The January 22nd Weekly Market Report

Nicole Buntgen, Contributing Writer

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, a Houston-based restaurant, will open its first Nebraska location in the summer of 2027 in the Avenue One development southeast of 192nd & West Dodge Road. The 11,000 sq. ft. restaurant will seat up to 350 guests and feature Perry’s “Rare and Well Done” experience, open kitchen, wine wall, Bar 79 with island seating, patio dining and four private rooms. Perry’s has more than 20 locations in nine states, with the closest existing ones in Chicago and Denver.

A second Yoshitomo is apparently coming to downtown Omaha, according to a City of Omaha building permit to remodel an interior space at 1105 Harney Street in the Old Market. The bay is just west of Jams American Grill and had been occupied by Mouth of the South. Yoshitomo is a nationally recognized sushi restaurant in Benson, founded David Utterback, a multi-time James Beard Award finalist. Utterback also operates an omakase within Yoshitomo called Ota as well as Koji, a yakitori restaurant in Countryside Village.

El Muchacho Alegre plans to open a Papillion restaurant at 8810 South 71st Plaza in the Shoppes at Market Pointe. The building was previously occupied by On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, which closed a year ago. Renovations are underway. El Muchacho Alegre has existing locations at 6222 North 72nd Street and 10177 South 168th Avenue.

Omaha Bagel Co. is opening its first bricks-and-mortar location at 5423 Leavenworth Street. The building was the original home of Tasty Pizza before it moved to 1418 South 60th Street and opened another location in Blair. Omaha Bagel Co. started in 2022 as an in-home, cottage bakery, selling sourdough bagels online. The business has not announced an official opening date, but its website says it will be late spring or early summer.

Taqueria Tijuana has signed a lease at 307 North 114th Street for its third location. The Mexican restaurant will operate in a 2,250 sq. ft. space formerly occupied by Which Wich, according to Todd and Will Schneidewind of NAI NP Dodge, who represented the landlord in lease negotiations. Taqueria Tijuana’s original restaurant is at 5139 South 24th Street in the South Omaha Main Street Business District. The second location is at 12242 K Plaza in the L Street Marketplace.

Base Kamp is working on two additional locations. Its first shop is located inside Nebraska Furniture Mart next to the longstanding Subway restaurant. The business model includes locally roasted coffee and other drinks, including beer and wine. Base Kamp is nearing completion of its location in Midtown Crossing next door to Garbo’s Salon. In a recently filed building permit, the business is planning to build a 266 sq. ft. kiosk in Regency Shopping Center.

7 Brew Coffee has opened a drive-thru stand at 18236 Evans Street near 182nd & West Maple Road, marking the Arkansas-based chain’s first Omaha location. The brand also operates Nebraska locations in Fremont, Lincoln, Grand Island, Norfolk, Kearney, North Platte and York.

Yuengling Beer will arrive on tap at Whiskey Roadhouse inside Horseshoe Casino in Council Bluffs on February 2. The Pennsylvania-based brewery, founded in 1829, is expanding distribution into Iowa as part of its Midwest rollout. The brand has been selling in Missouri and Kansas since 2023.

State & Liberty will become Village Pointe Shopping Center’s newest retailer when it opens its first Nebraska store. According to a building permit for remodel, the clothing store will take up approximately 1,000 sq. ft. State & Liberty is a men’s fashion store, specializing in business casual and dresswear using stretch material and having a more athletic fit. The Michigan-based retailer’s closest location is in Kansas City but has more than 40 locations throughout the country.

Barnes & Noble will open its third Omaha location at Avenue One, the mixed-use development near 192nd & West Dodge Road, according to KETV. The bookstore will join retailers including Arhaus, West Elm, Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn. Barnes & Noble currently operates Omaha-area stores near Oakview Mall and at Shadow Lake Towne Center.

Burlington, a national, off-price retailer of brand-name apparel, accessories and home décor, plans to open a store in Bellevue’s Wolf Creek Plaza near Kennedy Freeway & Cornhusker Road. Burlington will occupy the former JOANN store at 10521 South 15th Street. Interior renovations are just getting underway. Burlington has three existing Omaha-area stores.

Beer Can Alley, a country music venue and bar, is permanently closing January 31st at 1022 Capitol Avenue downtown.

Attic Salt and Merle Norman will not renew their leases at Westroads Mall at 10000 California Street. Attic Salt, a gift and apparel retailer, is expected to close by January 31. Merle Norman, a long-running cosmetics store, will also close as its owner retires after 35 years in business.

