July/August 2011 The Encounter Omaha Magazine by Omaha Magazine

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July/August 2011

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July/August 2011 Publisher Todd Lemke

Managing Editor Corey Ross

City Editor Sandy Lemke

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6 Feature: Boutique Hotels: Creating Their Niche.............................. 6 Downtown Story: Red Sky Concert Buzz Builds........................... 8 Cover Story: Shamrock Development’s Mike Moylan................... 10 Downtown Dining: Jackson Street Tavern................................... 13 Downtown Art: Bringing Back Beauty......................................... 15 ODID: Downtown Gets Its Own Gift Card..................................... 23 Downtown History: Joe Vitale: In Memoriam.............................. 24 Downtown Face: Chaz Kline....................................................... 26 Condo Life: Rooms With a View.................................................. 28 Old Market Map............................................................................ 30 Merchants & Attractions.................................................................31 Calendar........................................................................................ 35 readonlinenow.com

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The Zin Room, Hotel Deco XV

“

Our intent was to create a hotel with an intimate feel, old-world charm, personalized service.

”

-Zachary Zoul

Boutique Hotels: Creating Their Niche story by Aaron Michaels | photos by minorwhitestudios.com

gainst a landscape of run-of-the-mill “box” hotels throughout the Omaha metro, two new contributors to the city’s hotel-motel tax come in very unique packages – one green and simple, the other very ornate and boutique. Both individually and together, they give locals and visitors options previously unavailable in the city.

Deco Echo Constructed as an office building in 1930 — the first in the city with underground parking — the 14-story Art Deco structure at 15th & Harney has undergone numerous transformations. Most recently, it was the Redick Hotel, but had been sitting vacant and slowly decaying for more than a year before White Lotus Development of Omaha scooped up the property with the intent to return the artistic gem to its original splendor — and then some. Sporting most of the original fixtures and all of the charm of the era, the hotel opened May 19 with 89 rooms, including 25 suites, and a full-service menu pampering guests in a manner previously absent from the metro. Because of commitment to service and size, Hotel Deco XV becomes Omaha’s newest boutique hotel, and the property has applied to become only the second AAA Four Diamond hotel in town (Omaha Hilton being the other). Hotel Deco XV Managing Director Zachary Zoul, who moved to Omaha from Minnesota last fall to oversee the transformation, sees this as a hotel people will choose to stay at because of its “overall experience.” “Our intent was to create a hotel with an intimate feel, old-world charm, personalized service — an experience for our guest they can’t find and won’t get anywhere else in town,” Zoul said.“Even though we’ve updated the hotel, we retained and/or repaired the historic elements that make this building unique — original exterior and interior features and details, large windows, awnings, canopies, etc.

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Boutique hotel chic at Hotel Deco XV

There were no structural changes, but we’ve touched every surface to give it a new look and feel throughout.” The term “boutique hotel” was coined in the early 1980s by North Americans to describe an independently run, luxurious and often quirky hotel. Today, boutique hotels often differentiate themselves from the larger chain hotels by their size (less than 100 rooms), style, design and architecture. Hotel Deco XV is affiliated with the Preferred Hotel Group — a worldwide collection of independent luxury boutique hotels — as well as the Historical Hotels of America. The multi-million-dollar renovation started this past December and has been extensive, including refurbishment of the hotel restaurant, the Zin Room, with an entrance on 15th Street. All rooms have custom-made, imported damask wallpaper, unique headboards, modern bathrooms, hardwood floors and great views of the city. The hotel offers valet parking, concierge staff, turn-down and room service — all harkening back to the days when staying at a hotel was a privilege. Even the bell staff — yes, bellmen bring your luggage to your room — wear traditional bellmen jackets. “Boutique hotels offer services in an intimate, comfortable environment,” Zoul added. “With Hotel Deco XV, we’ve breathed new life into a landmark building (the structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places), and we’ve very proud of the atmosphere and elegance we offer our guests. We wanted to keep the room number small so we can call and know our guests by name and pamper them with the service and comfort they deserve.”

Green and Mean Before moving from Texas to Omaha last July, Eric Rock had never managed a “green” hotel, even though he’s been involved with the hotel industry since he was 14. Now, as general manager of the metro’s only environmentally designed and run hotel, Element Omaha Midtown Crossing, he admits he continues to learn something new just about every day when it comes to the green functions of his unique property. “This all started before I came on board (as manager), so I wasn’t aware of all the environmental elements of this hotel,” Rock said readonlinenow.com

Hotel Deco XV’s Zachary Zoul

of the Starwood Hotels property that opened last November in Midtown Crossing.“Whatever I wasn’t aware of, most of our guests are quite aware of all that this hotel stands for in terms of green practices and it’s one of the biggest reasons they choose to stay here. It’s definitely a selling point.” The 132-room hotel, owned by Mutual of Omaha and developed by ECI Investment Advisors, combines smart design with natureinspired and eco-friendly touches. It offers a no-compromise, eco-chic experience enhanced by comfortable and inspiring public spaces. Element Hotels is the first major hotel brand to mandate all of its properties pursue the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. The hotel has applied for Silver level LEED certification. What this means is that the building itself was made from recycled materials whenever possible and available, and the hotel operates with green practices. Paper recycling bins are in each room, all guest room kitchen appliances are Energy Star-rated, carpets are made of up to 100-percent recycled content — even the art on the walls is hung on a base made from recycled tires. Glassware and silverware are provided in guest rooms to reduce waste generated by plastic utensils and paper cups, and bath amenities — shampoo, conditioner, etc. — are served via dispenser systems rather than mini-bottles. Sinks in each room offer dual-filtration systems for pure water, eliminating the need for wasteful plastic bottles. “The lights in our guest rooms are activated by the guest key card, so whenever the room is not in use, it conserves energy,” Rock said.“We have a green space on our roof to help with energy conservation use and costs, and unlike typical hotels that have heating and cooling units in each room, our hotel has central air. We even offer complimentary bike rentals to our guests and encourage them when possible to see the city or go to work by bicycle instead of driving. “The normal consumer may not be aware of all the environmental consciousness that went into the design and build of this hotel, but there aren’t a lot of hotels that offer what we do — but we hope our guests do by the time they leave.” the encounter | july/august 2011

Downtown Story downtown story Kid Rock will perform on the main stage at TD Ameritrade Park on July 20.

Red Sky Concert Buzz Builds

“”

Mix of music genres, performers will offer something for all tastes story by Niz Proskocil

We’re a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll. -Roger Dixon

nstead of baseball players, bands will be providing hits for six days in July when Omaha’s new ballpark hosts the inaugural Red Sky Music Festival. The multi-act, multi-genre music fest will feature more than 50 national and local acts performing on three stages at TD Ameritrade Park Omaha, the baseball stadium that opened in April near the Qwest Center. It will be the first time the stadium has hosted a concert. Happening July 18 through 23, concerts will be held on a main stage inside the ballpark as well as two smaller stages (B and C) in a surrounding parking lot. The event is a partnership between the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority, which operates the stadium and the Qwest Center, and Live Nation, the world’s leading live entertainment company. “This is a little unique. It’s the first time we’ve taken on a festival,” says Roger Dixon, MECA president and CEO. “We’re trying to establish an annual event that will bring in people from all parts of the region. We want to create fun and excitement for the Omaha area.” Red Sky is much smaller than established music festivals such as Milwaukee’s annual Summerfest, but it’s similar in that it isn’t pegged to one musical genre but will feature all kinds of performers. The main stage lineup includes ‘80s groups Journey and Night Ranger (July 18), rock bands 311 and Sublime with Rome (July 19), Kid Rock (July 20), Zac Brown Band (July 21), and country singer Jason Aldean with Chris Young and Thompson Square (July 22). Unlike acts featured at big outdoor rock fests such as Lollapalooza, the Warped Tour, Bonnaroo and Coachella, which draw huge crowds of fans of indie bands, electronic artists, alterna-rockers and

