A Letter From The Publisher
In our world today it is easy to get caught up in the busyness of work and activities. Combine that with the ability to be distracted at any moment and in any location by something we hold in the palm of our hand and it can be hard to break free and allow ourselves to experience something different, something exciting, something that we might even consider, exploration.
Our family loves to explore! And our favorite thing to explore is the great outdoors. We do this in small ways like having breakfast on the patio during a gentle morning rain or taking a stroll around the duck pond at Halleck Park and feeding the ducks. We do this in large ways like a recent trip to Rocky Mountain National Park where the kids had spikes on their boots as we hiked up to a waterfall on snow-packed trails.
It is easy however to only think about exploring in the way it pertains to nature, but there are so many ways to explore. We can explore different flavors. We can explore different cultures. We can explore the arts or listen to music different from our typical choice. But regardless of how we choose to explore, the best way to do so is by igniting our senses and allowing ourselves to be truly present in the experience and with those we are experiencing it with.
So here you go, the Explore Issue! In this issue, you will have the opportunity to step back in time with a local ice cream parlor and feel like you are a part of a special herd of elephants at the Henry Doorly Zoo. You will also have the opportunity to explore ways to elevate the exterior of your home or the interior of your soul.
We hope that this issue encourages you to explore. So set aside your distractions and prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. Lose yourself on a trail or in a book. Take that trip you’ve been thinking about. Dream big and let your imagination run wild. And most importantly, take time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar. Have a great July!
KYLER HENDRICKSON, PUBLISHER @PAPILLIONCITYLIFESTYLE
July 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
Deb Reinard, Vince Mancuso, Amy Hendrickson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Joseph Saaid, Sammie Rodriguez, Amy Hendrickson, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
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
inside the issue
It Gets Sweeter Through The Years
Graley’s Creamery and Confections helps patrons explore their palate while traveling
Expert Advice from a 3rd Generation Roofer
Dan Thompson shares tips and recommendations for homeowners regarding
Recharging Your Soul in Mexico
Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.
Doorly
Graley’s Creamery and Confections owners, Bryon and Joanna Compton.
Joseph Saaid
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When your child continues to develop their math skills, you can rest easy knowing they’re on track for a successful school year. Mathnasium gives students the instruction they need to reinforce what they’re learning in school, work on concepts that may pose a challenge, and take their math knowledge to the next level. In other words, we got this.
city scene
1: The Sip and Walk in downtown Papillion was a big hit! 2: The Papillion Library held their Summer Reading Program Kickoff event, which included a petting zoo! 3: The Vietnam Veterans Memorial held a grand opening June 6th and is now open daily. 4: Crowds lined the sides of the street for the La Vista Days Parade. 5: The Papillion Fire Department held their first of many summer hydrant parties. 6: Community members participated in the Papillion Half Marathon, 10K and 5K events. 7: Wildlife Encounters drew a large crowd at the Papillion Library Summer Event.
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PAPILLION
KYLER HENDRICKSON
DON LABRIE, CITY OF LA VISTA
business monthly
Our Family Serving Yours
Experience peace of mind with John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Electrical. For over 28 years, they’ve been committed to “Quality at a Reasonable Cost,” becoming Nebraska’s fastest-growing service provider. Their team of over 170 professionals delivers 5-star, whole-home services across Papillion and surrounding areas. John Henry’s provides personal service, honest prices, and expert workmanship. Call today or visit CallJH.com to see why they’re the leading choice for your HVAC, electrical, and plumbing needs.
Making an Impact Through Customer Care and Community Focus
The State Farm office of Matt Ricchini has been serving the Papillion community for 18 years. Ricchini’s office stands apart by educating current and prospective clients, empowering them to make informed decisions. They ask the right questions to ensure clients are fully protected while providing as many discounts as possible. Ricchini and his team are passionate about helping their clients and giving back to the community they serve!
McKean’s Floor to Ceiling
McKean’s Floor to Ceiling is your local one-stop shop for all your flooring, kitchen and bath needs. Family-owned and operated since 1962, McKean’s takes pride in providing customers with quality service. Whether you are remodeling or building a new home, McKean’s is an expert in kitchen and bath projects; they carry flooring, countertops, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, and hardware. Contact McKean’s for a free estimate on your flooring, or kitchen and bath project.
