During a float, you are suspended effortlessly in a supersaturated solution of Epsom salt and water within a light- and sound-controlled environment that reduces sensory stimulation and effectively suspends the effects of gravity on the central nervous system.
FULL-SPECTRUM IR SAUNA
Benefit from Near, Mid, and Far Infrared frequencies covering the full range of health benefits available in the infrared spectrum.
COLD PLUNGE HALO IR SAUNA
Invigorate your senses and stimulate circulation with a refreshing 45 degree cold plunge, enhancing recovery and boosting immune health.
Combine salt therapy and infrared heat to boost respiratory health, detoxification, and relaxation leaving you refreshed and invigorated.
THERAPY
Immerse yourself in healing sound waves that harmonize your body, reducing stress, and promoting cellular health and rejuvenation.
Letter from the Publisher
The month of November brings with it many things. The cold weather is setting in, Christmas decorations gradually go into full force by the end of the month, and winter sporting events take center stage. The two most important aspects that November brings revolve around the holidays we celebrate this month. That being an appreciation for the men and women who have served our country and their families that have done so alongside them, and an opportunity to reflect on the many blessings we are thankful for.
We have a lot to be thankful for in our community. After all, few communities can say they have been nationally recognized as one of the best places to live, as we have multiple times. We also have a lot to be thankful for as individuals who get to call our Papillion community home.
We hope that this issue will encourage you to say a simple thanks to those around you, and we would like to start it off with a few of our own. To the active military and veterans in our community and beyond, thank you. To those who help keep our community beautiful and safe, thank you. To those individuals and businesses who are there when we most need them, thank you. To the teachers who work hard to build up the next generation, thank you. To everyone who calls Papillion home and helps make our community a better place, thank you!
Finally, this issue holds an exceptional place in our hearts as it marks one year from our first issue of Papillion City Lifestyle last November! In the past year, we have met so many amazing individuals and businesses that make our community special and have had the privilege to share their stories each month. Thank you to all of those who have allowed us to do so. Thank you as well to each of you, our readers, for welcoming us into your homes each month. And most importantly, thank you to our business partners who love and serve our community as much as we do. Without you, none of this would be possible. Enjoy your month of thanksgiving, Papillion!
Joseph Saaid, Vanessa Mitera, A2i Photography, Amy Hendrickson
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster Learn
Nebraska
How
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN NOVEMBER
city scene
1: Papillion Library’s new Sensory Storytime is in a smaller setting for children with all abilities. 2: Community members gathered for fun hands-on experiences at the “Fall for Papillion” event. 3: Senior Jackson Ost walks with parents, Sheila and David Ost, as part of homecoming court. 4: The Weitz Company held their annual Oktoberfest party at their La Vista location. 5: The Papillion Fire Department won the Rib Eating Relay at Texas Roadhouse’s Family Fall Festival. 6: Omaha Storm Chasers won the International League Championship. 7: Papillion Middle School’s Special Olympics Unified Sports program held a Back to School Bash.
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KELLY WAREHIME
PAPILLION AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
DEDE MALEY
DEBBIE MEYER
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MARK KUHLMANN PAPILLION POLICE DEPARTMENT
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Victress Brings Women’s Fitness and Community to Papillion-La Vista
Victress PLV brings a new approach to women’s fitness in Papillion-La Vista. Focused on empowering women through strength training and personalized coaching, Victress PLV supports women at any life stage, from young athletes to women throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. With a strong sense of community, Victress PLV provides a welcoming environment for members to achieve their fitness goals. Early membership rates are available now. Visit victressmvmtplv.com to learn more.
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Busy Bee Baking Company: 6th Annual Thanksgiving Charity Bake Sale
Busy Bee Baking Company is excited to announce its 6th Annual Thanksgiving Bake Sale for Charity on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024. Over the last five years, Busy Bee Baking Company has raised over $44,000 for the community. 100% of sales will be donated to a deserving nonprofit organization. All orders must be placed by Thursday, November 21st, 2024. Scan the QR code for more information or text (301) 785-7726 to place an order.
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Good Talk Counseling Services Celebrates Ten Years in Business
Melanie Smith, LIMHP, founded Good Talk Counseling Services in 2014. Her primary focus is on women’s mental health, specializing in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, as well as fertility issues. Ariel Paup, PLMHP, has experience working with at-risk youth, children within the foster care system, addiction, and trauma. Jessica DeBuhr, PLMHP, joined the team to help address trauma related mental health issues and crisis management. Telehealth and in-person services are available.
Photography by Glam Haven Photography
Discover unforgettable dining at Arbor Day Farm.