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jam bands, Red Sky acts are more mainstream. Red Sky differs from other summer music festivals happening downtown, Dixon says, including the Omaha Riverfront Jazz & Blues Festival and MAHA Music Festival. Taking place Aug. 13 at Lewis & Clark Landing, MAHA will feature Guided By Voices, Matisyahu, Cursive and more. “They’re more specific in their genre of music,” says Dixon.“We’re a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll.” Entertainment on the secondary stages includes George Clinton, Cowboy Mouth, Better Than Ezra, 10,000 Maniacs, Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers, Buddy Guy, the Fab Four - the Ultimate Beatles Tribute, Sister Hazel, Five for Fighting, and STS 9, among others. In addition, 24 local bands will be part of the lineup. A main stage ticket (prices vary from show to show) includes a one-day pass to the festival grounds (stages B and C) and is good for admission only on the day listed on the ticket. One-day, three-day and six-day passes are also available. A one-day pass is $15, a threeday pass is $30, and a six-day pass is $60. Those passes, however, include admission to stages B and C only—not entry to the evening concerts inside the stadium. Though the ballpark has a capacity of about 24,000, the capacity for Red Sky will be roughly 17,000. In anticipation of the crowds, several north downtown businesses are making plans to expand hours, increase staffing and hire additional security. Sunni Renner, general manager of DJ’s Dugout at 1003 Capitol Ave., says she expects a steady stream of visitors to the 410-capacity sports bar and grill during all six days. “We’re just as excited about Red Sky as the College World Series,” Renner says. “I think it’s going to be huge down here. We’re really amped up about the whole thing.” Even with one of the parking lots being used for the event, festival-goers will find about 9,000 spots within a 12-minute walk of the venue, according to MECA public relations manager Rebecca Kleeman. Festival grounds gates will open at 11 a.m. each day. Music starts at noon. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster. com and at the Qwest Center box office, 455 N. 10th St. Information: redskyfestival.com. readonlinenow.com

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Cover Story

Capitolization Developer Mike Moylan’s decade-plus of investment in north downtown pays off with the birth and prosperity of the new Capitol District story by Corey Ross | photos by minorwhitestudios.com

“”

He knows what the market needs and what it takes for a business to succeed. -Lila Anderson, on Moylan

hen developer Mike Moylan acquired the 1000 Dodge Building in 1994, he recalls that a real estate colleague questioned the purchase, asking, “Why do you want to be way over there on Dodge by yourself?” He wondered why Moylan wanted a property positioned on the edge of what was then a relatively destitute part of north downtown, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the Old Market. Moylan responded that Dodge Street was the city’s main artery and the business address of most of Omaha’s prominent companies. His hunch was that business synergy would eventually trickle down to the rest of Dodge Street and thus made an investment and even built his home there. Then he waited. “I just figured somebody would eventually want to build there,” says Moylan, who purchased the adjacent 1009 Capitol Building in 2000. “And in the meantime, I was able to lease the spaces and get commercial tenants. “Since then, the neighborhood has changed around us.” Has it ever. From the addition of the Qwest Center, Hilton Omaha and Holland Performing Arts Center to the newly open TD Ameritrade Park, the new home of the College World Series, the north downtown of 1994 and 2011 couldn’t be more different. The new Capitol District, developed by Moylan’s company, Shamrock Development, is now a distinct and prosperous part of that change. This year, four new businesses — D.J.’s Dugout Sports Bar and its Blazin’ Pianos piano bar, Nosh Wine Lounge and The Capitol Lounge and Supper Club — have opened on the block to create an entertainment district that bridges the gap between the north downtown development, the central business district and the Old Market.

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Moylan likens Capitol to a Vegas-style club, while Nosh is a more intimate dining space, and D.J.’s, in addition to its piano bar, is one of Omaha’s most prominent sports bars. Blazin’ Pianos is open Thursday through Saturday nights and can be converted to more sports bar space for big events. For the remaining 8,000 square feet of available space, Moylan is looking to add another restaurant to the trio of businesses, but right now Moylan says the mix has been the perfect complement to the neighborhood and each other. The first time he truly saw the district’s drawing power was the day of a Creighton basketball game followed by a UNO hockey game. The area was hopping from 11 a.m to 2 a.m. for the first time. “It was standing-room only … all day long. Everyone was amazed and thrilled,” he says. And this was prior to the College World Series, which, harkening to his Irish upbringing, Moylan calls “the St. Patrick’s Day of college baseball - for two weeks.” Moylan says the boundaries of the Capitol District

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are from Ninth to 12th Street and from the Interstate to Douglas Street, and thus includes Farrell’s at 902 Dodge Street and Spencers in the Hilton Garden at 10th and Dodge, and says all parties have agreed to market themselves jointly. “It’s important for the area to have mass and identity,” he says. “We need to build community between us and advertise collectively.” Lila Anderson, owner of the upscale Nosh Wine Lounge which seats 150 and offers 100 wines from around the world, says the district has prospered just as Moylan envisioned. Her clientele has been a mix of visitors and downtown residents. “Right from the start, he talked about his vision and I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of,” she says. “He wanted to make sure all the businesses complemented each other and that each had a chance to succeed.” Anderson says Moylan has an impeccable grasp of the downtown market. “He knows what the market needs and what it takes for a business to succeed,” she says. “He’s really good at

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cover story

working with all of us and trying to be supportive so we can run the best business we can.” The Capitol District follows Moylan’s success with The Paxton condominium project, which he says is more of a return to his career roots. “The Paxton was a more complicated project. It was building 60 individual homes for people,” he says. “I’ve been a retail broker my whole life. This was easier to put together on the development side.” Moylan adds the timing of the development was as critical as the concept. The destruction in the past two years of the former Pinnacle Foods plant that used to be across the street from the district opened up more parking and the view of north downtown. “We aren’t going to put our best concepts across the street from a vacant plant,” he told prospects. “It was not an attractive thing. “DJ’s probably would’ve been successful any time, but the extra parking and identity of the area has definitely been a benefit.” Moylan says the blossoming of north downtown has been many years in the making and began with the foresight and commitment of local business leaders, such as the Lauritzen family building the First National Bank tower downtown, followed by Union Pacific building its headquarters downtown. “Those were much more civic-minded commitments than business commitments,” he says.“Because we were late bloomers on our downtown, it got done right. When we had our boom when Hal Daub was mayor, they wisely

spent the money on more civic investment and didn’t waste it away. A lot of cities scattered the money around and it didn’t go to anything effective. “When you look at what the city has done in the last 10 years, it’s phenomenal.” And looking forward to the next 10 years, Moylan sees only more potential and has his company investing in that growth. “We are currently negotiating on two or three different projects downtown. We need more people living downtown, so we’d like to see more residential occur,” he says. “We’re ready to move on. We had to wait for the economy to catch up with our ambitions, and it’s pretty much there.”

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story by Tony Endelman | photos by minorwhitestudios.com

nyone familiar with Downtown Omaha knows that the Old Market has seen its share of restaurants come and go. Undoubtedly, there are a number of institutions that have been serving customers for decades, but certain locations simply can’t seem to sustain a viable business. The space at 1125 Jackson Street is no exception, having been a pizzeria and a sports bar in just the last few years. But, its newest occupant, Jackson Street Tavern, has quickly become an Old Market favorite, and the people of Omaha are eating it up. Don’t let the name fool you. Hardly a tavern, which brings to mind peanut shells and honkytonk, JST offers a unique experience in delectable dining. “The concept came to be after lengthy conversations with my partner, Roger Brodersen,” explains chef and owner Deke Reichardt. “We both agreed that we wanted an Old Market location to serve fine food in a relaxing atmosphere.” Walk into Jackson Street Tavern, and you quickly discover that Reichardt succeeded in bringing his vision to life. It’s a truly inviting place; spacious and comfortable with a modern-rustic feel, highlighted by birch paneling, barn wood tables, and flickering candlelight. And, the retractable front garage doors allow for pleasant, open-air dining. But, JST’s eclectic menu is what keeps people coming back.“I have been cooking professionally for over three decades,” shares Reichardt.“I have been the chef in four-star hotels, yacht and country clubs, and several fine dining restaurants. I’ve compiled and perfected a number of recipes over the years, and now they’ve all come together.” A transplant from the East Coast, Reichardt also teaches at the Metro Community College Culinary Institute. “Our cuisine at JST is classic with contemporary twists, which I describe as New American.” Jackson Street Tavern features lunch and dinner options with fresh daily specials, as well as a happy hour and late night Tapas menu available readonlinenow.com

Chef/owner Deke Reichardt

“

from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday – Friday and from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Some signature dishes include: Duck Tacos, Cadillac Cakes, and the Neptune Avocado – colossal sea scallops, shrimp and avocado in a Cajun cream sauce served in the avocado shell. And, perfect for night owl foodies, the Tapas menu offers 13 small dishes, all for under $7. Try the ground-steak sliders, the fresh mozzarella, or the chicken satay skewers and wash it down with a $3 pint of Nebraska’s own Hopluia. “I’ve had great experiences at Jackson Street Tavern,” says Gabe Draper, who lives and works in the Old Market.“I’ve been there for both lunch and dinner, and it’s always fantastic. As somebody that has spent many years in the restaurant business, I tend to have a pretty watchful eye. I’ve been pleased every time.” “We believe that our menu should have something for everyone,” says Reichardt. “We are kid-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, have a gluten-free menu, and accommodate any special dietary needs. There are no fried items on our appetizer/starter list. And, our philosophy from the kitchen is never say no as long as the ingredients are available.” Jackson Street Tavern also hosts live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights and now serves brunch on Sundays. For more information, visit www.jacksonstreettavern.com.

