AUTHOR ROB KUGLER // CHEF DEKE REICHARDT // OTIS TWELVE’S ADVICE: DON’T GIVE UP (OR ELSE DO)
M AY 2 02 0 |
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Make a Difference, Help a Nonprofit or Restaurant. Organizations nationwide have been turned upside down by the coronavirus crisis, including many Omaha nonprofits and restaurants serving our great community. For those who want to help, it can be hard to know where to start.
Omaha Magazine would like to lend a hand. Help your favorite nonprofit or restaurant stay in the public eye by making a donation toward an ad in our Charity or Restaurant Advertising sections, planned for our July issue of Omaha Magazine. We’ll contact the organization and help them prepare an ad that ensures they’re not forgotten. If there’s a charity or restaurant out there you know is struggling, help them raise their profile and jump-start their business during this challenging time and boost local giving.
Support Local Charities & Restaurants — Please Donate!
To make a donation, go to omahamagazine.com/pages/ad-match. Deadline for ad donations is May 20.
FROM THE EDITOR // LETTER BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN, MANAGING EDITOR
OMAHA MAGAZINE
Your Continued Connection to the Community
S
pring arrived amid chaos and fear. Usually my favorite local weatherman notes the spring equinox with gusto—this year he barely registered that there was an equal amount of sunlight and moonlight on March 19. I never heard him state that it was the earliest spring equinox in 124 years, a fact I found interesting as I read it on national news sites.
This issue has come at a unique time in everyone’s lives. A year ago, we planned for the May issue to be an annual adventure issue, as late spring is when many prepare to go on vacation. Last year’s edition ended up changing a bit due to the spring f loods and some staff changes at the magazine, but we still produced a great edition about people from the Omaha area taking great adventures.
Magazines plan months, sometimes a year, in advance. At Omaha Magazine, we planned for the May edition to be the Adventure Issue a minimum of three months prior to publication, and some large stories were started before then.
People are the lifeblood of this city, and this magazine. It is who we produce articles about and for that make us so passionate about this product.
The city has read a publication called Omaha Magazine since 1890. Publisher Todd Lemke started the current Omaha Magazine in 1983. The magazine survived the savings and loan crisis from 1986 to 1995, the aftermath of Sept. 11, 2001, and the Great Recession that ran from December 2007 to June 2009. Through it all, we have brought our readers timely articles that include philanthropic and cultural events around town. Some of the articles have seen a more hard-news bent, such as last month’s cover article about how the community came together to help save nearly 1/4 of an endangered goat species at one farm during last year’s historic f looding. Other articles cover the culture—music, theater, authors, locally produced films, art exhibitions, and more—that make this city’s heart beat.
The coronavirus that hit Omaha in March changed the way the staff at Omaha Magazine works, but not the quality or the scope of the magazine that we are bringing to our readers. As we communicated via conference calls, email, and a new cloud-based system, we watched our friends and neighbors in various industries change the way they serve customers and used our website to promote which restaurants are still operating via pickup and/or delivery. We plugged our headphones into our home computers for privacy and continued producing the magazine you see in the following pages. In most ways, this is the magazine we planned many months ago. In other ways, it is not. Omaha Magazine photographer Sarah Lemke, for example, had been traveling with her longtime boyfriend Julius Fredrick and came home unexpectedly, causing a change in plans
MAY
// 3 //
2020
for that article. A couple of articles will be brought to you in future issues due to subjects being quarantined or uneasy being photographed during these uncertain times. Another change we made for efficiency’s sake was printing OmahaHome inside Omaha Magazine instead of poly-bagging together these magazines. One thing is certain. Omaha Magazine is here for our readers. We have brought you an outstanding edition filled with Omahans and their passion for travel, for adventure, and for fun. Someday we will go back to going on adventures, and Omaha Magazine will connect you to those future stories; but for now, I hope everyone who is able stays home and uses the time to reconnect to friends and loved ones in a safe way, whether that is playing board games with spouses and children or telephoning a friend to say hello. * 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.
TAB L E of CON T E N T S THE USUAL SUSPECTS 003 From the Editor
Your Continued Connection to the Community
006 Between the Lines 008 Calendar of Events 026 Adventure
Mike Lachendro Chases Black Sky and Wind
121 Obviously Omaha Outdoor Omaha
140 Explore! Calendar 144 Not Funny
Don’t Give Up, Or Else Do
122
A R T S + C U LT U R E 014 Music
Majel Connery
018 Author
Rob Kugler
022 Visual
Jave Yoshimoto
DINING 122 Dining Feature
David Utterback’s Food Adventure
128 Chef Profile
Curt Safrenek
130 Chef Profile
Deke Reichardt
133 Dining Guide
014
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MAY 2020
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446 trees have been reforested
due to the printing of our last round of publications.
Learn more at
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THE LINES A LOOK AT FOUR OMAHA MAGAZINE TEAM MEMBERS CHRIS BOWLING—Contributing Writer Bowling grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, and moved to Nebraska in 2014 to study journalism at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Back then he knew nothing about the state aside from its cheap tuition and football team, but after telling stories here the past few years, he has found inexhaustible fascination—from cities like Omaha and Lincoln to the Sandhills and rural towns. When he’s not writing, Bowling loves to play guitar in his band Talent Show and hang out with his cadre of plants and Siamese cat, Kevin.
JEFF LACEY—Contributing Writer Lacey has lived most of his life in Omaha. This writing teacher at Ralston High School believes in practicing what he preaches, so he has been freelancing since 2019. He believes in the power of stories to celebrate the goodness of everyday people; he loves writing anything, but especially loves when he is asked to celebrate the quiet heroes of America in his stories. Besides being a writer and poet, Lacey is a certified Nebraska Master Naturalist, and enjoys supervising the writing hike program at Fontenelle Forest. Lacey graduated from Ralston High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in English and philosophy from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, an M.Ed. from the University of Arizona, and has a master’s degree in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “Stories are incredibly powerful tools for creating change,” he believes. “They have the power to unleash light into the world.”
ANDREW NELSON—Contributing Writer Nelson is a former newspaper reporter turned freelance writer/wannabe novelist. He is a Fremont native, a fifth-generation Nebraskan and a graduate of the University of South Dakota and the University of Nebraska—Lincoln. For 11 years, he was a reporter at the Omaha World-Herald. He keeps his interview skills sharp not only with Omaha Magazine, but in the Nebraska Army National Guard, where he is a military historian. He eagerly awaits the reopening of his favorite Omaha bars, bookstores, and coffee shops, but until then Omahans might find him on his front porch, reading and writing. Feel free to say hello—from a safe distance.
LIZ STEVENS—Contributing Writer At age 7, Stevens wrote her first story about her findings at the local Baker’s. In her mind, the story was a literary masterpiece that would withstand the test of time. She fell in love with writing while composing that story. Gradually, she moved past writing tales about the wonders of perishable products and learned how to tell stories by studying public relations and advertising at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Now, she is a self-identified extrovert whose location can easily be given away by her loud, boisterous laughter. In her free time, she can be found with a cup of black coffee in hand searching for unique finds from her favorite shops in Benson and Dundee. After finding her home in e-commerce jewelry sales, she started freelance writing for Omaha Magazine in 2018. Whether in sales, writing, or floral design, she tries to add her creative flair to everything she does. // 6 //
MAY 2020
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MAY 2020 VOLUME 38 // ISSUE 1
EDITORIAL Managing Editor
DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN Senior Editor
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TARA SPENCER Associate Editor
LINDA PERSIGEHL Editorial Interns
ERIN WALTER
Contributing Writers
CHRIS BOWLING · TAMSEN BUTLER · JULIUS FREDRICK CHRIS HATCH · JEFF LACEY · JENNIFER LITTON · SARA LOCKE ANDREW NELSON · WILL PATTERSON · SEAN ROBINSON KARA SCHWEISS · CARIELLE SEDERSTEN · LIZ STEVENS TIM TRUDELL · BRYAN VOMACKA
CREATIVE
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MATT WIECZOREK Senior Graphic Designer
DEREK JOY
Graphic Designer II
MADY BESCH
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JUSTIN BARNES · KEITH BINDER · COLIN CONCES SCOTT DRICKEY · JOSHUA FOO · WILLIAM HESS TIFFANY IP · SARAH LEMKE
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Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing
GIL COHEN
Senior Branding Specialist
MARY HIATT
Senior Sales Executive & 60PLUS in Omaha Contributing Editor
GWEN LEMKE
Publisher’s Assistant & OmahaHome Contributing Editor
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Senior Sales Coordinator
ALICIA HOLLINS
Branding Specialists
DAWN DENNIS · GEORGE IDELMAN Digital Sales Manager
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OPERATIONS Operations Officer & Local Stubs Ticketing Representative
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Whether it is day or night, inside or out, Joslyn has so much to offer.
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402.884.2000
Omaha Magazine Vol 37 Issue 9, 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
(paid ticketed admission for some exhibitions)
SCULPTURE GARDENS Open and free – all day every day!
explore
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Joslyn Art Museum features works from antiquity to the present with an emphasis on 19th- and 20th-century European and American art. A fun, educational, relaxing, and artful destination for all. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–4 pm. Just west of downtown Omaha. Café, Museum shop, and free parking.
