ERNIE CHAMBERS • ARTIST PATTY TALBERT • THE DUNDEE DELL IS BACK • OMAHA'S TOP DENTISTS
OCTOBER 2021 | U.S. $4.95
Il li te ra c y, H ig h e r M T HE 2021
a th , a n d R h e to r ic
E DUC AT ION IS
SU E
STAR- CROSSED LOVERS, BOLDLY RETOLD
THE CAPULETS AND THE MONTAGUES I Capuleti e i Montecchi
OCTOBER 15 & 17 RETURNING TO THE
ORPHEUM THEATER
OPERAOMAHA.ORG | 402.346.7372
TICKETOMAHA.COM | 402.345.0606
Redlin Art center
The leaves may be changing, but there’s still time to travel. It’s the season to explore, to make the most of every minute, to go somewhere unexpected. And there’s no better place for a surprise getaway than Watertown, South Dakota. Positioned near two picturesque lakes, Watertown is brimming with the kind of scenery, history and culture that make a destination great. Experience the oil masterpieces of famed painter Terry Redlin at the Redlin Art Center, then step into elegance at the newly restored Goss Opera House. For the perfect nightcap, end the day with a sunset of true watercolors on Lake Kampeska. Make long-lasting memories before the days get short. Start planning your Watertown adventure at VisitWatertownSD.com.
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FROM THE EDITOR // LETTER BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN
ERNIE CHAMBERS, ILLITERACY, AND OLD FAVORITES O c t o b e r I s s u e E d u c at e s A l l
M
y friend and colleague Robert Nelson once wrote in this magazine: “Ernie [Chambers] sometimes serves as the brakeman to a middle-class white-guy locomotive that occasionally barrels through the better angels of our nature.” That’s one of the most astute, and interesting, sentences I have seen about this stalwart of the Nebraska Legislature.
Chambers is one of the two big features in this issue. It’s an article we have been working on bringing to readers for many years. Bob himself tried to interview the now-84-year-old man several times, to no avail. Leo Adam Biga landed an interview with him earlier this year, and talked to him about his work educating the public and his fellow legislators, and standing up for the underdog for all of his 46 years in office. The second article is about illiteracy in Omaha, particularly that of illiteracy in immigrant communities. I took Spanish in high school, but I know I could not live in a country in which Spanish is the dominant language and find my way around easily, if at all, these days. Imagine coming to America if you cannot read the sign for a bus stop, or information about a job application. What it is like for someone with this problem is the subject of our second feature. Omaha is home to many Free Little Libraries, so those who can and do enjoy reading need never go far to find reading material. Some of these cater to children, some include more offerings for adults, some even house school supplies or canned goods for those in need. Our Obviously Omaha includes six Free Little Libraries around the area with unique angles to them. The Dundee Dell is back, and I am thrilled. My husband and I have spent many nights in this Omaha classic eating fish and chips and drinking Scotch (well, he drank Scotch). Kim Carpenter visited the Dell during the early days of its reopening and has provided readers with the dining review this round. A couple of Omaha favorites were not available that night—including the spicy fried pickles—but the fish and chips were there. Another article in this issue is about Nebraska Indian Community College, located about 70 miles north of Omaha. Michael Oltrogge, the college president, has worked tirelessly to give people in this area of Nebraska, particularly Native Americans, a place to gain higher education. In fact, several of our articles this round include education in some form or another—fall is a perfect time to bring readers this education issue. The profile is about a Nebraska teacher who won a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in 2019. This award is given to only two teachers per state. The Gen O is about Andrew Li, who began college-level classes at age 12, and began working as a college teaching assistant at age 16, teaching students who were older than him. There’s a lot of fascinating articles in this edition. I hope you enjoy them all.
* Note: The hotel edition of Omaha Magazine has a different cover and does not include all of the editorial content included in the magazine’s full city edition. For more information on our city edition, visit OmahaMagazine.com.
OCTOBER
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2021
TAB L E of CON T E N T S THE USUAL SUSPECTS 03
From the Editor Ernie Chambers, Illiteracy, and Old Favorites
06
Between the Lines
08
Calendar of Events
050 Adventure Go Beyond
052 History
Notre Dame Academy
073 Obviously Omaha Little Libraries
092 Explore! 095 Instagram 096 Not Funny
Use the Jargon in this Column
A R T S + C U LT U R E 014 Author
Marco Kpeglo LeRoc
018 Dance
Domanic Brown
020 Entertainment Mary Kerrigan
022 Visual
Patty Talbert
PE O P L E
032
F E AT U R E S
032 IS INVISIBLE 036 WHAT BUT FOUND EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK? READING, WRITING, RHETORIC Ernie Chambers
Solving Omaha’s Illiteracy Riddle
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OCTOBER 2021
040 Gen O
Andrew Li
042 Sports
Christina Elder
052 Profile
Amy Leising
GIVING 058 Calendar 062 Profile
Nebraska Indian Community College
read online at omahamagazine.com ERNIE CHAMBERS • ARTIST PATTY TALBERT • THE DUNDEE DELL IS BACK • OMAHA'S TOP DENTISTS
OCTOBER 2021 | U.S. $4.95
Illite racy, High er Mat T HE 2021
h, and Rhe tori c
EDUC AT ION IS
SUE
FoodIssue
014
A B O U T T HE COV ER Sarah Smith is the local foods coordinator for the Nebraska Department of Education. The path to her food passion took seed while she was in India, and has grown into her life’s work. She was photographed for this story at Hawley Hamlet, her neighborhood garden in Lincoln.
60PLUS
066 Nostalgia
Chalkboard to iPads
068 Profile
Beth Johnson
070 Active Living Bobbi Nunn
DINING 074 Feature
Nebraska Tour Co.
078 Review
Dundee Dell
082 Profile
Sarah Smith
086 Dining Guide SPECIAL SECTIONS 026 Omaha’s Top Dentists 046 The Education Issue
078
OCTOBER 2021
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Between
THE LINES A LOOK AT FOUR OMAHA MAGAZINE TEAM MEMBERS
JUSTIN BARNES—Freelance Photographer After more than 20 years in the photography business, Barnes can be found driving from athletic complexes to shoot sports and team photos, to apartments and houses to shoot lifestyle images all over the Midwest. Living in Louisville, Nebraska, he is familiar with the Omaha and Lincoln metro area, as well as everywhere in between. From corporate headshots to high school senior photos to weddings anywhere in the world, Barnes always has his camera gear and is ready to take photos in any situation.
KAREN CAMPBELL—Contributing Writer An Omaha native, Campbell graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She’s mother to a son, now a freshman at the University of Kansas, and a daughter attending Westside Middle School. Campbell’s main job title over the past several years has been PTO Mom. She has also served on guilds for The Rose Theater, Children’s Hospital, and Omaha Performing Arts. Along with her pug Pugsley (RIP), she was part of the pet therapy team at Children’s Hospital. She currently serves on the board of directors for Child Saving Institute. Campbell loves spending time with her family and her therapist. She excels at taking herculean naps and obsessing about everything, and enjoys seeing movies at Film Streams theaters (and really hopes the Alamo Drafthouse opens soon.)
GREG ECHLIN—Contributing Writer Echlin has traveled to Omaha from his home base in the Kansas City area through the years so often, he says he feels like the NBA franchise of the early 1970s when the then-Kansas City-Omaha Kings played games in both cities. In the same Omaha Civic Auditorium where the Kings lit up the scoreboard, Echlin covered his first NCAA men’s basketball tournament in 1977. What he didn’t anticipate was being left behind by his ride back to Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. So Echlin took his longest, and last, hitchhiking trip and got back before sunset. He still enjoys the travel to cover sports and its personalities, but mostly as the driver.
DWAIN HEBDA—Contributing Writer Hebda is an award-winning journalist, editor, and photographer, as well as president of his editorial services company Ya!Mule Wordsmiths. Based in Little Rock, Arkansas, Hebda’s work appears in more than 35 publications in multiple states. He was recently awarded Best Reporter/Columnist by the readers of AY Magazine; a runner-up Diamond Journalist of the Year by the Arkansas Society of Professional Journalists; and repeatedly awarded by the SPJ and Arkansas Press Association for excellence in the written word. Nebraskan by birth, Southern by the grace of God, he and his wife lavish time on their four grown children and two lovely dogs, Hootie and Cash.
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OCTOBER 2021
OCTOBER 2021 VOLUME 39 // ISSUE 6
EDITORIAL Managing Editor
DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN Senior Editor
TARA SPENCER Associate Editor
LINDA PERSIGEHL Editorial Intern
HANNAH HESER Contributing Writers
LEO ADAM BIGA · CHRIS BOWLING · TAMSEN BUTLER KAREN CAMPBELL · KIM CARPENTER · GREG ECHLIN DWAIN HEBDA · ANDREA KSZYSTYNIAK · JEFF LACEY JOSEFINA LOZA · SEAN MCCARTHY · ANDREW NELSON NIZ PROSKOCIL · KARA SCHWEISS · JOEL STEVENS DOUGLAS “OTIS TWELVE” WESSELMANN
CREATIVE Creative Director
MATT WIECZOREK Senior Graphic Designer
DEREK JOY Graphic Designer II
MADY BESCH Contributing Photographers
JUSTIN BARNES · KEITH BINDER · COLIN CONCES SCOTT DRICKEY · JOSHUA FOO · WILLIAM HESS · SARAH LEMKE
SALES Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing
GIL COHEN Publisher’s Assistant & OmahaHome Contributing Editor
SANDY MATSON Senior Sales Coordinator
ALICIA HOLLINS Branding Specialists
DAWN DENNIS · GEORGE IDELMAN Contributing Branding Specialists
JILLIAN DUNN · MARY HIATT · TIM McCORMACK
OPERATIONS Accounting/Operations Manager
KYLE FISHER
Exemplary Educators, Super Students, & More in each edition of FamilyGuide.
Ad Traffic Manager
DAVID TROUBA Digital Manager
MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW Digital Assistant
JULIUS FREDRICK Distribution Manager
DAMIAN INGERSOLL
EXECUTIVE Executive Publisher
TODD LEMKE Vice President
GREG BRUNS Associate Publisher
BILL SITZMANN For Advertising & Subscription Information:
402.884.2000 Omaha Magazine Vol 39 Issue VI, 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
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Featured in FamilyGuide’s 2020 Issue
OCTOBER 2021
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EVENTS
» Exhibits « ALIENTO A TEQUILA
Through Oct. 20 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. This exhibition explores and celebrates
the landscape, culture, and traditions of tequila through a series of photographs by Joel Salcido. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Admission: $5 general, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 students (K-12) and seniors (55+), free to members and children under 5. 402.731.1137 —elmuseolatino.org
MARCH ON WASHINGTON FOR JOBS AND FREEDOM
Through Oct. 30 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. On August 28,
GAME ON!
Through Dec. 31 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. This interactive children’s exhibit
turns well-known board games and video games into real-life adventures. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 402.342.6164. —ocm.org
FORM
Through Feb. 25, 2022 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Omahan Jun Kaneko will receive the Life-
time Achievement Award from the International Sculpture Center this month. He has installed an exhibit featuring pieces from his permanent collection. 1-7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, noon-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 402.341.3800.
JERRY JACOBY
Oct. 1-31 at Artists’ Co-op, 405 S 11th St.
Jacoby's visual arts varied from elaborate drawings of futuristic landscapes to oil paintings of abstract geometric landscapes. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Admission: Free. 402.342.9617. —artistscoopomaha.com
EMERGENCE
Oct. 1-24 at HotShops Art Center, 1301 Nicholas St. This exhibit is one in which the artists
break out and explore the world around them in mediums such as glass art, jewelry, and paintings. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Free. 402.342.6452. —hotshopsartcenter.org
1963, the “Big Six” leaders of the civil rights movement were responsible for conducting the largest demonstration ever seen in our nation’s capital. Th is exhibit provides historical photographs of the march participants, organizers, and program speakers. 1-5 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays. Admission: Free. 402.932.7077. —gpblackhistorymuseum.org
CONJURE
Through Nov. 6 at Union for Contemporary Arts, 2423 N. 24th St. Printmaker Delita Martin
works primarily from oral traditions, along with vintage and family photographs, to explore the power of the narrative impulse. 2-8 p.m. Tuesdays, noon-8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Fridays, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays. Admission: Free. 402.933.3161. —u-ca.org
AMERICAN IMPRESSIONIST SOCIETY—22ND ANNUAL NATIONAL JURIED EXHIBITION JUAN JOSÉ CASTAÑO-MÁRQUEZ EXHIBIT
Through Oct. 29 at Petshop, 2725 N. 62nd St.
Castaño-Márquez is a Colombian-born artist based in the United States working in visual biomythography, photography, performance, video, and new media arts. Hours vary. Admission: Free. —bffomaha.org/petshop.html
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OCTOBER 2021
Through Dec. 12 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. This exhibition will feature 200 impres-
sionist artworks by artists across the country. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission: Free. 402.305.1510. —gallery1516.org
FACES FROM THE INTERIOR: THE NORTH AMERICAN PORTRAITS OF KARL BODMER
Oct. 2, 2021-April 17, 2022, at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Joslyn’s first exhibit
focusing on Karl Bodmer’s watercolor portraits of Native Americans features 64 recently conserved watercolors. Tickets: $10 general admission, $5 college students with ID, free for Joslyn members and youth ages 17 and younger. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. 402.342.3300. —joslyn.org
Five venues, five unique celebration experiences. Hosting events for 100 - 1,000 guests, Omaha Event Group boasts 15 years of experience with over 300 events each year, including Omaha Fashion Week. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts today. hello@omahaeventgroup.com | 402.819.8792 | omahaeventgroup.com Omaha Design Center | The Downtown Club | Empire Room | Omaha Palazzo | Anderson O'Brien Fine Art Gallery
OCTOBER 2021
// 9 //
OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR
BEMIS BENEFIT ART AUCTION EXHIBITION
Oct. 15-29 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. Bemis’ annual event features
200+ local, regional, and national artists of varied mediums. Art will be available to view online starting Oct. 1. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays-Sundays. Admission: Free. 402.341.7130. —bemiscenter.org
COLIN C. SMITH, SOFT GEOMETRY PAINTINGS AND SCULPTURE
Oct. 22-Nov. 22 at Creighton University Lied Art Gallery, 2500 California Plaza. Smith’s
wall pieces reference minimal painting and expressionism while his floor sculptures are playful and casual. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission: Free. 402.280.2290. —creighton.edu
NEIL GRIESS EXHIBITION
Nov. 1-Jan. 7 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. Griess is a visual artist currently
living and working in Omaha. He has 10 works of mixed medium, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Admission: Free. 402.595.2122. —artscouncil.nebraska.gov
40 CHANCES: FINDING HOPE IN A HUNGRY WORLD EXHIBITION
Oct. 30-Jan. 30, 2022, at Durham Museum 801 S. 10th St. This exhibit features 40 images
by Howard G. Buffett documenting the world hunger crisis. Noon-4 p.m. Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for members and children under age 2. 402.444.5071. —durhammuseum.org
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OCTOBER 2021
OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR
BACH & BRITTEN BY BAHL
Oct. 10 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Composer Gabriela Lena Frank’s Leyendas
starts the program in a musical exploration of her roots. Principal Oboe Alexandra Rock will perform Bach’s “Concerto for Oboe d’amore,” and Britten’s playful “Simple Symphony” will end the performance. 2 p.m. Tickets: $35-$40. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
SAINT MOTEL
Oct. 11 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Th is
gold-selling Los Angeles quartet came together at fi lm school, which has influenced their pop sound. 7 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $27 day of show. 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
REO SPEEDWAGON » MUSic « WINDBORNE’S THE MUSIC OF PINK FLOYD
Oct. 1 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1300 Douglas St. Amplified by a full rock band
and singer, the Omaha Symphony captures Pink Floyd’s spirit. Th is concert features a laser and light show set to 17 Pink Floyd songs. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $20-$90. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
THE CITIZENS’ BALL
Oct. 2 at Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Local group Arson City, known for their hard-
rock songs like “The Horror Show,” headlines this event. Other performers are Evandale, Before We Die, and Mind Flight 7 p.m. Tickets: $17. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
WE ARE OLD DOMINION TOUR
Oct. 3 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Boulevard. Four-time ACM and CMA Vocal Group
of the Year winners Old Dominion bring their country music to Stir Concert Cove. 6 p.m. Tickets: $65-$170+. —ticketmaster.com
WILD PINK
Oct. 5 at Reverb lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
Wild Pink’s latest album, A Billion Little Lights, explores the dichotomy of finally achieving emotional security while also feeling existentially smaller. 8 p.m. Admission: $13 advanced, $15 day of show, 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
BOZZ SCAGGS: OUT OF THE BLUES TOUR
Oct. 6 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Scaggs’ five-decade career includes a
SAFARI ROOM WITH BACH MAI AND BAD SELF PORTRAITS
Oct. 7 at Reverb lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This
independent, indie-rock band based out of Nashville, Tennessee, is centered around introspective lyrics and human connection. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
RECKLESS KELLY
Oct. 8 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95.
Reckless Kelly is an American country rock band. They took their name from the Australian highwayman Ned Kelly. 8 p.m. Ages 21+. Tickets: $30. 402.964.2021. —barnatolounge.com
THE AIRBORNE TOXIC EVENT
Oct. 12 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. This band
received an RIAA Diamond designation for their album Hi Infidelity in 2017. They are known for their 1980s hits such as “Keep on Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” 7 p.m. Tickets: $39.50-$125. 402.934.9966. —ralstonarena.com
MO LOWDA & THE HUMBLE WITH DESERT NOISES
Oct. 13 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
Th is indie rock band creates a unique, interactive experience every time they hit the stage. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 early bird (first 50 tickets), $15 advanced, $17 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
STOP LIGHT OBSERVATIONS
Oct. 14 at Reverb lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
rock music and orchestral arrangements. All ages are welcome. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
Stop Light Observations is a four-piece band from Charleston, South Carolina, that eschews labels. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
BRELAND
DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL
Breland is known for his song “Throw It Back,” featuring Keith Urban. His music typically blends hip-hop beats with country rhythms. 21+ event. 8 p.m. Tickets: $20-$350. 402.964.2021. —barnatolounge.com
Chris Carrabba and his group gained fame in the early 2000s. They are known for their song "Screaming Infidelities.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $30-$60. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
Oct. 9 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Th is group is known for combining
Oct. 9 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95.
Oct. 15 at Holland Center, 1200 Douglas St.
ED ARCHIBALD & FRIENDS
BLOODY KISSES
saxophonist Archibald writes, produces, arranges, and performs original music and covers other musicians. 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Admission: $15 general, $5 credit given to students with valid ID. 917.748.4337. —jewellomaha.com
The last time this Type O Negative tribute band Bloody Kisses came to Omaha, the venue sold out. They return with a longer, all-new set. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 advanced, $13 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
Oct. 9 at The Jewell, 1030 Capitol Ave. Local jazz
Oct. 15 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
Grammy and several Top 40 hits. He will perform hit tunes from his Grammy-nominated album Out of the Blues. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $35-$80. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com OCTOBER 2021
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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR
NELLY WITH BLANCO BROWN
JIMMIE VAUGHAN’S THE STORY TOUR
Nelly is known for “Country Grammar” and “Ride Wit’ Me,” and won Grammy awards in 2003 and 2004. 7 p.m. Tickets: $45-$95, VIP $345-$495. 402.934.9966. —ralstonarena.com
This four-time Grammy winner and noted blues performer has performed with everyone from Bo Diddly to Bob Dylan. 8 p.m. Tickets: $35-500. 402.964.2021. —barnatolounge.com
MARTY STUART & HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES
DAYSEEKER WITH HOLLOW FRONT, WITHER, DECAY, AND WIDOW7
ranging from Johnny Cash to Lester Flatt. 8 p.m. Tickets: $28 advanced, $30 day of show. —waitingroomlounge.com
Dayseeker is an American post-hardcore band. Hollow Front, Wither, Decay, and Widow7 will open. 7 p.m. Admission: $15 advanced $17 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
Oct. 20 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. Rap artist
Oct. 20 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Stuart has played alongside musicians
JAKE MILLER - HI, I MISSED YOU TOUR 2021
Oct. 20 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Jake Miller
crafts all his own beats and lyrics, and can also play the guitar and piano. 7:30 p.m. Admission: $20 advanced, $25 day of show. —theslowdown.com
CO-OP
Oct. 21 at Reverb lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
Co-Op has performed with rock legends such as Motley Crue, The Hollywood Vampires, and Alice Cooper. 8 p.m. Admission: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
STRAIGHT NO CHASER
Oct. 23 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.
This a cappella group is known for their unique renditions of bar-themed classics such as “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Tequila.” 7:30 p.m. Admission: $25-$72. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
Oct. 27 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St. Suite 95.
Oct. 28 at Reverb lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
FRONTIER STRINGS: TUTTI
Oct. 29 at Omaha Conservatory of Music, 7023 Cass St. Frontier Strings will perform a variety
of pop songs, sacred music, fiddle tunes, classic show tunes, and movie music. 5:30-6:15 p.m. 402.932.4978. —omahacm.org
LAUREN DAIGLE
Oct. 29 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St.
Daigle is a contemporary Christian music singer-songwriter who has won Grammy Awards for her song “You Say” and her album Look Up Child. 7:30 p.m. Admission: $29.50-$126. —chihealthcenteromaha.com
SATSANG
Oct. 29 at Reverb lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
Th is band performs a soulful, reggae-infused blend of folk-rock and melodic hip hop. 9 p.m. Admission: $18 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
FALLETTA CONDUCTS PINES OF ROME
Oct. 29-30 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1300 Douglas St. Guest conductor JoAnn Falletta
takes the helm for two pieces from Respighi’s Roman Trilogy. The performance includes Canadian violinist Blake Pouliot. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $20-$81. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
VINDATA
Oct. 30 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95.