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Jackson Street Tavern

JST is classic with contemporary twists, which I describe as New American.

”

-Deke Reichardt

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Downtown Story Downtown Art Artist Julie Phillips

“

My work is very much about an appreciation of textiles, textures, pattern, color and rhythm.

-Julie Phillips

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Bringing Back Beauty Secrets dwell in every layer of Julie Phillips’ tapestries story by David Williams | photos by minorwhitestudios.com

recent archeological dig, part of an extensive remodeling effort in my home, led to the discovery of some secrets in a long-neglected upstairs bathroom. A vibrant ‘70s-era Merimekko wallpaper gave way to a robin’s egg blue coat of paint that was all the rage when Eisenhower was in the Oval Office. That, in turn, shrouded a ‘40s-era pale pink. Most intriguingly, the excavation revealed a mini history of my home’s original inhabitants. An array of decals touting sports teams, schools, youth and fraternal organizations clung to the walls as faded, sanded-down relics of some longlost yesterday.

I had the exact same sensation the moment I stepped into the Leavenworth Street studio of artist Julie Phillips. Layer upon layer of handmade acrylics, oil sticks, glazes, stencils and even free-hand spray paint — each strata in a desperate but losing battle to obliterate the secrets beneath — adorned large-scale tapestries crafted on raw Belgian linen. “Secrets,” Phillips mused at the outset of our interview. “You mean like the time in college when I was pictured on the cover of the Daily Nebraskan swimming in the fountain on the UNL campus?” Whatever Phillips’ deeper secrets may be, it is the encounter | july/august 2011

downtown art

readily apparent that a lifelong love of textiles isn’t one of them. “My work is very much about an appreciation of textiles, textures, pattern, color and rhythm,” Phillips said. With a vintage, historical look and feel reminiscent of European works of the 17th and 18th centuries, hers is a signature look that she insists must be touched to be truly appreciated. “I’ve always loved textiles and my tapestries create a sense of sentimentality in decoration, and those are themes that are often a real no-no in the art world,” she said as if “sentimentality” and “decoration” had somehow become dirty words during a century-long march away from representational art. “I like the idea of bringing beauty back into our lives,” she added.“There’s plenty of great confrontational work out there, but I just like the idea of bringing beauty back,” said the artist whose work is as contemporary as it is old-world, as formal as it is loose. “I think there is a natural longing

for beauty, that it is part of the human condition to seek meaning in such everyday memories as grandma’s quilts, rummage sale dresses, wallpaper, even tablecloths. They all stir feelings of a connection to the past, to comfort, to a sense of who we are.” And isn’t that what memory and its secrets are all about? Aren’t they nothing more than recollections of a hazily ethereal past, both real and imagined, juxtaposed against freshly processed “design elements,” just like the images that populate Phillips’ work? Maybe I’d better not paint over those decals in my upstairs bathroom after all. It might be best to position an empty frame around them, thus preserving my home’s secrets. It’s a good bet that Julie Phillips would be proud of me for doing so.

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Story by the Omaha Downtown Improvement District We’ve all received a gift card at some point in our lives, and most of us have given them as gifts. In fact, a National Retail Federation survey indicates that gift cards have been the most popular holiday gift request for four years running. Now, Downtown Omaha has one of the most unique and versatile gift cards ever available. We all love what Downtown Omaha has to offer from great restaurants and bars, to event venues, attractions, hotels, museums, shops, salons, and much, much more. For the first time, you are now able to give a gift card that is redeemable at a wide variety of your favorite downtown merchants. Not sure what downtown restaurant that special someone enjoys the most? Don’t know their shirt size? Do you want your relatives to experience everything you love about downtown? Or do you want to allow them to create their own evening out on the town? The Downtown Gift Card is the perfect answer to all of those questions. The Downtown Gift Card isn’t just a typical gift card. Now, you can give everything Downtown Omaha has to offer on one little card. Go to OmahaDowntown.org to buy yours today, check out the list of participating merchants or simply learn more about this new program. This column is part of a series detailing the activities and efforts of the Omaha Downtown Improvement District (DID) to further strengthen Downtown Omaha. You can find out more information about the DID by becoming a fan on Facebook. or by visiting their website www.omahadowntown.org.

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the encounter | july/august 2011

downtown history (Left to right) Old Market staples Angelo Monaco, Carl Buds, Sam Monaco and Joe Vitale, at 11th & Howard

“” He was an energetic, happy person, and he always had a good word to everybody. -Mary Thompson

july/august 2011 | the encounter

In Memory of an Old Market Original, Joe Vitale by Leo Adam Biga | photo courtesy of Carmen Messineo

he late Joe Vitale was the last of the old-time produce vendors plying his trade in the Old Market. Long after the Omaha City Market closed, Joe stayed on. The World War II combat veteran made a good living back in the day, first working for his parents, Angelo and Lucia, and then with his business partner, Sam Monaco. By the time the Old Market took off, Vitale was set for life and well past retirement age, but he hung on there, wintering in Las Vegas. Why keep at it, even into his 80s? “He did it because of the love of doing business, being self-employed, selling to new customers and former customers who wanted to buy something from the historic Old Market,” says George Eisenberg, a former wholesaler who did business with Joe. “He was not only a throwback but he was the only one of the original market vendors that lasted that long.” “I guess he enjoyed being down there with the people and doing his work,” says Tootsie Bonofede, who grew up with Joe. “You know, when you enjoy something you don’t want to give it up.” Joe stayed through the area’s transformation from a wholesale-retail produce center to its rebirth as a cultural district. Manning the corner of 11th and Howard, he and his stand were fixtures before the modern Omaha Farmers Market began. omahapublications.com

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Vitale, who died March 29 at age 92, was a popular figure among tourists, business owners and residents, who viewed him as a vital, living remnant of what used to be. “He brightened up that corner,” says Mary Thompson, whose mother, Lucile Schaaf, was an Old Market entrepreneur and favorite of Joe’s. “He was a super guy. He was an energetic, happy person, and he always had a good word to everybody. He had been there for so many years, you could say he was almost the last of the originals.” More than a merchant dealing in fruits and vegetables, Vitale was an engaging presence.“He had a lot of personality,” says Bonofede. Douglas Country Commissioner and former Omaha mayor Mike Boyle, a longtime Old Market resident, recalls helping Joe out with an insurance claim once and being repaid with a basket of plums. “That was about the lowest fee I’ve ever collected,” says Boyle. “Joe was really one of life’s great characters. He had a wonderful sense of humor and added a lot of color to that corner.” Samuel Troia recalls he and his brothers going to Joe for business advice, not expecting much, but getting more than they bargained for. “It was a great meeting and he helped us out tremendously, and with nothing to gain, other than to help these young kids, because we were in our 20s. He sat us down and said, ‘OK, this is who to talk to, and I’ll make a phone call for you.’ He told us about delivering what you promise. Joe talked to us just like he was our father.” From that time on, says Troia, “Every time he saw me, he’d holler, ‘Troia,’ and my wife and I would walk over and buy fruit, and he’d wash it for us. It was so nice and refreshing to see him. It was just like having a family member down there in the Old Market.” Joe treated everyone like a family member or friend. “He was one of the most down-to-earth guys you’d ever want to meet,” says Troia. “Everybody knew him and everybody loved him,” says Bonofede. “They can’t say anything bad about Joe. He was so kind to everybody.” readonlinenow.com

