Omaha Magazine - October 2019 - The Education Issue

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THE EDUCATION ISSUE // TRICK OR TREATING NEIGHBORHOODS // TOP DENTISTS // NEBRASKA LOVES PUBLIC SCHOOLS

O C T O B E R 2019 U.S.

$4.95

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FROM THE EDITOR // LETTER BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN, MANAGING EDITOR

AN EDUCATED OCTOBER

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ctober is one of my favorite months of the year. It’s the month I tackle gothic literature—from Wilkie Collins’ Woman in White to Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre—and curl up on the couch with movies ranging from the Harry Potter series to Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Each of these books (all of which I can call favorites) are often taught in schools, and this issue is all about schools, and education.

Our cover story is about rocket scientist Scott Macklin, who interned at Elon Musk’s SpaceX while attending University of Southern California and has since worked at Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic. He tells Omaha Magazine his story of working in a STEM-related field.

STEM is a hot topic for many parents and students, as it can lead to a high-paid career.

In the case of Emma Carlson, an interest in STEM is leading to a career most may never have heard of: bioinformatics.

I Love Public Schools’ is the topic of another feature. This initiative, underwritten by the Sherwood Foundation, has produced amazing videos such as The Mind Inside, an in-depth look at teenage depression. They started by working on smaller videos such as teacher spotlights, and have advanced as the project has grown. This great story tells how powerful storytelling can be.

We also bring you a great feature on Westside’s Sparkles Cheerleading team. This special cheerleading team is a part of the Sparkle Effect, an organization created to bring inclusiveness to a sport that many young people dream of participating in.

This is a big year for America—it is the 50th anniversary of Woodstock, the moon landing, and many other Baby Boomer icons. It is also the 50th anniversary of KIOS-FM, Omaha’s local National Public Radio station. In fact, KIOS-FM was a charter member of NPR, which incorporated in 1970. I grew up listening to NPR, and these days, I frequently listen to KIOS in my car.

In keeping with the education theme, we have profiles of two educators. Gross Catholic assistant principal and athletic director was named Archdiocese Educator

of the Year on Sept. 12. My friend Dr. Michael Ashton, superintendent at Archdiocese Schools, speaks glowingly of Dempsey, and we learn why in this issue.

Joseph Baker is an auto collision instructor at Metropolitan Community College, which he says is one of the top collision schools in the United States. Baker started working with cars at age 15 and hasn’t stopped since.

Two noted Omaha men are working hard to educate kids about their passions. MMA fighter Houston Alexander has created the Houston Alexander Foundation to teach kids about hip-hop culture, while community activist Preston Love Jr. has founded Black Votes Matter, an initiative to teach students, especially those in his native North Omaha, about the power, and responsibility, of voting.

This issue isn’t all about kids, however. Our Sixty-Plus section features UNO Professor Chris Allen, who travels with his students to places such as England and Oman. Chris and I have been friends for several years, and I enjoy hearing about his travels to such exotic locals as Pakistan and Oman, because it is such a passion for him.

Do Space in midtown Omaha is a favorite place for a particular group of seniors to gather each week. They are called Cyberseniors, and while this seems like a group of bionic people (or perhaps I have been watching too much Star Trek), it is actually a group of volunteers who meet each week to help other seniors with technical problems.

Reading, you may realize, is a favorite hobby of mine, and the library is a favorite place.

It is also a favorite place of Polly and Joe Goecke, who volunteer with Friends of the Public Library. They help with the organization’s book sales, and Joe, especially, helps generate money for the library by selling books online.

With fall comes illness, and this issue brings you information about a terrible illness called shingles. Contributing editor Gwen Lemke tells you her sister’s story with this disease in her letter, and we bring you an article about the shingles vaccination.

OCTOBER

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2019

Our arts also revolve around education. Raydell Cordell is the site director at the after-school program at Loveland Elementary. Emily Brush is the project director for Making Invisible Histories Visible. And drummer Eden Corbitt is involved with Omaha Girls Rock as well as Girls Make Noise at Love’s Jazz and Art Center Then there’s the food. Three former interns from three separate colleges here in Omaha tell the magazine their favorite places to eat cheaply in the area. These kids know how to eat dishes other than ramen—sushi and Thai food showed up on at least two lists.

At Westside Schools, nutrition director Erin Vik is dedicated to providing healthy food to students, and he has expanded Westside’s food program to reflect this dedication.

I myself learned a lot about the origins of food in the article I wrote. Jenny Nguyen hails from California, and grew up riding horses and kayaking. Her husband Rick Wheatley grew up in California but traveled to Nebraska frequently as his family lived here. These days, the couple are passionate about a sport that is less traditional in California—hunting. They have even written a cookbook about their adventures in cooking wild game.

Did I mention that October is one of my favorite months? Yes, I love reading books and watching gothic-inspired movies, but there are other reasons why I love this month—one of them being October 31. We could not let this October issue go to press without talking about this beloved holiday.

Our Obviously Omaha this month brings you the best places to trick-or-treat.

Whether reading a Bronte novel for the 10th time or eating piles of candy, there is one book quote that sums up this month for me: “I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

L. M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables.

TAB L E of CON T E N T S THE USUAL SUSPECTS 001 From the Editor

An Educated October

004 Between the Lines 006 Calendar of Events 014 History

KIOS-FM’s 50th Anniversary

089 Obviously Omaha

Best Neighborhoods for Trick or Treating

100 Adventure

Getting Wild with Food

113 Explore!

119 Instagram 120 Not Funny

One Thing I Know

A R T S + C U LT U R E 018 Performance

Raydell Cordell

022 Multimedia Emily Brush

024 Music

Preston Love Jr.

040 F E AT U R E S

026 034 040 // 2 //

SCHOOL COLORS SHINING THROUGH Sparkles Cheerleading Instills Confidence

GIVING 063 Calendar 068 Giving Feature

2019 Aksarben Pages

PE O P L E 030 Profile

Joseph Baker

038 Gen O

Emma Carlson

INSIDE THE MIND BEHIND

046 Profile

HOMETOWN ROCKET SCIENTIST

048 Sports

Nebraska Loves Public Schools

Fremont Native Lands at Virgin Orbit

OCTOBER 2019

Mike Dempsey Houston Alexander

THE 2018 GRE AT PL AINS J OUR N A LIS M AWA RDS

MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR 60PLUS IN OMAHA

DISCOVER VIDEOS AND ONLINE EXTRAS

THE EDUCATION ISSUE // TRICK OR TREATING NEIGHBORHOODS // TOP DENTISTS // NEBRASKA LOVES PUBLIC SCHOOLS

077 Opener 078 Active Living

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O C T O B E R 2019

Omaha to Oman Cyber Seniors

084 Profile

Shingles Vaccinations

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086 Health

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Joe and Polly Goecke

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DINING 090 Profile

Erin Vik

092 Review

Society 1854

096 Feature

College Students’ Picks

103 Dining Guide SPECIAL SECTIONS 052 Venus Vein Clinic Sponsored Content

056 The Education Issue Sponsored Content

070 Top Dentists

Sponsored Content

A B O U T T HE COV E R

Food Issue

Omaha Magazine Associate Publisher Bill Sitzmann and Creative Director Matt Wieczorek traveled 3,000 miles over three days, encountering wildfires and sleeping in rest stops and parking lots, to shoot this cover at Virgin Orbit headquarters in Long Beach California.

676 trees have been reforested

due to the printing of our last round of publications.

Learn more at printreleaf.com

Step

LOCATE A QR CODE PRINTED IN THIS ISSUE.

Make sure you have internet access.

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OPEN THE CAMERA APP IN YOUR SMART DEVICE.

Newer smartphones/tablets come with capability to scan QR codes.

Step POINT AT THE QR CODE. A link will appear. Click on it.

048

Step ENJOY YOUR EXPERIENCE. Watch, click, shop, explore!

read online at omahamagazine.com

Between A LOOK AT FOUR OMAHA MAGAZINE TEAM MEMBERS J.D. AVANT—Contributing Writer J.D. Avant’s writing pilgrimage has been highlighted by his debating/writing about local luminaries in hip-hop culture and philanthropists in the North Omaha community. He utilizes freelance work and YA novel production to help quench his insatiable thirst for writing. Relaxing evenings and weekends are spent playing with his “ferocious” floppy-eared Dobie, Gigi, (she’s a good-girl!) and white-knuckle driving across the cliff edges at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. Visit his website for insightful blogs and information regarding future projects at jdavant.com.

JOSEFINA LOZA WELLS—Contributing Writer Omaha freelancer Josefina Loza Wells writes people profiles and entertainment pieces. She is a journalism graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha who is expected to complete her master’s degree this fall in communication studies. She currently serves as The Gateway’s manager of student publications, working with a talented group of creatives. She is a longtime journalist and nightlife columnist who has worked as a newspaper reporter and online editor. She loves small talk with strangers at swanky cocktail lounges. She appreciates loud laughs and awkward people. Get social with her: @lozafina

LINDA PERSIGEHL—Associate Editor After six years away spent freelance writing, volunteering with her kids’ Bennington schools, and obsessively researching her family’s genealogy, former managing editor Linda Persigehl has returned to the Omaha Magazine fold. A lover of all things home decor, she gets her fix working a couple shifts a week at Pier 1 Imports (where she spends her entire paycheck). She and her husband of 27 years, Steve, are brand-new empty nesters who love to explore new cities (most recently, Philly!) and attend Creighton Bluejay hoops together. When she’s not pining away for her two “awesome” college kids, you’ll often find Linda walking her two adopted mutts, watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel or The Queen, or enjoying a martini at Charlie’s on the Lake with friends.

BRYAN VOMACKA—Editorial Intern Bryan Vomacka is a senior at the University of Nebraska at Omaha who has spent quite a bit of time on his undergraduate degree. During a few rocky years of college, he explored business, emergency management, and psychology. Deciding to focus on journalism gave Vomacka a fresh start. He considers himself a writer, but getting involved in broadcast news taught him how important it is to get outside your comfort zone. Outside of school, he enjoys going to movie theaters and has never been known to turn down a trip to get ice cream.

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OCTOBER 2019

OCTOBER 2019 VOLUME 37 // ISSUE 6

EDITORIAL Managing Editor

DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN Senior Editor

TARA SPENCER Associate Editor

LINDA PERSIGEHL Editorial Interns

JANE GLAZER · BRYAN VOMACKA · REBECCA WEIS Contributing Writers

J.D. AVANT · CHRIS BOWLING · TAMSEN BUTLER VIRGINIA KATHRYN GALLNER · GREG JERRETT · PUMULO KASAJI JEFF LACEY · LISA LUKECART · PATRICK MAINELLI KATRINA MARKEL · NIZ PROSKOCIL · KARA SCHWEISS KATE SMITH · SCOTT STEWART · TIM TRUDELL · JAMES VNUK SAMANTHA WEIDEMAN · JOSEFINA LOZA WELLS DOUG “OTIS TWELVE” WESSELMANN · JUSTINE YOUNG

CREATIVE Creative Director

Oct. 4 – Nov. 10

Sept. 13 – Oct. 13

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Graphic Designer II

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Contributing Photographers

KEITH BINDER · COLIN CONCES · SCOTT DRICKEY WILLIAM HESS · MIKE McCOLGAN · SARAH LEMKE Contributing Videographers

CHRISTOPHER MARSHALL · JEREMY WADE RODMAN JOE PANKOWSKI

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Senior Sales Executive & 60PLUS in Omaha Contributing Editor

EXHIBIT OPENS OCTOBER 12, 2019 From the moment rock and roll hit the airwaves, it has played a crucial role in politics and social movements around the world. See artifacts from Bono, Dylan, Madonna and more while you explore our history through the power of rock music.

GWEN LEMKE

Publisher’s Assistant & OmahaHome Contributing Editor

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Branding Specialists

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OPERATIONS Operations Officer & Local Stubs Ticketing Representative

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Omaha Magazine Vol 37 Issue 5, publishes monthly except February, April, August, November, December, totaling 8 issues by Omaha Magazine, LTD, 5921 S. 118 Circle, Omaha, NE 68137. Periodical postage at Omaha, NE, and additional offices and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Omaha Magazine, 5921 S. 118 Circle, Omaha, NE 68137

402-444-5071 | 801 S. 10TH ST, OMAHA

DURHAMMUSEUM.ORG OCTOBER 2019

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REAGAN PUFALL

Starting Oct. 11 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. The North Dakota native who currently lives in Omaha teaches art and design, and practices photography. He has received several awards and nominations, including an OEAA 2018 Best New Media Artist nomination. Admission: free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 402.595.2122.

—artscouncil.nebraska.gov

LOUDER THAN WORDS: ROCK, POWER, AND POLITICS

Starting Oct. 12 through Feb. 2 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This exhibit explores how rock music has shaped cultural norms on topics such as civil rights, feminism, war, and more. Historical artifacts, photos, and videos show how the power of rock has influenced politics throughout American history. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for members and children under 2. 402.444.5071.

—durhammuseum.org

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» Exhibitions « PRODUCE, CONSUME, DISCARD

Through Oct. 4 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. Fiber artist Sarah Kolar uses deconstructed T-shirt remnants to represent the process involved in knitting a shirt and encourages viewers to contemplate the laborious efforts that go into making their personal belongings. Admission: free.

8 a.m.-5 p.m. 402.595.2122.

—artscouncil.nebraska.gov

FROM NEBRASKA: KINGMAN—DUNBIER—GILDER

Through Oct. 13 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. This exhibit will showcase landscape art by three 20th century Nebraskan artists. Admission: free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. or by appointment. 402.305.1510.

—gallery1516.org

BAGELS AND SOMETIMES BACH

Through Nov. 23 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. Featuring a different musical performance every Sunday, this event offers complimentary bagels, fruit, coffee, and juice.

Admission: free. Doors open at 11 a.m., performance begins at 11:30 a.m. 402.305.1510.

—gallery1516.org

RACE: ARE WE SO DIFFERENT?

Through Jan. 5 at Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. This exhibit combines perspectives to tell stories of race from biological, cultural, and historical points of view. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for members and children under 2. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 402.444.5071.

—durhammuseum.org

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OCTOBER 2019

EVERYDAY PEOPLE: THE ART OF JAMES E. RANSOME

Through Jan. 19 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. The work of James E. Ransome displayed in this exhibit highlights the simple, joyful moments of life. Features historic figures such as Sojourner Truth and Frederick Douglass.

Admission: free. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 402.342.3300.

—joslyn.org

MONA2OMAHA: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER JOEL SARTORE — PHOTOARK

Starting Oct. 25 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. Joel Sartore captures photographs of species in an effort to document and create awareness of the animal before it’s too late. Admission: free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. or by appointment.

402.305.1510.

—gallery1516.org

» Concerts « THE DOOBIE BROTHERS

Oct. 1 at Orpheum Theatre, 409 S. 16th St. The fourtime Grammy Award-winning band has sold more than 48 million albums. Tickets: $78-$706. 8 p.m. 402.661.8501.

—omahaperformingarts.org

AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD- ALL THAT YOU LOVE WORLD TOUR 2019

NEBRASKA’S FIRST WHISKEY FEST

Oct. 3 at Stir Concert Cove-Harrah’s Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel, One Harrah’s Blvd. The group has sold over 4 million tickets for concerts that have taken place in over 30 countries. Tickets: $39.99+. 8 p.m. 712.329.6000 —aussiefloyd.com

PLAGUE VENDOR

Oct. 3 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. Singer Brandon Blaine and the rest of the band are known for making nothing into something. Come see them live. Tickets: $12-$15.

8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—plaguevendor.com

BOWLING FOR SOUP AND LESS THAN JAKE

Oct. 4 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The Good Vibes and High Fives Tour. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. 8 p.m. 402-345-7569.

—theslowdown.com

MAC DEMARCO

Oct. 4 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The Canadian singer-songwriter has released six studio albums, with his newest release being Here Comes the Cowboy. Tickets: $41.49$43.99. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

FEBRUARY 8, 2020 EMBASSY SUITES DOWNTOWN OMAHAWHISKEYFEST.COM

MEDIA SPONSOR

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OCTOBER 2019

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

BLUE OCTOBER

Oct. 12 at Reverb Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The group describes their latest record as emotional. The band has found themselves in a positive mindset spiritually and physically.

Tickets: $35. 7:30 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

CIGARETTES AFTER SEX

Oct 12 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The American pop band is known for their “ethereal” musical style. Tickets: $25. 9 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

SCOTTY SIRE

Oct. 13 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The former “Viner” is now a YouTube celebrity. In October of 2018, he released his first full length album- Ruin Your Party. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

KANSAS

Oct. 5 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. The band will be performing hits, such as “Carry On Wayward Son,” during this special concert series. Tickets: $63$650. 7:30 p.m. 402-444-4750.

—kansasband.com

HOODIE ALLEN: WHATEVER USA TOUR

LUCY DACUS

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND

DIRT MONKEY

Oct. 8 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. This American singer and rapper will perform. Tickets: $30. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569 —theslowdown.com

Oct. 14 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The indie rock singer-songwriter has two critically acclaimed albums. Tickets: $15 in advance, $18 day of show. 8 p.m. 402-345-7569.

—theslowdown.com

NO SHELTER

Oct. 5 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The Omaha band is a Rage Against The Machine tribute band. Tickets: $10 advanced, $15 day of show. 8 p.m.

—theslowdown.com

THE FUNK NATION TOUR 2019 LEWIS AND CLARK FUNBRELLA

Oct. 5 at Lewis & Clark Landing, 345 Riverfront Dr. See the national recording artist live. Tickets: $20.

6 p.m. 402.444.5900.

—jc-the-new-king-of-funk.ticketleap.com

Oct.

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CEREBRAL ROT, FETID, CARNOGRAPHER, CBN, ODOUR OF SANCITY

Oct. 6 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Four performers. Tickets: $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 8 p.m.

402.391.2554.

—lookoutomaha.com

SENSES FAIL

Oct. 6 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The New Jersey band has released seven albums. 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

SINKANE

Oct. 6 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The politically active and aware singer-songwriter invites guests to sing, dance, and converse. Tickets: $15-$18. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

Oct. 10 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The band has pushed boundaries in the bluegrass genre of music, with edgy and unique sounds. Tickets: $25. 8 p.m.

402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

DELTA RAE

PHIL COLLINS STILL NOT DEAD YET, LIVE!

Oct. 8 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The independent band has six members, and is currently working on its third and fourth albums. Tickets: $16. 8 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

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OCTOBER 2019

Oct. 11 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. One of the world’s most famous hitmakers is making a stop in Omaha.

Collins has over 100 million record sales. Tickets: $50+. 8 p.m. 402.341.1500.

—chihealthcenteromaha.com

Oct. 17 at the Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Patrick Megeath is an up-and-coming IDM artist, who has performed at established venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheater, and collaborated with a wide-range of artists.

Tickets: $15. 8 p.m. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

NELLY

Oct. 17 at Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St. The Midwest native is a rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, investor, and entrepreneur. Tickets: $39-$89. 7 p.m. 402.554.2800.

—unomaha.edu

OPENS OCTOBER 12 dig and build alongside our very own dinosaurs! take on engineering challenges and imagine yourself as an architect, paleontologist, construction worker, and more.

Presented by:

A CHIC SPACE FOR CREATIVE EVENTS...

Full-service Venue • Event Concierge Team Weddings • Special Events

St. Frances Cabrini The spiritual home of the Little Italy and Old Market neighborhoods since 1857.

stcabriniomaha.org 1502 CUMING ST.

• 402) 819-8792 • INFO@OMAHADESIGNCENTER.COM

10th and Williams Street

OCTOBER 2019

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

REVEREND RAVEN AND THE CHAIN SMOKING ALTAR BOYS

INCUBUS

Oct. 17 at Chrome Lounge, 8552 Park Drive. The band plays traditional blues music, and is sure to excite the crowd.

Tickets: $10. 6 p.m. 402.339.8660.

—chromeloungeomaha.com

Oct. 19 at Orpheum Theatre, 1200 Douglas St. The American rock band is celebrating its 20 year anniversary with a tour, and is making a stop in Omaha. Tickets: $87.

8 p.m. 402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

NOTHING, NOWHERE.

WHITNEY

Oct. 19 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. Their second album, Forever Turned Around, has ten songs about friendship and love. Tickets: $25. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

Oct. 18 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Joseph Edward “Joe” Mulherin is an American rapper. Tickets: $17. 7 p.m. 402.391.2554.

—lookoutomaha.com

PATTI LABELLE

Oct. 18 at the Orpheum Theater, 12th and Douglas St. The Grammy-award winning singer brings attitude and power to her R&B and pop hits. Tickets: $148. 7:30 p.m. 402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

Oct.

19

THE LACS AND BLACK STONE CHERRY

Oct. 19 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The duo blends together different styles of music—from country to rap—to create a unique, authentic sound. Tickets: $30. 9 p.m.

402.884.5353 —waitingroomlounge.com

MIKE DOUGHTY

Oct. 20 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6216 Maple St. With plans to adjust each performance to a “real-time remix of the record at each show,” the band is excited to share their record in an authentic way. Tickets: $20. 8 p.m.

402.884.5353 —waitingroomlounge.com

JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE

Oct. 22 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6216 Maple St. This country singer’s latest album takes listeners through emotional and personal stories. Tickets: $25. 8 p.m.

402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

SMOOTH HOUND SMITH

Oct 22. at O’Leavers Pub, 1322 Saddle Creek Rd. The Nashville-based group is an American roots and rock band.

Tickets: $27-$183. 9 p.m. 402.556.1238.

—oleavers.com

SPAFFORD

Oct. 23 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6216 Maple St. “Strong vocals, tight harmonies, catchy tunes” can be used to describe the Arizona group. Tickets: $20. 8 p.m.

402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

MOON HOOCH

Oct. 24 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The trio features two saxophonists and a drummer. Tickets: $15 advanced, $18 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

THROUGH THE STONE EP RELEASE SHOW

Oct. 25 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Avenue. The heavy-rock band from Omaha shares “powerful” vocals and “unwavering” guitar playing. Admission: $10. 9 p.m.

402.884.5707.

—reverblounge.com

BIANCA DEL RIO

Oct. 26 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The American drag queen won season six of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Admission: $49.75. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

DAVID COOK

Oct. 27 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6216 Maple St. See the winner of the seventh season of American Idol live.

8 p.m. Tickets: $25, $100 VIP. 402.884.5353.

—waitingroomlounge.com

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OCTOBER 2019

OMAHA MAGAZINE | CALENDAR

GRYFFIN

Oct. 27 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. This is the Gravity II Tour, with each song leaving an emotional impact. Admission: $25-$30. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569.

—theslowdown.com

ZOSO—THE ULTIMATE LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE

Oct. 30 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14 St. The group, formed in 1995, is about touching a golden era in music. They attempt to take viewers back to the atmosphere Led Zeppelin created. 8 p.m. 402.345.7569 —theslowdown.com

» Stage Performances «

Through Oct. 20 at BlueBarn Theatre, 1106 S. 10 St. “History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.” This show commemorates the centenary of the Omaha race riots of 1919 through the story of 40 year old factory worker, William Brown. Tickets: $35. Times vary.

402.345.1576.

—bluebarn.org

NEBRASKA SHAKESPEARE “OTHELLO”

Oct. 15 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. The 14th annual season of Shakespeare On Tour is performing the complex tragedy of Othello. Tickets: $10 for non-members, free to members. 6 p.m. 402.346.4002.

—lauritzengardens.org

CHOPIN AND SWAN LAKE

ANNIE

Through Oct. 13 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. The red-headed orphan navigates several detours to hopefully reunite with her parents. The classic story is entertaining for all ages. Tickets $133-$593. 7:30 p.m. 402.553.0800.

—omahaplayhouse.com

THE CAT IN THE HAT

RED SUMMER

Through Oct. 13 at the Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The rhyming, classic tale has been around for generations.

Tickets: $20. 7 p.m. 402.345.4849.

—rosetheater.org

Oct. 18-19 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Charlie Albright—on piano—has been titled “among the most gifted musicians of his generation” by The Washington Post. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets: $149-$560.

402.345.0606.

—omahasymphony.org

SYMPHONY SPOOKTACULAR: THE HAUNTED HALL

Oct. 20 at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. This spooky show invites you to come in costume and help solve the mystery. Tickets: $35. 2 p.m.

402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

“CHILDREN OF METROPOLIS”

BY SCRAP ARTS MUSIC

Oct. 25 at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 12th and Douglas St. Interesting sounds and stunning visuals come to life with metal, artillery shells, accordion parts, and more. Tickets: available as an add-on to season tickets.

7 p.m. 402.345.0606.

—ticketomaha.com

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

Starting Oct. 4 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. This classic show is full of eccentric music, dancing, costumes, and more. Tickets: $42. Times vary.

402.553.0800.

—omahaplayhouse.com

» Family & More « VILLAGE POINTE FARMERS MARKET

Through Oct. 5 at Village Pointe Shopping Center, 168th and West Dodge Rd. Enjoy Saturday mornings by supporting locally grown fresh food. Admission: free. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 402.505.9773.

—reddevelopment.com

OMAHA FARMERS MARKET

Through Oct. 12 at the Old Market. Healthy, fresh food is plentiful. Support local farmers. Admission: free. 8 p.m.12:30 p.m. 402-345-5401.

—omahafarmersmarket.com

Sept.

29

OCTOBER 2019

// 11 //

OMAHA MAGAZINE | CALENDAR

OMAHA MONSTER JAM

OMAHA FARMERS MARKET

GHOULS AND GHOSTS

OMAHA GEM AND MINERAL SHOW

Through Oct. 25 at Henry Doorly Zoo, 3701 S. 10th St. The zoo is illuminated for all ages to see and enjoy. Admission: $18.95 for ages 12+. $17.95 for seniors, and $12.95 for ages 3 to 11. 402.733.8400.

—omahazoo.com

Through Oct. 29 at the Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Open to all ages and all fitness levels, the outdoor environment is a scenic and visually stimulating place to walk every Tuesday morning. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children six to 12, free for children under age 6 and garden members. 8:30 a.m. 402.354.4002.

—lauritzengardens.org

3RD ANNUAL PORCHFEST OMA

GOATZ 50K TRAIL RUN

7

GET FIT IN THE PARK

JAPANESE AMBIENCE FESTIVAL

Oct. 5-6 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. In celebration of fall and Japanese culture, a variety of activities such as Japanese calligraphy and food tasting will be taking place at the gardens. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 12, free for children under age 6 and garden members. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 402.346.4002.

—lauritzengardens.org // 12 // OCTOBER 2019

Oct. 19 at Gifford Farm, 700 Camp Gifford Rd. A special day filled with chickens, pigs, goats, farm games, and trick or treating. Admission: $5. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 402.597.4920.

—esu3.org

LIVING LOESS TOUR

Oct. 6 in Gifford Park Neighborhood Market. A free music festival for the community of Omaha. 1-6 p.m.

Through Nov. 9 at Nebraska Crossing Outlets, 21209 402.597.4920.

Nebraska Crossing Dr. Visit Nebraska Crossing Oct. —porchfestoma.tumblr.com Outlets on select Saturdays for entertainment such as stilt walkers, magicians, treats, and face painting.

Admission: free. Times vary. 402.332.5650.

