Omaha Magazine September 2025 - The Giving Issue

PUNCHING ABOVE OUR WEIGHT CLASS: OMAHA’S GIVING HITS HARD

When Omaha’s own Bud Crawford steps back into the ring on Sept. 13, he’ll be punching two weight classes higher than he’s spent his career. In some ways, that’s Omaha in a nutshell. We may not be the biggest city, but we show up with outsized impact especially when it comes to giving.

In 2023, the Omaha Community Foundation awarded a record-setting $280 million in grants. That pace continued in 2024 with $236 million distributed most of it staying right here at home. Statistically, that puts Omaha in the top 3% of cities nationwide for per-capita giving. But behind every number is something more meaningful: a choice to invest in people, neighborhoods, ideas, and possibility.

This issue of Omaha Magazine is our annual look at that culture of generosity, and we’re proud to publish it alongside our 18th annual giving guide for the Big Give, a resource built to help you give with purpose. The Big Give is a movement that reminds us how much is possible when everyone plays a part.

Giving, of course, can look like a check, but it can also look like showing up. Like the Omaha Supernovas’ Brooke Nuneviller, a pro volleyball star using her platform to grow the game and show the next generation what’s possible. Or like Lincoln Murdoch, a 68-year-old Omaha native and three-time national champion triathlete proving that it’s never too late to lead and thrive.

But giving in Omaha isn’t without its challenges. Our main feature dives into the reality local nonprofits are facing in the wake of significant federal funding cuts. Budgets are shrinking while needs are growing, and organizations are being forced to make hard decisions in real time. But what has emerged isn’t despair. It’s a commitment to keep showing up.

You’ll also find a feature on the Peter Kiewit Foundation’s decision to sunset by 2030 a major moment in Omaha philanthropy, and a rare example of a legacy foundation choosing to go out on its own terms. This issue also highlights a late-season guide to Omaha’s farmers markets (yes, there’s still time to buy that perfect tomato), and we sat down with new Mayor John Ewing, whose historic election has sparked fresh conversations about leadership and a vision of the future.

Omaha may not be the biggest city in the fight, but we hit where it counts. As this issue shows, when it comes to giving, nobody brings more heart to the ring than the Big O.

Welcome to the Giving Issue. Let’s get ready to rumble!

Isaac Nielsen Assignment Editor Omaha Magazine isaac@omahapublications.com

We make big things happen through real estate - success, purpose, good people doing great things together day after day. Make it possible with NP Dodge. Learn more at npdodge.com

THE USUAL SUSPECTS

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Omaha’s

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Remembering

Willa

ENTERTAINMENT

MARGINS

Listen to the entire issue here. Open the camera on your smart device and hover over the QR code. Produced by Radio Talking Book

read

Market.

Backlund Plumbing

Henry Doorly Zoo

Catering Creations

Children's Nebraska

Cutchall Management Group

FNBO

Kiewit Luminarium

Lauritzen Gardens

M.U.D.

Omaha Performing Arts Society

Primo's Modern Mexican Restaurant

Scott Conference Center

The Dentists

Valmont

From left: Malani and Alina Meyer, photographed at the Old Market Far mers

Photo by Sarah Lemke.

John Ewing

Brooke Nuneviller

The Heart of Omaha Magazine

TOmaha Magazine has existed in Omaha since 1890, according to publisher Todd Lemke. Lemke himself entered the Omaha publishing scene in March 1983 with the first issue of City Slicker. That newsprint publication was the precursor to his Omaha Magazine, which launched its first issue in 1989.

Today, Omaha Magazine Ltd. is the parent company of Omaha Publications, which produces other community-focused magazines such as FACES of Omaha, B2B Magazine, Family Guide, and many custom publishing products.

The magazines would not be possible without the people behind them whether that's the people in between the covers or those behind the scenes. Lemke and his Omaha Publications staff take immense pride in presenting Omahans with the best stories in the city and the company is always looking to improve the products. That sometimes means switching some features and departments to give the denizens of Omaha what they crave. In this edition, a new, mini-dining story gives people a taste of a food trend or seasonal flavor.

At its heart, the Omaha Magazine team is one that works hard for its community.

SEPTEMBER 2025

VOLUME 43 //

EDITORIAL

Associate Editor & Staff Writer

NATALIE VELOSO

Assignment Editor & Staff Writer

ISAAC NIELSEN

Editorial Intern

LUCY MASON

Contributing Editor

JEN LITTON

Contributing Writers

PAUL B. ALLEN IV · BEAUFIELD BERRY · TAMSEN BUTLER

MARIA CORPUZ · KYLE EUSTICE · MICHELE FAN

LISA LUKECART · HOLLY McATEE · CHRISTOPHER McLUCAS

KARA SCHWEISS · HAL SENAL · JESSE STANEK

TIM TRUDELL · OTIS TWELVE

CREATIVE

Creative Director

RACHEL BIRDSALL

Senior Graphic Designer

RENEÉ LUDWICK

Graphic Designer II

NICKIE ROBINSON

Graphic Designer I

JOEY WINTON

Chief Photographer SARAH LEMKE

SALES

Branding & Digital Specialists

GREG BRUNS · GIL COHEN

DAWN DENNIS · FRANCINE FLEGG

SANDY MATSON · TIM McCORMACK

KRISTEN SPRINGER

Digital Advertising Sales Specialist TRAVIS FISHER

Senior Sales Coordinator

ALICIA HOLLINS

Sales Coordinator

SANDI M cCORMACK

Director of Business & Development

CAROLE SPRUNK

OPERATIONS

Business Manager KYLE FISHER

Ad Traffic Manager DAVID TROUBA

Digital Manager

LUIS DE LA TOBA

Distribution Manager

CARSON KRUSE

EXECUTIVE

Publisher TODD LEMKE

CEO

BILL SITZMANN For Advertising & Subscription Information : 402.884.2000

Tribute to

maha Magazine’s former editor-in-chief, Kim Carpenter, died July 2, 2025, following a 10-month battle with cancer.

After several years of freelance contributions, Kim joined the magazine’s staff as an editor in 2022. She rose to the company’s top editor position in 2023.

“She not only improved all of our magazines, she was a great brand ambassador and had a uniquely gifted talent for writing about arts, culture and community,” said Omaha Magazine publisher Todd Lemke. “We miss her terribly. She was also a great mentor who lifted up the careers of young journalists she had taken under her wing. Her death is a real loss for the Omaha community.”

Kim Carpenter

Story by Doug Meigs | Illustration by Bart Vargas | Design by Reneé Ludwick

Kim spent her childhood in Vandling, a small town in northeastern Pennsylvania. Over the years, she lived along the East Coast and across the Mid-Atlantic region, as well as overseas in Germany and Belgium. Her career spanned research, education, museums, and journalism.

She double-majored in German and history at the University of Scranton, graduating at the top of her class in both majors. Kim then earned her Ph.D. in history from Georgetown’s Center for German and European Studies in 1993. She was a Fulbright Scholar as an undergraduate and, as a graduate student, awarded a DAAD Fellowship, the German equivalent to a Fulbright.

After graduate school, Kim and her husband, John, moved to Akron, Ohio, where she taught Latin at an all-girls preparatory school. Ultimately, she found herself at the Akron Art Museum in the mid-’90s. Her years at the art museum were a catalyst for her development as a journalist.

“She always had an interest in art,” her husband said. “But during her internship and early-career roles at the museum, she always got everything done so quickly; she had free time to spare. She noticed many young, local artists who were not getting their shine. So, she just started writing about local art that she thought was interesting to give voice to people who wouldn’t otherwise have access to the needed social connections.”

Kim channeled her passion for community through the art museum job. John recalled one of her successful, early forays into arts marketing with a laugh.

“There was this Japanese anime exhibition in the works, and she would go around to the most obscure places putting up posters: bus stops, biker bars, and so on,” he said. “It was nonstop. When the opening reception came around, the place was so crowded, I’m sure they broke the fire code five times over. Bus loads of anime enthusiasts drove into Akron from Pittsburgh and Detroit and across the region, and you had this wild juxtaposition of people a few dozen traditional supporters of the arts, dressed in blazers and evening dresses, with people dressed in cosplay.

She and John relocated to Omaha in 2002. After their daughter Annie began elementary

school, Kim took on a communications role at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, where wrote exhibition text and artist bios and produced marketing materials. John said Annie grew up in the Bemis galleries, becoming initiated to the art world from a young age, spending much of her childhood roaming the Bemis facility in downtown Omaha (and she later interned at Omaha Magazine while her mom was editor).

After her time at the Bemis Center, Kim took on multiple roles at the Omaha World-Herald , contributing a regular column to the newspaper’s weekly Go Magazine and frequently covering the arts and other community stories. Her writing also appeared in national and international publications such as Sculpture Review and German Life. In addition, she authored several artist catalogues.

“Beyond being a skilled writer she tapped into her research training from her Ph.D.,” John said. “She listened with the intent to understand…you see that in her writing for Omaha Magazine about the Samuel Bak Museum. She understood the German people and their history well, so she could contextualize that in a way that would be more difficult for others to do.”

She left Omaha Magazine in early September 2024 after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

“She didn’t want to leave the magazine,” John said, “But she had to.”

In her volunteer service to local arts, Kim had contributed to the Omaha Entertainment & Arts Awards as a board member and part of the nonprofit’s Visual Arts Review Committee, which validates finalists from public nominations submitted to the annual arts awards program.

Local artist Tim Guthrie a former OEAA board member and volunteer with Kim posted a tribute to his longtime friend’s life on Facebook after learning of her passing. He credited Kim as being a key advocate for recognizing his own artistic work in the community.

“She didn’t just have a way of making you feel appreciated, professionally, but personally. We had some of the greatest conversations, not simply because we admired each other, but

because she was simply so kind and supportive,” he said. “I need to honor her by working hard to spread more love, just as she did. I will miss her deeply.”

In days after her death, Omaha artist Bart Vargas memorialized Kim with his daily drawing series. In a Facebook post, Vargas wrote:

Dear Kim,

You meant so much to so many in our creative community, but to me you were a dear supporter and friend. Even when I was just a college intern, taking the trash out at the end of the night, you saw me, you saw my art, and you championed me right along with so many much more accomplished than me.

Over the years you honored me through your art reporting, and even wrote the forward to two of my self published books. But most of all, you were my friend. I’ll miss our long conversations over coffee or nosh. You taught me more than you’ll ever know, and meant the world to me.

Your passing hits hard. We love you, Kim.

Omaha Magazine graphic designer Joey Winton lived across the street from Kim and said she was much more than a neighbor. She helped jumpstart his career.

“Even as a young kid, when I would cut her grass for her, she would always come out and say hi and thank me for doing it,” Winton said. “If it was too hot, she would just say to come back another day or would come out with a cool drink for me and demand that I take a break. Without her recommendation, I don’t think I would have found my way to magazine publishing. I am eternally grateful to her.”

Kim left an indelible mark on the creative landscape of Omaha. Her family held a private memorial service on July 10. More details on a memorial for the public will be announced at a later date.

“The outpouring of support and well-wishers while Kim was in the hospital came as a surprise to her,” John said. “She was immensely grateful and it meant everything to her. Thank you.”

It’s Not Too Late

A Guide to Late-season Omaha Area Farmers Markets

Farmers markets have been around for centuries, though their current form as neighborhood-specific activity hubs has been popular since around the 1970s. As farmers market season begins to wind down, here’s a list of the most popular farmers markets that remain open within the Omaha metro. There’s still time to visit these weekly markets before they close down for the year, but only if you start pla nning now!

STORY BY TAMSEN BUTLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE DESIGN BY NICKIE ROBINSON

Farmers Market Council Bluffs

Thursdays, May-September

4:30 -7:30 p.m.

1st Ave. and Bayliss Park

Now in its 16th season, the farmers market in Council Bluff s is sponsored by CHI Health Mercy Council Bluff s, so visitors can expect to encounter a variety of wellness activities right alongside the standard farmers market fare of locally grown produce, food vendors, and handcrafted goods. Live music and entertainment are also a big part of this weekly gathering, making it a fun event.

Kids can have a little extra fun at the farmers market by following in the footsteps of “Frankie,” the fictional pre-teen who attends the farmers market with her mom weekly to seek out fresh produce and other goodies. Coloring and activity pages featuring Frankie are available for kids and completed sheets can be submitted to try to win prizes.

the712initiative.org/events/farmers-market-council-bluff s

The G ifford Park Neighbo rhood Market

Fridays, June 6-Sept. 27

5-8 p.m.

520 N 33rd St.

Fans of farmers markets can start their weekends perusing the local fare at Gifford Park’s farmers market. The market has a strict “local only” policy and no vendor fees, allowing local artisans to display their wares for sale without jumping through a bunch of hoops.

The focus of this market helps make it a gathering event for the neighborhood as area entertainers perform and local vendors sell their offerings. Also, the fi nal Friday of each month is designated as “Kids at the Market,” fi lled with various activities for kid s to enjoy.

facebook.com/Giff ordParkNeighborhoodMarket

Ralston Green Market

Saturdays, April-Mid-October

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

5603 South 73rd St.

The Ralston Green Market is Ralston’s fi rst farmers market and is hosted by Barn Girl Farms, an urban farm specializing in microgreens. Every week, they offer “vendors galore, green vibes, health and happiness.” Th is farmers market puts an emphasis on local vendors and frequently has food trucks and local musicians who perform during open hours.

Located behind the Dairy Queen and King Kong Burgers, this farmers market may arguably be one of the easiest to fi nd and park at, with its easy access from 72nd Street. As Ralston revs up its arts and culture scene, this farmers market has proven to be a marvelous addition since its beginning in 2024.

facebook.com/RalstonGreenMarket

Martin Janousek, Giff ord Park Neighborhood Market Manager

Omaha Far mers Market in th e Old Market

Saturdays, May-October

8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

11th & Jackson St.

Boasting a history that harkens back nearly a century, the Omaha Farmers Market in the Old Market was the fi rst in Nebraska to accept WIC coupons for purchases. And though it’s defi nitely one of the most popular farmers markets in Nebraska, it can’t boast a #1 ranking since Aksarben Village’s Farmers Market took the honor in 2023, 2024, and 2025.

Visitors are just as likely to encounter a street performer at this farmers market as they are to encounter fresh produce. It’s an energetic, bustling vibe that feels more like a street market than a farmers market.

omahafarmersmarket.com/old-market

Bennington Fa rmers Market

Saturdays, June-September on Specific Dates 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Centennial Park

Downtown Bennington comes alive on Saturday mornings with the “homemade and homegrown” focus of the Bennington Farmers Market. Typically boasting around 50 vendors, including an impressive variety of local bakers, artists, and, of course, fresh produce, this farmers market is a good time for families and all of the Bennington community.

This farmers market’s annual opening coincides with Bennington Daze and ends on Founder’s Day, so there are often additional celebrations happening alongside the weekly events.

benningtonnefarmersmarket.com

Old Market Farmers Market

Bellevue Fa rmers Market

Saturdays, May-September

8:30 a.m.-12:30 pm.

Washington Park

As a “green market,” the Bellevue Farmers Market prioritizes farm and nursery products, processed farm products, floral/ plant vendors, and value-added food categories. They also have strict rules about not allowing commercially made products to be sold at the market, making it a classic version of a traditional farmers market. Many vendors at this market accept SNAP and EBT for food purchases.

An advantage to the location is that kids can play on the nearby playground. Arrive at this farmers market early, because any public sales are forbidden after 12:30 pm, but it’s certainly a great start to a Saturday.

bellevue.net/recreation-living/far mers-market

Omaha Farmers Market in Aksa rben Village

Sundays, May-October 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

67th & Mercy Rd.

The farmers market at Aksarben Village started as an off shoot of the Old Market’s version in 2010, and has since surpassed the Old Market as the top-rated farmers market in Nebraska, according to the American Farmland Trust. There are often additional activities happening at Stinson Park, like yoga or other workouts, and the many restaurants and shops within Aksarben Village can easily turn a visit into an al l-day event.

Th is farmers market is one of the most dog-friendly ones in the metro, not only because of the impressive variety of vendors selling products for furry companions, but also because of the many water stations available throughout the market for dogs. People who love encountering dogs will have a fantastic time at this farmers market.

omahafarmersmarket.com/aksarben-village

Omaha Farmers Market in Aksarben Village

The Fl orence Mill Fa rmers Market

Sundays, June -September 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

9102 North 30th St.

When other farmers markets around town are starting to think about packing up some of their items to leave, the Florence Mill Farmers Market is just getting started. It’s the perfect farmers market for people who aren’t in a rush to leap out of bed on a Sunday morning, yet still want to buy some homemade goodies from a farmers market.

On their Facebook page, the farmers market boasts about not being “on cement.” In fact, their venue is an interesting one, as it is hosted on the grounds of the historic Winter Quarters Mill Museum. Educational presentations are offered every Sunday, along with live music and other performances. The ArtLoft gallery is also open during market hours, as is the museum.

facebook.com/theflorencemill

Farmers Markets Closed fo r the Season

Some farmers markets have already concluded their seasons, but should be kept on the farmers market radar, as they offer fresh fun weekly when operating.

Night Market in Midtown Crossing

May-August

Fridays 6-10 p.m.

The Midtown Crossing farmers market’s tagline is “Omaha’s Favorite Fridays,” ringing true as they offer family-friendly (and dog-friendly) fun every Friday night during the summer months. More than a farmers market, the Night Market offers fun activities for all ages, including music, dancing, yoga , and games.

With around 40 vendors typically in attendance, the market is significantly expanded by the multiple restaurants and shops available in Midtown. And while it’s true that the road construction made navigating toward this farmers market a little dicier this year, the free parking (with validation) helped soften that blow. midtowncrossing.com/things-to-do/events/night-market

Check the websites for each of these farmers markets for updates.

Papillion Far mers Market

May-August

Wednesdays 5-8 p.m.

Though Papillion Farmers Market is typically held in City Park (Washington & Lincoln Street in Downtown Papillion), this year, it was relocated to take place in between City Hall and the Sump Memorial Library as renovations are completed in City Park.

Those who have attended the annual Papillion Days celebration in City Park will recognize many of the same vendors at Papillion Farmers Market: local artists, bakers, eateries, and a smattering of MLMs. The midweek farmers market is on Wednesday nights, making it a fun way to break up the monotony of the week.

papillion.org/333/Papillion-Farmers-Market

The Florence Mill Farmers Market

WITH LOVE,

SHOLLY:

THE THOUGHT-PROVOKING ART

OF

HOLLY THARNISH

omewhere between realism and surrealism is the artistic genre of “almost real,” a term used by Omaha artist Holly Th arnish to describe her art. Sometimes featuring complicated inspirations, from books and childhood memories to “the contrast between stories we tell each other, and the reality of the world we live in,” Th arnish’s art features themes that may start small, but bloom into somet hing bigger.

Th arnish is inspired by folktales and storybooks—and how they made her feel in childhood. “I love books,” she said. “The weight of it in my hands, the texture of the page, the smell that conjures so many memories of stories I’ve read.” She is especially inspired by tales that feel like real stories elevated with elements of magic and fantasy, and mingles those themes with her own childhood memories to create something thought-provoking.

STORY BY Tamsen Butler | PHOTOGRAPHY BY Sarah Lemke | DESIGN BY Nic kie Robinson

With so many varying elements within the painting, it’s entirely possible that each viewer walks away from viewing it with a completely different interpretation of what they saw and what it means to them. Th is artistic ability to provoke thought and introspection is one of the things that sets Tharnish apart a s an artist.

Her 2024 painting “We Used to Dream of Castles,” for example, is an exploration into grieving the conclusion of childhood and entrance into adulthood. In the painting, a young woman sits next to a crumbling wall after having scrawled, “We used to dream of castles” on it with a red crayon. The woman peers over her shoulder, perhaps seeking approval or perhaps daring someone to notice what she’s done. The stacks of books and line of toys harken back to childhood and invite the viewer to reminisce about a childhood fi lled with imagination and wonder.

An Omaha native, Th arnish graduated from Central High School before attending the University of Nebraska at Omaha on a Susan T. Buff ett Foundation Scholarship. At UNO, she earned a BFA and has been a working artist ever since. The small studio space from where she works is in her home, which proves to be both convenient and problematic as she tries to balance “working” time and “off-work” time. “With a studio at home, it’s easy to sometimes feel compelled to work when I should be resting or doing other things,” she said. She continues to strive for a work–life balance that allows her to be creative and productive while also getting the down time she needs.

She’s inspired by the works of the Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch, whose crowded paintings capture the eye as well as the imagination. His paintings are known for intentionally provoking confusion, but the aspect that most resonates with Th arnish is Bosch’s disregard for negative space. “I love his use of color and the way he fi lls his picture plane to the brim,” Th arnish said. She added that Bosch’s paintings have a rawness and dreamlike quality that she can’t help but admire.