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Downtown face Story Downtown

Chaz Kline The entreprenuer and cigar enthusiast creates an adult oasis in downtown story by Leo Adam Biga photos by minorwhitestudios.com

“” I always enjoyed the urban downtown area -Chaz Kline

july/august 2011 | the encounter

avana Garage, Omaha’s upscale yet casual cigar lounge at 1008 Howard Street, brings a splash of the Caribbean with a big city Rat Pack vibe to the Old Market. Finished in warm, earthy tones of maize and reds, along with rustic textures of wood, granite, metal and brick, the place features interesting fixtures and accents, most notably, an elaborate, solid oak back bar circa 1910. Hanging Italian pipa lights and mounted hubcap lights add ambiance and kitch, while an overhead belt-driven fan system and front patio rattan fans keep customers in cool comfort. An automatic garage door lets the outside in on summer days and nights. A bodegagarden (though not for patron use yet) sits out back. Even though barely a year old, Havana became a favorite hangout of Berkshire Hathaway shareholders in May. “They really were responsive,” says owner Chaz Kline. “That’s great testimony to your business.” Kline’s no newcomer to the cigar culture. He grew up in it and has owned the Market’s other smokethemed shop, S.G. Roi Tobacconist, for 11 years. Before that, he opened Dundee Cigar & Tobacco and Dundee Cork & Bottle in midtown, businesses he eventually closed and sold, respectively. He’s long enjoyed the pleasures of a fine cigar and a quality drink, and the idea of combining the two is one he waited to develop. Nebraska lawmakers stymied his first attempt when a public smoking omahapublications.com

ban was enacted. After lobbying state senators, he and other proponents got the legislature to pass a bill allowing cigar bars. All about seizing opportunities, the Harlan, Iowa native and Simpson College graduate strategically moved up the Omaha corporate ladder at First National Bank and, later, Service Data. Then he learned the ins and outs, ups and downs of small business startups before following his instincts to strike out on his own. When he ventured into Dundee in the late 1990s, he says he saw “commerce was going to come” to that then “sleepy little area.” It did.“Everything started happening,” he says. Setting his sights on the Old Market as a next business location was a natural, he says, “because I always enjoyed the urban downtown area,” adding,“It’s a great place to be.” Kicking back with a stogie and drink to enjoy conversation or a card game, work on your laptop, read a good book, listen to Sinatra recordings or live jazz, blues and salsa, it’s all part of the Havana scene. “It’s an adult lounge, a place where you want to come to relax and belong to a little community,” he says. “It is a lifestyle — an oasis from home. A very casual, inviting, laid-back environment.” The bar serves imported beers, high-end Caribbean rums, exotic wines and classic drinks like Manhattans. “Our bartenders are extremely knowledgeable about their craft and are great mixologists,” says Kline, who’s branded his own drink and a line of apparel and other items. In between buying S.G. Roi and opening Havana with business partner Mark Butler, Kline acquired the Nifty Bar & Grill, a classic

readonlinenow.com

neighborhood joint in midtown. Kline believes he’s a born entrepreneur. “I’m really good with people,” he says,“and I guess I have an ability to think of multiple levels of business at the same time. I can think operationally, I can do marketing, I can do sales, I can be the guy that runs the register or washes the dishes. I’m able to read and gauge what needs to be done and how to do it and I’m able to find those people who can help me do it.” He admits he can overwork, but as Havana Garage proves, he knows something about relaxing, too.

the encounter | july/august 2011

condo life

“”

I use decorating to make the décor contemporary. -Pat Lovitt

july/august 2011 | the encounter

Rooms with a View The scene from Pat Lovitt’s window may be the most striking feature of her Midtown Crossing condo. It’s part of the décor. story by Judy Horan | photos by minorwhitestudios.com

at Lovitt chose her condo for the spectacular view that sweeps from the lush greenery of Turner Park just below her window to the jutting downtown skyline a few miles away. “It’s breathtaking in the mornings with the sunrise,” she said. “Last night, a moon was hanging over the skyline.” From her Juliet balcony, she has a front-row seat for a stream of events happening in the park — such as Jazz on the Green, the Outdoor Market and Yoga Rocks in the Park. Lovitt has incorporated the green of nature with orange and gold to create the color scheme for her 1,200-square-foot condo. Among accessories helping bring together the colors is a painting hanging over the couch, a large coffee server, and a rich-looking orange chest with gold insets. A table of multi-colored tiles also pulls orange, green and gold together. Lovitt lived in California for 25 years, but left in 2007 to return to her home state. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate moved into a four-story home in Omaha’s Happy Hollow area. But she soon tired of climbing stairs and mowing lawns. She decided to downsize, simplify her life and seek a more urban environment. She found what she was looking for last year at Midtown Crossing. Lovitt’s condo is in building No. 4, the first phase of the Midtown Crossing project. Mission-style furniture brought from her California home sits in the home office where she consults as an I.T. project manager. She is known by name at flea markets and estate sales across Nebraska, where she often picks up omahapublications.com

Above: Light ash floors and light oak cabinets create a distinctive contrast with the black granite countertops. It’s a look that attracted its owner to this condo. Water gently flowing from a copper fountain on a countertop adds an artistic touch. Left: Nature’s colors are brought together to create a coordinated look, using decorative accessories such as this painting over the living area couch. Inspired by the view from the balcony, green and gold are the motif throughout the 1,200-square-foot Midtown Crossing condo.

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antiques. “But I use decorating to make the décor contemporary,” Lovitt said. Items from flea markets include an antique mirror. “I found it in a flea market in Ventura, California, where I lived on the beach,” she said. “I do miss the water.” In the living area, two large Mexican candlesticks have been converted into lights. A candelabra is from a glass vendor in Branson, Mo. A series of small architectural photos she took while living and working in New York City stretches along one wall. The décor incorporates whimsy. A hat tree hangs rakishly in the bathroom. Lovitt changes hats with the season. Currently, she displays a straw hat and Easter bonnet. A triptych of antique Japanese screens hovers over the bed in the single bedroom. The figures of mothers and children on the screens are made of stone. The floors are light ash, the kitchen cabinets are light oak, while the counters are topped with black granite. “I like the contrast of dark and light,” she said. A copper water fountain recycles a gentle flow of water, adding both art and whimsy to the kitchen. In the dining area, a bleached oak dining table shows that Lovitt’s shopping skills have a long history. She found it at an estate sale 35 years ago. But nothing blocks the view outside Lovitt’s window, whether she’s in the kitchen or the dining or living areas. The view is green and gold — like her condo’s décor. readonlinenow.com

the encounter | july/august 2011

N. 16th St

S. 16th St

Leavenworth St

Jones St

Jackson St

Howard St

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Dodge St

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N. 15th St

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Historical Tour

H1 Skinner Macaroni

Omaha Convention & Visitors Bureau

Farnam St

Capitol Ave

Dodge St

G N. 10th St

S. 11th St S. 11th St

S. 13th St

N. 12th St S. 12th St S. 12th St

N. 11th St S. 11th St S. 11th St

N. 10th St N. 10th St S. 10th St S. 10th St S. 10th St

S. 10th St

N. 9th St S. 9th St

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S. 7th St

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Health Services M

Pubs, Taverns & Lounges

Restaurants

Historical Tour

Art Gallery Walk

Parking

Park

The Capitol District

The Old Market District

The Old Market District Interstate On-Ramp/Off-Ramp Railroad Walking Path/Trail

Downtown Omaha Map

North/south numbers 10-19 (numbers 1-9 on page 32)

omahapublications.com

Merchants Attractions Old Market / Downtown / Riverfront

Antiques

Antiques & Fine Art...C14.........................402.341.9942 Fairmont Antique Mall...E17......................402.345.1778 Joe’s Collectibles...F16............................ 402.612.1543 Second Chance Antiques...F16............... 402.346.4930

