Family Guide 2025 by Omaha Magazine

Tonya Gordon | Jack Fratelli | The Hansen Family

Join a Research Study at Boys Town National Research Hospital

Looking for a fun summer activity for kids? Children with and without developmental language disorder (DLD) can participate in easy, fun and interesting research studies! Our studies help develop life-changing therapies for children with DLD. We offer payment for participants, flexible scheduling and free speech-language evalauations.

What is DLD?

DLD is common condition that impacts a child’s ability to understand and produce language. DLD impacts all aspects of life, including school and socialization. About 7-10% of children have DLD.

Children with DLD may:

• Use simpler language than other children their age

• Show errors in how they use sounds, words and sentences

• Have difficulty understanding or telling stories

What are you studying and what will my child do during the study?

The Emerging Language Knowledge Lab uses state-of-the-art eye tracking equipment, which feels like watching a movie, to study how children understand language.

The Language, Adversity and Stress Lab wants to understand how children talk in different environments and situations. We collect language samples by letting children talk at length about a topic they are passionate about.

The goal of research in the Language in Motion Lab is to understand motor and language development and learning, so we can develop better assessments and therapies for children with DLD.

The Word Learning Lab’s mobile research van can come to you, making research participation even easier! We are studying how children’s attention and memory support language learning through different activities.

SCAN the QR code to sign up for one of our studies! A member of our research team will be in touch to discuss which research opportunities your child qualifies for.

Summer Reading Program

Read for fun

Collect

Volunteer

Help

Attend a program

Find educational and entertaining programs for kids, teens and adults by browsing OPL’s online events listing.

Tumbling Class

Elite Cheer offers tumbling classes taught by qualified-certified instructors. Designed to teach pre-K through college level. Our classes are taught at an accelerated rate to produce some of the best tumblers in the region without the burnout or boredom.

Elite Academy of Martial Arts

Elite Martial Arts oﬀers karate classes as well as Brazilian JiuJitsu for all ages. Classes run year round and are open Monday – Saturday to ﬁt anyone’s busy lifestyle. We do not have sessions so you can join at any time. Memberships are conveniently set up as month to month with family rates and discounts available.

Vickie Kauffold, ED.S. Archdiocese of Omaha lovemyschool.com

Catholic schools create communities that encourage compassion for others. Nearly 19,000 children thrive in these communities that prioritize faith, family, service, academics, and co/extracurricular engagement. Our schools welcome students of all backgrounds and work hard toward our ultimate goal of making Catholic education more accessible and affordable to all in Nebraska who desire it. We believe Catholic education is truly an investment in the future.

With more than 1,800 staff, we are the fourth largest district in the state of Nebraska. Our 67 Catholic schools continue to be a viable option for many families across the 23 counties of the Archdiocese of Omaha.

Some highlights:

• Students deepen their faith in part by participating in a weekly school Mass.

• Our high school students continue to exceed state and national averages on the ACT and other standardized assessments.

• The mental health of students and staff are a priority with the services of a mental health practitioner available at many of our schools.

• Our three Archdiocesan High Schools partner with Metro Community College to enroll students in MCC’s Diesel and Auto Mechanic summer boot camp.

• Extracurricular successes abound in elementary schools and high schools in robotics, athletics, fine arts, and academic clubs.

We have so much more to share about the good work happening in our schools every day. Discover what schools are in your neighborhood, what job opportunities we have available and more at lovemyschool.com and via our social media channels. Thank you for your continued community support.

Jeff Rippe, Ed.D. Bellevue Public Schools bellevuepublicschools.org

At the heart of our work, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our mission: Champions for Children.

It is this mission that inspires and drives us, and it’s one that’s only growing stronger as we continue to forge partnerships, expand opportunities, and enhance the educational experience for all our students. I am grateful to live out this mission each day alongside the best staff, students, families, and community.

TeamBPS is eager to share one of the many exciting happenings in the Bellevue Public Schools district, as we continue to flourish with educational opportunities for the students we serve.

A significant project that will positively impact our students’ well-being for years to come and through the generosity of a $2,000,000 Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) competitive grant we are launching Project SHAPE UP.

Project SHAPE UP aims to improve overall physical activity, health, and well-being for K-12 students at military-connected schools by providing staff training, equipment, and supplies for school health and PE programs. This project will improve instruction, increase engagement, and encourage an active lifestyle for our students. Grant funds will be utilized to improve staff access to professional learning opportunities, and increase family engagement and community outreach activities. Each school in the district will receive new PE equipment and supplies to incorporate into their classrooms. We understand the profound impact that physical activity has on both the body and mind, and this grant will ensure that every student has the opportunity to engage in programs that help them thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.

Bary Habrock, Ph.D. Elkhorn Public Schools elkhornweb.org

In alignment with the EPS Board of Education’s recently updated strategic plan, work focused on the areas of high levels of learning for all students, recruiting and retaining highly qualified staff, the mental health and well-being of students and staff, the safety and security of our schools and those within them, and the growth of our community remains at the forefront.

Notably, a new scholarship pathway, ACHIEVE CTE, was launched to recognize students for the completion of career/technical education coursework and participation in hands-on career exploration experiences. In its inaugural year, the ACHIEVE CTE Scholarship was awarded to 32 members of the EPS Class of 2024, and it will continue to open doors for graduates by broadening their career perspectives and empowering them to explore a variety of industries. The scholarship is offered in partnership with the EPS Foundation and offers students a matching scholarship to attend Metro Community College. In focusing on the mental health and well-being of students and staff, various parent and community events were hosted to share knowledge of and resources surrounding mental health, and an updated cell phone policy was implemented to further protect student mental health and instructional time.