This group from Los Angeles blends hip hop with R&B, while retaining indie-pop sensibilities. 8 p.m. and midnight. Ages 21+ only. Tickets: $25$250. 402.964.2021. —barnatolounge.com
TRIBUTE TO BARBRA STREISAND WITH ANN HAMPTON CALLAWAY
SYMPHONY SPOOKTACULAR
forms classical music from five decades of Barbra Streisand’s multifaceted career with singer-songwriter Calloway. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m Sunday. Tickets: $20-$90. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
music lovers with creepy classics such as SaintSaēns’ “Danse Macabre,” Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King,” and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” 2 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
Oct. 23-24 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1300 Douglas St. The Omaha Symphony per-
// 12 //
OCTOBER 2021
Oct. 31 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1300 Douglas St. This annual show will excite
» PERFORMANCES « DISNEY DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL
Through Oct. 10 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The Isle of the Lost is home to the
daughters and sons of the world’s worst villains. Fridays at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets: $15-$27. 402.345.4849. —rosetheater.org
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Through Oct. 10 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Th is production is a
thrilling whodunit set aboard the world’s most famous luxury locomotive. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $25-$35. 402.345.0606. —omahaplayhouse.com
HEROES OF THE FOURTH TURNING
Through Oct. 24 at BlueBarn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. Four young conservatives have gathered at
a backyard after-party. Their reunion spirals into spiritual chaos and clashing generational politics. Tickets: $35 general admission, $30 for health care workers, educators, and military personnel. 402.345.1576. —bluebarn.org
DOUG BENSON
Oct. 1 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. This artist is known for his popular podcasts,
films, appearances on TV shows, and for presiding over The High Court as Judge Doug on Comedy Central. 9 p.m. Tickets: $22. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP: A PENNY DREADFUL
Oct. 8-Nov. 7 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Fans of vampires, werewolves,
mummies, and ancient family curses will appreciate this comedy. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays Tickets: $36 for adults and $20 for students. 402.345.0606. —omahaplayhouse.com
HAMILTON
Oct. 26-Nov. 14 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Hamilton is the story of America’s Found-
ing Father Alexander Hamilton. This play blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway. Times vary. Tickets: $59-$249. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
THE CAPULETS & THE MONTAGUES
Oct. 15 and 17 at Orpheum Theatre, 409 S. 16th St. The Capulets & the Montagues is Bellini’s bel
canto masterpiece, which is a seldom-seen telling of Romeo and Juliet. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $19-$99. 402.345.0606. —ticketomaha.com
OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR
JEFF DUNHAM
THE SHADOWS EDGE HAUNTED HOUSE
OMAHA HOLIDAY EXPO
appeared many times on Comedy Central with his cast of puppets. 7 p.m. Tickets: $47-$200. 402.341.1500. —chihealthcenteromaha.com
is returning to Mangelsen’s for its 16th season. Weeknights: Dusk-10 p.m. Weekends: Dusk12 a.m. Admission: $16 Thursday-Sunday, $8 Monday-Tuesday. —theshadowsedge.com
event is back in Omaha for a special holiday season with 100+ local exhibitors. It will feature holiday decorations, arts and crafts, Santa pictures, beauty bar, DIY classes, prizes, live music, and endless local shops. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. —baxterarena.com
CHICO BEAN
JUNKSTOCK
Oct. 21 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Comedian and ventriloquist Dunham has
Oct. 22-24 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St.
This stand-up comedian is known for MTV’s Wild ’N’ Out and Guy Court. 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Saturday, 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $30. 402.493.8036. —omaha.funnybone.com
THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW
Oct. 29 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. A loving
Opens October 1, 3457 S 84th St. Shadow’s Edge
Oct. 1 at Sycamore Farms, 1150 River Road Dr, Waterloo, NE. This is a one-of-a-kind shopping
experience with over 200 vendors. The early bird ticket is required and includes the whole weekend at $30. General Admission: $10 per day or $20 for a full weekend pass. Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Children 12 and under are free. —junkstock.com
homage to the classic B-rated sci-fi film and horror genres with an irresistible rock’n’roll score, The Rocky Horror Show tells the tumultuous story of Brad, Janet, and Frank’ N’ Furter. 11:45 p.m. All ages welcome. Tickets: $30-$60. Pitside and balcony are seated first come, first pick within the section. —theslowdown.com
through every section of the department store in search of his missing button. Dates and times vary. Tickets: $20 non-members, free to members. 402.345.4849. —rosetheater.org
» Family & More « FARMERS MARKETS:
It’s the end of Farmer’s Market Season. Most, if not all, of these farmers’ markets have reserved the first hour for expectant mothers, senior citizens, and those with underlying health conditions. Masks are encouraged. Pets, unless service animals, should stay home. • Village Pointe Farmers Market Oct. 2 at Village Pointe Shopping Center, 168th and West Dodge St. (8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) 402.505.9773. —reddevelopment.com • Bellevue Farmers Market Oct. 7 at 1717 Bellevue Way. (3-7 p.m.) 425.454.8474. —bellevuefarmersmarket.org • Omaha Farmers Market Oct. 2 and 9 at the Old Market, 10th and Jackson St. (8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) Oct. 3 and 10 at Aksarben Village, 67th and Center St. (Lot 26) 402-345-5401. —omahafarmersmarket.com
TRICK OR TREAT WITH THE ANIMALS OF GIFFORD FARM
Oct. 16 at Gifford Farm, 700 Camp Gifford Road, Bellevue, NE. Trick or Treat with the
animals of Gifford Farm. Food and other kidfriendly vendors will be present. There will be hayrack rides around the farm that day as well. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $5 for each trick or treater, accompanying adults are free. Contact Mary Slater at 402.597.4920. —gosarpy.com
OMAHA BOSTON BOO
Oct. 23 at 5109 S. 51st St. This event welcomes
all breeds of dogs and includes dinner. A costume contest and games will also be held for humans and dogs. 3-5 p.m. Admission: $10 per family. 402.510.1346. —adoptaboston.com
CORDUROY
Oct. 29-Nov. 14 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Corduroy sets out on a journey
Oct. 16 at Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St. This
AN EVENING WITH LISA SCOTTOLINE
Oct. 3 at Council Bluffs Public Library, 400 Willow. Scottoline is a New York Times bestselling
and Edgar Award-winning author. Scottoline will be discussing her latest project, Someone Knows. 7 p.m. Admission: free with limited space and required registration. 712.323.7553. —councilbluffslibrary.org
JAPANESE AMBIENCE FESTIVAL
Oct. 2-3 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. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children six to 12, free for children under age six and garden members. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 402.346.4002. —lauritzengardens.org
COUNCIL BLUFFS ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW
Oct. 9-10 at Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs, IA. This is one of Iowa’s largest
arts and crafts show with over 200 exhibitors selling thousands of unique, handmade products. Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: free. 563.357.1986. —traveliowa.com
OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM TRICK OR TREATING
Oct. 15 and Oct. 22 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. The Omaha Children’s
Museum is holding an all day trick or treating event this year. Trick-or-treaters will get a variety of Halloween treats and fun goodies. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is included with the museum's admission. 402.930.8032. —ocm.org
FALL HOME AND GARDEN EXPO
Oct. 23-24 at Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St.
This is the 32nd annual Fall Home and Garden Expo. Saturday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free parking and only $6 admittance. Free for children 12 & under. 402.346.8003. —visitomaha.com
GHOULISH GARDEN ADVENTURE
Oct. 24 at Lauritzen Gardens/Kenefick Park, 100 Bancroft St. Explore the visitor and educa-
tion center and the garden at this event. There will be 12 different activity stations throughout the garden. 12-4 p.m. $3 for participating children in addition to the regular admission price. 402.346.4002. —lauritzengardens.org
Event times and details are correct as of presstime, but are subject to change. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many events are canceling and/or changing dates/time/ places as needed. Most venues base these decisions on direction by the Douglas County Health Department and Nebraska’s publication of guidance on canceling events and limiting the number of people in public gatherings. Omaha Magazine encourages readers to visit venues' websites and/or calling ahead before attending an event or visiting a museum. OCTOBER 2021
// 13 //
A+C AUTHOR // Story by Niz Proskocil Photography by Bill Sitzmann Design by Matt Wieczorek
EMPOWER
and
Motivate, Educate,
Omaha Author and Entrepreneur Marco Kpeglo LeRoc Finds Joy in Helping Others
Marco Kpeglo LeRoc didn’t always make the smartest financial choices as a young adult. However, being bad with money turned out to be good for his career. After immigrating to the United States from the West African nation of Togo in 2004, he settled in Omaha, where he struggled financially as a college student with debt. Back then, he lacked financial knowledge and money management skills. “I ended up making mistakes,” LeRoc said. His situation started to improve when he turned to financial experts for help and learned about saving money, making a budget, and getting rid of debt. The financial literacy he gained and a desire to pass it along to others led him to write his first book, Cash In With Your Money, in 2011. The book, LeRoc said, aims to “help the everyday person to get ahead financially.”
OCTOBER 2021
// 15 //
“
I feel like we need to engage more young professionals to be more involved in the community, whether that’s serving on boards, volunteering, or supporting your peers.”
-Marco Kpeglo LeRoc
// 16 //
OCTOBER 2021
A+C AUTHOR //
These days, the three-time author, entrepreneur, and certified educator in personal finance enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with others in Omaha and beyond. LeRoc, who has two daughters, Elizabeth, 7, and Victoria, 4, with wife Gina, is the founder of Marco LeRoc & Co, an organization that inspires people to succeed personally and financially. Speaking to high school and college students, and other audiences around the country, he offers insight and tools to help people achieve goals and enjoy a better financial life. In his 2015 book, Screw College Debt, he provides tips and guidance on planning and paying for college and how to avoid student loan debt. Although higher education can lead to higher earnings potential and opportunities for growth, many find themselves burdened with debt after graduation. LeRoc encourages students to apply for scholarships and to consider more affordable options such as trade schools and community colleges. Although some universities may have the name recognition, they come with a higher price and may not be the best fit for everyone. After a professor at Bellevue University told him tuition at a community college was cheaper than at Bellevue, the four-year university he had been attending, LeRoc switched to Metropolitan Community College. “I’m a big fan of community college,” said LeRoc, who writes about the affordability and other benefits of two-year schools in his book. He earned his associate's degree in accounting from MCC in 2007 and went back to Bellevue University to earn his bachelor’s degree. Earlier this year, Metropolitan Community College Foundation named LeRoc the recipient of the 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award, an annual recognition given to an MCC graduate whose achievement, service, and commitment to the school and the community are exemplary. LeRoc is well deserving of the honor, said Tom McDonnell, vice president for Academic Affairs at Metropolitan Community College and chair of the Distinguished Alumni Committee. He has a compelling story of working hard, pushing through obstacles such as language barriers, and realizing his dreams, McDonnell said, adding that LeRoc has been a guest lecturer in a financial literacy course at
MCC, and many students there and elsewhere can take inspiration from him. “He’s a really great success story.” Passionate about helping others, LeRoc is the founder and president of The League for African Advancement and serves on the board of the Midlands African Chamber and the Hidden Talent Foundation. In addition, he volunteers for several organizations and was recognized as a Midlands Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree in 2019. He enjoys pursuing opportunities where he can make an impact. After releasing his third book, 2017’s Activate Your Untapped Potential, which focuses on self-leadership and living intentionally, he created the Global Leadership Africa Summit. The event, which debuted in 2018, is a gathering of young professional African leaders, entrepreneurs, and those who cherish Africa and value diversity, LeRoc said. Held virtually and in-person in Omaha, this year’s conference takes place Oct. 22-23, and about 1,000 people are expected to attend, get inspired, connect, and learn. “I feel like we need to engage more young professionals to be more involved in the community, whether that’s serving on boards, volunteering, or supporting your peers,” LeRoc said. He also stays busy hosting Inside a Great Mind, an interview show on his YouTube channel, Marco LeRoc TV. He hopes viewers will be informed and inspired by his guests, which range from business owners and influencers to public officials and entrepreneurs, including Omaha Star publisher Teri Sanders and Hood Sommelier founder Toyi "Jack" Beguedou. “I just love to do that,” LeRoc said of interviewing people on his show. “There are so many great stories.” His list of future projects includes growing the Global Leadership Africa Summit, developing new business ventures, and writing a fourth book on the subject of resilience, all while continuing to inspire, engage, and connect with others. “Speaking to people, coaching people about how they can achieve their goals—I just find joy doing this.” Visit marcoleroc.com for more information.
OCTOBER 2021
// 17 //
D
omanic Brown sits in a room, surrounded by dance bags, in the I AM Dance studio at 90th and Maple streets. As he takes a brief breather, a few cell phones chirp inside the bags. In about 20 minutes, Brown will take a group of students through what he calls one of the more low-key classes. For those who know Brown, the sight of him sitting still, even for a few moments, is rare.
As a dancer, life is about motion and what you do with it. For Brown, it usually means 12-hour days of teaching dance at Omaha South High School, then teaching more classes at either I AM Dance or at Center Stage Dance in Elkhorn. And if being three places throughout the day isn’t difficult enough, Brown also owns Muse Beauty Bar salon. To keep everything in order, Brown typically has two calendars going, yet even that can’t prevent the occasional mistake. “There are times where I go to the wrong location,” Brown laughed. “It’s definitely a mental process trying to finagle every location.” Brown’s education in dance has primarily focused on real-world opportunities earned. At age 12, he performed on Broadway in New York. After graduating from Burke High School in 2010, he joined The Moving Co., University of Nebraska at Omaha’s modern dance group. Brown also made his way to New York for weeks at a time to audition and study with choreographers. Some of Brown’s friends who were dancers for Lady Gaga’s 2012-2013 Born This Way tour told him they were having open auditions. Brown’s talent earned him an understudy position on the massive tour. The position gave Brown the opportunity to work with other accomplished dancers and provided a behind-the-scenes look at how elaborate traveling stage shows were run. For weeks at a time, he lived out of a touring bus. The experience of touring on a large scale was as much an education of what Brown wanted in his career as what he didn’t. While it gave him access to some of the most renowned dancers in the industry, it also left him yearning for an emotional connection with an audience—something he was not getting by traveling from city to city.
“It wasn’t my journey, per se,” Brown said of the tour. During occasional breaks from the tour, and shortly after, Brown took on every gig and audition he could. It led to him working with choreographers such as Richard Jackson (who has worked with Usher and Missy Elliott) and taking master-level classes with Emmywinning choreographer Debbie Allen. After living in New York and Los Angeles and touring internationally, Brown felt a need to return home to be closer to family. He also saw a chance to elevate dance in Omaha. “Home to me is where my passions are,” Brown said. “And there [are] so many things that I can work on here.” Brown’s specialty has been in hip-hop and modern dance, for which he formed a love when he joined The Moving Co. “Modern dance allows the artist to express and talk through every detail, including standing still,” Brown said. Danielle Laurion, director of The Moving Co., said Brown was like a sponge when he joined in 2010, taking as many classes as he could. She said he soon became an integral part of the company, eventually becoming the public relations director. Brown’s energy radiates in both his dance and his choreography work, Laurion added. “He’s just amazing to watch perform,” she said. Jessica Johnson met Brown when she started dancing for The Moving Co. in 2011. She had a master’s in speech language pathology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but was moving her career in a more artistic direction. Brown and Johnson co-choreographed two pieces while at The Moving Co.
“There’s an honesty in his art that you might not see in other people’s art,” Johnson said. “I’ve never seen him do anything that’s disingenuous.” Like many others, Brown’s life slowed to a halt in early 2020 as the pandemic shut down studios and performances. From March through summer in 2020, Brown said he didn’t do much. It started to take a toll on him physically and mentally. That July, his mother, Susan Brown, died suddenly from a heart ailment. The loss of his mother and the connections that come from in-person performances put Brown in a depression. “I didn’t notice how much I relied on dance to process,” Brown said. “I was desperate to move.” So Brown improvised. He used the parking lot outside the I AM Dance studio to choreograph a piece in summer 2020. In addition, he taught online classes, but quickly saw the limits of that type of instruction, especially in trying to give individual feedback to a group of 20. “You feel like you’re just talking to the wind,” Brown said. This past winter, things began getting back to normal, not only for The Moving Co., but at South High School—where he co-directs the LaFuerza dance company—and Center Stage Dance, where he will start their new modern dance program in fall 2021. His remaining time goes to raising his 3-yearold son, Daxton. Brown’s long-term vision for Omaha’s dance community is to create a space for dancers after high school. Once students graduate from high school, opportunities to perform are limited and some are not realistically priced, Brown said. It’s a major opportunity gap that Brown hopes to fill in 2022. Creating such a space would allow a chance to reach out to young people who may not want to pursue dance on a professional level, but still have a love and appreciation for the art form that shouldn’t have to end at high school. Visit iamdancestudio.com or centerstagedanceelkhorn.com for more information.
“Home to me is where my passions are, and there’s so many things that i can work on here.” -Domanic Brown // 18 //
OCTOBER 2021
a+c DancE
Story by Sean McCarthy ————————
Photography by Bill Sitzmann Design by Matt Wieczorek
Doman ic Brown’s
Kinetic Energy OCTOBER 2021
// 19 //
MARY KERRIGAN SAYS YES TO
CHANGING THE HOLLYWOOD LANDSCAPE
A+C ENTERTAINMENT // STORY BY ANDREA KSZYSTYNIAK // DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION BY DEREK JOY
“I think the best way to learn and grow is to be metaphorically freefalling off a cliff and figuring things out as you go.” -Mary Kerrigan ebraskans were in a bit of a tizzy over Chloe Zhao’s fi lm Nomadland. Even before its three Oscar wins, they were excited to see Scottsbluff serve as the background for a portion of the production. But Nebraska was more than part of the mise-en-scene for the movie. Mary Kerrigan, an Omaha native, played a critical role in the making of the fi lm as the fi rst assistant director and unit production manager. Before Kerrigan’s work netted Academy Awards, she was behind the camera for Darkwood Brew, a live, virtual spiritual broadcast hosted by Countryside Community Church. After trying her hand in broadcast journalism at Westside High School, the show offered her a chance to attempt live TV. As the only teenager on the crew, she said it was one of the fi rst times she felt the thrill and pressure of making fi lm and television. “I think the best way to learn and grow is to be metaphorically free-falling off a cliff and fi guring things out as you go,” Kerrigan said. Industry professionals willing to take a chance on Kerrigan led her on an, at times, winding path. While enrolled at New York University, she worked on student fi lms, and, as she puts it, “did every job under the sun.” Key grip, boom operator, and art department. “I did everything I could, just saying yes to every job, even unpaid, short fi lms by friends,” she said. “Like, ‘yes, I'll do that. Because you're offering it.’” Kerrigan completed school with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in fi lm and television. After graduation, she got to work on a number of projects, among them Benh Zeitlin’s 2020 fi lm Wendy. Zeitlin is also the director of the acclaimed Beasts of the Southern Wild. For Wendy, Kerrigan served as an assistant production coordinator. The experience prepared her for a role as fi rst assistant director on Nomadland. Assistant directors serve a variety of roles on set. Kerrigan explained it like this: A director is responsible for all of the creative aspects of the movie. An assistant director manages the logistics. When director Zhao had a particular shot in mind, Kerrigan helped pull together all the pieces to make it happen.
Kerrigan acted like a camp counselor, shepherding more than 70 vans of non-actors to their appropriate places for a few days of shooting at the Rubber Tramp Rendezvous, a giant gathering of van dwellers. “These are people that had never been in a movie and had no idea what to expect,” she said. “They're literally going out to the desert to meet strangers and be in a movie with Frances McDormand.” It was chaos, she added. Shooting involved a full day of escorting people in and out of their vans (for many, their homes), moving them from one side of the set to the other and, in some cases, kindly asking them to please put their grills and lawn chairs back inside. The end result was amazing, Kerrigan said. The day began with an empty desert. By night, a small town had formed. “And at that point, I knew everyone and their whole life story,” she said. “It was fantastic.” Kerrigan’s best friend, Madison Pflug, met Kerrigan at Westside High School, where both were on the track team. When Kerrigan left for her freshman year of college in New York City, Pflug visited, became enamored with the city, and moved out herself to attend the School of Visual Arts. They’ve worked together on various fi lms through the years, including Kerrigan’s Omaha-based thesis project Geez Louise, and most recently on Nomadland. Before Nomadland, Pflug, who worked in the art department for the fi lm, was between jobs. She got a call from Kerrigan asking if she’d like to work on a travel movie.
Kerrigan also wrapped a film in Mississippi with Morgan Freeman earlier this year, and she’ll be working on an Amazon film directed by Dave Franco in Portland this fall.
“She was like, 'OK, can you get on a plane tomorrow?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah, I think so.’ And so I got on a plane the next day,” Pflug said. Later that week, Pflug was surveying locations in Nevada for the movie. Kerrigan and Pflug spent their days traveling across the country together, sharing hotel rooms and leaning on each other when things got difficult. “It's obvious in her successes lately how good she is at this,” Pflug said. “She's just going to continue to get better and have more success. I don't doubt that at all.” For now, Kerrigan is continuing on a journey of her own. She says she’s been more or less living out of storage units for the last few years, hopping from set to set. Since Nomadland, she’s worked on the A24 feature fi lm When You Finish Saving the World, directed by Jesse Eisenberg. Kerrigan also wrapped a fi lm in Mississippi with Morgan Freeman earlier this year, and she’ll be working on an Amazon fi lm directed by Dave Franco in Portland this fall. She hopes to keep getting bigger and more challenging projects and, someday, become a director herself. To that end, she recently joined the Director’s Guild of America. “I tell people I'm not ready, though. I feel like I don't have enough life experience,” she said. Kerrigan thinks the Oscar is just the start of what she hopes will be a long career. She said she not only wants to grow her skills, but to change the industry at large. Roles such as hers in Nomadland were previously thought to be suited to a certain kind of personality, Kerrigan said. Tyrannical, harsh—the type of person who would force a crew to work too many hours. “I'd like to be a part of changing the way a fi lm set is run and make it more enjoyable and safer for people,” she said. Kerrigan added that she would like sets to be more accommodating to all personalities, “Not just these same stereotypes that you see on a film set.”
OCTOBER 2021
// 21 //
A+C VISUAL ◊ STORY BY JOSEFINA LOZA ◊ PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN ◊ DESIGN BY DEREK JOY
Flows from each brush stroke // 22 //
OCTOBER 2021
// A+C VISUAL //
“Patty’s soul is art. For Patty, art is community and connection. It’s friendship and affirmation.” -Tim Guthrie t’s hard to miss the utility box along 62nd and Dodge streets near the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus. The colors are vibrant and lively—sunshine yellow, candy apple red, aqua blue—just like the artist who created them. Patty Talbert is a sweet-spirited woman who quickly endears herself to everyone she meets. According to fellow artist Tim Guthrie, “Patty’s soul is art. For Patty, art is community and connection. It’s friendship and affi rmation. And the explosion of colors is celebration. Her positive energy permeates every artwork she creates.” Talbert, 57, doesn’t shy away from vibrant pigments. Her creative energy only intensifies as she continues to evolve as a Council Bluff s artist. In fact, this creative has been a force of change since she can remember. “I’ve always expressed myself artistically,” she said. “From the way I wore my hair [dreadlocked] to the way I dressed. “You don’t realize how much power you have when you are being your authentic self until…” Talbert paused thinking of the near 30 years she styled beautiful, twisted sections of her hair. “Well, sometimes we perceive ourselves by the energy we are given.” They’re cut off now, though not by choice. The locs weighed her hair down, so they had to go. Never mind how long they’ve been gone, she’s still grieving them. “I knew the power of my hair…I still feel the power of them now that I’m without,” Talbert said. She described that energy as, “trying to be authentically yourself without shrinking yourself for others.” She uses that same energy in her art. The intricate designs, clean lines, and batiking technique she creates, be that cloth, canvas, or wood, have become her seal. Talbert was raised the youngest of six children and began her college career as a Goodrich Scholar at the University of Nebraska at Omaha when she was in her 30s. She graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art. “My journey as an artist came fairly organically,” she said. // 24 //
OCTOBER 2021
“It took me eight years to get a degree,” she recalled. “I wasn’t in a hurry, mostly because I liked being instructed.”
