The Ladies' Issue
ELEVATED DINING, DOWN-TO-EARTH CHARM.
Discover the new Timbers at Arbor Day Farm menu, where comfort food meets sophisticated flavors. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients for a fresh take on timeless favorites. This is food you can feel good about—and flavors you won’t forget.
Plan your visit to Arbor Day Farm for a meal, a day, or a full-on spring retreat at arbordayfarm.
@arbordayfarm @arbordaywedding @arbordayfarm
2700 Sylvan Road | Nebraska City, Nebraska arbordayfarm.org
Letter from the Publisher
We are excited to present this year’s Ladies' Issue! I don’t know about you, but sometimes I reflect on the individuals who have impacted my life. Taking that reflection into this issue has a whole new meaning for me this year as I think about the life of a grandmother we lost a few months back.
My grandmother was a fantastic woman who taught me so much about life and love through the strong and humble way she lived and the extraordi nary way that she loved. Not only did she raise ten children, but she did it selflessly. Not only did she keep the home for her large family, but she worked outside the home as well. Not only did she attend church regularly in her small town, but she also volunteered her time in various roles. To top it all off, watching her and my grandfather interact throughout over 60 years of marriage were some of the most inspiring moments I have ever witnessed.
This is just one example of an amazing woman in my life. The reality is that we have amazing women doing extraordinary things all around us. Whether it is a local business owner or a star athlete – a loving mother or a neighbor down the street – there is truly something amazing about every one of them.
So, let’s go out of our way to ensure we show the women in our lives and our community a little extra love this month. May provides an opportunity to do this on Mother’s Day, but why stop there? Maybe it’s planning a date night for her (we have some ideas for you right here in this issue) or sending a simple letter to let a woman in your life know just how truly special she is!
Cheers to all you women out there! This month is all about you!
Have a beautiful May, Papillion!
KYLER HENDRICKSON, PUBLISHER
May 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, Deb Reinard, Shannon Snow, Angela Broockerd, Amy Salvagno
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
A2i Photography, Joseph Saaid, Nebraska Athletics, Janie Jones, Amy Salvagno
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
Proverbs 3:5-6
Join us for the 23rd year of...
Hops for Harmony
Wednesday, June 11th | Werner Park | 5:30pm
Omaha’s Premier Beer Tasting Festival! Proceeds from this event will help Project Harmony continue to provide effective, immediate and sensitive support to children who are victims or suspected victims of abuse and neglect in our communities. A portion of the funds raised also allows the Papillion Area Lions Club to support local projects in the community.
Tickets are $45 in advance and $55 the day of the event. Tickets can be purchased online, at Hy-Vee customer service desks, or from Papillion Lions members.
Hosted by the Papillion Area Lions Club as a benefit for Project Harmony.
Photos provided by Debra Kaplan
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: A vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and diversity—Papio PROUD’s Multicultural Fair was a success. 2: Papillion La Vista High School brought Fiddler on the Roof to life this spring. 3: The Back Nine Papillion hosted a lively Yelp Open House, celebrating women-owned businesses. 4: History made! The Papillion La Vista South boys basketball team wins its first state title. 5: Trusted Life Choices celebrated 10 years in business with a community open house. 6: The 55+ Club enjoyed a festive St. Patrick’s Day lunch. 7: Luck, laughter, and a fantastic senior lunch—thanks to City of La Vista for hosting.
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PAPILLION
Weeder Pediatric Dentistry Welcomes Dr. Rebecca Buss!
Weeder Pediatric Dentistry is excited to welcome Dr. Rebecca Buss to their team! Originally from Wayne, NE, Dr. Buss completed her dental training at UNMC and is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist who has been serving Omaha-area children for four years. Weeder Pediatric Dentistry provides expert, compassionate care in a fun, relaxing environment, helping children maintain bright, healthy smiles. With a brand-new office near 108th & Giles now open, call 402.932.1177 to schedule your child’s next appointment!
to read more
Building Math Skills and Confidence this Summer!
You may know the National Association of Educational Progress (NAEP) recently released the Nation’s Report Card. It showed fewer than 40% of Nebraska 4th and 8th graders are proficient in math. Summer at Mathnasium is a great way to support Nebraska’s kids. Exploring math in Mathnasium’s supportive, fun environment helps kids understand concepts they haven’t yet fully mastered. Clearing up confusion from the previous school year sets them up for success in the fall.