2200 Dodge St. | Omaha, NE | (402) 342-3300 | www.joslyn.org MAY 2020
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» Exhibitions « INFLUENCE
Through Aug. 22 at Kaneko, 1111 Jones St. Creativity begins with an idea. Through the exploration of physical space, artistic themes, history, and experience, the season of INFLUENCE will examine the history of change at Kaneko while celebrating the future of the organization which has become a driving force for inclusion and diversity of creative thought in Omaha. 402.341.3800 —thekaneko.org
IKEBANA EXHIBITION
FACT AND FICTION IN CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY
May 1-10 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Photography has become less believable in the age of the iPhone; images are presumed to have been manipulated or altered from their original forms. Exploring traditional genres of landscape, still life, and portraiture, the work of various award-winning photographers depict raw scenes that appeared before the lens at a precise moment. Tickets: $10 adults, free for youth 17 and under. 402.342.3300. —joslyn.org
May 1-3 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Ikebana is the art of Japanese flow arrangement. This annual Ikebana exhibition features arrangements from both classical and contemporary schools of Ikebana. Members of Ikebana International Omaha will be present during show hours to meet guests and answer questions about the art of Ikebana. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children 3-12, free for garden members and children under 3. 402.346.4002. —lauritzengardens.org
NATURE CONNECTS: ART WITH LEGO® BRICKS
PULITZER PRIZE PHOTOGRAPHS
JOE MCHALE
May 1-3 at Durham Museum. 801 S. 10th St. Photography plays an important role in documenting history. Th is exhibit features over 80 large-format, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs with information about how the image was captured. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (age 62+), $7 children 3-12, free for children under 2 and members. 402.444.5071. —durhammuseum.org
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MAY 2020
May 1-10 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Created by artist Sean Kenney, this exhibit features incredible sculptures of endangered species built from nearly 800,000 LEGO bricks and builds awareness for conservation of all living things. Admission: $10 adults, $5 ages 3 to 12, free to ages 2 and under and members. 402.346.4002. —lauritzengardens.org
May 1-June 5 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. McHale is a visual artist based out of Kearney. His paintings are lively and full of kinetic energy. He creates a visual representation of moments when time stands still and the past, present and future combine into one. Admission: Free. 402.595-2122. —artscouncil.nebraska.gov
BARIGHT GALLERY ART SERIES EXHIBIT
May 1-July 7 at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, 1111 N. Bellevue Blvd. Th is annual series features a different artist, or group of artists, each quarter. Th is time around, the group is Community. Community is a non-juried, salon style exhibit that celebrates the creativity of Fontenelle Forest members, neighbors, staff, volunteers and friends. The exhibit will be vibrant and diverse, featuring artists of any age, working in any medium or style. Admission: $11. 402.731.3140. —fontenelleforest.org
PICASSO, MASTER IN CLAY
May 1-Aug. 22 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S 25th St. The whimsical works of one of history’s most iconic artists is at El Museo Latino. The exhibition features more than 55 of the legendary Pablo Picasso’s stylized ceramics. On loan from the Park West Museum, this substantial collection is on display for the first time in Omaha. Admission: $5 adults, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 seniors and children ages 5-17, and free to children under 5 and active military with ID. 402.731.1137. —elmuseolatino.org
SPONTANEITY: 10 ABSTRACT PAINTERS FROM NEBRASKA
Through May 17 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. Th is exhibition features artwork by 10 abstract and abstract expressionist artists from Nebraska. Enjoy their spontaneous, gestural and colorful paintings. Admission: free. 402.305.1510. —gallery1516.org
GUITAR: THE INSTRUMENT THAT ROCKED THE WORLD
May 30 through Sept. 6 at the Durham Museum. Visitors can explore the history of the world’s most recognized musical instrument at this exhibit. It will feature more than 60 guitars and nearly 100 historical artifacts that display the heart of music. Admission: $11 adults, $7 children 3-12, $8 seniors (62+). Free for museum members. 402.444.5071. —durhammuseum.org
LIV SCHULMAN: THE GOBERNMENT
May 1-June 13 at Bemis Center, 724 S. 12th St. Paris-based artist Schulman’s multi-channel video The Gobernment is described as a fictional historical revision of the lives of forgotten women artists. Th is will be the first presentation of her work in the U.S. Admission: free. 402.341.7130. —bemiscenter.org
CLAUDIA WIESER: GENERATIONS
May 1-June 13 at Bemis Center, 724 S 12th St #3202. Wieser is a Bavarian artist whose hand-painted sculptures, gold-leafed drawings, and multi-media installations show her appreciation for classical forms, as well as abstract geometrics. Admission: free. 402.341.7130. —bemiscenter.org
TAKING IT TO THE STREETS: GRADING DOWNTOWN OMAHA
May 1-June 21 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This educational photography exhibit shows images of the extensive street projects in downtown Omaha that took place throughout the 1880s-1920s. Viewers can learn about the projects that shaped Omaha and see how the streets have changed. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12). 402.444.5071. —durhammuseum.org
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SPORTY WOMEN: THE DESIRE TO COMPETE
Through Dec. 31 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. Equal treatment for women in sports is as modern a topic today as it was for women 100 years ago. This exhibit uses images from the Durham Museum Photo Archive that highlight elements of conflicting standards that allowed women to compete in sports if they maintained their feminine appearance. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12). 402.444.5071. —durhammuseum.org
» Stage Performances « TEMPORARY INSANITY
May 1-17 at Bellevue Little Theatre, 203 W Mission Ave. Main characters Collyn and Emerson run a marketing firm and are trying to land major client despite several unusual obstacles. Times vary. Tickets: $18 adults, $16 seniors, $10 students with valid ID. 402.291.1554. —bellevuelittletheatre.weebly.com
1502 CUMING ST.
• (402) 819-8792 • INFO@OMAHADESIGNCENTER.COM
MARK NORMAND
May 3 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St, Suite 201. Normand’s hilarious stand up acts have taken him across the United Sates and abroad. He has appeared on Conan, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and The Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $15$45. 402.493.8036. —omaha.funnybone.com
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE SERIES — EXTREME CAVE DIVING
May 12 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Attendees can voyage into the beautiful but dangerous “blue holes” of the Bahamas through stunning images and video from diver Kenny Broad. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $12-$28. 402.345.0202. —o-pa.org
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CHRISTOPHER TITUS
May 27 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St., Suite 201. Titus is a comedian and actor. His satirical stand up act revolves around his dysfunctional family and shocking life experiences. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25-$55. 402.493.8036. —omaha.funnybone.com
THE COLOR PURPLE
May 29 through June 28 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning novel by Alice Walker and the Oscar-nominated film by Steven Spielberg, The Color Purple is an intimate comingof-age story set in rural Georgia and told through jazz, ragtime, gospel and blues. Times vary. Tickets: not yet available. —omahaplayhouse.com MAY 2020
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St. Frances Cabrini The spiritual home of the Little Italy and Old Market neighborhoods since 1857.
INTRODUCING
stcabriniomaha.org 10th and Williams Street
A recognition awarded to associates and other lawyers who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States.
FOR ASSOCIATES The First Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch will be released on August 20, 2020. w w w. b e s t l a w y e r s . c o m /o n e s - t o - w a t c h
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MAY 2020
OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR
SEBASTIAN LANE
May 8 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. This popular local blues player will perform with The Host Country, and Andrew Bailie 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
WILD RIVERS
May 11 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. With exquisite harmonies, gorgeous melodies, and emotionally charged, tightly crafted lyrics, Wild Rivers deliver their unique blend of folk-pop songs that are inviting and infectious. Their sound is an amalgamation of their various influences, from contemporaries like The Lumineers, Bahamas and Kacey Musgraves, to the iconic storytellers of the 70s, like James Taylor, Neil Young, and Fleetwood Mac. 8 p.m. Tickets: $16 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
SCIENCE CAFE
May 12 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Science Cafes involve a conversation with a scientist about current topics. They are open to everyone (21 and older). The casual meeting place, plain language, and inclusive conversation create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for people with no science background. 7 p.m. Tickets: Free 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
THE 1975 » Concerts «
SUPER HAPPY FUNTIME BURLESQUE FINAL SHOW
1200 CLUB — GRACE KELLY
May 2 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Saxophonist Grace Kelly is shaking up the jazz world. Kelly mixes jazz, funk, R&B, an electro-dance beat and soulful lyrics in a performance that is unlike any other. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $19-$40. 402.345.0202. —o-pa.org
May 3 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. SHFB Is a 12 member live band, a burlesque troupe, and a circus act that is too contemporary, too modern, too bawdy, and too controversial to be defined just as “burlesque.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 402.884.5353 —waitingroomlounge.com
SATSANG
READ SOUTHHALL BAND
May 2 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. 9 p.m. May 7 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple May Satsang is a Sanskrit word meaning “in the company St. Born and raised in the heart of Oklahoma, Read of truth.” Lead singer and songwriter Drew McManus Southall brings a unique sound to country music. will share his soulful, reggae-infused blend of folkGrowing up listening to everything from Hank Wilrock and melodic hip hop and its message of strength, liams to Johnny Paycheck led him to fall in love with growth, and resilience. Tickets: $18 advanced, $20 day of the soulful stories behind country music. 9:30 p.m. Tickets: show. 402.884.5707. $15. 402.884.5353. —reverblounge.com —waitingroomlounge.com
07
ARCHERS OF LOAF
May 2 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Archers of Loaf is an American indie rock band originally formed in Chapel Hill, NC. Before breaking up in 1998, the group toured extensively and released four studio albums and several other works. In 2011, the band played a secret show in North Carolina and decided to get back together after. In February, the band released their first new song since 1998: “Raleigh Days.” 9 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
WILKINS CONDUCTS MAHLER
May 8-9 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Mahler’s final movement has been described as “the most sublime in all symphonic literature.” With features for mezzo-soprano, women and children’s choruses, trombone and a massive ensemble, audiences will experience the greatness that is Mahler. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $19-$260. 402.345.0202. —o-pa.org
May 13 at Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St. Multi award-winning British pop rock band the 1975 has a new album and an extensive new tour. Phoebe Bridges and Beabadoobee will open this show. 7 p.m. Tickets: $37-$77. 402.554.6200. —unomaha.edu
BAD BAD HATS & WILDERMISS
May 13 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Co-headliners Bad Bad Hats and Wildermiss are two Indie bands known to play their hearts out during their live shows. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
ANDREA VON KAMPEN
May 14 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Kampen is an independent folk singer-songwriter based in Lincoln. Her effortless vocal delivery has been described by Ear To The Ground Music as having “the conviction of a gospel track and the sincerity of a Dylan folk ballad.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $13 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
DAVID RYAN HARRIS
May 14 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Th is singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist always sings, writes and performs with soul. He has performed with the likes of John Mayer, Dave Matthews and Santana. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 402.884.5707 —reverblounge.com
MAY 2020
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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR
Four Old Market
WILLIAM ELIOTT WHITMORE
May 15 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Th is local musician will play his fans' favorites. 9 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
THE DEVIL MAKES THREE
May 17 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Th is trio is rooted in troubadour traditions of wandering folk, Delta blues, whiskey-soaked ragtime and reckless rock and roll. Their poetic lyrics unfold like short stories. 8 p.m. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
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May 27 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Uncle Acid and the deadbeats have been making extraordinary psychedelic rock music since 2009. They combine elements of hard rock, turbo-blues, psychedelic pop and metal to create a sound unlike any other. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced, $25 day of show. 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
GOOD TO BE KING
May 29 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. This local band is performing Labor Day Weekend. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.345.7569. —theslowdown.com
SOUTHERN CULTURE ON THE SKIDS
1200 CLUB — MATTHEW WHITAKER
MOLCHAT DOMA
SOUL OF MOTOWN
May 19 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Th is American rock band from Chapel Hill, NC has been playing together for more than 30 years. Their legendary live shows are feature foot-stomping rock and roll that audiences can be sure to enjoy. 8 p.m. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
May 21 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. 9 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
Fresh chocolates and fudge made in our own kitchen.