Th arnish is a fi rm believer that artists should make art that they themselves love. “As long as you love what you create, the opinions of others don’t matter,” she said, adding that it’s important to remember that all art is subjective. Her advice to burgeoning artists is that not everyone will appreciate art, but ultimately, it’s up to the artist to appreciate what they create. Don’t allow self-doubt to creep in and sabotage the creative process. “Also, don’t feel like you have to box yourself into one medium or subject. There should always be room for play and experimentation in every art practice,” she advised.

Tharnish is a member artist and board member at the Artists’ Cooperative Gallery in the Old Market, the oldest and longest-running artist cooperative in the state of Nebraska. Her art is displayed at the gallery, and she participates in a variety of gallery shows throughout the year. She has an upcoming exhibition at the Fred Simon Gallery next March. Th arnish’s art and announcements of upcoming events can be found on her website and Instagram page (@withlove.holly).

As for the years to come, Th arnish has one true aspiration. “My main goal for the future, as it has been since I was about 5 years old, is to simply keep making art and fi nding joy.”

For more information, visit hollytharnish.wixsite.com/portfolio.

“As long as you love what you create, the opinions of others don’t matter.” —Holly Tharnish

N eva Dinova

The day the music died for the band Neva Dinova came after their last show—17 years ago.

“We lost a lot of money on a couple of tours. And then some of the other members started getting their wives and girlfriends pregnant…” explained Jake Bellows, the lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist.

“Like the real world staring you in the face,” interrupted drummer Roger L. Lewis, adjusting his dusty ba seball hat.

“…just ran out of time,” Bel lows added.

Bellows opened a tan leather pouch. He dusted premium Peter Stokkebye tobacco onto thin paper and rolled it into a cigarette. Despite the band’s hiatus, the weathered baritone singer continued to make music under his name, including New Ocean , through Omaha-based independent record label Saddle Creek in 2013.

“I got into music because I loved poetry,” he said, smoke curling around his blue eyes. “So, there’s a lyrical element to it. I’m now trying to leave more room for some of these lovely musical elements.”

Bellows created the five-member band in 1993, naming it in tribute to his grandmother after she passed away from an aggressive cancer. Lewis joined five years later, hinting at his availability when he heard the original drummer didn’t have time to commit to gigs as a lawyer and family man. Lewis credits his sister’s boyfriend’s extensive record collection and blue Ludwig drum set for sparking his passion for music as a youngster. A few weeks later, Lewis’s sticks smacked alongside the crew he so admired.

“I was like, ‘whoa, am I dreaming?’” he recalled, but his intense crescendos on his C & C drums went silent as the band members drifted apart after their 2008 album, You May Already Be Dreaming.

The band’s smooth sound emerged again for a one-night reunion show in 2014 at Slowdown, featuring Bellows, Lewis, Heath Koontz (bass), Tim Haes (guitarist), Mike Kratky (guitarist), and Bo Anderson (original drummer), while focusing on classic somber hits like “Jesus’ Choir” and their collaborative album with Bright Eyes, One Jug of Wine, Two Vessels. When Omaha indie rock band Cursive invited Neva Dinova to perform for the 20th anniversary of Domestica, only Bellows and Lewis could hit the road for the tour in 2023. Cursive offered up their cello player, Megan Siebe, for bass, and Ted Stevens on guitar, to make it happen for Neva Dinova.

After the gig, Siebe wanted to continue strumming her short-scale black bass guitar with Neva Dinova, adding warm, woody tones that rounded out the now three-piece band. The Grand Island native’s breathy voice also enhances the ethereal melody of songs like “Lonely Heart.”

“Megan has tripled the value of our band musically, and we’re just lucky to have her,” Bellows said.

Dressed in black jean shorts and a t-shirt, Siebe looks more like her substitute music teacher day job rather than a member of multiple bands with a talent for a range of instruments. It requires longer road trip commitments, leaving her dog, two cats, and three chickens behind. Her husband and folk musician, Sean Pratt, who just released his album Prairie Whistle Call in July, understands the call of the tour.

“Mostly thanks to sixth-grade jazz band,” Siebe laughed, explaining her strong orchestral background that enriches the band’s trippy sound. In music videos, she sometimes dons oversized glasses reminiscent of the 1970s as her fi ngertips softly hit the notes on the keyboard.

“It’s easy to play with a groovy bass player. It inspires you to come up with different ideas,” L ewis noted.

“I enjoy it. It’s a different way of communicating,” Siebe added.

Bellows’ white Adidas sneaker taps to a silent rhythm as if a new song has emerged in his mind while he discusses music. He struggles to defi ne the band’s sound, initially settling on rock before switching to alternative and then back to rock.

“Yeah, I was talking to one of these guys I play pool league with, and he couldn’t figure out what to call the music. And I think a lot of people have that trouble. We describe it as rock, and try to keep it simple,” Bellows explained.

“I mean, I cut my teeth on rock and roll,” Lewis said, standing up to reveal a Paul McCartney tribute Wings belt buckle. “When I play a show and I see a Black kid in the audience, I always make sure to let them know I see them. I let them know it takes courage to be out there. I want to make them feel c omfortable.”

“Canary,” which dropped in September of last year, leans toward a dreamy, introspective tone rather than aggressive metal. Some mellow tunes blend in folk with gentle guitar picks from Bellows’ white Gibson Les Paul.

“It’s the most beautiful guitar I’ve ever owned. It’s probably out of my class,” he joked. Bellows learned to play by picking up chords off MTV Unplugged, watching guitarists, and figuring out the fi ngerings.

The group plans to promote Canary on tour as they make their way along the east coast, asking local bands to headline for them in November. The trio, though, has kept their latest songs under wraps.

“Some of these new songs we’re working on, to me, feel like some of the best stuff we’ve ever worked on. Th at’s something people say, but I truly believe it,” Bellows said.

Nebraskans can catch the band at their next performance at the Reverb Lounge in Benson on Nov. 22.

For more information, visit nevadinova.com.

STORY BY LISA LUKECART

SITZMANN

LUDWICK

From left: Jake Bellows, Roger L. Lewis, M egan Siebe

the old Yates Elementary School-turnedcommunity space, three directors plan how to immerse their audience from passive observers to active participants through a story about fi nding dignity in an unforgiving world. As legislative battles rage across the nation over LGBTQ+ rights, with over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in state legislatures this year alone, Omaha’s Voices in Alliance (VIA) refuses to stay out of the spotlight. Instead, they are doubling down on what founder and artistic director Randall Stephens calls “resistance through visibility,” bringing audiences face-toface with stories that celebrate the full spectrum and range of queer experiences.

When Voices in Alliance was founded in 2022, the national landscape of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation was in full swing. Stephens created a space in Omaha that was a self-identified LGBTQ+ theatre company that embraces as many people as possible, whether they participate as personnel, cast members, or audience members. While other theaters perform stories about queer or trans folks, VIA creates a space where their stories are centered and celebrated.

“We have to have our voice out there and be seen and visible. Th is is part of our resistance, it is who we are. We aren't going away, even if there are forces at play below us and above us trying to squeeze us out,” said board member Thom Davis. With transgender individuals facing unprecedented challenges—from bathroom bills to healthcare restrictions to book bans—stories of building community through dignity and respect resonate with particu lar urgency.

Historically, theatre has been built by the LGBTQ+ community, but the majority of mainstream productions center their stories on heteronormative culture. Stephens is committed to continuing the legacy

A/C THEATER

of pushing boundaries when it comes to artistic direction. His approach is an immersive one. He finds nontraditional settings, such as Flixx Lounge & Cabaret Bar or Yates Illuminates, in order to pull the audience into the show.

Their latest production, Charm , codirected by Asia Nared and Anthony Holmes, is based on the work of Black transgender activist Gloria Allen at Chicago’s Center on Halstead, an LGBTQ+ community center. The story follows Allen as she works to teach etiquette classes to queer youth. Th e story feels both timely and timeless in its simple assertion that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves respect and dignity. By performing the show at Yates Illuminates, VIA was able to give the audience a more accurate, immersive experience of what it would have been like to attend a Charm class. While other directors focus on the big production of it all, Stephens focuses on the story and fi nding venues that reflect current events and human experiences. “He isn't afraid to strip it down to its core...at the core, this is the story—how do we make people feel engaged, immersed, and understood?” Holmes asked.

mother worked for Douglas County as a preventional specialist for HIV, which taught her at a young age to see folks as human first, rather than what societal stigmas exist based on someone’s identity. While codirecting may present challenges, Nared and Holmes are both certain on the end goal.

“One thing I have noticed with Anthony, he specializes in joy and happiness—he makes every moment beautiful because of that. I specialize in pain and feeling—I want people to walk out crying,” Nared said. While Stephens leads the way with directive vision, Nared and Holmes’ ability to emphasize joy and pain brings a complementary balance and dynamic trifecta. Their shared commitment to authentic storytelling made them ideal collaborators for bringing Gloria Allen's remarkable story to Omaha audiences.

While Stephens is the lead director, Nared and Holmes bring their own visions to their codirecting roles. Both have 20-year theater careers in various parts of production, but hope to gain more experience as directors. Being focused on the Black queer experience, Charm offered the perfect opportunity for both of them to do just that. Holmes grew up in a queerfriendly household, with many of his parents’ friends identifying as what we would now call queer and nonbinary. Nared’s

While VIA was built to center on the LGBTQ+ community, everyone is encouraged to attend their productions. “Our stories are no diff erent than anyone else's stories and they matter just like everyone else's... there is something human and raw that touches every story at VIA,” Holmes said. While someone may think that they have no relation to LGBTQ+ theatre, VIA invites audiences to attend with curiosity to learn something new in hopes of living a fuller life. “There are so many reasons people want to see theatre…Randall is an amazing director and every production is entertaining and thought-provoking. If you miss it, you are missing vital theatre in Omaha,” Davis said.

In a time when visibility itself has become an act of resistance, VIA continues to prove that the most powerful response to attempts at erasure is simply refusing to disappear—one story, one performance, one audience member at a time.

For more information, visit viaomaha.org.

STORY BY MARIA CORPUZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE | DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK

THEATER RESISTANCE as

LGBTQ+ Stories When They're N eeded Most

From left: Asia Nared and Anth ony Holmes

A+C Film

STORY BY Jesse Stanek

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY Sarah Lemke

DESIGN BY Nic kie Robinson

GET TING TO THE HEART OF EMOTION

Daisy Friedman spent the fi rst three years of her life as a child of New York City, a life of doormen, brownstones, and afternoons avoiding the urban hustle among Central Park’s vast greenery. Her family relocated to Omaha when she was just 3 years old so she could receive the medical care she needed: a triple organ transplant of her liver, small intestine, and pancreas.

“I don’t really remember that time because I was so young,” she said. “Th is fi lm has kind of been my way to relive that part of my life.”

The film she speaks of, Unholy, is a short, 14-minute look at family dynamics, unspoken awkwardness surrounding personal health, and the personal relationships that define our lives. Friedman wrote and directed the powerhouse piece. Just her second short film, it was accepted to both Austin’s SXSW Film Festival and the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, where the film won the Short Film Grand Jury Prize for Best Short Film.

follows with Noa summing it all up quite proficiently: “Nobody knows how to be around me.”

Friedman, whose father and stepmother still live in the Elmwood Park area, spent her formative years in Omaha, attending Swanson Elementary and Westside High School before eventually transferring to and graduating from Omaha Central. She spent some time in Los Angeles before returning to her native New York City, where she now resides and works in the fi lm industry. She is currently working on her next short fi lm.

When asked why she chose to tell this particular story in a short fi lm format, aside from the logistical and fi nancial issues of making a longer piece, Friedman said, “It started as a short story, and it had something to it that made me think this should be a fi lm. Really, it’s just about getting to the heart of t he emotion.”

“It started as a short story, and it had something to it that made me think this should be a film. Really, it’s just about getting to the heart of the emotion.”

It’s a powerful 14 minutes of cinema, enough to carry a much longer film, but all the more powerful because it doesn’t have to. It starts with a young protagonist, Noa, played by a quietly electric Olivia Nikkanen, riding an elevator with her parents to Seder dinner at her grandma’s. Noa is dealing with a gastrointestinal issue which requires her to use a feeding tube, a source of nervous energy for everyone around her. As the family fusses over her presence, Noa feels more and more apart from the others, with her grandma continually asking all the wrong questions and saying all the wrong things.

—Daisy Friedman

Friedman cited her own experiences as a triple organ transplant recipient as the major motivation behind the fi lm, coming from the feeling of watching family members falling all over themselves to not make things awkward—in essence, only serving to make things feel much more awkward. It’s a deeply human connection, or lack thereof, that we’ve all felt in some form or another.

As the family settles into the traditions of a Seder dinner and food gets passed around, they are all asked to hold a cracker as a part of the ancient ceremony. Noa’s mother turns to her and snaps, “You can’t eat that.” An already exasperated Noa quips back in half-defeat, “I can hold it.” The dinner continues its uncomfortable progression with beautifully nuanced conversation from all the actors before Noa fi nds herself on the balcony with her father, the glittering NYC night sky as their backdrop. A beautifully tender moment

There is a profound scene in the fi lm where Noa is in the kitchen while her grandma is putting the fi nishing touches on what looks to be a lovely feast. Her grandma recalls a list young Noa made about all the things she wishes she could eat—all the things she someday WILL eat. Th is scene comes directly from Friedman’s personal experience, something she said her own grandmother did and was kind of funny at fi rst, “but eventually became not that funny at all.” The fact that Friedman’s blood, sweat, and personal trauma are in the fi lm gives the piece a gravitas and power well beyond its short run n ing time.

A N R

EXHIBITIONS

ART WALK: FIRST THURSDAYS DOWNTOWN OMAHA

Th ursday, September 4, 2025, 5–9 p.m. in the Old Market. Promoted by the Omaha Downtown Improvement District, guests will experience a curated selection of galleries that lend insight into the minds of both local and regional artists around the historic and vibrant Old Market area. 402.916.1796 oldmarket.com

HENRY PAYER: APPLIQUE SUR LE TERRAIN

Th rough Th ursday, September 4, 2025, at the Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St . See paintings depicting the present-day cultural landscape of Nebraska created through Indigenous ribbon work appliqué, which consists of sewing layers of silk ribbons, cotton, wool, and glass beads together. 402.342.3300 joslyn.org

SEPTEMBER 5TH FIRST FRIDAY!

Friday, September 5, 5 p.m. at Petshop, 2729 N 62nd St. Hosted in the Benson Creative District, enjoy music, food, and local artists alongside other community members throughout various venues across Maple Street. info@bff omaha.org

DOWNSIZING

Through Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. This art auction and exhibition features a variety of quality art from Nebraska collectors who are attempting to downsize their collections. Art will be available for purchase. 531.375.6643 gallery1516.org

FROM THE GREAT LAKES TO THE GREAT PLAINS: THE VISIBLE CURRENTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Through Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Bemis Center, 724 S. 12th St. Framing water as the focus of climate change conversations, this exhibit highlights two opposing, yet interconnected regions: the vast freshwater system and expansive prairies. 402.341.7130 bemiscenter.org

CONCERTS

SHADOW RIDGE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Friday, September 5, 5 p.m. at Shadow Ridge Country Club, 189th & Pacific St. This outdoor festival will feature various music acts, such as Bush, The Fray, and Lit and Fuel, as well as local food and drinks. shadowridgemusicfestival.com

BROOKS NIELSEN (OF THE GROWLERS)

Monday, September 8, 8 p.m. at Th e Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. From growing the acclaimed band The Growlers to worldwide fame, and helping to defi ne what is called the Beach Goth movement, Nielsen launched his solo career in 2022 and is still pushing forward as a trailblazer. 402.884.5353 waitingroomlounge.com

LAKE STREET DIVE WITH LAWRENCE

Friday, September 12, 8 p.m. at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Using pop music as a unifying force, Lake Street Dive with Lawrence mixes and matches soul, folk, jazz, and pop to create a unique sound for their national tour. 402.345.0606 steelhouseomaha.com

MYSTERY SKULLS

Tuesday, September 16, 8 p.m. at Th e Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Including electronic and dance music, along with influences of disco and Neo-soul, also having released nine full-length albums, the sound of Mystery Skulls envelops the theme of life’s highs and lows. 402.345.7569 theslowdown.com

MAT KEARNEY

Wednesday, September 17, 7:30 p.m. at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. A mix of folk, rock, and pop, Kearney gives a diverse musical experience that everyone can enjoy. 402.345.0606 steelhouseomaha.com

THE DAMNED

Wednesday, September 17, 8 p.m. at Th e Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. From gothic chills to punk rock at its fi nest, The Damned off er a rerun of the `70s scene as one of the bands that shaped the punk genre we know and love today.

NILÜFER YANYA

Friday, September 19, 8 p.m. at Th e Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. From London, Nilüfer Yanya released her third studio album in 2024 to acclaim from the likes of Th e New York Times and Th e Guardian . 402.884.5353 waitingroomlounge.com

BONNIE RAITT, JIMMIE VAUGHAN IN LA VISTA

Tuesday, September 23, 7 p.m. at Th e Astro Amphitheater, 8302 City Centre Dr. Jimmie Vaughn will perform his top hits, such as “Just a Game,” “Dengue Woman Blues,” and “Midnight Hour.” 531.283.5212 theastrotheater.com

MUDVAYNE PRESENTED BY 89.7 THE RIVER

Sunday, September 21, 7 p.m. at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. If you’re looking for a heavy metal band that experiments with sound, face, and body paint, Mudvayne will deliver. 402.345.0606 steelhouseomaha.com

THE

BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE

Tuesday, September 23, 8 p.m. at Th e Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. The Brian Jonestown Massacre is an American Rock band led and started by Anton Newcombe in San Francisco in 1990. 402.345.7569 theslowdown.com

KEITH URBAN: HIGH AND ALIVE WORLD TOUR

Saturday, September 27, 7 p.m. at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Keith Urban will perform in Omaha for his High and Alive world tour, along with special guests Chase Matthew, Alana Springsteen, and Karley Scott Collins. 402.341.1500 chihealthcenteromaha.com

INIKO

Saturday, September 27, 8 p.m. at Th e Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. With a futuristic tone to the music, Iniko combines an alternative, rap, and celestial sound to create their own unique voice. 402.884.5353 waitingroomlounge.com

SWANS

Sunday, September 28, 8 p.m. at Th e Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Having shifted their tune significantly after their formation in 1982, Swans has continued evolving and experimenting with different sounds over the years, from industrial rock to acoustic. waitingroomlounge.com

NATION OF LANGUAGE

Monday, September 29, 8 p.m. at Th e Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. With an impassioned take on shoegaze and new wave genres, and following their iconic late-night appearance on Th e Late Show with Stephen Colbert and becoming a major festival draw, Nation of Language is now mainstream. 402.345.7569 theslowdown.com

HIGH FADE

Tuesday, September 30, 8 p.m. at Th e Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Bringing funk and disco to Omaha on a crazy train, High Fade is ready to flood the dance floor with insane beats. 402.345.7569 theslowdown.com

STAGE PERFORMANCES

JAZZ SESSIONS

Every Monday, 7–10 p.m. at North Omaha Music and Arts, 2510 N. 24th St. Each week, experience free live jazz shows followed by an open session, where the audience can listen to musicians express themselves through the art of improv together. 531.867.4280

info@northomahamusic.org

GREASE

Friday, September 12, through Sunday, October 12, at the Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. From “Grease Lightening” to “You’re the One Th at I Want,” all the classics of the Pink Ladies and T-birds will be performed this September. 402.553.0800

omahaplayhouse.com

2000’S RAVE

Sunday, September 14, 8 p.m. at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. For all the ’90s babies or wannabe ’90s babies, this rave will be filled with classics and remixes from this legendary turn of the century. 402.884.5353 waitingroomlounge.com

Would you like weekly event recommendations delivered right to your inbox? Open the camera on your smart device and hover over the QR code (left) to subscribe to Omaha Magazine’s Weekend Entertainment Guide online.

