Kids & Pets
Letter from the Publisher
Hello Papillion and welcome to the kids and pets issue! I have a challenge for you this month. The challenge is to read this issue from front to back without breaking into a smile at least once. Good luck!
When we think of what brings us the greatest joy in life, it is hard not to think about children and pets.
Children bring joy not only to their own families but to the community around them. Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow but the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine.
And who could forget pets? The special companionship we have with our pets can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? Often deep and meaningful, this bond fosters empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
I remember the joy of one Christmas morning when my parents gave my siblings and me a puppy! He received a lot of love from us, but we received love in return as well. He always greeted us with excitement and consoled us when we were feeling down.
Although children are infinitely more valuable, what children and pets have in common is that they need us. Our care and attention shapes how they are raised and who they become. But if we look closely, we will find so many examples of how they shape us for the better as well!
Have a great August!
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Kyler Hendrickson kyler.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Amy Hendrickson
amy.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Amanda Mills | amanda.mills@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Kristen Muldoon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Vince Mancuso, Deb Reinard
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Joseph Saaid, Britnee Hoffner
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Dr Taera Kim, DMD, CAGS, MSD Dr Takanari Miyamoto, DDS, PhD, CAGS, MSD, MBA Board Certified Periodontist
Dr Melissa Lang, DDS, MS Board Certified Periodontist
Capturing pictures worth 1,000 words
For Britnee Hoffner
Hound Experience
Luxe Hound
Eight-year-old
Britnee Hoffner captures siblings with their newborn sister.
Britnee Hoffner
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Tom Wyman, Jim Berg, and Fred Tafoya distributed wristbands to participants at Hops for Harmony. 2: SmallCakes was one of many vendors who paticipated in Hops for Harmony at Werner Park. 3: Community Members enjoyed the Market in the Park and the Beer Garden at Papillion Days. 4: Smash Park donated $41,000 to the United Way Tornado Relief Fund at their ribbon cutting. 5: The ice cream social was a hit at the Papillion Days Family Fun Night. 6: The carnival rides at Papillion Days attracted a large crowd. 7: The Titans showed their team spirit at the Papillion Days Parade.
LIN HUGHES
SMALLCAKES OMAHA
LEAH HUNTER
KYLER HENDRICKSON
GABRIELLA RIDOUT
GABRIELLA RIDOUT
GABRIELLA RIDOUT
Flooring Backsplash
Bath/Shower Remodel Decorative Stone
business monthly
Trinity Financial Presents: “Retirement Planning Today®”: A Comprehensive Retirement Course
Trinity Financial Group is excited to announce a new offering, Retirement Planning Today, a comprehensive course designed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and tools for successful retirement planning. Scheduled to take place at Papillion Landing (1046 W Lincoln St), this course is perfect for anyone looking to stabilize their financial future, from recent retirees to those planning to retire in the next 20 years. Learn more or register for class at www.trinityne.com/events
Scan to read more
UEDAS Offering Two Dental Assistant Courses This Fall
United Exchange Dental Assisting School (UEDAS) is paving the way for the education of the next generation of dental professionals. UEDAS provides an innovative eight-week course and externship that gives students hands-on experience and instruction from industry-leading dental professionals to gain certification as a dental assistant. Two courses are scheduled this fall, starting August 13th and October 8th. Visit www.uedas.org for more information or to register for an upcoming course.
Children’s Life Insurance Policies Help Secure Your Child’s Future
Jessica Franker of American Family Insurance offers Children’s Life Insurance Policies designed to give parents peace of mind while protecting their child's future financial security. With opportunities to lock in premiums at a child’s current age and key features including guaranteed insurability, cash value accumulation, and accelerated death benefits, it is important to know the available options. Scan below to learn more or contact the office at 402-895-1300.
Scan to read more Scan to read more
BARK SAFE INTERNET SURFING FOR KIDS
Raising kids in the digital age isn’t easy. With so many dangers lurking online, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your children. Bark allows you to monitor your child’s online activity and alerts you of any red flags.
Monitor Content:
Get key insights into your child’s online world and receive warnings about potential issues.
Receive Alerts:
Get automatic alerts via email and text when Bark’s algorithms detect risks.
