DOWNTOWN · OLD MARKET · DUNDEE · BENSON · AKSARBEN · MIDTOWN
THE EVOLUTION OF POP MUSIC Jonathan Tvrdik Irons It Out SEXY AND SLOW Singer Peedi Rothsteen Pulls Out the Pain
ARTS/CULTURE VOL. 22 × MAR/APR 2017
ISSUE 2
ART RAGE Transgender Artist Cassils Packs a Powerful Punch MEXICAN PERFECTION Hook & Lime Reels You In
ISSUE 2 | VOL. 22 | MAR/APR 2017 Publisher Todd Lemke Executive Editor Doug Meigs Associate Editor Daisy Hutzell-Rodman Editor-at-Large Eric Stoakes Editorial Assistant Lindsay Wilson Hannah Gill Alec McMullen Interns Shannon Smith Will Patterson Contributing Writers Tara Spencer • Jared Spence • Kyle Eustice Josefina Loza • Sean Robinson • Sarah Wengert Alex Priest • Anthony Flott • Brent Crampton Creative Director Bill Sitzmann Art Director Matt Wieczorek Senior Graphic Designer Derek Joy Graphic Designer Mady Besch Fashion Editor Nicholas Wasserberger Vice President Greg Bruns Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing Gil Cohen Senior Sales Executive Gwen Lemke Branding Specialists Kyle Fisher • Mary Hiatt • George Idelman Joshua Peterson Executive Sales Manager Vicki Voet Assistant to the Publisher Sandy Matson Senior Account Assistant Alicia Smith Hollins Account Assistant Dawn Dennis Operations Tyler Lemke Accounting Holley Garcia-Cruz Warehouse Distribution Manager Mike Brewer Events/PR Alesha Olson
6 MEXICAN PERFECTION Hook & Lime Reels You In
8 TRUE COLORS Let Your Wardrobe be Your Armor
14 THE EVOLUTION OF POP MUSIC Jonathan Tvrdik Talks New Album Irons
16 SEXY AND SLOW Singer Peedi Rothsteen Pulls Out the Pain
18 RENAISSANCE MAN Brion Poloncic Rides the Creative Wagon
22 ART RAGE Transgender Artist Cassils Packs a Powerful Punch
24 SHOW OF HANDS Artist and Entrepreneur Imagine Uhlenbrock Nails It
28 ART HEIST Steal These Looks
35 ARCHITECTURE For Advertising Information: 402.884.2000 omahamagazine.com Owned and Managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD. All versions of Encounter are published bimonthly by Omaha Magazine, LTD P.O. Box 461208, Omaha, NE 68046-1208. Telephone: 402.884.2000; fax: 402.884.2001. No whole or part of the contents herein may be reproduced without prior written permission of Omaha Magazine, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted; however, no responsibility will be assumed for such solicitations.
W. Dale Clark Library: A Reflection of Omaha
38 HISTORY When Mob Rule Ruled Omaha Politics
40 DESTINATIONS What’s Happening in Omaha’s Hottest Neighborhoods
30 TREES
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43 CALENDAR Music, Art, Theater, and More: March and April Events
46 LIFESTYLE Transitorily Yours by Brent Crampton
4 mar/apr 2017
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“We have this amazing menu, these amazing items, that we’re able to bring to people who normally wouldn’t get to experience them. We’re trying to take that food, that approach of sourcing locally and treating these items with respect.”
“It’s stuff that we wouldn’t normally serve to the public,” he says. “It will be a select amount of these things, and when we run out, we run out.”
Mexican Perfection HOOK & LIME REELS YOU IN by Tara Spencer photography by Bill Sitzmann design by Derek Joy hookandlime.com
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hen Anthony Bourdain was asked what food trend he would like to see in a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything), he said, “I would like people really to pay more for top-quality Mexican food. I think it's the most undervalued, underappreciated world cuisine with tremendous, tremendous potential.” At Hook & Lime Tacos + Tequila, North Downtown’s newest addition, you will find that top-quality Mexican food and all kinds of potential, though you won’t necessarily have to pay more for it. Owner Robbie Malm says after selling his share in Dudley’s Pizza and Tavern, he wanted to do something smaller and more creative. With a little help from his wife, Erin, and his brother, Tim Malm, he has done just that. Hook & Lime’s menu has a selection of a la carte tacos, small plates, and tortas, all for under $20. But if you do want to spend some money and have a more decadent experience, you can try the family-style tacos or the tasting menu (with or without tequila). For the family-style tacos, you can choose between the whole fish, which is currently fried, striped bass, or bone-in barbacoa, which is cooked for 72 hours, crisped in the oven, and sent to the table for you to pick apart. Head chef Alex Sorens says the tasting menu is something he’s excited about because it gives his crew the opportunity to create dishes and test things out. If they’re good, they’ll go on the next tasting menu.
The menu features a lot of fish, hence the “hook” in Hook & Lime. Sorens says he gets their fish from Seattle Fish Co. out of Kansas City, Missouri. He uses their program Whole Boat Harvest for some of the dishes, like the ceviche. The program sells the “leftover” fish from hauls, fish that would normally go to waste because they’re not as well-known as others. “The reason for that is because I’m trying to do my part to not be in that same group that’s using all those super popular, over-fished species that are going on endangered lists right now.” Sorens also tries to support other environmentally conscious businesses, getting a lot of their ingredients from local producers like Plum Creek Farms and Jon’s Naturals. Malm says these are things you might normally only find at “higher-end, white tablecloth places.” He says their goal is to make that food available to everyone. “We have this amazing menu, these amazing items, that we’re able to bring to people who normally wouldn’t get to experience them,” he says. “We’re trying to take that food, that approach of sourcing locally and treating these items with respect, and make it more approachable. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a suit and tie or flip-flops, we welcome everybody here.”
“That’s one I think both Negroni and Cosmo fans will appreciate.” Van Egmond says they also have a well-curated spirits list, and plenty of beers to offer, including many from local breweries. There are also several wine options. Of course, if what you’re really looking for is some straight up, premium tequila, Hook & Lime has you covered.
“The reason for that is because I’m trying to do my part to not be in that same group that’s using all those super popular, overfished species that are going on endangered lists right now.”
Malm says he has been “very, very fortunate” in finding the team to do that.
“Tequila is my favorite thing to drink,” Malm says. “It is my favorite thing to drink,” he repeats, laughing. “And I’m a fairly recent convert.” But once he fell in love with tequila, it became a little bit of an obsession. He talks excitedly about touring tequila distilleries in Mexico with his wife. He says they toured five different spots, including Cuervo and Herradura. The restaurant’s offerings reflect his enthusiasm, with more than 100 tequilas on their list and four different styles of flights available if you want to do a little sampling before you commit. “They say there’s no zealot like a convert,” Malm says. “And that is definitely true when it comes to tequila.” Undoubtedly, Hook & Lime will do their share in creating converts, both to tequila and to a greater appreciation of topquality Mexican food.
Hook & Lime is open Sundays through Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursdays through Saturdays.
“Everyone seems to be really excited about their role in this,” he says. “So I quickly found out that my best role is really to enable them to just dive in.” This enthusiasm extends to the front of the house, where bar manager Brian van Egmond works to create original cocktails using ingredients made in house. “It’s a fusion between speed and craft,” he says. There will be a couple margaritas available on tap, but the fresh juices are added after they’re poured. So far, van Egmond says they’ve made their own orange brandy, orange liquor, syrups, and crème de cassis. He is currently working on a strawberry tequila for their strawberry margaritas. They also have a hibiscus-infused reposado, which is used to make the Roselle cocktail.