Finally, in responding to and planning for growth, following the community’s approval of a bond in November 2023, various projects are underway to meet the needs of our growing district. In August 2025, two new elementary schools and an addition to Elkhorn Valley View Middle School will open to accommodate growth across the school district.

Together, we will continue making connections and changing lives, as we work to empower every student to reach their full potential and ensure they have the tools, skills, and support they need to succeed in the dynamic and ever-changing world. I am so grateful for the continued support of our incredible Bellevue/Offutt community. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead as we remain steadfast in our mission to be Champions for Children.

In all, this work highlights the district’s dedication to fostering academic excellence, maintaining a high quality staff, prioritizing well-being, and ensuring the safety of all. These efforts, compounded with the support of our community, will continue to drive success and opportunities for our students.

onya (Kneifl) Gordon, a third-grade teacher at Westgate Elementary School in District 66, runs things like a champ. In fact, she runs and jumps like a champ. Gordon won the Women’s Triple Jump at the 2024 USA Track &

Nebraska, where her father, Bart Kneifl, was a physical education teacher and coach.

“I remember one of my first track and field competitions was in second grade, my first official competition, and I wanted to long jump just like my dad, who was still long jumping,” Gordon said, stating that initially, she pushed herself to be better than the boys. “I loved the high jump starting in fifth grade. I love the challenge of it. And it was not so much me against other athletes, but me against that bar, against myself.”

She continued jumping right through Newcastle High School. As that school has now consolidated into HartingtonNewcastle Schools, Gordon will always hold the records at that school for the long jump, high jump, and triple jump. Her athleticism garnered her a scholarship to the University of South Dakota, where she became a ninetime all-American. She then took some time to get married to her college sweetheart Steve Gordon, now the College of St. Mary Track & Field head coach and raise their daughter, Ad’astra, before going back to competing at age 40.

Gordon and her husband have also established their own training company, Tachyon Athletik, where Gordon trains and through which she competes. As an athlete, she has traveled to Finland, while Steve has also visited Finland and Australia with Tachyon. This world view has been part of why she continues to compete into her mid-40s.

“I love the fact that it shows my daughter an outgoing and healthy lifestyle, and it shows her that your hard work can take you places,” Gordon said. “She gets to see her parents connect with people from all over the globe, and I love that for her, because she talks about her big friends from other continents.”

Track and field wasn’t the only thing Gordon knew she loved as a child, she said. “I knew from a young age I wanted to be in education, and I actually started out as a physical education major.”

As an elementary school teacher today, she has since earned a master’s degree in reading and an endorsement in library media. But her love of track and field is still at the very core of her teaching.

“My kids love to hear about (track and field) and to know that I share some of the same passions that they do,” she said. “A lot of kids are involved in an outside activity, whether its cheer, dance, football, baseball, whatever it is, they feel that connection to talking about practice.”

As an athlete herself, she is able to talk to kids about the importance of self-discipline and focus, no matter a student’s interest.

“I train probably five to six days a week, and my husband writes my training plan,” Gordon said, noting that she’s up and going in the early mornings and after school. Fortunately, those interests are varied.

“I love video games, and that’s something that we connect with, and I also tie it into we

all have our own strengths, and while mine might be on the track, others have strengths that I don’t have,” she said. Gordon also said she plans to compete in the World Masters Championship in Gainesville, Florida, and the USA Masters Championships in Huntsville, Alabama, this year.

“Tonya is an exceptional teacher, and it’s fascinating to see her background as an athlete shine through in her classroom,” said Westgate Elementary Principal Scott Becker. While she participates in track and field because she enjoys her individual sports, her team at Westside reaps the benefits.

“The energy she brings to her classroom undoubtedly mirrors her performance in competition,” Becker added. “Tonya has a gift for using this energy to motivate her students, pushing them to overcome challenges and strive for their best. Tonya’s students embrace her ‘team’ approach, which fosters strong relationships and creates an environment where her students are all pulling for one another to succeed as well.”

Her team approach and energy led Westside to award Gordon the first Westside Royalty Cup, an award given out monthly that is designed to recognize staff members, departments, and schools who dedicate their hard work to make students feel like royalty. As part of the award, the staff at Westgate won a pizza party.

And when Gordon competed and won in March 2024, her Westside team and her family were there, cheering her on and making her feel like royalty.

“I’m very fortunate to have that support,” Gordon said.

For more information, visit westside66.org.

Story by Daisy Hutzell-Rodman | Photography by Sarah Lemke | Design by Joey Winton

FEATURE

Born to Perform

The Magic of Fantastic Jack Fratelli

he Fantastic Jack Fratelli has taken hold of his entertainment career at just 9 years old. In just two years, Jack has become an expert in balloon twisting, magic tricks, and has even begun learning how to handle fire batons. “My favorite skill is juggling,” Fratelli said, “but magic is OK too.”

Fantastic Jack started off as an audience plant for his father The Amazing Arthur Fratelli who has been in Omaha’s entertainment scene for over 25 years. Unbeknownst to the audience that he was fantastic, Jack would be invited on stage to learn juggling from Amazing Arthur. “I’d go up and I could do one ball, but I couldn’t do two balls,” Fratelli said. Amazing Arthur would then turn to the audience and explain different juggling tricks as Fantastic Jack performed them perfectly behind him.

“All the kids would be going, ‘But he’s doing it! He’s doing it!’ and as I turn to look at him, he’s just standing there,” Amazing Arthur said. Their father-son relationship was revealed shortly after with a quip about how good-looking the father of such a handsome young man must be.

The duo has been performing for Vala’s, Bellevue Berry Farm, the Papillion Fire Department, and many other places for the last year and a half. As the show begins, they have a ritual to ensure the success of each act. From the wings of the stage, “we do a head nod, then we walk out and we have the same number of steps. We stop in front of the audience, look at each other, and we walk around the suitcases, left, and then right three times,” Amazing Arthur said.