Set Location Alerts:
Get notified when your kid arrives at or leaves a set location.
Bark is included with our 2.3 GIG internet package, and can be purchased with 1 GIG or 500 Mbps for $10/month.
ProtectIQ adds an extra layer of security at the router level, which means safer surfing on all your devices. It blocks malicious content, scans for viruses, and alerts you right away if any suspicious activity occurs.
ProtectIQ is included with all internet packages.
ExperienceIQ provides even greater network control. Set up content filters, block specific apps or sites, set up device-specific time limits and more!
ExperienceIQ is included with all 1 GIG or 2.3 GIG internet packages. It can be purchased with 500 Mbps for $5/month.
CAPTURING PICTURES WORTH 1,000 WORDS
For Britnee Hoffner of Emerald Light Photography, the focus is on more than just taking pictures, it’s on telling stories
For Britnee Hoffner of Emerald Light Photography, pictures are more than images, they're stories.
"I love capturing the connection between a family," Hoffner says. "Sharing the special moments with clients keeps me pursuing this career. I enjoy building a relationship with all my families.”
Operating out of her Tara Plaza studio, Hoffner offers photography for maternity, family, and milestones, which are special moments in a child's life such as birthdays. "I've had clients return every birthday just to capture how their children have grown."
However, Hoffner's true passion is newborn photography. "That 'bump' to one year is what I really enjoy shooting," she explains. “For newborn sessions, I have my "sweet spot" when babies are two to three weeks old. I feel they pose better, sleep deeper, and their feedings are more routine.”
Britnee Hoffner, Photographer
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITNEE HOFFNER
Hoffner explains her approach is "baby-led," listening to what each infant wants at that moment. "Clients say I'm a baby whisperer," she chuckles. While understanding it takes perception and intuition, Hoffner credits classes on posing techniques, learning to be concise and responsive to the baby's needs.
Emerald Light also offers styling that includes a client wardrobe from newborn to toddler, as well as motherhood and maternity dresses. Mothers can browse online albums to select outfits in their desired colors.
As for style, Hoffner aims for a bright, airy look, which she accomplishes through the natural and studio lights available at her location—though in-home photography is also an option.
“I tend to go less posed and aim for more storytelling.” She explains that candid moments of laughter, interaction, and emotion offer a memory to reflect on and share. “That’s what’s fun about having siblings in photos as well. You get their reaction to being a big sister or big brother.”
Though she’s happy to take posed pictures, capturing the genuine connections between family members and moments that define a family’s journey inspires her, and she encourages potential customers to see for themselves.
emeraldlightphotography.zenfolio.com | 402-366-3742
THE
EXPERIENCE Luxe Hound
LUXE HOUND PROVIDES TAILORED GROOMING FOR YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
A canine companion is more than a pet—it's a part of the family. With that in mind, many strive to give their dogs the best grooming experience, such as that at Luxe Hound grooming salon.
"We care about your dog's well-being as much as what it looks like when it leaves," says owner Stephen Henry. "We're all very experienced in the pet industry, and we all own a dog—if not more than one."
Henry, who himself has three dogs, explains that though every groomer has experience in dog grooming, the true benefit of Luxe Hound is the personal care taken with each dog. "We truly feel like every dog is our dog," he says.
“We’re all a lot more patient, and we present a calm energy around the dogs. They pick up on that," he says as he goes over each dog's one-on-one grooming process.
Each appointment is roughly an hour and a half, and the owner is given a 20-30 minute heads-up on when their dog will be ready for pick up. This careful process ensures that each dog is given personal attention and avoids being kenneled. "Most of our dogs are with us for an hour and a half to two hours, depending on their size.”
For owners with more nervous dogs, Henry stresses paying attention to the dog's reactions and working with the customers to slowly build trust.
"We'll work with the customer—maybe today isn't a good day to try nail trimming, maybe tomorrow," he says. Additionally, some dogs may prefer a certain groomer, so they will try to work out a schedule.
“We’ll make accommodations when we can that are reasonable for us but also reasonable for your dog.”
As for sizes, Henry says all dogs are welcome, from "tiny dogs that fit in the palm of your hands to big dogs that seem like mini horses."
“We truly feel like every dog is our dog.”