UNCLE ACID AND THE DEADBEATS
BYRNE & KELLY
May 21 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Driven by dynamic vocal harmonies, this duo seamlessly combines genres like traditional Irish and Americana to create a fresh, Celtic folk sound that has been compared to iconic folk-rock duos like Simon & Garfunkel and The Everly Brothers. 7 p.m. Tickets: $38. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
May 30 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Pianist Matthew Whitaker joyfully mixes old-school jazz with new school sounds. The 18-year-old is celebrated as a passionate musical prodigy, having opened for Stevie Wonder at the Apollo Theatre at age 10. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $19-$40. 402.345.0202. —o-pa.org
May 30-31 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Matt Catingub, dynamic vocalists and the Omaha Symphony will perform hit after hit during this terrific tribute to the Motown Sound. Audiences can expect to groove to top hits from The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and more. Times vary. Tickets: $19-$170. 402.345.0202. —o.pa.org
» Family & More «
NIGHT MOVES Travel essentials plus souvenirs and Nebraska-made gifts. OldMarketSundries.com • 402-345-7646
May 22 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. 9 p.m. Tickets: $13. 402.884.5707. —reverblounge.com
AMERICAN DOOKIE — THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO GREEN DAY
May 22 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. American Dookie is Iowa’s Green Day tribute band. They will be playing hits, as well as deep cuts, from Green Day’s “Dookie” through “Revolution Radio” albums. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10. 402.884.5353. —waitingroomlounge.com
THE BOBBY LEES & UNEXPLAINED DEATH Authentic Italian desserts, coffee, and FlavorBurst TMice cream. DolciOldMarket.com • 402-345-8198
All located at 10th & Howard // 12 //
MAY 2020
May 24 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. The Bobby Lees are a bone-shaking rock band out of Woodstock, NY. Their new track ‘GutterMilk’ and upcoming album were produced by underground punk-legend Jon Spencer of the Blues Explosion. 8 p.m. Tickets: $8. 402.391.2554. —lookoutomaha.com
CSAS AND FARMER’S MARKETS
Gardening season is open in Omaha, and those desiring fresh produce will find plenty of options in the area, along with artisan cheeses, farm-raised meats, freshly baked breads, assorted treats, and craft items. There are several Community Supported Agriculture packages in the area supplying fresh produce through the season. An official list is printed at localharvest.org, but here are some that are ready to offer Omahans fresh produce for a share. Big Muddy Urban Farm —bigmuddyurbanfarm.com Terrapin Acres —Search "Terrapin Acres" on Facebook Theilen Produce Gardens —theilenproduce.com Wenninghoff 's —wenninghoff.com
Omaha Magazine is hopeful that the Farmer's Markets will open during the season. Because of that, here are the times and dates for the local markets. Attendees are encouraged to check with organizers for availablity before attending any market. • Council Bluff s (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays • Old Market (11th and Jackson streets) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays • Village Pointe (168th and Dodge streets) 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays • Aksarben Village (67th and Center streets) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays • Papillion (84th and Lincoln streets) 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays • Night Market (Turner Park @ Midtown Crossing) 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Last Friday of the month • Florence Mill (9102 N. 30th St.) 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays • Rockbrook Village (110th and Center streets) 4-7 p.m. Wednesdays • Gifford Park (33rd and California streets) 5-8 p.m. Fridays
OMAHA LIT FESTIVAL NIGHTLY READINGS
Ongoing, online. Local authors are reading from their books each night around 6 p.m. —facebook.com/pg/OmahaLitFest/videos/
LOCAL AUTHORS TO CHECK OUT
Ongoing. Several local authors have published books in the last year. Many are available in Kindle edition, some are available on Amazon, still others are available in bookstores. • • • • • • • • • •
•
Baldwin, James M.M. Do Ants Have Souls? Baker, Lindsey. This is Bad. Coutley, Lisa Fay. Tether. Crucet, Jennine Capo. My Time Among the Whites. McGowan, James. The Brigands, Repenter, Players of the Game Book 1, and Repenter, The Hidden Chapters. McKinstry-Brown, Sarah. This Bright Darkness. Montag, Kassandra. After the Flood. Stokely, Kim. The Light Unleashed, Portals of Ayden Book 3 Vaughan, Carson. Zoo Nebraska Walker, Sally J. Desert Time, second edition; Learn Genre Film Secrets; Learn Screenwriting; Letting Go of Sacred Things, second edition; Meeting People; and A Writer’s Year, second edition. Wheeler, Ted. In Our Other Lives
ANIMALS & NATURE DAY
May 2 at Giff ord Farm, 700 Camp Giff ord Road. Visitors can spend time with the animals, explore the outdoor nature classroom, and spend time with other special animal and nature groups at Gifford Farm. There will also be three hands-on animal presentations with the animals throughout the morning. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 a.m. Admission: $5. 402.597.4920. —esu3.org
YOGA ROCKS THE PARK
Starting May 3 at Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St. This healing arts festival takes place on Sundays and combines yoga and live music as a way to heal your mind and body. This event occurs each Sunday through the end of June. Registration starts at 3:45 p.m., yoga starts at 4 p.m. Admission: free. 402.557.6006. —midtowncrossing.com
FOOD TRUCK RODEO — SPRING EDITION
May 15 in downtown Benson on Military Ave. The fifth annual Food Truck Rodeo put on by Food & Spirits Magazine, 1% Productions and Reverb Lounge will feature numerous food trucks, a beer garden and multiple outdoor bars. 4-11 p.m. Admission: free. 402.884.5707 —reverblounge.com
108th & Center rockbrookvillage.com
Why Helix is Better
LAND STEWARDSHIP: VOLUNTEER WORK DAY
May 16 at Fontenelle Forest, 1111 Bellevue Blvd. N. Volunteer with the Land Stewardship crew on selected Saturday mornings. Lunch is provided and anyone is welcome to join. Bring the family and get some hard work done. 8:30-11:30 a.m. 402.731.3140. —fontenelleforest.org
Most machines work front-to-back. Why Helix Is Better Why Helix Istradition Better The Helix turns on its side—
literally. With lateral side-to-side) Most machines work(or front-toMost machines front-tomovement, youwork use more muscles, back. The Helix turns tradition on which back. The Helix turns more tradition means you burn fat on than during its side— literally. With lateral its side— literally. With lateral the same a traditional workout—in ( or side-to-side) movement, you ( or side-to-side) movement, you amount of time. Equipment S usetormore muscles, which means ess tn e muscles, which means Fi use more you burn more fat than during a you burn more fat thanYOU during a THANK traditional workout– in the same traditional workout– in the same OMAHA! amount of time. amount of time.
OMAHA SPORTS COMMISSION AWARDS
May 28 at Holland Center for Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Join the Omaha Sports Commission and the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame for their inaugural award ceremony as they recognize local sports stars. 7 p.m. Tickets: $80. 402.916.9444. —omahasports.org
TURNER PARK NIGHT MARKET
May 29 at Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St. Visitors can come to Midtown Crossing for an evening market with local vendors, food, activities, music, and attractions. Th is event occurs the last Friday of each month, May-September. 6-10 p.m. Admission: free. 402.557.6006. —midtowncrossing.com
Full Service
Ha i r, Na i l s a nd S ki n Call today to schedule your appointment
11025 Elm St. / 402.397.7383 / reveomaha.com
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.
Best of Omaha 2020
VIEW THE 2020 BEST OF OMAHA RESULTS ONLINE! omahamagazine.com/pages/best-of-omaha
MAY 2020
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A+C MUSIC // STORY BY Tara Spencer
=An Analog Girl in a Digital World
For expanded content, open the camera on your smart device and hover over the QR code above.
M
ajel Connery Navigates the Plains of Pop Listening to Majel Connery’s music, it’s difficult to guess her origins. The Philadelphia-born, Nebraska-raised, currently bicoastal musician creates music that sounds otherworldly yet of-theearth. Her appearance is no-nonsense, with short hair and without makeup. She still looks as if she is always stage-ready—like she could perform at a moment’s notice. Honestly, that’s a huge part of her appeal. In conversation, she is entirely open, freely sharing her thoughts and feelings.
photography by bill sitzmann DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
“Just because I grew up with all these crazy, fancy people on the East Coast, it made me feel like somehow I should be embarrassed of being from the Midwest,” she said. “As I got older I was like, no, actually that’s incredibly unique… like people stand up and notice when I say I’m from Nebraska.”
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onnery said she is in the process of trying to reclaim that sense of self and figure out what that means in terms of her public-facing artistic persona. After having worked hard to purge her Midwestern identity as a young adult, she now appreciates it.
Despite efforts to seem more “East Coast,” Connery was never quite able to shake her Midwest mentality. She is easily hurt by people. “It’s so nice to come back here. The places that I travel, they’re loud, they’re crowded, they’re dirty, everyone’s upset. When I walk into like, a Walgreen’s here, the people who work [at the store] are… friendly. They want to help me, like for real they wanna help me…I feel so taken care of,” she said. “It’s like a totally different universe here. It’s crazy.” Connery’s path has taken her many places. A self-described “music machine” while attending high school at Duchesne Academy, Connery said she participated in everything from forensics to all-state orchestra. (She joined Papillion-La Vista High School’s all-state orchestra, as Duchesne wasn’t large enough to have a group.) Classmate Meghan Schlattmann can confirm this. She said in high school, Connery would sing “Ave Maria” with a classmate. “[It] would bring tears to your eyes. She played the oboe, sang, played the piano—basically she could do it all…She is an extremely innovative musician.” Connery received her undergraduate degree from Princeton University, a place she applied to at the last minute on a whim. Upon graduating from Princeton, she said she had plans to immediately enter into a conservatory musical program. However, they were thwarted by a vocalist’s nightmare—strep throat. Forced to take a year off, she decided to apply to grad schools instead. She attended The University of Chicago and got a degree in musicology. For the next 10 years, she said she “pretty much” stopped singing, stopped playing piano, and wasn’t composing. She started an avant-garde opera company, Opera Cabal, while in grad school and was the managing editor for Opera Quarterly, a peer-reviewed academic journal. Connery also taught at the University of California-Berkeley for two years. She was becoming a part of the support structure, “the admin.” At the end of those two years, she said she knew with “absolute certainty” that she would not be happy until she got back to performing.
Since then, she has embarked on the terrifying adventure of breaking into the mainstream music world. Acts that would be commonplace for a veteran are major feats for Connery. “I have spent many hours wandering through Guitar Center, looking at different kinds of cords and tearfully explaining my problem to the people who work there.” At the end of the day, though, she said she is proud for having tackled these challenges. Technology isn’t the only issue she’s encountered. Things such as contacting a venue and organizing a show have also proven to be quite different from the music world she’s known, not to mention the ever-changing landscape of social media. “The ways that are available for people to engage online are so multifarious now that it feels very overwhelming. Before you can book a show, before you can attract a label, you have to have a following.” The days of sending in mix tapes and demos are over. Connery said this has changed the way in which musicians have to be creative. They are forced to be original in a way that has little to do with music. She cites Vulfpeck and Billie Eilish as prime examples of this. Basically, it’s all about packaging, which is something she admits she is not good at. “I think that I’m an analog girl,” she said. “I feel like I could go to college [for] like, ‘how do you enter the pop world in your 30s?’” This is a question she has struggled with while trying to define her persona. She said she draws a lot of comparisons to other women musicians, and while most of them are flattering, they are often wildly inaccurate. “I think that when people hear my stuff, they just think, ‘what female artist do I know that seems to have, like a strong individual voice?’ and then just kind of pull somebody out of a hat.” If pressed to describe her sound or make comparisons, she said she would likely describe her music as “dream pop.” A comparison she makes is to Imogen Heap, because they both use vocal processing to create the impression of backing vocals. “She also composes songs that are kind of… achy? You know, like heartbreak? And I think my music is sad, a lot of the time.”
