THE READER - EL PERICO OMAHA JULY 2021 by PioneerMedia.Me

FO OD ISS UE

JU LY 202 1 | vo lU M E 28 | ISSUE 5

No Going Gently Into The Good Night For Ernie

Chambers Story by

Leo Adam Biga

PHOTOS by

Lend Frison

JOBS: Girls Inc. Eureka! STEM Camp NEWS: Juanita Johnson DISH: The Pressure Cooker CULTURE: Discover North Omaha HooDoo: Summertime Blues FILM: 5 Filmmakers I’d like to have dinner with FILM REVIEW: In the Heights HEARTLAND HEALING: Summer Save Us OVER THE EDGE: Postcards from Over the Edge PLUS: PICKS, COMICS, CROSSWORD EL PERICO: Los 11 platos latinoamericanos que debes probar en Omaha | El acceso a los alimentos aún está en crisis | Fotos comunitarias

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JOBS: Girls Inc. Eureka! STEM Camp

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NEWS: Juanita Johnson: An Uncomplicated Politician in a Complicated Time

c o n t e n t s

COVER: No Going Gently Into The Good Night For Ernie Chambers

publisher/editor........... John Heaston john@thereader.com graphic designers........... Ken Guthrie Albory Seijas news..........................Robyn Murray copy@thereader.com lead reporter............... Chris Bowling chris@thereader.com associate publisher.... Karlha Velásquez karlha@el-perico.com report for america corps member........ Bridget Fogarty bridget@el-perico.com creative coordinator...... Lynn Sánchez lynn@pioneermedia.me

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

DISH: Entrée-preneurs With The Grit And Audacity To Open In A Pandemic

HooDoo: Summertime Blues

CULTURE: Discover North O!

PICKS: Cool Things To Do in July

FILM: 5 Filmmakers I’d Like To Have Dinner With REVIEW: In the Heights/Inside Reviews

CROSSWORD/COMICS: New Puzzle, Ted Rall, Doonesbury & Ask Jen

healing...............Michael Braunstein info@heartlandhealing.com arts/visual.................... Mike Krainak mixedmedia@thereader.com eat.................................. Sara Locke crumbs@thereader.com film.................................Ryan Syrek cuttingroom@thereader.com hoodoo................. B.J. Huchtemann bjhuchtemann@gmail.com music..................... Houston Wiltsey backbeat@thereader.com over the edge..............Tim McMahan tim.mcmahan@gmail.com theater.................... Beaufield Berry coldcream@thereader.com

OUR SISTER MEDIA CHANNELS

HEARTLAND HEALING: Summer, Save Us!

IN MEMORIAM: Gone But Not Forgotten

OVER THE EDGE: Postcards from Over the Edge OUR DIGITAL MARKETING SERVICES

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11 Latin American Dishes to Try in Omaha // Los 11 platos latinoamericanos que debes probar en Omaha

El acceso a los alimentos aún está en crisis // Affordable Foods Still in Crisis

JULY 2021

Community Photos // Fotos comunitarias Proud to be Carbon Neutral

A THOUSAND WORDS

PHOTO BY

Mike Machian

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June 12, 2021 — Omaha’s 100th annual Cinco de Mayo Parade was finally held in June after being postponed for 13 and a half months because of the pandemic. Despite a smaller crowd and a few masks, the perfect weather and enthusiastic participants made everything feel normal again. This equestrian carried her chihuahua with her as she rode in the parade. Afterward, she let the crowds pet her horse, but the tiny dog may have stolen the show.

JULY 2021

O M A H A

J O B S

Breaking Down STEM Barriers for Girls Girls in Eureka! learn how to build rockets and robots –– and stay confident STORY by Leah Cates | PHOTOs By Chris Bowling

marié Alston, for example, is programming an app for journaling.

hen Tyjae Stovall learned she’d spend her summer caring for snakes, raptors and other wild animals at Fontenelle Forest, the teenager –– who considered herself “finicky” around wildlife –– felt squeamish. “That wasn’t [my] choice at all. I said, ‘I don’t like nature.’” recalled Stovall, who planned to pursue law but was sent to Fontenelle Forest by Eureka! after they were unable to place her at her preferred “externship” site (an externship is similar to an internship but designed for minors). The experience pushed Stovall far beyond her comfort zone –– until she fell in love with the animals. Soon to be a high school senior, Stovall is preparing to attend school for veterinary science and start a career rehabilitating wild animals. “I [formed] relationships with [the animals],” she said. “It didn’t [even] feel like work.” Helping girls like Stovall discover their dream job is a hallmark of Eureka!, which is offered via the Omaha chapter of Girls Inc., a nationwide nonprofit that educates and mentors 5- to 18-year-old girls from underserved communities. Like every girl in Eureka!’s five-year program, Stovall applied in seventh grade, snagged one of approximately 30 open spots and spent two summers at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she dove into STEM, from building bottle rockets to programming robots. The next two summers, girls venture into the community to develop workplace skills at externships like Stovall’s stint at Fontenelle Forest and earn $500 stipends. Omaha Girls Inc. Director of Programs Emily Mwaja said Eureka! teaches girls

“I went through a really bad depression, which I’m overcoming ... I started journaling, and it helped,” she said. “It’s my passion.” Soon, Alston will do what Stovall is now doing in her fifth year of Eureka!: create a resume and apply to colleges with Eureka!’s guidance.

Jayda Lee (front) works on building her robot inside UNO’s Roskens Hall on June 16. “Usually [during] summer, you just sit in the house and don’t really think,” she said. “Eureka! gets you busy and makes your mind [move].” like Stovall, who’s African American, to navigate being the only Black woman in a room teeming with white people; according to Pew Research Center, 71% of architects and engineers are white, while just 5% are Black. While not every Girls Inc. girl is a person of color, many are. “It’s scary [even] as an adult Black woman when you walk in. All eyes are on you,” Mwaja said. “We teach girls to be resilient and advocate for themselves, and say ‘I’m bringing to the table what everybody’s bringing to the table ... this is my space.’” Besides encouraging solidarity among girls –– who keep the “sisterhood” strong throughout the school year with group activities –– Eureka! partners with businesses and nonprofits where women of color mentor externs. That way, girls like 13-year-old Jayda Lee, an aspiring architect, will know not all scientists are white men. “We’re changing that [stereotype] as a generation,” Lee said.

Omaha Girls Inc. Director of Programs Emily Mwaja stands in a Eureka! classroom at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

JULY 2021

Preparing to negotiate a predominately white workplace is essential for all girls in the program, Mwaja said, not just those who are STEM-obsessed; girls can extern at places like law firms and newspapers and put a personal touch on STEM projects. Thirteen-year-old Sa-

Stovall’s applications will go to programs that prepare her for careers in veterinary science. After five years in Eureka!, she’s ready to own a veterinary clinic and nurse wild animals back to health. “I can accomplish it, and I’m a young African-American girl,” Stovall said. “That’s the goal of Eureka!: To show that anything a man can do, a woman can do.”

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N E W S

An Uncomplicated Politician in a Complicated Time

Can Juanita Johnson Find The Answers to Change Omaha?

PHOTOS AND STORY by Chris Bowling

he view outside Juanita Johnson’s office is not spectacular. Across from City Hall she can see a six-story parking garage while city buses flow westward down Farnam Street. Inside, the room’s sparse decorations include a portrait of a young Black person looking upward. Two photo albums sit empty on a shelf. She hopes to fill them with evidence of her accomplishments, a kind of proof of purchase to show community members in years to come.

But Johnson is stepping into this office at a time that’s anything but uncomplicated. Preceded by protests and a pandemic, the 2021 city elections carried more drama, controversy and urgency to address inequity, especially in her district of northeast Omaha, than in recent years. And while every race from mayor to city council was challenged, Johnson, a political outsider and longtime community advocate, was the only candidate to unseat an incumbent.

That’s the kind of legislator Johnson wants to be: utilitarian, analytical and, above all, beholden to the people she represents — an uncomplicated philosophy that connects back to the reason Johnson ran in the first place.

The question now is how will Johnson fit into the dynamics of the city council, which includes two other new members in seats that were either vacated or filled by an appointee. Topics like reallocating funds from the police and slowing the destruction of properties to make way for new development gained little traction before. Now some hope Johnson’s election, as well as close calls in other races, will send a message that the community needs the city to be more proactive.

“We needed a change,” said Johnson, 59, a Democrat, who beat 12-year incumbent Ben Gray, also a Democrat, in May to represent District 2 on Omaha’s City Council. “We needed someone that would represent the community [by] being the change agent for that community. And I identified myself as being that.”

“I think there has to be a real reckoning with how the city is run,” said activist Ja Keen Fox.

July 2021

“Currently, city council rubber stamps [everything] without question, or if there are questions, they’re not presented in front of the public. And so we need to better understand who our city council people are, and they should be willing to perform in front of the people.” Others wonder whether the results of the 2021 election were enough to send that message. Mayor Jean Stothert won a third term by large margins. Many candidates, like Jasmine Harris who ran for mayor and espoused social justice causes, never made it past the primary. “It almost feels like, will people see how serious it is?” Harris asked. “Because it’s a lot of the same people who do the work [year after year], right? And people are getting tired.” Johnson herself may not use the language some want to hear. As of right now, she isn’t in favor of taking money from the police if it means cutting back training. When she talks about bringing jobs to the community, she said the city needs to reexamine how it hires labor for contracts. It’s a

balancing act, she said, and often there won’t be clear, onesize-fits-all answers. Accessibility and commitment to the community she’s lived in nearly all her life are at the center of Johnson’s political philosophy. And if she can let those principles guide her, Johnson said she’ll have a good shot to set local politics in a new direction. “That kind of input is good,” she said. “It’s challenging; it’s thought-provoking. It says [citizens] care. Only when we identify issues and concerns are we able to make a difference. A huge difference. A change. Are those conversations uncomfortable? Yeah, they’re uncomfortable. But we have to get past being uncomfortable and deal with ‘Where do we go from here?’”

“My Neighborhood Is a Reflection of Me” Though Johnson was born in Omaha, her family moved to

N E W S East St. Louis, Illinois, where she spent most of her childhood. When she was 15, they moved back, this time with one more child than they left with.

medical assistant. She said she worked her way up to managing staff there by 1999, but started looking for other jobs with better pay to support her son.

“When I returned, I came back with a young son,” she said. “So I was a mom, a single parent, and didn’t have very much of a sense of what motherhood was about. And so I took to my community and family members to help me navigate through that process.”

In the early ‘90s, Johnson started learning how to put together personal computers. Her interest, combined with a new bachelor’s degree in business, led to a job at Union Pacific where she now works as an associate project engineer in the information technology department.

