Weekly Market Report: May 15, 2025d

Nicole Buntgen, Contributing Writer

PIVOT Prime, a French-inspired steakhouse from Lucky Eleven Hospitality Group, will open May 23 at 13665 California Street. The menu features prime cuts, seafood and seasonal dishes like the Red Wine Aged Manhattan Steak. The space includes three private dining rooms, including The Vault Room, where chef-selected cuts are showcased.

Good Evans, a breakfast-and-lunch restaurant, plans to open its third Omaha store this summer in the former Old Chicago space on the northeast corner of 144th & West Center Road. Good Evans started in Kearney, Neb. in 2019 and currently has locations 74th & Pacific Street and 204th & West Maple Road as well as one each in Kearney and Lincoln.

Stories Coffee will open its new location at 15526 Spaulding Plaza Monday morning. Located just northeast of 156th & Maple in a recently constructed building, Stories will occupy a 2,500 sq. ft. bay. Stories will share the building with Williamsburg Pizza, but interior build-out is still under way in future pizza space. Stories’ business hours will be 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. The locally owned coffee chain has four existing stores.

Wingstop, a quick-serve restaurant that sells Buffalo wings, plans to open a new store in a Cricket Wireless building at 365 Saddle Creek Road, according to Dave Critser of Perkins-Critser Construction, which is renovating the space. Cricket will move to the back half of the building, while Wingstop will take the front part. Construction begins later this month. Wingstop has nine existing Omaha locations.

Hyper Energy Bar, a small coffee and infused energy drink chain from Urbandale, Iowa, is planning to build a new location in Elkhorn. The company has a building permit for a location on the southwest corner of 180th & West Maple Road. The 900 sq. ft. building will have a drive-through similar to Scooters and Starbucks. The company currently has seven locations – six in the Des Moines, Iowa metro area and one in Iowa City.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen will open at 3430 North 167th Street near 168th & West Maple Road. The project, contracted by Perkins-Critser Construction, has been slightly delayed due to revisions requested by Popeyes’ corporate office. Omaha-based Eat Out Now will be the owner. Opening is tentatively set for mid-summer.

Signage is up for Jersey Mike’s Subs at 12327 West Center Road in the former Tide Dry Cleaners location. Perkins-Critser Construction is renovating the space, with interior build-out nearing completion. Tide Dry Cleaners has moved next door.

Flaming Bowls Teriyaki and Taco will soon open at 8303 Maple Street in the former Curry in a Hurry space. The Japanese-Mexican fusion concept will offer gyoza, flavored teas and smoothies, teriyaki bowls and queso birria tacos. A grand opening date has yet to be announced.

Exterior signage is in place, and most of the interior build-out has been completed for the relocated Funny Bone Comedy Club, which will open soon in Miracle Hills. The 16,270 sq. ft. space will also include Draft Cade, and arcade bar and restaurant with existing locations in Kansas City; Toledo, Ohio; and Richmond, Va. Funny Bone is moving from Village Pointe. The comedy club has 15 locations in eight states.

Sakura Bana will close its location at 7425 Dodge Street on May 17. The locally owned Japanese restaurant has been in business since 1986.

The “Restaurant & Retail Updates” section is sponsored by Anderson Convenience Market, featuring Quality AMOCO Fuels and serving Omaha since 1952, and proud to announce the return of Quality Amoco Fuels. Look for changes this Summer at Anderson Convenience Market – 8 Omaha area locations!

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

Developer Breaks Ground on Affordable Housing Project Along Park Avenue

inCOMMON Community Development celebrated the groundbreaking of The Poppleton Wednesday, an affordable housing development located in the heart of the Park Avenue neighborhood. The project marks the first phase of a 121-unit mixed-income, mixed-use development that will provide help a solution to Omaha’s housing shortage.

Like many growing metro areas, Omaha is facing an affordable housing shortage that threatens the well-being of low-income residents. According to the 2021 Housing Affordability in the Omaha and Council Bluffs Area report, there is currently a shortage of 78,800 affordable housing units in the region, with the gap expected to grow to 104,000 units by 2040.