Book Stores

Jackson Street Booksellers...F17.............402.341.2664 New Realities Books & Gifts...G15............402.342.1863 Soul Desires Books & Coffee...F16 ......... 402.898.7600

Clothing & Accessories

Lotus ...E16............................................ 402.346.8080 Nebraska Clothing Co...G15 ....................402.346.6114 Nouvelle Eve...F15...................................402.345.4811 Overland Outfitters...G16........................ 402.345.2900 The Souq Ltd...G15................................. 402.342.2972 Trocadero...E15....................................... 402.934.8389

Downtown Hotels

Courtyard by Marriott...H12 .....................402.346.2200 DoubleTree Hotel...B/C10......................... 402.346.7600 Embassy Suites Hotel...H16..................... 402.346.9000 Fairfield Inn and Suites C2 ......................... 402.280.1516 Hampton Inn E2 ......................................402.345.5500 Hilton Convention Center Hotel G7 . .........402.998.3400 Hilton Garden Inn...C2 ............................. 402.341.4400 Holiday Inn E2...........................................402.341.0124 Homewood Suites D2 .............................. 402.345.5100 Hotel Deco XV B14................................... 402.991.4981 Magnolia Hotel... A16 ...............................402.342.2222

Home Furnishings

Sugar Daddy’s...F15................................. 402.341.3930 Habitat Restore (24th & Leavenworth)........402.342.0044 Julia Russell ...F12................................... 402.891.0691 Room...G15.............................................. 402.342.7666 Zongkers Custom Woods (S. 3rd St.). ....... 402.344.7784

Galleries

Hot Shops Art Center-1301 Gallery D2.... 402.342.6452 Artists’ Cooperative Gallery G15...............402.342.9617 Bemis Ctr.for Contemporary Arts.. E18 .... 402.341.7130 Fred Simon Gallery...G13..........................402.595.2122 Garden Of The Zodiac...G15..................... 402.341.1877 Images of Nature...G14............................402.341.8460 Anderson O’Brien Fine Art F16.................402.884.0911 Julia Russell ...F12...................................402.891.0691 Old Market Artists Gallery...G15...............402.561.6547 Omaha ClayWorks...F17.......................... 402.346.0560 Passageway Gallery...G15........................ 402.341.1910 Sirens at the Loft...F16............................ 402.933.9333 White Crane Gallery...G15........................402.345.1066

Health Services

Derek Fender, DDS...E15......................... 402.342.3901 Dr.James Polerecky DDS C15..................... 402.341.7576 Dr.Ritch Miller DC (2111 Douglas)............. 402.345.7500 Heartland Pathology A14..........................402.346.0195 Old Market Massage ...E15 (OM Center) ... 402.850.6651 Omaha Dental Spa (At the Loft) F16 .......... 402.505.4424 Omaha Yoga School...G15........................ 402.346.7813 The Downtown Dentist...E15.................... 402.342.3901 Physical Therapy East & West Physical Therapy...E15.......... 402.345.5078 Psychotherapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy Jannette Davis, MS, CST G13.................. 402.341.2230 Cynthia Duggin, MSW, LCSW E15............ 402.345.5078 Bobby Escolas, CMHT (Hypnotherapist)..... 402.990.2979 Jeff Stormberg, PhD C14.........................402.393.0642 Tim Swisher, MHR, LMHP, LADC G13....... 402.341.2230 Pharmacy Depot Drug C11...................... 402.544.DRUG Life Coach, Transpersonal Psych., Herbalist,Biopulsar Tm Analyst Chanell Jaramillo E15............ 402.689.0905

Midtown Crossing

The Afternoon...W23................................402.933.3809 Blanc Burgers + Bottles...V23..................402.502.3686 Callahan Financial Planning...V23............. 402.341.2000 Cantina Laredo...W21..............................402.345.6000 Coldstone Creamery/ Rocky Mountain Chocolate...X22............. 402.505.4192 CRAVE...W22...........................................402.345.9999 Delice European Bakery...W23.................402.505.9500 Fashion Cleaners...X22.............................402.916.1987 Glo Lounge...X23..................................... 402.342.4505 The Grey Plume...W22............................. 402.763.4447 Ingredient...X23....................................... 402.715.4444 Loft 610...W22........................................402.885.6800 Marcus Midtown Cinema...X23................ 402.345.0102 Parliament Pub...W21.............................. 402.934.3301 Republic of Couture...W22....................... 402.933.7555 Three Dog Bakery...X23........................... 402.509.9237 Tru Salon & Spa...X22..............................402.933.8988 Element by Westin...X21.......................... 402.614.8080 Wohlner’s Neighborhood Grocery and Deli...X21.......................................... 402.551.6875 Verizon Wireless by Z Wireless ...X23........ 402.991.1180

Museums & Attractions

Omaha Children’s Museum (500 S. 20th).. 402.342.6164 The Durham...H19.................................... 402.444.5071 Joslyn Art Museum... (2200 Dodge)...........402.342.3300 Henry Doorly Zoo... (3701 So 10th St)........ 402.733.8401 Lauritzen Gardens... (100 Bancroft)............402.346.4002 Ollie the Trolley........................................ 402.597.3596 Omaha Symphony Assoc. A16..................402.342.3560 Qwest Center Omaha H7...........................402.341.1500 Ticket Omaha www.ticketomaha.org........402.345.0606

Acupunture Omaha Healing Arts 1216 Howard E15..... 402.345.5078 Old Market Properties Ellen Zinn L.Ac E15.................................. 402.345.5078 902 Dodge Condos G11............................402.215.7118 Dr.David Bole L.Ac. E15........................... 402.345.5078 Brandeis Building A13..............................402.345.6564 Farnam 1600 Building (1905 Harney St.)....402.342.1616 Grubb/Ellis Pacific Realty F15..................402.345.5866 Ayurvedic Healing (both at Omaha Healing Arts Center) Dr.Rajesh Kotecha E15............................ 402.345.5078 Harney Street ApartmentsG18...................402.934.7510 Joyce Librunner LMT E15.........................402.740.0366 Old Market Lofts...K3............................... 402.346.1000 Riverfront Place C14................................ 402.397.4837 Shamrock Development/ Massage Therapy (all at Omaha Healing Arts Center) Sandy Aquila LMT...E15.......................... 402.345.5078 Paxton Building C14................................. 402.934.7711 Lisa Christensen LMT...E15..................... 402.850.6651 Skinner Macaroni Apartments...D17.........402.346.2346 Joyce Linbrunner LMT E15.......................402.740.0366 The Cornerstone ApartmentsF15.............. 402.346.0510 Tara Thompson LMT E15.........................402.706.7398 The Greenhouse Apts...H13..................... 402.341.3200 Julia Beutler LMT E15.................................................... TipTop Building...C2.................................402.345.8000 Rachel Andress LMT E15............................................... Kirstin Kluver LMT E15................................................... Pubs & Taverns Bar 415...E15........................................... 402.346.7455 BarryO’s ...G15........................................ 402.341.8032 Medical Commercial Optical Co....E16...................402.344.0219 Billy Frogg’s Grille & Bar...F15.................. 402.341.4427 Creighton Family Healthcare ...D19......... 402.280.5500 Dubliner Pub...E15................................... 402.342.5887 Downtown Chiropractic (2111 Douglas)..... 402.345.7500 Eat the Worm...E16...................................402.614.4240 Embassy Suites Old Market...H16.............402.346.9000

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the encounter | july/august 2011