ENCOUNTEROMAHA.COM 7
Left: vintage cropped jacket, chartreuse leather skirt, sequin tank (all at Flying Worm Vintage, 1125 Jackson St.); leather wrap bracelet (Audio Helkuik, audiohelkuik.com); leopard heels (stylist's own). Painting: Brian Tait, Briantait.us.
photography by Bill Sitzmann Creative Direction by jared spence Art Direction by Jamie Danielle Hardy Makeup by Chevy design by Derek Joy Art has long-served as an outlet to help humans heal. With America amidst an ever-building tumultuous political and social climate, choose to make art with your wardrobe. This spring, find solace in wild hues and bold patterns. Let your wardrobe be your armor; arm yourself with optimism and happiness.
Right: Buffalo by David Bitton denim shirt, C. Luce paillette dress, Nine West calf-hair sandals, Chanel tweed handbag, Chanel charm bracelet, Chanel denim bangle (all at Pretty in Patina, 1125 Jackson St.); screen-printed sweatshirt (Dan Crane); leather wrap bracelet (Audio Helkuik). Painting: Bart Vargas, Bartvargas.com.
Left: C. Luce ruff led minidress, Manolo Blahnik open-toe heels, chain handbag (all at Pretty in Patina); assorted leather wrap bracelets (Audio Helkuik); rainbow-striped belt (stylist's own). Copper bench: Christopher Prinz, Christopherprinz.com. Right: C. Luce trench, TCEC wideleg trousers, Urban Day striped shirt, Gianni Bini multicolor pumps (all at Pretty in Patina); striped tote (Dan Crane); leather choker (Audio Helkuik). Cut out shapes: Dan Crane, Dancranesrealbusiness.bigcartel.com.
Left: C. Luce romper (Pretty in Patina); pizza pouch (Flying Worm Vintage); leather wrap bracelet (Audio Helkuik); beret (stylist's own). Painting: Brian Tait. Right: vintage polka dot blouse, jean jacket (all at Flying Worm Vintage); Jenn/Lucy leopard pencil skirt, Jessica Simpson platform heels, Chanel belt worn as necklace (all at Pretty in Patina). Watercolor prints: William Holland, Williamrobertholland.com
the
evolution of pop music J O N AT H A N T V R D I K TA L K S N E W A L B U M I R O N S by Kyle Eustice photography by Bill Sitzmann design by Derek Joy jontvrdik.com Admittedly, 34-year-old Omaha native Jonathan Tvrdik doesn’t sleep much. Between co-owning Benson’s Krug Park, working as a consultant for his wife Sarah Lorsung Tvrdik’s business Hello Holiday, being a father to 2-yearold son Hugo, directing music videos and commercials, making music, and holding down a day job as both the executive creative director at Phenomblue and head of product design at Rova, there’s not a lot of room for much else. It’s a path he can trace back to childhood. “When I was a little kid, I played by myself and was always building things,” Tvrdik recalls. “I’m an adult version of that kid who is constantly making new project—like a band, bar, new app, or music video. I’ve always been a goal-oriented person with lots of irons in the fire.” Ironically, that’s where the inspiration behind the name of Tvrdik’s upcoming solo album came from. Titled Irons, it’s a project over two years in the making and one that took careful crafting with the help of longtime friend and drummer for The Faint Clark Baechle. Busting at the seams with heavy themes of introspection and emotional growth, Irons illustrates a tumultuous period in Tvrdik’s life.
“Frank Sinatra on top of electronica-goth.”
“For better or for worse, that’s where I’ve always been—busy,” he says. “I don’t even know what that has created in me—like who am I as a person? I’ve always been a workhorse, but who am I really? Each song dissects a different thing I am doing or interested in, or a certain vice I have as a result of all the stuff I am working with. It’s a very self-analytical sort of record.” Beginning with “Something Better” and culminating with “Star Stick,” the 11-track album is like Joy Division meets The Faint, or as Tvrdik describes it, “Frank Sinatra on top of electronica-goth.” It was a true labor of love and
14 mar/apr 2017
Tvrdik really trusted Baechle’s expertise. Some tracks he thought were polished and ready to go; Baechle would hear them and mistakingly refer to them as “demos.” It took the experience of his fine-tuned ear to sew up any loose ends. “We’ve made a lot music together over the years from a musician and engineer standpoint,” Tvrdik explains. “For this one, we started working through the process of what it was going to look like. I always knew when I was done mixing and recording it on my own, I would take it to him to refine. My producorial technique is very raw. For songs I thought were done and perfect, Clark would be like, ‘I got your demos’ [laughs]. I’m very right brained and he’s very left. I wanted his brain to go through it with a fine-toothed comb and nit pick the hell out of it, which he did. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.” Although Tvrdik’s music background goes back to The Cog Factory days, where Omaha staples like Bright Eyes' Conor Oberst, Cursive’s Tim Kasher, and The Faint’s Todd Fink (Baechle’s older brother) got their start in the early ’90s, naturally he’s experienced plenty of evolutionary changes in terms of his musical output. At one point, he was in a hardcore band, and later a noise-based outfit. While he felt he was still emotionally expressive in all of them, it’s with the forthcoming Irons he felt he was truly able to effectively communicate to the listener exactly what he was experiencing.
sexy & Slow SINGER PEEDI ROTHSTEEN P U L L S O U T T H E PA I N by Josefina Loza photography by keith binder design by Derek Joy ROTHSTEEN.COM
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s it terrible the pain in Peedi Rothsteen’s voice is musically satisfying?
His honest mix of pleasure and vulnerability blended over incredibly sexy slow jams makes your knees buckle. Rothsteen knew he was tapping a vein when he emerged on Omaha’s music scene nearly two years ago with a brand new sound unlike any of his other rhythm and blues projects. Many may know him as lead singer to Voodoo Method or “P. Minor,” a local R&B artist and former radio personality, but he’s since evolved from typical masculine crooning. His delicate vocals now have depth. Musical grit, if you will. And, ultimately, rock influenced his creative trajectory.
Watching the evolution of Rothsteen has been quite entrancing. A lyrical twist intrinsically influenced only by time and experiences.
Music is second nature to the Chicago-born singer, who played trumpet and French horn as a child. He sang for his high school and church choirs. In fact, he got his start as a scrawny 7-year-old who took his church talent show stage in an oversized suit, patent leather shoes, and a skinny black tie belting out Bobby Brown’s “Roni.” Music was a persistent influence in his early years, but he stepped into his own in 2006 while working at Omaha’s hip-hop radio station Hot 107.7 FM. P. Minor became a local R&B crooner who opened for some of the early 2000s' hottest hip-hop musicians, including Donell Jones, Ciara, Akon, Ludacris, Ying Yang Twins, and Yung Joc. At the time, his single “Can I” was one of the most requested songs at the radio station. He garnered radio play outside Nebraska. His song “Keys to the Club” played in Arkansas, Missouri, and Minnesota. Omaha’s R&B scene still is relatively small. Only a handful of soulful singers have landed regular gigs or made successful albums. He was tired of being stuck in a genre filled with repetitive melodies and predictable style. So he tried his hand at a new genre: rock. “I liked the energy of rock music,” he says. Minor was introduced to a couple of guys who were putting together a band. After a few jam sessions in 2007, the group formed Voodoo Method. With that band he toured and learned more about music than he’d ever imagine. Voodoo Method featured an unexpectedly good combination of punch riffs, accurate lyrics being soulfully delivered by Minor, who almost always sported a tuxedo shirt and bow tie. In the eight years performing with the band, his songwriting, voice, and look changed. He stepped into his own distinctive, expressive style. It was multi-dimensional. “In rock, you have to be ready to take it up another level,” he says. “You have to be able to get out of your level. You have to be a magnetic frontman and push your vocals. And, without being in a band, I wouldn’t … my sound wouldn’t have developed that way.” Voodoo Method is still around. “We’re taking our time writing and just exploring music,” Minor explains.