Recent redevelopment in the Park Avenue area has led to improvements and attracted middle-income residents, but it has also displaced low-income families. Displacement means losing access to essential services such as transportation, healthcare, schools, and local amenities, causing significant upheaval in families’ lives. The new affordable housing at The Poppleton will help mitigate this displacement and provide stability for residents.

Strategically located near public transit and other vital amenities, The Poppleton is a block away from inCOMMON’s Park Avenue Neighborhood Resource Center. The center provides a wide range of services, including workforce development, adult education, citizenship classes, financial education and youth programming.

Phase I of The Poppleton, scheduled for completion in fall 2026, will feature 51 units for residents with Area Median Incomes ranging from 40 to 80 percent. The unit mix includes studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments, with amenities such as underground parking, on-site laundry and a pickleball court.

The Poppleton will be developed in two phases, with the second phase adding additional units and commercial space. This project serves as a key part of a comprehensive community development strategy outlined by local residents in the Park Avenue Neighborhood Plan.

“inCOMMON and our partners understand the impact of affordable housing and the impact it has on a person’s success,” said Sheryl Garst, project manager for inCOMMON Housing. “We also know that the system has not kept up with the demand for affordable housing, and it’s getting more difficult each and every year and with each and every project. We are thankful for the contributions of time, talent and treasure for our Park Avenue community and the great city of Omaha, and the great state of Nebraska.”

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Isaiah Ang, Contributing Writer

The City of Omaha grew by 2,485 people from 2023 to 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates just released. That’s a growth rate of barely over half a percent. The population inside the city limits was 489,265 in 2024 compared to 486,780 last year. Omaha is now the 41st largest city in America just behind Kansas City (#38), Raleigh (#39) and Colorado Springs (#40). Omaha is just ahead of Miami (#42), Virginia Beach (#43) and Long Beach (#44). The Census Bureau released 2024 metro population estimates back in March, and Omaha was 1,001,010.

NAI NP Dodge has listed several lots for sale in Bellevue’s Good Life District at the interchange of Highways 75 & 34. Four shovel-ready, commercial lots from 6.73 to 32.65 acres are now available in the mixed-use development. The 575-acre Good Life District is anchored by Bellevue Bay, a 100,000 sq. ft. water park now under construction. When it opens in 2027, it will be the fourth-largest indoor water park in the nation with 600,000 visitors annually.

Developers of Heartwood Preserve are planning to raise a new barn. According to a building permit, a 3,358 sq. ft. barn structure will be built in the park that is adjacent to South 144th Street and will serve as an event venue.

Creighton University will start construction on a major project that will create a new central park on their North Downtown campus. In July, construction will begin on the “quadrangle”. The 251,500 sq. ft. public space that will replace softball and baseball fields as well as a parking lot. It will include 5.7 acres of lawns, a fountain, performance stage and amphitheater. The $22-25 million project will be largely funded by donations and is a capstone project on Creighton’s recent construction boom, which includes new a health science building, residence halls, softball stadium and a baseball practice field.

Site work is well under way on the future 2-story streetcar vehicle maintenance facility on a small portion of the CHI Health Center’s Parking Lot A. The facility is located near to an existing OPPD substation in the shadow of Interstate 480 bridges. The entrance into Lot A had to be reconfigured to accommodate the site. The facility will maintain the six streetcars that will run on the 3.2-mile route connecting The Riverfront, Old Market, downtown, Midtown Crossing, The Blackstone District and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

A former KFC restaurant site in Midtown will soon be home to a Bank of America branch office. Construction is under way on a 4,275 sq. ft. bank building at 4358 Dodge Street. That’s where a former fast-food restaurant was recently demolished. Located just north of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, this building will be Bank of America’s third location in Omaha. The others are at 13255 West Center Road and 86th & West Dodge Road.

Crews have assembled much of the steel superstructure for a future building northeast of 180th & West Maple Road. That’s where OrthoNebraska’s West Maple Clinic plans to call home. Just to the west of OrthoNebraska, construction is also underway on a retail center. The developer of the project area is White Lotus Group. OrthoNebraska has existing locations near Oakview Mall and in Aksarben Village, Elkhorn and Council Bluffs.