Recently, though, Fantastic Jack has been performing solo. Last year, he did a show in front of his second-grade class. Juggling and homework go hand in hand for him. He has entertained at a few day care centers and a 5-year-old’s birthday party, but said adult audiences are who he prefers. “They’re more mature and not shouting out,” Fratelli explained. Instead of trying to prove his magic tricks are flawed like some kids do, “the adults just laugh.”

Fratelli also discussed how they draw crowds of all ages into the show with different tactics. “We have glow-in-the-dark clubs, and if we juggle those, people come forward to see it. It’s like you can’t look away from neon,” he said.

Fantastic Jack is not the only family member to follow in Amazing Arthur’s footsteps. His older brother Joey juggles twice per week with the MIT Juggling Club in Boston; he is also ranked in combat juggling. “People are running into each other, hitting clubs, it’s very violent and dangerous,” Amazing Arthur explained. The youngest Fratelli said he is definitely not interested in that kind of juggling for now.

Outside of entertainment, Fantastic Jack wants to be as fantastic at other things as he is at entertaining. “I do balloon twisting, baseball, basketball, boxing, and BMX. Ballet too,” he said. These activities certainly keep him balanced and busy, but Fantastic Jack is always drawn back to entertaining.

Penn and Teller, the comedy duo that will celebrate their 50th anniversary of performing together this year, are Fantastic Jack’s

Story Jacie Leibfried

Photography

Sarah Lemke

Design Joey Winton

entertainment idols. “The Rio in Las Vegas with Penn and Teller” is his dream performance gig, Fratelli said.

Before he gets to the Rio, Amazing Arthur and Fantastic Jack are planning to perform in the Old Market this summer. Street performances are how Amazing Arthur got his own career started in high school, expressing in a 2014 publication of HerFamily that his act slowly gained steam with the clientele as people would ask for his card. Fantastic Jack has a business card of his very own to pass out, with links to his webpage and YouTube channel.

In exploring his YouTube videos, viewers can see all sorts of juggling and magic tricks. But Fantastic Jack has been working on a new skill: juggling with fire. At first, “when I twisted it, I felt like I was going to catch on fire when I caught it,” Fratelli said, “and then I did a few spins. I tried two, and then got the hang of it, and then I did three, and it took be a bit to get used to it, but then I got it.”

“And you look totally fearless,” his dad expressed. Amazing Arthur is in admiration of the growth Fantastic Jack has had as a performer, both in using his learned skills and in engaging an audience. “Jack’s timing is getting funny. He knows to pause and slow down, and have vocal variety when talking.” Fantastic Jack is ready to keep making magic wherever he goes.

For more information, visit theamazingarthur.com.

Schweiss |

MEET THE FAMILY

Story by Kara

Photography by Sarah Lemke | Design by Joey Winton

(Left - Right) Caiden, Koryn, Kurt, Kenley, and Cody Hansen

Hansen Family Enjoys Activities from Dance to Adaptive Sports

ike many married couples, Kurt and Koryn Hansen have full schedules and demanding lives.

Koryn is a special education teacher with Papillion La Vista Community Schools, where she started as a paraprofessional almost a decade ago. She was one of two PLCS paras to be selected for the Teacher Career Ladder program in partnership with Midland University. Kurt has been with local builder Charleston Homes for 10 years, serving as building superintendent, production manager, and more before being promoted as the company’s contracts manager in 2024.

The couple’s three active children each attend a different school in the PLCS district: firstborn son Caiden, 15, is a high school freshman; daughter Kenley is 13 and in middle school; and 10-year-old son Cody attends elementary school. Caiden participates in three adaptive sports: wheelchair basketball with the Nebraska Red Dawgs, wheelchair softball with the Nebraska Junior Barons, and sled hockey with the new local team, the Omaha Owls. He also plays trumpet in school ensembles and was accepted into Papillion-La Vista South’s STEM Academy.

“For a while I had activities three, maybe four nights a week and weekends…and I’m in high school, so I actually have to study,” he said.

Kenley has been participating in year-round competitive dance for years. She also made her school’s basketball team this year and is helping develop an inclusive club for her school. “I love getting involved in this, because it makes me really happy seeing all these kids getting a chance to participate,” she said.

Cody plays tackle football and transitioned last season from recreational basketball to a competitive league; he has also participated at his sister’s dance studio. He’s always been full of energy, his mother said, and is as naturally athletic as the rest of the family.

“I’m pretty good at basketball, but it’s still my first year,” Cody said, adding that in football, “I’m a first-string running back and first-string D-line, because I’m fast.”

Koryn also serves on the board of Nebraska Adaptive Sports and leads the Nebraska Red Dawgs as its team representative, while Kurt provides maintenance for players’ wheelchairs and the team’s equipment. For Kenley’s dance activities, Kurt is a “prop dad,” building set pieces and stage items; and Koryn is a “dance mom,” helping with hair and makeup. “We both are always willing to pitch in when needed,” Koryn said. “We’re ready to step in and fill a role, or be an assistant.”

The couple married in 2004, and Caiden was born five years later. They discovered during pregnancy that Caiden had spina bifida, a condition where the neural tube that develops into the brain and spinal cord does not close completely and results in an opening in the spine. Caiden had his first surgery the day after he was born. He’s also had years of physical therapy and has used mobility support devices his entire life.

Fostering Caiden’s independence was always important, Kurt said. “We look at it like God gave us what he knew we could handle,” Koryn said. “We kind of go with the flow, figure it out as we go…We have the same expectations for Caiden as we have for anyone else.”