“Good music will never be bad. It doesn’t matter how you box it up, how you deliver it.”
“Peedi” is a family nickname that stuck and Rothsteen is homage to Sam “Ace” Rothstein of Martin Scorsese’s brilliant and brutal 1995 film Casino. Ace’s claim to fame is being an excellent gambler, he says. The way he approached the game. He knew all the ins and outs to gambling and could pick a winner. “That the way I feel about music,” he says. “I know a song, what it needs. I know how to pick a winner. That to me, it’s symbolic.” Hence, the brilliantly collaborative Peedi Rothsteen.
But he got the bug for R&B music again. “I wasn’t trying to get out or push anything, just exorcise my own demons,” he says. He knocked the rust off and started producing again. “What if I take what I’ve learned with the band and some of those experiences and move them over with R&B,” he ponders. “I might have success.” All the while, he was producing a podcast and doing audio production. “I wanted to create something new.” He quietly started making R&B music again, he says. “A few songs here and there and then it started to feel good.” So, here he is: a promising, ambitious, and talented songwriter and musician with one foot in rock, and the other in soul. This musical metamorphosis brought him to create his stage persona, “Peedi Rothsteen.”
“There aren’t many things I can do great,” he adds. “Music is one. I work really hard, too. What comes out in the end is something people can enjoy.” In 2015, Rothsteen released his debut EP Moments Before, a five-song compilation of incredibly soulful lyrics. The music scene took notice. That same year, Rothsteen took home the Best New Artist award at the 2015 Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards. Exactly a year to the date, Rothsteen released Moments During, a five-track EP follow-up. The songs are full of foot-stomping grooves and fiery vocals. Two songs to wrap your nodding noggin’ around are “Righteous Giant” and “Clap.” Rothsteen hopes to continue his music collection by releasing Moments After this summer–same June 11 date, of course. His audience is just as diverse. Young. Old. Black. White. Metal. Soft rock. “I don’t want to be just one thing,” Rothsteen says. “In rock, you can go anywhere you want,” he says. “Good music will never be bad. It doesn’t matter how you box it up, how you deliver it.”
ENCOUNTEROMAHA.COM 17
Ren ais sance Man BRION POLONCIC RIDES T H E C R E AT I V E W A G O N by Sean Robinson photography by Bill Sitzmann design by Derek Joy art by brian poloncic brionpoloncic.com/press.php
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But don't expect a still life of women gossiping between sips of their Venti mochas. As a visual artist, author, and former musician, Poloncic is a man of many hats but always remains a creator of thought-provoking and idiosyncratic work that paints middle America in a psychedelic wash. "I've always fancied myself an artist," Poloncic says. "My art is an affirmation of my peculiar skill set, and it just so happens to make me happy. It's my own blend of therapy." It was through chance that Poloncic was first bitten by the creative bug. After he didn't make the baseball team, he traded mitts for guitars and started writing music. A fan of everyone from Pink Floyd to Johnny Cash, he parlayed his early love for listening to his parent's records into seven albums, all released under the moniker "A Tomato A Day (helps keep the tornado away).” A prolific songwriter, his discography is filled with character and colorful song titles, including ditties like "You Little Shit" and "Weirdo Park.” For Poloncic, music wasn't enough. He needed to sink his teeth into his next artistic outlet. So when a friend needed help setting up an Iowa art studio, he asked Polonic to draw pieces that illustrated his career. With no formal training or experience, unless coloring backpacks with magic markers counts, he dove in.
"My art isn't constrained by my knowledge or training, and I think this makes me naturally less critical of my work," Poloncic says. Filled with abstract shapes, haunting faces, and stark use of color, his off-kilter yet original drawings mirror the tone of his written work. Through The Journal of Experimental Fiction, he published his first book Xanthous Mermaid Mechanics in 2012, following this up in 2014 with his second printed work On the Shoulders of Madmen. Both explored concepts of the subconscious mind, and the novel he is currently working on will follow suit.
“If I stumble off the creative wagon with drawing, I get back on with writing and vice versa; As you work on one, the other comes right along with it.”
boozy brunch between girlfriends, a meeting of coworkers over coffee, a couple splitting a glass of wine—conversations captured around the city, all serve as fodder and inspiration for Brion Poloncic's work. In the quiet corners of Omaha's local coffee shops and wine bars, Poloncic puts pen to paper, his ear tuned into the surrounding babble, creating art that he feels represents those around him and the experiences they discuss.
Two years later, Poloncic sold his first piece at a gallery in Lincoln. He has also shown work in Omaha and Kansas City and has a collection represented at Gallery 72, all those diploma-yielding pros be damned.
"I'll be surprised if anyone can read it," Poloncic says. "It's got no characters, no story arc, and isn't about anything in particular."
“My art is an affirmation of my peculiar skill set, and it just so happens to make me happy. It's my own blend of therapy.”
And he admits this is his niche, comparing his art to improvisational jazz or freestyle rap where "things just happen.” For whatever he's working on, he says the hardest part is just getting started. Once that happens, everything else just falls into place, and if he can't get over a block, he always has another craft to turn to.
"If I stumble off the creative wagon with drawing, I get back on with writing and vice versa," Poloncic says. "As you work on one, the other comes right along with it."
ENCOUNTEROMAHA.COM 19
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a r t RAG e
T R A N S G E N D E R A R T I S T C A S S I L S PA C K S A P O W E R F U L P U N C H by Tara Spencer photography by Bill Sitzmann design by Derek Joy heathercassils.com
Editor’s note: Cassils is a gender non-conforming trans-masculine visual artist. Cassils uses plural gender-neutral pronouns (they, them, their) and asks that journalists do likewise when referring to them. This plurality reflects through language the position Cassils occupies as an artist. For more about gender non-conforming issues, go to: glad.org/reference/transgender
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owerful art does not need to be explained, though for the uninitiated, sometimes it helps.
Canadian-born, Los Angeles-based multimedia artist Cassils thrives on the power of art. The artist (who prefers to be referred to in plural, gender-neutral pronouns) launched their latest exhibit, Cassils: The Phantom Revenant—now on display at the Bemis Center— Feb. 2 with a thrilling live performance called Becoming An Image. Cassils’ performance involved the transgender, bodybuilding artist attacking a 2,000-pound block of clay using only their body, in complete darkness, with the occasional flash of a camera that illuminated both artist and object, burning the images into viewers retinas.
“If you have two people doing stage combat, it looks really realistic, but if you take one person out, and the other person’s doing it well, it really looks as if they’re fighting a ghost, or a force.”
22 mar/apr 2017
It was a blend of performance, photography, and sculpture. “I use all parts of my body—my fists, my knees, my elbows,” Cassils says. “I beat this clay to the best of my ability, blind, until I’m basically compromising my ability to hit it properly.” At the performance, the only sounds were those of Cassils’ labored breathing, as the artist kicked, punched, and even jumped on the earthy clay, accompanied by the click of the camera as the photographer blindly tried to capture the “full-blown attack.”
Becoming An Image was originally conceived of and executed for ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives, the oldest existing LGBT organization in the United States, which also happens to house one of the largest repositories of LGBT materials in the world. “I was asked to make a piece in relationship to the missing gender-queer and trans representation in that archive, because like many archives in museums, it’s filled with the work of, in this case, dead, gay white guys. So rather than making an artwork that spoke to the one or two subjectivities that perhaps matched this description in the archives, I decided to make a piece about the troubling mechanisms of what makes it into the historical canon and what doesn’t.” Cassils’ Powers That Be installation—on display through April 29—presents a six-channel video that is a simulation of violence, a staged fight that could be taking place between two, three, four, or five people. But in this fight, Cassils plays the role of both victim and perpetrator. “If you have two people doing stage combat, it looks really realistic, but if you take one person out, and the other person’s doing it well, it really looks as if they’re fighting a ghost, or a force.” Cassils says “Any work is about responding to the sociopolitical circumstances that we’re living in … Art doesn’t change things like laws do, but it generates discussion.”