Crews are currently working on the fifth and sixth levels of what will be a 7-level parking garage in the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s EDGE District, a multi-use development anchored by the Catalyst Building. The site is situated between 48th Street to the west, Saddle Creed Road to the east, Farnam Street to the north and Leavenworth Street to the south. Located at 4605 Farnam Street, the city-owned garage will provide 753 parking stalls, including four electric vehicle charging stations.

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Burlington Capital, an Omaha-based investment firm, has joined the Al-Bushra Infrastructure Development Fund as a strategic partner, marking a new chapter in economic cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The fund, which is privately managed and closed-ended, aims to develop more than 734,000 square meters of land in the Al-Aziziyah district of Makkah, supporting urban growth and regional economic diversification.

For the 20th time in the past 21 months, Creighton University’s Rural Mainstreet Index sank below the 50.0 growth neutral reading in May, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy. The region’s overall reading for May increased to 44.0 from April’s 40.0.

Werner Enterprises, Inc. has appointed M. Gayle Packer to fill a vacancy on its board of directors. Packer currently serves as president and CEO of Terracon Consultants Inc. an employee-owned engineering consulting firm specializing in environmental, geotechnical, facilities and materials services.

Midwest Laboratories is celebrating its 50th anniversary today. The Omaha-based company was founded May 15, 1975 by Ken Pohlman. Now under the leadership of Brent Pohlman, Midwest Laboratories provides testing services to the soil, pet food, animal feed, food and beverage, compost and fuel industries from its 14-building campus at 136th & B Street.

LP Daly Restoration has leased a 12,800 sq. ft. space at 13529 I Circle, according to Trenton Magid and John Meyer of NAI NP Dodge who brokered the lease.

Median pay among top U.S. CEOs rose 7.5 percent to a record $16.8 million for 2024, as big stock grants boosted leaders’ reported earnings, according to Reuters.

The Greater Omaha Chamber and Scott Data, nonprofit AI solutions provider, announced a strategic new partnership to position Omaha as the premier destination for artificial intelligence innovation and adoption. The partnership is intended to accelerate the adoption of AI by Omaha-area businesses—particularly small and mid-sized companies and startups—through education, technical advising and affordable access to advanced AI computing.

The initiative brings together the Chamber’s economic development leadership with Scott Data’s unique AI-ready infrastructure and services. Located in Aksarben Village, Scott Data’s 110,000 sq. ft., Tier III data center has been enhanced with banks of high-speed AI processors, now available to lease through a colocation model that drastically reduces costs and barriers for businesses to engage with AI.

Dean Snyder Construction (DSC), founded in 1958, is a family-and-employee-owned general contractor and design-build firm. We serve the commercial, food and beverage processing, industrial, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and healthcare markets. Our commitment to hard work, direct communication, owner involvement, and exceeding client expectations ensures long-term customer satisfaction. Contact us at www.deansnyder.com

Nebraska Monarchs is hosting its annual Native Plant Giveaway and Environmental Expo Saturday, May 17, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the South High Gym. The first 250 households to arrive will receive a free, predesigned native perennial garden. The Environmental Expo will feature local community experts and environmental organizations.

The National Council for Mental Wellbeing presented Centerpointe President and CEO Topher Hansen with its Lifetime Achievement Award on May 5 in Washington, DC, to honor his distinguished career with the nonprofit healthcare provider. The National Council’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals for their tireless efforts and commitment to improving the lives of those living with mental health and substance use challenges. Hansen, who is retiring June 30, started at CenterPointe as a volunteer in 1975 and has been CEO since 2000. CenterPointe will celebrate his legacy with an open house at its Campus for Hope Tuesday, June 10.

Corgis of all types pushed their tiny legs to the limits last Saturday in the 5th Annual Omaha Corgi Races held at River’s Edge Park. The races were reportedly chaotic, but the event raised money for The Grand Champion organization, which benefits local dog rescues.

Preserve Omaha and the Omaha Magical Society are showcasing two historic venues today: the well-known, late-1800s magician David P. Abbott’s house and the former Emmy Gifford Children’s Theater, which now houses the Hispanic Art Center of Omaha. Teller, of famous magician duo Penn & Teller, donated the Abbott house to the Omaha Magical Society, a nonprofit organization, in September 2024. Today’s event features cocktails at the Hispanic Art Center of Omaha and tours of the Abbott house.