Although Caiden can walk short distances with the use of bracing and crutches, he uses a wheelchair for most activities. As a gifted basketball player, he’s been selected for numerous all-tournament teams and

named MVP at multiple tournaments. He’s also a skilled softball player, and already showing promise in his first full season of sled hockey. Making the U.S. Paralympic team is a dream of Caiden’s for the future.

“I don’t know what I want to do in the long run, but I know I also want to play professional basketball, or play on an adult team,” he said. “I also want to keep playing for the Omaha Owls (all-ages sled hockey) and with the adult Nebraska Barons.”

Many of the Hansen kids’ competitions are out of town, and sometimes two events take place at the same time. Even seasonal sports have camps and bonus practices in the off-season. Koryn is “the keeper of the schedule,” Kurt said, but everything has to be managed closely so nothing gets missed.

“We touch base just about every night on what’s going on tomorrow,” Kurt said, noting that when all three kids have activities, the two parents are outnumbered. “We are very lucky and blessed that we have such good friends and family that will help us out,” Koryn added.

The Hansens know some hard choices lie ahead as their kids focus on certain activities at the expense of another. “Kenley’s always wanted to do volleyball, but can’t, because competitive dance and volleyball competition are on Saturday,” Koryn said. “For Caiden, if there’s a hockey and a basketball tournament the same weekend, he has to choose.”

Like their own respective parents were unfailingly supportive of their interests, Kurt said, the couple strives to provide guidance when conflicts arise.

The parents face challenging decisions, too. It’s often not possible for them to attend a game or performance together when they take place at the same time. Some months present several weekend road trips for events. Living out of a suitcase gets tiresome, and hours sitting in bleachers can take a physical toll. Nevertheless, Caiden, Kenley, and Cody are enjoying diverse opportunities, and the sacrifices are worth it, Koryn said.

“It may be exhausting, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” she said.

We wanted to give our kids an opportunity to practice real-world application and earn certifications.

— Brad Stueve

“Among our students, there’s an awful lot of enthusiasm,” Condrey said. “I’m pleased with the success rate we’ve seen so far of students actually moving into the field. I wear that as a badge of honor.”

For each year-long program, two class sessions are offered each day morning and afternoon providing flexibility for students. After their classes, students return to their high schools to complete their day. Every new application is carefully reviewed, and the selection process ensures that students are placed where they can thrive.

The center’s offerings rely on partnerships with Offutt Air Force Base, the Department of Defense, DoDEA, the Bellevue Public Schools Foundation, Metropolitan Community College, Doane College, and many more. Through these collaborations, students complete their programs having gained valuable professional connections before graduation.

“We’re seeing a record number of applications,” Stueve said. “We’re giving these students a head start, whether they go straight into the workforce or decide to continue their education. It’s about setting them up for success in life.”

For more information, visit bellevuepublicschools.org.

Summer Camp Guide 2025

Sunshine and school-free days mean one thing—summer is calling. Whether your kids are eager to explore the outdoors, dive into sports, or unleash their creativity in the arts, there’s no shortage of ways to keep them engaged. Our Family Guide is packed with camps, activities, and programs designed to create unforgettable memories. Consider this list your go-to resource for summer excitement. Let the planning begin!

BEST

EVER!

New experiences, skill-building, a sense of community, and lasting friendships are all an integral part of YMCA Summer Day Camp.

Campers will build their self-confidence, appreciate teamwork and sportsmanship, all while gaining independence as they nurture their spirits, challenge their minds, and strengthen their bodies. Kids will explore diverse interests and have a lot of fun along the way!

For ages 5-12 years old!

*5 year olds must have completed Kindergarten

•

• Blended

•

• Registration fee

COLLEGEFOR

KIDS & TEENS

SUMMER EXPLORATION 2025

Registration is open for summer College for Kids and Teens classes and camps at Metropolitan Community College. Exciting highlights for 2025 include:

• 3D Game Design with Unity™

• Adult and Me: Woodland Adventures at Gifford Farm

• AI Adventures: Intro to Machine Learning

• Beginner Sewing Camp

• Biotechnology Exploration Camp

• Eco-Quest: Guardians of Nature

• Filmmaking Intensive

• Future Educators

• Medical Boot Camp: Patient Experience from Onset to Discharge and Beyond

• Printmaking: The Art of Transfer

In Your Neighborhood summer camps (ages 5-11)

In addition to our regular camps and workshops, In Your Neighborhood camps travel to locations convenient for you and your family. We will be at a different location each week from June 2 through July 28.

CAMPGROUNDS

ARROWHEAD PARK

29357 310th St., Neola, IA

712.485.2295 mycountyparks.com

ASHLAND RV CAMPGROUND

1301 Ash St., Ashland 402.401.4231 ashlandrvcampground.com

BRANCHED OAK STATE RECREATION AREA

12000 W. Branched Oak Rd., Raymond 402.783.3400 outdoornebraska.gov

CAMP A WAY

200 Campers Circle, Lincoln

402.476.2282 campaway.com

ELKHORN CROSSING RECREATION AREA

25198 Bennington Rd., Valley 402.444.6222 papionrd.org

ELKHORN SHORES

23101 W. Maple Rd., Elkhorn 402.953.4731 elkhornshores.com

EUGENE T. MAHONEY

STATE PARK

28500 W. Park Hwy 1-80,Exit #426, Ashland 402.944.2523 outdoornebraska.gov

FREMONT LAKES STATE RECREATION AREA 4349 W. State Lakes Rd., Fremont 402.727.2922 outdoornebraska.gov

GLENN CUNNINGHAM LAKE CAMPGROUND 8305 Rainwood Dr., Omaha 402.444.4628 recreation.gov