ELECTRIC AVENUE: THE 80’S MTV EXPERIENCE

Friday, September 19, 8 p.m. at Th e Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Reliving the favorites of the `80s MTV Experience, this concert will showcase all the classic tunes of the decade. 402.345.7569 theslowdown.com

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW WITH ORIGINAL CAST MEMBER NELL CAMPBELL

Wednesday, September 24, 8 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Nell Campbell, who played the original Columbia in this cult classic, will be touring with the original, unedited film. 402.345.0202 orpheumtheateromaha.com

CANDLELIGHT: QUEEN VS. ABBA

Th ursday, September 25, 6 p.m. at Th e Omar, 4383 Nicholas St. A curated show of entertainment and wonder, experience the music of ABBA and Queen while surrounded by candlelight. candlelightexperience.com

SAL VULCANO

Sunday, September 28, 5 p.m. at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Best known for co-creating Impractical Jokers, comedian Sal Vulcano comes to Omaha for his EVERYTHING’S FINE tour. 402.345.0202 o-pa.org

CHROME HORSE + THE BROKEN HEARTS: A DYLAN & PETTY TRIBUTE

Sunday, September 28, 7 p.m. at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Chrome Horse, a Bob Dylan tribute band, and The Broken Hearts, a Tom Petty tribute band, will be joining forces to pay homage to both iconic artists. 402.345.0606 steelhouseomaha.com

FAMILY, FESTIVALS AND MORE

CASTLE AND CATHEDRAL DISTRICT ART WALK

Every third Th ursday through September 18, 2025 from 5–8 p.m. at Joslyn Castle, 3902 Davenport St. A partnership between Cathedral Arts Project Omaha, Cali Commons, Joslyn Castle and Gardens, and the Joslyn Castle Neighborhood Association brings art, food and fun. 831.234.7731 kbello@joslyncastle.com

COWTOWN JAMBORAMA:

OMAHA JAZZ AND SWING DANCE FESTIVAL

Friday, September 5, through Sunday, September 7, presented by Omaha Jitterbugs at the Eagles Ballroom, 201 S. 24th St. Enjoy a festival of live music and swing dancing with classes available for all dancers, from beginners to advanced. 402.657.9464 jitterbugs.org

ALL-EUROPEAN SHOW AND SHINE

Sunday, September 7, 12–3 p.m. at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. European cars and motorcycles, from Jaguar and Ducati to Porsche, will be displayed alongside the beauty of the gardens. 402.346.4002 lauritzengardens.org

OMAHA FOOD TRUCK FACEOFF

Saturday, September 13, 4–9 p.m. in Stinson Park, 6628 Center St. Enjoy the annual battle to be named “Omaha’s best food truck” while enjoying a full bar, local vendors, and games! ezfoodtrucks.com

BRIDAL & WEDDING EXPO

Sunday, September 14, 1–5 p.m. at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Planning a wedding can be stressful. Explore the businesses and services that can help make your wedding day perfect, all in one day of bridal displays. 402.341.1500 chihealthcenteromaha.com

RIVER CITY RODEO

Friday, September 19, through Saturday, September 20, 7:30 p.m. at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. During two nights of rodeo mania, from bull riding to steer wrestling, cowboys will compete for their official entry into the National Finals Rodeo. 402.341.1500 chihealthcenteromaha.com

HOME AND LIFESTYLE SHOW

Friday, September 19, through Sunday, September 21, starting at noon on Friday at the CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 North 10th St. If you’re in need of expert advice on elevating your home, this show centers around hands-on demonstrations. Save money and learn more about how to make your home better suited for you. 402.507.HOME omahahomeandlifestyleshow.com

GIFFORD FARM’S FALL FESTIVAL

Saturday, September 20, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Gifford Farm, 700 Camp Giff ord Rd. For “a good old-fashioned day on the farm,” look no further than Gifford farm, where kids are able to visit with animals, take hayrides, and explore the outdoors! 402.597.4920

esu3.org

LITTLE BOHEMIA WALKING TOUR

Saturday, September 27, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m., 702 Marian Ave. Slavic and Czech immigrants who made their homes in Little Bohemia off er a rich history that is explored during this walking tour. 816.616.9162 historywalks.llc/little-bohemia

OKTOBERFEST 2025

Saturday, September 27, 4–11 p.m., 1401 Farnam St. Th is festival keeps the Bavarian celebration of Oktoberfest alive and appreciated through live bands, giant steins, bratwurst, and plenty more beer!

RIVER CITY HISTORY TOURS: OMAHA’S BOOTLEGGING PAST

Sunday, September 28, 1–3 p.m. at The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. Based on Tom Dennison’s federal indictment in 1931, this history tour explores the key hotels, speakeasies, and other classic locations of Omaha’s own prohibition era. 402.444.5071 durhammuseum.org

the opening of Chariots of Fire, you see a group of men running on the beach. You can probably hear the powerful song that builds to a crescendo as the men’s feet pound along the shoreline. During the movie, Eric Liddell says, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast! And when I run, I feel his pleasure!”

Omaha native and three-time national champion triathlete Lincoln Murdoch said he relates to that quote, because he also feels that his ability to compete in triathlons is a gift from God. “There are times when I race that I feel God cheering me on,” Murdoch said.

When you speak to Murdoch, you see his absolute joy for life. He’s living a life of purpose that has included his roles as a pastor, missionary, the executive director of Step Up to Life, elite endurance athlete, author, husband, and father.

Murdoch is a fi erce competitor. He blends spiritual strength and physical grit with every challenge that he tackles. He has carved out his path to championships in the triathlon world by writing down his goals on a white board hung on his refrigerator, and putting pictures of his competitors in his weight room in his house. He jokes that he has to be better than the other guys in hi s age class.

He’s competed in 400 races in 40 years, winning 40 triathlons in his age group. Th e list of Murdoch’s athletic achievements is astonishing, and he is still competing at 68 years old, while many others his age are slowing down.

Despite all his athletic achievements, he wasn’t always a good athlete. His grade school and high school sports experience was lackluster. He was cut from his eighth grade basketball team at Beveridge Middle School. In the ninth grade, he made the football team as a third-string running back and got in the game for six plays during the whole season. Th at same year, he made the

LINCOLN MURDOCH’S JOURNEY FROM UNDERDOG TO TRIATHL ETE CHAMPION

basketball reserve team and didn’t play much, scoring one point on a free throw. He continued to play sports in high school because he liked them, but he wasn’t very good.

He attended Ashbury College in Kentucky because his sister, Heather, went there, and he wanted to be close to her. During Murdoch’s senior year of college, he joined the track team. He soon learned that running was his sport. He kept running, doing 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and eventually full marathons.

“I love competition of any kind. I was hooked on running. I would aways watch the Ironman and think, ‘these people are crazy or amazing athletes,’” Mur doch said It was in college that Murdoch met his wife, Jennifer. According to Jennifer, her husband “is the most driven, disciplined person that I’ve ever met in my life. I knew when I married him it would be an adventure, but I didn’t know it would be this big.”

Even though he has won many championships, Jennifer said Lincoln is very humble. He has always put his family fi rst. Th e divorce rate for triathletes is very high, but Lincoln has never let his races interfere with his family.

Murdoch’s fi rst triathlon was in 1994 in Kansas City. For the swimming portion of the race, he shocked other racers by doing the side stroke. He fi nished the race and decided to do it again next year. Th e following year, he medaled in his age group.

Story by H olly McAtee

Photography by Sarah Lemke

Design by Joey Winton

In 1997, he competed in the Canadian Ironman. Th e next year, he got into the Hawaiian Ironman. “Th at’s like the Super Bowl for races,” Murdoch said. “In Hawaii, the conditions can be horrible. Th e heat and humidity can make it feel like 120 degrees. Th e wind sustained at 30 miles per hour with gusts at 50. Some racers were blown off their bikes. Fortunately, I made the cutoff . It was a long 14 hours, and I fi nished 1,251st out of 1,500.”

Lincoln Murdoch’s guide to achievin g your goals

“I decided I was more of a sprinter,” Murdoch said. “I was starting to win my age group. In 2013, I went to the USA Triathlon National Championship. I had set a goal to win. Lots of the guys I was competing with were studs. It was intimidating.”

During that race, he got off his bike to begin the running portion, and “my wife yells, ‘you’re in second!’” Murdoch said. “I caught up with the fi rst-place racer. For 200 yards, we were tied. I heard this voice in my head that said, ‘go,’ and so I went. Th at was how I won my fi rst USA Triathlon,” Murdoch said with a big grin.

Murdoch has always been big into working on goals. Some of his tips on achieving goals are to: dream big; set a goal, but make it attainable; get accountable; tell others; develop a strategy. Figure out what you need to do to reach the goal. Stick to the plan, but keep your plan fl exible. Sometimes life gets in the way.

Dream

big Set a big goal, but make it

“I CAUGHT UP WITH THE FIRST-PLACE RACER. FOR 200 YARDS, WE WERE TIED. I HEARD THIS VOICE IN MY HEAD THAT SAID, ‘GO’ AND SO

I WENT. THAT WAS HOW I WON MY FIRST USA TRIATHLON.” —LINCOLN MURDOCH

When Lincoln won the National Championship, he qualified for Team USA. He set a goal to be in the top 20 in his age group, and he accomplished that. A few years later, he went to Australia and set a goal to finish top 10, winding up in eighth place. Murdoch returned to Australia a few years after that and set a goal to win that time, and was able to achieve that. Each race, he moved the goal, and he h it the mark.

“I’ve learned over the years that when times are tough, you might crash and burn. Pacing and nutrition is huge. Th at’s why I put that goal on my fridge to remind me about what I’m eating while I train,” Mu r doch sa id.

Murdoch’s typical training weeks consist of two swims, two bikes, and two runs a week. He works out most days with his training buddy, Kevin McKeon. The two have similar abilities, so they are a perfect match.

McKeon said that outside of being a fantastic human being, Murdoch is a fantastic athlete. McKeon met him about 10 to 15 years ago doing triathlons. The two became friends and train together multiple ti mes a week.

“Lincoln is very inspiring. He’s a natural champion. He’s 12 years older than me, and I still struggle to keep up with him. I don’t know anyone that has had a negative word to say about him,” said McKeon.

“He’s organized. He writes things down. He still uses a day planner. He’s very goal-oriented. When he won the national championship, he set the goal the year prior. He mapped it out and hit every goal along the way—including the national championship,” McKeon added.

Murdoch’s spirituality has always been important to him—he’s a fourth-generation pastor. In his role as the executive director of Step Up to Life, he has taught in over 40 countries. He conducts seminars around the world that train leaders on Step Up to Life materials. Step Up to Life is a global missions organization that guides others to faith in Jesus. He also does fundraising, speaks at churches, and does a podcast as part of his role.

Murdoch has written two books: Launching the Great Go Mission and See You at the Finish, which outline his eight principles of spiritual endurance after his experience becoming a world champion at the Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon.

Murdoch is having a lot of fun at 68 years old. The races are getting harder, but he still loves the competition and training for the next race. “What motivates me in a race is the podium. Th at’s just the way I’m made. It’s all about winning. I don’t win every time, but I do my best,” sa id Murdoch.

“I want to be a person that inspires others to go for their dreams and achieve them,” Murdoch added. “I think everyone has a gift. I was a late bloomer. I want people to take their God-given gifts and develop them.”

For more information about Lincoln Murdoch, visit lincoln murdoch.com.

SPORTS

Brooke Nunevi er’s Mission to Grow Pro Vo eyba

Story by Isaac Nielsen | Photography courtesy of the Omaha Supernovas | Design by Nickie Robinson

When Brooke Nuneviller first walked onto the floor at the CHI Health Center wearing an Omaha Supernovas jersey in 2024, she had no idea what to expect. She’d heard whispers of Nebraska’s deep volleyball roots, sold-out college matches, and fanatical support, but the sight of over 11,000 fans screaming for a brand-new professional team made her do a double take.

“As soon as we walked out in the CHI Health Center, we kind of knew that the Supernovas would be something really important and really special in the growth of professional volleyball in the United States,” Nune viller said.

Th at moment marked the beginning of something bigger than just a new opportunity for Nuneviller—it was a cultural shift for women’s professional sports in America. And the star outside hitter found herself right at the c enter of it.

For Nuneviller, a former University of Oregon standout and Turkish league veteran, joining the Supernovas meant more than just putting on a new jersey. It meant betting on an unproven league and believing in the future of her sport. After fi nishing her NCAA career with no remaining indoor eligibility, she looked overseas to continue playing and signed with a team in Turkey—a move that pushed her both physically a nd mentally.

Far from home and surrounded by unfamiliar faces, she slowly began to find her footing. But just as she was settling in abroad, she got a call from Omaha’s then head coach, Shelton Collier, with an offer that changed everything.

“Ther e’s nowhere like it in the league, there’s no one like it overseas…you don’t see the numbers that you’re seeing consistently in Nebraska.”

—Brooke Nuneviller

“I had heard rumors of a professional league starting in the United States, but I didn’t think it was anytime soon,” Nuneviller said.

“When I got the opportunity, I was like, ‘I have to jump on board.’ I just wanted to be the start of something, and hopefully set the standard and see how far we c an take it.”

Th at “something” found its perfect home in Omaha.

From the moment the Supernovas were announced as part of the United States’ Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF), the team tapped into a volleyball culture that’s long been woven into the fabric of Nebraska. College programs in the state have drawn huge crowds for years, but professional volleyball? Th at was new—even for fans who live and breathe the sport. For Nuneviller, the passion here was inst antly clear.

“Any time I’ve played in the state of Nebraska in general, it’s just been a complete volleyball state,” she said.

“The people here support volleyball so much. It’s so incredible being able to play in a place that loves the game that I’ve grown up playing and dedicated my life to.”

The response from fans was instant and overwhelming. Season tickets soared. The team became the league’s attendance leader in each of its fi rst two years. “There’s nowhere like it in the league, there’s no one like it overseas…you don’t see the numbers that you’re seeing consistently in Nebraska,” Nune viller said.

Today, Nuneviller isn’t just the league’s top outside hitter. She’s a role model in a way she never had g rowing up.

“I didn’t get to watch professional volleyball in the United States growing up, so it’s very cool to me and it drives me to play to be able to be that for these young girls who aspire to do something,” Nune viller said.

“I really, really want to be a role model and example to these young girls and boys who aspire to be professional athletes, especially in volleyball,” she said. “We get to work with a lot of these young players at clinics, we get to sign autographs after the games, and see their faces light up…I never had that, so I want to contribute to that transition in professional volleyball.”

Nuneviller’s own transition, which has taken her from NCAA star to Turkish import to rising pro, wasn’t immediate. But by her third year as a professional, something had fi nally clicked. “Th is last season—year three for me as a pro—was the fi rst season I felt very confident as a professional athlete,” she said. “It just takes time to transition into the game, to feel like you’re used to it.”

Th at confidence has translated to plenty of individual accolades. Nuneviller was named a First Team All-League player in 2024 and 2025, and topped it off this past season as the league’s Outside Hitter of the Year, fi nishing fourth in the PVF in kills. But for her, the numbers are only part of the story.

“I just want to be the best example that I can be,” Nuneviller said. “The legacy that I’d love to leave behind as a volleyball player is not the accolades, but if someone comes and watches me play, for them to see how hard I play, the grit I have, and how I make my teammates better, that’s the legacy I’d like to leave.”

In 2026, the Supernovas will leave the PVF and join the newly formed Major League Volleyball, a move that reflects the franchise’s rapid growth and big-league ambitions. As the Supernovas evolve, so does Nuneviller. Her mission isn’t just to win games—it’s to grow the sport and keep raising the standard for what professional volleyball can be in the U.S.

“Every person that comes to one of our games, they fall in love with the sport, they fall in love with the Supernovas, and they’re always excited to come back,” she said. “My goal is to have the sport of volleyball continue to grow… to get the word out about how great these athletes are and how fun the game experience really is.”

round here, it’s not unusual to find raccoons outside your dinner window or a dog dashing past your pint. A recent change to Nebraska’s food code—Title 175, Chapter 1—now allows pet dogs in designated outdoor dining areas, as long as certain safety and sanitation rules are followed. This update brings Nebraska in line with much of the country and opens the door (or patio gate) to more tail-wagging alongside your takeout. Expect to see more pups popping up at your favorite local spots this summer.

This list highlights six unique spots all over town where animal lovers can enjoy a drink, grab a snack, and catch a glimpse of all kinds of critters. You might come for the experience, but you’ll stay for the company—just don’t be surprised if you leave with a new favorite animal friend.

Alpine Inn

10405 Calhoun Rd., Omaha, NE 68112

Locals know Alpine Inn as the “Home of the Wildlife,” and once you visit, you’ll know why. Every evening, the windows of this old-school spot frame a spectacle as raccoons (and a few stray cats) gather for kitchen scraps just outside the dining room. Cold beer and fried chicken rule the menu, but the critters are what keep you coming back. First-timers are always surprised at just how fun it is to share dinner with such wild company.

Surfside Club

14445 N River Dr., Omaha, NE 68112 | surfside.club

This breezy riverfront hangout has a quirky tradition. Surfside Club lets you toss leftover corn fritters straight into the water and watch as the river carp swarm for a snack. Settle in with a basket of fried fish or chicken, find an outdoor picnic table, and enjoy a low-key afternoon with drinks, live music, and plenty of scaly action below.

Felius Cat Cafe & Rescue

5015 Dodge St. Ste. 101, Omaha, NE 68132 | felius.org

At Felius, the coffee is hot, the drinks are chilled, and the cats are cool. This cat café doubles as an adoption center, where friendly felines roam the lounge waiting for playtime, and maybe even a forever home. Reservations are the safest bet since the cats are a popular crowd, but walk-ins can sometimes snag a spot. Relax with a latte or glass of wine, and you might just find your next best friend curled up beside you.

Horsemen’s Park

2735 N 62nd St., Omaha, NE 68104

The thundering excitement of horse racing is always close at hand here. Horsemen’s Park streams live simulcast races from across the country, and the excitement peaks during live racing events on-site. Order a burger and a beer, cheer on your picks, and get caught up in the excitement as hooves fly across the big screen. With more than 110 HDTV screens throughout the venue, you won’t miss a single race year-round.

Omaha Dog Bar 1231 S 14th St., Omaha, NE 68108 | omahadogbar.com

This bar has gone to the dogs—literally. Omaha Dog Bar is as much for the pups as it is for their people, featuring an off-leash play park to let them run wild while owners sip craft beers or cocktails at the bar. There’s a daily pass or membership option for dogs (vaccination records required). Human guests without a pup are welcome, too, because dogs make everything better.

Scatter Joy Acres

4107 Waverly Rd., Murray, NE 68409 | scatterjoyacres.org

Part sanctuary, part therapy ranch, Scatter Joy Acres in Cass County offers the chance to meet and feed over 80 rescued animals—from llamas and goats to horses and emus. Open to the public for tours, events, and volunteer opportunities, this spot invites visitors to connect with animals while supporting a good cause. Book ahead for the best experience, especially if you want to join one of their hands-on programs. Special events often feature food trucks, too.

For an audio version of this story, open the camera on your smart device and hover over the QR code.

OMAHA’S OWN SUPERMAN

John Ewing Begins a New Chapter of Leadership

ayor John W. Ewing Jr. sat behind his desk in a large, wood-paneled, classically decorated space at 1819 Farnam Street, sunlight pouring in through the east-facing windows that spanned the room. While he admitted he hadn’t spent much time at the desk during his first 100 days in office, as he was busy hitting the ground running, its surroundings revealed a great deal about him. He was surrounded by pictures of his family representing his truth, medals from his long career representing his justice, and an American flag standing tall behind him. To his right was a shaker bottle with a Superman symbol on it, a motif seen all around his office.

Ewing’s recent election as mayor of Omaha was historic. Winning with 57% of the vote, he became the first African American mayor in the history of Nebraska. Maybe there was some lingering doubt about whether that could happen in this red state. But he won, and it made perfect sense that he did. He’s a man with over 40 years in public service, a man who made solid connections over the course of decades, a man who made it clear that he would work cooperatively in every sector, and a man who picked the perfect time to run: a time when Omaha was changing. Even incumbent Jean Stothert, who lost the race to Ewing after a 12-year stint, acknowledged this change, stating, “We’re not purple. We’re blue,” during her last interview with the Omaha World-Herald . Omaha was ready for change.

Story by Paul B. Allen IV

Design by Joey Winton

A young Ewing began his career in the police force, serving for 25 years and eventually becoming deputy chief. He and his wife of 41 years, Dr. Viv Ewing, charged on through the years in faith together, raising two daughters and serving the community. Even before the history-making feat of becoming the first African American mayor in Nebraska, he made history as the first African American to win a county-wide election by becoming Douglas County Treasurer and serving for 18 years. For the new mayor, this seat is just another opportunity to do what he set out to do from the beginning—to serve the people of Omaha.

continued om pg. 81

Photography by Bill Sitzmann

ANNE MEYSENBURG

CAMMY WATKINS

SHERRY BROWNRIGG

TOMMY CALLOWAY

HOW ARE OMAHA NONPROFITS SURVIVING FEDERAL FUNDING CUTS?

STORY BY HAL SENAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE

DESIGN BY JOEY WINTON

mericans witnessed President Donald Trump deliver big on his promise to “dismantle government bureaucracy” through federal funding cuts. What that means at the grassroots level in Omaha is still taking shape.

By late July, the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) estimated having slashed nearly $200 billion from government spending. Meanwhile, the Rescissions Act of 2025 clawed back nearly $9 billion in funds previously approved by Congress.

The significant cuts across various government sectors directly affect many Omaha nonprofits, and this change has nonprofit leaders in the community questioning the future. What will be the overall outcome, and how do those affected adapt and persevere?

Omaha Magazine spoke with several nonprofit leaders in the metro for insight into how federal funding cuts have impacted service areas ranging from immigration to the arts, healthcare, and diversity initiatives. These leaders remain dedicated to servicing their communities amid financial adversity and an uncertain future.

For an audio version of this story, open the camera on your smart device and hover over the QR code.