ARTIST & ENTREPRENEUR IMAGINE UHLENBROCK NAILS IT by Sarah Wengert photography by Bill Sitzmann design by mady besch & Derek Joy facebook.com/justimaginenailsgenie
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f you love trips to the museum and trips to the manicurist, Imagine Uhlenbrock is your one-stop shop for a day of art, style, and self-care all rolled into one stunning experience.
Uhlenbrock is the “nail genie” and artist behind Just Imagine Nails. Keratin is her canvas and her work is constantly showing on the hands of happy clients throughout Omaha. “I started doing my own nails when I was about 4, because I was an only child and it was something I could do for myself,” Uhlenbrock says. Her interest in nail art grew through middle school and high school, culminating in her first steady nail job at a downtown Omaha salon. It was meant to be her college job, but Uhlenbrock loved the craft so much she launched her own business doing natural, ethical nails at age 19. For those skeptical that a manicurist can be a “real” artist, one look at Uhlenbrock’s vibrant Instagram portfolio provides ample evidence of her artistry and talent. Intricate, hand-painted designs, patterns, and messages mingle with hand-placed bling. Colors and textures pop, and unique, creative themes inspire the urge to scroll right on down the rabbit hole because no two sets are alike and your eyeballs will want to collect them all. >
“I take inspiration from everywhere. The print of your dress, the pattern of that chair, the texture of this pillow, someone’s artwork.”
< “It’s just like commissioning any other piece of art,” Uhlenbrock says. “I always have ideas, so I have clients who just come in and let me do whatever I want every two weeks, or sometimes they come in with a theme or idea in mind. Most of the time it’s a collaborative process and we customize it based on the vision and what they’re feeling like that week.”
This process has resulted in galaxy nails, Vegas- and beach-themed vacation nails, desert sunset nails, snowflake and Christmas nails, Fourth of July “red, white, and bling” nails, Ouija board nails, Netflix and chill nails, ice cream and French fry nails, nails that are geometric, plaid, rainbow, floral, color-blocked, gradient, holographic or chrome, and nails that mimic abstract paintings, among others. “I take inspiration from everywhere. The print of your dress, the pattern of that chair, the texture of this pillow, someone’s artwork,” Uhlenbrock says. Then there are the pop culture nails. She’s done sets that honor artists including Eartha Kitt, Prince, Beyoncé, and Frida Kahlo, that appreciate cultural icons ranging from Carl Sagan and Neil deGrasse Tyson to Grumpy Cat, that recognize the Broadway Hamilton phenomenon, that reference literature from Harry Potter to local author Rainbow Rowell’s Eleanor & Park, and that celebrate TV shows from The Golden Girls to The Powerpuff Girls. Her popular annual Halloween special has taken inspiration from The Addams Family, Stranger Things, The X-Files, and Hocus Pocus sets, as well as one of her personal all-time favorites: Michael Jackson “Thriller” nails. “You can see from my themes that I like weird,” Uhlenbrock says. “I’ll put anything on a nail as long as it’s not problematic.” Uhlenbrock’s political work is also incredibly compelling. She’s done anti-pipeline nails, Black Lives Matter nails, and nails that read “Go Vote,” among others. “One of the roles of an artist is to get people to think or to spread certain messages. Nail art is no different than any other art form in that way,” Uhlenbrock says. “That’s how art and social justice can intersect by creating visuals, sounds, or whatever the medium to raise awareness, to educate, or to relieve pain and pressure for the oppressed. So, a lot of what I do is people’s regular self-care.”
In December 2016, Uhlenbrock opened her Hand of Gold Beauty Room space in the Fair Deal Village Marketplace, near 24th and Lake streets. She currently shares the space with two subcontractors, Qween Samone and Ria Gold, who help support the service menu of natural nails, makeup, and braiding. Uhlenbrock enjoys working in the thriving area among neighboring small business owners and she’s committed to using her space to support her peers. “We support small businesses here,” Uhlenbrock says. “Economic disenfranchisement has been a huge tool of oppression against people of color. So, it’s really important to me as I grow and have my own economic development to reach out and empower others through that as well.” Uhlenbrock stocks body care products from Lincolnbased Miss Kitty and Her Cats, pieces from Omaha’s Amaral Jewelry, and gets all of her regular polishes from Ginger + Liz, a black woman-owned, vegan-friendly, toxin-free nail lacquer company. She also sells jewelry from her other business, The Bigger the Hoops.
“Everyone should probably go to a therapist, but not everyone does—some people get their nails done instead.”
Besides providing an important platform for a network of artists and makers, the petite Hand of Gold Beauty Room just feels like a place you want to be. A plush, ambercolored couch beckons from the pedicure platform that Uhlenbrock and her mother hand-built. The walls are decked with striking work by Lincoln artist Brittany Burton, featuring black-and-white depictions of “thick” women with sparse flashes of green and yellow. Soul music fills the air and large windows let ample natural light stream in. “Everyone should probably go to a therapist, but not everyone does—some people get their nails done instead,” Uhlenbrock says. “They can come here, have a good conversation, and leave feeling like a million bucks with something good to look at for a couple weeks. It’s a lot easier to feel like you have your shit together when your nails are on point.”
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an art collaboration by Bill Sitzmann and Nicholas Wasserberger artwork by kim darling design by Mady Besch & Derek Joy
28 mar/apr 2017
y: r a r k Lib maha r a l e C n of O l a D W. flectio A Re
Although Clark did not live to see the completion of his library branch, which began construction in 1975, the 124,500-square-foot Bedford limestone monolith opened on March 9, 1977. Architects John Latenser & Sons of Omaha designed the $7 million open-plan building to accommodate 350 patrons and 400,000 volumes (the current collection is 500,000+ volumes). The Omaha World-Herald defined the opening as “the greatest event in Omaha’s history.” Little has changed architecturally to the branch since 1977, although its surroundings continue to take shape— the neighborhood is part of a six-block $15 million revitalization plan.
by Alex Priest photography by Bill Sitzmann design by Derek Joy
W
hy are libraries relevant? For Rem Koolhaas, international architect and designer of one of America’s premier libraries in Seattle, “in an age where information can be accessed anywhere, it is the simultaneity of all media and, more importantly, the curatorship of their content that makes the library vital.” This compelling principle of curation—a thoughtful way of organizing and presenting content—is how the Omaha Public Library’s W. Dale Clark branch promotes free public access to multimedia information, programming, and assets inside and outside the four walls of 215 S. 15th St. The library’s architecture, in turn, is both a container for, and reflection of, the community of Omaha at large. Omaha’s first permanent public library opened in 1877 at 18th and Harney streets. Designed by Thomas Kimball, it was Omaha’s first building dedicated solely to a public library. However, with a capacity of 46,000 books and drastically out of sync with modern needs, the library outgrew this historic building after World War II. Often referred to as “the worst library in America” and “the horror on Harney Street,” city and library officials began contemplating a new building and the role a new central library would have in defining the cultural core of Omaha in the late 1950s.
“the library allows a smooth transition where abarrier may be to connect people with ideas.”
While some branches of the Omaha Public Library system are named after locations, others are named after prominent city leaders and/or major funders. The central library branch is named after W. Dale Clark, a long-time banker, civic leader, and Omaha World-Herald board member. It is no coincidence then that during the development of this new central branch, the Omaha World-Herald was often a soapbox for the library’s necessity as a cultural anchor. A June 9, 1957, article explained, “a library should offer the opportunity for enlightened citizenship and the continuing education and cultural advancement necessary to a working democracy.” This sentiment held true for W. Dale Clark as well.