Golf for Good: Tee It Up For The Troops
Tee off for a meaningful cause. Tee It Up For The Troops is an indoor golf tournament at The Back Nine in Papillion supporting veterans through The 50 Mile March Foundation. Teams of two can play nine holes anytime between June 7–27, with prizes, raffles, and a celebration event on June 28. Entry is $150 per team, with all proceeds supporting veterans. Space is limited— register today at Back9for50Mile. eventbrite.com and swing for something bigger than golf.
MORE THAN A SPA
Discover beauty, wellness, and community at Canvas Salon and Day Spa
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY A2I PHOTOGRAPHY
Canvas Salon and Day Spa, located near 42nd and Highway 370, is a sanctuary of beauty, wellness, and empowerment. Owner Erin Jenkins opened the salon eight years ago with a vision of making a lasting impact on her community.
“I wanted to provide jobs for women, to empower and encourage each other,” says Erin Jenkins, inspired by her own experiences, love for the beauty industry, and the desire to create community.
Ashlynne Le Francois, salon coordinator, shares that the salon offers various services and products, from haircuts to facials and full-body waxing. One of the salon’s unique features is its salt therapy room, a rare offering in Nebraska.
“We’re one of only four places in Nebraska with salt therapy,” says Le Francois. This therapeutic treatment, offered in a room with a beach-like atmosphere and zero-gravity chairs, helps clients unwind while enjoying the benefits of halotherapy. Jenkins’ family inspired this addition.
CONTINUED >
Erin Jenkins, owner of Canvas Salon and Day Spa.
“My son has cystic fibrosis,” says Jenkins. The degenerative lung disease causes a buildup of mucus, which must be cleared by force. Jenkins and her husband sought holistic options to help him. “I found halotherapy, or salt therapy, to be very popular.”
After trying it for themselves, they found it effective. Since using it, Jenkins’ son hasn’t been hospitalized for his condition. “This isn’t going to replace any kind of medicine—but it has really helped.”
At Canvas, testing and verifying products is key. “Education is huge for me,” Jenkins says, ensuring staff and clients stay informed on trends and techniques.
“There’s a lot of information out there, people who say certain things and promote things that are not always true,” says Le Francois. “We do our best to use products we are proud of and would personally use.”
This is all a part of the Canvas Salon and Day Spa mission, to provide a warm, welcoming community where clients can rejuvenate their minds, bodies, and spirits, all while receiving the personalized luxury experience they deserve.
402.932.5959 | canvassalonanddayspa.com
Coming Home
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEBRASKA ATHLETICS
Jordy Bahl returns to Nebraska with pride
“I wouldn’t change my experience for anything, but when you’re from Nebraska, you grow up dreaming of wearing that jersey.”
Jordy Bahl’s journey in softball has taken her from the fields of Papillion-La Vista to the national stage and back again. The former Monarchs standout and Oklahoma Sooners pitcher returned to Nebraska, bringing her talent, experience, and hometown pride to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Huskers.
Bahl’s softball career began with the Monarchs during the 2017-2018 season, where she quickly became a key player. Reflecting on her time there, she shares, “There’s no greater thing than representing your town. That’s what made part of my high school experience so special.”
Playing alongside a tight-knit group of teammates for four years left a lasting impact. “There were like eight or nine of us that were together the whole time. It was a really special four years.”
Her time with the Monarchs also set the foundation for her success at the collegiate level. “Coach Todd Petersen, he does a great job just preparing girls for college,” Bahl says. “His style of practice played a big role in maturing us and preparing us for the next step.”
After graduating in 2021, Bahl took her talents to Oklahoma, where she played her freshman and sophomore seasons. Her time with the Sooners was filled with unforgettable
moments, including being part of two of the team’s “back-to-back-to-back-to back” national championships.
“I got to learn a lot and play with some incredible athletes and build some friendships,” she says. “But nothing beats the hometown jersey.”
Coming back to Nebraska was a dream come true. “Obviously, it’s been really cool. I wouldn’t change my experience for anything,” she says. “But when you’re from Nebraska, you grow up dreaming of wearing that jersey.”
Bahl takes immense pride in playing alongside other Nebraska natives. In a recent game against the University of Nebraska at Omaha, she noted, “There were like 20 girls on the two rosters combined that were native Nebraskans.”