LEASHES AT LAURITZEN —nexoutlets.com Oct. 7 and Oct. 14 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Water and treats will be offered throughout the area, as canines are invited to explore the garden with their families.

OCTOBER WINERY SPOTLIGHT- PETROLO Admission: $10 per person, $5 per dog, free for garden Oct. 2 at WineStyles Tasting Station, 1006 S. 74th Plaza. members. 5-8 p.m. 402.346.4002 Petrolo is considered a “top tier super Tuscan wine estate.”

—lauritzengardens.org The company, which was established in the 1980s, produces wine based on Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Admission: $20. 6-9 p.m. 402.884.6696.

FLAMIN’ PUMPKIN FEST PART DEUX —winestyles.com Oct. 12 at Squirrel Cage Jail, 226 Pearl St. The second annual Pumpkin Fest will offer a class on paranormal investigating, as well as tricks and treats. Admission: $25. 6 p.m.-1 AN EVENING WITH LISA SCOTTOLINE a.m. 712.323.2509.

Oct. 3 at Council Bluffs Public Library, 400 Willow. The —thehistoricalsociety.org No.1 Bestselling Author, weekly column writer, New York Times bestselling author, and writer of 32 Edgar award-winning novels will be making an appearance in Council Bluffs.

CALLAHAN PROMOTIONS Admission: free. 7 p.m. 712.323.7553.

ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR —scottoline.com Oct. 12-13 at Mid America Center, 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs. Iowa’s largest arts and crafts show. Times vary.

Admission: $5 adults, free to children JUNKSTOCK: HARVEST EDITION 10 and younger. 563.357.1986.

Oct. 4-6 at Sycamore Farms, 1150 River Road Dr., —ceasers.com/mid-america-center Waterloo. Food trucks, antiques, clothing vendors, and more are all seen at this outdoor event. Times vary. Admission: $10-$30.

Oct. 5 at Village Pointe Farmers Market, 168th and Dodge streets. A fall celebration featuring hayrack rides, face painting, pumpkin decorating, and more. Admission: free. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 402.505.9773.

—www.reddevelopment.com/village-pointe

19

TRICK OR TREAT WITH THE ANIMALS

OCTOBER HARVEST SPOON TOUR

Oct. 5 at Hitchcock Nature Center, 27792 Ski Hill Loop.

A celebration of food and culture with unique experiences throughout the day. Admission: $3 per vehicle. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 712.545-3283.

—mycountyparks.com

KIDS JAMBOREE SATURDAYS

Oct. 19 at Zorinsky Lake Park, 3808 S. 154 St. A half marathon, 10k, 5k, and Kid’s Dash are all offered for participants to run in their favorite costume. Admission: $32-$45.

7:30 a.m. 816.524.7733.

—bodiesracecompany.com

Oct.

Oct. 5-6 at Westside Middle School, 8601 Arbor St. Featuring many activities such as rock paintings, arrowhead making, and wire wrap custom jewelry.

Admission: free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 402.873.6515.

—nerockgem.org

LAURITZEN GARDENS WALKING CLUB

HARVEST FEST

SPOOKY SPRINT OMAHA

Oct. 5-6 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10 St. This event showcases trained, world-class athletes and their skills with flipping, racing, and flying two and four wheelers. 1 p.m.

Tickets: $48-$168. 402.599.6916 —monsterjam.com

Through Oct. 13 at Aksarben Village, 67th & Center St. Locally grown, healthy, fresh foods are available here.

Admission: free. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 402.345.5401.

—omahafarmersmarket.com

Oct. 13 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St. This event features different workouts such as yoga, Zumba, and body combat. Admission: free. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. 402.496.1616.

—aksarbenvillage.com

Oct. 19 at Hitchcock Nature Center, 27792 Ski Hill Loop. The Nature Center offers prairies and woodlands for more than 1,200 acres. This tour teaches how the hills were made. Admission: $3 per car. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 712.545.3283.

—livingloess.com

Oct. 20 at Lake Cunningham Campground, 8152 Rainwood Road. From 5 miles to 50K, this run around Glenn Cunningham Lake has distance for everyone. Admission: $35-$90. 1-6 p.m. 402.444.4628.

—irunwithgoats.org

OMAHA ODDITIES AND ART EXPO

Oct. 26 at Hilton Omaha Downtown, 1616 Dodge St. Vendors, guests, and performers are gathering for this special Halloween event. Admission: $8-$13 for adults, $3-$5 for children 7 and up, free for children 6 and under. $1 discount with non-perishable food donation (Food Band for the Heartland). 402.819.9618. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

—voodoosoddshop.com

ROCKBROOK VILLAGE CARS AND CAFFEINE

Oct. 26 at Rockbrook Village, 2800 S 110 Ct. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the car show. Admission: free. 8-10 a.m. 402.390.0890.

—rockbrookvillage.com

GHOULISH GARDEN ADVENTURE

Oct. 27 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Educational activities will make for a fun Halloween experience, with entertainment such as a Spooky Spider’s Lair and Haunted Hallow Candy Stations. 12 p.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $10 per person. 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Free for garden members.

OLD MARKET FALL FESTIVAL

Oct. 27 at the Old Market, 1100 Howard St. Games, drinks, and treats are plentiful at this celebration of fall in Omaha’s historic district. Admission: free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

402.346.4445.

—oldmarket.com

23RD ANNUAL SCHOOLHOUSE FIDDLING BEE

Oct. 13 at The Old Avoca Schoolhouse, 504 Garfield St. This event offers something for fiddlers of all types, from a hoedown to a waltz. There is a Fiddler’s Contest, as well as a light snack. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for students, $1 for children. 2:30 p.m. 402.275.3221.

—greenblattandseay.com

Event times and details may change.

Visist omahamagazine.com for complete listings.

Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

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// 13 //

HISTORY // STORY BY JAMES VNUK // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

OCTOBER 2019

// 15 //

the 50th anniversary of KIOS-FM, and development director Michael Lyon has a lot to be excited about. “It is a triumph in itself that we’ve been here for 50 years,” he says, “but also that we’re in a position to keep going another 50, better than ever.”

Lyon joined KIOS in 2006 as a local anchor of “Morning Edition,” and took over as development director in 2017. To him and the other radio employees, the anniversary is a moment of celebration and rebirth for the station: KIOS held a celebratory open house in September bringing in guest speaker Susan Stamberg—the first woman to anchor the nightly news nationwide—and the station is also adopting new branding, material, and avenues for broadcast.

KIOS would not be possible without support, and that support started with the government. Public radio fell under the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, in which Congress declared “It is in the public interest to encourage the growth and development of public radio and television broadcasting, including the use of such media for instructional, educational, and cultural purposes.”

Following this act, public radio stations opened across the nation, including KIOS, thanks to two founding fathers—Craig Fullerton, Ed.D., then-assistant superintendent at Omaha Public Schools; and broadcaster Jim Price. “Jim Price was a journeyman broadcaster, a traveler, and a live musician,” explains program director Todd Hatton. “This is why you could tune in and hear either Dmitri Shostakovich or Grand Funk Railroad, depending on the time of day.” Together the founders envisioned a station devoted to educational broadcasting for students and the public welfare of Omaha—a mission born out of a shared love for education and the medium of radio itself, Hatton says. The station came to life at 10 a.m. on Sept. 15, 1969, from the basement of Central High. Its first message for the city was a humble, anti-smoking PSA.

Joining together, 90 public radio stations, including KIOS, were the founding, charter members of NPR, first incorporated in 1970. As a charter member, KIOS enjoys some historical distinction and notoriety, but operates no differently from other stations in the NPR tent. “It wasn't that we were picked,” Hatton explains. “It was the vision of the people who founded KIOS, working in concert with like-minded radio broadcasters throughout America, that created NPR.” Five decades later, NPR now boasts around 900 member stations, taking nationwide that mission of educational and public broadcasting held by Price, Fullerton, and their contemporaries.

That mission continues in full force today.

“We exist to bring the world to local listeners,” Lyon says, “and what’s good about the anniversary is the opportunity for new ideas at the table that coincide with advancements in technology.” He says that industry experts are all in agreement: radio is as strong as ever. “We’re very conscious as a team of industry trends, and a lot of our upgrades have been looking for ways to keep up, like the huge demand for on-demand radio…we are a voice bringing things to the community, but we also want to give a voice to the community.”

The opportunities to create new programming and rethink distribution have dovetailed nicely into the station’s commitment to community, and Hatton is particularly excited about the developments. “It represents a shift in philosophy: it used to be that curating radio content was top-down—now, it’s the other way around.” KIOS has worked closely with local nonprofits and individuals, giving time to their stories and reinforcing that connection, and the programming under Hatton’s helm has delved into expanding features and reporting on the community.

Recent features—including one focused on the young Methodists who refused confirmation in protest of the church’s LGBTQ positions and another detailing JP Lord School’s extraordinary and innovative program for special needs students—resonated deeply with listeners.

“These are sound-rich stories with a real sense of place and atmosphere that’s only possible on radio,” Hatton says. “You can take your time, let the story tell itself; by shifting to feature pieces like these, we can use our resources very strategically.”

“NPR calls stories like these ‘driveway moments,’” adds station manager Ken Dudzik, “because people don’t want to leave their cars until they’re finished.”

Changes to the station programming must be weighed carefully, though, and the team is careful to mind this. “Our listeners trust our schedule to be reliable; you want to hear the program you want to hear when you know it’s going to be on,” Hatton says. “But in order to make room for new programing and to create a tent big enough for new audiences, you do have to tweak and adjust a little… big events like the 50th anniversary are a good time to do that,” The airwaves will see some shifts, but the biggest new developments will be online. The station is hoping to launch several on-demand streams by the end of the year, including curated playlists for jazz/blues and adult album alternative listening. “We live in a city with a rich musical tradition,” Hatton says, “and our station is just 10 blocks away from Saddle Creek Records…with streaming, we can find a home for that programming.”

When asked about challenges the station has faced over the years, Dudzik is frank: “the challenge is the same as it always is: maintaining ongoing membership.” Dudzik is clear that member support is absolutely vital to the health and viability of KIOS—support that he is extremely grateful for. “It’s a lot of work to ask for money, but when we go on the air and ask for pledges, we want everyone to know this is your station.” The challenges of the moment involve finding ways to sustain funding, but also to grow membership—something Dudzik hopes the station’s new efforts to attract new audiences will help accomplish.

Lyon agrees. “A part of our future will be ways to collaborate with other nonprofits in the community. Having Susan Stamberg at the Joslyn has been extremely rewarding, and we are in a place to become a more relevant and viable resource for the community.” All three are confident that the future is bright, as Hatton puts it succinctly: “KIOS has had a rich history, and it will have a rich future.”

Visit kios.org for more information.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019

// 17 13 //

// A+C PERFORMANCE // STORY BY KATRINA MARKEL // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

// 18 //

OCTOBER 2019

// A+C PERFORMANCE //

MAHA THEATER PATRONS

might recognize Raydell Cordell from his numerous seasons performing with Nebraska Shakespeare, or his award-winning performances at Omaha Community Playhouse and Blue Barn Theatre. What audiences may not realize is that he is also a dedicated educator who takes great joy in nurturing young talent.

A product of Omaha Public Schools and a graduate of the theater program at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Cordell is currently the site director of the afterschool program at Loveland Elementary in District 66. Due to their large special-needs program, the school qualified for a grant from Omaha Performing Arts. The grant allows Cordell to direct student productions of Disney shows through a program known as “Disney Musicals in Schools.”

In one instance, Cordell recalls enlisting the help of the tech team at the Playhouse to create an elephant puppet adapted for a student who uses a wheelchair, so the child could fully participate in a production of The Lion King.

“My fifth grade year was my magical year because three specific things happened,” Cordell says.

While a student at King Science & Technology Magnet Center, he was required to give a presentation on a famous African American scientist during Black History Month. Cordell chose Garrett Morgan, inventor of the traffic signal.

“I drew my traffic lights and I wore a suit that my dad had. I specifically remember Miss Moriarity tell me after my presentation…‘Hey you should really look into theater, like when you get older. Just remember that.’ And I was like, ‘Theater, what is that?’” Cordell says, chuckling.

That same year, his brother was in a production of Grease at Omaha North.

“I remember instantly falling in love,” says Cordell of the high-school musical.

He loved the ’50s music and was tickled that the name of the fictional high school, “Rydell,” was similar to his first name.

Then his class visited Morrill Hall on a field trip to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where he became fascinated with the statue

to pursue his interest in theater. He says his older siblings were athletes, but sports didn’t hold his interest. His parents were supportive, encouraging their children to do well in school and be involved in something and Cordell says he is grateful for that.

During a summer program at The Rose Theater, arts educators Kevin Barratt and Brian Priesman introduced Cordell to Shakespeare through a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. He says that Priesman continued to be one of his theater mentors for many years.

“He’s the one who really got me attached to the world of theater and I’m very thankful [for] him,” says Cordell.

“Now, here I am 31 years old, and I just did Midsummer for my sixth time.

It’s my favorite show, hands-down.”

Thanks to opportunities at The Rose, Cordell also discovered that he had a flair for teaching.

“My senior year I was a high-school intern and that’s when I started getting into theater education,” he says.

He also credits other arts educators such as Kate Ross Wiig at Omaha North, and UNO professors Cindy Melby Phaneuf and D. Scott Glasser.

“All of the professors there were just so giving and wanted to make sure their students are successful and do well in the world,” says Cordell.

Certainly, their work has paid off, as Cordell is teaching lifelong skills to the next generation of Omahans, regardless of where life takes them.

“We’ve really created a loving theater culture there, which is phenomenal,” Cordell says.

In addition to his work with the afterschool program, Cordell has been an educational assistant in elementary school classrooms and teaches at Camp Shakespeare during the summer as part of Nebraska Shakespeare. He says that among the most important outcomes of theater education is that it teaches empathy, communication skills, and self-confidence.

He says it gives “youth an opportunity to fully express themselves and that’s what’s important.”

Cordell, who graduated from Omaha North in 2005, credits his own teachers and mentors with helping him find his passion.

of Archie the mammoth, based on the University of Nebraska State Museum’s Columbian mammoth fossil display (also named Archie). Inspired by Jurassic Park, he wrote a play about the prehistoric creature.

This fall, Cordell will appear in Red Summer at Blue Barn Theatre. The play addresses a dark chapter in Omaha history, the 1919 lynching of Willie Brown in the Douglas County Courthouse.

The plot? “Archie got brought back to life and is like, tearing through Omaha.

And my teacher was so into it and she let me do this, so I wrote the script and I cast my classmates and we had an assembly where we did it for the school,” Cordell says. “I had this gumption as a kid. And that summer I enrolled in my first theater class at The Rose, which was [performing] The Jungle Book.”

Cordell says, “This is a rare opportunity where predominantly the cast is African American. Here in Omaha you don’t see that and to be part of that, I’m ecstatic.

And it’s Omaha history.”

In middle school, Cordell continued

OCTOBER 2019

// 21 //

A+C MULTIMEDIA // STORY BY PATRICK MAINELLI // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN WIECZOREK SECTIONBY// MATT NAMES

LearninG Who tells the story of a place? Who plots the points of history— chooses the moments and names that inhabit the official portrait of the past?

“In a textbook, a significant historical event can get boiled down to a single sentence,” explains Emily Brush, project director for the Omaha Public Schools program Making Invisible Histories Visible. “This means a lot of opportunity for contextualization, for learning, is lost.”

Between Brush has seen a lot of opportunity realized through MIHV. With an academic background in art history and American studies, and a resume that includes time as a practicing lawyer, she was the first MIHV hire in 2010 and has remained at the helm ever since.

THE

“I jumped at the chance,” she recalls.

MIHV is an immersive, multi-week curriculum that invites high school students to ask hard questions about Omaha’s rich, diverse cultural history. Students examine primary source documents, meet with local historians and leaders, and take guided tours of Omaha’s historically significant locations.

LINES

The program began in 2010 when Harris Payne, then the director of social studies for OPS, aspired to present students with a more robust and complete picture of Omaha’s history.

Today, MIHV hosts more than three dozen OPS students each summer, guiding them through deep dives into the overlooked cultural histories of Omaha. Among the many fruits of their labor are multiple e-books, documentary films, and a sprawling, interactive map, precisely charting the homes and biographies of nearly all Omaha-area African American jazz musicians from 1940 to 1960.

When sleuthing in the realms of the cultural past, a single artifact can be the key that opens many doors. For the Omaha jazz project, an accounting ledger from the Local 558, Omaha’s black musicians’ union, was just the relic students needed to peer into an entire arts scene. “If you were a musician playing professionally in town, you had to be in the union, it wasn’t optional,” Brush explains. “Any time

// 22 //

OCTOBER 2019

Emily Brush Guides Students Through Omaha’s Hidden History anyone played a gig, they had to pay a small royalty to the union, so what we had in our hands was a line by line record of almost every working African American musician in Omaha, including their name, instrument, address, and where they were playing.”

From this dry accountant’s ledger, students were tasked with finding the life between the lines, sussing out biographies and whole artistic communities from pages and pages of names and figures.

After investigating a total of 200 names from the ledger, students worked to build interactive GIS maps, situating the lives of the artists within their particular geographies.

“It was really fascinating to the students,” Brush explains, “when they mapped all the names and saw how close people were living, and then

imagined the impact that would have on collaboration and creativity.”

Omaha’s music communities have been the subject of a number of student-powered projects for MIHV, including histories of the pivotal women in Omaha’s indie rock community, the growth of mariachi music in South Omaha, and the heydays of Omaha’s funk and polka scenes.

Brush has remained at the helm of MIVH. In the program’s 10-year history, she has been integral to shaping the course of study, ensuring that the work and research of prior students has laid the foundation for future young scholars.

“It was important to me that kids and teachers approached local, underrepresented history through interviews with community members, historic objects, and artifacts,” Brush says. “I wanted students to have the opportunity to ‘think like a historian’ and draw their own conclusions about what they were finding.”

In the summer of 2019, students investigated specific neighborhood nodes, with particular focus on architectural features.

This work of exploring history at the street level can conjure some hard realities: “Learning about the heyday of a neighborhood, what made it thrive, inevitably leads to questions about abandoned buildings and empty blocks. Tracing that path of diminished economic vitality is a tough thing to learn. The Redlining conversations were especially hard.”

Redlining: the New Deal-era home lending practice that identified predominantly African American and immigrant communities as “hazardous,” drawing literal red lines around nonwhite communities on over 200 city maps across the country. What followed, in Omaha and elsewhere, was a legacy of disinvestment, ghettoizing, and urban decay.

“It was a painful discussion,” Brush says.

“The kids listened very carefully to what was presented. This was a case of students hearing new information that, for them, illuminated work that their peers before them had done. It was no coincidence that all those African American musicians were living in the same neighborhoods.”

This fall, Brush is sharing her broad knowledge of Omaha’s cultural past in a new capacity, serving on the community advisory committee for The Union for

Contemporary Art’s Undesign the Redline project. Along with 20 other educators, historians, and community leaders Brush is helping guide public programming and community outreach for the exhibit. Once again, it’s an opportunity to explore her dual passion for the intersection of history and culture.

Brigitte McQueen-Shew, executive director at The Union, notes “The committee is an incredible snapshot of the rich diversity that exists in our city. It’s been a pleasure being able to work with Emily in her role as a committee member. From day one, she was all in—completely committed to the work and helping us to resource stories and information to add to the timeline. I have long admired the work done through Making Invisible Histories Visible—to have her stand with us as we shine a light on these often overlooked, painful moments of our shared history has been incredible.”

“It’s a difficult conversation to have whether you’re in eighth grade or an adult,” Brush says. “But these harder realities can’t be separated from the history of culture–how it’s created and transmitted, the world it’s responding to.”

If the forces that have shaped your community for generations remain obscured, plotting a path forward can feel less like an act of will than a matter of circumstance.

“We tell the students, ‘You’re hearing this, but that doesn’t mean that it’s over.’”

Brush contends. “In all these stories, we can always point to someone who wasn’t passively sitting by. There’s always power in the community.”

Ultimately, for Brush, the joy and impact of her work can be traced back to her early interest in material culture—the architecture, songs, and ephemera that illuminate the lived experiences of the past more clearly than any line in a textbook could.

“The young people we are educating in OPS will one day become Omaha’s civic and business leaders; our young people need to know what happened in Omaha’s past, and understand its impact on the present, before they can grow up to help shape a strong, inclusive future for our city.”

For more information on Making Invisible Histories Visible, visit invisiblehistory.ops.org.

For more on Undesign the Redline, visit u-ca.org/redline.

OCTOBER 2019

// 23 //

“YOUR MUSIC REALLY CAN TAKE YOU AS FAR AS YOU WANT TO GO, IF YOU’RE PERSISTENT, IT WILL COME.” — EDEN CORBITT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

// A+C MUSIC // STORY BY VIRGINIA KATHRYN GALLNER

drums speak volumes

A N D

T H E Y

s

D E M A N D

R E S P E C T

URROUNDED BY THE SOUNDS OF AFTERNOON JAZZ, EDEN CORBITT LEANS BACK AGAINST A PARK BENCH AND OFFERS SOME WISDOM.

“Your music really can take you as far as you want to go,” she says. “If you’re persistent, it will come.”

These words come from experience. Corbitt started playing music at age 10. As a child, she was constantly making rhythms and beating pencils against her desk. (“Every drummer knows the sound of their favorite pencil,” she later says.)

A dare from her mom spurred her to jump on the drum set during a church service—and that’s where it all began.

With both parents being ministers, Corbitt listened to a lot of gospel music growing up. In junior high, she expanded to alternative rock, and eventually, rhythm and blues, and hiphop. She has played in as many as six bands at one time, but now she focuses on R&B. As the first media chairperson for the Omaha NAACP, under the leadership of President Vickie Young, Corbitt acts as a bridge between the organization and the public. She aims to present a different narrative of what black culture looks like in the city.

Omaha NAACP hosts their monthly meetings in Love’s Jazz and Art Center at 2510 N. 24th St. The building was named for jazz saxophonist and bandleader Preston Love Sr., who was born in Omaha in 1921.

“Black culture, especially music, is not well represented here [in Omaha],” Corbitt says. She implores the public to visit Love’s Jazz & Art Center. “If you want to know about history and culture, especially in the black community, visit 24th and Lake streets.”

When asked what kinds of challenges she has faced as a femme musician—especially as a drummer—Corbitt laughs.

“Let’s open that can, shall we?” she says.

She started seeing the negativity when she decided to pursue music as a profession. Sexism and racism, subtle at first, have affected her bands. “They’ll pay more for an all-male band than for femme-led groups. We’re not going to accept anything less than what we deserve. We’ve set our own tone, and the right people started recognizing that. [It’s about] being respected as a musician and as a woman.”

Fortunately, she is able to help others demand that respect at an early age. Her involvement with Omaha Girls Rock allows her to intertwine a passion for multicultural education with her love of music. Corbitt started as a volunteer with OGR in summer 2018, and was honored as “Volunteer of the Year” at their annual fundraiser that same year. She has since become the program assistant.

“Eden brought such a dedicated, talented, and empowering spirit to OGR camp,” says Kat Ludwick, program director for Omaha Girls Rock. “[She] embodies so much of what we value in the organization.”

OGR partnered with Love’s Jazz in a program called Girls Make Noise, an educational workshop introducing OGR to the North Omaha community. “Bridges like that come naturally once you see and understand the beauty of the neighborhood,” says Corbitt.

Coming from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Corbitt appreciates the diversity and growth in Omaha music, especially for the next generation.

“My godmother used to tell me, if you’re not growing, you’re dying. Every day should be a learning experience.”

Currently, Corbitt is playing with Enjoli & Timeless and Dominique Morgan & The Experience. Enjoli & Timeless will be hosting their annual Black Friday show at Love’s this winter, which will also mark the release of a new album.

In 2020, Corbitt sees great things in store for music and the community. She hopes to establish an organization to facilitate drum lessons for young girls.

“When I don’t have a voice, my drums speak for me. Young girls deserve to have a voice. I love being able to help foster that.”

Visit naacp.org or facebook.com/enjoliandtimeless for more information.

OCTOBER 2019

// 25 //

FEATURE // STORY BY JOSEFINA LOZA WELLS

School Colors

Sparkles_cheerleading[

// 26 //

OCTOBER 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

Shining Through [instills_confidence

OCTOBER 2019

// 27 //

// FEATURE //

C

HLOE MCCLELLAN HAS ALWAYS BEEN TIMID. SHE’S A QUIET 17-YEAR-OLD WHO LIKES TO BE ALONE AND PREFERS TO OBSERVE ACTIVITIES. SO JOINING THE SPARKLES CHEERLEADING SQUAD AT WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL WAS A BIT OUT OF CHARACTER— BUT IN A GOOD WAY, MOM KATHY MCCLELLAN SAID. GETTING IN FRONT OF A CROWD OF PEOPLE AND PERFORMING STRIKES FEAR IN MANY PEOPLE’S HEARTS, BUT CHLOE SAYS CHEERING IN FRONT OF OTHERS IS ONE OF THE BEST FEELINGS SHE’S EVER FELT IN HER LIFE.

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OCTOBER 2019

“I love shaking the pom-poms,” she says in a soft voice that is almost whisper.

Chloe has Down syndrome, a genetic disorder associated with intellectual and physical delay, and low muscle tone.

Being apart of the Sparkles, Kathy says, “helps her.”

The Sparkles squad, in its ninth year at Westside High School, is part of a nationwide program. The first Sparkles squad formed in 2008 in Bettendorf, Iowa, to include cheerleaders who were “differently abled.” The next year, the nonprofit Sparkle Effect was formed to further give students with disabilities an opportunity to cheer on inclusive teams.

There are more than 150 inclusive cheer and dance teams in 30 states.

Westside is among others in Omaha, such as Millard North and Burke, who have hosted such programs.

A Sparkles squad, according to The Sparkle Effect’s regulations, must have a minimum of four students with disabilities and a minimum of six students without disabilities, and all students must be equal team members.

Once a school expresses interest in having a Sparkles squad, the Sparkle Effect sends a trainer to work with the team, and selects two captains to lead the squad.

Now that Chloe is a junior and one of the oldest Sparkle members, she’s excited to help others learn the ropes and expectations within the cheer team, even though she is not a captain this year.

“She puts on her Sparkles uniform with great pride,” Kathy says. “She was extremely nervous at first but now she understands how much of a big deal it is.”

According to the Sparkle Effect’s website, more than 5 million students with disabilities attend public schools in the United States.

“It’s just that the exposure and inclusiveness is so important,” Kathy says.

Kathy remembers the systemic exclusion of students with disabilities from activities and access to classrooms in her years at middle and high school. These classmates weren’t so much bullied as they were ignored, she explains.

“Of course, these students at the same high school should be able to experience what everyone else experiences,” Kathy says.

“They should be able to have the same opportunities.”

The word “inclusive” appears often in conversations at Westside, Millard, and Burke, and rightfully so. A Sparkles squad is a team that purposely mixes kids of all abilities and talents. All members of the squad cheer on the sidelines during football games. During games played in the gym, the Sparkles members sit and cheer in the stands and come together with the other squad members to perform a halftime dance routine. (Regulations restrict the number of cheerleaders on the sidelines in a gymnasium.)

