A Letter From The Publisher
It’s August. The end of summer. A time to focus our attention on what brings us the most joy in life, especially this time of year. Welcome to our Kids and Pets Issue!
As I thought about this issue, I recalled a proud dad moment I had recently with our youngest son. Of course, we are reminded that he is two and a half at some point every day, but he is also a sweet and polite little boy.
This particular moment was a couple of days before the 4th of July. Our neighbor, an Air Force Veteran, always lines his sidewalk with multiple small American Flags for the 4th. When my son saw this, he was so excited and wanted to be a part of it. He found one of our small flags and knew exactly where it should go, marching himself proudly to the end of the flags in our neighbor’s yard and adding his own. He did it with respect and a smile. And I was a very proud daddy!
Sometimes, as parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing our children’s growth that we forget that our children also shape us by bringing joy, laughter, and meaning to our lives. This was a subtle reminder for me to make sure I am soaking in these little moments as much as possible, and I encourage you to do the same.
But these little moments don’t stop with our children. Our pets also have a meaningful impact on our lives, providing joy through their love and companionship. For all the pet owners out there, I’m certain there isn’t a day that goes by where you don’t feel loved or experience a moment of joy with your pet.
So, here’s to celebrating our little ones and our pets who make everything better and fill our homes with joy and love each day!
Have a great August, Papillion!
August 2025
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, Kathy Nickerson, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
A2i Photography, Janie Jones, Opera Omaha, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, DentalQore
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Omaha’s Embrace
Papillion
Ralston
Where
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Ralston Vet hosted a fun-filled Summer Shindig, bringing together pets, families, and the community. 2: The City of Papillion kicked off renovations at historic City Park with a groundbreaking event. 3: Carnival rides and community pride filled the streets during the 78th annual Papillion Days celebration. 4: Students enjoyed summer reading and activities during open library hours at PLCS schools. 5: Papillion Landing’s Touch a Truck had nearly 700 visitors and incredible support from community partners. 6: PFD Fire Safety Camp 2025 taught kids fire safety through hands-on learning and interactive activities. 7: The Needle Craft Group and Papillion Garden Club shared talents, conversation, and community spirit.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
TRENTON ALBERS
PHOTO FRENS PHOTOGRAPHY
JOEY SEARS, CITY OF PAPILLION
Photo credit Iris Images
Building Affordable Homes and Stronger Communities for Nebraska’s Working Families
Home Value Builders is a Nebraskabased 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on creating affordable, entry-level homes for Nebraska families in rural and suburban communities. Each home starts with a durable, energy-efficient ICF shell built by our team, with finishing work bid out locally to complete high-quality, simple homes. This approach promotes efficiency, supports local trades, and helps bridge the housing gap. We help families achieve homeownership, build equity, and contribute to thriving communities. Visit homevaluebuilders.org for more information.
Nebraska Weight Loss Rebrands as Wellness + Co
Locally owned and operated, Nebraska Weight Loss is now Wellness + Co, reflecting a broader focus on total wellness. In addition to weight loss, services now include Botox, IV hydration, functional medicine, men’s health and TRT, female hormone replacement, lab draws, peptides, sexual wellness, quick care, and Sneak Peek early gender reveal testing. Wellness + Co is proud to offer more comprehensive, personalized care to the Papillion community. Visit wellnessplusco.com to get started!
Get Inspired at the 2025 Nebraska Get Lit! Conference
Connect with fellow literature lovers at the 2025 Nebraska Get Lit! Conference and Expo, hosted by The Book Nook Bookstores. Held at Papillion Landing on September 13–14, this two-day event features hands-on workshops, breakout sessions, and inspiring keynotes—all designed to empower local authors and readers. Don’t miss the Local Author Expo and networking opportunities. Registration is $80 per person. Space is limited—visit booknookbookstores. com/event-list to secure your spot and celebrate the power of literature!