Allowing herself to put that sadness into words has been a challenge. Writing lyrics is a new endeavor for Connery. “I don’t think I realized until recently that writing the lyrics that will inform a piece of music is an even more intimate act than music,” she said. Once she realized she would need to write her own lyrics, she knew they would have to be about subjects close to her. At the time of this interview, she was working on her upcoming album, Euphoria, a somewhat ironic title, as she said it’s a feeling that is foreign to her. Something she is familiar with is her relationship to stress and anxiety. “I wake up first thing in the morning with some anxious thought in my head, and I go to bed with 12 more,” she said. So that’s what she writes about. She believes one song in particular will resonate with many, especially women. It’s about people always wanting her to act happier than she is. “I feel like it’s important for people like me who have a little more depressive side to be allowed to express that, and not be socially scolded for it,” Connery said. “I hate it when someone says, ‘hey, just smile’… there’s a sense that I am required to act a joyful part that I don’t feel I wanna play.” People have told her she should play more uptempo songs in her set. They have also told her she looks like an “impassive ice princess” when she’s performing, which she finds laughable. “[This] is hilarious to me because obviously inside I’m like, dissolving into the floor.” In reality, performing live is her favorite thing to do. Over the Christmas holiday, she performed at an intimate gathering in Omaha. “It was her idea to have it be a fundraiser for the music program at Duchesne,” Schlattmann said. “And I couldn’t think of a better way for people of the Duchesne community to see how this talent has grown since her graduation.” Now it’s time for the rest of the world to take notice. Visit majelconnery.com for more information.
=Ifto pressed describe
her sound or make comparisons, she said she would likely describe her music as “dream pop.�
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PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION BY MATT WIECZOREK
A+C AUTHOR // STORY BY AN DR EW J. N E LSON
O n e M a n’s C r o s s - C o u n t r y J o u r n e y Becomes A Novel Idea
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ob Kugler had suffered a lot of tragedy in his life by 2015. He was recently divorced. His grandmother died. His sister died. His brother was killed in Iraq. His own deployment with the U.S. Marine Corps had been difficult for his family.
Then, he discovered devastating news about his dog from a veterinarian. His chocolate Lab, Bella, had been a great comfort through much of that, essentially becoming his best friend. So when the veterinarian told Rob that 8 ½ year old Bella was suffering from bone cancer and would either need to be put down or have her front-left leg amputated, Kugler could barely contemplate life without her. But he had to. Because amputating the leg would only buy a few more months. Kugler, now 37, opted for surgery. When it was done, he and Bella hit the road. Kugler chronicled the tale of their cross-country travels in A Dog Named Beautiful: A Marine, a Dog, and a Long Road Trip Home, published in 2019 by Flatiron Books. Forbes named it one of the top seven travel books of the summer. In July, Kugler was interviewed by Willie Geist and Jenna Bush Hager on the Today Show. Kugler spent most of his early years in Broken Bow, Nebraska, where he lived with his mom after his parents divorced. Upon graduating high school, he joined the Marine Reserve unit in Omaha on the encouragement of his older brother, Mike Doheny. In 2007, he was alerted for deployment to Iraq. Before he left, he and his then-girlfriend got Bella as a puppy. While Kugler was in-country, Doheny wasn’t far away, working as a contractor in Iraq. He was killed when his convoy was hit with an improvised explosive device. Kugler came home for the funeral and returned to finish his tour. He left the Marines after returning to Nebraska in 2008.
“When Mike died, he left a letter with me that told me to chase my dreams,” he said. “So I did.” Kugler had long wanted to become an actor. So he and his new wife moved to Los Angeles. He took improv classes at The Groundlings Theatre & School. He started getting small roles and money started to trickle in. But friends were hard to make, especially when he would often end up auditioning against them. Bella and Kugler grew close in LA. When Kugler was about to say something, Bella would look at him and tilt her head and wait for him to speak. “She was very in tune with me,” he said. “She was, for all intents and purposes, my therapy dog.” The California life wasn’t for Kugler’s then-wife. She wanted to move back to Nebraska. Kugler did not. The couple divorced. Kugler got the dog. “I split my family up just to chase a dream, which may have been the dream of a kid…who didn’t want the life of the actors, but wanted the life of the characters,” he said. Kugler moved back to Lincoln in 2014. Bella developed a noticeable limp the following year. The veterinarian treated it as a muscular injury. But when it didn’t heal, Kugler took his dog to another veterinarian, who took X-rays, and informed him Bella had cancer. It had spread to her lungs. Taking the leg would relieve her of much of the pain, but also only give her three to six months.
MAY
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It wasn’t an easy decision, but Kugler described it as the best he ever made. After the surgery, Bella simply hopped out of the vet’s office as if it wasn’t much of a problem. Once he confirmed she was healthy enough to travel, Kugler decided to embark on a road trip with Bella. The idea was to hit all 50 states–or as many as possible before she passed. “My brother died while serving this country and I wanted to explore it,” he said. “I wanted to do it with my best friend while she was still there.” So they set off in Kugler’s black 2003 Toyota 4-Runner, nicknamed Ruthie the Runner. The first stop was Chicago, where he witnessed the protests of Laquan McDonald’s death. Then Detroit, with its blighted areas and dilapidated storefronts. Kugler likened his experiences to those of Forrest Gump. “I saw a much different narrative in person, traveling the country, than I saw on the news,” he said. “People with different views still treated each other well.” They traveled to Put-in-Bay on Lake Erie in Ohio and Arcadia National Park in Maine, where they saw the first sunrise of 2016. “We watched as many sunrises and as many sunsets as we could together,” he said. “It’s just really weird how that can connect you with the earth.” Knowing Bella’s diagnosis was terminal was a real gift, Kugler said. Such knowledge forces you to focus on the relationship because time is limited.
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n a hike in the Adirondacks, Kugler saw how tough Bella was, and how she had learned to cope with only three legs.
“One of the most beautiful things about this was watching her make the decisions on how she was going to make it up (Bald Mountain)…It just kind of drew me into another level of her intelligence.” They hiked to the very top, where Bella rested, her head on Kugler’s lap. “We just sat there and looked at the trees and the clouds rolling over.” They went down to the Florida Keys and swam in the ocean. Bella once hopped out of a pond to escape an alligator. It was in Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, among bison and wild mustangs, that Kugler noticed a growing bump on Bella’s gums. In Loveland, Colorado, he took her to a veterinary clinic and learned that the cancer had spread to her mouth, was eating away at her gums, and beginning to shut down her lungs.
Rob Kugler and his co-pilot Bella.
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On Oct. 28, 2016, he held Bella as the vet euthanized her. She lived 18 months after her diagnosis–much longer than anticipated. Kugler has spread her ashes in some of their favorite places, and at locales he had still planned to visit with Bella. He packed a pinch of her ashes inside a snowball and hurled it over the Grand Canyon. Kugler now lives in a rented cottage near Hood River, Oregon, with his life partner Kristen Beatty. They have two rescue border collies, Max and Jasper, as well as “a little mutt named Ginger,” who was rescued from a trash can in a lakeside town outside of Guadalajara, Mexico. “Kristen’s mother works with a rescue down there,” he said. “And [she] knew that Ginger would be a fit in our pack and arranged for her to come here and join us in the PNW.” The ever-growing crew loves taking road trips when they can afford it. “That’s kind of our jam,” he said. Though things may change a bit when their new addition arrives in July—a baby girl, who is due on Kugler’s birthday.
“If there is something that is tugging at you…if you are always thinking that you should be doing some other thing, maybe it’s worth figuring out why,” Kugler said. “You may be able to find yourself if you just go for it.” In a follow-up email, Kugler added a note to those reading the story. “Thank you to everyone who took the time to read this article. It’s an honor to be featured in such a great publication in my home state of Nebraska. I always feel fortunate for the opportunity to answer questions when being interviewed by writers, but I often request a chance to send in a bit of writing myself, as my spoken words can often be rushed or jumbled. Especially when that question is ‘If there is one message that you’d like to send to readers from your and Bella’s story, what would that be?’ With so many experiences, and countless lessons learned along the way, it’s hard to narrow it down to just one message. So, I let that question ruminate for a while, driving up into the woods with my dogs and looking out over the northwest mountainscape I now call home, and I believe I found the answer that best fits.
“Do not be paralyzed by the fear [of] death, rather let it be the most influential teacher to understand a n d e m b r a c e t h e g i f t t h a t w e’ v e b e e n g i v e n t o experience life on this incredible planet. And rather than competing for the acquisition of more things or arguing with our neighbors over whose opinion is correct, cherish every moment we have w i t h t h o s e w e l o v e a n d s ee a s m u c h o f t h e n a t u r a l world as possible. Life. As far as we know it, is a rar e thing in this universe. It would be a shame if we wer e always pr eoccupied acquiring things, too busy fighting with each other, or simply too afraid to actually live it.” For more information visit rklifeillustrated.com.
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A + C V I S U A L // S T O R Y B Y B R YA N V O M A C K A P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y B I L L S I T Z M A N N / / D E S I G N B Y D E R E K J OY
Commu
nication & Conn ection
Sees
How
Jave Yoshimoto
Art
is a professor of art at the University of Nebraska at Omaha who creates by combining his personal thoughts and experiences with current events. One of his favorite pieces was based on the time he spent as a volunteer in Greece during the European Refugee Crisis in 2016. He was moved to help after seeing an image on the internet of 3-year-old Alan Kurdi lying dead on the beach. “I wanted to fi nd out more and not rely on anybody else’s stories and just collect my own stories and see what happens,” Yoshimoto said. He joined a Swedish nonprofit organization called Lighthouse Relief where he helped give refugees clothes, hot food, and places to stay.
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I want to use art therapy to really get to know the core of a person and give them a safe space to express themselves -Yoshimoto
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Jave Yoshimoto (right) with studio assistant Elisa Wolcott (left)
Not only is he invested in his own practice but he is invested in the lives and practices of his students there have been few people that have been as supportive and inquisitive about me as a human and my work - Elisa Wolcott
‹«
I
MET SOME AMAZING PEOPLE,
“College was like this symbol of hope,” Yoshimoto said. “It became very important to me because it was my way of trying to push past being just a working-class person.”