Helping refugees and immigrants to integrate and thrive

In 2022, the Immigrant Legal Center and the Refugee Empowerment Center merged to become the Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (CIRA). CIRA provides legal representation, refugee services, social work, and services for unaccompanied children.

President Trump’s Jan. 20, 2025 executive order suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). This year, Nebraska saw a massive decline in the number of refugees resettled by CIRA. 750 refugees were resettled in Nebraska last fiscal year, but only 140 this year so far.

CIRA’s director of development and strategic analysis, Rose Margrave, said the organization is experiencing funding cuts in three core buckets:

• The Citizenship and Integration Grant Program, from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), allowed CIRA to help immigrants prepare for naturalization and integrate into their new communities. “That was our first federal grant to be completely terminated,” Margrave said.

• The Refugee Resettlement Program was suspended when Trump signed an executive order in January. CIRA serves as a federally-recognized refugee resettlement agency, “the largest refugee resettlement agency in Nebraska, so that has some really important impacts for our community,” she said.

• CIRA said they’ve received some “turbulence” with the grant for a program that serves unaccompanied minors in Nebraska. “We were the sole contractor and a recipient agency of referrals from an organization that operates a shelter at the border for unaccompanied children,” Margrave said.

CIRA’s associate legal director, Anne Wurth, said they’ve seen attacks on funding. “But we’ve also seen attacks on the immigration system as a whole, and funding is part of that.” Currently, there is funding available for the citizenship program, Wurth said. “So funding is available from the government to facilitate some of those legal pathways in our immigration system as it exists, right now.”

The suspension brings uncertainty and financial strain for refugee families, with some families unsure about their financial aid.

CIRA’s director of refugee services, Der Yang, said the biggest loss they’ve felt on the refugee resettlement side is the suspension of the Refugee Resettlement Program. He shared the story of a family who was resettled by CIRA in Nebraska on Jan. 17, 2025. A mere three days later, on Jan. 20, refugee resettlement was suspended with Trump’s executive order. The family planned on receiving financial assistance for a period of 90 days to help them get settled.

“They were stuck wondering, ‘Well, now who’s going to pay for my rent? Who’s going to pay my utilities?” Yang said. “Thankfully, we had a lot of community support, and we were able to help those families.

“But I think it’s the unknown of…will we have funding to assist them, or will we not? It gets very hard for us to tell clients like, ‘You’re responsible for your rent next month,’ or ‘No, we may still cover your rent next month.’ Our clients are really just looking for answers, and sometimes we can’t give them any.”

Due to the halt of the Refugee Resettlement Program, the organization pivoted to support existing refugees, including single-mother refugees. CIRA’s philanthropic community has provided crucial support, but the need for increased community support continues.

THE DIFFICULT PART IS THE UNKNOWN—WILL WE HAVE FUNDING TO ASSIST THEM, OR WILL WE NOT? IT GETS VERY HARD FOR US TO TELL CLIENTS, ‘YOU’RE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR RENT NEXT MONTH,’ OR ‘NO, WE MAY STILL COVER YOUR RENT NEXT MONTH.’ OUR CLIENTS ARE REALLY JUST LOOKING FOR ANSWERS, AND SOMETIMES WE CAN’T GIVE THEM ANY.

– DER YANG, CIRA DIRECTOR OF REFUGEE SERVICES

Protecting community public health through HIV and STI services

Since 1984, the Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP) has promoted sexual health for all through education, access, and advocacy, and cared for people impacted by HIV and AIDS.

It’s unknown yet whether Nebraska will face HIV and AIDS program budget cuts. The Nebraska AIDS Project is a Ryan White-funded program, and there have been discussions about a drastic reduction for this funding in the FY2026 budget. The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program is a federal program that offers HIV care and treatment services.

Community relations manager for NAP, Tommy Calloway, said they could be looking at reducing the organization’s 2026 budget by more than $1 million, with cuts of $800,000 for the HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons With HIV/AIDS) housing program and $130,000 for HIV testing.

The organization serves all of Nebraska and Southwest Iowa. It provides testing for HIV and sexually transmitted infections, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication, client services, education, condoms to go, community health resources, a food pantry, and support groups. The NAP also offers emergency contraception via a vending machine 24 hours a day at the Benson location.

THERE ARE A LOT OF ORGANIZATIONS THAT

Bringing classical music to Omaha for half a century

While Omaha’s classical station, KVNO, has provided fine music and arts culture to the Omaha community for the past 50 years, the Rescissions Act of 2025 will have an effect on the station’s current programming.

KVNO is an affiliate of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Congress cutting $1.1 billion in previously approved funds triggered an announcement from CPB that it will wind down operations when the fiscal year ends on Sept. 30. The CPB shutdown undermines financial viability for American public media as we know it with NPR, PBS, and member stations. Nebraska Public Media reported that it will lose funding support for 16% of its annual budget.

KVNO’s general manager, Sherry Brownrigg, outlined what was at stake on the KVNO website prior to the bill passing. “CPB funding covers about 10% of our budget, but its impact is far greater,” she said. “It allows us to bring you national programs like listener favorites Exploring Music, Performance Today, and The Score CPB also negotiates music licensing rights that keep our classical music programming affordable. Without that support, airing a single piece of music could cost KVNO thousands of dollars.”

Despite the ever-evolving media landscape and the shifting tides of technology, KVNO has remained steadfast, adapting its approach to ensure that classical music, local culture, and the arts stay accessible to all. The station has expanded its reach—from championing local musicians and artists to fostering community engagement through special broadcasts and innovative programming.

ARE DOING SIMILAR WORK OR TRYING TO REACH SIMILAR AUDIENCES. SO, [YOU HAVE TO] BEGIN TO LOOK AT POTENTIALLY FINDING ALIGNMENT WITH YOUR CAUSES, THEN YOU’LL WORK TOGETHER...PULL

SYNERGY.

EACH OTHER’S RESOURCES AND MAKE BETTER

I REALLY THINK THAT’S GOING TO BE THE ANSWER UNTIL WE SEE A SHIFT.

– TOMMY CALLOWAY, NEBRASKA AIDS PROJECT COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER

Calloway advises other nonprofit experts to “get creative with programming” and lean in more to collaborative efforts. “Looking at the already complicated world of philanthropy, I think the funding cuts are hitting the nonprofit community particularly hard,” he said.

He has noticed other organizations who had to alter or “downright eliminate programming” because of the cuts. Collaborating with partner organizations will be key to boosting programming.

“There are a lot of organizations that are doing similar work or trying to reach similar audiences,” Calloway said. “So, [you have to] begin to look at potentially finding alignment with your causes, then you’ll work together...pool each other’s resources and make better synergy. I really think that’s going to be the answer, until we see a shift.”

“As one of only about 55 fully classical public radio stations in the country, KVNO is a rare and valued resource— where all programming decisions are made locally and hosted by voices from our own community,” Brownrigg said. “KVNO has been a cultural cornerstone in the Omaha/ Council Bluffs area for over 53 years, offering 19 hours of uplifting, locally curated classical music nearly every day.”

This dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of the region has made KVNO not just a radio station, but a trusted companion and advocate for the arts, even as financial cuts are on the horizon.

“Federal funding cuts threaten more than just music. KVNO also plays a vital role in supporting our local arts scene,” Brownrigg said. “From daily ‘Arts Today’ reports and live broadcasts of the Symphony and other musical performances, to media sponsorships and an online arts calendar, we help connect the public to the cultural life of our region.

“Without federal funding, these programs—and the cultural connections they foster—are at serious risk of being reduced or disappearing altogether,” she said, adding that the station looks forward to launching a new video series in the fall called Creative Omaha, which will spotlight the people and stories behind Omaha’s vibrant arts community.

Confronting prejudice and bigotry amid efforts to dismantle DEI

Inclusive Communities’ executive director, Cammy Watkins, has worked in the nonprofit world for more than 20 years. During that time, she’s witnessed reductions in funding. “It ebbs and flows,” she said.

“It feels like this is the first time that we’ve seen such a concentrated effort, where everyone has the potential to be impacted. It takes a certain type of leadership to navigate that kind of uncertainty and ambiguity and complexity and volatility, really. So for me, I like joking to everyone, ‘well, my crying months were March and February.’”

The cuts have reduced services and forced the organizations to scale back, including ending their LeadDIVERSITY program, which had over 150 alumni and garnered significant community impact. Facing DOGE cuts, Inclusive Communities had to reduce itself from a staff of 12 in December 2024 to only two employees in April 2025.

“We’re one of the few organizations that holistically addresses all forms of discrimination, not just race, sexual orientation, gender, or disability. We address confronting discrimination on everything. Omaha needs someone,” Watkins said.

Although the team had conversations with partners statewide about closing their doors due to other widely reported funding shortages, Watkins’ and Inclusive Communities’ purpose remains clear.

WE SHOULDN’T HAVE TO STRUGGLE LIKE THIS, AND THE IDEA THAT OUR PEOPLE SHOULD JUST HAVE TO SACRIFICE SOMETHING AND ACCEPT WHAT WE WERE WORKING TO ELIMINATE, HAS BEGUN TO SET US BACK INTO THAT STRUGGLE MINDSET.

Inclusive Communities’ programming provides various ways for people to “affirm, confront, and transform, to make inclusive changes.” They also offer leadership development, education, and community engagement. Their programming is available for schools, private industries, and government agencies, as well as community and faith groups.

With all of these initiatives on Inclusive Communities’ plate, time is of the essence.

“We don’t have time to sit in that despair, ultimately, especially as advocates. Those of us fighting for justice and seeking a just society for all people, including those who maybe are championing for our demise. We know that the work still continues in that,” she said.

Watkins is a proponent of killing the “struggle mindset” that can beleaguer nonprofits.

“It’s the idea that our people should always just have to sacrifice something and accept what we were working to eliminate, and this has begun to set us back into that struggle mindset,” she said.

Watkins looks forward to maintaining stability over the next few years, and to continue providing crucial services to confront bigotry, prejudice, and discrimination. She credits leadership, self-care, and collaboration with a supportive network as her basis for navigating these uncharted waters.

“One of the great things about the nonprofit industry is that we are resilient and innovative, so the quality of our work doesn’t decrease,” she said. “But it just means that we’re not able to maybe have as many programs as we’ve offered, and we have to scale back in order to still be able to provide the quality that we know our community members need.” Building connections between people, ideas, and funding

Building connections between people, ideas, and funding

Omaha Community Foundation (OCF) offers resources for those who advise clients in philanthropic solutions and financial plans. OCF cultivates generosity, strengthens local nonprofits, and engages the community on important issues. Since 1982, the organization has granted $2 billion to a variety of causes.

OCF’s general manager, Anne Meysenburg, described the ripple effect of funding challenges across the nonprofit sector. “The predominant amount of our work is about supporting donors in their own philanthropy, so we don’t do a lot of direct service,” Meysenburg said.

She said while the foundation has not faced dramatic funding losses, complications have arisen in fundraising for certain programs, and she noted that indirect impacts may yet lie ahead.

For instance, future cuts to emergency resources like FEMA dollars, or changes to food security initiatives such as SNAP

benefits, could have far-reaching consequences, and cascade down through local food banks and pantries.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) signed into law in July 2025 includes provisions that slash SNAP funding and change eligibility requirements. According to First Five Nebraska, cuts to SNAP will expand food deserts in 66 counties. In the 2024 fiscal year, SNAP helped an average of 155,000 Nebraskans each month, including children with school meals, summer EBT, and other nutritional support.

Meysenburg said that the foundation’s vantage point allows them to see how these reductions affect the broader community, underscoring the interconnectedness of support networks during times of crisis.

In recent months, she said the foundation has experienced some fundraising challenges for one of their programs, but noted that is a longer-term situation.

The organization is scheduled to receive FEMA dollars as a sub-recipient from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency for tornado recovery. “That might be a place where we see an impact,” she said.

“I think our vantage point is over the overall community and what impacts are happening in terms of potential cuts that are coming and have come,” Meysenburg said. “So, you look at things like food security, where there’s likely some SNAP benefits reductions—that impact will carry forward into the Food Bank for the Heartland and some of that will trickle down to the food pantries.”

THE SHIFTS AND THE CHANGES AND THE DOWNSIZING WE DID WAS TO BRING US A SENSE OF STABILITY TO NAVIGATE THESE NEXT FEW YEARS, HOWEVER LONG OR SHORT THEY MAY BE, AND MAINTAIN WHAT WE KNOW THIS COMMUNITY NEEDS FROM OUR ORGANIZATION.

– CAMMY WATKINS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES

In the face of federal funding cuts and shifting priorities, Omaha’s nonprofit community stands as a testament to enduring resilience, adaptability, and creativity. Despite the challenges of reduced resources, suspended programs, and increased uncertainty, these organizations continue to champion the needs of the most vulnerable, reimagining their missions and forging new partnerships to ensure their vital work persists.

Their stories underscore not only the critical role of philanthropy and collaboration, but also the unwavering commitment to justice, inclusion, and cultural enrichment in the region.

As the landscape continues to evolve, the resourcefulness and dedication of nonprofit leaders, staff, and supporters will remain essential, proving, once more, that even in the most challenging times, community can be both a lifeline and a source of hope.

Now in its 21st year, the Omaha North Hills Pottery Tour will include five stops from North Omaha to Fort Calhoun, including home studios Dennison Pottery and Crescent Pottery, the historic Florence Mill/Winter Quarters Mill Museum and ArtLoft Gallery, a 19th-century schoolhouse on the grounds of the Washington County Historic Museum, and the Too Far North wine bar.

“It’s a fall-season, clay-only market scheduled annually on the first weekend in October along a scenic byway, Highway 75,” said Carol Dennison, one of the founders.

Taking place this year on Saturday, Oct. 4, and Sunday, Oct. 5, the tour features the work of local and regional potters, some who have been part of the event since the beginning and others who are joining the tour for the first time. Their collective works represent a wide range of styles and techniques, and tour participants can meet some of the makers to learn more about their works as they add to their pottery collections and enjoy unique hospitality at tour stops, from homemade soup and wine-tasting to entertainment by local musicians. It’s a collaborative effort of local potters to support clay artists and to educate the public regarding their craft, Dennison said.

“Of course, we collect no money for any of the work we do. It is all for potters, by potters,” she said, adding that, for the artists, the tour format has many advantages over the summer art fair circuit the Dennisons followed for decades.

“We did road shows for a lot of years, right? You know, haul all your stuff all around the country. And clay, honestly, is the damn heaviest stuff outside of the stone and wood sculptures and so on,” she said. “The other thing about clay is it falls in that valley between fine art and craft…it’s got a foot in both traditions.”

“That argument about those types of terms— ‘craft,’ ‘arts’—has been going on forever,” said John Dennison, Carol’s husband and fellow Omaha North Hills Pottery Tour co-founder. “I think that many potters who work in clay have established themselves in the art world and are quite willing to be considered sculptors…it’s an argument that’s been going on, but I think for the most part, it’s been answered by several potters, craftsmen, artists out there. And it used to be—or at least when I was in school—the attitude at the museums often was they wouldn’t put pottery in a featured show, because it wasn’t considered ‘art.’ I think we’re pretty much beyond that now. At least, I hope we are.”

John, a former English teacher at the middle-school and high-school levels, was originally a fiber artist. A fellow teacher introduced him to the clay arts in the mid-1970s.

“There was one wheel at the junior high school that was down in the storeroom behind the stage, and so we pulled it out. She gave me a couple lessons, and then I would go in after school for an hour or so every night and practice throwing. Fortunately, she had a kiln, she had glazes, and she lived close to the school,” he said. “So, long story short, eventually we were kind of working together. About 10 years in, she had moved on and another teacher I worked with called me up and said, ‘We need a part-time pottery teacher at the high school. Would you be interested?’ I said if [Omaha Public Schools] would let me, I would be all for it. So, I moved over to North High then and taught there for the next 20 years, both English and pottery. I had a great time, really enjoyed it.”

“Our mission, beyond direct marketing by potters, is to inform the public about the diverse functions, techniques, and styles of clay art, along with the opportunity to learn more from clay makers.”

— Carol Dennison

Carol, who has supported John’s artistic endeavors behind the scenes for decades, is not an artist herself, but does have creative talents that lie more on the writing side; she even reviewed art shows at one point. Like her husband, her full-time career was in education. Her diverse career spanned from teaching special education to advanced placement and post-secondary coursework, and students from middle school to the community college level. Before earning her first education degree, she worked for ENCOR (now Duet), educating students and professionals in the process of deinstitutionalizing intellectually impaired individuals.

Sometime in the early 2000s, the Dennisons met Liz Vercruysse and John Martelle from Big Table Studios in an Old Market gallery.

“We had a conversation about opening our studios to visitors as a direct marketing idea. John and I had hosted shows in our home in December since the ’70s, but in 1994 we had moved to our current location in Ponca Hills and built a new studio. Because of its hilly terrain, we didn’t imagine we could accommodate parking for our visitors in our new location,” Carol said. “It turned out that Liz and John lived even more rural [in Herman, Nebraska] and also felt too remote in some ways to draw people to their studio.”

Vercruysse was familiar with a newish pottery tour concept that a group had successfully established in St. Croix, Minnesota, and the two couples discussed its potential for local implementation.

“Each studio became a tour stop. The resident potter invited other potters to participate,” Carol said. “We adapted the model

Where Healing Begins: Counseling Connections

& Associates

Grows to Meet Omaha’s Needs

Counseling Connections & Associates (CCA) has become a trusted cornerstone of mental health support in Omaha, providing expert, compassionate care since its founding in 2011 by Dr. Kristi Tackett-Newburg. With a mission to foster transformation and empowerment, CCA stands out not only for its clinical excellence but also for its warm, elegant setting that puts clients at ease from the moment t hey walk in.

Under Dr. Tackett-Newburg’s visionary leadership, CCA has grown into a comprehensive mental wellness practice offering a range of services to support emotional, behavioral, and professional growth. The team includes highly trained therapists, medication management providers, wellness coaches, and executive performance specialists. Together, they serve individuals, couples, and families seeking guidance in navigating life’s challenges.

What sets CCA apart is its holistic and personalized approach. Every treatment plan is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. Whether it’s traditional talk therapy, psychiatric support, or performance coaching for high-achieving professionals, CCA creates a roadmap for lasting well-being.

In addition to one-on-one services, CCA offers workshops that focus on real-world tools covering topics such as conflict resolution, resilience building, and effective coping strategies. These group sessions are designed to empower clients with skills that benefit both their personal and profess ional lives.

Recognizing the importance of convenience and accessibility, CCA also provides secure telehealth options, allowing clients to access care from the comfort of their homes or workplaces. This flexibility has helped broaden their impact and increase engagement, especially among those with demanding schedules or limit ed mobility.

“Our goal is to ensure each person’s journey is both informed and supported,” says Dr. Tackett-Newburg. “We meet our clients where they are and help guide them to where they want to be.”

In response to increasing demand, CCA is expanding its footprint with a second location in West Omaha. This new office will serve growing communities in Millard, Elkhorn, and Gretna, reinforcing CCA’s dedication to making mental health support more accessible acros s the metro.

As it continues to grow, Counseling Connections & Associates remains committed to redefining mental health care with compassion, innovation, and a deep respect for each client’s journey. Through a combination of clinical expertise and heartfelt connection, CCA is helping individuals and families across O maha thrive.

Counseling Connections & Associates

9802 Nicholas Stre et, Unit 350 Oma ha, NE 68114 402.932.2296

ccaomaha.com

Dr. Kristi Tac kett-Newburg

to our locale bringing in area attractions. Our mission, beyond direct marketing by potters, is to inform the public about the diverse functions, techniques, and styles of clay art, along with the opportunity to learn more from clay makers.”

So, in 2004, Vercruysse, Martelle, and the Dennisons launched the inaugural Omaha North Hills Pottery Tour. The concept has evolved slightly in the ensuing two decades, with some stops coming and going and additional elements adopted.

“This year, we have added the schoolhouse stop. This 1870s school was moved to its current location to the west of the Washington County Museum a few years ago. Our neighbor and friend, Julie Ashton, offered the schoolhouse as a possible site for the tour,” Carol said. “With the official withdrawal of Big Table Studios this year, we have added the schoolhouse to give us additional space for potters and to amplify the Fort Calhoun stop.”

The organizers have never had difficulty finding participating artists, she added.

“We participated in juried art fairs around the country for 35 years and have come to recognize the talents and reputations of many clay artists. We have found great talent from our experience at art fairs, from our OPS art community, by word of mouth, from potters on our tour, from the academic art world in Omaha, and around the state. The presence of Jun Kaneko and his studio assistants also have created a source of clay professionals who add to the number of studio potters who now work in Omaha,” Carol said. “From the beginning, we have sought artists who create quality work in a diversity of styles, glazes, and techniques who come from the Metro area or the greater Midwest region. Studio hosts can choose their guest potters. For stops without studios, a team of local potters from the tour provide recommendations for new potters to add to our list of potentials.”