The Sparkles cheer team opens the idea to have students with disabilities in drama club and choir, on the newspaper staff, and participating in other school activities. It’s a visible display of acceptance.

Chloe lights up when other Sparkles cheerleaders greet her in the school hallways.

“It makes her feel so special,” mom said, “It makes her day.”

The squad practices during the school day as any squad would. The Sparkles have a peer-to-peer partnership system, which means each girl has a partner on the cheer team. “They keep each other accountable and striving to be better not just in cheer, but in life,” says Katie Healey, the school’s Sparkles director.

There are more than 150 inclusive cheer and dance teams in 30 states. Westside is among others in Omaha, such as Millard North and Burke, who have hosted such programs.

Donna Sommerer’s daughter Regan, who graduated from Westside in spring 2019, was also a Sparkles cheerleader through all four years of high school.

“The program’s mentors are what keeps the program thriving,” Donna explains. “The cheer and dance mentors are great during practices and games.”

Katie Healey, Westside Community Schools Sparkles Coach

Each year, the program has improved and gotten more organized Donna says. She anticipates that with active involvement by parents, mentors, and sponsors, the program will continue to grow.

One of the team’s biggest highlights is when the Sparkles cheer with the Nebraska Cornhusker cheerleaders at the spring game in April.

“Our daughter enjoyed cheering at the games,” Donna says. “I think future Sparkles will really enjoy their time being involved in football, volleyball, and basketball games, and pep rallies. It’s not about making these few stand out, it’s about just letting them be involved with their high school, and have fun creating and cherishing moments like their peers.”

Kathy McClellan echoed those sentiments.

“I realized Chloe is becoming more independent,” she said. “She doesn’t need me at her side for assurance. She’s come out of her shell. I just can’t begin to tell you what it’s like to see your daughter…the one you had doubts about...on the track with other girls shaking pom-poms at a Westside football game.”

Nervous. Shy. Timid.

Nonetheless, there Chloe stands in her red, white, and blue Sparkles uniform ready to shake her pom-poms and showcase her dance routine.

“Even though they’re all watching,” she says. “It makes me feel special.”

Visit thesparkleeffect.org for more information.

OCTOBER 2019

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Profile STORY BY GREG JERRETT

Having An

AUTO BODY E X P ERIENCE It’s more than just

FIXING DENTS

Joseph Baker with the 1933 Ford hot rod restored by students at Metropolitan Community College. // 30 //

OCTOBER 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

OCTOBER 2019

// 31 //

Profile

NOT EVERY WORK OF ART HANGS ON A WALL IN THE LOUVRE, INSIDE A GLASS CASE AT JOSLYN ART MUSEUM, OR EVEN OVER THE LIVING ROOM COUCH. SOME WORKS OF ART CAN BEEN SEEN AT WEEKEND PARKING LOT AUTO SHOWS, OR DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 90 MPH.

B

eauty is in the eye of the beholder—just ask anyone who’s ever beheld a fully restored Model T, or a tricked-out, metallic green 1933 Ford hot rod.

They get it.

A talented auto body technician has the potential to make some serious cash.

According to a recent Collision Repair Education Foundation Survey, the national, average annual income of an automotive collision technician was $53,857 in 2016. At the upper end, an experienced technician can make over $100,000 a year.

Make no mistake, auto body work takes artistic skills. Taking a wrecked vehicle and restoring its exterior to nearly brand-new condition requires an eye for detail. After all, this artwork has to be roadworthy—beautiful whether parked or flying aerodynamically down highway and byways without shaking apart.

Joseph Baker, Auto Collision instructor at Metropolitan Community College, has been teaching at MCC for 13 years and is also a graduate of the program. He started teaching night classes part-time while working in the field, and for the past three years has been working full time to create the next generation of auto body artists.

“My father was a diesel mechanic all his life and I grew up in the automotive industry. I enjoyed spending time with him wrenching in the driveway or helping friends work on their cars,” says Baker, who bought his first hot rod when he turned 15. “It was a rusty 1977 Camaro shell that was just rotting away in a neighbor’s driveway with a ‘for sale’ sign on its cracked windshield.”

Before he bought it, he had his dad take a look. “After about 30 seconds of inspection, my dad insisted that I shouldn’t buy the car due to the amount of rust and body work it needed.

Later the next day, I drained my bank account and purchased the car. Dad wasn’t too happy when he got home.”

Baker and his dad towed the car uphill from their neighbor’s house with their truck rope.

After removing a few parts that night, Baker discovered exactly how bad it was.

“We pulled the carpet up and found old house shingles caulked together holding the nonexistent floor in place,” he says. “From that point on, the 1977 Chevy Camaro sucked every penny and extra minute of my life into—what I would now call—an amateur restoration at the age of 15.”

It took Baker two years with limited funds to move that bombed-out Camaro from less than zero to a win, aided by his father and an uncle with his own garage. That hard-earned success left an indelible, but positive, imprint on the future instructor. Baker has gone on to make a difference in the lives of many students.

Kyle Ray is one of those students. At 24, Ray is the lead paint and body technician at CAL Automotive Creations. His job is rebuilding and restoring high-end street rods and show cars. Ray studied mechanical engineering and auto body at MCC, earning a career certificate as an entry-level auto collision technician as well as an Associate of Applied Science in auto collision technology.

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OCTOBER 2019

“I am what they call a “first generation” body man because I didn’t get into it following my dad or grandpa or anyone else. I got into it purely out of my own interest and curiosity,” Ray said, adding that “a bit of necessity” was also a motivation.

“I started taking auto body classes at Metro to fix a car that needed body work. From there it grew into a passion and became the foundation for how I earn a living.”

Baker, Ray, and other technicians take pride in the fact that no two jobs are identical.

Skill and creativity go together in a way the average person might overlook.

“Body work is more than just fixing dents in a fender,” Ray says. “It’s making the light lines flow and the gaps look seamless.

It’s taking a rendering or a drawing and making it a reality. The art of restoration is its own world of shaping and coercing the sheet metal into exactly the right shape, and making cars look cleaner and crisper than they would have ever come from the factory.”

The MCC Auto Collision Program has become one of the top 17 collision schools in the United States over the past three years, according to Baker. The program holds an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) accreditation. Students gain I-CAR certifications while attending classes, making them more employable not only after graduation, but often while still in college or high school through MCC’S Career Academy program.

“It takes a serious skill set and a sharp eye to get it right, as well as a lifetime of learning and experience to perfect,” Ray says. “And the pay potential is insane. I have classmates starting at $60-$70k with little to no student debt.”

In winter 2020, MCC will cut the ribbon on a brand-new 100,000 square foot facility at its South Omaha campus to house its automotive and auto collision programs.

The massive, two-story building will have classrooms, labs, and the latest in modern automotive technology to help keep Metro students in high demand.

For more information on MCC’s autobody programs visit mccneb.edu/Auto-Collision-Technology.

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OCTOBER 2019

// 33 //

FEATURE // STORY BY LISA LUKECART

inside behind

the mind

nebraska loves

public schools PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY NLPS // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK OCTOBER

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2019

// FEATURE //

O

N A TV SCREEN, A MIDDLE-SCHOOL GIRL RESTS HER FIST ON HER CHEEK. HER RED HOODIE CONTRASTS WITH HER BLACK PAINTED NAILS. A CAMERA ZOOMS IN ON HER BLUE EYES FRINGED BY LONG LASHES DARKENED WITH MASCARA. MILLARD NORTH SOCIAL WORKER ERIC DEPUE DESCRIBES HER AS A “WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL KID.” BUT BEHIND THOSE BRIGHT EYES, THE STUDENT STRUGGLES WITH HER MENTAL HEALTH.

In a counseling session, the girl reveals, “There’s some days where…my depression is, like, on the top,” she says. “I’ll just be like, not okay…I won’t even try and get ready in the morning.”

Her absences increase while her performance at school decreases.

These scenes are part of the first episode of The Mind Inside, a six-part docuseries that digs into the mental health issues of Nebraska public school students.

For these documentaries, Nebraska Loves Public Schools Executive Director Sally Nellson Barrett asks tough questions, but, more importantly, listens. As the producer of Nebraska Loves Public Schools videos Barrett must be, foremost, a storyteller.

She is the story developer for videos that present a positive message about public schools, but the project is also about educating the public on the issues Nebraska schools face daily. Barrett typically picks an idea that will make for good visual storytelling. In the case of The Mind Inside, the idea came from a screening of a previous film. Someone in the audience raised their hand and asked, “when are you going to do something about mental health?” to which Barrett replied, “Tell me more about that.”

One year later, and she was in a meeting with 13 superintendents and asked them to write down the top three issues in their districts. Every superintendent placed mental health on their list. At that point, Barrett knew she had a story. She then asked around, figuring out who was open to the conversation, who was willing to share and educate on mental health. Barrett works hard to acquire the right people for the interviews. The Mind Inside, for example, features Dr. Sharon Hoover, co-director of the Center for School Mental Health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Hoover is a vital part of the school mental health program in Nebraska.

She presents and consults in this state, and Barrett thought it was important to get a national perspective on this issue.

The result of the months of work is an eye-opening look into how pressures at home might impact a student.

“You get a very real vision of what things are really like. It’s true, important, and moving,” explains Patsy Koch Johns, a member of the Nebraska State Board of Education and retired teacher.

The nonprofit Nebraska Loves Public Schools has made more than 100 films in nearly 200 schools. Many of these, such as teacher profiles or Embracing Learning, are uplifting.

The films began as a way to counter negative press and to change the narrative.

“It seemed like schools were always criticized and teachers couldn’t get a break,” Barrett says. “We don’t believe public schools in Nebraska are failing. We wanted to look at all the great things that are happening in public schools and share that with the world.”

“Every year Phi Delta Kappa [a professional organization for educators] does a poll, and one of the questions they ask is ‘how would you grade the public schools?’,” says Jerry Bexten, director of education initiatives at The Sherwood Foundation. “Typically most (about 75 percent) of the parents give their school a grade of A or B. When asked about the nation’s schools, 20 percent of parents grade them an A or B…Our contention was that it’s because of the way that education has been portrayed in the media.”

As with many media furors, stories about schools not doing well grab the attention of reporters, causing an unjust impression that public schools are bad.

The Sherwood Foundation wanted to help change that perception. Barrett was also ready to make a difference in the world.

The two entities came together to create the initiative “I Love Public Schools,” which is an annual contract between Nebraska Loves Public Schools and the Sherwood Foundation. The initiative was supposed

OCTOBER

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2019

to be a five-year project—it kept growing.

Nine years later, Barrett is still producing videos for I Love Public Schools.

The camera provides the lens into a world most have not set foot in since graduation.

A short piece such as a teacher profile may only take a couple of months to compile, while topical videos like The Mind Inside need a longer timeframe, sometimes up to a year. Her staff is small, and all seven of them public-school-educated. Only one staff member has a film background, the others are experienced in different fields.

Most have a passion for social justice and are dedicated to making sure underrepresented voices are heard.

It’s important to Barrett to advocate for these public schools.

“The vast majority of people are educated in public schools,” Barrett says. “That is

, "It s been such a unifying voice for public education.

The stories they tell, regardless of the school district, are related to all of us."

-Jim Sutfin, Ed.D., Millard Public Schools superintendent “It’s been such a unifying voice for public education,” Sutfin says.

“The stories they tell, regardless of the school district, are related to all of us.”

Barrett, along with her staff, lives, breathes, and bleeds for public schools. the foundation of our country. We need to make sure we are supporting that. It’s important for all kids to get a good education. We were asked to look at public schools and how we celebrate something we take for granted.”

The initial idea was to produce positive stories about what’s happening in public schools across the state.

“We didn’t have any idea of doing the deeper stories,” Bexten says. “That’s developed over the course of time. As we’ve talked about things, we’ve grown into the deeper ideas.”

As well as The Mind Inside, Nebraska Loves Public Schools has produced a four-minute documentary titled Poverty: Not a Choice, and has shot video on immigration and the difficulty of transitioning into American schools.

In May, Barrett received the Alumnus of The Year Award at Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools Foundation’s annual dinner at Round the Bend Steakhouse. Barrett, a 1984 graduate, was shocked when she saw almost all the attendees wearing green, blue, or red “I Love Public Schools” T-shirts in her honor.

Whether watching an inspiring music teacher in action, connecting with arts, or researching career education in rural communities, the I Love Public Schools films provide a diverse range of topics.

Administrators have featured some selections at their annual conference. Millard Public Schools superintendent Jim Sutfin, Ed.D., jumped on board five years ago and believes it is all about pride. Along with his district participating in The Mind Inside, the “I Love Public Schools” T-shirts have been worn by faculty on select days.

OCTOBER

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2019

“They are amazing. We gave them the charge and said this is what we want you to do,” says Bexten of Barrett and her team.

“They are the creative energy behind it. I think they do an outstanding job, and I’ll give Sally a lot of credit for that.”

“It courses through our veins every day,” Barrett says. “We come here to give voice to what is going on in the walls of the schools.”

Barrett recently received a letter from an instructor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha who praised The Mind Inside.

The letter read, “Your video got us talking about mental health issues openly and honestly. If this conversation can continue, and we can eventually educate all students about mental health, what a great gift you have started.”

Visit iloveps.org to watch the films and learn more about the organization.

“FIND YOUR INTEREST FIRST, THEN FIND OUT HOW TO USE TECHNOLOGY WITH IT. SOMETIMES IT GETS MISSED HOW BROAD IT IS.” - EMMA CARLSON

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GEN-O // STORY BY LISA LUKECART // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

iNNOVATiNG iN SCiENCE

Bioinformatics Major Emma Carlson

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Emma Carlson sips her blackberry lemonade and tucks a stray strawberry blonde strand behind her ear. A smattering of freckles dust her nose, making her appear more like a freshman in high school than a student heading to college.

The teenager cocks her head to the side, thoughtfully weighing each question before answering it. Behind that quiet demeanor, a loud intellectual curiosity has driven Carlson to explore an innovative and ambitious major at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her chosen field of study, bioinformatics, combines her love of biology and computers. Decades ago, these two wouldn’t even be considered as an interdisciplinary major. Now that technology has advanced, so have the opportunities for college students like Carlson.

Bioinformatics analyzes, interprets, and collects data, using algorithms to enhance biological research. Simply put, data science can help solve problems in biology such as diving into deeper issues like cancer or genetics. For example, these technological tools could identify a disease and treat it.

If it sounds complicated, bioinformatics is that. When Carlson tells people her major, most have never heard of it. It doesn’t deter Carlson, who hopes to someday make the world better through her career choice.

“I want to be able to see how it directly helps people, that human aspect,” she explains.

Carlson’s interest in all things computer-related emerged in middle school when she stepped into Kristeen Shabram’s business and technology class at Westside Middle School. Along with her parents, Carlson credits her teacher’s mentorship into pushing her each step of the way—even throughout high school. Shabram noticed her quiet student’s talent in eighth grade during a lesson on solving a problem in society. Carlson picked human trafficking, developing an informational platform app to help victims.

The app mentioned the dangers of human trafficking and resources people could contact, which would help victims of human trafficking. Although this app never came to production, it showed Shabram Carlson’s potential in STEM. “It blew me away as a teacher. From then on, I knew she was going to do great things,” Shabram says. “She is one of those silent, but deadly, people, so when she talks and gives her ideas they are impactful.”

Shabram, the 2016 AIM Tech Educator of the Year, encouraged her to attend the UNO College of Information Science and Technology CodeCrush Immersion Experience. It is an exclusively all-female series, iSTEM dive into a hands-on experience in the Information Technology world such as robotics, cybersecurity, and bioinformatics. Carlson believed it felt “more secure if it’s girls only” when navigating male-dominated waters.

“A lot of people are trying to figure out how to include girls in tech,” she says.

Carlson stayed on campus with other eighth- and ninth-grade students for three days, learning about such topics as genomics. She came out motivated to pursue more technology-related courses at Westside High School. Although many times the only female in the class, Carlson was never intimidated to try AP computer science, welding, and programming.

Along the way, she picked up some computer language skills in JAVA, HTML, and Python. Carlson also challenged herself further by taking AP biology.

Carlson teamed up for the annual UNO IT Innovation Cup. Her team came in third her junior year, winning a cash prize, for their creative solution. Carlson continued, individually winning the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing and the AIM’s K-12 Tech Student awards in 2017. On top of that, she furthered her goals by doing an internship with the UNO bioinformatics lab her sophomore year and had three stints applying her technological skills at Gallop’s GET HIP. Shabram watched Carlson grow into an “inspiring and powerful” young lady who came back to Westside Middle School to mentor future technology students.

“You can see they are like, 'if Emma did it, I can do it, too. I can make a difference and do these competitions, too.' Emma has paved the way for them,” Shabram adds.

Carlson, like others, is preparing for college by purchasing dorm room supplies. But unlike some, Carlson is a Scott Scholar for the College of Information and Technology. It means having a free ride, living with other scholars, and taking leadership classes.

She has some advice for other girls interested in computers.

“Find your interest first, then find out how to use technology with it. Sometimes it gets missed how broad it is,” Carlson says.

Visit unomaha.edu for more information.

OCTOBER 2019

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2019

“I

saw the images of NASA spacewalks with astronauts and was just totally inspired,” Scott Macklin says. “As a very young kid, I just wanted to float around in space—what could be cooler than that?”

Macklin never lost that childhood fascination.

He committed himself to learning as much as he could about the science of space exploration, and now the 30-year-old Fremont native is the senior director of propulsion at Virgin Orbit, a spin-off of British billionaire Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic spaceflight company.

Macklin says it’s an exciting time to work in the space industry, particularly with the recent 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Today's space industry was built on those early NASA missions, as well as the shuttle program and the International Space Station.

“It’s impossible not to see the legacy of Apollo,” Macklin says. “We have built on a lot of the fundamentals that were required to send people to the moon.”

Macklin says he feels pride in working for a private company. Spaceflight was once the providence of only a handful of nations, and Macklin believes the commercialization of spaceflight will drive progress toward future milestones—just like the space race pushed human achievement to previously unobtainable heights.

Competing companies develop alternative solutions to problems, which brings down the cost of spaceflight and advances the entire industry, including scientific and noncommercial projects.

“It naturally drives some competition, which I believe is healthy because it naturally drives innovation,” Macklin says.

Virgin Orbit’s focus is delivering small satellites into orbit through LauncherOne, its two-stage orbital launch vehicle. Macklin says the rocket is launched from an airplane at high altitude instead of a terrestrial launchpad, allowing a far wider array of possible orbits.

“We can fly around weather patterns, and we can go to a precise, pinpoint launch point,” Macklin says. “It’s one big step toward this concept of making spaceflight more mundane and routine. It’s not this heroic feat to get you to the exact orbit that you want.”

Macklin started his career at Virgin about seven years ago as a propulsion engineer. He was promoted to propulsion boost stage manager after about four years, and he led the first-stage propulsion system team for LauncherOne. Then he switched gears and was chief engineer for Virgin Orbit’s LauncherOne Evolution team, working to design technical roadmaps for future orbital vehicles.

// 42 //

OCTOBER 2019

// F E A T U R E //

THE FIRST ROCKET VIRGINORBIT P L A N S T O S E N D I N T O S PAC E I N THE PROPU LSION COM PONENTS A R E A W H E R E M AC K LI N WOR K S .

H

owever, Macklin says his true passion in the industry is propulsion, so he became senior director of propulsion in July 2018. He’s responsible for work on the rocket engines themselves, “a whole lot of plumbing” that support the different stages of the launch and the components that make everything function as intended. Those teams work in tandem toward the final goal of an integrated orbital vehicle that’s capable of spacef light.

“You can think of these as different swim lanes in a pool,” Macklin says of the different teams working on developing the rocket. “We’re in these really last few key development campaigns before we go into our first launch attempt.”

Macklin says he’s looking forward to that first launch attempt, which is anticipated later this year, although he cautioned that there are many unknown factors that could pose complications.

“At the end of the day, that’s what makes this so fun,” Macklin says.

Solving problems is what Macklin does best, and it is how he got where he is today. But when he was a child growing up in Fremont, Macklin didn’t know where his determination to follow his passion would take him.

was such a simple statement at that time— we have been here, we have not been there, so let’s go there—but the funny thing is that such a simple statement has really guided me ever since,” Macklin says.

He found he loved math and science classes, even as the subjects became more technical and complex. He earned good grades, and when he applied to college, he sought out physics and astronomy programs. The idea of becoming an engineer never crossed his mind.

Nor did attending school close to home.

“As much as I love Nebraska—that will always be my home, that’s where I grew up—it was important to me, even at that time, that I spend some portion of my time living somewhere else,” Macklin says. “For me, college was a great opportunity to go do that.”

Macklin was admitted to the University of Southern California to study physics.

A few months later, he received a pamphlet from USC about engineering. As he read the course sequence for astronomical engineering, he became excited and decided to study how to build spacecraft.

He reached out to USC and switched academic programs.

He became involved with a student organization with an audacious goal:

H E B E C A M E I N V O LV E D W I T H A S T U D E N T O RG A N I Z AT IO N W I T H A N AU DAC IO U S G OA L :

T O D E S I G N A N D F LY T H E F I R S T S T U D E N T- B U I L T R O C K E T I N T O S P A C E .

Macklin was in second grade when he felt turmoil over the realization that he didn’t know what he wanted to do when he grew up. He had two primary interests: space expeditions to Mars and the deep-sea exploration of the Titanic.

One day, though, the answer dawned on him at school.

“I said to myself, ‘Well, people have already explored the Titanic. No one has been to Mars, so that’s what I want to go do.’ It

// 44 //

OCTOBER 2019

to design and f ly the first student-built rocket into space. He completed several internships, including a semester abroad where he worked on a satellite project in Japan.

His senior year at USC, he was accepted into an internship at SpaceX, the private space transportation company founded

by Elon Musk. He was a member of SpaceX’s propulsion unit, and he fell in love with the specialization. He went on to finish his master’s degree in aerospace

engineering at USC while working fulltime as an engineer at Virgin.

“I’ve never actually lost that passion for spaceflight and what it could mean for expanding our knowledge and exploration, and that fire has never really faded since,” Macklin says.

Looking back, Macklin says his career trajectory feels almost inevitable, but it began with an affinity for space exploration that slowly got refined over time to engineering and then to propulsion systems engineering. He says he followed what excited him the most.

Fate also played a role. Had he not received that pamphlet from USC, or that internship at SpaceX, or the support and encouragement from family, friends, and educators, he might not have found himself in the same place.

Some of that luck, though, was Macklin’s own making—along with the wit and perseverance needed to gain entry into such an intellectually demanding occupation.

Macklin says he remembers his first day of Astronautics 101 on his first day at USC. The professor started reviewing the fundamental mathematics to study orbital dynamics. He began feeling panicked, and he looked around at his classmates to make sure they were also lost.

“I realized very quickly that, apparently, it’s actually only me,” Macklin says. “For some reason, I didn’t have some of the building blocks that were assumed for this course. So here I am, in the deep end, and I don’t stand a chance in this field. I’m out of my league. That’s really how I felt coming out of that first lecture.

It was such a blow at that time.”

Instead of changing majors, though, Macklin sought out the professor’s help.

Then he studied harder than anyone else in the class.

“Even to this day, one of the most monumental and defining successes that I’m proud of was actually the midterm exam for the class,” Macklin says. “When the grades came back, I somehow had the top score in that classroom.”

// F E A T U R E //

Dan Cox, a retired high school literature teacher, had Macklin as a student.

Cox says he always encourages his students to follow up after graduation if they need help. While at USC, Macklin contacted Cox a few times for assistance on writing projects.

“You’ll have days where you’re challenged or days where it feels like it’s not going right or days that you doubt yourself, and you question if you’re really cut out for this,” Macklin says. “But recognize that challenge is a normal part of the journey, too.”

“He takes advantage of the opportunities that life affords him,” Cox says. “I tease him all the time that, one of these days, I hope he’ll send me a message from Mars.”

Ultimately, adversity helps you grow stronger as you overcome those obstacles.

“I’m certainly not the perfect propulsion engineer, even today,” Macklin says. “I

“I always remember that about him as a problem-solver,” Sellon says.

Macklin now gets to share his story with others, as he works to contribute to a field he cares deeply about—and perhaps get closer to taking that spacewalk himself.

Will Pomerantz, vice president for special projects at Virgin Orbit, says Macklin often takes time out of his busy day to interact with tour groups.

As a manager, Pomerantz says Macklin

O N E PI E C E O F A DV IC E M AC K L I N GI V E S TO T H O S E W H O W I S H TO B E C O M E A R O C K E T S C I E N T I S T O R P U R S U E S I M I L A R LY A M B I T I O U S G O A L S

IS TO FIRST BELIEVE IT IS POSSIBLE. Cox says bright students often struggle to decide what to do with themselves.

They only know what they’ve encountered locally, and often they end up following in their parents’ footsteps. Cox says he’s used Macklin as an example of someone who charted his own course.

“I have always tried to help them look for opportunities that might not be obvious,” Cox says.

One piece of advice Macklin gives to those who wish to become a rocket scientist or pursue similarly ambitious goals is to first believe it is possible.

“It’s clearly not impossible, because I’ve done it,” Macklin says. “It’s one step at a time. The most important thing is maintaining that passion for something and working toward that.”

It’s also OK if your goal changes, he says, but recognize there always will be barriers.

certainly wasn’t on day one...But I worked just to better myself a little bit day by day, and learn a little bit more day by day, and those challenges were worth it because it was working me closer to something that I was really excited about.”

Dave Sellon, a science teacher and track coach at Fremont Senior High School, says Macklin was a gifted student who applied his problem-solving skills as a track-and-field athlete. Sellon says Macklin never gives up.

“He’s interested in a challenge, in an academic setting or at track practice,” Sellon says. “I was always impressed by his sincere interest in sorting a complicated problem out and solving it.”

will take whatever time is needed to address questions, even from the most junior engineer.

Most people expect to see someone decades older in a prestigious role such as his at a company of Virgin’s size and notoriety. Macklin is approachable, and he makes it easier for young people visiting Virgin to see themselves taking on a senior role.

“They’re all expecting someone in their 60s with gray hair and a pocket protector who carries around a slide rule,” Pomerantz says. “He’s someone who is very inspiring.”

Continued on pg.55

His junior year, Macklin had an injury in his jumping leg that nagged him as a pole vaulter. One day, Macklin decided to start jumping with the other leg, and he continued to jump this way. He set a school record his senior year.

OCTOBER 2019

// 45 //

Visiting teams know Dempsey as the A.D. who often greets visiting student athletes as they arrive.

// 46 //

OCTOBER 2019

PROFILE // STORY BY JEFF LACEY // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

E X E M P L I F Y I N G

HARD WORK AND HUMILITY Mike Dempsey’s Devotion to Gross

M

ike Dempsey shies away from attention. In his mind, he is doing his job—helping teenagers through the often sticky years of high school as the assistant principal and athletic director of Gross High School.

Mike Ashton, Ed.D, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Omaha, sees things differently. “When you look at Mike’s record,” Ashton explains, “you are immediately impressed by a man of Christ, a prayerful person, and someone who has displayed patience, intelligence, and kindness.” Ashton went on to say of Dempsey, “Those who work with him say his dedication to kids, and his skill with working on the athletics programs and teaching are strong, but all through, there’s this sense that what really makes him special is that he goes the extra mile.”

