharm.D., UNMC, growing concern among NATO members pharmacokinetics, and about Russian behavior after Moscow’s pharmacogenetics. 2014 incursion in Ukraine. Rebecca Oberley Deegan, Ph.D., UNMC, radiation therapeutics. The USS Harry Truman became the Ćrst Robert Powers, Ph.D., UNL, US aircraft carrier north of the Arctic metabolomics. Circle in nearly 30 years when it was sent to be included in Trident-Juncture Additionally, multiple University of related operations. Nebraska alums, all Ph.D. scientists, with current or former experience in private In response, the Russian Foreign pharma, also are involved. Ministry responded that the show of force was “clearly anti-Russian” and This experienced consultant team proceeded to carry out their own rocket includes Eugene Cordes of Philadelphia tests between November 1st and 3rd in (honorary degree, UNL, 2009), Norton the Norwegian Sea. Peet, Holland, Mich. (Ph.D., UNL, chemistry, 1970), Kevin Woller, Antioch, This operation was signiĆcant because Ill. (Ph.D., UNL, chemistry, 1996), Chad both the Russian Northern Fleet and Briscoe, Overland Park, Kan. (Ph.D., Russia’s submarine-based nuclear UNL, chemistry, 2009), Ryan Hartung, arsenal are based in close proximity to Tuscon, Ariz. (B.S., UNL, chemistry, the Norwegian border. 2000). Given the uncertainty this creates, the continued reliance on nuclear weapons “They are appreciative of the for state security led the former United opportunity to give back to their home Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon institution, they really like working for to say that there are “no ‘right hands’ the DOD. There is a patriotic aspect of that can handle these ‘wrong weapons’”. helping the country and protecting our The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty troops using the tools of biomedical remains yet to be ratiĆed, and both science. That’s something that has made nuclear disarmament and Ćssile material this project special for all of us,” Dr. Berkowitz said. cut-off treaty talks have been stalled in the Conference on Disarmament for WHAT’S YOUR FOCUSOMAHA almost two decades. Russia has curtailed www.FocusOmaha.com cooperation in several bilateral nuclear agreements, including the Cooperative Threat Reduction Program and the Plutonium Disposition and Management Agreement. In its largest show of force in 20 years, during October 2018, the United States and tens of thousands of NATO troops took part an exercise in the Norwegian and Baltic seas as part of an exercise called Trident Juncture.
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 13
Countryside Village By Focus Omaha Countryside Village is located at 87th and PaciĆc 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
14
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 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 15
16
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 17
Mid-Week Cold Presents Danger By Focus Omaha
Dangerous cold and wind chills that have been forecast for Douglas County will bring life-threatening conditions to the area. The Douglas County Health Department is asking you to plan ahead and avoid traveling or being outdoors if possible. “The conditions that have been forecast can lead to death or life-altering injury,” Douglas County Health Director Dr. Adi Pour said. “With below-zero temperatures in the forecast and double-digit below zero winds chills, I ask you to do more than the usual to protect yourself.” As always everyone should limit outdoor time and dress in layered clothing –preferably loose-Ćtting clothing. It is essential to cover the ears, face, and hands. Wear a hat and use thermal socks or two pairs of socks – with waterproof boots – to protect your feet.
Frostbite is a real danger.
To protect yourself act quickly if: ·
18
You see any signs of redness or
experience pain in any skin area. · You see white or grayish-yellow skin area with an unusual feel. · Pay attention if someone points out those conditions. If you suspect frostbite, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes is at all possible, use body heat to warm Ćngers and hands, warm but not hot water, and do not rub injured areas with snow or massage them at all. That will cause more damage.
Hypothermia may result from exposure so seek medical attention if:
· You or someone you see experiences shivering, exhaustion, confusion, or fumbling hands. · Slurred speech and drowsiness are other symptoms, and babies may have bright red skin. Remember, hypothermia is a serious medical condition – it requires emergency medical assistance. The elderly and infants are the greatest danger of suffering serious injury from the cold so please check on them. Avoid portable heating devices that are powered by combustible fuel. If you must travel tell friends your planned route and keep a cell phone close and keep it charged.
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
“These suggestions can keep you alive,” Dr. Pour emphasized. “It takes only a few minutes for cold like this to cause a case of frostbite.”
WHAT’S YOUR FOCUSOMAHA?