GameStop closed last week at 8540 South 71st Plaza in the Shoppes at Market Pointe in Papillion.

The James Beard Awards announced its 2026 list of semifinalists, and Omaha is represented. Le Bouillon in the Old Market is one of 20 semifinalists on the “Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program” list. David Utterback, owner of Yoshitomo and Ota in Benson, once again made the “Best Chef: Midwest” list. Finalists will be announced March 31st, while the actual winners will be announced June 15.

Learn more about Anderson Convenience market at www.Anderson1952.com

Westroads Manager Expects Dillard’s Construction to Start This Quarter

By Kacie Ferrazzo

Plans for Dillard’s relocation to Westroads Mall remain in place, but construction on the project has not yet begun, according to the mall’s general manager.

The department store plans to move from Oak View Mall into the former Younker’s building at Westroads Mall, where it will undergo a major renovation and expansion. While some equipment has previously appeared on site, Ryan Conlon, general manager at Westroads, said work has not officially started.

“They’re finishing a job out of state,” Conlon said. “I think they’ll start this quarter, but we’re still standing by for an official date.”

As previously reported, Dillard’s purchased the long-vacant Younker’s building on the mall’s west end and plans to gut the space, add a 32,000 sq, ft. expansion and construct a new entrance. Once complete, the two-story store will total 207,800 sq. ft.

Conlon said the retailer’s arrival is expected to significantly increase traffic at the mall and the project will also dramatically reshape the west end of Westroads.

“It will be a major change,” Conlon said. “It will be a great addition here.”

The anticipated increase in traffic could draw interest from other retailers. Conlon said national brands are closely watching the Dillard’s project before making leasing decisions.

“There are a lot of national retailers that want to see Dillard’s,” Conlon said. “They want to look at Dillard’s before making a commitment.”

The timeline for the project remains unchanged. The mall hopes to have Dillard’s open in time for the 2027 holiday shopping season.

Dillard’s, based in Little Rock, Ark., operates 278 stores in 30 states and plans to use its in-house construction team for the Westroads buildout.

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Isaiah Ang, Contributing Writer

Buc-ee’s, the Texas-based chain of mega gas stations, plans to open its first Nebraska location in Gretna’s Good Life District. The 74,000 sq. ft. store would be located on 43 acres southeast of Interstate 80 & Highway 31. That’s south of Nebraska Crossing and east of Flying J. To pave the way for the project, the City of Gretna voted to annex the land at last night’s meeting, according to Mayor Mike Evans. Buc-ee’s stations attract customers from hundreds of miles and become tourist attractions unto themselves. The closest existing Buc-ee’s are in Northern Colorado and Springfield, Mo.

The Nebraska State Patrol is moving its Omaha-based Troop A headquarters to 7200 World Communications Drive. That’s southwest of 72nd & Interstate 680. Troop A has been located northeast of 108th & L Street for many years. Because of the move, the Troop A office is closed this week. Fingerprinting appointments at the new location will begin Wednesday, January 28.

A 32-acre greenfield site in the Southport West commercial area may finally see development. The La Vista City Council reviewed a Planned Unit Development Plan Amendment and Preliminary Plat in this week’s meeting. The updated development plan for the site on the northwest corner of Westport Parkway & Giles Road shows a mixed-use development. Phase 1 will be a 41,000 sq. ft., indoor recreation facility right on that corner. Future development includes a large restaurant, a dog park, brewery, multi-family housing including 40 townhome-style units and 150 traditional apartment units, as well as a possible TopGolf-like facility along Interstate 80.

City of Bellevue economic development director Harrison Johnson this week gave the city council an update on the Bellevue Bay Waterpark Project. The basement is currently being dug out, while the pouring of the foundation is tentatively planned to start by the end of the month. Overall, the construction is on schedule for the anticipated mid-2027 completion date, even though a Nebraska Department of Transportation easement issue has been holding up some progress. The city council also approved several administrative items including agreements and easements related to utilities.

Additionally, the Bellevue City Council approved an option purchase agreement for land near the waterpark for a possible “racino” project. Bellevue would give BELREV, LLC the option to purchase 22 acres near the waterpark for $1,915,220. The option agreement expires in January of 2027, however, the option may be extended up to three more years. Under the terms of the agreement, the developer will pay an annual fee of 1 percent of the purchase price.

Grow Omaha Snippets are brought to you by Baird Holm LLP, the Exclusive Legal Partner of Grow Omaha. Baird Holm’s dedicated team of real estate lawyers has extensive experience in all aspects of real estate law, including purchases, sales, construction, zoning and land use, leasing, and dispute resolution. Click HERE for more information.