This idea is echoed in a statement about Dempsey from the president of Gross High School, Dorothy A. Ostrowski, Ed.D.: “Mike is very much a man of faith, and a model of that faith for others. He lives his life guided by prayer, and is an example of sacrifice and service.”

“It’s enjoyable to see kids grow and perform,” Dempsey says. “There’s always things that amaze me. When you walk into a play and you see a kid involved in fine arts, you say to yourself, ‘Whoa, he or she is talented.’ To see people in a different light, in something they excel in, is wonderful.”

Dempsey considers himself blessed to work in education, and his enthusiasm rarely wanes. “I’ve always enjoyed what I’m doing, and mostly the people I’ve been around,” he explains.

On Sept. 12, Dempsey was honored with the Archdiocese Educator of the Year Award for his outstanding service to Catholic Education.

Dempsey has been an educator in the Catholic school system for 29 years. He began his career in 1980 as a math teacher, assistant football and basketball coach, and counselor at Gross High. He has been in his current role as the assistant principal and athletic director at Gross since 2009.

So what does a life of sacrifice and service look like?

When it comes to Dempsey, it means working hard at things an administrator might not normally do.

Dempsey is often seen cooking in the concessions trailer during games, or collecting tickets at the gate. Visiting teams know Dempsey as the A.D. who often greets visiting student athletes as they arrive. Once, when Gross Catholic lost an administrator, Dempsey fulfilled those duties until a replacement could be hired.

But that isn’t the important part, according to Dempsey, who says in every phase of his career, his appreciation for students has only deepened with time.

He reminds other educators that, “there’s a lot of rewards, and the rewards don’t come necessarily that day, [they] may come years later. There are also a lot of challenges to be aware of. When a kid doesn’t want to perform at his/her best, you have to be thoughtful enough to deal with other issues [in their life] you may not even know about.”

On Sept. 12, Dempsey was honored with the Archdiocese Educator of the Year Award for his outstanding service to Catholic education. Nominations for the award come from teachers, pastors, students, and administrators, who sent letters saying things such as Dempsey is a leader who isn’t afraid to “get his hands dirty.”

Dempsey was chosen by peers and administrators for his outstanding dedication to the Gross School District, as well as his personal virtues.

While Dempsey’s humility has served him well working with staff and students, receiving this award might be the hardest thing he’s had to do in awhile. “This isn’t why I got into education, and it’s very humbling.

Our principal and president, they giggle because they know the type of person I am. I didn’t get into this profession to receive rewards. I got into it because I love what I do.”

Visit grosscatholic.org for more information.

OCTOBER 2019

// 47 //

PROFILE // STORY BY J.D. AVANT PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

Houston Alexander (center) and his coach Joe Baudler (behind him) help kids all over Omaha learn about hip-hop and martial-arts culture through the Houston Alexander Foundation.

Hip-Hop Emissary versus In-Ring Assassin

H Houston Alexander is in love with two art forms.

He works hard catering to both of his passions, maintaining a foothold in the metro areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s burgeoning hip-hop scene while fighting for worldwide promotions as a professional mixed-martial arts combatant.

Alexander has found success in the world of MMA, traveling across the nation to headline big-time bouts in Bellator and UFC. At the same time, he is a staple in urban radio, hosting independent shows like the Neighborhood Watch on Omahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Power 106.9.

OCTOBER

// 49 //

2019

// PROFILE //

H

ip-hop is ingrained in the man’s soul, while training and fighting is his way of life. This is why Alexander sees these activities as interconnected.

“I’m a strong believer in the concept of old people learning from the young, and youngsters learning from their elders," he says. "Hip-hop and MMA are strong examples of how this approach can help a culture thrive.”

The ideologies of combat and hip-hop culture may be an off handed comparison for some, but Alexander has used both to make a name for himself. Entering a sparsely populated coffee shop dressed in a gym-ready black T-shirt, cap, and sweatpants, he greets everyone with the air of a local celebrity; flashing a smile before shaking hands and taking pictures.

But when Monte Cox Promotions presented Alexander with the chance to fight one of the top-five-ranked fighters in the world, he immediately sought out his uncle’s expertise. Curlee would bring in heavyweight wrestlers and state champions from around the metro area to train his nephew in preparation for his UFC debut in 2007.

The hardcore sessions paid off, and Alexander would go on to win over Keith Jardine with a first round knockout within 48 seconds of the bout.

“The only difficulty I had training Houston was his stubbornness,” Curlee says. “I knew that was because he didn’t have much formal training. He was more of a street fighter, so I tell him if he gives me 30 pounds and 30 years I will kick his butt.”

HIP-HOP IS INGRAINED IN THE MAN'S SOUL, WHILE TRAINING AND FIGHTING IS HIS WAY OF LIFE. Alexander gives everyone a chance to experience his magnetic aura, a quality his long-time coach and uncle, Curlee Alexander, appreciates. A successful combatant and mentor, Curlee’s multiple accolades include the NAIA Wrestling Championship and induction into the UNO Hall of Fame. He believes that his nephew’s good looks and charisma have made him very marketable in the world of professional MMA. “I can remember one fight that Houston lost in Tulsa, Oklahoma,” Curlee recalls.

“Afterwards, he made sure to hang out with the fans and sign autographs. The winner just came out of the locker room and walked past all of those people without even being recognized. I told Houston then; not every fighter has the gift of charm.”

Alexander admits that he avoided his uncle’s intense training regimen for his state championship-winning wrestlers back in his student days at North High.

“I always admired the physiques of the wrestlers he was coaching, but I stayed away from his sessions. They were always too hot!”

// 50 //

OCTOBER 2019

Alexander credits a wide range of gyms and trainers for his success in the MMA ring, including Joseph Baudler, Ryan Jensen, C.W. Boxing Club, and the Combat-Do Martial Arts School in Illinois where he learned dirty jiujitsu.

“Houston developed a unique punch where he hits a guy in the thigh to throw them off balance,” Curlee explains. “This kind of move is illegal in boxing, but it works well in MMA. I’ve seen other fighters adapt the technique into their own fights.”

A student of the sport, Alexander calls boxing legend Mike Tyson the greatest fighter of all time, but declares the fabled war between “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler and Thomas “the Hitman” Hearns as his all-time favorite fight.

“I just remember the guy with the Jheri curl lost,” Alexander jokes.

High praise is also directed towards current WBO welterweight champion and Omaha native Terrence Crawford.

Alexander is quick to point out DMX’s song “What’s My Name?” as a shared entrance theme between Crawford and himself.

“That track has the aggressive attitude that we crave before combat,” he says.

A telling gleam appears in Alexander’s eyes when he mentions the song, and the conversation effortlessly switches to hip-hop. A lifelong fan of rap music, he recalls his first taste of the young art form, listening in his father’s car back in East St. Louis.

“When I heard ‘The Breaks’ by Curtis Blow it was over,” he says. “After that, I immersed myself in hip-hop culture. I purchased my first rap single, ‘Pack Jam’ by the Jonzun Crew, and my first album was Teaching You How to Breakdance.

I still have the poster that came with it giving step-by-step instructions on how to move.”

The East Coast is credited as the birthplace of hip-hop, which explains why an early adopter from the Midwest would choose to specialize in many of the culture’s fundamental elements including graffiti, break dancing, and DJ’ing.

“When people think of hip-hop, I want them to think of the culture created by pioneers like DJ Hollywood and Kool Herc out of the Bronx,” Alexander says.

“Block parties, graffiti, break dancing, and true emcees are all a part of the hip-hop experience. I grew up loving the great rap songs from innovators like RunDMC, Kool Moe Dee, and KRS-One, and I still enjoy today’s real emcees like Kendrick Lamar.”

Michael Dunham has watched Alexander navigate between the worlds of hip-hop, radio, and MMA since the beginning.

Known as DJ Rip on the airwaves, Dunham is a founding member of the Alliance All-Star B-Boys crew and current owner-operator of the nationwide branding and marketing company, The Spin Firm. He remembers when Alexander was an energetic local graffiti artist and break-dancer nicknamed Scrib from the Scribble Crew.

“Houston’s persona started way back in the 1980s when we were creating the foundation of Omaha’s local hip-hop scene,” Dunham says. “Before radio we created Alliance Records and dropped a single in 1997 called ‘Rock the B-Boy Language.’ When I helped Bizzy B launch Hot 107.7 in the early 2000s I knew Houston would be perfect for our promotional team. He had the hottest name in the streets.”

OMAHA’S Alexander quickly moved from promotions to running his own independent radio show on Hot 107.7, Sunday Night Raw. When the popular station grew into Power 106.9, Alexander stayed on as one of the station's most popular voices.

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“Houston brought credibility, local independent artist love, and hip-hop knowledge to the radio station,” Dunham says.

“Urban Radio needs a foot in the street and credibility to be successful. Houston was our key to success.”

While Dunham is able to recall many fond memories of their legacy in hiphop, he cites Alexander’s philanthropic work through his Houston Alexander Foundation as his most awe-inspiring accomplishment. His ongoing Culture Shock Tour has been a huge success, educating children about leadership, hip-hop lifestyle and culture since 2003.

“Houston is teaching the history of a black music genre in our children’s schools. Just let that sink in,” Dunham says before making a bold declaration.

“Houston Alexander is one of the pillars of this city’s notable sports figures. He’s this generation’s Johnny Rogers.”

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Alexander is humble when talking about his charitable work, recalling his younger days helping the MAD DADS organization, and speaking at President George H.W. Bush’s Points of Light nonprofit organization. Hip-hop and martial-arts culture are integral to his cause, offering free personal training sessions, self-defense classes, mural projects, and anti-bullying programs to uplift the youth.

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“I think it was my destiny to be involved with my community and help kids,” Alexander says. “I just try to live by my grandmother and mother’s simple rule— always do the right thing.”

And he can often be found doing the right thing, whether in the fighting ring, behind the mic, or in the community.

Visit houstonalexander.org for more information about the man and his charitable work.

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VENUS Vein Clinic stands out in the Omaha metro area as the only vein clinic run by a board-certified vein and lymphatic specialist. Dr. Schroeder’s passion is to develop an individual treatment plan that is just right for you. “You will feel better and be able to go right back to activities,” Dr. Schroeder said. VENUS Vein helps teachers, mail carriers, and more. Dr. Schroeder loves knowing that after treatment they can perform their jobs better, sleep better, and live healthier lifestyles by addressing the root cause of symptoms like restless legs.

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“At Omaha Magazine, we believe it’s our civic responsibility to preserve the environment and we’re doing our part,” Lemke says.

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OCTOBER 2019

// F E A T U R E //

“IT IS PRETTY FUN T H AT I H AV E H A D THE OPPORT UNITY TO TA L K TO H I M [ R I C H A R D B R A N S O N] P R E T T Y F R E Q U E N T LY OV E R S E V E R A L Y E A R S , I T ’ S A C T U A L LY W E I R D E R T H AT I T ’ S NOT UNUSUAL FOR H I M T O C O M E I N .”

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“The burden isn’t on that student to have it all figured out,” Macklin says. “Ask the positive influencers on your life, whether that’s a parent or a sibling or a teacher.

Ask them for that clue of where to look next, and don’t be afraid to ask about that.

Don’t be afraid to express interest in a passion, even if it feels like something farfetched or difficult to accomplish.”

to-Busi essne ss sin MA

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Breaking into a technical field can be daunting, but it’s a matter of taking that first step. Learn something new, and keep doing that until you have a better idea of what you want in life. Then go find a way to make it happen.

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Someday, you might even find yourself face-to-face with Richard Branson.

“It is pretty fun that I have had the opportunity to talk to him pretty frequently over several years,” Macklin says. “It’s actually weirder that it’s not unusual for him to come in.”

Success in a career, or in other aspects of life, is the result of the experiences you have along the way. Macklin says that first day of Astronautics 101 taught him the value of perseverance.

“I have actually tried to hold onto that feeling of being so overwhelmed by the class,” Macklin says. “It’s about challenging yourself to be better.”

Ultimately, Macklin’s advice boils down to this: Ask for help. Do the work. Follow your passion.

“You don’t have to have it figured out when you start,” Macklin says. “Take that next step toward something you’re passionate about.”

Visit virginorbit.com for more information.

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// 55 //

The

Education Issue

PROFILES BY TAMSEN BUTLER, MARIEL RICHTER, AND KARA SCHWEISS

MOUNT MICHAEL BENEDICTINE SCHOOL 402.289.2541 mountmichael.com

ount Michael Benedictine School M boasts a storied past. “Mount Michael began as St. John’s Seminary for

ST. STEPHEN THE MARTYR SCHOOL 402.896.0754 school.stephen.org

Stephen the S t.Martyr School

SOUTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE 402.471.3333 southeast.edu

here’s a lot going on at Southeast Community College T (SCC). Last year, the culinary school opened a full-service restaurant on the Lincoln campus to cap a multi-million-dollar program renovation. A new diesel technology and welding facility opens on SCC’s Milford campus in January. And soon the Beatrice campus will have a new interdisciplinary classroom building.

“‘Transformation’ really encompasses where we are as an institution,” says Kat Kreikemeier, SCC’s administrative director of admissions and career advising. In serving 15 southeast Nebraska counties, “The mission of SCC is about transforming our students’ lives through a variety of experiences that really allow us to meet the diverse needs of our community.”

The institution’s tagline, “your path to possible,” encapsulates the 60 career and technical programs SCC has to offer, Kreikemeier says. “We have a 94% success rate for students to go on either to jobs in their career field or to transfer to a fouryear institution. And our average class size is 12, so our instructors get to know students.”

Many SCC instructors have worked in the industry they teach, so they provide real-world perspective and can help facilitate career connections.

“Students can expect to be supported. We’re going to be there to develop a relationship with you and understand your goals and interests and what’s ahead of you,” Kreikemeier says. “We’ll help you along that pathway to figure out a program and a career that makes sense for you.” // 56 //

OCTOBER 2019

serves students in preschool through eighth grade, and is located in Southwest Omaha. They are united in Christ to ignite the joy of faith, community, and learning. St. Stephen’s teachers empower students to recognize each person’s unique gifts and inspire them to reach their greatest potential through an individualized and holistic approach, in collaboration with parents/guardians. The school prepares students for a lifetime of learning and service to others.

young men looking to join the priesthood in 1955,” says director of admissions Thomas Maliszewski. “In the year 1970, it shifted to a college prep boarding school for young men. It has been Mount Michael Benedictine ever since, and many of the same monks and priests that began in the seminary remain at Mount Michael to this day.”

As a boarding school, Mount Michael stands out within the Omaha metro area.

“The college prep curriculum, teaching staff, and monastic community are the highlights of a Mount Michael learning experience, however, the residential side adds a layer of independency, selfdiscipline, structure, and communal brotherhood that you absolutely cannot get at any other school in the area,” Maliszewski explains.

Students are challenged each day at Mount Michael in many different ways.

The Benedictine values of Community, Hospitality, Integrity, Service, and Moderation are preached to the young men. While a Mount Michael education develops their minds, these values develop their soul.

“The sense of community has allowed our family to be involved and engaged in our children’s educational and social development. The teachers and staff have inspired our children to blossom into faith-filled, considerate, kind, and respectful members of the community,” shares Kami S., a parent.

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CLARKSON COLLEGE 402.552.3100 clarksoncollege.edu

College was founded in 1888 as the first school of nursing in Nebraska.

C larkson At 130 years old, the institution thrives today by staying ahead of the curve, says President Dr. Aubray Orduña.

“We’re continually expanding and renovating our facilities to meet the needs of the modern health care environment,” she says. “Even though we’re a small college, we have the resources of a larger college or university, including on-campus and online courses. We have on-campus housing. We have free tutoring for all of our students.

And our students are required to do community service, which connects them to the community and helps them understand the people they are going to serve.”

Clarkson College is experiencing record enrollment this term with approximately 1,200 students split between half-time and full-time schedules and ranging from new high school graduates to veteran medical professionals looking to advance to the next level. Tuition is consistently among the lowest of private colleges in the area, and the institution has been able to award a scholarship to everyone eligible in the current academic year.

Many faculty members are still in practice, which ensures curriculum is “current, focused and relevant,” Orduña says, and most programs have a clinical component to bring in real-world experience.

“We provide specialized education for in-demand careers. Our partnership with Nebraska Medicine allows our students to experience high quality care utilizing state-of-the-art medical equipment and cutting-edge knowledge and research. We think that’s a huge benefit and our students tell us that, too,” she says. “Our average student-to-faculty ratio is about 17:1. That creates an individualized learning environment for our students. And of course it’s focused the provision of health care with caring, integrity and excellence.”

Clarkson College’s tagline “prepare to be the best” was derived from comments made by health care employers who said they preferred Clarkson College’s graduates, she adds.

“We are staying true to our mission and values coupled with innovative and sound strategic planning, and currently offer 20 degree options—both on campus and online—in a variety of health care disciplines,” Orduña says.

SPONSORED CONTENT

OCTOBER 2019

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MIDLAND UNIVERSITY 800.642.8382 midlandu.edu

idland University was founded M as Midland College in Atchison, Kansas, 132 years ago and moved to Fremont in 1919.

“We’re proud to celebrate 100 years in Fremont,” President Jody Horner says. “We were named the ninth fastest-growing private, nonprofit, baccalaureate institution in the nation. And we offer 32 varsity sports and have over 800 athletes at the college. That makes us the largest athletic department in the state.”

The college has much to be proud of, but its leaders are always looking to do more and be more.

“Going forward, my goal is to make sure Midland is known for our relevancy,” Horner says. “Our vision today is to be relentlessly relevant. It’s important to deliver an education to our students that works from the marketplace back. That ensures that our students are ready to pursue their vocation and their careers.”

An environment of support is fostered by full-time professional staff called Student Success Advisors who serve as life coaches to Midland’s approximately 1,400 students. // 58 //

OCTOBER 2019

“It’s about developing students as whole persons; not just the academic but the mental, social, physical, and spiritual elements of being a young adult,” Horner says. “We’re small enough where your professor will know your name, and your coach, your residence hall adviser, faculty, administration—they’re all going to be looking out for you.”

The school offers an e-Sports (video gaming) program. Four years ago, a powerlifting program launched with four athletes that today is 60 students strong with a national championship win and participation in a worldwide competition.

Around 60 percent of Midland University students hail from Nebraska, and the rest are from around the U.S. and abroad. “We are proud of the diversity of our students,” Horner says. But she sees commonalities, too.

“At Midland there’s very little bureaucracy.

We think differently than a traditional academic institution. We can respond to the market,” she says. “One example is our Midland 1:1 program, where we gave Apple iPads and Apple Pencils to all the undergraduate students at our Fremont campus...That levels the playing field and ensures that every student starts at the same point and has the technology they need to succeed.” Midland 1:1 is part of the current comprehensive “With Purpose” campaign investing in new programs and facilities.

“They are all passionate about something they did in high school and want to continue, and they don’t want to give that up.

At Midland they can leverage those passions they have and in most cases turn them into scholarships; we have very generous scholarships thanks to our donors,” Horner says.

Midland is also responsive to student requests for passion projects, Horner says.

Horner characterizes Midland University as “nimble.”

“‘With Purpose’ comes from our mission to inspire people to learn and lead in the world with purpose,” Horner says. “Ninetythree percent of our graduates last year were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduating. It proves that the things we’re doing are paying off for our students.”

SPONSORED CONTENT

The

Education Issue

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE Nine locations 531.MCC.2400 mccneb.edu

Q

uality education that’s also affordable makes any community college a smart choice. At Metropolitan Community College, students receive an accredited education at a fraction of the cost of a four-year school.

A common myth about community colleges is that they are a last resort.

In truth, community colleges allow individuals to reach educational goals—from recent high school graduates looking to earn credits and transfer to a four-year institution, to someone looking for a new start with a two-year associate’s degree in a valuable trade.

With small class sizes, students can get to know their instructors and classmates, and feel like part of a community. Faculty members focus on educating students while applying their real-world experiences to the classroom setting.

MCC has transfer agreements with colleges nationwide, making it easy to take general education courses and enter a four-year institution with many bachelor’s program requirements already completed.

Not ready to commit for two years?

Explore the MCC certificates that are offered in a variety of areas.

THE CUES SCHOOL SYSTEM 402.451.5755 cuesschools.org

CUES School System offers T hesupport to not only the students

OMAHA STREET SCHOOL 402.451.5234 omahastreetschool.org

W

alking through the halls at Omaha Street School are students who have hope, faith, and integrity in life. It’s not an easy journey for most students who arrive at this faith-based school, says executive director Linda Reimer. “What makes us different is we take the students no one else will take.”

Every student participates in mental health therapy groups.

“We address trauma in every student,” Reimer says. “Most of the students live in poverty and start out performing below grade level.”

The small classroom ratio of eight students to one teacher allows for individualized instruction to these students who, in most instances, arrive at the school as a “last resort,” Reimer explains. They learn leadership skills and more to prepare them for the world.

SPONSORED CONTENT

SCHOOL OF ROCK OMAHA 402.691.8875

omaha.schoolofrock.com

chool of S Rock Omaha, located in the

historic Millard School building, provides youth ages 6 and up with after-school music instruction that combines individual lessons in guitar, bass, vocals, keyboards, or drums with group practice and public performances.

“That’s where we stand out from everybody else; we teach them how to communicate as a band and play music as a band,” says Stephanie Ryan, who co-owns the franchise business with Matt and Melanie Szymczak.

Guided by a new curriculum, students set the pace of their own progression, she says, learning rock ‘n’ roll classics along with new selections. The organization specializes in misfits and shy kids. “It’s a fun place.”

attending Sacred Heart, All Saints, and Holy Name, but also to family members of the students. To help facilitate this support, the CUES schools have Director of Student and Family Support Jim Swanson—or “Mr. Swanny.”

“He reaches out to all the students and families to find community resources,” says Holy Name principal Tanya Murray. “We as principals can’t do all the things he can,” she added. “He helps with doctors appointments, job interviews, lawyer appointments, you name it.”

Swanson, much like the entirety of CUES, feels “everyone has the ability to succeed.

We all need somebody to support us.”

Swanson says that for students to succeed, “families must have stability.”

“It’s not about telling people, ‘you should do this.’ It’s more about, ‘here are some options,’” says Swanson. Serving an educational community with a free/reduced lunch roster of around 85%, Swanson and everyone else at CUES continues to help students, and families, succeed.

The CUES School System is supported by private donations through the CUES Fund.

Please visit their website to learn about donation opportunities.

OCTOBER 2019

// 59 //

The

Education Issue

MONTESSORI EDUCATIONAL CENTERS 402.393.1311 omahamontessori.com

cademics matter to Montessori A Educational Centers, but it's not the driving motivator behind their vision, mission, or values. "We wish to provide an exceptional learning environment here at MEC to each child in our care, every day; an environment whereby, each child can develop to his/her potential at their own pace in an environment best suited for excellence and success.”

The classroom is the teacher, set up in a way to promote investigation, inquiry, and exploration. The children move freely between the areas of Practical Life, Sensorial, Math, Language, and Cultural.

Montessori provides an education based on the whole child. In the same intensity and excitement as they learn math and language they also learn to take care of themselves and their environment (Practical Life). They learn to express themselves, have gratitude, and become confident leaders and good citizens (Grace and Courtesy). All of these skills will be lifelong advantages to their peers.

Roy's first enterprise began in Ontario, Canada, in 2001 as a small school situated in the lower level of the town's church, starting with 13 children and growing to over 1000 families.

In Omaha, Roy's passion and thirst for excellence in the Early Learning community continued to flourish.

After purchasing the seven Montessori schools from a local owner in town in 2016, the Roys then purchased two more schools here in Omaha, making a total of nine schools/locations. Roy and her co-owner and husband, Dr. Beau Roy, have worked to serve over 600 families a year.

"We focus on the strengths of each child then teach to and through those strengths. We truly follow what the child's interests and capabilities are. We don't push children, nor do we hold them back academically or otherwise. We allow them to flourish at their own pace.

The biggest ‘complaint’ we have from the teachers in the various school boards is that the children are often ‘too ahead’ academically and that they are natural, independent leaders,” says Julie Roy. "I'll take that!" // 60 //

OCTOBER 2019

Ms. Julie (Montessori AMS trained ECE) and Dr. Beau Roy (child psychologist) are both super passionate about Montessori and Early Childhood Education and they truly see the value and advantages each experience brings to each child. Julie Roy discovered her love of Montessori when she signed to be a before/after school care assistant in an area Montessori School in 1992. Her first experience with Montessori was awe-inspiring, and it has remained a driving force in her mind all the while still.

Their hope is that all children are able to benefit from the incredible Montessori environment at some point in their little lives. They believe that all children should be afforded this incredible early learning opportunity. They accept title XX, scholarships, and full-fee-paying families as diversity is one of their core values. They hire educated teachers who have a certain level of experience in the classroom at the level in which those teachers serve. All of the Roy family owned the MEC group of Montessori schools, AMS full-member schools that believe in, and adhere to, a strict guideline of AMS ethics and operating principles.

Their children not only receive all of the incredible Montessori early learning environments and materials, they also receive an unwavering amount of enrichment courses to enhance the whole child experience by including activities such as: Spanish, swimming, art, yoga, karate, soccer, music, dance and more.

The last piece of this incredible learning experience depends on the fact that the children are taught to love and appreciate their environment and the world they live in. Montessori teaches peace and offers nature-certified playgrounds whereby the children grow gardens, pick the fruits of their labor, and then learn to wash and share them with their friends at snack time.

There is so much more to education and early learning, and there is so much more than a beautiful school building and incredible curriculum.

Children’s brains are 85% formed by age 3. Research shows that early brain development lays the foundation for all future learning and behavior in life and this is why the Roys are so passionate about what they do. They are raising tomorrow’s leaders today.

SPONSORED CONTENT

NET-NEBRASKA’S PBS & NPR STATIONS 800.868.1868 netnebraska.org

he general public knows NET as the channel that provides children’s educational “T programs,” says NET’s assistant general manager for development and education, Debbie Hamlett. Some may also know NET for its television sports programming like high school games and “Big Red Wrap-Up,” national PBS programs like “Masterpiece,” its gavel-to-gavel coverage of the Nebraska Legislature, classical music and National Public Radio programming, or online educational materials.

Hamlett likens NET to an iceberg. “You just see the top part but you don’t see all of the things available to you.”

Nebraska was one of the first states to launch educational broadcasting. NET (for Nebraska Educational Telecommunications) began in 1954 with KUON-TV Channel 12’s first noncommercial broadcasts. “We were around even before PBS; we were the ninth station on in the country,” Hamlett says. “We were innovative from way back.”

Today, NET is housed on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus and provides a spectrum of television and radio programming, and web-based learning services, with a mission “to enrich lives and engage minds by connecting communities and celebrating Nebraska with services that educate and enlighten.”

Nebraska Studies puts the history of the state at your fingertips!

Lessons, timeline, informative maps, videos & educational standards Archival photos, letters & historic documents Robust search engine

“We have four channels of content on the TV side, two channels on radio, and a whole slew of things online. Our content is free and accessible and available to anyone; public media is built on that concept,” Hamlett says. “Education is at the root of all of that.”