The first year was hard. Though she got good grades in class, Johnson said she missed too many days caring for her son, who was often sick, and failed out of high school. But she came from a family of educators, going back to her great grandmother, and so quitting wasn’t an option. She said she pursued her GED and got the high school equivalent diploma when she was 16. Soon after she got an associate degree from what was then Metropolitan Technical Community College (now simply known as Metropolitan Community College) and started working at a blood bank as a

Through it all, she gave back to her community. In the early 2000s, Johnson bought her current home in the Long School Neighborhood, which sits in the heart of North Omaha north of Hamilton and south of Lizzie Robinson Avenue as well as west of 24th Street and east of the Highway 75 Freeway. Knowing her background, someone asked if she’d be the neighborhood association’s president. She said yes. Then, she said, the real work began. “I went full force, because, like with anything that I do, I

like to become the expert in the item that I’m being charged with,” she said. “And there is no playbook to be [a neighborhood president]. I kind of had to, again, self teach myself how to be the best that I could be.” Johnson started coming to city council meetings — listening and strategizing to see how she could use the systems in place to push for progress in her area. And whether it was getting a sign that recognized her historic neighborhood, the roots of which go back more than 125 years in this city, or pushing for the implementation of development plans, Johnson got things done. That work continues to this day because, Johnson said, community is the driving force in her life. “My neighborhood is a reflection of me,” she said. “And if my neighborhood is safe, if the people in my neighborhood’s homes are safe, functioning well, by way of improvement, then that makes me whole.”

Getting Off the Kiddie Table Johnson’s decision to run for office came long before protests and the pandemic further highlighted stark inequities in Omaha and set many on a path to fix them. She decided to run in late 2019. The reason: There was simply no other option. “I reached a plateau where I had done everything that I could, without authority,” she said. “I needed to go and apply and then run for city council so I could impact more change.” Like so many others, Johnson already knew the problems that plagued her community: Most people rent, unemployment is common, few people have bachelor’s degrees, and the median income is around $20,000 per year. Many of these issues have improved in recent years. Through work like the Empowerment Network’s Transformation 2025/ North Omaha 2025 project, the community has seen increases in the rates of high school and col-

Juanita Johnson stands in her office inside City Hall on June 15, 2020.

July 2021

N E W S lege graduation, employment, homeownership and income. The area has also seen large construction projects like The Highlander, a campus of commercial and residential space that cost millions to build, as well as revitalization along 24th Street. But for many, it doesn’t feel like much has changed in decades, or at least change isn’t happening fast enough, a symptom of the city’s dismissive attitude toward North Omaha, Johnson said. “In District 2, far too often people are saying that their voices are not being heard,” Johnson said. “They feel as though they’re at the kiddie table. Conversations are had, decisions are made without their input.” Activist Fox said it’s not that poverty and inequity are too hard to solve in North Omaha. It’s that the city hasn’t made it a goal to invest and lift up this community. “It’s really easy to look at District 2 and then look at our neighbor, District 1, which has tremendous economic growth, tremendous development, beautification, in really strategic ways,” he said. District 1 includes neighborhoods such as Benson and Dundee. “Like it’s so extreme the difference in investment, the difference in development from one district to the next.”

Fox and Harris both said before and after the primaries on April 6 that they heard from residents who weren’t happy with the job Johnson’s predecessor, Gray, had done. Fox helped get the message of that unhappiness out. In one panel, Fox brought together community leaders to talk to citizens via a Zoom conference, which was seen by nearly 5,000 people, about how little had changed in the 12 years Gray had been on the Omaha City Council. Other incidents, such as Gray defending Colleen Brennan, an appointed Omaha City Councilmember who caught heat for racially questionable blog posts in December 2020, and supporting the Omaha Police Department in its request for a budget increase in the fall of 2020, didn’t help, Fox said. Gray did not respond to a phone call requesting comment. “The result was exactly what we wanted,” Fox said of his public roundtable talks on North Omaha politics. “I think it was a perfect strategy.” Early in the campaign, Johnson wasn’t necessarily on everyone’s radar. The primary included six candidates for the district, making it the second-most crowded race in the city. However, once Gray and Johnson progressed to the general election many began to rally behind her. Johnson said it was

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clear her biggest obstacle was name recognition. Johnson was well known in her neighborhood but not across the community. So she used all her money — Johnson raised $19,190 compared to Gray’s $78,889 — to broadcast her name far and wide. While Gray had experience and major endorsements, Johnson went to work printing yard signs, getting radio advertisements and even plastering her face on a van that drove up and down North 24th Street — think Back to The Future and Mayor Goldie Wilson. The strategy worked. On election night, Johnson beat Gray by more than 1,000 votes and 13.5 percentage points. In his concession speech, Gray congratulated Johnson and told viewers on WOWT they’d see him continuing his work in the community. Johnson celebrated the victory but quickly got to work on the task of keeping her campaign promises. “Right now, all I can see is the work that I have in front of me,” she said. “I can’t see anything beyond the fact that I got a lot of work ahead of me. I mean, I’m nowhere near the finish line.”

Finding the Finish Line The 2021 election results were a mixed bag. While activists like Fox and candidates like

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Harris say their work seemed to have empowered a swath of Omahans, the reality that most incumbents kept their jobs is hard to ignore. The main goal now is accountability — holding elected officials to the promises they made on the campaign trail and speaking up when issues like housing, community investment and others come to the attention of bodies like the Omaha City Council. For Harris, it’s too soon to tell whether Omaha really has shifted its focus toward issues she based her campaign around. “Until we get it to where people don’t just think everybody is OK, Omaha will continue to stay stagnant,” she said. Fox said it seems like that’s happening. He’s having regular conversations with Johnson, and other city councilmembers are reaching out for input. Things are changing. What that means, Johnson still has to figure out. “We can’t say that [past politicians] didn’t seriously try to change [problems in North Omaha],” she said. “All we can say is that we have not seen any evidence of change. And we can also clearly state that change is needed. And doing the same thing the same way with no results means we’re going to still have no results. That’s borderline insanity.”

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No going gently into the good night for Ernie Chambers Ernie Chambers, 83, held his seat in the Nebraska Legislature for a record 46 years.

by Leo Adam Biga | Photos by Lend Frison

hough term-limits have exiled Ernie Chambers from the Nebraska Legislature a second time, he has not stopped playing the prickly social justice conscience for this conservative white state. There’s interest in what the 83-year-old is up to without the bully pulpit he held a record 46 years, mostly as that body’s lone Black state senator. He’s not saying much about his plans, but he’s full of things to say about systemic racism. Minus the platforms of the legislature and public access television, Chambers said in an interview with The Reader, “I will do what is available for me to do and what I think I ought to do.” He recently showed up for new Omaha City Council member Juanita Johnson and the man who won his Unicameral seat, Terrell McKinney. Chambers knows his legacy is tied to his champion-of-the-underdog work in the legislature. “Every day I knew when I went there it was going to be a battle,” he said. “Being on the floor of the legislature is something like being a gladiator thrown in the arena surrounded by beasts. Lions and tigers and bears, oh my. You’ve got to do what is necessary to defend yourself.

July 2021

“I didn’t feel all things are fair in love and war. When it came to the application of the rules and debate, there were no holds barred. I didn’t ask for a quarter. No quarter was given. I was outnumbered more than 40 to 1. The main thing was to try to get them [elected colleagues] to just do what they swore an oath to do in the first place. To the extent I could, I was going to cajole, embarrass, antagonize, taunt, ridicule and, naturally, condemn their failure to do those things they have the power to do.” Chambers said if lawmakers did their jobs, “nobody would have to go to bed hungry; nobody ill would be unable to attain medical treatment; no child would be treated unfairly in school or deprived of a meaningful education. But they’re not going to do it. Their religion doesn’t lead them to do it. Their political party makes them think in narrow terms. It’s us against them. And the ordinary people fall by the wayside. I had to work extra hard to try to the extent one man could to get laws passed that would help these people, to stop bad laws from passing that would hurt them.” In assessing the ledger of his legislative tenure, Chambers can

point to bills he authored that “may have done some good.” “A much longer list and one I maybe take greater satisfaction in,” he said, “is the bad bills I stopped or by way of amendment I made not so onerous, unjust or unfair. Through all of that, win, lose or draw, if I stayed true to what I believe, then there was inner peace.” Unassailable integrity made him impossible to buy. “Nobody had anything I wanted, and they couldn’t give me anything. I don’t care what it was, to get me to do something other than what I thought I should do.” Long before Critical Race Theory came along, Chambers kept things real. He still does when it comes to white supremacy. “I’m always aware of the fact I’m a Black man in America,” he said. “No matter what I do, no matter what I achieve, white people are not going to accord me full humanity. I don’t need that from them to have respect for myself, but because they have that attitude toward me and all Black people, they create situations where I have to respond and react in a way I’d rather not.

C O V E R “The things I do are not what I am, they are manifestations of what I believe. Just as I was in but not of the legislature, I’m in but not of America.” Being an outlier makes Chambers an island unto himself. “With all the things I’ve said, I understand why I’m often alone … If you put your trust in people, you’re bound to be disappointed, and maybe most of the time, So I don’t rely on other people.” As for the impact of last summer’s protests, Chambers cautioned not to assume “better days are here.” If history is any lesson, he said, “pretty soon not as many show up for rallies, then there are no rallies at all.” Chambers said he likes what he sees of today’s activists. “I am very pleased with what these young people are doing,” he said. “They’re doing it in their own way – and you have to do that.” His advice is “don’t quit, don’t give up, don’t let the negatives dishearten you.” Chambers is also aware that if not for the wrongful death

of George Floyd and other victims being captured on video “it wouldn’t be this way.” He fears “the demonstrations won’t make much difference to bring about action.” While he hasn’t participated in group actions, Chambers has conducted one-man vigils in front of the Capitol and city hall. His hope is that activists “will get a clearer picture of what really works in this society and brings about change – politics.” Wielding the vote matters, he insists. “What really terrorizes old white racists is if young people, both Black and white, would register and vote.” Chambers hasn’t seen anything in five decades of public life to shake his fundamental views. “I don’t expect there to ever be full freedom, justice and equality for Black people in this country as long as white people are in charge – ever. I’m not discouraged, defeated or deflated. When you have expectations and they are frustrated, that’s when you become frustrated. I don’t expect anything from

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white people but conflict and attempts to get the best of me in any way that they can. I will not let things white people do get inside of me.” Yet, Chambers reveals racism from some white teachers in school exacted “a traumatizing impact on me,” adding, “That took a lot from me. If that child that I was had not been mistreated the way I was in the school system maybe they wouldn’t have the Black man I am now to deal with.” Chambers’ experience was hardly isolated. “Not everybody survived it in the way I did,” he said. “Either you’re going to sink or swim, survive or die – psychologically speaking. For some reason I thrashed around and learned how to swim and survive. A lot of the people I grew up with are no longer here. Some became drunks, a lot used drugs, many wound up in prison. It’s the way white people treat us, even as children, that elicits the kind of behavior elicited. It’s a survival instinct. It’s not something taught. It’s something you do.”