The striated five-story W. Dale Clark Library opens laterally east and west and features a 110-foot bridge on the west entrance that spans a parking moat below for 48 cars, special facilities for audio-visual materials, a large open atrium, contemporary art gallery, and significant art collection including Catherine Ferguson’s sculpture Totem and an Olga de Amaral tapestry. The central library maintains practical roles to store government documents, house the ever-growing genealogy department, and to be a repository for community history. In a building nearly 40 years old, how has the Omaha Public Library advanced into the digital age—an age where traditional media is seen as almost cliché? The answer is quite simple: curated in-person programing. The facilitators for this community-driven programing are the 78 library staff at the W. Dale Clark branch. With a web of knowledge and resources, Emily Getzschman, the marketing manager for OPL acknowledges, “the staff are our greatest asset.” They fulfill the library’s tagline “open your world” by connecting dots—many of which are obvious (GED training, citizenship assistance, computer training, and literacy classes) and others that seem more disparate (STD screening, a toy lending library, speed dating, a culinary conference, and facilitated conversations around contemporary topics) all under a major OPL tenet of non-discrimination. As Amy Mather, adult services manager, says, “the library allows a smooth transition where a barrier may be to connect people with ideas.” In many instances, the library is filling voids in the public domain with this free niche programming—all of which is community driven. Since its beginning, some have questioned the role and need for the Omaha Public Library—a story that continues to play out today. These opposing views undermine the very role of the public library as a space to define, beyond hierarchies, the community of Omaha. It is a privilege and right to use the Omaha Public Library, which is free and open to all of the public. Everyone and anyone has access to its curated network of resources. The potency of programming, outreach, and staff reverberates beyond its architecture and stated mission placing OPL at the frontier of relevancy. As Mather says, “this is your library.”
omahapubliclibrary.org/w-dale-clark-library
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Mob Wild
WHEN MOB RULE RULED OMAHA POLITICS by Anthony Flott photography by Bill Sitzmann illustration & design by Derek Joy
W
hen Mayor Jean Stothert faces Nebraska State Senator Heath Mello and any other challengers in the upcoming mayoral election, no one is expecting any donnybrooks, free-for-alls, fracas, or melees. Thank goodness. The most violent city politics has become in recent memory is perhaps when then-Mayor Mike Boyle tossed a foil-wrapped pat of butter at a county corrections official in 1985. There was a time, though, when Omaha politics drew the scorn of the nation and nearly got a sitting mayor hung. Omaha in 1919 seemed more like some outpost in the Wild, Wild West. It was a time rife with prostitution rings, bootlegging, and gambling. And a time of nicknames: “Cowboy” Jim Dahlman, Omaha’s longest-tenured mayor ever; Dean “Lily White” Ringer, the police commissioner; and the “The Old Gray Wolf ”—political boss Tom Dennison. Many Omahans know the most tragic part of the tale —the lynching of Will Brown, a black man accused of assaulting a white woman Sept. 25 that year (to his end, Brown maintained his innocence). Less known, though, is that then-Omaha Mayor Edward Smith was hanged because he tried to defend Brown outside the country courthouse where Brown was being held in police custody. Smith was facing a mob of 4,000 people shattering windows and breaking doors. They grabbed files of the district court, doused them with gasoline and set them ablaze. They burned police cars and cut fire hoses. Smith tried to reason with the angry crowd. Instead, someone smashed him over the right eye with “a blunt instrument or a brick,” reported the Omaha World-Herald. He was knocked unconscious then dragged through the street and a noose put around his neck — three times. The last time, the rope was thrown over the arm of a traffic signal tower and cinched tight. His body rose in the air.
What happened next isn’t clear. According to nowdeceased UNO Political Science Professor Orville Menard in his book, River City Empire: Tom Dennison’s Omaha, it appears four lawmen played some role in cutting the rope, pulling the mayor to safety, and driving him to Ford Hospital. “They can’t have him,” the World-Herald reported Smith saying in a delirium in the hospital, “Mob rule shall not prevail in Omaha.” Sadly, mob rule did prevail, for at least a day. They grabbed Brown, beat him unconscious, stripped him of his clothes and hanged him an hour shy of midnight. The crowd then riddled his body with bullets, dragged it behind a car to 17th and Dodge streets, and burned it. The mayor, however, would recover. Two years later, though, he was out of office, with Dennison's buddy Dahlman earning re-election and serving until 1930 (he’d also been mayor from 1906 to 1918). The World-Herald would earn a Pulitzer Prize with its editorial “Law and the Jungle.” “Omaha Sunday was disgraced and humiliated by a monstrous object lesson of what jungle rule means,” the paper wrote. In the aftermath, some wondered if it was Dennison’s men who donned blackface to attack white women, hoping to strike a match of racial strife that would lead to chaos and unseat Smith. Nothing was proven. “What does seem clear is … Will Brown was the victim of political machinations,” Menard wrote. Smith, too. Jean vs. Heath? Not the most colorful names. But boring is good.
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Destinations by anothny flott design by Derek Joy
DUNDEE AKSARBEN VILLAGE Horse stalls went bye-bye long ago. Now, Aksarben Village is losing car stalls, too. But that’s a good thing, as far as continued growth of the former horse-racing grounds goes. Dirt is overturned and heavy equipment sits on the plot extending north and east from 67th and Frances streets, formerly a parking lot for visitors to the bustling area. That’s because work has commenced at the corner on what will become HDR’s new global headquarters, which opens some time in 2019. The temporary loss of parking will be offset by great gain for Aksarben Village — a 10-story home for nearly 1,200 employees with a first floor including 18,000 square feet of retail space. HDR also is building an adjacent parking garage with room for ground-level shops and restaurants. But wait, car owners, there’s more. Farther up 67th Street, near Pacific, the University of Nebraska-Omaha is building a garage that should be completed this fall. Plenty of parking for plenty to do.
BENSON A continental shift has taken place in Benson — Espana is out and Au Courant Regional Kitchen is in, offering Benson denizens another food option at 6064 Maple St. That means a move from now-closed Espana’s Spanish fare to now-open Au Courant’s “approachable European-influenced dishes with a focus on regional ingredients.” Sound tasty? Give your tastebuds an eye-tease with the menu at aucourantrestaurant.com. Also new in B-Town: Parlour 1887 (parlour1887.com) has finished an expansion first announced in 2015 that has doubled the hair salon’s original footprint. That’s a big to-do at the place of ’dos.
BLACKSTONE DISTRICT The newest Blackstone District restaurant, which takes its name from Nebraska’s state bird, is ready to fly. Stirnella Bar & Kitchen, located at 3814 Farnam St., was preparing to be open by Valentine’s Day. By mid-January it had debuted staff uniforms, photos of its decor, and a preview of its delectable-looking dinner menu. Stirnella (Nebraska’s meadowlark is part of the genus and species “Sturnella neglecta”) will offer a hybrid of bistro and gastro pub fare “that serves refined comfort food with global influences,” plus a seasonal menu inspired by local ingredients. Fly to stirnella.com for more.
40 mar/apr 2017
Film Streams (filmstreams.org) made a splash in January announcing details on its renovation of the historic Dundee Theater. Work began in 2017’s first month on features including: •
Repair and renovation of the original theater auditorium, which will be equipped with the latest projection and sound technology able to screen films in a variety of formats, including reelto-reel 35mm and DCP presentations.
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A throwback vertical “Dundee” sign facing Dodge Street.
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An entryway that opens to a landscaped patio/pocket park.
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New ticketing and concessions counters.
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A store with film books, Blu-ray Discs and other cinema-related offerings.
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A café run through a yet-to-beannounced partnership.
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A 25-seat micro-cinema.
Oh, yeah, they’ll show movies there, too. And Dundee-ers won’t have long to wait—the project should be completed by the end of 2017.