GLENWOOD LAKE PARK CAMPGROUND 104 Lake Dr., Glenwood, IA 712.520.3004 cityofglenwood.org

HIDDEN FALLS CABINS & RV PARK 6124 Steinhart Park Rd., Nebraska City 402.209.6662 hiddenfallscabinsrvpark.com

HITCHCOCK NATURE CENTER 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 712.545.3283 pottcoconservation. com

KIMBERLY CREEK RETREAT 30010 Kimberly Dr., Ashland 531.500.8001 kimberlycreekretreat. com

LAKE MANAWA STATE PARK 1100 Shore Dr., Council Bluffs, IA 712.366.0220 iowadnr.gov

LAKE WANAHOO STATE RECREATION AREA One mile north of Wahoo outdoornebraska.gov

LOUISVILLE STATE RECREATION AREA 15810 Hwy 50, Louisville 402.234.6855 outdoornebraska.gov

MEMPHIS LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA

Nebraska 78K Recreation Rd., Memphis 402.471.5497 outdoornebraska.gov

N.P. DODGE PARK 11001 John J. Pershing Dr., Omaha 402.444.4628 parks.cityofomaha.org

PAWNEE STATE RECREATION AREA 3800 NW 105th St., Lincoln 402.796.2362 nebraskastateparks. reserveamerica.com

PLATTE RIVER STATE PARK 14421 346th St., Louisville 402.234.2217 outdoornebraska.gov

POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY FAIR CAMPGROUND 307 W. Lincoln St., Avoca, IA 712.307.0509 unleashcb.com

TWO RIVERS I-80, Exit 444/Q St. W., Waterloo 402.359.5165 outdoornebraska.gov

VICTORIAN ACRES CAMPGROUND 6591 HWY 2, Nebraska City 402.873.6866 victorianacresrvpark. com

WALNUT CREEK LAKE & RECREATION AREA 11601 S 96th St., Papillion 402.679.9889 papillion.org/parks

WEST OMAHA KOA 14601 US-6, Gretna 402.332.3010 koa.com/campgrounds/westomaha/

WINSOR COVE

2309 Payne Dr., Bellevue 402.933.3717 winsorcove.com

LIBRARIES

BELLEVUE BELLEVUE PUBLIC LIBRARY

2206 Longo Dr., Bellevue 402.293.3157 bellevuelibrary.org

LA VISTA

LA VISTA PUBLIC LIBRARY 9110 Giles Rd. 402.537.3900 cityoflavista.org/234/ Library

OMAHA

DO SPACE 5111 N 90th St. 402.819.4022 dospace.org

OMAHA PUBLIC LIBRARIES omahapubliclibrary. org Click on “Hours & Locations”

A.V. SORENSEN 4808 Cass St. 402.444.5596

BENSON 6015 Binney St. 402.444.4846

BESS JOHNSON (ELKHORN) 2100 Reading Plaza 402.289.4367

CHARLES B. WASHINGTON 2868 Ames Ave. 402.444.4849

FLORENCE 2920 Bondesson St. 402.444.5299

DOWNTOWN 14101 Jones St. 402.444.4828

MILLARD 13214

Westwood Lane 402.444.4848

MILTON R. ABRAHAMS 5111 N. 90th St. 402.444.6284

SADDLEBROOK 14850 Laurel Ave. 402.444.5780

SOUTH OMAHA 2808 Q. St. 402.444.4850

W. CLARKE SWANSON 9101 W. Dodge Rd. 402.444.4852

WILLA CATHER 1905S. 44th St. 402.444.4851

PAPILLION PAPILLION PUBLIC LIBRARY

222 N. Jefferson St. 402.597.2040 papillion.org/1090/ Library

RALSTON

BARIGHT PUBLIC LIBRARY 5555 S. 77th St. 402.331.7636 ralstonlibrary.org

OUTINGS

ASHLAND STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND & AEROSPACE MUSEUM 28210 W. Park Hwy 402.944.3100 sacmuseum.org

WILDLIFE SAFARI PARK 16406 292nd St. 402.944.9453 wildlifesafaripark.com

BELLEVUE FONTENELLE FOREST NATURE CENTER 1111 Bellevue Blvd. N 402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org

TREE RUSH ADVENTURES AT FONTENELLE FOREST 1111 Bellevue Blvd. N 402.731.316.7038 fontenelleforest.org

SARPY COUNTY MUSEUM 2402 Clay St. 402.292.1880 sarpycountymuseum. org

OMAHA

BEMIS CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS 724 S. 12th St. 402.341.7130 bemiscenter.org

BOB KERREY PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE 705 Riverfront Dr. 402.444.5900 visitomaha.com/bob

BOYS TOWN 13628 Flanagan Blvd., Boystown (137th & W. Dodge Rd.) 531.355.1141 boystown.org

CHARLES SCHWAB FIELD 1200 Mike Fahey St. 402.546.1800 charlesschwabfieldomaha.com

DOUGLAS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY 5730 N. 30th St., Bldg. 11A 402.455.9990 douglascohistory.org

DURHAM MUSEUM 801 S. 10th St. 402.444.5071 durhammuseum.org

EL MUSEO LATINO 4701 S. 25th St. 402.731.1137 elmuseolatino.org

FLORENCE MILL 9102 N. 30th St. 402.551.1233 historicflorence.org/ FlorenceMill

FREEDOM PARK 2497 Freedom Park Rd. 402.444.5955 cityofomaha.org/ parks/freedom-park

GENE LEAHY MALL & HEARTLAND OF AMERICA PARK 1001 Douglas St. 402.599.6565 theriverfrontomaha. com

GENERAL CROOK HOUSE MUSEUM 5730 N. 30th St. 402.455.9990 visitomaha.com

GERALD R. FORD BIRTHSITE AND GARDENS 3202 Woolworth Ave. 402.444.5955 history.nebraska.gov/ conservation-center