Chambers has remained in Nebraska fighting the good fight rather than go elsewhere, as he’s been courted to do. “Maybe I’m the only voice, that lone voice in the wilderness, but somebody has to be that voice, and in a lot of instances it’s me. If I was looking for things for myself I would have been out of here … but the things of this world I wear loosely. They don’t mean anything to me.” In public office or out, he remains Ernie. “You can set me down anywhere, and I’ll be me,” he said. “I may not achieve anything externally that I set my hand to, but I won’t lose any of myself internally. “My philosophy as a Black man is to develop the tranquil acceptance of the inevitable, and the inevitable for a Black man in this society is that racism is here and it’s going to always be here.” Just don’t expect him to be silent about it.

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$10/month or $100/year —Everything in the Starter Plan, PLUS . . . —Our Secret Social Media Group: What are we saying, who’s talking about what? Join and find out! But don’t tell anyone else, it’s secret. (Currently only available by Facebook group.) —The Reader Gift Subscription: Keep social distance, hold on to your own copy of The Reader, and send a gift subscription to family and friends. (Can be the same address if it’s that hard to share.)

$20/month or $200/year —Everything in the Supporter Plan, PLUS, THERE’S EVEN MORE . . . —An Invite to a Publisher Chat: Held virtually for now, meet with the publisher in a small group setting to give him a piece of your mind or hear more about the future plans for The Reader and its sister publication, El Perico. If you don’t care about that, we could also give you another gift subscription (fancier schwag coming).

July 2021

D I S H

The Pressure Cooker

Online Food Stories

Entrée-preneurs with the grit and audacity to open in a pandemic by Sara Locke mous and now COVID-closed patisserie Financier Patisserie. Cotrina was making his rounds in New York’s kitchens and was struck both by Delgado’s talent and her smile. After another stint in Omaha at Via Farina, Cotrina returned to New York for an internship at Stash. This time, he decided to take a chance on convincing Delgado to return to Omaha with him.

When the pandemic threatened their dream, it brought out the fight in this team. The power couple of Piero Cotrina and Wendy Delgado are serving sweet treats and house-made pasta at WD Cravings. PHOTO by NAT OGURA

he pandemic pushed restaurant owners to their financial, emotional and mental limits. But from that same chaos rose a slate of innovative, young, diverse Omahans who either opened their doors after March 2020 or found new meaning behind why they make their meals in the COVID19-induced solitude. Their food doesn’t just reflect culinary invention but pays homage to their families’ stories and finds solutions to static issues such as access to good, nutritious meals. In this issue, check out the story of René Guzmán and his adventure into making Latin, vegan cuisine with Little Ve’s. Check online at thereader.com throughout July to read stories about Grainolia, Nice Rollz and Ital Vital Living. Obed N SanchezLiborio, owner of Grainolia. Photos by Chris Bowling

s of January 2021, The National Restaurant Association (you know, the other NRA) was reporting that more than 17% of restaurants in the United States had either temporarily or permanently closed their doors since the onset of the pandemic. This represented a loss of approximately 2.5 million jobs and $240 billion for the dining industry. As restrictions lifted and establishments began to regain their footing, the numbers shifted to a still-devastating 79,500 permanent closures, or about 10.2% of existing restaurants. While food trucks were hit the hardest, and established restaurants had a slight advantage over those that were greener on the scene, the pandemic didn’t discriminate about casting its pall over establishments of any age or size. Delivery services swooped in to save the day, but at a cost that was sinking restaurants faster than they could swim. Soon, drive-throughs were erected, online ordering was launched, menus were restructured, and a few restaurants even found ways of redistributing out-of-work waitstaff as delivery personnel. Locally, a movement was enacted empowering restaurant owners to launch their own ethical delivery service, and Omaha LoCo Delivery was born. While the numbers seem to have plateaued, the problems haven’t subsided for those in the industry. Staffing has become an issue, as many people are hesitant to return

JULY 2021

to low-paying, high-stress jobs where their titles shift quickly between “essential worker” to “I expect this meal to be comped.” Meanwhile, food supply chain issues are doing their part to create ingredient shortages and add to skyrocketing prices.

WD Cravings wdcravings.com

n spite of these ever-mounting odds, a few innovators stepped on the scene in the midst of the pandemic chaos, nimble and ready to battle. Some relied on the traffic of social halls to attract a loyal customer base, which has worked well for spots like Dirty Bird and the food trucks that frequent Trucks and Taps. Others had to find a different hook to make dining out work while stuck inside.

“I was always telling her about the quality of life in Omaha. I’ve lived all over — Colorado, Florida, New York, California — but there wasn’t a community anywhere else like Omaha. The cost of living, the work opportunities and just the people. We are so lucky to have the people we have in Omaha, and the way everyone is so ready to help each other. You can build relationships, and those people will really care about you.” Cotrina’s endorsement won Delgado over, and two weeks later the pair sold her car and drove to Nebraska together to start their new lives. Soon after, Cotrina and Delgado had found work at Avoli and Dario’s,

Among those brave enough to launch a new dream in 2020 was Omaha culinary star Piero Cotrina and his wife, Wendy Delgado, with their offering, WD Cravings: An American Patisserie, at 7110 N. 102nd Circle. The couple boasts professional and cultural culinary expertise in French, Italian, Peruvian and Mexican cuisine. It may seem that opening their own eatery would be a no-brainer, but their March 2020 grand opening was never their Plan A. The pair met in New York when Delgado was baking in acclaimed restaurants like Parm and the infa-

From whimsical treats to elegant sweets, Wendy Delgado has an eye for art and a palate for perfection in the patisserie she shares with her husband, Piero Cotrina. PHOTO by NAT OGURA

As sourcing ingredients from alternative milks to meats is becoming more difficult, Cotrina and Delgado are sticking with what has gotten them this far: faith. “Prices for meat, for chicken, it’s gone up over $1.50 a pound so far,” Cotrina said. “We know it’s going to plateau and come back down eventually, but not everyone is going to be able to adjust their menu to not feature ingredients they can’t get for a good price.

“The pandemic certainly caught us off guard,” Cotrina said. “It’s like trying to play soccer without a ball. I know this game; I’ve been cooking for 15 years. I’ve worked in fine dining restaurants, busy restaurants. I know how to play with so many challenges, but now you have to earn money without having guests. We were thinking ‘What are we going to do?’ All of this happened and it’s been a miracle that we found a way to stay open.”

“I know a lot of people are looking at whether to raise their prices or just take things off of their menus. I think all you can really do is be honest with your customers. Explain to them that the cost has gone up, that the price of staying in business has gone up.”

Recipe for Success It’s easy to draw a line from Cotrina’s approach to cooking to his positive perspective on rolling with the punches.

OF THE B I

#1 for 17 years in a Row

Looking Ahead

As COVID-19 loomed over their plans, the pair bucked what many would consider the intuitive move to pause their grand opening. Instead, they adapted to a more full-service, catering-style menu, offering family meals beside Delgado’s selection of sweets and treats.

Cotrina applied his wealth of knowledge and unique capacity for adapting to change and developed a very focused but heartfelt menu. While Delgado’s pastries and breakfast sandwiches are still the star, Cotrina’s menu of scratch-made pastas and sauces have pulled their weight to earn the restaurant a fevered fan base.

When the World Closed, WD Cravings Opened

And in spite of knowing the directions for opening a successful establishment, Cotrina and Delgado were able to use their intuition when a pandemic changed their planned route.

Thanks Omaha For Voting Us Best Indian Food

Their experience at the farmers market bolstered the pair’s confidence in launching a new venture of their own. They set out to find a space to open a patisserie where they planned to sell Delgado’s delicacies and scheduled WD Craving’s grand opening for May 8, 2020.

“Even if you’ve made it a hundred times, you need to taste it and trust yourself to make changes if something isn’t right. If you’re going to be proud of what you’re putting out, you’re going to have to find your way to get there every time, with every plate.”

“Wendy was so happy at the farmers market; she kept talking about how nice it was, how beautiful. And just like that we looked at each other, and I told her I thought she could sell her pastries there. The seed was planted right then. We thought about it for a little while, but she really pushed us along and soon we were doing our due diligence and getting our license. Our first farmers market was in 2018, and we sold out in about an hour. I knew her pastries were really special, but that was the moment we knew we had something.”

“I really see a recipe like a GPS,” he said. “It can tell you where to go and how to get there, but there might be construction or you might have to make a detour. Even if something is telling you the way, you still have to make decisions and get yourself there. You still have to be the one driving.

respectively, and were enjoying a weekend visit to the Omaha Farmers Market when inspiration struck.

Omaha’s Original Indian Restaurant & Brewing Company BE

D I S H

Cotrina’s trust in the Omaha dining community isn’t unfounded. The relationships customers have built with restaurant owners and staff have created a unique dynamic of respect and understanding, one that many establishments are hoping continues into this next phase of reopening. “Restaurants are run by people,” Cotrina said. “We are people and we are businesses, and in both ways we have been affected by what has gone on in the world and in our city. We have our struggles, and just a couple of words of honesty for people explaining why a recipe or a price has changed helps keep that trust we’ve built. If people can’t trust you, that’s no way to do business.” continued on page 18 

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a co-operative, restaurant owners manage the • • • • Logistical control- Since LoCo is run as delivery process and maintain their customers’ a co-operative, restaurant owners manage data. Co-op members also have a vote on the the delivery process and maintain their board and gain a share of the profits. customers’ data. Co-op members also have a vote on the board- and a share • • • Local collaboration LoCogain Omaha of the profits. promotes and works with local businesses,

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JULY 2021

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N o w S e r v i ng B r e a k f a st JULY 2021

D I S H Edge of The Universe

is saturated with adults asking how to make friends at this age or stage in their life, Evans has an answer. Everything from the architecture to the planned activities are designed to encourage inspiration and connection.

edgeoftheuniversebff.com

achel Evans chose not only to open a business during an unprecedented time, but to create a truly unique, whimsical experience that gives back. The process of getting there would have taken most of us to the edge of insanity; but for the cheerful and determined Evans, the work serves as a testament of her commitment to her community. In an industry with razor-thin margins being dealt a once-in-a-generation blow, Evans and her life-and-business partner, Adam Van Osdel, still felt there was room to educate, celebrate and be compassionate. The pair have been responsible for fairy-tale daydreams long before launching their latest Benson effort. Evans is a former events coordinator for the Omaha Children’s Museum, where Van Osdel carved and built many of the scenes and characters that turned an educational facility into a world of wonder for Omaha’s children. While the pair put in the legwork, paperwork and construction work to make their dream work, their plans to open Edge of the Universe in early 2020 were put on a pandemic pause. After funding half of the venture out of pocket and launching an Indiegogo campaign to raise the rest, the duo began the arduous process of gutting the space at 6070 Maple St. in March 2020.