She sees that pride as a testament to the strength of the state’s softball community, as well as an advantage to coming together as a team. “We’re either familiar with each other from playing together or we played against each other growing up.”
For young women looking to follow in her footsteps, Bahl offers simple but powerful advice: “Observe and learn what you can from the older girls. That’s what I did.” She credits former players like fellow former Monarchs Julie Andersen and Gina Metlzer as role models.
“The program has so much tradition,” she shares of PLHS. “You don’t want to let your teammates down, but you don’t want to let the alumni down either. You put that jersey on with pride.”
Melanie Smith LIMHP
Lara Johnson PLMHP
Ariel Paup PLMHP
Jessica DeBuhr PLMHP
Photo credit Iris Images
ARTICLE BY DEB GRAYSON REINARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
“Show up and own it. Be authentic...and every day be the very best version of yourself.”
The Road to Success
Women business owners are paving the way to economic growth and progress
Did you know that more than 35% of all businesses in the United States are owned by women? That equates to more than 14 million businesses generating $2.7 trillion in annual revenue and employing nearly 12.2 million people.
“You need to wear your confidence on your sleeve and be passionate about what you do,” said Jessica Franker, owner of Franker and Associates, LLC, American Family Insurance.
Franker began her career in the insurance industry as front-end help in 2008 and progressed over time. She worked hard, rose through the ranks, and finally, in 2021, was offered the opportunity to have her own insurance agency.
“I was one of four in contention for an American Family Insurance business. They wanted someone with experience, who cared about our customers, someone who could manage people and who was passionate about American Family Insurance,” she said. “And I was so very fortunate that they chose me.”
Not only was this a pinnacle moment for Franker, but it was also a teaching moment she would utilize for years to come while raising her little girl.
“I want to demonstrate to my daughter that women can excel in a male-dominated industry,” Franker said. Franker is the proud mother of daughter Alana, 4, and son Elliott, 7. And while she credits much of her success to hard work and tenacity, Franker said her husband’s support has been vital. “Josh pushes me, encourages me, and reminds me I can do this.”
Franker said her South Omaha upbringing, work ethic, and the mentorship of many successful Sarpy community entrepreneurs have empowered her. In turn, Franker relishes the opportunities to empower other women.
“I tell women they need to show up and own it. Be authentic and utilize your nurturing demeanor as women,” she said. “And every day you have to be the very best version of yourself.”
402.895.1300
Any Storm with Confidence
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Florals and Fruit
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
Flower Frogs
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
“Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.”
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO
Elevated Cocktail for Brunch Beyond &
A Fun Spirit To Spoil Mom With This Mother’s Day
Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped creamtopped pancakes, impress her with this morning-friendly mix.
Gin Jam &
A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam
• Spoonful of jam for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.
2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.
3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.
4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.
MAY 3RD-4TH, 10TH-11TH, 17TH-18TH Renaissance Festival of Nebraska
Bellevue Berry Farm | 10:00 AM
Step into a world of jousting, live entertainment, costumed characters, and artisan vendors. Each weekend features a unique theme: May Day Celebration, Courts & Clans, and Legends & Lore. Tickets are $18 for adults, $9 for kids (312), and free for ages 2 & under. Find details and tickets at renfestnebraska.com
MAY 18TH
Papillion Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Fun Run
Papillion Landing | 7:30 AM
Runners of all levels are invited to take on the Papillion Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K Fun Run. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with activities, a DJ, music, food, and service vendors. An awards ceremony will follow the races. Registration closes May 15. More details can be found at: papillion.org/605/ Papillion-Half-Marathon.
MAY 21ST-AUGUST 13TH
Papillion Farmers Market
E. 3rd St. Papillion | 5:00 PM
Shop fresh produce, handmade goods, and local treats at the Papillion Farmers Market. This summer the Farmers Market will be located on E. 3rd Street between City Hall and Sump Memorial Library. This seasonal market runs every Wednesday evening, bringing the community together with fresh flavors and unique finds.
MAY 25TH
Memorial Day
Tribute Concert
SumTur Amphitheater | 3:30 PM
Don’t miss this free Memorial Day Tribute Concert presented by Berry Law! Make your way to SumTur Amphitheater on Sunday, May 25th for live music with special guests Dave Bray USA and Herostock. The opening concert begins at 3:30pm before Dave Bray USA takes the stage at 5:00pm. Free BBQ will be served from 4:30-6:00pm. More details on how to get your tickets in advance can be found on the inside back cover.