GRALEY’S CREAMERY AND CONFECTIONS HELPS PATRONS EXPLORE THEIR PALATE WHILE TRAVELING BACK IN TIME
It’s almost as if you’ve stepped off the train at the old depot in downtown Papillion and crossed the brick-lined street into the 1890s. The creaky floor, the comforting aromas, the cozy feel – you’ve arrived at Graley’s Creamery and Confections. A charming, old-time piano sits in the corner while antique tables and comfortable booths beckon you to sit while you browse the menu.
ARTICLE BY DEB GRAYSON REINARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
Graley’s Creamery and Confections has become a mainstay in downtown Papillion and a destination for a special date. “Graley’s is where friends and family gather and memories are made,” said Bryon Compton, referred to as Mr. C, who opened the ice cream shop with his wife, Joanna, in 2018.
The confectionary sits on the southeast corner of East Second and Washington streets, in one of Papillion’s most historic buildings. It originally housed HA Sander General Store and, quite likely, was one of the first stops
passengers would make after leaving the train depot just to the north. There, one would find sundries and mercantile for the locals and train travelers alike. Later the location became home to Abel’s Bar. Today, that bar has been restored and turned into a haven for ice cream buckets, the wide wooden planks on the floor remain, and the aromas are a blend of warm waffles and maple syrup or even of luscious chocolate brownies.
“Whatever happens to be on the menu that day, that’s what smells so good,” Mr. C said. “It’s the smell of love.”
“ GRALEY’S IS WHERE FRIENDS AND FAMILY GATHER AND MEMORIES ARE MADE.”
While the menu boasts a variety of coffees, teas, cakes, soups, and pies, the star of the show is the ice cream. And not just cones. They also serve sundaes, banana splits, and milkshakes in every flavor imaginable such as Pistachio Crunch, Lavender Honey, Key Lime Pie, Cherry Red, and Honeycomb.
With only a couple exceptions, like Oreo Cookies and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, everything is made from scratch in the store. “All of the candy and toppings, all soups and pies, and of course the ice cream. Everything is all-natural. We don’t use any artificial food colorings, and we only use real cane sugar. We try to buy local as much as possible,” Mr. C said.
According to Mr. C, many recipes are old Victorian recipes, while others are family recipes handed down through generations or creations of his own. His recipe box has more than 100 family recipes, with plans to develop hundreds more.
“Graley’s is a family business, and the name of our shop came from the next generation,” Mr. C said. Bryon and Joanna are the parents of Greg and Haley, “and when you combine their names you get Graley’s,” Mr. C said proudly.
Creating an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere at Graley’s is important to the Comptons.
“We want our guests to leave their worries on the tree outside and come in and relax. We want our guests to make special memories here, whether that’s an afternoon ice cream with Dad or a wedding proposal – and we’ve had five proposals here so far,” Mr. C said.
Graley’s also serves as an educational opportunity for youngsters in the Papillion-La Vista School District. As part of their history curriculum, the third, fourth, and fifth graders are invited to tour Portal School and the Sautter Farmhouse each spring. Recently, that tour has grown to include a stop at Graley’s where the history lessons continue.
“We’re very proud to partner with the schools,” Mr. C said.
Graley’s Creamery and Confections is much more than an ice cream store to Bryon and Joanna Compton. “This is our legacy. This is about family. Papillion is family. Papillion is home to Graley’s. We are here to stay.”
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Expert Advice from a 3rd Generation Roofer
DAN THOMPSON SHARES TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HOMEOWNERS REGARDING STORM DAMAGE AND HOME EXTERIORS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY HENDRICKSON
Dan and Jim Thompson, owners of Thompson & Thompson 3rd Generation
Hail Damage
What a professional looks for
After summer storms, you may have a need to replace roofing, siding or gutters. Dan Thompson, co-owner of Thompson and Thompson Roofing, says, “You usually can’t tell if you have hail damage when standing on the ground. It’s good to contact a roofing company to get an inspection.” When a professional gets on the roof, they look for impacts on shingles, metal flashings, and chimney caps, which can all point to damage. Gutters, downspouts, windows, trim work, and siding are also checked.
Filing a Claim
There are several things homeowners should keep in mind as they go through the claims process. Before making a claim, Thompson says, “Know how much your deductible is, as they’ve risen significantly in the last few years, and not all insurance companies are the same.” Thompson also advises, “Be your best advocate and walk around with the adjustor when they look at your property, or even have your contractor look with them.” He also shares that the process takes time. “What used to take 2-3 weeks now can take 2 months,” Thompson says.