-Owner Stephen Henry
n
n
n
FEWER DIZZY DAYS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEG RICE
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
EIGHT-YEAR-OLD LEXI RUIZ BECOMES THE YOUNGEST PARTICIPANT OF THE 50 MILE MARCH
ABOVE HER YEARS
Since 2020, men and women have taken a long march on Highway 6 from Lincoln to Omaha to raise awareness and aid for veterans struggling with PTSD and homelessness. While the organization and event have grown exponentially, this August's 50 Mile March will be a first with Papillion's Lexi Ruiz.
Gabriel explained that they followed the recommended exercise of walking five miles three times a week for training. The duo, known as team Prime Time, has also gone greater distances to prove Lexi's mettle.
"We've walked ten miles twice. We've walked 15 miles," Lexi says. "Twelve
“IF YOU SAY YOU’RE GONNA DO IT, YOU DO IT.” LEXI RUIZ
"I'm the youngest 50 Mile Marcher," says Lexi, 8, who will join her father, Gabriel Ruiz, as he takes his second long march. "My dad was doing something cool, and I had never heard of something like it, so I'm like, 'Sounds easy, I'll do it!’"
"Sounds easy!?" laughs Gabriel as he listens to Lexi. Gabriel participated in the 2023 march to honor his dad, who served in the Armed Forces. He aims to teach this lifestyle to his children.
"Last year, when she was seven, she asked me to join—and I knew she was going to," says Gabriel. He adds that Lexi often watched, cheered, or participated in his training. After inquiring if an eight-year-old could join, the father-daughter duo is pleased to be a team.
miles is what we do most of the time."
"I'm extremely proud and extremely humbled," Gabriel reflects on their training. Other adults, some fathers, have noted the young girl's tenacity. "Frankly, she's doing more than what some adults are doing to help others. It's not always sunshine and rainbows, but she's a tough kid."
The training has already paid off. Prime Time succeeded in the qualifying march, having rucked 15 miles with a pack and performed the required calisthenics. The 50 Mile March Foundation is thrilled to have the father and daughter join the cause.
"I have gone out walking with them quite frequently," says the foundation's executive director, Brianne Schuler. "She has lots of energy."
Schuler says this year's marching group is the largest yet, growing from six people in 2020 to 162 qualifiers for the 2024 march in August, with marchers as young as eight and as old as 75.
"I think it's really great our participants reflect the diversity of those in the Omaha community."
The foundation, which Schuler refers to as a movement, builds on that community to create a system of support. This year's march will provide grants to assist veterans and build a tiny home community and community center for homeless veterans.
Schuler says steps have been taken to ensure Lexi’s and all of the marchers' safety.
"The safety and the health and wellbeing of our walkers is paramount," she says. "As far as individual walkers, Lexi will be cleared by her health professionals before walking."
"We're not walking lonely on Highway 6, but in conjunction with a group of people," says Gabriel. This march is monitored with many rest stops and checkpoints and runs over 22 hours; the number of hours chosen represents the tragic statistic of 22 veterans taking their lives each day by suicide.
In addition to raising that awareness, Gabriel and Lexi are set to fundraise as much as possible, setting the goal of $10,000 for team Prime Time. Overall, Schuler says this year's collective goal is to raise $1.5 million, three times what was raised last year.
Photo: Bob Grandpre
“I’M EXTREMELY PROUD AND EXTREMELY HUMBLED,”
—GABRIEL RUIZ
"Everyone is going to carry a part of that, but I think it's inspirational for those who've turned it into nearly a fulltime job, and Gabriel and Lexi have been that," she says. "Our founder, Jay Miralles, loves to say there's a difference between being interested and being committed."
As for Lexi, her mind is set on doing good and doing well in the 50 Mile March.
"If you say you're going to do it, it's a commitment," she says. "So if you say you're gonna do it, you do it."
Donations can be made up to and even past Operation Noble Watchmen, the march set for August 24-25. Those interested in supporting the march through Team Prime Time can give online at givebutter. com/OperationNobleWatchman2024/ prime-time-ruiz/lexiruiz
More information on the 50 Mile March and its foundation can be found at 50milemarch.org
Photo: Bob Grandpre
FAMILY DINING AT ITS FINEST
ARTICLE BY DEB GRAYSON REINARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
If you’re hungry for great food made from scratch and you’re craving a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, look no further because Ollie and Hobbes Craft Kitchen at Midlands Place in Papillion has just what you want. Located off 84th St. and highway 370, owner Jason Kuhr said choosing Papillion for the site of his restaurant was a no-brainer.