A Fever Dream “At that time, COVID wasn’t really a thing here,” Evans recalled. “We were aware of it, but not worried. We were pushing ahead with contractors and construction. Then suddenly, in just a couple of weeks we realized that it was going to get bad really quick.” As hints of trouble quickly turned to mandates and regulations, renovations had to be carefully navigated to maintain movement on the new venture.

Edge of the Universe may bring out your whimsical inner child, but it also features a very grown-up menu of cocktails and boozy milkshakes. PHOTO COURTESY OF Edge of The Universe then gone for six. Most of the people in the city were working out of their homes and only visiting sites for inspections one day a week, so we had to wait, sometimes for weeks.” Funding the venture went from a tightly planned budget to a delay-fueled nightmare for the couple, with Evans explaining, “We had to keep paying our rent and utilities and bills on time as our opening pushed back more and more, but we didn’t qualify for any of the small business programs. They were based on your income from the previous year, but our business hadn’t been established in 2019.”

Add a Little Magic

menu of creative cocktails, coffees, boozy shakes, hot chocolates, charcuterie and baked goods anyone can enjoy.

In the months of setbacks and tortured decisions, there wasn’t a magic moment that made finally hosting their June-planned opening in October an OK twist on their fairy tale. Instead, there were the pair’s friends and family cheering for them, advertising for them, and encouraging them along the way. And now, there’s you.

“Usually when renovating, you’ll have all of your teams in at once,” Evans said. “You’ll have your electricians and plumbers and drywall team and flooring. But we wanted to make sure all of the workers were safe, so we only had one crew in at a time.

“When Adam and I first told people what our plans were for Edge of the Universe, I would get this beautiful blank stare. But we kept telling them ‘Just wait! It’s going to make sense!’ Our mission statement is ‘Stupid Fun,’ but we take this so seriously. Soon, people started to see what we were doing and that it wasn’t just something there was space for, but something that was needed.”

“If you’ve ever worked with a contractor, you know that it’s not that simple. They’ll be in one day and

In a time when mental health is at a low point, isolation and loneliness are at their peak, and social media

“I’ve moved A sweet treat anyone can eat, desserts are around most of my life, so I definitely thoughtfully made to be as inclusive as the know that strugatmosphere. PHOTO COURTESY OF Edge of The gle,” Evans said. Universe “First, you have to just be yourself. We’ve really creat- profits to, but the mission remains the ed a space where no matter who same: a safe place to feed the body, you are, this is a safe place for you soul and inner child. to just let it out and relax. Everyone “There’s nothing wrong with here is so friendly and warm and wel- being kitschy, but it’s kind of supercoming! Couples, girls’ nights, fami- ficial,” Evans said. “It’s kind of the lies showing up in costumes or ball difference between eating candy and gowns. Other people sitting beside having a full meal. We wanted to ofthem in jeans. Absolutely come as fer people a place that was nutritious, you are or how you want to be. Come fun, satisfying and rich. alone to one of our trivia nights and “The themes, games and decjust say hi to us at the bar. We have structured the place so you feel good orations are all really thought out. sitting alone, sitting in a private nook Even the flower garlands we’ve hung with your friends or even at a table across the ceiling, some took three or with strangers you’ve found some- four days to make. We spent months thing in common with. You’re going working nonstop to make exactly what we wanted, and when we have to make friends just being here!” people telling us what a magical experience this is for them, we know Eat, Drink we’ve done exactly what we set out and Be Weird to do.” The establishment’s whimsical But the immersive and enchantthemes change regularly, as does ed experiences aren’t the only way the nonprofit Evans and Van Osdel to feed your inner child at Edge of choose to donate a portion of their the Universe. Evans has created a full

JULY 2021

“Sourcing oat milk has been a nightmare, but any time I see it I grab as many as I can!” Evans said. “It’s so important to us to be careful of people’s food allergies and preferences. Almost all of our baked goods are vegan and gluten-free; any drink we offer we can make it vegan or allergen-free. It’s extra work, but it’s absolutely worth it to have people know that we are always doing our best to be inclusive.”

charcuterie: Snacks are serious business in this silly world, and no expense is spared to ensure an unforgettable experience. PHOTO: Edge of The Universe

It took a great deal of courage for Evans and Van Osdel to put it all on the line for a fairy tale, but sometimes a happily ever after is called for. And when a villain as diabolical as 2020 comes along, you can count on this couple to go the extra mile to make dreams come true, day after day.

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YOUR KEY TO RENT RECOVERY

OMAHA – MACCH Emergency Rental Assistance Program has funding available to tenants and property owners/managers in Omaha who have been impacted by COVID-19. You may qualify to receive assistance for unpaid rent, utilities, and other eligible expenses!

Go to MACCHConnect.org or call 211 or text OmahaERAP to 898211 to get the process started.

This program is open to those in the city limits of Omaha who are current tenants and who meet the initial eligibility requirements. Property owners/managers are also eligible to apply for funding; however, only one party per address may apply, so please coordinate with each other before submitting an application.

JULY 2021

C U L T U R E

Discover North O! by Mark Mc Gaugh, 1st Sky Omaha

ith an increasingly diverse population and an equally rich history, the communities of Omaha have much to be proud of. North Omaha is no exception with a wide array of shops, restaurants, parks, murals and gardens bringing life to this historic community. The pride and deep-rooted heritage of North Omaha reaches a fever pitch every odd-numbered year when thousands of Native Omahans return home for Native Omaha Days. Nothing short of a supercharged community-wide family reunion, Native Omaha Days sees relatives who have left for better opportunities, or simply a new start, reconnect with loved ones and friends. As you prepare for hot days at Carter Lake and long nights on The Deuce, take a look at this list and discover North O!

North O!

Art & Events Native Omaha Days This year’s Native Omaha Days is slated to be the biggest yet! The event takes place July 26 through August 1 and will feature outdoor jazz concerts, golf tournaments, movie nights, gospel fests and a parade down North 30th Street. The biennial event was founded by two Afri-

can-American women, Bettie McDonald and Vera Johnson, for the Black population living predominantly in North Omaha. Its purpose was to reunite family and friends that have moved away from their hometown throughout the years. Since COVID-19 restrictions have loosened, many are expected to attend this year to join in the fun. • July 27 — Movie Night at Film Streams • July 28 — Gospel Fest at Morning Star Baptist Church • July 28 through July 31 — Festival Square at the Bryant Center on 24th Street. • July 28 — UNO Black Studies 50th Anniversary at UNO (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) • July 29 — Jazz at the Greens at Dodge Riverside Golf Course (Council Bluffs, Iowa) • July 30 — Native Omaha Days Golf Tournament at Dodge Riverside Golf Course (Council Bluffs, Iowa) • July 30 — A Stroll Down Memory Lane • July 31 — 23rd Biennial Homecoming Parade Celebration! 30th and Lake to 30th and Sprague (8:30 a.m.)

July 2021

• July 31 — Culture Fest at the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation (noon to 5 p.m.) • July 31 — (Evening) Blues Night featuring Pokey Bear and Big Robb at the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation (7 p.m. to 11 p.m.) Events reported by Paul B. Allen IV

Juneteenth Celebration June in North Omaha marks one of the nation’s longest Juneteenth festivals, lasting an entire week. The festival, which celebrates the abolition of slavery, features a large parade, concerts and many other commemorative events. See visitomaha.com.

Union for Contemporary Art The Union offers fellowships and gallery space to some of the most promising artists in North Omaha. For more information visit u-ca.org.

Culxr House Founded by local rapper and organizer Marcey Yates, the Culxr House is one of the premier community centers in Omaha and a home for artists of many disciplines. To keep up with everything happening at the Culxr House be sure to follow them on social media!

African Cultural Festival Presented by Afromaha, the African Cultural Festival is an annual event that honors Omaha’s growing population of African refugees and immigrants. Omaha is home to one of the largest populations of South Sudanese immigrants in the country, and the festival has grown to be a celebration of multiple African countries and cultures. This year’s event takes place September 4 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets visit afromaha.com.

Street Art and Murals North Omaha is home to many beautiful murals and street art projects that have been commissioned by the city and local nonprofits. With projects like the Justice for James mural on 24th and Browne, this beautiful art illustrates the spirit of North Omaha.

North O!

Historic Locations Great Plains Black History Museum Looking for a trip down memory lane? Located just a few blocks south of Lake Street, the Great Plains Black History Museum is a library of North Omaha. The museum features

C U L T U R E rotating exhibits and a carefully curated archive.

24th & Lake Jazz District The historic jazz district of North Omaha located at the intersection of 24th and Lake streets was once a thriving hub of jazz clubs and small businesses. With the new cold-pressed juice and smoothie bar, Ital Vital, and Fair Deal Village Marketplace offering a fresh grocery store and locally owned boutiques, the heart of North Omaha is set to beat again!

Malcolm X Memorial Foundation/Birthsite Located just five minutes northwest of 24th and Lake, the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation and Birthsite is a 17-acre park honoring the life and legacy of Malcolm X. Complete with a historical marker and replica of Malcolm’s birth home, the Malcolm X Birthsite has become a valued resource for the community of North Omaha.

24th & Emmet Black Panther Marker Following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Omaha riots in 1968, a wave of activism swept through North Omaha. By 1970, Omaha was home to chapters of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense and the National Committee to Combat Fascism, which

was led by Ed Poindexter and David Rice. Learn more about North Omaha’s revolutionary past at this marker.

Tech High School/TAC Once dubbed the largest high school west of Chicago, Tech High School produced some of North Omaha’s most celebrated natives. Omahans like Heisman Trophy-winner Johnny Rodgers and successful actor John Beasley once graced the halls of this historic building, which is now home to Omaha Public Schools’ Teacher Administrative Center.

Historic Downtown Florence and Benson The areas of Benson and Florence were once the epicenter of small townships equipped with their own banks and grocery stores. Now home to several thriving small businesses, these historic areas give a glimpse into the past of North Omaha.

North O!

Tasty

Petit’s Bakery Pastries 502 N. 16th St.

Big Mama’s Kitchen - Soul Food

2112 N. 30th St., Accelerator Suite 201

Time Out Chicken - Fried

North O!

Shops and Souvenirs

Chicken 3518 N. 30th St.

Jackson’s Takeout - Soul Food 6209 Ames Ave.