IN PRINT, ONLINE & VIRTUAL DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY BY SEARCHING ‘FOCUSOMAHA’ (ALL ONE WORD) GET FOCUS DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX! REGISTER YOUR EMAIL TODAY!
WIN PRIZES, CONCERT TICKETS & RESTAURANT GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE FOR ANDROID & IOS
GET YOUR FOCUS ON! www.focusomaha.com
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 19
percent shooting, including 28 percent from 3-point range over the last Ćve contests. That includes games against the top two shooting Big Ten teams.
Omaha Mavericks
Husker coach Tim Miles will be looking for his 50th conference win at Nebraska on Tuesday. Only three Husker coaches (Joe Cipriano, Danny Nee and Moe Iba) won 50 conference games at the school.
The Omaha men’s basketball team made a 17-point second-half deĆcit disappear on Thursday night and dropped Purdue Fort Wayne 85-79 in overtime. It was the Ćfth straight win for the Mavericks who were led in the road win over the Mastodons by senior captains Zach Jackson and Mitch Hahn who combined for 48 points.
Wisconsin will be the Huskers’ fourth ranked opponent this month, the Ćrst time the Huskers faced four ranked opponents in a month since February of 2013. It is the 13th time in school history that NU has played at least four ranked opponents in one month and Ćrst since the 2012-13 season.
By Focus Omaha
That win put Omaha in a Ćrst-place tie with South Dakota State heading into Saturday’s game at Brookings, South Dakota. It was a case of too much Mike Daum as the senior from Kimball, Nebraska, scored 33 with 16 rebounds in the Jackrabbits 83-73 win. SDSU helped Jackson to 5 points while KJ Robinson led the Mavs (12-9, 6-2 Summit League) with 23 and Mitch Hahn and JT Gibson each scored 14 and Hahn added 15 rebounds
Nebraska Huskers
By Focus Omaha The Huskers problems continue to mount, as they’ve not only lost three in a row but also must face the loss of Senior F Isaac Copeland Jr. to a season ending ACL injury. “I am broken hearted for Isaac,” Nebraska Coach Tim Miles said. “He is a young man who had every option available to him last spring, but wanted to come back and help lead the Huskers back to the NCAA Tournament and beyond. He has meant so much to our program and has been a valued leader in the Husker basketball family since arriving on campus two years ago. In typical Isaac fashion, he was the most vocal player in the huddle even after his injury, encouraging his teammates and showing leadership even though he was unable to play.” Notable:
20
The Huskers are averaging 76.3 points per game, which is fourth in the Big Ten and NU’s highest scoring average after 20 games since the 1995-96 season (86.4 ppg). During the previous six seasons under Head Coach Tim Miles, NU’s highest average after 20 games was 74.4 ppg in 2015-16. Balance has been key for the Husker attack this season. When NU has at least three double-Ćgure scorers, the Huskers are 12-4, but just 1-3 when less than three NU players are in double Ćgures. Nebraska’s offense ranks in the top35 nationally in a trio of categories, including turnovers per game (10.4, 11th), turnover margin (+4.3, 13th) and assist-to-turnover ratio (1.36, 32nd). NU has committed 10 or fewer turnovers in 10 of the last 15 contests dating back to Nov. 24, and Nebraska’s average of 10.4 turnovers per game is on pace to be a school record. Four of the Ćve lowest turnover per game totals have come under Tim Miles. Nebraska is one of seven teams in Division I ranked in the top 25 nationally in Ćeld goal defense, 3-point defense and scoring defense through Jan. 27, a list which also includes Virginia, Texas Tech, Houston, Georgia Tech, VCU and Texas State. After opening the month with a pair of sub-par defensive efforts, the Huskers have been effective on that end of the court in the last four games. Since the loss to Iowa, NU is holding teams to 40
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
Nebraska ranks ninth nationally in average attendance at 15,610 per game as of Jan. 27. Of the eight schools ahead of the Huskers, all eight play in facilities of at least 16,300 seats. NU’s attendance is 104 percent of PBA’s 15,000-seat capacity. The Huskers Ćnished non-conference action with a 10-1 mark, including wins over Seton Hall, Clemson, Creighton and Oklahoma State. It marked just the fourth time since World War II that the Huskers Ćnished non-conference play with one loss (10-1, 2003-04; 12-1, 1991-92; and 11-1, 1977-78).