The aforementioned piece of art, “What is Your Emergency?,” reflects Yoshimoto’s unique creative process and style. It was made using a laser cutter to engrave a multi-layered design onto a piece of wood and then painting it. The foreground shows a woman fleeing a background of destruction. As a whole, the piece is in the shape of a cell phone and features “Ignore” and “Accept” buttons to ask the viewer how they would respond to the situation.
Yoshimoto joked that he went to community college “for about seven years” before he began taking college seriously. He then spent almost a decade at universities from coast to coast and earned three degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in studio art at UC Santa Barbara in 2004, a Master of Arts in art therapy at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago in 2007 and a Master of Fine Arts in painting at Syracuse University in 2012.
both refugees and volunteers, and came back a different person,” he said.
At UNO, Yoshimoto works alongside Elisa Wolcott, his studio assistant. Yoshimoto did not teach Wolcott while she was a student at UNO, but he often visited her while she worked in her studio and pushed her to become a better artist. “Not only is he invested in his own practice, but he is invested in the lives and practices of his students,” Wolcott said. “There have been few people that have been as supportive and inquisitive about me as a human and my work.” Yoshimoto’s current position at UNO is ideal for someone interested in mentoring young artists while creating their own work, but it has been a long journey to this moment. Working at a university is poetic for a man who was once a high school dropout, homeless, and toiling away in dead-end jobs that left him unfulfi lled. He decided to direct his efforts towards college with the belief that he could do something more with his life. // 24 //
MAY 2020
Th roughout this period of time, Yoshimoto refi ned his skills and laid the groundwork to becoming who he is today. The fi rst time current events inspired his art was in 2011, when one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded occurred off the eastern coast of Japan. The earthquake and the ensuing tsunami caused extensive damage throughout the country. Yoshimoto, who lived in Japan until he was 10 years old, created a 30-foot painting called “Baptism in a Concrete Estuary” that told the story of the natural disaster from the destruction to the recovery efforts. “I was kind of beside myself and I was obsessed with the act of making art,” he said when explaining why he created such a large piece of work. “Th at’s when I knew I was an artist and that’s when I knew I couldn’t stop.” One of the primary motivations behind his work is the simple desire to connect with people.
“What I’ve found so far is that everybody wants to be heard and accepted for who they are,” Yoshimoto said. He studied art therapy in order to be a better support system for those around him. Art therapy is the process of working through difficult experiences by creating art. For two years, Yoshimoto was an art therapist at Asian Human Services in Chicago, where he worked with Asian immigrants and refugees in individual and group therapy sessions. “I want to use art therapy to really get to know the core of a person and give them a safe space to express themselves,” Yoshimoto said. His interest in mentoring younger artists can be traced to the time he worked with Seattle Public Schools in 2012. He said he enjoys being around youthful energy because it keeps him motivated and interested in the world and in making art. “He is continually looking for ways to be more self aware, to be invested in those around him, and ultimately develop, as well as constantly evaluate the integrity and honesty of his own work,” Wolcott said. Yoshimoto describes his life’s journey as “more than I ever envisioned for myself ” and at the end of the day, his art is all about communicating and connecting. “I just want to hopefully be the bridge of people’s hearts coming together,” he said. For more information visit javeyoshimoto.com
OBVIOUSLY OMAHA // STORY BY ERIN WALTER // PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
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Outdoor Omaha PLAY, STAY, GET OUTSIDE
Omaha may not have mountains or coastlines, but it is far from lacking in outdoor adventures. There are endless opportunities to encounter the wild and experience nature. Locals and visitors can explore the state parks, swim in the lakes, and hike on the trails. They can appreciate the wonder and beauty of the area’s unique wildlife, plants, and landforms. People will also, hopefully, leave these spaces better than they found them, as everyone plays an active role in protecting and conserving the area’s vibrant nature scenes for generations to come.
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Here are a few of the places where people can experience the great outdoors in and around Omaha.
01. FONTENELLE FOREST 1111 BELLEVUE BLVD. N 402.731.3140 FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG Each visit to Fontenelle Forest has a different adventure in store. Located in Bellevue, this nature hub has a variety of hiking trails that feature a range of ecosystems, from lush forest to oak savanna, prairie, and wetlands. The new TreeRush Adventures park lets visitors experience the area from the treetops on a ropes course that combines zip lines, suspended bridges, and rope ladders.
02. HITCHCOCK NATURE CENTER 27792 SKI HILL LOOP 712.545.3283 POTTCOCONSERVATION.COM Located in the heart of the Loess Hills, Hitchcock Nature Center exists primarily to build and foster understanding and appreciation of the landform’s significance. Visitors can hike through the hills to see remnants of prairie as well as plants and animals found nowhere else in Nebraska. Open year-round, visitors can set up a peaceful picnic, bird-watch, star-gaze, snow sled, bike, and more. Campers can escape for a weekend of tent, RV, backcountry, or cabin camping with a variety of terrains and views available.
03. DRIFTWOOD PADDLE ADVENTURES STANDING BEAR LAKE: 6404 N. 132ND ST. LAKE ZORINSKY: 3808 S. 156TH ST. 402.850.0538 DRIFTWOODPADDLEADVENTURES.COM Stand-up paddleboarding is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. People can see what all the rave is about with Driftwood Paddle Adventures. With services offered at Standing Bear Lake and Lake Zorinsky, each session includes all the gear needed, a brief lesson and guide to help on the water and show participants around. Customers can book at sunrise or sunset to enjoy breathtaking scenes from the sky while out on the water.
04. EUGENE T. MAHONEY STATE PARK 28500 W. PARK HIGHWAY 402.944.2523 OUTDOORNEBRASKA.GOV Visitors can climb the 70-foot tall observation tower at Mahoney State Park to gaze upon the most spectacular view of the Platte River around. Other activities at this modern, year-round nature escape include scenic hiking, horseback riding, and Go Ape ropes course, a three-hour journey through the lush forest canopy. When the weather turns cold, the park opens to crosscountry skiing, tobogganing, and ice fishing.
e Brisbois
Photo by Lanc
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05. CHALCO HILLS RECREATION AREA 8901 S. 154TH ST. 402.444.6222 PAPIONRD.ORG Wehrspann Lake, which covers a great expanse of 246 acres, is the main attraction of Chalco Hills. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish and features a universally accessible fishing pier and a boat launch. With seven miles of trails encircling the lake, this is a beautiful place to walk, run, and bike. Several picnic areas with covered pavilions are perfect for cookouts, relaxing after a long hike, or spending time in nature with family and friends.
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a azine/Nebrask raskaland Mag Photo by Neb n rks Commissio Game and Pa
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06. PLATTE RIVER STATE PARK 14421 346TH ST. 402.234.2217 OUTDOORNEBRASKA.GOV This little park is a hidden gem in the Omaha nature scene. For those looking for more of a challenge in their hikes, the varied terrain at Platte River State Park is sure to satisfy. Visitors can experience the gentle, soothing trickle of one of the state’s most well-known waterfalls while walking in the creek above and below it. The camping options at this park suit a variety of needs: there are campgrounds for tents and RVs; charming, vintage cabins with homey accommodations; and brand-new “glamping” cabins provide a luxurious yet nature-immersive experience. MAY
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Photo by Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
DINING FEATURE // STORY BY TIM TRUDELL
D AV E U T T E R B A C K ’ S FOOD ADVENTURE WITH FRIENDS
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA FOO // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
From left: Dave Utterback and Kane Adkisson in Japan
// DINING FEATURE //
hen most people plan a vacation, they pack sunscreen, loungewear, a camera, and snacks. When Dave Utterback plans a trip, he packs his palate and passport. Utterback, owner and chef at Yoshitomo in the Benson neighborhood, doesn't take a vacation—he goes on a food adventure. Specifically, he travels to Japan, where he explores the country and its culinary scene, looking for authentic additions to his Omaha sushi eatery. Utterback, named as a semifinalist for the prestigious 2020 James Beard Foundation Award as outstanding chef in the Midwest, has traveled to Japan several times over the past 12 years. Initially, he visited the country once a year, spending several weeks exploring and sampling its food, seeking to ensure he captured the right ingredients so he could create similar dishes when back in Omaha. Following the birth of his son, he realized he missed his family soon into his trips, so he changed his travel routine to two 10-day trips. “On about the fifth or sixth day, I start missing my kids,” Utterback said. While he has regular spots where he enjoys dining, Utterback visits different areas of Japan each trip, which introduce him to different chef styles and cuisines. “It’s for work and research, so I want to sample different destinations,” he said. “I’m always looking for new items to try here.” Not seeking to copy the dish ingredient by ingredient, Utterback uses his trips to influence the Omaha menu. “I can know how something should taste instead of thinking or hoping it tastes like it should,” Utterback said.
NOT SEEKING TO COPY THE DISH I N G R E D I E N T BY I N G R E D I E N T , U T T E R B A C K USES HIS TRIPS TO INFLUENCE THE OMAHA MENU. “I CAN KNOW HOW S O M E T H I N G S H O U L D TA S T E I N S T E A D O F T H I N K I N G O R H O P I N G I T TA S T E S L I K E I T S H O U L D ” - D AV E U T T E R B A C K // 124 //
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His most recent trip took him on unique paths he hadn’t traveled before. He said he ate pigeon for the first time. However, quite possibly the most memorable event of this trip occurred during a visit to the fish market with his friend Hiroyuki Sato, a celebrity chef in Japan. The fish market is usually closed to the public, so you need to be invited by a chef to attend. During the visit, Sato introduced Utterback to Yukitaka Yamaguchi, the “King of Tuna” in Japan. The tuna broker exclusively provides the best tuna to 200 of Japan’s top restaurants, Utterback said. Yamaguchi’s social status gives him an opportunity to sample about 20-30 bites of the world’s best tuna daily. If it passes his palate, the fish will be served at some of Japan’s finest eateries. When asked if he wanted to sample a bite, Utterback had only one response. “Uh, yeah,” he said. “It was the most amazing bite of tuna ever.” He felt special, Utterback said, because people make reservations months in advance at Sato’s restaurant, which seats five or six people at a counter, for an opportunity to spend up to $400 for one bite of tuna similar to the ones they were sampling that day at the market. “And I was the only person on the planet trying that bite of tuna,” he said. Utterback’s Japan tour this round was extra special for him because he had traveling mates. Kane Adkisson—who is preparing to open a pop-up restaurant in North Downtown and has cooked with Utterback at Yoshitomo—jumped at the chance to return to Japan, this time with Utterback and photographers Joshua and Sam Foo. The Foo brothers photographed and filmed the trip for projects they are working on with the chefs, walking the area in the early morning, before the day’s rush started, photographing anything that caught their eye.