MIDTOWN In a surprise to many—especially those holding its apparently now-defunct gift cards—Brix shut its doors in January at both its Midtown Crossing and Village Pointe locations. It was not clear at press time what factor, if any, was played by a former Brix employee, who in late December pleaded not guilty to two counts of felony theft by deception after being accused of stealing more than $110,000 as part of a gift card scheme. Despite the closing, Midtown has celebrated two additions of late as the doors opened to the “Japanese Americana street food” spot Ugly Duck (3201 Farnam St.) and to Persian rug “pop-up shop” The Importer.
NORTH OMAHA The restoration of North Omaha’s 24th and Lake area continues its spectacular trajectory. In January, the Union for Contemporary Art moved into the completely renovated, historic Blue Lion building located at 2423 N. 24th St. The Blue Lion building is a cornerstone in the historic district. Originally constructed in 1913, the Blue Lion is named after two of the building’s earliest tenants: McGill’s Blue Room, a nightclub that attracted many nationally known black musicians, and Lion Products, a farm machinery distributor. The entire district was listed as a federally recognized historic district in April 2016. According to its website, “The Union for Contemporary Art is committed to strengthening the creative culture of the greater Omaha area by providing direct support to local artists and increasing the visibility of contemporary art forms in the community.” Founder and executive director Brigitte McQueen Shew says the Union strives to unite artists and the community to inspire positive social change in North Omaha. “The organization was founded on the belief that the arts can be a vehicle for social justice and greater civic engagement,” she says. “We strive to utilize the arts as a bridge to connect our diverse community in innovative and meaningful ways.” The Union will be hosting the annual Omaha Zinefest March 11. Event organizer Andrea Kszystyniak says Zinefest is a celebration of independent publishing in Nebraska. Assorted zines—essentially DIY magazines produced by hand and/or photocopier—will be on display at the free event, and workshops will be offered to attendees.
OLD MARKET M’s Pub fans had plenty to be thankful for in November following the announcement that the Old Market restaurant would rise from the ashes of the January 2016 fire that destroyed the iconic eatery. Various media quoted co-owner Ann Mellen saying the restaurant would reopen this summer. Construction has been steady at the restaurant’s 11th and Howard, four-story building, but customers weren’t sure M’s would be part of the rebirth until Mellen’s well-received comments. Mellen says the feel—and the food—will be the same. Even if the name may change.
S.G. Roi Tobacconist the “Cigar Shop” In the Old Market and Bellevue 503 S. 11th Street Old Market 1021 Galvin Road South Suite B Bellevue
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OMAHA MAGAZINE HAS JOINED AN INNOVATIVE PROGRAM TO COMBAT DEFORESTATION. AND WE NEED YOUR HELP. The initiative, called Print Relief, plants the number of trees equal to our printing needs by calculating the trees consumed by the printing of our magazine. They plant the number of trees equal to our tree usage in endangered forests around the world.
IN THE NEXT YEAR ALONE, THIS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM WILL ALLOW US TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PLANTING OF ALMOST 1,500 SAPLINGS IN BIOMES AROUND THE GLOBE THAT HAVE BEEN RAVAGED BY DEFORESTATION. HERE’S WHERE YOU COME IN: We’d like readers to help us choose where our trees should go. We will create a survey on our Omaha Magazine Facebook page. You can choose to help reforest Brazil, Mexico, Madagascar, the Dominican Republic, Burkina Faso, or Ethiopia. We will determine the top votegetter and pass your wishes on to the folks at PrintReleaf. Then, together, we can help battle one of the greatest threats to the health of this planet.
Corey Feldman live March 18th facebook.com/maloneysirishpub Twitter: @maloneysomaha Tickets available at EventBrite.com
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march/april calendar of Events Sponsored by Pinnacle Bank
POG32_OLDMARKET_DIRECTORY_AD.indd 1 Art and Museum Exhibits and Events
Chimeras Through April 29 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. International women artists collaborate to create an exhibit that explores the increasingly blurred lines between humans, animals, and technology in modern society. Admission: Free. 402-731-1137 bemiscenter.org Paula Wilson: The Backward Glance Through April 29 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. Wilson transforms the gallery into an innovative space where modern expression meets ancient themes. The exhibit investigates race, identity, and objectification of the female body to transport viewers into a mythical creation story where the female figure is personified as a heroine. Admission: Free. 402341-7130 bemiscenter.org Wild Spaces, Open Seasons: Hunting and Fishing in American Art Through May 7 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. See how American hunting and fishing culture has intersected with art. Paintings and sculptures from the 1820s through the 1940s illuminate changing concepts of nature, place, and wildlife that have shaped national identity. Admission: $10. Free to youth, college students with ID, and members. 402-342-3300 joslyn.org Nature Connects: Art with Lego Bricks Through May 15 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Sean Kenney's third exhibit at Lauritzen Gardens features fantastic NEW pieces along with old favorites. Inspired by nature and built from more than 450,000 Lego pieces, this indoor exhibit features 13 displays with larger-than-life sculptures. $10 Adults, $5 for Children (6-12), free for members and children under 6 years old. 402-346-4002 lauritzengardens.org History of Latinos in Omaha: 1890 through Present Through August 31 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Discover the stories of the Latino community members that helped to create our city. This photography exhibit highlights the key role of Latino culture and history in the area. Admission: $5 adults, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 K-12 children and seniors. 402-731-1137 elmuseolatino.org
Sketch-A-Thon March 3 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Grab your sketchbook and hone your drawing skills with incredible glass and ceramic sculptures for subjects. Explore all six galleries and enter to win prizes from local businesses. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission: Free. 402-341-3800 thekaneko.org
Rock of Ages March 3-April 2 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. The smash-hit musical comedy features the charming tales of Drew and Sherrie chasing their dreams and falling in love, told through arena rock hits from the ’80s. Tickets: $42 adults, $25 students. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com
Screen Chat: Imitation of Life March 26 at Film Streams, 1340 Mike Fahey St. A film by director Douglas Sirk, class and race are confronted in this tale of two mothers, one white, one black, struggling to raise defiant daughters. Film Streams Education Director Diana Martinez invites you to stick around after the movie for an informative and fun Screen Chat focusing on the art of film. 3 p.m. Tickets: $9 general admission, $7 seniors (60+), students, teachers, active military, veterans, and those arriving to the theater by bicycle. 402-933-0259 filmstreams.org
In Your Own Words: Writing Our Passions, Honoring Our Obsessions March 4 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Nationally recognized poets and feedback hosts, Jen Lambert and Sarah McKinstry-Brown will lead a workshop focusing on exercises that explore how reimagining and rewriting one’s strongest memories and most significant life events can reshape how one thinks about their life stories. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: free, register at thekaneko.org/ inyourownwords. 402-341-3800 thekaneko.org
Science on Screen: Tampopo March 28 at Film Streams, 1340 Mike Fahey St. This Japanese “ramen western” from 1985 centers on a noodle shop owner training for greatness under a group of soup samurai and will be followed by a panel discussion on food science and culture. This national series is hosted by the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline, Mass. 7 p.m. Tickets: $9 general admission, $7 seniors (60+), students, teachers, active military and veterans, and those arriving at the theater by bicycle. 402-933-0259 filmstreams.org Art rEVOLOVED: Local Art & Local Business: Connected. Empowered. Inspired. April 21 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. An evening with Revolve Fine Art and a few of the Omahabased artists they represent, including Bart Vargas, Andrea Schmitz Stein, and more. Artists will give presentations about their creative processes. 7 p.m.- 9 p.m. Admission: Free. 402-341-3800 thekaneko.org
Performing Arts
Man Who Shot Liberty Valance March 2-12 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. A classic western story of good versus bad and the law versus the gun. An exciting show, made popular by the 1962 film version starring John Wayne. Tickets: $35 adults, $22 students. 402-553-0800 omahaplayhouse.com
Jersey Boys March 7- March 12 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. This Tony-, Grammy- and Olivier-Awardwinning musical is about 1960s pop group The Four Seasons—Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi—and how four bluecollar kids from New Jersey became teen idols. Tickets: $50-$140. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com Omaha Film Festival March 7-12 at Village Pointe, 17305 Davenport St. The 12th annual Omaha Film Festival celebrates and awards screenwriters and filmmakers in Omaha. The Omaha Film Festival was acknowledged as “50 Film Festivals Worth The Entry Fee” by Movie Maker’s magazine. 402-203-8173 omahafilmfestival.org Omaha Symphony: Thomas Wilkins and Stewart Goodyear—Pines of Rome in Omaha March 17-18 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Audiences will be transported to the Eternal City in this enchanting and cinematic performance directed by Thomas Wilkins and featuring Stewart Goodyear on piano. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $19-$70. 402-345-0606 omahasymphony.org