LeFlore’s Fashion LeFlore’s Fashion is a family-owned boutique that offers an array of men’s formal clothing, footwear and accessories.

JET Sports Bar & Grill 7444 N. 30th St.

Dripped + Draped - Coffee 6015 Maple St.

Cajun Kitchen - Soul Food

Aframerican Bookstore The Aframerican Bookstore is one of the few Black-owned bookstores still standing in the country! Filled with books, African clothing and trinkets, the Aframerican Bookstore is a gem nestled in the heart of North Omaha.

2819 N. 30th St.

Mixins - Ice Cream 1405 Jackson St.

Bills BBQ - BBQ

4414 N. 24th St.

Jim’s Rib Haven - BBQ 3801 Ames Ave.

Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford Store

Ital Vital - Juice Shop 2323 N. 24th St.

Headquarters of Omaha’s own Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford. The “Team Bud” store has all the gear you need for your next fight!

Emery’s Cafe - Soul Food 2118 N. 24th St.

Best Burger - Burgers 2112 N. 30th St.

Lufti’s Fried Fish - Fried Fish

Milk the Game Clothing

7440 N. 30th St.

Taste of the South Food Truck - Creol 6023 Maple St.

A staple in North Omaha, Milk the Game is a local clothing boutique that represents the ingenuity and work ethic of North Omaha natives.

Food Trucks/Grill

Smokin’ Doja Wings & Things - BBQ Chaima African Cuisine - African

July 2021

W PICKS W

July 4

Ralston 4th of July Parade and Fireworks Ongoing

COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

Various locations | Free 402-444-3400 With a lifted mask mandate and the city coming back to life under the hot summer sun, it’s easy to assume the pandemic is nearing an end. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services reported more than 1.7 million adminis-

tered COVID-19 vaccine doses, along with decreasing positive test percentages. But less than half of Nebraska and Douglas County’s population is fully vaccinated, stymying a return to pre-pandemic normalcy. In order to increase accessibility, Douglas County Health Department is offering free COVID-19 vaccinations at a various locations from Hy-Vee pharmacies to public schools. Check out the DCHD Facebook page or visit www.douglascountyhealth.com.

July 2021

— Emma Schartz

Parade 1 p.m. Fireworks 9:30 p.m. | Free Independence Square, Ralston ralstonareachamber.org Another welcome sign of our return to normalcy, Ralston’s 61st Annual Independence Day Celebration returns, featuring the Optimist’s Club Fun Run, the annual parade emcee’d by KAT 103.7’s Erik & Hoss, a fire department water fight and the Ralston Fireworks Display by Bellino’s Fireworks. This year’s parade pays tribute to essential workers. It begins at 80th & Highland and travels to 72nd & Main St. Fireworks start about 9:30 p.m. at Ralston Arena, 72nd and Q St.

Additionally, the Ralston Chamber will be partnering with Bellino’s Fireworks to sell fireworks starting June 25 through July 4. — Lynn Sanchez

July 8-29

Jazz on the Green

7:30 p.m. | Free Midtown Crossing midtowncrossing.com How does an outdoor concert sound? Jazz on the Green returns every Thursday in July

Together again! Back Sundays IN PERSON @ 10:50 am ONLINE via Facebook

We WILL NOT be resuming other activities. Masks & social distancing will be required. 7020 Cass Street 402.556.6262 www.fumcomaha.org

Path Forward KNOCK OUT YOUR GEN-EDS EARLY

CollegeNOW! this summer at no cost. Nebraska high school students can get a jump on college gen-eds or prerequisites at MCC, and pay nothing for tuition and books. Use your credits toward a degree at MCC or transfer them to a college of your choice. Second session of summer classes starts July 12. Get started today at mccneb.edu/CollegeNow. Note: Valid only to Nebraska high school students and 2021 graduates for the summer 2021 quarter. Students considering college courses for the first time should visit with a high school counselor before enrolling. Metropolitan Community College affirms a policy of equal education, employment opportunities and nondiscrimination in providing services to the public. To read our full policy statement, visit mccneb.edu/nondiscrimination.

July 2021

W PICKS W save for one. Experience the Sammy Figueroa Latin Jazz Ensemble (July 8), Vincent Herring & The Celebration of Life Ensemble (July 15), Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble (July 22) and Curtis Stigers (July 29) with recommended blankets, chairs, flats, sunscreen and masks. And kindly forgo bringing any camping gear, flames or hard liquor. Let Turner Park acreage, warm nights and broad musical stylings be your pleasure. Park opens 5 p.m.; pre-show at 6:30 p.m. — Matt Casas

July 8-11

Santa Lucia Italian Festival

July 8

Steve Earle & The Dukes

8 p.m. | $40-$45 The Waiting Room waitingroomlounge.com Steve Earle is an iconic singer-songwriter whose influence exists on the same level as outlaw-country legends Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark. Throughout his alchemical career, he has released 20 albums and received three Grammy awards and 16 nominations. He will be backed by The Dukes, an airtight band, promoting a new album, JT, named in honor of Earle’s late son. This highly anticipated show will likely sell out, so buy tickets in advance online. Doors open at 7 p.m.

5-10 p.m. | Free Little Italy santaluciafestival.com For the first time in nearly two decades, Omaha’s Saint Lucia Festival will be held in the Little Italy neighborhood at 10th and Williams streets, close to Sons of Italy and the Saint Frances Cabrini Catholic Church. Experience music, traditional Italian cuisine, vino, games, small rides, face painting, bocce ball and more. Festival begins Thursday, July 8, at 5 p.m. and runs through Sunday, July 11, at 10 p.m. Entry is free; food and desserts range from $4 to $10, and there are additional costs for other activities. Viva Saint Lucia!

With an album titled Best Buddies and a long-time collaboration as proof, you can count on musicians Troy Roberts (twice-Grammy-nominated saxophonist) and Tim Jago (guitar-virtuoso) to strike chords of musical chemistry at their release. Both musicians are well-regarded and have toured with musical legends. The duo will be joined by Mitch Towne on organ and Marty Morrison on drums. Doors open at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Order tickets online to get your album first and get it signed! — Matt Casas

Opening July 9-10

Minor Rationalism

artist/curator/philosopher Eric Schmid opens July 9 and runs through August 21. The exhibit features various media from 30 creators whom Schmid selected for the singularity of their work and who operate outside the main, whether preferring obscurity, eschewing traditional careers or defying conventional definitions of artistry, operating instead in a decentralized hierarchy and outside the meme-stream; hence, the appellation “minor.” Opening receptions are July 9 from 6 to 10 p.m. and July 10 from noon to 6 p.m. The gallery is located at 1322 S. 6th Street and is open Monday to Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Email for appointments: info@baader-meinhof.org or use the scheduling portal: baader-meinhof.org. — Janet L. Farber

July 9-10

Heartland Pride

— Matt Casas

July 9

Troy Roberts and Tim Jago

— Leah Cates

6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. | $20 The Jewell jewellomaha.com

July 2021

Various times | $14 Baxter Arena, Old Market

6-9 p.m. and 12-6 p.m. Baader-Meinhof baader-meinhof.org Minor Rationalism from the probing mind of Chicago-based

Happy Pride! In addition to a youth Pride parade (Friday, July 9, 6 to 10 p.m. at Baxter Arena) and a general Pride parade (Saturday, July 10, 10 a.m. in the Old Market), this year’s celebration — themed Let’s Get Back 2gether — features a live entertainment festival at Baxter Arena on July 10 from 4 to 10 p.m. The festival, which follows outdoor activities from noon to 4 p.m., includes RuPaul’s Drag Race All

tickets ON SALE NOW!

MAHAFESTIVAL COM July 2021

W PICKS W Stars winner Chad Michaels, renowned comedian ANT, and co-headliners CeCe Peniston and Dev, both big names in music. Visit heartlandpride.org. — Leah Cates

July 12-16

Omaha Fashion Camp

Omaha Fashion Camp! Kids take a deep dive into all aspects of the industry, including sketching, sewing, photography and modeling. Camp concludes with a runway show, and top designs are spotlighted at Omaha Fashion Week –– where many camp alums have been accepted. The fashion-forward day camp costs $225 and runs from Monday, July 12, to Friday, July 16, at the Omaha Design Center (9 a.m. to noon for 6-11-year-olds; 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. for 12-17-year-olds).

Because: A Collection of MixedMedia Prints on paper by Susan Heggestad runs through August 28. The gallery is located in the Mansion at Blackstone and is open Thursdays and Fridays from 12 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. —Janet L. Farber

depending on whether you purchase Iliza’s “Very Important Party Goblin” package. — Leah Cates

July 16

Emmaline

July 22

Iliza: Back In Action Tour

— Leah Cates

July 10

Susan Heggestad: Because

9 a.m.-4 p.m. | $225 Omaha Design Center omahafashioncamp.com Got a kid who’s determined to be the next Beverly Johnson or Donna Karan? Sign them up for

6-9 p.m. | Free the little gallery thelittlegalleryblackstone.com

Vermillion-based artist Susan Heggestad will show Because, their evolving suite of textural prints reflecting on the subject of bodily violence, which opens with a reception July 10. Floating, silhouetted forms of human heads, limbs and bodies are imprinted with or overlaid on patterns of lace, embossed papers and other textiles, encoding them with references to the domestic environment and evoking interwoven cycles of personal experience.