Adkisson spent three months in Japan in 2016, working as a line cook at the Michelin-starred Crony, a small Tokyo restaurant. He enjoyed the opportunity to share his memories of Tokyo with his friends. The quartet enjoyed dinner at Muroi, a family restaurant, where his friend Go-San Muroi, is chef. Muroi and his father go mushroom hunting on the mountainside of Mount Fuji, Adkisson said.
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// DINING FEATURE //
HIS SECOND TRIP T O J A PA N WA S C O N S I D E R A B LY DIFFERENT THAN HIS 2016 E XP E R I E N C E . “There’s a huge language barrier,” Adkisson said. “[And] it’s a huge cutthroat business there...To go back and hang out with these guys and to go back to his (Muroi) restaurant and see how he’s grown as a chef—he gets to run his own ship.” Utterback appreciated the opportunity to travel with Adkisson. “When you travel with another chef, it’s a different experience,” Utterback said. “You’re hyper-analyzing food. Rarely do you get to hang out, or geek out. It makes it a different experience with another chef. “Kane’s prior experience brought a uniqueness to the trip. He’s got different spots than I would.” One of his favorite dining experiences was at Sato’s restaurant, Adkisson said. Utterback’s friend created a 26-piece sushi dinner at his restaurant, Hakkoku. The Foo brothers’ view of the cities they visited—Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—was considerably different than the chefs’. They were observers, watching the two men interact with other chefs and taking in the food scene. “It was cool to go over there with two chefs,” Joshua said. “It was fun watching them shop together, eat together, and drink together.” The Foos, who are originally from Shenandoah, Iowa, didn’t have a lot of experience with Asian food growing up. Traveling to Japan and sampling fresh, authentic Asian food was a change from their childhood, he said.
“We ate a lot of ‘La Choy’ growing up. We’d beg our mom for Chinese and it was ‘La Choy’ to us.” Another difference for Joshua was his menu in Japan. Eating a plant-based diet, he was challenged to find options that didn’t contain meat, he said. Finding vegetarian options often required stopping in small stores, where he could buy dinner kits that met his needs. However, he said one of the best meals he had on the trip was a delicious dish they had at Muroi, made with fresh mushrooms and rice. Food truly drove their adventure. The quartet took a day trip to Osaka, where they stood in line to order okonomiyaki, a Japanese pancake, known for its savory taste. As Utterback plans his next trip to Japan, his appreciation for the country extends beyond food. As a Japanese-American, if he wants a specific Asian dish, he either has to make it or seek it out. In Japan, it’s likely already on the menu. And, he said, it’s nice to be around people who look like him. “I don’t mean this to be negative, but here, I’m ethnic,” Utterback said. “There, I’m not ethnic. I’m just one of 36 million people [in Tokyo].” Visit yoshitomo.com for more information.
“IT WAS COOL TO GO OVER THERE WITH TWO CHEFS. IT WAS FUN WATCHING THEM SHOP TOGETHER, EAT TOGETHER, AND DRINK TOGETHER.” - JOSHUA FOO
MAY 2020
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PROFILE // STORY BY TAMSEN BUTLER
olo y AND THE ART OF
FOLLOWING DREAMS
Most people have a dream trip in their minds, but many of them assign the “someday” designation to taking the trip or instead simply resign to never going. After all, far too many obstacles can stop a person from taking a trip they’ve always wanted, whether it’s work or family obligations. Curt Safrenek isn’t the type of person to stash dreams into the “someday” file in his brain. When he decided he wanted to journey to Japan to immerse himself in cuisine and culture, he made it happen. “Traveling to Japan to learn about their culture and cooking techniques had nothing at all to do with my current, primary occupation,” said the independent software engineer. “My philosophy leans towards the idea of YOLO (you only live once)—and the fact that I am not getting any younger,” he added. “I had long had an interest in Japan, its food and culture. I had taken a Japanese language course in college around 25 years ago, which ignited my interest and desire to continue learning.” When he approached his wife, Linda, about planning a solo trip to Japan to learn about the culture and cooking techniques, she was all for it. “Curt quietly contemplates things on his own, gathers all his facts, and then brings these topics up with me,” she said. “So he pretty much had the details ironed out when he told me he wanted to go to Japan. I was only mildly surprised because this is how he rolls. It was a great opportunity to immerse himself in their culture and get in-depth learning about his favorite cuisine.” Before leaving for his Japanese adventure in July 2018, Curt said he put in a “huge number of hours at my day job.” He scrambled to prepare everything for his month-long absence. Gustolab International arranged his homestay and activities in Japan. “For the month I was in Japan I stayed with a host couple—Susumu and Ruriko Miyamoto. My homestay with the Miyamotos was a huge part of why my trip was so successful and meaningful. We bonded very quickly and became quite
close for me being there for such a short period of time. They were wonderful hosts, helping me learn some of the language (I am still horrible at speaking Japanese), cooking me many, many meals, taking me on excursions to other cities, restaurants, and cultural/historical landmarks, and showing me an extraordinary level of kindness and hospitality.” “I didn’t go into the trip with a set of goals or list of things to learn,” he said. “Rather, I approached it with an open mind and took in as much as I could while there. It seems that much of what I took away from my time in Japan was more of a philosophy and way of thinking rather than a strict, prescriptive set of movements, skills, tasks, or techniques.” While in Japan, Safranek enjoyed foods that were new and different from typical American cuisine. “Many of the ‘street’ foods I came to really like included takoyaki (octopus in fried balls of batter), okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with cabbage), yakisoba (a wheat noodle dish with pork, cabbage, onions, and carrots topped with mayo and bonito flakes), and obviously ramen,” Safranek said. “The sushi, which should go without saying, was amazing,” he continued. “The conveyor-belt sushi restaurants were great because the sushi never ends, it just keeps rolling past you on plates riding a conveyor-belt that stretches through the entire restaurant and into the back where they continually keep things rolling out.” Upon his return to America, Safranek immediately purchased some utensils he’d learned to use in Japan. “An oroshigane, which is a type of food grater the grates much finer than a Western style grater, a set of very long chopsticks—the ones I have are a little over 16 inches, and a Japanese mortar (suribachi) and pestle (surikogi) that makes grinding nuts and seeds so much easier.” He also returned with a renewed dislike for wasting food. “I will say that my time in Japan definitely amplified my desire
“It seems that much of what I took away from my time in Japan was more of a philosophy and way of thinking rather than a strict, prescriptive set of movements, skills, tasks, or techniques.”
to avoid wasting anything,” he said. “In Japan I learned about their term for waste—mottainai (translated as ‘what a waste’), which seemed to be taken very seriously and practiced by everyone, not just by those preparing food, but by those eating it as well.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMAN // DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK
CURT SAFRANEK’S “SOMEDAY”
“I can remember having a conversation with a number of people where we were talking about this concept/ term. I related the usual American buffet situation where people go up to the buffet, fill up their plates with copious amounts of food, eat maybe half of it, then go back for more of something else, letting the untouched food be thrown away like it is no big deal. My story put looks of horror and disgust on the listeners’ faces—like I had just described some sort of heinous crime against humanity; this would never happen in Japan. This is just one example that highlighted one of the many disparities between the two cultures’ attitudes and practices, particularly with respect to food and food waste…which I firmly believe we Americans could learn a thing or two from the Japanese.” Safranek would love to someday return to Japan to visit the Miyamotos and explore more of the country, but he doesn’t have any solid plans for future travels. His newfound cuisine now benefits his family, who are grateful for his skills in the kitchen. “Our family reaps the benefits every day of Curt’s passion and I have to say that I truly love it. Asian cuisine has become his favorite to prepare, so when he returned, he had further perfected something at which he was already very good,” said Linda. “Even before going, he made outstanding ramen, which takes him many days to prepare. We don’t always know the true impact of his trip because he was good at this prior to going.” “I have thought about starting a private/ specialty catering business at some point in the future. I do have some catering experience through culinary school as well as through personal/private engagements, but right now I do not have enough time to devote to that enterprise,” said Safranek. But will a man who has a history of following his dreams eventually follow his dream of someday opening a catering business? His response: “Someday.”
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DINING PROFILE // Story by Carrielle Sedersten
How Chef Deke Reichardt is Writing His Next Culinary Chapter
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION BY MATT WIECZOREK
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Chef Deke Reichardt started working in restaurants when he was a teenager. More than 35 years later, in the summer of 2016, he found himself at a turning point in his culinary career after selling his Old Market restaurant, Jackson Street Tavern. Now four years into his next chapter as a full-time culinary arts instructor at Metro Community College’s Institute for Culinary Arts, he’s still having a hard time adjusting.
“The hours actually have made me a little bit of a lunatic because my schedule is 7 [a.m.] to 3 [p.m.] Monday through Thursday,” Reichardt said. It’s quite a difference from the 16-plus hours he worked nearly every day at the restaurant. Having an abundance of free time feels foreign to Reichardt, but the change of pace made space for new experiences. “I start climbing the walls a little bit, and so I have to find something constructive [to do],” he said. He stays busy by challenging himself educationally. Last February, he traveled to his alma mater, Johnson & Wales University in Miami, and took the test to become an American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Chef.
// DINING PROFILE // Much like Nebraskans acclimate to the higher altitude in Denver before heading into the Rocky Mountains, Reichardt’s Peru trip started in Lima for that reason. Parts of the capital city sit along the Pacific Ocean at sea level, while its highest points have an elevation of 5,090 feet, similar to Denver’s. Most Peruvian cities rest between 6,000 and 12,000 feet and, for visitors, living at such heights requires time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness. Over the centuries, Peruvians learned other ways to adapt to highland living, and it is reflected in their culture, especially culinarily. Reichardt and his students learned more about how they adapt on the second leg of their trip in the mountain city of Cusco. When they got off the plane in Cusco, 11,200 feet above sea level, the unusualness of locals selling baskets of coca leaves caused an uproar with Reichardt’s students, largely because of the product’s association with the illegal drug cocaine. “That [coca leaves] was something they used actually in some of the cooking we had,” said Kara Ruocco, a pastry chef at Le Bouillon and former student who went on the Peru trip with Reichardt. “We went
flavors and some peppers and onions, tomatoes. It typically has french fries that get thrown in right at the tail end of the stir fry. It’s this mesh of craziness.” In Peru, like in most countries, cuisines vary from region to region. In warmer climates closer to the coast, the fare is lighter, and in the cooler mountainous regions, foods are heartier. It happens even moreso in Peru because the mountains isolate communities, requiring them to be self-sustainable. “They really, with all of their food, everything came from the land,” Ruocco said. “Nothing was store bought. They had fresh markets. You can see where everything was coming from. Everything was so flavorful. I haven’t had seafood as good as I can get in Peru.” Regionally sourced ingredients are most noticeable in a dish called ceviche. On the coast, it’s generally made using fresh white fish that’s not too fatty, such as sea bass and corvina. In higher altitudes, ceviche is made with fresh trout caught from the rivers.