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Silent Sky March 23-April 15 at Bluebarn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. This new play features the stories of the real women “computers” working in the Harvard Observatory during the beginning stages of Modern Astronomy. Science, history, and love create the story of a strong woman navigating romance and astronomy to make history in a male-dominated field. Tickets: $30 adults, $25 students and seniors. 402-345-1576 bluebarn.org lue, The Musical C March 24-April 9 at Bellevue Little Theater, 203 W. Mission Ave. A melodic, clever tribute to the popular board game. Follow the music and pick up the clues. Tickets: $20 adults, $18 seniors age 65 and older, and $10 students. 402-291-1554 bellevuelittletheatre.com Beautiful April 4-9 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. This hit musical tells the inspiring true story of singersongwriter Carole King’s remarkable rise to stardom. Along the way, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation. Tickets: $35-$105. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com Leading Ladies April 14–May 7 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Two English actors hear that an old lady in York, Pennsylvania, is about to die and leave her fortune to her two long-lost English nephews; they resolve to pass themselves off as her beloved relatives and get the cash. Then they find out that the relatives aren't nephews, but nieces. Tickets: On sale March 28. 402-3450606 ticketomaha.com Flight April 21 and 23 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Jonathon Dove’s opera tells a compelling and thrilling tale of a group of travelers trapped in an airport overnight. As a storm rages outside, the strangers are forced to shed facades to confront inner hopes and desires, as well as each other. 7:30 p.m. April 21 and 2:30 p.m. April 23. Tickets: $15-$99. 844-753-8364 operaomaha.org
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march/april calendar of Events
Sponsored by Pinnacle Bank Catherland April 21-May 14 at Shelterbelt Theatre, 3225 California St. Budding author Susan and her husband head to Red Cloud, Nebraska, to begin a simpler life, but a slew of mysterious guests prove that there’s nothing simple about small town living. Susan’s future begins to resemble that of novelist Willa Cather. 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 6 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $25 general admission, $20 students, seniors ages (65+), and TAG members. 402-341-2757 shelterbelt.org Generator Series/Sound & Nature April 23 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Omaha Under the Radar and KANEKO present the kickoff to the new series devoted to exploration of intersections of music’s relationship to our physical world. Non commercial artists will guide audiences in an investigation of how we listen and interact with sound. 7 p.m. Admission:$10, free for members. 402-341-3800 thekaneko.org Gay Men’s Chorus of LA: It Gets Better Tour April 28 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Dan Savage’s simple message gave hope to LGBTQIA+ youth across the country. The GMCLA now brings the anti-bullying message to life onstage in a moving musical theater performance. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$30. 844-753-8364 omahaperformingarts.org
Concerts
JOHNNYSWIM March 1 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Husband and wife duo Amanda and Abner Ramirez bring us soulful folk, blues, and jazz. 8 p.m. Tickets: $18 advance/$20 day of show. 402-884-5353 waitingroomlounge.com NE-HI March 2 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This rock group formed in Chicago less than five years ago but with their chemistry it seems that they have been together forever. You will be able to grab a copy of their new album, Offers, now. Tickets: $10. 402-884-5707 reverblounge.com Lucero with Esmé Patterson March 2 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Lucero has been rocking at country since ’98. Few can say that they have had the original members from day one, in Lucero’s case they can say that with pride. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402-884-5353 waitingroomlounge.com The Wild Reeds with Blank Range March 3 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. The Wild Reeds spent most of 2016 touring; hitting up festivals like SXSW, Summerfest, and more. This singer-songwriter trio is sure to impress with their next album. 9 p.m. Tickets: $10. 402-884-5707 reverblounge.com
Cubby’s Old Market Grocery 601 S. 13th St.
44 mar/apr 2017
Aaron Diehl presents "Jelly & George” March 5 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Diehl, pianist Adam Birnbaum, and vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant revisit and revitalize the works of George Gershwin and Jelly Roll Morton. Combining lesser-known works with new arrangements, the trio celebrate the past while tracing a musical lineage that spans a century. 7 p.m. Tickets: $20-$40. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com
JoJo March 5 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. JoJo has moved on from childhood stardom to deliver a strong message of resilience in her debut album with Atlantic Records. Now 25, JoJo offers empowering concerts featuring carefully crafted pop and R&B sounds. Doors at 7 p.m. Tickets: $20$30. 402-345-7569 theslowdown.com Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears March 7 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. The Austin sensation mixes soul and blues with punk to create a unique sound. Audiences will jam out to favorites and new tracks from the band’s acclaimed third album, Electric Slave. 9 p.m. Tickets: $15 advance, $17 day of show. 402-884-5353 waitingroomlounge.com Lake Street Dive March 7 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The genredefying group blends R&B, pop, rock, and soul to create a dance-party atmosphere in their debut album, Side Pony. The quirky hairstyle reflects the band’s free spirited energy and self-confidence. Doors: 7 p.m. Tickets: $23- $35. 402-345-7569 theslowdown.com Mac Sabbath March 8 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. The self-described “drive-thru metal” band will provide a weirdly entertaining concert experience, featuring metal music, clowns, and hilarious fast food lyrics. 9 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402-884-5353 -waitingroomlounge.com The GROWLERS March 11 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. The Growlers genre can be defined as “surf rock” and is definitely a one of a kind sound. This trio definitely breaks down traditional genre barriers with their music. 9 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402-8845353 waitingroomlounge.com Cold War Kids with Middle Kids March 12 at Sokol Auditorium, 2234 S. 13th St. Cold War Kids have been in the game for a little over 12 years. Just recently they spent eight weeks at the No.1 spot on the Alternative radio charts making their name one to remember. 8 p.m. Tickets: $26. 402-346-9802 Panic! At The Disco, Misterwives, and Saint Motel March 15 at Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St. Known for providing epic concert experiences with outstanding touring partners, the chart-topping, Vegas-based rock group Panic! brings their "Death of a Bachelor Tour" to Omaha, joining forces with two other leading indie rock bands. 7 p.m. Tickets: from $36.50. 844-854-1450 baxterarena.com David Benoit March 24 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. For three decades, Grammynominated pianist David Benoit has reigned supreme as one of the founding fathers of contemporary jazz. He’s conducted world-renowned orchestras and delighted audiences around the world. 8 p.m. Tickets: $45. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com
Vanessa Carlton April 1 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Grammy-nominated artist Vanessa Carlton is widely know for her single “A Thousand Miles.” Her pop-rock, soulful records have earned her multiples spots on the Billboard charts. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402-884-5353 waitingroomlounge.com SPAFFORD with Mungion April 4 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Their one of a kind shows mix their music and incorporate light and dance to make a unique experience. 9 p.m. Tickets: $8 advanced/ $10 day of show. 402-884-5707 reverblounge.com Minus the Bear with Beach Slang & Bayonne April 5 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Over a 15year career they have been able to create their own niche in music. On the cusp of a newly released album VOIDS you can experience the artistry. Tickets: $25. 402-345-7569 theslowdown.com Neil Hamburger April 7 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Known for delighting audiences, the dynamic comedian has earned critical acclaim and lots of laughs in his television and stand-up career. Doors: 8 p.m. Tickets: $14-$16. 402-345-7569 theslowdown.com Parachute with Kris Allen April 11 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. They have toured with the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Gavin Degraw, and have achieved three solo tours. They are back in Omaha with the their latest album Wide Awake. Tickets: $25. 402-884-5353 waitingroomlounge.com The Beach Boys and The Temptations: Surf and Soul Tour April 26 at Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St. Two of the most influential American music groups will delight audiences with classic rock and soul hits that helped shape music worldwide. 7 p.m. Tickets: $38-$150. 844-854-1450 baxterarena.com Anthrax & Killswitch Engage with The Devil Wears Prada April 29 at Sokol Auditorium, 2234 S. 13th St. Anthrax and Killswitch Engage are both notable groups with many achievements. They are bringing their artistry together with their similar genres to perform a show of a lifetime.