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO | PHOTOGRAPHY
PAPILLION MIDDLE SCHOOLER’S POEM IS TRANSFORMED INTO BOTH OPERA AND HIP-HOP IN OPERA OMAHA’S POETRY & MUSIC PROJECT
OMAHA’S EMBRACE
BY OPERA OMAHA
Jackson Ward (center) with singer, Jesse Wohlman (left) and composer, Sidney Marquez Boquiren (right)
What started as a school project in a Papillion Middle School English class has now become not one but two songs in Opera Omaha’s Poetry & Music Project. Jackson Ward, then an eighth grader, had his poem, “Omaha’s Embrace,” transformed into an opera song and a hip-hop rendition.
“I wrote it in school about people in Omaha,” says Ward. “They have dif-
from each musical style—opera and hip-hop—selects different poems, but for the first time in eight years, both composers chose the same poem.
“I’m not somebody to brag about that kind of stuff,” Ward admits, “But I do think it’s cool and unique.”
Zoom meetings followed with both composers—one writing in the style of opera, the other in hip-hop. They
“WE CAN COME TOGETHER NO MATTER WHO WE ARE.” - JACKSON WARD
ferent backgrounds, but we can come together and be unified.”
The idea was to break stereotypes, both of people and place. “We can come together no matter who we are,” he says, noting Omaha Metropolitan’s diversity, another aspect of the city he wanted to highlight. “We’re not just farmland, and we know how to build community.”
He was first told about the project by his English teacher, Caitlyn Hanes, as well as Dr. Jen Schneider, a High Ability Learning facilitator with the Papillion-La Vista Community Schools. Running with the idea, Ward says he submitted his poem. Typically, a composer
asked for input and suggestions, and about a month later, the final musical versions were ready.
“It’s cool how music can change it,” Ward says. “I felt the hip-hop was a lot more upbeat, while the opera was more solemn.” The two renditions show how versatile and powerful the same words can become through different musical lenses.
“We’re super proud of him,” says his mother, Jennifer Ward. “He’s always liked to write—comics and stories. This was kind of a surprise, really… We’re proud of him for trying something new. It worked out wonderfully and surprised everybody.”
“IT WORKED OUT WONDERFULLY AND SURPRISED EVERYBODY.”
“The fact that Jackson’s words were chosen by both composers is a testament to his writing talent. I’m so proud of him,” shares Dr. Schneider. “Four PLCS middle school students were chosen this year. Hearing their words put to music was an incredible experience.”
The other PLCS poems selected for this project include:
• “Fowler Street” by M Bonar, La Vista Middle School
• “My Neighborhood” by Madison Dornbusch, La Vista Middle School
• “Untitled” by Michaela Brown, Papillion Middle School
Ward says that the experience has sparked him to write more, branching out into fantasy and realistic fiction. He offers advice to other young people wanting to explore something creative:
“If you think you’re good at it, but you don’t want to try, just try… It doesn’t have to just be writing. Maybe it will turn out bad, or maybe it will turn out good.”
For more information about the Opera Omaha Poetry & Music Project, visit operaomaha.org. You can also watch both takes on Ward’s poem at youtube.com/operaomaha
Ward’s poem "Omaha Embrace" was performed by Hip-Hop artist Lite Pole
Four PLCS students whose poems were selected for the Poetry and Music Project
Ward’s “Omaha’s Embrace” poem performed by Jesse Wohlman
Brand & Headshot Photography
josephsaaid.com
Instagram:@josephsaaid
RALSTON VET
Where pet comfort meets community connection
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY A2I PHOTOGRAPHY
Employees at Ralston Vet don’t see caring for animals as merely a profession, but a lifestyle. Embedded in the community in multiple ways, the employee-owned clinic has served local families and their furry companions for nearly 60 years, focusing on collaborative care, keeping pets comfortable, and their people confident.
“That’s really a core value for us,” says Cori Ochoa-Bond, Marketing Director at Ralston Vet. She shares that nearly all staff members have pets at home or have been part of a pet family, so they understand how many people view pets not just as animals but as a member of the family. “We try to take care of their emotional health as much as their physical health.”
For example, the clinic emphasizes compassion training with pets. This way, everyone knows how to read a pet’s body language and notice signs of stress. This information is documented so the team can cater to the emotional needs of each pet and build a better experience with each visit.