GREAT PLAINS BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM 2221 N. 24th St. 402.932.7077 gpblackhistorymuseum.org

HERON HAVEN NATURE CENTER 11809 Old Maple Rd. 402.493.4303 heronhaven.org

HOLLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

1200 Douglas St. 402.345.0202 omahaperformingarts.org

HOT SHOPS ART CENTER 1301 Nicholas St. 402.342.6452 hotshopsartcenter. com

JOSLYN ART MUSEUM

2200 Dodge St. 402.342.3300 joslyn.org

JOSLYN CASTLE

3902 Davenport St.

402.595.2199 joslyncastle.com

KANEKO 1111 Jones St. 402.341.3800 thekaneko.org

LAURITZEN GARDENS & KENEFICK PARK 100 Bancroft St. 402.346.4002 lauritzengardens.org

LEWIS AND CLARK LANDINGTHE RIVERFRONT 345 Riverfront Dr. 402.599.6565 theriverfrontomaha. com

LEWIS AND CLARK

NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL VISITOR CENTER

601 Riverfront Dr. 402.661.1804 nps.gov

MALCOLM X HOUSE SITE 3448 Evans St. 402.881.8118 malcolmxfoundation. org

MORMON TRAIL CENTER AT HISTORIC WINTER HEADQUARTERS 3215 State St. 402.453.9372 lds.org

NEALE WOODS 14323 Edith Marie Ave.

402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org

OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

500 S. 20th St. 402.342.6164 ocm.org

OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE 6915 Cass St. 402.553.0800 omahaplayhouse.com

OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY ZOO AND AQUARIUM

3701 S. 10th St. 402.733.8400 omahazoo.com

OPPD ARBORETUM 108th & Blondo St. 402.536.4131 oppd.com

ORPHEUM THEATER

409 S. 16th St. 402.661.8501 omahaperformingarts.org

PIONEER COURAGE PARK & SPIRIT OF NEBRASKA’S WILDERNESS

101 S 16th St. 402.602.3930 visitomaha.com

THE ROSE THEATER

2001 Farnam St.

402.345.4849 rosetheater.org

STANDING BEAR LAKE 6404 N. 132nd St. 402.444.5955 visitomaha.com

UNION FOR CONTEMPORARY ART 2423 N. 24th St. 402.933.3161 u-ca.org

PUBLIC PARKS & POOLS

OMAHA For a full listing, visit parks.cityofomaha.org

ANDERSEN PARK 13625 Cottner St.

AUTUMN HEIGHTS PARK 14206 Grant St.

BENSON PARK 7028 Military Ave.

BOWLING GREEN PARK 7065 Blondo St.

BROOKSIDE PARK 2127 Brookside Ave.

CANDLEWOOD PARK 12049 Franklin St.

CHURCHICH PARK 3712 S. 50th St.

CONOCO PARK 8602 Westridge Dr.

COTTONWOOD PARK 728 S. 154th St.

CRYER PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 11783 Cryer Ave.

Family Resource Guide

DEER RIDGE PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 585 S. 126th St.

DEERWOOD PARK 7452 113th Ct.

DEMOCRACY PARK 8780 Templeton Dr.

DEWEY PARK 550 Turner Blvd.

ELKHORN (OUTDOOR POOL) 3200 N. 208th Plz.

ELMWOOD PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 808 S. 60th St.

ENGLEWOOD PARK 4802 S. 144th St.

FONTENELLE PARK 4407 Fontenelle Blvd.

FREEDOM PARK 3497 Freedom Park Rd.

GALLAGHER PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 2936 N. 52nd St.

GENE LEAHY MALL 1001 Douglas St.

HANSCOM PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 3201 Woolworth Ave.

HARVEY OAKS PARK 14948 W. Center Rd.

HITCHCOCK PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 4220 Q St.

HUMMEL PARK NATURE CENTER 3033 Hummel Rd.

KAREN (OUTDOOR POOL) 6288 H St.

KEYSTONE PARK 7819 Keystone Dr.

LAMP PARK 113 N. 114th St.

LEVI CARTER PARK 4405 Carter Lake Shore Dr. W.

MANDAN PARK 6215 S. 13th St.

MAPLE VILLAGE PARK 3865 Parkview Dr.

MEADOW LANE PARK 11707 Farnam St.

MEMORIAL PARK 6005 Underwood Ave.

MILLARD

HIGHLANDS PARK S. 140th Ave.

MILLER PARK (OUTDOOR POOL) 6285 N. 30th St.

MOCKINGBIRD HEIGHTS PARK 8822 Lakeview Dr.

OAK HEIGHTS (OUTDOOR POOL) 10205 U St.

PARKSIDE PARK 14120 Pine St.

PEPPERWOOD PARK 15201 Hamilton St.

PETERSON PARK 1211 Peterson Dr.

PHEASANT RUN PARK 15504 Adams St.

RAMBLERIDGE PARK 11424 Fort St.

REGENCY PARK 9808 Harney Pkwy N.

ROANOKE (OUTDOOR POOL) 4848 N. 113th St.

ROCKBROOK PARK 3525 S. 94th St.

ROXBURY PARK 5414 S. 116th St.

SANDOZ PARK 5938 S. 122nd St.

SEYMOUR SMITH PARK 6802 Harrison St.

SPRING LAKE (OUTDOOR POOL) 4020 Hoctor Blvd.

STINSON PARK 2285 S. 67th St.

SUNNYSLOPE PARK 10309 Grand Ave.

TOWL PARK 9310 W. Center Rd.

TURNER PARK 3110 Farnam St.