Davenport St

Chicago St

Cass St

California St

Mike Fahey St

Burt St

Cuming St

Izard St

N. 1

t 0S

N. 11 St

N. 14 St

N. 12 St

Mike Fahey St

TD Ameritrade Park Omaha

Cass St

Lodging

Pubs, Taverns & Lounges

Restaurants

Parking

The Old Market District Interstate On-Ramp/Off-Ramp Railroad Walking Path/Trail

Dodge St

Harney St

Farnam St

y we De

e Av

e rn Tu V

d lv rB

Midtown Crossing Map

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erf Riv

N. 15 St

N. 16 St

Izard St

N. 14 St

N. 34 St

N. 12 St N. 12 St

Dr Riverfront

N. 33 St

S. 33 St

Nicholas St

N. 32 Ave

N. 31 Ave

S. 31 Ave

N. 13 St N. 13 St N. 13 St N. 13 St

N. 10 St N. 10 St

N. 12 St

july/august 2011 | the encounter U

Douglas St

Dodge St

Farnam St

Turner Blvd

32 S. 34 St

North/south numbers 1-9 (numbers 10-19 on page 30) Turner Bl

vd S. 31 St

Downtown Omaha Map

omahapublications.com

Qwest Center Omaha

Merchants Attractions Old Market / Downtown / Riverfront

Farrell’s Bar & 9th St.Deli H11 ................. 402.884.8818 Havana Garage Cigar Bar...G15................ 402.871.9528 Irie...F14.................................................. 402.504.4901 J.D.Tucker’s Bar...G15.............................. 402.934.5190 Jackson St.Tavern...F14........................... 402.991.5637 Julio’s...D16.............................................402.345.6921 La Buvette Wine & Grocery...G16.............402.344.8627 M’s Pub...F15..........................................402.342.2550 Mr.Toad’s...G15........................................402.345.4488 Myth Lounge...F16...................................402.884.6985 Nomad Lounge...G18. .............................. 402.884-1231 Nosh Wine G11.........................................402.614.2121 O’Connor’s Irish Pub...E16....................... 402.934.9790 Old Chicago...F15..................................... 402.341.1616 Old Market Tavern...G16............................402.341.0191 Old Mattress Factory E6........................... 402.346.9116 Rock Bottom Brewery...F15...................... 402.614.9333 Sake Bombers @ Blue...E15.....................402.408.5566 Slowdown D4........................................... 402.345.7569 The Stadium Club Sports Bar & Grill G15...402.359.1290 Stokes Bar & Grill...F15............................402.408.9000 T Henery’s Pub...F14................................ 402.345.3651 The French Cafe...G16............................. 402.341.3547 The Underground...G16............................ 402.341.3547 Union Pizzeria & Sports Bar C2. ............ 402.932.2929 UpstreamBrewing Co...F16.......................402.344.0200 Urban Wine Company...G18.....................402.934.0005 Waters Edge Lounge @ Embassy Suites...H16..............................402.346.9000 The Zin Room B14................................... 402.991.0660

Restaurants

801 Chophouse at the Paxton...C14..........402.341.1222 Ahmad’s...G15..........................................402.341.9616 Billy Frogg’s Grille & Bar...F15.................. 402.341.4427 Blue Sushi Sake Grille...E15.....................402.408.5566 The Boiler Room...F17...............................402.916.9274 The Diner...F15........................................ 402.341.9870 Eat the Worm...E16...................................402.614.4240 Falling Water Grille@ Embassy Ste. H16...402.346.9000 Farrells Bar...H11..................................... 402.884.9947 Flatiron Cafe... (17th & Howard)..................402.344.3040 The French Cafe...G16............................. 402.341.3547 Hiro 88...D16...........................................402.933-5168 House of Lee...E16 . ................................ 402.991.9330 Indian Oven...G15.................................... 402.342.4856 Jackson St.Tavern...F17........................... 402.991.5637 Joe Banana’s (1022 S.10th St.)................. 402.346.7227 Julio’s...D16.............................................402.345.6921 La Buvette Wine & Grocery...G16.............402.344.8627 Liberty Tavern G7.................................... 402.998.4321 Little King...E16.......................................402.344.2264 M’s Pub...F15..........................................402.342.2550 Matsu Sushi...G14....................................402.346.3988 Michael’s at the Market...F14................... 402.346.1205 Nicola’s...E16...........................................402.345.8466 O Casual Dining & Lounge...G14............... 402.502.7888 O’Connors Irish Pub...E16........................ 402.934.9790 Old Chicago...F15 .................................... 402.341.1616 Omaha Prime...G15.................................. 402.341.7040 Passport Restaurant...F17 . .....................402.344.3200 Rick’s Cafe Boatyard K7...........................402.345.4545 Rock Bottom Tap Room...F15................... 402.614.9333 Roja Old Market...E14............................... 402.346.9190 Spaghetti Works...F16.............................. 402.422.0770 Spencer’s (at Hilton Garden Inn) G12. .........402.280.8888 The Stadium Club Sports Bar & Grill G15...402.359.1290 Stokes Bar & Grill…F15...........................402.408.9000 Subway...E15............................................402.341.8814 Sullivan’s Steakhouse B13. ...................... 402.342.0077 Trini’s...G15.............................................402.346.8400 Fork...G15.............................................402.932.9600 Upstream Brewing Co....F16.....................402.344.0200 V.Mertz...G15...........................................402.345.8980 Vincenzo’s Ristorante...E15...................... 402.342.4010 Vivace...F15.............................................402.342.2050 Wheatfields Express...F15.........................402.991.0917 Zio’s Pizzeria...F16...................................402.344.2222

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Specialty foods & coffee

13th Street Coffee CO...E16.....................402.345.2883 Aromas...G18........................................... 402.614.7009 Bliss Bakery...G18.................................... 402.934.7450 Cubby’s Old Markey Grocery...E17........... 402.341.2900 Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream...E16................. 402.933.5280 Old Market Candy Shop...G16..................402.344.8846 Old Market Tea House...E16.....................402.934.8538 Patrick’s Market...C15.............................. 402.884.1600 Soul Desires Books & Coffee...G16........... 402.898.7600 Ted & Wally’s Ice Cream...F16.................. 402.341.5827

Specialty Shops

Ashley Collectibles...E15.......................... 402.934.3100 Big Brain Productions...F17......................402.342.2885 Cibola of Omaha...G16..............................402.342.1200 City Limits...F16....................................... 402.345.3570 Cornerstone Gem & Bead Co....E16..........402.346.4367 Drastic Plastic...E16..................................402.991.1383 DSR Power Sports...E15............................402.991.1383 Etc. Whimsical Gifts...G16........................402.342.2846 Garden Flowers...G16.............................. 402.614.5661 Garden of the Zodiac...G15........................402.341.1877 Goldsmith Silversmith...G16......................402.342.1737 Homer’s Records...E15.............................402.346.0264 Iron Decor & More...F16........................... 402.346.6123 Jay Welter Cigars...(18th & Jackson)........ 402.345.1965 Kessler’s...F17......................................... 402.715.5888 New Realities Books & Gifts...G15............ 402.342.1863 OM Gifts & Imports...E15......................... 402.345.5078 Overland Outfitters...G16.........................402.345.2972 Perspective Jewelry...E15........................ 402.934.4416 Red Square...G15..................................... 402.342.8878 SG Roi Tobacconist...G16......................... 402.341.9264 Souq Ltd...G15......................................... 402.342.2972 Tannenbaum Christmas Shop...G16..........402.934.8389 Trocadero...E15........................................402.934.8389

services

At the Loft Spa...F16................................ 402.505.4100 Michael Boyle, Attorney...F16................... 402.359.1000 Commercial Optical...E16......................... 402.344.0219 Don Fiedler Law Offices...C14..................402.346.6263 First National Bank...F16.......................... 402.885.2574 Fringes Salon & Spa...G16........................402.345.0404 Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce...D15.................. 402.346.5000 Omaha Convention & Visitors Bureau...G14..................... 402.444.4660 Hair Market Salon...G14...........................402.345.3692 J P Cooke Rubber Stamps...D16...............402.342.7175 Kempo Karate...(1907 Farnam St)............402.905.6865 Klein Law Offices...H16.............................402.391.1871 Magical Journeys Carriage Service...G15. 402.453.6745 Movers Not Shakers...H13........................ 402.614.9770 Old Market Car Wash...D18...................... 402.393.2819 Old Market Encounter..............................402.884.2000 Old Market Website..........................www.oldmarket.com Omaha Healing Arts Center...E15............. 402.345.5078 Omaha Public Library...C13......................402.444.4800 Pinnacle Bank...G12................................. 402.346.9180 Security National Bank...G16.................... 402.344.7300 Sirens...F16.............................................402.933.9333 Stinson, Morrison, Hecker LLP...E14..........402.342.1700 Urbane Salon & Spa...D15........................402.934.2909 Susie’s Baskets...D14.............................. 402.341.4650 Sutera Law Offices...F15.......................... 402.342.3100 Visions Custom Framing Studio...E17....... 402.342.0020

◆ ALFREDO ◆ SPICY MARINARA

◆ BEER CHEESE ◆ HOT SPICY ITALIAN

◆ RED CLAM ◆ PESTO CREAM

◆ WHITE CLAM ◆ POMODORO

◆ HOT NAKED

◆ ALFREDO

The Old Market’s family favorite since 1974

Theatres & Entertainment

Blue Barn Theater...F17............................402.345.1576 FilmStreams...D4..................................... 402.933.0259 Holland Performing Arts Center...E12.......402.345.0606 Omaha Symphony...A16...........................402.342.3836 Opera Omaha...A14.................................402.346.4398 Orpheum Theater...A15............................402.345.0606 The Rose...(20th & Farnam).....................402.345.4849

11th & HOWARD (402) 422-0770 LUNCH & DINNER EVERY DAY FROM 11 A.M.

the encounter | july/august 2011

JOIN THE Y AND MAKE A CHANGE FOR GOOD

Whether it’s starting an exercise routine, trying a new class or meeting new friends the Y is here to help you meet your life goals. Join today at www.metroymca.org Use promo code MAKE to waive the joining fee. Expires 8/31/11 Online purchases only.