Th rough the years, Talbert’s style has evolved. A flurry of thoughts flooded Talbert as she explained her technique:
She completed a summer training with MacArthur Award winner Deborah Willis at the prestigious National Museum of African American History and Culture. She also trained under the watchful eye of the talented late Jamaican artist Dawn Scott. The techniques she learned are the foundation and inspiration for her more than three dozen group and solo exhibitions.
“I didn’t ever realize that—until recently—that I’m creating a brand that is unique. My work can’t be duplicated. It can be printed but never replicated.”
Talbert’s storied career includes a visual arts nomination for emerging artist at the OEAAs, as well as a feature on Heartland Focus and a guest feature on Omaha’s WOWT for her North Omaha Positive Affi rmation project. The project is a culmination of painted pattern-like backgrounds with words such as “right,” “think,” “context,” “truth,” and “Black love.” These signs are placed on utility poles in North Omaha for the community to see. The project, which started in 2016, holds special ties for Talbert, who grew up in the area. “It was a way for me to have a voice without speaking and still being able to have some type of impact,” Talbert said. “But what intrigues me most about it…I don’t know who sees our community. Yet, it allows me to reach strangers through kindness without having to actually meet them.” Talbert’s work is showcased at the Harvester Artist Gallery, College of St. Mary’s Hillmer Art Gallery, Charles Drew Health Center, and the Roberta and Bob Rogers Gallery. She serves as a mentor for several high school students through Kent Bellows Studio’s mentorship program, and she was a 2020 fellow at The Union for Contemporary Art, where her work was showcased as well. Omaha artist Rachel Ziegler is currently working with Talbert on a mural outside of Millwork Commons, a collaborative creative space near 13th and Nicholas streets. “Patty is not only talented, she’s an uplifter,” Ziegler said. “The work she makes inspires people to think better-feeling thoughts. I’ve benefited so much from collaborating with her and am grateful to her.”
The buildup of colors, patterns, and textures gives Talbert the freedom to express her innermost feelings and pay tribute to her ancestral power. “My pride doesn’t come in the form of accomplishments,” she said. “Because I know I haven’t reached my potential.” Now a mother and grandmother, she recognizes the internal struggle of being one of the only Black working artists in the Omaha metro area for many years. It was lonely at the table, she said. Now, times are changing. She’s thrilled to see others come up just as eager, ambitious, and unapologetic for making their own space in the local art scene. “We shouldn’t have to dim our lights, with people thinking there isn’t enough room for all of us,” Talbert said. “Because there is room for all of us.” Lincoln artist Jevon Woods called her an inspiration. “Her smile, energy, enthusiasm, and vibe is all contagious,” he said. “You just want to be around her…Patty’s artwork is alive and living in anyone who gets the chance to lay eyes on it.” Art is where Talbert fi nds her power. She wants others to experience that as well. “I cannot control anything else in the world but my art,” she said. “I can’t control what people think about it. But I can control what I create. No matter whatever is going on with me. No matter who is f**king with me, who is pissing me off, I always can come back to my artwork.” Visit pattysartomaha.com for more information.
// SPONSORED PROFILE
Northpoint Nebraska
SAVING LIVES, RESTORING RELATIONSHIPS
N
orthpoint Nebraska is proud to now be a part of the Heartland. Northpoint opened its doors in Omaha in September and is in the business of helping people get healthy.
The employees of Northpoint work tirelessly to help patients with addiction and mental health issues around the clock. A medical director, nurses, and therapists keep people comfortable while they detox off drugs or alcohol, move into recovery and lead full lives. Patients are medically supervised 24/7. “Throughout the pandemic, rates of substance use disorders have soared. Additionally, reported rates of depression and anxiety are nearly three times higher than prior to the pandemic,“ said Northpoint Nebraska Vice President, Dr. Mark Jones. “Northpoint Nebraska is opening at a perfect time to address the emerging substance use and mental health needs in the greater Omaha area.” Northpoint Nebraska’s state-of-the-art facility includes 44 beds. Services include a 28-day residential program where patients learn the tools to manage cravings and triggers and address the underlying causes of their addiction. The evidencebased program includes group, one-on-one, and family therapy, yoga and treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders. Northpoint treats the whole person.
Northpoint will also soon open outpatient services in Omaha so individuals can continue care after they leave the inpatient program. Outpatient services will also be available to those who may need a lower level of substance use or mental health care.
“
reported rates of depression and anxiety are nearly three times higher than prior to the pandemic.
”
Dr. Mark Jones At Northpoint Nebraska, they offer a dedicated Alumni program for those that complete treatment. This program allows previous Northpoint “graduates” to maintain a sober network and support system after treatment. The Alumni participate in meetings, recreational activities such as rafting trips, softball leagues or barbeques, and even start micro groups such as book clubs.
“Four and a half years ago I walked through the doors of Northpoint Recovery beaten up and broken. This was the 4th program I had entered in the span of three years and I had no options left. I was homeless and I had used up all the charity from my family and friends. I had to get it right this time,” Said T.B., Northpoint Recovery Alum and now Northpoint Colorado employee. “For 28 days I was treated with kindness and respect and given the tools to help fight my illness. You can tell when someone genuinely cares, and they genuinely cared about me and my well-being.” Four and a half years later, he still works for the company and credits Northpoint for saving his life. Northpoint also has locations and a strong reputation of high-quality care in Idaho, Washington and Colorado. For more information or for help for you or someone close to you, go to northpointnebraska.com
7215 Ontario St.,Omaha, NE 68124 402.282.8228 northpointnebraska.com
25 //
ENDODONTICS THOMAS J. BEESON
Parra Family Dentistry
MARK D. ESSNER
Creighton University
JACOB FIMPLE
Advanced Endodontics Therapy
PATRICK HAFFEY
Nebraska Micro-Endodontics
MICHAEL HERMSEN
D
ental care is important to everyone’s health. General dentists work on preventative procedures, as well as perform restorative procedures, and improve the appearance of people’s smiles with cosmetic dental procedures. Specialists such as orthodontists can further improve people’s health with proper tooth alignment.
Omaha Magazine is pleased to present this list of Top Dentists as compiled by DataJoe LLC.
Heartland Endodontic Specialists LLC
JOSE L IBARROLA
Creighton University
SUNG WOO KANG
Advanced Endodontic Therapy
COREY KARIMJEE
Midwest Endodontics
CACI LIEBENTRITT
SUMMARY To create the list, the magazine contracted DataJoe Research to facilitate an online peer-voting process and Internet research process. DataJoe Research is a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, and conducts various nominations across the United States on behalf of publishers. To create the list, DataJoe Research facilitated an online peer-voting process. We paired this with an Internet research process to identify success characteristics. DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a dentist’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that dentist was excluded from the list. In addition, we checked available public sources to identify dentists disciplined for an infraction by the state regulatory board. These entities were excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to the magazine for its final review and adjustments. FINAL NOTE We recognize that there are many good dentists who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding dentists in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination and Internet research campaign are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective dentists may not appear on the list. DISCLAIMERS DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe 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. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe. QUESTIONS? For research/methodology questions, contact the research team at surveys@datajoe.com.
New Wave Endodontics
DAVID MAIXNER
Midwest Endodontics
STEPHEN P PRYOR
Endodontic Specialists PC
CHRISTOPHER J REDD
Heartland Endodontic Specialists LLC
FRANK S SLEDER
Creighton University
GENERAL DENTISTRY AMBER M ALLEN
Amber M Allen DDS Aesthetic & Family Dentistry
PAUL BACINO
Paul Bacino Dentistry
GREG BEALS
Pacific Springs Dental
MICHAEL M BEHLE
C&B Family Dentistry LLC
JUDI BELITZ
Belitz Dental
// 26 //
OCTOBER 2021
DOUGLAS BENN
Creighton University
SARAH BILLESBACH
Mancuso Dental
JARED BOLDING
Bolding Dentistry
PAT BURCHFIEL
Burchfiel Dental
BRAD WILLIAM CARSON MATTHEW D. CARTER
Paragon Dental
MARIBEL CAUDILLO
Inspired Dental
AMY CHADWELL
TED FRANCO
Pacific Springs Dental
KENDRA GOSCH
Gosch Family Dental
MACK E GREDER
Mack Greder II DDS
HANNAH GREENE
My Pediatric Dentist
KYLE HANSON
Summit Dental Health
BENJAMIN HARDY
Hardy Dental
GREGORY A HAVELKA MICHAEL HOOVER
Chadwell Family Dentistry
Hoover Dental
MICHELLE CHANG
MICAH JEPPESEN
Anding Family Dental
Your Family Dentist
JEFFRY FRANCIS CHEREK
JOY M JUDALENA
RALPH CORPUZ
Corpuz Family Dentistry
MICHAEL DANAHAY
Dental Innovations
KATHY DEFORD
DeFord Family Dental
RICHARD DUVALL
Capehart Family Dentistryy
ROBIN KHAN
Dentistry For Health
CHRISTINE KOZAL
Clocktower Dental
STEPHANIE LAKE
Stephanie Lake DDS
TERRY F LANPHIER
Creighton University
MARK MANHART
Calcium Therapy Institute
RICHARD D MANNING JOHN MARCUZZO
Today's Dental
LUKE MATRANGA
JEFFREY D. DWORAK
40th And Dodge Family Dentistry
AMIR FARHANGPOUR
Evergreen Dental Group
Capehart Family Dentistry UNMC College of Dentistry Dental Clinic
LAURA C. FERGUSON FORAL
Whispering Ridge Family Dentistry
BRIAN J. FORAL
Whispering Ridge Family Dentistry
// SPONSORED //
JAMES FRANCIS MCCASLIN STUART MCNALLY
Millard Hill Dental Health Center
SARAH MEYER
Today's Dental
CAROL M MURDOCK
Creighton University
VILLAGE POINTE ORAL SURGERY & DENTAL IMPLANT CENTER Village Pointe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center is a privately run business, so not only are its patients supporting the local business community, they’re treated like family, said oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Michael Shnayder. “We focus on quality, from the materials we use to everything else; as a local, non corporate business we have that personal approach,” he mentioned proudly. The growing practice, which serves patients of all ages, provides a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, ranging from dental implant surgery and wisdom tooth removal to facial trauma and oral pathology. This includes techniques that rebuild bone structure with minimal surgical intervention and optimal patient comfort. Other state-of-theart technology and procedures include live navigation for implant placement. “It’s an amazing technology that’s a huge advancement over how we used to do implants,” Dr. Shnayder said. “It’s very precise.” The practice was the first in nebraska to utilize live navigation technology. Village Pointe Oral Surgery also has the latest generation of CT machines, he added. “It gives us the ability to get detailed images for treatment planning and patient care. I like embracing new technology.” Village Pointe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center 17121 Marcy St., Ste. 102 Omaha, NE 68118 402.317.5657 vpoms.com OCTOBER 2021
// 27 //
WILLIAM T. NAUGHTON
Creighton University
MATTHEW C. NEUMANN
Serenity Dental
JEFFREY NIELSEN
MARK SMITH
Got Smile Dental Group
KENNETH A. SPANEL
CHASE A. PRUITT
Omaha Oral Surgery
MICHAEL SHNAYDER
Regency Dental
Village Pointe Oral Surgery
Bel Drive Dental
Creighton University
RANDY E. STOUT
ORAL SURGERY
MARK PANNETON
Panneton Dental Group
MICHAEL SWEENEY
Dental Care Center
Oral Surgery Associates
WILLIAM PARR
Parr Dental
CAROLYN TAGGART-BURNS
Millard Oaks Dental
Kennedy Dental
SCOTT M. RADNIECKI
BRETT TAYLOR
Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants
Creighton University
ASHLEY RAINBOLT
Vondrak Dental
SUGIKO REED
Ohana Smiles
BEN REIMER
Pediatric Dental Specialists
BRENT RISING
Today's Dental
THOMAS E RUDERSDORF
Family Dentistry Bellevue
THOMAS O RUDERSDORF
Family Dentistry Bellevue
AMY RUF
The Dentists
JAY SAMUELSON
The Dentists
ELIZABETH SAND
Panneton Dental Group
JEFFREY SCHROEDER
Clocktower Dental
MICHAEL SESEMANN
Nebraska Institute of Comprehensive Dentistry
NORMAN M SHELDON ALLAN SMITH
Bellevue Family Practice Dentistry
// 28 //
OCTOBER 2021
Taylor Dentistry
JOHN B THOMAS
John B Thomas DMD PC
BRETT THOMSEN
Thomsen Dental Group
GREGORY L TOROSIAN
Gregory L Torosian DDS
ANTHONY VONDRA
All Care Dental
STEPHANIE VONDRAK
Vondrak Dental
LANNIE L WEAK JR.
Midlands Dental Group
STEVEN WEGNER
Jared M Homan DDS
KARRY K. WHITTEN
Whitten Dentistry & Spa
DAISY WILKA
STEVE COFFEY
AFOLABI O OGUNLEYE
JEROME M WEES
JOHN WEWEL
Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants
ORTHODONTICS MATTHEW BECKER
Imagine Orthodontics
KELLY RICHARD CONWAY
Dr Kelly Richard Conway
MEGHANN DIETZ
Longo Orthodontics
NEIL DUNLOW
Dunlow Orthodontics PC
TOM HUERTER
Huerter Orthodontics
KORT IGEL
Igel Orthodontics
ANTONIA E. JONES
UNMC College of Dentistry Dental Clinic
Nia Jones Orthodontics
CRISTIN C. WILSON
Longo Orthodontics
ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
Wees & Low Orthodontics
Wilson Dental
JOHN ENGEL
Oral Surgery Associates
ROBERT PFEIFLE
Oral Surgery Associates
ALFRED T LONGO LAURA LOW
JULIE OLSON
Olson Orthodontics
BARBARA J RIES
Barbara J Ries Orthodontics
g n i m o c l e W ! s t n e i t a P New
TIMOTHY J. SHEEHAN
The Orthodontic Group
402.916.5800 | premieroms.com
KIMBERLEY A. STAFFORD
Stafford Orthodontics
LISA F. STRUNK
Pedodontics PC
THOMAS WEBER
Weber Orthodontics
JULIE WEES
Wees & Low Orthodontics
PETER ANTHONY ZIEGLER
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY CARMEN L. DANA
Pedodontics PC
CADE HUNZEKER
Dr Cade Hunzeker Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Ogunleye & Team specialize in wisdom teeth extraction, implants, bone grafts, and IV sedation/general anesthesia.
546 S. Washington St. Papillion, NE
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram! @premieromspapillion
YOUR NEW SMILE AWAITS! Our team at 40th and Dodge Family Dentistry consists of only the top experts in the dental industry of NE. We pride ourselves on treating each patient with personalized services and unparalleled treatment. Providing our patients with compassionate dental care of the highest quality in a comfortable environment 16909 Lakeside Hills Plz # 111 402-884-1828
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OUR SERVICES: . Cosmetic Dentistry Preventative Dentistry . Dental Implants Family Dentistry . Dentistry for Children . Periodontics Prosthodontics . Clear Correct . Laser Dentistry . Sedation Dentistry 402.884.4400 . 111 N. 40th St., Omaha, NE 68131 40dfamilydentistry@gmail.com OCTOBER 2021
// 29 //
DARIN KOTIL
Smile Academy - Omaha Pediatric Dentistry
Omaha Family + Cosmetic Dentist
At our practice, we excel in Cosmetic Dentistry, Restorative/Implant Dentistry, Family Dentistry and Preventative Dentistry. We use the most current dental technology available, including Cerec, one visit dentistry for all-ceramic restorations and digital radiographs.
MARK TAYLOR
Taylor Dentistry
BOLDINGDENTISTRY.COM . 402.393.4400 . 10110 NICHOLAS ST., SUITE #101, OMAHA, NE 68114
ANGELI J THAKKER
Bellevue Pediatric Dentistry PC
BARRY WEBBER
Walnut Creek Pediatric Dentistry
GREG WEEDER
Weeder Pediatric Dentistry
PERIODONTICS DENNIS M ANDERSON
Gum Disease Specialists
NATALIE A FROST
Frost Periodontics & Dental Implants
MATTHEW R KELSEY
Kelsey Periodontal Group
TIMOTHY MCVANEY
Specialty Dental Care PC
TAKANARI MIYAMOTO
METRO WEST Orthodontics & Periodontics
STACY MOFFENBIER
Stacy L Moffenbrier DDS
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
SCOTT L MORRISON
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Thomas R Meng Creighton University
PAUL SHERIDAN
Millard Hill Dental Health Center
CHARLES W WILCOX
Creighton University 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
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// 31 //
Feature
STORY BY LEO ADAM BIGA
R eading,
Writing, R hetoric E rnie Chambers Even if he’s not sitting in the unicameral, he’s still educating himself and others about social justice. He’s still on the job, watching, questioning, debating, secure in his rich legacy...
32
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
C Chambers has taken heat for his contention that anyone born or naturalized in America is a citizen “unless you’re Black.” “Blacks are not fullf ledged citizens,” maintains Chambers, using himself as an example. “Yes, I was born here, I served in the military, I pay taxes, I got an education in all these white schools, I did well in all of them and graduated. I went to law school, there was no book I read I didn’t understand, no law I couldn’t find f laws with (if there were any) no provision of the constitution I’m unfamiliar with…But I’m still not a citizen because you have to have special laws so I can vote and then you try to undermine those laws; you have people who want to try to suppress my right to vote.”
33
I
T’S A THEORY HE HAS LIVED THROUGH HIS 84 YEARS; SERVING DISTRICT 11 FOR 46 YEARS AND TRYING TO EDUCATE THE PEOPLE OF NEBRASKA ABOUT INEQUALITY.
Foundations He was born July 10, 1937, to Lillian and Malcolm Chambers. Two years before he was born, 20 people in the United States were lynched—killed for an alleged offense without a legal trial; the year before his birth NAACP founder William English Walling died. Chambers, the son of a pentecostal church minister, grew up in a “religious strait jacket.” Ever a careful, quiet observer and quick read, he doubted what elders told him after noting their behavior contradicted what they professed. He vowed not to blindly follow or believe others. “That put in me, from a very early age, a responsibility and obligation to do what I knew or thought, no matter what anybody else said or did,” he said. “And that has stayed with me throughout my life. I do what my conscience tells me what I ought to do.” When he gained enough insight to realize that actions speak louder than words, he left the church, or, as he said, “I have a Bible verse for almost everything. The verse I thought of for that is from Paul: ‘When I was a child, I thought as a child, I spoke as a child, I believed as a child. When I became a man, I put away childish things.’” Hypocrisy was easy to identify once the wonder of words opened to Chambers, who, with help from a grade school teacher, overcame early reading-language deficits. “I became somebody who would pore over things until I thought I had it,” Chambers said. “I would listen carefully to what people said. I learned how to pronounce words by listening to how other children pronounced the words or when the teacher corrected them,” he said. “When I did learn how to read, I was fascinated by insects and animals. They didn’t mistreat each other like people.” He attended mostly white Lothrop Elementary School, where a young Chambers discovered not all books are friendly towards non-whites. In an interview in January 2006 for Mother Jones, Chambers was quoted as saying, “I was in a class where I was the only Black child, and they sang ‘Old Black Joe’ during the music portion and read The Story of Little Black Sambo and let those little white kids laugh, which children will do because the story is supposed to be funny—it wasn’t funny to me at all.”
“
IN AN ETHICAL OR MORAL SENSE I’VE GIVEN THE PEOPLE IN THIS COMMUNITY A BASIS TO BELIEVE I WOULD DO EVERYTHING I COULD IN THAT OFFICE AND I WOULD BE IN THAT OFFICE AS LONG AS
THEY WANTED TO KEEP ME THERE. SO I STAYED. ”
- E rnie
Chambers
Chambers graduated from Omaha Tech High School in 1955 before earning a B.A. in history, with minors in philosophy and Spanish, from Creighton University in 1959. Following his graduation, he served four years in the U.S. Army, from 1959 to 1963. “In basic training I carried the flamethrower voluntarily. It weighed 68-and-a-half pounds.” After his honorable discharge, he entered Creighton Law School. Despite making the dean’s list, he was denied the chance to complete his studies in a dispute over skipping classes. It would be many years later, under a new school regime, before he was allowed to complete his degree. He never took the bar exam, believing that people should not have to take an exam to enter the profession for which he was already prepared. Exposure to new ideas led him to interrogate the status quo. Once he found his voice, he used it as a tool and weapon. “I was a skeptic. My life when I was growing up was full of contradictions, full of confusion, full of wondering where can I go to find out how things really are. I didn’t know much about Black history or that Black people had done things because the daily newspaper obviously didn’t carry it, the textbooks didn’t carry it.” Some adults who noted his gifts introduced him to knowledge beyond school lessons. Buoyed by a growing self-confidence and sense of purpose, he stood up and spoke out against wrong. “I was a thorn in white people’s side even when I was young,” Chambers said. “As a result, I’ve always been kind of an outsider, and that’s what I am now. I was not afraid to stand alone and do alone what needed to be done. I carried on one-man pickets even then because I felt something needed to be said by somebody publicly from the Black community. But I am my own person. I will follow what I believe. I don’t care what the consequences are. Nobody can compel me or frighten me out of saying what I believe. I’ve gotten death threats. I’ve gotten the usual hate mail, racial slurs, all of it.” Freedom follows being unafraid, which is why, he said, “For me to do what I’m doing is as natural for me as it is for you to drink water or breathe air.”
Feature
ERNIE CHAMBERS
He worked construction and odd jobs from high school through college. “Then I worked at the post office (downtown) until I got fired.” Upon being fired he waged a solo protest. Chambers continued, “I’ve never been ashamed or embarrassed to work, no matter the kind of work. If I did honest work and got decent pay for it, then I would do it.” After graduating barber school, he rented a chair at Spencer Street Barbershop and cut hair for a living. It became a forum for this thought leader and community spokesperson who, with his blend of street and book smarts, polemics and philosophy, led lively discourses on social-political topics. In proprietor Dan Goodwin Sr., he found an ally. “He knew what I stood for and he liked it,” Chambers said. “Saturday mornings we’d go to breakfast. Then, sometimes when I wasn’t cutting hair, I’d come down to the shop, sit around, and just talk to people. Our friendship just blossomed. We saw so many things exactly the same way that people began to think he and I were brothers.” Hanging with Chambers, who was an FBI target, came with a cost. “Dan got arrested sometimes because he was with me.” After appealing for justice on the radio about the wrongful 1969 police killing of Vivian Strong in Omaha, the two were arrested outside the studio. Along the way, Chambers also found brotherhood and camaraderie in Omaha Star editor Charles B. Washington, noted for his 1964 interview with Malcolm X for the North Omaha newspaper. In 1964 he and Chambers met the activist when he visited the town of his birth to deliver a talk. Chambers greatly admired Malcolm X. The two men, both preachers' sons cut from the same ideological cloth, took the opportunity after the event to exchange viewpoints. The next year, Malcolm X’s political career, and life, ended while Chambers’ was getting started.