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board, which regulates railroads, last Friday declared Union Pacific’s and Norfolk Southern’s merger application to be incomplete, according to the Wall Street Journal. The regulatory agency said the application had insufficient information on the proposed combined company’s projected market share and lacked other necessary documents. The decision will could delay the two companies’ $71.5 billion deal to create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad to be headquartered in Omaha.

The Kirsch Group officially launched earlier this week. The Omaha-based, employee benefit brokerage is dedicated exclusively to employer-sponsored health and benefits for companies of all sizes. The company’s owner is Cara Kirsch, a seasoned employee-benefits broker.

Data Axle, a provider of business and marketing data, has leased a 9,168 sq. ft. office space at 11340 Blondo Street, according Ryan Ellis, CEO of PJ Morgan Real Estate, whose team handled lease negotiations. Data Axle was founded in Omaha, and in past years, was known as Infogroup.

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness, an IV therapy and wellness spa, has opened at 7474 Towne Center Parkway in Papillion’s Shadow Lake Towne Center. The wellness concept offers intravenous hydration therapy, vitamin and nutrient infusions and injections aimed at energy, immunity, recovery and overall wellness.

Francesca’s, a women’s boutique chain, is closing all brick-and-mortar stores after more than 25 years in business. The Houston-based company has not announced when stores will officially close. Francesca’s currently operates three locations in the Omaha area, including Westroads, Nebraska Crossing and Village Pointe.

Union Pacific Corporation will release fourth quarter 2025 financial and operating results on Tuesday, January 27 at 6:45 a.m. CST. The company’s management team will host a conference call and live webcast at 7:45 a.m. CST.

Travis’ Merchant of Venice has opened a 24/7 laundromat and dog wash at 26404 West Center Road, in a new building behind its gas station near Two Rivers in the Venice area of western Douglas County. The facility features 10 commercial washers, 14 dryers and a self-serve dog wash, with machines currently accepting credit cards only.

HubWise Technology is the Greater Omaha Chamber’s January 2026 Business of the Month: “What began as a response to unmet needs in the local market has grown into a trusted partner for small and medium-sized businesses across the metro. That commitment to excellence has earned national recognition, including placement on the Inc. 5000 list.”

Grow Omaha Business News is brought to you by Thompson, Dreessen & Dorner, Inc. (TD2). Since 1967, TD2 has partnered with municipalities, developers, architects and builders to shape the places where people live, work and connect. TD2 provides comprehensive services in civil, structural and geotechnical engineering as well as land surveying, materials testing and construction observation — all with a focus on client service and community impact. Discover how TD2 is engineering Omaha’s future HERE.

After 25 years of operation, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha is selling both its ReStore locations to a local thrift-store operator. The nonprofit stores sell new and used building materials, home décor and appliances at discounted prices with proceeds helping pay for new affordable houses. The ReStores will remain open, and employees have the opportunity to keep their jobs. The ReStores are located at 10910 Emmet Street and 1003 South 24th Street. Selling the stores allows Habitat to focus solely on Omaha’s growing housing shortage.

This year’s Shine the Light on Hunger Campaign raised a record-breaking $4,949,864 and collected 216,237 pounds of nonperishable food to provide more than 15 million meals for neighbors in need. The annual campaign has invited community members to donate nonperishable food items to orange bins at participating locations around town for the past 19 years. Donations go to Food Back for the Heartland.

The Omaha Community Playhouse is hosting a free Community Resource Fair on Saturday, January 24, from 12 to 3 p.m. at 6915 Cass Street. The event will bring together local organizations to provide housing, legal and family support resources for the community. Hosted in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, the in-person event will feature a Transfer-on-Death Deed (TODD) Clinic, designed to help homeowners learn how to protect their homes and plan for the future.

The Hillside Foundation is hosting its first Gala at The Venue at Highlander on February 27. The nonprofit organization focuses on programs and education that promote and implement the benefits of composting for schools, food growers and people and organizations that may otherwise not be able to afford recycling and composting services. The night will celebrate local climate wins while funding projects that grow Omaha’s circular food system.

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands released a report titled, “Economic Impact of Nonprofits in Nebraska.” Report highlights include some impressive stats, like how 5,483 501(c) organizations operate and filed 2023 IRS Form 990 in Nebraska, or that $23.1 billion in revenue was generated by Nebraska nonprofits in 2023. Read the full report here.