The event has been well-received from the beginning, the Dennisons said, and attracts regulars, including a trolley of customers from Finicky Frank’s restaurant in the Florence area. Florence Mill owner Linda Meigs is another longtime supporter.

“Our neighbors host the potters in their homes for the weekend. Friends make soup broth, make and serve soup and drinks. We have a soup crew who come to help every year,” Carol said. “It’s a good time. People like the vibe. They enjoy seeing their favorite potters and finding new ones. It’s gift-buying season and folks enjoy collecting presents for family. Families and friends come together and make a day of it.”

Visit onhpt.com for more information.

Fe l s Futur

STORY BY L isa Lukecart

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Sarah Lemke

DESIGN BY Nic kie Robinson

THE CREATIVE WORLD OF ZARIYAH AND SIRI

Zariyah Champlin and her sister, Siri, stand out at Stories Coff ee, and not because of their colorful cold drinks. While other teenagers wear black leggings and T-shirts, Zariyah (who added a “y” to her “artistic name”) sports a black pirate hat with silver stitching and buttons. A Scarlet Darkness corset tightens her silk periwinkle blouse while a billowy black skirt complements boots with ribbon laces, borrowed from Siri ’s closet.

From left: Siri and Zariyah Champlin

Gen O

Th e sixteen-year-old writer found her style after buying outfits to cosplay the characters in her science fi ction dystopian book, Little Lost Girl. In this case, Zariyah likes the “cool clothes” of the pirate era, even though no swashbucklers inhabit the pages of her in-progress novel about a skilled sharpshooter assassi n, Katrina.

“I used to hate writing with a passion and would cry, but my brain switched…now writing is half my identity,” said Zariyah, who hopes to publish the book soon.

Unlike her sister’s Pirates of the Caribbean aesthetic, Siri’s ballet pink top brightens the room with its birds and flowers. A polyester emerald skirt, a thrift store fi nd, makes it seem like she’s walked off the set of Wicked. A white scarf with green stitching and wildflowers covers her head.

“I wanted to show my artistic self,” Siri explained, pushing up her glasses. The fashion choice makes sense since the fi fteen-year-old often bases her symbolic character names on nature for her stories and works at the nonprofit community garden, City Sprouts. She settled on Juniper as her protagonist, representing purification and resilience, who deals with the absence of a father in his life, something both girls can understand. Siri, not named after Apple’s virtual assistant created a year later, said her name means “secret victory.”

“I’m always competing against myself internally,” Siri mentioned.

Siri, a self-proclaimed introvert and “digital minimalist,” discovered like-minded individuals at Joslyn’s Kent Bellows Mentoring Program, where she could discuss art with 20 other freshmen and sophomores in the new Foundations program. Candidates learn basic skills in drawing, painting, and mixed media under the guidance of professional artists who serve as mentors.

“These are my people, and I can express myself artistically,” said Siri, who favors charcoal and watercolor as her medium.

“Zariyah does things fearlessly, and it makes me want to do the same, even when I’m super freaked out.”—Siri Champlin

“They are setting us up for success. It’s done so much to boost my confidence,” added Zariyah, who also pursues her creative side, usually in mixed media at the core level for juniors and seniors at Kent Bellows Studio.

Tuition depends on the amount families can afford, whether a dollar or $600, which helps the program with supplies or other needs. An endof-summer exhibition allows core mentees to sell their artwork with a 50/50 split between the program and the artists. Zariyah plans to display a mixed-media piece based on her poem, “Villanelle of a Dying Rose,” which the Nebraska Writers Collective asked her to read as a showcase poet. The creation will feature flowers, a fabric frame, and old jewelry once Zariyah fi nds time to complete it, since her job at Coneflower Creamery keeps her busy. Both girls also volunteer and help their mother with their four brothers a nd sister.

Siri’s current mixed-media watercolor paints the tale of a starving artist, something that still worries her if it becomes a full-time career, even though Kent Bellows has shown her the possibilities. In the opening pages of Zariyah’s novel, Katrina twirls a knife between her fi ngers and attempts to convince herself that the “future’s fi ne, just…think of a bet ter future.”

Zariyah realizes her future dreams remain within her reach with hard work and effort. Her mother, Michaela, encouraged both girls to pursue their interests as part of their education. She noticed Zariyah could read at 3 and felt homeschooling would offer her an outlet for her talents. Plus, Michaela didn’t want her learning Black history from the perspective of slavery.

“I taught them that they could have multiple passions. Why limit yourself?” Michaela says. She recently took a job as a library specialist at the Bess Johnson Elkhorn Omaha Public Library Branch, which doesn’t afford her the extra time for homeschooling seven children, so public school became an option for her t hree boys.

The sisters’ grandparents have helped with homeschooling, driving the sisters to Metropolitan Community College, where both attend classes to obtain an undergraduate degree early. Zariyah will concentrate her efforts on creative writing while Siri will pursue studio art.

“They are confident about whatever they do. I’m excited to see them grow, not only as artists but as young women, and that is so important. I think it speaks volumes about how their mother has raised them and instilled that in them,” said Pamela Hinson, the head of the Kent Bellows Mentoring Program.

Zariyah dreams of traveling the world while blogging or writing novels after receiving her master’s or even a doctorate in creative writing. Siri remains undecided, but knows she wants to apply to a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) like Howard.

“Zariyah does things fearlessly, and it makes me want to do the same, even when I’m super freaked out,” Siri said.

How Omaha’s last Pulitzer Prize connects Warren Buffett to the foundation of modern investigative journalism methodology

So began an eight-page broadsheet investigation into the murky finances of Boys Town, an esteemed charitable institution that Father Edward J. Flanagan (now on the path to sainthood) established in 1917 to serve homeless, neglected and underprivileged boys.

In towering all-caps, a 1972 Omaha Sun headline proclaimed: “BOYS TOWN: AMERICA’S WEALTHIEST CITY?” followed by a biblical quote: “‘Give an account of thy stewardship…’ (Luke, 16)”

When the Sun published its special report, 55 years had passed since Father Flanagan founded his orphanage on a $90 loan. He built Boys Town from a downtown boarding house into a 160acre village with its own zip code on the rural outskirts of Omaha, Nebraska. It was a national icon of unassailable charitable good. Or so it seemed. A new priest was in charge, and Boys Town employed a robust marketing effort mailing 33 million letters a year begging for donations “to keep the wolf from the door” (while reaping $25 million annually from public donations and investment income, according to the Sun ’s reporting).

After refusing to answer local journalist questions about finances, the Sun began digging into federal 990 tax forms to expose how—despite a staggering asset portfolio— the institution was serving fewer youths (only 750 in 1972) with a net worth of $209 million and growing. By the end of 1971, the “Boys Town population had dropped and its endowment had risen to about $215,000 per boy” (adjusted for inflation, that’s $1.7 million per youth in 2025 dollars). The Sun reported that the nonprofit was richer than any Nebraska company and ranked about 230th in Fortune magazine’s 1970 list of top-500 industrials.

Public outcry and institutional reform followed the investigation. As a result, Boys Town diversified its mission and community service model, eventually expanding into hospitals, scientific research and revamped residential programing. And the Omaha Sun won the 1973 Pulitzer Prize for Local Investigative Specialized Reporting. It was the first time a weekly had won the prestigious honor. The only other Pulitzer wins for the city had gone to the much larger daily—the Omaha World-Herald —for editorial writing (1920), public service (1943) and photography (1944).

The editor responsible for the Sun ’s investigation was Paul Williams. The Pulitzer win established his journalism renown and preceded his career path into academia—and his place in establishing a new nonprofit: Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE).

Growing up in Kansas, the Topeka High Historical Society boasts that the 1939 Topeka High grad demonstrated literary talent at a young age as a spelling bee champ. His obituary in Ohio State’s daily student-run newspaper, The Lantern , notes that Williams “began his newspaper career in 1941 as a copy editor and reporter for the Stauffer newspapers in Topeka, Kansas” (which owned the Topeka State Journal and Topeka Daily Capital ).

The “Paul N. Williams Papers,” archived at the State Historical Society of Missouri, offer a wealth of information about his life and legacy. He attended the University of Kansas, Washburn College and the University of Nebraska, and he flew 40 combat missions in Europe as a navigator on a World War II U.S. Air Force bomber. In 1946, he began reporting at the Omaha World-Herald and worked his way up to assistant city editor. After also working as a correspondent for Time and Newsweek , he joined the Omaha Sun from 1960 to 1973. He was the top editor for the local chain of newsweeklies serving the Omaha metro area.

While Williams was busy editing the Sun , a financial star began rising from Omaha. Investor Warren Buffett was steadily buying more shares in a company called Berkshire Hathaway. That same investor eventually purchased the Sun in 1968. The Sun was the first of many news industry acquisitions for Berkshire Hathaway and the man known as “the Oracle of Omaha” (who became the richest man in the world for a brief period). Buffet would also eventually buy the then-defunct Sun ’s rival—the Omaha World-Herald —and 30 or so other daily newspapers before divesting from print with the sale of BH Media Group to Lee Enterprises in 2010.)

Doug Smith was part of the Sun ’s Pulitzerwinning team, and he has vivid recollections of his former boss. He first met Williams while caddying at a local golf course. A few years later, as a fresh graduate from Northwestern University, Smith wrote a funny letter to the Sun ’s editor, and Williams called to offer the 23-yearold a job—his first full-time employment. (Although he worked at the Sun and later the World-Herald , Smith is better known in Omaha for his career after journalism, having established the Omaha ad agency Ervin & Smith.)

“I had no experience, really,” Smith said. But after 18 months of slogging through general assignment work, he got a promotion to what they called “The Four Way,” an Omaha regional coverage team. Soon after, the newspaper’s owner and Williams organized a clandestine meeting at the upscale Blackstone Hotel to discuss strategy. Coincidentally, the Boys Town board of directors was holding their annual meeting just one room away.

“I was put in charge of this longterm, lowlevel investigation,” Smith said. “What did they own? How did they operate? What was their history, etc., etc. And I worked a lot with the Boys Town PR guy—and I don’t know if investigative guys feel bad about it, but I felt bad after because…I didn’t mislead him, but I didn’t tell him what we were up to.”

At one point, Smith discovered there was a Boys Town marketing service center of sorts near the courthouse. He said it was “full of ladies typing letters to donors.” With 60-some typewriters click-clacking all at once, Smith and photographer Glenn Cook “just burst in and started taking photos. And this guy is like, ‘Please! Please! We don’t want people to know about this.’ Of course, that was a great quote, and it just kind of showed how there was sort of a deception going on.”

Smith’s own contributions to the investigation came on top of his routine daily assignments. Toward the end of the Boys Town project, as the pieces came together, they set up a control room in Williams’ home—“to keep it secret.” Smith said they were terrified that the World-Herald would scoop their lead from the 990 IRS forms and assign a dozen or more reporters to coverage. It was during one such meeting at William’s home when Smith experienced his proudest moment as a journalist. Smith and other members of the team (which also included Mick Rood, West Iverson and Randy Brown) were polishing their stories in the living room, filing upstairs to Buffett and Williams. “They were reviewing copy as it came up, and a voice said down the stairs, ‘This is an excellent piece, young man.’ And I was so proud.”

That investigation was the only time when Smith could remember Buffett being involved in editorial production. Otherwise he was hands-off from the news. “I really want to emphasize this,” Smith added, “The investigation was handed to us on a platter by Warren Buffet.” The financial guru helped them secure the 990 tax form, which Smith said was more difficult to obtain in those days. Buffett even contributed investment analysis to the reporting team—although his byline was not included. Several articles probed the nonprofit’s assets, listing the nonprofit’s complete stock market portfolio. “Boys Town was so rich, and he showed that their return was about half what it should have been, and their risk was about twice what it should have been,” Smith said.

continued on pg. 70

“THE INVESTIGATION WAS HANDED TO US ON A PLATTER BY WARREN BUFFETT.”

History | Story by Doug Meigs | Photo courtesy of Kari Hulac | Design by Joey Winton

PROVIDING HOPE TO ALL AGES

You’re invited to attend The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary’s annual fundraiser, Tastes and Treasures. Join us for a night of food, fun and philanthropy.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Scott Conference Center

6450 Pine St. in Aksarben Village

6 PM - Social hour and entertainment followed by dinner and program

Visit our website to learn more about the event, purchase tickets, bid on silent auction items or donate. tastesandtreasures.com

Online Silent Auction is open September 11 – 17

Featuring

Jean Stothert Speaker Former Mayor of Omaha

Bill Schammert Emcee

KETV Anchor

Sebastian Anzaldo

“Sebastian Sings Sinatra” Entertainer

Special Thanks to Our Honorary Chairs

Jim and Susan Ryan, Kelly Ryan Equipment Co.

The Ryans know first hand how the funds raised from this event help transform lives in meaningful ways.

The Ryans are longtime advocates for The Salvation Army. Jim Ryan is an Advisory Board emeritus member. Susan is a longtime active Auxiliary member.

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE

OCT. 24 & 26, 2025 | ORPHEUM THEATER

SUSANNAH

JAN. 30 & FEB. 1, 2026 | ORPHEUM THEATER

HERCULES

MAR. 13, 2026 | ORPHEUM THEATER

BLUEBEARD’S CASTLE

APR. 24 & 25, 2026 | HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER UNSHAKEABLE

JUNE 5 - 7, 2026 | HOFF FAMILY ARTS & CULTURE CENTER

GIVING CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 2025

COMPILED

BY

LUCY MASON

FEATURED EVENT

September 27

BOOMSTOCK

Benefits: Project Harmony and 50 Mile March Community of Hope

Location: Gene Leahy Mall boomstock.org

Celebrating the music of the ’60s and ’70s, Boomer Radio, a locally owned and operated station, brings a rockin’ band lineup to Gene Leahy Mall for a night of good tunes and groovy Woodstock-esque vibes. Each year, BOOMSTOCK picks local charities that will receive all the event’s proceeds to make it not only a night of fun, but a night of giving back. This year, BOOMSTOCK will be donating the event’s earnings to Project Harmony, which focuses on ending the cycle of child abuse, and 50 Mile March, which directly helps veterans dealing with PTSD and homelessness.

September 3

ASSISTED LIVING DAY

Benefits: Gifford Farm

Location: Gifford Farm Education Center esu3.org

September 4

PLATTE RIVER RUMBLE- HIGH SCHOOL / MIDDLE SCHOOL

Benefits: Omaha Sports Commission

Location: Mahoney State Park omahasports.org

September 4

ADELANTE GALA

Benefits: Latino Economic Development Council

Location: Steelhouse Omaha latinoedc.org

September 5

2025 BREW HAHA

Benefits: Habitat for Humanity

Location: Heartwood Park habitatomaha.org

September 8

DINING FOR GOOD

Benefits: Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue

Location: Dante savinggracefoodrescue.org

September 8

TEE OFF AGAINST CHILD ABUSE CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC

Benefits: Exchange Club of Omaha Foundation

Location: Field Club of Omaha shareomaha.org

September 12

WINGS & WHEELS OMAHA

Benefits: Ronald McDonald House Omaha

Location: Signature Flight Support - OMA rmhcomaha.org

September 13

VOLUNTEER GARDEN CLEANUP

Benefits: Omaha Public Library

Location: Charles B. Washington Branch omaha.bibliocommons.com

September 13

RACE FOR BIG DREAMS

Benefits: Connected Roots Care Center

Location: Stinson Park in Aksarben Village crccomaha.org

September 13

THIN MINT SPRINT 5K

Benefits: Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska

Location: Chalco Hills Recreation Area girlscoutsnebraska.org

September 14

WALK THE PARK FOR PARKINSON’S

Benefits: Parkinson’s Nebraska

Location: Elmwood Park Pavillion parkinsonsnebraska.org

September 16

RAISE YOUR VOICE 2025

Benefits: Voices for Children in Nebraska

Location: The Farnam Hotel voicesforchildren.com

September 18

FAMILY NIGHT

Benefits: Youth Engagement

Location: The Union for Contemporary Art

September 18

RESCUE NIGHT @ OMAHA DOG BAR

Benefits: Rescue Dogs

Location: Omaha Dog Bar omahadogbar.com

September 18

MUSIC TO THEIR REARS 2025

Benefits: Nebraska Diaper Bank

Location: The Barn at Ackerhurst Dairy Farm nebraskadiaperbank.org

September 19

TEE IT UP FORE OMAHA PARKS 2025

Benefits: Omaha Parks Foundation

Location: Benson Golf Course omahaparksfoundation.org

September 19

HALFWAY TO ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Benefits: Project Harmony

Location: Champions Run projectharmony.com

September 19

PURSEONALITIES

Benefits: Child Saving Institute

Location: Embassy Suites La Vista Hotel and Conference Center childsaving.org

September 19-20

2ND ANNUAL GREAT PLAINS PVA 9-BALL TOURNAMENT

Benefits: Paralyzed Veterans of America

Location: Big John’s Billiards greatplainspva.org

September 20

FEMI’S HEART 2ND ANNUAL GRAMERCY GALA

Benefits: Femi’s Heart Foundation

Location: UNO Thompson Alumni Center femisheart.org

September 20

2025 OMAHA WALK-N-ROLL

Benefits: Spinal muscular atrophy research

Location: Gene Leahy Mall walk-curesma.donordrive.com

September 21

THE INFUSION: A BLOODY MARY MIX OFF 2025

Benefits: Nebraska Bleeding Disorders Community

Location: Founders One Nine bleeding.org

September 21

GOLD RUSH 2025!

Benefits: Golden Retriever Rescue in Nebraska

Location: SumTur Amphitheater grrin.org

September 22

BOYS TOWN GOLF TOURNAMENT

Benefits: Boys Town

Location: Indian Creek Golf Course boystown.org

September 22

KEEP OMAHA BEAUTIFUL GOLF CLASSIC

Benefits: Keep Omaha Beautiful

Location: The Players Club Omaha keepomahabeautiful.org

September 25

LIGHT THE NIGHT OMAHA 2025

Benefits: The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Nebraska Location: Stinson Park in Aksarben Village lls.org

September 25

BREAD FOR LIFE FUNDRAISER

Benefits: Project Hope Inc

Location: The Palazzo Event Venue projecthopeomaha.org

September 26

BREATH OF LIFE LINCOLN GOLF AND GALA

Benefits: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Location: Wilderness Ridge cff.org

September 26

LITTLE GIANTS FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

Benefits: Little Giants

Location: Ashland Gold Club thelittlegiantsfoundation.org

September 27

OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK

Benefits: the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Location: Stinson Park afspwalks.donordrive.com

September 27

ROCK THE BLOCK

Benefits: Habitat for Humanity

Location: Old Towne Bellevue habitatomaha.org

September 27

GUNS N’ HOSES 2025

Benefits: Bags of Fun Omaha

Location: The Astro bagsoffunomaha.org

September 27

OMAHA FOOD FEST

Benefits: Healthy for a Lifetime Location: Kroc Center healthyforalifetime.org

September 27

BOLD AWAYDAY

Benefits: YouGoGirl

Location: The Venue at Highlander Accelerator yougogirlomaha.com

September 28

STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME

Benefits: Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands Location: Heartland of America Park at the Riverfront dsamidlands.org

he Peter Kiewit Foundation began in 1979 with a $150 million endowment as a private, independent, philanthropic trust. Peter Kiewit wanted to invest in organizations and communities that demonstrate the ability and desire to help themselves. He frequently referred to a three-legged stool metaphor, with funds from the applicant and its immediate support group as one leg, funds from the larger community as the second leg, and funds from philanthropy as the third leg. He believed that this balanced support ensured “ownership” of the project by those who would need to sustain it into the future. After thoughtful and strategic consideration, the Peter Kiewit Foundation made the decision to sun set in 2030.

“Th e foundation has been a key leader in building the downtown urban core, the Riverfront, the Omaha Convention Center, the baseball stadium, the Luminarium, the Holland, and the Steelhouse. Th e investments we made catalyzed Omaha’s economic growth and success,” said Wendy Boyer, the executive director of the Peter Kiewit Foundation.

The Peter Kiewit Foundation Engineering Academy is one of Boyer’s personal favorite programs. It’s a need-based scholarship program which covers living expenses, tuition, books, and fees, and is focused on helping women advance in the engineering field. The program helps 40 students a year, and can have 180 students on the scholarship at one time. Th at scholarship will go on perpetually and won’t be aff ected by the foundation’s sundown.

Youth development in East Omaha has been a focus of the foundation, bringing STEM experiences to after-school programs based on the belief that access and exposure can increase their awareness in careers in STEM. Quality-of-life amenities have been funded by the foundation as well throughout the states, parks, libraries, museums, and civic centers. The Kiewit Foundation has helped communities achieve their goals by equipping them not just with funding, but with a driven team that only wants to see communities rise and succeed.

“Mr. Kiewit made provisions in his trust for us to sunset when certain conditions had been met,” Boyer said. “It wasn’t as explicit as sunset in 2030. We talked to close associates of Mr. Kiewit, the attorney that set up the trust, and the trustees to consider the timing, and we felt that the 50-year milestone and the billion-dollar investment felt like the right time.”