Home Projects That Boost Value

By Jill ANderson

Whether you’re planning to move soon or not, it’s smart to be strategic about which home projects you take on. Your time, energy and money matter – and not all upgrades offer the payoff you might expect. As U.S. News Real Estate explains:

“. . . not every home renovation project will increase the resale value of a home. Before you invest in a swimming pool or new addition, you should consider whether the project will pay itself off by getting prospective buyers in the door when it’s time to sell.”

Planning Ahead Pays Off

If you plan to move relatively soon, you’ll want to get a jump start on your to-do list. And even if moving isn’t on your radar yet, life can change quickly – a new job, a growing family, or shifting priorities can fast-track your plans. You don’t want to be scrambling to fix up your home if your timeline changes.

By planning ahead, you can spread out the work over time, which is easier on your wallet and your stress levels. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the upgrades while you’re still living there and have the peace of mind your house is ready to impress when it’s time to list.

What Buyers Want (and What’s Actually Worth Doing)

If you’re not sure which projects are worth your time and money – here’s some information that can help. A study from the National Association of Realtors shows which upgrades typically offer the best return on your investment:

• New Steel Front Door: 100%
• Closet Renovation: 83%
• New Fiberglass Front Door: 80%
• New Vinyl Windows: 74%
• New Wood Windows: 71%
• Basement Conversion to Living Area:: 71%
• Complete Kitchen Renovation: 60%
• Add New Bathroom: 56%
• Bathroom Renovation: 50%

But don’t take this list as law. This is based on national data and is the sort of thing that’s going to vary based on what’s most sought-after where you live. That’s where a real estate agent comes in. As an article from Ramsey Solutions says:

“The best way to gauge what you can expect in terms of resale value on home improvements—especially if you’re planning to sell soon—is to talk to a real estate agent who is an expert in your market. They’re sure to know the local trends, and they can show you how other homes with the features you want to add are selling. That way, you can make an educated decision before you start ordering lumber and knocking down walls.”

It doesn’t matter whether you plan to move soon or not, it can still pay off to make strategic updates that’ll help you love your home now and stand out later.

What’s one upgrade you’ve been thinking about? I’d love to connect and hear your thoughts.

Make it Possible.

Cole Young, Contributing Writer

Lauren Jensen, formerly of Creighton women’s basketball, signed a contract with the WNBA’s Washington Mystics last Thursday. The WNBA season begins tomorrow, and the Mystics host the Atlanta Dream at 6:30 p.m. The game can be streamed with a subscription to YouTube or YouTube TV.

The Omaha Supernovas’ historic season came to an end Friday at the hands of the Indy Ignite, losing in five sets. Indy went on to play the Orlando Valkyries, who upset No. 2 seed Atlanta Vibe in the other match of the semifinals. The Supernovas ended with the league-best 21-8 record this season.

Omaha softball won its third straight Summit League Championship Saturday, surviving a scare from South Dakota. In the double-elimination tournament, South Dakota, coming out of the losers’ bracket, had to beat Omaha twice to win the championship. In game one, they beat the Mavericks 9-1 in a five-inning run-rule thumping. Omaha grabbed the winner-take-all game 4-2 behind star pitcher Maddia Groff’s complete game to make its third-straight postseason appearance.

Omaha now heads to Norman, Okla. to join a pod hosted by second overall seed and four-time defending national champions Oklahoma. They will face Cal in the first round Friday. That game will air on ESPN+ at 2:30 p.m.

Creighton softball fell to Connecticut 18-4 in the Big East Championship Saturday night. Pitcher Kenzie Schopfer and outfielder Sydra Seville were named to the Big East All-Tournament Team. While the Bluejays fell short, this season had plenty of positives. The program posted its first back-to-back, 30-win seasons since 2009 and 2010 and scored a school-record 321 runs.

Union Omaha played expansion club Portland Hearts of Pine to a 2-2 draw on Saturday at Werner Park. Omaha took the lead in the 83rd minute on a Joe Gallardo penalty kick but couldn’t hold on, allowing the tying goal just three minutes later. Union Omaha’s next match is against Texoma FC at 7 p.m. on Saturday at Historic Bearcat Stadium in Maryville, Mo. Its next home match is Thursday, June 12. All USL League One matches can be streamed on ESPN+.