July 2021

7 p.m. | $49.50-$165 Holland Center Outdoors ticketomaha.com Iliza Shlesinger is the youngest and only female contestant to win NBC’s Last Comic Standing. She’s also the writer and star of five Netflix specials –– and from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 22, she’ll be performing standup at Omaha’s Holland Center Outdoors. The comedian-author-podcaster-actress, who created Iliza: Back In Action Tour after COVID-19 2020 canceled her touring plans, is known for her dramatic body language and bold observations about young womanhood. For tickets, visit ticketomaha.com. Prices range from $49.50 to $165,

6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. shows | $20 The Jewell jewellomaha.com You have two chances on the same night this month to see Emmaline, an up-and-coming powerhouse singer-songwriter with a smoky voice and undeniable crossover appeal. But her music balances that fluidity with jazz mastery. Additionally, Emmaline has sold out several famed jazz clubs, opened for the 10x Grammy-winning Chaka Khan and is doubtless one of the great young jazz singers of today. Buy tickets online to witness her musical ascension continue at the premier jazz venue in Omaha. Doors open at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. — Matt Casas

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W PICKS W July 24

Music for the City

Thousands of former Omahans will flock home at the end of July for a week of reunions and homecoming celebrations. Sponsored by The Native Omahans Club, Inc. this beloved biennial event grants scholarships and promotes cultural and recreational activities for the neighborhoods of North Omaha and the Greater Omaha community. See Mark McGaugh’s full story on page 20. — Lynn Sanchez

July 31 Featuring Annika Chamber & Friends, Heather Newman Band and Hector Anchondo (solo) 4:30-10:30 p.m. | Free | The Dam Bar musicforthecity.net The riverfront venue, The Dam Bar, will host another incendiary night of music with an epic lineup that includes Heather Newman Band, whose Omahan leader is a local BluesEd graduate who propelled the band’s 2019 album to debut at No. 4 on iTunes; Annika Chamber & Friends, a Blues Music Award-winning group whose 2015 album debuted at No. 7 on Billboard; and Hector Anchondo, International Blues Challenge and Memphis Cigar Box Guitar award-winner, performing solo. The sound system rocks, too! — Matt Casas

July 27-August 2

Native Omaha Days Festival

Various times | Free | Festival Square at Bryant Center, 2505 N. 24th St. nativeomahadays.org

July 2021

Maha Festival

2 p.m.-midnight | $65-$75 | Aksarben Village mahafestival.com The annual all-day Omaha outdoor festival will again feature some of the best acts the world over. That includes the psychedelic-soul-funk trio Khruangbin, twice Grammy-awarded bass-wizard Thundercat, groovy art-pop outfit Japanese Breakfast, alt-country goldmine Drive-By Truckers and harmonious folk-duo Shovels & Rope. But there are grand local artists, too: including roots-rock swingers Matt Cox & The Marauders, transcendent ukuleleist Edem Soul Music, Saddle Creek era-inspired Dirt House, spiritualistic emcee J. Crum, dynamic turntablist Kethro and worldly DJ Crabrangucci – all sharing one stage. Keep Maha safe and chill! — Matt Casas

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SKID ROW WITH DOKKEN AND VIXEN JULY 17

THREE DOORS DOWN WITH SEETHER

BROTHERS OSBORNE WITH TRAVIS DENNING

AUGUST 12

AUGUST 14

JUSTIN MOORE

ZZ TOP

SEPTEMBER 11

July 2021

H O O D O O

Summertime Blues

Outdoors and in the clubs, live music is back with festivals, touring shows and star-studded events welcoming fans to share the joy by B.J. Huchtemann

ive music is coming back full force around the metro, with new announcements and schedule additions happily becoming regular occurrences. Here are some highlights.

ues on Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., for six weeks featuring a variety of genres. Check out the calendar at kzum.org.

Lincoln’s historic Zoo Bar has been hosting indoor shows again and has announced the return of its popular ZOOFEST anniversary celebration. This summer’s ZOOFEST moves to August, with outdoor shows recently announced for Thursday and Friday, Aug. 12-13, on 14th Street in front of the bar. Details on performers will be coming in the weeks ahead at zoobar.com and facebook.com/ zoobarblues. You’ll also find the latest shows booked for the club on those sites.

Local promoter and Playing With Fire founder Jeff Davis continues his tradition of offering the community great live blues music in a new free series, Music for the City. While Playing With Fire had to go on hiatus this year due to circumstances beyond the organizer’s control, Music for the City is offering three free events this summer. The second show Saturday, July 24, puts the focus on female artists and soul-blues with Blues Music Award-winning vocalist and entertainer Annika Chambers and friends. The friends performing include phenomenal roots violinist Anne Harris and San Francisco Bay area soul vocalist Terrie Odabi. The ensemble also in-

Music for the City

cludes guitarist J.P. Soars and frequent Playing With Fire performer, Canadian guitarist Paul DesLauriers. Opening the show is former Omahan Heather Newman and her band, following a solo set from Héctor Anchondo at 5:30 p.m. This will be a memorable night of world-class, award-winning artists. The event takes place at the Dam Bar on the River City Star landing. A third show is set for Saturday, Aug. 21. Gates at 1 p.m. See all the details at musicforthecity.net.

Happy 50th to Alligator

2021 marks the 50th anniversary of Alligator Records, the Chicago blues label founded by Bruce Iglauer when he was a 23-year-old blues fan. After spending his savings recording his faJazz on the Green is back in vorite blues band, Hound Dog Omaha at Midtown Crossing. Taylor & the HouseRockers, The longstanding free concert Iglauer built Alligator into a label series kicks off July 8 with Sammy that has become a benchmark Figueroa Latin Jazz for traditional blues and Ensemble. July 15 feafor its more contempotures Vincent Herring rary artists. The label has & The Celebration of also stood the test of time Life Ensemble; July 22 while several other midputs the spotlight on sized blues labels have Louisiana’s Curley Tayclosed their doors. Alligator lor & Zydeco Trouble; Records-50 Years of Houseand July 29 showcases rockin’ Music dropped June celebrated jazz saxo18 and features 58 artists phonist, songwriter from Hound Dog Taylor, and vocalist Curtis StiKoko Taylor, Professor gers. The park opens Longhair, Johnny Winfor seating at 5 p.m., ter and Albert Collins to and pre-show music Luther Allison, Tommy begins at 6:30 p.m. Castro, Janiva Magness, with the headliners goShemekia Copeland, ing on at 7:30 p.m. Find Curtis Salgado, Toronzo all the details under the Cannon and more. The “events” menu on the three-CD set also includes Jazz on the Green tab at a 40-page color booklet. midtowncrossing.com. For more on Iglauer and the Alligator story, fans Lincoln community can check out Bitten by radio station KZUM’s Annika Chambers headlines a dazzling array of the Blues: The Alligator Repopular Stransky Park blues talent at the free Music for the City show cords Story (2018) written free concert series beJuly 24 at the Dam Bar. Photo courtesy Annika by Iglauer and Patrick A. gins July 1 and continChambers Music.

July 2021

Roberts. Visit alligator.com to find out more about the anniversary anthology, the book and the latest Alligator releases.

Hot Notes Steve Earle plays The Waiting Room Thursday, July 8, 8 p.m. Extremely talented duo The Mastersons, who are also members of Earle’s band, The Dukes, open. See onepercentproductions.com. The BSO Presents shows are happening in different venues around town. Check omahablues. com and facebook.com/bluessocietyofomaha for current and late-breaking bookings. BSO highlights include a special free show on Saturday, July 10, at Rathskeller Bier Haus with Matt Cox, Matt Woods and Dustin Arbuckle. Chicago’s top-flight guitarist-singer-songwriter and harmonica player Studebaker John & The Hawks are back at the B. Bar for a 5:30 p.m. show Friday, July 16. Soulful Memphis band Southern Avenue plays a double-bill with Kris Lager Band at the ongoing Holland Center Outdoors series Saturday, July 24, 7-10 p.m. See ticketomaha.com for tickets. Mark your calendar now for the In the Market for Blues festival Saturday, Aug. 7, in the Old Market. The multi-venue event offers 14 hours of live music at 14 venues and is a collaboration between founder Héctor Anchondo and the Blues Society of Omaha, assisted by sponsors, volunteers and a growing number of venues. Popular blues-rock guitarist Ana Popovic was recently announced as the headlining artist. Advance tickets are $20 on eventbrite.com until Aug. 6 when the cost will go to $25. Follow facebook.com/ inthemarketforblues for details and updates.

very becoming Seven make good impreSSion in g1516’S firSt ‘emerging artiStS’ group exHibit By Kent Behrens at the former’s location at 16th and Leavenworth. Amplify Arts’ Program Director Peter Fankhauser offered this as the venue’s definition: “Artists in the early stages of their creative development, with 2 to 10 years of generative experience, a focused direction and goals, a developing artistic “voice,” who have yet to be substantially celebrated within their field, the media, or funding circles.”

VIEWABLE IN PRINT ONLY

TalberT Reflection of PoweR, 2019

Searching the term on the web only confounds the issue; it appears that arts writers and curators are in little agreement about this somewhat new and seemingly overused label. What they do agree on, mostly, is these artists evolving presence and reputation.

The exhibit, which takes good advantage of G1516’s excellent space, features the work of seven local contemporary artists at varying levels of experience and renown. Gallery 1516’s Assistant Curator Suzi Eberly tapped into Amplify Arts extensive roster to serve as guide through the forest of those transpiring from unknown to known. Together, they assembled a group of local talent, as described in the show’s accompanying pamphlet, “that reexamines and rewrites traditional artistic narratives.”

One possible enlightenment is the recent collaboration of Omaha’s Gallery 1516 and the art center Amplify Arts which resulted in an exhibit, appropriately titled Emerging Artists, which opened Sept. 13

Gallery Director Pat Drickey said the show was “put together as a kind of precursor and complement to the upcoming Spring 2021 Biennial.” In addition, it satiates the recent virus-induced dearth of art

ave you ever found yourself asking “What exactly is an emerging artist?” Is it as obvious as it sounds or is there more there than meets the eye?

Neil Griess BluRRed landscaPe, 2019

shows; group shows have always been a good way to show more work to more people. Prior to the completion, Eberly moved away, but still consults with the gallery. Subsequent curation and installation was then taken up by the staff at 1516. This transient collaboration yielded a group of seven artists at different stages of their careers: Camille Hawbaker Voorhees, Shawnequa Linder, Jenna Johnson, Neil Griess, Tom White, Patty Talbert, and Anne Dovali. Depending on your frequency of gallery visits in the area, a few of these names may be new to you, and

INTRIGUING, ISN’T IT?

OCTOBER 2020

shawNequa lindeR scotch and soda, 2020

F I L M

Appetite for Discussion

5 Filmmakers I Want to Eat With Who is On Your List? by Ryan Syrek

or this year’s food issue, I first contemplated penning an examination of popcorn’s movie snacking monopoly. I also considered weighing in on whether serving full meals in a theater during a film is neato-cool or should be punishable by death. I decided the former idea was as boring as ogling unpopped kernels and the latter may get me punished to death by those opposed to my (fully correct) stance.

A shot of Lexi Alexander from the set of Punisher: War Zone. Credit: Lionsgate Films

So instead, let us talk not about consumption but about conversation. Of living directors, who would you most like to break bread with? To be clear, this is not as simple as “list your favorite movie makers.” Some, if not many, filmmakers are very well-known to be total assholes, and you only have to eat with those at family reunions and state dinners. The question being asked here is who would be the most interesting, engaging and insightful director guest? The assumption is that you obviously also like their work or they wouldn’t have made your shortlist. Unless it was to poison them! Oh, you’re bad. My “shortlist” was like 30 people long. Cutting it down was absolutely brutal. To those slighted, please remember that old familiar saying: “It’s an honor just to be considered as a theoretical dining

The question isn’t “Which director is your favorite?” The question is “Which director do you most want to dish and dine with?” partner for a movie critic in Omaha.” Here are the five folks with a standing offer for a home-cooked meal at Casa Del Syrek. We do not allow substitutions, and extra bread costs $3.