Taking action and in harm’s way The barbershop’s intellectual rigor is captured in the 1967 Oscar-nominated documentary A Time for Burning. It lays bare racism through an Omaha church’s failed attempt at interracial fellowship. Chambers appears as the prickly conscience of the piece. The film screened on PBS and prompted a national lecture tour by Chambers. He misses the shop’s “open line” vents and discussions. “I don’t think it’s just because those were the good old days. What happened there could be called ageless. I think this kind of activity occurred anywhere in the world at any period in history when there was a group disadvantaged in the way Black people are. “When the 4CL (Citizens Coordinating Committee for Civil Liberties) came into being, a group of us would go with them when they went on demonstrations,” Chambers said. “They knew we didn’t believe in nonviolence. We wouldn’t start anything, but we wouldn’t let anybody do anything to us without doing anything back. We didn’t believe in suffering in silence.” He became a go-to intervener and mediator for folks embroiled in police matters or public housing issues. He’s credited with trying to calm protestors when civil disturbances erupted in the late 1960s. “There were times when I was putting myself in jeopardy,” he said. “I had an obligation. The police did not have to tell the truth. All they had to do was say this person did this and so on. They might take him downtown, bust his head, not charge him with anything, turn him loose downtown, and he’d have to struggle back home. This was one of the reasons I was so highly regarded in the community. I would get calls in the dead of night about somebody who’d been taken downtown by the police and if I didn’t go down there we might never see them again. I would get up and go.”
A life’s work Chambers twice ran for elected office before winning his legislature seat the first time in 1971. He represented the community in all but name, so when approached to run, he did. Elected offices in Nebraska then were on an at-large basis with the exception of the legislature. District 11 was the lone public office a Black candidate could realistically win. He later pushed legislation that replaced at-large elections with district elections, which opened the door for Black candidates to win school board, city council, county commissioner, treasurer, and other seats. “If I had known I would give 46 years of my life to it, I would not have run. If that was the bargain, I would not have taken it. But once I got in, there were things I saw a legislature could do and I tried hard doing them. I got some things done initially. People began to rely on me. I gave them a reason to rely on me.” He knew well the challenges his district’s residents confronted and the uphill climb to remedy disparity. “I was faced with what mine were facing, but laying all that aside, ultimately it was on me. When I gave that affirmation I did it willingly without mental reservation and I carried through on it.” Each time he ran, he told supporters he wouldn’t actively campaign: “If you all want me here, you’re going to have to send me here, and that’s what they did.” He continued, “I carried over from law school a principle that says when you give people a basis for relying on you for something, you’re liable if you don’t carry through. In an ethical or moral sense, I’ve given the people in this community a basis to believe I would do everything I could in that office and I would be in that office as long as they wanted to keep me there. So I stayed.” continued on pg. 49
35
INVISIBLE, INVISIBLE, INVISIBLE, FEATURE
STORY BY ANDREW J. NELSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN
DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
What is
INVISIBLE, INVISIBLE, Everywhere but Found
You Look?
S O LV I N G O M A H A ’ S I L L I T E R AC Y R I D D L E OCTOBER
// 36 //
2021
K ha
nh N
guye
n
OCTOBER 2021
// 37 //
FEATURE
M
OMAHA'S ILLITERACY RIDDLE
ost days Khanh Nguyen can be found at the Millard Branch of Omaha Public Library. He’s studying for the Test of English as a Foreign Language. He’s also studying for the Graduate Management Admission Test. In his backpack he carries a copy of You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero.
That last book is 250 pages, all written in English—and that’s saying something. Nguyen, 30, is a recent immigrant from Da Nang, in Vietnam. There he was a development official, a graduate of the Da Nang University of Economics. In Omaha, he waits tables in a Vietnamese restaurant.
“English is a basic skill that is needed to get a life, get a career, in a foreign country,” he said in an interview outside the Millard library. Nguyen knows it will take many more shifts at the Vietnamese restaurant to get comfortable speaking English, and much more time studying to get the certifications he needs, before he can practice accounting in the United States. “Nothing is easy at the beginning, and English is no exception,” he said. But I can improve my English if I do my best and practice day by day.” Literacy and skill with English is an extensive problem in the city of Omaha, with tentacles that stretch into most parts, if not every part, of city life. In a city and country of immigrants, those who are new here may always struggle with literacy. But many of our neighbors who have lived in the United States their entire lives are challenged as well. According to information provided by the literacy education nonprofit Learning for All: • 17% of people in the Omaha area are functionally illiterate • 14% of the adult population of the United States cannot read • 70% of incarcerated people in the United States score at lowest proficiency for reading • More than $230 billion per year in health care costs is linked to low literacy • About 75% of incarcerated people in state prisons did not complete high school or can be classified as having low literacy
// 38 //
OCTOBER 2021
Omaha Magazine further found that low-literacy patients have less health-related knowledge and get less preventative care, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians Foundation. Forbes reported a Gallup/ Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy study found adult illiteracy may be costing the United States as much as $2.2 trillion per year. “When you look at what’s going on here in Omaha, it’s just not something that we’re talking about,” said John Nania, executive director of Learning for All. “But it’s something that’s impacting each of us, something that we can do something about. But we don’t even know it’s a problem.” Illiteracy is a problem for immigrants and refugees to this country. But the problem is homegrown as well. Learning For All’s GED students whose primary language is English often read at some of the lowest levels on the scale of literacy, said Courtney Baughman, Learning for All’s program director. Nania moved to Omaha about 12 years ago as a senior executive with the American Red Cross. He joined Learning for All after retiring from the Red Cross in 2018. “When I moved here, one of the things I kept hearing is that you know the unemployment rate is so low,” he said. “When I came to Learning for All, I realized that there are so many people that don’t have their GED or don’t have some of those basic educational skills—they’re not even applying for these jobs.” Someone who cannot read probably won’t be able to fill out a job application or write a resume. They can’t read instructions and warnings on a container of medicine. They can’t understand their car registration or insurance information. “Typically, these are people [in] a cycle of poverty that is very difficult to break out of, because if they can’t function well, they can’t help their kids with their education or their homework,” Nania said. “This is a cyclical problem.”
The reasons for the American-born literacy problem are hard to pin down. That conversation often circles back to schools. “I think that we are not as progressive as many of the other countries, which then leads to lots of holes, lots of gaps, kids falling through the cracks at a young age,” said Baughman, a former teacher with Omaha Public Schools. “The problem is, teachers are given a classroom of 20 to 25 students and some of them come to them basically illiterate and some of them come to them as incredibly high achievers. And a teacher [is] told, ‘OK, teach them all. And get them to pass these tests, so that, according to the state, we are a functional, progressive, school.’” And children having trouble fall through the cracks and aren’t helped, she said. “By the time they get to 12th grade, it’s clear that they have fallen so far behind that it would be next to impossible for them to make up for what they have lost.” Not quite 20% of high school graduates leave school not having developed basic reading proficiency, according to information from Learning for All. In adulthood, it’s up to the person to get help for themselves. And that is not easy for someone to do. The processes of admitting that you can’t read and learning how to as an adult are difficult. But programs like Learning for All and others are available. “By the time we may finally [get them] to the front door there was a lot that went into that decision to come and see us,” Nania said. “And they know that they’re going to be in for some work, and they know it’s not going to be easy. But they know that if they don’t do this, things are not going to change, things are not going to improve.” The embarrassment problem is profound. Attempts to reach a native English speaker who suffered from adult illiteracy for this article were unsuccessful—no one contacted through Learning for All or other programs would talk to a reporter, or would only do so without a promise of anonymity. Solutions to native-born illiteracy in the United States are elusive. Nania said something relatively easy people can do is volunteer to read to children.
They don’t need an educational background, he said. “You don’t need experience doing that.” When he lived in Georgia, Nania took part in an opportunity to volunteer in classrooms once or twice per month. “A lot of my day was spent reading to kids and talking with fifth and sixth grade kids who had no books in their house,” he said. “Their parents had never read to them. And the teachers were trying to give them extra time, [to] encourage that child to read, because their reading skills were so low and it was impacting all of their other academic pursuits as well. So definitely reading to children at a very young age is a critical piece.” Part of the solution is making families aware of the resources that are available, Baughman said. “If you have a functionally illiterate single mom, she’s not going to be doing any reading with her kid at night. She’s just not,” Baughman said. “If you’re giving her the resources that she could tap into, then that’s a great start. The problem with that—and therein lies that multilayer issue—is that mom going to feel comfortable enough to reach out? It’s embarrassing for a lot of people.” There are some literacy statistics that can be considered positive: Nebraska ranks well overall, with the sixth highest literacy rate in the United States, according to the World Population Review. Neighboring states score in the top 10 as well, with South Dakota ranked as fifth, Iowa as ninth, and Missouri as 10th. The United States ranks seventh in the world in literacy, according to a study published last year by Central Connecticut State University. Issues with literacy and language are tough for immigrants as well. Many refugees come to the United States with no knowledge of English. According to Nania: “My wife was tutoring a woman in her 50s who was never even allowed to go to school in her home country. So, there are a lot of cultural issues. There are a lot of issues that are specific to some of the countries.”
Others might have to adjust to a reality where they are no longer the valued professionals they were in their country— like the doctor from China who had to work washing dishes at Red Robin. “What a shame to have someone with that talent washing dishes and not working at the Med Center, or some of the accountants we’ve had,” Nania said. “We have a lawyer from South America whose life was threatened and had to escape his country. And you know, he doesn’t want to be waiting tables. He wants to be a lawyer. That’s his passion.” Nguyen is on a path to get out of restaurants and back into accounting. He earned his bookkeeping certificate from Central Community College by taking online classes during the lockdown. He plans on pursuing a master’s degree. And he is taking English classes with Learning for All. Because English is a mandatory subject in Vietnam, Nguyen was able to read a little English when he arrived in the United States. But speaking and hearing the language were real problems. He needs to get better, because he said not learning how to communicate in English means his career options are limited. He moved to the United States after getting married—his wife is a former first-grade classmate who he reunited with over Facebook. “At first I was reluctant to move because life in the U.S. is so different from Vietnam,” he said. “But my wife and my family told me this would be the right choice.” He was inspired to persevere by reading Franklin D. Roosevelt’s inauguration speech. At the height of the Great Depression, Roosevelt told Americans “the only thing we have to fear, is fear itself.”
English is a hard language for Vietnamese people to learn, even if they have an educational background in it, he said. Those who struggle the most in the Vietnamese community to learn English are older, he said. “They are dependent on their children. They are not familiar with [the] American language. They just want to stay at home in their comfort zone,” he said. The older people have good experience, but they don’t know how to share it with their children because they don’t know how to speak that language. Nguyen said that Americans can help immigrants by putting money into community colleges and offering “more suitable programs for English learners.” He lives in Sarpy County just south of Harrison Street. His wife owns a nail salon—a common occupation in the Vietnamese community. Nguyen often ponders his move to the United States. “I think about it every night and day. I don’t know if it was a good decision or not,” said Nguyen, a permanent resident pursuing citizenship. “But what I look forward to [is] a better life in America with my family.” Nguyen said much of life is better in the United States. The air quality is better. So are the hospitals and schools, as is the infrastructure. And once he is able to relaunch his accounting career, the money will better. But life is also good in Vietnam. And if he can succeed here and be an example to his family back home, so much the better. “If I am successful in a foreign country, like the U.S., I can set a good example for the younger generation,” he said. “For my family members…to try their best.” Visit golearnall.org for more information.
Nebraska ranks well overall, with the sixth highest literacy rate in the United States, according to the World Population Review. OCTOBER 2021
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Bigger Infinities Homecoming King Breaks Through With Higher Math
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GEN O // STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS
A
Andrew Li ranked third in his senior class at Westside High School when he graduated last spring, scored a perfect 36 on his ACT, and was a National Merit Finalist. Before graduating from high school, he already had “college teacher” on his resume and shown promise in a national competition.
Li shared a huge idea with an international audience as one of 15 finalists in the 2020 Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a science video competition. Students age 13 to 18 created original three-minute videos to explain a concept or theory in the life sciences, physics, or mathematics, then were judged on their ability to communicate complex scientific ideas in an engaging manner. Li’s entry was titled “Some Infinities Are Bigger than Other Infinities.” “He was talking about a very high-math concept, and it was something I could relate to,” Westside High School counselor Ted Dondlinger said. “I was impressed.” “It’s so beautifully done, his editorial skill and the choices he made in that presentation,” said Dr. Griff Elder, a University of Nebraska at Omaha professor of mathematics. “I am so impressed with the kids who are able to…not just do the work, but express it so clearly. There’s been a much greater emphasis over the past 20, 30 years in terms of expository writing and communicating mathematical research to the public.” Elder, who hired the 17-year-old Li as a teaching assistant for spring semester 2021, has been acquainted with Li throughout the young man’s journey into higher math. Li began taking college-level coursework at age 12 through UNO’s Early Entry Program in 2016 and was an intern during the summers of 2017 and 2018, working under Dr. Matthew Hale of the cybersecurity lab at UNO, helping with the GenCyber camp and coding on a lab project. “The emphasis in those courses is teaching a canon of material that is fairly standardized, and you are being taught methods and you have to repeat. You are basically being taught recipes,” he said. “But there is a much more creative side of mathematics where the goal is to figure out why and then to explain yourself. There are students who are very young for whom that’s been their habit all along… but if you follow the beaten path you tend not to see theoretical mathematics until you are a junior in college.” Students like Li are apt to find the way to early educational experiences, Elder said. “With Andrew, I suggested he take a course called ‘Introduction to Abstract Math.’ He did that in 2018. There were interesting things he picked up, and the idea for his Breakthrough Junior Challenge was a presentation from that class,” Elder said. “There is something really important from a student’s perspective to be able to take ownership of things. If you can meet the student where they are and engage them on topics they are interested in, the return on investment is huge because the energy comes from the student.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
The idea of making complex information accessible appealed to his own learning process, Li said. “I’m a pretty fast learner. That really helps me learn the content, but then allocate the rest of my time to thinking about the material and reflecting on how I would teach it, and that becomes my benchmark for understanding,” he said. Li created his video entry in spring 2020 using programs available to him through his school account. “I didn’t have any experience creating videos like this; there was a lot of editing involved,” Li said. “It was good for me to dip my toes into something I hadn’t done before.” His biggest challenge was creating a succinct script that fit the time limit, Li said, and he consulted with Elder and other math colleagues for feedback. Finding out he was a finalist last fall was a surprise. “I didn’t expect it to make it this far,” he said. “What was really cool was the people who judge this at the finalist level are people that I look up to—‘science idols,’ I would say— mathematicians and physicists.” It’s apparent that Li has a natural inclination for mathematics, among other things, but curiosity leads him to new intellectual adventures, he said. “I see something that I don’t know about, and if it’s in a field I’m really interested in or if it’s something that’s interesting in its own right, it resonates with me: ‘What is this?’ and ‘What can I learn more about this thing?’” he explained. “My interests are pretty broad, so if I see something [I] want to learn more about like biology, psychology, physics, arts, the sciences, I go for it: I start Googling, I start reading Wikipedia, I start searching for articles.” Li, who turns 18 this month, said he’s a typical teen who likes to hang out with friends, who would say Li is knowledgeable but also that, “I’m a little funny, I hope,” he said. “I like to make people laugh.” His peers voted him homecoming king last fall. Li is now beginning his freshman year at the top-tier Massachusetts Institute of Technology to study math and computer science. Postcollege, he’s interested in several potential careers and willing to embrace more adventures in the future. “Being a professor or being a teacher is always out there as a very possible career pathway I would take. I’ll probably go into industry for a short while to satisfy that practical side of me,” Li said. “But after that I would love to return to school and maybe get a Ph.D. and do research, and also teach as a big component of that…I do love lifelong learning.”
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Runner Increases Distance and Excels
All-American middle kid
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OCTOBER 2021
Story by Greg Echlin
SPORTS
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Photography by Bill Sitzmann Design by Matt Wieczorek
A
thlete Christina Elder of Papillion has been around long enough to know a rigorous workout produces a ton of sweat. But she wasn’t quite ready for the proverbial cold water splash that, in reality, fueled her desire to achieve previously unattainable personal records.
She is an ascending a middle distance runner, but that’s only one aspect of her life. Elder, 33, goes the extra mile to balance her schedule between raising her children— ages 7, 4, and 20 months—and teaching physical education and health at Platteview High School, where she’s also the girls track coach. In her own running lane, so to speak, Elder’s times keep rising and, she hopes, will go to a level that eventually will lead to an invitation to the 2024 Olympic trials. “I was worried I’d feel pressure with that, but I don’t,” Elder said. Excelling as a runner is not new to her. Before her marriage to Tyler Elder, she was known as Christina King at Wayne State College, where she was named a 2011 NCAA Division II track and field All-American in the 400-meter run and the 4x400 relay. “It just feels like a really fun dream to pursue.” The aforementioned splash came from Tyson Thomas, whom Elder met at Orange Theory Fitness in Papillion, not far from where she lives. Elder had gotten “the itch for being competitive again” after the birth of Taytum, her second daughter and the middle of her three children. Thomas’s first cogent message, Elder recalls, was when he told her she wasn’t pushing herself hard enough. Taken aback at first, Elder remembers thinking, “Who are you?”
It paid off July 24 in Ames, Iowa, where Elder became a double champion at the USA Track and Field Masters national meet. Battling extreme heat—99 degrees on the track—during the noon hour that Saturday at the Cyclone Sports Complex on the Iowa State campus, Elder won the 800-meter run. She attributes the stifling heat to preventing her from achieving a personal best time. The next morning, she set a personal record. In more tolerable conditions, Elder nosed out runner-up Jodi Smith, a 43-year-old veterinary pathologist from Ames, by threetenths of a second (4:56.09 to 4:56.12) to capture first place in the 1,500-meter run. It was only the third time, each this year, Elder raced that distance competitively. “We did it!” Elder repeatedly told herself as she and her oldest daughter, Jocelyn, cruised the interstate the next day to the Wyoming mountains for a welcomed rest. Thomas summarized their partnership, “There’s nothing better than being a fitness professional and having someone that has that drive and motivation.”
They both benefited from Elder’s receptiveness to coaching.
Elder’s support system is comprised of her husband, who played football at Fort Hays State University (Hays, Kansas) and is more apt to swim these days than run; and Thomas, who’s also balancing life between raising three children and routinely leading fitness classes at Orange Theory.
“From then on, I took her under my wing and started giving her certain speeds that she needed to be at,” Thomas said. “That’s really what kicked it up.”
Then there’s her community at Platteview High, where Elder says she loves teaching and considers it a very important part of her life.
“
“When I’m coaching I really want to focus on being a coach, so I put on my athlete hat separately from when I’m coaching, usually,” said Elder, who’s in her 10th year at Platteview. “So I’ll ask the girls, ‘Hey, do you want me to run this rep?’ with them. And they actually love it.” Elder says she’s felt competitive since her elementary school days. She carried it on to Millard West High School, where she chose soccer over track, since their seasons overlapped. It was there she aspired to be a teacher. “In high school, I had some really cool teachers and I loved the impact that they made on me,” she said. “It was actually in high school when I decided, ‘I want to be a teacher. I want to do this, I want to coach and I want to give back.’” In her first three years at WSC, she doubled as a soccer player and a runner in track. It was Elder’s speed on the soccer pitch that caught the attention of WSC track coach Marlon Brink, and he sold her on trying out for track. Thus the transition began. Elder has evolved since WSC from being a sprinter—she achieved AllAmerica status—to a middle distance runner. Knowing both worlds, she has applied her experiences in each area when coaching. Elder likes where she is but knows she literally has miles to go. Visit phs.spring fieldplatteview.org for more information.
IN HIGH SCHOOL, I HAD SOME REALLY COOL TEACHERS AND I LOVED THE IMPACT THAT THEY MADE ON ME. IT WAS ACTUALLY IN HIGH SCHOOL WHEN I DECIDED, ‘I WANT TO BE A TEACHER. I WANT TO DO THIS, I WANT TO COACH AND I WANT TO GIVE BACK.’” -Christina Elder OCTOBER 2021
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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, self- discipline, 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. Mount Michael is coming off the highest number of applications, and highest enrollment at 251 students, in the school’s history. Despite these high numbers, Mount Michael prides itself on being a small school. “The average class size for freshmen/sophomores is about 14 students, while the average class size of Junior/Senior classes is about 10 students. The small class sizes allow for greater individual attention,” Maliszewski said. The current student-to-teacher ratio is also 7:1.
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OCTOBER 2021
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Clarkson College is closely affiliated with Nebraska Medicine and Clarkson Regional Health Services, with 98 percent of its students obtaining jobs by the time they graduate. Clarkson College’s outreach extends to rural communities as well as underserved populations in Omaha. “Our strategic plan includes two major initiatives,” explained Gary Pack, Ed.D., interim president. “One initiative will allow health care professionals in rural Nebraska to update their credentials without leaving home, and the other will offer enhanced opportunities to prospective students from minority and underserved populations in Omaha.” Clarkson College is accepting applications for two new programs that will open in fall 2022: a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Community Health, Pre-Health Professional option, in which students will explore various health care fields before focusing on one area. At the graduate level, the College recently received a $1.1-million-dollar grant from the NFLP (Nurse Faculty Loan Program) to provide financial assistance to students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in nurse education. The loans are 85% forgivable if the recipient works as a nurse educator for at least four consecutive years. Clarkson College’s student population includes many individuals who are employed part-time or even fulltime. “About 40% of our students are 24 to 28 years of age,” Dr. Pack mentioned, “and probably 60% are 100% online. We have students from all 50 states, and a lot of our adjunct faculty operate out of other states.” Dr. Pack is proud that Clarkson College was able to remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic: “Our faculty and staff decided to do whatever was necessary so students would be able to graduate on time.” After spending decades as a school superintendent, Dr. Pack served as president of Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Cincinnati before being appointed as interim president at Clarkson College. // 46 //
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ERNIE CHAMBERS continued from pg. 35
He never felt out of touch with constituents. “Being Black, I know what people are concerned about. I know how hard it is to get or hold a job. I know how fearful Black people have been made. I expected to be standing alone and I wasn’t disappointed. That doesn’t mean everything I did was done on a one-man basis. But by-and-large people in the community were afraid to align themselves publicly with me (for fear of reprisal). Yet if they needed help, I was the first one they came to, and I never turned anybody away.”