Creighton Bluejays By Focus Omaha Four players scored at least 13 points led by Ty-Shon Alexander with 19 as Creighton got a bit of revenge for an earlier loss and topped Butler 75-61 on Friday night before 18,089 fans at CHI Health Center Omaha. It was the ninth annual Pink Out Game and raised
$19,595 for Hope Lodge Nebraska, an Omaha facility that provides free housing for cancer patients. Creighton (12-8, 3-4 BIG EAST) jumped from eighth place into a tie for third in the league with that win. Butler fell to 12-9 and 3-5. It was not a pretty game but a more aggressive and scrappy approach by the Jays bodes well for things to come. Alexander was back by Martin Krampelj with 16, Davion Mintz with 14 and 13 from Mitch Ballock. Creighton hosts St. John’s on Wednesday.
nominated for Cry No More, her second solo album. “It’s pretty cool,” she offered. “It’s been really well received and every bit of recognition helps,”
Grammy Nominated Blues Singer Danielle Nicole Set for Omaha Return By Andy Roberts
The road must seem like home for Danielle Nicole, the Kansas City-raised singer-bass player who is set for a February 21 appearance at Chrome Lounge. Born Danielle Nicole Schnebelen, she comes from a family of musicians and was drawn to vocalizing almost from the time she was born. Her Ćrst public appearance came at the age of 12 when she sang Koko Taylor’s “Never Trust A Man” at her Kansas City, Missouri, grade school. The next step was singing in coffee houses and jamming with her parents when the clubs they played would allow minors.
So, none of this should come as a surprise. Nicole has put in the work to get to this point. “I’ve always loved to play original music and Ćgure it’s necessary to perpetuate live music,” she said. “It’s worthwhile to The path had long ago been formed as she grew up a third-generation musician say something while you’re doing this if on both sides of her family. Country and it comes from inside your heart.” rock covers were the deal for her dad’s Cry No More is her second solo album, band until he was exposed to Johnny with an EP and seen Trampled Under Winter. Foot albums behind her. Most of the “As far as I can remember it was just blues going on in my basement,” Nicole said. “It was a calling . . . the raw emotionality of the blues pulled me in.” As a 16-year-old she became lead singer in her father’s band, Little Eva and the Works, then started her own band, Fresh Brew, in 1999 with some of the more veteran local musicians. That lasted four years with the band representing Kansas City in the prestigious International Blues Challenge. Around that time she launched the family band, Trampled Under Foot, with her brothers Nick and Kris. That led to a move to Philadelphia. Along the way she played saxophone but switched to bass. Thirteen years later and back in Kansas City she is leading her own band and is Grammy
for her bass playing, Nicole is ready to hit the road with her band. While not a traditional blues band, she said the feeling is nonetheless there in a modern way. “It’s the foundation of American music,” Nichole stressed. Her band includes Brandon Miller on guitar and vocals with Ralph Forrest on drums. Miller has been with her four year while Forrest joined up in November. “We are going to be one ass-kicking power trio,” Nicole said. “It’s got that special energy . . . It’s been really cool.”
albums were self-released before Miller’s rock band, The Brandon Miller Concord picked up the last one and now Band will open the show. is handling the solo records. The future holds a lot of touring with A highlight of Cry No More is “Hot plans to touch on all corners of the Spell,” a tune written by the legendary North American continent and visit Bill Withers. She happened to come most of Europe. She looks forward to across soul giant during recording when the experience and learning more about she heard that “Bill” might be stopping new countries and cultures. by the sessions in Studio City. Until he “There’s your world and there’s the arrived, she was unaware just who Bill world,” she stated. might be. They went out to his car during a break Is Trampled Under Foot done? “We are on an indeĆnite hiatus,” she in recording and he played the song. Written in the 1970s, it had never been said, with her European tour plans and other members doing their own recorded. Nicole immediately loved work. “I can’t ever say ‘never . . . That’s the feel and grove and said, “I’d love to not a good mindset to close off any record the song.” possibilities.” She got the okay and a week later it As her native Midwest moves deeper was recorded and passed Withers’ into winter, she is looking forward to inspection. the tour and a return to Omaha and the “It was just a really amazing Chrome Lounge on February 21. experience. He was such a cool guy,” “We hope we can bring a little peace she gushed. “Just a regular dude.” through music,” she offered. The experience continues to move But before that, he’s riding off into Nicole. “That’s one of those Purple the sunny Southwest and a different Unicorn moments,” she said. While environment. loving to collaborate she has no Ćrm plans for any future collaborations. “First thing I’m going to do is join the musician’s union. Grammy nomination in hand and WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS? with Blues Foundation recognition
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 21
Devotchka: Making Mood Music For The Movies
Another important lesson for me from all this was if it doesn’t sound good with just you and the guitar it’s not going to sound good with an orchestra.”