Guest Number One:

Lexi Alexander If you’re not familiar with Alexander’s work, that’s because there’s no such thing as a meritocracy in America, only variations in nepotism, evil and greed! She’s a German/Palestinian filmmaker and martial artist whose every

JULY 2021

effort — such as Green Street Hooligans and Punisher: War Zone — has been violently vibrant. Although her IMDB page should be bursting like a Nostromo crew member’s chest, she’s been blacklisted for being legendarily outspoken when it comes to social issues, specifically equity problems plaguing the film industry. Her Twitter account is as fiery and honest as is legally allowed. She is, objectively, pretty much the best. I want to hear every single thing she has to say about every single thing she wants to talk about. She sure seems to be my favorite type of dinner companion: passionate-

ly opinionated. Tell me what you hate! What should I hate? Let’s hate things together, Lexi!

Guest Number Two:

Taika Waititi

This can’t be a surprise to anyone with even the most minimal brain electricity. Apologies to Werner Herzog, but Waititi has firmly established himself as the coolest working director (Thor: Ragnarok, What We Do in the Shadows, Jojo Rabbit). The biggest problem with inviting him for some chow would be my immediate insecurity. But then he’d say some terribly clever joke that

F I L M

Waititi’s body of work is an eclectic symphony of pithy, silly material interwoven with dense, meaningful themes. That guy has to be fun at parties, right? I could also share with him my list of projects I think he should do. Hear me out: The Muppets. Just think about it, Taika! He’s teetering on the edge of being my favorite working director. I know I specifically said this wasn’t just a list of my favorite working directors, but it’s not like such things don’t get you bonus points.

Guest Number Three:

Ava DuVernay

First off, I absolutely have to know about New Gods, the film adaptation about Jack Kirby’s bonkers space-opera comic book characters that DuVernay was slated to direct. This isn’t about me wanting to know what weird, awful nonsense happened at Warner Bros. to kill the single best DC film project in development. This is about me wanting to know what she was actually going to do with it. Tell me of the weird cosmic magic we were so unfairly deprived of seeing, Ava! If her body of work is any indication of what she would be like to chat with, it’d be a verbal whirlwind. She’s gone from historical fiction (Selma) to fantasy (A Wrinkle in Time) to nonfiction (13th) to one of the best TV miniseries ever (When They See Us). I’d have to prepare for our conversation like people prepare for Jeopardy. I mean the contestants, not how people had to gird their loins in order to watch Aaron f’n Rodgers guest in Alex Trebek’s absence.

Guest Number Four:

Jordan Peele

Half of my favorite sketch comedy show and a whole entertainment empire unto himself now, our dinner would devolve into that old Chris Farley SNL sketch,

July

with me just repeating his comedy catchphrases and saying things like “Remember how we both love The Twilight Zone? That’s cool, huh?” Peele has done just loads of interviews since Get Out stopped gobs faster than a Willy Wonka treat. He has never seemed anything other than both incredibly personable and wildly nerdy.

INDEPEND

ENCE

DAY

He loves the stuff that I love. Sorry, he has an Oscar, and I don’t. I love the stuff that he loves. In many ways, Us is a riff on C.H.U.D., a film I reference to the point of making myself uncomfortable about it. Speak to me of what weird, obscure sci-fi nonsense you’d love to reboot, Jordan! I know you have to adore some rando cartoon from the 1980s that needs updating. Is it Rubik the Amazing Cube? I knew it.

Guest Number Five:

Rian Johnson

First and foremost, I need a detailed account of what would have happened if Johnson got to direct the final installment of the new Star Wars trilogy. Because that would immediately be a cannon in my brain, ejecting The Rise of Skywalker like I used to toss toy pilots out of plastic snowspeeders in my youth. Will there be non-Star Wars discussion? Maybe. Sure. Okay. Whatever makes you happy, Rian! Early on, I’d apologize for my Looper review, which I’m sure has just simply haunted the super-famous, beloved director for years now. I could also share my ideas for the next Knives Out movie. Things like “give Daniel Craig a bonkers Russian accent this time” and “have the killer use a candlestick … get it … like Clue!” After we finished enjoying my hilarity, I’d really just want to hear what his favorite films are in genres he hasn’t done. Then I’d go right back to reiterating that The Last Jedi is the best Star Wars movie, because he simply can’t have heard that enough. That’s my invite list. None will RSVP. The big question is, who’s on yours?

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JULY 2021

F I L M

Bodega Bops

and Other Families’ Photos

In the Heights is a vibrant romp through a specific nostalgia by Ryan Syrek

irtually every song in virtually every musical is about what a character (a) says they are going to do, (b) says they are not going to do or (c) says they regret doing. Virtually none are about someone, you know, actually doing something. This will forever and always be my inherent problem with movie musicals: Cinema’s “show don’t tell” principle butts heads with musicals’ “I can literally only tell you things” framework. In the Heights is a vibrant romp through a very specific set of memories that unfurls against a hyperactive playlist, assembled by someone way cooler than me. It is a powerful, profound, prideful parade of Latino joy, sorrow and struggle. And virtually nothing actually happens. Because it’s a movie musical. I wholly understand that this is not the point! Still, it remains true that the biggest narrative progression is someone moving “Song A,” as described above, to “Song B.” The film is, as Lin-Manuel Miranda’s original Broadway version was, a love song dedicated to a certain set of GPS coordinates. It is an ode to New York City Latino life that resonates deeply with those who see the musical as a mirror or who can squint and see a family photo. The adoration that others

have for it is addictive. As someone whose entire communal cultural experience is “my family sometimes watches Chicago Bears games together,” I sincerely love how much other people love In the Heights. What passes for a plot is this: Usnavi (Anthony Ramos) says he is going to leave Washington Heights to purchase his late father’s bar in the Dominican Republic. Nina (Leslie Grace) says she’s not going back to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first hip-hoppy musical didn’t win a Stanford, despite the Pulitzer, but it also didn’t glorify a slave owner. It has other neighborhood hailing virtues, too, but that fact is UP THERE. CREDIT: WARNER BROS. her as their hero for tional eyeball jackhammer that will malevolence of gentrification, the “making it.” Benny free a torrent of tears from anyone murderous nature of crumbling (Corey Hawkins) says he’s happy not simply pretending to be huNina is back because he loves her urban infrastructure or the oppresman. At the end of the day, In the and stuff. Vanessa (Melissa Barrera) sive shadow of immigration poliHeights should ultimately either hit says she’s going to move to a nic- cies. None of those gets their own you where you live — electrically villain song though. er neighborhood and become a capturing a culture to which you fashion designer. Usnavi says that Director John M. Chu and cinbelong — or feel like the absolute he and Nina should get together. ematographer Alice Brooks offer best-case scenario for someone Everyone says that it is very hot out about a dozen or more legitimatetelling a story about their family and that they’d like to win the lotly pleasant variations on “people reunion. tery and should have a party. walking down a street toward a camera while extras dance behind There’s no real antagonist, unthem.” Olga Merediz’s solo numless you count the invisible machber as Abuela Claudia is an emoinations of capitalism, the passive

Other Critical Voices to Consider

Grade = B+

who inhabit NYC, the greatest city in the world.”

Andres Cabrera at Geeks of Color says “As said in the film, ‘We are powerful,’ and it’s about time that we see ourselves up on the big screen where we can freely showcase our talent, voice, and stories.”

Fico Cangiano at Cinexpress says “In The Heights is a Latinx celebration. A party where we can finally really see ourselves on the big screen. A film gathering where we can laugh, cry, dance, sing and most of all celebrate life in our own way. He who knows, knows. In The Heights is a triumph.”

Rendy at Rendy Reviews says “No matter how this summer pans out for cinema, In the Heights is THE movie of the summer. It’s a fun, energetic, incredibly directed, and colorful music epic that deserves to be seen on the biggest screen. It’s a beautiful love letter to Latinx culture and the dreamers

Dolores Quintana at her own Medium site says “While I was typing the first paragraph of this review and right now, thinking about the film, I am moved to tears. Why? I don’t expressly know why, but it’s the feeling whenever I give thought to In the Heights.”

JULY 2021

C O M I C S

Adjusted to Fit Your Screen

AnswerS in next month’s issue or online at TheReader.com

— what the flip is going on? by Matt Jones

Across

1. What your answers must be written in to understand the theme

5. Hiking path 10. “Which came first?” choice 13. Clapton or Cartman 14. Candy branded as “The Freshmaker” 16. Stuff to fix a squeaky hinge 17. Aligned correctly 19. Pompous attribute 20. Stun gun relative 21. Jewel

26. 1980s hairstyle that may have involved a kit 27. Donut shop quantities 30. Cop show with the line “Just the facts, ma’am” 33. Cupid’s Greek counterpart 34. Wire-___ (like some terriers’ coats)

10 15

52 60

43. Stay away from

JULY 2021

39. Activity done in heated beds

43. Well-known quotations, often

45. “Are you a man ___ mouse?” 47. Warm up after being in the freezer

49. Amounts on a bill 50. Liability counterpart

54. Walkway on an airline flight

Down

11. Prefix for byte meaning “billion”

58. Bullfighting cheer

1. Like some checks: Abbr.

12. Amorphous clump

2. Operatic solo 3. Sty dwellers 4. Crafty plans

51. Physiques, in entertainment tabloids 52. Lotion ingredient

64 66

42. Audrey Tautou’s quirky title role of 2001

35. Troy’s friend on “Community”

32. ___ fatty acids

31. Completely devour

36. Under the weather

30. Three, in Germany

30 34

the V-signs, for example?

59. What Neil Armstrong partook in, e.g. 44. Moved the borders to create a new area, 37. Rowboat propeller 62. Homer’s outburst perhaps 38. Transmit 63. It may be tossed 46. They’re collected in electronically, in a after a wedding passports way 64. Charity benefit, 39. Devices that, when 48. Coffee dispensers maybe turned, adjust 49. Cartoonist Guisewite, 65. Take notice themselves (just like or her comic strip the theme answers) 66. Some religious 51. Faith whose name observances 40. Greek vowel comes from the Arabic for “glory” 67. Stretch across 41. Suffix form for twenty and thirty, 53. Rapper ___ Def but not ten

21 24

22. Amy Winehouse hit song 24. Complainer’s sounds

15. Jam, margarine, or cream cheese, e.g.

18. Sci-fi film set inside a computer AnsweR to last month’s “Battle of the Alternative Bands”

5. Symbols after brand 23. Exercise machine unit names 6. Rule over a kingdom 25. Makes embarrassed 7. Chilean mountain range

26. Class warmup before a big exam

8. Checklist component 27. Postpone 9. Rawls of R&B

28. Make big speeches

10. “Land sakes alive that’s awesome!”