From Favorites to Final Choice: Comparing Two Homes You Love

By Jill Anderson

Falling in love with more than one home is a good problem to have — but it can also be one of the most stressful parts of the buying process. When two properties both feel “just right,” emotions can cloud your judgment. The key is to step back and compare them in a structured, objective way so you can make a confident decision you won’t regret.

Here’s how to break it down:

1. Start With Your Non-Negotiables

Before looking at granite countertops or backyard patios, return to your must-have list. These are the features you agreed you couldn’t live without, such as:

• Location or school district
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Commute time
• Parking or garage space
• Budget comfort zone

If one home checks every non-negotiable and the other doesn’t, the choice may already be clear. A beautiful home that doesn’t meet your lifestyle needs will become frustrating over time, no matter how charming it looks on day one.

2. Compare Layout and Functionality

Two homes can have the same square footage but feel completely different to live in. Walk through each property and think about how your daily life would actually flow. Ask yourself:

• Where would shoes, coats and bags go?
• Is there enough storage for your needs?
• Can the space grow with you if your family changes?
• Does one layout feel cramped or awkward?

A slightly smaller home with a smart layout often feels more comfortable than a larger one with wasted or poorly designed space.

3. Look Beyond Staging

Staging is meant to make a home look its best, but it can also hide flaws. Try to imagine each property empty and ask what is really there.

Compare:

• Natural light
• Noise levels
• Privacy
• Yard size and usability
• Street traffic

One home might feel warmer and more inviting simply because of its decor, while the other has better bones that will matter in the long term.

4. Evaluate the Condition and Future Costs

This is where emotion should give way to logic. Review each home’s age, major systems and maintenance needs.

Consider:

• Roof, furnace and windows
• Plumbing and electrical updates
• Insulation and energy efficiency
• Any visible signs of wear

A lower purchase price can be misleading if a home will need major repairs or upgrades in the next few years. Sometimes the slightly more expensive home is the better financial decision.

5. Compare the Neighborhood

You aren’t just buying a house — you’re buying a lifestyle. Walk or drive around both areas at different times of day. Pay attention to:

• Noise and traffic
• Nearby amenities
• Parks, shops and schools
• Overall feel of the community

Even the perfect home can lose its shine if the neighborhood doesn’t suit how you live.

6. Factor in Resale Value

You may not be thinking about selling yet, but future buyers will. Look at which home is likely to hold or increase its value better based on location, layout and condition.

When you weigh both emotion and logic, one home usually begins to stand out. The right choice isn’t just the one you love today — it’s the one that will support your life, budget and goals for years to come.

Do you have a real estate question? Let’s talk.

Grow Omaha Residential is developed and sponsored by Jill Anderson, President Residential Sales, NP Dodge Real Estate 402.255.5099 or jill.anderson@npdodge.com.

We’re not just real estate. We’re NP Dodge.

Cole Young, Contributing Writer

Sjuts is a Columbus, Neb., native who played for the Huskers under John Cook from 2005 to 2008. Playing as a middle blocker, she was part of the most successful class in program history, going 127-8 in those four seasons while winning the 2006 national championship.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve, lead and make an impact on the Supernovas and the sport of professional volleyball,” Sjuts said. “From wearing the Husker jersey to playing professionally to coaching, volleyball has been instrumental in shaping who I am. I am excited to give back to the game that has given me so much and am honored to represent this trailblazing league, franchise, team and NovasNation as the next president of the Supernovas.”

Creighton men’s basketball’s annual Pink Out game is next Saturday, January 31, against No. 2 UConn at 7 p.m. This year’s auction is officially underway. Fans can honor a friend or family member on player shooting shirts and bid on signed basketballs, golf with coach McDermott and more. The auction will run through Sunday, January 25th, with items closing in 15-minute intervals starting at 6:30 p.m. To bid on items, click HERE.

All funds raised will benefit Hope Lodge Omaha. The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge Nebraska provides a free home away from home for cancer patients and their caregivers who must travel to Omaha to receive life-saving treatment. The annual Creighton University Pink Out athletic events have combined to raise more than $1 million to benefit the Hope Lodge facility and the guests it serves, with $464,000 of that coming from the jersey auctions.

The Kansas City Royals announced last Friday that Patrick Osborn will lead the 2026 Omaha Storm Chasers as manager. Osborn served as Omaha’s bench coach during the 2025 season and is now stepping in as the 20th manager in franchise history. This season marks Osborn’s 15th season in professional baseball and seventh as a manager. He previously managed six seasons across five levels in the New York Yankees organization.