Most Devotchka fans are aware of Urata’s work as a Grammy-nominated soundtrack composer, having done “Looking back on that experience, Denver’s Devotchka doesn’t make the soundtracks for movies like “Little it’s kind of what we always dreamed music for the FM radio, their songs Miss Sunshine,” “Crazy Stupid Love,” of when arranging or writing songs,” are not ready-made hits, glossed up in “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot” and most Urata said recently from his mile-high the studio and packaged with a Label recently for the critically acclaimed home. “But then I kind of thought rep’s best stab at commercial viability. Netćix series “A Series of Unfortunate why gravitate towards that many Instead, the band crafts intricate, instruments. I mean, I always wanted to Events.” A quick sonic perusal of the musically detailed ditties, strong on mood and full of gypsy twists and turns, have a bigger, bigger band. To have that band’s catalog makes obvious why Urata’s creations work so well with the many top of the heap players is pretty nods to World music and hummable moving screen. The music’s penchant incredible. ” melodies. The band’s sound is big, for the dramatic is front and center, much larger than the four full-time After wrapping up the orchestral the often sparse tempo of the songs members. Accordingly, it was Ćtting the tour, the band returned to the smaller lending an eerie introspective quality. band would tour with a full orchestra, venues of their early days, just a fourbringing a newer full dimension to the “The approach to writing for a record piece playing clubs and halls. “There’s songs, allowing founder/songwriter/ such a great advantage to both sides of or soundtrack is pretty much the same,” arranger/vocalist Nick Urata to stretch he said. “They both offer the daunting that coin,” Urata added. “It was great his musical wings. task of having to face a completely getting back to just the four of us. blank page. When you’re left to your own devices for writing for Ćlm lots of other things will guide your hand. Be it the director or the story itself. But really, just writing honestly is the key to good music.”
By Jesse D. Stanek
The band – comprised of Urata (vocals, guitars, theremin, trumpet, piano), Shawn King (drums, percussion,
22
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
trumpet), Jeanie Schroder (acoustic bass, sousaphone) and Tom Hagerman (viola, violin, accordion, piano) – released their Ćrst collection of new material in 7 years last August, the sprawling “This Night Falls Forever.” The record is a coherent work despite the variety of musical moods and shifting tempos and rhythms, each song bleeding into the next as seamlessly as the sunrise after a long night around a beach bonĆre. The record takes ćight with opener “Straight Shot,” Ćnding Urata searching within for possible clues as to what the future may hold. The song is romantic and huge, the speedy acoustic strumming leaving just enough room for his warbled croon to drive home the lessons from past loves, urging the listener to move forward, albeit with luggage in tow. “Let Me Sleep” could be from a Calexico or Gogol Bordello record, all exotic strings and Urata’s voice craning to clean the rafters. “When we got to the end of making the record we kind of took a look back and there is an overarching theme to lots of the songs. The theme was, you know, we don’t realize it when it’s happening but there are probably one or two nights that completely change your life.
know, we don’t realize it when it’s happening but there are probably one or two nights that completely change your life. The title of the album is also a nod to that time of day right before the Sun goes down. But yeah, the record deĆnitely took longer to release then intended. We won’t let that happen again.”
in the “meet and greet” before the show. For more info visit onepercentproductions.com.
Devotchka plays The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St., on Sunday, February 10th at 9 pm. Neyla Pekarek (formerly of The Lumineers) opens the show and tickets are $25 in advance. Tickets are $60 if you want to partake
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 23
Women: Living in the Sandwich Generation By Michael Herek
At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may Ćnd yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses or the Ćnancial challenges of young adulthood while at the same time looking after the needs of your aging parents. Squeezed in the middle, you’re in the “sandwich generation” — a group loosely deĆned as people in their 40s to 60s who are “sandwiched” between caring for children and aging parents.
dens. Hold regular meetings to discuss issues, set priorities, and delegate tasks. Women are often conditioned to believe they have to “do it all,” but there is no reason why adult siblings (if you have any) can’t share at least some of the workload.