29. Do the “I am not a crook” thing with

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F L A D A S R V S G A N E L L E O A K S M O R P O O V S P A O A D T S N I S A O V S F I E S E W E

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O C H E E N E G R B A G C D E T H D A H U H I N E O T T O E M E N E R S H U M P E H B O N A L D S E E

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Doonesbury by Garry Trudeau

which deaths matter? by Jen Sorensen

TED RALL

JULY 2021

H E A R T L A N D

H E A L I N G

Summer Help is Here by Michael Braunstein Note from the editor: Heartland Healing columnist Michael Braunstein is currently on sabbatical. This column was originally published June 15, 2020.

Don’t dry out. It’s just crazy to buy high-priced sugar water at the corner store, you know that junk in wasteful plastic bottles. Usually ends with the letters “ade” something or other.

ummer is here. Nature beckons and EGBOK, “everything’s going to be OK.”

Let’s look at some reasons why Nature is going to save your soul this summer and steps you can take to avoid conflict with her. Sun and vitamin D. Nature’s design is wondrous. Just when we need it most, the sun and human biology step right in to provide one of nature’s strongest medicines, vitamin D. With increased sun exposure in the summer, your body produces bountiful amounts of vitamin D. Now you may think vitamin D is in food sources like dairy products. Well, yes and no. Milk doesn’t contain vitamin D unless it is artificially added. And vitamin D supplements, while helpful, are not as good as the real thing. Vitamin D is known to relieve depression, significantly combat cancers, boost the immune system and, of course, help build strong body parts, especially bone. It’s linked to lowering blood pressure, promoting insulin regulation, improved digestion and mental clarity. As far as life support is concerned, vitamin D is a superhero, and it is free and plentiful. All you have to do is get out in the sun. Negative ions. Boy, was the “negative ion generator” a thing in the 1970s! You couldn’t go anywhere in Hollywood without finding one in homes, studios, restaurants or theaters. What the trendies were trying to replicate was the generation of negative ions that are naturally created in certain outdoor settings. Negative ions have long been associated with uplifting spirits and overall contentment and are the

result of certain natural processes, including the agitation of water molecules. Ever notice how hardly anyone is in a bad mood at the beach? Right! And I visited Niagara Falls one time and no one was grumpy there! The same thing happens in verdant forestland. Those towering, leafy trees also generate tons of negative ions. Happy dirt. We’ve touched before on the uplifting benefits of playing in the dirt. You know — gardening, pulling weeds, basic yard work — and we told you one of the reasons why. Mycobacterium vaccae is everywhere you want to be when you play in healthy soil. Contact with this beneficial bacteria improves mood, possibly by stimulating the release of serotonin and other hormones that elevate mood and alleviate depression. Just in case. Summer also presents challenges that can try men’s souls. Insects are rampant. Soaring temps can dehydrate rapidly. Close encounters with allergenic plant life can trigger epidermal eruptions. Safer, natural methods of addressing these challenges are available if one but looks. Insects and biters. Repel and quell are things you can

JULY 2021

do. Keeping the bugs off is step one. Plenty of toxic chemicals are around at the store, but you can do better. First, wear clothing that gives some protection. White or light colors help you identify ticks and insect “cling ons.” And keeping your home area devoid of breeding grounds for mosquitoes cannot be emphasized enough. A teaspoon of water is incubating territory for millions of skeeters. Citronella: Everyone has heard of citronella candles. They work. And they won’t ravage your DNA. They keep bugs at bay. Lavender oil: As with all essential oils, dilute properly if applying to skin! Absorbent swatches of cloth with full strength though can be placed around your yard. Replace and replenish when no longer effective. Dilute proportions can keep buggers off exposed skin. Herbs: You can plant some of these around the yard — or in windowsill planters if you happen to be an apartment dweller. Basil, rosemary, mint, lavender, lemongrass — all will help deter the dickens out of those biting fliers and crawlers.

For starters, nothing hydrates better than water. But if you want to embellish your bottle, then try it the old-fashioned way. Switchel is a word you probably don’t know. A drink called variously switchel, Haymaker’s Punch or ginger water dates as far back as the 1600s in the Western Hemisphere, and similar drinks go back even further. Starting with water, you add some vinegar, spice it with ginger and sweeten with honey, maple syrup or molasses. Some historians note that lemon was a favorite additive, also. In the heat of harvesting hay, switchel was a popular drink for farmers in the 1930s. It hydrated and nourished them. The components contain natural elements that are similar to the good things in sports drinks. So, while you are recovering from the panic of the pandemic, recognize that summer holds some relief from the crazies. Embrace it. Be well.

Heartland Healing is a metaphysically based polemic describing alternatives to conventional methods of healing the body, mind and planet. It is provided as information and entertainment, certainly not medical advice. Important to remember and pass on to others: for a weekly dose of Heartland Healing, visit heartlandhealing.com.

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M E M O R I A M feelings were reciprocated to the greatest extent.

Nigel Phillips April 14, 1994 – June 10, 2021 On the evening of June 10, 2021, a beloved father, son and brother, Nigel Phillips, was purloined from this world after a traffic stop with the Omaha Police Department. Nigel, who I knew personally as co-founder of the Revolutionary Action Party, was a special person. He had a sense of humor that could tickle the crudest of people. That humor undeniably transcended to his love for his two children, Noah (son) and Estelle (daughter). He had a remarkable, unadulterated love for his family as a whole, especially his mother, Tonya. Nigel was definitely a momma’s boy. “Did you check up on Ma?” Was a recurring phrase that he uttered. For his sisters, brothers, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, his love resonated immensely, and those

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I write this with an extremely heavy heart, having had the absolute pleasure of knowing Nigel, not just on an associate level, but on a level of camaraderie. Nigel’s heart was so colossal it opened his mind to the theory that the Revolutionary Action Party was starting to get behind, and he couldn’t be happier with diving into it. Nigel was ready for a change not just with himself but the community at large. His mindset is what really stood out to me. It was profound how he could always see the positive in things. When dark times enveloped his life, his heart illuminated light to guide him through. I always found a smile on this brother’s face, 90% with golds and all. His family and friends would tell him “Be safe out there,” and his laid-back, composed answer was “I’ll try my best.” Long live Nigel Phillips. Friends of Nigel Phillips have set up a GoFundMe site to raise funds for a celebration of his life and support for his children. Search “Nigel Phillips” on gofundme.com. — Bear Alexander

M E M O R I A M

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More info... To submit, go to thereader.com/in-memoriam.

July 2021

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Postcards From Over The Edge Trave l’ s bac k , a nd i t’s bad as ev e r . by Tim McMahan

Looking out at an overcast Gulf in Sanibel Island, Florida. PHOTO BY TIM MCMAHAN

he TV screen displayed a satellite map of Florida covered with red-orange-green smears. “Look, honey, that’s where we’re headed.” The map showed Miami, which was on the other side of the state from where we were headed. The graphic read: “Expect heavy downpours.” You can plan your vacation as meticulously as a jewelry store heist, but there’s no way to predict the weather when booking flights two months in advance. The irony: Omaha’s forecast called for sun-sun-sun!, and a swimming pool was literally 10 feet from our back door. Still, the idea of another “staycation” after 18 months of pandemic — after being fully vaccinated — wasn’t an option. We spoiled Americans yearn for travel, even if it means journeying into the belly of the beast. Unlike my last trip to Eppley, the airport felt sleepy. The number of travelers were still nowhere near where they were prior to COVID-19, as evidenced by the short TSA line. These days agents are encased in plexiglass booths like coin-operated fortune-telling robots or clerks at a late-night convenience store. I slid my ID through the slot, and the rubber-gloved agent looked up and said, “Please take off your mask.” He quickly waved me through.

“Please social distance when seated” signs were stuck to the terminal seats. COVID-related messages blared over the PA, drowning out flight announcements, ordering us to stay socially distanced, warning that face masks are mandatory in the terminal. But there was no social distancing when they called our flight and herded us onto the causeway. Nor inside the sold-out American Airlines jet, cramped and uncomfortable as ever. Everyone dutifully wore their masks, but not without resentment. The lady in 19C behind us: “This is the first time I’ve worn a mask in three months,” she complained. “It’s all about having control and getting rid of Trump and doing what they want. I work in the health industry. These masks encourage spread. It has nothing to do with the virus.” I imagined the poor guy sitting next to her, nodding. No doubt she’d seen me wearing my double mask and rolled her eyes. She announced she was headed down to Marco (Island), which meant she’d be on our next flight to Ft. Myers. There is no question air travel was a chief cause of COVID spread. For the first time since last spring, back when we didn’t know what COVID was and everyone was wiping down their groceries, I felt paranoid,

July 2021

trapped like a sardine bathing in a sea of disease. How many people surrounding me were vaxxed? If you believe the CDC numbers for Nebraska, fewer than half. Regardless of COVID, I’ll never fly without wearing a face mask again. Prior to the pandemic, every time I flew anywhere I got sick two days later, no doubt from picking up a bug on the flight. Wearing a mask on a plane before COVID meant you were either a cancer patient or a loon. Moving forward, it will merely be a sign of paranoia. It was just then I noticed the overhead air vent was closed. Why? As the steward came by with the usual in-flight drinks, I wondered if I should pass, then took a cup of coffee and treats — biscotti and pretzels. As I was about to dive into the pretzel bag, I thought, “That’s how they get you.” We hadn’t packed hand sanitizer. I tried to squeeze the pretzels through a small opening into my mouth, but eventually gave up and dug in, thinking how ironic it would be to get COVID after 18 months of isolation and masks, all due to my hubris in having to take a vacation in what would likely be a Florida rainforest. Or because of a tiny bag of pretzels.

Anyone with even the slightest fear of COVID would be wise to avoid O’Hare Airport. The terminals were crushed as if it was a holiday. Forget social distancing. People wore face masks, sort of — some properly, others (mostly old dudes) with the mask drooping below their noses, making their political statements. Once boarded into the 737, we sat on the hot tarmac for an hour, waiting for a fuel truck to arrive — the perfect COVID incubator. The only thing worse was being forced to listen to the woman in the aisle seat on her phone walk someone through an Excel spreadsheet problem. But we made it. Sundial Beach Resort in Sanibel is the kind of place that plays Frankie Valli and Dion and the Belmonts over the PA, lost in the summer of 1960. Down below the Sea Breeze Cafe, a small group of fat old men bobbed in the swimming pool, cooking in the afternoon sun. No one wore a mask, and there wasn’t even the slightest evidence we had just come out of a pandemic.

Over The Edge is a monthly column by Reader senior contributing writer Tim McMahan focused on culture, society, music, the media and the arts. Email Tim at tim.mcmahan@gmail.com.

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