Roofing, Siding, and Gutters
What to be aware of Recommendations
There are many options these days for replacing roofing, siding and gutters. Thompson states, “It’s no longer tear shingles off and nail shingles on. Everything is a system that needs to be followed.” To protect from hail in the future, Thompson recommends high-quality impact-resistant roofing. “We like Euroshield, a rubber shield made from recycled tires.” For siding, the LP SmartSide is a great option. “This is a wood product that is much stronger and has fewer seams than vinyl and cement board,” he says. Finally, Thompson recommends adding gutter guards as they may help prevent gutter replacements the next time around.
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O'KEEFE
RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN
Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.
Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.
Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.
Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of
the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.
The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.
Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!
If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater
that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.
While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”, you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!
Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.
Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.
And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.
Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later. JW-Marriott.marriott.com
BOOKS TO TAKE YOU AWAY
I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
The Corfu Trilogy
BY GERALD DURRELL
Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy.
Blue Latitudes
BY TONY HORWITZ
Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before
The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.
The Island of Missing Trees
BY ELIF SHAFAIT
It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.
Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.
Cutting for Stone
BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, IndianAmerican medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.
The Museum of Innocence
BY ORHAN PAMUK
The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.
DIZZY
A GROWING FAMILY
A closer look at the newest members of the elephant herd at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
ARTICLE BY AMY HENDRICKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY ZOO AND AQUARIUM
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is always a great destination, but over the coarse of the last several years there has been quite the excitement over the new additions to the beloved elephant herd. Let’s meet these five adorable new family members!
• Eugenia (female), born 1/7/22
• Sonny (male), born 1/30/22
• Mopani (male), born 3/2/23
• Amandra (female), born 8/6/23
• Hondo (male), born 2/18/24
GET IT DONE RIGHT WITH PLUMBRITE!
JULY 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, 27TH
Papillion Fire Department
Summer Hydrant Parties
Various | 1:00 PM
Summer Hydrant Parties are fun for the whole family! Join the Papillion Fire Department on July 6th at MCC Sarpy Campus, July 13th at Glenwood Hills Park, July 20th at the Halleck Park Duck Pond, and July 27th at Camenzind Park for hydrant sprinkler fun, popsicles, and community.
JULY 9TH
Silent Reading Party
Twisted Vine | 6:00 PM
Calling all introverts! BYOB(ook) to this silent reading retreat on the Twisted Vine Patio. Relax with a beverage and a good book to read by yourself or with a friend. Librarians will be present to offer book recommendations, buttons, and more.
JULY 9TH AND 30TH
Community Fishing Event
Halleck Park | 6:00 PM
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is hosting a community fishing night where loaner rods, bait, and fishing instruction are available free to participants. Participants ages 16 and older need a fishing license. This is a perfect learning opportunity for people of all ages who have never been fishing or haven’t fished for years.
JULY 26TH
Live & Local
Outdoor Concert
La Vista Public Library | 5:00 PM
Enjoy free live music from local favorites and up-and-comers. Lawn chairs, blankets, and dancing shoes encouraged. Bring your own picnic dinner or purchase tasty food from the visiting local food trucks. Food trucks open at 5 PM and music begins at 6 PM.
JULY 27TH
Movie Night at SumTur Amphitheater
SumTur Amphitheater
Bring a chair or blanket and join for a free starlight movie featuring The Haunted Mansion. The movie will begin at dusk, with a preshow at 7:30 PM. For more information, visit SumTur.org
JULY 31ST - AUGUST 4TH
Sarpy County Fair
Sarpy County Fairgrounds
The 87th Annual Sarpy County Fair is coming up! The fair includes a rodeo, truck and tractor pulls, and other activities for the whole family. You can view the schedule of events and purchase tickets for ticketed events at sarpyfair.com
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Sponsored by Debbie Meyer Real Estate Agent
Hometown Hero
Joyce Stranglen
Joyce Stranglen, a long-time resident of Papillion, has been honored as the 2024 recipient of the Peggy Woltman Public Service Award due to her heroic generosity of her time and talents that have served our community in countless ways. Stranglen has served on the Sarpy County Foster Care Review Board and Papillion Community Foundation Board. She has also been a longtime member of the Papillion Jr. Woman’s Club, serving in multiple leadership roles, and is a charter member and continued volunteer on the Papillion Butterfly Garden Committee.
Karla Rupiper nominated Stranglen for the award saying, “She is a natural leader in our community and has a gift of engaging others in ways that enrich our Papillion community.”
Want to nominate a hometown hero? Email Kyler.Hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