It’s important for caregivers to get their own Ćnancial house in order. Ironically, at the very time you need to do this, the demands of caregiving may cause you to lose income because you have to step back at work — through reduced hours, unpaid time off, or turning down The fact is, women are the ones who most often step into the caregiving role.* a promotion. Here are some tips to get your Ćnances on track: As more women have children later in life and more parents live longer lives, Establish a budget and stick to it. Having the ranks of the sandwich generation a realistic budget can help you balance are likely to grow in the years ahead. If your income and expenses and keep you Ćnd yourself sandwiched between your Ćnances on track. caregiving demands, here are some Invest in your own future by putting as strategies to navigate this life phase. much as you can into your retirement plan, and avoid raiding it to pay for your Setting priorities parent’s care or your child’s college The day-to-day demands of caring for education. both an aging parent and children can put a tremendous strain — both emoDon’t quit your job before exploring tional and Ćnancial — on the primary other arrangements. If you need more caregiver. This is especially true when time at home than vacation or personal adult siblings or family members don’t agree on the best course of action for el- days can provide, ask your employer if der care, don’t pitch in to do their share, you can telecommute, ćex your hours, or don’t contribute enough Ćnancially to reduce your hours temporarily, or take unpaid leave. Another option is to the cost of that care. enroll your parent in an adult day-care The Ćrst thing to do is get yourself in the program or hire a home health aide proper mindset. This life phase could to Ćll the gaps. Some employers offer last one or two years, or it could last elder-care resource locators or other many more. In any case, try to treat this caregiving support as an employee benstage as a marathon and pace yourself; eĆt, so make sure to check. 3ermanently you don’t want to start sprinting right leaving your job should be a last resort out of the gate and burn out too soon. — time out of the workforce will reduce not only your earnings but possibly your Encourage open communication with Social Security beneĆt at retirement as your family to Ćgure out ways to share well. the Ćnancial, emotional, and time bur-
24
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
Caring for your parents Talk to your parents about their Ćnancial resources. Do they have retirement income? Long-term care insurance? Do they own their home? Learn the whereabouts of all their documents and accounts, as well as the Ćnancial professionals and friends they rely on for advice and support.
parent needs to move in with you. In that case, here are some suggestions to make that transition:
Much depends on whether your parent is living with you or out of town. If your parent lives a distance away, you’ll have to monitor his or her welfare from afar — a challenging task. Though caregiving can be a major stress on anyone, distance can magnify it — daily phone calls or video chats might not be enough, and traveling to your parent’s home can be expensive and difĆcult to manage with your work and family responsibilities.
Research local programs to see what resources are offered for seniors; for example, the senior center may offer social gatherings or adult day care that can give you a much needed break. Ask and expect adult siblings to help out. Siblings who may live far away and can’t help out physically on a regular basis, for example, can make a Ćnancial contribution that can help you hire assistance. They can also research assisted-living or nursing home options. Don’t try to do everything yourself.
If your parent’s needs are great enough, you may want to consider hiring a geriatric care manager, who can help oversee your parent’s care and direct you to the right community resources, and/or a home health aide, who can check in on your parent during the week. Here are some things you should do: Take inventory of your parent’s assets and consolidate his or her Ćnancial accounts. Get a current list of the medicines your parent takes and the doctors he or she sees. Have your parent establish a durable power of attorney and health-care directive, which gives you legal authority to handle Ćnancial and health-care decisions if your parent becomes incapacitated. And make sure your parent has a will. Consider consulting a tax professional to see if you might be entitled to potential tax beneĆts as a result of your caregiving; for example, you might be able to claim your parent as a dependent. If your parent’s needs are great enough, you might need to go a step further and explore assisted-living options or nursing homes. Eventually, you might decide that your
Talk with your parent in advance about both of your expectations and concerns. If possible, set up a separate room and phone for your parent for some space and privacy.