TIME TO VOTE! Best of Omaha® 2012

Every Sat. & Sun. 10-6 Thurs. & Fri. 10-6

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july/august 2011 | the encounter

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Pinnacle Bank would like to welcome you downtown. Visit us in the historical Riley Building at 1016 Douglas On The Mall, 402.346.9180 or online at pinnbank.com

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Downtown and Council Bluffs 09_POG14_DOWNTOWN.indd 1

Ongoing Events

Through 7/10: CAPTURE The Moment: The Pulitzer Prize Photographs. The Durham Museum. Created by the Newseum, Capture the Moment: The Pulitzer Prize Photographs, is a dramatic display of awardwinning Pulitzer photography. From the poignant shot of an ailing Babe Ruth watching his number being retired at Yankee Stadium, to the U.S. Marines raising an American flag atop Mount Suribachi on Iwo Jima, the photographs illustrate the enduring power of the still image. The exhibit includes each of the photographers and photo staffs who have won the prize since the Pulitzer board began awarding it to photographers in 1942. The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10 St. 4445071. For more info, visit www.durhammuseum.org. Through 7/17: Beyond Baseball: The Life of Roberto Clemente. El Museo Latino. A Smithsonreadonlinenow.com

ian traveling exhibition, captures images of Clemente’s life and his accomplishments. The exhibition includes photographs, history, and bilingual information on the tradition of baseball in Latin America. Roberto Clemente (1934-1972) remains a legendary figure in sports, philanthropy, and the hearts of millions of Puerto Ricans, Americans, and Latinos. Recurring daily. 4701 S 25 St. MWF/10am5pm; TuTh/1-5pm; Sat/10am-2pm. $5 general admission; $4 college students; $3.50 K-12 & senior citizens; Free for members. For more information, visit http://www.elmuseolatino.org or call 402-731-1137. Through 7/30: Bemis Gardens. Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. An exhibition and design laboratory that will transform the Bemis Center’s exterior into a public art site and urban garden and speculate on the urban condition of the contemporary art center and its relationship with down-

town Omaha. Recurring daily. 724 S 12th St. Free admission. Tu-Sat/11am-5pm. For more information, visit http://bemiscenter.org or call 402-341-7130. Through 8/25: Independence, Revolution and Liberty. El Museo Latino. Features works created for Mexico’s bi-centennial and centennial commemoration in 2010 by contemporary graphics artists from the Independent Artists Workshop of the Centro de Formación y Producción de Artes Gráficas de Colima known as “La Parota,” (Center of Education and Production in Graphic Art). Recurring daily. 4701 S 25 St. MWF/10am5pm; TuTh/1-5pm; Sat/10am-2pm. For more information, visit http://www.elmuseolatino.org or call 402-731-1137. Through 8/26: “Dread in Exile.” Love’s Jazz and Arts Center. An exhibition featuring a survey of works by Albert Chong. 2510 N 24th St. For more information, visit www.lovesjazzartcenter.org or

b e

Member FDIC

July/August Calendar of Events 3/31/09 10:27:28 AM

call 402-502-5291. Through 8/27: Hollywood Candy and Fairmont Antiques Saturday Outdoor Market. Hollywood Candy & Fairmont Mercantile. Antique vendors will have a wide variety of items on sale, including home furnishings, nostalgic items, vinyl records, and much more. Hollywood Candy’s Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain will be serving Nathan’s Hot Dogs, White Castle Hamburgers, and Orsi’s Pizza for lunch and dinner. Recurring weekly on Saturday. 1209 Jackson St. Free admission. 10am10pm. For more information, visit http:// w w w. o m a h a f a i r mont.com or call 402346-9746. Through 8/28: Joslyn Treasures: Well Traveled and Rarely Seen. Joslyn Art Museum. Joslyn Art Museum’s collection is not only known and admired by those in Omaha who consider the museum their own, but is respected by institutions worldwide. A quick look at the itinerary of the most popular works over the past years

would make even the most seasoned traveler jealous — requested for over three dozen exhibitions, objects from the Joslyn collection have toured from coast to coast as well as to Europe. Joslyn Treasures: Well Traveled and Rarely Seen reunites these familiar and important favorites with highlights from the vaults to showcase forty works from antiquity through the twentieth century. Hours: Tu, W, F, Sat/10am4pm; Th/10am-8 pm; Sun/noon-4pm. $8 adults; $6 senior citizens and college students; $5 youth (ages 5-17); Free 4 & under. 2200 Dodge St. For more information, visit http://www. joslyn.org or call 402342-3300. Through 9/24: River City Star Saturday Public Lunch Cruise. River City Star Riverboat. Spend your Saturday afternoon on a 1½-hour lunch cruise featuring a “Build Your Own” Deli Buffet. The River City Star takes a beautiful cruise on the Missouri River past Freedom Park Naval Yard, the Omaha Riverfront,

and under the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Reservations required. Cash bar available. Recurring weekly on Saturday. 151 Freedom Park Rd. $27 adults; $25 senior citizens (65+); $15 children 12 & under. 11:30am-1pm. For more information, visit http://www.rivercitystar.com or call 402-342-7827. Through 10/16: Omaha Farmers Market. Offers the best selection of fresh produce and meats, as well as a wide variety of unique specialty items: gourmet foods, organic fruits and vegetables, dairy products, cut flowers and bedding plants, handmade crafts, and more. Recurring weekly on Saturday in the Old Market 11th & Jackson Sts. 8am-12:30pm; recurring weekly on Sunday in Aksarben Village 67th & Mercy Rd. 9am-1pm. For more information, visit http://www.omahafarmersmarket.org or call 402-345-5401. Through 1/8: Dinosaurs: Dawn of the Ice Age. Omaha Children’s Museum. Stomping and roar-

the encounter | july/august 2011

Sponsored by Pinnacle Bank ing robotic dinosaurs and Ice Age mammals are invading Omaha Children’s Museum this summer as the museum celebrates its 35th anniversary with the new exhibit Dinosaurs: Dawn of the Ice Age open May 28, 2011 through January 8, 2012. For more information, visit www.ocm.org

July

Italian & Mediterranean specialties served in“the Old Market’s most beautiful dining room,” complemented with the area’s largest selection of Italian wines.

1108 Howard Street

•

342-2050

www.VivaceOmaha.com

The Old Market’s favorite spot for lunch & dinner.

Award-winning food & wine list – open late 7 nights a week. Call for reservations.