Reflections In looking back on his journey to elder statesman, he sees clearly life patterns, if not details. “Things just kind of happened helter-skelter. I could not sit down even now and itemize chronologically things that have happened in my life because that’s not the way I live it.” In taking stock of his career, he does point with pride to model legislation he crafted for the disposition of Native American remains and the divestiture of public funds from then-apartheid South Africa. He blocked an attempt by Republican state senators to return Nebraska’s electoral votes to a winner-take-all-system, thus making it possible for the congressional district that includes largely Democratic Omaha to award a delegate vote to Joe Biden despite the rest of the state voting Trump. He accepts, too, “all the failures I’ve had in the legislature as others reckon failure—how I couldn’t get for poor people what was needed, not only in terms of material things like food, shelter, clothing, health care, but the feeling of dignity and respect.” His humanitarian efforts extended to non-Blacks, including Carey Dean Moore, a deathrow inmate he tried saving from execution as part of a long battle he waged to outlaw the death penalty here. “I couldn’t keep off the books the death penalty. Many things in the legislature I failed to make come out the way I wanted them to come out. But if I did the best that I could, then to my reckoning, I was a success. Things outside of me do not determine what I am or what I am not. If that friend deep down inside of me, the only friend I’ve got, tells me, well done, then I can sleep the sleep of the just. That’s the way I live.” The death penalty was abolished in the state in May 2015, then re-established by voters in 2016. If there’s anything he’s learned in his purpose-driven life, it’s to be authentic. “It might sound philosophical, it might sound naive, but everybody should try to establish an inner set of values. Always be true to yourself, trust your judgement, never give up, never quit, and be what you are.” He’s aware of his enigma status, but rejects it as a false narrative. “I am as transparent as a piece of window glass and as uncomplicated as a straight line. There’s nothing hidden, no sub-rosa, what you see is what you get. But when you see what is really there, you may get something you don’t like—as often happened in the legislature. But when one of them needed help, even those who dealt treacherously with me, if I felt it was for the good of the legislature or the people’s interests or the integrity of the process, then I would help rewrite bad legislation.” He made friends and enemies. Building alliances and engaging in disputes came with the territory. “There is no sanction a human being can bring against me that I fear so much that it will turn me away from what I believe I ought to do,” Chambers said.
Nothing’s changed, he insists, now that he’s out of office again, perhaps for good. “What I am now is just an older version of what I’ve always been.” He’s comfortable in his own tough skin and in the uncompromising example he’s set. “Not one of you could stand in the way that I’ve stood all these years. Not one of you could get out of bed every day and know that you’re outnumbered more than 45 to 1 and stand as I have, not yield an inch, not sacrifice a principle, fight as hard for vicious white people as for the most virtuous Black person when that white person is being mistreated and not being granted the rights he or she should have under the law.” He’s helped education through legislation. Chambers got a requirement passed for Nebraska schools to have multicultural education, and in the 1980s spoke out about paying athletes, something he reiterated in an interview he gave to NET in April. He likened athletes to indentured servants, saying they aren’t in college to be scholars, but athletes, and they are not paid for it although athletes make money for colleges. Even if he’s not sitting in the unicameral, he’s still educating himself and others about social justice. He’s still on the job, watching, questioning, debating, secure in his rich legacy while aware of his disenfranchised status. His retains his voracious reading habits. “Even to this day, I read newspapers skeptically,” Chambers said. “I listen to the news analytically. I don’t trust people in the legislature when they say things. When the governor speaks, I believe he has a hidden motive. I believe judges will disregard the law and make a decision based on who the person is standing in front of the judge. People are arrested because of what they are, not what they’ve done.” Ernie Chambers, the everyman’s champion, sees that education is key to revealing the truth; and that truth will set people free. Search “Ernie Chambers” on Facebook or Twitter for more information.
OCTOBER 2021
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“
GETTING PEOPLE OUT WITH THEIR HANDS ON THINGS, I THINK, IS WHERE I R E A L LY FOUND THE PASSION FOR EDUCATION. G R O W I N G U P, I HAD THOSE EXPERIENCES AND THAT WAS MY NORMAL EVERYDAY LIFE.” -AMY LEISING
// 50 //
OCTOBER 2021
Photography by Bill Sitzmann
Design by Matt Wieczorek
SHARES THE G N LO ISI
VE
LE
PROFILE // Story by Karen Campbell
ZOO INSPIRES
A
g i n r n e a L
my Leising saw anemones for the first time on her honeymoon to the Pacific Northwest’s Olympic National Park “ages and ages ago.”
“There were kids on the beach and I was running along, tickling the anemones, and I kept saying, ‘oh my gosh, you have to come see this!’ We were perfect strangers and I am sure their parents thought I was crazy.” From as far back as she can remember, Leising’s love of all things outdoors was simply part of her being. Growing up on a cattle farm in Cook, Nebraska, (“not to be confused with the much larger McCook, Nebraska,” she said with a laugh), Leising spent countless hours outdoors. Animals, including “a million” barn cats, dogs, geese, chickens, and, of course, cattle, bustled around the farmland and property. Leising fondly remembers packing a lunch and heading out to the pasture, where she and her brother would spend entire days digging rocks, looking for fossils, gathering mulberries, and generally “making a mess of ourselves.” “Being outdoors was just a normal thing and, to me, that is where the exciting and cool things were,” she said, “My grandmother also used to take me with her to collect walnuts, wild mushrooms, and berries.” Leising earned a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and said a career in teaching was never part of her original plan. It was through her job as a naturalist for the City of Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department at Pioneer’s Park Nature Center that Leising discovered her love of teaching. During her time as a naturalist, she worked as a camp counselor, led educational interpretive tours for all ages and guided tours for elementary schools, and led bird-watching groups. She even had a traveling puppet show to educate elementary children in Lincoln schools about conservation. “I loved my job at the nature center and the more I did with education there, the more I realized that’s what I wanted to do,” Leising said.
OCTOBER
“Getting people out with their hands on things, I think, is where I really found the passion for education,” Leising said. “Growing up, I had those experiences and that was my normal everyday life.” Leising then earned her master’s degree in secondary education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and became a certified biology teacher. She taught at Bryan High School for 10 years before moving to the career center at Omaha Public Schools, where she teaches in Zoo Academy. Zoo Academy, founded in 1996 and fully established in 2009, is an educational partnership between Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and school districts around the area. As a Zoo Academy instructor, Leising teaches veterinarian science, environmental science, and zoo research, and she co-teaches a zoo operations course. “No matter a student’s background or initial skill level, Amy’s students conduct and apply science practices throughout the year with real-life situations,” said Dan Sitzman, OPS Science Instructional Coach. “Amy’s students are prepared through experience to contribute to the local and global community and the natural environment.” In a typical school year, Leising said students in her veterinarian science and environmental science classes spend two days a week in the classroom doing more formal classroom-setting science learning. On other days, vet science students job shadow at the zoo and with veterinarians around the Metro area. “On days when they are not in my classroom, if I have the opportunity, I will shadow with them, check in, and find out the things they are getting to learn,” Leising said. While her environmental science students don’t have a jobshadowing option, Leising said they do a lot of hands-on research and experiments and use exhibits on grounds at the zoo. She said one of her favorite lesson series for her environmental science students is on sustainable housing, where students build a model sustainable house and study the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle. continued on pg. 61
// 51 //
2021
NOTRE DAME
AC A D E M Y L E G AC Y I N S E PA R A B L E
From Nuns Behind ALL-GIRLS SCHOOL
H I S TO RY S TO RY BY L E O A D AM B I G A Photo graphy Contributed // Design by Matt Wieczorek
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October 2021
P
erched on fertile, sacred ground in Florence, allgirls Notre Dame Academy served thousands of day and boarder students from 1926-1974. The former school building, also home to the Notre Dame Sisters’ motherhouse, is a National Register of Historic Places landmark at 35th and State streets.
The Czechoslovakia-native sisters who founded, built, and administered the school arrived tasked with keeping Czech immigrants close to Catholicism. Their initial assignment saw them run an orphanage in Fenton, Missouri. They later served Czech enclaves in rural Nebraska and Iowa. True to their core charism of meeting unmet needs, they saw a need for a well-rounded, parochial academy. These pioneer women came to Omaha in 1917 at the invitation of Boys Town founder Father Flanagan to fill mother roles at his then-urban youth home. He’d acquired Seven Oaks Poultry Farm as its new site but soon deemed it too small. In need of a permanent home, the sisters purchased it for their convent and school. Fruit tree-studded Seven Oaks “reminded the sisters of their home in Europe,” said Notre Dame provincial president Sister Margaret Hickey. They made a self-sufficient, farm-to-table life, with dairy cows for milk and butter, egg-laying hens, and vegetable gardens. They canned their own produce. Florence Mill flour went into homemade bread and kolaches. Everything, from sacks to jars, got recycled. Omaha architects Matthew Lahr and Carl Stange designed the red-brick central building in the late Italian Renaissance Revival style. Its grand staircase features a marble wainscot and terrazzo floor. The bucolic setting, with scenic views of the Iowa bluffs, later functioned as a retreat, conference, and event center before the sisters converted the structure to subsidized senior living units. New senior facilities have been added. Residents receive holistic services.
Cathy Leak, co-director of the lay Notre Dame Associates, said, “The sisters are very inspiring women. I find we’re all companions on the same journey towards a better relationship with God. I definitely believe in their power of prayer. They’ve had a tremendous impact on my own life.” Associates assist with Czech-style benefit dinners that support Notre Dame ministries. Early students and novitiates were of Czech heritage, but their ranks grew ever more diverse. Boarders came from the Midwest, even overseas. Novitiates hailed from various rural and urban areas. As consecrated women of faith, teachers, and social justice warriors, the sisters embodied service for academy students like Mary Duffy. “That’s where we were expected to go. We felt at home with the sisters. They’re remarkable, very learned women with strong spiritual and intellectual values. Also very sweet. They found your talent and emphasized that. They also encouraged you to try other things,” Duffy said. “I got my foundation from Notre Dame about how to meet unmet needs. The sisters taught me to read and think and speak. A lot of things I’m doing in my own life parallel what I learned at Notre Dame, including my work with the Assistance League of Omaha.” Notre Dame archivist Sister Anita Rolenc said the academy’s liberal arts curriculum “covered everything” from core subjects to art, music, drama, speech, debate, physical education, and commercial courses. “It was established as a school of prominence.” The sisters also taught in parishes in Omaha, greater Nebraska, and the Midwest. As Omaha grew up around the campus, Hickey said, “it allowed us to make more friends,” among their Mormon neighbors. The academy closed when leadership decreed a merger with Rummell High School to form Roncalli Catholic High School. Letting go of the academy, Hickey said, “was really hard.”
“ They’re remarkable, very learned women with strong spiritual and intellectual values.” - Mary Duffy October 2021
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Without its anchor, Hickey said, the community faced the possibility of moving. “We didn’t want to abandon our home. We had established friendships in the area. We used many of the businesses to help our needs.” With characteristic resilience and inventiveness, some sisters continued teaching, Hickey said, while others “looked for emerging needs that would fit our mission, which has always been education, especially of women and children.” Some served with an archdiocesan mission in Chile.
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The sisters opened a domestic violence shelter for women and children. Notre Dame Housing is nearing 25 years as a provider of affordable, quality senior living. The sisters co-founded the Coalition on Human Trafficking. Some sisters pursue individual ministries, including aiding border detainees. This year, the Notre Dame Sisters honored five of their own who had been with the organization for many years. In August, Hickey and Sister Irene Dvorak celebrated 60 years; Sisters Corona Humpal, Ernestine Havlovic, and Joan Polak celebrated 70 years. “We meet a need, then we strengthen the people to do that work, then move on to the next one,” Hickey said. “Traits of Notre Dame Sisters are simplicity and humility. We believe strongly in doing the work. It’s sometimes hard for us to accept we make a difference, but we definitely do. God did give us these gifts. I guess we should celebrate them.” Leak credits Hickey with being there “when I very much needed” a community. “She invited me in and the sisters became very important to me.” Duffy became a career educator, she said, due to “a love of learning nurtured at the academy.” Hickey, in turn, said, “I’m so very proud of our alums. They’re doctors, lawyers, nurses, teachers— every walk of life. I see them growing their families and involved in social justice issues, serving on boards.” Visit notredamesisters.org for more information.
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// 55 //
the
NATURAL
Goes Beyond Expectations to Serve Teenagers October
//
56
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2021
adventure
N
STORY BY JOEL STEVENS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN
athan Johnson whitewater rafts, hikes, and rock climbs on the clock. That’s not even his favorite part of the job.
The 23-year-old camp director for Go Beyond Nebraska is responsible for the logistics and on-site coordination of the nonprofit’s twice-annual trips that have Omaha teens traveling to Wyoming on outdoor adventures.
But it’s the life lessons and the connections Johnson makes that he savors. “I’ve been very fortunate in my life to be able to access the outdoors, and I’ve had a lot of great experiences camping,” Johnson said from Wyoming, where he was scouting new trail adventures for an upcoming Go Beyond trip. “I think it’s personally rewarding to be able to help facilitate that for some of our campers that have maybe never left their part of town or not had the family or friends or the support that’s been able to give them that experience.” Go Beyond, formerly known as Camp Confidence, has provided world-class, free-of-charge summer camp experiences to young people from across the Omaha community since 1978. The camps focus on mentoring, building confidence, and fulfilling potential through outdoor adventures. More than 40 campers from the Omaha area attended last year. An Omaha native and self-described outdoorsy type, Johnson grew up camping, earned his Eagle Scout ranking, and can still be found at least once a month camping or hiking somewhere out of cell service range. In April, Johnson took over as camp director after previously serving as a camp counselor. It’s a job for which Go Beyond Executive Director Ian Kimmer thinks Johnson was lab-created. His diversity of experience, natural energy, and dynamic personality pairs perfectly with the granular day-to-day of the camp’s logistics and the interpersonal relationship with the campers themselves. “I don’t know if it's spiritual for him, but it's molecular to who Nate is to make good things happen,” Kimmer said. Johnson sees his job in a more humble term: facilitator. A term that, as a bootson-the-ground camp director, requires he wear a lot of hats.
In addition to accompanying campers on their trips, he handles the scheduling, works with vendors and outfitters, and collaborates with partner organizations. He meets with prospective campers and their families, and helps staff coordinate menus that accommodate any dietary restrictions. He also plots the schedule of adventures for trips that can be anywhere from eight to 14 days. Go Beyond is based in Omaha but uses two properties in Wyoming for expeditions: Centennial Ranch in the Snow Range and the Alpine Mountain Camp in Grand Teton National Park.
DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
Campers go through a day-long orientation hike to prepare for a trip. As long as they can walk and are willing to challenge themselves, Johnson said, there’s nothing they can’t handle. Even if they aren’t allowed to bring cell phones or electronic devices. “Not having cell service is sometimes a great thing,” Johnson said. “It’s hard for them, but it makes you present in the moment. It helps you understand all that is going on around you.” The trips are nonstop, lively, fun, and filled with interesting facts about ecology, culture, and geography—but they aren’t always easy. That’s a lesson Johnson hopes every camper takes home with them. “I want them to know they can do hard things,” he said. “It’s one thing to see a picture of a mountain and drive by a mountain an hour away, but it’s a completely different thing to sit at the base of a mountain and know you’re going to climb up it.”
Campers hike in Yellowstone National Park, whitewater raft the Snake River, canoe in the Palisades Reservoir, and rock climb in world-famous Lander, Wyoming. They ride horses, camp in the back country, and hike to the summit of 12,000foot Medicine Bow Peak.
He also noted that getting halfway up that mountain and questioning themselves before continuing and reaching the summit changes a lot of a campers. “It’s very doable but it challenges them and it builds confidence and belief in themselves,” Johnson said.
“Our goal is to give campers an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience regardless of where they come from and their backgrounds,” Johnson said.
If Johnson can give a little bit of that belief to his campers along the way, with a dash of his own love of the outdoors, he feels like he’s earned his paycheck— and maybe more.
A lot of the young people who come through the program, Johnson said, have little or no camping experience. Some have never left the city before. Most who apply for the camps are physically fit enough but lack the experience and confidence to launch headlong into the Go Beyond adventures. That’s where Johnson comes in. He talks with the prospective campers and their families about expectations and concerns.
“To be able to give the campers a space they can authentically be themselves without fear or judgment, where they can be who they are with empathy and care from our camp staff and other campers is meaningful,” Johnson said. “Some of our campers come from some pretty rough situations, so making sure, for at least a week, they’re going to be well-fed and have a good time, and not have too many stressors or worries, that matters a lot.”
“A lot of the kids do feel good about it—whitewater rafting sounds cool to everybody,” Johnson said. “But there is some trepidation in that excitement, and anticipation, too. That does create some anxiety and we do our best to address that with the campers and make sure they know what they’re getting into and they’re prepared. Our staff does a good job getting them ready.”
Visit gobeyondne.org for more information.
GIVING CALENDAR OCTOBER 2 0 2 1
FEATURED EVENT
Oct.
Kids & Clays Sporting Clays Tournament BENEFITING: RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES IN OMAHA Location: Oak Creek Sporting Club, Brainard, NE
22-24
The Sporting Clays Tournament is a chance for people to show appreciation for their clients or employees. Each team of five goes through 10 stations for 100 shots total. People can also play some entertaining side games, participate in the silent auction, and eat lunch. A pheasant hunt add-on option is available. —rmhcomaha.org/events/clay
Oct. 1 (7-10 p.m.)
Oct. 7 (5:30-8:15 p.m.)
Oct. 10 (7:30 a.m.)
Benefiting: Partnership 4 Kids
Benefiting: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Benefitting: Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
HOPS & GRAPES FALL FESTIVAL
Location: Hilton Downtown —p4k.org
Oct. 2 (4-8 p.m.)
FIFTH ANNUAL HEALS TO THE PAVEMENT FOR PREGNANCY & INFANT LOSS
Benefiting: HEALing Embrace Location: Lake Zorinsky —healingembrace.org
Oct. 3 (3-6 p.m.)
TOPGOLF FOR A TOP CAUSE
Benefiting: Topgolf
Location: Memories For Kids —memoriesforkids.org
Oct. 3 (4-6 p.m.)
SURVIVORS RISING FASHION SHOW
Benefiting: Survivors Rising
LIGHT THE NIGHT OMAHA WALK Location: Stinson Park —lightthenight.org
OMAHA HOT CIDER HUSTLE HALF MARATHON & 5K Location: Skutt Catholic High School —skuttcatholic.com
Oct. 7 ( )
Oct. 10 (9 a.m.)
Benefiting: Youth Emergency Services
Benefiting: JDRF
12TH ANNUAL DANCE FOR A CHANCE Location: Omaha Design Center —yesomaha.org
JDRF ONE WALK
Location: Mahoney State Park —jdrf.org
Oct. 7 (6:30-9 p.m.)
Oct. 14 (5:30 p.m.)
Benefiting: Heartland Hope Mission
Benefiting: Central High School Foundation
MONHOPEOLY ANNUAL FUNDRAISING DINNER Location: Heartland Hope Mission —heartlandhopemission.org
Oct.
08
22ND ANNUAL CHS HALL OF FAME
Location: Holland Performing Arts Center —chsfomaha.org
Oct. 8 (5-9 p.m.)
Oct. 14 (6-10 p.m.)
Benefiting: Nebraska Children’s Home Society
Benefiting: Bellevue Public Schools Foundation
HOMEGROWN
BPS FOUNDATION GALA
Location: The Venue at Highlander —survivorsrisingomaha.org
Location: Kros Strain Brewery —nchs.org
Location: Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Bellevue —bps-foundation.org
Oct. 4 (5-9 p.m.)
Oct. 8-10 (Times vary)
Oct. 14 (6-8:30 p.m.)
Benefiting: Saving Grace
Benefiting: Little Giants Foundation
Benefiting: Nebraska Appleseed
SAVING GRACE’S DINNER AT DANTE Location: Dante —savinggracefoodrescue.org
8TH ANNUAL LGF FARM RUN AND FESTIVITIES Location: Mannfields Farm —thelittlegiantsfoundation.org
GOOD APPLE AWARDS
Location: Livestock Exchange Building Ballroom —neappleseed.org
Oct. 5 (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
Oct. 9 (7 p.m.)
Oct. 15 (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.)
Benefiting: Omaha Public Library
Benefiting: Open Door Mission
Benefiting: Central High School Foundation
BETWEEN THE LINES WITH YAA GYASI Location: Temple Israel —omahalibraryfoundation.org
// 58 //
OCTOBER 2021
LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR VIRTUAL GALA Location: Online —opendoormission.org
PASSING PERIODS: CHS ALUMNI LUNCHEON SERIES Location: Omaha Press Club —chsfomaha.org
// GIVING CALENDAR //
COUNSELING CONNECTIONS & ASSOCIATES Oct. 15 (6-10 p.m.)
FIFTH ANNUAL LEGACY GALA 2021
Benefiting: Women on a Mission for Change Location: DC Centre —womenonamissionomaha.org
OFFERING BOTH IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL SESSIONS
Oct. 15 (6-9 p.m.)
NIGHT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Benefiting: Completely KIDS Location: Completely KIDS —completelykids.org
Oct. 19 (12 p.m.)
TENTH ANNUAL CLIMB HIGHER LUNCHEON
Benefiting: Omaha Outward Bound School Location: CHI Health Center —outwardboundomaha.org
Oct. 21 (5-9 p.m.)
SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION
Benefiting: March of Dimes
Location: Embassy Suites Omaha Downtown —signaturechefs. marchofdimes.org
Oct. 22-24
KIDS & CLAYS SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT
Oct.
eling Servic uns es Co
21
Benefiting: Ronald McDonald House Charities Omaha Location: Oak Creek Sporting Club —rmhcomaha.org
Oct. 22 (8:30-11:30 a.m.)
NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART HALLOWEEN 5K
Benefitting: TeamMates Mentoring Program Location: Nebraska Furniture Mart —nfm.com
Oct. 23 (9-11 a.m.)
OUR SERVICES Telehealth Services Counseling & Psychotherapy Management S Medication EMDR Therapy Addiction Treatment Chemical Dependency Evaluations
HOWL-O-WEEN HOWL 5K FUN RUN/WALK
Benefiting: Midlands Humane Society Location: Indian Hills Park —midlandshumanesociety.org
Oct. 23 (10 a.m.)
2019 MORE THAN PINK WALK
Benefiting: Susan G. Komen Great Plains Location: Baxter Arena —komengreatplains.org
Oct. 23 (5-10 p.m.)
PLV SCHOOLS FOUNDATION GALA 2021
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Geraldine Alexis, LIMHP, PLADC Chantel Bruha, MSW, LIMHP, LADC Korrie Conners, LMHP, CSAT Beth Farrell, LCSW, LIMHP Dumayi Gutierrez, PhD, PLMHP Mary Loftis, LIMHP, CPC Kim Mueller, MS, LIMHP, CPC Nicole Obrecht, MA, LMHP Kristi Tackett-Newburg, PhD, LIMHP Greg Tvrdik, MS, LIMHP Sarah Wenzl, MS, LMHP Michele Yanney-Wehbi, LIMHP, CPC
Salina Anderson, APRN Davin Dickerson, APRN Marilyn Erickson, APRN Kathleen Langdon, APRN Marty Stoltenberg, APRN-BC
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PEDICURE • MANICURE • SHELLAC DIPPING POWDER ARTIFICIAL NAILS • NAIL ART WAXING • VERSAPRO SUNLESS TANNING
Benefiting: Papillion-La Vista Schools Foundation Location: Embassy Suites-La Vista —plvschoolsfoundation.org
Oct. 23 (5:30-9 p.m.)