Keep the lines of communication open, which can go a long way to the smooth running of your multigenerational family. Meeting the needs of your children Your children may be feeling the effect of your situation more than you think, especially if they are teenagers. At a time when they still need your patience and attention, you may be preoccupied with your parent’s care, meeting your work deadlines, and juggling your Ćnancial obligations. Here are some things to keep in mind as you try to balance your family’s needs: Explain what changes may come about as you begin caring for your parent. Talk honestly about the pros and cons of having a grandparent in the house, and be sympathetic and supportive of your children (and your spouse) as they try to adjust. Ask them to take responsibility for certain chores, but don’t expect them to be the main caregivers. Discuss college plans. Encourage realistic expectations about the college they may be able to attend. Your kids may have to settle for less than they wanted, or at least get a job to help meet costs. Teach your kids how to spend wisely and
seW ĆnancLal SrLorLWLes Try to build in some special time with your children doing an activity they enjoy. If you have “boomerang children” who’ve returned home, make sure to share your expectations with them, too. Expect help with chores (above and beyond their own laundry and meal prep), occasional simple caregiving, and a Ćnancial contribution to monthly household expenses. Considering your needs This stage of your life could last many years, or just a few. Try to pace yourself so you can make it for the long haul. As much as you can, try to get adequate sleep, eat nutritiously, and exercise — all things that will increase your ability to cope. Don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself when you need it, whether it’s a couple of hours holed up with a book or out to the movies, or a longer weekend getaway. When you put your own needs Ćrst occasionally and look after yourself, you’ll be in a better position to care for those around you. *Alzheimer’s Association report, 2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures
WHAT’S YOUR FOCUSOMAHA?
IN PRINT, ONLINE & VIRTUAL DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY BY SEARCHING ‘FOCUSOMAHA’ REGISTER YOUR EMAIL TODAY! WIN PRIZES, CONCERT TICKETS & RESTAURANT GIFT CERTIFICATES
AVAILABLE FOR ANDROID & IOS
GET YOUR FOCUS ON! www.focusomaha.com
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 25
way to tackle the depth of Giant Sand’s catalog or Gelb’s work as a whole in one column, much less to even touch on the signiĆcance of Ptacek’s role both as band brother and close friend (Rainer will get his own column). So here’s a couple records to get you started and where you go from there into this vast musical landscape is your path to follow, your path your own. 2000’s “Chore of Enchantment,” hauntingly acoustic and eerily electronic at Giant Sand sounds like the desert. The times, is the most immediately accesmusic’s sense of place and geography sible album in the catalog. The song is as uniquely tied to the Tucson desert “Shiver” is easily among Gelb’s most as Faulkner’s writing was to pre-WWII intriguing. Featuring the rhythm section rural Mississippi. With well over 50 rethat would go on to form Calexico, cords between his plethora of projects, Burns and Convertino ably serve up Gelb’s discography is daunting, perhaps the tight yet bizarrely free-form mood even intimidating to the uninitiated. The of the collection. There’s a distant dark variety is staggering, the moods tailor-Ćt melancholy permeating much of the to the predilections of a lifetime lived in music, it would be the last with Burns these modern times sad and rećective, and Convertino. The Ćnal cut “Shrine” By Jesse D. Stanek joyous and boisterous, jazzy and myste- was written by Ptacek and features his rious, conversational lyrics, forlorn and Howe Gelb’s catalog, solo, with Giant gorgeously singular brand of slide guitar. drunken, sober and introspective in the The record was released shortly after Sand and the host of collaborations he morning light. However, miraculously has done (OP8, Band of Blacky RanchPtacek’s passing from brain cancer and enough they all sound like Gelb, honest ette, Arizona Amp & Alternator) is while his presence is felt throughout, and curious, they all have that gorbeyond sprawling. Having Ćrst started “Shrine” is the only cut he plays on. geously weird not-quite-South-of-the out in the 1970s as noise rock pioneers Producer John Parrish’s style is all over -border vibe Giant Sand fans have come the record as well, dashing from form to Giant Sandworms with longtime friend to adore. and fellow Tucson resident Rainer form, style to style and back again all the Ptacek on guitar, Gelb has continuously while managing to sound like just where The only constant in Giant Sand is Gelb, you want to be. turned the expected over, around and past players include Calexico’s John upside down, crafting songs both as Convertino and Joey Burns, M Ward, gentle and lifting as the Arizona desert Gelb is very well likely the only person on a full moon night and as cacophonous Gelb’s ex-wife Paula Brown (The Gowho knows what makes one of his reGo’s), Jason Lytle (Granddaddy) and Vic leases a solo record versus a Giant Sand and unsettling as the monsoon season Chesnutt. The list goes on. There’s no come early. album, I sure don’t. My Ćrst foray into
Getting to Know The King of Cactus Country: Howe Gelb/ Giant Sand
this world was with Gelb’s “Conćuence.” Released on Thrill Jockey in 2001, the record might be the most consistent with his Giant Sand. At times funky and electric, almost trip-hopped, at others mellow and endearing, slow soul and easy on the ears. “Blue Marble Girl” is one of my all-time favorite Gelb tunes. The acoustic guitar-work spacey and sparse, accordion lilting softly in the background, the trademark talking-atthe-kitchen-table vocals spinning a yarn worthy of any goodnight tuck-in. “Pedal Steel and She’ll” lopes along playfully, a rabbit blissfully unaware of the coyotes watching, bouncing between worry and awe, clumsily climbing up and down, Gelb offering up his best cure for what ails ya.