“So many people we knew talked up Papillion and then after meeting Mayor Black and the folks at the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce, we knew we found the best location,” Kuhr said.
“We could see that Papillion wanted and needed a family restaurant."
Ollie and Hobbes loves being the top choice for family lunches and dinners, Kuhr said, and the restaurant is also proud to host local business meetings during the day and date nights each evening. He said meeting the needs of Papillion’s wide demographic is important to him.
"We want our customers to feel appreciated," he said. "We want to be sure we provide value for their money."
Great family dining is always on the menu at Ollie and Hobbes
Ollie and Hobbes serves up scrumptious all-American food including your favorite burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads, as well as Chicken Alfredo, Pork Schnitzel, Chicken Gnocchi, Tuscan Chicken, and Salmon. Appetizers range from Italian Meatballs to Parmesan Truffle Fries and Firecracker Drumsticks to Brussels sprouts.
A wide array of beverages are also available. All orders can be dine-in or ordered online for pickup. Don't forget Happy Hour, Monday-Friday, 3-6 pm and all day Sunday when you can enjoy special prices on some of your favorite entrees and drinks.
“We want to keep things casual at Ollie and Hobbes,” Kuhr said. “We want everyone to come in, relax and enjoy a great meal.”
Ollie and Hobbes is known for its great Kids Menu catering to just about every taste. Some little ones prefer grilled cheese or the ever-popular mac & cheese, while others prefer a sirloin steak. And of course, the always-requested cheeseburgers and chicken tenders are on the menu as well.
Side dishes include favorites such as french fries, mashed potatoes, and onion rings, and healthy choices like carrots, peas, and fresh fruit. And don’t forget to try the Truffle Fries on your next visit.
Sure to dazzle every kids’ appetite is the opportunity to decorate their own cookie or perhaps they’re in the mood to build their own ice cream sundae.
There’s something special for everyone!
Healthy Is
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MONDAYS IN AUGUST
SumTur presents free Yoga!
SumTur Amphitheater | 6:00 PM
Release tension and feel refreshed while you stretch, strengthen, and balance body and mind in a relaxed outdoor setting for one hour with instructor Traci Janousek. More program details can be found at SumTur.org
AUGUST 6TH
National Night Out
Papillion City Park | 6:00 PM
Join the Papillion Police Department for National Night Out. There will be presentations, special guests, police vehicles, and more! Food trucks will be available for purchase.
AUGUST 10TH
Kids Triathalon
Papio Bay Aquatic Center | 8:30 AM
Papillion Recreation and the Papillion Triathlon Club have teamed up to give kids the opportunity to complete a Triathlon while having lots of fun in a safe environment. For kids ages 6 to 14, the event is not timed and all racers will receive a finishing medal and an event shirt. Register online at papillion.org (Event cost is $35.)
AUGUST 17TH
Pep Rally Kickoff
Midlands Place Parking Lot | 7:00 PM
Midlands Place will be hosting its 4th annual Pep Rally Kickoff in the Midlands Place parking lot next to Spin Pizza. Both Papillion La Vista’s and Papillion La Vista South’s marching bands, dance teams, flags, and cheerleaders will perform.
AUGUST 24TH AND 25TH
Defenders of Freedom Air and Space Show
Offut Air Force Base | 10:00 AM
Come support the first open house and air show at Offutt Air Force Base in over five years! The Defenders of Freedom Air and Space Show will feature the Air Force Thunderbirds. This free event is open to the public.
AUGUST 25TH
50 Mile March: Operation Noble Watchman Landing Celebration
Nebraska Brewing Company | 12:00 PM
Join the emotional and inspirational conclusion of the fifth annual 50 Mile March: Operation Noble Watchman. Come to Nebraska Brewing Company to welcome the marchers and volunteers as they complete their 120,000+ step journey from Lincoln to Omaha. Food trucks, entertainment, and refreshments will be available. Visit 50 Mile March facebook page for more information.