Boyer’s team announced the foundation’s sunset in the hopes of giving their nonprofit partners ample time to plan for their exit. Th ey had no intention in leaving abruptly. Th is will allow their former partners to think about their business models and look for new funding sources. Th e foundation is continuing to fund capital projects up to 2030, ending when all of the money has been committed.

Boyer has been with the foundation for 11 years, and this is her sixth year as executive director. From her time at the Chamber of Commerce and Omaha Public Schools, she said that one thing has truly remained the same across her careers. “It’s about educating people,” Boyer said. “No matter what audience you are working with, you have to ask yourself, how do we do our best to inform, educate and develop them along the way?”

She’s also excited for other organizations that will step up in the foundation’s place. Nature abhors a vacuum, and there’s no doubt others will answer Omaha’s call. She humbly off ered advice to those upcoming philanthropic outfits: “Listen to the community and the people closest to the work, they know what’s best. We never operated that we knew better than the people or nonprofits leading their initiatives. You have to be careful of the power that comes with the position of power money grants you. True partnership produces sust ainability.”

Boyer refl ects on her own career, on being a resource and a partner. She believes that her career mirrors the foundation’s sunset as well. She remarked on how she was able to work with amazing community leaders, be involved in her community, and how in her own personal life, she became more charitable and knowledgeable.

“Be kind and do good work,” Boyer said. “Treat each other well. What else is there?”

Mr. Kiewit made provisions in his trust for us to sunset when certain conditions had been met. It wasn’t as explicit as sunset in 2030. We talked to close associates of Mr. Kiewit, the attorney that set up the trust, and the trustees to consider the timing, and we felt that the 50-year milestone and the billion-dollar investment felt like the right time.

— Wendy Boyer

Be Kind and Do Good Work

THE SUNSET

OF THE P ETER KIEWIT FOUNDATION

Story by Christo pher McLucas

Photography by Sarah Lemke

Design by Joey Winton

From Korea to Omaha: THE HEART AND SOUL BEHIND KOREAN GRILL

hen you walk into Korean Grill in Bellevue, you’re not just stepping into a restaurant— you’re stepping into the life and legacy of Henim and Scott Stimson, who built the beloved local spot from the ground up, with the help of community, love, and a life-changing review from the Omaha Wo rld-Herald.

Long before Omaha, before the fi rst dish of kimchi hit a table, Henim’s journey started in South Korea. Born into a post-war generation ravaged by poverty, she was raised without the luxuries of school, government aid, or even consistent meals. After losing both parents at an early age, Henim was left in charge of her two younger sisters. “I was 10 years old when I told my mom’s friend I wanted to work in a restaurant,” she recalled. “One dollar a month, two days off. I was hungry, and I had to take care of my sisters.” Her early years were shaped by resilience— bussing tables, washing dishes until her soft hands blistered from harsh soap, and quietly watching every move in the kitchen until she learned the cra ft by heart.

By her 20s, she had opened her fi rst restaurant in Korea, “It was hard to get respect. Everything is about respecting your elders, and I was young and small.” Around the same time, Scott, a young Airman from Maine, was stationed at Osan Air Base. Th eir paths crossed thanks to a fellow military wife, and despite language barriers and cultural diff erences, they fell in love. But Henim, a proudly proclaimed survivor, was no ordinary bride. Scott proposed three times before Henim fi nally said yes; but not until he quit smoking and proved he could meet her strength and commitment.

“I’m not a normal woman,” Henim said with a laugh. “I was born smart, I raised myself. You can’t lead me if you’re smoking two packs a day.” Scott quit cold turkey and the pair were married on Halloween in 1989. Henim’s fi rst trip to America was packed with culture shock. “In Korea, it’s just one culture—America was so many diff erent people. Th eir oldest son, David, was born while they were stationed at Pease Air Force Base in Ne w Hampshire.

Over the years, military life carried the family across the U.S. and back to Korea, where two more children—Joanne and Sean—were born. Along the way, Henim’s entrepreneurial fi re never dimmed. She ran a thriving clothing store overseas and, once the family was stationed at Off utt Air Force Base in Nebraska, she launched A+ Cleaning, a business built from scratch while Scott continued serving on base. Henim’s work ethic is matched only by her integrity to take care of people. “ She always tries to do the right thing,” Scott confessed. “Even if it’s detrimental to herself. She wants to be a good person.” Deep down, one dream sti ll simmered.

“I wanted to cook,” Henim said, the spark still dancing in her eyes. “But I needed Scott’s blessing.”

Scott, knowing the sacrifi ce and sleepless nights that come with restaurant ownership, agreed—but only if the lease was for one year. It was a cautious compromise that would ignite a 17-year culi nary legacy.

“I still had the cleaning business,” Henim recalled. “An older woman reached out to be hired for A+ Cleaning; she was needing someone to take over the lease of her restaurant, Elaine’s Kitchen, for one year. Th is restaurant found me.”

Th at was in 2008. With Scott’s blessing and their community, Korean Gri ll was born.

It wasn’t easy. For three months, almost no one came. Henim kept running her cleaning business while pulling long hours at the restaurant. But then, a feature in the Omaha World-Herald changed everything. “People were lined up around the block,” she said. “We sold out of everything. I didn’t get home until almost 3 a.m.” From that day forward, Korean Grill became a cornerstone of the community.

Over 17 years, they’ve served thousands— not just food, but families. “You see the kids grow up,” Scott added. “You know their stories. You’re not just a restaurant. You’re part of their lives. A place like this benefits the community; she’s putting out good, nutritious food and we watch kids grow up and start their own fa milies.”

STORY BY BEAUFIELD BERRY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE

DESIGN BY JOEY WINTON

After 33 years in the military, Scott was ready to try his hand in the restaurant world, no longer able to keep up with the physical demands. But much like his proposal, Henim had conditions. “He wanted to come work for me! I said, ‘No, not gonna happen!’ What was I going to do with this white guy in my kitchen?!” Yet, he eventually won her over, and she admits he was a good hire. “He was so experienced—painting, electrical lumbering, farming, he developed numerous skills at diff erent things. I was so proud. I was amazed.”

Now, it’s time to pass the torch. After considering several options, Henim handpicked Gil Park to take over Korean Grill. “He reminded me of myself when I started,” she says. “Eager. Humble. Willing to work until 10:30 at night.” A Korean military veteran and former post offi ce worker, Gil had no plan to own a restaurant—but when a friend told him about the opportunity, he followed his heart. “I had all these diff erent jobs—cooking, cleaning, cashiering. It prepared me ,” Gil said.

Gil has big shoes to fi ll, but he’s ready. Th e plan is to honor Henim’s legacy: keep the recipes, keep the heart, and continue buildin g community.

As for Henim and Scott? Th ey’re fi nally taking a step back—to paint the house, tend the garden, heal their bodies, and maybe travel. After decades of hard work, back injuries, and late nights , it’s time.

You can visit Korean Grill at 1408 Harlan Drive in Bellevue on Tuesdays through Saturdays. If you go, ask for the baby back pork ribs (Henim’s favorite), Scott’s beloved budae jjigae, and Gil’s pork bulgogi. You might just get a glimpse of the woman who started it all, still spending time next to Gil, as she prepares for the ne xt chapter.

Even in retirement, Henim’s spirit is part of every dish. “Inviting people into my kitchen,” she said, “it’s personal, it’s about love. A restaurant is like a marriage. It’s a long journey.”

A MEXICAN FOOD TOUR OF OMAHA: REGIONAL FLAVORS WITHOUT LEAVING TOWN

TASTY BITES

Story by Natalie Veloso

Photography by Sarah Lemke

Design by Joey Winton

Alambre Mexican Food; The Alambre (sizzling skillet)

exican cuisine isn’t a monolith. It’s vast and deeply personal, inspired by the unique ingredients and traditions found in each state. You can taste that depth beyond a simple plate of tacos throughout Omaha, thanks to family-run kitchens and street-style counters bringing those authentic flavors to life.

Each distinct region of Mexico carries its own customs shaped by the geography and history of the area—a slow-cooked mole made for special occasions, a soup passed down through generations, a cut of meat grilled the same way for centuries. The Omaha chefs behind these meals aren’t just replicating the flavors, but passing their heritage to a new place. If you know where to look, you’ll discover the city offers more regional variety than you might expect. We tracked down th e standouts.

Here’s your guide to seven distinct culinary regions of Mexico told through the dishe s of Omaha.

El Norte (Northern Mexico)

Fernando’s

Northern Mexico’s ranching roots put beef at the heart of Sonoran cooking, which Fernando’s brings to Omaha with mesquite-grilled meats and fl our tortillas that play as central of a role as corn. Another highlight is their Sonoran-style quesadilla, a baked creation of seasoned beef or shredded chicken, cheese, and pico de gallo, topped with ranchero sauce and scallions. Fernando’s carne asada is a standout: juicy, charred beef with a smoky kiss of the grill, served with fl uff y fl our tortillas and all the classic sides—a true taste of El Norte.

114th & Dodge | 75th & Pacifi c

fernan dosomaha.com

Tacos Chihuas

Tacos Chihuas looks like just another humble food truck parked along 13th Street, but it represents Chihuahua—the largest Mexican state—in both name and fl avor. Th eir barbacoa tacos (estilo Chihuas) speak for themselves, with tender beef tucked into soft tortillas and topped simply to let the meat shine. For the adventurous, the lonche de colita de pavo, a sandwich made of crispy turkey tail, is a regional street-food gem rarely seen thi s far north.

1958 S 13th St.

orderfoodtrucktaco schihuas.com

Hector’s

Th ough Baja California is coastal, Hector’s Baja-style menu combines that spirit with Mexico’s highlands. Baja cuisine is all about simplicity, with most grilled fi sh and meat prepared with minimal seasoning beyond garlic, salt, and pepper. Th eir menu celebrates the lighter, citrusy side of Mexican food, with dishes like grilled shrimp tacos drizzled in lime crema and bright salsas that highlight the region’s seafood-forward identity. One true rarity: lobster served Baja-style, prepared on the grill just as you’d fi nd it in Puerto Nuevo, Baja California—a dish unique to Hector’s.

1201 S 157th St.

hect orsomaha.com

The Bajío

La Purísi ma Menudería

A comforting slice of Guanajuato in South Omaha, La Purísima centers its menu on menudo and pozole —the kind of soul-warming stews you’d fi nd simmering on a family stove in the Bajío. Th eir signature menudo is served with plenty of lime and fresh tortillas for tearing and dipping, inviting you to slow down and savor every bite.

5204 S 28th Ave.

Central Mexico

El Alambre

Th is casual eatery in Millard and Elkhorn captures the classic spirit of a Mexico City taquería. Th e star on this menu is the alambre: a sizzling skillet of grilled meats, peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese, served with warm tortillas for DIY tacos. It’s a typical dish you’d fi nd late at night in the capital, shared with friends over cold cervezas.

204th & Dodge | 168t h & Harrison elalam breomaha.com

Nachos M exican Grill

You’ll fi nd the familiar fl avors of SouthCentral Mexico at Nachos Mexican Grill. Th e main event is the juicy whole chicken, marinated and fi re-grilled until tender, served solo or as part of generous family combos. Th eir menu draws from the classic dishes of the state of Mexico, highlighting regional favorites like the guajolote torta —a hearty sandwich—along with mixed fajitas loaded with steak, chicken, and shrimp. It’s homestyle cooking that’s all about big portions and sharing with the people you love.

500 7 Grover St.

nach osomaha.com

The Gulf Coast

Isla Del Mar

Omaha’s go-to spot for Gulf Coast fl avors and fresh seafood, Isla Del Mar lives up to its claim as Nebraska’s largest Mexican seafood restaurant. With three spacious locations and a menu as big as their cooked shrimp towers, they serve up everything from authentic ceviche to an enormous sushi selection. Th eir massive birria pizza layers rich, slow-cooked meat over a crisp crust. Pair your meal with one of their eye-catching, oversized cocktails, and it’s easy to see why Isla Del Mar has earned a reputation as Omaha’s top spot for seafood.

5101 S 36th St. | 2502 S 133rd Plz. | 7902 Towne Center Pkwy.

isladelmarres taurante.com

South Pacific Coast

El Viejon Restaurante

Aguachiles Sinaloenses might sound simple— raw shrimp, lime juice, and chiles—but this Pacifi c Coast dish is a fi ery punch. At El Viejon, the aguachiles come bright and fresh, with just enough heat to keep you reaching for another bite. Pair it with a cold beer and you might forget you’re in the Mid west at all.

5132 L St.

elviejonresta urantene.com

Es tilo Jalisco

Jalisco proudly claims “Jalisco es México ” as a motto, thanks to its role in shaping national traditions like mariachi, charrería, and tequila. Th e state is famed for birria, and Estilo Jalisco does it justice. Th eir birria tacos are deeply satisfying— slow-cooked meat, crisped on the griddle, stuff ed into tortillas with melty cheese, and served with a rich consommé for dipping.

1837 Vinton St.

estilojaliscomexicanrest aurantne.com

The South

El Milagro

Located in Southeastern Mexico, Oaxaca’s cuisine remained less infl uenced by Spanish traditions than other regions. Th e state is known for its mole, and El Milagro delivers. Th eir mole negro’s smoky and savory notes envelop juicy grilled meats served with handmade tortillas. Mole (pronounced MOH-leh) takes its name from the Nahuatl word molli , meaning “sauce.” Th is essential part of Mexican cooking is known for its layers of chiles, spices, and often a hint of chocolate.

529 N 155th Plz.

elmila groomaha.com

Santoro

Santoro in West Omaha also gives a nod to Oaxaca with their white mole enchiladas—a special-occasion dish that’s creamy and subtly spiced. Mole blanco, sometimes called “wedding sauce” for its color and creamy texture, is a rarer mole made with pale ingredients like almonds, peanuts, pine nuts, and sesame seeds. If you’re looking to experience something diff erent from the familiar reds and browns, thi s is a must.

8601 W Dodge Rd.

sant oroomaha.com

Yucatán

La Casa del Huarache

Th e Yucatán Peninsula, shaped by its Mayan roots and Caribbean, French, and Middle Eastern influences, has a cuisine distinct from much of Mexico. Achiote , the region’s signature spice, lends dishes their characteristic reddish hue. La Casa del Huarache’s cochinita pibil tacos off er an authentic taste of Yucatán: slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus, served with tangy pickled onions and fi ery habanero salsa. It’s a little sweet, a little spicy, and entirel y delicious.

4826 Q St.

lacasadelhuarache .dine.online

It’s easy to settle for the familiar combo plate, but the most authentic essence of Mexican cuisine shines brightest in its regional specialties. Th e smoky carne asada of the north, slow-roasted cochinita pibil of Yucatán, and rich pozole from the Bajío each carry the spirit of the communities that shaped them. Seek these dishes out, and you’ll fi nd that thoughtfully prepared food is one of the most personal ways to share culture—and it’s the only language that needs no t ranslation.

¡Buen provecho —enjoy your meal!

Nachos Me xican Grill; Cubano Torta (Left)

El Milagro; mole Oax aca de pollo (below)

Goat in the Garden salad with red wine vinaigrette, pecans and goat cheese

Lamb rack with cherry demi-glace, broccolini and fingerling potatoes

Maple glazed salmon with crushed almonds and vegetable medley (carrots, asparagus, fingerling potatoes)

A Scratch Kitchen, a Passionate Team, and One Granddaddy Goat

tokin’ Goat, part of the Restaurant Inc. group that includes Stokes, Taxis, Twisted Fork, and Goose120, opened its doors on West Maple Street in 2018. Inside, bottles of wine and various goat-themed ephemera line the walls of the modern establishment. The ambiance is enhanced by a lively bar, happy hour deals, and a patio for outdoor dining.

At the helm is Stokin’ Goat general manager Vince Fletcher, who was roughly 8 years old when an episode of “I Love Lucy” inspired him to grab some flour, mix it with water, and use his desk as an “oven” to make a loaf of bread. His mother was furious and the desk drawers stuck together like glue, but watching Lucille Ball use too much yeast leading to disastrous results sparked something in Fletcher.

Starting as a dishwasher, Fletcher worked his way to a general manager role as he slogged through school, giving him the experience he needed to excel in the hospitalit y industry.

At 60, Fletcher’s resume is stacked. He briefly retired for six months, but his wife put a swift end to that. After returning to the restaurant business in August 2024, Fletcher was appointed Stokin’ Goat’s general manager just eight months later.

Together with Chef Gustavo, he’s been able to tap into his creativity to create vibrant, unique, and fresh dishes out of a cornucopia of special ingredients, which keeps people c oming back.

“We make everything to order from scratch,” he said. “Th ings like the hard maple salmon, the Vermont maple syrup that we get is around $90 a gallon. We get the best. We end up having sometimes a higher food cost here, but we don't want to scrimp. We want everything to be outstanding.”

Since Fletcher took the reins, he’s breathed new life into the menu with Chef Gustavo’s expertise and guidance. Subsequently, the staff —many of whom returned to the restaurant once Fletcher took over—are noticeably excited to come to work.

“Everybody comes in like, ‘What are we doing today?’” he said. “Recently, I changed a dessert. They were like, ‘We’ve

had the same Bada Bing cherry bread pudding for six years.’ I said, ‘Well, why don’t we change it?’”

Those seemingly minor tweaks have proven to go a long way. From appetizers like rum jerk chicken wings and honey-dipped goat balls (because of course) to mains such as Calabrian chili linguine, hangar steak, and crispy duck, to an array of colorful salads, a brie BLT, and chicken and goat sandwiches, the updated menu oozes fl avor.

Diners praise other standout dishes like the asiago-crusted chicken, described as “melt-in-your-mouth divine,” and the French dip baguette with its juicy, tender meat and fl avor ful au jus.

The proverbial icing on the cake is a happy staff that affectionately refers to Fletcher as “Granddaddy Goat.” Countless guests have highlighted the friendly, attentive, and efficient employees, who create a welcoming environment and make even fi rst-time visitors feel like regulars.

“I’ve always had a high retention of employees within any company I've been with, and they know that I take care of them,” he said. “I always had this feeling that if an employee is messing up, that's probably because of you. Maybe you're not doing someth ing right.”

Armed with a “bosses push, leaders pull” philosophy, Fletcher strives to lead by example and, in turn, is rewarded in his own way—not just by overall better productivity for the restaurant, but also more personal reasons.

“Having a bunch of college-aged and high school kids around keeps you young when you're working with them,” he said w ith a laugh.

Fletcher has gained their respect and he’s impressed by them, too.

“I’ve always had a high retention of employees within any company I've been with, and they know that I take care of them. I always had this feeling that if an employee is messing up, that's probably because of you. Maybe you're not doing something right.”

-Vince Fletcher

“I'm not a part of their employee group chat, but that's how they all communicate,” he said. “You wouldn't believe how much they talk to each other, which is kind of cool. How they call me the ‘Granddaddy Goat,’ they’re actually proud to call me that. It's not derogatory. It’s more like a badge of honor. Over the last few months, everyone is excited to work here again.”

Fletcher credits the creative menu, scratch kitchen, catering options, fun atmosphere, and, most importantly, organization with the restaurant’s flourishing success. Simply put, staying prepared and getting ahead has been the formula that works.

“I try to think of things that you need before you need it—you never know what might come up in between,” he said. “So, instead of taking your eight or 10-hour shift to make one cake, get that cake made as soon as you can so you can get to the next thing. If I fi nd myself bored in the afternoon, I feel like I did my job today, because there's nothing else left to do.”

Interestingly enough, the name Stokin’ Goat almost didn’t happen. As Fletcher recalls, the owner, his wife, and daughter were driving around, trying to think of names just shortly after acquiring the old Neon Goose. Somehow, they landed on goats and Smoking Goat won the popular vote. But then, a cease-and-desist letter arrived from a company in California right before the gra nd opening.

“The letter said they couldn’t use that name because they already own it,” Fletcher recalled. “They either had to pay them a million dollars for the rights or not use it—and this is after they already had all the licenses for liquor and all of the menus printed. They had to reapply for the liquor license because they changed the name of the business from ‘Smoking Goat’ to ‘Stok in’ Goat.’”

It explains the photographs of goats casually puffi ng on cigars that hang on the wall. Despite the hiccup, they were able to hold on to the goat theme. In fact, the employees were so committed to the restaurant, some of them opted to ink goats on their bodies.

“The servers who have been here since they opened, a bunch of them went out and got goat tattoos,” he marveled. “Th at’s pre tty cool.”

For more information, visit stokingoat.com. Stokin’ Goat is located at 15805 West Maple Road and open Sunday through Th ursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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Williams left the Sun and took a job as assistant professor at Ohio State’s journalism program the same year they won the Pulitzer. The newly minted faculty served as advisor to the school’s student-run daily, The Lantern. Under his leadership, the newspaper was named the nation’s “best all-around student newspaper” in 1975 by the Society of Professional Journalists’ Sigma Delta Chi Awards. He also began writing a book that featured interviews with 99 of the day’s most influential investigative reporters and editors. The book, titled Investigative Reporting and Editing, was published posthumously after his unexpected death at age 54. Media scholar James Aucoin described the book as one of the earliest attempts to document a methodology for the field of investigative journalism.