NET’s television and radio networks feature nationally and in-house-produced programming, and reach people across Nebraska. The online content reaches people everywhere.

The organization has also worked with the Nebraska Department of Education and many teachers over the years to provide educational materials online from study guides to immersive video.

The organization continues to evolve with technology.

“We’re still trusted, educational, relevant. We still reflect our Nebraska communities; it’s a big state but we tell the stories from the smallest towns to the urban areas. We put together a schedule that has pretty much something for everyone,” Hamlett says.

SPONSORED CONTENT

OCTOBER 2019

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The

Education Issue

NEBRASKA CENTER FOR THE EDUCATION OF CHILDREN WHO ARE BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED

800.826.4355 ncecbvi.org

B

ased in Nebraska City, NCECBVI’s Nebraskan presence started in 1875.

“We travel statewide to serve students in their local districts and train their teachers,” says NCECBVI administrator Sally Schreiner.

“We serve students statewide, including the metro area.”

Their motto, “Not just a living, but a life,” demonstrates their commitment to ensuring visually impaired individuals meet their full potential. Students, parents, and administrators all benefit from NCECBVI’s programs throughout the state.

Schreiner explained, “Today’s statewide plan for vision services include Center-Based Program and Residential Services, Instructional Materials, Student and Family Support Programs, Assessment and Evaluation Services, Consultation Services, and Professional Development and Training. We are very proud of the relationships, collaboration and partnerships that exist between all those who are involved in educating our students in Nebraska,” said Schreiner.

THANK YOU

ARCHDIOCESE OF OMAHA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS 402.557.5600 lovemyschool.com

for voting us 1 st place 14 straight years!

ur 71 schools “O across 23 counties serve a

diverse population of nearly 20,000 students, the 4th largest school system in Nebraska,” says communication coordinator Blair Bonczynski. “We welcome all children and educate both the mind and heart.”

Set ting a Standard in Collis ion Repair 402.558.3500 Corner of 50th & South Saddlecreek

402-502-8757 Southwest Corner of 144th & Industrial Rd

402.502.5511 Southwest corner of 120th & Maple

402.933.9400 Corner of Washington & Lincoln, Papillion

MECHANICAL REPAIR 402.991.2848 / Southwest Corner of 120th & Maple

“We’d Rather Be The Best Than Apologize for Anything Less.” w w w. d i n g m a n s . c o m

The Archdiocese offers a Christcentered environment that emphasizes service to others.

Students of all faiths and abilities earn an education that gives them the social and emotional framework to prepare them to be responsible civic and church leaders.

Programs include a Dual Language Academy and a pilot program offering full inclusion for special needs students. The Archdiocese partners with OPS, and other public districts, to ensure all students receive the services to which they are entitled. “There are lots of different pathways to financial aid and scholarships,” says Bonczynski.

Money doesn’t have to be a barrier to an excellent education.

// 62 // OCTOBER 2019 · SPONSORED CONTENT

Savor the experience Voted First Place Best of Omaha since 2010 402.558.3202 cateringcreations.com

GIVING

CALENDAR OCTOBER 2 0 1 9

Oct.

19

Oct. 19 (5:30 p.m.-midnight)

123RD AKSARBEN BALL

Benefiting: Aksarben Foundation Location: CHI Health Center —aksarben.org

The Aksarben Ball honors families throughout Nebraska and Western Nebraska for their charitable giving. The ball includes the formal introduction of the Royal Court and celebrates the current Aksarben | Horatio Alger Scholarship recipients and Aksarben Career Scholars. The big reveal of the night will be the announcement of the Citizens of the Year.

Oct. 1 (5:30-8:30 p.m.)

BETWEEN THE LINES WITH ANGIE THOMAS

Benefiting: Omaha Public Library Location: Metropolitan Community College, Fort Omaha Campus —omahalibraryfoundation.org

Oct. 2 (5:30 p.m.)

FIFTH ANNUAL FOOD TRUCK WORLD TOUR

Benefiting: Immigrant Legal Center Location: Metropolitan Community College, Fort Omaha Campus —immigrantlc.org

Oct. 4 (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.)

PASSING PERIODS: CHS ALUMNI LUNCHEON SERIES Benefiting: Central High School Foundation Location: Field Club of Omaha —chsfomaha.org

Oct. 4 (6-9 p.m.)

Oct.

04

Oct. 4 (6-9 p.m.)

2019 SPOTLIGHT GALA

Benefiting: Voices for Children Nebraska Location: Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District —voicesforchildren.com

Oct. 5 (4-8 p.m.)

WCA TGIF! 2019

FIFTH ANNUAL HEALS TO THE PAVEMENT FOR PREGNANCY & INFANT LOSS

—wcaomaha.org

—healingembrace.org

Benefiting: Women’s Center for Advancement Location: Omaha Design Center

Benefiting: HEALing Embrace Location: Lake Zorinsky

Oct. 3 (5-9 p.m.)

SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION

Benefiting: March of Dimes Location: Omaha Design Center —signaturechefs.marchofdimes.org

Oct. 3 (6:30-9:30 p.m.)

21ST ANNUAL CHS HALL OF FAME

Benefiting: Central High School Foundation Location: Central High School —chsfomaha.org

Oct. 3 (6 p.m.)

30TH ANNUAL THIRTY AND THRIVING

Benefiting: Boys Town National Hotline Location: A View on State —boystown.org

OCTOBER 2019

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// GIVING CALENDAR //

Oct. 6 (6-10:30 a.m.)

2019 MORE THAN PINK WALK

Benefiting: Susan G. Komen Great Plains Location: Baxter Arena

Oct.

06

—komengreatplains.org

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Midwest Pain Clinics offers a range of treatment options to help manage your daily pains. Our providers have over 50 years combined experience in treating many types of pain.

See how our providers can improve your quality of life!

VOTED FIRST PLACE SIX YEARS IN A ROW!

402-391-PAIN (7246) | 825 N. 90th St., Omaha, NE | contact@midwestpainclinics.com

Oct. 10 (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.)

NINTH ANNUAL CLIMB HIGHER LUNCHEON Benefiting: Omaha Outward Bound School Location: CHI Health Center

Th e go od life awai ts .

—outwardboundomaha.org

Oct. 10 (6-8 p.m.)

GOOD APPLE AWARDS

Benefiting: Nebraska Appleseed Location: Livestock Exchange Building Ballroom —neappleseed.org

Oct. 10 (6-9 p.m.)

PURE INSPIRATION—AN EVENING OF CULINARY AND ARTISTIC EXPRESSION

Benefiting: Center for Childhood Deafness, Language and Learning Location: Lied Learning and Technology Center

Oct.

10

CONNECT • PLAY • WORK • HOST • CELEBRATE OAK HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

18-hole golf course | Six-lane pool | Hard-court tennis courts | 28,000-square-foot clubhouse

—boystownhospital.org

402-895-3636 | oakhillscountryclub.org

Oct. 10 (5-9 p.m.)

2019 WOMAN OF THE YEAR GALA

Benefiting: Arthritis Foundation Location: Regency Omaha Marriott

1120 FORT CROOK ROAD, BELLEVUE, NE 68005

—arthritis.org/nebraska

Oct. 11 (5-9 p.m.)

HOMEGROWN

Benefiting: Nebraska Children’s Home Society Location: Kros Strain Brewery —nchs.org

Oct. 12 (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)

2019 STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME WALK AND FAMILY FESTIVAL

Benefiting: Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands Location: Werner Park —dsamidlands.org

50 YEARS STILL THE BEST IN SHOW Since 1967

800.756.7344 | 402.292.1455 | APACHECAMPER.COM LOCATIONS ALSO IN LINCOLN & KEARNEY

// 64 //

OCTOBER 2019

// GIVING CALENDAR // Oct. 13 (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

13TH ANNUAL COMFORT FOOD CLASSIC Benefiting: Grief ’s Journey Location: Hilton Omaha

F a l l i n Lovuer wi t h o F as hi o n s

—griefsjourney.org

Oct. 18 (5:30-8:30 p.m.)

BORN TO SHINE: A BENEFIT FOR BETHLEHEM HOUSE Benefiting: Bethlehem House Location: Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District —bethlehemhouseomaha.org

Oct. 18-20

KIDS & CLAYS SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT Benefiting: Ronald McDonald House Charities Omaha Location: Oak Creek Sporting Club —rmhcomaha.org

Ho lid ay Op en Ho use NOVEMBER 8 & 9

Ea rly Bi rd Sp eci al NOVEMBER 7 | 4-8 PM

402.991.4477

84th & 1st St. / Downtown Papillion Open Tues-Thur 10-6PM, Fri 10-7PM, Sat 10-5PM, Sun-Mon CLOSED

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST FAMILY DENTIST 12 YEARS IN A ROW!

Omaha’s Premier Business to Business Magazine

SELECTED BY THEIR PEERS AS HILLSBOROUGH 13808 W. Maple Rd. Omaha, NE 68164 402.445.4647

RALSTON SQUARE 5360 S. 72nd Street Omaha, NE 68127 402.733.4441

VILLAGE POINTE 302 N. 168th Circle Omaha, NE 68118 402.505.7474

DUNDEE 119 N. 51st Street Omaha, NE 68132 402.502.5593

W W W. T H E D E N T I S T S O M A H A . C O M

of

OCTOBER 2019

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// GIVING CALENDAR //

// GIVING CALENDAR //

Dream

Dental work is a when you can sleep through it!

Oct. 18 (6-10 p.m.)

4TH ANNUAL LEGACY GALA 2019

Benefiting: Women on a Mission for Change Location: DC Center —womenonamissionomaha.org

Oct. 19 (10 a.m.-1 p.m.)

COSTUME RUN 5K

Benefitting: Project Houseworks Location: Millers Landing Omaha —projecthouseworks.org

Oct. 19 (8:30-11:30 a.m.)

NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART HALLOWEEN 5K

Benefitting: TeamMates Mentoring Program Location: Nebraska Furniture Mart

Oct.

19

—nfm.com

Oct. 19 (5-10 p.m.)

PLV SCHOOLS FOUNDATION GALA 2019

Benefiting: Papillion-La Vista Schools Foundation Location: Embassy Suites-La Vista —plvschoolsfoundation.org

Oct. 19 (5:30-11p.m)

SCARE AWAY CANCER

Benefiting: Scare Away Cancer Location: Anthony’s Steakhouse —scareawaycancer.org

Oct. 19 (5:30-10:30 p.m.)

2019 ANGEL FLIGHT

Benefiting: Skutt Catholic High School Location: Skutt Catholic High School —skuttcatholic.com

Oct. 20 (2-5 p.m.)

SURVIVORS RISING FASHION SHOW Benefiting: Survivors Rising Location: Hardy Coffee Co. —survivorsrising.org

Oct. 23 (5:30-9 p.m.)

PACKER SPORTS GREATS BANQUET

Benefiting: Omaha South High School Alumni Association Location: Anthony’s Steakhouse —omahasouthalumni.com

Oct. 23 (6-8 p.m.)

LOYOLA DINNER OF HONOR AND DISTINCTION

Benefiting: Creighton Prep School Location: Henry L. Sullivan, S.J. Campus Center —creightonprep.creighton.edu

Oct. 24 (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.)

2019 LEAD THE CHANGE CELEBRATION Benefiting: Women’s Fund of Omaha Location: CHI Health Center Omaha —omahawomensfund.org

Date/Time

ANIMUS: FILM VS. BOOK

Benefiting: Omaha Public Library Foundation Location: Aksarben Cinema

// 66 //

OCTOBER 2019

You will wake up refreshed with all your dental work completed.

A dream come true!

Call TODAY 402.718.8741

for a Complimentary Consultation!

// GIVING CALENDAR //

ELEGANCE

REIMAGINED SHOPPING HOURS Monday - Friday, 10 am - 8 pm Saturday, 10 am - 7 pm Sunday, 12 pm - 5 pm Individual store hours may vary

STORES | SERVICES Ann Taylor | Anthropologie Apricot Lane Boutique | Borsheims Evereve | Garbo’s Salon & Spa Learning Express Toys | LOFT Nails Spa Village | Parsow’s Fashions Pottery Barn | Pottery Barn Kids | Tilly

White House Black Market Williams-Sonoma

DINING Bonefish Grill Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Mode de Vie | Paradise Bakery & Café 120 Regency Parkway, Omaha | RegencyCourtOmaha.com

Oct. 25 (5:30-9:30 p.m.)

BENEFIT ART AUCTION

Benefiting: Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts Location: Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts —bemiscenter.org

Oct. 25 (7-10 p.m.)

HOPS & GRAPES FALL FESTIVAL Benefiting: Partnership 4 Kids Location: Hilton Downtown —p4k.org

Oct. 26 (7-11 p.m.)

MASQUERADE AT THE CASTLE Benefiting: Joslyn Castle Trust Location: Joslyn Castle —joslyncastle.com

Oct. 27 (8-11:40 a.m.)

OMAHA HOT CIDER HUSTLE HALF MARATHON & 5K Benefitting: Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Location: Skutt Catholic High School —skuttcatholic.com

Oct. 29 (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.)

CHANGEMAKERS 2019

Benefiting: Nebraska Children and Families Foundation Location: Embassy Suites-La Vista —nebraskachildren.org

Event times and details may change.

Visist omahamagazine.com for complete listings.

Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

OCTOBER 2019

// 67 //

GIVING FEATURE // STORY BY JD AVANT

preston love jr. isn’t through yet Teaching Young People That Their Vote Matters

D

espite a long list of achievements, Preston Love Jr. isn’t ready to head off into the sunset. The 77-year-old has attained a range of successes throughout his eventful life; induction into the Nebraska Black Sports Hall of Fame as a former Cornhusker and Detroit Lions draftee and innovations as a marketing executive at IBM, to name a couple.

His catalog of accomplishments would satisfy most men, and he had planned to retire after moving back to Omaha in 2006. Those plans changed when he realized the state of voter activity of his beloved neighborhood.

These days, he relishes early morning starts at his office next to the historic Elks Hall off 24th and Lake streets, fielding calls with his secretary and organizing events for associates such as city council member Ben Gray.

He is spreading the word in his community on a regular basis through the media. In 2015, he published a book titled Economic Cataracts, theorizing the relationships between poverty and low voter turnout. A column titled “Black Votes Matter” has appeared in the Omaha Star.

It started as a way to prepare the North Omaha community for the 2016 elections.

“I came back to take care of my family after my father passed, but I was disappointed to find my community in shambles,” Love says. “Youth voter participation was virtually nonexistent. I was sad to see the children’s ignorance about their history.”

But his passion is educating youth about the importance of black history and black votes. He serves as an adjunct professor in black studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and he has sponsored an annual tour titled “Face-to-Face with Black History” for high school students.

Love thinks North Omaha is being hurt by an undoing of important policies. He thought that Barack Obama, as a black presidential candidate, encouraged voter turnout in 2008, but that Medicaid expansion hurt the community due to the governor and senators' nonsupport.

He also thinks that without residents of North Omaha voting, the community will lose the leverage needed to make an impact, especially on a local level.

Love specifically looks for innovative ways to motivate young people into participating in civic matters like sponsoring the tour and publishing a new children’s book, Bridge to Your History.

As the terms of the nation’s first black president came to a close, Love began to help that disconnect with his Black Votes Matter Youth Initiative. Political work certainly was not new to him.

In 1980, he organized the successful mayoral campaign of Andrew Young in Atlanta, Georgia, (Young was previously the nation’s first African American Ambassador to the United Nations.) From 1983-1984, he served as national campaign manager for the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s presidential bid. The list goes on. // 68 //

OCTOBER 2019

“I can’t sit back and watch everything we’ve fought for fall apart,” Love explains.

“These kids only knew about Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. My book will walk younger children through the important landmarks we visit on the Faceto-Face with Black History Tour, hopefully inspiring them to participate in the expedition when they’re a bit older.”

The Rev. T. Michael Williams, co-pastor at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, has been a part of the popular tour since 2017. He has seen it grow from 40 people in its first year to 100 participants in 2019, seeing firsthand how the trip can affect young people in the community.

“We take students through significant landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement in Memphis, Tennessee; [and] Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama,” Williams says.

He continues, “One of my young church members was affected by our visit to the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama, during the first tour. After seeing the hardships generations of African Americans endured, she wants to come back to Omaha after completing her studies at North Carolina A&T to positively impact her community.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

“I’ve become ‘John the Voting Baptist’ for the amount of footwork I’m doing to encourage people to vote.”

Williams commends Love’s hard work raising awareness for important issues.

“Preston believes encouraging kids to understand history and their power to vote is part of God’s plan for him, and I agree,” Williams says.

“I’ve become ‘John the Voting Baptist’ for the amount of footwork I’m doing to encourage people to vote,” Love jokes. He says there seems to be a disconnect between philanthropic sets and organizations that work on the grassroots level, such as Love's.

Love encourages corporations and for-profit organizations to provide more outreach towards different positive groups that need resources and funding.

“A lot of organizations are failing yet holding on,” he says. “Leaders in the corporate world like to contribute indirectly through charities and the United Way, but I would love to see more direct relationships other than support for the banquets.”

Love would like to see voter participation among younger voters rise to the levels he saw during the Obama era. His initiative is helping. The 2018 mid-term election

saw over 14,000 North Omaha voters, a 10% increase from 2014 and a record turnout for North Omaha midterm voter participation. Recent black representatives who won in local elections include Marque Snow, Kimara Snipe, Shavonna Holman on the board of Omaha Public Schools; Fred Conley of NRD; and Eric Williams of OPPD. All these people are now representing those who voted for them. Because black votes matter.

Visit prestonlovejr.com for more information.

OCTOBER 2019

// 69 //

INTRODUCTION: This list is excerpted from the 2019 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings for nearly 120 dentists and specialists in the Omaha Metro Area. The Omaha list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dentists and professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at www.usatopdentists.com. For more information call 706-364-0853; write PO Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email info@usatopdentists.com or visit www.usatopdentists.com.

SELECTION PROCESS: “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”

This is the question we've asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and of course physical results.

The nomination pool of dentists consists of dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as all dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peer's work when evaluating the other nominees.

Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received as well as status in various dental academies can factor into our decisions.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of course there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate, and useful list of dentists available anywhere.

DISCLAIMER: This list is excerpted from the 2019 topDentists™ list, which includes listings for almost 120 dentists and specialists in the Omaha Metropolitan area. For more information call: 706-364-0853 or email: info@usatopdentists.com or visit: www.usatopdentists.com topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2010-2019 by topDentists, LLC of Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

// SPONSORED //

HE MADE MY SMILE TRULY A REFLECTION OF ME. DR. WEGNER GAVE ME THE CONFIDENCE TO BE MY BEST SELF. -A.J. Steele, Patient

STEVEN D. WEGNER, DDS A.J. STEELE’S FRIENDS, colleagues, and

committed staff. “It’s such a welcoming environment.” He saw Dr. Wegner for routine dental visits at first, but A.J. soon felt comfortable enough to broach the topic of cosmetic dentistry.

“It’s true, I have smiled more this year than I have in my entire life before this,” A.J. says.

“But nobody has said, ‘What did you do with your teeth?’”

“I’ve known people who had veneers and I’ve seen advertising, so I knew about them,” he says. “Dr. Wegner talked with me about veneers a couple of times, but if I was going to make the investment, I wanted to be sure everything looked natural.”

customers are noticing that something is different about him , but they can’t figure out exactly what changed. They say things like, “You seem happier. You smile more.”

Dental veneers—and a great smile—have given him a newfound confidence. A.J., in his mid-30s, is in a career field that involves a lot of face-to-face interaction, and he’s an outgoing, friendly guy, but he was accustomed to stifling his emotions or concealing his smile behind a strategically placed hand or mug.

The results were so good that even people A.J. knows in the dental field didn’t recognize that he got veneers. “That was a true compliment to Dr. Wegner,” he says.

“My smile just wasn’t what I wanted it to be,” he explains. “I’d find myself in personal and social settings hiding my smile or avoiding certain situations because I was ashamed of my teeth. I would not be truly genuine.”

Before his procedure, A.J. reviewed patient testimonials and examined images of Dr. Wegner’s cosmetic dentistry work, but says it was the patient-centered dentist’s willingness to answer questions and review options that gave him the confidence he needed to move forward with veneers.

A.J. had some anxiety about going to the dentist but says his fears were quickly alleviated by Dr. Steven Wegner and his friendly,

“He genuinely cares about his patients and he wants them to be happy with his work, whether it’s a simple filling or cosmetic

veneers,” A.J. says. “Dr. Wegner listened to me and took the time to help me explore my options. To Dr. Wegner, I wasn’t just another patient, I was part of the team from the moment I walked in the door. After my dental work was complete, I was so surprised when Dr. Wegner called to check in tomake sure everything felt good and I was happy with the results. His attention to detail and pride in his work is something that’s hard to find today.”

A.J. gets compliments on his smile now, and he loves that it fits him perfectly.

“Dr. Wegner delivered,” A.J says. “He made my smile truly a reflection of me. He’s enabled me to be my best self. Having veneers not only improves the functionality of my teeth but also gives me the confidence I lacked. I can finally let my guard down and I don’t have to worry about hiding a smile.”

11840 Nicholas St. Omaha, NE 68154 402.498.0400 smilesofomaha.com

OCTOBER 2019

// 71 //

ENDODONTICS THOMAS J. BEESON

Parra Family Dental

TOBIN N. DRAKE

GENERAL DENTISTRY GREGORY M. BEALS

Pacific Springs Dental

SARAH T. BILLESBACH

Endodontic Associates

Mancuso Dental

JACOB L. FIMPLE

JARED D. BOLDING

Advanced Endodontic Therapy

PATRICK K. HAFFEY

Nebraska Micro-Endodontics

MICHAEL S. HERMSEN

Heartland Endodontic Specialists

JOSE L. IBARROLA

Creighton University School of Dentistry

COREY K. KARIMJEE

Midwest Endodontics

CACI I. LIEBENTRITT

WILLIAM J. BRESNAHAN T. PAT BURCHFIEL

Burchfiel Dental

BRAD W. CARSON

Pacific Village Dental

W. THOMAS CAVEL

Creighton University School of Dentistry

AMY T. CHADWELL

Chadwell Family Dentistry

JEROME F. GRADOVILLE

Creighton University School of Dentistry

BENJAMIN G. HARDY

Hardy Dental

GREGORY A. HAVELKA MICAH JEPPESEN

Your Family Dentist

MARY N. KELSEY CHRISTINE M. KOZAL

Clock Tower Dental

TERRY F. LANPHIER

Creighton University School of Dentistry

KIRSTIN T. MCCARVILLE

Creighton University School of Dentistry

JAMES F. MCCASLIN

Evergreen Dental Group

Omaha Endodontists

JEFFRY F. CHEREK

DAVID A. MAIXNER

RALPH M. CORPUZ

Midwest Endodontics

Corpuz Family Dentistry

Millard Hills Dental Health Center

STEPHEN P. PRYOR

MICHAEL C. DANAHAY

Shadow Ridge Dental

Endodontic Specialists

Dental Innovations

STUART J. MCNALLY DAVID R. MLNARIK

CAROL M. MURDOCK

KATHERINE L. DEFORD

Heartland Endodontic Specialists

DeFord Family Dental

Creighton University School of Dentistry

FRANK S. SLEDER, SR.

JAMES R. DEMMAN

Creighton University School of Dentistry

SCOTT C. DILORENZO

Augusta Dental

JEFFREY D. DWORAK

Serenity Dental

JEFFREY T. GARVEY

Bel-Drive Dental

JAMES G. GERNER

Panneton Dental Group

KENDRA L. GOSCH

The Dentists at Village Pointe

CHRISTOPHER J. REDD

Creighton University School of Dentistry

The Dentists at Dundee 40th and Dodge Family Dentistry Capehart Family Dentistry Midlands Dental Group Montclair Dental

Gosch Family Dental

WILLIAM T. NAUGHTON WILLIAM V. NELSON

MATTHEW C. NEUMANN

JEFFREY R. NIELSEN MARK J. PANNETON

BRIAN S. PENDLEY

SCOTT M. RADNIECKI

Creighton University School of Dentistry

SUGIKO M. REED

Ohana Smiles

RICHARD J. RONK, JR. THOMAS O. RUDERSDORF

VALMONT P. DESA

Nebraska Medicine

JOHN D. ENGEL

Oral Surgery Associates

AFOLABI O. OGUNLEYE

Premier Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

ROBERT M. PFEIFLE

TAERA KIM

Metro West Orthodontics & Periodontics

LAURA E. LOW

Wees & Low Orthodontics

BRIAN MCINTYRE

Omaha Orthodontics

MARK MENDLIK

AMY M. RUF

Oral Surgery Associates

JAY D. SAMUELSON

Omaha Oral Surgery

Olson Orthodontics

MICHAEL R. SESEMANN

Village Pointe Oral Surgery

MICHAEL I. SHNAYDER

BARBARA J. RIES

JEROME M. WEES

The Orthodontic Group

The Dentists at Ralston Square The Dentists at Hillsborough Nebraska Institute of Comprehensive Dentistry

ALLAN M. SMITH

Bellevue Family Practice Dentistry

RANDY E. STOUT

Creighton University School of Dentistry

CAROLYN L. TAGGART-BURNS

Millard Oaks Dental

BRETT H. TAYLOR

Taylor Dentistry

BRETT S. THOMSEN

Thomsen Dental Group

STEVEN D. WEGNER KARRY K. WHITTEN

Whitten Dentistry

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY JOHN D. ANDERSEN

Oral Surgery Associates

COREY J. AUCH

Oral Surgery Associates

STEPHEN A. COFFEY

Oral Surgery Associates

CHASE A. PRUITT

Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants

JOHN P. WEWEL

Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants

DAVID E. WILLIAMS

Mendlik Orthodontics

JULIE E. OLSON

TIMOTHY J. SHEEHAN

KIMBERLEY A. STAFFORD

Stafford Orthodontics

THOMAS J. WEBER

Weber Orthodontics

JULIE WEES

Creighton University School of Dentistry

Wees & Low Orthodontics

ORAL PATHOLOGY

Southwest Orthodontics

HARDEEP CHEHAL

MICHELLE S. WULF

PETER A. ZIEGLER

Creighton University School of Dentistry

Ziegler Orthodontics

ORTHODONTICS

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

MATTHEW J. BECKER

Imagine Orthodontics

KELLY R. CONWAY NEIL E. DUNLOW

Dunlow Orthodontics

THOMAS J. HUERTER

Huerter Orthodontics

KORT A. IGEL

Igel Orthodontics

ANNE S. AIELLO

Creighton University School of Dentistry

CARMEN L. DANA

Pedodontics

ERIC D. HODGES

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital and Medical Center

J. BRYAN HOHENSTEIN

Smile Station Pediatric Dentistry

DARIN L. KOTIL

Smile Academy

OCTOBER 2019

// 73 //

GEORGE M. RAKES

PERIODONTICS

MATTHEW D. SCHIEBER

Gum Disease Specialists

LISA F. STRUNK

Frost Periodontics & Dental Implants

MARK H. TAYLOR

Kelsey Periodontal Group

ANGELI J. THAKKER

Kelsey Periodontal Group

BARRY W. WEBBER

Specialty Dental Care

GREG WEEDER

Metro West Orthodontics & Periodontics

Premier Dental

Smile Station Pediatric Dentistry Pedodontics

DENNIS M. ANDERSON NATALIE A. FROST

MATTHEW R. KELSEY

Taylor Dentistry

W. PATRICK KELSEY V

Belleview Pediatric Dentistry Walnut Creek Pediatric Dentistry Weeder Pediatric Dentistry

PROSTHODONTICS ANDREA L. HALL

Millard Hills Dental Health Center

JAMES A. KELLY

Creighton University School of Dentistry

PAUL J. SHERIDAN

Millard Hills Dental Health Center

JARED H. SMITH

Creighton University School of Dentistry

TIMOTHY P. MCVANEY TAKANARI MIYAMOTO

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60PLUS // OPENER

O

stories in this issue hit home for me—our health story.