TRANQUILITY PARK 12222 W. Maple Rd.

UPLAND PARK 3104 Jefferson St.

WALNUT GROVE PARK 15050 Q. St.

WESTWOOD HEIGHTS PARK 12334 Seldin Dr.

ZORINSKY LAKE PARK (OUTDOOR POOL)

Bellevue public parks 3808 S. 156th St.

COMMUNITY CENTERS RECREATION FACILITIES

OMAHA

For hours & amenities, visit cityofomaha.org/recreation-facilities.

ADAMS PARK 3230 John Creighton Blvd. 402.444.5164

A.V. SORENSEN 4808 Cass St. 402.444.5596

BENSON 6008 Maple St. 402.444.5184

CAMELOT (OUTDOOR POOL) 92709270 Cady Ave. 402.444.5972

CHRISTIE HEIGHTS 5105 S. 37th St. 402.444.5081

COMMON GROUND RECREATION & AQUATIC CENTER (INDOOR POOL) 1701 Veterans Dr. 402.444.4227

FLORENCE 2920 Bondesson St. 402.444.5216

HANSCOM TENNIS CENTER 3240 Ed Creighton Ave. 402.932.2027

HARRY KOCH TRAP & SKEET RANGE 6802 Harrison St. 402.331.1249

HUMMEL NATURE CENTER 3033

Hummel Park Rd. 402.444.4760

KOCH FAMILY TENNIS CENTER 12440 W. Maple Rd. 402.493.0420

MOCKINGBIRD HILLS (INDOOR POOL) 10242

Mockingbird Dr. 402.444.6103

MONTCLAIR (INDOOR POOL)

2304 S. 135th St. 402.444.4956

METROPOLITAN

COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S COLLEGE FOR KIDS & TEENS SUMMER CAMP

531.MCC.2400 mccneb.edu/summerfun

NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL NEBRASKA CLASSES

402.896.0454 safenraska.org

OMAHA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CAMPS

402.399.9565 omahachristianacademy.org

STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND & AEROSPACE MUSEUM SUMMER CAMPS

402.944.3100 sacmuseum.org/ camps

YMCA CAMPS

402.341.1600 metroymca.org/camp

YOUNG NEBRASKA SCIENTISTS SUMMER CAMPS

402.472.8946 yns.nebraska.edu

YOUTH TECH INC

877.984.2267 youthtechinc.com

VISUAL, PERFORMING, & LITERARY ARTS CAMPS

402 ARTS COLLECTIVE SUMMER CAMPS

402.913.1939 402artscollective.org

ARTS FOR ALL SUMMER CAMPS

402.556.7821 artsforallinc.com

BELLEVUE DANCE

ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS

402.291.3727 bellevuedanceacademy.com

BLOOM SUMMER DANCE CAMP

402.670.7206 danceatbloom.com

FINE LINES CREATIVE WRITING SUMMER CAMP

402.871.3682NEBR finelines.org

GROSS CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ART CAMP

402.734.2000 grosscatholic.org

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER DANCE & MUSICAL THEATER CAMPS

402.334.6426 jccomaha.org/camp

JOSLYN ART MUSUEM SUMMER CAMPS

402.342.3300 joslyn.org

KANEKO SUMMER CAMPS

402.341.3800 thekaneko.org

MCGUIGAN ARTS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP

402.315.7955 mcguiganartsacademy.com

NEBRASKA DANCE SUMMER SESSION 402.895.0646 nebraskadance.com

NEBRASKA STORY ART STORYTELLING CAMP 402.312.4749 nebraskastoryarts.org

OMAHA COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE SUMMER CLASSES 402.553.4890 omahaplayhouse. com/education

OMAHA CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC INSTITUTE SUMMER CAMP 402.932.4978 omahacm.org/ocmi

OMAHA GIRLS ROCK! 402.321.2252 omahagirlsrock.org

OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMPS 402.345.0202 o-pa.org/classes

OMAHA SCHOOL OF MUSIC & DANCE SUMMER CAMPS 402.576.5792 omahaschoolofmusicanddance.com

HOFF FAMILY ARTS & CULTURE CENTER DANCE, MUSIC, THEATER, ART & CULINARY CAMPS 712.890.5601 paceartsiowa.org

THE ROSE THEATER PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMPS 402.345.4849 rosetheater.org/ classes

SCHOOL OF ROCK SUMMER MUSIC CLASSES 402.691.8875 schoolofrock.com

SING OMAHA SHOW CHOIR CAMPS

402.933.7234 singomaha.org

SMITTY’S PERFORMING ARTS CENTER SUMMER CAMPS

402.999.6368 smittyspacomaha.com

THAT POTTERY PLACE SUMMER CAMPS

402.392.1166 thatpotteryplaceomaha.com

TWO KEYS CREATIVE STUDIOS CAMPS

402.660.1939 twokeysstudios.com

UNL CORNHUSKER SUMMER MARCHING BAND CAMP

402.472.2503 unl.edu/band/ cornhusker-summer-marching-band-camp

UNL YOUNG WRITERS CAMP

402.472.1807 unl.edu/newp/ young-writers-camp

UNO JAZZ CAMP

402.554.2297 unomaha.edu/college-of-communication-fine-arts-and-media/music/community-engagement/ jazz-camp

YMCA ART, MUSIC & DANCE CAMPS

402.341.1600 metroymca.org/camp

OUTDOOR CAMPS

BOY SCOUTS CAMP MIDAMERICA COUNCIL CAMP CEDARS

402.514.3006 mac-bsa.org

CALVIN CREST CAMP

402.628.6455 calvincrest.org

CAMP FONTANELLE

402.478.4296 campfontanelle.com

CAMP HANSCOM

402.444.4955 parks.cityofomaha. org/camp-hanscomday-camp

CAMP LEGACY

402.884.2242 camplegacyomaha. com

CAMP LUTHER 402.352.5655 campluther.org

CAMP MOSES MERRILL 402.666.5639 campmerrill.com

CAMP NAKOMIS— BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS 712.347.5687 bgcomaha.org/ club-locations/ camp-nakomis