LOVB Nebraska will travel to face LOVB Atlanta this Sunday, and sitting at 2-2 currently, has an opportunity to climb above .500 with a win. Sunday’s match will begin at 5 p.m. and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2.

The Omaha Supernovas are in action tonight, looking to get back on track following a winless weekend against Orlando and Atlanta. Omaha welcomes the Columbus Fury to Kiewit Court at the CHI Health Center at 7 p.m. The Supernovas will then travel to face the Indy Ignite in their home opener on Saturday, January 24, at 6 p.m. Tonight’s match will be broadcast statewide on Nebraska Public Media and KCRO 660 AM.

Creighton men’s basketball stole its second Big East game at home in just over a week Wednesday night, this time taking down Xavier, 94-93. Austin Swartz was the hero again, drawing a foul with four seconds left on the clock with the Bluejays down 93-91. Swartz made his first attempt to bring the game within one, but then missed the game tying attempt. He quickly grabbed the rebound and rose to hit the game winner from the baseline with 0.6 seconds remaining. Creighton, now 6-3 in Big East play, will head to Milwaukee next Tuesday, January 27, to face Marquette at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday’s game will be televised on TNT.

Creighton baseball will play the series-opening game of its May 14-16 series against Xavier at Great American Ball Park following a game between the Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals. The news was released last week. First pitch for the Reds and Nationals is scheduled for 12:40 p.m. Creighton and Xavier will take the field approximately 45 minutes after the game. Tickets are available at reds.com/Tickets.

Cowboy fast draw is a sport with a nearby club in the Omaha metro area. The River City Gunslingers are dedicated to the sport of cowboy fast draw, where shooters match their draw speed against opponents using single-action six shooters, wax bullets, and electronically controlled targets that measure times down to .001 of a second. The group shoots the second and fourth Wednesday of each month in Honey Creek, Iowa, and all ages and genders are welcome.

Upcoming Games

• Omaha women’s basketball vs. South Dakota | Thursday, Jan. 22 | 6:30 p.m.
• Omaha Supernovas at Columbus Fury | Thursday, Jan. 22 | 7 p.m.
• Omaha hockey vs. Colorado College | Friday, Jan. 23 | 7 p.m.
• Omaha Supernovas at Indy Ignite | Saturday, Jan. 24 | 6 p.m.
• Omaha Lancers at Lincoln Stars | Saturday, Jan. 24 | 6:05 p.m.
• Omaha men’s basketball at Kansas City | Saturday, Jan. 24 | 7 p.m.
• Omaha hockey vs. Colorado College | Saturday, Jan. 24 | 7 p.m.
• Creighton women’s basketball at DePaul | Sunday, Jan. 25 | 2 p.m.
• LOVB Nebraska at LOVB Atlanta | Sunday, Jan. 25 | 5 p.m.
• Creighton men’s basketball at Marquette | Tuesday, Jan. 27 | 8:30 p.m.
• Creighton women’s basketball vs. St. John’s | Wednesday, Jan. 28 | 6 p.m.
• Omaha men’s basketball vs. South Dakota State | Wednesday, Jan. 28 | 7 p.m.
• Omaha women’s basketball at South Dakota State | Wednesday, Jan. 28 | 7 p.m.

Don’t know much about title insurance? That’s ok, we do and we’re here to help! TCN offers title insurance, settlement and 1031 exchange services for all property types and we absolutely love what we do. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned developer, a real estate agent, a lender, an attorney, or anyone with a real estate need, we’ve got you covered. Our team boasts more years of industry experience than we’d care to admit and we’d love to put it to good use on your next real estate transaction. Reach out any time. We’re only a click or call away and we would love to work with you!

The Dodge Street Overpass

By Patrick Wyman

In 1962, the City of Omaha began constructing pedestrian bridges in response to the city’s continued growth. With streets growing busier, and more children walking to school, safety became an increasing concern. The issue was amplified after World War II, as returning servicemen fueled a population surge that saw Omaha grow by 35 percent between 1940 and 1960.

The first pedestrian bridge was constructed at 42nd & Grover Street. A second bridge was planned to span Dodge Street between Memorial and Elmwood Parks. The need for this crossing was clear, as Dodge Street served not only as the city’s primary east to west thoroughfare but also as Highway 6. The project was delayed by several factors, and in the meantime, two pedestrian bridges were built over West Center Road at 98th and 108th Streets.