My sister had shingles that went into her eye. I asked her about her experience and want to pass what she wrote on to you.

NE OF THE

"I am so pleased that Omaha Magazine is doing this article on shingles. I urge any of you who have not gotten the vaccination for shingles to do so as soon as possible.

“Twenty-four years ago this month I got shingles on my right upper eyelid, which then went into my eye. I was 58 years old.

When shingles goes to your eye it stays there. Hopefully it is controlled. My experience has been less than optimal.

Two-and-a-half years later I had surgery for glaucoma, which was a result of the large amount of steroids I had taken to control the shingles. After that, even with great medical care, my cornea became very scratched and thin. This resulted in greatly compromised vision in my eye. In April this year I noticed that my eye felt 'funny.' I went to see my ophthalmologist, who advised me that I had a torn cornea. A cornea specialist tried several procedures to repair the problem without success and then sewed my eyelid shut. I am now taking a new eye medication to stimulate nerve growth in the eye. This nerve growth is necessary for me to be able to have a cornea transplant. Wish me success.

"Fortunately there is now a very good vaccine available. Get that vaccine.”

Contributing Editor Carl Fosco OCTOBER 2019 • 60PLUS

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U N O Pr o fesso r has a Passio n fo r Teaching and Tr aveling

ACTIVE LIVING // STORY BY JANE GLAZER // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

“I ’ VE BEEN ENAMOR ED

of traveling for a long time, I just didn’t start until I was fairly old,” says University of Nebraska at Omaha journalism professor Chris Allen.

He first travelled overseas to Russia for a reporting job in his 30s, but his job at UNO has enabled him to further his passion. The Middle East, where he has spent much time teaching and developing academic relationships, is a particularly favorite region. Allen travelled to Afghanistan in 2010, and has returned several times. He has been working with universities there to help expand their journalism programs.

“Chris was the leading force behind our work with the Afghan professors,” says UNO School of Communication Director Hugh Reilly. “He oversaw the curriculum and made sure all the details were covered.

At the completion of our program, the University of Kabul and Balkh University will be the first two universities in all of Asia that offer a major in communication studies.” Reilly says that many Asian universities offer degrees in journalism, but these two universities will be the first to offer degrees in communication studies.

While Allen enjoys traveling and working in Afghanistan, he particularly enjoyed a trip to the Middle East during the 2011-2012 school year. He traveled on a Fulbright scholarship to teach a journalism class in a country most people know little about, Oman. Allen has a friend who lives in Oman, and decided to apply for the scholarship there after hearing his friend’s glowing reviews of the country. Once Allen learned that his application was accepted, his friend give him books to read about the country, and described it as open and friendly.

He taught at Sultan Qaboos University for nine and a half months. His wife, Elaine, traveled to the exotic locale with him.

“The great thing about going someplace… for that amount of time is that you have to become part of the society,” Allen says.

“You have to do grocery shopping, you have to buy clothes, you have to get your hair cut. You have to do things in the Omani society, which is Arabic and Muslim. You have to learn how to live.”

Although the Omani society was different from American society, Allen says he felt as though he belonged there from the beginning.

While in Oman, Allen taught two graduate courses in journalism and mass communication, as well as an undergraduate course in radio and television.

His favorite part of teaching there was the students’ sense of humor, but their drive and ambition did not fall short.

“They were so hungry for knowledge,” Allen says, noting that the women, in particular, were eager to learn. “They had opinions on things, they were always prepared, they spoke up, they were really fun people to have in classes.”

One challenge for Allen was coaching the students to be better writers. As the students he taught were nonnative English speakers, it was difficult for them to write academic papers in English.

“One of the battles I fought was plagiarism,” Allen says. “The funny thing is, it’s very obvious. Their English is not very good, you know. They would be writing these substandard paragraphs and all of a sudden it was absolutely pristine, perfect, academic English with no quote marks around it. I would warn them that they would have to change those passages.

And in fact, one student did flunk my class because he just did not change the passages. I was heartbroken about that.”

Despite failing one student, he enjoyed nearly every experience in Oman.

“I learned to eat with my hands,” Allen says. “The guys in the room asked me if I wanted a spoon to eat with, and I had only been there about a week or so. I smiled and said ‘no, I will eat with my fingers, but you can’t laugh at me.’ And of course I did spill some, but I was watching how they ate and I learned how to do it.”

Allen now uses his own experiences through traveling in the classroom with his students in Omaha.

“The content that I can bring back into the classroom has been dramatic,” Allen says. “The way that things are done differently in some countries—censorship, there are examples of innovations, there are examples of good media and bad media…There is more than one way to do things, and not all of the other ways to do them are bad.”

His adventure to Oman quickly became a passion. Allen has now taken two groups of students to see the country. He believes that traveling in one’s youth can instill a lifetime love of exploring the world.

“All the students I take say ‘that changed my life,’” Allen says.

Allen explains that the press can be inaccurate about Muslim and Arab cultures, as they often cover the violent aspect of these groups. He describes Oman as a “wonderfully peaceful, tolerant, open country,” with warm and accepting people.

“We were walking back to the car [one day] and this young man steps out from his compound and he had three children with him,” Allen says. ‘He looked at us and he said 'Hello, where are you from?’

I said ‘We’re from America,’ and he said ‘Oh America, please come in for some coffee.’ And when you go in for coffee (and we did) you get coffee, and water, and dates, and oranges, and apples, and grapes, and nuts, and juices, and I mean it’s just on and on and on. People were so kind. It changes your life, it changes your whole outlook on all of those things.”

In fact, Allen loves Oman so much, he says if he could live anywhere in the world it would be there. He describes the country as being beautiful and modern, with internet, cellphones, highways, and grocery stores.

Allen plans to travel to Pakistan in November. He also takes a group of students to London each year, and hopes to spend time in Australia at some point. The wish list of travels continues.

“I dread the day when I can’t travel,” Allen says. “I just dread that day, when my body gives up on me, or when my mind gives up on me.”

In the meantime, Allen plans to continue taking an interest and fascination in seeing new things and experiencing new places.

“I haven’t done nearly enough,” Allen says. “I wish I had started sooner. It’s just so important to me to learn other cultures, to hear other languages, to eat other food.”

OCTOBER 2019 • 60PLUS

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FEATURE // STORY BY CHRIS BOWLING // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

Cyb er Seni ors Weekly Computer Sessions Provide Learning and Friendship

D

is abuzz with conversation at 9:30 a.m., and it is only 30 minutes into the weekly meetup. At tables around the meeting room, people huddle in front of laptops and phones as volunteers sit alongside, pointing at the screens. In one corner, Chuck Williams moves his hands back and forth as he describes to Ruth Muchemore how wireless technology communicates with devices such as her smartphone.

O SPACE

Williams soon takes out his own smartphone to show how he’s wirelessly linked it to another device he and Muchemore both use: a hearing aid.

“Enough to drive you crazy, right?” asks Williams, 72, as an exasperated but amused Muchemore, 87, shakes her head.

These conversations are typical for a Wednesday morning session of Cyber Seniors, a weekly session at Omaha Public Library’s innovative tech hub on 72nd and Dodge streets. Here seniors bring devices and tech questions to receive help from volunteers, primarily other seniors, between 9 a.m. and noon.

The program started soon after the nonprofit opened in 2011. Over the years it has become one of its most enduring and consistently well attended programs, in no small part due to the volunteers who run it. The 10 to 15 seniors who volunteer weekly are passionate and tech savvy, and being in the same age bracket as their students helps erase intimidation and levels the playing field for problem solving.

“When a senior talks to a senior, they speak the same language,” Williams says.

The goal to provide access and education to all has long been a mission statement of Do Space. The nonprofit aims to erase Omahans' barriers to understanding and using technology. Classes, communal workspaces, and access to everything from desktop computers to 3D printers are available to Do Space’s roughly 73,000 membership base, about 12,000 of whom are seniors over the age of 61, as of June 2019. Membership is required to access Do Space, however, registration is free.

Bringing a city up to speed on tech does not have a one-size-fits-all solution. That is especially true in a membership that includes a sweeping variety of tech literacy and personal access to computers.

CONT. PAGE 82 OCTOBER 2019 • 60PLUS

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“Especially considering that the technology we have here today, someone had to have built that,” Stavick says. “Guess what, it was the previous generation.”

“It’s just comforting,” she says.

FROM PAGE 81 When it came to serving senior citizens, executive director Rebecca Stavick says Do Space opted for a community-led solution. Rather than define what they think seniors needed to know, administrators allow the seniors to set their educational parameters and pace.

“We help people get coffee and doughnuts and then we make sure to get out of their way,” she says.

When the adminstrators floated the idea for a workshop for seniors, Carl Fosco, who had been a Do Space tour guide until then, jumped on the opportunity to get involved.

Fosco, 72, was a former director in human resources for companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield who retired in 2014. He didn’t have a career in tech like many of the volunteers, but he does have a penchant for people, and he’s always been an avid user of technology.

While Williams worked with Muchemore, Fosco greeted every timid wanderer at the door, racing across the room to meet them with a smile as well as coffee and cake.

This program is about much more than doling out tech advice. It is a collaborative experience that oftentimes leans back and forth between a club and a help session.

“This place is kind of a perfect storm of social and tech,” Fosco says.

That is clear during Williams and Muchemore’s conversation. Muchemore is a retired nurse who sported chic multicolored glasses and lavender nails that matched her iPhone case. She originally came to get help with her new Apple Watch, but stayed to ask Williams question after question about technology.

Muchemore says this is the only place in Omaha she can get tech help without any level of intimidation.

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60PLUS • OCTOBER 2019

In weekly sessions, topics run the gamut from learning how to organize photo libraries to drawing whiteboard diagrams explaining how the internet works. That Wednesday morning, they even helped someone rid their computer of malicious software.

It all comes back to a basic desire to help and make interacting with tech seem more friendly.

Volunteer Steve Sidner, 69, says, “We want people to walk out of here like, ‘Golly, I had no idea I could do this.’”

It seems to be working. The program routinely draws about 20 to 30 people every week, once swelling to 70 people, who occupied Do Space’s entire first floor.

Weston Thomson, director of community learning at Do Space, says the difference maker is the volunteer help.

“Without that,” he says, “Those programs would cease to exist.”

He also says that of the approximately 100 Do Space volunteers who rack up 400 volunteer hours every month, the senior demographic is one of the most passionate and loyal. And they come from myriad tech backgrounds.

Sidner, tall with curly white hair and a “Warren has a plan” T-shirt, spent years as a computer programmer and software manager before retiring in 2014.

Williams, a retired Air Force member, worked at the Village Pointe Apple store and now offers one-on-one Mac tutoring.

But their experience isn’t their defining characteristic. It’s their genuine interest in chipping away the notion that tech is unusable after a certain age.

“Some people say, ‘I don’t understand this,’” says Keith Jones, 64, a retired tech worker who specialized in mainframes. “It’s not difficult, you just don’t have the knowledge to use it yet. So let’s give you the nudge.”

This program’s hallmark isn’t seniors gathering in a room every Wednesday.

Its atmosphere is defined by curiosity and the attendees’ inherent desire to catch up with the world around them.

Thomson says in addition to Cyber Seniors, it is common to see seniors sitting alongside youth in the computer lab, taking classes on coding or other subjects.

Stavick says that should come as no surprise to anyone. No age group is more predisposed to understand a computer than another, she says, and the idea a senior can’t stay involved in tech doesn’t make any sense.

“Especially considering that the technology we have here today, someone had to have built that,” Stavick says. “Guess what—it was the previous generation.”

That’s the point of Do Space’s outreach to older generations, including Cyber Seniors: open seemingly closed doors by putting the right tools in seniors’ hands and giving them a push. While volunteers have no assumptions that one visit will make anyone a savant, they at least hope the sessions build up confidence.

That’s been the experience for Elaine Wells, a 73-year-old, semi-retired marriage counselor and frequent Cyber Seniors attendee. Each week she brings a project to work on, and, little by little, she feels like she is gaining more of a footing in a tech world that could only become more isolating if she stood still.

“What I don’t think a lot of young people realize is as old people, we may not be connected all the ways [they] are, but we’re still vital,” Wells says. “This is a place where we can actualize our potential.”

Visit dospace.org for more information.

OCTOBER 2019 • 60PLUS

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PROFILE // STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

Going, Going, Gone GOECKES HELP FRIENDS RIENDS OF OMAHA Public Library has long hosted book sales to help raise funds for the library, but as technology has advanced, so has its methods. In 2006, volunteer Polly Goecke was quick to nominate her husband, Joe, when the organization began looking into internet book sales. A retired Valmont executive, Joe helped research online booksellers and procedures to determine that online sales would be a viable option. He then worked with fellow volunteer Jeanne Spence (the 2019 Friends board president) to set up a computerized system for inventory management, sales, and shipping. The duo decided to use available programs for efficiency and accountability instead of creating a new system.

Fast forward 13 years, and Joe is still a Friends volunteer, putting in regular hours for the now-robust online book sales program.

“We’ve had anywhere from five to eight volunteers doing all aspects of internet sales at any given time over the last few years. We appraise the value of the book and the condition of the book, we list it and we ship it,” Joe says. “It’s a good way to support the library.”

The online sales augment the organization’s used book sales that take place at the W. Clarke Swanson branch at 90th and Dodge Streets every Thursday and the first Saturday of every month. Many of those books there sell for $1.50, but receiving and sorting volunteers pass along books with potentially greater resale value to Joe and the other volunteers working in online sales. The online group sells all over the U.S. and internationally through sources like Amazon, AbeBooks, and Alibris.

Some books for sale are donated, but some are retired from library circulation. Ex-library books are not as collectible as books from personal

collections, as ex-library books contain interior cards as well as stickers and stamps, which can be hard to remove and damage the book. “But there is a demand and they do sell,” Joe says.

The rates for online books vary, but they can often be found for $10-$15.

Shipping rates are not included.

“Every month or so we have one that sells for $100 or $200. We have some that sell upwards to $1,000, but not many,” Joe says. “The highest price we ever got was $2,800 for a book. It was an English book on floor plans and architectural drawings of English manor houses.”

Joe favors reading nonfiction, especially history, and says he and other Friends volunteers enjoy the diversity of subjects and literature they see.

“The variety of books that come through for appraisal is vast. It’s unbelievable sometimes that books were published on these subjects,” he says.

Polly, who’s been with Friends around 20 years and has served as board president twice (her husband has also served once) and in other leadership positions, says she believes libraries are still relevant in the Internet age.

“I’ve always loved libraries. I think they’re vital to the city,” she says, citing computer access, credible reference books, activities for children, and special events as some of the valuable features open to everyone in the community. Her first volunteer service was for a children’s summer reading program at the Millard branch, and she enjoyed it so much she signed on with Friends years later and has participated in virtually all of the support organization’s various activities. A reader who enjoys “a little bit of everything, but mostly fiction,” Polly also likes to encourage young

writers. She’s currently the chair for the Friends of Omaha Public Library’s Virginia Frank Memorial Writing Contest for students in fifth through eighth grades.

“Every volunteer position for the library Friends is fun,” she says.

The Friends organization is always looking for more members and volunteers, the Goeckes say. The book sales are an important discretionary funding source but membership fees beginning at $25 per year also support the library system.

“We like to make a little bit of money for the library to buy things that the city can’t. And we are keeping books out of the dumpster,” Joe says.

“It’s impossible to quantify how much Joe and Polly have done for Omaha Public Library.” says OPL Marketing Manager Emily Getzschman. “Even if we were to add up all of the hours they’ve spent volunteering at book sales and as board members and library advocates and all of the money they have helped to raise for the library, it still would not fully reflect the full impact of what they have done for the library and the community it serves. Volunteers like Joe and Polly are invaluable. Their commitment and dedication to seeing their library system flourish helps Omaha Public Library to offer more programs and services that it simply could not do without their support.”

For more information, visit omahalibrary.org and friendsomahalibrary.org.

OCTOBER 2019 • 60PLUS

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HEALTH // STORY BY TAMSEN BUTLER // DESIGN & PAINTING BY DEREK JOY

Shingles Shingles Vaccinations Vaccinations

Two Shots Are Better Than Taking a Shot in the Dark

E

LKHORN RESIDENT ANGIE

Jorgensen, 52, wasted no time getting a shingles vaccine upon turning 50. “I knew I would get the shingles shot the minute I turned 50 because my mother, who didn’t get the shot, got a horrifying case of it.”

Jorgensen’s mother, Connie Gonyea, contracted shingles around six years ago in her late 60s ,and is still dealing with the effects.

“She got her shingles outbreak on her head of all places,” Jorgensen says. “She has sensitivity in an area on her scalp still, years later. She also has some nerve damage from it. Even combing her hair bothers her in certain places.”

Like many people age 50 and older, Jorgensen acquired chicken pox as a youngster. Many people retain vivid memories of chicken pox. The viral infection caused an itchy rash that blistered, and was often accompanied by fever, headaches, loss of appetite, and malaise. Chicken pox, however, rarely left nerve damage or sensitivity.

Those who acquired chicken pox need to be aware of shingles. The shingles virus results from varicella-zoster—the same infection that causes chicken pox—and resides in anyone who experienced chicken pox.

“The virus hides out in the nerves and decades later can reactivate and form shingles,” explains Dr. Rae Witt of Nebraska Medicine.

Shingles is not life-threatening, Witt says, “but can cause serious side effects.” Those affected can expect some burning pain and a dermatome [rash] on one side of the body that lasts around a week. “Most people fully recover, but around 20% of people aged 60-65 experience residual pain for months to years.” That number increases to 30% in people over age 80.

Shingles typically presents first as pain, or as Witt describes, “a weird burning on the skin,” followed by the dermatome, usually on the back or chest. // 86 //

60PLUS • OCTOBER 2019

“Untreated, it will go away on its own,” Witt says. An anti-viral drug reduces the time affected and the severity of the pain. For best results, it is important to seek treatment as soon as people suspect they have shingles.

Shingrix vaccine, as long as they wait at least eight weeks after receiving a Zostavax vaccine. Shingrix is approved for people over the age of 50. It requires two doses that are given two to six months apart, and has a higher risk of side effects.

Shingles are not inevitable for those who had chicken pox earlier in life. “Lower immunity allows for an increased risk of shingles,” says Witt, adding that lifestyle choices such as “significant alcohol use, poorly controlled diabetes, high levels of stress for long periods of time, and even some medications” can increase the odds of shingles developing.

Donna Gilbert, 66, of Papillion, experienced minor side effects. “I got sick after the shot,” she says. "[It was] nothing terrible, and they warned me that might happen.”

People over 50 should get a shingles vaccination, Witt says. Anyone who skips the vaccine because they don’t remember ever having chicken pox are putting themselves at risk because, as Witt explains, “it’s impossible to say someone never had chicken pox.” Since chicken pox presents in a spectrum of severity, it’s possible for someone to have chicken pox and never realize it, especially as a child.

The vaccine is a weakened virus, which helps the body recognize and fight the virus. “Over time, the body loses the ability to recognize the virus,” says Witt, explaining why the virus can lie dormant for so long within the body.

Shingles rarely reoccurs, and if that happens, Witt says doctors will “look for an underlying cause.”

She says there are two approved shingles vaccines: Zostavax and Shingrix.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Zoster vaccine live (ZVL, Zostavax) has been in use since 2006 and is approved for people over age 60. It is given in one dose, which gives protection from shingles for about five years.

The recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix), has been in use since 2017 and is recommended by ACIP as the preferred shingles vaccine. In fact, the CDC suggests that even those who previously received the Zostavax vaccine get the

Witt says there is currently no shortage of either vaccine, leaving no reason to avoid getting immunized. There is, however, a high demand for Shingrix.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the manufacturer of Shingrix, delivered about 8.3 million doses in 2018, and the CDC says production of the vaccine is being ramped up in 2019 in an effort to keep up with demand.

The best way to acquire the vaccine is to schedule an immunization through a doctor’s office. On the day the first dose is given, the second dose should be scheduled to avoid a waiting period. The vaccine may be available via a pharmacy, but it can be difficult for many places to acquire the vaccine, so those interested in being vaccinated may want to call ahead and check availability at their preferred location. In some cases, especially at pharmacies, there is a waiting list for people to get the immunizations.

It is always a good idea to check with one’s regular physician before getting the vaccine. The CDC says that someone who has a severe allergic reaction to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin should not get the vaccine, but as this equates to about 0.1% of the population, it is extremely rare. Those with a weakened immune system due to cancer treatments or HIV/ AIDS will also want to check with their doctor before getting either vaccine.

Shingles shots are sometimes covered by insurance, so those who are age 50 or older and have not yet been immunized should check with their plan to find out their best option for getting the shot.

OCTOBER 2019 â&#x20AC;¢ 60PLUS

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Proud members of Vetter Senior Living

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60PLUS • OCTOBER 2019

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OBVIOUSLY OMAHA // STORY BY JUSTINE YOUNG // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

Best Neighborhoods for

Trick-or-Treating October is a month of fang-tastic fun for those who enjoy wearing creepy costumes, exploring haunted houses, and participating in old-fashioned trick-or-treating. With Halloween right around the corner, many parents have the tricky task of choosing a location for the 31st. Those interested in finding the best treats while wearing eerie ensembles should check out this list of some of Omaha’s best neighborhoods for snagging sweets on Halloween night.

01. DUNDEE AND HAPPY HOLLOW

HISTORIC DISTRICT

Situated near Memorial Park and Dundee, this neighborhood is well-known by locals as a trick-or-treat treasure. Peruse the festive decor along lamp-lit streets, ring a few doorbells, and fill a Halloween bag with enough creepy candies to last the rest of the year.

02. MORTON MEADOWS Morton Meadows, located in Midtown, is a spooktacular spot for trick-or-treaters. This friendly neighborhood’s walkable streets and prime location regularly draws a large crowd of costumed characters looking for a place to spend Halloween evening.

03.

COUNTRY CLUB DISTRICT Historic-style street lamps and curving streets offer the perfect lighting and ambiance for trickor-treating in this neighborhood.

Located south of Gallagher Park past Northwest Radial Highway, Country Club’s family-friendly community of residents is sure to stock up plenty of candy in time for visitors.

04. HILLSBOROUGH Omaha’s Hillsborough neighborhood kicks off the haunted holiday on Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with their annual Hills“BOO”rough Spooktacular, with hayrack rides, games, and lots of fun.

Return to this well-lit, walkable community in Northwest Omaha on Halloween night for even more trick-or-treating fun.

OCTOBER

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2019

05. MINNE-LUSA’S “TRICK OR TREAT

ON THE BOOLEVARD”

South of Florence in North Omaha, Minne-Lusa’s residents take Halloween seriously. Their annual “Trick or Treat on the Boolevard” event includes themed street islands, free food, and plenty of sweets for everyone. With an active community of event organizers and volunteers, MinneLusa offers no shortage of deckedout displays on Halloween night.

06. 192ND STREET IN WEST OMAHA Travel south from 192nd and Pacific streets in West Omaha and discover plenty of subdivisions that are perfect for trick-ortreaters to explore. Spooky scenes and homes stocked full of candy can be found in many of this neighborhood’s residential areas. With well-lit streets and ample sidewalks, 192nd Street makes a great choice for a Halloween celebration.

DINING PROFILE // STORY BY TIM TRUDELL // PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN

Downtown to Westside Erin Vik brings it all to the table

A

experience outside of education and that has translated very well to providing nutritious, sustainable meals for our students.”

Vik says he enjoys receiving feedback from people, because it helps in managing the 80-plus employees he oversees, which is no small feat.

Beginning his career in the food and beverage industry at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Omaha, he appreciated that the hotel was owned by the city at the time. Later, during a stint at Metropolitan Community College, he managed the catering and horticulture programs, where he had a hands-on approach to supporting the school’s culinary program.

Vik relishes the sense of community that Westside has in working with local organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands and Food Bank for the Heartland. The district uses a contract kitchen to cater meals for these organizations, as well as other schools outside the district, and elementary schools and select meals (i.e. gluten-free) within the district.

According to Lucas, the department serves about 5,000 student meals a day within the district, and an additional 6,200-plus meals outside the Westside district. “So Erin is overseeing over 11,000 meals a day,” Lucas says. “He’s very organized.”

sense of community drives Erin Vik. In choosing where to live or work, he looks for a specific feel to drive his decision.

“He has wonderful experience outside of education and that has translated very well to providing nutritious, sustainable meals for our students.”

-Mike Lucas, Westside Superintendent

While at Metro, Vik became acquainted with his predecessor at Westside, Diane Zipay. Little did he know—as they discussed working together on projects—a year later he’d be replacing her as she headed into retirement.

Today, in his fifth year as the director of Westside Schools’ nutrition program, he has expanded the program’s emphasis on providing healthier food options for students. Vik says that each move has been guided by that feel of community.

“I’m not a politician,” Vik says.

“But I want to be involved with things around me.”

His dedication and interest is evident to those who work with him. Westside Superintendent Mike Lucas says he is a huge fan of what Vik does.

“Erin has a tremendous passion for food service,” Lucas says. “He has wonderful

“I find it enriching, what we do in the city,” Vik says.

At home, the self-professed foodie is a little looser when it comes to planning meals. Vik says he enjoys creating dishes, but neither he nor Jennifer have a favorite meal, so they enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.

“I’m like, ‘What do you feel like having tonight?’” he says. And they go from there.

Vik and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for 11 years and have an 8-yearold daughter, Isabel. Though they knew they wanted to be involved with their child’s school, when the Viks bought their house in the Westside district they had no idea he’d end up running the nutrition department. So, their move ended up being doubly positive for the whole family.

Vik’s foodie style does make its way into the office. While Westside previously offered fresh salads, Vik has expanded the Westside district’s program to encourage more diverse healthy dining options for students. This includes working with local farmers and distributors to provide locally sourced fruits and vegetables, as well as creating dishes such as pasta and lasagna from scratch. He encourages chefs and cooks to be creative with meal planning.

Living in the school district where he works, Vik says he expects neighbors to discuss concerns with him, adding that neighborhood kids are quick to let him know when they like the menu and when they don’t.

“We started a ramen bar,” Vik says. “I was a little scared. Some of the folks in the kitchen realized it was a new concept. They visited [ramen places] and saw what the products looked like in the restaurants. And they did a really good job.”