His granddaughter Kari Hulac grew up to be a journalist, following in his footsteps. Hulac is editor-in-chief of Richmondside , a nonprofit newsroom serving the community of Richmond, California. She recently inherited his Pulitzer Prize certificate from her mother, Patricia, Williams’ eldest daughter. “I think of him often, always recalling a story in his obit of him being a kind editor, who once told a cub reporter who wrote an unusable story that at least he spelled all the names correctly,” Hulac said.

Williams joined the Ohio faculty at a precarious time for American journalism. The Pentagon Papers (1971) and Watergate scandal (1972) had rocked the general public’s fath in government. Media outlets scrambled to feed a growing appetite for investigative reporting. Newspapers developed new investigative positions for a new cohort of muckrakers.

Some veteran journalists worried that a rush to produce shocking exposé could endanger the long-term viability of the emerging investigative reporting profession. It was with this in mind that Williams joined a group of journalists and supporters to establish the world’s first organization dedicated to training investigative reporters and editors in 1975. The organization’s name—inspired by a synonym for “outrage” pulled from a thesaurus—was Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE for short), and it is turning 50 years old in 2025.

Financial struggles plagued the early years of the fledgling nonprofit. Aside from basic general operating expense concerns, a crisis confronted the early membership. Arizona investigative journalist Don Bolles (who was going to speak at the inaugural IRE Conference) was killed in a 1976 car bombing. Bolles’ assassination galvanized IRE members to continue his work, and Williams was an early contributor to the

Dr. Kristi Tackett-Newburg Founder/Owner

project. The collaborative effort, known as the Arizona Project, spanned newsrooms across America and exposed IRE to legal liability from defamation suits.

James Aucoin’s book, The Evolution of American Investigative Journalism , notes that the Omaha World-Herald was among one of the early independent newspapers to donate in support of IRE. The Omaha Sun ’s owner also made a donation. Aucoin wrote that “Warren Buffett donated stocks to IRE that were sold, providing a cash donation of $787.”

Williams arranged for IRE to be based out of Ohio State University’s journalism school. But his untimely death (from a heart attack following a bout of pneumonia) disrupted those plans. Ohio State was out, and IRE needed a new home. Eventually, the country’s oldest journalism school came to the rescue. IRE has operated out of the Missouri School of Journalism ever since.

Today, IRE’s membership of nearly 5,000 journalists make it the world’s largest member-based journalist organization. Half a century after Williams and friends established IRE, the organization remains focused on educating and advancing the future of investigative journalism.

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If Buffett were to make a donation of shares to IRE in honor of its 50th anniversary—maybe matching what he donated at the onset of IRE’s establishment (in memory of Paul Williams, perhaps)—it would be the single largest donation in the organization’s history.

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DININGREVIEW

Barbecue pork vermicelli

Just Flavor No Frills, The Heart of Pho Viet

STORY BY Michele Fan PHOTOGRAPHY BY Sarah Lemke

DESIGN BY Nickie Robinson

Ifi rst discovered Pho Viet during the pandemic, when takeout was a staple. My husband brought home bowls of pho from a restaurant tucked in a quiet strip mall on Blondo Street. The broth was excellent, but it was the chili sauce that got me…which was long before chili crisp became a battleground for brands like Momofuku and Fly By Jing. Pho Viet’s chili crunch was addictive—it reminded me of home.

I’m originally from Hong Kong, where eateries take pride in their chili sauces. Many have their own recipe, their own character. A good chili sauce is never just heat, it’s identity in a jar. At Pho Viet, that identity speaks loudly. “I make my own chili sauce because I don’t like how salty the store-bought ones are,” the chef said. If you like it hot, ask the chef for some chili crunch when you order. Mix it with a touch of sriracha, and voilà. You can also buy a jar for $12, wh ich I did.

DINING REVIEW

The Toughest Food Critics (Kids) Say Yes

Pho Viet has become a regular stop for our family since our fi rst visit. I sometimes take my daughter there after ballet class. She invited her friend and her friend’s mom to join us once. “The dumplings are so good,” she told them. The girls happily polished off two servings, or six dumplings in total. My daughter encouraged her friend to try the pho, too. Her mom got a bowl, nodded in approval, and soon, the little girl kept asking her mom for “more noodles, please.”

My daughter is a young food critic in the making, quick to compare dishes from different spots and offer her verdict. She compared the beef at Pho Viet to what she’d had at other pho spots and declared, “the meat here tastes better.” My son, who usually has strong opinions about what ends up on his plate, dives into the broth with spoon after spoon, eating noodles and beef without a single complaint. No negotiations, no picky moments.

Broth that Transports, Pork that Delivers

The pho broth is comforting. I still fi nd a bowl this good in the middle of Nebraska shocking. It tastes like the broth I had traveling through Vietnam, where hours of simmering bones and spices are the standard. Pho Viet doesn’t cut corners. The rare beef pho is exactly what it promises: slices of beef that arrive still rare, not the precooked gray strips you get at lesser spots.

During hot summer days, I go for the barbecue pork vermicelli bowl. It’s a cold dish that layers rice noodles, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and grilled pork. The pork isn’t deep-fried or dry— it’s grilled to perfection, smoky, and juicy. The dish comes with their house-made fish sauce, slightly sweet and packed with umami, meant to be poured over and mixed in.

Where Food, Family, and Legacy Come Together

While Vietnamese food is the star at Pho Viet, you’ll also notice Cantonese dishes on the menu—a reflection of the chef’s roots and upbringing. His parents were originally from Guangdong, China, and later moved to Vietnam. He began cooking at age 12, learning both Chinese and Vietnamese dishes at his parents’ side. Today, his own children are growing up in the kitchen with him. Th ere’s something beautiful and full-circle about the way that fl avors of home are passed down, one generation to the next.

Dining at Pho Viet isn’t about the mood, playlists, or ambience. It’s not where you go for a date night or Instagramperfect plating. Some Google reviewers call it “too homey,” with kids’ toys scattered on one side of the shop and the chef’s children sometimes there as well. But that, to me, is part of the charm. It reminds me of Chinatown eateries in New York or San Francisco, where kids grow up in the restaurant while their parents work tirelessly to build a life and a business, side by side. When you walk into Pho Viet, you’re stepping into someone’s life, not a branded experience, but something far more intimate and real.

If you prefer dishes seasoned with vibes over fl avor, Pho Viet might not be for you. But if you’re looking for food that transports you, you’ll be hardpressed to find better. Even if you opt for takeout or get it delivered via UberEats, the flavors hold up. Th is isn’t a place chasing trends or made for the ’gram. It’s a restaurant rooted in memory and tradition, unapologetically authentic.

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Aksarben - 2102 S. 67th St. - 402.933.3533

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Plattsmouth - 2405 Oak Hill Rd. - 402.298.4166

Voted Omaha’s #1 Sports Bar, DJ’s Dugout is locally and Vietnam Veteran owned. DJ’s Dugout features delicious burgers, wings, wraps, salads, sandwiches and an impressive drink menu. Plus, DJ’s has huge media walls full of HD TVs and projector screens. Catch all the action at DJ’s seven Omaha-area locations. Dig In... At The Dugout! —djsdugout.com

JAMS MODERN AMERICAN- $$

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An Omaha staple, our restaurant blends modern American cuisine, craft cocktails, and local beers with elevated service and creates seamless dining, event, and catering experiences. Celebrate life’s moments while embracing the traditions that make us special—where unforgettable meals and memories come together. —jamseats.com

LE PEEP - $

69th & Pacific - 402.933.2776

177th and Center St. - 402.934.9914

156th St. & W. Dodge Rd. - 402.408.1728 120th and Blondo St. - 402.991.8222

Le Peep puts a wholesome perspective on your favorite neighborhood breakfast and lunch spot. Fresh. Simple. Elegant. Inviting. We put the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. We focus on providing each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. Open daily 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. —lepeepomaha.co m

LISA’S RADIAL CAFE - $ 817 N. 40th St. - 402-551-2176

American. Cafe. Diner. Vegetarian-friendly. Gluten-free options. This old-school diner serves hearty portions of American comfort classics for breakfast and lunch. Family-owned and operated. This business is a must if you’re in the area. People rave about our chicken-fried steak, stuffed French toast, coffee, and friendly staff. Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.-2 p.m

PACIFIC EATING HOUSE - $$ 1130 Sterling Ridge Dr. - 531.999.3777

We have developed our menu inspired by all that touches the Pacific Ocean. Starting with fresh fish flown from Honolulu, locally sourced steaks and natural chicken with an Asian flare and pairing our dishes with tiki libations and Pacific coast wines. —pacificeatinghouse.com

PINE & BLACK BISTRO - $$ 248 Olson Dr., Papillion - 531.999.3777

We opened in March of 2023 to bring a family owned bistro to the community, serving local steaks and fresh seafood. We offer a wide variety of Pacific Northwest wines, local beers, and craft cocktails. Pinot Noir translates to Pine & Black, our name originates from our love of wine.

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SAND POINT - $$$

655 North 114th Street, Omaha - 531-466-1008

Sand Point ‘New England Fare’ brings their favorite and unique dishes from New England to the Omaha food community. Freshest seafood, from seared crab cakes, lobster arancini, whole belly clams, New England clam chowder, lobster bisque to charcuterie boards and Angus beef tips and steak burgers, to be topped off with Boston cream pie, blueberry pie or Lemon canna cotta. Full bar to include, specialty cocktails, extensive wine lists, as well as beer and non-alcoholic drinks.

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SMITTY'S GARAGE - $ 7610 Dodge St. - 402-614-4949

Tasty burgers, ice-cold beer, fresh-cut fries, scrumptious tacos, mouthwatering appetizers and more. What else could you want? Besides the delicious food, each location also offers a full bar with an extensive craft beer list and a one-of-a-kind environment with arcade games and plenty of TV’s. Download our new rewards app, Smitty’s Garage, in the app store to start earnin g free grub! eatatt hegarage.com

STELLA’S

Since 1936, we’ve been making our world-famous Stella’s hamburgers the same way. The family secrets have been handed down to each owner, ensuring that your burger is the same as the one you fell in love with the first time you tried Stella’s. And if it’s your first time, we know you’ll be back! Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., closed Sunday. —stellasbarandgrill.com

T ED AND WALLY’S - $ 1120 Jackson St. - 402.341.5827

Come experience the true taste of homemade ice cream in the Old Market. Since 1986, we’ve created gourmet ice cream flavors in small batches using rock salt and ice. We offer your favorites, plus unique flavors like margarita, green tea, Guinness, and French toast. Special orders available. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.- Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday. Noon-10 p.m. —tedandwallys.com

VARSITY SPORTS CAFE - $$

Ralston - 9735 Q St. - 402.339.1944

Bellevue - 3504 Samson Way - 402.932.1944

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Ralston, Bellevue and Millard. We are truly grateful to have been welcomed into each of these communities and welcome you in for good food, a cold drink and a comfy seat to enjoy the sport of your choosing! Determined to bring only the freshest ingredients, homemade dough and our specialty sauces to the table, we have worked hard to perfect our craft for you. Our goal is to bring the best food service to the area and show the best sports events that you want to see. Pick up and Delivery availalble. Please check website for hours of operation. —varsityromancoinpizza.com

ITALIAN

LA CASA PIZZARIA - $$ 45th and Leavenworth St. - 402.556.6464

La Casa Pizzaria has been serving Omaha its legendary Neapolitan-style pizza and pasta for 60 years. We offer dine-in, carry-out, party facilities, catering, and now pizza shipments to the 48 contiguous states. Open Tuesday-Saturday at 11 a.m. and Sunday at 4:30 p.m. —lacasapizzaria.ne

PASTA AMORE - $$ 11027 Prairie Brook Rd. - 402.391.2585

Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine, and capellini. Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as linguini amore and calamari steak, penne Florentine, gnocchi, spaghetti puttanesca, and osso buco. Filet mignon is also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannoli. Monday-Thursday 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 p.m. Reservations recommended. pa staamore.com

PITCH - $$

5021 Underwood Ave. - 402.590.2625 West: 17808 Burke Street. - 402.289.4096

An OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice for 2014 HotSpot Restaurant in America. Keeping up with the traditional way the first pizzas in Italy were made, our pizzas are cooked in a coal-fired oven. The menu also features seafood, hand-cut steak, housemade pastas, and burgers full of flavor. Our goal is to provide you with local, housemade, and imported ingredients. We offer a happy hour menu through the week. Our bar provides an array of in-house concoctions as well as your traditional libations. Our wine selection is wellthought-out and most impressive. You will enjoy Pitch. Monday & Tuesday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Wednesday-Friday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. pitch pizzeria.com

S PEZIA - $$$

3125 S. 72nd St. - 402.391.2950

Choose Spezia for lunch or dinner, where you’ll find a casual elegance that’s perfect for business guests, get-togethers, or any special occasion. Exceptional food, wine, and service, with a delectable menu: fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks, innovative pasta, risotto, gnocchi, cioppino, lamb, entrée salads, Mediterranean chicken, flatbreads, and fresh salmon daily. Enjoy a full bar, Italian and California wines, Anniversary/Lovers’ Booth (call to reserve), private dining rooms, and wood-fired grill. Open Monday-Sunday. Cocktail hour 4-6 p.m., when all cocktails, glasses of wine, and beers are half price. Evening reservations recommended. —speziarestaurant.com

with

and

With recipes passed down over four generations, a

atmosphere, and plates to satisfy cravings at every hour—with breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus offering a variety of Mexican staples—Primo’s Mexican Restaurant is proud to serve the people of Omaha and Council Bluffs no matter the occasion. —primosmodernmexican.com

SPECIAL DINING

CRESCENT MOON A LE HOUSE - $ 3578 Farnam St. - 402.345.1708

Founded in 1996, we’ve grown into Beer Corner USA with the additions of The Huber Haus German Beer Hall, Max and Joe’s Belgian Beer Tavern, and Beertopia Omaha’s Ultimate Beer Store. With more than 60 beers on tap and Omaha’s best Reuben sandwich, we are a Midtown beer-lover’s destination. Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Kitchen hours: Monday-Wednesday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight. Cl osed Sunday. —beercornerusa.com

GREEK ISLANDS - $ 3821 Center St. - 402.346.1528

Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. We are wellknown for our gyro sandwiches and salads. We cater and can accommodate a party for 65 guests. Carry-out and delivery available. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. —greekislandsomaha.com

STUDENT BISTRO INSTITUTE FOR THE CULINARY ARTS - $

5730 N. 30th St.

Fort Omaha Campus, Building 22

At the Metropolitan Community College Sage Student Bistro, culinary and hospitality students learn hustle, fundamentals, community service and stewardship — all from scratch. Explore dishes from around the world during lunch, or celebrate the contributions of American culinary sages at dinner. For reservations, visit: —mccneb.edu/Bistro

STEAKHOUSES

CASCIO’S - $$

1620 S. 10th St. - 402-345-8313

Cascio’s is Omaha’s No. 1 steakhouse. We have been serving Omaha for 69 years. We feature steaks, chops, seafood, and Italian specialties. We have seven private party rooms, seating for up to 400 people, and plenty of parking. —casciossteakhouse.com

THE DROVE R RESTAURANT & LOUNGE - $$$

2121 S. 73rd St. - 402-391-7440

Famous for the original Whiskey Steak. Truly a one-of-a-kind Midwestern experience. Excellent food, wine, service, and value. Rare...and very well done.

LUNCH: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.,

DINNER: Monday-Friday 5 p.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 4:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m., Sunday 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m.,

LOUNGE: Monday-Friday Cocktails only 2 p.m.-5 p.m. —droverrestaurant.com

TWISTED CORK BISTRO

- $$

10370 Pacific St. - 531.999.3777

We arrived in Nebraska from Washington intent on purchasing from farmers, ranchers & fishmongers who share our commitment for wholesome, sustainable fare. Our recipes use the Earth’s bounty the way it is intended ~ Wild and Natural ~ We compliment our dishes, pairing them with exquisite Pacific Northwest wines. –twistedcorkbistro.com

MAHOGANY PRIME

STEAKHOUSE - $$$$

225 N. 145th St. - 402.445.4380

In a town known for its great steaks, Mahogany stands above the rest. Conveniently located in the new Heartwood Preserve Center at 145th and Dodge, our Omaha location provides an intimate and classic fine dining atmosphere. Voted Best in Omaha.

DINNER: Monday - Saturday | 5pm - 10pm & Sunday | 5pm - 9pm. –mahoganyprimesteakhouse.com

RUHLMAN'S STEAKHOUSE - $$$

603 US-6, Ashland, NE 68003

Ruhlman's Steakhouse, established in 2024 and located at 603 US-6, Ashland, NE, offers a refined menu of aged steaks, house-made pastas, and elegant entrées. Featuring locally inspired dishes and premium cuts, the steakhouse emphasizes fresh ingredients and expert preparation. Call (402) 780-8887 to reserve an unforgettable dining experience for parties over seven. Online reservations accepted for parties of two-six. Monday & Tuesday: CLOSED | Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 11AM-2PM, 4PM-10PM Sunday. Last seating at 6:45PM -ruhlmansteakhouse.com

The nation had taken notice. The New York Times, NBC News, CNN, local media, and others repeated his origin story and talked about his campaign promises. But who was Mayor Ewing? Who did he see in his younger years that he wanted to emulate growing up? How did he see himself?

“One of the groups of people I admire most are educators,” he said. “My elementary school teachers at Lothrop Elementary were absolutely awesome human beings that encouraged us to try to be great people.” He beamed as he took the opportunity to give props to some of the people he looked up to. He spoke of his elementary school principal, Warren Taylor, who years later came back to support his run for Congress in 2012. “That’s the kind of person I want to be. I want to be like him,” Ewing said. He credited Wayne Slotsve for helping him choose Northwest High School, where his horizons were broadened.  He went on to list the names of educators—Jack Hallstrom, Tom Harvey, Bernice Nared, and others—that inspired him along the way, including those he deemed “great pastors,” who encouraged him to be a good person early on.

His face softened and a smile formed as he spoke of his parents. “And of course, my mom and dad,” he said. “My dad is about the coolest person I know…and very wise as well. And my mother, she was always there…even now, she texts me every day and she’ll say, ‘Hi, Mr. Mayor!’ That’s what I mean by ‘hero,’ everyday people that you can reach out and touch and you can see that they care about you. That’s the most important thing.” The mayor paused before continuing, “I believe this. People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” He said that’s what he wants everyone in the city of Omaha to know, that he cares.

Mayor Ewing was a business major back when he attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The 18-year-old version of John Ewing wanted to either be an accountant or a manager of a department store, which was at the forefront as he talked about what he called “intentional economic development.”  He explained, “I believe if we can do intentional economic development in North and South Omaha, we can significantly reduce poverty in this city.” Recently, he submitted his first budget to the Omaha City Council. In his presentation, he spoke of creating task force groups to combat the issues. “I want to have implementation task force groups for housing, for economic development, for public transportation, for homelessness…those were the things that people in the community were talking to me about. So, that’s my marching orders,” he said. The council went on to approve his budget.

People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.

He considers himself a listener. “That’s probably the most important thing that I bring, is I listen,” he said. “When you have someone who’s listening to you that is in a position of authority, then that’s valuable.” He lived this mantra as police chief, then as Douglas County Treasurer, always taking the time to listen to the people of the community to find out what they wanted to see from those offices. Now, as mayor, he has six to nine meetings a day giving him the opportunity to listen and learn. “It gives me an opportunity to begin to help shape the vision and course of where we want to go as a city,” he said.

During community conversations hosted by 1st Sky Omaha over the past month, several members of the Black community have expressed feeling like they finally have the mayor’s ear. “I’ve always felt an obligation to the Black community from the day I walked into that police academy,” he said. “Absolutely. I feel like if I don’t recognize that simple fact, then I can’t be effective. I can’t make the changes that we need to make.”  His approachable demeanor invoked hope, and his easy, un-rushed delivery created a sense that he knows what he is doing. With hands clasped and an amiable expression on his face, the new mayor sat poised at his desk, ready to take on the issues of his city. “I wake up every day excited about this,” he said. “And eight or nine meetings? Bring ’em on!”

Ewing still hadn’t addressed the Superman motif. On the way to the elevator, he was asked if he had seen the recent James Gunn Superman movie. “Oh, absolutely, and I loved it,” he said. He spoke about Superman being his favorite superhero—a fitting choice given that he’s all about truth, justice, and hope.