The Dodge Street Overpass ultimately became the fourth pedestrian bridge constructed, as the city coordinated its completion with the widening of Dodge Street to five lanes between 52nd and 72nd Streets. It was during this project that the corridor gained its well-known bidirectional center lane. Beyond safety concerns, Mayor A. V. Sorensen insisted that the bridge be designed as a work of beauty despite budget constraints. Cost overruns were another factor contributing to construction delays.

The 380-foot flowing S-curve bridge was designed by William H. Durand of Durand Jackson and Associates. The steel was fabricated by Omaha Steel Works, and construction was completed by Foster-Smetana at a cost of $66,000, well above initial estimates. The design featured four steel piers supporting a box girder, with two inches of poured concrete on the walking surface and steel handrails running the length of the bridge. One element that set this bridge apart was that it was not constrained by right of way limitations. Located entirely within two public parks, the city did not need to acquire additional land for its construction.

When the bridge was completed in 1968, it was unlike anything Omaha had seen before. Its innovative design and distinctive surf green color set it apart, as all other pedestrian bridges in the city were painted brown. In 1969, it was named Most Beautiful Bridge by the American Institute of Steel Construction. A plaque on the north side of the bridge commemorates this honor.

The City of Omaha effectively ended its pedestrian bridge program by 1980. Rising construction costs, driven in part by new accessibility requirements, made additional projects impractical. By that time, however, Omaha had built 19 pedestrian bridges between 1962 and 1979, giving the city one of the largest school overpass programs in the country.

When the Dodge Street Overpass was designated an Omaha Landmark in 2004, its nomination noted that it represented the city’s best effort to combine functionality with style. The bridge was refurbished in 2017, a project that included lead paint removal, repainting, deck resurfacing, base stabilization and the installation of new historical and landmark signage.

Today, the Dodge Street Overpass remains the most heavily used of Omaha’s pedestrian bridges. It continues to serve nearby residents, visitors to Memorial and Elmwood Parks, and students from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, St. Margaret Mary and Brownell Talbot.

Since 1917, Bankers Trust has been a leading financial institution for commercial and consumer banking services. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, with $7.5 billion in assets, Bankers Trust is the state’s largest privately held community bank. Bankers Trust has operated a loan production office in Omaha since 2008 and opened its first full-service branch in 2025. Visit Bankers Trust at the corner of 192nd and Dodge to see how we can make a difference for all your personal and commercial banking needs.

• The Rose: This pass for live theater includes four tickets to one member show this winter. Choices include Mr. Popper’s Penguins, Morris Micklewhite & the Tangerine Dress, Ada Twist and Scientist & Friends.
• Film Streams: This pass includes four tickets to any Forever Young weekend screening, a series of family-friendly favorites shown every Saturday and Sunday.
• Omaha Children’s Museum: This includes one free family four-pack of admission, valid for a single visit.

Passes cost $90 and can be purchased between January 14 and March 4. All experiences must be redeemed by March 31. To learn more, visit here.

Omaha Symphony will be presenting Dreamworks’ How To Train Your Dragon in Concert at the Holland Center on January 24 at 7:30 p.m., and January 25 at 2 p.m. The film will play while composer John Powell’s Academy Award-nominated score is performed live to the picture by a full symphony orchestra, conducted by Ernest Richardson. All ages are welcome.

The Holland Performing Arts Center will feature actress and comedian Fortune Feimster on January 30 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Feimster is currently on her national Takin’ Care of Biscuits tour and in production on Will Ferrell’s Untitled Netflix Golf Comedy Series. Her latest special Crushing It can be found on Netflix, alongside her previous specials Good Fortune and Sweet & Salty, both of which garnered Critics Choice nominations. She’s also recently notable from her role as Nibbles Mablestick from the Disney’s acclaimed Zootopia 2.

BLUEBARN Theatre has a couple of events happening, both fit the theme of BLUEBARN’s 37th Season: “BELONG:”

• The Heart Sellers by Lloyd Suh comes to the BLUEBARN Theatre stage on February 5th at 7:30 p.m. The play is a poignant and gently humorous experience that explores identity, belonging and friendship through the lens of the immigrant experience.
• BLUEBARN Theatre will also introduce “The Little Free Pantry at the BLUEBARN” at the corner of 10th and Pacific St. in Little Italy. Welcoming those in nearby communities to “Take What You Need – Leave What You Can” all year long.

Opera Omaha will hold auditions for two productions featuring the Opera Omaha Children’s Chorus on Monday, February 23 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, February 28 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Opera Omaha Leavenworth Studio. This also includes auditions for adult singers for the Opera Omaha Chorus. Even though the auditions are a month away, registration closes on February 2, and audition times and information will be confirmed on February 11.