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Benefiting: Omaha South High School Alumni Association Location: Anthony’s Steakhouse —omahasouthalumni.com
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OCTOBER 2021
// 59 //
// GIVING CALENDAR // Oct. 23 (5:30-10:30 p.m.) 2021 ANGEL FLIGHT
Benefiting: Skutt Catholic High School Location: Skutt Catholic High School —skuttcatholic.com
Oct. 23 (5:30-11p.m) SCARE AWAY CANCER
Savor the experience
Benefiting: Scare Away Cancer
Location: Anthony’s Steakhouse —scareawaycancer.org
Oct. 23 (5:30 p.m.-midnight) ANNUAL AKSARBEN BALL
Benefiting: Aksarben Foundation Location: CHI Health Center —aksarben.org
Oct. 24 (2-4:45 p.m.) CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Oct.
24
Benefiting: My Sister’s Keeper
Location: Scott Conference Center —mysisterskeepernebraska.org
Oct. 26 (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) CHANGEMAKERS 2019
Benefiting: Nebraska Children and Families Foundation
Voted First Place Best of Omaha since 2010 402.558.3202 cateringcreations.com
Location: Embassy Suites-La Vista —nebraskachildren.org
Oct. 27 (6-9 p.m.)
LOYOLA DINNER OF HONOR AND DISTINCTION ic smet Dentist Co
Benefiting: Creighton Prep School
Location: Henry L. Sullivan, S.J. Campus Center —creightonprep.creighton.edu
Oct. 29 (5:30-9:30 p.m.) BENEFIT ART AUCTION
Dental Implants • Cosmetic Dentistry Family Dentistry • Wisdom Teeth Removal • Sedation Clear Aligners • Orthodontics
Benefiting: Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
Location: Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts —bemiscenter.org
Oct. 28 (6-9 p.m.) MONSTER BASH
Benefiting: Leap-For-A-Cure Location: Relevant Center —leapforacure.org
Oct. 28 (6-9 p.m.)
AN EVENING WITH NAPA VALLEY
Benefiting: Team Jack Foundation Location: Happy Hollow Club —teamjackfoundation.org
Oct. 30 (7-11 p.m.)
MASQUERADE AT THE CASTLE
Benefiting: Joslyn Castle Trust Location: Joslyn Castle —joslyncastle.com
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OCTOBER 2021
Visit omahamagazine.com for complete listings. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.
PROFILE // Amy Leising continued from pg. 51
“We have a thermal camera that is really fun to play with. There is nothing that isn’t fun to point the thermal camera at, and the zoo gets to be our lab space,” Leising said. That same kind of raw curiosity and joy of hands-on teaching is why Sitzman thought Leising would be the perfect candidate for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in 2019. He nominated her for this recognition, which then went to the state level. The state then selected Leising as one of six finalists to the national level. Leising became one of two teachers from Nebraska to achieve this award in 2019, the other being Debra Bulin of Hebron, Nebraska. Leising said she was in shock and honored to learn her name had been submitted for the award. In August 2020, an online ceremony celebrated the award winners, but Leising said she was crossing her fingers that the 2019 winners will still be invited to Washington, D.C., for an in-person ceremony. Along with the ceremony, Leising received $10,000 from the National Science Foundation and a certificate signed by the United States President.
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At the end of the day, however, what keeps Leising going is the raw curiosity that comes back into play as she returns to her students, and the animals, at Zoo Academy. Visit district.ops.org for more information.
oo Parlor Tatt
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// 61 //
GIVING PROFILE // STORY BY CHRIS BOWLING PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
FIGHTING INSIDE Nebraska Indian Community College Stands For Culture, Tradition, and Accessible Education
THE MARGINS
T
hose who take Highway 75 out of Omaha, past Florence and Blair, where sprawling farms mix with swaying grasslands, will see a building with tan bricks and a teal metal roof.
“Nebraska Indian Community College,” its facade reads. “Macy Campus.” Michael Oltrogge, the school’s president, has worked tirelessly for NICC there, at campuses in South Sioux City, and at those along the Niobrara River on the Santee Sioux Reservation. The goal has always been the same: provide accessible, affordable education geared toward local tribes but open to all. Accomplishing that hasn’t always been easy. Oltrogge said when he became president, the school was in dire straits. “Right now, I think we’re at a wonderful turning point,” Oltrogge said. “In 2004 I think we were on probation with the higher learning commission, we had over $3 million in debt, and [were] I can’t remember how many, maybe eight, years behind on our audits. [Getting to here] was just a lot of work. A lot of blood, sweat, and tears.”
// 62 //
OCTOBER 2021
OCTOBER 2021
// 63 //
GIVING PROFILE //
S
ince then, the school’s found better financial footing, grown its student body, and expanded its academic ambitions. It’s also riding a national wave of increased attention for indegenous issues and community college support. President Joe Biden has appointed the first Native American Secretary of the United States Department of the Interior and is pushing for $1.8 billion to fund higher education. Opportunities like that would help bolster NICC’s mission.
“You want to make sure that you keep the best and brightest on the reservations,” Oltrogge said. “That way they can help be the ones making decisions. They can be the ones starting businesses, those operating those businesses—they can be the ones to help move your health care facilities forward.”
Their work, however, goes far beyond the college.
It’s important for her to remember that tribal colleges have accomplished a lot, but they’re still getting started in the grand scheme of things. The oldest tribal colleges in the nation are younger than 60 years. And the main problem many still deal with is insufficient funding. Federal pandemic relief funds have helped NICC, but Oltrogge wonders what they could accomplish if those lifelines stayed open.
When COVID-19 locked down communities in rural Nebraska, many students, especially those on reservations, struggled “It would be good if they’d [give us] to stay connected. Few internet provid- a fraction of that amount of funding ers build infrastructure in these remote on an annual basis so we wouldn’t be communities. Oltrogge lives in Bancroft, starving all the time,” Oltrogge said. Tribal colleges grew out of indige- Nebraska, (population about 500) and nous self-determination movements in pays $125 for a package that can not run Tuition only pays for about 7% of the ’60s. Originally started under the video for virtual meetings. their $3.5 million operating budget, Northeast Community College network Oltrogge said. The rest comes from in 1973, NICC gained its independence To keep students and communities con- federal subsidies. Funding is an by the late ’70s. nected, NICC used federal COVID- uphill battle. 19 aid to put signal boosters at local Oltrogge, who grew up in nearby Lyons, high schools. Oltrogge said that can’t hamper Nebraska, never expected to get into progress. In fact, he’s offering free education. In high school, he said he “One of NICC’s core beliefs is about tuition this year, partially a gamble was labeled “educationally unobtainable” tribal nation building. And it’s really that they’ll gain enough students to by teachers and often got pinned as a about empowering our students to help increase federal subsidies, but also a troublemaker for having long hair and rebuild sovereign nations in their own continued recommitment to providwearing leather jackets. He found out way,” said Kristine Sudbeck, dean of aca- ing quality education at an accessible about NICC through a girlfriend who demic affairs at NICC. “The self-deter- (or in this case free) cost. was a member of the Omaha tribe and mination and empowerment feature of came to NICC in 1995. The university’s sovereign nations is huge.” In many ways, that’s the story of transfer program allowed him to complete NICC. This cause, helping people general education courses before earning Sudbeck grew up in Fordyce, Nebraska, who may have few other options and a bachelor’s degree in management from near Yankton, South Dakota, and doing it on a razor-thin budget, is Bellevue University. He then earned his came to NICC to study the Umonhon hard, but it doesn’t come without master's in education administration (Omaha) language. In 2016, she accepted its moments of hope. Last year, the remotely through Capella University in a job there as a research and development college saw its first dual enrollment Minneapolis, where he continued to earn adviser/faculty member. In 2017, she graduation. The student got her high a Ph.D. in leadership in higher education became dean of academic affairs. school diploma on Friday and her while working at NICC. associate’s from NICC on Saturday. It’s small, but it’s a sign that the hard When he accepted the leadership role in work is paying off. “One of NICC’s core beliefs 2004, the campuses were fractured and the institution was in debt. “I’d love to have some big secrets,” he is about tribal nation said. “But I’ve got no secrets. You just building. And it’s really Oltrogge worked with tribes to secure try to be as accountable and transfunding, unite the schools, and build parent as you can be. And you try to about empowering our faculty. Today they serve about 250 do the most amount of good for the students to help rebuild students each year, the majority of most amount of people.” whom are Native Americans. They sovereign nations in their offer courses such as carpentry, business, Visit thenicc.edu for more information. early childhood education, and Native own way” American studies.
-Kristine Sudbeck
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60+ NOSTALGIA // STORY BY JEFF LACEY // DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION BY DEREK JOY
epending on age, one might remember coming home from school covered in fine chalk dust. Or, they might remember the class heading to ‘the pit’—a recessed angular depression in the floor—in elementary school for story time or show-and-tell. Public school design has gone from boxlike classrooms with rows of independent desks and chalkboards, to wide-open spaces with communal pits and overhead projectors, to modern-day flex-spaces and media rooms. Omaha Magazine looked at how schools have changed through the decades with the help of Pat Carson, principal architect of the new Westview High School being constructed on 156th and Ida streets. “I will not chew gum in class. I will not chew gum in class…” Many over age 60 attended classrooms with large chalkboards fixed to a wall in the front, complete with a chalk tray and fine layers of pink, orange, or white dust settled in its grooves. These faithful standbys were believed to have been invented by a teacher in Scotland named James Pillans in 1801, when he innovated from the individual slates commonly used in that era. In the 20th century in the United States, these boards often came from slate quarries along the East Coast. Others, particularly those who taught for a living, might be familiar with the dry-erase boards used today. Teachers use these glossy white boards to write notes and reminders and construct educational games, employing a colorful array of erasable markers. According to Carson, the future of public writing in schools is the ability to write... everywhere. Desk surfaces that allow students to work out lessons in real time and collaborative work spaces on entire walls, or even columns, are being integrated in modern school designs in an attempt to facilitate creativity and learning. “Today, adaptability of the spaces in schools is
OPS has partnered with the YMCA, and the new school will be connected to a shared YMCA facility.
These faithful standbys were believed to have been invented by a teacher in Scotland named James Pillans in 1801, when he innovated from the individual slates commonly used in that era. important. Both students and teachers need, and want, a ton of options,” Carson explained. “Lots of writable surfaces help.” “Class, please pass your papers forward…” The architecture of classrooms has varied through the centuries. School design is always evolving—from stickframed, one-room school houses (in 1986, Nebraska had 385 one-room schoolhouses, the most in the country) to the open-plan concept schools of the ’60s and ’70s, complete with conversation pits and nary a door in sight. Those who walk into a modern classroom might find it loosely resembles the rows of desks they remember, but that might have less to do with tradition than with the needs of the work being done that day. The modern classroom is designed with flexibility in mind; administering a standardized test requires a different classroom configuration than group work or art projects. Carson said, “One of the things we try to keep from school design of the ’70s was the flexibility those kinds of spaces offered. Flexibility, but the ability to close a door if you need to.” Rest assured, the sound of a tote tray sliding back into place can still be heard from time to time. Big Chief Tablets to iPads Trapper Keepers, spiral-bound notebooks, and pencil cases are still around (as the school-supply frenzy that begins every late July can attest), but the tools teachers and students use to do their work have evolved. The satisfying grind of a pencil sharpener bolted to the wall might still be heard in some classrooms, but one is even more likely to hear the dings and pings of email notifications. “Pretty much every person in a school will have at least one smart device for learning or work,” Carson explained. According to Carson, one of the most important things a student needs in order to get a 21st century education is “bandwidth.”
Not Your Mother’s Dodgeball Game In the modern era of school design, there is no longer simply the ‘main gym’ and the ‘aux gym’ some might remember. A wooden pegboard might still lurk in a corner to claim its next victim, but with most high schools offering dozens of competitive athletic teams every year, PE facilities have come a long way. OPS’s new Westview High School, for example, doesn’t just have a ‘gym.’ OPS has partnered with the YMCA, and the new school will be connected to a shared YMCA facility. The structure will house a fitness center, a six-lane pool, and multiple workout rooms along with gymnasiums, and the school and the YMCA will coordinate access for the community and students. According to Carson, this is a growing trend in school design: multiuse and co-located facilities. “Again, it comes back to accessibility and flexibility,” Carson said. “Partnerships like this are great opportunities for everyone in the community.” A state-of-the-art weight room that can be accessed by all members of the community is a far cry from the single, thick stranded jute rope hanging from the school ceiling, with faded red tumbling mats situated below it, waiting to catch the fallen. Class Dismissed Schools being designed and built today are done so with care and consideration for the needs of teachers, students, and the community at large. “Communities deserve schools that work,” Carson said. “We have learned that we don’t want the building to get in the way.”
OCTOBER • 60 PLUS
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60+ Profile · story by Sara Locke photography By Bill Sitzmann · design by Derek Joy
L THE SCHOOLDGUIR FINALLY GRA ATES BETH JOHNSON’S SPECIAL EDUCATION PASSION
“I went to Sydney, and I got to hold a koa Mexico, I went on a cruise. I’m going to la. I went to Hawaii again in February, and I just got back from San ta Fe and Colorado Springs.” ~Beth Johnson eth Johnson started school at age 5, and, at age 60, she still hasn’t finished school. “I planned to become a social studies teacher and was about to start student teaching,” Johnson said. “But at school there was this job board. I saw an opening for work at Martin Luther Home, looking for a residential manager to work overnights with people with intellectual disabilities.” Johnson recalled this as her lightbulb moment, and considers herself lucky it happened at the age of 23 while finishing her studies at University of Nebraska at Omaha. “I was so close to student teaching; my first post was coming up in the fall. I knew I had to tell my parents I’d changed my mind. One day they were taking me to have my wisdom teeth removed and I’d been given some ‘calm down’ medicine.” Uninhibited, she finally broke the news. “I popped up between them and just shouted—‘I want to be a special ed teacher!’ And of course, they’d never seen me so happy. We returned my books right away.” After two years serving at Martin Luther Home, Johnson started grad school. She continued her studies while working on-call for MLH over the next three years. She studied at Drake University, continued taking additional classes, and earned her master’s degree (plus 42 hours) from UNO. // 68 //
60 PLUS • OCTOBER 2021
“I ended up student teaching at Burke for my Gen. Ed.,” Johnson continued, “then moved that spring to Millard North. It was 1985 and I was absolutely loving my experience there. They were adding a special education teacher to the staff and wanted someone to work with students with intellectual disabilities. I laugh that I student-taught there and then I just never left. I didn’t leave Millard North until I retired in 2017.” Her dedication earned her a Friedman Award from Knights of Aksarben, a Secondary Teacher of the Year Award from Millard Public Schools, and the hearts of every family her work has touched. After decades of award-winning service to the education community, Johnson found her calling to retire was just as clear as her calling to the work she’s always loved, saying, “Retiring wasn’t a difficult decision. I became eligible and knew it was the right time. But what it’s allowed me to do—I feel like my world is a lot bigger. “I’ve met more people, more kids, more caring teachers,” she said of her subbing. “My world has grown a lot. It’s so fun, so incredible to see what teachers have created, what tech they’re using to reach students of all abilities. I’ll think, ‘If I’d had this teacher, I would have understood math better. I would have loved it.’ And I’m still learning new ways people have found to reach more people, and I love that I still get to implement that with students.”
She continued, “I’ve been helping out with ACP summer school at Millard. I’m subbing in Millard and Elkhorn, mainly in special education. When I’m subbing for a special ed teacher and I get to tell them I’m trained and qualified, you can see the physical reaction; you can see the relief they feel.” Johnson’s joy for what she does and her compassion for other teachers in the profession is evident. “Special education teachers don’t take that privilege lightly; working with unique learners. The trust parents have in us, it’s such an honor,” she said. Terry Houlton, Ph.D., director of special education with Millard Public Schools, always enjoys when Johnson’s name crosses his desk, saying, “She has an energy for this work. You can be a positive person, have the qualifying education and training, and still not be right for it. Beth is someone who, when you meet her, when you hear about the impact she’s having, you know she’s exactly where she is meant to be. She loves her students, even when she’s subbing and won’t have the time to build the relationships through the year, she is making sure to have an impact with each student, each day. “This is a field with a high rate of burnout. You see it in even really new teachers.” Houlton reflected, “It’s demanding work, and learning how to do it never ends. But with Beth, there’s just an energy for it. There’s a real sense of natural capacity and genuine love for the work and the families.” While retiring hasn’t curbed Johnson’s love of teaching, or learning, it’s given her more space to explore her other passion, travel. “I went to Sydney, and I got to hold a koala. I went to Mexico, I went on a cruise. I’m going to Hawaii again in February, and I just got back from Santa Fe and Colorado Springs. I loved my career,” Johnson said, “and I love subbing. And I love being retired. I think it’s important to love every part of the life you’re choosing. And I hope that when people get to that point, when they get to retirement, that they still find those reasons to love every day. That they don’t lose their giddiness.” Johnson may have retired, but the vivacious, loving, and impactful woman will always be a school girl at heart.
“It’s demanding work, and learning how to do it never ends. But with Beth, there’s just an energy for it. There’s a real sense of natural capacity and genuine love for the work and the families.” ~Terry Houlton
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60+ ACTIVE LIVING
STORY BY DWAIN HEBDA PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN DESIGN BY DEREK JOY
When Bobbi Nunn started working out regularly during college in the late 1970s, it wasn’t unusual for her to be the only woman in the gym. “I started off working out at UNO’s gym,” she said, also stating that she sometimes worked out with a female friend. “There were very few women in there, so I just kind of minded my own business and did my own thing.” Today, there are far more women at a typical neighborhood health club, including Anytime Fitness in Bennington where Nunn is a trainer. At 62, she still stands out. “So, here’s the funny thing at our gym: I’m the oldest, and then we have someone who’s 40, and then, our youngest trainer is 24,” she said. “And I learn something from everybody.” It’s easy to assume Nunn’s role at Anytime Fitness focuses on those over age 60. In fact, her expertise and training style has attracted her a diverse clientele.
// 60+ ACTIVE LIVING //
have everybody,” she said. “I have men, I have women; I have young 20-somethings. I have teenagers. I have people in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. Everybody has a different story, and I think just being there and being able to listen is the biggest thing. Somebody’s always telling me about their life. I’ve found it’s important to know when to just kind of shut up and listen and have compassion for people.” Pat Zimmerman, 39, said age has no bearing on the trainer’s ability to get the best out of him. “Bobbi has a way of coming up with new ways to challenge me, but without feeling like there’s pressure to try to lift beyond what I’m capable of and risk getting injured,” said Zimmerman, noting that he was initially hesitant to get a trainer as he wasn’t one to work out before. “From that perspective, it’s been well worth it. And I enjoy seeing her twice a week.” Born in North Dakota, Nunn grew up in Omaha. She insists she wasn’t athletic growing up, (“A skinny little kid, kind of wiry,” is how she puts it) but she loved being outdoors and active. Graduating from Omaha Northwest High School in 1977, she studied computer science at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. “When I got out of college, I was the only woman in my department of five [other than the secretary],” Nunn said. “My focus of work throughout my career was business information and data analysis. I was often one of just a few women, or the only woman, doing this type of work.” Over 33 years, she worked with OPPD and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska. Throughout all those years, she kept working out and intermittently led fitness classes. “After UNO, I went to what was actually a ballet studio,” she said. “It was kind of the first barre class, before it was called barre. And I loved it; I felt like I was really getting strong and in shape. “After that, I found a little aerobics studio. And that’s when aerobic studios were starting to really get pretty popular,” Nunn said, noting this was around 1988. “I guess I was one of the owner’s better or more consistent customers, because she asked me to get certified and start teaching aerobic classes there.” // 72 //
60 PLUS • OCTOBER 2021
Nunn’s success as a teacher outgrew the studio and moved to the YMCA where she’d also start training people on weights. For as much she enjoyed what she was doing, she never seriously thought about changing careers. For one, it was a very different time in the fitness industry, an era where few personal trainers were women. Second, she loved IT and, not to put too fine a point on it, that’s what paid the bills. But all that changed in 2014 when, after three decades in the workforce, she retired. “After about a year and a half, I decided I was going to drive myself crazy if I didn’t do something,” Nunn said. “I got a job as the activities director at one of the retirement communities close to where I live. One of my duties was to teach fitness classes.”
Sandeen continued, “[Nunn] was just really easy to work with. She pushes me when she knows I’m ready to be pushed or do more weights or do something more difficult. She starts where you’re at and then helps you get better.” “I never stand over anybody. If they’re down on the ground, I’m down on the ground,” Nunn said. “I think that helps a lot because they’re like, ‘Well, she’s not looking down at me. She’s looking in my eyes and seeing what I can actually do.’”
SHE HAS LOTS OF EXPERIENCE AND SHE HAS A THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE. SHE JUST LOVES COMING UP WITH DIFFERENT WAYS TO HELP HER CLIENTS.”
A sked for her most memorable client, Nunn first feigns exasperation, then when pressed, goes quiet.
“There was a gentleman, 72 years old, a retired cop. And he had gotten out of shape,” she said. “He stands out because he was pretty ill with COPD, one of those illnesses that doesn’t go away.
RENEE POKORNY
She continued, “I’d gotten out of teaching fitness because I got busy at work. As soon as I started doing it again, I remembered how much I absolutely loved it. I decided to retire from there and get recertified as a trainer. So that’s what I did, and here I am now.” Renee Pokorny, owner/manager of Anytime Fitness, knew immediately that Nunn would be a successful addition to the team.
“She has lots of experience and she has a thirst for knowledge. She just loves coming up with different ways to help her clients,” Pokorny said. “She has a way of imparting information that’s very palatable, very positive. She’s also a good listener; anybody talking or working with her knows she really cares about you and what she can do to help you.” Carole Sandeen, 54, who’s trained under Nunn for the past three years, said Nunn has helped her step out of her comfort zone. “I was an athlete in high school and I exercised on and off, but I had never lifted weights before. I really had no idea how to do that and I wanted to learn,” Sandeen said. “One of my motivations was I wanted to get stronger because as women get older, it’s really important to maintain muscle.”
“He was very tall, 6’6”, and when he came in, he needed a cane for balance. Well, by the time we got done, he wasn’t using the cane anymore and he was increasing the amount of time on the cardio machines. He’s passed away, unfortunately, but he was just a wonderful human being, inside and out. Yeah—great guy.” Dunn finds similar inspiration in all of her clients, fueling her dynamo engine into overdrive. She’s regularly at the gym at 4:30 a.m., preparing for her first class or training earlybird clients, and from there she attacks the day with an energy that puts much younger people to shame. Everyone feels the jolt of her personality, the unbending will in a smiling wrapper. It’s not where you are today, she preaches, it’s where we’re going together. “It’s all about how fit you are, not what that scale says. That’s the thing I like to impart on people. The scale doesn’t tell you everything,” she said. “And, that you’re never too old to start. Start now. You’ll feel so much better in the long run, you’ll have a better quality of life and do the things you want to do. It’s never too late to start exercising.”