–Mayor John Ewing

“One of the things our young people desperately need is a hope and a belief that their dreams are possible,” Ewing said. “So, part of my motivation—besides all of the business aspects of being mayor—part of my goal is to have young people across this city, no matter what they look like, believe that their dreams are possible, and have a local hero, so to speak, that they can touch, that they can see.” The mayor became animated as he continued. “I shake a lot of hands, I take a lot of pictures, especially if I see young people, because I want them to say, ‘Hey, this guy is no different than me. If his dreams are possible, if he can attain this position, I can do great things with my life as well.’”

Mayor Ewing’s belief that “decreasing poverty and increasing hope” are his primary mandates, which are aligned with what the city wants and needs. He’s found himself in the perfect seat to give those principles a priority—and to make Omaha continue to grow and prosper.

Adventure

Living the Legacy

“TSTORY BY Tim Trudell

Exploring Wil la Ca�her’s Red Cloud

he land belongs to the future, Carl; that's the way it seems to me. How many of the names on the county clerk's plat will be there in fi fty years? I might as well try to will the sunset over there to my brother's children. We come and go, but the land is always here. And the people who love it and understand it are the people who own it—for a little while."

Like a passage from Willa Cather's O Pioneers!, visiting Red Cloud, it's easy to feel as if you're a character in one of her novels. Cather's hometown embraces the author's life, seemingly weaving through plots and storylines as you explore the town and its history, often used as inspiration and fodder for her award-winning books.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Sarah Lemke

DESIGN BY Nickie Robinson

Adventure

From the “American Bittersweet” exhibit at the National Willa Cather Center to her childhood home, exploring Red Cloud includes buildings, homes, and sites which inspired Cather to create a dozen books detailing early settler life on the prairie.

Located in the 1860s Opera House and neighboring building, the National Willa Cather Center traces the author's life from the family's westward movement from Virginia—her mother used “worthless Confederate money” to wrap her delicate china—to the Great Plains and on to life in the big city and bright lights.

“Obviously, many of us have enjoyed Cather's novels, and most people who come here have read Cather, but visiting the center gives you a fuller understanding of who she was as a person, and how her experiences here in Nebraska later informed her artistry,” said Ashley Olson, executive director of the Willa Cather Foundation.

With a few options available to tour sites important to Cather's story, the seven-building tour offers the truest look into Cather's life in her small South-Central Nebraska hometown. A vehicle is required, as tourists drive between attractions. Shorter tours are available. Tours can be booked at willacather.org.

A must-stop is Cather's childhood home. A National Historic Landmark, the Cather family lived here for 20 years, but Willa called it home from the ages of 10 to 16. Recently reopening following a major update for the fi rst time in more than 50 years, an accessible ramp was added, allowing more access for the fi rst time. The house is better air-conditioned, preventing large swings in temperature and humidity, which impacted furniture.

The best enhancement may be the climate control added to Cather's upstairs bedroom to protect the original wallpaper she placed. Cather worked at a local drug store and often accepted merchandise in lieu of cash. Guides open the bedroom door, allowing a close-up view of her room. Previously, plexiglass shielded people from getting an unobstructed view of the author's bedroom, which included a writing desk used by the would-be author.

The main floor is home to the family's living room, kitchen, and dining room, as well as the parents' and grandmother's bedrooms.

Some furniture and household goods, such as china and Willa's high chair, are original to the family. Otherwise, the house is decorated in period pieces.

Red Cloud buildings located on the tour include the J. L. Miner House, the inspiration for the home where Antonia worked in the novel My Antonia . Anna Sadilek Pavelka, the model for Antonia, lived here while she worked for the Miner family. She and Cather became lifelong friends.

Lyra Garber, wife of Silas Garber, owner of the Farmers and Merchants Bank, located in downtown Red Cloud, inspired Cather to write A Lost Lady.

Speaking of Garber, the town's newest hotel is named in honor of the town's founder. Hotel Garber, located in the renovated PotterWright Building, is a boutique hotel featuring 26 rooms and a two-bedroom loft.

Forrester's, named after the lead characters in A Lost Lady, is the hotel's bar and restaurant. Serving dinner Thursday through Saturday, chef Matt Tucker creates unique dishes, such as jerked chicken over jasmine rice, as well as Mexican corn.

The bar features a drink menu based on characters created by Cather. Captain Forrester's old-fashioned is the only such drink you'll fi nd in Red Cloud. Made with Woodford Rye or Basil Haden Bourbon, luxurious cherry, orange twist, old-fashioned bitters, and simple syrup, the Captain Forrester brings Cather's work to life.

If you're in the mood for a casual meal, head across the street to Alley Kats, a 70-year-old bowling alley off ering a contemporary menu of burgers, sandwiches—you’ll enjoy one of the best Reubens in Nebraska featuring homemade Th ousand Island dressing —and salads.

Enhance a Cather experience with a stay at the Cather Second Home, now an Airbnb. Enjoy a sunrise or sunset hike at the 612-acre Cather Memorial Prairie south of Red Cloud.

Forrester’s, inside Hotel Garber

come and

explore.

LET’S PLAN A ROAD TRIP!

COMPILED BY Lucy Mason

DAYTRIPS IN NEBRASKA, IOWA, KANSAS, MISSOURI, AND SOUTH DAKOTA

NEBRASKA

THE PLATTSMOUTH HARVEST FESTIVAL September 4-6 at the Midway Carnival near the Entertainment Plaza, Plattsmouth. For its 94th year, the Plattsmouth Harvest Festival will have no shortness of entertainment. Starting with the coronation of the new King and Queen, the carnival will then kick off with rides, a pep rally, kiddie parade, car bash, balloon toss, and plenty of classic fun for the whole family. plattsmouthharvestfestival.com

HUSKER HARVEST DAYS September 9-11, Grand Island. Join a collection of farmers and fellow Nebraskans in Grand Island for the 47th annual premier crop and cattle show. Featuring equipment demonstrations, irrigation technology displays, and more, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the industry that makes up Nebraska, and delve into the roots of this state. huskerharvestdays.com

HONEYBEE FESTIVAL September 13 in Legion Memorial Park, Auburn. For a day trip of fun, celebrate Nebraska’s state insect, the honeybee, in Auburn this September. With demos from the UNL Bee Lab, floral vendors, a honey-themed cook-off, and the Honeybee Half Marathon, Auburn offers an eclectic show of appreciation for the honeybee.

OGALLALA INDIAN SUMMER RENDEZVOUS September 18-20 at Rendezvous Square, Ogallala. Join locals and other out-of-town folk in Ogallala for their annual fall celebration. Expanding over three days, there’s always something to keep visitors busy. Starting with a chili cook-off and parade on Thursday and ending with a Car Show and Harvest Arts Market on Saturday, whether you visit for one day or all three, the weekend is packed with good times. visitkeithcounty.com

NORFOLK OKTOBERFEST FAMILY FESTIVAL September 19-20 at the Norfolk Area Chamber, Norfolk. Presented by BankFirst, there is a variety of festivities for all ages at Norfolk Oktoberfest. German food and a beer garden are available, as in the spirit of Oktoberfest, as well as inflatables, face painting, and wiener dog races, all held in conjunction with the Lion’s Club Parade. norfolkareachamber.com

MISSOURI RIVER OUTDOOR EXPO September 20-21 in Ponca State Park, Ponca. As the largest outdoor expo in the Midwest, Ponca State Park packs two days full of family-friendly outdoor activities. These include wildlife encounters, fishing, kayaking, archery, camping skills, entertainment, contests, dog shows, shooting sports, cooking, local food vendors, and craftsmanship demonstrations. outdoornebraska.gov

57TH ANNUAL APPLEJACK FESTIVAL September 20-21 at Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard, Nebraska City. As the leaves fall and pumpkins start popping up, Kimmel Orchard is prepared to celebrate the fall harvest season. With apple cider doughnuts, caramel apples, and apple pie, it’s rare to experience more of an Americana fall than at the AppleJack Festival. Pop over to Nebraska City to enjoy hayrack rides and apple picking. kimmelorchard.org

JUNK JAUNT September 26-28 throughout Nebraska. As the largest garage sale in the state of Nebraska, this three-day extravaganza is for any and all “junkers” or “thrifters” who are looking for hidden treasures across the state, while simultaneously stopping to see unique sites, such as an 1870s frontier fort, museums, and a chalk mine. Spanning nearly 500 miles, Junk Jaunt is organized so that no matter which way you go or which way you come from, you’re bound to find something along the way. junkjaunt.com

NEBRASKA STATE HAND CORNHUSKING CONTEST September 27 at Stuhr Museum, Grand Island. Most people in Nebraska know and appreciate the art of cornhusking. Dating back all the way to the 1920s, cornhusking contests have been a central part of farm life in Nebraska. Make the trip to watch the fun, or if you have the skill, participate in the competition yourself. stuhrmuseum.org

BROWNVILLE FALL FLEA MARKET September 27-28, Brownville. Since 1957, Brownville has been collaborating to prepare for the flock of visitors that attend the annual fall flea market. With a collection of everything from plants, tools, art, furniture, and more, Brownville is the perfect place to easily spend an entire day, whether you go on a shopping spree or just wander around to enjoy the scene. visitnebraska.com

IOWA

GUTTENBERG GERMANFEST September 19 & 20 at 500 block of South River Park Dr., Guttenberg. Guttenberg, Iowa’s 23rd annual GermanFest, will span for two days and include arts and crafts vendors, music, food, a 5K run, wiener dog races, brat-eating contests, beer/wine tastings, and of course, because it wouldn’t be a GermanFest without it, a beer garden. cityofguttenbergia.gov

THE 26TH ANNUAL WHITE EAGLE MULTICULTURAL POW WOW September 19-21 in Jester Park, Granger. Ralph and Carol Moisa, founders of the White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow, started the event after their son Ralph Moisa III’s passing. Ralph, having been honored by an elder of the Meskawki tribe at his funeral with the name White Eagle, and having visited churches and preschools to share his culture during his lifetime, inspired his parents and the elders in the community to put together this annual Pow Wow. whiteeaglepowwow.com

BRIGHT STAR September 19-October 5 at the Des Moines Playhouse, Des Moines. Serving the community since 1919, the Des Moines Playhouse will showcase Bright Star, a play inspired by a true story, in which Billy Cane, returning from the front lines of WWII, dreams of becoming a writer. He meets editor Alice Murphy, and the most important story will be the one that brings them together. dmplayhouse.com

PIONEER FARM FESTIVAL September 20, Oskaloosa. Join Pioneer Farm for their 59th Annual Fall Festival. This is an all ages festival that includes games, a petting zoo, historic interpreters, demonstrations, and more throughout the day. nelsonpioneer.org

RIVERSSANCE FESTIVAL OF FINE ART September 20-21 in Lindsay Park, East Davenport. Quad City Arts presents the Riverssance Festival’s 36th year. Showcasing the top artists throughout the greater Midwest, these two days will be filled with high-quality fine art of a variety of different mediums, including jewelry, wood, photography, painting, fiber, and more! quadcityarts.com

IOWA’S LATINO HERITAGE FESTIVAL September 27-28 at the Western Gateway Park, Des Moines. Being the only Latino Heritage Festival in the state, this two-day extravaganza offers food vendors, artist displays, and culture booths that showcase fascinating info about Latino culture. Of course, Latin music will be echoing through the streets for these two action-packed days. latinoheritagefestival.org

KANSAS

KANSAS STATE FAIR September 5-14 at Kansas State Fairgrounds, Hutchinson. Being the single largest event in Kansas, this annual fair features a variety of attractions including rides, games, food, petting zoo, and live music. Don’t miss attractions of every kind, from hypnotists to cowboy circuses. kansasstatefair.com

JAPANESE BREAKFAST September 8 at Liberty Hall, Lawrence. This indie pop band formed in Philadelphia in 2013. Now having charted the Billboard 200 and with two Grammy nominations, they will be stopping at Lawrence’s Liberty Hall, a venue with a longstanding history, for The Melancholy Tour. Supported by Ginger Root, Michelle Zauner, singer and guitarist, will perform the dreamy, shoegaze sounds of Japanese Breakfast. livenation.com

THREE DOG NIGHT September 25 at the Azura Amphitheater, Bonner Springs. Active since 1967, Three Dog Night is a classic American rock band with songs like “Joy to the World” and “Never Been to Spain.” Along with Little River Band, Three Dog Night will be performing at the Azura Amphitheater for their 2025 tour. azuraamp.com

OVERLAND PARK FALL FESTIVAL September 26-27 in Downtown Overland Park. From vendors and food to a range of concerts, Downtown Overland Park will be chock full of entertainment and fun over this weekend. With an artisan fair and music that stretches from blues to rock, there’s no shortage of excitement for all ages. opkansas.org

MISSOURI

4TH ANNUAL RIVER CITY CRUISERS CRUISE-IN September 6 on Fourth Street, Hermann. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., several city blocks will be closed off for the annual cruise-in. After the event, there will be live music and festivities at the Clara Eitmann-Messmer Amphitheatre. Hermann has a number of bed-and-breakfasts, shops, and wineries to make it a full weekend getaway. rivercitycruisers.com

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS WITH THE CORAL REEFER BAND September 5 at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, Ridgedale. Experience the classic music of the Doobie Brothers as they are joined by Jimmy Buffett’s famed Coral Reefer Band. The bands will light up Thunder Ridge Nature Area with a funky mix of rock classics and laid-back tunes. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, or purchase one at the arena. thunderridgenaturearea.com

CITY NIGHTS: OKTOBERFEST September 5 at City Museum, St. Louis. From day into night, a general admission pass grants you access to the whole day of festivities to get into the full swing of Oktoberfest. An adults-only event, the museum will be closing early to give people more time to enjoy the fun. With live music brought to the festival from Ubercool, arts and crafts stations, food—and of course, beer—this is a night of fun ready to happen. citymuseum.org

LIGHT THE WAY CHRISTIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL September 12-13 at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, Ridgedale. Explore the Ozarks of Missouri while listening to the most popular names in Christian music. Featuring the sounds of Claire Leslie, Megan Woods, Seph Schleuter, Jordan Feliz, KB, Josiah Queen, Tauren Wells, and NEEDTOBREATHE, this will be a weekend of good tunes and worship. thunderridgenaturearea.com

MATI MUSIC AT THE INTERSECTION September 12-14 at the Grand Center Arts District, St. Louis. For the fifth year, St. Louis will host a diverse group of roots-inspired artists. From Common and Pete Rock to Patti LaBelle and Leon Thomas as headliners, this show will expand over the weekend to feature artists on 15 different stages across the Grand Center Arts District. matistl.org

JESSE JAMES FESTIVAL September 13 and 19-21 at Jesse James Park, Kearney. In the birthplace and hometown of notorious criminal Jesse James, as well as his final resting place, this festival brings together people form all walks of life to compete and participate in a myriad of different activities. From a 5K to a demolition derby, all the way to a cook-off, the variety of activities won’t leave you with a chance to be bored! jessejamesfestival.com

ST. LOUIS RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL WEEKENDS September 13-October 26 at Rotary Park, Wentzville. Experience jousting, artisan marketplaces, costumed characters, and delicious food at this more than month-long festival. With something for everyone, the St. Louis Renaissance festival is open every weekend, rain or shine. Go enjoy a giant turkey leg, and be sure to not get caught up in a fight between two knights on horseback. stlrenfest.com

MATT RIFE STAY GOLDEN TOUR September 14 at the Enterprise Center, St. Louis. Matt Rife, a wildly popular comedian known for his crowd work, kicked off his Stay Golden tour in 2025, which includes 32 arena and amphitheater dates across North America. Having sold over 600,000 tickets in less than 48 hours following the announcement of his world tour, ProbleMATTic, Rife will kick off another tour and stop in St. Louis to perform at the Enterprise Center. mattrifestlouis.com

2025 PLAZA ART FAIR September 19-21 in the Country Club Plaza shopping district, Kansas City. As the 94th annual Plaza Art Fair, more than 240 artists will be showcased in the plaza alongside local restaurant booths and live music. The plaza will be a beautiful backdrop for this three-day event, which will host great food, great art, and great music. plazaartfair.com

SOUTH DAKOTA

RIBS, RODS AND ROCK N’ ROLL September 5-6 in Historic Downtown Vermillion. The 21st annual Ribs, Rods and Rock n’ Roll event will take place in historic downtown. In 2025, new events will be showcased, including an antique tractor show, a feature of local Scouts and their handmade Pinewood Derby Cars, the Miss USD competition, and the Craft Beer Festival. livevermillion.com

STRATOBOWL 2025 LAUNCH September 5-7

Between Rapid City and Hill City near Bear Country, USA. When it comes to aviation history, South Dakota stands out as having been a place for many ground-breaking projects. Located between Rapid City and Hill City, the Stratobowl has taken place since the 1930s. Watch hot air balloon releases at sunrise over these three days to celebrate South Dakota’s rich history involving aviation. blackhillsballoons.com

DEADWOOD JAM September 19-20 in Outlaw Square, Deadwood. The last official outdoor event for Deadwood, the Black Hills’ premier music festival, Deadwood Jam, features artists from a variety of different genres and sounds. Rest assured, there is something for everyone, as this two-day event will focus on an eclectic mix of different tunes. Free and open to the public, this is a great event to end the summer with. deadwood.com

BUFFALO ROUNDUP September 26 in Custer State Park, Custer County. See the cowboys and cowgirls of South Dakota in action on the last Friday of September as they round up and herd buffalo. Guests will stand in viewing areas as the herd is corralled and then sorted in the afternoon. Food is available for purchase, and don’t forget binoculars and a folding chair. gfp.sd.gov

CINCH PLAYOFFS–THE GOVERNOR’S CUP September 26-28 at the Denny Stanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls. The final qualifying competition of ProRodeo athletes before the Wrangler Nationals Final Rodeo will take over the Denny Stanford PREMIER Center. Over the course of three days, this event features 12 contestants in each event, including bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, and bull riding—all the classic rodeo shenanigans. travelsouthdakota.com

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AMERICA NEEDS YOU, HARRY TRUMAN

Ihate taking about the “good old days.”

Mostly because they weren’t so damn good, especially when you really open the lens all the way to “wide” when recalling the reality of days past. Nostalgia is dangerous. It seduces us into thinking if only we could turn the clock back, all our problems could be magically solved. Then, some politician comes along and convinces us that we can go back to that imaginary era of Disneyland’s Main Street, with smiling girls in gingham dresses, John Philip Sousa’s music wafting from the small-town park gazebo, and the Great White Fleet steaming around the globe showing the flag. So, we vote for him, and after six months, instead of Disney, we end up with Wes Craven. No Sousa, just the Panic of 1893, the bankruptcy of the National Hemp Cordage Company, a stock market crash, the Johnstown Flood, a Moro Rebellion in the Philippines, and unemployment at 25%. Trust me, bringing back girls in gingham doesn’t make up for all the carnage.

Still, being well into my dotage now—three score and XV—it is nearly impossible to sit down to write about the current state of affairs without beginning with the careworn phrase, “back in my day.” So, permit me…

Back in my day, my dad would occasionally take me along to work—this was long before the “Take Your Kid to Work” craze that briefly afflicted our society in the `90s—he’d schlep me along to his office in downtown Kansas City, because my mom was busy getting my accident-prone brother to the ER for a splint, a few stitches, or a stomach pump, or she may have told him to “get the kid out of my sight for a few hours.”

My dad had an appointment out in eastern Jackson County, specifically Independence, following which we’d have lunch at Dixon’s Chili.

Now, Dixon’s Chili is famous in Jackson County, Missouri…it still is. Why? Well, they made and sold “chili” there in Independence, starting back a hundred years ago now. They’d been making their “chili” decades before anyone who had any remotely authentic idea of what real chili was lived within 50 miles of the joint. It was not really chili—con carne or any recognizable permutation. What they made (what they still make) was something only they called “chili,” and they were famous for it.

Truth is, what really made Dixon’s famous was that Harry Truman hung out there, going back to when he was a county judge. His house wasn’t too far away, so, even when Harry was a senator and then president of the United States, he’d stop in for some of Dixon’s “chili” from time to time. Harry was a good president, but a bad judge of chili.

My dad and I went over to Dixon’s, and there on the sidewalk, walking away as we arrived, was none other than the man himself, then ex-President Harry S. Truman. My dad stopped the Oldsmobile and we jumped out and ran over to see Harry, who was alone except for one burly guy in an overcoat. Truman was nattily dressed, with a tailored double-breasted suit, shiny two-toned, wingtip shoes, and a spiffy fedora. My dad stretched out his hand. Harry took it and gave him a firm shake as my dad told him how grateful he was to Harry for everything. My dad was a Navy veteran of the Pacific War. Harry thanked him back. I reached out and Truman squeezed my hand and said something to me—I don’t remember what it was exactly, but I do know that Harry Truman spoke to me.

Yep, back in my day, a kid could meet a president on a sidewalk with no security cordon around him. No cameras, microphones, press, hangers-on, or sycophants. Just my dad and me. I know nostalgia is dangerous, but permit me this, if I could bring anything back from the past, it would be that a kid could shake a president’s hand on a sidewalk.

The kid would learn that the president was just another human being, and, hopefully, the president would learn the same.

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