Great Plains Theatre Commons (GPTC) announces world premiere of Ways to Win the Woods performing at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center in Council Bluffs on February 12 and 13 at 7 p.m., as well as at Yates Illuminates in Omaha on February 15 at 2 p.m. This locally-produced, original play is a massive creative collaboration among GPTC, Anastasia Theatre Co., the Omaha Symphony, PACE and MICAH House, and tells a reimagining of the fairy tale Hansel & Gretel through the lens of navigating through homelessness. The script was developed by Ellen Struve after a series of workshops at MICAH House. The score was composed by jazz and classical pianist Reese Pike, and will be performed by musicians from the Omaha Symphony Forte Initiative for performances in Council Bluffs. Visit here for tickets.

LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT

Have you heard of the term, “sleep stack?” It’s a set of tools and technology that ultra-health-conscious people use to optimize sleep. It’s catching on as some competitive professionals look at sleep as another way to get ahead. A recent Wall Street Journal article featured a company founder whose “mattress cover changes temperature throughout the night. His Oura Ring 4 tracks sleep stages. An eye mask collection seals out light. Mouth tape might aid with oxygen intake. And a red-light lamp may support melatonin production.”

More than four in 10 companies are opting to give identical, across-the-board pay raises in 2026 rather than merit-based raises, according to Payscale, a compensation consultancy. It’s called a “peanut butter raise,” because you spread it evenly as if using a butter knife to smear peanut butter on toast.

Do you want to read something that will make you feel old? Wikipedia celebrated its 25th birthday last week!

SALES

The “meeting excuse” could be killing your pipeline. So says Jessico Stokes of Sales Gravy: “Your jam-packed calendar isn’t proof that you’re too busy to prospect. It’s proof you’ve made prospecting optional. And optional activities don’t close deals or pay commissions.” Stokes ask salespeople, “When did you last decline an internal meeting to protect your prospecting time?” Most salespeople never have.

Sales Stat – Companies with formalized referral programs experienced 86 percent more revenue growth in a two-year period when compared to the rest of companies in a recent study.

Attention Sales Leaders: If you want to maximize the success of your sales team, and consequently your own, here are three of the most important things you can do: 1. Recruit salespeople; 2. Coach salespeople; 3. Use ongoing training to scale up your team’s performance. There are many additional things you will be asked to do, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find things that do more to increase your team’s results.

WISDOM

“We own what belongs to us whether we claim it or not.” – Sarah M. Broom

Building Omaha is a partnership between the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) & the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). Together, we provide the highest level of trained electricians for residential, low-voltage, or commercial construction projects. Visit buildingomaha.org to learn more. Earn while you learn and apply for our Apprenticeship Program by clicking HERE!

Did you know that Visit Omaha distributed nearly 190,000 visitor guides through hotel brochure racks and visitor services locations? Of that number, 4,000-plus were requested online or by phone, underscoring demand from travelers planning their trips, and 540 were downloaded.

Did you know that international trade in Nebraska and Iowa sustains more than 635,000 jobs and generates more than $31 billion annually in imports and exports?

Did you know the CHI Health Center Omaha’s convention center hosted 255 meetings/events this year, attracting 242,408 attendees?

This section is sponsored by Lockbox Storage, an affiliate of Omaha-based McGregor Interests Inc. We provide storage solutions for all of your storage needs. Our facilities have full-time managers and bright lighting to provide superior security for your belongings. In addition to space for rent, we also provide packing supplies, protection plans and locks along with complimentary handcarts and dollies. Visit LockBox Storage and let us help you with all your storage needs.

Candlelight: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac happening January 24th: Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Omaha. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Fleetwood Mac at Alan Levine Theater Performing Arts Center JCC Omaha under the gentle glow of candlelight.

10th Annual Mac & Cheese Binge happening January 24th: Each participating restaurant in Midtown Crossing will offer mac & cheese samplers, with suggested drink pairings (prices vary). Start your tasting tour anywhere you like, then visit as many restaurants as possible in any order, and cast your vote for the best mac in midtown! Full menu will be posted the week of the binge!

Intro to Sourdough: A Hands-On Bread Making Workshop happening January 25th: In this beginner-friendly class with Mindy Kneifl of Sourdough Bliss, you’ll learn how to make delicious sourdough bread step by step—from caring for a starter, to mixing, shaping and baking your own loaf. No prior experience needed. Pre-registration is required.