Creighton baseball took the rubber match in the season series against Omaha on Tuesday, handing out a 19-3 run-rule victory in Ed Servais’ final in-state rivalry game. Creighton (35-14, 14-4) sits second in Big East standings with one final series remaining before the conference tournament begins Wednesday, May 21. The top four teams in the conference will advance to the double-elimination tournament. Creighton will head to the nation’s capital to face Georgetown this weekend, with first pitch of the series tonight at 5 p.m.

Omaha baseball clinched a spot in the 2025 Summit League tournament ahead of its series at North Dakota State this weekend. The Mavericks (19-27, 12-15) snuck in, with only the top four teams in the conference advancing. The Summit League tournament will be held at Omaha’s Tal Anderson Field from May 21-24. First pitch of this weekend’s series is tonight at 6:30 p.m.

2025 attendance numbers were recently released for the PVF, and the Supernovas finished No. 1 in professional volleyball attendance for the second straight year. Over 14 home matches in 2025, the club welcomed 152,949 fans, a 32 percent increase from last season. Its 10,925 spectators per match eclipsed last season’s figure of 9,656 for a year-over-year increase of 13 percent. Omaha now has hosted 19 of the top 20 highest-attended pro volleyball matches in history. Average attendance surpasses league averages from the WNBA (9,807), PWHL (7,260) and WSL (6,713).

The Omaha Storm Chasers are in the midst of a home series against the Columbus Clippers this week and hold the lead 2-0. First pitch tonight will be at 6:35 p.m. The team is hosting Star Wars Night Friday and Replica Championship Ring Giveaway Saturday.

Upcoming Games

• Creighton Baseball at Georgetown | May 15 – May 17 | 5 p.m. Thursday
• Omaha Baseball at NDSU | May 15 – May 17 | 6:30 p.m. Thursday
• Omaha Storm Chasers vs. Columbus | May 13 – May 18 | 6:35 p.m. Thursday
• Omaha Softball vs. Cal | Friday, May 16 | 2:30 p.m.
• Union Omaha vs. Texoma FC | Saturday, May 17 | 7 p.m.
• Creighton Baseball – Opponent TBD | Wednesday, May 21 | Time TBD
• Omaha Baseball – Opponent TBD | Wednesday, May 21 | Time TBD

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Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts has announced “From the Great Lakes to the Great Plains: The Visible Currents of Climate Change,” an immersive multimedia group exhibition on view from June 13 through September 14. Curated by Rachel Adams, chief curator and director of programs, the exhibition brings together 21 artists and an artist collective to examine the environmental, cultural and political implications of water in two vital North American regions. Their contributions range from film and installation to weaving, sculpture and sound—together offering imaginative responses to the urgent global water crisis.

The Omaha Mobile Stage Youth Talent Show program is holding its series opener May 31st. The outdoor amateur talent competition series has dates throughout the summer for ages 3 through graduating high school seniors, and is open to music, bands, dancing, singing, drama, musical theater, comedy, improv, poetry, spoken word, opera, illusion and more. Participation is free.

Omaha Performing Arts and Culxr House are partnering for Hip Hop Lab Block Party II this Friday, May 16, at 6:30 p.m. Join for music, performances, vendors and good vibes along 24th Street as they wrap up another season of Hip Hop Lab! Featuring performances by local artists DJ Ivan Alferez and DJ Mista Soull and national performers DJ Mell Star, Mista Lawnge of Black Sheep, ED O.G., and CL Smooth.

The Nebraska Theater Academy, an O-pa Education program that celebrates the power of the arts and supports high school and middle school theater programs, is celebrating the best in Nebraska theater by announcing their outstanding 2024/2025 Nebraska Theater Academy award winners. These schools and students will be honored at the Nebraska Theater Academy Showcase on May 31 at the Orpheum. Celebrating its 12th year, the Tony Awards-inspired showcase will be hosted by Broadway star Kevyn Morrow.

The Joslyn Art Museum is hosting a special Omaha Symphony concert this Sunday, May 18, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The concert will be held in Witherspoon Hall, with repertoire ranging from exciting new works to established gems. Arrive early to stroll the galleries, enjoy lunch in The Cafe, or make a stop in The Shop.