M’s Pub 36

422 S. 11th Street

•

342-2550

www.MsPubOmaha.com

july/august 2011 | the encounter

7/1: Cox Movies & Music – Jurassic Park and Kris Lager Band. Holland Performing Arts Center. Enjoy live music from area bands followed by a classic movie all in the Holland Center East Lawn. Reserve a picnic basket with a pre-made meal. Blankets and chairs welcome. (Event will move to covered arrival plaza in the event of rain). 12th & Douglas Sts. Free and open to the public. 7:30pm. For more information, visit http:// www.omahaperformingarts.org

acclaimed director of such classic films as Badlands, Days of Heaven, and the Thin Red Line, the film is an impressionistic story of a Midwestern family in the 1950s and follows the life journey of the eldest son, Jack, through his innocent childhood to his disillusioned adult years as he tries to reconcile a complicated relationship with his father. 1340 Mike Fahey St. For more information, visit http:// www.filmstreams.org or call 402-933-0259. 7/2, 7/12, 7/21, 7/30: “Decades of Deco” Architectural Tour. Joslyn Art Museum and Durham Museum. Completed in the same year as the Empire State Building, Omaha’s Durham Museum and Joslyn Art Museum are two of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the U.S. A combined walk-about in and around both buildings will inspire and educate about Art Deco. $10 Joslyn/ Durham members; $15 general public. 11am-12:30pm. Guests provide own transportation. Reservations required. For more information, visit http://www. joslyn.org or call 402661-3862.

mission. Must be 21+ to attend. For more information, visit http://www.harrahscouncilbluffs.com 7/7, 7/9: Go Deep! The Model Railroad Garden. Lauritzen Gardens. Study the railroad heritage of Omaha in a miniature model railroad garden. Designed and built by landscape design Paul Busse and his team at Applied Imagination, the garden features model trains running along seven different lines past handcrafted replicas of Omaha landmarks. Participants will enjoy a special behind-the -scenes look at this garden feature. 100 Bancroft St. $7.50/member; $10/non-member. 1011:30am. For more information, visit http:// www.omahabotanicalgardens.org or call 402-346-4002. 7/8-7/9: Riverfront Jazz & Blues Festival. Lewis & Clark Landing. National, regional, and local artists will come to Downtown Omaha to perform some of the greatest jazz and blues music. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. For more information, visit http:// www.omahajazzandblues.com or call 402345-0606.

7/1-7/14: Page One: A Year Inside The New York Times. Film Streams, Ruth Sokolof Theater. Directed by Andrew Rossi, the documentary gains access to The New York Times newsroom and inner workings of the Media Desk in its chronicles of the transformation of 7/3: The Monkees. the media industry Stir Concert Cove. 45 at its time of greatest years after their hit 7/11: David Gray. turmoil. 1340 Mike singles took record Orpheum Theater. Fahey St. For more in- players by storm, After 12 million alformation, visit http:// Davy Jones, Micky bum sales, having www.filmstreams.org Dolenz, and Peter the bestselling album in Ireland ever or call 402-933-0259. bring the first Italian & MediterraneanTork specialties served with “White Ladder,” live performance by OldTree Market’s in“theThe 7/1-8/4: of most beautiful a BAFTA nomination The Monkees with the in a full for his soundtrack ” complemented Life. dining Film room, Streams, Doors open largest selection ofdecade. Italian wines. Ruth area’s Sokolof Theater. work on the 2004 film at 6pm. Show starts at From Terrence Malick, “A Way of Life,” and a 1108 8pm. Howard • 342-2050 $35Street general adwww.VivaceOmaha.com

omahapublications.com

Grammy nomination, British singer-songwriter David Gray brings his Lost and Found 2011 Tour to Omaha. Tickets starting at $29.99. For more information, visit http://www. o m a h a p e r fo r m i n garts.org 7/16-7/17: Railroad Days: An Annual Celebration of All Things Train and Track. Sponsored by Union Pacific Railroad, a fun-filled weekend to learn about five area railroad-themed attractions and some influential railroaders dating from the Civil War to modern day. Activities will be held at Lauritzen Gardens, The Durham Museum, The Union Pacific Railroad Museum, The RailsWest Railroad Museum, and the Historic General Dodge House. Admission is $15 per family and allows admittance at all five institutions for the weekend (Limit 2 adults). A $5 pass is available for one additional adult with the purchase of a family pass. Transportation provided by Iowa West Foundation. For more information, visit h t t p : / / w w w. o m a habotanicalgardens. org 7/21: Melissa Etheridge. Stir Concert Cove. Oscar and Grammy awardwinning rock singersongwriter of the hits “Come to My Window” and “I’m the Only One’” comes to the concert series. Doors open at 6pm. Show starts at 8pm. $40 general admisreadonlinenow.com

sion. Must be 21+ to attend. For more information, visit http://www.harrahscouncilbluffs.com 7/29-8/4: Louder Than A Bomb. Film

Streams, Ruth Sokolof Theater. From directors Greg Jacobs and Jon Siskel, the awardwinning, feature-length documentary chronicles the stereotypeconfounding stories of four teams from Chicago-area schools competing in the world’s largest youth poetry slam, a competition known as “Louder than a Bomb.” 1340 Mike Fahey St. For more information, visit http:// www.filmstreams.org or call 402-933-0259.

August

8/18, 8/20: Go Deep! Daisy Days. Lauritzen Gardens. Daisies, asters, sunflowers, goldenrods, blazing stars, and chrysanthemums are in peak bloom in late summer and fall. Participants will observe these plants and learn about the unique structure of their composite flowers. 100 Bancroft St. $7.50/member; $10/ non-member. 1011:30am. For more information, visit h t t p : / / w w w. o m a habotanicalgardens. org or call 402-3464002. 8/19: Cox Movies & Music – Shrek and Funk Trek. Holland Performing Arts Center. Enjoy live music from area bands followed by a classic movie all in the Holland Center East Lawn. Reserve a picnic basket with a premade meal. Blankets and chairs welcome. (Event will move to

covered arrival plaza in the event of rain). 12th & Douglas Sts. Free and open to the public. 7:30pm. For more information, visit http://www.omahaperformingarts.org 8/19-8/21: Greek Festival. Lewis & Clark Landing. Come celebrate with delicious Greek food, dancing, entertainment, boutique, and artifacts. 515 N. Riverfront Drive. For more information, visit http://www.stjohnsgreekorthodox.org 8/21: 21st Annual Corporate Cycling Challenge. Heartland of America Park. A challenge of three tours—10, 25, and 42 miles long—featuring beautiful scenery and historical landmarks in a blend of urban and rural riding. The event is for all ages and abilities. Start and finish lines are staged in front of the fountain at the Heartland of America Park. 8th and Farnam Sts. For more information, visit http://www.corporatecycling.com or call 402-346-8003. 8/31: Steely Dan. Orpheum Theater. Responding to overwhelming popular demand, the “JazzRock Ambassadors to the Galaxy” bring their Shuffle Diplomacy 2011 Tour to Omaha with the Miles High Big Band featuring The Embassy Brats. Tickets starting at $62.50. For more information, visit http:// www.omahaperformingarts.org

Come & experience what all of Omaha is talking about!

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Cubby’s Old Market Grocery 601 S. 13th St.

the encounter | july/august 2011

MUSIC &

O M A H A PE R F O R M I N G A R T S

FREE

COMMUNITY EVENT!

Friday, August 19, 2011

Friday, July 1, 2011

Shrek (PG) and Donkey set out on a quest to ﬁnd Princess Fiona and return serenity to the swamp.

Jurassic Park (PG-13) is an action-packed story of an island amusement park ﬁlled with cloned dinosaurs.

Funk Trek performs jazz and soul inspired funk that will satisfy your need to get down and boogie.

Kris Lager Band wraps joy, sorrow, love and lament into one rootsy music experience.

Holland Center • East Lawn • Opens at 7:30 PM • Music at 7:45 PM • Movie at Dusk To learn more visit OmahaPerformingArts.org

Omaha’s Newest and Most Unique Dining Experience Happy Hour Sunday - all day Monday - Saturday 4pm - 6:30pm Reverse happy hour 10:30pm - midnight

316 South 15th Street Adjacent to Hotel Deco

402-991-0660 www.zinomaha.com

Classic Food with fresh ingredients, global inspiration, and contemporary twist. Daily lunch and dinner specials....soup year round.

Happy Hour and Tapas • Tuesday-Friday 4 pm-6 pm • Friday and Saturday 11 pm -2 am

$3 wells and $3 Beers Open 11am Tuesday-Friday • Closed Monday Saturday Brunch 9-11 am • Full Menu 11 am - 11 pm Sunday Brunch 10 am - 2 pm • Full Menu 2 pm - 9 pm

1125 Jackson Street • 402-991-5637

TP LACE

Ups

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2011