Collaborative care is another cornerstone of the clinic’s philosophy. Dr. Eryn Parkening, who celebrates her seventh year at Ralston Vet this July, says it plainly: “We want pet parents to feel just as involved in their pet’s care as we are.”
That means taking the time to talk, teach, and tailor treatment. Whether it’s advice on calming anxious dogs before an appointment or showing a client how to give meds at home, the team strives to empower, not just treat.
She says the personal investment goes beyond the exam table. The clinic’s history of community involvement includes actions as small as baking cookies for a family in a health crisis to assisting with a larger fundraiser. One recent story even involves a newly adopted dog slipping away from its owner on the way to the clinic.
“We didn’t even know them yet,” Ochoa-Bond says, “but we had 10 to 12 team members out in the neighborhood helping them search.” The dog was found four days later, thanks to community teamwork, including team members volunteering after hours.
“It’s very special to us that our clients are here as locals. We are locally owned. And we run into each other at the gas station, at the store,” says Dr. Parkening. “I think that makes the job more fulfilling. It makes the relationships easier knowing we’re giving back to the local community the same way they’re giving to us.”
With this commitment to total, family-minded care for your dogs and cats, Ochoa-Bond and Dr. Parkening emphasize the joy of working alongside families
inside the clinic and out in the community. From personalized treatment plans to neighborhood support, the Ralston Vet team aims to go above and beyond to make a difference where it matters most.
Pet Parents can stay connected with updates and wellness tips by following Ralston Vet on Facebook and Instagram, as well as catch some adorable pet photos or behind the scenes videos along the way!
402.331.6322 | ralstonvet.com
Happy Kids with Healthy Smiles
COMFORT AND CONFIDENCE: THE WEEDER PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY EXPERIENCE
ARTICLE BY KATHY NICKERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DENTALQORE
According to a poster hanging in the waiting room of Weeder Pediatric Dentistry, “Even monsters brush their teeth.” If the sight of that friendly monster doesn’t put patients at ease, the attitude of the staff surely will.
Dr. Greg Weeder and his wife Danelle, who is the office administrator, have created a welcoming environment for children and parents. The team also includes the recent addition of Dr. Rebecca Buss. She shares the Weeders’ goal of helping children build a solid foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
The practice recently moved to their new location, near 108th and Giles Road, where everything is designed for comfort and reassurance. The office features cozy furniture in the waiting room and lots of windows in the exam rooms. Children can even pop on headphones and watch television on the ceiling.
“I had some bad experiences in the dental chair as a child,” Dr. Weeder says, “So building trust with a child is an important part of what we do.”
His own experience is one reason Dr. Weeder settled on pediatric dentistry. “Plus, after ten years in general dentistry, I realized I enjoy working with children. So, I went back to get my specialty degree.”
Dr. Weeder believes children learn well from one another, so the exam area includes four stations. Watching another child relax and open wide makes it easier for a tentative child to do the same. Plus, a busy parent can bring four children at once!
The practice also has private exam rooms for children who do better in that environment and for procedures. They offer several options to keep the patient comfortable, and parents are welcome to stay in the room.
The entire Weeder Pediatric Dentistry team brings years of skill and experience, plus hearts of compassion. They want every patient to feel like part of the family, because they believe healthy teeth make happy kids.
402.932.1177 | weederdental.com
Dr. Greg Weeder and Dr. Rebecca Buss with the Weeder Pediatric Dentistry team
Discover 260 acres of trees, trails, and treetop adventures — where hands-on experiences and outdoor beauty come together. From orchard rides and wine tastings to flower picking and family-friendly fun, Arbor Day Farm offers unforgettable getaways for families, couples, and friends. Book now and save up to 25% on your summer stay at Lied Lodge — where every visit helps plant more trees — at arbordayfarm.org/roomtobloom.
Relax with your toes in the water at the Canyon Ponds Interactive Stream
EXPERIENCE NEBRASKA’S WILDLIFE AND HABITATS UP CLOSE AT SCHRAMM PARK STATE RECREATION AREA
FAMILY FUN AND NATURAL TREASURES
ARTICLE BY KATHY NICKERSON
If wading in a spring-fed trout stream was on your bucket list for the summer, here is some good news: You still have time, and you don’t need to drive to the mountains.