What separates Peruvian ceviche from Mexican ceviche—well-known in the states—is the curing He’s also gone to the “Nothing was store bought. They had fresh markets. liquid used. Peruvian New York City Wine ceviche uses leche de You can see where everything was coming from. & Food Festival as a tiger (tiger’s milk), a spicy culinary lead voluncitrus-based marinade Everything was so flavorful. I haven’t had seafood made with lime teer the last few years juice, as good as I can get in Peru.” -Kara Ruocco and worked with fish, a little lemon, onion, Emeril Lagasse and in celery roots, garlic, ginger, the kitchen at Cafe Boulud, a one-star to this really nice restaurant, and they and cilantro. The ingredients change Michelin restaurant owned by French accented a lot of their dishes with it.” slightly depending on region, but as celebrity chef and restaurateur Daniel Reichardt said, “One thing in Peru, whatBouludin 2018. Raw coca leaves do not possess any mindever part of the country you’re in, they’re altering properties. They do, however, help still doing ceviche.” As an instructor at MCC, he’s had the with the altitude. Locals roll the leaves opportunity to go on culinary trips with into a ball and keep it in their mouth or Reichardt had a full travel calendar to his students across the country and abroad. chew on them throughout the day. start his summer. He was headed to Cuba He attended the National Restaurant in May for a five-day non-credit culinary Association Show in Chicago multiple “They drink a lot of coca tea,” Reichardt trip through MCC. Then he was going times, and has visited San Antonio; Santa said. Coca leaf tea (made from coca leaves to Providence, Rhode Island, in June for Fe, New Mexico; and New Orleans. His ground into tea) is a natural remedy for a continuing education class, and then favorite trip so far was a 14-day venture to altitude sickness, and it’s also something to Italy for 12 days on another MCC Peru in July 2018. many locals have for breakfast. culinary study abroad trip. Those plans are now canceled due to COVID-19. Located in western South America on the He adds that another thing that helps with Pacific Ocean, Peru is wildly famous for its the altitude is lots of carbs. “They’re really When asked if he would ever open another sky-high ancient Inca site Machu Picchu big on carbs [in Peru],” he said. “You’ll get restaurant, Reichardt said, “Every couple in the Andes Mountains. The central a lot of plates that have both potatoes and of minutes I start looking [for restaurant Andes span Peru from the north to the rice on there.” Like the classic Peruvian spots] and I don’t get much further than southeast, with the highest peaks reaching dish lomo saltado. that.” Knowing all the gas he has left in more than four miles above sea level. It’s a the tank, don’t rule him out. destination that leaves travelers breathless “Lomo saltado is kind of like a stir fry and, in more ways than one. again, it has rice and potatoes,” Reichardt Visit mccneb.edu for more information about said. “Usually, a beef that’s been marinated future continuing education culinary trips with some soy sauce and more Asian open to the public. MAY
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SECTION // NAMES
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MAY 2020
SINCE 1921
rotellasbakery.com
Omaha
DINING GUIDE Breakfast
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Rockbrook Village (108th & Center) 402.391.2585 www.pastaamore.com We can accommodate parties of 30 or more, by reservation only Catering Available
DINNER HOURS // Mon-Thur: 4:30-9PM, Fri & Sat: 4:30-10PM
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Omaha
DINING GUIDE LO SOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO - $$
3001 S. 32nd Ave. - 402.345.5656
The restaurant is located in a residential neighborhood, surrounded by charming homes. Everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes and basil, a bowl of oven-roasted garlic cloves, specially seasoned olive oil, and (at night) a jug of Chianti! The menu includes a large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, and even a delicious New York steak. Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, and eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offerings include panini, salads, and one of the best pizzas in town. Patio seating, full bar, and a great wine list complete the atmosphere. No reservations, except for private rooms. —losolemio.com
SPEZIA - $$$
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 PASTA AMORE - $$
11027 Prairie Brook Road 402.391.2585
Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine, and capellini. Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as linguini amore and calamari steak, penne Florentine, gnocchi, spaghetti puttanesca, and osso buco. Filet mignon is also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannoli. Dinner starts at 4:30 p.m. Reservations recommended. —pastaamore.com
PITCH - $$
5021 Underwood Ave. - 402.590.2625 An OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice for 2014 HotSpot Restaurant in America. Keeping up with the traditional way the first pizzas in Italy were made, our pizzas are cooked in a coal-fired oven. The menu also features seafood, hand-cut steak, housemade pastas, and burgers full of flavor. Our goal is to provide you with local, housemade, and imported ingredients. We offer a happy hour menu through the week. Our bar provides an array of in-house concoctions as well as your traditional libations. Our wine selection is well-thought-out and most impressive. You will enjoy Pitch. Monday 3 p.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., FridaySaturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 3-10 p.m. —pitchpizzeria.co
LA MESA - $$
158th Street and W. Maple Road - 402.557.6130 156th and Q streets - 402.763.2555 110th St. and W. Maple Road - 402.496.1101 Fort Crook Road and Hwy 370, Bellevue - 402.733.8754 84th Street and Tara Plaza, Papillion - 402.593.0983 Lake Manawa Exit, Council Bluffs - 712.256.2762 Enjoy awesome enchiladas, fabulous fajitas, seafood specialties, mouth-watering margaritas, and more at La Mesa. Come see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s No. 1 Mexican restaurant 16 years in a row. SundayThursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. —lamesaomaha.com
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
MARGARITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT - $
4915 S. 72nd St. - 402.393.7515
Margarita’s is a business with more than seven years in the food world. We offer authentic Mexican food where you can enjoy a nice moment with your family. —margaritasmenu.com
JULIO’S - $
2820 S. 123rd Court - 402.330.2110
Locally owned since 1977, Julio’s prides themselves on serving the finest Tex-Mex cuisine and offering top-notch customer service. Our loyal customers are the reason we have been around for nearly 40 years. We have an extensive menu that has both classic and innovative dishes—giving everyone the opportunity to find something they love. Salivating for Southwestern fare? We have tacos, tostadas, a dozen different enchiladas, and classic fajitas. And, of course, nachos! —julios.com
ROMEO’S MEXICAN FOOD AND PIZZA - $
90th and Blondo streets - 402.391.8870 146th St. and W. Center Road - 402.330.4160) 96th and L streets - 402.331.5656 Galvin and Avery roads, Bellevue - 402.292.2028 29th and Farnam streets - 402.346.1110
Romeo’s is your friendly, family Mexican food and pizza restaurant.We take real pride in serving our guests generous portions of the freshest, most flavorful dishes made with the finest ingredients available. Zesty seasonings and the freshest ingredients combine to ensure the ultimate in flavor. Our savory taco meat is prepared every morning at each location. Make sure to try our chimichangas; they’re the best in town. —romeosomaha.com
DINING GUIDE LEGEND
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Omaha
Prime Rib
DINING GUIDE
SPECIAL DINING BÄRCHEN BEER GARDEN - $
6209 Maple St. - 402.502.9902
Located in Benson, Bärchen is a modern American beer garden and beer hall influenced by German communal drinking culture. Indoor seating for approximately 125 people and outdoor seating in our beer garden for approximately 125-150 people. The laid-back atmosphere pairs well with our 30 rotating taps, international beer list, unique sausage & sandwich menu, and locally made pretzels. We are family and dog friendly—all are welcome. Hours: Tues-Thurs 3 p.m.-11 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information or to host an event, please email gm@barchenbeer.com —barchenbeer.com
Thank You, Thank You,
Thank You
an Dining Itali
For Continually Voting For Us!
Serving Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sat 3001 S. 32nd Ave / Omaha, NE 402.345.5656
BRUSHI BISTRO+BAR - $$
721 N. 132nd St. - 402.884.6878
Swiss-trained chef Paul Braunschweiler combines the best of Europe’s epicurean delights with an American flair. Brushi’s casual and open atmosphere combine to create a true bistro experience. Fresh ingredients highlight the menu. Happy Hours and nightly specials. Private dining available. Patio seating weather permitting. —brushiomaha.com
5021 Underwood Ave. Omaha, NE 402-590-2625
17808 Burke St. Omaha, NE 402-289-4096
6350 E. Thomas RD. Scottsdale, AZ 480-272-7500
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.co
www.romeosOMAHA.com
DINING GUIDE LEGEND
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xican Dining Me
$
$
633 Old Lincoln Hwy, Crescent, IA 51526
712.545.3744 | pinkpoodlesteakhouse.com
Omaha
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DINING GUIDE FIRST WATCH - $
1222 S. 71st St. - 402.932.5691 2855 S. 168th St. - 402.330.3444 3605 N. 147th St. - 402.965.3444 304 Olson Drive., Papillion - 402.965.3444 2015 Pratt Ave., Bellevue - 402.991.3448 We begin each morning at the crack of dawn, slicing fresh fruits and vegetables, baking muffins, and whipping up our French toast batter from scratch. Everything is made toorder here at First Watch. We use only the finest ingredients possible for the freshest taste around. —firstwatch.com
GREEK ISLANDS - $
3821 Center St. - 402.346.1528 Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. We are well-known for our gyro sandwiches and salads. We cater and can accommodate a party for 65 guests. Carryout and delivery available. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. —greekislandsomaha.com
J.COCO - $$$
5203 Leavenworth St. - 402.884.2626
The building that once housed a beloved neighborhood grocery has a new future. Built as a grocery back in 1925, it is now home to J. Coco. Our seasonal menus, rooted in tradition, showcase our natural ingredients. Local, organic, and sustainable when available. We feature craft bartending, housemade desserts, and pastas. We celebrate the traditional with a modern twist. Lunch: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: Monday-Saturday 5 p.m.-close. —jcocoomaha.com
KOREA GARDEN AUTHENTIC ASIAN CUISINE AND SUSHI - $$ 5352 S. 72nd St. - 402.505.4089
Lunch specials served Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., featuring signature Korean dishes like bulgogi, doenjang jjigae, and grilled mackerel. Menu includes appetizers, traditional specialties, rice, noodles, soup, and beverages. —koreangardenomaha.com
Try Omaha’s Favorite Reuben!
PARADISE BAKERY - $
17305 Davenport St. - 402.934.5757 120 Regency Parkway - 402.991.3000
Omaha’s largest selection of craft beers.
Paradise Bakery offers freshly prepared baked goods made from scratch every morning with the finest ingredients available. Offering a variety of meals including soups, salads, and sandwiches. Our associates are extremely proud of the reputation Paradise has earned for providing exceptional service and producing the finest-quality products. —paradisebakery.co
TAJ KABOB AND CURRY - $ 654 N. 114th St. 402.933.1445 / 402.238.4317
Taj of Omaha shares its love of traditional Indian cuisine with friends and family in the Omaha area. The owners invite you to come enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and new menu. Taj offers both lunch and dinner specials, delivery and catering services, and a free party room. —tajofomaha.com
3578 Farnam St • 402-345-1708 www.beercornerusa.com ek Dining Gre
Greek Islands Restaurant Omaha, NE
Family Owned Since 1983 CATERING / PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE HOMEMADE, FRESH FOOD, ALWAYS.