“He’s a parent in our school district, and he’s very accessible, very open-minded,” Lucas says. “[He] does a great job of communicating with staff, parents, and community.”

Visit westside66.com for more information.

OCTOBER 2019

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Variety

of Society REGIONALLY INSPIRED DISHES IN A RELAXED, STYLISH SETTING S O C I ET Y

1 8 54

DINING REVIEW // NIZ PROSKOCIL PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK OCTOBER

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2019

The cantaloupe soup includes cantaloupe served three ways on the plateâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;compressed, as sorbet, and as a relish.

The dish is seasoned with black pepper and micro basil.

Blue Va

lley Tro ut is s w i t h a e r ve d w i t h t o m creme f raiche s atoes, daikon auce an r d anise adishes, and snap pe hyssop. as

SOCIETY 1854

222 N. 10TH ST. | 531.444.4049 FOOD SERVICE AMBIANCE PRICE OVERALL

$$$ 5 STARS POSSIBLE

// DINING REVIEW //

otel restaurants often get a bad rap. Some people see them as a last resort, a place with high prices and uninspired food. But hotel chains across the country are upping their culinary game and creating onsite, full-service eateries that boast creative menus, modern and inviting surroundings, and talented chefs running the kitchens.

H

On a dinner visit in late August, my dining partner and I were pleasantly surprised by some of the food at Society 1854, the in-house restaurant at the Omaha Marriott Downtown in the Capitol District at 10th Street and Capitol Avenue. Opened in 2017 and named for the year Omaha was founded, Society 1854 offers approachable, regionally inspired fare with fine dining touches and attention to details.

The menu changes seasonally, but maintains several staples. There’s a decisive focus on using what’s fresh and local, says Wil Witters, assistant restaurant manager. The kitchen sources ingredients from area farms and suppliers, including Imperial Wagyu Beef, Truebridge Foods, Plum Creek Farms, TD Niche Pork, and Squeaky Green Organics, among others.

The kitchen sources ingredients from area farms and suppliers, including Imperial Wagyu Beef, Truebridge Foods, Plum Creek Farms, TD Niche Pork, and Squeaky Green Organics, among others.

Steak, chicken, pasta, and seafood are also on the menu. My dining partner liked his Faroe Island salmon entree but thought it was a tad too salty. Served with roasted fennel, radish, and spaetzle, the salmon was flaky and moist, but the dish needed a sauce to tie everything together.

A starter of fried Brussels sprouts—the outer leaves pleasingly charred and the insides crisp-tender—had robust flavors and textural variety thanks to sweet, crunchy bits of cashew praline, and a drizzle of creamy mayo flavored with fish sauce, a southeast Asian condiment.

The concise but varied menu is divided into snacks, shared plates, salads and soups, and main plates. There are vegetarian options as well as comfort food dishes such as fried chicken sandwiches, burgers, and wings.

Hush puppies made with lump crab are enhanced by the addition of pickled ramps and served with Old Bay aioli. Each hot and crispy hush puppy featured a golden brown exterior and pillowy middle, but we didn’t get much crab flavor from the deepfried fritters.

The restaurant’s burger features a hefty patty crafted with domestic Wagyu beef that’s tender and flavorful. Served with French fries and a pickle spear, it’s topped with bacon jam, iceberg lettuce, pickled onion, and melted cheese on a brioche bun. Although I’m not a fan of iceberg, it was crisp and added a crunchy element to the dish, which arrived perfectly cooked to medium as ordered.

Of the items we tried, our favorite was the chilled cantaloupe soup, a seasonal offering that put the sweet, summery melon front and center. Poured tableside for an elegant presentation, the colorful soup featured compressed cantaloupe, sorbet, fresh basil, and just a hint of black pepper. Light, refreshing, and not too sweet, the luscious soup was a wonderful balance of fruity, tangy, and herbal flavors.

OCTOBER

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2019

The well-edited beverage list features an array of fine wines, local brews, and craft cocktails prepared by the adjacent bar, Burdock + Bitters. The restaurant’s culinary team includes chef de cuisine John Engler, whose fine dining background includes the Grey Plume, and sous chef Chris Furse. Despite some awkward service and mistimed food, our server was friendly and helpful with recommendations.

Society 1854 not only draws hotel guests but nonguests, as well. “We’re very quickly building up local followers,” Witters says. The restaurant’s proximity to several entertainment venues, including the CHI Health Center and Holland Performing Arts Center, makes it a popular spot for dinner and drinks before or after a show.

Visitors can also enjoy private dinners, tasting menus for groups, wine pairings, special holiday menus, and more.

Guests staying at the Omaha Marriott Downtown can choose from dozens of delicious dining options within easy walking distance, including the one right downstairs from their hotel room.

Visit society1854.com for more information.

from left: Samantha Weideman and Pumulo Kasaji

DINING FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

DI N I NG OU T

W H I L E D I V I NG I N A COLLEGIATE PERSPECTIVE ON WHERE TO EAT IN OMAHA

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OCTOBER 2019

Whether starting as a freshman or getting ready for senior year, heading to college is all about routine—which classes are needed, where they’re located, and how to get there. Once the hectic pace of settling in settles down, there’s still one all-important question that needs answered: where to eat?

Omaha Magazine asked three of its seasoned, former interns where they and their classmates like to frequent and why. Each writer represents their respective institutions and takes both cost and location into account, though taste and variety still seem to hold sway over all else.

COLLEGE OF ST. MARY

BY PUMULO KASAJI

As (often broke) college students, it can be difficult to find affordable places to eat with friends that will please all. Fortunately, Omaha is a diverse area that caters to many palates. Between classes, jobs, extracurricular activities, and spatial concerns, it’s not often easy to cook a whole meal. But with the College of Saint Mary campus located near 72nd Street and West Center Road, it’s easy to find places to hang out, grab some food, and have a good time.

Place: Mai Thai Price: $10-$20 Distance: 0.4 miles Favorite Item: Mango Beef Fried Rice One of the benefits of being in this area is having Aksarben Village close to campus. Finding an eating establishment that’s within walking distance isn’t difficult, and Mai Thai is the place to go when students want to try something new (and relatively healthy) without breaking the bank. They have everything from fried rice, to pad thai, to pho, though they are known for their signature Chicken Mango dish.

Place: Wing Stop Price: $8-$15 Distance: 0.5 miles Favorite Item: Traditional Lemon Pepper wings with a side of corn Everyone knows wings aren’t just for game days, and Wing Stop makes it easy to get your favorites to go. With a variety of flavors and several decadent sides to choose from, Wing Stop is a go-to destination for a late-night food session. The wait time for an order is usually 20-30 minutes, so it’s a good idea to call ahead when ordering takeout.

Place: Ponzu Sushi Price: $6-$10/roll, entrees up to $22 Distance: 0.3 miles Favorite Item: Maui Wowie/Loco Coco Ponzu Sushi is the perfect place for a night out with friends or a date with a significant other. Its location makes it a good spot to hit up before or after a movie at Aksarben Cinema. Though Ponzu is known for its sushi, their menu features much more. Items include traditional sushi rolls, sandwiches, salads, a variety of entrees, and desserts. Ponzu is a reasonably priced restaurant for college students on a budget looking for fine dining. Bonus: they have a regular happy hour Sunday through Saturday and a reverse happy hour on Friday and Saturday nights.

Place: The Churro Truck Price: $9 for 4 tacos Distance: call 402.213.1522 for location Favorite Item: Carne Asada tacos This place is a little unconventional, as it is a food truck rather than a brick-and-mortar store. While they don’t have a permanent location (yet—fingers crossed!), this truck can be found at most major events around town. One can find the daily location of the truck with a phone call. The Churro Truck sells not only churros, but tacos, horchata, elotes, and other authentic Mexican food. This might sound dramatic, but these are the best tacos I have ever eaten (and I’m from California). A hunt for these tacos is definitely worth it!

OCTOBER 2019

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// DINING FEATURE //

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

BY KATE SMITH

For Creighton students who often spend every day of their first two years eating from the campus cafeteria, excursions to local restaurants are a welcome change. Student favorites Salween Thai, California Tacos & More, and Amsterdam Falafel offer different options for alwayshungry students without putting much strain on their pockets.

And they have one other thing in common: a meal students can’t find in the dining hall.

Place: Salween Thai Price: $10-$12 Distance: 2.5 miles Favorite dish: Pad Thai At Creighton, a freshman’s first visit to the Salween Thai on Northwest Radial Highway is a rite of passage. With cozy booths, low lighting, and quick service, it’s the perfect place for a weeknight study break or a weekend excursion from campus. On any given night, there will likely be as many as five tables of Creighton students grabbing a bite. Their menu offers a wide range of dishes that are tailored to order, with a chili spice level ranging from one to 10. Start low until you have a good gauge of their spice levels. Crowd favorites include Pad Thai, Drunken Noodle, Fried Woon Sen, Broccoli Beef, and Red Curry.

Place: California Taco Distance: 1.5 miles Price: $6-$10 Favorite dish: Cali Taco Named for the street shared by this restaurant and Creighton University, California Tacos & More serves the most filling taco you will find for $7. Made with a deep-fried shell and packed full with beef, chicken, fish, or bean and cheese, and topped with lettuce, cheese, and add-ins from the condiment bar, the “Cali Taco” is what keeps students coming back. (And what got it noticed by the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.) Students who dine in can sit in a lively, open space filled with Southwestern sculptures, signs, and wall hangings. You can also get your Cali Taco to go—it will be just as good by the time you make it home.

Place: Amsterdam Falafel Distance: 3 miles Price: $6.25-$7.50 Favorite dish: Falafel plate with curry fries ($8.25) With a menu based on the concept of a popular European street food, Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob in Dundee is a small restaurant with big flavors. Take your pick of falafel or kebab (chicken or beef and lamb)—and try out their sauces—on a pita, salad, or plate with hummus. A side of curry fries completes the meal, and is served with ketchup, mayonnaise, and a mini fork to keep your hands clean. Students are attracted to Amsterdam’s homey charm, fresh ingredients, and vegetarian or vegan options for a low price (and eCreamery is right next door).

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OCTOBER 2019

UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA

BY SAMANTHA WEIDEMAN University of Nebraska at Omaha’s students are diverse, so it’s no surprise that their taste in food is as well. One thing the Mavericks have in common, however, is that they prefer it classy and cheap. The spots on this list—Coneflower Creamery, M’s Pub, Ika Ramen and Izakaya, and Lighthouse Pizza— are affordable and in some of the best locations in the city. It doesn’t hurt that they’re relatively close to campus.

Place: Coneflower Creamery Distance: 1.8 miles Price: $3-$8 Favorite dish: Blackstone Butterbrickle There’s always a line out the door at Coneflower Creamery (yes, even in the snow), and the seating runs out quickly. This shop, located in the heart of the Blackstone District, has a rotating selection of seasonal and funky flavors, in addition to classic vanilla, chocolate, and Blackstone Butterbrickle (a Blacktone must). Coneflower also has vegan ice creams and freshly made gluten-free sugar cones. The record selection—which usually includes classic blues—that plays in the shop is a huge plus. Coneflower also believes in supporting other local businesses—they sell Scriptown Brewery’s sodas in-store—and, in true farm-to-cone fashion, using ingredients from local farms and bakeries in their creations.

Place: M’s Pub Distance: 4.1 miles Price: $10-$18 Favorite dish: Thai Lahvosh M’s Pub looks—and tastes—upscale, yet is still affordable for most. It’s perfect for a delicious meal after spending a day downtown. Many of their entrees are the price of a steakhouse appetizer and filling to boot; M’s Famous Lahvosh, an Armenian cracker with Havarti cheese, is the size of a large dinner plate. The menu includes several variations of the dish, but the Thai Lahvosh ($12.95) is the standout. M’s Pub doesn’t use a fryer, so your side options are a small salad (with their famous poppy seed vinaigrette) or their soup of the day, which never disappoints. If you’re visiting on the weekend, it’s best to call ahead and make a reservation.

Place: Ika Ramen and Izakaya Distance: 2.2 miles Price: $9-$15 Favorite dish: Pork belly steam buns Those who enter Ika Ramen and Izakaya are greeted with hip-hop music, graffiti on the walls, and anime playing behind the bar. Ika’s intimate seating is ideal for a daytime visit, or late at night after a concert (or a long night of studying) with convenient hours of 11-2 a.m. on the weekends. The best time to go is during their reverse happy hour (10 p.m. to 12 a.m. Fridays), for the two-for-$4 pork belly steam buns and $2 off ramen. Bonus: If you’re trying to impress your friends or a date after dinner, Kaitei, the speakeasy downstairs, is the perfect spot to do so.

Place: Lighthouse Pizza Distance: 1.6 miles Price: $5-$10 Favorite dish: Ed & Sal Lighthouse Pizza, located in the same strip center as PepperJax Grill off Pacific Street, hosts a menu of 9-inch pizza slices (or whole pizzas, if you’re into that sort of thing), all with the option of unique toppings and a side of Lighthouse Sauce. If the pizza doesn’t fill you up, Lighthouse offers side salads, garlic bread, and fries. The Ed & Sal slice ($6.35), topped with bacon and parmesan fries and drizzled with their signature sauce, is perfect for leftovers. The best part? If you’re short on time between classes, they also have a drive-thru.

This is by no means a complete list of all the places college students frequent. However, it does offer a glimpse into Omaha’s food scene and is proof that they know what’s good.

OCTOBER 2019

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aLL IS THE PERFECT SEASON

for Jenny Nguyen and her husband, Rick Wheatley. They stand or sit quietly in their camouflage outfits, weapons at the ready. At the end of the day, they might come home with a pheasant, a deer, or even a turtle. The pheasant won’t necessarily have the most brilliant feathers, the deer won’t have the biggest rack, and the turtle…well, it’s a turtle. And for Nguyen and Wheatley, that’s OK.

The couple are the authors of the book Hunting for Food: Guide to Harvesting, Field Dressing and Cooking Wild Game.

They are also former Californians… and Nebraska sure isn’t Anaheim.

The couple met at a horse stable in Anaheim in 2009. They had a passion for the outdoors, and fell in love through their shared love of horses. Wheatley knew a place where there was more land than people.

“I was always talking about Nebraska,” says Wheatley, whose grandparents lived in Nebraska when he was a child. “I told Jenny about hunting and fishing. She mentioned one time that she didn’t know people did that.”

Two years later, Wheatley gave Nguyen the gift every girls wants—a shotgun.

They returned to Nebraska that year for Wheatley’s annual tradition of camping and hunting with his cousins during opening weekend of rifle season. Unbeknownst to Nguyen, it would be a life-changing trip.

Wheatley and his cousins invited their wives to join the pre-hunting campout—a first for the family. While the rest of the ladies left for the comfort of their own beds, Nguyen stayed with the guys and joined the hunt the next day.

She killed a deer that day and learned how her nightly meal comes to be.

“People today don’t realize where their food comes from,” Wheatley says. “That was a big thing for her.”

Nguyen, whose outdoor adventures include climbing to the top of Mount Whitney at age 16 and kayaking 62 miles in the Kenai Fjords, also has a passion for cooking, writing, and photography. She cooked venison steaks with balsamic-boysenberry sauce, then created a blog and posted the recipe, including wine suggestions, along with appealing photography.

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2019

The blog acquired some followers, and she began posting more wild food recipes: mushrooms stuffed with venison and onions caramelized in wine; deer, mushroom, and barley soup; and others. They returned to California, and continued writing about sandwiches made with California wild snow geese and white bass steamed in grape leaves. They gained 100 hits on the blog, and over time, 1,000 hits.

“It slowly grew, and grew, and grew,” Nguyen says. “It’s been exciting to see how it grows, and how multimedia can affect you so much.”

The couple continued to hunt, and cook, creating recipes such as Cast Iron Bison-Leek Pie with orange zest, cinnamon, and cauliflower; or Malaysian Spiced Fish Grilled in Banana Leaves.

“It was the food aspect,” Nguyen says of her foray into hunting for her own dinner. “I don’t get a kick out of killing something. The whole process of learning how food gets to your table intrigues me.”

SECTION // NAMES

Nguyen graduated with a degree in American literature and culture from UCLA in 2012, a time when Nebraska Game and Parks happened to have an opening for a Northeast Regional Public Information Officer, whose duties included writing and photographing for Nebraskaland Magazine. She applied, but didn’t think she would be considered.

“I was familiar with the magazine, because Rick had been a subscriber for so long,” Nguyen says. “I remember before I even applied for the job thinking ‘it would be awesome to work for this magazine.’”

Not only was she considered, she got the job, and the couple moved to the Midwest in January 2013.

Nguyen said goodbye to everything she knew to begin a life in an area of the country she had fallen in love with. Her new interest as a sportsman was quickly becoming a passion. On the blog, she wrote of their first day on the road: “We entered the Kaibab National Forest, where Rick saw a dead cow elk on the side of the road. What a terrible waste of good meat.”

Not as much of a passion was the weather and the lack of city services.

“It was cold,” Nguyen remembers. “The transition was difficult, it [Norfolk] was a tiny city.”

Wheatley was pleased to be in his family’s home state, where he could spend days on end in open spaces if he wanted. They continued hunting and fishing year round. // 102 //

OCTOBER 2019

“No species has gone extinct because of hunting here in North America,” Wheatley says. “A lot of people don’t realize that hunting is conservation. All the fees for hunters go back to conservation funds.”

They continued to hunt, blog, and write, with articles appearing in Cooking Wild Magazine and on the website Wide Open Spaces, among others. The blog surpassed 50,000 hits and gained sponsorships. And Nguyen continued to learn about the outdoors as she worked for Game and Parks for the next two years.

Then, the couple received an email from Living Ready publishing, a part of F+W Media, Inc.

The book also offered the couple chances to hunt for new game, such as snapping turtles. Hunting for Food does offer recipes such as Thai-Style Turtle and Potato Curry, but more importantly, it offers information on the snapping turtle itself— its biology, habitat, impact on fish and waterfowl populations, and other advice.

“We enjoyed doing it,” Wheatley says.

“This gave us a chance to hunt some other animals we hadn’t gotten before.”

The book has given the couple new opportunities. They also forage, and they have expanded their knowledge of wild edibles. They look for wild morels and berries and have grown to like unique plants such as nettles.

“It was kind of a shock,” Nguyen says. “We both secretly thought about writing a book, but we thought it would be years down the line.”

“You wouldn’t think that something as slimy or spiky as nettles would taste good,” Nguyen says.

The publisher had been following the couple’s blog and thought a book of their recipes would be a great addition to the company’s other books, which include The Mountain Man Cookbook and The Sporting Chef’s Better Venison Cookbook.

As the book was published, the blog grew in popularity, and the couple now boast nearly a million and a half hits on their humble site. They have been doing commissioned work for World Fishing Network and Game & Fish Magazine.

The offer took the couple from hunting for their dinner to hunting for literature.

These days, they live in Omaha. Wheatley works at Menards. Nguyen works for Nebraskaland Magazine as their associate editor and regularly contributes to magazines for Outdoor Sportsman Group. In her spare time, she rides horses with North Hills Hunt Club.

“It was quite a process,” Nguyen says. “We’d never hunted for a deadline before.”

The animals didn’t always stick to the deadline.

“All of a sudden, when we went out to find it, it didn’t come around anymore,” Nguyen continues.

Visit foodforhunters.blogspot.comfor more information, including recipes.

They can also be found on Instagram at @foodforhunters.

- Sponsored Content AMERICAN

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Get a Little Saucy.

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OMAHA’S ORIGINAL STEAKHOUSE

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• Featured on CNN.com Best Meat Cities in America • Serving hand cut steaks, aged on premise and slow roasted prime rib with pride.

402.731.4774 johnnyscafe.com 27th & ‘L’ St., Kennedy Frwy, ‘L’ St. Exit 8 Minutes from Downtown Omaha.

636 N. 114th St. (402-498-8855) 1003 Capitol Ave. (402-763-9974) 10308 S. 23rd St. (402-292-9096) 2102 S. 67th St. (402-933-3533) 180th and Q streets (402-292-9096) 192nd and West Maple St. Highway 75 and Oak Hill Road (402-298-4166) Catch all of the action at six Omaha-area locations. DJ's Dugout features burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, appetizers, and an impressive drink menu along with HD TVs and projectors. Home to Blazin’ Pianos, Omaha’s only dueling piano concept.

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JAMS- $$

7814 Dodge St. (402-399-8300) 17070 Wright Plz, Ste. 100 (402-810-9600) 1101 Harney St. in the OldMarket (402-614-9333) Jams is an Omaha restaurant legacy, an “American Grill” that offers a melting pot of different styles and varieties.

The dishes are made with high-quality ingredients that pair well with award-winning wines or creative cocktails.

—jamseats.com

LE PEEP - $

69th & Pacific (402-933-2776) 177th and Center streets (402-934-9914) 156th Street and W. Dodge Road (402-408-1728) 120th and Blondo streets (402-991-8222) Le Peep puts a wholesome perspective on your favorite neighborhood breakfast and lunch spot. Fresh. Simple.

Elegant. Inviting. We put the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. We focus on providing each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. Open daily 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

—lepeepomaha.com

Best Of Omaha 13 Years Running

WHERE WHERE GOOD GOOD FOOD FOOD AND AND GOOD GOOD SERVICE NEVER GO OUT SERVICE NEVER GO OUT OF OF STYLE. STYLE.

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SECTION // NAMES

Baking high quality products begins with the finest â&#x20AC;&#x153;ingredients, integrated carefully with old world skills passed on from generation to generation. â&#x20AC;?

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LISA'S RADIAL CAFE - $

402-551-2176 817 N. 40th St. American. Cafe. Diner. Vegetarian-friendly. Gluten-free options. This old-school diner serves hearty portions of American comfort classics for breakfast and lunch.

Family-owned and operated. This business is a must if you’re in the area. People rave about our chicken-fried steak, stuffed French toast, coffee, and friendly staff.

Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Stella’s Bar and Grill Thanks to our customers for voting us the “Best Burger in Omaha”

STELLA’S - $

“Serving World Famous Hamburgers since 1936” 106 Galvin Rd • Bellevue, NE • 402-291-6088 • Open Monday-Saturday, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

ELKHORN NOW OPEN! 192nd & Maple

DOWNTOWN - 10th & Capitol MIRACLE HILLS - 114th & Dodge MILLARD - 180th & Q AKSARBEN VILLAGE - 67th & Center BELLEVUE - 23rd & Cornhusker PLATTSMOUTH - Hwy 75 & Oak Hill

402-291-6088 106 S. Galvin Road, Bellevue Since 1936, we’ve been making our world-famous Stella’s hamburgers the same way. The family secrets have been handed down to each owner, ensuring that your burger is the same as the one you fell in love with the first time you tried Stella’s. And if it’s your first time, we know you’ll be back! Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., closed Sunday.

—stellasbarandgrill.com

SMITTY GARAGE - $

402-614-4949 7610 Dodge St. Tasty burgers, ice-cold beer, fresh-cut fries, scrumptious tacos, mouth-watering appetizers and more. What else could you want? Besides the delicious food, each location also offers a full bar with an extensive craft beer list and a one-of-a-kind environment with arcade games and plenty of TV’s.

Download our new rewards app, Smitty’s Garage, in the app store to start earning free grub!

—eatatthegarage.com

ICE CREAM

TED AND WALLY’S - $

402-341-5827 1120 Jackson St. Come experience the true taste of homemade ice cream in the Old Market. Since 1986, we’ve created gourmet ice cream flavors in small batches using rock salt and ice. We offer your favorites, plus unique flavors like margarita, green tea, Guinness, and French toast. Special orders available.

—tedandwallys.com

ITALIAN

LA CASA PIZZARIA - $$

402-556-6464 45th and Leavenworth streets La Casa Pizzaria has been serving Omaha its legendary Neapolitan-style pizza and pasta for 60 years. We offer dine-in, carry-out, party facilities, catering, and now pizza shipments to the 48 contiguous states. Open Tuesday-Saturday at 11 a.m. and Sunday at 4:30 p.m.

—lacasapizzaria.net

DJSDUGOUT.COM

THANK YOU FOR VOTING OUR PASTA

NUMBER #1

LOMBARDO'S BISTRO & BAR - $$

Rockbrook Village (108th & Center) 402.391.2585 www.pastaamore.com We can accommodate parties of 30 or more, by reservation only Catering Available

DINNER HOURS // Mon-Thur: 4:30-9PM, Fri & Sat: 4:30-10PM

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Like Us on Facebook

402-884-9800 13110 Birch Drive We are a locally owned and operated neighborhood eatery with an Italian flare. We offer a full, made-from-scratch menu along with extensive wine, craft cocktail, and craft beer lists. Casual is the best way to describe the warm and friendly service you will come to enjoy when choosing us. We offer dine-in, carry-out, catering, a daily happy hour (3-6:30 p.m. and all-day Sundays), live music Tuesdays and Sundays, and half-price bottles of wine on Wine Down Wednesdays.

—lombardosomaha.com OCTOBER 2019

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LO SOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO - $$

402-345-5656 3001 S. 32nd Ave. The restaurant is located in a residential neighborhood, surrounded by charming homes. Everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes and basil, a bowl of oven-roasted garlic cloves, specially seasoned olive oil, and (at night) a jug of Chianti! The menu includes a large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, and even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, and eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offerings include panini, salads, and one of the best pizzas in town. Patio seating, full bar, and a great wine list complete the atmosphere. No reservations, except for private rooms.

—losolemio.com

E U R O P E A N A M E R I C A N C U I S I N E

PASTA AMORE - $$

One of Omaha’s Best Happy Hours!

Mon. – Fri. 3—6 PM Fri. & Sat. After 9 PM julios.com/cateringmenu 123rd & Center | 402-330-2110

402-391-2585 11027 Prairie Brook Road Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine, and capellini. Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as linguini amore and calamari steak, penne Florentine, gnocchi, spaghetti puttanesca, and osso buco. Filet mignon is also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannoli.

Lunch is 11 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner starts at 4:30 p.m.

Reservations recommended.

—pastaamore.com

7 21 N . 13 2 N D S T R E E T O M A H A , N E 6 815 4 4 0 2 . 8 8 4 . 6 8 7 8 B R U S H I O M A H A . C O M

VOTED #1 16 YEARS Walking Distance to CHI Health Center Omaha & TD Ameritrade Park CLEAR BAG POLICY IS IN EFFECT

402.346.9116 | 501 N. 13th Street | theMattOmaha.com /the old mattress factory omaha

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IN A ROW OMAHA – 158TH & MAPLE (402) 557-6130 BELLEVUE – FT. CROOK RD & 370 (402) 733-8754

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OCTOBER 2019

OMAHA – 110TH & MAPLE (402) 496-1101 PAPILLION – 84TH & TARA PLZ (402) 593-0983

OMAHA – 156TH & Q (402) 763-2555 COUNCIL BLUFFS – LAKE MANAWA EXIT (712) 256-2762

PITCH - $$

402-590-2625 5021 Underwood Ave. An OpenTable's Diners' Choice for 2014 HotSpot Restaurant in America. Keeping up with the traditional way the first pizzas in Italy were made, our pizzas are cooked in a coal-fired oven. The menu also features seafood, hand-cut steak, housemade pastas, and burgers full of flavor. Our goal is to provide you with local, housemade, and imported ingredients. We offer a happy hour menu through the week. Our bar provides an array of in-house concoctions as well as your traditional libations. Our wine selection is well-thought-out and most impressive. You will enjoy Pitch. Monday 3 p.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 3-10 p.m.