Spaw Collective is a local, woman-owned dog grooming salon opening in 2025. We prioritize safety and comfort, offering traditional grooming services along with fun, safe coloring options. Our shop features a curated retail area with products from local artisans, supporting the community. Committed to quality and care, we aim to create a positive environment where pets feel loved and owners trust us with their furry babies. Spaw Collective is located at 5094 South 108th Street.

LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT

Curiosity is an important success trait, because it rewires your brain for change. According to Big Think, curiosity helps reframe uncertainty as an invitation, not a threat. When we’re curious, the brain’s dopaminergic system — the same one that lights up when we anticipate a reward — kicks into gear.

Generation Z is 1.7 times more likely than previous generations to “avoid management roles to protect their well-being,” according to The Hustle.

A new study of 1028 participants in the United Kingdom and United States revealed 27 percent of people now use AI chatbots like ChatGPT instead of traditional search engines like Google, according to Tom’s Guide.

Three-quarters of participants in a recent study reported better mental health after blocking the internet on their phone for two weeks, according to Futurism.com. Attention spans improved too.

SALES

When calling a prospect, do you ever get the “I’m in a meeting” objection? Sales author Jeb Blount recommends the acknowledge-and-pivot strategy, by saying: “I totally expected you to be in a meeting and not able to talk. That’s exactly why I called—to find a time that’s more convenient for you. Why don’t I send you a meeting invite for Thursday at 2:00, and then we can get together when you do have time to talk?”

Many of the questions that brokers ask in the discovery process are weak. Sales author Anthony Iannarino recommends “high gain” questions that cause the client to pause and think about the question and its implications. Any time your client responds with “That’s a great question,” suggests you’ve created value for them.

WISDOM

“In looking for people to hire, look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence and energy. If they don’t have the first, the other two will kill you,” – Warren Buffett

Did you know Omaha ranks #8 among the nation’s top cities for growth in cybersecurity employment and wages, according to Upwind, which examined 44 U.S. cities.

Did you know Nebraska is #5 on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best States rankings, which were released earlier this month?

Did you know that a $2.2 billion University of Nebraska Medical Center hospital, currently referred to as “Project Health,” is in the design phase? It would be built at Farnam Street & Saddle Creek Road.

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Omaha Spring Home & Lifestyle Show happening May 16th – 18th: This free event is the perfect opportunity for homeowners to save BIG on all home improvement projects and meet with local and national vendors face to face, offering valuable insights and guidance to help you turn your vision into reality. Whether you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, revamp your outdoor living space or simply make some updates around the house, the Omaha Spring Home & Lifestyle Show has everything you need to get started.

Little Bohemia Spring Market happening on May 17th: Celebrate the arrival of spring in Little Bohemia on Saturday, May 17th! Enjoy food trucks, a mobile wine bar, pop-up vendors and local shopping throughout the neighborhood. It’s the perfect way to spend a spring day exploring and supporting local businesses!

Future of Rock Festival happening on May 17th: The first-ever Future of Rock Festival takes place May 17 at the Granary Green – a full day of live music, food and community. This all-ages, family-friendly event features teen-led rock bands from across the metro, along with local food trucks, vendors, interactive games and music education booths. Whether you’re a lifelong rocker or just discovering your love for live music, this festival celebrates the future of local talent and the timeless energy of rock!

Built on Care: Paul Hogan’s Path from Omaha Roots to a Global Leader happening on May 22nd: Scale Omaha, powered by the Nebraska Startup Academy, welcomes Paul Hogan, co-founder of Home Instead, for an exclusive conversation on building a purpose-driven company with global impact. Hogan will share how he scaled Home Instead from Omaha to more than 1,200 franchises across 14 countries, leading innovation in senior care. With experience on global advisory boards and recognition as an Entrepreneur of the Year, Paul brings unique insights on leadership, growth and staying mission-focused. Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of Omaha’s most influential entrepreneurs.

Nebraska Bridal & Wedding Expo happening on May 18th: The Nebraska Bridal & Wedding Expo brings together top wedding professionals to help you plan your big day. From gowns and venues to photographers, music and honeymoon ideas, this event has everything you need in one place. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore options, get inspired and connect with experts.