Misc.
Omaha Zine Fest March 11 at Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Celebrate zines from around the Metro with writers, photographers, artists, and creators of all types of zines. Events include workshops, zine booths, a panel, and more. Admission: Free. 402-933-3161 omahazinefest.org St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 11, downtown from 11th to 15th streets between Howard and Harney streets. See leprechauns, bagpipers, and a lot of wearing ‘o the green at this Omaha tradition, organized by the Ancient Order of the Hibernians. After the parade, visit one of Omaha’s many Irish pubs for lunch or liquid refreshment. 10 a.m. Free. aohomaha.org/parade
National Geographic Live! Down to Nothing with Mountaineer Hilaree O’Neill March 21 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. National Geographic explorer O’Neill shares the harrowing story approaching “the point of no return” while leading a team of elite climbers to scale a peak in Myanmar. Her first-person account accompanied by photographer Cory Richards’ breathtaking photos and video clips pulls audiences into the expedition. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $10-25. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com National Geographic Live! Chasing Rivers with photographer Pete McBride April 18 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Join National Geographic’s acclaimed photographer and “freshwater hero” as he tells the stories of his unforgettable journeys down the majestic Colorado and the sacred Ganges rivers. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $10-25. 402-345-0606 ticketomaha.com Louder Than a Bomb Finals April 20 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. High school students from across the Great Plains have been crafting world class slam poetry under the guidance of local artists and competing for the highest audience scores throughout the school year. Audiences are encouraged to snap and cheer for higher scores as students showcase their soulful, funny, and innovative poetry onstage. 7 p.m. Admission: Free. 402-345-0202 ltabgreatplains.org Nebraska Science Festival April 20-29 at various locations. Join Nebraska’s statewide science festival, with events happening from Omaha to Scottsbluff. Kari Bryon, a strong advocate of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and best known as a host on Discovery Channel’s “Mythbusters,” will headline on April 21 at the Joslyn Museum in a moderated discussion. Doors: 6:30 p.m. Tickets: released on April 1. Free to the public, but requires a reserved ticket. nescifest.com Party for the Planet April 22 at Henry Doorly Zoo, 3701 S. 10th St. Celebrate Earth Day at Omaha’s Zoo with conservation-themed booths inside the Wild Kingdom Pavillion. Gate gifts will also be given while supplies last. Admission: $17.95 adults, $16.95 seniors ages 65 and over, $11.95 children ages 3-11, and free to children ages 2 and under. 402-733-8400 omahazoo.com
• Monday Ladies Night • Sunday Fun Day $2 Domestic Tall Boys - $5 Bloody Marys
• Happy Hour - $2.50 Wells
Mon & Tues 4-7 pm Wed-Fri 3-7 pm
402.933.3927
3530 Leavenworth St. Omaha, NE 68105
-Happy HourMon.-Thurs. from 3-7pm $2 Busch light bottles/cans $2.75 domestic bottles $3 well drinks
Let the Madness Begin Walking Distance to CenturyLink Center & TD Ameritrade Park
402.346.9116 | 501 N. 13th Street | theMattOmaha.com /oldmattressfactory
@Matt_factory
ENCOUNTEROMAHA.COM 45
TRANSITORILY YOURS: WAKING UP WITH THE SUN Today is Jan. 7, 2017, and yesterday I walked out of House of Loom one last time. It was a place that I co-owned, DJed at, and curated events for. The scene I left was only a shell. There were no swirling lights or sounds, no Victorian lounge vibes, and certainly no lively, booze-fueled conversations. Just an echo of the life that filled that place for 5 1/2 years remained (along with the bustle of a construction crew ripping a hole in the wood floor). Loom was many things to many people, but to me it was a lovely little social experiment that blended cultures, creatives, and communities. Categorically, it was a nightclub and event venue, but to the folks frequenting its experiences, it was a place where patrons and friends could mobilize around causes, express emotions, mourn passings, and celebrate life’s contrasts. The influx of people was so fluid that you could not distinguish it as a straight or gay bar, but simply as a people’s bar. On its best nights, it brought together folks who normally wouldn’t intersect in our city, and lifted us out of the doldrums of our daily lives. It is rare for a business to shut down without the force of an unpaid bill. As a friend and fellow small business owner says, it is a gift to be able to close on your own terms. And that is exactly what we did. For myself and the other owners, House of Loom was never meant to be permanent. It was a successful social experiment. And it was time to move on. I have spent the past 13 years of my life fervently dedicated to contributing to Omaha’s nightlife. With this new year, I embark on a new chapter— one where the loud and flashy peaks of club life are swapped for the quiet joy of watching my 1-year-old
baby stand on her own for the first time. Now, spontaneous social gatherings are traded for intimate dinner parties (often planned months in advance). Instead of falling asleep as the sunrises, I wake up with the sun. It is a different life—one with its own advantages. My prior life could never hold a candle to this new world. In fact, as I write this, my baby daughter is napping away on my chest after a messy meal of liquified plums, apples, and carrots. She is tuckered out, and so am I. This brings me to why I am writing this column. During this next chapter of my life, I will be taking some time to hibernate in the creative womb. The invitation to turn to the reflective act of writing seemed like a synchron ist ic oppor t u n it y. Instead of only sharing my notions of creativity and thought from behind a DJ booth, I will gladly be able to do so in this space. Much like my life right now, I am going to ad-lib my writing. Most likely I will touch on topics ranging from the social impact of nightlife (of course), the curiosities of parenting (because I’m new at this), food (because I get giddy when I eat good food), and inclusiveness and equality (because of our new president), all through the millennial lens of a 30-something, post-nightclubowning new papa. Here’s to new beginnings. Brent Crampton previously co-owned House of Loom and is co-owner of Berry & Rye, a bar in the Old Market. A multi-award-winning DJ in a former life, he now prefers evenings spent at home with his family.
Editor’s note: This is the first installment in a new Encounter column focusing on millenial life by Brent Crampton. To share your significant life experiences, email millenials@omahapublications.com
46 mar/apr 2017
by brent crampton photography by amy lynn straub design by Derek Joy
2014 TO 2017
FOUR YEARS RUNNING!
BEST HAPPY HOUR! EST. 1993
6 OMAHA METRO AREA LOCATIONS DOWNTOWN
MIRACLE HILLS
BELLEVUE
10th & Capitol | 402-763-9974
114th & Dodge | 402-498-8855
23rd & Cornhusker | 402-292-9096
AKSARBEN VILLAGE
MILLARD
PLATTSMOUTH
67th & Center | 402-933-3533
DJSDUGOUT.COM
180th & Q | 402-933-8844
Hwy 75 & Oak Hill | 402-298-4166