3821 Center St. / 402.346.1528 GreekIslandsOmaha.com
STEAKHOUSES CASCIO’S - $$
1620 S. 10th St. - 402-345-8313 Cascio’s is Omaha’s No. 1 steakhouse. We have been serving Omaha for 69 years. We feature steaks, chops, seafood, and Italian specialties. We have seven private party rooms, seating for up to 400 people, and plenty of parking. —casciossteakhouse.com
THE DROVER RESTAURANT & LOUNGE - $$$ 2121 S. 73rd St. - 402-391-7440
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
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DINING GUIDE LEGEND
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NEBRASK A
COMMUNITY APPRECIATION DAY May 2
in Grand Island. Event goers can enjoy full day of events, free, at the Stuhr Museum. 308-385-5316. —stuhrmuseum.gov
DOWNTOWN SHOW AND SHINE May 3 at 206 Main Street in Cedar Falls. Cars and motorcycles will line up Main Street for viewing. Vendors will be available for food purchase at this free event open to the public. 319-277-0213. —communitymainstreet.org
HELICOPTER DAY May 16 at Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum in Ashland. Spectators will be able to watch in wonder as commercial and private helicopters fly over the horizon and land right in front them This family-fun event includes a drone workshop, free balloon animals, a make-and-take project, and hands-on activities. 402-944-3100. —sacmuseum.org
BOONE RIVER VALLEY FESTIVAL May 22-25 at the Boone Valley Brewery in Boone. Festival attendees can enjoy a weekend filled with music, crafts, and fun for the whole family. —boonerivervalleyfestival.com
ANNUAL BROWNVILLE SPRING FLEA MARKET May 23-25 in Brownville.
IOWA
MAY
ART WALK May 2 at Kohlmann
02
Park in Waverly. This fine arts walk includes over 40 artists for goers to look at. Open to the public. 319-3524526 —waverlychamber.com
VINTAGE GARDEN MARKET WITH FRIENDS May 2-3 at Rural Route Rust
in Avoca. Attendees can enjoy an outdoor market of vintage goods. Drinks, food, and vendors will be available. 402-267-4104. —ruralrouterust.com
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Seventy-six trombones (or more) will parade through the streets of this Iowa town, where Music Man composer Meredith Wilson lived. Along with marching bands, this festival includes a carnival, food, games, and live entertainment. 641-423-5724. —nibandfest.com
CELEBRASIAN MAY 21-23 at the Western Gateway Park in Des Moines. In its 18th year, Celebrasian will be a celebration and appreciation of Asian culture, uniting the Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander communities in Des Moines. Guests can enjoy live performances, authentic food, and educational activities. 515-770-1026. —iowaasianalliance.com
NEBRASKA JUNKATHON May 22-24 in Sargent. Vendors come together for a festival of antiques, food, and more. 308750-9435. —facebook.com/junkathonfleamarket
Hundreds of vendors bring their wares to this annual tradition, including recycled and up-cycled products, food, and antiques. 402-825-6001. —brownvillehistoricalsociety.org
82TH ANNUAL NORTH IOWA BAND FESTIVAL May 21-25 in Mason City.
SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL May 7-10 at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden in Des Moines. This event celebrates everything garden, activities, workshops, and much more. 515-323-6290. —dmbotanicalgarden.com 80TH ANNUAL ORANGE CITY TULIP FESTIVAL May 14-16 in Orange City. This
event, which began in 1936, celebrates Dutch heritage and consists of beautiful tulips, dances performed in traditional Dutch clothing, daily parades, old-country foods, and more. 712-707-4510. —octulipfestival.com
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MAY
23-25
SPRING ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL May 23-25 at
Triangle Park in McGregor. This events kicks off summer with events including face painting and kid activities. 563-873-2186. —mcgreg-marq.org
MAIFEST MAY 30-31 AT AMANA COLONIES. Normally held the first of
May, this event is being held in late May this year due to the coronavirus. Dancers, food trucks, and a parade will bring German traditions to this celebration of Spring. 319-622-7622. Email info@ amanacolnies.com for more information.
MISSOURI
GATSBY DAYS May 1-3 in Excelsior Springs. Break out the beads, fringe, and zoot suits for this homage to the roaring ‘20s. Events include a fashion stroll, antique car parade, a Gin & Jazz party, vaudeville performances, and more. 816-630-6161. —esculturalguild.com
NO, IT’S NOT CHIMNEY ROCK, IT’S JUST A STOP SIGN. BUT WHEN YOU TAKE A RIGHT AT THAT STOP SIGN THE HIGHWAY TAKES YOU TO LAKE MINATARE WHERE LATER THIS SUMMER BOBBY JOHNSON WILL CATCH HIS FIRST FISH, STAY UP LATE, MAKE S’MORES, AND SLEEP IN A TENT.
TO GET BACK THERE NEXT SUMMER HE’S GONNA NEED TO MAKE SURE HIS DAD TAKES A RIGHT AT THIS VERY STOP SIGN SO HE CAN DO IT ALL AGAIN. LANDMARKS ARE MORE THAN JUST CHIMNEY ROCK AND SCOTTS BLUFF. LANDMARKS ARE HOW WE FIND OUR WAY TO NEW MEMORIES. VISIT NEBRASKA’S LANDMARK COUNTRY.
Visit Nebraska’s Landmark Country. 800 -788-9475 | NebraskaLandmarkCountry.com
2020 APPLE BLOSSOM PARADE FESTIVAL
May 2 in St. Joseph. The parade has been in existence for over ninety years, and it has expanded into a festival with a Kansas City BBQ Society-sanctioned barbecue contest. The event runs in conjunction with Discover Downtown, which features live music, food vendors, and kids activities. 816-261-0422. —appleblossomparade.com
FOR LOCAL EVENTS.
MAY 2020
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HARRY’S HAY DAYS May 4-5 in Grandview. This family-friendly event, taking place at the childhood home of Harry S. Truman, will be a celebration of his birthday and legacy. It is a two day event filled with music, vendors, games, and a parade. 816-316-4888. — grandviewharryshaydays.com ARTFEST ON WALNUT May 2-3 in Springfield. Over 100 artists will be on display at this celebration of art, with performances, food, and activities for the whole family. 417-831-6200. —springfieldarts.org MAY
VOLKSWESTON May 30
in Weston. This event will display Vintage Volkswagens along Main St. to the City Hall parking lot. 816-640-2757. —westonmo.com
30
CENTRALIA ANCHOR FESTIVAL May 29-31 at the City Square in Centralia. This events brings a family fun day filled with music, a parade and carnival, and more. 573-682-2272. —centraliamochamber.com K ANSAS
PEONY FESTIVAL May 16-17 at Stockton
Area Chamber of Commerce in Stockton. The annual Peony Festival will feature peony displays around the city. The event includes a parade, craft vendors, and more. 785-425-6703. —stocktonks.com
LAWRENCE BUSKER FESTIVAL May 22-25, Downtown Lawrence. This annual event invites everyone to enjoy a getweird-weekend. It includes unusual live performances by artists, both local and global, and includes the Thursday evening Busker Ball. It has become so popular an extra day (Monday) has been added. 785843-2787. —lawrencebuskerfest.com
Lake McConaughy Stay in Ogallala and Play at Lake McConaughy this summer! 55 square miles of water for fishing, boating and more fun. Explore the Petrified Wood & Art Gallery, Boot Hill, Mansion on the Hill, and Front Street’s free Cowboy Museum. Visit Ogallala and Paxton for unique shopping & dining. Plan your trip at ilovelakemac.com 800-658-4390
Event times and details may change.
Visit omahamagazine.com for complete listings. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.
MAY 2020
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NOT FUNNY // COLUMN BY OTIS TWELVE // PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL SITZMANN
DON’T GIVE UP, OR ELSE DO
R
ecently the world has become a scarier, darker place. There are frightening headlines and complex crises everywhere we turn. It’s tempting to give up. It’s all too easy to slip into gloom, doom, and despair.
Fortunately, when everything goes wrong…when the world is out of control…when the future looks bleak…we have a large supply of old maxims, mottos, and proverbs to keep us going.
“Buck up,” people say. “But do you mean a dollar bill or a male deer?” I ask. They ignore me. It’s an important distinction, but they just think I’m a hopeless concrete thinker.
“Nixon quit,” I say. They finally respond to me, “Yeah, Nixon quit and he didn’t win.” I have to give them that one. “Okay, Nixon was a loser, but what about Pope Benedict?” This time they ignore me. No one wants to take the chance of discussing religion in mixed company. “The glass isn’t half empty, it’s half full,” people say. “But isn’t it important what the glass is half full of?” I ask. They strike back, “Never end a sentence with a preposition!” I borrow Churchill’s retort, “That’s the sort of pedantry up with which I will not put.” That silences them for a moment. Hey, what’s in the damn glass is important.
“When they give you lemons, make lemonade,” people say.
“The Chinese word for crisis consists of two symbols. One means crisis and the other means opportunity,” people say.
“But processed sugar isn’t good for you, and I have a few paper cuts on my fingertips,” I point out. Again, they ignore me, even though I’m right. Too much refined white sugar and my immune system takes the week off. That’s not a good thing when we’re living through the Age of Anti-immune Systems. And paper cuts, I mean, weren’t we supposed to be “paperless” by now?
“Really?” I ask. “Well, I looked it up and the Chinese word for crisis does contain two symbols. They mean crisis and disturbance. So, you just made up that whole ‘opportunity’ thing.” There is no “opportunity.” None. It’s a lie. A crisis, whether it’s Chinese or Nebraskan, is a crisis—a disturbing crisis. Sorry, to disabuse you happy people, but truth sets you free.
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going,” people say. “But where are they going exactly?” I ask. “I mean, do they run away? When things get tough do the tough take a road trip with an old friend? Do things go wrong when a gun goes off and then they drive their car over a cliff? Is Brad Pitt somewhere in there?” Hey, life can actually imitate life, right? That’s especially true when a cool vintage T-Bird is involved. Anyway, I have no idea where the tough went.
And here’s some more truth. When things look bleak… when what’s in that half-full glass hits the fan…forget about that positive, optimistic outlook. Give into despair. Lose all hope… Just hug somebody tight. And meet me for a whiskey when all this is over. Otis Twelve hosts the radio program Early Morning Classics with Otis Twelve on 90.7 KVNO, weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Visit kvno.org for more information.
“Quitters never win,” people say.
MARCH/APRIL
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2020
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