OBVIOUSLY OMAHA // STORY BY TAMSEN BUTLER // PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
01
LITTLE LIBRARIES
A CIRCULATION OF LITERARY PROPORTIONS
Libraries are powerful—so powerful, in fact, that they’ve started cropping up all over the Omaha area. Little libraries are cubbyholes, often on poles, stocked by neighborhoods or families where readers can borrow books, or leave some for others. These little libraries are peppered throughout the Omaha metro. Each library has different books, and its own interesting story. The little libraries below are worth a visit.
1
ALEX VENEZIE’S EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
7612 Maple St. Located at the corner of the Paralyzed Veterans of America Great Plains Chapter’s property, this little library was created by Alex Venezie in 2018 as his Eagle Scout project. After getting permission from the Paralyzed Veterans of America chapter to place the library on their corner, Venezie solicited book donations from neighbors via the Next Door app.
2
THE GLASS HOUSE BOOKS LIBRARY
15705 Capitol Ave.
A glance at Scott and Kimberly McPherson’s little library reveals it was created by artists. Kimberly created stained glass images of books to accompany Scott’s carpentry from recycled cedar. Their library carries books for all ages, and during the early months of the pandemic, they filled the library with prepackaged activity kits for kids. “The books are back, and we invite anyone to stop by to take a book and share a book,” Scott said. “Happy reading!”
3
LILLI THE RESCUE LITTLE FREE LIBRARY
17024 Sahler St.
Vicky Martin’s little library was dedicated to her rescue dog Lilli, a dachshund that passed away in 2020. The library was installed in December 2017, on a day Martin said was far too cold for any ribbon cutting. The library is stocked with children’s books about dogs, though Martin said she is open to other books. A colorful decal of a cartoon version of Lilli is prominently displayed as decoration on this loving memorial to a very special dog. “I love how it turned out,” said Martin of her little library. The library’s Facebook page (@ lillitherescuelittlefreelibrary) sometimes has “guest recommendations from other dachshunds,” Martin said.
4
THE LUNAR LIBRARY
Corner of 159th and Birch avenues in Millard The Metzler family lives outside the Omaha city limits and has no free access to a local library, so they decided to create their own. They built their library as a community exchange of books and started it with inventory from their extensive collection. A local carpenter named Kyler Goodwin helped them design the housing, then built and installed it for them. The library was named by the daughter because it is blue, like a blue moon, and reading has always been a part of the family’s bedtime routine. “I decided it was time to share my love of books with others and pass along books my kids had loved and outgrown,” Tammi Metzler said.
5
PAPILLION MANOR LIBRARIES FOR ADULTS AND KIDS
02
03 04
610 Polk St. in Papillion
The space housing these two libraries was created as a celebration of the city’s 150th anniversary in June 2020. Two libraries sit adjacent to a butterfly bench in a space surrounded by flowers and shrubs planted by the Papillion Garden Club. One library offers books for adults while the other carries books for kids. They were designed and created by the maintenance manager at Papillion Manor. “It really was a community project,” said Michelle Seiter, public relations manager of Papillion Manor. “It’s a lovely space.”
05
6
TANYA BECKER MEMORIAL LIBRARY
5101 S. 17th St.
This little library was commissioned by the Edward Gomez Heritage Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Organization in 2018 as a memorial to the school’s reading coach, Tanya Becker. The library was dedicated during the school’s Dr. Seuss Read Across America celebration and is stocked mostly with children’s and young adult books. The library was designed by teacher JoAnne Kawecki, who said, “I designed the library to reflect Tanya’s cheery and friendly spirit. The heart, painted her favorite color, represents her love and dedication to our students.”
06 OCTOBER
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2021
Ru s t OCTOBER 2021
Al a n
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dining FEATURE // story by Kim Carpenter photography by bill sitzmann // design by matt wieczorek
ATING
Your Way Through
Nebraska Tour Co. Offers Unique Culinary Experiences
OCTOBER
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2021
// dining FEATURE //
P
eople stand on a corner. A stranger arrives, whisking the group off on a gastronomical walkabout where they visit multiple restaurants and enjoy food, wine, and informative conversation. It’s a unique night they’ll remember, one unlike any other taking place in Omaha.
In between stops, hosts guide their guests through the neighborhood, revealing local history along the way. Above all, Rust looks for good storytellers who are familiar with the local restaurant scene when it comes to hiring his team.
That’s thanks to Nebraska Tour Co., the brainchild of Alan Rust. The mission is simple: connect people to Omaha’s community through the cultural touchstones of food and history. Hosts who are knowledgeable and passionate about the city lead the custom tours and take pride in sharing their expertise with their guests.
Since the restaurant lineup is subject to availability and change, patrons never know where they’re going until they meet their host. “It’s based on the day and the size of the group,” Rust explained. A group can be as small as just two people and go as high as 200.
Rust, 57, arrived in Omaha five years ago when he relocated from Houston to accept a job at Gordmans, an ill-timed decision given the company’s pending bankruptcy. Since he had spent time in Omaha before and enjoyed living here, when his Gordmans job ended, he took to driving an Uber rather than leave the city. A natural raconteur, Rust enjoyed sharing his inside knowledge of Omaha with outof-town guests, pointing out local history and hole-in-the-wall restaurants. He’s the kind of guy who knows the best breweries and distinctive restaurants and makes it a point to know the chefs and the waitstaff. “It was always my mission,” Rust said. “In my retail career I had moved around so much that I had a lot of experience introducing myself to new cities, and I liked to find unique things. When I was driving someone around for Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting, I shared what I knew, and one of my passengers told me I should start a tour business.”
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OCTOBER 2021
In 2017, he took that advice and, along with friend Dakotah Smith, acquired Discover Omaha, which had focused on history tours. The duo rebranded it as the American Tour Co., known in Omaha as the Nebraska Tour Co. They immediately added culinary tours to the lineup. “We saw the value in the business, so [we] changed the name and added food to history,” Rust explained. Now the sole owner, he also operates in Des Moines, St. Louis, Denver, and Kansas City. The tours, which are offered Tuesday through Saturday, often take place in the Old Market and Blackstone districts, where guests can walk from place to place. Chauffeured tours in luxury vehicles and in other areas throughout Omaha are also an option. Food tastings are included at each restaurant, typically three or four, with an adult beverage included gratis at the first stop. Experiences are built around a simple, yet specific, checklist: great food, fresh menus, updated ambiance, and great service. “First, I have to test and judge the experience on my own,” Rust said. “If the menu never changes and the service isn’t great, it’s not the kind of experience we’re looking for.” Typically, a chef provides what they want to present to the groups, so options might include tasting plates, charcuterie, or small steak or fish plates. “The chefs can showcase what they want,” Rust said of the opportunity to create something special that isn’t available to the general public.
“We also try to do seasonal tours, so it’s always changing,” he added. Examples include chocolate and champagne tours timed with Valentine’s Day or appetizers and cocktails for the holidays. “We can do a theme that matches a request if we have the partners.” The tours have proven beneficial to local restaurant owners. Sagar Gurung runs Kathmandu Momo Station in the Blackstone District and at Aksarben Village’s Inner Rail food court. They specialize in momos, Nepalese dumplings stuffed with chicken, pork, or vegetables and accompanied by different dipping sauces. He has known Rust for about three years, from when the latter first started frequenting his Blackstone locale. “I provide a very unique product which is very new to our Omaha community,” Gurung said. “We are highly dependent on word-of-mouth, so it’s very cool that he brings his guests here. They become goodwill ambassadors.”
The restaurateur said that the tours place value on his product because Rust is what he considers a true “food curator,” which means that the five people who attend a tour one night tend to come back within a week with friends. And those friends in turn return and bring their friends. “It feels like he’s doing a service for us. For me as a vendor, it’s a win every time. I’m grateful for the exposure, because we’re small and don’t do marketing.” Given the unique culinary experiences, Rust’s tours are popular with individuals and businesses alike. Fortunately, Nebraska Tour Co. survived COVID-19 thanks to the history walking tours, and corporate interest is helping the culinary tours rebound quickly. “We’re doing a lot of corporate outings,” Rust said. “People want to reintroduce teams to each other face-to-face after a year and a half on Zoom. The tours are like business field trips.” One recent gastronomy tour saw executives stay in the same restaurant while team members rotated from place to place so everyone could spend some valuable casual time with their managers. Aaron Sibson, a credit analyst with Farm Credit Services of America, started taking culinary tours with his company this past summer and said they keep coworkers connected via food. “We were looking for something to get [us] out of the office,” he said. “We saw this online and thought it was a good opportunity to go places that we ordinarily would not go.”
Sibson and his colleagues did a walking tour of the Blackstone District that included the Cottonwood Hotel, Kathmandu Momo Station, and a couple of breweries. They spent around 45 minutes to an hour at each destination. Their host met them at the hotel and shared fun information, such as the fact that the famed Reuben sandwich was first introduced at the hotel, and a painting in the bar includes secret QR codes. “These were things you [might not] know if you just walked in on your own,” Sibson said. Throughout the tour, the group sampled a Reuben, appetizers, homemade pretzels, and momos. Tables were ready when they arrived, with food brought out immediately. In between stops, the host guided them through Blackstone, pointing out public art and sharing details about the historic neighborhood. At the time of this article, Sibson’s company was booking its second tour. “We got to go to places we wouldn’t even have thought to eat at, like the Cottonwood and the Momo Station. We got to see a few different restaurants without sitting in one place all night,” enthused the credit analyst. “Usually, when you go someplace, you just eat and leave. It was such great ease of use—and really, really enjoyable!” For more information, visit nebraskatourcompany.com or follow them on Facebook.
“When I was driving someone around for Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, I shared what I knew, and one of my passengers told me I should start a tour business.” -Alan Rust
OCTOBER 2021
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DINING REVIEW // STORy By KIM REINER PHOTOGRAPHy By BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
H ELLO OLD
FRIENd? OLD FAVORITES + NEW FLAVORS AT DUNDEE DELL THE DUNDEE DELL IS BACK.
I
t’s not the exact same Dundee Dell that closed in summer 2020 amid the pandemic. The new Dell is rather like an old acquaintance being seen for the first time after months of quarantining. This old friend has made some radical lifestyle changes and looks dramatically different, but things feel vaguely familiar. What I’m trying to say is, it’s the same name in the same building, but this isn’t the old Dell—I think I’m OK with that. The Dundee Dell reopened under new ownership in July 2021, and clearly the new owners were fans of the original business, but also ready to move dishes and the atmosphere in a brighter and more stylish direction.
OCTOBER // 78 // 2021
The fish and chips are no longer served in a bag, and the fries are thin.
THE SHORT MENU HAD AN ANGLOPHILE SLANT, INCLUDING A SPICY CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA, AND YES, THEY KEPT THE FISH AND CHIPS, AS WELL AS THE REUBEN AND BIG EASY SANDWICHES.
The Bangers and Mash is a large portion of potatoes topped with several pork sausages and smothered in gravy.
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OCTOBER 2021
The Big Easy Sandwich is constructed from pastrami and coleslaw, served on an onion bun.
// DINING REVIEW //
he space has been transformed, with a fresh coat of blue paint, improved lighting and mirrors, and seating that makes it easier to see and be seen. The high-backed booths of the old days are gone. The renovated bar space allows for more seating.
T
There were groups of old friends greeting each other, couples sipping cocktails, and families wrangling young kids in the dining room when we were there one early weekday evening. I was there with my family, as well. I wish I could say my young dining mates offered helpful feedback on their meals, but they only raved about their root beers. During the soft opening and the early days after it officially opened, the menu was limited to eight dinner entrees. There were no appetizers, nor was there a kids menu, although I don’t think anyone missed the kids menu (except for my kids). Since we went there, they have added appetizers— including that old favorite, the fried pickles. The short menu had an Anglophile slant, including a spicy chicken tikka masala, and yes, they kept the fish and chips, as well as the Reuben and Big Easy sandwiches. Since most born-and-raised Omahans have come to associate good fish and chips with the Dundee Dell, it was a smart decision to keep them. The fried entree is no longer served in a foil-lined paper bag that steams when you tear into it; instead, the crispy fish and thin fries are served tastefully on white plates with a mini Union Jack stabbed into one piece of fish. Before my daughter could pick off all of the crispy breading, my husband and I split a piece. The flavor of the fish matched my memory. (Though my husband and I debated whether the breading had too much flour or just the right amount.) If you were a fan of the old “chips,” the french fries that came with the fish and other entrees may disappoint. Some will fight me over this, but the jacket fries of yore that I remember were always a little too thick and soggy. I prefer the new ones.
DUNDEE DELL
5007 UNDERWOOD AVE - 402.553.9501
FOOD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SERVICE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AMBIANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PRICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $$ OVERALL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 STARS POSSIBLE
One of the heartier offerings was the garlicky bangers and mash, which my husband ordered. While he was hungry, I don’t think he was that hungry. The portion of this comfort food was massive, so luckily, I could sample a few bites. The dish consisted of Cumberland bangers, the traditional thick pork sausages you’d find in a British breakfast, piled atop a massive mound of mashed potatoes with a brown gravy. I ordered the Big Easy, a behemoth sandwich that includes an inch-high stack of pastrami topped with coleslaw and a tangy sauce, served on an onion bun with fries on the side. It’s messy, but the flavor combination is satisfying. It is not an easily shareable sandwich, which worked well in my favor. Finally, I had a taste of the double cheeseburger made with wagyu beef my son ordered. What elevated the burger was the addition of a garlic aioli. It was delicious and not overpowering. I think my son was expecting the kid’s cheeseburger from the former Dundee Dell, which is to say, a simple one without the extra flavor. Like the food menu, the drink menu was short during the opening. Along with a few expected wine and beer choices, the bar offered a seasonal mix of craft cocktails. Sweet cocktails on the menu included the Dundee Spritz, which gets its orange hue from the Italian rhubarb bitter Aperol. I liked the nice touch of the sugar-speckled dried strawberry—it was a boozy, gummy garnish. For the concerned scotch drinkers of Omaha, don’t worry. The Dundee Dell continues in the tradition of its former owners by offering an impressive selection of carefully curated scotches, now served at a specially dedicated bar in the restaurant’s smaller side room. Visit dundeedell.com for more information.
OCTOBER // 81 // 2021
Finding Foo or LL A F
Sarah Smith's Spark D I N I N G P R O F I L E // S T O R Y B Y T A R A S P E N C E R PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN D E S I G N BY M AT T W I E C Z O R E K
OCTOBER //
83 //
2021
D I N I N G P R O F I L E //
W
hile getting her B.S. in psychology at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, Sarah Smith spent a semester abroad in India. “I think that was probably the moment that my eyes opened to the cultural relevance of food and honoring the food of different cultures and…what food means to families.”
After graduating from Concordia, she took a job at Boys Town, and later worked as an assistant teacher at a residential group home school in St. Louis. It was a small economic downturn in 2005, however, that precipitated the 2007-2008 financial crisis and started her lifelong journey in the food industry. Smith, who now works for the Nebraska Department of Education, was living in Detroit when the downturn hit. She had gotten an internship at GTN Studios that turned into a full-time job.
“Things were falling apart,” she said of that time. “And I thought, ‘man, I don’t know what I would do if I needed to feed myself in the future.’ “That’s kind of when I just decided I didn’t want to be working on car commercials in Detroit in dark rooms on beautiful days,” she said. As her friends lost their jobs during that fourth-quarter slowdown in 2005, she pondered what she would do if she ever needed food. At the time, she said, she didn’t know how to grow “a single thing.”
“Something about food sparked interest for me, even though it wasn’t my background,” Smith said. “Little by little, I started becoming involved in working on organic farms, and I managed a farmer’s market in the Detroit area as an AmeriCorps member.” She also worked at a native landscaping company and a brewery, and in 2009, she and her now-ex-husband moved to Wyoming to raise Scottish Highland cows, doing direct-to-consumer beef sales. “He is fifth generation on his family’s land out in Wyoming,” Smith said. “So it seemed like if we wanted to try to run the cattle business...that was the time to do it.” They decided to get Scottish Highland cows after researching different types of heritage and grass-fed breeds that would do well in the rough landscape of the state. “They’re so beautiful,” Smith said. “They’re great cows.” In 2013, Smith started working at the Center for Rural Affairs, a nonprofit organization in Alliance, Nebraska, that works to establish strong rural communities, social and economic justice, environmental stewardship, and opportunity. In 2017, she started her job with the state Department of Education, where she is currently the farm to school specialist. Her job includes working with the nonprofit National Farm to School Network.
It’s a role she takes seriously. Earlier this year, Smith testified on behalf of the education department in support of legislative bill 396, calling for a statewide farm to school program. The bill passed in May. “We really look at the three different arms of farm to school,” she said. “[It’s] about local procurement and educational practices; experiential education; and hands-on school gardens. And so all of those things can improve children’s academic…wellbeing and their nutrition.” She added that it can also produce habits that will carry over into their adult lives and the lives of their families. In her role, Smith works with many agricultural organizations, including University of Nebraska Extension, the Center For Rural Affairs, Buy Fresh Buy Local Nebraska, and The Big Garden, among others. One organization she enjoys working with is No More Empty Pots. “They do a lot of work in the community on food security issues,” she said. “But it’s not just like a food pantry model. They’re doing all kinds of creative [outreach].” NMEP is currently in a partnership with the Department of Education, working with Smith to further develop the Farm to School Producer Training program over the next two years. Nancy Williams, president and CEO of NMEP, stated via email that the organization is “providing matching funding for producer stipends during the trainings.” They are prioritizing the recruitment of Black, Indigenous, and people of color producers to prepare their businesses for institutional sales.
I think that was probably the moment that my eyes
opened to the cultural relevance of food and honoring the
”
food of different cultures and…what food means to families.
-Sarah Smith //
84 //
OCTOBER 2021
Williams said she has worked with Smith on committees and in meetings. She described Smith as professional and “insightful in her comments.” “She is thoughtful about inclusion, diversity, and equity,” Williams added. “Her actions align with her words and intention.” Smith said she would like everyone to experience the spark NMEP can inspire. “I think about people in my own community or neighborhood that maybe don’t know how delicious these local foods can be,” she said. “I don’t know that everyone values whole, local, fresh foods for the benefits they can have to our mind and our body.” That mind-body connection is especially important for students. “It [is] reverberated over and over and over again, ‘food is medicine,’” Smith said. “It can be so healing to have good food. It can change behavior.” Access to food, or the lack of, can also change the way children’s brains work in an academic setting. “It just makes me so sad that it’s not available [for all],” she added. “The miles that our food travels [are] important. Being able to grow more food in our state, in our cities, gives us security.” Fortunately for Nebraskans, Smith and others are working to make that availability an actuality. Visit education.ne.gov or farmtoschool.org for more information.
Food Features • Restaurant Reviews Chef Profiles • Dining Guides • In Every Issue
OCTOBER 2021
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85 //
- Sponsored Content -
Omaha
DINING GUIDE AMERICAN BARREL & VINE- $$ 1311 South 203rd Street Omaha, NE 68130 Barrel and Vine’s restaurant is an elevated food experience that is made from scratch daily with love in our kitchen. Our menu combines a mixture of Chef driven creative dishes, crave-able comfort meals and premium Nebraska steaks. Barrel & Vine also doubles as a live music venue and offers a rooftop bar, outdoor patio with firepits, and dozens of high end bourbons, scotch, and over 100 wine selections. Come check out an experience that is like nothing else in Nebraska. Open 7 days a week. Coming July 2021.
JAMS- $$ 7814 Dodge St. - 402.399.8300 17070 Wright Plz, Ste. 100 - 402.810.9600 1101 Harney St. in the OldMarket 402.614.9333 Jams is an Omaha restaurant legacy, an “American Grill” that offers a melting pot of different styles and varieties. The dishes are made with high-quality ingredients that pair well with award-winning wines or creative cocktails. —jamseats.com
LE PEEP - $ 69th & Pacific - 402.933.2776 177th and Center streets - 402.934.9914 156th St. & W. Dodge Rd. - 402.408.1728 120th and Blondo streets - 402.991.8222 Le Peep puts a wholesome perspective on your favorite neighborhood breakfast and lunch spot. Fresh. Simple. Elegant. Inviting. We put the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. We focus on providing each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. Open daily 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. —lepeepomaha.com
STELLA’S - $ 106 S. Galvin Road, Bellevue - 402.291.6088 Since 1936, we’ve been making our world-famous Stella’s hamburgers the same way. The family secrets have been handed down to each owner, ensuring that your burger is the same as the one you fell in love with the first time you tried Stella’s. And if it ’s your first time, we know you’ll be back! Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., closed Sunday. —stellasbarandgrill.com
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TED AND WALLY’S - $ 1120 Jackson St. - 402.341.5827 Come experience the true taste of homemade ice cream in the Old Market. Since 1986, we’ve created gourmet ice cream flavors in small batches using rock salt and ice. We offer your favorites, plus unique flavors like margarita, green tea, Guinness, and French toast. Special orders available. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.- Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday. Noon-10 p.m. —tedandwallys.com
VARSITY SPORTS CAFE - $$ Ralston - 9735 Q St. - 402.339.1944 Bellevue - 3504 Samson Way - 402.932.1944 Millard - 14529 F St. - 402.505.6660 Dundee - 4900 Dodge St. - 402.934.9439 Ralston, Bellevue, Millard and Dundee. We are truly grateful to have been welcomed into each of these communities and welcome you in for good food, a cold drink and a comfy seat to enjoy the sport of your choosing! Determined to bring only the freshest ingredients, homemade dough and our specialty sauces to the table, we have worked hard to perfect our craft for you. Our goal is to bring the best food service to the area and show the best sports events that you want to see. Pick up and Delivery availalble. Please check website for hours of operation. —varsityromancoinpizza.com
xican Dining Me
ichanga Chim
DINING GUIDE LEGEND
$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+
5 METRO Locations!
3 90th & Blondo 402.391.8870 3 146th & Center 402.330.4160 3 96th & L 402.331.5656 3 Galvin & Avery 402.292.2028 3 29th & Farnam 402.346.1110
www.romeosOMAHA.com
Omaha
DINING GUIDE
Get a Little Get Saucy.