FRIDAY NIGHTS ALL SUMMER STARTING MAY 30TH
2025 Music & Memories
Summer Concert Series
Shadow Lake Towne Center | 6:30 PM
Enjoy Friday night live music all summer long with a mix of rock, country, and classic hits! The Summer Concert Series kicks off on Friday, May 30th. Don't miss special performances, including a Beach Boys tribute and a Beatles celebration. Visit shadowlaketownecenter. com to see the full lineup.
MAY 30TH-31ST
La Vista Days
Various Locations | 5:00 PM
Celebrate La Vista’s biggest event with a free concert, food trucks, family activities, and a stunning fireworks and drone show on Friday, May 30. Saturday, May 31 includes a parade, car show, live music, wildlife encounters, and more! Full event details at LaVistaDays.org
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Sponsored by Debbie Meyer Real Estate Agent
Hometown Heroes Bonnie Reichenbach
For 35 years, Bonnie Reichenbach has been a beloved presence in Papillion La Vista Community Schools, bringing warmth, kindness, and an undeniable sense of fun to every role she’s held. She started at Carriage Hill Elementary in 1990 before finding her home at Papillion La Vista High School, where she has spent the past 28 years as the friendly face in the front office.
Bonnie’s cheerfulness and genuine care make her a trusted support system for students, staff, and families. “It makes a difference when you love going to work,” she says, and it shows in everything she does—from dressing up for Homecoming Week to spreading holiday cheer as Mrs. Claus. As the school’s Teammates coordinator, she connects students with mentors, strengthening the school’s ties to the community.
Her impact extends beyond PLHS. Bonnie and her husband, Paul, have been active in St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, the Papillion Area Community Band, and local theater productions. Their deep roots in Papillion reflect their love for the community they call home.
“Bonnie is one of the greatest things about working at PLHS,” says Mariah Rodis. “She is funny, helpful, kind, smart, and witty. She exemplifies the Monarch Tradition of Excellence.”
Sponsored by Debbie Meyer, BHHS Realtor
Romantic At-Home Date Ideas to Make Her Feel Special
The Smitten Project’s co-founder, Shannon Snow, shares ideas for your next date night in
ARTICLE BY SHANNON SNOW
Planning a date night at home can be just as romantic—if not more—than going out. Whether you’re looking for something cozy, creative, or just a little different, setting up an intimate
There’s something timelessly romantic about a candlelit dinner. Cook her favorite meal, set the table with elegant place settings, and dim the lights. Soft music in the background and her favorite drink will set the mood for an intimate evening filled with good conversation and connection.
If the night is clear, set up a cozy spot outside with blankets and hot cocoa (or wine) and watch the stars together. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations, or simply take in the beauty of the night while talking about your dreams and aspirations.
experience at home allows you to focus on each other without the outside world’s distractions. Here are some unforgettable at-home date ideas designed with her in mind.
Turn your home into a private wine bar with a tasting of wines paired with various cheeses, chocolates, and fruits. Make it fun by blindfolding each other and guessing the flavors, or simply enjoy a leisurely evening sipping and snacking together.
Channel your inner artist by setting up an at-home paint and sip night. Get a couple of canvases, some paint, and a bottle of wine. Follow a simple tutorial or just have fun creating something abstract together.
Lay out a blanket in the living room, fill a basket with her favorite finger foods, and set up a picnic at home. Bonus points if you include fresh flowers, handwritten love notes, and soft background music to enhance the ambiance.
Bring out board games, trivia, or card games, but add a little extra competition—perhaps by incorporating challenges or rewards for the winner. If you both enjoy puzzles, working on one together while sharing stories and laughter can be just as intimate.
1. CANDLELIT DINNER FOR TWO
4. STAR GAZING FROM YOUR BACKYARD OR BALCONY
2. DIY WINE & CHEESE TASTING
5. DIY PAINT & SIP NIGHT
3. INDOOR PICNIC
6. GAME NIGHT
Featuring Dave Bray USA
SumTur Amphitheater in Papillion, NE Sunday May 25th
3:30 5:00
Main Concert
Opening Concert - Featuring South of Center
- Featuring Dave Bray USA FREE EVENT!
Free BBQ will be served from 4:30-6:00