—pitchpizzeria.com

ICE CREAM ● EST 1986 ●

Home -Made in Omaha

SPEZIA - $$$

402-391-2950 3125 S. 72nd St. Choose Spezia for lunch or dinner, where you'll find a casual elegance that's perfect for business guests, get-togethers, or any special occasion. Exceptional food, wine, and service, with a delectable menu: fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks, innovative pasta, risotto, gnocchi, cioppino, lamb, entrée salads, Mediterranean chicken, flatbreads, and fresh salmon daily. Enjoy a full bar, Italian and California wines, Anniversary/Lovers' Booth (call to reserve), private dining rooms, and woodfired grill. Open Monday-Sunday. Cocktail hour 4-6 p.m., when all cocktails, glasses of wine, and beers are half price. Evening reservations recommended.

—speziarestaurant.com

MEXICAN

FERNANDO’S - $

7555 Pacific St. (402-339-8006) 380 N. 114th St. (402-330-5707) Featuring Sonoran-style cooking made fresh daily.

Catering and party rooms also available. MondayThursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 4-9 p.m.

—fernandosomaha.com

JULIO’S - $

Thanks for Voting Us # BREAKFAST YEARS in a Row!

11

1

NOW OPEN 69th & Pacific • 933-2776 177th & Center • 934-9914 156th & Dodge • 408-1728 120th & Blondo • 991-8222 Drive-Thru Open (Center St. Only) | Open Daily 6:30am-2:00pm Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day!

LEPEEP.COM

402-330-2110 2820 S. 123rd Court Locally owned since 1977, Julio’s prides themselves on serving the finest Tex-Mex cuisine and offering top-notch customer service. Our loyal customers are the reason we have been around for nearly 40 years. We have an extensive menu that has both classic and innovative dishes—giving everyone the opportunity to find something they love. Salivating for Southwestern fare? We have tacos, tostadas, a dozen different enchiladas, and classic fajitas. And, of course, nachos!

—julios.com

LA MESA - $$

158th Street and W. Maple Road (402-557-6130) 156th and Q streets (402-763-2555) 110th St. and W. Maple Road (402-496-1101) Fort Crook Road and Hwy 370, Bellevue (402-733-8754) 84th Street and Tara Plaza, Papillion (402-593-0983) Lake Manawa Exit, Council Bluffs (712-256-2762) Enjoy awesome enchiladas, fabulous fajitas, seafood specialties, mouth-watering margaritas, and more

at La Mesa. Come see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s No. 1 Mexican restaurant 16 years in a row.

Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

—lamesaomaha.com

MARGARITA'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT - $

402-393-7515 4915 S. 72nd St. Margarita's is a business with more than seven years in the food world. We offer authentic Mexican food where you can enjoy a nice moment with your family.

—margaritasmenu.com

ROMEO'S MEXICAN FOOD AND PIZZA - $

90th and Blondo streets (402-391-8870) 146th Street and W. Center Road (402-330-4160) 96th and L streets (402-331-5656) Galvin and Avery roads, Bellevue (402-292-2028) 29th and Farnam streets (402-346-1110) Romeo's is your friendly, family Mexican food and pizza restaurant.We take real pride in serving our guests generous portions of the freshest, most flavorful dishes made with the finest ingredients available.

Zesty seasonings and the freshest ingredients combine to ensure the ultimate in flavor. Our savory taco meat is prepared every morning at each location. Make sure to try our chimichangas; they're the best in town.

—romeosomaha.com

SPECIAL DINING

BÄRCHEN BEER GARDEN - $

402-502-9902 6209 Maple St. Located in Benson, Bärchen is a modern American beer garden and beer hall influenced by German communal drinking culture. Indoor seating for approximately 125 people and outdoor seating in our beer garden for approximately 125-150 people. The laid-back atmosphere pairs well with our 30 rotating taps, international beer list, unique sausage & sandwich menu, and locally made pretzels. We are family and dog friendly—all are welcome. Hours: Tues-Thurs 3 p.m.-11 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information or to host an event, please email gm@barchenbeer.com —barchenbeer.com

BRUSHI BISTRO+BAR - $$

402-884-6878 721 N. 132nd St. Swiss-trained chef Paul Braunschweiler combines the best of Europe’s epicurean delights with an American flair. Brushi’s casual and open atmosphere combine to create a true bistro experience. Fresh ingredients highlight the menu. Happy Hours and nightly specials. Private dining available. Patio seating weather permitting.

—brushiomaha.com

CRESCENT MOON ALE HOUSE - $

402-345-1708 3578 Farnam St. Founded in 1996, we’ve grown into Beer Corner USA with the additions of The Huber Haus German Beer Hall, Max and Joe’s Belgian Beer Tavern, and Beertopia—Omaha’s Ultimate Beer Store. With more than 60 beers on tap and Omaha’s best Reuben sandwich, we are a Midtown beerlover’s destination. Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Kitchen hours: Monday-Wednesday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight. Closed Sunday.

—beercornerusa.com OCTOBER 2019

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FIRST WATCH - $

1222 S. 71st St. (402-932-5691) 2855 S. 168th St. (402-330-3444) 3605 N. 147th St. (402-965-3444) 304 Olson Drive., Papillion (402-965-3444) 2015 Pratt Ave., Bellevue (402-991-3448) We begin each morning at the crack of dawn, slicing fresh fruits and vegetables, baking muffins, and whipping up our French toast batter from scratch. Everything is made toorder here at First Watch. We use only the finest ingredients possible for the freshest taste around.

—firstwatch.com

GREEK ISLANDS - $

402-346-1528 3821 Center St. Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices.

We are well-known for our gyro sandwiches and salads. We cater and can accommodate a party for 65 guests. Carryout and delivery available. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

—greekislandsomaha.com

WALKING DISTANCE

TO CHI HEALTH CENTER OMAHA & TD AMERITRADE PARK YOUR PRE-GAME HE AD QUARTE RS FOR LUNCH, DINNE R OR YOUR NE XT EVE NT!

J.COCO - $$$

402-884-2626 5203 Leavenworth St. The building that once housed a beloved neighborhood grocery has a new future. Built as a grocery back in 1925, it is now home to J. Coco. Our seasonal menus, rooted in tradition, showcase our natural ingredients. Local, organic, and sustainable when available. We feature craft bartending, housemade desserts, and pastas. We celebrate the traditional with a modern twist. Lunch: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dinner: Monday-Saturday 5 p.m.-close.

—jcocoomaha.com

501 N. 13TH ST • 402.346.9116 • THEMATTOMAHA.COM / theoldmattresfactoryomaha

@Matt_factory

KOREA GARDEN AUTHENTIC ASIAN CUISINE AND SUSHI - $$

402-505-4089 5352 S. 72nd St. Lunch specials served Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., featuring signature Korean dishes like bulgogi, doenjang jjigae, and grilled mackerel. Menu includes appetizers, traditional specialties, rice, noodles, soup, and beverages.

—koreangardenomaha.com

STEAKS • CHOPS • SEAFOOD ITALIAN SPECIALTIES 7 private party rooms Seating up to 400 Lots of parking

PARADISE BAKERY - $

17305 Davenport St. (402-934-5757) 120 Regency Parkway (402-991-3000) Paradise Bakery offers freshly prepared baked goods made from scratch every morning with the finest ingredients available. Offering a variety of meals including soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Our associates are extremely proud of the reputation Paradise has earned for providing exceptional service and producing the finest-quality products.

—paradisebakery.com

1620 S. 10th Street

402-345-8313

www.casciossteakhouse.com

Bringing Italy to Omaha Since 1919

Take a Taste of Italy Home Today!

TAJ KABOB AND CURRY - $

402-933-1445/402-238-4317 654 N. 114th St. Taj of Omaha shares its love of traditional Indian cuisine with friends and family in the Omaha area.

The owners invite you to come enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and new menu. Taj offers both lunch and dinner specials, delivery and catering services, and a free party room.

—tajofomaha.com

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Tues-Thurs: 8:30am-8pm Friday: 8:30am-8:30pm Saturday: 7:30am-8pm Sunday: 7:30am-6pm An Omaha favorite for over 100 years (1919-2019)

402.345.3438 621 Pacific St, Omaha NE orsibakery.com

Try Omaha’s Favorite Reuben!

Omaha’s largest selection of craft beers.

3578 Farnam St • 402-345-1708 www.beercornerusa.com

Thank You, Thank You,

Thank You

For Continually Voting For Us!

Serving Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sat 3001 S. 32nd Ave / Omaha, NE 402.345.5656

Best Greek

Family Owned Since 1983 Family Owned Since 1983 Catering ~ Party Room Available CATERING / PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE Homemade, Fresh Food ~ Always HOMEMADE, FRESH FOOD, ALWAYS.

www.romeosOMAHA.com

3821 Center St. 402/346-1528

3821 Center St / 402.346.1528

GreekIslandsOmaha.com GreekIslandsOmaha.com OCTOBER 2019

// 109 //

STEAKHOUSES

CASCIO'S - $$

Seafood - Mexican - Sushi

5101 S 36 th St, Omaha, NE 68107 - 402-213-5723 - Daily Food & Drink Specials

402-345-8313 1620 S. 10th St. Cascio's is Omaha's No. 1 steakhouse. We have been serving Omaha for 69 years. We feature steaks, chops, seafood, and Italian specialties. We have seven private party rooms, seating for up to 400 people, and plenty of parking.

—casciossteakhouse.com

THE DROVER RESTAURANT & LOUNGE - $$$

402-391-7440 2121 S. 73rd St. Famous for the original Whiskey Steak. Truly a one-of-a-kind Midwestern experience. Excellent food, wine, service, and value. Rare...and very well done. Lunch Monday­- Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., cocktail hour 3-6 p.m., dinner nightly 5 p.m.

—droverrestaurant.com

FLEMING'S PRIME STEAKHOUSE - $$$$

402-393-0811 140 Regency Parkway At Fleming’s, a steak is never just a steak. It’s the culmination of a meticulous process of selection, preparation, and service that ensures it reaches your table at its very best. We obsess over every detail so that you’ll savor every bite.

This is why we offer the finest USDA Prime beef, available both wet- and dry-aged and broiled at 1,600 degrees or iron-crusted. You can elevate your selection even more with our indulgent steak companions, including truffle-poached lobster, diablo shrimp, and lump crabmeat. Each dish is crafted from scratch by our culinary team and served by our skillful staff. Reservations recommended.

—flemingssteakhouse.com

JOHNNY'S CAFÉ - $$$

Food Features • Restaurant Reviews Chef Profiles • Dining Guides • In Every Issue

402-731-4774 4702 S. 27th St. Years of quality dining and hospitality make Johnny's Café a restaurant to remember. We serve only the finest beef the Midwest has to offer. Aged steaks and prime rib are the specialties, with homemade bread and pies to complete a meal. An excellent wine list adds to the enjoyment at one of Omaha's original restaurants. Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

—johnnyscafe.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

// 110 //

OCTOBER 2019

FOR LOCAL EVENTS.

// EXPLORE CALNENDAR //

STAY & PLAY IN SARPY COUNTY! Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, Gretna. Open daily through October.

Sarpy County awaits with a wonderful mix of fun things to see and do. Check out Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, Scary Acres or Haunted Hollow for some great fall fun you won’t find anywhere else. Sample the offerings at one of our many local breweries, distilleries and winery. And with over 2,300 affordable rooms, free parking and no minimum night requirements, Sarpy County is the perfect place to stay during football season. Kick off your adventure today at GoSarpy.com!

BELLEVUE • GRETNA • LA VISTA • PAPILLION • SPRINGFIELD • OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE • OMAHA METRO Tree Rush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest

Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Farm, Bellevue

Embassy Suites, La Vista

Holy Family Shrine, near Gretna

Scary Acres

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OLD TIME AUTUMN Oct. 13-14 in

NEBRASK A

44TH NATIONAL OLD TIME MUSIC FESTIVAL

Brownville. This weekend celebration, taking place where it all began for Nebraska, focuses on historic sights and sounds, with activities such as carriage rides and a river cruise. 402.825.6001.

—brownvillehistoricalsociety.org

Oct. 3-6 at Christiansen Field House, Fremont. Three stages, four days, and endless entertainers. Goers can expect to see over 250 country performers from around the world. There is plenty of classic festival food to choose from while enjoying various genres of country music from OCT. bluegrass to mountain. 712-762-4363.

—music-savers.com

HARVEST MOON FALL FESTIVAL Oct.

12 in Hemingford. Featuring a goat roping contest, lip sync battle, haunted maze, home-brewed beer contest. and a 5K run/walk, this festival offers something for everyone. 308.487.3562.

—hemingfordharvestmoonfallfestival.com

4-6

GREAT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Oct. 4-6

along Main Street, Crete. There is fun for the entire family at this event. A zip-line down Main Street, Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest, and the Great Pumpkin Competition are a few of this year’s listed activities. 402.826.2136.

—cretepumpkinfest.com

HARVEST FAIR AND MARKET Oct. 5 at The Pumpkin Patch at BE Farm, Bayard.

Featuring the “Paint and Cider” event with artist Kelly Bhenke, this event also offers pumpkin picking, arts and crafts vendors, and food trucks. 308.641.5336.

—bepumpkinpatch.com

GUNS 'N' ROSES Oct. 15 at Pinnacle Bank

Arena, Lincoln. The American hard rock band will be stopping in Lincoln during their “Not In This Lifetime” tour. 402.904.4444.

—gunsnroses.com

NEBRASKA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL Oct.

18-19 at Lincoln County Fairgrounds, North Platte. Music, dancing, and entertainment will be plentiful, and this year’s theme is “Nebraska Country Stars.” 308.390.1804.

—necmf.net

BERTRAND FALL CRAFT SHOW

PRAIRIE LIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL Oct.

CITIZENS’ CLIM ATE LOBBY ENVIRONMENTAL FILM PART Y Oct.

11-13 at Grand Theatre in Grand Island.

Held at the historic Grand Theatre, films made by Nebraskans are promoted and showcased during this weekend in an attempt to encourage growth and support for local films and filmmakers. 308.381.2667.

—prairielightsfilmfest.com

Children’s Zoo. Nearly 40 trick-or-treat booths giving out candy, coupons, and more can be found at Lincoln’s largest trick-ortreat event. All proceeds directly support the zoo and care for animals. 402.475.6741.

—lincolnzoo.org

SUPERHERO SPOOKTACULAR Oct. 26 at

Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum, Ashland. Arrive in costume and trick or treat around various stations, take photos with superheroes, and expect to see games and prizes throughout the event. New in 2019 is four superherothemed escape rooms. 402 .94 4 .3100.

—sacmuseum.org

IOWA

OKTOBERFEST Oct. 4-6 at Amana Festhalle Barn, Amana. Beginning with the official keg-tapping ceremony, this festival featuring special food, events, and music—all with a German flare—has been celebrated in the Amana Colonies since 1965. 319.622.7622.

—amanacolonies.com

OCT.

ELYRIA PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Oct. 6, Elyria.

Enjoy a free slice of pumpkin pie at the 27th annual event, and be sure to check out the pumpkins for sale. There are many activities for children, as well as vendors and a tractor display. 308.728.7875 .

— ordnebraska.com

BOO AT THE ZOO Oct. 26-30 at Lincoln

PUMPKINFEST Oct. 5-6 on Main

Street, Anamosa. Titled the “ Pumpkin Capital of Iowa,” thousands will come to Anamosa for this festival that features giant pumpkins, dozens of food and craft vendors, games for kids, and one of the largest parades in Iowa. 319.462.4879.

—anamosachamber.org

5-6

Oct. 19 at Bertrand Community Building, Bertrand. Arts, crafts, beverages, and pastries are offered at this event featuring crafters and vendors from across Nebraska. 308. 472 .5029.

—holdregechamber.com

22 at Bean Broker Coffeehouse and Pub, Chadron. This climate-solution centered group invites other concerned citizens to watch an environmental film and discuss afterwards. 308. 432. 4401.

—chadron.com

SPOOKY STORIES AND S’MORES Oct. 9 at

Bloomsbury Farm, Atkins. After the sun goes down, Wheezy the Friendly Witch will tell spooky stories while guests enjoy a s’more and a cup of hot chocolate. Until then, attendees can enjoy a hayrack ride, corn palace, fairy tale trail, and other activities. 319.446.7667.

—bloomsburyfarm.com OCTOBER 2019

// 113 //

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SCENIC DRIVE FESTIVAL Oct. 11-13 in

towns in Van Buren County. Thousands will travel to Southeastern Iowa for this three-day event. This festival is home to one of Iowa’s largest flea markets, and has many different opportunities for food and activities. 319.293 .7111.

—villagesofvanburen.com

SPIRIT IN THE GARDENS Oct. 19-20 at

GREATER KANSAS CITY JAPAN FESTIVAL

K ANSAS

MID AMERICA FLEA MARKET Oct. 6 at

Reiman Gardens, Ames. Dressing in costume will allow kids and families to participate in trick-or-treating, storytelling, and a Jack-O-Lantern Walk, with view 650 lit Jack-O-Lanterns. 515 .294 .2710.

—reimangardens.com

Oct. 5 at Johnson County Community College, Overland Park. With music, remarks by distinguished guests, the ritual of Kagamiwari, and a toast to open the 2019 Festival, this day brings multiple ethnic groups together to learn about Japanese culture.

—kcjapanfestival.org

HALLOWEENAPALOOZA Oct. 11-12 in

Ottumwa. With special guests Alex Vincent and Chucky, this festival held at the historic and haunted Hotel Ottumwa was created by horror filmmakers for horror fans. The weekend will consist of independent horror films, costume contests, and a zombie walk. 641.799.9770.

—halloweenpalooza.wixsite.com/home

MADISON COUNTY COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL Oct. 12-13, Winterset. Priding

itself on its uniqueness, this festival encourages visitors to participate in oldtime entertainments such as square dancing and marble shooting. The festival also has other activities, including a farmers market, parade, hot air balloon rides, and the annual horseshoe tournament. 515.462.1185.

—madisoncounty.com

OCT.

OSBORNE HERITAGE DAYS

Oct. 12-13 in Osborne. Heritage Days began in 1975 and has become one of Northeast Iowa’s most popular fall festivals.

Thousands of visitors can expect to see demonstrations such as basketry, candle making, and quilting; contests including chili cooking and pumpkin decorating; and foods like caramel apples, pie, and buffalo stew. 563 . 245 .1516.

—claytoncountyconservation.org

12-13

AMES ARTISTS’ STUDIO TOUR Oct. 12-13

at various art studios, Ames. Children and adults are invited to a “behind the scenes” look at the life of an artist. These self-guided tours through participating studios in the area will allow viewers to learn more about artistry. 515.259.0494.

—amesart.org

ARB'BOO' WEEN

Oct. 19 at Iowa Arboretum, Ames. Decorated pumpkins, hayrides, and a hay maze are some of the activities families can expect to see at this costume-friendly event. 515.795.3216.

—iowaarboretum.org

// 114 //

OCTOBER 2019

ICT BLOKTOBERFEST Oct. 4-5 at WaterWalk,

Wichita. Combining Oktoberfest with a Wichita Block Party, plenty of food and brews will be available at this local, kidand-dog-friendly event. 316. 285 .9227.

—ictbloktoberfest.com

WOOFSTOCK 2019 Oct. 5 at Sedgwick County Park, Wichita. “Falls Fluffiest Festival” has become one of the largest events of its kind in the midwest. This community-building event gives attendees the chance to create a difference for homeless pets while including fun activities such as doggy musical chairs. 316.524.9196.

—support.kshumane.org

Kansas State Fairgrounds, Hutchinson.

A $1 admission fee will allow shoppers to v iew and purchase a w ide var iet y of merchandise, i nc lud i ng a nt iq u e s a nd pr i m itives . 62 0 . 6 63 . 5 62 6 .

OCT. —m id a mer ica f lea m a rket s . com

11-13

COL UMBU S DAY FE S T I VA L AND HOT AIR BA LLOON REGAT TA

Oct. 11-13 at various locations in Columbus. One of the fastest-growing festivals in southeast K ansas , the main attraction is hot air balloons, but the event also includes ar t exhibits, a car show, and more. 620. 429 .1492 .

—columbusdayballoons.com

HOME TO THE largest public

collection of quilts in the world, it only makes sense that Lincoln’s International Quilt Museum attracts visitors from all over the globe! Located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus, the International Quilt Museum hosts exhibits yearround. Come and celebrate the cultural and artistic collections! www.lincoln.org/omahamag

// EXPLORE CALENDAR //

BOTANICAL BREWFEST Oct. 12 at Botanical

Brewfest Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Overland Park.

Adults can taste over 90 craft beers from around 40 breweries, enjoy food, music, dancing, and more. All funds raised benefit the Arboretum. 913 .322 .6467.

—artsandrec-op.org

PIONEER HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct. 18-20

at Bourbon County Fairgrounds, Fort Scott. This weekend features one of the largest flea markets in the region and has educational and historic activities for all ages. Rock crushing and corn shucking demonstrations are two of many events happening at the festival. 620.670.2750.

OCT. —visitfortscott.com

18-20

NASCAR PL AYOFF RACES

Oct. 19-20 at Kansas Speedway, Kansas City. The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Elimination race is an action-packed weekend with excitement for everyone. 866.460.7223.

—kansasspeedway.com

OCTOBER 2019

// 115 //

// EXPLORE CALENDAR //

MAPLE LEAF FESTIVAL Oct. 19-20 at

Lumberyard Arts Center, Baldwin. This traditional weekend has over 300 craft exhibits, quilt shows and displays, performing arts, music, food, and more. The festival is the biggest fall family event in the area, and provides the opportunity for local nonprofit organizations to raise money. 785.594.7564.

—mapleleaffestival.com

MISSOURI

GREAT NORTH AMERICAN Oktoberfest Oct. 4-6

at location TBA, St. Louis. Featuring awardwinning brewers of German-style beer, friends and family come together to celebrate German food and culture. The festival also includes games and rides for all ages. 314.622.4550.

—americanoktoberfest.com

REPUBLIC PUMPKIN DAZE Oct. 6 in

Republic. Since 1992 , many gather to celebrate pumpkin season with activ ities and vendors selling ar ts and craf ts . 417.732 . 6210.

OCT. —republicpumpkindaze.com

K ANSAS CITY GRILLED CHEESE FESTIVAL Oct. 5 at Ilus W. Davis Park,

OCTOBER 2019

MISSOURI DAY FESTIVAL Oct. 18-21 at

Weston. Come to Missouri’s “Best Small Town” for one of Missouri’s best fall festivals.

This weekend offers a downtown parade, apple dumplings and apple pie, arts and crafts booths, and much more. 816.640.2909.

—westonmo.com

Trenton High School, Trenton. The largest festival of the year in Trenton, around 10,000 people are drawn to the area for this familyfriendly event. Vendors and many events, such as a marching band competition, make for an exciting weekend. 600.359.4606.

—trentonmochamber.com

SUMMIT ART FESTIVAL Oct. 11-13 at Downtown Lee’s Summit, Missouri. With over 100 artists from around the countr y, art, music, and food is plentiful at this 12th annual festival. 800.600.5932.

— summitartfest.org

OCT.

SPOOKY SATURDAY Oct. 26 at St.

Louis Zoo, St. Louis. Parents and kids are invited for a day of educational activities throughout the zoo, with Halloween themes and surprises along the way. Costumed characters hope to see attendees in their costumes. 314.781.0900.

—stlzoo.org

26

GAMING ARTS MEDIA EXPO Oct. 11-13 at Springfield Expo, Springfield. Featuring artists, game masters, and a costume contest, this three-day event includes many activities for gamers. 417.616.3101.

—springfieldgame.com

APPLE BUTTER MAKIN’ DAYS Oct. 11-13

on the courthouse square, Mount Vernon. Apple butter is cooked using century-old methods, and games and entertainment are available for all ages. This festival is one of Missouri’s most popular. 417.466.7654.

—mtvchamber.com

11-13

Kansas City. The second annual festival shows off grilled cheese from local Kansas City restaurants and food trucks. The day will also include live music, games, bounce houses, and face painting. 816.812.1829.

—kccrew.com

// 116 //

WESTON APPLEFEST Oct. 5-6 at downtown

Event times and details may change.

Visist omahamagazine.com for complete listings.

Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

CELEBRATE THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF

The 2020 Best of Omaha Winners

FEATURING

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NOT FUNNY // COLUMN BY OTIS TWELVE // PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL SITZMANN

ONE THING I KNOW

C

ur pullum ad transire via? (Why did the chicken cross the road?)

Not easy to answer, don’t you agree? It’s a simple question on its face, but with so many deep implications. Not a concept to be approached lightly; to be left in the hands of dilettantes or the unqualified. It’s a complex world.

My background in Latin has made me at ease in social situations involving professors from Oxford, or conferences celebrating Horace, Virgil, Plutarch, or The Gallic Wars. I know what “Carpe Diem” means, even if the teenager wearing the T-shirt thinks it’s a reference to a fish. I know what “Caveat Emptor” means. That’s why I never buy clothes online.

Our society faces many, evermore complicated challenges as the planet warms, the global economy cools, the price of avocados goes up while my credit score goes down. Many tough questions need to be answered. We need educated people to find the solutions to these and other similar problems.

My knowledge of Latin also means I can pick up a newspaper in Rome and completely misunderstand what the headlines say, while acting quite sure of myself as I share with my fellow travelers the news that today is the day the priests will be painting stray cats in the Coliseum. I’m pretty sure that was the correct translation.

I am extremely well educated.

A background in classical Greek comes in handy as well. Since I know some Greek, I can usually suss out what my doctor intends to do to me.

Especially if it involves some “ectomy” or another.

And don’t get me started about necrosis, psychosis, or the apocalypse.

Don’t get me wrong, I am also frequently wrong about what I think I know. Or, maybe a better way to put it, I am frequently surprised by all the bothersome facts that fill in the blanks between my knowledge and reality. The first measure of an educated person is, after all, a realization of their limitations. Being “educated” is not synonymous with being “right.”

But, I am well educated.

I was taught Latin and classic Greek by monks.

Really, I kid you not, and, no, I am not a side character from an episode of Outlander, season one. I was educated, at least partially, in a monastery, where we got up really early, sang really old chants, and read really old books. Some of the books were so old, there were no audio versions available in iTunes—imagine that. Us monks wore sandals a lot, too. I still like sandals.

Education is critical to human progress. Even when most of the people we educate seem to keep cranking out strange new apps for our way-toosmart phones, we still need to invest in quality education for our children. One or two of them might turn out to be smart enough to get the human race out of the pickle we’re in now. They are our only hope. As an educated person, I know enough to realize that saving humanity is beyond me, and I know…

Cur pullum ad transire via?

You know the answer: Voluit ad alteram.

For expanded content, scan this QR code with your smart device.

OCTOBER

// 118 //

2019

#OMAHAMAGAZINE SHARE YOUR PHOTOS OF OMAHA TO BE FEATURED HERE.

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OCTOBER

// 119 //

2019

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