I TA L I A N LA CASA PIZZARIA - $$ 45th and Leavenworth streets - 402.556.6464
a Little Saucy. CHANGE Appetizers
yH Happ our
ntic Restaura ma nt Ro
an Dining Itali
SPEZIA SPECIALTIES
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.ne
FRESH SEAFOOD • ANGUS BEEF
LO SOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO - $$ 3001 S. 32nd Ave. - 402.345.5656
INNOVATIVE PASTA • RISOTTO SPEZIA SPECIALTIES WOOD FIRE•STEAKS & SEAFOOD GNOCCHI FRESH SALMON DAILY INNOVATIVE PASTA—RISOTTO—GNOCCHI FRESH SALMON DAILY
SATURDAY LUNCH [11am–4 pm]
Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner
$10
COCKTAIL HOUR Take Out &
TRY OUR
MONDAY – SATURDAY Pickup 4Curbside – 6 PM ALL COCK TAILS, GL ASS WINE Available! AND BEERS ARE HALF PRICE
OFF ANY TICKET OVER $25 FALL FEATURES MENU! NO CASH VALUE. EXPIRES 12/31/2011
Catering
. Private Rooms•.402-391-2950 Walk-Ins Welcome CALL FOR Party RESERVATIONS 3125 South 72
Street
CENTRAL LOCATION • 3125 SOUTH 72ND STREET • nd EASY ACCESS OFF I-80 • 72ND STREET EXIT
The restaurant is located in a residential neighborhood, surrounded by charming homes. Everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes and basil, a bowl of oven-roasted garlic cloves, specially seasoned olive oil, and (at night) a jug of Chianti! The menu includes a large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, and even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, and eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offerings include panini, salads, and one of the best pizzas in town. Patio seating, full bar, and a great wine list complete the atmosphere. No reservations, except for private rooms. —losolemio.com
(Easy access off I-80, take 72nd Street Exit)
402.391.2950 . Call today to make your reservation
DINING GUIDE LEGEND
$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+
CHEERS! 18 YEARS IN A ROW! LaMesaOmaha.com | 6 Locations OCTOBER 2021
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Making Sandwiches Better, Since 1921 Juicy Lucy Seattle Dog
Soft Potato Bun
North Central
Gourmet Hot Dog Bun
Pacific Northwest
Reuben
Marble Rye Loaf
Midwest
Philly
Rustic Hoagie
Mid Atlantic
Tartine
Rustic Oval Loaf
West Coast
Hatch Green Chili Cheeseburger Cornmeal Kaiser Bun
Southwest
Pastrami on Rye
Caraway Rye Loaf
Northeast
A century of pride in every slice!
Fried Chicken Sandwich Butter Brioche Bun
Southeast Z-Man
4.25” Kaiser Bun
South Central
Medianoche Cuban
Sweet Vienna Loaf
South Atlantic Region
Omaha
DINING GUIDE Breakfast
PASTA AMORE - $$ 11027 Prairie Brook Rd. - 402.391.2585
156th & Dodge • 408-1728 177th & Center • 934-9914 120th & Blondo • 991-8222 69th & Pacific • 933-2776
Thanks for Voting Us # BREAKFAST YEARS in a Row!
13
1
Drive-Thru Open (Center St. Only) Open Daily 6:30am-2:00pm Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day!
LEPEEPOMAHA.COM | @LEPEEPOMAHA n Sandwi ube ch Re
w Bar in 2019 Ne
2 0 2 0 W i nn er
Try Omaha’s Favorite Reuben! Omaha’s largest selection of craft beers.
3578 Farnam St • 402-345-1708 www.beercornerusa.com
DINE-IN TAKE-OUT
CALL TO PLACE RESERVATIO NS FO R HO LIDAY PARTIES
4524 Farnam St. - 402-991-7724
FREE PARKING . LIVE MUSIC . BIER GARDEN
R AT H S K E L L E RO M A H A .C O M
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. MondayThursday 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 p.m. Reservations recommended. —pastaamore.com
SPEZIA - $$$ 3125 S. 72nd St. - 402.391.2950 Choose Spezia for lunch or dinner, where you’ll find a casual elegance that’s perfect for business guests, get-togethers, or any special occasion. Exceptional food, wine, and service, with a delectable menu: fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks, innovative pasta, risotto, gnocchi, cioppino, lamb, entrée salads, Mediterranean chicken, flatbreads, and fresh salmon daily. Enjoy a full bar, Italian and California wines, Anniversary/Lovers’ Booth (call to reserve), private dining rooms, and wood-fired grill. Open Monday-Sunday. Cocktail hour 4-6 p.m., when all cocktails, glasses of wine, and beers are half price. Evening reservations recommended. —speziarestaurant.com
MEXICAN FERNANDO’S - $ 7555 Pacific St. - 402.339.8006. 380 N. 114th St. - 402.330.5707 Featuring Sonoran-style cooking made fresh daily. Catering and party rooms also available. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 4-9 p.m. —fernandosomaha.com
STEAKS • CHOPS • SEAFOOD ITALIAN SPECIALTIES 7 private party rooms Seating up to 400 Lots of parking
1620 S. 10th Street
402-345-8313
www.casciossteakhouse.com
DINING GUIDE LEGEND
$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+
OCTOBER 2021
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Omaha
DINING GUIDE LA MESA - $$ 158th St. and W. Maple Rd. - 402.557.6130 156th and Q streets - 402.763.2555 110th St. and W. Maple Rd. - 402.496.1101 Fort Crook Rd. and Hwy 370 - 402.733.8754 84th St. and Tara Plaza - 402.593.0983 Lake Manawa Exit - 712.256.2762 MODERN COCKTAILS MIXED WITH AMERICA’S MUSIC
3825 N. 30 ST., OMAHA, NE @JOHNNYTSBARANDBLUES TH
Enjoy awesome enchiladas, fabulous fajitas, seafood specialties, mouthwatering margaritas, and more at La Mesa. Come see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s No. 1 Mexican restaurant 18 years in a row. Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. —lamesaomaha.com
ROMEO’S MEXICAN FOOD AND PIZZA - $ 90th and Blondo streets - 402.391.8870 146th St. and W. Center Rd. - 402.330.4160 96th and L streets - 402.331.5656 Galvin and Avery roads - 402.292.2028 29th and Farnam steets - 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
Hamburger
SPECIAL DINING CRESCENT MOON ALE HOUSE - $ 3578 Farnam St. - 402.345.1708 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 beer-lover’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
RATHSKELLER BIER HAUS-$$ 4524 Farnam Street - 402.991.7724 Rathskeller Bier Haus celebrates daily with German beer, wurst and many other menu items. Within arm’s reach of the Blackstone District and historic Dundee. Rathskeller Bier Haus is our German castle and designed to bring the storied traditions of Bavaria to the beating heart of Omaha’s metro area. Come enjoy our large outdoor beer garden and four legged friends are welcome. Prost! Open daily 11 a.m.-Late. —rathskelleromaha.com
thanks to our customers for voting us the “BEST BURGER
IN OMAHA
“Serving World Famous Hamburgers Since 1936” 106 Galvin Rd., Bellevue, NE • 402-291-6088 • Open Monday-Saturday, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm // 90 //
OCTOBER 2021
Omaha’s Riverfront Entertainment Venue
Omaha
DINING GUIDE WEDDINGS • PARTIES • EVENTS
GREEK ISLANDS - $ 3821 Center St. - 402.346.1528
JAMS OLD MARKET • 1101 Harney St • Happy Hour M-F 3pm-6pm
Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. We are well-known for our gyro sandwiches and salads. We cater and can accommodate a party for 65 guests. Carry-out and delivery available. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. —greekislandsomaha.com
JAMS MIDTOWN • 7814 West Dodge Road • Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm
LIVE MUSIC TH-SU
402-342-7827
CASCIO’S - $$ 1620 S. 10th St. - 402-345-8313
• WEDDINGS • PARTIES • EVENTS • REUNIONS • MEETINGS 151 FREEDOM PARK ROAD • OMAHA www.rivercitystar.com
JAMS LEGACY • 17070 Wright Plaza • Party Rooms & Patios • jamseats.com
Take Out & Delivery Available Online Ordering Available at Bellevue & Millard Locations
402.505.6660
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 - $$$ 2121 S. 73rd St. - 402-391-7440
Please Check Website for Hours of Operation Sports Bar
402.339.1944
STEAKHOUSES
Famous for the original Whiskey Steak. Truly a one-of-a-kind Midwestern experience. Excellent food, wine, service, and value. Rare...and very well done. Lunch Monday- Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., cocktail hour 3-6 p.m., dinner nightly 5 p.m. —droverrestaurant.com
402.932.1944 DINING GUIDE LEGEND
varsityromancoinpizza.com
$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+ h Steak ouse
@The Drover Restaurant & Lounge | Gift Cards Available 2121 S. 73 St. | (402) 391-7440 | DroverRestaurant.com Open Monday - Friday 11am - 2pm | Dinner nightly from 5pm
ek Dining Gre
Family Owned Since 1983 CATERING / PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE HOMEMADE, FRESH FOOD, ALWAYS.
3821 Center St. / 402.346.1528 GreekIslandsOmaha.com OCTOBER 2021
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// EXPLORE CALENDAR //
NEBRASKA
MIDDLEGROUND MUSIC FESTIVAL Oct. 15-18 at IOWA I-80 Speedway, 13909 238th St, Greenwood, NE. HARVEST MOON FALL FESTIVAL Oct. 2 at Dawes The Middleground Music and Arts Festival is a SPOOKY STORIES AND S’MORES TBD at Bloomsbury County Fairgrounds, Chadron. Featuring a destination EDM festival that is being hosted at Farm, Atkins. After the sun goes down, Wheezy the goat-roping contest, haunted maze, outhouse the I-80 Speedway this year. It is an event that Friendly Witch will tell spooky stories while guests races, home-brewed beer contest, a 5K run/ attracts people to the Midwest from all over the enjoy a s’more and a cup of hot chocolate. Until then, walk, and so much more, this festival offers nation. This festival will bring together worldattendees can enjoy a hayrack ride, corn palace, something for ever yone. 308. 487.3562 . famous EDM artists and breaking national acts fairy tale trail, and other activities. 319.446.7667. —hemingfordharvestmoonfallfestival.com along with regional and local up and coming DJs —bloomsburyfarm.com and producers to promote inclusion, awareness, and diversity to build the community. GREAT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Oct. 2-3 along OKTOBERFEST Oct. 1-3 at Amana Festhalle Barn, Contact Jennifer Wilson via linked-in. Main Street, Crete. There is fun for the Amana. Beginning with the official keg-tapping Oct. —ticketfairy.com entire family at this event. A zip-line down ceremony, this festival featuring special food, Main St., Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest, and events, and music—all with a German flare—has the Great Pumpkin Competition are just a ELYRIA PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Oct. 21-22, been celebrated in the Amana Colonies since 1965. few of this year’s listed activities. 402.826.2136. Elyria. Enjoy a free slice of pumpkin pie at 319.622.7622. —amanacolonies.com —cretepumpkinfest.com this annual event, and be sure to check out the pumpkins for sale. There are many activities PUMPKINFEST Oct. 2 on Main Street, Anamosa. for children, as well as vendors and a tractor HARVEST FAIR AND MARKET Oct. 5 at The Pumpkin Titled the “Pumpkin Capital of Iowa,” thousands display. Additional activities include a pumpkin Patch at BE Farm, Bayard Featuring the “Paint and will come to Anamosa to experience giant weight-guessing contest, a pumpkin decorating Cider” event with artist Kelly Bhenke, this event pumpkins, dozens of food and craft vendors, contest, and a card-playing party. 308.728.7875. also offers pumpkin picking, arts and crafts vendors, games for kids, and one of the largest parades in —visitvalleycounty.com and food trucks. 308.641.5336. —bepumpkinpatch. Iowa. “We Remember” is the theme of this 33rd com annual Anamosa Pumpkinfest and Ryan Norlin BOO AT THE ZOO Oct. 26-30 at Lincoln Children’s GIANT Pumpkin Weigh-Off. 319.462.4879. Zoo. Nearly 40 trick-or-treat booths giving —anamosachamber.org OLD TIME AUTUMN Oct. 9 in Brownville. This out candy, coupons, and more can be found weekend celebration- taking place where it Oct. at Lincoln’s largest trick-or-treat event. All OCTOBER HARVEST SPOON TOUR all began for Nebraska- focuses on historic proceeds directly support the zoo and care Oct. 5 at Hitchcock Nature Center, sights and sounds, with activities such as for animals. Reserve a ticket in order to 27792 Ski Hill Loop A celebration carriage rides and a river cruise. 402.825.6001. attend. 402.475.6741. —lincolnzoo.org of food and culture with unique —brownvillehistoricalsociety.org experiences throughout the day. Admission: $3 per vehicle. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 712.545-3283. MONSTER MASH Oct. 30 at Strategic Air Command THE SAVANNAH SIPPING SOCIETY Oct. 9 at Lofte —mycountyparks.com & Aerospace Museum, Ashland. Guests can walk Community Theatre, 15841 Manley Road, Manley, through a “not-so-scary” haunted house, create NE. A delightful comedy where four unique their own superhero masks, and enjoy some SCENIC DRIVE FESTIVAL Oct. 8-10 in towns southern women need to escape the sameness of cookies from the Cookie Company food truck. in Van Buren County. Thousands will travel to their day-to-day routines. They are drawn together Don’t forget to get a photo to commemorate southeastern Iowa for this three-day event. This by fate and an impromptu happy hour, and decide the day at their photo op station. 402.944.3100. festival is home to one of Iowa’s largest flea markets, it’s time to reclaim the enthusiasm for life they lost —sacmuseum.org and offers many different opportunities for food and throughout the years. Together they will discover activities. 319.293.7111. —villagesofvanburen.com a renewed determination to live in the moment. Purchase tickets online. —lofte.org
2-3
26-30
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OCTOBER 2021
CRISP AIR, COOL BREEZE, AND ALL THE FUN THAT AUTUMN BRINGS. JOIN US THIS FALL IN SARPY COUNTY! Nebraska Brewing, La Vista Tree Rush Adventures at Fontenelle Forest, Bellevue Union Omaha, at
ough October Werner Park thr
Werner Park, Papillion
Bellevue Berry Farm & Pumpkin Ranch
UPCOMING EVENTS Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, Gretna
Angus Burgers & Shakes
SEPT 24-OCT 31 Vala’s Pumpkin Patch Open Gretna SEPT 18-OCT 31 Bellevue Berry Farm & Pumpkin Ranch Open Bellevue
Fontenelle Forest, Bellevue
On the patio at Pint Nine, La Vista
OCTOBER 30-31 U.S. Quidditch Midwest Regional Championship Papillion Landing, Papillion Scary Acres, near Gretna
Chalco Hills Recreation Area
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
// EXPLORE CALENDAR // KANSAS
HALLOWEENAPALOOZA Oct. 8-9in Ottumwa. This festival is held at the historic and haunted Hotel Ottumwa. It was created by horror filmmakers for horror fans. The weekend will consist of costume contests, live music, and annual film festival which has received international recognition. There will also be appearances by several horror film celebrities. 641.799.9770. —halloweenapalooza.wixsite.com/home
GREATER KANSAS CITY JAPAN FESTIVAL TBD at Johnson County Community College, Overland Park. Beginning 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
MADISON COUNTY COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVALOct. 9-10, Winterset. Priding itself on its uniqueness, this festival encourages visitors to participate in old-time entertainments such as square dancing and marble shooting. The festival also has other activities, including a farmers market, parade, a quilt show, cafe show, and the annual horseshoe tournament. 515.462.1185. —madisoncounty.com OSBORNE HERITAGE DAYS Oct. 9-10 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 such as caramel apples, pie, and buffalo stew. 563.245.1516. —claytoncountyconservation.org
AMES ARTISTS’ STUDIO TOUR Oct. 9-10 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
NIGHT OF THE LIVING FARM Oct. 22-23 and 29-30 at Overland Park Arboretum, Overland Park. Attendees can experience the Farmstead after dark, if they dare. Enjoy traditional “spooktacular” fun such as scary and non-scary hayrides, a fortune teller, flashlight scavenger hunt, fairy princess party, rand a marshmallow roast. There will also be games, horse-drawn wagon rides, and more. 913.322.6467. —artsandrec-op.org
PIONEER HARVEST FIESTA Oct. 1-3 at Oct. Bourbon County Fairgrounds, Fort Scott. This 65th annual event features one of the largest flea markers in the region and has educational and historic activities for all ages. There will be handmade arts and crafts and a Quilt Show. Rock crushing and corn shucking demonstrations are just two of many events happening at the festival. 620.670.2750. —visitfortscott.com
1-3
WOOFSTOCK 2019 Oct. 2 at Sedgwick County Park, Wichita. “Fall’s 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 ICT BLOKTOBERFEST Oct. 8-9 at WaterWalk,
Oct.
9-10
CALLAHAN PROMOTIONS ARTS AND CRAFT FAIR
Oct. 9-10 at Mid-America Center, Council Bluffs. Roughly 200 exhibitors will be showing and selling their unique products, including paintings and prints; ceramics; yard and garden art; coffee cakes; salsa; jams and jellies; and much more. Every product sold has been handmade by the exhibitor. 563.652.4529. —iowastatefairgrounds.org
2021 ANNUAL GEM, JEWELRY, MINERAL & FOSSIL SHOW Oct. 16-17 at Elwell Family Food Center,
Des Moines. This sparkling show returns to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. It is family friendly, with children’s activities, speakers, demonstrations, displays, and much more to see. 563.652.4529. —iowastatefairgrounds.org
SPIRIT IN THE GARDENS Oct. 16-17 at Reiman Gardens, Ames. Dressing in costume will allow kids and families to participate in trick-ortreating, storytelling, a Jack-O-Lantern Walk, and view 650 lit Jack-O-Lanterns. 515.294.2710. —reimangardens.com
NASCAR PLAYOFF RACES Oct. 23-24 at
Wichita. Combining Oktoberfest with a Wichita Block Party, plenty of food and breweries will be available at this free local, kid-and-dog-friendly event. 316.285.9227. —ictbloktoberfest.com
COLUMBUS DAY FESTIVAL AND HOT AIR BALLOON REGATTA Oct. 8-10 at Various Locations in
Columbus. One of the fastest-growing festivals in southeast Kansas, the main attraction is hot air balloons, but the event also includes art exhibits, a car show, and more. 620.429.1492. —columbusdayballoons.com
MID AMERICA FLEA MARKET Oct. 10 at Kansas State Fairgrounds, Hutchinson. A $1 admission fee will allow shoppers to view and purchase a wide variety of merchandise, including antiques and primitives. 620.663 .5626. —midamericafleamarkets.com MAPLE LEAF FESTIVAL Oct. 16-17 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
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
MISSOURI REPUBLIC PUMPKIN DAZE Oct. 2 in Republic. Since 1992, giant pumpkins have drawn participants from the area. Vendors gather to show off fall arts and crafts and families from all over the Ozarks gather to celebrate the harvest season. 417.732.6210. —republicpumpkindaze.com
33RD ANNUAL WESTON APPLEFEST Oct. 2-3 at downtown 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 APPLE BUTTER MAKIN’ DAYS Oct. 8-10 on the courthouse square, Mt. Vernon. Where apple butter is cooked using century-old methods and games and entertainment are available for all ages, this free festival is one of Missouri’s most popular. 417.466.7654. —mtvchamber.com MISSOURI DAY FESTIVAL Oct. 15-16 at Trenton High School, Trenton. The largest festival of the year in Trenton, around 10,000 people are drawn to the area for this family-friendly event with nearly 120 different vendors who come from all over the United States. There is also a high school marching band competition. 600.359. 4606. —trentonmochamber.com KANSAS CITY GRILLED CHEESE FESTIVAL Oct. 16 at Ilus W. Davis Park, Kansas City. Due to rescheduling, The Great Grilled Cheese and Beer Festival of KC has joined forces with the KC Mac and Cheese Festival to create the cheesiest event in Kansas. Sample a variety of gourmet, chef-inspired twists on two of your childhood favorites. 816.812.1829. —kccrew.com
Event times and details may change.
Visit omahamagazine.com for complete listings. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.
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OCTOBER 2021
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OCTOBER 2021
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NOT FUNNY // COLUMN BY OTIS TWELVE // PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL SITZMANN
USE TH E JARGON I N TH I S C OLUMN
(TO IM PRESS YOU R FRIE N D S AT COCKTA IL PA RT I ES)
T
he truth will set you free.
Unfortunately, a lot of people will tell you that nowadays it’s impossible to know what is true. “Facts,” they will say, “depend on your agenda.”
“It fact,” they will say without any sense of the irony of their choice of words, “Truth is not dependent on facts at all.” Take it from me—I studied philosophy and metaphysics at an accredited college—this is a problem that people who attend, or have tenure at, accredited colleges have been writing papers about since Austin Norman Palmer invented his cursive script after serving time as a chore boy at a school of penmanship. Objective truth can be as elusive as a hyperactive puppy with one of your socks hiding under a Danish modern loveseat. Such truth only exists if it exists separate from the effects of being observed by an observer. Which is silly, because we all know that if a one-handed tree falls in the forest and no one is there to clap, how many monkeys and how many typewriters can dance on the head of a pin? And what about objective reality? Anything related to experience must also be independent of mind. Thus, objective reality is formless until it is observed by a mind. Only when experienced does reality have form—which, thanks to Steve Jobs, can now be filled out online. This phenomenon is well known by anyone who has ever answered the question, “Do these pants make me look fat?” In other words, objective truth is not always a worthwhile ideal. Facts are anything that exists in objective reality. Objective truth is the recognition of that reality. Facts are metaphysical. Truth is epistemological. Or, as they say on Facebook, “That’s not what I discovered on YouTube.” Therein lies the problem. In our modern fog of unreality, all of truth and all facts are purely determined by the source from which said truth or fact is gleaned. Worse, all sources are now judged to be equal no matter their pedigree. A paper in a medical journal discussing the disease process of a particular pathogen using laboratory data and statistics derived from a double blind study of organisms infected with the virus in question, is no more credible than an Instagram photo with a snappy meme about “sheeple” and invisible rays from a 5G Android phone. This current craze of dismissing expertise, doubting credentials, poo-pooing observable reality, and doubting anything that one already doubts can lead to problems in medical practice, politics, and if followed further, car repair. “I could not trust my mechanic because he was in league with big parts. So I had that nice telemarketer fix my transmission.” Making any judgments at all these days involves being certain that truth, facts, and opinion are one-and-the-same, and being able to magically discern the bias of any truth, fact, or opinion before actually being exposed to them. Is my “truth” the “real” truth? Are my “facts” the actual “true” and “real” facts? You could “verify” what I have said. For instance, what’s the most number of “times” that “terms” can be placed in “quotation marks” before the “punctuation police” arrive to “arrest” me? Was A.N. Palmer actually a chore boy at a penmanship school? Were there really ever such things as penmanship schools? Is there such a thing as a master penman? Go ahead, look it up on YouTube. Then scatter some of the jargon I’ve used here around at the next cocktail party you attend with your entourage. People will think you a boor, albeit a bright one. Anyway that’s my deconstruction of our current metaphysical crisis. Whether I can be trusted is, of course, dependent on whether I have an agenda or not. Let me be clear, I do not have an agenda. I have a Hyundai. Otis Twelve hosts the radio program Morning Classics with Otis Twelve on 90.7 KVNO, weekday mornings from 6-10 a.m. Visit kvno.org for more information.
OCTOBER
// 96 //
2021
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