Make Arbor Day Farm your go-to for a unique dining experience. At Timbers at Lied Lodge, enjoy panoramic farm views and an artfully prepared meal — including the Thanksgiving buffet, a holiday feast not to be missed. For barbecue, visit Porter’s in the Apple House Market for brisket, pulled pork, and more. Both restaurants offer year-round dining, making Arbor Day Farm ideal for any occasion. Plan your vist today at arbordayfarm.org.
Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial is honoring the past, educating the future, and providing healing and reflection for veterans.
Remembering Nebraska’s Vietnam Heroes
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY HENDRICKSON
“All Gave Some, Some Gave All” is etched into stone at the memorial. The memorial commemorates all those who served and who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Less than a mile south of 108th and Highway 370, a powerful tribute to Nebraska’s Vietnam veterans is a testament to memory and a signpost to learning.
“The vision is to remember and to educate,” says Ron Elwell, Executive Director of the Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation.
Opening this past June, The Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial, dedicated to the nearly 400 Nebraskans lost during the war, offers not only a place of reflection but also a space for future generations to learn about the lasting impacts of the Vietnam War.
The memorial features 11 obelisks representing each year of the Vietnam War. Each side of the obelisks contrasts soldiers’ experiences in Vietnam with events on the homefront. QR codes offer deeper insights, enabling visitors to explore history further.
A restored helicopter serves as the most striking memorial, however. Donated by a Vermont VFW and brought back to life with the help of Iowa Community College’s aviation maintenance program, the helicopter, which served in Vietnam, retains its original 1968 paint scheme thanks to Craig Fouts, its original pilot.
Elwell explains that the initial plans for the helicopter’s restoration involved painting it as a Medevac helicopter. However, Fouts reached out, offering both journal entries and photographs of the then-new helicopter.
“So, I had pictures from the 60s of this helicopter!” Elwell says, providing the most accurate means of restoring the vehicle. Noting that choppers were often a welcome sign during the war, this feature has been a centerpiece for all visitors. “It’s had a huge impact on most Vietnam veterans that go up there.”
“The community has embraced this memorial. It’s become a place where Vietnam veterans can feel appreciated, welcomed home, and finally share their stories.” Ron Elwell
Though it has only been open for months, Elwell says hundreds of people from across the nation, including many veterans, have visited the site.
“It’s one of the biggest state memorials out there. Everyone says it’s the most beautiful place,” he says, adding many veterans have found it a place of healing and reflection, some even sharing their stories for the first time, many through the foundation’s Project Share Your Story, recording their experiences for the Library of Congress.
“The community has embraced this memorial,” says Elwell. “It’s become a place where Vietnam veterans can feel appreciated, welcomed home, and finally share their stories.”
One such story includes Larry Reid. As Elwell explains, Reid was saved by a fellow soldier named James Fous (Nebraska Medal of Honor Recipient posthumously) who jumped on a
hand grenade, sacrificing himself in the process. Through the memorial, Reid connected with the hero’s family.
“That was the first time in 50-plus years that Larry Reid had ever discussed that story,” Elwell says. Becoming friends with Reid and other Vietnam veterans, Elwell was able to hear such stories and their responses to the memorial.
“Larry said a profound thing during the construction. ‘You know, Ron, I went to Vietnam alone, I came home alone, and now I don’t have to do it alone,” says Elwell. “This is why we’re doing this, right here. They went there alone, they came home alone, and they did it alone. Now they’re finding they have a chance to talk about it.”
For more information on the memorial and the foundation, visit www.nvvmf.org or see the memorial in person to experience the history for yourself.
Adding to
How Mathnasium helps students increase their math skills and take the next step in their educational journey
ARTICLE BY DEB GRAYSON REINARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY A2I PHOTOGRAPHY
Success
What do you get when you add a talented, passionate staff of instructors to a group of eager, dedicated kids? You get Mathnasium!
Situated among the shops in Midlands Place is a hot spot for learning, locally owned and operated by Michelle Koester.
“There is a pretty magical energy in this room,” Koester said.
Mathnasium is far more than a math tutor. Students’ math skills are fully assessed before a customized plan is created.
Not just for young kids, Koester said Mathnasium also caters to advanced students with math challenges including pre-calculus.
“Many know the frustration. We know what it feels like when math doesn’t make sense. But with Mathnasium, it’s so nice to know what it feels like when it does,” Koester said.
Tiffany Slayton is proud to see that confidence grow in her daughter, eight-year-old Eviana.
“She has made great improvement,” she said. “Math is so much easier for her now.”