CAMP PLATTE 402.341.1600 metroymca.org/ youth/youth-camps

CAMP RIVERCREST

402.628.6465 camprivercrest.org

CAMP VIRTUS ET VERITAS CATHOLIC BOYS CAMPS

402.915.0482 archomaha.org

CAROL JOY HOLLING CAMP 402-944-2544 NLOM.org/caroljoyholling

CUB SCOUTS DAY CAMPS 402.431.9272 mac-bas.org

HUMMEL PARK DAY CAMP

402.444.4760 parks.cityofomaha. org/hummel-daycamp

FONTENELLE FOREST & TREERUSH ADVENTURE SUMMER DAY CAMPS 402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org/ camps

GIRL SCOUT CAMPS

402.558.8189 girlscoutsnebraska. org

HITCHCOCK NATURE CENTER CAMPS 712.328.5638 pottconservation. com

LAURITZEN GARDENS SUMMER CAMPS 402.346.4002 ext.212 lauritzengardens.org

NEBRASKA 4-H SUMMER CAMPS 402.332.4496 4h.unl.edu/ camps-summer

YMCA CAMP KITAKI 402.434.9222 ymcacampkitaki.org

YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMPS 402.341.1600 metroymca.org/camp

SPECIALTY CAMPS

CAMP FLOYD RODGERS FOR KIDS WITH TYPE I DIABETES 402.885.9022 campfloydrogers. com

CAMP HIGH HOPES FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES 712.224.2267 EXT. 102 camphighhopes.com

CAMP YOUCAN FOR KIDS WITH EPILEPSY 402.770.3936 midwestyoucan.org

CROC CAMP FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 402.905.3500 omahakroc.org

CREIGHTON PEDIATRIC THERAPY HAND WRITING CAMPS 402.280.2200 creighton.edu

DUCHESNE ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS dashomaha.org/ summer

DURHAM MUSEUM SUMMER CAMP 402.444.5027 durhammuseum.org/ summer-camp

EASTER SEALS OF NEBRASKA CAMP FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES 402.933.6251 easterseals.com

FITGIRL, INC CAMP EMPOWERMENT 402.290.4144 fitgirlinc.com

GO! KIDS GYM SUMMER CAMP 402.504.3702 gokidsgym.com

HIS KIDS SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY AT CAMP LUTHER 402.352.5655 campluther.org/ hiskids

JEWISH COMMUNITY SUMMER CAMPS 402.334.8200 jewishomaha.org

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S COLLEGE FOR KIDS & TEENS SUMMER CAMP 531.MCC.2400 mccneb.edu/summerfun

NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL NEBRASKA CLASSES 402.896.0454 safenebraska.org

OMAHA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM SUMMER CAMPS 402.342.6164 EXT. 432 ocm.org

OMAHA FASHION WEEK FASHION CAMP 402.937.1061 omahafashionweek. com

OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY ZOO AND AQUARIUM DAY CAMPS, SCOUT, & ZOO TROOP PROGRAMS 402.733.8401 omahazoo.com/DAYCAMPS

OXBOW KINDSWELL VETERINARY CAMPS 531.721.2300 oxbowanimalhealth. com/vet-camp

PROJECT EXPLORE SUMMER CAMP WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES ASSOCIATION OF NEBRASKA 402.334.1677 nchpad.org

RUTH K. SOLOMON GIRLS PROGRAM SUMMER ENRICHMENT ACADEMY 402.457.7772 heartlandfamilyservice.org

SARPY COUNTY MUSEUM SUMMER CAMPS 402.292.1880 http://sarpycountymuseum.org

STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND & AEROSPACE MUSEUM SUMMER CAMPS 402.944.3100 sacmuseum.org

SUMMER EXPLORATIONS AT QUEST FORWARD ACADEMY 402.403.1267 omaha.questforward. academy/summer

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS 402.341.1600 metroymca.org/camp

Connecting with the Community

At its core, the Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement is about connection. O-pa has long prioritized community-driven programming, and the new center will only strengthen those efforts by fostering collaborations with local artists, educators, and organizations. “A guiding principle for the work we do at Omaha Performing Arts is planning ‘with’ and not ‘for,’” Hustead said. “It’s so important that we’re responsive to the real needs and interests of our community. We’re going to continue that conversation.”

From financial aid and scholarships to ensuring teaching artists represent the diversity of the Omaha community, the Tenaska Center is designed to welcome everyone. Private donors and community partners have played a crucial role in making the project a reality, allowing students to engage with the arts in ways that weren’t possible before.

With the Tenaska Center set to open next March, families will have access to everything O-pa already offers along with more classes, more camps, and more ways to experience the arts. “Everyone we interact with is excited for what’s possible, and we’re moving forward knowing the sky’s the limit for the ways people can engage with us,” Grennan said.

For students, this means not only new experiences, but a deeper connection to the arts that will last a lifetime. “Participating in the arts sharpens your life skills being involved in theater or music or dance enhances your teamwork, and it enhances your confidence,” Grennan added. For families eager to get involved, these opportunities will only grow as the center nears completion.

“The arts are such an important part of living a happy and healthy life,” Hustead said. “We believe everyone deserves access to the arts, and the Tenaska Center is helping us live out that philosophy.”

For more information, visit o-pa.org/category/tenaska-center.

LESS SCREEN TIME. MORE WE TIME.