Papillion Painting Palooza – Art Walk beginning January 25th: The Papillion Downtown Business Association invites you to experience the creativity of talented artists—from high school students to seasoned professionals—whose work will transform downtown businesses into a walking art gallery! Stroll through participating businesses to view the artwork up close. Vote for your favorite piece – People’s Choice voting is open all week.

This section is sponsored by Eagle Mortgage, a locally owned, full-service mortgage company helping you with Conventional, VA, FHA and USDA loans in both Nebraska and Iowa. Learn how Eagle Mortgage helps people afford the home of their dreams by clicking HERE!

NP Dodge Real Estate has welcomed three residential sales associates including Dylan Kohler, Leslie Poast and Libby Ruf.

Green Plains Inc. has appointed Ryan Loneman as general counsel and secretary. He will lead Green Plains’ legal function and serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on corporate governance, strategic transactions and regulatory matters. Loneman joins Green Plains from Lindsay Corporation, where he served in a variety of legal roles since 2016, most recently as vice president – legal.

Mutual of Omaha has promoted Jon Enenbach to senior vice president of brokerage sales and marketing in Senior Health Solutions. He joined Mutual in 2009 as an assistant product development manager and then progressed through a series of leadership roles spanning product development, agency management and national sales. Most recently, he served as vice president of brokerage sales and marketing for Senior Health Solutions.

The Greater Omaha Chamber is a catalyst and connector, advocating for businesses small and large. Learn, share and grow with more than 12,000 professionals from 3,000 member businesses across Greater Omaha. Click HERE to see our latest events.

Wall Street’s many decades of doing business with the public is predicated on their self-proclaimed ability to predict the future of stock prices. Webster defines “prediction” as using scientific methods to demonstrate the relationship between two variables. In the case of Wall Street, the financial value of a company and its future stock price are the two variables in question.

Ben Graham – Warren Buffett’s mentor – proclaimed loudly and often that Wall Street’s stock market prediction efforts are a waste of time. To explain his position, he gave the market a human persona that is emotional and sometimes irrational, and he named it “Mr. Market.”

At times, Mr. Market is exuberant and offers to sell you stock at prices that are ridiculous. At other times, when Mr. Market’s emotions turn sour, he offers to sell you stock at different, but equally ridiculous prices. Mr. Graham’s advice to individual investors was to pay attention to Mr. Market’s moods and ignore Wall Street’s advice.

If you ascribe to Wall Street paradigm, then continue on as you have always done. However, if you find merit in Graham’s paradigm, then you need to take a different approach to investing. This approach is based upon observation rather than prediction. The dictionary defines observation as “using common sense to gather information in order to deal with, and properly respond to social and natural phenomenon.” Translation: Keep an eye on Mr. Market.

Investors who concur with Graham’s stock market assessment, often use index funds in their effort to deal with Mr. Market’s emotional gyrations. An index fund is a mutual fund built to mimic a specific stock market index. The fund buys all the stock in the chosen index, in the same proportion as they appear in the index. An index fund is passive; that it does not trade in order to enhance its performance.

Today there are 3,456 indexes and more than 7,500 index funds available to the investing public. Ninety-nine percent of these indexes, however, fail the smell test because they are designed to fool Mr. Market, and history has shown this to be a futile endeavor. The untainted three indexes are the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq.

For the 90 Americans with a 401k plan, there are additional advantages to owning index funds. When the market comes to the end of a straightway and reaches a fork in the road, index funds can be traded without any tax or commission ramifications. So, take Graham’s advice and “Forget the needle and by the haystack.”

Flawless Finish is a locally owned and fully insured janitorial company committed to providing high-quality, affordable cleaning services throughout the Omaha area. We take pride in delivering reliable, professional results tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether it’s a restaurant, office, or any other commercial space, our team works efficiently and thoroughly to maintain a spotless environment without breaking the budget. As a trusted name in the community, we prioritize customer satisfaction, consistent communication, and dependable service you can count on.

Learn more HERE!

Quantum Fiber in Omaha, Nebraska, is super-fast, reliable internet. We did away with data caps, bundles, and pricing gimmicks because you don’t want them. Instead, you get game-changing customer service, transparent pricing, and a powerful app for freedom, simplicity, and control over your internet. Quantum Fiber is what internet service looks like when it’s built for the world of you.

The Grow Omaha radio show broadcasts live every Saturday morning at 9:00, but now you can watch videos of each episode instead of just listening.

Grow Omaha’s brand-new website features video footage shot inside the radio studio during each week’s show!

Videos include News of the Week, Lightning Round, guest interviews, and “Grow Omaha Uncut,” a behind-the-scenes look at what happens during commercial breaks.

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