Shortly following in 2006 Gelb released “Sno Angel Like You,” a collaboration with Gospel group Voices of Praise whom Gelb had met while performing at a blues festival in Ottawa. The energy is joyous and profound, the call and response between Gelb and the choir
26
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
hypnotic in its vocal rhythm. While the record is certainly one of his more upbeat, the rock and sway on “Sno Angel” doesn’t mask the gentle urging and demons lurking around the bend. The reworking of the Ptacek penned “That’s How Things Get Done” is served not only Ćtting of their original version but beyond complimentary as well. The remastered download features a smattering of live cuts with the Gospel band. It’s like a dusty church after everyone has left, the preacher in his Cadillac and the congregation on foot, celebratory but weary, shouting from the rafters then whispering like a dry, gentle breeze. “Nail In The Sky” would be at home in any church on any given Sunday, as long as folks don’t catch the knowing wink. The later incantations of Giant Sand featured a talented crew of Danish musicians along with a revolving cast of friends and musical compatriots. 2008’s “Provisions,” featuring appearances from PJ Harvey, Neko Case, M Ward, and Isobell Campbell, is a perfect record for drinks on the porch with good people, the Sun setting the sky aćame, the coming chill still hibernating. At times funky and fun, at others strung out and searching, “Provisions” is a great example of what the new crew was capable of before disbanding recently. Weirdly wise and full of wordplay, Gelb and crew are clearly having fun. Gelb’s 2016 outing “Future Standards” became a constant go-to for me. An alternate reality disc where Sinatra is a lounge singer steeped in Texican gypsy-jazz and nurtured by LSD. Gelb’s delivery nodding to Tom Waits but all his own throughout, the album is simply Southwestern lounge jazz for weirdos. It’s perfect for curling up with a good book and fur buddy. Records to Stream/Download: Giant Sand “Chore of Enchantment” +RZH *HOE ê&RQćXHQFHë Howe Gelb “Sno Angel Like You” Giant Sand “Provisions” Howe Gelb “Future Standards” 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.
GET YOUR FOCUSOMAHA! WHAT’S YOUR
FOCUSOMAHA?
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 27
28
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
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
PADDY’S McGOWN’S PUB & GRILL 4503 Center St. Happy Hour Specials from 3-6pm PITCH PIZZERIA 5021 Underwood Ave. 17808 Burke M-F 3P-6P $5 off any appetizer $5 off any pizza OMAHA TAP HOUSE 1401 Farnam St. & 579 N 155th Plz M-F 3P - 6P & ALL DAY SUNDAY $1 Off All TapBeers $4 Svedka, $4 Windsor, $4 Sauza Silver, $4 Cruzan Rum RAILCAR MODERN AMERICAN KITCHEN 1814 N 144th St. M-F 3:30-6:30P $4 Well Drinks $3 Off Signature Cocktails
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 3DFLĆF 6W å &RXQWU\VLGH 9LOODJH 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 and Appetizers Starting at $5
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 ReĆlls 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 THERAPY BAR & GRILL 5059 S 108th St Monday-Friday 3-6pm $.50 cents off Bottles, Drafts, & Wells
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 29
30
Focus | - January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5
Focus | January 30 - February 5 | Volume 3 Issue 5 31