Slayton said she and her husband are looking forward to parent-teacher conferences and visiting with Eviana’s third-grade teacher about her improvement.
Koester said she appreciates schools and teachers and hopes they see Mathnasium as an additional resource.
In the meantime, Eviana is a superfan of Mathnasium. She enjoys working hard on her assignments and earning the opportunity to spin the prize wheel. “My favorite prize is to sit in the teacher’s chair,” she said.
DEBBIE MEYER’S PASSION IS HELPING MILITARY FAMILIES FIND PERFECT HOMES
Commitment to Serve Bridges Generations
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
“
“It is so rewarding to help and guide Joele, the next generation of our family in real estate.”
Finding a home is not just about the house; it’s about making the right investment. For military personnel, this choice often comes with limited information and time.
Enter Debbie Meyer, a realtor and military relocation professional with Berkshire Hathaway, who assists service members relocating to Sarpy County and the Omaha Metro.
“They’re relying on me to be boots on the ground for them, and I take that very seriously,” says Meyer. “I’m not here to sell someone a home but to help them get a good investment.”
Since 2010, Meyer has served over 400 active and retired military members, with 90% of her transactions involving military personnel.
Her dedication stems from a family history of military service. Her paternal grandfather served in the Navy in World War II’s Pacific Theater. At the same time, her maternal grandparents were spies in the Philippines, a time that included her grandfather’s survival of the Bataan Death March.
As a part of her upbringing, hearing stories of both the men and women serving along with the adversity and sacrifices made by everyone inspires her to do her best for military members.
“Most people say ‘thank you for your service’ to just the military person, but it’s the whole family. So, for me to find someplace they can call home and be comfortable is a special thing,” Meyer explains.
And she’s teaching that appreciation to the next generation as Meyer now works alongside her daughter, Joele Engel.
“It is so rewarding to help and guide Joele, the next generation of our family in real estate,” says Meyers.
“She has learned the special challenges active duty and those utilizing VA financing have and how to navigate those for a smoother transaction for our VA clients. It also means so much to help her find her special strengths and niche.”
These unique challenges include tight schedules, financial considerations, and finding the right community.
“It’s a hurry up and wait situation, where they want to be prepared, but until their hard orders drop, they don’t want to get into a contract,” she explains, offering video calls to help potential buyers view properties while they await their final relocation orders.
Meyer also dispels myths about VA financing, citing Ellie Mae data showing higher average closing success rates than conventional mortgages.
As a member of the Offutt Advisory Council, Meyer proudly shares, “One of the recurring themes is that our community here gives more support to the members of our base than most communities.” The Omaha Metro was named a Great American Defense Community in 2023.
To help military families settle in, Meyer also provides a monthly events calendar, a perk she says many appreciate and use to get involved.
“When it comes time to leave, they are surprised to find they enjoyed their time here,” she says, adding that many even retire in the Omaha Metro. “It says a lot for our community that they would choose our location to retire and finish raising their kids and grandkids versus where they come from.”
omahahothomes.com
402-320-7916
When your child continues to develop their math skills, you can rest easy knowing they’re on track for a successful school year. Mathnasium gives students the instruction they need to reinforce what they’re learning in school, work on concepts that may pose a challenge, and take their math knowledge to the next level. In other words, we got this.
John Henry’s: Where Home Services Meet Family Values
JOHN HENRY’S HELPS CUSTOMERS FEEL LIKE A PART OF THE FAMILY BY PROVIDING TRUSTED, CUSTOMER-FOCUSED PLUMBING, HEATING, AIR, AND ELECTRICAL SERVICES
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Electrical has offered customers in Lincoln nearly three decades of service and trust with a family-focused commitment to excellence. This same level of service and commitment is what drives their team in Omaha since opening a new location here last fall.
“We strive to give customers the five-star treatment they deserve,” says Brian Gill, Branch Manager for John Henry’s in Omaha.
Gill explains that their suite of services is extensive and includes replacement installations, drain work, water conditioning, and hydro-jetting. What sets them apart, however, is treating their customers as family.
“AT THE END OF THE DAY, THEY TAKE CARE OF THE PLACE LIKE IT’S THEIR OWN HOME.”
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO PHOTOGRAPHY BY VANESSA MITERA
“They’ll park on the street, wear booties in your home, be sure to place drop cloths, and go over all your options,” Gill says, adding that all service technicians have undergone background checks and are licensed and insured. “At the end of the day, they take care of the place like it’s their own home.”