An interactive trout stream is just one of many features at Schramm Park State Recreation Area. The park is located a short drive south of Papillion on NE Highway 31 and welcomes visitors of all ages. The Schramm Education Center is the perfect place for families to learn and play, with both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The park was made possible thanks to the generosity of the late E.F. Schramm, a geology professor at the University of Nebraska. The Schramm Education Center includes freshwater aquariums, a sturgeon touch tank, the Eagle’s Nest reading nook and Maker Space, an indoor play area, a virtual reality mountain biking trail, and much more.
Outdoor spaces include a picnic area, a natural playground, hiking trails, ponds, a suspension bridge, a geological outcrop with fossils, and an interactive natural stream. A new addition is the Treehouse Classroom, where guests are encouraged to embrace unstructured free play during Treehouse Time. Outdoor Education Specialist Kelly Ekue describes the treehouse as the perfect place to sit in a nook with a book, ponder a puzzle, or build with loose parts. Guests can also take in the view of the Canyon Ponds and the Platte River.
“I’ve been an educator for nearly 30 years, and I absolutely love having the privilege to teach in our parks,” Ekue says. “Our park landscapes are the perfect setting for learning. Participants can interact with nature to learn meaningful lessons about Nebraska’s wildlife and habitats, while also enjoying the health and wellness benefits from being in the natural setting itself.”
Plan a visit for your family before the school year starts or suggest a classroom field trip this fall. Check the outdoornebraska.gov website for times, prices, and scheduled events such as the upcoming Snakes of Nebraska program. The Education Center offers a great opportunity to discover Nebraska’s natural habitats. Don’t forget to pull off your shoes and wade in the stream while you are there.
Climb, dig or build at the Natural Playground
New! Treehouse Classroom
Touch a prehistoric Pallid Sturgeon in the education center's touch tank!
As your local realtor, I’ll guide you every step of the way—from finding the perfect property to getting the best offer for your home. Start your next chapter with confidence. Contact me now to get started!
here to explore real estate opportunities tailored to your homeownership goals!
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
CLOGGED DRAIN?
AUGUST 5TH
National Night Out
Halleck Park | 6:00 PM
Join the Papillion Police Department for National Night Out! Enjoy bounce houses, food trucks, presentations, meet and greets, and fun activities designed for families. Spend the evening building community connections and celebrating safety.
AUGUST 9TH
Last Kids Tri of Summer with Papillion Recreation
Papio Bay Aquatic Center | 8:30 AM
Join Papillion Recreation and the Papillion Triathlon Club for a fun, safe triathlon experience for kids 6–14! Swim, bike, and run your way through this 10th anniversary event. Not timed. All finishers receive medals and shirts; top 3 earn prizes. Registration is $35 at papillion.org.
AUGUST 9TH
Paws & Pints
Main Street, La Vista City Centre 5:00 PM
Grab a leash and a local brew for this dog-friendly street party in partnership with Heights Draft Room and The City Pub. Enjoy food, drinks, pet-friendly vendors (open until 9:00 PM), and live music on Main Street. The patios stay open until 11:00 PM, so come early and stay late with your pup!
Advisor
AUGUST 16TH
Pep Rally Kickoff at Midlands Place
Midlands Place, 304 Olson Drive 7:00 PM
Celebrate the start of the school year with the Monarch and Titan Pep Bands at Midlands Place. Bring your folding chairs and enjoy an evening of energetic music and community support.
AUGUST 22ND
Grub 4 Good at Prairie Queen
Prairie Queen Elementary School 5:00 PM
Enjoy dinner and dessert while supporting local causes! Javi’s Tacos will be serving delicious eats, and Busy Bee Baking Company will have sweet treats and drinks. A portion of proceeds benefits 50 Mile March and Moving Veterans Forward. Located next to Werner Park—bring the family for a flavorful evening with purpose!
AUGUST 29TH
First Game of the Season: Monarchs vs Titans
Foundation Field - PLVS | 7:00 PM
Cheer on the Monarchs and the Titans in the first game of the season! Come out to support your team and enjoy an evening of football, fun, and community pride.