Wednesday Night Workouts happening on May 21st: The Wednesday Night Workout Series invites the community to enjoy free outdoor fitness sessions led by licensed instructors from Genesis Health Clubs. Sponsored by Methodist Health System, each week features a different workout like Zumba, Mixxed Fit, PiYo, or Barre. All fitness levels are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to bring a water bottle and a mat or blanket.

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!

John Ewing, Jr. defeated three-term incumbent Jean Stothert in this week’s election to become the next mayor of Omaha. Six Omaha City Council incumbents won reelection: Pete Festersen; Danny Begley; Ron Hug; Don Rowe; Brinker Harding; and Aimee Melton. In District 2, newcomer Lavonya Goodwin defeated former city councilman Ben Gray in the race to replace incumbent Juanita Johnson, who did not make it through the primary election.

NP Dodge Real Estate has welcomed new residential sales associates including Drew Clanton, Peter Tran and Tuan Huynh.

Baird Holm LLP has welcomed attorneys Sarah (Sally) L. McGill, Danielle L. Rowley, and Evan D. Runge to the firm. McGill and Rowley are members of Baird Holm’s labor & employment practice area. Runge practices primarily in the areas of estate planning and tax law. Baird Holm is a 150-year-old law firm with approximately 100 attorneys licensed in 23 states.

After more than 45 years in banking Gerry Tomka will retire June 30th as executive vice president and Chief Lending Officer at Security National Bank.

Children’s Nebraska has named Venkata Kolli as medical director of the Behavioral Health & Wellness Center at Children’s Nebraska, which is scheduled to open in January. Kolli joined Children’s medical staff last year and is a special faculty member in the department of psychiatry at Creighton University.

McGrath North has added Jack Suter, a recent summa cum laude graduate of Creighton University School of Law, to its real estate practice group.

Union Pacific president Beth Whited will be the keynote speaker at College of St. Mary’s commencement ceremony May 17th. Whited is the first female president in Union Pacific history and has been with the Omaha-based railroad for 35 years.

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.

It is no deep dark secret that I am fond of country western music. Not so much the music part, but the lyrics part. There’s a great deal of home-spun wisdom to be garnered by just listening to the words.

One of my all-time favorite is by Mac Davis, and it begins with “Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble when you’re perfect in every way.” I like it, because it reminds me of me.

For decades, I have been preaching that individual investors can – by using the tools developed by Joe Ricketts and Jack Bogle – outperform the pros. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal documents the validity of my insightful manifesto. Spoiler alert: It did not mention me by name.

The article in question is titled, “As Markets Swooned, Pro sold – and Individuals Pounced.” Readers Digest version; during the recent Trump Tariff meltdown, hedge funds sold $1.3 trillion worth of stock, while at the same time individual investors added $50 billion to their stock holdings. What the author – a journalism major with no experience in the trenches – failed to point out is that while $50 billion sounds like a lot of money it is .0001 percent of the total value of the U.S. market.

The author notes that Wall Street historically decries mom-and-pop investors as dumb money, because they are prone to making decisions based upon fear and greed. By contrast, hedge funds are viewed as the crème de la crème of the professional investor community, because they have hordes of PhD math geeks and ginormous computers at their beck and call.

Side bar comment – In my less-than-humble opinion, using logic and analytics to deal with an emotionally driven event is like trying to reason with a two-year-old throwing a hissy fit.

In a rather bumbling fashion, the author documents that the hedge funds’ selling spree was not a calculated response to Trump’s tariffs, but rather due to the fact that their bet-the-farm strategy got them caught swimming naked.

Hedge funds borrow money to juice their returns. They use their portfolios as collateral to borrow money from the banks. The market’s knee-jerk drop following Trump’s Rose Garden announcement crushed their portfolios value, forcing them to sell stock in order to dig themselves out of the hole. So much for the notion that markets are rational and the professionals are omnipotent.

In closing, let me say, “It’s hard to be humble when you’re perfect in so many ways.” And I think there’s a lot of so-called dumb-money investors, like the 45 million American workers who have their 401(k)s invested in index funds, can say the same thing.

For more on index funds, visit my podcast, Wall Street for Dummies

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