“It’s the golden rule,” says Paul Miller, a service plumber with John Henry’s. “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”
Miller, who’s been with John Henry’s for roughly six months, says that this family treatment of customers stems from the family-feel of the company.
“When it comes to working at John Henry’s, I feel like everyone in the company—doesn’t matter which trade it is—everyone is willing to help,” he says. And while this does make for a great working environment, Miller explains it ultimately benefits the customer as they’re getting all they need in one place.
“Here, everyone wants to help you,” he says. As a plumber, for instance, he can communicate with an electrician or HVAC technician if needed. “It lets us be a one-stop shop. Being able to work with everyone inside the company—it makes a difference.”
One thing Miller says, when working inside a home, is that the technicians want to build trust with their customers. “There’s nothing wrong with asking someone who’s coming inside your home what they are doing.”
He says this understanding brings knowledge and trust to what John Henry’s offers.
“When we treat our customers right,” Gill says, “they’re going to tell their friends, they’re going to call back, often for the same technicians.”
John Henry’s also helps build that familial level of trust through their membership programs, including their VIP subscription. He explains that this program offers various services such as filter changes and inspections, waives dispatch fees, and guarantees four site visits each year.
This is just another way that John Henry’s fulfills their motto: Our Family Serving Yours. CallJH.com
402.732.2521
Sponsored by Debbie Meyer, Real Estate Agent
Hometown Hero
Ron Hernandez
Ron Hernandez receiving a game bat on the field at the College World Series.
We are honored to feature Ron Hernandez, a dedicated veteran and community leader who has turned personal challenges into a mission of service. After 25 years in the Army and enduring significant injuries, including a broken back, leg, and head trauma, Ron has continued to press forward with determination, using his experiences to fuel his dedication to helping others.
In April 2011, Ron founded Moving Veterans Forward, a nonprofit that helps homeless veterans transition into new apartments. Each week, Ron personally helps move veterans into new homes, providing not just transportation but fully furnishing their apartments with donated items. Thanks to his efforts and the support of his team, 3,359 veterans have received a fresh start with no cost to them.
Thank you, Ron, for your unwavering commitment to helping those who’ve served!
Want to get involved? Donate gently used items or volunteer with Moving Veterans Forward to help local veterans start a new chapter.
Want to nominate a hometown hero? Email Kyler.Hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 8TH-9TH
Papillion Downtown Business AssociationHoliday Open Houses
Downtown Papillion | 10:00 AM
Explore the vibrant heart of our city and get a sneak peek into the unique businesses that make downtown shine. This is your chance to meet the shop owners, score exclusive offers, enjoy live entertainment and discover new favorites. Bring your friends and family, support local businesses and experience the dynamic energy of downtown.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Papillion La Vista South High School Craft Fair
Papillion La Vista South High School 9:00 AM
Come check out the craft fair at Papillion LaVista South High School Craft Fair and stock up on some holiday gifts!
NOVEMBER 10TH
Armistice Day Sing-Along
Sump Memorial Library | 3:00 PM
In honor of Veterans Day, join for a family sing-along of World War 1 tunes. David Musick of the Papillion Area Historical Society will provide stories associated with war songs, then play them on the vintage Estey reed organ in the northeast corner of Sump Memorial Library. Sheet music is provided. All ages are welcome.
NOVEMBER 22ND-23RD
A Celebration of Trees
Saint Columbkille Church Social Hall
The Papillion Junior Woman’s Club presents the 6th annual ‘A Celebration of Trees’: beautifully decorated Christmas trees by local businesses, non profits, churches, and individuals. Enjoy food in the cafe, browse the boutique, participate in the raffle, and bring home goodies from the bake sale. Proceeds go back into our community to assist those in need. Friday, November 22nd 4-8PM; Saturday, November 23rd 9-2PM
NOVEMBER 27TH
Shadow Lake Towne Center's
Annual Holiday Parade
Shadow Lake Towne Center at the heart of the mall | 6:00 PM
Shadow Lake Towne Center's Annual Holiday Parade is a holiday staple for the whole family to enjoy. With a variety of different groups, acts, and organizations walking in the parade. With hot cocoa, holiday characters, and a finale of Santa lighting the Christmas tree, this is an event you won't want to miss!
NOVEMBER 30TH
Winter Wonderland
Downtown Papillion | 4:00 PM
Ready, Set, Lights! Mayor David Black will flip the switch to light the City and welcome the holidays to our historic downtown district! Enjoy hot chocolate, candy canes, pancakes, entertainment and FREE carriage rides! Visit with Santa and his reindeer at the Historic Portal School House. Downtown businesses will be open as well as a Christkindl Market featuring local artisans.
dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
